Recovery from Fire Damage for Chicago Residents

4/17/2023 (Permalink)

Our technicians use a combination of devices and machines to pluck smoke and soot particles from your home in Chicago.

SERVPRO in Chicago Has Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians for Any-Size-Disaster

Fires affect millions of homeowners each year. Common causes are unattended stoves or malfunctioning electronics. Damage can include smoke staining, odor problems, and charring. Our role is to make sure your home returns to a preloss condition while minimizing inconvenience to your everyday life.

When fire damage affects your Chicago home, it is vital to enlist a qualified restoration service for assessment. Fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) can use their training to reduce the turnaround time of restoration. One method is by understanding how smoke moves through a property which allows us to find and assess the most likely areas where soiling conglomerates. Convection, for example, is a rule of thermodynamics. It dictates that hot air rises above cool air. When this process occurs, it generates air movement as hot air replaces cold air. In an enclosed environment, this air displacement creates pressure that drives hot smoke into the upper portions of the room. Typically, the areas with the most damage in any fire scenario are the ceilings directly above the flames. The driven smoke can push into cooler surfaces, increasing the number of smoke deposits in your home. In some situations, it can even bond soot particles to surface material.

The Impact of Surface Temperature on Fire Damage

• High-temperature smoke attracts to cold surfaces.
• High concentrations of smoke residue are typically found on cooler external walls, windows, and inside furniture or cupboards.
• A professional must assess heavy soiling on interior surfaces before introducing water or other cleaning methods.

Carrying out a time-efficient initial assessment can be very helpful in reducing the stress of homeowners facing a fire damaging disaster. Our one-four-eight policy ensures that we arrange a service with you within one hour of notification of loss. We can send expert technicians to your property within four hours and produce a working estimate for you and your insurance adjuster within eight hours. Returning burnt homes to a preloss condition is most efficient following a thorough pre-test of different smoke residues and their response to cleaning efforts. We can then make informed choices about the necessary equipment, methodology, and time frames for restoring your home. SERVPRO always prioritizes essential areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms, to ensure you can get back to a semblance of normality as quickly as possible.  

Cleaning Products Versus Cleaning Equipment

• Mechanical equipment can include pressure washers for building exteriors and rotary machines to dislodge dry soots from furniture or upholstery.
• Household water-based cleaning products like detergents are less effective against some types of soot; that is why we provide specially formulated industrial-strength cleaners and solvents. 
• Dry cleaning solvents use chemicals to break down wet or stubborn soot but inadvertently damage some materials. We pre-test to ensure there is no exacerbation of the fire damage.

Pre-testing residues, materials, and equipment is essential to our approach to fire restoration. As a homeowner, you may naturally feel obliged to begin clearing away debris or cleaning walls and ceilings. Some useful techniques for homeowners can be to ventilate the property by opening windows, allowing lingering particulates, ash, and odor to disperse. Another helpful approach can be to vacuum surfaces which helps to remove any non-bonded dry smoke. One aspect to avoid when attempting to assist in smoke removal is introducing water or cleaning products. If the smoke is greasy or wet, introducing moisture can cause further damage by spreading or setting soot. We also recommend staying clear of heavily smoke-damaged areas as foot traffic can drive soot into flooring- especially in carpeted properties. 

We are here to help with your property emergency. Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City for fire damage restoration at (773) 337-3900.

Mold Remediation in Chicago Is Safe and Efficient with SERVPRO

4/16/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with mold damage does not need to be overwhelming. Contact SERVPRO for knowledgeable technicians and effective equipment needed for the job.

Chicago Homeowners Trust SERVPRO with Mold Remediation

Hiring experts like SERVPRO for mold remediation of your Chicago home is crucial to safely and effectively restore the damage. Our IICRC-certified mold specialists have the training, tools, and knowledge that ensures your home is restored to preloss conditions as quickly as possible. 

SERVPRO techs are very careful during the mold remediation of your Chicago home to avoid the spread of mold fragments and spores to unaffected parts of the property. We use unique containment systems and engineering controls that minimize the aerosolization of the mold and significantly reduce the chance of cross-contamination. 

Controlling the Airflow During Mold Removal 

SERVPRO techs establish negative air pressure within the containment regions to prevent the air from taking the aerosolized mold spores to unaffected building areas. However, techs use air exchanges to dilute airborne fungal concentration, reduce worker exposure, and facilitate the clean-up effort. SERVPRO restorers always ensure the airflow direction is clean to contaminated areas. 

Techs perform a minimum of four air exchanges per hour between the contaminated and uncontaminated areas per the IICRC S520 guidelines. Understanding the science behind airflow allows SERVPRO techs to prevent the spread of mold spores and carry out the remediation safely. 

Role of HEPA Vacuums 

HEPA vacuum systems have an essential role to play in the mold removal process. These systems are fitted in the negative air machines that maintain a lower pressure within the containment areas. The HEPA vacuum can remove airborne particles greater than 0.3 microns with an efficiency of 99.97%. Using the HEPA vacuum systems, SERVPRO techs can ensure:

• Fungal spores and fragments are retained within the containment area.
• Visible mold growth is safely and quickly removed from surfaces. 
• Improved air quality for the technicians and the occupants. 

Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900; we offer quick, safe, and reliable mold remediation. 

Detection of Hidden Moisture Is Key During Water Damage Repair in Chicago

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

Trust the SERVPRO Logo for water and moisture removal in your Chicago area home. "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Does Moisture Mapping in Chicago When Restoring Water-Damaged Properties

One of the most important steps during water damage repair is determining the extent of the damage. To develop a clear picture of the level of wetness within a property, technicians might decide to perform moisture mapping. Through the process, it is possible to know where the wet areas are and where the dry regions begin.

Our SERVPRO technicians use specialized infrared cameras, moisture meters, and other tools to create visual representations during water damage remediation in Chicago. We can easily detect any hidden moisture in floors, insulation, ceiling, and walls. We then develop appropriate moisture control techniques to remove the water and perform necessary repairs.

The following are some of the benefits associated with moisture mapping:

• It helps perform a thorough assessment, which enables the water mitigation team to choose the best course of action.
• High levels of accuracy: The tools that our SERVPRO team uses are accurate and provide precise readings.
• Saves time: We quickly and efficiently identify areas that need attention and act with the urgency it deserves to lower the overall restoration costs.
• Helps prevent future challenges: The mapping helps us remove moisture and prevent possible problems such as rotting and mold growth.

A successful restoration process entails detecting and removing what you might miss with the naked eye. We recommend letting a professional water damage company do a comprehensive assessment and fix the damage. It is hard to miss hidden cracks within the building, so the water might constantly flow and cause unnoticeable damage – we advise you not to let the water sit in place for long periods.

Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City today at (773) 337-3900 for a stress-free restoration process. Our experienced team offers 24-hour emergency services and can guide you through the insurance paperwork. We're just a phone call away!

How to Eliminate Odors After a Fire Damage Incident in Chicago

2/6/2023 (Permalink)

Toy Trucks and large Chicago homes are no match for SERVPRO's fire damage restoration services. "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Neutralizes Odors during Fire-Damage Restoration in Chicago

Professional fire damage restoration services can help you overcome the overwhelming experience after the incident. Though the visible signs of the fire, such as smoke and flames, may no longer be there, the lingering odors may still be hard to eliminate. Our technicians have experience from previous incidents and use the proper techniques to neutralize them.

SERVPRO's fire damage restoration services in Chicago can return your property to its former state. Since we have been there before, we know where odors hide after a fire. Such areas include:

• HVAC system: Soot and smoke can move along the ductwork and remain in the system. If that happens, it is easy for the odors to spread throughout the building.
• Wall cavities: soot and smoke can penetrate the walls and cause odors.
• Porous surfaces: Porous materials such as carpets and fabrics can absorb smoke soot and cause lingering odors.
• Attics and crawl spaces can develop lingering odors after getting contaminated with soot and smoke.

Though some people decide to use fragrance to combat odors, it may fail to provide a long-lasting solution. When our SERVPRO technicians visit your property, we use various techniques to eliminate the odor. Some of the methods we use are:

• Ozone generators: They produce ozone which is effective at breaking odor-causing molecules. We use the method to target odors coming from crawl spaces and attics.
• Thermal fogging: Heat vaporizes a deodorizing agent in this technique, which consequently neutralizes odors. We use it to target odors existing on porous surfaces.
• Hydroxyl generators: Produce hydroxyl radicals that break down and neutralize odor-causing molecules, mostly in walls cavities and HVAC systems.
• Air scrubber: They have HEPA filters that trade odors and particles from the air. We use them in conjunction with other methods when eliminating odors.

Odor removal is a complex process since the resulting soot and smoke may have come from the combustion of different materials. However, our team is patient enough to work with you until we find the right solution.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is a Downtown Chicago Licensed Operator with the knowledge, tools, and experience to handle all aspects of fire damage restoration. Call us at (773) 337-3900 and let us make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Offers Premier Water Damage Repair Services in Chicago

1/15/2023 (Permalink)

Our technicians will evaluate the particular needs of the water damage situation in your home when selecting the appropriate equipment for your home.

Water Damage Repair in Chicago is Fast and Effective, with SERVPRO In-charge

An effective water damage repair of your Chicago home after a storm is essential to ensure no long-term complications happen in the future. SERVPRO techs use scientific, industry-leading methods to ensure that the water restoration of your home is efficient, quick, and safe.   

SERVPRO’s technicians follow the IICRC-S500 guidelines during the water damage repair of your Chicago home. Our technicians quickly remove any standing water from your property and create ideal conditions to speed up the drying process. We aim to restore your home “Like it never even happened.” After all, SERVPRO is a Downtown Chicago Licensed Operator. 

Creating a Drying System During Water Cleanup

SERVPRO techs aim to create a drying system that quickly and effectively dehumidifies the air in the affected structure. An effective drying system uses dehumidifiers and air movers to remove moisture from the air and speed up the rate of drying. SERVPRO techs ensure that the dehumidification system removes the water vapor from the air as fast as, or faster than, it is being added by evaporation. 

We use two types of dehumidifying systems in Chicago homes during water damage restoration-

• Refrigerant Dehumidifiers: These are the most common dehumidifiers used in water restoration projects and work similarly to air conditioners. When air is passed over the cooled copper coils of refrigerant dehumidifiers, the temperature of the air is brought below the dew point, which forces the water vapor to condense. 
• Desiccant Dehumidifiers: These dehumidifiers don’t rely on the dew point principle; they use special chemicals called desiccants that absorb moisture from the air. The advantage of these dehumidifiers is that they can dry the air to a lower humidity ratio (RH.)  

Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 for a round-the-clock water cleanup service.

Commercial Water Removal Stops Seeping Water in Your Chicago Shop

12/12/2022 (Permalink)

Big Chicago buildings to small retail shops rely on SERVPRO for water damage cleanup and restoration. Downtown Chicago Licensed Operator.

Water Removal Makes Working in Your Business Safer

When you have a major leak in your business, shutting off the water’s flow only slows down the already released water. It continues to spread, although a bit more slowly than it did before. For commercial properties, our water removal team ensures we perform the necessary work to protect your Chicago business.

Many business owners and managers in Chicago rely on water removal services after a disaster. We designed our B2B services to reduce restoration costs while promoting a strong recovery. Many times, we help a business avoid interruptions or closing. We are a designated “Downtown Chicago Licensed Operator,” fully qualified to minimize disruptions.

Shutting off a valve or tarping your roof isn’t enough. We have the machinery to remove the water from wherever it migrated. There are different types of equipment we use to eliminate water, including:

• A truck-mounted pump system,
• Smaller-sized units for extracting water in specific areas, and
• Desiccant machines that pull moisture from the air.

As we perform water removal tasks with these machines, we also take readings to confirm that everything is drying at optimal speeds.

Our largest pumps can remove thousands of gallons of water from your business. Hopefully, smaller water intrusions are the case. These pumps can run continuously, only needing to stop to empty them at a designated facility.

We employ additional units that are less powerful but much more aligned with removing water from enclosed areas. We use tube-style extraction units that reach behind large furniture or immovable equipment and inside walls. Our water removal experts are skilled with the InjectiDry system for floors and other materials.

Drying out the air keeps moisture from settling on surfaces that can absorb and trap that moisture. Heat and air currents also play a role in drying the air, so it reaches normal humidity levels. We place air movers, so they not only push air toward a desiccant machine but also force air along walls and other surfaces, helping pull moisture from anything with a damp surface.

Our aim is to protect your inventory, equipment, and workplace and rapidly allow your doors to reopen if the closure was necessitated. For water removal services that can protect your business, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

The Challenges of Mold Remediation in Chicago

11/13/2022 (Permalink)

When mold spreads, time is certainly of the essence. Contact SERVPRO for knowledgeable technicians and equipment for the mold remediation job ahead.

SERVPRO is Chicago's Mold Damage Specialist

Mold growth usually results from a moisture problem in your property. As water restoration experts, our technicians take extra care to ensure soaking materials are dried quickly to prevent the growth of microbes. But molds can sometimes occur without a significant water intrusion and result from benign problems like slow leaks or insufficient insulation. It may be signs of an internal infestation if you notice grey, black or green spots on walls or ceilings. SERVPRO has expertise in:

• Mold removal
• Mold damage repair
• Mold assessments

The purpose of mold remediation in Chicago is to bring microbes to a manageable level. Microbes exist naturally in all home environments, so it is only when these microbes conglomerate and begin to reproduce that there is a problem. Infestations can decompose household materials and possessions if left alone for long periods. To rectify a mold issue, our technicians begin by establishing containment to prevent the spread of mold. Once containment is set up, we can start the removal process.

Removing mold infestations from the home

• Porous materials are removed, including carpets, drywall, insulation, and organic fabrics.
• Non-porous materials are cleaned using High-Efficiency Particulate Air Filter (HEPA) fitted vacuums or wiping surfaces with detergents.
• Wooden materials are generally salvageable unless long-term exposure has caused dry rot. 

Stubborn infestations may require the usage of more aggressive cleaning methods. These situations can be resolved using steel sponges or blasting and pressure cleaning equipment. The use of agitation in remediation can disrupt mold spores causing them to settle on nearby surfaces. To combat settled spores, it is vital to clean the structure at regular intervals working from top to bottom or pushing spores in the direction of negative air-pressure machines. We recommend allowing several hours between cleaning rounds, allowing spores time to settle, to ensure that all surfaces are cleaned properly.

Microbial infestations rarely go away by themselves. Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / Chicago City for mold remediation at (773) 337-3900.

IICRC Certification: Chicago Water Damage Restoration

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

Chicago Water Damage Restored by IICRC Certified SERVPRO Crews

Whether you experience Chicago water damage due to flooding or a plumbing issue, it's important to hire a team of remediation specialists to get your property back in pre-water damaged condition. As you search for the right team of water damage restoration specialists, make sure that the company has the Clean Trust logo. This logo is a quality certification granted by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). SERVPRO suggests that you learn more about the IICRC and why certification from this company is important.

What Is The IICRC? As a non-profit organization for the restoration, inspection, and cleaning industries, the IICRC serves over 25 countries. Some of the countries include New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Canada, United Kingdom, and the United States.

IICRC Certification. To obtain IICRC certification, organizations must meet several expertise standards while also conforming to ethical business principles. The list of standards includes:
• Training. Each technician has to have formal training and pass all required tests.
• Integrity and Honesty. The company must offer consumers accurate information while also providing services in a transparent, straightforward manner.
• Education. Each technician has to participate in ongoing educational courses to remain current regarding industry changes, technological advancements, and methodological shifts.
• Complaint policy. Each firm has to have a clear, concise complaint policy in writing. The firm must also agree to the dispute resolution process outlined by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Additionally, the firm must accept recommendations regarding arbitration.

By securing the services from a team of IICRC-certified technicians, you increase the likelihood that you'll be working with a group of trained, experienced professionals who can expedite the water damage remediation process of your Chicago residential property.

Other Considerations. While IICRC certification is important, there are several other factors you should consider when it's time to find your right team of restoration experts. Some of the attributes you should look for in a professional water damage restoration company include:
• an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
• fair prices
• excellent customer service
• 24/7 emergency services
• a 100% satisfaction guarantee

Call SERVPRO Immediately. If you find yourself experiencing substantive water damage to your Chicago home due to fire, water, or some other disaster, it's time to call the professionals of SERVPRO. With our top of the line equipment, fleet, cleaning agents and chemical products, our IICRC-certified technicians will provide you with the detail-oriented, speedy services necessary to get your home back into a dry and safe condition.

Highly-Trained Water Restoration Specialists

As leaders in the water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, and a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use our expertise 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. Learn about our water damage training and certificates. Call 24/7 for great service. (773) 337-3900

Fire Damage Restoration Services You Can Count On To Save Your Chicago Home

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Salvages Chicago Fire Damaged Homes Swiftly

A home fire can be one of the most damaging experiences a homeowner can face, something no one should ever face alone. Fire does not simply cause damage to your home; it disrupts your life, destroys personal belongings, and often leads to loss of fond memories that you can never get back.
 
You can help prevent fire damage in your Chicago area home by learning more about various events that happen in your neighborhood. By discovering more about these incidents, you can eliminate common causes that affect you in your home. Remember, every home is susceptible to fire damage making it necessary for you to understand how to protect yourself properly.
 
Having an experienced, licensed, and IICRC certified fire damage restoration technician on your side would not hurt, SERVPRO can help put the pieces back together after disaster strikes. We can fully manage your restoration process and provide you with any additional services required to return your property to normal working order after an event occurs.  
 
Consider this; fires cause much more than heat and smoke damage. You would need to include water extraction, various types of cleaning, sanitation, deodorization, and many repairs to that list to be more accurate in your evaluation. SERVPRO technicians can provide you with each of these services, including repairs that often include replacement of framing materials, drywall, painting, and finish work necessary to return your home to normal.   
 
It is a firefighter's job to put out fires and save lives, leaving additional damage and water in their wake, they are not concerned with saving the contents of your home. It simply is not in their job description. However, every SERVPRO technician takes the time to address items individually, taking a restore versus replace mentality that often returns damaged items to a quality condition you can enjoy for years to come.  
 
Making the call to SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City puts your home in expertly trained hands that you can count on to put every effort into restoring your home properly after a fire. Learn more about what our technicians can do for you, call our office and begin your homes recovery, today. (773) 337-3900

For more info please visit: https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en.html

A REAL 5-Star SERVPRO Customer Review

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Customer Testimonial

This recent customer left us a perfect score on our survey along with this kindest of testimonials. Now, we all know how "Suspect" perfect scores can be. But, when you earn it, you earn it! Our crew cleaned and mitigated the water damage from her property in Palos Heights and provided reconstruction services. Our customer was distraught when she surveyed the damage inflicted upon her home. Our team understands the stress and fear of recovering personal treasures and possessions after a very significant water damaging event. We spoke with Leona and explained the services from water removal to the final installation of her new kitchen. We are proud to have such happy and satisfied customers. For that, here's a "Shout Out" to our SERVPRO team members, Rosa & Andy, for providing excellent customer care and service to our clients. We are proud to have you both on our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team!

Quality Flood Damage Assistance Available in the Chicago Area

9/23/2022 (Permalink)

Flood Damage Assistance

After a flood, things may appear worse than they are, you can recover much of what you see by obtaining the services of a quality restoration company. These technicians clean, dry, and rebuild flooded homes all of the time, enabling homeowners just like you to return to their home sooner than you might think.

When dealing with flood damage in your Chicago area home, play it safe. Never enter your property to take a look around or assess the damages alone. Safety hazards are lingering in the rubble that put you and your family at severe risk, some that only a trained eye can spot quickly enough to avoid. Making it necessary for you to ask for help immediately.

Companies like SERVPRO assist homeowners with recovering from flood damage on their property while also providing recommendations to assist with limiting your losses during any future events. Using the right company can make the difference between preventing or limiting flood damage, or losing your home entirely to the next problem that occurs.

At SERVPRO you and your family come first. We want you to be safe, avoid stressful situations, and concentrate on a more important side of your restoration, your health. Flood situations take their toll on your family both physically and emotionally, once you have expressed your concerns and had your questions answered by our onsite supervisor, leave your restoration in our hands.

SERVPRO can help you floodproof your home as we perform your restoration. Our initial inspection outlines problems that exist providing you with a timeline for recovery and prevents you from being surprised by anything that might arise. We help you rescue your cherished items, restore your furniture, and protect the structural stability of your home.

Our services include the removal of any standing water, getting air moving to reduce moisture caused by condensation and humidity. We clean and disinfect everything found within the affected area, removing debris that makes its way inside. We check for broken or leaky pipes and perform any necessary repairs to help return things to normal, in the most efficient way possible.

Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City for additional information or to begin your home’s restoration, today (773) 337-3900.

If you are looking to learn more about Chicago visit https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en.html.

Chicago Fires have Degrees of Damage

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

Inspection and Planning by SERVPRO Can Mitigate Fire Damage

Every fire is different, depending on how fast the fire burns, property consumed, and many other factors. Once extinguished, we determine damage according to three levels: minor, medium, and major.

Each type of fire damage in Chicago homes requires special services. To restore homes to their preloss condition, SERVPRO provides an extensive group of services. Depending on the kind of destruction and to what degree, we develop a restoration plan from these categories.

Mitigation – This first service is to secure the home and prevent more destruction; boarding up windows and doors for example. In one case where there was primarily smoke and soot residue, a homeowner waited overnight to call us. By the time one of our work crews arrived, a raccoon had entered through a broken window in the kitchen and caused several thousand dollars in damage throughout the house. The owner also had to pay another company to trap and remove the raccoon.

Structural Cleaning – If the smoke penetrated through walls and into the crawlspaces, then the beams and framing in a home need cleaning as well. In cases where a company simply replaces drywall and ceiling tiles, smoke odors do return. We wipe down metal and wood frames by hand or use a fogger in places where we cannot physically enter.

Contents Cleaning – Personal property absorbs smoke residue quickly, but can often be cleaned on-site. It may not be possible if the structure is determined to be unsafe or we cannot secure it. If necessary, our technicians pack up property and bring it back to our facility for cleaning and storage until we complete work.

Specialty Restoration – This category covers dry cleaning, refinishing furniture and cleaning electronics and artwork. In one case, a client spent their budget to replace the roof and to contract out the restoration of a 1950s era, reel-to-reel, tape recording, sound system.

Reconstruction – In cases of major damage, structural components (beams, columns, and load bearing walls) become compromised. When this occurs, our technicians place temporary, additional support structures to remove the damaged pieces. If there is too much damage, we may need to subcontract the labor or have the client hire a general contractor.

Restoring a home after a fire can be a long and expensive process. The only way to make it work is to carefully inspect, determine services needed and use one of the most experienced companies in Cook County. SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is here to help, so call us today at (773) 337-3900 to get started.

Chicago Area info click here.

Insurance for Water Damage in Chicago

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

Trust your insurance carrier and SERVPRO for water damage restoration in Chicago properties.

Different Policies Cover Many Aspects of Water Recovery Mitigation

Most homeowner’s insurance policies will cover particular kinds of water damage to the inside of your home. Several factors will determine precisely what it covers. The type and cost of the homeowner’s policy you carry will determine the deductible, plus any limits to payouts arising from particular claims.

Their different coverage restrictions and premium costs differentiate each type. There are certain kinds of water damage in Chicago that a homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover. Natural flood damage from a source outside has to be covered under a distinct policy for flood insurance. Homes in elevated areas or dry climates away from natural water sources might not need flood insurance policies. However, homes in low-lying areas along lakes, rivers, or oceans could need flood insurance.

Homeowners have three basic types of insurance policies: HO1, HO2, and HO3. HO1 policies need lower premium payments but carry deductibles on the high side and might not cover some kinds of damage to the homes covered by other policies. HO2 policies are intermediate, usually have moderate deductibles, and cover most damages. HO3 policies are the most expensive and generous insurance for homeowners. These policies give you limited deductibles and have a lot of perks that make them well worth their extra cost.

Variations in the Insurance Market

The market for these insurance types is relatively localized. In areas that are flood-prone where there are regular basement floods, flood insurance can be extremely costly. This is also true in the regions which regularly experience severe thunderstorms and hurricanes. The flood insurance market in Florida is regulated to lower the costs out-of-pocket for the homeowners living there.

During a weather event, if your home sustains water damage, a homeowner’s comprehensive policy could cover your repair costs in particular circumstances. You will likely need to show your claims adjuster that the damage happened because of a defect in the construction of your home. This reasoning could explain why water seeped through a window that was sealed improperly or by the structure having a weak point. It is not as likely to be an adequate explanation for water entering the home clearly through an open door or window.

A homeowner’s insurance policy will likely cover water damage associated with faulty appliances or plumbing. This outcome, of course, is not guaranteed, either. Before your provider agrees to pay your claim, you’ll have to state that the flood or leak was the cause of water-carrying equipment that was poorly manufactured or repair work on a shoddy existing water line.

At SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City, we can help you get what you deserve regarding your insurance claim after experiencing water damage. Just call us any time of day or night at (773) 337-3900.

Why the Type of Water in a Flood Matters More Than the Amount of Water

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

Clean vs. Contaminated Water after a Flood

A flooded home is always an unwelcome event, but there's more to water emergencies than most people realize. Water level isn't the only challenge and potential hazard involved, and whether the flood water is clean or contaminated plays a huge role in the cleanup process.
 
If you've experienced flood damage in Beverly, you may not be aware that whether items within your home can be restored heavily depends on whether the water is contaminated or not. Here are the differences between clean and contaminated flood water, and how we deal with each.
 
Clean Water
 
This type of flood damage comes from water that is not contaminated with any waste, hasn't been used, doesn't have organisms in it that can carry disease, and has been treated. For instance, if your water heater malfunctions and floods your basement, that water is likely to be clean as it's been sitting in an enclosed tank waiting to be used. Flood damage from burst pipes also commonly involves clean water.
 
Clean water poses the least risk to your family, and SERVPRO technicians will have a much better chance of saving items affected by it. Here are some of the things that we're typically able to restore in this situation:
 
- Carpet and carpet pads
- Books and documents
- Electronics and appliances
- Furniture
- Electronic media
 
Contaminated Water
 
Gray water and black water are both contaminated, and the difference between the two is that black water has solid waste and is potentially more hazardous. Gray water has been used, but it doesn't contain human or animal waste. Examples include water dumped from broken washing machines and dishwashers, and toilets that have overflowed when not in use.
 
Flood damage from natural disasters and storms, backed up sewage, and used toilets that have overflown are examples of black water. This is the riskiest type of water emergency to handle, which is why SERVPRO technicians take special precautions when dealing with black water.
 
Though area rugs, some possessions and furnishings, and appliances can often be saved when they've come into contact with contaminated water, carpet padding is thrown out for safety. Carpet can be cleaned if the flood is from gray water, but it's best for your family's health that it be thrown out if black water is involved.
 
The team at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City have the tools and expertise needed to handle all types of water emergencies quickly. For a quote or to learn more about our flood damage services, call us at (773) 337-3900.

Protecting Precious Memories From A Fire in your Downtown Chicago Homes

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

Preserving Cherished Memories

Most people do not like to think about the possibility of their home catching on fire, but, what if it did? Assuming your family and pets all get out safely, what would be the things you are most upset about losing? You may have little to nothing left that is salvageable after a fire. Even if you have a good homeowner’s policy, it cannot bring back your treasured items such as photographs, personal papers, relevant documents, children’s artwork and your computer files. While all these things would be a great loss, sentimental belongings like your family photographs are at the top of most people's lists.

A good place to start, a fire safe can prevent fire damage to your precious memories. Most residential safes in Downtown Chicago carry a two or three-hour rating, however, which means they protect the contents for just a few hours in case of a fire. An even better way of protecting your personal and legal documents and family memories is to store copies of them somewhere other than your home. Then, when you have a professional remediation company such as SERVPRO come to restore and repair your home, this is one less worry.

Scanning Your Documents
Begin scanning each item by taking a digital picture, using your home scanner, or, for high quality or fine art scanning, use a scanning service. After you have digital copies of your documents, you must determine how to store them.

Make CDs
Upload your digital image files to an online service, which lets you create shareable online photo albums or get CDs burned. Think about having CDs sent to friends and family as a backup copy. Many people enjoy storing images on the hard drive of their computer and backing the images up on a flash drive, the problem here is most people forget to back up their pictures and documents, risking their loss, even from general computer issues. If you remember to back up your computer regularly, a flash drive is an excellent way to save precious memories. However, this is only if you keep it in your possession or give it to a family member for safekeeping. In the case of a fire, the flash drive and computer are lost. Remember that after a fire, SERVPRO needs to be called right away so they can come and restore everything possible in your home, and repair any damage.

Go To The Cloud
You can upload images to Yahoo or Google, however, for the most secure storage off-site of your important photos you are better off using a backup service like Cloud. Using Cloud storage puts your images on a remote service, and the packages include backups for your computer. The services use the same technology for encryption that banks use, so your images are protected.

Protecting your family memories from fire is something important to consider. If your family does experience loss from fire, be sure to reach SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City immediately. We can help you to get your home back to normal as soon as possible when you call us at (773) 337-3900.

First Class Cleanup Assistance for Downtown Chicago Commercial Water Damage

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

First Class Cleanup Assistance for Downtown Chicago Commercial Water Damage

When it comes to dealing with commercial water damage in downtown Chicago, you'll need to hire a reputable local restoration service that can help you deal with the issue in an efficient and cost-effective manner. If your business or commercial office building has suffered water damage, whether due to flooding, overflowing sewage or a burst water main, we are here to help you.

Service Begins Immediately With Your Very First Call
When you contact us, your service will start immediately. The first step we take is to visit your property and make a quick and fully detailed assessment of the damage that has been done. It's critical to realize that the potential for danger does not abate simply because the emergency situation has been controlled. Leakage may persist in your structure for weeks and months after the incident, leading to further trouble such as mold growth and structural damage. This is exactly why a professional water damage restoration specialist is needed.

Dealing With Water Damage Is Our Personal Mission
Dealing professionally with the commercial water damage downtown Chicago businesses receive on occasion is our personal mission. As soon as the extent of the damage has been established, we will begin draining out all of the leftover water. We can get water out of hard-to-reach nooks and crannies in the building where it may hide undetected and slowly become the cause of future problems.

Once all of the water is eliminated, we will start a comprehensive restoration and remediation program that includes carting away all the damage/debris and purifying the air of any remaining odors. We will check areas, such as air conditioning vents and filtration units, to make sure that mold growth hasn't occurred. Finally, we will double check everything to make sure the building is safe to inhabit.

The Full Restoration of Your Property Is Our First Priority
If you want your property to be fully restored and renovated, you'll need the assistance of a reputable water damage professional. This is why the full restoration of your property is our first and overriding priority. You don't want to wait weeks or even months while the insurance company weighs out your claims or lose money every day while your business is unable to function. You especially don't want to watch as all of your tenants leave the building in search of a safer location. Instead of completely demolishing the structure, it's better to let our team of professionals restore it.

Your One Stop Shop for Downtown Chicago Commercial Water Damage
When it comes to dealing with the commercial water damage downtown Chicago businesses sometimes sustain, you'll need to know the number of a reputable and professional local service that you can trust. When you need service quickly, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is here to be your one-stop local restoration services provider. We can provide services anywhere in the Chicago metropolitan area from Beverly and Calumet Park to Blue Island and Alsip. Call us at (773) 337-3900 for more information.

Preparation is Key for Staying Safe Through a Storm

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

Storm Plans Need To Include Supplies and Reasearch As To Recovery Service Companies Storm season is upon us and we have noticed a dramatic increase in the number of customers that contact us for immediate help to clear up storm damage in the Downtown Chicago area. Some storms are brutal and take a significant toll on the population in the area. Restoring commercial and residential properties after a dramatic storm is our business. It is something that we take great pride in because we know that it is very beneficial to the local community. The fact is that SERVPRO of Evergreen Park South Chicago City is a locally owned business and we provide 24-hour service to storm disaster victims in the community. Preparing for Storms We realize that storms might hit out of the blue. One minute, the sky is crystal clear, with a calm breeze. The next minute, a storm is brewing over the area. We advise our customers to start preparing for storms and storm damage long before they occur. We've all heard stories about people that are preparing for the Zombie Apocalypse or the great disaster that ends the world. However, it is more practical to prepare for a real life situation that could occur at any time. For example, thunderstorms, tornadoes, lightning strikes, hurricanes, and floods are more apt to strike a community than the disasters mentioned above. It is important to have a plan in place for any storm. For example, plan a safe location for the family in the home or a nearby evacuation center. Put together a storm disaster kit and store it away for use during the event. It is also a good idea to have a battery-operated radio that is tuned to the local weather station for updates on the storm. Make sure that the entire family is well aware of the emergency plan to keep everyone safe. Practice the plan a few times per season to stay on the safe side. More Storm Safety Tips Believe it or not, the safest place to be during a storm is inside your own home. Don't rush outside, in the middle of a storm looking for safer ground. Instead, we suggest that you stay inside, listen to the weather forecast, stay away from corded telephones, avoid interacting with any type of electrical equipment in the home. Storm Damage Downtown Chicago SERVPRO of Evergreen Park South Chicago City is recognized for their fast response to emergency situations after storms. We serve both residential and commercial customers promptly. Our staff of highly trained technicians will work quickly and efficiently to restore your property. Contact us at (773) 337-3900 for more information today.

SERVPRO has the Expertise to Remove Water from your Chicago Home

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

Let Our Specialized Mitigation Services Help with Your Water Removal Needs in Chicago 

Having an appliance malfunction or a pipe burst within your home can leave you with significant water damage. The longer that water remains in your property, the more chances you have for extensive damage and the onset of dangerous mold and mildew growth. Calling our team of professionals at SERVPRO gets you the immediate action necessary to limit the amount of damage and water loss. 

When you need water removal in Chicago, we have the technicians that you want on your side to address the problem. When left unchecked stagnant water or hidden moisture brings on ideal conditions for structural issues, mildew, mold, and more. Our team at SERVPRO uses the latest technologies and proven methods that help you to lessen the damage and restore your home to like-new condition. By following the best practices of the IICRC Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, our team is spot-on with our efforts. 

Why SERVPRO? 

Whether you have a pipe that bursts on the second floor of your home or a washing machine that leaks throughout your basement, we show up with the right equipment to extract the water from your home. Concrete and tile flooring are sturdy, but excessive exposure to water can compromise their integrity. When your cleanup process lacks thorough drying, a chalky substance known as efflorescence can come back time and again. 

During the drying process, SERVPRO professionals use heavy-duty axial fans and centrifugal air movers that circulate the air, speeding the drying time. We also use specialized cleaning and disinfecting products to ensure a clean living space that is free of mold and foul odors that DIY cleaning often leaves behind. To wrap up the water removal process, SERVPRO technicians employ innovative water detection tools that use thermal imaging technology to ensure the removal of the moisture from every impacted area of your home. 

When it comes to water removal and restoration, you can always count on SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City to make it "Like it never even happened." Give us a call anytime for professional water cleanup services at (773) 337-3900. We always send a team of highly trained technicians out to your location as soon as possible. 

More about Chicago.

Containing and Extinguishing a Fire Quickly Is Crucial

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

When thinking about fire damage, fire sprinklers might also come to mind. There is a good chance you’ve seen several movies where just a bit of smoke triggers all the sprinklers in a building to go off. But did you know that smoke doesn’t even trigger sprinklers? In reality, these sprinkler systems are activated by heat, one sprinkler at a time. A majority of fires usually only need one to two sprinklers to be put out.

You also might think that putting in a fire sprinkler system is the same as choosing water damage instead of damage from the fire. This is a take on the above myths, that sprinklers are activated by smoke and that they all go off at the same time. If this was the case, these systems could actually do more harm than good.

The smart engineers who made these systems, fortunately, made them to lower the damage to your property from smoke, fire, and water. For over two centuries, fire sprinkler systems have been helping put out fires and have seen vast improvements over the years. Early versions were truthfully quite unreliable and caused a lot of damage from water. However today, sprinkler systems are known to lower deaths and property loss by over sixty-five percent. Since each head of the sprinkler is triggered automatically by temperatures specific to fires, just one or two of them can extinguish or contain a fire to the room it began in rather quickly and cause a small amount of Downtown Chicago fire damage. Also, since sprinklers use around six times less water than a fire hose, they are less harmful to your property than the fire department visit will be.

Fire Prevention Systems

You know about properly maintaining your smoke detectors. You have also probably heard that annoying beeping noise they make when the battery is low. If you’ve also heard that a smoke detector is all you need for protection from fire, you’ve heard another common myth regarding fire sprinkler systems – you do not need them if there is a smoke detector in place. All they are is a signal to alert you of a potential fire and in the instance, they are hooked up to an alarm system they will also alert the fire department. They are necessary for fire damage prevention, but so are fire sprinklers. The presence of one doesn’t cancel out the other’s need. They work together to save property and life from fire.

When a fire begins, the smoke that results will set off a smoke detector in time, alerting residents. This can be a slow process depending upon where the detector is located. The fire is growing in the meantime, and alerting residents is important, but so is putting the fire out. When it begins, the fire quickly heats the air right above it. This air rushes and is pushed out to either side at the ceiling. This is what reaches the sprinkler head, activating it.

If you do experience fire damage in Downtown Chicago of any kind, make sure and contact our experts of SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City by dialing (773) 337-3900 right away. We can take care of your fire damage of any size and get your life back to normal.

How does SERVPRO Prepare Your Home for Water Mitigation?

8/14/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals are trained to deal with water damage in your home. Contact us 24/7 for our certified technicians and professional equipment.

Helping Chicago homeowners get back to normal

If you see signs of water damage in your home, either because of weather or due to a plumbing problem, it is best to call SERVPRO quickly.

Water mitigation in Chicago requires a professional eye and proper preparation. It would be a mistake to rush in and start removing water without:

• Undertaking a thorough assessment of the damage.
• Making your home safe and dealing with immediate hazards.
• Removing debris and water-damaged objects.

Our teams use monitoring tools such as probes and meters to assess the water damage in your house. We test inside walls, across ceilings and floors, and behind baseboards for a complete picture. We secure your home by covering roofs and windows with tarps if needed, and we remove any debris.

We also assess your belongings and let you know which we can salvage. We put those we can rescue aside to clean as soon as possible, or else we send them to a specialist facility. We dispose of anything we cannot salvage.

For a thorough water mitigation service, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

Is Ice Damming Dangerous for Chicago Properties?

8/14/2022 (Permalink)

Water can damage your home anytime of the year. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for professional services and remediation.

Freezing Pipes and Ice Dams from a Polar Vortex Cause Water Damage in Chicago

Ridges of ice forming along the edges of a roof can become a threatening scenario for your Chicago home or business. When thawing water cannot safely find its way off the roof via gutter channels, downspouts, and diversion installations, this ridge of ice grows in size and ponds water on the roof. This accumulating water can allow for seepage through the shingles, vents, wall systems, and into related areas of your home. This water damaging penetration can be costly and challenging to dry and restore, from the attic to the basement!

Effective Water Removal and Evaporative Drying

These freezing weather events cause extensive water damage in many Chicago properties. Because temperatures are expected in the single digits and wind chills even more severe, the threats of burst pipes require prompt action from our responding technicians. Damaged plumbing often involves the removal of standing water using advanced and efficient extractors. 

Can Loss Effects Get Reduced with Quick Actions?

As leading restoration professionals across multiple franchises locally, we can be a top choice for large-loss recovery and restoration during an emergency. Our SERVPRO team can begin establishing containment barriers by hanging poly-sheeting to isolate drying areas. These initial actions can ensure more efficient management of humidity, airflow, and temperature, thereby mitigating the water damage.

What Materials Require Repair and Replacement After Damming?

Whether it is one of the thousands of homes in the area or large commercial structures, ice damming can impact several building materials. Some of the most common areas that require our general contractor license for repairs and build back include:

• Shingles
• Roof supports
• Underlayment
• Flooring
• Wall Systems
• Insulation

Having sufficient insulation can often reduce the creation and sustaining of ice dams on your roof that can generate attic moisture. Whenever you contend with roof breaches that damage your home or business, you can count on our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team to help when you call (773) 337-3900. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Removing Fire and Smoke Damage from Downtown Chicago Offices

8/14/2022 (Permalink)

Getting your office back up and running after a fire is a daunting task. Contact SERVPRO for technicians who are here to help. We are standing by.

We Remove Fire and Smoke Damage Fast

With thousands of businesses in the Windy City, Chicagoland commercial properties cannot afford to wait months to have their properties restored after fire damage events.

Where is the Damage?

Fire and smoke damage in Downtown Chicago offices can be in many rooms. We must assess the scope of the work, including the severity of any soot soiling. This can include:

• Soot solids
• Grease
• Ash
• Odors

What is the Best Soot Removal Solution?

Choosing the best cleaning option depends on the type of smoke damage and its location. SERVPRO professionals carefully assess conditions to choose among solvents, detergents, and dry cleaning solutions.

Pre-Testing Washable Surfaces

Before any cleaning approaches are selected, SERVPRO professionals must determine their viability for restoring soiled surfaces. For example, some of the potent chemicals in our inventory could damage finished materials like wood desks. Pre-testing our products against the materials that require them is a way to ensure we are choosing the most efficient and thorough restoration solution for the office.

Can the Materials Be Salvaged?

Surfaces are not always washable and preservable, even with the timely response of our Large Loss team. Controlled demolition is a suitable reaction when it is determined that contents or building materials have been too overwhelmed by smoke and soot damage. We remove and safely discard soiled construction elements to prepare the property for any repairs and reconstruction necessary. Material salvageability is often determined in the initial property inspection.

When contending with commercial damage to office spaces, we must quickly determine the salvageability of materials and contents impacted by fire and smoke. We work quickly to isolate affected areas to keep your doors open if possible and work around the clock to reopen your office if it is not. Trust in the fast and knowledgeable response of our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City Large Loss team at (773) 337-3900.

Why Hydroxyl Generators Take the Odor Out of Fire Damage in Evergreen Park Homes

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Our technicians use a combination of devices and machines to pluck smoke and soot particles from the atmosphere.

Find Out How SERVPRO Takes Odors out of Fire Damage Items

Fire damage restorers have used specialized equipment for many years to deal with the odor. It is because, after a domestic fire, lingering smells are one of the biggest frustrations. Fortunately, SERVPRO has access to odor-busting foggers, masking agents, filters, chemicals, and ozone generators.

Our technicians use a combination of these devices and machines to pluck smoke and soot particles from the atmosphere. They are highly effective in restoring fire damage in Evergreen Park homes. One of the most sophisticated tools we use is called the hydroxyl generator, and we will tell you a little more about it.

Please keep reading to find out how our SERVPRO hydroxyl generators differ from ozone generators and which approach is best for your home.

What Is Deodorization?

While they are different processes, ozone and hydroxyl generators work similarly. They produce particles that have odor-eliminating properties. In the case of hydroxyl, these particles are created all the time naturally. They develop when ultraviolet light reacts with water and oxygen. All that we do is accelerate the process by introducing more UV light.

Why is Hydroxyl Important?

When created in an atmosphere where odor-causing chemicals are present, hydroxyl particles decompose. They are often referred to as a ‘natural broom’ because they ensure that indoor environments contain minute levels of these chemicals. Hydroxyl is particularly useful when dealing with unpleasant odors due to its speed. It can break down as many as 5,000 chemicals (including smoke).

Why Is Hydroxyl Different from Ozone?

For one thing, hydroxyl particles break down airborne chemicals around a million times faster than ozone. They are the second most powerful oxidant in existence (after fluorine). Interestingly, using ozone in very high concentrations can cause it to work faster than hydroxyl. The problem is that, in such quantities, it is toxic. If the SERVPRO technicians decide to use ozone in your business, you may have to vacate the premises.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

On the other hand, hydroxyl generators are much kinder to the environment. They do not threaten humans or plant life and rarely require containment. Get in touch with the experts at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City for more information. Call us 24/7 at (773) 337-3900.

The Flood Damage Insurance Claims Process for Chicago Homes

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Storm damage? Call SERVPRO! Our team is equipped and trained for complete restoration.

SERVPRO Helps Flood Damage Claims Get Approved

In and around Chicago, it is always advisable for homeowners to secure insurance against flood damage where possible. When natural disasters like flooding occur, you must still jump through some metaphorical hoops to get the damage claim approved and restoration work paid for by the insurance provider. SERVPRO can help. 

Assessing the Condition of the Property

Flood damage to Chicago homes and businesses varies by the incident, making it essential to have competent professionals assess the damage. Structural, content, and environmental damage can all have a place in evaluating the type of restoration and recovery work needed for the property. 

Documenting Content and Structure Damage

Whether to complete the estimation the insurance provider needs or to keep the customer apprised of the conditions of their home, the inspection of the house should yield considerable documentation on the requirements of individual contents and structural elements. A complete recording of the home's state can show where specific restoration and repairs are necessary. 

Interfacing with the Insurance Adjuster

An insurance provider will designate a representative to help with a damaged home as work begins with trusted restorers like SERVPRO. We work with this individual to keep our customers from being a forced middleman mediating the transfer of information, documents, and progress reports. 

Creating a Detailed Estimation of Restoration Work

Damage claims will not be approved, and the notice to proceed is delivered without a detailed estimation of the work SERVPRO believes is necessary. Our expected timeline to complete this work. With flood damage, this estimation could include several tasks such as:

• Extraction
• Cleaning
• Drying
• Content cleanup
• Disinfection

When your home needs extensive reconstruction or restoration, it pays to have insurance. Our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City can help to meet the requirements, so this vital work starts as soon as possible. Call us now at (773) 337-3900.

What Parts of a Property Lead to Mold Damage

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Dampness in a basement leads to mold damage in Chicago

Mold Growth Thrives in Damp and Dark Areas

Mold can grow just about anywhere, in harsh conditions, and at the ends of the Earth. However, that's not to say that certain factors don't make it more likely to grow in a particular area. Most species of mold have the same sets of desirable conditions and thus share some of the most common growth places. If your property meets one or more of the following descriptions, it may be at an increased risk of mold growth. 

Old, Unkempt Properties 

Older or less well-maintained properties are often very likely to incur mold damage in Chicago, as these properties often have dark interiors, open and unwatched wood and fabric materials, and leaks that create damp conditions. These are all highly conducive to mold growth, especially in warm and humid weather. Make sure to keep your home in good shape, and if you cannot do the work yourself, it's best to hire a contractor rather than let the house deteriorate. It may save you money down the road. 

Poorly Ventilated Areas 

Does your home have a stuffy, stagnant area? Worse, is this in a dark and potentially damp place? Stale air makes for excellent mold growth conditions. Try improving ventilation across your home, keep windows open, and perhaps use fans in areas such as basements that are not commonly used. Moisture is the most crucial factor in mold proliferation. SERVPRO IICRC trained techs suggest that you keep the interior ambient temperature between 72 and 80 degrees to mitigate fungi growth potential.

Areas Subject to the Elements 

Is there a part of your home that absorbs the elements more than another? This may be a basement with an open window or cracked foundation, a closet with a small hole leading outside, or even an exterior shed or garage. Having a region of your home's interior exposed to the outside and particularly to wet weather increases the chances of mold development in that area. There is that moisture again.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is prepared and equipped to deal with mold damage in all conditions and all times of day or night. If your home needs professional mold remediation, call us at (773) 337-3900.

Chicago Restaurant Fires Get Help from SERVPRO to Keep Customers Coming

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Offers Full-Service Restoration to Fire Damaged Chicago Commercial Establishments

The majority of fires reported throughout the area involve faulty electrical systems, heating equipment, and cooking appliances. As a restaurant owner, it is easy to understand how some of the devices you utilize on a daily basis can cause significant damage without warning.

However, just because you can understand how something might happen, it does not mean that it is ever a good time to experience fire damage on your Chicago area property. Some fires destroy contents found on your property such as dining room furniture, serving areas, and kitchen equipment. Others go even further, attacking structural components, affecting the integrity of your building producing far more damaging results.  
 
SERVPRO provides restoration services for victims of fire and smoke damage for both structural and content-related fires. Usually, when fire harms a structure, customers look to many different parties to perform tasks involved in its restoration. However, we work with your insurance company, deliver desired results and manage the entire recovery process for you.  
 
SERVPRO handles everything, including all repairs and finishing touches that might be necessary to return business operations to normal. Our restoration services only involve a fraction of the costs of replacement, lowering many of the fees associated with your claim. We make it easier and less stressful to provide customers with detail-oriented services that address customer concerns and help return things to normal in a quick, efficient manner.
 
SERVPRO technicians understand how emergency situations take their toll emotionally. We discuss issues in a polite, professional manner and provide you with the solutions you need to understand your options better. Restoration work presents a variety of challenges that make working during the evening or weekend hours necessary. However, we put forth every effort to satisfy our customers, minimize your loss, and produce a quality restoration that saves time and prevents secondary damages from developing.  
 
Make the call to SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week for access to an organized, professional team of expertly trained restoration specialists that give your business priority. We provide you with restoration, cleaning, deodorization, and repair services necessary to make your business operational again. (773) 337-3900

We know what it's like Chicago, let SERVPRO be there to lift you above the water

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Chicago no fear SERVPRO will always be here for your water damage.

No matter how water damage could come to be inside of your Chicago home, the way that you handle the situation is essential to a successful remediation. From the moment that water begins to pour into your home, every moment counts. Quickly getting expert help could save your home from further damage and save your wallet from more expenses. 

To paint a clearer picture of how you could excellently handle the situation, imagine a scenario where your kitchen sink caused water damage to your Chicago bungalow. You come back from putting a load of laundry to wash and find that the water supply line broke. There is a puddle of water across your kitchen floor, and it is growing frighteningly fast. 

To start, shut off the water in your home to prevent even more damage. However, while you are doing that, you should reach out for professional services, like SERVPRO, to send representatives to your home. You may wonder why you should. After all, it's a puddle; you can clean it up with a mop and some towels, which, for the most part, is true. However, water has a habit of sneaking into every nook and cranny that it can. It is easy to miss out on pockets of water that could be hiding beneath the stove or the toe-kicks of your counter. Leaving excess moisture in your home could lead to mold damage.

Here at SERVPRO, we have the equipment to find every pocket of water that may be hiding in your kitchen. Our water damage restoration technicians are highly qualified and are certified by the Institution of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC.) Furthermore, they are trained to use advanced equipment that has been specifically designed to address the water damage inside your home. From heaters, air movers, dehumidifiers, moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras, we have the tools to find and remediate the water damage inside your home. Trust SERVPRO to help you, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

If water damage strikes your house, never wait to get help. Communicate with SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City by dialing (773) 337-3900. No matter the time or day of the week, we can help you. 

Chicago Weather Can Cause Flood Damage To Local Homes And Businesses

6/26/2022 (Permalink)

Restoring A Flood Damaged Home

Sitting next to Lake Michigan and receiving a steady and robust air current helped Chicago earn its nickname as the Windy City. This same lake also gives area residents plenty to do year-round. Making great memories by boating, fishing, and gathering together for beach picnics remains a positive part of life here for many families.

The weather around Chicago sometimes causes flood damage to local homes and businesses. While the lake can swell and rarely cause problems, smaller streams overflow much more rapidly. Flooding in a neighborhood can happen because of this, or when curbside drains become clogged, and water from rainy weather cannot drain away safely.

Technicians at SERVPRO earn certificates in Applied Structural Drying (ASD) after learning the intricacies of removing water, reducing moisture, and treating various materials correctly to achieve the desired results. Other certificates from the IICRC focus on remediation of microbial infestations and caring for damaged flooring types, furniture, and other furnishings. We offer our customers an integrated service, making it possible to quickly restore your home, so it looks "Like it never even happened," once more.

We know that after a flood, stress levels soar, and the constant reminders that things in your daily lives have changed only makes things worse. SERVPRO wants your family to feel safe again, and able to live in their own house with the belongings in place that make it 'home.' We start as quickly as possible and start with our Green Fleet's pump trucks. Our highly efficient pumps can remove thousands of gallons of water quickly.

Once the water no longer covers your floors, we can safely begin working to clear away the debris. While the flood dumped copious amounts of muck inside at one time, we work methodically, so we remove the most massive pieces of debris first, always working down to the next smaller size.

We keep air circulation a constant aspect in your home. Even though your home's air contains substantial amounts of moisture, microbes, including mold, bacteria, and viruses, stay suspended in the air. To clean the air and prevent these microorganisms from landing and causing problems for you, we use air scrubbers that filter out any particles. Because these no longer exist in the air, odor control becomes much easier to accomplish.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City's flood damage mitigation professionals is always ready. If the Little Calumet crests and causes flood damage to your Riverdale or Dolton home, call us at (773) 337-3900 so we can mitigate the destruction created during the event and remove the risks left behind.

SERVPRO's Annual Convention "Brand Partnership Panel"

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

"Brand Partnership Panel" presentation by SERVPRO owner/operator and VP of Operations at the annual Convention--2022.

SERVPRO of Evergreen/South Chicago City Provides Leadership

The SERVPRO Industries LLC annual convention 2022 is hosted in Dallas, TX. This much-anticipated event gathers more than 2000 individually owned and operated network franchises to showcase our successes and experiences in the cleanup and restoration industry.

The Brand Partnership Panel is a key component of the convention's goal of expanding the SERVPRO footprint. Frank Zubricki, owner/operator, and David Mason, VP of Operations for the SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City, are participants in this panel. They will share successful experiences in expanding localized branding in three initiatives.

PGA Tour & LPGA

Insurance agents and adjusters love to play golf. We maintain close relationships with local agencies both on the links and by providing non-credited franchise-offered classroom instructions on the dynamics of cleanup and restoration services. Frank claims that establishing insurance-driven claims enhances the revenue stream greatly.

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl

Our sponsorship of this annual ESPN-owned college football bowl game puts our name in front of many viewers. We are proud to support all First Responders who put their lives on the line daily. We can send brave individuals to the game as a statement of our commitment to helping our communities.

The First Responders Children's Foundation

We recognize the need and the benefits of supporting all families of the fire, police, EMS, and other First Responders. SERVPRO franchise owners participate in many worthwhile charitable programs to help these children.

Frank and David have years of experience operating many SERVPRO franchises. Expanding the brand in each market with beneficial events and programs for local communities and national regions makes good business sense. By partnering with outside agencies, we can make our mark.

Storm Damage to Your Chicago Home May Require Professional Flood Restoration

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

 The end of winter and the onset of spring often brings storms in the Chicago area that leave a lot of precipitation and damage. If your home is subjected to high winds, snow, sleet, and rain, you may have to call the professionals for restoration. Our team at SERVPRO understands how unpredictable the weather can be, which is why we have specialized processes in place to tackle all your flood mitigation needs.

Should you have flood damage in Chicago, taking quick action to mitigate appropriately is critical. Even though the floodwaters recede, they leave behind sludge filled with bacteria and other contaminants. Known as black water, floodwater must be addressed carefully so that you and your family can get back to life as usual without potential health hazards. With a simple phone call, we deploy a team that comes out to your home, perform an assessment, and put cleanup measures into motion to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Initial Restoration Measures

Any carpeting throughout your home impacted by floodwater is usually discarded if it is unable to be cleaned thoroughly and restored. Our skilled technicians know how to quickly perform pack-out services that help remove electronics, furnishings, and other belongings from areas near moisture. Items must be relocated to dry, safe places so that moisture does not take hold. Any damaged items that can be restored are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, followed by deodorization. Items that are not salvageable can be replaced.

Controlled Demolition

Our trained technicians go through your home to determine the best places for flood cuts in the drywall. Floodwater gets behind baseboards and starts to wick up the drywall, so cutting away enough drywall several inches above the area of saturation helps to prevent mold infestation. Flood cuts allow SERVPRO technicians to speed up the drying process by setting up air movers to get into the wall cavities. We also use dehumidifiers to help further removal of vapors from the air.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City is available whenever you need assistance with flood damage restoration. Give our team a call at (773) 337-3900, and we send out a team to begin the assessment process. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency service.

What Should You Do While Waiting for the Arrival of SERVPRO Extraction Specialists?

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians Give Water Damage Remediation Tips

As the seasons change and the weather transitions from winter to spring, the risk of flooding is significantly greater for homes in danger zones. For homeowners in Downtown Chicago, water damage should be prevented and avoided with careful maintenance. 

However, if the worst does happen and your home floods, either because of a burst pipe or changes within the surrounding environment, your first response should be to get on the phone to SERVPRO. Our expert team can be with you in a matter of hours, so that repairs can be started as soon as possible. 

We advise all homeowners to exercise caution both in and around water damaged buildings. If you have any doubts about the safety of the property, it is best to leave immediately and wait for the water damage restoration team to arrive. You should only stay and handle damaged items if you can do so with no risk of danger to yourself or others. 

Safe and Practical Steps to Take After Chicago Area Flooding

If the area is safe, there some things that you can do before the SERVPRO team arrives to start repairs. When dealing with water damage in Downtown Chicago, it’s a good idea to get fresh air circulating through the building as soon as possible. If you can, open up the windows and set up fans to push the clean air inside. 

You may also wish to disinfect the principal surfaces in your home (usually in the kitchen). If the building has been flooded with water from a river or external pipeline, this is an important safety precaution. The water may contain harmful bacteria, so don’t eat or work off the surfaces until you are confident that they are clean. 

You can also begin putting together an inventory of lost and damaged items. This is useful not only for your own records, but for your insurance claim. While many water damaged possessions can be saved, there could be items that are too ruined for even the SERVPRO restoration experts to rescue. They will discuss the extent of the damage inside the property once an initial inspection has taken place. 

Finding Help and Support in the Right Place When You Experience Flood Damage in Chicago

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City has all of the equipment and expertise needed to handle extensive water damage in and near the Downtown Chicago area. Let us help you get back to normal, by carrying out repairs with no fuss and no mess. Call us. (773) 337-3900.

Quality Water Damage Mitigation Services Available for Your Chicago Area Business

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers IICRC-industry trained professionals to quickly and thoroughly mitigate water damage in your warehouse.

SERVPRO's Quick Response Time Means Reduced Costs and Prevention of Permanent Damage

Water invading your Chicago area warehouse can lead to various unavoidable circumstances. These issues cause business owners billions every year in repairs, causing slowdowns or shutting companies like yours down for good. You need a professional to help you address this problem correctly to do more than merely survive.

If you find your Chicago area business suffering from water damage or flooding recently, call us immediately. We have 24-hour emergency response services that make it possible to prevent potential secondary losses from forming and limit any losses you might experience. Acting quickly after an emergency occurs in your warehouse means that you can reduce costs and prevent permanent damage.

SERVPRO technicians use various equipment to remove water quickly and advanced drying methods to restore your business, company assets, or inventory fast. We have access to water extractors of all shapes and sizes, infrared moisture detectors, hygrometers, dehumidifiers, air movers, and various attachments. We can also remove hidden pockets of water found anywhere on your property.

At SERVPRO, our technicians are IICRC-industry certified, which means we can address every aspect of your warehouse, including storage, boxing, and shipping equipment, office areas, and more. We offer full-service solutions to any circumstances that may arise and show our dedication to providing quality results in everything we do. 

If your building has a leaky roof, plumbing problems, or a flood caused by a recent storm, SERVPRO technicians can help. We specialize in water damage mitigation services while our staff assists with filling out paperwork associated with your claim. Our technicians work hard to ensure your business doors remain open, reducing or eliminating any losses in revenue while repairs are underway. 

Allow our expertly trained staff to provide the excellent services you can trust. We are proud to offer area residents and business owners emergency services to help them through tough times. 

Contact us at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City for additional information or to begin your warehouse restoration immediately. Our technicians are ready to respond Faster To Any Size Disaster. Give us a call today. (773) 337-3900

Fire And Smoke Damage to Your Evergreen Park Home

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Fire and the resulting smoke from such a destructive force can cause damage to all areas of your home, not just the ground zero location of the fire.

Fire And Smoke Damage Restoration

Fire and the resulting smoke from such a destructive force can cause damage to all areas of your home, not just the ground zero location of the fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the costs of direct property damage due to house fires have increased since 2011. 2015 saw $7 billion worth of damage.

Fire damage in Evergreen Park is stressful and can be a scary surprise for any homeowner. SERVPRO has seen firsthand what fire and smoke damage can do to a home, which is why we work quickly and restore homes with the best methods and latest technology to get you and your family back in your beds, safe and sound.

Reasons To Never Extend the Cleaning Process Post-Fire

When a fire has occurred in your home, it is crucial to call a fire cleanup and restoration expert like SERVPRO immediately to respond to your emergency. Extending the response time can have many consequences for your home's living spaces and structure. Right after a fire, soot and ash settle onto every surface in your home, from floor to ceiling. Porous materials may experience permanent discoloration, but many other surface areas in your home can be cleaned and saved if you take immediate action.

Within only a few hours, all the surfaces in your home can be affected by fire and smoke damage. Your furniture will likely need refinishing or heavy cleaning. The metals in your home will begin to rust and corrode, your walls will start to discolor, and even far away from the fire, clothing in your closet and bedding will become affected. Take immediate action after a fire to avoid permanent staining from the acidic soot and smoke. Also, the longer your belongings and structure remain untreated after a fire, the longer the restoration process will be and could cost you more due to permanently damaged furniture and structural pieces.

Contact Us

Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 anytime, day or night. Our specialists can always take your call with our 24/7 Emergency Services.

The Importance of Expert Chicago Water Removal Services

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Not all water damage is visible. SERVPRO has the equipment to locate hidden water damage and its source.

Trust SERVPRO for Water Removal in Your Chicago Home

When water finds its way into properties, it can cause structural damage, deterioration of porous materials, and mold infestation. Therefore, knowing how to spot problem areas to prevent water damage in your house is essential.

Even when using professional equipment, attempting to remove the water yourself does not mean you can remove all the water and moisture successfully. Call the experts at SERVPRO to perform water removal in your Chicago residence. Our technicians are experienced in seeking out hidden water damage. 

We can use infrared technology to detect water captured in seemingly unlikely places. To determine what it can take to dry your home, our SERVPRO crew can use a mathematical formula based on different variables such as: 

• The impacted cubic footage
• If the affected materials are saturated or damp
• The impacted square footage
• The number of air exchanges required
• The number of air movers needed

SERVPRO has an extensive water removal and drying equipment inventory, including portable extractors, air movers, thermo-hygrometers, and air scrubbers. During the water removal process, reliable and exact data is vital. Our technicians can use moisture meters with proprietary software to carefully measure moisture content.

We can remove the water using portable extractors. These devices have three main components: a pump, a heater, and a vacuum system, which remain in use while cleaning upholstery and carpets. The heater can heat cleaning and rinse solutions so they can clean more effectively. When the temperature of a solution increases, soils become more soluble, and cleaning solutions penetrate easier. 

Our SERVPRO team can dry your property using air movers and low grain refrigerant (LGR) dehumidifiers. The advanced dehumidification equipment produces effective drying results and eliminates environmental concerns. LGR dehumidifiers are better suited than conventional refrigerant dehumidifiers for drying spaces to a lower humidity ratio. Our team can also monitor and document the drying process daily to ensure we attain optimal drying standards.

After water ruins your property, fast and effective water removal and drying are vital. Contact the professional water extraction team from SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City for help. Our 24-hour emergency hotline is (773) 337-3900. 

Training and Positive Team Building in Chicago with Team Zubricki

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Train as a team, work as a team. That is the Team Zubricki way!

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, but SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City also has highly-trained technicians for all your fire, water, and mold restoration projects. The Team Zubricki franchises undergo regular training, seminars, and team-building activities to remain at the top of our game.

Chicago and Florida team training

We recently took part in Team Zubricki training at the newly constructed Chicago warehouse, a centralized location for executing restoration team mobilization and storing our advanced equipment. This facility was the perfect size to handle our large group, including Chicago-area franchises and Florida team members. Anyone unable to attend this recent event in person was able to connect via Microsoft Teams for interaction.

We believe that refresher courses and ongoing training are critical in the restoration industry. The large group got broken down into segments for the sales team, office staff, and production technicians to make it easier. Events such as these help our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City team stay up on customer service, enhance our skills, and broaden our knowledge of the restoration field. Additionally, this is an excellent chance to improve our overall company culture as we come together for a common goal.

Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City 24/7 at (773) 337-3900 when you require fire and water cleanup and restoration assistance.

Let SERVPRO Handle Exterior Fire Damage To Your Chicago Home

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

Sometimes, fire damage to your Chicago home may barely touch the interior but leave significant scars on the exterior of the building. When this happens, the restoration process may be less intrusive and more simple to go through, but a major amount of work remains to be done making sure that discoloration, smoke damage, and necessary reconstruction work all receive the attention they deserve. SERVPRO technicians can help you to handle all of these tasks and more and even take some steps to prevent against fire damages in the future.

Restoring Color
One of the most important ways our experts can help you to restore your home in Chicago after fire damage burns its exterior is to bring its color and appearance back to the way it was before the disaster. Thanks to efficient fire-specific cleaning methods and fast repainting efforts, we can remove any visual signs of damage your home may have received from the incident. If you feel uncomfortable with having our technicians work on your home, ask us to show you the extensive list of certifications that every SERVPRO employee receives.

Deep Cleaning
Our cleanup efforts extend well beyond the original sites of damage. Smoke odors and residues can travel quickly around and inside of your home, sometimes giving a section of the building interior a smoky odor despite there being no visual signs of damage. Our thorough cleaning regimens and smoke odor removal work can keep your home scrubbed free of even the smallest and most hard-to-handle fire and smoke residues.

Minor Reconstructive Efforts
Sometimes, some limited reconstruction may be necessary even when smoke and flame never touches the inside of your home. We can help you to make minor repairs such as patching up holes, replacing porch materials, and trimming trees to eliminate any sign of what might have happened before.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City brings friendly faces, years of experience, and affordable restoration services to your home when you need them the most. Call us 24/7 at (773) 337-3900.

Purchasing Insurance Needs to be an Educated Decision

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

There Are Many Things To Consider When Purchasing Insurance For Your Home

When purchasing homeowners insurance, there are many factors to consider, especially what would happen in the case that you experience storm damage. If you live in an area that is prone to severe storms, it is even more important to understand the kind of insurance policy you have, the limitations of it, what it covers and the kinds of storms for which you might not be covered.

Overview of Storm Damage Insurance
 
A lot of homeowners have experienced a bad hailstorm already or seen the storm damage which hail can cause to automobiles, homes, businesses and other property. When hail hits, it does the most damage to the outside of your property or home. Types of damage that are commonly caused by hail include siding damage, roof damage, window damage, shingle damage and automobile damage.

Thunderstorms

Most homeowner standard policies, known as HO-3 policies, will cover your home and its contents. Usually you are covered against theft, storm damage, some major disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes and hail, plus pet damage.

Floods and earthquakes are not usually covered under a majority of stand insurance policies and need a separate policy. Home insurance policies, remember, don’t cover normal wear and tear or poor maintenance, so you should ensure that your home is properly maintained at all times.
 
Shopping for Homeowners Insurance

When you are in the market for a homeowner’s policy, it is a good idea to look at several different companies first. Different companies for insurance will offer a significant range of coverage levels, prices, and discounts. Don’t just shop the ones you know best, but look for the policy which works for your situation the best. If you find a policy which looks good but is offered by a company you don’t know, it is helpful to look into their background. There are three websites you can check for the financial strength of an insurance company: Fitch Ratings, Ambest and Moody’s Investor Services.

When choosing a policy, begin by researching the area you live in. you will want to have a firm knowledge of the history of storm damage in your neighborhood related to:

• Tornadoes
• Hailstorms
• Flooding
• Wind storms
• Natural disasters
• Earthquakes

Ensure that the insurance policy you select will cover adequately the natural disasters and storms in your area. Look out for insurance companies that are known for denying claims unfairly. Each year, the American Justice Association publishes a list of the ten worst companies. If your insurance company is found on this list and your claim for insurance has been denied, ensure you connect with a contract that is reputable, such as SERVPRO, who has the experience to be able to fight for what you deserve.

Insurance for storm damage in Southside Chicago deserves to be researched thoroughly before you decide on which insurance company to go with. If you do experience storm damage of any kind, make sure and contact our professional technicians at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago by dialing (773) 337-3900 right away so we can assess your damages and make sure that you get the compensation you deserve.

Top Guns of Team Zubricki Honored as White Coats

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Congratulations to the team members awarded the White Coats

Over the past few years, our collective group of franchises making up Team Zubricki around the Greater Chicago area has been dispatched across the country to natural disasters and massive storm events to help wherever needed. These responses often come at a great personal sacrifice for our employees, leaving their families behind for weeks or even months until our work is done. In recent years, our Team Zubricki responders have helped at facilities and venues in:

• Louisiana
• Oklahoma
• Kansas
• Virginia
• Massachusetts
• Arizona
• Illinois

During a recent Large Loss training event for Zubricki franchises, specific employees were acknowledged for their efforts, going above and beyond for the customer and the team. These individuals were gifted white coats to symbolize how they stand out in their respective service fields and showcase the values and customer commitment we encourage in our disaster response. The inaugural class of White Coats this year featured:

• Nick Laughlin
• Randall Roach
• Senior Project Manager Patrick Houlihan
• Restoration Project Manager Eduardo Gomez
• Owner Anthony Zubricki

Tony Dantonio, Vice President of National Accounts at Team Zubricki, shares his thoughts on the team members awarded the White Coats: "The team members that were recognized with the White Coats have gone above and beyond to help make Team Zubricki successful.  The White Coats are intended to stand out just as these folks have done. They are true team players, and were caught in the act of doing things right."

Those awarded this special acknowledgment earned their place through their commitment to the team, those in need after disasters, and providing the best possible restoration outcomes. Through devastating winter weather leaving thousands without power to the destruction following the path of a hurricane making landfall, White Coats of Team Zubricki shined with:

• Selfless devotion to helping others at the expense of holidays, personal time, and family events. 
• Long hours on the weekends and evenings to ensure projects stay on track to get businesses back up and running. 
• Commitment to providing exceptional customer service during traumatic events. 
• Representing SERVPRO and Team Zubricki exceptionally while collaborating with other restoration teams, organizations, and relief efforts.

Patricia Zubricki hopes to let this become an annual tradition where the exceptional large loss response employees of the previous year are acknowledged and celebrated for their devotion and professionalism. 

How Our Water Damage Experts Reduce The Chance Of Secondary Problems In Your Chicago Property

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

If something ever leaks inside your Chicago brewery, the moisture that gets inside can create several different issues.

Commercial Water Damage Technicians in Chicago Talk About Secondary Problems

If something ever leaks inside your Chicago brewery, the moisture inside can create several issues. When a pipe breaks or a piece of machinery malfunctions, commercial water damage can occur very quickly. When water comes into direct contact with your business' building materials or contents, the problems created are considered primary issues. When water enters a structure, the humidity levels increase, generating other issues. Any commercial water damage caused by a vapor in the air is considered secondary.

The key to reducing secondary problems such as ruined drywall that did not initially get wet or mold contamination is to have issues mitigated immediately by a professional company like SERVPRO. Whenever we work on a commercial water damage project in Chicago, we try hard to remove moisture quickly so that no secondary issues arise. We use dehumidifiers that lower indoor humidity levels when rapidly drying out a structure. Building materials in initially unaffected places do not get wet due to vapor. We also take measures to dry out any organic substances within 48 hours so that microbial growth cannot occur.

Our SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified and have experience working with a variety of types of companies. We know that any time a disaster occurs, it can be detrimental to your business's day-to-day operations. We also know that the restaurant and brewery industry is about cleanliness and keeping a sanitary working environment. Our technicians realize that time and efficiency are essential when completing a project at your place of business. We sometimes change how we conduct work procedures to save time and money and make sure we do not create sanitary issues inside your brewery.

If secondary issues happen to occur as a result of the pipe break or appliance malfunction, we also have experience in mitigating those types of problems. Once secondary damage does occur, we take measures to minimize it and prevent the issues from getting worse. If you ever experience building materials getting affected by excessive moisture, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 as soon as you notice a problem.

Fire Damage Cleaning and Restoration Tips to Help Protect Your Chicago Area Home

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Overloading electrical outlets can often lead to electrical fires in your home.

Contacting SERVPRO Can Help Protect Your Home from Fire Damage

You can avoid fire damage in your Chicago area home by following a few fire prevention tips that most professionals highly recommend. Practicing proper fire safety etiquette and having a pre-existing relationship with your local restoration company can drastically reduce your losses and recovery time. 

Your actions and the choices you make directly impact how susceptive your Chicago area home is to fire damage. Learning what to do or not to do during certain situations helps keep your family safe and prevents severe damage to the property that you call home.

SERVPRO technicians can help provide you with the answers you need to protect you and your family during emergency situations that might occur. You may even find us hosting fire safety events to help inform residents and property owners alike about the risks fire poses to your community. 

Consider implementing some significant yet straightforward preventive measures that help prevent fires in your home. Never leave stoves unattended, and always keep your countertops free of flammable cooking products, objects, or supplies. Remain as safe as possible, maintaining a clean, sanitary, and disaster-free cooking environment in your home.

Like those offered at SERVPRO, ask a qualified professional how to handle or store propane, coal, or accelerants used for grilling correctly. Getting advice specific to your situation can help you avoid injury, death, or extensive damage that can cause your family to lose more than their home.

Help avoid overloading electrical outlets that often lead to electrical fires in your home. Portable AC units, heaters, fans, and dehumidifiers can cause significant problems if misused. Also, remember to check each electronic device for frayed cords or cracked plugs to avoid additional issues.

SERVPRO can help homeowners locate existing hazards and learn how to store boxes and treasured items correctly while maintaining a fire-safe home. You should make an emergency plan that allows each family member to remain safe, install the proper smoke detectors and fire extinguishing equipment, and help everyone get used to implementing fire prevention tips in your home.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City serves the entire Dolton, Beverly, Morgan Park area, providing fire damage cleaning and restoration services throughout the area; call today.

Managing Flood Damage Contaminants in Chicago Properties

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Floodwater often contains contaminants. SERVPRO has the equipment necessary to restore your home.

We Manage Flood Damage Contaminants After Disaster

Contamination is one of the continued threats after flooding. When natural floodwater penetrates a property, it can bring debris and organic matter. Bacterial and viral pathogens are present in decaying matter, sewage, and other harmful substances rushing floodwater could absorb or pull in as it passes. We work quickly to assess the likelihood of blackwater events in your house and the appropriate steps to ensure the safety of those exposed.

Is the Water Contaminated?

One of the distinctions of flood damage in Chicago homes and commercial structures is whether a contaminant is believed to exist. Even speculated threats need treating with the same level of care that confirmed contaminants require. Flooding can be a challenge for restoration professionals because of the presence of hazardous substances like:

• Sewage
• Chemicals
• Organic Matter

Removing Contents and Bulk Materials

Our team must treat the exposure of loose contents and personal belongings with urgency, which often means relocating these items to another portion of the property or our SERVPRO facility for cleaning. Bulk material removal is also a method of reducing pathogenic threats and contaminant spread in houses where these materials have been heavily exposed after flooding. 

Controlled Demolition

Addressing contaminants might also require the removal of exposed materials altogether. Controlled demolition might be suitable for any impacted building material when contaminants are considered a threat. SERVPRO technicians will remove carpeting, perform flood cuts on wet drywall surfaces, pull out wood trim, and eliminate other impacted construction elements as necessary. 

Disinfection Cleaning

Permanent construction elements like concrete, masonry, and other non-porous installation requires thorough cleaning with our potent disinfection products. Sanitizers in our inventory can destroy pathogens and bacterial threats on surfaces quickly. 

It is vital to act quickly after flood damage in the Windy City. We appreciate the impact natural flooding can have on buildings and homes, so our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City and our trained storm response team will arrive quickly to help. Call now at (773) 337-3900.

SERVPRO Professionals are Water Repair Experts

4/30/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage Experts Work as a Team

In addition to removing water damage in a Downtown Chicago home after firefighters leave or a flood recedes, a restoration team must prevent secondary damage caused by invading pathogens. Natural flood water contains mold spores and bacteria that can lead to a dangerous environment. In many cases, floodwater invading a home may have raw sewage that can cause health effects. The contamination left on surfaces can cause mildew odor and mold growth. An excellent way to ensure a home is cleaned efficiently is by having several technicians working at one time in different areas while performing various tasks. This professional fire and flood cleanup method helps prevent secondary damage to a home after the restoration team leaves.

Water Damage Restoration Equipment

Instead of using everyday household devices to remove moisture and debris from a home, professional restoration companies have industrial-strength equipment such as extraction machines. Technicians can install drying fans and dehumidifiers to reduce humidity and dry surfaces to prevent mold growth. Fast evaporation of moisture with air circulation makes the cleanup easier for technicians but also helps with preventing secondary damage. A sump pump powered by a generator is used to remove deep water from lower levels of buildings. At the same time, technicians begin to use extraction machines to suction moisture from wall-to-wall carpeting, tile floors, and drywall. As these areas of a home are dried thoroughly, technicians apply chemicals designed to destroy mold spores and mildew odor.

Water Damage Technicians are Specially Trained

Water damage IICRC certified technicians are trained to remediate different types of damage from sources such as sewer lines, lakes, or broken water pipes. When the damage in a home is from a combination of water, soot, and smoke, they are ready to use specialized methods to make repairs. A professional water and fire restoration business trains technicians in the most appropriate strategies. Technicians undergo rigorous training to receive certification in the skills of fire and water restoration.

How Water Damage Technicians Restore Homes

When water damage in Downtown Chicago occurs in a home due to a fire or flood, homeowners are often traumatized and do not know what to do. By calling a water restoration team immediately, a home is less likely to have permanent damage from floodwater, smoke, and soot because these items are removed quickly. The debris and moisture is suctioned into containers for removal to another site as other technicians work in a building to dry and decontaminate surfaces. After a water disaster, many home insurance providers reimburse the cost of restoration repairs. Homeowners needing to hire a restoration team can request a referral from an insurance agent. Never delay calling a restoration company after a fire or flood occurs to avoid additional damage as moisture or smoke seeps into surfaces.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City proudly serves Chicago, Downtown Chicago, South Side Chicago, Evergreen Park, and surrounding areas. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore water damage to your Downtown Chicago home or commercial structure. Call us today at (773) 337-3900.

To Ease Restoration Of Your Fire-Damaged Property, Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Restoration Of Fire Damage In Chicago Is Easier With Professional Assistance

Homeowners leaving stoves unattended when cooking, and other simple oversights can lead to severe fire damage. The time it takes to mount a response determines the level of damage, so in many cases, such incidents only affect items in the vicinity. A delayed response can spread the damage to other parts of the house or even bring down the entire structure. Seeking professional help after extinguishing the fire presents a better chance of restoring the home to its preloss state.

Since the dynamics in each incidence of fire damage in Chicago differ, there is a need for a thorough evaluation before taking any steps to restore the affected property. Evaluation can help establish the percentage of the property affected, the types of residues left, and the kinds of debris left. We have IICRC certified technicians who can handle such evaluation with ease.

A thorough cleanup exercise is another crucial step in the restoration process. This step involves several processes including removal of debris for cleanup or disposal, removal of residues, and extraction of water or other firefighting agents. Our SERVPRO crew separates debris into categories of salvageable, unsalvageable and questionable items thus removing everything from the affected area. We dispose of the unsalvageable items and set aside the others for cleanup or further evaluation. We use different drying equipment to remove any water remnants from the area affected by the incident.

Fires can be very destructive to the structure or fixtures such as cabinets especially when affected directly by the flames. Even when not completely burned, the flames can affect their structural integrity or finishes. Our SERVPRO technicians inspect the level of damage and decide whether replacement, refinishing or restorative cleaning would fix the problem. Restorative cleaning reduces the overall cost of fixing the damage. We use various approaches including soda blasting and dry ice blasting during restorative cleaning exercises because such methods do not cause additional damages.

To ease restoration of your fire-damaged property, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Click here for more about Chicago.

Call SERVPRO At The First Sign Of Water Damage For Fast Remediation

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

Store Owners in Chicago can call SERVPRO to Extract Water from Their Store and Leave it in Mint Condition

Water can come into your shop for many different reasons. A pipe that bursts in your shop or an adjacent storefront can be the culprit, or a leaky window allows rain to come inside and seep into your walls and carpet. Regardless of the source, controlling the damage is crucial in preventing loss of revenue.

Can't I Just Let my Dehumidifier do the Work?

Dehumidifiers greatly help in evaporating the water damage in your Chicago store, but it may not be sufficient. On the one hand, your household dehumidifier may not be strong enough to extract water at the speed necessary to avoid an escalation of damages. Along the same lines, it may not reach all the cavities in which water may collect. Failure to restore moisture levels can set the stage for complications later, including mold and other bacteria growth. When our SERVPRO team comes into your store, we bring industry-grade equipment to extract water, including the following:

• Truck-mounted pumps- we choose to use this type of equipment for large volumes of water. We can connect with municipal sewers by local rules and regulations as needed.
• Submersible pumps- this type of pump handles less volume than truck-mounted but is still a powerful extractor.
• Extractor wands- the wands help us reach corners and crevices that are otherwise out of reach for other pumps.
• Air movers also aid the evaporation process, as do dehumidifiers. Having a choice of water extraction techniques at our disposal makes the process more efficient for you, translating into mitigating the time in which closes your business to customers.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City is your ally when water comes into your commercial establishment. Contact us at (773) 337-3900 and let us show you how we can leave your shop, "Like it never even happened."

Can the Contents of My Chicago Home Be Salvaged After a Fire?

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO teams are ready to assist with fire damage situations day or night. Give us a call right away.

SERVPRO’s Green Team Will Do Everything Possible to Restore the Content of Your Chicago Home

A fire is a catastrophe that can be overwhelming. You may not know where to begin and wonder what is salvageable. Our Chicago team is ready to help.

What Can I Save From My Fire-damaged Home?

Fire restoration in Chicago homes will depend on the level of damage done to the house. This is based on the extensiveness of the fire. Our fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) do everything possible to restore your home to pre-damage condition. There are three levels of fire damage:

• Minor – Smoke residue is limited to a small area. The soot residue is light to moderate and can involve both dry and wet cleaning. Minimal replacement of items and repainting may not even be required.
• Medium – Smoke residue is moderate. Walls may need repainting, and more items may need replacing. Stronger smoke odors are present. Heat damage is present in drywall and cabinets. More wet cleaning is involved.
• Major – Damage is severe. Structural repairs are needed. Smoke residues are throughout the residence. Emergency services that involve boarding up the premises and removing debris are necessary. Contents that get restored will most likely be moved offsite.

Restoration Is What We Do

The level of fire damage will determine the amount of fire restoration that is possible. Our goal is to restore everything possible. Professional restoration lowers your claim cost and can salvage sentimental items you thought were lost. We provide the following restoration services we can provide:

• Reupholstering furniture
• Refinishing floors 
• Restoring wooden surfaces
• Repainting 
• Specialty cleaning of personal items such as clothing

There are times when restoring an item is impossible, but we do our best to return as much of your home to you as possible.

Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 for fire restoration service that is Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Can I Keep My Pets Safe From Flood Damage In Chicago?

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

If you are faced with flood damage, call on our experts for help. We are available to assist you 24/7.

Chicago Homeowners Want To Keep Their Four-Legged Friends Safe From Flood Damage

As every Chicago pet owner knows, our furry (and sometimes finned or scaled) friends quickly become part of the family. Looking after a pet requires time, care, dedication, and money. Sometimes, caring for a pet involves planning, such as arranging for their care when you are on vacation.

Flood damage in Chicago is distressing for anyone, but it can be extra stressful if you also have pets. Keeping your companions safe during a flood is a top priority. The very best way to keep your pets safe during flooding is to make preparations ahead of time. SERVPRO also recommends printing a list of actions to take when flooding occurs and keeping it somewhere that is both floodproof and easily accessible.

What Can I Do to Prepare For Flooding?

SERVPRO suggests taking the following actions before a flood happens:

• Contact your local shelters and also friends and neighbors to find out who will be able to take your pet should the worst occur and you have to evacuate – please note not all human shelters allow pets, so it is essential to have a plan
• Please make sure all dogs and cats are microchipped and have a sturdy collar and tag with up to date information on it
• Make arrangements with a neighbor for someone to take your pets in should an evacuation order happen when you are out of town
• Always ensure you have a good stock of food and medicine for your pets
• Double-check your flood escape route and make sure it’s pet friendly

What Should I Do When I Get a Flood Warning?

Swift action is essential when a flood warning comes. SERVPRO recommends you check flood warnings for your area regularly, and should you hear an alarm, take the following steps:

• Bring all dogs and cats inside as soon as you can
• Move all pets upstairs if possible, and take food, water, and medicine supplies upstairs too
• Fetch warm blankets and familiar toys and place them in the room with your pets for both warmth and comfort (the familiar smell of favorite toys helps calm pets in distress)
• Put medical information, vaccination information, vet details, microchip number, a recent photograph, and any other useful information about your pets in a sealed waterproof bag
• Make sure you have portable pet carriers (for cats and smaller animals) and a sturdy leash or harness (for dogs) close at hand

You might also consider asking a friend who lives outside the flood area if you can take your pets to them until the danger has passed

How Should I Take Care of My Pets When Flooding Happens?

If your home floods and you have not evacuated your pets, do not panic. There are still things you can do to take care of them during a flood incident.

The most important thing is not to leave your pets behind. Even if you think they are safe upstairs, you do not know how long it will be until you return home. Use a sturdy carrier to transport smaller animals and a good quality leash to keep dogs close to you – do not let any animals roam free during a flood.

If you have to evacuate with your pets, remember to take food, bowls, a favorite toy, and bedding.

If you do have to leave animals behind for your safety, shut them in an upstairs room with ample food, water, and bedding. Leave a note on the door of your home stating that there are animals inside, and contact your local animal charity if you can.

What Can SERVPRO Do About My Flood-damaged House?

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City understands that even once your pets are safe, it is still distressing to see your flood-damaged home.

Our highly-trained teams are on hand to take care of every aspect of flood repair and restoration, leaving your home feeling like your own again.

We start with an initial assessment of the damage and take care of emergency needs such as removing hanging plaster, putting a tarp on the roof, and boarding up doors and windows if necessary.

Our flood mitigation process covers everything from using powerful pumps to extract excess water to positioning air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out your home and make it liveable once more. Our SERVPRO teams also take care of damaged personal effects, disposing of those we cannot salvage and cleaning and sanitizing the items we can save.

We finish every project with deodorization to rid your home of lingering damp odors.

You can rest assured that we will liaise with you at every stage. For flood mitigation, you can rely on SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

Only Trust Mold Remediation to Professionals in Chicago

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

When mold becomes an issue in your property, you want the experts. Call SERVPRO for assistance with mold remediation services.

SERVPRO Provides Skilled, Efficient Mold Remediation for Chicago Properties

Mold is not something you may think about regularly until you detect musty odors or see bits of black mold developing in your bathroom, kitchen, etc. Finding mold anywhere in your Chicago property is unsettling, and you may want to grab some spray and a cloth to begin removing it. However, mold and mildew growth bring possible health effects, so attacking them with DIY methods is never recommended. Instead, you can look to trained mold remediation experts like we have on our team at SERVPRO. 

Why is SERVPRO the right team to handle mold damage and cleanup in Chicago? Because we approach each restoration project with care and precision to ensure safety and efficiency each step of the way. Not only that, but we have the right tools and cleaning agents to help us reach our goals. 

Containment Is Key – which is why we arrive and begin containment protocols and precautionary steps after our initial assessment. By planning out containment zones with sheeting and negative air pressure, we can keep microscopic mold spores from moving into unaffected areas of your property. 

Will My Contents Be Restorable After Mold Infiltration?

Our technicians inspect and categorize all belongings based on condition and composition so we can determine the potential for restoration. This also allows us to select the best safe, effective cleaning methods. Restorability will generally depend on:

• Composition (materials)
• Contents condition
• Cost of replacement versus financial value

We work to restore versus replace whenever possible to save your items, time, and money on your project. Anything that is unsalvageable will get safely disposed of according to local guidelines.

Call us at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 whenever you require assistance with mold remediation!

After a Property Fire Is it Hard to Remove Burnt Odors

4/2/2022 (Permalink)

What equipment is practical for odor removal?

Tackling odors in your Chicago property can be a challenge. Many commonly used deodorants use potentially harmful chemicals to eliminate fire odors. When dispersing any gas into the home environment, it is essential to wear professional safety equipment. SERVPRO technicians use chemically resistant clothing and eyewear to protect themselves from exposure to deodorant chemicals. Equally using a respirator of at least, or equivalent to, N95 masks is a vital part of ensuring that implementing odor control methods is safe. If your property requires fumigation, it may be necessary to vacate when deodorizing occurs.

Can air-filtration equipment remove odors?

• Air scrubbers can draw in odorous air and filter it, exhausting cleaner air back into the indoor environment.
• A Vaportek unit uses natural oils to capture volatile odor particles and absorb them from the indoor air.
• Duct cleaning technology, such as negative air-pressure machines, can draw large amounts of odorous air from the property.

What are wet-fogging pieces of equipment, and how are they used?

When conducting smoke and odor removal in your Chicago home, ultra-low volume (ULV) foggers may be deployed. One potential issue with wet foggers is that they can add moisture damage to specific soft furnishings. This equipment vaporizes liquid deodorant and disperses it in a fine mist. Often portable, SERVPRO technicians can use this equipment throughout a building to put deodorants into small cracks and crevices or a ductwork system in the home. Often, we combine a ULV fogger with venting fans to ensure that deodorant particles remain suspended in the air for a more protracted period and therefore remove more of the fire odor.

How is dry-fogging ULV equipment put in use safely?

• Initiate the fogging equipment outside the property to reduce the chances of drips
• Maintain the fogger at an even angle as they can become less efficient when tilted
• Use sparingly to avoid leaving oily residues on surfaces after fogging.

Getting control of an odor problem is essential to returning your home to its preloss condition. Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

Why SERVPRO Is the First Choice for Water Damage Recovery for Your Downtown Chicago Hardwood Floors

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

High above the bustling streets of downtown Chicago, a disaster is brewing. Your beautiful hardwood floors have taken on water from the aging gravity heat system. The ornate radiators encircling your living and dining areas leaked on the first heating day, and the water soaked through the parquet and down into the subfloor. Because of the historic features of your apartment, removing the damaged strips is unacceptable. Our specialized hardwood floor drying equipment and protocols are why we are best suited to help your property recover. 

Understand the Anatomy of Your Hardwood Floors 

A century ago skilled woodworkers installed the floors now water damaged in your downtown Chicago residence. The detailed patterns of differently colored hardwoods are irreplaceable, pieced expertly above the subfloor. Immediately after the heating system leak a quick mop and the floor surface looked dry. Our sensitive moisture detection devices find that dryness is an illusion. The water percolating from the leaky radiator seeped between the edges of each strip, saturating the subfloor and leaching into the cavity between walls.  

We Can Dry the Hardwood In-Place 

One of the reasons why SERVPRO is considered an industry leader is our commitment to the latest training offered by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) for restoring water damage. We also invest in cutting edge technologies like the Injectidry system. Floor mats connect to hoses that suction the water from all floor layers when our powerful extractors engage. Monitoring of the moisture levels is critical, so the floor is neither under nor over dried. 

Water Trapped in Cavities Also Responds Well to Injectidry 

As we dry out your floor, we can also drill holes near the baseboard to direct warm air inside the voids between walls. These holes accelerate the drying process, minimizing the chance of microbial growth as damp surfaces invite mold damage. The synchronization of these advanced techniques is another reason why SERVPRO interventions achieve the desired results.  

Why SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City for water damaged hardwood floors? We have the advanced techniques and equipment to return your home to “Like it never even happened.” Call (773) 337-3900 to ensure your Arts and Crafts woodwork continues to delight into its second century. 

More about Chicago.

Chicago Residents Worry About Their Documents During Water Restoration

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Residents of Chicago know how easily waters can rise, and rivers can burst their banks. Destructive weather is a part of life in the city, and its residents understand the importance of always being prepared.  

In the event of flooding, you might need water restoration services in Chicago. Restoration services help clean water-damaged items, dry out your home, and deal with leftover damp smells. One thing our customers often worry about is their household documents.  

Which Documents Should I Keep Safe? 

We store so many precious papers in our homes: 

• Household records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates
• Health papers such as scripts, test results, health insurance documents, and even wills
• Pet and auto papers such as vaccination records for pets, or servicing history for vehicles
• Irreplaceable souvenirs like photographs, newspaper, old letters, and children’s artworks 

Can I protect my documents? 

SERVPRO believes that prevention is always better when it comes to water restoration. There are several things you can do to protect your papers: 

• Please keep them in water and fireproof boxes and cabinets
• Never store documents in a room you know is prone to flooding, such as basements
• Make electronic copies of everything and hold those separate from the originals
• Consider keeping copies in your home and storing originals off-site in a safe or bank vault
• Keep precious papers on shelves that are at least twelve inches from floor level 

Can SERVPRO help if my documents are damaged? 

Sometimes, no matter how prudent you are, a disaster still occurs. Our technicians are trained in water restoration for all manner of materials, including paper. 

We use a state of the art freeze-drying process to salvage water-damaged documents. Vacuum freeze-drying is the only paper drying method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration. Your paper records are frozen, and then we apply vacuum pressure to remove moisture in vapor form without turning it back into water. We can also clean and deodorize papers as needed. 

Time is of the essence for vacuum freezing, so please call us as soon as you suspect water damage to any of your household documents. 

For help rescuing your papers, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900. 

More about Chicago.

Water Damage - What to Do When You Have Chicago Water Damage

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Turn off the drip and call SERVPRO for professional water damage cleanup and restoration in Chicago

Chicago Water Removal Done Right—SERVPRO

Water may be a necessary element for life, but it can also be damaging when it's not properly controlled. When you have water inside your home, such as from a leak or burst pipe, you may quickly develop water damage. Water damage can be costly to repair and difficult to overcome, and you may be wondering what steps you need to follow to move past this issue and restore your home to its former condition. 

Remove the Water and Moisture

The first step to take when you have Chicago residential water damage in your home is to remove the water and moisture from the home. You cannot remove the water if water continues to flow into the home, so stop the flow of water if possible. This may mean that you must turn off the main water supply valve for the home if you're dealing with a plumbing issue. A plumber can repair the issue before you turn the water supply valve back into the on position. Once the water flow has been stopped, you can use professional extraction techniques and equipment to extract the water and restore the humidity level in the home to its normal condition. 

Restore the Home 

After the water and moisture have been removed from the home, you can begin restoring the home. Some items may be salvageable or repairable, and others may need to be tossed away. For example, because of the nature of drywall, drywall typically needs to be replaced when it has been damaged by water. Carpeting, however, may be professionally cleaned and salvaged. Your professional SERVPRO Chicago residential water damage restoration experts know which items can be salvaged, and this can help you to save money in the restoration process.

Call a Professional Today

There are many reasons you need to contact a professional for assistance with residential water damage service in Chicago rather than attempt to do this work on your own. A prime reason relates to mold growth as the moisture must be removed from the home in a matter of hours if you want to minimize the risk of mold damage developing in the home. Mold growth can add to the time and expense associated with restoring the home, so acting fast can save you money in the long run. Professionals also know which items can be salvaged and how to salvage them for the best results. They also have the powerful equipment and proven techniques necessary to complete the work in a short period of time.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

There are many steps that you must take to carefully and precisely restore the function and condition of your home after you have suffered from Chicago residential water damage, and these steps are best completed by a professional team of water damage restoration specialists. SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is the local company that you want working for you when you're dealing with water removal. If you call us for assistance with your water damage issue, you can expect fast response and reliable results. Call us today at (773) 337-3900.

Chicago Retail Shops Benefit from Fire Damage Cleanup

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Sweet fire damage cleanup and restoration at your Chicago area bakery with SERVPRO's help--we keep your business in business

Cleanup After a Small Fire in Your Chicago Bakery by SERVPRO

Cleanup and recovery are two vital steps in restoring your Chicago bakery after a small fire. Often flare-ups can occur in the kitchen from mismanagement of the ovens, and while the fire did not get out of hand and structurally damage the bakery, you still have many effects that you must overcome before you can welcome customers back inside. Our professionals can arrive quickly, no matter what time disaster strikes, to offer effective mitigation and restoration tactics to get your doors back open fast.

Of all of the fire damage effects in your Chicago bakery, overcoming smoke damages like odors can be among the most challenging. While you might consider this to be as simple as treating the air throughout the building, scents can become embedded in surfaces and materials as the heat from the fire expands the pores within the material. Once the area cools again, these affected elements can trap the noxious odor inside as the pores shrink again.

Our SERVPRO professionals can understand the extent to which areas and materials can get adversely affected by odors, and have industry-leading equipment designed to take care of this problem quickly. Hydroxyl generators are a common choice for our team since they can work in two ways to improve the air quality of your bakery. These machines have an onboard HEPA filtration system that can trap soot, smoke, ash, debris, dust, and other contaminants within the air as well as substantially lessening the presence of odor.

To successfully remove the smoke odor permanently, our SERVPRO technicians also utilize equipment like our thermal fogger. This machine releases a dense chemical fog that can neutralize odor molecules on contact, leaving no scent behind. Additionally, this equipment is safe to use on soft materials like furniture and uniforms.

While you cannot predict when a small fire might occur in your bakery, you can always trust in the response and expertise of our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City fire restoration specialists. Give our team a call 24/7 at (773) 337-3900.

Commercial Chicago Water Damage Restoration

2/26/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO commercial damage restoration specialists have all the equipment necessary for every size disaster. We are here to help.

Quick Tips to Follow After Sustaining Water Damage

The first thing a cleaning and restoration professional does when they come to your business after water damage in Chicago has occurred to use special equipment. Hence, they know just how severe the water damage is. After they have evaluated the damage, they get rid of any standing water. The process differs depending upon whether the water is on the property or under the property.

Under Property

They vacuum up the water using an extractor so everything is not soaking wet anymore. If a broken pipe were the cause, they would make sure that the pipe is accessible to a plumber. After the pipe gets fixed, they’ll get rid of the contaminated soil, spray anti-microbial, and replace the bad soil with fresh, new soil.

Inside Property

When the water is inside your business, the company should get there as soon as they possibly can, hopefully within the hour. They use an extractor to vacuum up the water and take out any furniture which was affected or put it up on blocks. Carpet padding gets discarded since it is cheaper and safer to replace them rather than dry them. If the Chicago water damage is on a wall, they make small holes in the wall where the baseboard which got removed was. These holes let air flow dry the wall.

Tips for Water Damage

Before the professionals get there, and immediately after the damage occurs, there are a few things you can do:

• Make sure that the water source is off
• Turn off any power sources and appliances near the area which has flooding if it is safe to do so.
• Get rid of paper products from the source of water
• Mop up any water you can
• Move any paintings to a dry area
• Take anything off the floor, such as wet rugs
• Open closet doors and open drawers to lessen drying time

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City has the equipment, experience, and training to handle water damage in and near Chicago, retail shops in Downtown Chicago, and motels in South Side Chicago with great speed and efficiency. Call us for all your fire, water, and mold damage problems at (773) 337-3900!

SERVPRO Has A Plan To Deal With Damage In Your Business or Home

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Damaged Upstairs Bedroom And Exterior Of House

A structure fire, according to numbers from the National Fire Protection Association, is reported every sixty-five seconds. Fire departments and emergency responders will answer the call for help when the alarm sounds with decisive, quick action. When the smoke clears, you can count on SERVPRO to help you with the same rapid response, any day or time of the year.

The first twenty-four to forty-eight hours after fire damage are referred to as the golden hours of recovery. An emergency response team that is effective will get the structure stabilized quickly so that as much recovery of the property as possible can be done. The smoke damage and acidic smoke that is many times made when fires are put out will accelerate the corrosion and deterioration of the components of your structure and vital assets. To make matters worse, fires are most frequently put out with water or dry chemicals. Also, the toxic smoke odor that is left behind has to be neutralized and deodorized.

Smoke and fire can be quite disruptive and traumatic to your normal way of life in your home. So you can get back to normal as soon as possible, we will provide the following Chicago fire damage restoration services: 

• Pack-out of contents, plus inventory and temporary storage
• Cleaning of fixtures, furniture, and other personal property
• Electronic equipment refurbishment
• Fencing to make the site secure
• Exterior and interior cleaning
• Control of odors
• Repair of the structure

Tips for Fire Prevention: 

• Ensure that each time you use your in-home fireplace that you use a fire screen and keep all objects such as plants, rugs, and furniture three feet or more away from your fireplace.
• Never fail to put the fire out before going to bed.
• Do not ever cover space heaters and make sure to turn them off overnight.
• Make sure that carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms are properly working and have fresh batteries installed.
• Don’t use your stove to keep warm and realize that gas stoves, if on for too long, can give off big amounts of carbon monoxide that can be dangerous.

When your home has gone through fire damage in Chicago, make sure that once it is out and everyone is safe, to contact us at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City by calling any time at (773) 337-3900. We will come out to your property quickly to assess the damages and go over with you a plan for remediation.

Planning To Protect Your Evergreen Park Home From Water Damage

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Watch Out for Leaking Pipes Under the Flooring

As many homeowners know, water damage in Evergreen Park is an unpleasant reality that can pop up out of nowhere. However, it's important to understand that water damage does not surface in a magical or mysterious way. Rather, there are several common factors that precipitate (no pun intended) the water damage that causes structural and health issues in your home. By recognizing what these factors are, you can take strides towards minimizing them and their effects. Here are several common causes of water damage as well as prevention tips:  

Flooding 

Flooding can result from system failures as well as natural disasters. Unfortunately, there is little that can be done to prevent a county's water line from breaking. It is also impossible to stop a hurricane. When this type of water damage happens, it is advantageous for you to move your valuables into a region that you can reach easily and is above the water line. When you are concerned about a possible impending natural disaster, have the contact number for SERVPRO close at hand.

Fire Damage

Although you may not think about water damage in context with fires that attack residential properties, the connection is clear. When firefighters arrive at your property to extinguish the flames, they use water. As a result of this usage, homeowners can be subjected to substantive water damage following a fire. To mitigate this water damage potential, be sure that all wiring and home repairs are completed by a certified electrician. Also, be sure that you do not leave electrical devices close to the water. 

Appliances 

If your washing machine or dishwasher malfunctions, it can cause flooding in your home. To prevent this flooding, be sure that each of your appliances has regular maintenance so that they are always functioning properly. 

Plumbing 

Plumbing is a common cause of water damage. Faulty plumbing, failing sewage systems, and leaking pipes can all give rise to water damage. And unfortunately, this kind of water damage can come about without you being aware. In fact, many homeowners experience leaking pipes behind a bathroom wall or kitchen without realizing how much damage has occurred. This leakage can lead to mold and mildew, so have a mold remediation company like SERVPRO inspect for a possible infestation. The best preventive strategy for plumbing issues is to have your plumbing system regularly inspected by a licensed plumber. 

Conclusion 

Although water damage can be a serious issue for homeowners, several solutions exist for lessening the impact First, make sure that you are implementing each of the home strategies outlined above to limit your home's susceptibility to water damage. Second, be sure that you have a team of professional water remediation specialists that you can call in the event that water damage or fire damage does occur. An expert company to call is SERVPRO. They offer 24-hour services and customer-centered care to ensure 100% satisfaction. Get in touch with SERVPRO today to restore your Evergreen Park home and renew your peace!

Locally Owned and Operated

We are proud to be an active member of this community. SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City is locally owned and operated so we’re already nearby. With any-sized water or flood damage emergencies, we are there for you.

Call us. (773) 337-3900

Some Helpful Information About Mold Damage Chicago Homeowners Need To Know

2/19/2022 (Permalink)

Mold remediation for your home is no DIY project. SERVPRO has the manpower and equipment to have your home back to preloss condition ASAP.

Keep an Eye on Moisture and Humidity to Prevent Mold Spores.

Many people, knowledgeable about a considerable amount of things, do not know as much as they would like to about molds and the dangers they represent. The mold damage your Chicago home can encounter should be an interesting study to conduct. In this inquiry it helps for you to know the following, among a longer list of facts, about molds and the spores that they come from:

First of all, they are microscopic until they take hold of something and begin their growth and takeover of your house. They are everywhere, outside and inside. For this reason, they float in the air and can deposit themselves anywhere that air can be, which is everywhere. They need very few things to survive and thrive, one of these being moisture. Moisture, supplied by many causes, not the least of which is a flood, a leaking pipe or water heater and a storm that causes water to come in and the water that is used to put out a fire in your home.

Even a higher than normal level of humidity in your home can cause this growth and subsequent Chicago mold damage. It is recommended that, to stay as safe as possible, in the absence of a disaster that brings an enormous amount of water into your home, keep your humidity level below. Stopping the source of the water is crucial as nothing can be accomplished until this gets done. This means repairing leaking pipes, fixing the holes that allow outside water to come in and starting the process of removing any water that is still present. Doing all of this requires the skills of a professional inspector, a demolition crew to remove walls, ceilings and floors to locate the many spaces that harbor both molds and the moisture that attracts them. Since mold and mold spores could be said to lie in wait for you, water will cause them to grow into colonies from a minuscule amount of spores and, at the same time, allergens and irritants will grow from them and become airborne.

Because they primarily move through the air stream, mold spores get into every other space in your home if they are in one location, already. The fact that mold spores travel so quickly also means that if they are disturbed, improperly, such as an inefficient removal and sanitation process, this causes them to move into another area. The aforementioned quick migration of mold spores throughout your house makes the removal and cleaning of this dangerous substance critical and must be done right the first time.

The biggest danger, other than the fact that there is mold already there, is the need to keep it from going anywhere else. The presence of mold means that containment is the first order of business, after locating all of the places where it is growing and where, if the water is not removed, it can crop up.

One of the best facts about the mold damage in your Chicago home is that we can be called, 24/7/365, at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 and we respond with our trained experts for the prompt service you need in this time of danger.

SERVPRO Uses Heavy Machinery To Restore A Flood Damaged Property

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Storm Damage in Chicago Gets Help from SERVPRO!

Flood and Storm Damage Need the Expertise of a SERVPRO Storm Team

When flood damage strikes, the results can be devastating and extensive. Floods are often thorough, affecting large regions or the entirety of a home, sometimes making it temporarily unlivable. Flood debris and water are difficult to repair and clean up after, and often require heavy industrial-grade equipment. SERVPRO utilizes and keeps stock of such equipment, and when you employ our services, we bring some or all of these large, powerful pumps with us to help get your home back to the way it was before as quickly as possible.
 
Extractors
Many downtown Chicago flood damage cases involve the use of extractors, machines which suck any remaining water out of a room and out to the building exterior. Depending on the scale and location of the room flooded, these can be either truck-mounted or portable. Note that these machines do not strictly dry out a room, they only remove large volumes of water still present in the area.
 
Air Movers and Dehumidifiers
The combination of these two types of machines allows for the fastest possible drying of a room and its surfaces. Air movers do exactly as the name implies, using powerful motors and fans in specific orientations so as to get the air in a room moving quickly, picking up water molecules from surfaces in the room at a rapid rate. This only solves half the problem, however, as the water is still in the room, just in the air. This is where dehumidifiers come in, and they remove the water molecules from the air by either chemical or thermodynamic means. The result is a room full of dry surfaces and dry air, where there once was flooding and invasive moisture. The humidity levels are then restored to normal levels.
 
Deodorization and Disinfecting Equipment
The last of our equipment will usually be deodorization equipment once antifungal and antibacterial products have been sprayed and fogged into the affected areas of the structure. Floods can leave behind extremely foul odors, as they pick up biological and chemical elements which can stain surfaces and continue to emit odors for long after the room has been dried. Fogging machines are used to saturate the air and absorb smells from the room, removing any detectable odors remaining. This rapid drying will also mitigate the growth of mold.
 
SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is a locally owned and operated business which brings the heavy machinery and firepower necessary to deal with floods of all shapes and sizes in the local area. If you've suffered flood damage to your home for any reason, don't hesitate to call us at (773) 337-3900.

Commercial Cleanup of Fire and Smoke Damage in Chicago

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial damage restoration services by SERVPRO are second to none. We have IICRC certified technicians.

Chicago Businesses Require Effective, Timely Fire and Smoke Cleanup

Having your business threatened by a fire is stressful and traumatic. When you have such a devastating loss at your Chicago commercial property, you will benefit significantly from clear support and guidance on the right way to minimize damage and business interruption. We are business owners as well at SERVPRO, so we work to ensure your doors remain or get back open as quickly as possible. Of course, our fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) also walk you through each step of the process.

When it comes to commercial fire and smoke cleanup in Chicago, you need to know you have a team on your side that will get the job done right the first time. SERVPRO arrives with all the right tools for the job, handling pungent smoke odors and charred debris to make your business “Like it never even happened.”

It is important to remember that it is not only burned materials that have to get restored. Fires can bring excessive smoke damage that calls for odor control technicians (OCT) to handle. Some of the other damage that could impact your business include:

• Within minutes, your surfaces, walls, equipment, and other areas can become discolored.
• Smoke and ash are corrosive by nature, so they pose a threat to all materials left behind.
• Soot and smoke residue may remain on various surfaces long after your commercial fire, continuing to cause issues until completely removed.
• Smoke residue can tarnish metals and leave etching in glass.

Not every commercial fire call we receive is the same, so we always take a tailored approach to get you results. We address any water damage, handle all odor control, and perform controlled demolition to replace any areas with unsalvageable materials.

Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City when you need commercial fire and smoke cleanup assistance. You can reach us 24-hours a day by dialing (773) 337-3900.

Prepare and Call Upon SERVPRO for Damaging Water Events in Chicago

1/30/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says Be Prepared for Water Damage to Your Chicago Property

 Consider everything that you have to lose when discussing the possibilities of water damage in your Chicago area home. While it is important to obtain the insurance coverage necessary to protect your investment should disaster strike, it is also imperative for you to start a relationship with your local restoration company.  
 
Think about it, whether you live in an area constantly plagued by flooding or not, water damage can come from a variety of sources. Having a relationship with a local restoration company, like SERVPRO can provide you with helpful tips that prevent severe damage, while also making the services available to help restore your home after an event occurs.  
 
Many homeowners make the mistake of waiting until the last minute to locate someone to assist with their restoration needs; when having a pre-inspection performed on your property by an IICRC certified SERVPRO technicians gives you an opportunity to avoid problems altogether.
 
Take the opportunity to prepare your home ahead of time; use SERVPRO’s readiness app to share information and keep complete records of damaged contents. Use it to maintain photo records of the condition of your home and your belongings before disaster strikes. The readiness app gives you a way to provide your insurance company with the information they need to get the ball rolling on your claim and correctly account for water damaged items in your home.  
 
Our technicians provide you with qualified personnel that manages the entire situation, giving you the services you need to return your home to a quality pre-damage condition, and makes your restoration process as stress-free as possible. We are your one-stop source for all of your restoration needs and look forward to exceeding your expectations.  
 
Visit SERVPRO of Evergreen Park – South Chicago City today for additional information or valuable prevention tips to help you maintain your home. (773) 337-3900

Professionals Can Help Spot Damage That a Property Owner May Miss

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Overwhelming a Property

Smoke and fire damage in South Side Chicago are highly destructive. Often, as a result of firefighting, your home or business in Chicago will additionally suffer from severe damage. SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City specializes in water and fire damage restoration. In fact, that is the keystone of our business.

Understanding Smoke and Fire Damage

A fire loss includes damages that come as a result of soot, heat, smoke and water utilized in extinguishing the fire. Fire loss also consists of damages caused by the fire itself. In the event of a severe fire, all the mentioned components combine to make a business or residence unusable and inhabitable.

Often, smoke always accompanies fire. The effects of the hydrochloric acid contained within a typical structure are highly corrosive. Moreover, the heat caused by a fire pressurizes the smoke and then drives it into particular areas of a building. It then affects contents that are surprisingly remote from the fire source. For instance, smoke can lessen the life of the mechanical and electronic equipment. The affected content value, cost of restoration and scope of restoration can determine whether or not a property can properly return to its preloss condition.

One of the most devastating occurrences that can affect a business or family is fire losses. Just to show the serious nature of fire losses, read the series After the Fire to be in the loop about what one homeowner learned after experiencing fire damage. Fire damage near South Side Chicago needs crucial short-term decisions from those individuals under immense confusion and stress. Sadly, fire claim adjusters observe countless mistakes made concerning which contracts to sign or how to deal with a restoration company. It can have long lasting consequences on what to recover from fire insurance claim.

 
Why Hire SERVPRO Of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City?

• Here are some of the reasons you should hire us to take care of fire and smoke damage affecting your property: 
  We respond fast to any disaster regardless of size - Our technicians understand that immediate action is necessary for dealing with fire and smoke damage. We know that quick response reduces cost, limits secondary damage, and lessens the damage.
• Our technicians are fire and smoke experts - Our specialists have not only specialized equipment and experience but also boast extensive training in handling property restoration after the fire and smoke damage.
• We have the restore vs. replace mentality - Our Company’s ‘restore first’ mentality comes in handy in helping lower remediation costs. Additionally, this mentality is of great help in making sure your business or home is restored sooner. Focus relies mainly on specialized equipment and training to restore your home or business back to its pre-fire condition.

Call us today at (773) 337-3900 to learn how we can be of help to your South Side Chicago fire damage situation. SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City has proficient certifications, specific training and top-notch equipment to enable our technicians to restore your home to a pre-fire condition. Our experts treat you and your family/employees with empathy and your property with utmost care. You can rest assured that help will come your way from us within the shortest time possible.

Need Help with Cleaning? We Offer Powerful Preventative Cleaning Services!

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaned and treated surfaces can become recontaminated if an infected individual sneezes or coughs without controlling the microscopic droplet spread.

Large cities like Chicago are more at risk than smaller cities for the rapid spread of the virus infection. We have to be diligent now more than ever to protect ourselves, our families, our friends, and associates.

Performing do-it-yourself cleaning of touch points and common surfaces is far better than not cleaning for sure. However, how much greater is the protection and preventative value provided by a technically advancedprofessional cleaning company in Chicagolike SERVPRO?

1. Highly effective medical-grade and industrial-grade cleaning products
2. Heavy-duty equipment that applies cleaning agents uniformly
3. Experienced technicians who correctly perform environmental cleaning
4. Trained inCDCprotocols, using EPA registered disinfectants, and applying OSHA standards
5. Sufficient human resources and supplies to perform jobs of any size
6. Service available 24/7
7. Plans for open and closed businesses and institutions
8. Answers to questions, consulting, and inspections

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City has performed anti-microbial cleaning, sewage cleanup, crime scene, and unattended death cleanup for years. We would be pleased to use our experience and resources to help you fight potential contamination by performing the best professional service in the area. Give our team atSERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South ChicagoCity a call today at (773) 337-3900.

Advice from the medical and scientific community regarding how to deal with the coronavirus is based on present knowledge, which is subject to change as the situation continues to develop. There can be no assurance that disinfectants alone will be adequate to fully eliminate the virus. We are not physicians or infectious disease professionals. Consult your medical professionals for individual medical advice.

For more about Chicago clickhere.

How Are Infrared Cameras Beneficial Used in Downtown Chicago Water Mitigation?

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage needs a fast response.You can trust SERVPRO to provide a fast, super-hero response to the damage.

SERVPRO Uses State-of-the-Art Water Damage Devices in Downtown Chicago Jobs

In Downtown Chicago structures, water damage can arrive in many forms. Whether it is from a pipe break, toilet backup, or floodwater within the property, it needs fast action to lessen the number of damages to the structure and contents. 

During water mitigation in Downtown Chicago properties, the service starts with locating the migration path of the water within the structure. One of the primary devices that SERVPRO technicians use is the infrared camera, also sometimes referred to as thermography. The reason this method is so reliable is that: 

• Scoping causes no damage to the structure
• Allows for the inspection of difficult to reach areas
• SERVPRO techs can cover more places in less time

Use of a Penetrating Moisture Meter

Another frequently seen tool during mitigation for water damage within a structure is a penetrating moisture meter. This tool works by making tiny holes with a needle. 

The needles take sensitive readings that show the moisture residing below the surface, which effectively determines seepage under flooring affecting a subfloor. 

The infrared camera does not measure moisture but instead displays temperature differentiation by showing the cooler and warmer areas behind a wall. Cooler areas are often collections of water vapor that need extraction and drying. Infrared cameras are beneficial in situations where there are extremely high ceilings, and the technicians suspect water damage. This equipment saves time and lets the technicians scope a room without standing on ladders to get accurate assessments of a room. Both infrared cameras and probes can be used for any water damage within a structure. 

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 supports the Downtown Chicago community with water mitigation of any size or type.

What Storm Damage Cleanup Can Chicago Homeowners Safely Perform?

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

After a home incurs storm damage, SERVPRO technicians inspect the property to determine the problem areas that need attention.

SERVPRO Technicians Can Handle All Types of Chicago Storm and Flood Damage

Water damage in a Chicago home from the weather can come in many forms, such as wind damage allowing rainwater to enter, tree limbs damaging the structure, or floodwater in the house. 

Many Chicago homeowners attempt storm damage cleanup on their own. However, many actions can be dangerous. SERVPRO technicians have the training to deal with downed limbs and other hazards safely. In particular, when the water has entered the structure, as long as the electricity to the home is on, there can be a danger of electrical shock. 

Temporary Repairs are Part of the Service

After damage from a storm hits a home, SERVPRO technicians inspect the property to determine the problem areas that need attention. The techs have different types of equipment to locate areas of moisture behind walls and under flooring without the need to damage the structure by removing portions of a wall or lifting a tile on the floor. The probes and infrared cameras can give a good overview of the structure's water residues. Additionally, it is not uncommon for the techs to perform actions to stop water from entering the home due to wind or water damage. Typical provisional repairs such as:

• Tarping over damaged roofing
• Boarding up windows broken by winds or limbs
• Placing barriers around doorways or entryways to stop water from entering

In cases where the electricity to the home is non-functioning or turned off for safety, the technicians can bring multiple generators to power their extraction and drying equipment. Other types of tools include saws for removing ruined drywall and vacuums with special attachments for safely pulling out wet insulation from the interior cavities of the walls can dry completely.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 brings professional storm damage cleanup to Chicago properties available around the clock 365 days a year.

Does SERVPRO Handle Smaller Water Damage Cleanup in Chicago?

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

A small plumbing issue may not seem like a big deal, but it only takes a small amount of water to cause a lot of damage.

SERVPRO Technicians Can Handle Large or Small Chicago Water Restoration Jobs 

A small amount of water removal in a Chicago property may not seem like a big deal. However, depending on the circumstances, a little water can incur a lot of expense to repair the house.

SERVPRO recommends that Chicago homeowners seek our water damage cleanup services, even when the water spill is situated in a single room in the home.  A supply line break from a washing machine, fridge, or dishwasher may be limited to an area within a house. However, that water has the potential to:

• Seep under flooring causing warped boards or loosened tiles
• Ruin walls by wicking into sheetrock
• Run through floor joists and affect lower levels of the home

All these scenarios require professional attention for the best outcome. The cleanup starts with determining the migration path within the structure and if any contents have received the effects of the water. SERVPRO technicians remove items as needed to get them out of harm's way. 

The extraction phase of the mitigation is where the actual difference between DIY and professional restoration methods becomes apparent. SERVPRO technicians have access to a large assortment of water removal equipment. Most of the time, the techs rely on their portable pumps that pull up water off surfaces and allow the tech to move quickly around an area. This method is ideal for small-scale water damage situations. Another key to this extraction method is to remove as much moisture as possible using multiple wand passes. This action works to lessen the overall drying time needed. 

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 brings professional water damage cleanup to any size job in the Chicago area. The IICRC certified techs are available 24/7 to mitigate the damage in the home "Like it never even happened."

To Optimize Your Commercial Water Damage Restoration Process in Chicago - Choose SERVPRO

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

Get the Water Out and the Customers In

SERVPRO Is Fast to Open Your Doors After a Water Damaging Event in Chicago

When water damage impacts your commercial property in Chicago, addressing the issue immediately and effectively is imperative. As many business owners know, the time it takes to resolve water damage issues equals money. This is why it's important for you to hire effective, expedient water damage restoration services. If water damage issues are not resolved quickly and correctly, ongoing challenges translate into a loss of productivity and revenue. When you start the search for a great company that can expedite and optimize the restoration process, you should choose SERVPRO. Learn more about water damage and why our restoration services can assist you by reading the following outline:

Commercial Water Damage: A Brief Overview

Water damage can result from several factors, some of which include a leaky roof, burst pipe, or flooding. Regardless of the cause, there are several points you should consider once water damage has happened. Consider the health of your staff and customers. Depending on the source and extent of the damage, contamination could be an issue.

Another issue you must consider when it comes to commercial water damage is quick water extraction. Secondary water damage could result in the growth of mold. Moisture and humidity are conducive conditions for the proliferation of mold. If left unaddressed, mold can cause health effects.

What Should You Look For In A Water Damage Restoration Company? Use SERVPRO as a jumping off point.
• industry experience, training, and state of the art equipment
• proven track record, number one for a reason
• excellent customer service, coordination with insurance adjusters
• great Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating and accreditation

The company's professionals should also possess training and efficiency in the following areas:

• identification of moisture sources
• evaluation of mold growth
• containment of damage
• removal of water, contaminations, and debris

Why Choose SERVPRO?

When you start your search for the ideal water damage restoration company for your business in Chicago, the search stops with SERVPRO. Following the above lists of professional grade aspects, we are an IICRC certified company that employs the most conscientious, professional technicians available. For your convenience, we're pleased to offer round the clock emergency services.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City can respond immediately to your commercial water damage emergency regardless of the size or scope of the damage. We are part of a national network of over 1,600 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large scale events and disasters. At the ready.

Commercial water damage restoration presents unique challenges. (773) 337-3900

Flood Damage & Protecting Your Chicago Home

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

When flood damage strikes, SERVPRO strikes back!

SERVPRO Can Restore Your Chicago Residence From Flood Damage 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Our staff at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City anytime you need our assistance to get standing floodwaters out of your home with industrial, truck-mounted pumps, dehumidifiers, and fans. Just give us a call at (773) 337-3900, so we can get your life back to normal as soon as possible.

For more information regarding the city of Chicago, click here.

What Do You Know About Water Damage Remediation In Chicago

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage from pipes bursting is a common occurrence in the city as well as the suburbs. Contact SERVPRO to assess the damage.

SERVPRO Protects Your Wood Floors

Chicago is a city of contrasts.  The beautiful summers lead up to incredibly cold winter months, its architecture joins old structures with modern buildings, and even its people show a wide diversity in heritage.  Even though these differences enrich our lives, they can also pose some challenges. Take, for example, the impact of the weather on the plumbing system of an older home. As pipes freeze and thaw, there is a real possibility of them bursting somewhere along the process, leaving your home immersed in water and your belongings in peril.  Moments like this are the reason why having a reliable water cleanup service at your disposal is essential for homeowners in the Windy City.

When there is water damage to your home in Chicago, and you want to ensure its restoration with minimal disruption to your life, calling SERVPRO is the best decision you can make.  Our technicians train with experts in the field to recognize the peculiarities of each situation and develop an action plan accordingly.  In Chicago homes, there is a specific need to preserve construction elements that make them unique. A perfect example is the preservation of wood floors, which can damage severely after a water event.

All efforts need to concentrate on drying hardwood floors as soon as possible.  Although they contain some moisture, any excess humidity causes them to expand, which in turn causes buckling.  Alternatively, they could cup or crown, a condition that happens when the moisture at the edge of the wood planks differs from the level in the center.  Our SERVPRO crew utilizes specialized equipment to gauge the humidity in the wood and restore it to normal.  Laminate and engineered flooring can also fall victim to the water, so limiting the exposure time is crucial.  By calling our 24/7 hotline, you are well on your way to minimizing this time.

Living in Chicago makes you adaptable and resourceful.  SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City is your top resource for water restoration services.  Just call us at (773) 337-3900 and let us leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Click here to see more info about the city of Chicago.

We Put the Flames of Worry Out In Chicago After A Fire

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Fires are stressful SERVPRO can also assist you in the claims filing process by coordinating with both you and your insurance adjuster.

Fire and Smoke Cleanup at a Condo in Chicago

No matter how a fire starts, it can be stressful for any homeowner to endure, especially in a condominium. Your real estate being attached to your neighbors' properties places additional pressure on you to mitigate damage quickly and restore your home when a disaster occurs. Without fast action, not only can soot corrode surfaces in your home, but you can miss out on the compensation you need from your insurer to repair damages.

If you need fire and smoke damage cleanup for a condo in Chicago, the team at SERVPRO is always ready to assist you. These highly trained technicians receive a comprehensive education on fire damage cleanup and restoration so that your condo can be returned to a pre-damage condition. SERVPRO can also assist you in the claims filing process by coordinating with both you and your insurance adjuster, taking detailed inventories, and emphasizing restoration over disposal when it is safe and feasible to do so.

Common Pitfalls When Filling Out a Proof of Damage

• Not knowing your policy. Make a note of the "Duties After a Loss" section, in particular, to understand what your insurer expects of you.
• Missing deadlines. In many cases, you need to file your claim within a specific time frame to get compensated without delays or denied outright.
• Not notarizing signatures. This step is crucial to making your Proof of Loss form into a sworn legal statement from you about the condition of your home.
• Not requesting extensions. If you need it, you can generally ask for an extension for filing your proof of damage.
• Missing much-needed proof. Include everything possible to prove your claim, including photos, receipts, inventories, and estimates.
• SERVPRO's Air Purification Equipment
• Preserving indoor air quality is crucial, especially when your HVAC system has fire damage residue inside of it.

Technicians can protect IAQ with HEPA-filter air scrubbers that pull in particles as small as 0.3 microns, specially designed agitation and cleanup tools for your vents, and OSHA-approved antimicrobials that are designed to eliminate soot deposits and restore surfaces to a clean and safe condition.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City offers 24/7 service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. When you need mitigation services quickly, you can call (773) 337-3900.

We Get You Back in Business In Chicago After A Water Damage Disaster

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

When you see our Green Fleet, you can rest assured that SERVPRO is on the job.

Commercial Water Damage in your Chicago Car Garage

As an automotive mechanic, it is vital to be open throughout the year for car owners in an emergency. Most mechanics utilize garages with light, if any, insulation. These can expose your garage to several outdoor elements, including rainwater. Coming into work and discovering a water emergency is never helpful, but as a mechanic, you need to act quickly to prevent tools and equipment from rusting. Our restoration company operates locally and understands the importance of keeping the doors open for small, independent businesses. You can contact our urgent response team twenty-four hours a day.

Water interacts quickly with particles that it comes into contact with, and a malfunctioning water pipe could likely interact with oils, enamels, or acrylics. Contacting a professional commercial water damage service in Chicago can help to restore your working environment to a pre-damage condition. SERVPRO offers business communities highly trained technicians with access to biohazardous substance removal equipment as well as industrial water removal.

Given that garages tend to have inferior insulation mechanisms to houses, there is a real risk of microbial growth occurring. Microbial growth not only affects cosmetic areas but can also cause havoc on wooden tools, shelving, or offices. In combination with rust, these two outcomes of water damage can cause significant harm to your business equipment. SERVPRO is capable of sending crew chiefs directly to your garage and beginning mitigation to prevent mold and rust.

Water Clean Up

One advantage of water damage present in a garage is the ease of ventilation. Creating an open system drying zone is relatively quick and easy. SERVPRO can place industrial venting fans to encourage the exchange of air in the affected area and avoid rising humidity levels. Our hydroxyl generators can remove odor-causing particles, while any tools or items can be treated using rusticide to prevent long-term damage.

We understand that as a mechanic, your reliability is essential to your reputation in this community. We respond and work quickly to get you back in business sooner rather than later. Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

Basements and Crawlspaces with Flood Damage in Chicago Alter the Rest of the Home's Condition

12/18/2021 (Permalink)

Team SERVPRO Stands Behind Every Flood Loss Cleanup and Restoration in Chicago

When water flows into your home in Chicago and makes it unlivable, you need a rapid response from a skilled team who can make things right again. SERVPRO says We're Faster To Any Size Disaster, including the messier ones. We mitigate damage throughout your residence because we look at how one area can interact with and affect another location inside your home.
 
Restoring your Chicago home's condition to normal includes flood damage mitigation and ensures that it becomes dry again, as well as safe for your family. We know how to protect your home, so it also becomes safe for your entire family. When your property sits on a basement or crawlspace, flooding happens there, also. We use submersible extraction units attached to our truck-mounted pump to remove this water. Along with this water, a large portion of the silt and mud also gets removed.
 
Because evaporation of floodwater continually puts more moisture in the air, we immediately start the drying out process as soon as we have eliminated standing water in the dwelling. Just like we dry out the upper areas of your home with desiccant machines and air movers, we also use these in non-living areas to rid the area of water vapor. If we allowed this humidity to remain, this water vapor might cause future problems.
 
When water vapor remains present in a home, the home's environment can become uncomfortable to breathe. What makes occupants feel sticky in summer and clammy in winter also lets mold grow excessively. The moisture that flooding adds to a residence lasts indefinitely and does not disappear on its own. Getting it out as soon as possible after an event restores your home's natural feel, keeping you comfortable.  We can improve your indoor air quality.
 
Also, cleaning the surfaces in your home is another aspect that we carry out in making your home safe again for your family. The pathogens brought in by a flood are not the only dangers present. Chemicals can also cause health effects, making the removal of carpets and other ruined materials insufficient alone. Hard surfaces also require cleaning with a potent antimicrobial that gives your home an extra advantage in protective measures. Not only do we remove residues from automotive fluids that mix with floodwaters, but lawn care chemicals also get wiped away during cleaning.
 
SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City helps those residing in Calumet City and around Mount Greenwood. Call us at (773) 337-3900, so we can mitigate flood damage and prevent long-term problems from your home, including the basement and all other areas of your home.

Learn right here about some local history

Understanding Destructive Tendencies of Winter Weather on Chicago Homes

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Winter weather brings the potential for frozen pipes and ice damming.

Preliminary Efforts can Prevent Costly Damage to Chicago Properties This Winter

Steep temperature drops and brutal winds are a staple of some of the city's worst winter days and nights. With these conditions comes the threat of damage to local homes and businesses, keeping our SERVPRO team on alert to respond fast to help. 

Preparing for Damaging Winter Conditions

During the harsh winter months, conditions like frozen pipes and ice damming in Chicago homes are more frequent than it might seem. Frozen pipes are among the primary causes of restoration and rebuilding in the winter months, making it a situation that needs attention throughout the entire season. Both freezing pipes and ice damming on the roof can be highly destructive to the property, making it essential to avoid these circumstances whenever possible. Here are some options available:

• Circulate Warm Air – Cold snaps and harsh winter nights are not the time to limit warm air in the house. Ensure that you have pathways for warm air to reach all problem areas of your home where possible, like opening cabinets to exposed kitchen pipes. 

• Better Insulate the House and Pipes – Insulation is always a good way to ward off winter's destructive touch on household plumbing. By directly insulating the pipe or improving the insulation of the entire house, cold air has less of an effect.

• Install Heated Cables on Roof – To limit the growth and buildup of ice along the edge of roofs, installing heated cables early in the winter season keeps this area of the property too warm to support ice. 

Cleaning Up After Water Damage

One of the benefits of always having a team of experienced restoration professionals nearby is our ability to help when things get out of hand. While preventative measures can ward off some of the unfortunate circumstances your home might experience in its lifetime, we are always ready to help when necessary. After situations like frozen burst pipes, we mitigate losses with extraction tools and drying equipment. Additionally, we have a general contractor license to help when ice damming has compromised the roof. 

Winter weather can have extreme effects on homes and businesses. A cold snap could spell disaster, but our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team is Here to Help. Contact us anytime you need us at (773) 337-3900. 

Furnace Puffbacks And Restoration In Your Chicago Home

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO response team is available 24/7 to help with emergencies like this to help you get back into your home quickly.

With the winter season setting in quickly for homeowners in Chicago, many are looking to begin bringing their oil burning furnaces back online to heat the property through the often steep temperature drops to come. A significant risk of running an oil-based burner within your home is the possibility of a phenomenon known as puff-backs. These circumstances cause explosions of the heating system at the combustion chamber, which can cause structural damages and fires.

To avoid fire damages in your Chicago home, you should always take the time to educate yourself about the proper function and maintenance required for oil-burning heating systems. Many of these unfortunate events occur from homeowners poorly educated in the operation of these heating appliances, and that lack of knowledge could have severe consequences. Our SERVPRO response team is available 24/7 to help with emergencies like this to help you get back into your home quickly.

The magnitude of this event depends on the amount of oil trapped within the combustion chamber and many other variables. Once a puff-back has occurred, homeowners often must contend with smoke, soot, and structural damages. Our highly-trained IICRC-certified SERVPRO technicians have extensive knowledge of fire damage recovery and mitigation solutions, making us a wise choice for restoration.

Our SERVPRO franchise offers build back services to help reconstruct and rebuild your property should the puff-back cause structural damages too severe to repair or restore. With our advanced equipment, we can also offer a fast cleanup of soot damages throughout the affected area using high-powered vacuums and industrial-grade cleaning solvents to scrub the stains and loose soot from surfaces and materials. A phenomenon often called “tags” is a collection of electrically charged carbonized particulates found in ceiling corners and closets. They look like dirty, greasy spider webs. They are not. These cobweb-like accumulations of soot from puff-backs must be carefully vacuumed to prevent staining and smearing of the underlying surfaces.

While your heating system is critical through the harsh winter months to come, it is essential to understand the maintenance that it requires and how to operate it properly to avoid fire damages to your home or worse. For any emergency, you can depend on our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City trained technicians to help. Contact us 24/7 at (773) 337-3900.

Click here for more about Chicago.

Hire the Best for Commercial Fire Damage

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

A commercial property and business can be eliminated within minutes of a fire breaking out.

Enlist the Help of Professionals
The professionals with the knowledge to get your business cleaned up quickly and efficiently are those at SERVPRO. SERVPRO understands that when your business has a fire, you are no longer making money and your staff is no longer getting paid. You will want your business operating again in the shortest amount of time possible. This is why you need to hire a company that can clean up, work with your insurance company, and make the process as smooth as possible.

As soon as SERVPRO professionals are given permission, they will start the cleanup process, which will include:
• A thorough assessment of the damage
• Determine what can be salvaged and what must be removed. Items that can be restored will be sent to an off-site storage
• Clean up all damage, including that from water, soot, and smoke
• Eliminate all leftover odors from the fire. Smoke can travel in cracks and crevices and the professionals at SERVPRO will investigate to find them and get your business back in order.
• Provide and thorough cleaning and inspection to make sure that your business is back to normal.

Things to Know about Commercial Fire Damage
Alsip commercial fire damage involves soot, smoke, and water damage. If not cleaned properly, it can cause many issues, including etched glass, tarnished metals, and untreatable odors in the wood. SERVPRO professionals have the correct training and equipment to clean up after a commercial fire so that your business can be back up and running quickly. From carpets and electronics to flooring and walls, the professionals will be sure that everything is cleaned up correctly so it does not cause further damage. Mold is a very common occurrence from leftover water.

With the use of heavy duty equipment, including industrial fans and large dehumidifiers, our SERVPRO technicians will get everything dried out to prevent this secondary damage from mold and other harmful contaminants.

When disaster hits your business, call the company that has the most experience in Alsip commercial fire damage cleanup and restoration. Our SERVPRO professionals will get you back in business quickly.  

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a smoke or fire damage emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Chicago community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

Basements and Crawlspaces with Flood Damage in Chicago Alter the Rest of the Home's Condition

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Team SERVPRO Stands Behind Every Flood Loss Cleanup and Restoration in Chicago

When water flows into your home in Chicago and makes it unlivable, you need a rapid response from a skilled team who can make things right again. SERVPRO says We're Faster To Any Size Disaster, including the messier ones. We mitigate damage throughout your residence because we look at how one area can interact with and affect another location inside your home.
 
Restoring your Chicago home's condition to normal includes flood damage mitigation and ensures that it becomes dry again, as well as safe for your family. We know how to protect your home, so it also becomes safe for your entire family. When your property sits on a basement or crawlspace, flooding happens there, also. We use submersible extraction units attached to our truck-mounted pump to remove this water. Along with this water, a large portion of the silt and mud also gets removed.
 
Because evaporation of floodwater continually puts more moisture in the air, we immediately start the drying out process as soon as we have eliminated standing water in the dwelling. Just like we dry out the upper areas of your home with desiccant machines and air movers, we also use these in non-living areas to rid the area of water vapor. If we allowed this humidity to remain, this water vapor might cause future problems.
 
When water vapor remains present in a home, the home's environment can become uncomfortable to breathe. What makes occupants feel sticky in summer and clammy in winter also lets mold grow excessively. The moisture that flooding adds to a residence lasts indefinitely and does not disappear on its own. Getting it out as soon as possible after an event restores your home's natural feel, keeping you comfortable.  We can improve your indoor air quality.
 
Also, cleaning the surfaces in your home is another aspect that we carry out in making your home safe again for your family. The pathogens brought in by a flood are not the only dangers present. Chemicals can also cause health effects, making the removal of carpets and other ruined materials insufficient alone. Hard surfaces also require cleaning with a potent antimicrobial that gives your home an extra advantage in protective measures. Not only do we remove residues from automotive fluids that mix with floodwaters, but lawn care chemicals also get wiped away during cleaning.
 
SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City helps those residing in Calumet City and around Mount Greenwood. Call us at (773) 337-3900, so we can mitigate flood damage and prevent long-term problems from your home, including the basement and all other areas of your home.

Learn right here about some local history

What Water Removal Approaches Work Best in the Apartments of Downtown Chicago?

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers advanced equipment like water pumps and dryers to mitigate water damage in Downtown Chicago

Choosing the right water removal tool is valuable to the fast restoration of Downtown Chicago properties.

When water damages threaten apartments and lofts downtown, we must act quickly. Any disasters in these structures could ultimately affect dozens of residents with the pace that these loss effects can spread. We are an Official SERVPRO Downtown Operator.

Learning the Hurdles of the Extraction

Before water removal in Downtown Chicago apartment buildings can begin, we must evaluate the damage and the location of standing water. Knowing the obstacles preventing efficient extraction allows our team to mobilize to help with the right tools and personnel.

The Advantages of Wet Vacuums

Wet vacuums are the most preferred method of extracting water from a multi-story apartment building, whether several units are affected or just an isolated incident with one residence. There are numerous reasons that our experienced restoration technicians rely on wet vacuums over other extraction options, and these include:

• Portable – The ease of mobility of wet vacuums is a high consideration when contending with extraction needs on the upper floors of apartment complexes. The available tools are limited to what SERVPRO team members can move up the stairs or service elevators in many cases.
• Lightweight – Wet vacuums are easier to haul from one section of the damaged building to another, even when used as a holding tank.
• Versatile – Several attachments can be used with vacuums, including carpet wands, weighted extractors, and more.

The Case for High-Pressure Pumps

When wet vacuums are not sufficient to the level of damage, we have more powerful and productive options in our inventory of tools and devices. High-pressure pumps pull at a higher psi than traditional submersible pumps and vacuums, allowing them to be used over greater heights and distances.

With the bulk of residences in Downtown Chicago being apartments and lofts, our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team must be ready to overcome water and flood damage happening several stories above the ground level. Our variety of helpful equipment makes restoration efficient and cost-effective. Give us a call today at (773) 337-3900.

The Benefits of Cleaning After Fire Damage in Chicago Homes

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can store and clean Chicago fire damaged possessions on-site in a semi or at our expansive facility. "Like it never even happened."

Cleaning is often favored over repairs or reconstruction after Chicago housefires.

Cleaning contents and structural elements can often be one of the most positive and cost-efficient options our team considers. While many structure fires ultimately require some degree of repair and rebuilding, minimizing this aspect reduces the time for restoration. It can get occupants back into a house faster after a fire.

The Restorability of Your Damaged Home

It is vital for our professionals beginning fire damage cleanup in Chicago homes to consider the restoration and salvaging potentials. A comprehensive property evaluation and damage assessment can determine ideal mitigative actions and steer restoration processes to provide the most efficient path to desired results.

Reducing the Costs of Claims

There is no mistaking that one of the costliest aspects of fire recovery is a replacement. Whether these references affected contents throughout a structure or fire-damaged fixtures and structural elements, it is reasonable to assume that it benefits a customer more for our experienced team to restore through thorough cleaning rather than refinishing, resurfacing, or replacement.

Focal Points of Post-Fire Cleanup

When cleaning up soot-damaged surfaces, specific processes are observed to ensure the affected contents and building materials are completely cleaned, and particles or debris from the cleanup have been appropriately resolved and discarded. The cleaning process involves:

• Locating the damage
• Discovering the type of soil
• Choose the best cleaning approach for the underlying material
• Remove the soil
• Dispose of the waste safely

There are many hazardous obstacles for restorers after fire damage threats. As destructive as these disasters might be, we have a team of qualified professionals to help with these concerns, including a general contractor license. Give our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team a call today at (773) 337-3900.

When Storm Weather Hits Hard - SERVPRO Hits Back Harder!

11/13/2021 (Permalink)

Extensive Water Damage in a Living Room of a Home

Professionals Can Determine the True Extent of Damages After a Storm

A water disaster from Chicago storm damage can strike at any time. Usually these occurrences are unexpected and sudden, often the damages are quite difficult to detect, depending on the specific nature of the loss. The most frequent type of loss widely reported in the insurance industry is from water. Things such as broken pipes, sewage backup, leaks from appliances, water getting in from a roof opening and other levels of a building from heavy rain are water losses typically seen and which are covered under a majority of risk property policies. For anyone who never had prior experience in dealing with an insurance claim, the language of the policy can be quite confusing to say the least. To get fair compensation for a loss, it is a good idea to have an experienced claims advocate to advise you, since the method for adjusting these losses can be very technical and impact the way the settlement gets determined.

After you’ve experienced storm damage near Chicago, the most important thing you have to do is start the right emergency mitigation. You need to immediately get removal and dry out started. You should call our professional team at SERVPRO to help guide you through this process. How you handle a water loss in the first twenty-four hours can be critical to the outcome of your damage claim to your insurance. We have seen many times, for example, adjusters interested in saving money for the carrier having neglected removing baseboard and other kinds of finishings. Removing the baseboard stops the circulation of air throughout the wall system of a building. Wet carpeting needs to be pulled out completely or you could be harboring conditions that could lead to more damage or mold. Putting a blower in an up-lifted corner of the carpet won’t do the job right, since often the padding is soaked, too, and needs replacement.

You need to consider seriously calling us at SERVPRO. Your carriers preferred vendor isn’t always the best choice since they could be operating under cost constraints which limit their ability to do the job that is needed. Either way, it is very critical that you don’t sign any paperwork authorization forms without agreement from the insurance company or the representative adjuster to approve charges. You can have help going through this process with a public adjuster.

The next step is figuring out the extent of the damages, and this involves using moisture detectors, infrared cameras and hygrometers to find the exact location of the water. If the insurance company doesn’t follow this protocol, the outcome of your settlement will be hugely impacted and the total restoration and dry out process of the insured home could be in jeopardy. This is why you need us at SERVPRO to do this work for you. You’ll also need the right disinfectant products applied to stop any fungi, bacteria or mildew from forming and causing more damage.

That is why it is essential when you experience any storm damage in Chicago due to water damages that you call our experts at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago at (773) 337-3900 so that we can properly assess your damages and do the cleanup and restoration that is needed.

SERVPRO Provides Fast and Flexible Water Damage Recovery for Chicago Businesses

11/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's Quick Reaction After Damage and Plan to Keep Your Business Open During Remediation can Save You Money

Water damages not only the building but also the intangibles of your Chicago business. When you cannot be open to provide services or products for your customers and community for even a few days the harm done to your brand can be permanent. Our professional crews work quickly and offer restoration plans that frequently permit your business to remain open during our efforts.
 
Deterioration of building materials and fixtures follows months of hidden commercial water damage in your Chicago neighborhood boutique. The attraction you had to the ornate structure lessens when you realize ancient plumbing leaks warp beautiful hardwood floors and coved ceilings. Closing to attend to these challenges threatens to encourage your customers to look elsewhere for the unique decor items you carry. We have strategies to restore the damage done without closing your doors.
 
The SERVPRO project manager assigned to your business works with you to find the source of the water incursion and to devise a plan that permits part of your operation to remain open while our crews dry out wet areas. A retail enterprise that closes because of a disaster has only a 50 percent chance of reopening. We take pride in helping niche businesses stay the course while we complete a successful restoration.
 
Our team of trained technicians uses powerful extractors in the areas where water collected, and air movers and dehumidifiers to continue the moisture reduction. We swiftly erect temporary barriers shielding the work area and rely on our top of the line equipment to dry the area fast. Using only certified and experienced workers speeds the tasks without any loss of quality.
 
You also desire the special ambiance of your historic location to remain even after significant recovery efforts complete. SERVPRO has a restoration mindset, not a demolition and replace or remodeling tendency. We strive to understand what is special about your space, and use our skills and care to ensure post-water damage your space looks and feels “Like it never even happened.”
 
SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is ready to exceed your expectations when it comes to restoring water damage in your eclectic home furnishing store. Call (773) 337-3900 for a consultation with one of our experienced assessors.

For more information regarding Chicago, click here

If You Have Soot Damage - Call SERVPRO

11/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City is proud to serve the communities of Evergreen Park, Alsip, and Beverly with prompt 24/7 service.

Why SERVPRO Can Remedy Soot and Smoke Damage to Your Beverly Home

While homeowners may face a wide range of unwanted residential complications, fires can be one of the worst. Flames produce numerous challenges that homeowners will have to deal with, one of which is Beverly soot and smoke damage. Although the concept and reality of soot damage can be difficult to grapple with, learning more about the subject can prepare you to restore your property quickly and correctly in the event of a fire. SERVPRO stresses the difficulty regarding soot damage clean up, wipe down, and deodorizing.

Soot is an element of smoke. Specifically, it is the oily particulate streamed into the air by a fire when synthetic materials begin to burn, or from furnace puff-back. Because synthetic materials are components of a large amount of products found in every home, it's common for households that experience fires to be left with soot residue. Unfortunately, soot can damage your property in several ways. This oily substance will layer on porous surfaces like drywall. Specific sponges, tools, and cleaning products are required for removal without staining. This will diminish replacement and allow for re-painting. Clothing, drapes, and upholstery require specialized dry cleaning. DO NOT send these items to a standard dry cleaners. SERVPRO works with specific dry cleaning services that adhere to IICRC standards of cleaning. Smoke and soot can circulate throughout the ductwork system of your home causing additional damage and expense to previously unaffected areas by the fire.

Why Hiring A Professional To Remedy Soot Damage Is A Must
In many cases, homeowners who experience soot and smoke damage want to restore their property for themselves. However, it's best to leave this work to the professionals. The experts from SERVPRO have the industry experience and equipment necessary to expedite the restoration process. As such, they can get your home back in safe, sanitary, non-odor condition effectively. We’re trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment. It's also important to note that industry professionals are aware of hidden health and concealed safety hazards that many property owners aren't. We return your interior air quality to safe levels.

Let SERVPRO Handle Your Soot Damage Restoration Needs
Soot and smoke damage in Beverly are challenging issues that you need to address immediately and effectively. The company to call for fast, friendly soot and smoke damage restoration services is SERVPRO. Our IICRC-certified professionals will maintain the detail-oriented, client-centered service that restores your property and reduces stress to you. "Like it never even happened."

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today – (773) 337-3900

Mitigating Damage and Offering Quality Restorations in Evergreen Park/South Chicago City and Nationwide

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Our team provides cleanup and restoration services locally in the Chicago area and nationwide disaster services

SERVPRO is Available for Natural Catastrophic Events and Other Emergencies for Local Chicago-Area Residents and Businesses

Water and fire emergencies can happen anywhere at any time. Whether you run a business or have a home to maintain, you always want a rapid response to allow for mitigation and restoration as quickly as possible. SERVPRO's team is known for offering services that range far and wide to lend a hand in areas of the country suffering from a catastrophic event while still maintaining a solid front at their home base. Our Disaster Recovery Team is exceptional.

Emergency Rollouts to Areas Facing Substantial Damage

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City features plenty of Green Fleet vehicles, including semi-trailers packed with generators and all of the equipment necessary to deploy as needed to remote locations. By planning and managing logistics, the crew can complete jobs without power and access to other resources. There is even the option of an RV for lodging on-site to help streamline processes and get the job done fast.

Disasters relating to fire, water, or wind call for prompt, professional restoration efforts. During a time of calamity, people rely on the services of emergency restoration professionals like SERVPRO. We offer project managers to direct our Commercial Large Loss Division. From rapid response to natural disasters like Hurricane Ida or Irma to handling local cleanup and restoration, our team has homes and businesses covered.

Expansions Offer Benefits for the Local Community and Beyond

To address the local community's needs and other areas needing water removal services, detailed restoration services, and emergency response, having a place to store all of the equipment and inventory becomes a priority. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. By procuring a local industrial property, we can house everything from customer contents for storage as well as large and small equipment such as:

• Portable and truck-mounted water extractors

• Extraction tools

• Pumps

• Dehumidification equipment (including large towable desiccant models)

• Venting box fans

• Air movers

• Wall cavity ventilation systems

• Generators

• Safety equipment

• EPA-registered cleaning products, and more

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City is your Official Licensed Downtown Chicago Operator. Contact us by calling (773) 337-3900 for response to small homes, enterprise restorations, and beyond. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster!

What Water Damage Mitigation Steps Benefit Chicago Apartments Most?

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Neat, uniformed SERVPRO technicians mitigate and repair Chicago area properties

Initial actions by experienced restorers protect Chicago homes from further water damage

Often, before much of the water damage mitigation process can begin after a disaster, our SERVPRO professionals must determine the pressing needs of the house through a thorough assessment. Efficient and complete restoration and recovery occur when we can prioritize the actions necessary after gathering relevant information about:

• Assessing hazards
• Cataloging damage
• Determining water damage source

Removing Standing Water

Among the first and most important steps of water damage mitigation in Chicago homes are removing any standing water from the house. A wide range of extraction devices and water removal tools can be beneficial in this effort. We utilize a combination of pumps and vacuums to resolve the greatest volume of threatening pooling water.

Relocating Contents in Harm’s Way

Often, homes and businesses can be widely disrupted by water damage, leaving personal belongings, furniture, and keepsakes in harm’s way. Our professionals prioritize the protection of your treasured possessions through relocation services that move these items to a safer location on-site or our nearby SERVPRO facility for safekeeping.

Reconstruction and Repairs

One of the advantages of choosing SERVPRO for water damage restoration and mitigation is the necessary controlled demolition and repairs needed after a loss. As much of the water damage scenarios that impact Chicago homes and apartments result from broken pipes, leaking fixtures, or failing connections, our licensed general contractors help meet these demands fast.

Mitigating water damage involves several simultaneous efforts in a damaged home. As rapidly as water damage can spread, our emergency services are instrumental in slowing and stopping this migration. Give our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team a call today at (773) 337-3900.

A Letter to all the valued members of our team

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

To All Of The Valued Members of Our Team,

When we began this journey with SERVPRO, I had hoped for amazing people to work with, dream with, and grow with along the way. I could not have dreamed of having a more incredible team of people to succeed with though,  than what we have right now.

Frank and I could not be happier to see all of the people on our team working together as one unit, moving towards a single goal. Each of you bring unique gifts and abilities that has enabled us to be greater than some of our parts. The synergy seen on our team is rare, it is humbling, and it has yet again led us to another milestone. This year, at the annual SERVPRO Convention, we were given an award for being in the top 15 franchises in the entire company. To say this took my breath away is an understatement, and we have all of you to thank for your hard work and dedication. You all deserve to share these accolades as much as, or more than we do! There is nothing big enough to slow us down or stop us if we continue to join hands and push forward together!

Pat Zubricki

Why is it Important to Completely Remediate Water Damage in Chicago Homes?

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians have the mold remediation knowledge and services needed for your home. We are here to help.

SERVPRO can Help Prevent Mold Damage by Mitigating Chicago Area Water Damage

After finding some minor patches of mold in the basement of your Chicago home, you might have cleaned it up with bleach as a way to get rid of the microbial colony growing in your house. The goal of most homeowners is not only to stop the colony from increasing in size but also to remove the mold's visible presence.

Is Mold Really that Big of an Issue?

We often get calls from owners who tried to clean the mold themselves only to discover additional mold damage in their Chicago home later. Others find their walls now covered in rippled stains. One of the reasons for this development is that mold feeds on damp materials. The bleach available commercially to the general public contains a lot more water than it does sodium hypochlorite, the active component of household bleach.

Further dilution of this in preparation for killing mold provides mold with copious amounts of water. Instead of killing mold, trying to kill it and remove it with this method often only slows it down temporarily, followed by a surge in growth once it reactivates.

Also, because water does nothing to change the color of mold's hyphae, the anchors used to hold mold particles to the surface of wherever it grows, these remain embedded in the drywall. They are very similar to roots. They act very similarly to when a plant is clipped at the surface of the soil. Any surviving mold now has a feast because only the water in a bleach solution can penetrate into the drywall. The sodium hypochlorite molecules are too large to penetrate beyond the drywall's surface and never touch the hyphae. Left intact, they quickly reappear to leave a stained area.

SERVPRO is always ready to perform mold damage remediation services approved by the IICRC for homeowners. We understand your concerns about mold and its possible damaging effects. Regardless of the color of mold in your home, it is necessary to correctly remove damaged and moldy materials and clean other areas of mold and spores. Our specialists can provide you with specific information on how mold became a problem in your residence so you can more easily prevent its recurrence.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City covers the areas around Morgan Park, South Holland, and Riverdale. Call us for mold damage remediation services that rid your home of excessive old populations and correct the indoor environment, so reinfestation becomes less likely. Our 24-hour service number is (773) 337-3900.

I Need to Remove Water and Moisture from My Chicago Property. Who Can I Rely On?

10/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses biocides for all water damage restoration services. Let us have your home back to preloss condition ASAP.

You Can Rely on Restoration Experts from SERVPRO to Perform Water Removal in Your Chicago Home 

Whether a faulty appliance or burst pipe causes it, a water incident takes a relatively brief time to ruin a home’s building materials and valuable items. After a water emergency in your Chicago home, you need to act fast to stop further leaks and save property. You should also seek professional help from SERVPRO technicians who can protect as many valuables as possible and dry the affected areas fast to prevent mold growth. 

Why should I involve professionals?

Professionals can promptly reduce the harmful effects of a water damage incident since we have access to advanced water removal equipment and use groundbreaking techniques. We have a team of experienced and certified technicians who can perform water removal in your Chicago property to prevent costly damages. We use an approved process that protects the property owner against germs, mold, and odors. We not only extract water but also clean and deodorize the property safely and efficiently.

What can I do to help with the water removal process?

Depending on the level of water present, you can start extracting the water before our response team gets to your property. The steps to take include:

• Find the source of the water intrusion and stop it. 
• Wear personal protective gear like gloves and rubber boots before entering the water-damaged area.
• Remove any furniture or belongings from the affected area.
• Remove debris
• Extract as much water as you can by using a wet-dry vacuum. 

If the water levels are high for your water extraction equipment to handle, wait for the SERVPRO team of technicians to arrive. If the water is two inches deep or more profound, our team can use an electric submersible pump to remove it. If your carpet has absorbed water, we can use a carpet wand to extract it. For hard surface flooring, our technicians can use a squeegee wand. 

How do you dry a property?

The drying process is an essential step in restoration. Our team of professionals can use specialized equipment such as centrifugal air movers and refrigerant dehumidifiers to dry the affected area.

How can you remove the foul odor?

Water can cause a poor odor in your home, and it can persist even after effective drying. We can use air filtration devices with multiple filters to eliminate the odor. The devices have numerous high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters that remove airborne particles from the air by trapping them. They also capture gases and odors and then exhaust clean air back to the environment.

For effective water removal in your property, contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

The Flames are Gone, but Fire and Smoke Cleanup Continues in a Chicago Home

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage restoration for your home isn't a DIY project. Call SERVPRO to have your home back to preloss condition ASAP.

Chicago Property Owners can Rely on SERVPRO for the Most Up-to-Date Techniques in Fire Damage Restoration.

Hearing about a fire in a Chicago home is not an odd occurrence. Human error or overloaded circuits can cause a spark that escalates quickly into a full house fire. Once the flames are gone, the need for fire restoration becomes evident, and knowing who to turn to can be difficult. Instead of attempting to unravel the process of fire damage and repair, reach out to a specialized team for help.

SERVPRO is a premier fire and smoke cleanup team in Chicago, and we are ready to clean your home, including the air within it, until the fire becomes a memory. Our experience as a professional remediation crew prepares us to handle the toughest cleanup following the settlement of soot and ashes around your home. Call our office and invite our expert crew and advanced equipment into your home.

Fire damage restoration is not a linear process. Several concurrent processes are happening at the same time. For example-

• Agitation through mechanical means helps dislodge residue from each surface, making it easier for us to remove it.
• Move-out services to remove undamaged items and house them off-site while our SERVPRO team restores your place. The removal of items prevents further damage and improves access to affected areas.
• Air scrubbers and hydroxyl generators, which are designed to neutralize odor particles in large spaces. They help eliminate smells, dust, and lingering particles in the air.

Whatever your fire and smoke cleanup needs are, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City is ready to help. Call us at (773) 337-3900 and let us leave your home “Like it never even happened.” 

Steps to Recover from Flood Damage in Chicago

9/23/2021 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, flooding can happen without warning. When water enters your home, call SERVPRO for fast, effective remediation.

SERVPRO Technicians Quickly Dry Out Your Property After a Flood

Water tamed into taps and pipes is necessary for cleanliness and drinking. Water raging because of storms or infrastructure failures is one of the most destructive forces, including the effects of flood damage to Chicago homes. Professional assistance when floodwaters invade your home makes a tremendous positive difference, guiding to a successful restoration.

Illinois experienced both drought and heavy rains that caused Chicago flood damage within the same season. Homeowners need to be alert to the possibility of pop-up thunderstorms that dump vast amounts of water on the parts of the state in a short period. Sections of Chicago, like any other established urban area, struggle with adequate storm sewer drainage during this type of downpour. Many residences experience a degree of basement flooding during torrential rains, and the challenges of removing the water from and drying out the underground spaces require the expert services we offer.

Do Not Delay a Call to SERVPRO When Water Floods your Lower Levels

The faster the floodwaters exit, the more likely your home’s structure and contents survive the deluge with minor lasting damage. Because the water building up in your basement is probably a combination of backed-up sewer flow and rainwater seeping through foundation walls, contamination is an immediate concern. Our crews receive advanced training in identifying and remediating gray and black water and ensure we extract the possibly hazardous and infectious mixture, then contain and discard it according to local codes.

Truck mounted pumps and extractors tackle the task of removing the flooding efficiently, even during power outages. Our crews then carefully inspect for hidden water in cinder block foundations or behind paneling or drywall, drilling through mortar joints or removing sections of wallcoverings to release the water. SERVPRO technicians place air movers and desiccant dehumidifiers to dry the basement thoroughly, using moisture meters to set and monitor drying goals.

The contaminated water leaves lingering hazards that our team attacks through the use of proven cleaning products and antimicrobials. We arrange an evaluation of any damage done to the mechanical systems and appliances that suffered from the incursion of floodwaters and recommend they be put back into use only after it is certain their operation cannot result in safety concerns.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is your full-service partner when floodwaters threaten your residence. Call (773) 337-3900 for a 24-hour response, with crews dispatched as soon as possible to get the restoration on track.

Need Fire Damage Restoration in Downtown Chicago? Think SERVPRO

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Although the blaze was limited to the bedroom, smoke and soot traveled throughout the home. SERVPRO knows how to restore fire damage.

What Makes SERVPRO One of the Most Dependable Fire Damage Restoration Services in Downtown Chicago? 

Fire damage restoration of residential and commercial spaces in busy Downtown Chicago requires prompt action. SERVPRO, being the Official Licensed Downtown Chicago Operator, has the means and preparedness to start the restoration within hours of the disaster.

SERVPRO techs can handle the different aspects of the fire damage restoration process in Downtown Chicago. From smoke and soot removal to odor elimination, the IICRC certified SERVPRO technicians could take care of it all.

What Makes Odor Elimination Such a Big Challenge During House Fire Cleanup?

Smoke odor particles are tiny, even microscopic in some cases, and can penetrate deep within the surfaces. To combat these, the deodorant particles that SERVPRO techs use must also be small enough to penetrate where the odor particles are to neutralize them.

The situation worsens due to the heat from the fire. High temperatures allow the odor-causing particles to move deeper by providing them with thermal energy. Furthermore, the heat can expand the pores of the surfaces, making them larger. When the heat is no longer present, the pores can contract, trapping the particles in them.

SERVPRO techs recreate the conditions that allowed the odor particles to penetrate the surfaces to neutralize them effectively. One essential piece of equipment that restorers use to do this is the thermal fogger.

Thermal foggers vaporize solvent-based deodorizing agents and create a fog consisting of tiny particles that behave similarly to smoke particles. The deodorant particles interact with the invisible odor-causing particles and neutralize them.   

Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900, and our technicians are available 24/7 to take your call.   

Our Team Arrives to Support Louisiana Community After Hurricane Ida Devastation

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's Heroes in Green from Chicago ranged far to assist Louisiana with Hurricane Ida cleanup

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team is Ready to Help Cleanup Whenever Necessary

Hurricane Ida hit towns as a category four with a strong storm surge along the Louisiana coast. The resulting winds and flooding left most of the city of New Orleans without electricity and several areas needed help for the water cleanup. The Disaster Recovery Team is a group of elite SERVPRO franchise owners that have the equipment and personnel to help communities in distress. There are four regions that cover the entire continental United States.

Anthony Zubricki, co-owner of the franchise, left the Evergreen Park area and arrived in Louisiana the day before Ida hit and brought along a 53-foot trailer with water cleanup equipment. VP David Mason left on Monday with a second 53-foot trailer loaded with equipment, and franchise owner Frank Zubricki will arrive this week. The first 24-hours after a disaster like Hurricane Ida are the most crucial for preventing or limiting secondary or permanent damage to the residential or business property. SERVPRO brought along an RV for sleeping, resting, and serving as a central headquarters during the disaster restoration service. In anticipation of the electricity being out, the trailers included multiple generators to power the extraction and drying equipment necessary. The estimated time SERVPRO will be present for cleanup and demolition support is roughly two weeks. Most residents evacuated the area before Ida struck and only got to view their properties after the storm passed to ascertain the damage done and found SERVPRO was already on-site assisting with the cleanup.

How SERVPRO Helps After Disaster Strikes

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park's Disaster Recovery Team will lend a hand to the community for cleanup with actions such as:

• Assisting residents moving items out of homes
• Handling controlled demolition of structures as needed
• Water removal and drying

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 supports areas that need disaster response with a large-scale cleanup. We are ready 24/7 to help communities in need.

Are You Worried About Weather Patterns That Cause Flooding in Downtown Chicago?

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

When Downtown Chicago flooding surprises you, call SERVPRO--We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

SERVPRO’S Restoration Team can Relieve Storm Damage Stress

There is evidence that heavier rains and aging sewer infrastructure are combining for some very challenging flooding situations in our metropolitan area. No matter how diligently a homeowner tries to limit the damage done by periodic flooding when torrential rains drop many inches of water in one storm, you need the help only SERVPRO provides when your basement floods.

Urban areas struggle with flood damage, and Downtown Chicago is no exception. The aging wastewater disposal systems fill up, overwhelmed by the amount of precipitation falling in a given area. Since it is likely that flooding continues to happen, but it is impossible to tell which neighborhoods risk flooding next, the smartest thing to do within a homeowner’s grasp is to choose a well-prepared flood restoration company.

SERVPRO stands out from the many recovery firm options in the area because of well-trained staff and the ability to ramp up the scale of restoration efforts. We have a commitment to local homeowners and our shared community. Because we also live and work here, we understand the struggles you confront when our weather does not cooperate. Although we have a local focus, we are part of a larger, nationwide network of flooding and water damage restoration experts.

SERVPRO Helps with Summer Flood Damage in Downtown Chicago

Should your neighborhood be one that suffers from heavy rains and compromised wastewater disposal this summer, make sure you have SERVPRO on speed dial. We respond quickly when flooding threatens to damage your basement and its contents. Our staff uses submersible pumps and extractors to remove standing water, the equipment mounted on our service trucks. We evaluate the viability of any HVAC system, water heaters, and laundry appliances after we clear the water. Our staff uses industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers to dry flooring, walls, and other structures.

Furnishings and bedding saturated with floodwaters need assessment for the safety of restoration rather than disposal. Floodwaters contain the potential for infectious waste, and disinfecting porous articles like upholstery and mattresses is not always possible. We discuss this with you and your insurance company, making the best choice based upon your safety and welfare.

Flooding in your community needs the expert help of SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City. Gear up your response by calling our team at (773) 337-3900.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City Accepts 2020 Bronze Sales and Service Award

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

The Zubricki Family Accepts the Bronze Sales Award on Behalf of the team. From left: Anthony, Amanda, Frank, Pat, and Stephanie.

Who are the Zubrickis?

In this lovely family portrait Patricia and Frank Zubricki are flanked by their three children Anthony and Amanda, on the left, and Stephanie, on the right. The Zubrickis are very proud of the team for achieving the 2020 Bronze Sales Award. From Pat Zubricki: “Our team is the linchpin that got us to where we are now and forges our path forward. We humbly accept this Award on their behalf.”

The 2020 Bronze Sales and Service Award

The detailed work and successful restorations of local properties post-water, fire, or mold damage have resulted in our team being recognized by their parent company SERVPRO Industries LLC at the Annual Convention held this year at Disney World in Orlando, FL. The team was honored with the Bronze Icon Award for Outstanding Sales and Service, ranking in the top 15 out of over 1850 franchises. This SERVPRO franchise has been acknowledged as a top 100 franchise every year since 2012.

Helping the Community

The Zubricki’s support Chicagoland properties to overcome all types of disasters by using their professional restoration, remediation, reconstruction, and other cleanup efforts. We work hard for both homes and businesses, with their highly trained staff. When this SERVPRO location is not handling restoration services, the organization also supports the community by volunteering and donating to local charities and causes such as the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and NAIFA Chicago Southland. Pat Zubricki is also on the Board of the Children’s Museum in Oaklawn. Their goal is to assist people whenever possible and better the community because they are neighbors too.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 proudly serves the local community for all sizes and types of restoration services.

We Get You Back in Business in Downtown Chicago After Flood Damage

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

Stop flood damage fast in Downtown Chicago by calling SERVPRO

How SERVPRO Containment Systems Limit Flood Damage Related Shutdowns

When we respond to a flooding situation at your Downtown Chicago business, we know how debilitating even temporary closure can be. Our experienced project managers work with you and your insurance company to devise a flood water removal and drying plan that permits at least a portion of your operations to continue during mitigation and remediation phases.

Hazardous Waste Needs Professional Containment after Flood Damage

All flood damage at your Downtown Chicago commercial building involves hazardous waste. Overland flooding picks up chemicals, debris, and organic materials, including fungi, dead animals, and sewage, when the sanitary systems become overwhelmed. Regardless of the line of business you pursue, health and safety regulations apply that make keeping infectious waste and other dangerous substances contained. The safety of not only your employees and customers, but also the general public, depends on our training and skills in hazardous waste containment and lawful disposal.

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) Containment Levels

SERVPRO employees study the elements and requirements of ACGIH containment recommendations when designing an appropriate flood damage cleanup configuration. We look at the level of contamination and craft containment strategies accordingly.

• Source containment -- minimal contamination
• Removing, wrapping, and properly disposing of materials is sufficient.
• Local or mini containment -- moderate contamination
• Constructing a small 6-mil polyethylene wrapped enclosure large enough for a worker to remove, wrap and bag, and pass contaminated items out for lawful disposal is appropriate and minimally disruptive.
• Full scale containment -- extreme/extensive contamination
• Construct a 6-mil polyethylene wrapped and contained work area.
• Add smaller spaces adjacent to the work area as a decontamination area for workers, equipment, and bagged waste with a floor to ceiling polyethylene wrapped interior.
• Add equipment rooms to store contaminated tools and workers’ clothing.
• Add an uncontaminated room to clean contents.
• Add a clean room for uncontaminated items and clothing.
• Add a load-out area where bagged waste can be stored until disposal.
• HEPA Air Filtration and Venting to Prevent Hazardous Waste Drift

Any of these systems can include one or more negative pressure air scrubbers to pass airborne particles through HEPA filters and vent to the outside. An airlock can be employed using negative air pressure equipment to permit movement between contaminated and uncontaminated areas while protecting spaces where your business operations continue during flood damage abatement.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is ready to manage flood damage for your business while permitting you to meet your customer base’s needs. Contact us at (773) 337-3900 to develop a plan with our talented crews.

Fire Damage in Downtown Chicago? SERVPRO is Here to Help

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can provide dry ice blasting to help clean and restore fire damaged Downtown Chicago homes and businesses

SERVPRO Specializes in Fire Damage Restoration of Properties in Downtown Chicago

Fire damage in densely populated Downtown Chicago requires remediation by professionals equipped to handle such situations. SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/ South Chicago City is an Official Licensed Downtown Chicago Operator having trained technicians with experience facing unique challenges of the area.

One of the biggest tasks of SERVPRO restorers after fire damage to the Downtown Chicago building is the cleanup of smoke and soot residue. Our restorers apply scientific principles and elements of cleaning to restore materials to a preloss condition as quickly as possible. Mechanical agitation is often required if the residue is bonded tightly with the surfaces. SERVPRO techs use several tools for mechanical agitation, including sandpapers, steel wool, roto pads, and blast cleaning.

What is Blast Cleaning That SERVPRO Techs Use During House Fire Cleanup in Downtown Chicago?

SERVPRO techs use blast cleaning in case of heavy soot and residue buildup after extensive smoke damage to your Downtown Chicago property. The process involves using compressed air or rotary blasting equipment to blast (strike with force) some media against the soiled surface. Dry ice pellet blasting has the added benefit of not introducing more water during the cleanup stage. Soda blasting with sodium bicarbonate also can help to deodorize the fire damaged area.

We use several blasting media, including baking soda, dry ice, and even ground corn cobs. The amount of agitation produced depends on many factors including-

• shape and size of the blast media, and
• the speed at which it is blasted against the surface

If you need fire damage restoration in the Downtown Chicago area, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 for fast service. 

Facts About Downtown Chicago Mold Damage

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Mold may cause health effects if not treated correctly. SERVPRO uses the latest technology and equipment for every job. Call now for the help you need

Mold Inspections, Remediations, and Removal

Mold is just a fact of life. It can't completely be escaped, as there's always a little bit around in the air where we go. With that said, there are risks associated with Downtown Chicago mold damage, as you well know for things like food and wood. While these are troublesome, there's also a type of mold that contains something called mycotoxins that can cause some health effects. Common sense is generally the best way to prevent mold from growing and address any problems associated with existing mold, but let's take a closer look at some common mold questions to see what the proper course of action is.

Mold Damage to a Structure

It's typical for a home or even a business in Downtown Chicago to be inhabited by mold damage. It grows just about anywhere as long as there is moisture.

How Do Molds Get There?

Downtown Chicago molds are a natural part of just about any indoor environment. They generally enter the premises through windows, doors, or even ventilation systems. Spores that come from outside can easily attach to both people and animals, making excellent vehicles inside.

Understanding Stachybotrys Chartarum

Stachybotrys Chartarum is a dark green or even black-colored mold that can generally grow on gypsum or fiberboard, paper, dust, or even lint due to its preference for high cellulose and low nitrogen materials. It requires regular moisture, such as from leaks or high humidity.

Do I Have to Leave My Home?

If you think you have health effects because of mold present in your home, then you may consider vacating until the problem is resolved.

How to Check for Mold?

Downtown Chicago mold is often identified by being seen or smelled.

How to Remove Mold Damage?

Call a professional team like SERVPRO to ensure that mold damage is remediated. Improper cleaning can cause mold to grow back.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is close by and ready to help with your mold damaged property. We are proud to be an active member of the Chicago community and pitch in and help make our community the best it can be. Contact us at (773) 337-3900 for mold inspections, remediations, and removal.

What Challenges Do Water and Fire Damage Restorations Present for Downtown Chicago Commercial Property Contents?

7/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO works right along with your insurance company for any size disaster. Commercial or home property.

SERVPRO Invests in Fire and Smoke Damaged Contents Interventions for Downtown Chicago Businesses at Our State-Of-The-Art Production Facility

Worry and stress overwhelm business owners and managers when Downtown Chicago businesses experience fire and smoke damage. Although the focus of firefighters is saving a building's structure, failure to address the cleaning and restoration needs of your company's contents can derail business operations permanently. 

Why Is Fire and Smoke Damage to Your Business's Contents Devastating?

Although a commercial building fire clean-up's expense and inconvenience are substantial, arrangements for alternative space during remediation are possible. What is less easy to achieve is recovery from the destruction of inventory, documents, equipment, and other items housed within the damaged commercial space. You want to resume operations fast, even while restoration of the burned building proceeds. Your business's services and products must be available as soon as possible. SERVPRO can make this happen with a full or partial pack-out of a commercial building's contents to our production facility. 

How Does SERVPRO Manage Water and Fire Damage Restoration of Commercial Contents?

SERVPRO employs a detailed Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) to catalog all items removed from your Downtown Chicago premises for water and smoke remediation. Our spacious production facility features specialized cleaning and drying equipment and dedicated spaces for drying and deodorization. A scalable crew of trained technicians clean, dry, disinfect, and remove odors from your business's contents, using, for examples:

• Freeze-drying technology for documents and paper
• Climate and humidity-controlled compartments for electronics
• Ultrasonic cleaning systems for non-porous items
• Laundry and dry cleaning resources for textiles and soft items

As an Official Downtown Licensed Operator, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City takes the restoration of fire and smoke-damaged commercial contents seriously. Call (773) 337-3900 to arrange for a prompt assessment of your company's needs.

Expansion Leading to Greater Efficiency Supports the Restoration Options SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago Provides Customers

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

New Hub of Operations in Downtown Chicago

Our SERVPRO is growing, and adding production space improves project outcomes

Owners of SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago and six other Chicagoland SERVPRO franchises announce the purchase of a hard-to-find industrial property within the Chicago city limits and near Midway Airport for much-needed expansion. This 61,000-square-foot hub will support operations at their seven satellite Chicagoland locations, including two in the downtown area.  The annex will provide space for their large equipment inventory and storage of customer contents, as well as production areas for contents restoration. According to Pat Zubricki, co-owner, “As Official Licensed Downtown Chicago Operators, we have a large equipment inventory on-hand to support multiple large commercial projects. We are also regularly travelling to assist with the recovery efforts at storm events around the US, so our fleet of trucks and equipment has continued to grow”. 

Pat owns SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago with her husband Frank. She emphasizes the purchase was essential., “Our business has tripled in size in the last four years, and we are bursting at the seams. We will be more efficient and have the space to continue to expand for at least several years.” 

Find details on the commercial property purchase at REjournal.com.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City awaits your call at (773) 337-3900 for evaluation of fire, water, storm, or mold disaster needs.

How Can Chicago Businesses and Residents Determine if a Restoration Company Has the Background to Handle Severe and Complex Disasters?

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

Severe Weather Event Response in Louisiana

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City draws on its experience providing emergency response at Fort Polk in Louisiana to bring top-notch water mitigation and remediation to our region

Chicagoland businesses and individuals benefit in almost all cases when obtaining needed products and services from local companies like SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago. Although property owners value the local touch, they need assurance that the contractors engaged are up to the challenge of significant losses from natural and other disasters. A recent partnership with Corvias Property Management, a military contractor responding to the February 2021 Polar Vortex crisis at Louisiana's Fort Polk, demonstrates SERVPRO's ability to deliver fast and efficient disaster recovery services even 1000 miles south of the Chicago Loop.

Why Was SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City and Corvias Property Management a Good Fit?

As a long-time member of a regional SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team, we mobilize fast when catastrophic circumstances present anywhere around the country. When Corvias looked for collaborators when Fort Polk suffered a series of disasters culminating in unseasonable cold and its water damage consequences, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City was a natural choice. Our investments in a scalable workforce and a vast inventory of disaster recovery equipment find additional support from:

• Exceptional project managers, well-seasoned in assessing and managing severe losses
• Vehicles that transport and provide sleep quarters for our management and technicians 
• Fully stocked service trucks and semi-trailers
• Our reputation for honesty, integrity, preparedness, and perseverance

What Challenges Did SERVPRO Help Overcome During the Fort Polk Project?

Corvias has a 50-year partnership with Fort Polk in Vernon Parish, including the management of 3,661 military residences. February 2021's unexpectedly and unprecedented low temperatures caused days of power outages on the base, rendering many of the homes uninhabitable. Fort Polk military service members and families evacuated, and during their absences, frozen and then burst pipes caused severe wall deterioration and ceiling leaks. SERVPRO leveraged our considerable experience with cold weather emergency services as we assisted in mitigation and remediation tasks for the affected residences. Water damage linked to the tangle of cracked and broken plumbing required skills our technicians honed over countless successful restorations, including but surely not limited to:

• Precise cutting out of damaged drywall
• Location, exposure, and assessment of wet materials in preparation for water damage repairs 
• Removal of wet insulation and other fixtures and structural components

How Does the Fort Polk Project Enhance SERVPRO's Standing as a Chicago Area Disaster Recovery Company?

Commercial and multiple-use properties need proven, reliable, and comprehensive water damage remediation and restoration services in Chicago. Successful subcontracting with Corvias reinforced by designation as an Official Downtown Licensed Operator solidifies our position as a reputable restoration leader for disasters large and small.

Place your confidence in SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City for your property disaster needs. Call (773) 337-3900 to explore all our training and experience offers.

What Does Commercial Flood Damage in Downtown Chicago Entail?

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage can be overwhelming for any property owner. SERVPRO is here to help. Just call (773) 337-3900.

Flood Damage Needs to Be Quickly Dealt With to Prevent Resulting Hazards

Flood damage in Downtown Chicago can be one of the trickiest obstacles for any business. Flood damage is often thorough, impacting a wide area across a building and finding its way into dark and forgettable places. If given time, flood damage can later cause more types of damage through corrosion and mold growth if you are not careful. 

Who's at Risk? 

Any building could experience flooding, but locations near water or low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable. Never assume that your building is immune to flood damage near Downtown Chicago simply because it is on high ground; internal leaks or floods could strike unexpectedly. 

What Happens in Floods? 

Floodwaters tend to cover all or a vast part of a building, ruining, staining, and contaminating floors and low-lying objects. The waters are often loaded with dirt, grime, and biological or chemical hazards, making cleanup tricky and dangerous. Furthermore, floods often create ideal conditions for mold growth, which may cause health effects. 

How are Floods Cleaned Up? 

First, any remaining water is pumped out with heavy extractors, sometimes truck-mounted for more significant amounts of water. Then, air movers and dehumidifiers are used to dry out the area and eliminate any remaining moisture. Finally, deodorization and cleanup can begin, with all affected areas and objects scrubbed and sanitized. During this phase, mold removal and restoration processes may also take place, depending on the situation. 

We are Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As a Downtown Chicago flood damage restoration leader, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City has the specialized expertise, equipment, and training to restore your home to its pre-storm condition. We offer 24/7 emergency service for Chicago, Downtown Chicago, and South Side Chicago. Call (773) 337-3900.

Downtown Chicago Water Damage Cleanup Where To Begin

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Call in the professionals for water cleanup, to avoid additional water loss in your home. our SERVPRO technicians are available 24/7.

The Basics of Downtown Chicago Water Damage Cleanup

If your home has suffered water damage, then there are a few tips you can follow to help you stay safe and protect your home. The first step is to check for damage to your home's structure. Damage to the structure can cause dangerous gas leaks. If you smell gas, then immediately call 9-1-1 or the gas company's emergency line. Wait for the authorities, and move away from the area. If there doesn't appear to be structural damage or leaks, start throwing damaged items away, such as damaged foods, rugs, and other similar items. 

Call Your Downtown Chicago Insurance Agent

Once you are safe and secure, you should call your insurance agent to file a claim. You need your policy number to leave a message for a callback. If you have a smartphone with a camera, start photographing the water damage in your Downtown Chicago home. Providing evidence ensures your claim gets processed much faster. You should also make a list of lost or damaged items and their approximate value. A restoration service can help you with water damage cleanup, and you can save time.

How To Clean Up Your Water Damage Related Mold Damage

The main problem with water damage cleanup is that wet items can encourage mold and bacteria to grow. That's why it's important to start cleaning up right away. The entire area inside your home needs to be cleaned and disinfected. A professional restoration service can make this part extremely easy. If you decide to try to clean up on your own, you may want to rent a wet/dry vacuum with a lot of power. Photograph all damage, including floors, baseboards, roofs, and walls. You can have photographs and books restored by contacting a professional company.

Floods and Downtown Chicago water damage can seem overwhelming and devastating. However, a professional restoration company has years of experience dealing with this type of disaster. Choose a restoration company that has a good reputation. Google fire and water restoration companies. You may have seen advertisements for this type of company on television or in your local newspaper.

Downtown Chicago floods are particularly devastating since a portion of your home has been submerged in water. If this is the case, it is crucial that you hire a professional company. Ask your insurance agent if you have flood insurance that will cover the cost of hiring a restoration company. You can learn more information by visiting the National Flood Insurance Program's website.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City provides fire and water damage restoration services. We proudly serve Downtown Chicago and surrounding areas.  Water comes from everywhere, and our certified technicians can clean and dry any flood better than its original state. (773) 337-3900 

Storm Damage Cleanup in Chicago Homes Must Be Done Promptly

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the tools and equipment it takes to get your home back in order after storm damage.

SERVPRO Saves Chicago Homes by Offering Quick and Efficient Storm Damage Cleanup 

If storm damage cleanup of your Chicago home does not happen fast, it can lead to potentially serious issues that can increase your repair and restoration cost. SERVPRO technicians work hard to prevent any long-term damage by ensuring that the water is removed and the structure is dried as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO technicians often create drying zones during the storm damage cleanup of your Chicago home, especially if the damage impacts only a part of the structure. The drying zone is created by sealing off any openings between the affected and unaffected areas of the structure. SERVPRO professionals use plastic sheeting barriers to create containments. The humidity, temperature, and airflow in the drying zone are carefully controlled to speed up evaporation. 

The Advantages of Creating a Drying Zone During Water Damage Restoration of Storm Affected Chicago Homes 

Drying zones established by SERVPRO techs at your Chicago home during flood restoration serve a couple of purposes-

• Focus Air Movement to the Affected Area- Drying zones enable SERVPRO professionals to focus the dry air produced by drying equipment on the wet structure and material. The humid air from the unaffected area cannot enter the drying zone, and technicians can maintain drier conditions for faster evaporation during water damage restoration. 
• Provide a Location for Drying Content- Moving content from structure to a warehouse is not always necessary during water cleanup. The wet contents can be dried more efficiently in a drying zone.

Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 for a fast and reliable storm damage cleanup service. 

Fire Damage Remediation: Leave it to the Pros

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Don't take on a fire damage alone. Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City we want to help you.

When Fire Damages Your Downtown Chicago Home Call SERVPRO

A house fire is a catastrophic event that can lead to emotional, structural, and financial devastation. Downtown Chicago fire damage remediation, the process of making your home livable again, is a complex undertaking that requires skill, knowledge, and unique resources. If you want to restore your home as quickly as possible and minimize costs, you should consult a fire damage remediation company.

Techniques

How does a remediation company restore your fire damaged home in Downtown Chicago? The four main techniques commonly used include thoroughly drying your home, cleaning the HVAC system, rebuilding damaged structural elements, and removing unusable debris.

Water Damage

In the days following a fire, water damage is your biggest threat. Secondary water damage is the single most significant source of additional damage—and increased costs—once a fire is out. Standing water plus soaked furniture and drywall equal a breeding ground for mold and mildew. While professional remediation specialists work to repair other types of damage, they use dehumidifiers and other air-moving machinery to dry your home as thoroughly as possible.

HVAC System

During a fire, HVAC filters and coils become clogged with soot and other debris. When this happens, these parts must be replaced. A remediation company can determine what types of repairs are necessary and do the work for you.

Structural Rebuild

Fire damaged structural elements in your home must be replaced or rebuilt. Granted, you could hire independent contractors to do the work, but that involves increased time and effort on your part. A fire damage remediation company can oversee this step for you.

Unsalvageable Debris

Fire destroys. Items in your home too damaged to be restored can potentially contaminate other areas of your home and should be removed, if at all possible. If you believe damaged possessions can be salvaged, check with the damage restoration company or a specialty repair store for advice or help.

Points to Consider

After fire damage, take time to conduct a complete damage inventory of your home. Note smoke-odor issues, structural problems, and potential water damage. Fire damage remediation involves these and a host of other factors. A professional restoration service with years of experience, professional knowledge, and the right equipment can significantly reduce the burden of a fire’s aftermath and streamline the restoration process to make it as painless as possible. All while protecting your home from further damage.

Furthermore, hiring a professional company just makes sense. A house fire disrupts your life in countless ways. The easier and more effective the remediation process, the sooner your life can return to normal. For more information about fire damage remediation, contact your local fire remediation company, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

Why You May Need Mold Removal Services in Your Downtown Chicago Business?

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Having mold in your company can shut business down. Call us today we will have you up and running in no time.

SERVPRO Has the Experience to Identify and Remove Mold from Your Downtown Chicago Property

You need to hire the services of an experienced mold removal firm like SERVPRO when your Downtown Chicago shop suffers the effects of mold as a result of a leaking roof or a burst pipe. Mold spores are almost everywhere, and they only need to come into contact with water and the right temperature conditions for them to grow. We perfectly know that, which is why we immediately identify and stop the source of the water.

How Our SERVPRO Technicians Perform Mold Remediation in Downtown Chicago?

The mold remediation process in your Downtown Chicago property should start as soon as possible. Our SERVPRO technicians have to determine the contaminated and uncontaminated areas and establish containment. The purpose of establishing containment is to prevent further contamination and protect occupants. Below are some of the containment measures we put in place at the site:

• We seal HVAC vents as a way of protecting the duct system from contamination
• We may set up a containment barrier - we use plastic sheeting to accomplish this
• Establish decontamination zones for equipment and materials decontamination

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago offers a 24-Hour Emergency Service and can be relied on to perform commercial cleaning. Call (773) 337-3900 and speak to experienced technicians who are always ready to help.

Flood Damage In Downtown Chicago Requires Fast, Complete Attention To Detail

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is here and ready when a storm hits your property, call us today.

SERVPRO is Here to Help with Flood Damage Restoration

Water damage to your home is such that, without immediate attention, soaked drywall, carpets, and the possible infection of molds make your home an uncomfortable place to live very quickly. This is what makes it necessary to call for the flood damage cleanup that Downtown Chicago area homeowners appreciate.

What Is Critical To Understand About Flood Damage In Your Downtown Chicago Area Home? 

Flood damage in Downtown Chicago can happen at just about any time due to many factors, not the least of which are overflowing area basins and the storms that occur all too often. The flooding can come into your home through the basement due to faulty waterproofing and can get to work on destroying your home's foundation often before you are aware of it. 

That is why it is crucial to enlist the services of a flood damage restoration company.

Getting Back To A Healthy Home 

When you contact a flood damage restoration firm, they arrive to begin the process of a complete inspection while setting up large air movers. Thus begins the evacuation of the bad air that wet things throw off. The process of removing the water starts at the same time.

The removal of the water immediately assists in preventing as much additional damage as possible because the furniture, wallboard, and carpet become soaked even more and continue to break down as well as the molds that may be present take hold and are transported, by the water, into other areas.

This water removal process may involve submersible pumps and powerful commercial wet-vacs in all areas affected and on all surfaces. Nothing else can be attempted, nor should be, until the water has been removed and the air is a bit sweeter.  It is necessary to organize and carry out the removal of furniture and other items that must be done to accomplish the drying out of the premises.

Dehumidifiers are then placed to assist in getting all of the moisture out of your home. This moisture, if not removed, continues to help molds and mildew and their dangerous work in your home and everyone who occupies it. It continues to get into all spaces, such as the closets in which your delicate clothing is hanging. It also continues to affect the building materials negatively.

The Next Step In The Flood Damage Restoration Is The Cleaning 

Powerful sanitizing agents are used on all surfaces that can be cleaned. This occurs after everything that can not be wiped completely has been removed. This means a complete detailed cleaning of all rooms, spaces, and areas to ensure nothing, such as mold spores, germs, or other allergens, remains.

Restoring Your Home After This Flood Damage Cleanup In Downtown Chicago 

Restoration involves the finishing touches of repairing your carpets or doing some patch and paintwork. Water can damage hardwood floors and drywall. Some of the flooring or drywall may need to be removed and replaced.

There are so many things that need to go right, and we have it down to a science, so, as a family-owned and operated franchise, we at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City stand ready to help your family during this confusing time in your life. When a major flood makes your home uninhabitable, give us a call as we have the personnel, the equipment, and the experience for anything relating to this emergency. That number, at any time, is (773) 337-3900.

Can Burst Pipes Lead to Odor Problems for Downtown Chicago Residents?

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Our skilled technicians will find the source of the odor in your home and eliminate it.

SERVPRO is an Expert Water Damage Restoration Team in Downtown Chicago that Can Combat Unpleasant Odor in your Home

The first step in getting rid of an unpleasant odor is to find the root cause. Sometimes the reason may be apparent such as in a sewer back up or microbial infestation. At other times, it may be challenging to find the exact source. SERVPRO is here to help residents:

• Burst pipes
• Water damage remediation
• Cleaning up after sewer backup

Removing the odor is a core part of water damage restoration in your Downtown Chicago home. Determining precisely the source and remedy of each odor would require an encyclopedic knowledge of chemistry and a vast array of equipment. To keep our restoration service time-efficient, we use a multiple methods approach that works to remove odor.

• Masking agents come as product additives or time releasing beads. We use these to reduce odor until it disperses naturally from home.
• Disinfectants and sanitizers are used to destroy odor-causing microorganisms such as bacteria common in water intrusion events.
• Electrically generated deodorizers like Ozone gas breakdown odors at a molecular level but are rarely used in residential properties.

Get rid of an odor issue for good. Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

Is Smoke Remediation for Chicago Homes Expensive?

4/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the equipment and skilled technicians to help get your home back in shape after a fire mishap.

SERVPRO Operates in Chicago and Can Help you Reduce the Expense of House Fire Restoration

When a house fire erupts, soot, smoke, and particles settle on surfaces. At high temperatures or pressure, these particles can bond with the surfaces. The two factors that primarily influence the amount of harm your home sustains are the temperature of the smoke and the temperature of surfaces. SERVPRO has the expertise to mitigate against both factors and can help you with:

• Fire damage restoration 
• Smoke remediation
• House fire cleanup

Temperature can affect house fire restoration in Chicago. The heat that fire produces rises in a process known as convection. This can affect ceilings, upper walls, light fittings, and upper floors even when the flames are contained on the lower levels. Migrating smoke from the source of a fire can leave deposits on cooler surfaces due to convection. 

• We can dry, clean, and refinish interior cabinets, draws, and cupboards that may be adversely affected by smoke.
• Using alkaline cleaning solution on appliance surfaces can help to remove residues without harming the finish.
• Fogging equipment can often be used to reach odors trapped on ceilings, light fixtures, or upper walls. 

We can help you return your home to its preloss condition. Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City for house fire restoration at (773) 337-3900 now.

Should Businesses in Chicago Use Professional Sewer Backup Cleaning?

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

We have the training, expertise, and state-of-the-art equipment to restore your property to pre-damage condition. Call us right away.

SERVPRO is an Expert in Water Cleanup with Experience Working for some of Chicago's Finest Businesses

Chicago is among the largest and most famous cities in the United States. Over the past four years, it has been voted as the number one city to reside in and has also set the record for tourism in 2018, with 58 million people visiting the windy city. One of the main attractions to Chicago is its iconic skyline which features skyscrapers over 1,500 feet tall. The rebuilding of Chicago as prime real estate for finance, technology, and healthcare industries came about following the great Chicago fire. Since then, it has become recognizable worldwide for its unique neo-gothic architecture, vibrant culture industry, and tourism. Music has also played a central role in Chicago's cultural development, with Jazz, Blues, Hip-hop and Trap music among some of its celebrated contemporary products.

The city of Chicago, based in Illinois, has a strong reputation for its nightlife. The Music Box theater is an excellent place to start, which shows a curated list of some of the best indie and foreign cinemas in the United States. Just around the corner is the Green Mill, a jazz and cocktail venue in operation since before the prohibition era. The venue fills up quickly as residents cram in each evening to watch some of the city's hottest jazz musicians in action. Despite its strong downtown and old town districts, Chicago retains a good reputation for walks and trails. Garfield park, the 606, and the Chicago Riverwalk are all popular destinations for cooling down during the morning and afternoon. 

• The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) features up-to-the-minute exhibitions from artists across the globe. With a rotating roster of shows and tours, the MCA promises an individual experience to visitors any time of year. 
• The Museum of Science and Industry and the Chicago Museum of History provide an intimate perspective on the city's growth as a global economic hub. Featuring a collection of archived photography, interviews, and videos, the exhibitions are well-worth visiting for a taste of history.
• Lincoln Park Zoo is a 35-acre plot at the center of Lincoln State Park. The reservation has over 1,000 animal species with both indoor and outdoor areas. Early reservations are recommended during peak times and the current COVID pandemic.

SERVPRO Can Decontaminate your Business Premises with Expert Water Cleanup

A backed-up sewer can cause health and safety issues at your business and even result in temporary closure. SERVPRO provides: 

• Sewage cleanup
• Water damage remediation
• Water damage repairs

Using our industry-leading training, the team can communicate with a premises manager directly throughout service. Handling and disposing of infectious waste is governed by state and federal laws. Our licensed technicians can help to ensure your business returns to a safe, sanitary standard following a sewer backup or other water emergency.

• Self-priming trash pumps can pass solid waste while removing water from the premises quickly.
• Our graded cleaning services use potent disinfectants and biocides to destroy potentially harmful organisms on the premises.
• Advanced drying and deodorization systems ensure that your business returns to its normal condition quickly after cleanup.

Ensure a safe and sanitary working environment for your staff. Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City for water cleanup at (773) 337-3900.

Get Professional Mold Remediation in Chicago from SERVPRO

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of the color of the mold found on your property, team SERVPRO has you covered. Call now for mold damage remediation services.

Local Chicago Residents Look to SERVPRO for Mold Damage Restoration

A common question about mold damage is the best type of removal method should get used. The two most frequently mentioned are dry ice blasting and sand or soda blasting; in truth, these have their place in the restoration process but, in some cases, are not needed at all.

When approaching mold remediation in Chicago properties, SERVPRO technicians take great care with the dried colonies' removal methods. This attention to detail prevents the spread of airborne spores. The dry ice used in dry blasting can be costly, and it only removes residues on the surface and does nothing about addressing mold that may be resident within porous materials. The advantage is that no demolition is required for restoration.

SERVPRO technicians perform deep cleaning when working on mold mitigation within a property. After setting up containment, they remove building materials and items beyond restoration with approval and then work on drying the existing mold to prep it for removal. Scoping for mold within a structure may include the following actions:

• Use of moisture detection devices to find areas of coolness indicating water
• Looking for signs of water damage
• Opening a wall with a 2x4-inch hole in the wall to confirm the presence of mold visually
• Borescope (snake-like camera) ti peer inside wall voids

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 supports the local Chicago area with mold remediation services available 24/7.

Trust SERVPRO for Water Removal in Chicago Properties

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Excess water can damage both the structure and the contents of your home. Water removal and remediation is key. Call SERVPRO right away.

The Techs at SERVPRO are Available 24/7 for Water Removal in Chicago

Water damage cleanup brings with it the need for assessment of the situation. SERVPRO technicians have various methods to ascertain any hazards present at a job site.

Scoping before water removal in Chicago properties is vital. The technicians use both visual inspections and equipment to determine areas that threaten safety for both people and property. Common issues caused by water that technicians routinely deal with on-site are:

• Electrical shock hazards
• Unsafe structures
• Biological or pathogenic hazards

Sagging ceilings can get filled with water and collapse, causing injury or further damage to articles within the room. In cases where there is a threat of wall or ceiling failure, the techniques can perform a pack-out and remove presently undamaged items to a safe and secure area. Wet, deteriorated floors and subfloor can cause slipping or falling problems. The technicians can cordon off areas where it is unsafe for individuals to walk until repairs get made.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 brings professional equipment and years of experience to every water removal job in Chicago.

SERVPRO Brings Years of Expertise to Fire Damage Cleanup in Chicago

3/14/2021 (Permalink)

Has your property suffered from fire damage? Team SERVPRO is standing by 24/7 for your emergency call.

Chicago Residents Trust SERVPRO for Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration

There are numerous iconic structures in the city, but the destination that garners the most attention is not a building. Still, an outdoor collection of natural settings with interesting venues included. Millennium Park is one of the most famous landmarks in Chicago. This public park was built to celebrate the third millennium and continues to add features for public use. 

The area that hosts the park was once occupied by the Illinois Central Rail Yards and adjoining parking lot when the planning for this ambitious project began in 1997. Twenty years later, it was the number one tourist attraction in the city and the Midwest. Additionally, because the park is above a parking garage with 2218 parking spaces, it distinguishes itself as the largest rooftop garden globally.

The park started as a design to have an arch and a bandshell or an orchestra and a bridge for pedestrians to cross over Columbus Drive designed by architect Frank Gehry. Gehry wanted to propel Chicago into the future with his plan to include a park and venues for visitors to take in various engaging cultural spots.

Jay Pritzker Pavilion

One of the most well-known structures within the park is Jay Pritzker Pavilion. This bandshell has 4,000 seats and an additional lawn seating area that can accommodate 7,000 people. The bandshell almost did not happen because there are historical limitations for buildings' height within the park. The city got around this by declaring the bandshell was a work of art. The pavilion's name comes from Jay Pritzker, whose family owned the Hyatt Hotel chain and were significant donors in creating the park. The pavilion is home to the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra. The yearly Grant Park Music Festival gets held yearly and has the distinction of being the nation's last remaining free, municipally supported outdoor classical music series venue.

The area around Millennium Park has become one of the most fashionable residential addresses. The 60602 zip code was previously listed in Forbes Magazine as one of the hottest in terms of appreciation for housing prices, with the median sale price averaging around $700,000. The park has several upscale buildings such as: 

• The Heritage at Millennium Park 
• Waterview Tower
• The Legacy 
• Joffrey Tower

How Does SERVPRO Handle Fire Damage Cleanup on Appliances in Chicago Homes?

After electrical, protein fires are among the most common types of fire damage cleanup in Chicago properties. These fires are generally fast-moving, with high heat and heavy soot covering the surfaces in the room.

Appliance Finishes Need Careful Cleaning

While most common kitchen appliances' surface is nonabsorbent, the caustic nature of soot as a high-alkaline particle has the potential to mar surfaces and cause pitting or other problems on chrome or highly polished surfaces. An alkaline solvent assists in removing the grip these residues have upon the surfaces. SERVPRO techs can mix their own cleaning agents to meet the individual needs of specific surface challenges. Certain actions should be avoided, such as:

• Using abrasive cleaners
• Scrubbing residues can drive them deeper into surfaces
• Using bleach on finishes yellowed by heat, SERVPRO has specific products for that problem

Suppose there are any concerns about electrical appliances working correctly after exposure to a fire in the home. In that case, SERVPRO can arrange for the machine to get inspected by an industry professional to confirm it is safe to use in the house.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 supports the local community with all fire damage cleanup needed in Chicago homes. 

Should You Wash the Walls after A Chicago Home Fire?

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Don’t deal with fire damage on your own. Our technicians are standing by 24/7 for your emergency call.

Wait for SERVPRO to start fire and smoke cleanup

SERVPRO understands how distressing it is to see the walls and ceilings of your home blackened by smoke damage. We know our customers are eager to clean up and get back to everyday life.

However, it is better to wait for SERVPRO before attempting fire and smoke cleanup in your Chicago home. Depending on the strength and nature of the fire, your home might require different approaches such as:

• HEPA vacuuming to get rid of dry, powdery soot residue.
• Use of chemical cleaners or scrubbing to deal with more stubborn, sticky soot.
• Spot cleaning to handle soot stains on delicate surfaces.
• Soda blasting to polish exposed beams or brickwork.

We train our teams to carry out a thorough assessment of the situation and decide on the best course of action. You can rest assured that your home is in good hands – we aim to restore it “Like it never even happened.” We can even oversee the rebuilding and redecorating jobs if necessary.

For professional fire and smoke cleanup that gets the results you want, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

Flood Removal in the Magnificent Mile of Chicago

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

Is your home or business flooded? Contact team SERVPRO for water removal and flood damage remediation services today.

SERVPRO helps keep Chicago dry

Chicago is one of the most iconic cities in the United States and is famous for many things, including jazz music, deep-dish pizza, tall buildings, a friendly but no-nonsense attitude, and, of course, the musical of the same name.

There is so much to see and do in Chicago that you might find yourself spoiled for choice. One excellent activity, if the weather permits, is a stroll along Chicago's Magnificent Mile.

A rich history

The magnificent mile dates back to the Burnham Plan of Chicago in 1909. Although the plan fell short of its intended aim to revitalize the city, planners carried out work on the Magnificent Mile as planned. By the 1920s, architects started work on the mile, using a wide range of architectural styles and reaching new heights, quite literally, with several tall buildings.

Today, the mile is one of the most luxurious retail districts in Chicago and one of the most expensive places to rent retail space in the United States. The street is home to many upscale shops and hotels, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdales, Louis Vuitton, Christian Louboutin, Tiffany & Co, Max Mara, and Rolex. As well as multiple stores, you can also find three urban shopping centers.

The Magnificent Mile is not only about shopping, however. There are several landmarks along the way, including:

• Chicago Water Tower dates from 1869 and is the second-oldest water tower in the United States. It has an unusual and intricate design that is more popular with some people than others, but one thing is for sure – it is very distinctive. The tower is now home to a museum where visitors can view art and sculpture by local artists.
• The imposing Wrigley Building was the first office building north of the Chicago River and the first air-conditioned office building in the city. The building has featured in Lego builds, and even in the 1957 movie Beginning of the End, when giant grasshoppers attacked it! Today it is a luxury office complex.
• The beautiful neo-gothic Tribune Tower skyscraper is the result of a building design competition. In 1922, the Chicago Tribune offered a $100,000 prize to whoever designed the newspaper's perfect new office to celebrate its 75th anniversary. The building features intricately carved designs, buttresses, and an unusual crown-shaped top. The Tribune Tower is part of Chicago's open tours every year, giving visitors the chance to tour it for free.

The Magnificent Mile is also home to several famous luxury hotels, including the Drake Hotel, the Warwick Allerton, and the Intercontinental Chicago.

SERVPRO understands the needs of Chicago residents

Chicago residents know the city is no stranger to rain, winds, and floods. As recently as May 2020, the town suffered significant flooding after rain caused the Chicago River to swell.

It is vital to work with a restoration firm that understands the local area. SERVPRO franchises are locally owned and operated, so you can rest assured that our technicians understand the unique needs of the city:

• We equip our teams with a range of pumps suitable for removing flood water from even the tallest skyscrapers.
• We use monitoring equipment such as moisture probes and meters to examine adjoining walls between apartments and assess the damage.
• We employ thermal imaging to examine high ceilings and hard to reach places.

For help with flood removal, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

Support Chicago’s Artistic Community by Enjoying a Virtual Production

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Has your home been damaged by water? Call the professionals at SERVPRO. Their technicians are ready 24/7 365.

The Chicago Shakespeare Theater Welcomes its Audience in 2021

The Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier is an award-winning theater production company celebrating Shakespeare’s legacy. Its work is notable from a performance point of view and from an outreach perspective. Not only does the company lead in Chicago, but it travels throughout the world, performing in some of the best stages.

As we adjust to a new normal, the Theater has made much of its programming available through streaming services right into your home. All you need is to access its website to get more details on upcoming performances, including It, Came from Outer Space, and Measure for Measure.  As you add this venue to your entertainment options, consider the following-

• Some shows are available both at the Theater and by streaming.
• Health precautions are in place for all in-person attendees.
• Gift cards for The Chicago Shakespeare Theater make a great gift and allow for scheduling flexibility.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City is here to support our community, and we do it in the best way we can. When you need a top-notch water restoration company, we are at your service with industry-grade equipment and the latest techniques in our field. A call to our hotline at (773) 337-3900 comes with the reassurance of a job well done. Like you, we want your home to look, “Like it never even happened.”

Chicago Shines Virtually as it does In Person.

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Any type of fire damage is right up our alley. SERVPRO will have your property like it never even happened.

The Art Institute of Chicago Invites One and All to Tour Virtually

Chicago offers some of the best art collections in the world, and many of them are available virtually to its patrons. The Art Institute of Chicago includes more than 40,000 pieces in their digital collections so visitors can enjoy them from their homes.

Aside from the actual works, one can also take a virtual tour of the Museum in an immersive experience. As you plan your virtual visit, consider the following-

• You can take themed audio tours and go behind the scenes through virtual events.
•  For a more interactive experience, look at the Museum’s lesson plans and art activities.
•  If you are looking for a primer on what the Art Institute offers, visit its website and click on “The Collection,” and explore its “essentials” section.

Leaders at the Art Institute of Chicago understand the importance of protecting your valuables and restoring them. Although you may not think of your home as a work of art in the traditional sense, it likely is one of your most valuable assets. Fire damage restoration services are a must if a kitchen fire erupts or an electrical malfunction results in flames. SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/ South Chicago City is an expert in the field, and you just need to call us at (773) 337-3900 whenever you need us. Like you, we want your home to look and feel, “Like it never even happened.”

Open Spaces and Cultural Venues Welcome You to Chicago

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Mold is no DIY project. Call the professionals at SERVPRO for the mold remediation services needed for your home.

Explore the History and Growth of Chicago by Visiting its Landmarks

Chicago, the most populated city in the midwestern United States and the state of Illinois, has an important place in our nation's history and evolution. Its urban area, or Chicagoland, makes up the third most populous behind New York and Los Angeles. Its incorporation dates back to 1837 when this town on Lake Michigan's shores began its rapid growth to what it is today. Its name derives from the word "shikaakwa," used to refer to an onion-like plant. Over time, this pungent vegetable gave Chicago its name.

O'Hare International Airport is a testament to Chicago's international relevance, and it is ranked among the busiest airports in the world. The "Windy City" is at the center of relevant cultural, industrial, and financial movements. Its economy is robust and diversified, with companies such as Boeing, Walgreens, US Foods, and McDonald's having their headquarters in the greater Chicago area. It is also the largest network of federal highways and is the central hub for the railroad industry.

The Potawatomi inhabited current day Chicago after succeeding the Miami, Sauk, and Fox people. Jean Baptiste Point du Sable was the first non-indigenous to settle into the area and is often referred to as the "Founder of Chicago." Relations between native-Americans and settlers were tumultuous and culminated with the Treaty of Chicago in 1833, which forced the removal of the Potawatomi and their exile west of the Mississippi River. 

Before incorporating in 1837, Chicago had begun its growth as early as 1833, and it was considered the fastest-growing city for decades. The Chicago Portage was key to the city's development, as it provided an exchange site for goods and services crossing from the eastern to the western United States. The Illinois and Michigan Canal began operation ins 1848, further cementing the city's pivotal role by allowing ships and steamboats to connect between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi. That same year, the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad began its operations intending to connect the city with mines at Galena. Although the ultimate goal was not achieved, it still contributed to the development of the region.

As infrastructure grew, so did other sectors. Most notably, the financial industry and the Chicago Board of Trade formalized the trade of futures contracts, making history. The growth in finance, retail, and manufacturing prompted an influx of residents requiring better services. As a result, Chicago embarked upon the construction of a massive sewage system. Although it wasn't without its challenges, the sizable undertaking was a success for its time.

The early years in Chicago were marked by the 1871 Great Chicago Fire, which burned for over two days and killed nearly 300 people. Its vast reach burned more than three square miles and left thousands homeless. Partially responsible for its rapid spread were the wood structures prevalent in the city. Although an unfortunate event, it became a catalyst for improved and more modern structures, which marked a shift in construction trends of the time.

The history of Chicago is rich and diverse. From the role of the organized mafia to its innovative architecture to the influence of foreign-born communities, there is much to learn from its evolution. Visitors and residents alike can enjoy its natural beauty, along with the cultural diversity the city has to offer.

Exploring Chicago

• Grant Park- Not only is Grant Park a sizable green space, but it also houses some of Chicago's most popular attractions. At its core, you will find Buckingham Fountain, one of the largest in the world and a beautiful place to take a picture while enjoying its choreographed water show.
• Millennium Park- Home of "The Bean" and designed by Jaume Plensa, its shape mirrors Chicago's skyline. However, The Bean isn't the only reason to visit Millennium Park. An outdoor concert or a walk through Lurie Garden also makes for a lovely day out, weather permitting.
• Lincoln Park Zoo- Zoos are not only for children, and Lincoln Park Zoo is evidence of it. Famous for its large mammals and barnyard animals, all are encouraged to take public transportation to avoid costly fees and the inconvenience of limited parking.

Aside from the many outdoor pedestrian activities, Chicago has the largest municipal harbor in the nation, making it ideal for water-lovers. Each harbor has its own look and feel, and thousands of boaters visit them each year. The Chicago Harbors were founded in 1833.

Sports teams also have a strong following in Chicago. The Bears, the Bulls, the White Sox, and the Cubs are synonymous with a loyal following and family tradition. Regardless of the weather, you will find fans cheering whenever their favorite teams are playing.

Upkeep of Homes in Chicago

Architecture in Chicago is a coexistence of modern designs with older buildings, making it appealing to many. The weather has a significant impact on the upkeep of all structures regardless of age, and relying on a professional restoration company like SERVPRO is convenient and effective.

When homeowners suspect mold and require mold remediation in their Chicago apartments, our SERVPRO team is ready to help. We arrive with the industry's best equipment and take quick action to remove mold and prevent the further spread of mold spores throughout your home. As soon as you suspect there is an issue, place a call to our 24/7 hotline and let the restoration process begin. An unexplained spot on your ceiling, a funky smell, or visible evidence of mold is enough to warrant the presence of a professional team like ours.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is your ally when your home needs it the most. Our trained and certified team brings industry best practices right into your home, along with the peace of mind for homeowners. If mold is your problem, do not hesitate. Call us at (773) 337-3900 and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened."

A Safe And Fun Virtual Christmas Event in Chicago

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is looking forward to seeing the live-streamed show!

All Of Chicago Can Attend This Virtual Christmas Spectacular

Central Disorder is throwing a Socially Distanced Covid Christmas Spectacular show open to everyone in the Chicago area and beyond. The show will get live-streamed so viewers can tune in, stay safe, and continue the holiday celebrations. This holiday spectacular has been designed with fun and pandemic safety in mind, so everyone tunes in from where they spent Christmas and enjoy the songs and holiday spirit to carry them through to the New Year.

Viewers will get treated to: 

• DIY music scene live stream
• Appearances by Jason Zdora of "JZTV" 
• Time: December 26, 2020, at 8 PM

On the day of the live stream, the event will post the link to the virtual show, or people can follow the leadup to the online extravaganza by following JZTV's page on Facebook.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 is available 24/7 to handle any size commercial fire damage and works safely to ensure the property gets restored as fast as possible.

Your Kids Can Make Yummy Holiday Cookies in Chicago

12/18/2020 (Permalink)

It will be exciting to see the community participating in the Kidz Can Cook classes!

A Chicago Event That Teaches Kids the Fundamentals of Baking

Do you have a cookie lover in your life? Sign them up for the holiday baking class called held at Kidz Can Cook, "Cookies, Cookies and More Cookies."  While it can be tough to figure out fun things to do with the kids every day during the pandemic, baking is often fun for kids of all ages. Your child can enjoy making and then tasting their cookie creations. Each child will have the opportunity to create and bake a few different kinds of cookies, and each participant leaves the class with at least a dozen cookies to share as they wish. 

• The classes have a limit of ten children 
• The fee for a class is $45
• Classes available for ages five and up
• The class takes place on December 21, 2020, from noon to 2 pm

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 provides restoration services to local Chicago properties for any size flood damage within a structure. The trained techs make the damage to the property, "Like it never even happened."

Chicago Property Owners Can Count on Fast Water Mitigation

12/13/2020 (Permalink)

Regardless of the way that water entered your home and caused the damage, team SERVPRO can help. We are available 24/7 for your emergency call.

SERVPRO Is Available 24/7 in Chicago For Water Mitigation

Chicago got established where Lake Michigan and the Chicago River meet. In the beginning, the city used the lake as the municipal water supply and also for waste disposal around 1850. Around 1871, Chicago began dumping its wastewater into the Mississippi River system of drainage by engineering a reversal in the Chicago River's flow. Then, the city commissioned sewage systems to get built in the late 1800s that still emptied into the river.  This led to a massive amount of pollution spread from the river into Lake Michigan, affecting the public water supply. This situation was the basis for the creation of water treatment facilities to stop the cycle.

Chicago Origins on the Lake

The city of Chicago got established on Lake Michigan's shores, the second largest of the great lakes by volume and rates as the fifth largest lake globally. In the 19th century, the city used the lake to ship over 90% of the grain eastward to the rest of the United States. This central area for commerce assisted in helping the rest of the United States expand and grow.

Points of Interest Around Chicago and Lake Michigan

There are several tourist stops in Chicago that include the lake. Many people engage in the "Circle Tour," considered one of the most scenic routes in the United States. The tour takes participants on state highways that border the lake and go through Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan. The Illinois leg of the tour goes through Chicago suburbs and has points of interest such as: 

• Navy Pier
• Soldier Field
• Lincoln Park Zoo 
• Calumet Park

Navy Pier has been in operation since July 1916 and designed to serve the local area as a dock for passenger ships and freight-bearing ships. Soldier Field carried the name Municipal Grant Park Stadium when it originally opened in 1924. It was then re-dedicated in 1926 to the American soldiers that lost their lives in combat. The Lincoln Park Zoo has the distinction of being one of the oldest zoos in the United States, founded in 1868 and also one of the last remaining free zoos in the country.

The Great Chicago Fire

In the fall of 1871, The Great Chicago Fire swept through Chicago. The legend says Mrs. O'Leary's cow knocked a lantern over in a barn; however, the O'Leary's denied this was the cause. Because most buildings, streets, and sidewalks had wood paving in the city and the dry conditions made the fire spread quickly, causing a large amount of damage. The fire caused:

• Deaths of 300 people
• Left more than 100,000 residents homeless
• With over 17,000 structures destroyed by the flames 

At present, the Chicago Fire Department has a training academy located on the former O'Leary farm property site.  In 1997, a resolution passed by the City Council that exonerated Catherine O'Leary and her cow from any responsibility for the fire. Although the fire's direct cause has never been established, the O'Leary family and their cow have been cleared from any wrong-doing.

Chicago Climate

The city of Chicago has four well-defined seasons, and winters, in particular, can be brutal with both high winds and ice storms. The winter weather usually arrives in late November and sticks around until early March. Snow is a frequent event, with several inches getting dumped on the regional area. Blizzards are not infrequent, with blowing gusts and temperatures dropping below zero. Spring happens in Chicago from around mid-March until the end of May on average and brings unstable weather. Snow sometimes occurs through early April, and the cooler air meeting, the warmer air gives rise to thunderstorms and sometimes tornadoes. The summer weather happens from June to August with hot, humid, and sunny conditions, with temperatures reaching 104 degrees Fahrenheit are not uncommon. The calmest period weather-wise is the Fall, occurring from September to November. Flooding caused by Lake Michigan and lake-effect snow are common occurrences that locals need to stay alert for.

One of the worst floods that hit Chicago did not have a cause rooted in the weather but rather an engineering issue. The Chicago flood happened in April 1992 when workers repairing a bridge damaged the retaining wall under an abandoned utility tunnel that ran under the Chicago River. The breach caused basements and low-lying areas to take on water resulting in 2 billion dollars in damages. At the peak of the flooding, some buildings in the area had nearly 40-feet of water in their lower levels. The water could not be seen from the air as it was all situated underground.

What Can Happen to Tile Flooring in Chicago Homes Without Fast Water Mitigation?

After a water damage event in a Chicago home, the water mitigation efforts need to begin as rapidly as possible to lessen the house's amount of destruction to property and contents. Common problem areas include: 

• Seepage under the tile 
• Delaminated tiles that require removal
• Need for moisture detection equipment to determine the scale of the water migration
• Warped or damaged subfloor 

SERVPRO technicians use devices such as infrared cameras, which show fluctuations in temperature, and collections of water can show as colder areas if the water wicked into the sheetrock on the wall from the floor. Probes are another frequently used device to "see" under flooring and determine if the subfloor has seepage and requires drying. This enables the techs to follow the migration path of the water and find areas of moisture collection.

The scoping and extraction work towards making the drying phase lasts the least amount of time possible by removing as much water as possible using their professional equipment. The techs monitor the premises carefully as the air movers and dehumidifiers work to bring down the interior air moisture levels. Afterward, the techs measure the air to determine if drying goals got attained and if any further work needs to get done.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 proudly serves the local Chicago area for any size water mitigation and property restoration services needed. 

Experience the Holidays for Their Traditional Charms in Chicago

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Experience the holiday charm of Long Grove Village.

Watch as Historic Downtown Long Grove Transforms into a Winter Wonderland Each Weekend Leading up to the Biggest Holiday of the Year for Chicago Area Residents 

The holidays are too often a busy and overscheduled time hustling from one store to the next to meet the demands of wish lists you get from your family and friends. Take a break from this bustle to rediscover what makes Christmas such a magical time of the year with the Long Grove Vintage Holiday event happening in the historic downtown each weekend through the 20th of December. 

There is fun for the entire family for those partaking in the weekend events, including multiple experiences, events, and one-of-a-kind retail stops, including: 

• Quaint shops
• Christmas decorations
• Concessions
• Charming holiday music
• Horse-drawn carriage rides
• Photo ops on holiday-decorated Farmside building 

A fire can dampen your holiday spirit, but our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City can help with effective mitigation and restoration for fire damage in Chicago homes. Contact us today at (773) 337-3900.  

How You Can Experience the Comedy Classic “Friends” In Chicago

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

We enjoy Chicago's attractions including the 'Friends' experience. We look forward to seeing you there!

Fans of the NYC-Based Sitcom ‘Friends’ can get a Unique Experience for a Limited Time Here in the Windy City 

The show Friends played for ten seasons and accrued millions of captivated watchers. For those heading to the Shops at North Bridge here in Chicago through January of 2021, the FRIENDS Experience offers a unique interactive event and display for the long-running program fans. 

With 12 rooms filled with nostalgic settings and props, many of which feature unique activations for an even more immersive experience, you can feel what it is like to be on-set. Get exclusive behind-the-scenes knowledge before checking out the on-site retail location loaded up with merchandise from the show. Note that COVID guidelines restrict entry when capacities are reached, so be sure to schedule ahead. Portions of proceeds benefit My Block, My Hood, My City. 

One of your hotel or office rooms showing signs of microbial growth? You can count on our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team to offer mold removal for Chicago commercial properties when you call (773) 337-3900.

How Has Chicago Prepared for Flood Scenarios in the Future?

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Even a city like Chicago can be impacted with storms and floods. SERVPRO continually trains for these events and is always prepared.

Past Disasters have Taught City Officials the Need for Permanent Solutions to Address Rising Water and Flash Flooding Threats Affecting the Municipality 

As the third-largest major city in the United States, it is no great surprise that there is an ever-present need for professional restoration in Chicago. The positioning of the town and its outer lying areas alone allows for the continued threats of flooding and storm damages, which can be even more accentuated by harsh weather conditions expected during the worst of the winter and summer months. The Windy City might be known for strong gusts against its well-constructed buildings, but it must also survive a gauntlet of terrible weather conditions like cyclonic storms, torrential rains, hail, and blizzards. The present threat of flooding encourages city engineers and structural designers to provide modern solutions to protect the city and its residents. 

A History of Flooding in Chicago 

Much like every major city in the country, Chicago has not always had the most positive history. While a great fire in the 1800s is the disaster the city was most recognized for, flooding has always been a plague for the area. Because so many creeks, streams, and rivers converge in and around the metropolitan area, Cook County remains an area likely to experience damages from flash flooding, groundwater, and human/structural failures. No time would this be more relevant than the flood that damaged the city in 1992. 

To this day, the individuals at fault have never been exclusively identified, though the cause has been. Repair work on one of the city's bridges over the Chicago River inadvertently damaged a utility tunnel underneath the river. Once an opening existed, more than 250 million gallons of water would make its way into nearby basements, structures, the Chicago Pedway, and the Chicago Loop. As a trusted remediation and restoration team, SERVPRO can help customers through situations like these when they happen now. 

Ultimately, this human error would lead to a 2-billion-dollar cleanup and restoration drive for all of the affected and damaged properties in the path of the water. Even the repair of the tunnel's breach would be an elaborate process, only becoming successful by applying a superior concrete. If it happened today, 1992's $2 billion to repair the impacted structures would be much closer to $4 billion dollars. With no one directly taking responsibility for the disaster, repair costs and restoration bills were footed mostly by property owners and insurance companies. 

Steps Taken by the City to Avoid Catastrophe  

Much work is necessary to prepare Chicago for hurricane-level storms thoroughly. Situations like Hurricane Harvey that devastated Houston, TX in 2017, would become a catalyst to locations like The Windy City to do better for storms that might be in its future. Chicago itself is a feat of engineering to manage wastewater, stormwater, and drinking water. As it stands, the most significant contingency that Chicago has to manage flooding is TARP (the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan.) Deep Tunnel, as it is more commonly known, is a network of wastewater tunnels designed to redistribute water to substantial reservoirs that can handle shy of 20 billion gallons. 

Considering that Hurricane Harvey unloaded close to 20 trillion gallons of water in its five day run on the land, Deep Tunnel could not handle a storm system even partly that strong without overwhelming the city's infrastructure. Comparing it to one of the worst storms that Cook County has experienced in the past 50 years that would have had the municipality managing 124 billion gallons of runoff, TARP cannot handle this water volume. As such, engineers are currently working on feasible solutions to protect better Chicago and its residents moving forward from threats that might be coming in the years ahead. 

Is Evacuation Always Necessary with Widespread Flooding?  

High-rise structures are designed to be among the most stable and permanent systems in the world, reinforced with steel and concrete. These construction elements can be calming when flooding has impacted lower levels and the building's main floor. In many cases where flooding occurs, apartment owners and renters do not have to vacate the premises provided that risks of contamination like bacterial or viral pathogens do not exist. 

Structural evaluations must typically occur to ensure that a decision to stay in your apartment after flooding impacts other floors does not ultimately damage your unit. The same concerns exist when apartments above yours become threatened by penetrating water through the building's roof. 

Managing Flooding for Chicago Structures  

Many residents have purchased or leased apartments in the high-rises throughout the city's downtown area and various neighborhoods. Flooding in Chicago apartment buildings requires an immediate response from competent restoration professionals like our SERVPRO team to prevent the situation from worsening. Water can spread rapidly, especially when the flooding gets into open structural cavities in shared walls, between floors, or in other spaces. The appropriate response reduces the number of apartment units impacted by flooding. 

Assessing the structural damage is critical to determining the extent of flood damage to an apartment. Often high-rise buildings can only suffer damage to upper floors through roof vulnerabilities that allow water penetration. Our team's in-house contractors can perform emergency services like board up and tarping when we first arrive to make mitigation efforts as efficient as possible. Once repairs have taken place, SERVPRO professionals can evaluate the spread and severity of flood losses through discovery tools like thermal imagery cameras. 

When water removal services are required, we rely on several tools to get this job done. With upper floor flood damages to apartments, extraction becomes a complicated process. High-pressure pumps can be the ideal choice for their long-range and powerful output in many situations, making them suited for higher elevation operation and even subterranean extraction efforts. 

Flooding does not have to be devastating to your apartment. Give our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team a call today at (773) 337-3900.

What Steps Can Professional Flood Restorers Take for Chicago Homes?

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready and equipped for your Chicago storm damage.

Who does flood restoration near me? Our SERVPRO team is ready and able to answer the call whenever disasters strike. 

Many Chicago homes have seen first-hand how devastating floods can be for structures. Flash flooding and natural flooding situations can develop over short periods. With many outlying areas of the city in designated flood zones, knowing whom to call when disasters strike can help save time and money on recovery. 

When you ask about flood restoration near me in Chicago, it is unlikely that you would not encounter our reputable and leading team of professionals. Instead of the headaches of contending with the restoration of your property on your own, which often results in unsatisfactory results, many have looked to SERVPRO to help in many ways. With our fast response to emergencies, we can begin many vital actions quickly to reduce the loss from the flooding.

Essential Steps for Flood Restoration in Chicago Homes Include:

• Extraction: Water removal is often one of the first needs for a flooded home. We can use a combination of wet vacuums, submersible pumps, and other tools to help. 

• Debris Removal: Removing the water can often show the mud, debris, and organic matter left behind on exposed surfaces and flooring. Our contractors can work to remove these threats quickly.

• Repairs: Between structural repairs and controlled demolition often necessary after emergencies, in-house contractors can ensure that you do not need to schedule with a second company.

• Drying: Drying is vital to any water or flood loss recovery and includes a combination of powerful tools and technologies. These include centrifugal and axial air movers, desiccant and refrigerant dehumidifiers, and positive pressure systems. 

• Cleaning: Contamination is always a concern with natural flooding, so we rely on several potent antibacterial cleaning products.

Flooding can be a devastating event for your home, but our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team can return your property to preloss condition. Give us a call today at (773) 337-3900.

What Water Restoration Equipment is Used When a Chicago Condo Experiences Water Damage?

10/18/2020 (Permalink)

Appliance failures can quickly cause water damage in your condo. Contact our experienced team to mitigate the situation.

SERVPRO Has an Extensive Line of Equipment to Mitigate Household Flooding in Chicago

Chicago has more people than any other city in Illinois. It has the third-largest population in the United States. With all these people living and working in Chicago, there is a great need for housing. Much of this housing is supplied in the form of condominiums. If a pipe bursts or a dishwasher overflows on an upper level, it can lead to water damage not only in the original apartment but others as well. Getting a professional water restoration company on the job quickly is the smart thing to do. 

What Inspection Devices are Used?

Before any restoration can take place, a scope gets done on the premises. This tells the technicians which areas of the structure are impacted by the water. It also helps them define to what extent structural elements and the content have absorbed the moisture. Our technicians use several inspection devices to find and track moisture and assist with water removal for a condo in Chicago. These include:

•   Moisture Sensors – Equipped with short probes, these sensors are used in carpets and padding. It determines whether or not water has migrated to the subflooring. It only detects the presence of moisture; it does not measure moisture. 
•   Thermal Imaging Cameras – Used to inspect and monitor the moisture in building materials. They help at the start to evaluate the extent of moisture. Infrared cameras assist technicians in finding hidden water that has traveled behind structural elements. 
•   Moisture Meters – These are used to inspect the moisture content in different materials. They are often used for detecting the moisture level of wood. There are two types of moisture meters:

• Penetrating – This type penetrates the material on the principle of electrical conductivity. Multiple layers of material can be tested with the probes.
• Non-penetrating – Moisture is detected through the use of radio frequency emissions, conductivity, or capacitance. They cause no surface damage and are used to find high levels of water in material such as drywall. 

•   Thermal Hygrometers – This measures the relative humidity and temperature of air mass. There are standard levels of humidity that allow technicians to determine what moisture needs to be removed.
•   Manometer – Moisture detection is not involved with a manometer. Instead, it measures gas or vapor pressure. It helps maintain proper air quality.
•   Inspection Cameras & Borescopes – Used to look into cavities. It can help technicians determine the construction methods used and if contamination is present. 

What Pumps Are Used to Extract Water?

SERVPRO has several types of pumps used for Chicago water removal. The pumps we use are primarily centrifugal pumps. The pumps can be truck-mounted or portable. There are three main types of pumps our technicians employ. 

Self-priming trash pumps are used when there are solids in the liquid. They are classified as slurry, full trash, trash, or semi-trash pumps, depending on the amount and size of the debris. High-pressure pumps are utilized in areas such as basements and garages. They are quite powerful. Submersible pumps are electric and what we use most often. We use both smaller portable units and industrial units. They can operate quietly in the background.

Our technicians know how to assess just what pumps need to be used in the current site they are working on. Water extraction is crucial to the restoration of the premises. Standing water not only deteriorates building material but can cause secondary damage such as mold.

What Do You Use to Dry the Home?

After as much water is removed as is possible, the drying phase begins. When you hire SERVPRO, you are getting a team that knows how to use the equipment in the right ratio for optimum drying. Our drying equipment consists of:

•   Centrifugal Air Movers – These units focus on replacing the damp, moist air with fresh airflow. They can be positioned to work in conjunction with our other drying equipment. Attachments such as a carpet clamp can “float” carpets allowing them to dry from underneath and from the top.
•   Axial Air Movers – These types of air movers drive larger volumes of air and can cover more area than the centrifugal units.
•   Structural Drying Equipment – We use various tools that allow technicians to direct warm, dry air into cavities not easily reached.
•   Dehumidifiers – There are several types of dehumidifiers SERVPRO uses. There are refrigerant dehumidifiers, conventional dehumidifiers, and low grain refrigerants. Each has its own unique functions, with the refrigerant unit being the most common in terms of water restoration usage. Desiccant dehumidifiers use chemicals that absorb the moisture from the air. 

Other equipment that can be utilized includes portable electric heaters and air conditioning units. With this arsenal of tools available for water damage restoration, it is no wonder SERVPRO is top in their field. 

 Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 for quality water removal condo service. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What is the Best Way to Remove Mold from Schools?

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Mold infestations can occur anywhere, even in schools. SERVPRO has the know how to remediate the damage.

Call SERVPRO Franchise Professionals in Chicago to Perform Commercial Mold Remediation in Schools

Worries about indoor exposure to mold have increased as the public becomes aware that mold can cause health effects. Dealing with mold is not something any school owner or manager in Chicago wants to do. However, with SERVPRO’s mold remediation services, you do not have to worry.

Can you remove mold effectively from all the areas it is growing?

Mold can grow on any organic material that contains oxygen and moisture, including paper, wood, and insulation. Our team has the expertise and mold removal products required to perform effective commercial mold remediation in your Chicago school. Our team can replace and remove porous materials such as tiles, drywall, or moldy ceilings. We can clean non-porous materials like metals, plastics, and glass to remove mold. If the surfaces are dry, we can eliminate the mold through HEPA vacuuming. If the mold is growing in soils, we can damp wipe the surfaces with a detergent solution.

Why could be mold growing in my school?

Mold in schools usually grows when airborne mold spores land on damp food sources and begin digesting them to survive. Mold gradually ruins the materials it grows on. The water that contributes to mold infestation could enter portable classrooms and school buildings through leaky pipes, roofs, foundations, windows, and other structural openings. Mold can also set in your school after a flooding or water intrusion incident. Moisture issues in schools can result from scheduled maintenance activities or conditions during school breaks like:

• High humidity during the summer.
• Increased moisture because of painting.
• No heating or air conditioning system operation or reduced use when the school is closed.

Other common causes of mold growth in schools include gutters which direct water to the buildings, poor maintenance linked with moisture, and unvented combustion appliances. Overall, any problem that can cause water to accumulate or increase moisture and humidity spots favor the formation of mold.

Can you conduct clean-up safely? 

Our SERVPRO team can conduct the mold remediation process safely. We can wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to avoid exposing ourselves to mold-laden dust. The PPE we use depends on the extent of mold infestation, and it includes:

• Eye protection
• Chemical resistant gloves
• Full body suits if the contamination is extensive.
• An N95 or greater filter type respirator for use in small, contaminated spaces.

Our crew can also take caution to keep mold and mold spores from dispersing throughout the air where students, teachers, and other people who use the school facilities can inhale them.

Mold infestation in a school can cause health effects to students, teachers, and other staff. Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 for effective mold remediation services.

How Can I Remove Floodwater That Filled My Home?

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Whether a Large Flood in Your Chicago Home or a Small One--Call SERVPRO for Water Extraction and Restoration

Prompt Floodwater Extraction Is Imperative - Call SERVPRO to Address Your Chicago Home for Rapid Removal!

Whether you have a little bit of water coming into your home from a flood or a lot, you need to remove it quickly to lessen the damage. After flooding from around your Chicago property starts to seep into the lower portion of your home or the basement, your interior is at risk from potentially harmful contaminants. Trying to tackle this contaminated water with DIY methods can leave you with a mess on your hands and costly secondary damage. Rather than going it alone, you can contact our trained water restoration technicians (WRT) at SERVPRO to remove water quickly.

Why Should I call Someone for Skilled Restoration?

Rapid removal and proven methods are the best way to handle a flooding incident on your property. When you call us for floodwater extraction in Chicago, our IICRC-certified technicians get to work quickly. Not only does this cut back on secondary damage, but we have steps in place that help to inhibit mold growth. Once we arrive on your property, our team will:

• Assess the Damage – The crew looks at the path of water migration and any building materials impacted by moisture. This allows us to carefully plan the right course of action to facilitate cleanup and water extraction.
• Standing Water Extraction – We use a broad range of tools and equipment to pull up standing water, such as submersible pumps and truck-mounted extractors.

Is There Something I Can Do Until SERVPRO Arrives?

There are several actions any homeowner can take until our Green Fleet arrives, including:

• Closing off the flood-damaged zone of your interior to the rest of your home.
• Check to see if you can shut off the power to the flooded area so that you can cut back on potential shock hazards.
• Never touch the affected area due to the potential for coming into contact with contaminated water.

Prompt Action is Critical!

Our motto is We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, which means that we arrive within hours of your initial call for help. Once we arrive, we assess the damage, including testing the water coming into your home. This gives our crew insight on potential contaminants like chemicals and bacteria so that we can select the proper antimicrobial treatments.

Containment is another crucial step in the process, as this allows us to limit the amount of cross-contamination happening throughout the water extraction and drying phases.  We have protocols in place that include our crew wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). Additionally, air scrubber equipment helps capture airborne particulates while improving indoor air quality throughout extraction and restoration.

What Makes Floodwater Dangerous?

In addition to various debris, floodwater also comes with a range of unknown contaminants. This is why DIY methods and household cleaning agents will not do the trick. Non-porous items within your home have the best chance of full restoration. Our technicians can use immersion cleaning techniques to achieve cleaning goals with many items and belongings that fall into this category.

It is important to note that within 24 hours of the floodwaters infiltrating your interior, mold, and mildew begins to colonize and spread. We have remediation techniques that allow us to work proactively to handle microbes before they can multiply out of control.

Issues that our flood-loss event clients generally encounter may include:

• Loss of all carpeting and carpet padding should all restoration efforts be exhausted
• Water wicking up through the sheetrock, which calls for partial replacement
• Delaminated resilient tile flooring or tack-down laminated flooring
• Hardwood flooring that calls for partial or complete replacement

Each case is unique, and our crew works to restore versus replace whenever possible.

What About Odor Control Throughout My home?

It is understandable you would worry about musty odors after encountering a flood incident in your Chicago home. We extract all water and look for hidden moisture pockets to lessen the change of lingering odors. To help battle odorous particles, SERVPRO uses specialized deodorizing and cleaning techniques that work to disinfect surfaces. All of the strong antibacterial and antimicrobial cleaners that we use are EPA-registered and safe.

Should odors still be lurking, our technicians use thermal fogging techniques to pull out embedded odors. Our thermal foggers heat solvents to create a fine mist that covers all areas that floodwater touched. Once the fog touches odorous molecules, it adheres and breaks down the odor chain to eliminate musty smells.

We can also employ hydroxyl generators that use ultraviolet (UV) rays to address odor-causing airborne molecules. Even though these powerful machines are tough on stubborn odors, they are safe for use around houseplants, pets, and your family members.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City is here to make floodwater extraction easy and hassle-free. If you have experienced floodwater in your home and need assistance, you can reach us by calling (773) 337-3900.

A Storm Left Me Dealing with Flood Damage in My Property. Where Should I Seek Help?

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Not all super heroes wear capes. We are prepared to handle any water damage emergency in your home!

Talk to Technicians from SERVPRO in Chicago to Help You Perform Flood Water Removal in Your Home

Coming home to a soggy living room and a flooded basement can leave your head spinning. Taking immediate attention after the unfortunate incident is essential to prevent costly repairs. SERVPRO professionals have decades of experience and hi-tech equipment that has helped us clean up and restore thousands of storm flood-damaged homes across Chicago.

What can floodwater ruin?

Depending on the magnitude of the damage, flood water can seep into drywall, floors, and furniture, among other valuable contents ruining them. SERVPRO professionals can conduct flood water removal at your Chicago home quickly to help stop further damage. We know the significance of a fast response when it comes to flood cleanup. When our technicians get to your property, we can concentrate on saving as many possessions as possible. Some of the repercussions of flood damage include:

• Mold growth occurs within 48 hours.
• Health threats continue to increase the longer the water or moisture is left in the property.
• Saturated wallboard may begin to sag if the drying process is delayed.
• Moisture can cause your laminate flooring to peel off.

What precautions should I take?

Do not attempt to enter a flooded property with live electricity. Find the circuit breaker and turn the power off. Before entering the flooded areas, equip yourself with necessary personal protection such as rubber boots and gloves. Since you may not have advanced restoration equipment and clean up skills, let highly trained experts perform water removal.

How do you conduct water removal?

Before we begin the water removal process, we conduct a thorough damage inspection to determine which tools and equipment to use during the restoration process. Since floodwater washes down dirt and debris such as sand, tree branches, and mud, we can use a self-priming trash pump to remove the floodwater from your home. The equipment can pass solids that are less than 8".

How can you dry my home?

The drying action is an essential step in flood damage restoration. We can use hi-tech equipment to dry the areas with moisture as fast as possible. For instance, we can use a heavy-duty venting box fan to increase airflow in the affected area. The equipment speeds up the evaporation process and gets rid of odors present in the property.

It would help if you had assistance to restore your home after it floods. SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City can perform efficient flood water removal to make the flooding incident appear "Like it never even happened." Call us today at (773) 337-3900.

More about Chicago.

Firefighters Have Put Out the Flames in My Property. How Do I Handle the Fire Damage?

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

The situation can feel quite overwhelming when your home is affected by fire damage. Contact SERVPRO for effective remediation services.

Talk to SERVPRO Experts in Chicago to Help You Perform Fire Damage Restoration in Your Property.

Fire is a terrifying disaster that property owners can experience. Even after putting out the flames, the smoke residues may continue to destroy the valuable items and building materials in your Chicago property. Fortunately, when you contact SERVPRO technicians within 48 hours, we can inspect your property and restore it to its former glory.

What are some of the dangers of fire damage?

If you delay fire damage restoration in your Chicago property, secondary damage may begin to occur. Smoke residues, soot, and the water used to fight the flames can significantly ruin your home. Water can cause your wooden floor to bend and warp. It may also weaken structures such as support beams and lead to mold growth. 

The structures become vulnerable and can collapse since they cannot hold the weight. This can lead to severe injuries to the property’s residents.

How do you determine the severity of the damage?

Our team of restorers has certifications from the IICRC, Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification to conduct fire damage restoration. We use cutting-edge techniques and advanced equipment and tools that effectively handle fire loss incidents of any magnitude. To determine the intensity of fire damage in your property, we: 

Inspect the property for smoke and soot damage

Use a dry-cleaning sponge to locate the affected areas.

Use wood crème paste to test wood furniture with a heavy concentration of soot.

Inspect the HVAC unit and ducts for odors, damage, and contamination. 

Once SERVPRO technicians get to your property, we begin mitigating the fire damage immediately to prevent substantial repair costs. Our restorers can remove valuable items from the affected area to access every corner of your property. We can keep you informed during every step of the mitigation and restoration process. 

How do you clean the affected property?

Cleaning the affected area helps in removing odors. Our highly trained technicians can use various techniques and cleaning agents depending on the surface. We can use a liquid crème cleaner such as stain scrub, a mild abrasive product to clean surfaces made of stainless steel like kitchen appliances. 

After the cleaning process is complete, the charcoal-like odor may persist. We can use several air scrubbers to remove the odors depending on the size of the affected area. The units pass the contaminated air through filters, which remove 99.99 percent of particles. The machines release clean air into the property. 

After a fire loss, contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago at (773) 337-3900 immediately to mitigate the fire damage. We can quickly restore your property to its pre-damaged state. "Like it never even happened."   

See more about Chicago.

Do I Need To Empty My Chicago Business Premises After Fire Damage?

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

If you are concerned about fire damage to your business, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

SERVPRO Helps Chicago Business Owners Empty Their Premises After Fire Damage

Chicago business owners know how inconvenient a fire can be. It can be challenging to get a business back up and running after ablaze. Naturally, you want as little disruption to your operations as possible.

One of the biggest questions facing Chicago business owners after fire damage is whether they need to remove items from their business premises. It can be challenging to know whether furniture and equipment should be tossed, moved out, or left in place when surveying the aftermath of a fire.

Thankfully we are here to offer help and advice.

Will SERVPRO empty my premises?

Our teams will assess the situation on-site and advise you on whether or not to empty your premises. The process of clearing your premises is known as a pack out. Depending on the situation, you may have several options:

    •    Only move items that are directly in the way of cleanup operations, perhaps to an undamaged room
    •    Leave furniture and equipment in place if it is not damaged and not in further danger from cleanup operations
    •    Arrange to have office supplies and furnishings moved out to a safe location until the fire damage restoration process is complete

How can SERVPRO help with a pack out?

There are several ways we can help you with a pack out:

    •    We will advise you whether our staff are the best choice or whether it would be better to co-ordinate with an independent moving company
    •    We can liaise with your insurance adjuster
    •    We can often clean items ahead of packing them up which means they are returned to you “Like it never even happened.”
    •    We have checklists and procedures on hand to make sure all items are logged and stored and returned safely

We recommend all businesses take part in our Emergency Ready Plan. You can use your ERP profile to provide vital information for staff, our teams, and anyone else involved in the event of a disaster. Because you prepare your ERP before disaster strikes, you do not have to worry about tracking down insurance details or the chain of command when trouble hits.

If you are concerned about fire damage to your business, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

How Can I Call a Halt to Water Damage in My Chicago House?

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes flood cuts are necessary to dry your home's structure. SERVPRO has the necessary training to know how to restore your home.

Team Up with SERVPRO to Stop a Water Loss from Continuous Harm to the Structural Components and Contents of Your Chicago Home 

Transitioning your Chicago home from the devastation of a severe water crisis back to preloss condition is a multi-phase operation. The overall term used by customers and some in the industry is "restoration," but that word might better describe the ultimate goal rather than the tasks and steps necessary to achieve it. Recovery from a water loss involves assessing the scene and then planning plus monitoring of a continuum of work beginning with mitigation, moving through remediation, and then completing with any repairs or rebuilding needed to reach restoration, "Like it never even happened." 

What Is MitigationA fter a Water Emergency? 

When leaks in plumbing or appliance mishaps occur in Chicago, prompts and comprehensive water mitigation is crucial. Mitigation includes all efforts to stop water from continuously soaking into and spreading over the residence's structural components and contents. Eliminating the source of the water is an essential mitigation strategy. Homeowners should know where the main water supply valve is on their property and how to shut it off to prevent the flow's continuing harm. 

Are There Mitigation Strategies a Property Owner Can Take Before Professionals Arrive? 

Homeowners can take action to mitigate water damage beyond shutting off the main. Take care that the area you address is free of electric shock hazards and contaminants. Consider doing the following: 

• Collect clothing, books, throw rugs, and other loose items on the floor and move them to a safe, dry area 
• Remove cushions and pillows from upholstered furniture and temporarily store them in the same dry area as the loose items
• Place furniture on blocks or insert aluminum foil under the legs to prevent staining and limit more water absorption into porous materials
• Drop clean, colorfast absorbent towels on floors to soak up moisture
• Open cabinet doors in wet areas
• Open doors and windows unless contraindicated by temperature or high outside humidity 

What Should or Can Wait for Professional Interventions? 

The chance of water-related hazards can be significant, and SERVPRO project managers are well-prepared to inspect for harmful circumstances and conditions. If in doubt, wait for our certified employees to assess and manage: 

• Deeper water that could hide submerged debris 
• Water contaminated with sewage, chemicals, or seepage from damaged oil or gas utility lines
• Wet spaces where you are unsure if the electricity is live
• Ceilings or walls evidencing trapped water through bulges, new staining, "sweating," or peeling paint
• Wet installed carpet and padding
• Evaluation of laminate or hardwood flooring that is distorted by delamination, warping, and buckling 

How Do Professionals Continue the Mitigation Process? 

We consider each Chicago water disaster individually, crafting a plan that meets the needs assessed at your home. Consequently, there are differences and adaptations for each project. Expect to see a range of mitigation strategies, including the careful release of trapped water, based on visual and device-aided (moisture detectors, moisture meters, or infrared imagery) inspection. 

Mitigation strategies can also include controlled demolition or temporary structural adaptation approaches such as: 

• Flood cuts
• Drilled, sawn, or punched holes
• Removal of toe kicks under cabinets and other built-ins
• Prying off beadboard and paneling
• Wanded extraction at the dry edge of water incursions on wall-to-wall carpeting to prevent further spread before weighted water extraction of soaked areas
• Removal of wet padding to enhance the efficacy of weighted extraction of carpeting
• Removal of wet insulation and breached vapor barriers in walls and crawl spaces to halt water reabsorption into building materials
• Pack-out of wet contents, including furniture and electronics, to our production facility to simplify the mitigation and remediation tasks designed to extract water and remove residual moisture from structural components
• Pumping and aggressive extraction of standing water from affected spaces to shorten the time needed for effective structural drying 
• Raising of appliances above the waterline 

Can I Continue to Help with the Mitigation? 

Our team strives throughout every project to keep lines of communication open. We encourage our customers to work with our crews safely and collaboratively to move from the mitigation phase to remediation and finally to repairs and rebuilding. Insurance claims and seeking answers to concerns are also a joint effort. 

Believe in and partner with the skilled and well-equipped team at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City when you need swift and sure water mitigation. Call us at (773) 337-3900 as soon as practical to arrange an expert assessment and development of an effective plan. 

Who Can Restore My Chicago Physical Therapy Center After a Flood?

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage to your Chicago business can be difficult, let SERVPRO assist your business.

IICRC-Certified Professionals Perform Commercial Flood Restoration for Chicago Businesses

Flooded commercial facilities can be frustrating to deal with, mainly if your business focuses on in-person interfacing with patients and clients. However, there is a team that can help you get back to business as usual.

If you need rapid-response commercial flood restoration for Chicago businesses, SERVPRO technicians are available to restore your assets 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This team focuses on removing debris, eliminating water damage, and sanitizing your space with EPA-registered antimicrobials to return your business to a preloss condition.

Water-Resistant Flooring Solutions for Physical Therapy Centers

• Rubber. Rubber is a popular option for physiotherapy centers not only because it is a low-maintenance and water-resistant flooring solution, but it can also cushion patients during exercise or when falls occur.
• Sheet vinyl. Vinyl is water- and stain-resistant. This durable flooring is easy to replace and reasonably comfortable for clients to use even after protracted periods of heavy foot traffic.
• Carpet tiles. These sheets adhere to flooring in the same manner as vinyl tiles and are both cost-effective and easy to replace. The shorter pile is accommodating for patients in wheelchairs.

SERVPRO Prepares Flood-Damaged Facilities for Disinfection and Drying

SERVPRO technicians focus on the disposal of unsalvageable contents in your business, with the consent of owners and insurance adjusters before sanitation and drying can begin in earnest. 

Carpet tiles must be disposed of to prevent microbial risk to occupants, and vinyl can delaminate from exposure to water. While rubber floor tiles are water-resistant, floodwater and debris can penetrate between and underneath tiles.

SERVPRO’s moisture measurement tools, including spot sensors and penetrating moisture meters, can determine what surfaces have been most effective and calculate the positioning of drying equipment accordingly.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City offers commercial mitigation that is Faster to Any Size Disaster when you call (773) 337-3900.

To learn more about Chicago, click here.

How Can Professional Fire Restorers Stay Ready to Help My Chicago Home?

6/14/2020 (Permalink)

Fires might be devastating for many structures, but it does not have to indicate a total loss.

Professional Fire Restorers In Chicago

Our SERVPRO team has a fast response to get mitigation work started quickly in your fire-damaged Chicago home or apartment.

Preparedness is one of the main focal points of effective restoration and recovery that our SERVPRO team can provide to fire-damaged Chicago homes and businesses. Despite how overwhelming and severe these conditions might seem, staying prepared to mobilize to these emergencies can help us to begin mitigation and emergency services at critical times.

Regardless of how widespread fire damage in Chicago homes might be, our fast response in emergencies can help to limit the time that restoration takes and the out-of-pocket expenses for our customers. We can ensure that we have a prompt response to crises that threaten your residence by encouraging more and more of our technicians to pursue Fire & Smoke Restoration (FSRT) certification. Qualified technicians available 24/7 ensures a fast response to your emergency and that mitigation and emergency services get started as soon as possible. Some of these include:

    •    Temporary construction solutions (board up, tarping)
    •    Extraction and drying of extinguishment water damages
    •    Clearing airborne contaminants (soot, ash, debris)
    •    Removing fire debris and damaged structural elements

What Does it Mean to Chase Fires?

While this term has taken on a negative connotation in some circles, to our restoration team, it means staying ahead of changing conditions in the city to be ready for whatever customers might need. We ensure that we learn about active fires in the area to begin preparing to respond to them as though we have already been called. This ‘chasing’ often occurs when insurance providers notify us of an active blaze and their intention to get our team involved in both the damage assessment and the restoration of the residence. There are advantages to our professionals chasing emergencies and staying ahead of severe conditions, including:

    •    Preparedness
    •    Faster Mitigation
    •    Effective Content Management
    •    Less-Costly Restoration

What Does My Insurance Company Need to Approve a Claim?

In many ways, insurance companies look to the expertise of restoration professionals to provide the necessary information about a loss incident. This effort begins with job scoping. Our SERVPRO project manager, crew chief, and the customer can all work together to determine vital information that can help with the restoration and recovery of the fire-damaged structure. This job scoping involves unique practices such as identifying pre-existing conditions and potential health hazards for restoration. In addition, all job scoping after a fire loss entails:

    •    Cataloging Damage
    •    Assessing Contents
    •    Estimation

We share this information with your insurance adjuster directly. After a fire, the last thing that you need to do is run around trying to jump through insurance hoops and meet the often-lofty demands of your insurance provider to secure a damage claim. We can work directly with the company to make the entire process more efficient.

What Makes SERVPRO a Wise Choice for Restoration?

There are many reasons that area homeowners might want to consider SERVPRO for their restoration requirements after a fire. One of these reasons is our fast response. With pre-stocked trailers filled with mitigation equipment for surface cleaning, deodorization, and other vital efforts, we can often reach your address within hours of the first notice of loss.

Additionally, our professionals have several levels of experience and knowledge of ever-changing industry standards. We strive to provide results that exceed your expectations, and much of that can get attributed to training and coursework provided by standard-setting organizations such as:

    •    IICRC – Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification
    •    ABRA – American Bio Recovery Association
    •    OSHA – Occupational Safety & Health Administration
    •    NDCA – National Duct Cleaning Association

What About Repairs and Reconstruction?

Not surprisingly, many restoration companies do not offer reconstruction as part of their recovery packages. With a full division of qualified residential contractors in-house on our roster, we can provide a comprehensive restoration solution embodying mitigation, restoration, and reconstruction. With fire damages, structural breaches can be all over. Man-made holes allow better access for first responders to fight the fire, but need to get temporarily sealed and permanently repaired. Our contractors can help.

Fires might be devastating for many structures, but it does not have to indicate a total loss. From mitigation and restoration through reconstruction and repair, you can count on the experience and the response of our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team. Give us a call anytime that you need us at (773) 337-3900.

SERVPRO Responds in Chicagoland 24/7 to Any Kind of Disaster

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has been a major contributor to the recovery of Chicagoland homes and businesses during the recent flooding event.

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

As the city's 311 line began receiving thousands of calls about basement flooding, SERVPRO franchises joined our team this week from across the country to help provide fast cleanup and restoration services in Chicagoland. Floodwaters have begun receding, but the city and surrounding suburban areas are still waterlogged. The seven Chicago franchises that makeup SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery report that they remain in full response mode as the Memorial Day forecast calls for more rain.

"By working together, our franchise teams have handled more than 1,000 residential and commercial jobs this past week. As long as services are needed, whether it is for preventative coronavirus cleanup or addressing flooding emergencies, our Chicago crew will respond to calls from residents and businesses 24/7, throughout the holiday weekend," said Owner Patricia Zubricki of SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team.

To restore properties to pre-damage conditions, SERVPRO technicians follow recommendations from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) - the organization which sets the standards for flood restoration as well as other disasters. Technicians follow established procedures for decontamination of flooded properties.

"Our technicians take precautions to properly handle the cleanup of submerged properties because floodwaters often contain elevated levels of raw sewage, hazardous materials, and toxic substances," said Zubricki.

Once contaminated, porous materials such as flooring, drywall, and upholstered furnishings, cannot be restored. The typical residential or business restoration project involves removing building materials and contents, drying the structure, and then applying a disinfectant to affected areas before finish materials can be restored or replaced to preloss conditions."

"From handling personal belongings damaged by floodwaters, to proactive cleaning services in response to COVID-19, we are always mindful of how disasters and emergencies may affect our customers," said Zubricki.

To protect both the homeowner and the SERVPRO employees during the COVID-19 crisis, SERVPRO employees wear the proper PPE - N95 Mask, gloves, and safety glasses.

People are dealing with the unknowns of the Coronavirus, and unfortunately, this flood adds an additional level of stress to our community. Responding to disasters is what we do all year long, and serving customers in their time of need is always our focus. We want community members to know that we are a phone call away, no matter their emergency."

For service, contact your local SERVPRO:

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago
1750 E. 87th St. Suite #1, Chicago, IL 60617
(773) 337-3900
SERVPROevergreenparksouthchicagocity.com

Our team has been providing cleaning, restoration, and rebuilding services in the Chicago area since 2009. The franchises are locally owned and operated by Patricia, Frank, Stephanie, Amanda, and Anthony Zubricki. Ranked in the top 100 SERVPRO franchises of the year, we are committed to making a difference when it comes to helping communities and individuals overcome disasters.

SERVPRO is one of the largest property restoration and reconstruction providers in the world, with more than 1,700 locations internationally. Since 1967, SERVPRO has been planning, organizing, and implementing residential, commercial, and large loss projects throughout the United States and Canada. With the motto, Faster to Any Size Disaster, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team can respond quickly with national resources during catastrophic storms and major events.

How Can I Get My Chicago House Cleaned Up After a Fire?

5/24/2020 (Permalink)

Fires can be highly destructive to your home, especially surfaces battling the presence of soot and other residues.

Our SERVPRO Team Can Arrive Quickly to Chicago Residences for Cleaning and Restoration Following a Fire

Cleaning up after a fire loss incident in Chicago is one of the considerable challenges to making these disasters “Like it never even happened.” Without adequate and thorough cleaning and restoration practices implemented at the right times, surfaces and contents could suffer irreparable damages. Discarding materials and reinstalling them can be an unnecessary cost when our SERVPRO professionals can get to work quickly on the recovery steps required.

Effective cleaning and restoration after fire damage to Chicago homes begin with a fast and confident response. Because our technicians stay prepared to answer the call 24/7, we can often reach damaged addresses while there is still time and opportunity to protect many of the surfaces and exposed contents. Entrusting your home to responding technicians can often make the return to preloss condition more efficient and cost-effective.

What is Debris Removal?

Among the first steps in cleaning and restoring your fire-damaged home is debris removal. This process is one of the emergency services that our professionals offer and can help our technicians to gain control of an increasingly difficult situation. Shoveling out piles of ash and charred remnants of materials can help in many ways. Some advantages of beginning debris removal or muck-out for your home include:
    •    Reduces the concentration of soot
    •    Makes odors less intense
    •    Allows our professionals to inspect the property better

Is Soot Dangerous to Be Around?

Soot can be one of the most challenging obstacles for responding technicians, as this residue can react differently with each of the materials that it becomes exposed to after a fire. Also, the presence of soot can present health concerns for those in direct contact, which requires our professionals always to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment. From Tyvek suits to gloves and respirators, we can protect our cleaning team and eliminate cross-contamination with other areas of your house. The primary concerns about soot include:

    •    Acidic Nature – Because soot has an acidic base to its composition, its presence in a layer resting on organic surfaces can have a destructive effect. When residue goes prolonged periods without getting removed, it can mar or stain surfaces underneath it.
    •    Microscopic Particles – the size of soot particles is also an alarming concern because these microscopic particulates can get easily inhaled and travel deep into the lungs.
    •    High Concentrations – Circulating soot in the environment can present hazards like unclean breathing air and more substantial concentrations of soot residues on exposed surfaces.

How Can Residues Like Soot Get Cleaned?

Removing soot and smoke residues from the house requires several approaches and potent cleaning products. The best approach and technique to remove soot damage in the house gets determined often during the initial assessment and evaluation of the property following a fire loss. Our project manager can walk through the damaged building to begin cataloging loss and noting wherever soot removal techniques are necessary. These might include:

    •    Chemical Solvents – Emulsification can be an excellent method for removing oily soils from surfaces, and many of our chemical solvents can also have a positive effect on present soot damage. Pretesting is a way to determine what potent products are the best choice for the affected material.
    •    Soda/Media Blasting – Using a high-pressure output, soda, and media blasting equipment can help to restore the surface of a damaged structural element by eliminating soot without destroying the construction material beneath it.
    •    Controlled Demolition – There are some situations where material removal might be the only suitable solution. If soot has stained or marred a surface or item, our in-house contractors can remove only the damaged portions to make build back and reconstruction as efficient as possible.

What If Contents in My House Get Soot-Damaged?

Your belongings are just as susceptible and sensitive to soot exposure and damage as the construction materials used in your home. While you might not have the time to relocate everything of value or significance, our SERVPRO professionals can work on content management beginning as soon as we arrive. From on-site cleaning and relocation efforts to more intricate cleaning practices that can happen in our nearby facility and warehouse, we can improve the look and feel of damaged items efficiently.

Fires can be highly destructive to your home, especially surfaces battling the presence of soot and other residues. Addressing these concerns can involve multiple strategies, including surface cleaning, media blasting, and controlled demolition. No matter what your home needs, you can count on our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City to help by calling (773) 337-3900.

What Types of Water Emergency do I Have?

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Water Emergencies Vary Depending on the Source of Intrusion; SERVPRO Restorers Identify Water Types Quickly to Provide Viable, Time-efficient Solutions

What are the categories of water intrusion?

Water intrusion has three distinct categories that can influence the method of water removal in your Chicago home. Clean water emergencies pose no threat to human health and have minimal impact on the home environment, while greywater emergencies have moderate contamination levels in the water and pose a minor risk to our health. These contaminants may include fungus and bacteria. Blackwater emergencies are the most contaminated type of water damage and pose a high-level threat to human health. These require significant removal and disposal of building materials that contacts blackwater. Water categories are fluid and can become increasingly severe over time- moving from clean water to blackwater in as little as seventy-two-hours.

How can I identify the water-threat level in my home?

• Cleanwater usually comes from a clean source. These may come from sources like drinking water pipes and rainfall.
• Greywater emergencies are most likely to occur from your plumbing system that transports wastewater from the property. These may include kitchen sinks, showers, or bathrooms. Greywater does not include sewer backups.
• Blackwater emergencies come from exterior flooding, sewer backups, septic tanks, or when greywater emergencies degrade over-time. These require personal protective equipment (PPE) to restore safely.

Do I need qualifications to restore water spillage in my home?

In all but the most minor of water spills, having expert experience is helpful. Drying a property may take several days and involve complex equipment. During the drying procedure, maintaining the right atmospheric conditions is essential to prevent water degradation or secondary damage. SERVPRO achieves the right atmospheric conditions by measuring them consistently using a thermal hygrometer. We can use portable heaters, drying tents, dehumidifiers, and air-movers to maintain the ideal drying conditions, reducing the time it takes to restore your property to its original condition.

To identify and restore all types of a water emergency, contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

More about Chicago.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/18/2020 (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 in Chicago, 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 Evergreen Park / South Chicago City today at (773) 337-3900 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.

What are Some Common Causes of House Fires in Chicago?

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Overloading power outlets can cause a fire to spark in your home.

SERVPRO Professionals Talk Chicago Fire Damage

Fires happen all the time in Chicago. When you are the one the fire is happening to, you want to figure out its cause and how to get back to the way things were before. Understanding some of the most common causes of small house fires is an excellent start to keeping yourself safer throughout the year. Overloaded power outlets provide a perfect storm for sparks or electrical arcs to catch nearby materials on fire. Stressed outlets are a primary cause of many household fires.

When your Chicago home is fire damaged, you need to find out why it happened. Our SERVPRO team can help you to clean up the mess and restore the damage, but also has the experience to help you determine where the fire originated from based on the severity of the damages. As common as overloaded electrical boxes are, it remains one of the leading causes of accidental house fires. You need to know how to operate your power outlets within safe parameters. This information can potentially save your house from damages, but more importantly, save your life.

People ask too much of their power outlets all the time, but this gets even worse around the holidays. When you combine indoor and outdoor lights, the tree, and other decorations in with already stressed power sources, you are brewing a recipe for disaster. To make matters worse, the spark of a fire can occur from this overloaded outlet at any time.

The sooner you respond to restoring your home after fire damages the better. Our experienced SERVPRO professionals can clean up the damages and bring the structure and contents of the room back to preloss conditions. The longer that you wait, the more likely that soot and smoke damages seat themselves into your furniture, flooring, and walls. This spells a higher insurance claim to cover the repair costs, or worse yet, more out-of-pocket expenses if you are underinsured.

The best thing to do is to call as soon as you can. Our professionals at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City rapidly respond 24/7, and you can reach us at (773) 337-3900.

For more information about the Chicago Fire Department click here.

What are Some Ways Your Chicago Residence can Experience Water Damage?

5/2/2020 (Permalink)

We know that an emergency like this is stressful, so be sure to reach out to us at (773) 337-3900 as soon as you have a flooding problem.

Restoring Water Damage from a Leaky Sink in Your Chicago Residence

While you might not put much stock in the potential hazards that a leaking sink could cause for your Chicago residence, persistent water sources like this could have widespread effects that you have not seen. Leaks underneath sinks, for instance, can appear to dry up when they have gotten absorbed by cabinetry, the walls, and the flooring material.

The obvious solution to a leaking fixture is to repair or replace it, but that does not make your Chicago home’s water damages go away. With water loss incidents, even a smaller scale occurrence like this, your property is on the clock to get the damages resolved as promptly as possible. The longer that you wait, the more damage that could occur.

After only a few minutes of exposure, everything within the water’s path can become saturated and absorb into nearby materials. In less than a day, drywall can swell and degrade, and wood flooring affected by the persistent leak can warp and swell within another day. After only two days of exposure, your home is now running a severe risk of biohazard contamination and mold growth. Our 24-hour SERVPRO emergency response team can help.

Our skilled SERVPRO technicians have ongoing training extending far beyond their IICRC certifications for water restoration. Through in-house continued educational programs and e-learning seminars and courses, our technicians can gain skills to make them more efficient with mitigation, advanced drying techniques, and mold remediation. We have sought to provide the industry-leading equipment to each of these experienced technicians to make water cleanup and restoration projects fast and effective.

Why SERVPRO Is the Best Choice To Clean Up The Flood Damage In Your Chicago Home

Nature can also cause flooding in your Chicago home can cause much destruction quickly. Flooding can happen in several ways because of rivers, streams, lakes or oceans overflowing, or as a result of excessive rain.

Whenever flooding occurs in your Chicago residence, there is a possibility of flood damage including extensive damage to your property and loss of personal possessions. SERVPRO is always standing by to help with our expertise and professional grade tools to get your back up and running as fast as possible. It is a simple decision as to why SERVPRO are the ones to call for help with flood damage.

Rain is the most significant contributor to most of the cases of flooding that we see. An excessive amount of rain causes water to overflow onto land. It is mainly due to high rainfall intensity over a more extended period. SERVPRO techs are prepared to help you after such a disaster with industrial pumps, fans, and dehumidifiers to dry your business out again.

The banks of streams or rivers can overflow. It can happen when these bodies of water hold more water upstream than is normal and it flows downstream to nearby low-lying areas. Because of this, sudden discharge of water occurs in the adjacent lands, which leads to flooding.

Coastal and lake flooding happens when massive storms cause the water body to surge onto the land. Overflows like this have destructive power since they can destroy structures which are not well-equipped to withstand the strength of the water like houses, bridges, and cars.

Flooding can also occur when rainfall or snowmelt runoff can’t be channeled correctly into the drainage systems, which forces the water to flow onto land. The lack of a proper drainage system or clogged drainage usually causes this kind of flooding.

With any kind of groundwater flooding, there are dangers of contaminated water which can possibly contain sewage, viruses, pathogens, bacteria, debris, or dead animals, among other things. Part of our job when cleaning your home from flooding is to disinfect the areas affected. Doing so ensures your home is not only dry again, but safe as well from any contaminants.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City works quickly and efficiently to get your home in Riverdale, Dolton, or Calumet City dry again. We know that an emergency like this is stressful, so be sure to reach out to us at (773) 337-3900 as soon as you have a flooding problem.

Click here for more about Chicago.

Do You Know How to Remediate Basement Fire Damage in Chicago?

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

Basement fires can cause damage, SERVPRO is ready to help! Call us today to assess and remediate your damage!

SERVPRO has the Knowledge and Experience to Tackle Smoke and Soot Damage in Chicago

Basement fires are unique, often encountering different sets of problems and consequences as compared to fires started elsewhere in the home. While the tight space and underground nature of basements often prevent the worst of the fire from spreading across the house, other elements of fire damage can be shared or even more intense than the same damage in other regions of the house. Here are some of the similarities and differences between basement fires and those started elsewhere in the home.  

How Basement Fires Differ From Other Fires in Chicago 

Although fire damage in Chicago basements is typically more contained than that from fires started elsewhere in the home, other types of damage can be even more severe and widespread. The most glaring issue is smoke; smoke tends to rise and travel through air ducts and HVAC, spreading around the house and requiring intensive cleaning operations. HVAC cleaning is one of our most needed services, often for this reason. Additionally, there are often more hazardous and flammable materials stored in a basement than elsewhere in the home, leading to more significant potential dangers and disaster for the home. However, ultimately, the confined and below-ground nature of most basements protects much of the home from significant damage.  

How Basement Fires are Similar to Other Fires in Chicago 

Basement fires, while more contained than other fires, are still devastating and damaging due to their flames and spread. Ash and soot commonly coat walls and surfaces and requires heavy scrubbing. Objects and materials burned through and require treatments or perhaps replacement. A basement fire resembles fire elsewhere in the home and requires much of the same restoration work and equipment.   

Trained Technicians Can Help Minimize Chicago Area Fire Restoration Costs 

Many homeowners believe they can clean up after Chicago fire damage themselves after their home has gone through a fire, and there are soot and smoke to clean up. That is unfortunately not ever a good idea, as cleaning up soot and smoke damage needs professionals for the job. 

Hiring Chicago Restoration Professionals 

A house that has been burned in a fire, first of all, is not safe to spend time in or even enter. The integrity of the floors and walls are in question besides other hazards. It is crucial to keep out of the home until a professional tells you it is safe. 

While undertaking the cleanup of soot and smoke damage from a house fire should not be done by yourself, you need to get professionals, like SERVPRO, there as soon as you can. If left untreated, smoke and ash cause discoloration, corrosion, and lingering offensive and powerful odors. Specifically, ash can cause damage and discoloration almost immediately, and the damage could be permanent and irreversible. Anything made of plastic can start discoloring in just minutes. Metals can quickly corrode and tarnish, and fiberglass starts yellowing. 

If you get fire remediation specialists quickly enough after a house fire, we can mitigate or eradicate the ash and smoke damage from the fire, plus stop any further property damage. If you do not get us in early, unfortunately, the damage worsens, and the repair costs start to skyrocket in just a few weeks. 

Knowing Which Area Professionals to Hire 

Numerous companies claim to be restoration specialists in fire damage near Chicago; however, they might not have the proper training and certification to do the job correctly. Companies who are registered, recognized, and have gotten their certification from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification have taken the necessary coursework to gain their extensive certification. 

What Trained Professionals Will Do 

Fire remediation specialists like SERVPRO, who have gone through the right training and certification, first identify all of the materials that have been affected. We then locate the source of odors is if possible. We are thorough and identify items that can be cleaned and salvaged, which need replacing. Then they'll start the cleanup process by taking out any ash residue that has built up. After we've cleaned the ash, they can find the odors' sources more efficiently, which we'll then treat with special detergents made to neutralize the odors. After we treat the materials that were fire damaged, we'll be sealing them up to stop odors from emitting into your home in the future. 

Experiencing fire damage in Chicago can be scary and disconcerting. When you go through this, contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City by giving us a call at (773) 337-3900 as soon as possible so we can properly clean and restore your home. 

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What are Common Causes of Commercial Fire Damage in Chicago?

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Having faulty electrical wiring inside of your shop can be very dangerous because it can cause fire damage.

Faulty Electrical Wiring Can Cause Fire Damage in Chicago

Having faulty electrical wiring inside of your shop can be very dangerous because it can cause fire damage. Electrical blazes are some of the most sudden and unexpected fires that can happen; if you are not prepared to deal with the flames, they can do severe damage to your store. Having a fire extinguisher handy is essential, as owning one could turn a fire that has the potential to be disastrous into a much smaller problem.

Fortunately, the fire damage inside of your Chicago salon was kept to a corner of your store with the help of an extinguisher and quick reactions. However, it is vital for you to keep on top of the problem now that the blaze has been put out. In reality, the fight against fire damage has only just begun once the flames are gone. It's crucial to call for professional restoration services as quickly as possible to ensure a smooth and successful remediation.

SERVPRO makes it a priority to work as unobtrusively as possible, so we do not disturb your daily business as we work. No matter the time, our technicians can come to your salon to begin the remediation. Should an accident happen at the end of the workday, our team can work through the night.

Once we arrive at your store, we can investigate the fire damage that impacted one of your salon chairs and hundreds of dollars-worth of professional products. Dip powders, acrylic, and gel products can stain your tile flooring as they burn, causing a molten mess of soot and ash. As we investigate, SERVPRO can select the best method to remedy the fire damage in your shop effectively and quickly.

Our technicians can clean up the ruined products and make a list of what you lost, making it easier for you to file a claim with your insurance company. Afterward, SERVPRO can use chemical cleaning methods to clean the soot and product remains from your tile flooring and walls. SERVPRO can clean your salon chair using a gentle and leather-safe solution in which you repetitively spray and wipe the impacted material.

For a final touch, we can use a hydroxyl generator to address the odor that fire damage leaves behind. The machine neutralizes the individual particles that cause the scent in the first place, effectively removing the odor from your salon. Before we go, SERVPRO can recommend an electrician who can investigate the wiring in your building to help prevent a future accident from occurring.

If faulty wiring causes fire damage to your property, never wait or hesitate. Phone SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City by calling (773) 337-3900. No matter the time, we are always able to help.

Click here for more about Chicago.

How Does a Flood Damage My Chicago Basement?

4/19/2020 (Permalink)

You can trust SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City to handle your flood cleanup needs.

SERVPRO Helps with Flood Cleanup to Protect Your Chicago Basement from Structural Damage and Mold Growth

A homeowner never wants to deal with flooding in their basement. However, this is a situation that you must address quickly so that your home’s interior is not left compromised. The longer that water sits in your basement, the more chance you have of experiencing structural damage or the development of mold. Instead of letting the flooding harm your foundation or begin migrating to other areas of your home, calling in the help of experienced technicians gets you the prompt results you need.

What Happens if I Wait to Have Water Removal?
There is a lot that can happen if you wait too long for thorough flood cleanup in Chicago. The stagnant water in your basement can start to impact different aspects, which is where our team at SERVPRO springs into action to halt the damage.

The physical integrity of various supporting structures for your home can become impaired. This is a result of the force and pressure that comes from flooding, including:

    •    The siding, doors, and windows of your home may begin to warp or break
    •    Wood or metal framing can begin to shear off or bend
    •    The potential for the foundation to become washed out
    •    Hydrostatic pressure can force water through cinder block masonry and also collect within the hollow cells

With the deterioration of the structural components, failing to have the water cleaned up in a timely fashion also harms porous materials throughout your basement. Drywall, ceiling tiles, particleboard, and insulation take on water and start warping, crumbling, or become packed down.

Do I Have to Worry About Contamination?
With any water loss from flooding, there is a risk of contamination throughout the water. Not only can the contents and surfaces in your basement become contaminated, but the air quality is also jeopardized. Hazardous substances that may be found in the water that floods into your basement from the outside can include:

    •    Dangerous microbes, bacteria, mold, and viruses
    •    Animal or human waste, which has the potential for hazardous pathogens
    •    Chemicals from containers in your basement or outside the home, such as gasoline, oils, fertilizers, and more
    •    Lead or asbestos that comes from other structures or surfaces that became disturbed due to floodwater and activity during the cleanup process

How Does SERVPRO Deal with Flood Cleanup?
We feature trained technicians that follow the standards set forth by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Our team employs all of the latest strategies and techniques to begin securing your structure. We then work to halt deterioration to preserve your interior and start removing all biohazards to dispose of them appropriately. We must formulate a detailed course of action that allows us to adequately clean and disinfect the impacted areas of your home so that we can get everything dried and back to the preloss condition.

Upon Our Arrival
Once our team arrives at your property with trucks loaded with equipment, we work to secure the basement. This is done by:

    •    Boarding up or taping any holes or broken windows
    •    Bracing your structure to ensure safety for your home and our crew
    •    Turning off the electricity as well as any other utilities that be a potential risk of fire or shock

We inhibit continuing damage in several ways. In the initial phase of the assessment process, the crew chief works with the team to put a plan in place for the cleanup and restoration. Each water loss situation is unique, so we address areas like:

    •    Pumping and extraction of all water located in the basement
    •    Containment of any contaminated water, making sure that everything is disposed of properly and following local guidelines
    •    Putting buffers into position where there is only partial flooding
    •    Move out, or pack out, services for any contents to be dried in another location
    •    Containment barriers put in place with plastic sheeting and air scrubbers that utilize negative pressure

Throughout the water removal and cleanup process, our crew is outfitted in personal protective equipment (PPE) for their safety. This also helps to prevent debris and hazardous materials from getting tracked into unaffected areas of your home.

How Will I Know My Basement is Dry?
SERVPRO not only works to remove water, deep clean surfaces, and disinfect everything with EPA-registered antimicrobials, but we also employ the use of moisture detection technology. Sensors, meters, and thermal imaging cameras allow us to locate areas where moisture is lingering so that it can be appropriately addressed. If necessary, we reposition our air movers, dehumidifiers, and heaters until we get normal readings on all of our moisture detection equipment.

You can trust SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City to handle your flood cleanup needs. Give us a call at (773) 337-3900, and we will send out a team to make it “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Chicago click here.

How Can Homeowners Remediate Water Damage in Chicago

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO draws out moisture under carpets and replaces carpet pads to reduce the risk of delamination.

Professional Restoration in Chicago Needs to Be Part of Your Emergency Plan

Storm damage along the South Side of Chicago is unfortunate to both residential and commercial communities. Many of the tall skyscrapers are prone to the natural elements and sustain high winds. Wind, rain, and hail may produce significant damage to rooftops, windows, doors, glass, and cars. The physical consequences of storm damage are not the only type of problems that may occur. Many adults and children may be frightened by the sights and sounds of the storm, sirens, the physical destruction of property, and fears of the unknown.

Aside from the initial shock of the storm, we are positioned to respond to structural damage that may have occurred to residential homes and commercial businesses. Storms can lead to widespread power outages, downed power lines, and interruptions to mass communication. The saturated ground can make tree roots loose introducing another hazard of fallen trees. Trees can fall over into houses creating additional property damage in Chicago.
 
It is important to recognize that storm damage can be extensive, and the clean-up and recovery efforts may be widespread. Detrimental impacts may also impede the ability to go to the grocery store to obtain food and clean water. Public and private transportation may be temporarily prevented, and that may interfere with people getting back and forth to work. This creates financial burdens that people have to deal with. Fortunately, there are relief efforts in place to help offset the storm damage when it is significant to have widespread effects.
 
In the event of storm damage, have faith in our team of experts to help you clean up the destruction. We recognize that emergencies like this can cause emotional and disaster-related stress. Be sure to review your family emergency plan with the members of your household to be better prepared in the event of a disaster. Recognizing that disasters can occur without warning is essential to developing an appropriate plan of action. An emergency supply of food and water for 3 days is the minimum amount of resources needed to be prepared for the unexpected. A first aid kit is recommended to keep with your emergency preparedness supplies. Be prepared for down cell phone towers and the absence of modern technology.

SERVPRO Can Quickly Dry Out Your Flood Damaged Chicago Home to Prevent Further Damage

The current storm season in Chicago has hit our area with massive amounts of rainwater. Despite the millions of gallons of water that have fallen out of the sky, it is the hundreds of gallons from failed appliances and leaky pipes that cause the majority of damage to homes.

Storms cause flooding and flood damage to Chicago homes primarily affects the carpets and floors. SERVPRO technicians train to remove any standing water, draw it out of surfaces, and take quick action to prevent secondary damage.

We start with removing water. Depending on the depth, we begin with commercial grade pumps to draw out most of it and then switch to water extraction wands. These two devices help us to not only get the water out but to draw moisture out of carpets and floorboards carefully.

Drawing out moisture helps us lower the risk of delamination in carpets. It happens when the water softens the adhesive in the carpet which causes the layers to separate. That allows bubbles to form between the layers and carpet fibers to loosen and pull away when vacuumed. The risk of delamination is why we remove the pad from underneath every carpet. It is a source of water that soaks every inch of a carpet it touches.

Floorboards absorb standing water, and even pressure treated wood can start to twist and buckle after a single day under just an inch of it. The extraction wands allow SERVPRO restoration specialists to pull water from between the individual floorboards, reducing that risk of damage. Quickly removing the water also helps reduce the chance of mold infestation in floors and carpets. Spores cannot expand and grow without a source of moisture.

To speed along the drying process, we use air movers to force warm, dry air over and under the carpets and floors. Our specialists can adjust both the temperature and speed of the airflow to dry out both types of flooring without splintering the wood or heating carpet adhesive too quickly and forming air pockets.

When you need storm clean up, call our team of experts at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City to start the process at (773) 337-3900.

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What is the Best Way to Prevent Water Damage in Chicago After a Pipe Breaks?

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Increasing the pressure can lead to broken pipes in your Chicago house, followed by water damage to the area.

Tips for Mitigating Water Damage in Chicago

Chicago residents barely think about the amount of pressure in their home's pipes except when it seems too low in the shower or kitchen sink. Opening up the valve might solve this problem, but at the same time, it can create a real disaster.

Increasing the pressure can lead to broken pipes in your Chicago house, followed by water damage to the area. SERVPRO can send IICRC-certified technicians to your home after such a disaster and get things dry quickly. This can keep water damage from becoming a reality for you. Water damage can affect almost anything in your house, from building materials to personal belongings.

Furniture can also become damaged as well as add to the damage sustained. SERVPRO crew members place non-staining wooden blocks under your furniture, so soaked legs do not stain carpeting. Carpeting can hold much water, so once we remove the majority of the water, we place your furniture in another area of your home so we can continue the drying process. Floating a carpet so we can force air underneath it helps dry it out more evenly. This also helps dry the floor under the carpet.

Water is a liquid, and it has no difficulty seeping into the smallest openings. Our technicians use moisture detection devices to locate this water. Because water readily evaporates into the air, we also measure its presence there. Materials quickly absorb water and then retain it easily. Our technicians use different methods to extract water wherever it occurs, and in whichever form, we find it in your home.

Our equipment ranges from extraction equipment of both liquid water and humidity in the air. Heating the interior of your home in various locations, as needed, helps make water evaporate. Once it is in the air, we can extract it with desiccant machines. Increased air currents perform a similar task of whisking water out of walls and other surfaces. Continually monitoring our progress by comparing more recent readings with our initial ones assures us of the rate your home becomes dry again.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City wants to help you prevent water damage to your residence. Contact our professional team by calling (773) 337-3900 whenever you have a disaster affecting your home. SERVPRO is always ready to respond to your emergency.

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Water Removal from Your Chicago Home

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Homeowners have to deal with many things which may include water damage. Contact SERVPRO right away.

Why you want SERVPRO’s Assistance With Water Removal In Your Chicago Home

Getting rid of excess water after a significant water leak within your home is a daunting task by anyone's standards. Standing water can pose all kinds of threats, including electrical implications, along with the possibility of carrying dangerous microbes carrying infections. Water that stands for more than a very short amount of time can also cause long term or permanent damage to flooring and foster mold infestation growth. 

Dealing with water removal in your Chicago home does not need to be entirely daunting with the right combination of professional assistance, equipment, techniques, and cleaning products. Having the right extraction equipment and using it correctly is critical in mitigating secondary damage. Extraction is quite possibly the most crucial step in restoring your home to preloss status.

If the water is more than two inches deep, SERVPRO technicians use a submersible pump. Often, standing water occurs in basements. In this case, it is essential to consider the lift ability of the pump and the volume capacity to ensure the pump has the right amount of power to move the water up and out of the basement. It is important to note that the water must be pumped directly into a treated sewer, or taken by a septic tank company according to local regulations.

Portable and truck-mounted extractors are other options for removing water. Portable extractors use wands and have a five to twelve-gallon tank size for cleaning solution and a five to twelve-gallon waste tank. Portable backpack-style extractors are ideal for smaller water spills, and for being able to reach into every nook and cranny of the impacted area, they can lift water 140 inches. Truck-mounted extractors have much larger storage tanks holding 100 or more gallons. They also have a higher vacuum lift of almost 200 inches of water. Both truck and portable extraction equipment have heating capabilities to be able to clean carpet with hot water and cleaning solution. 

For water removal assistance, contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

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Who Cleans and Dries Your Water Damaged Chicago Home After A Bathtub Overflow?

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Chicago Water Damage is Mitigated with Rapid Removal by SERVPRO Technicians

SERVPRO Says that Water Affects a Chicago Structure and Contents in Varying Degrees

The most common claims on home insurance are related to water damage. There are several possible causes of water damage, and bathtub overflow accidents are amongst some of the most common. Several problems can come from your bathtub overflowing in your Chicago home, including the growth of bacteria, leaking ceilings under the tub, ruined flooring, wet plasterboard, and weak and unsafe subflooring.

Why is it essential to remove stagnant water without delay?

It is easy to understand why quickly taking care of this type of water damage is essential. Your Chicago home can suffer from various damages, many of which can significantly affect the strength of the structure. It is precisely why SERVPRO is always standing by with professional and knowledgeable crews to help you in your time of need. Our staff has all been properly trained, and we have the right equipment needed to do the job correctly.

Once we have removed all the standing water from your home, we need to clean any areas which were affected. Structural items, like subfloors and walls, might need cleaning. We clean restorable materials with the right cleaning method for each type of material. We always use professional products and ensure that your home looks as good, if not better, than before the water damage.

If the overflow leaked through the floor to another room downstairs, SERVPRO techs might need to clean things such as carpeting. Any of these areas not only get cleaned but deodorized as well. Our carpet cleaning methods can be grouped into how effective they are at different levels of soiling.

What do we do to grapple with the effects of high moisture?

Any contents of your home, which have been exposed to high humidity, are evaluated for cleaning needs.

• Some wood furniture could require cleaning and polishing
• We also check any clothing, or storage areas in the water damaged sections of the home for deodorizing
• We check photographs and wall hangings as well,
• Electronics could need unique drying and cleaning services to restore them

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City does not overlook anything when restoring your home from water damage. Getting in contact with us right away at (773) 337-3900 when your home in Morgan Park or Hometown has experienced a water damage emergency is essential in preventing additional damages.

Chicago is right here.

Chicago Flooding? No Worries! Call SERVPRO for Extraction and Cleanup

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

Whether the Great Chicago Flood of 1992 or a Stormwater Intrusion in Your Home--SERVPRO Can Extract the Water and Dry Your Property

Dealing with Contaminated Water After Flood Damage in Chicago

Many Chicago residents still remember the Great Chicago Flood of 1992 when a broken, hundred-year-old utility wall under the Chicago River cracked wide open near the Kinzie Street Bridge, allowing about 250 million gallons of water from the river to flow into underground basements, facilities, and subway lines. People downtown evacuated and had to wait three days before the flood cleared. Typically flooding is not this extreme, but when it happens, it still has a significant impact on your life.

If your Chicago home sustained flood damage, the biggest concern is typically not the floodwater itself but the clean up after the flood. Floodwater is either category 2(gray) or 3(black) water, meaning there is a high potential for contamination of microbes, including bacteria and viruses. Cleanup of category 2 and 3 water requires special attention and safety precautions to ensure the health and well-being of pets, residents, and restoration professionals.

Remediation procedures for significantly (category 2) and grossly contaminated (category 3) are as follows:

Protect Occupants and Workers

For category 2 water, technicians use protective gloves only, and occupants may be able to remain in the home. For category 3, however, occupants need to leave home, and technicians use personal protective equipment (PPE) including full-body suits, waterproof boots, and a full-face respirator to allow safe breathing,

Create Engineering Controls to Limit Cross-Contamination

Technicians take several precautions by engineering the environment to make sure that they limit any potential cross-contamination and promote safety. They contain the contaminated areas by sealing any openings to the impacted area with 6-mil polyethylene plastic and create a decontamination chamber that acts as a middle space between the contaminated areas and non-contaminated areas where workers can put on their PPE and store contaminated items. Air quality is an important consideration, so the HVAC system is shut off, and technicians use an air filtration device to suck up and blow air out of the building. This, also known as negative pressure, allows contaminated air to leave the building and only clean air to enter the affected areas.

Removing Water and Debris

Technicians remove water with extraction equipment, including submersible pumps, if it is more than two inches deep, truck-mounted extractors, and portable extractors. SERVPRO flood restoration specialists dispose of contaminated water according to local and state regulations. Technicians remove unsalvageable debris like carpet padding and ruined drywall to dispose of it safely. They often take any salvageable but damaged contents off-site to clean and restore.

For 24/7 assistance after a flood, contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

How SERVPRO Handles Storm Damage in Chicago

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Storms are frequent in Chicago and flooding happens. We are always on call.

Wind, Flood, Storm? Call Us for Help After Devastating Conditions Damage Your Chicago House 

As the weather changes from snow to the heavy rains of spring in Chicago, your house is at risk of significant damage from high winds. The stormy conditions can bring flooding to residences in northeastern Illinois, both overland and from the roof and exterior damage. Our highly-qualified team of supervisors and technicians have training and experience addressing the devastation spring storms bring to our area. 

Fast and More than Adequate Response 

When a storm features fierce winds and flood risk, your Chicago house needs professional assessment and assistance for a full recovery. A fast and scalable response is essential, exactly what we prepare for as local restoration industry leaders. We are familiar with previous years’ weather patterns and the challenges other customers faced, providing data that improves our response for your emergency. 

Securing the Site and Assessing for Safety 

Upon arrival, a crew from the SERVPRO team boards and tarps up holes caused by wind and falling poles, trees, or branches. Meanwhile, project managers evaluate the flood damage to the interior of the house, also noting and planning accommodations for safety concerns. Electrical hazards, slip and fall issues, and contaminated fluids are frequently seen and need managing. 

Avoiding Delays and Professional Handling of Contaminants 

If we face utility outages, our SERVPRO service vehicle provides onboard power generation for our commercial-grade extraction equipment. Submersible pumps operate with gas motors, and truck-mounted and powered extractors suction massive quantities of contaminated water into holding tanks. We are familiar with local regulations concerning hazardous waste disposal, and follow them when discarding flood water appropriately. 

Cleaning and Disinfecting 

After we extract the bulk of the water that entered overland or from exterior breaches, SERVPRO crews clean surfaces with proprietary products, our goal is to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens such as mold and mildew that swept in or developed as the waters rose. Our crew ensures hidden moisture exits as well, using controlled demolition techniques and aggressive drying strategies. To prevent any lingering biohazards, we apply EPA-registered antimicrobial products, inhibiting the drift of contamination as air movers work to evaporate water lodged in structures.     

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City offers a trained and experienced workforce and a vast inventory of products and equipment to counteract the effects of wind storms and floods. Call (773) 337-3900 to get the recovery process going. 

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Water Damage Restoration In Chicago

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

Water Damage Restoration in Chicago Often Requires The Use Of Disinfectants

Any time your plumbing system fails, and you notice a leak inside your Chicago apartment, the problems can vary in severity depending on the source of the moisture. When our SERVPRO technicians first arrive at your residence after you suffer from water damage, we first take steps to find where the moisture originated. For example, problems caused by a leak in a clean water pipe gets treated differently than if your sewage backs up.

Every water damage scenario in Chicago always gets classified based on the source of the leak. When dealing with moisture-related problems, they are classified as either category 1 (clean), category 2 (grey), or category 3 (black). Category one situations involve a leak from something that uses clean, fresh H2O. Since the moisture is coming from a fresh source, there is virtually no chance that it will contain harmful microorganisms.

Category two issues are considered "grey" because there is a chance the water affecting your contents and building materials is contaminated. When dealing with grey situations, our SERVPRO team takes extra measures to make sure your home does not get contaminated. Category two problems occur when a sink or bathtub drain leaks or overflows, or if rainwater gets into your structure.

Category three or black water problems are handled differently than the other two because the moisture is more than likely contaminated by harmful bacteria and parasites. In these situations, porous materials get disposed of, and your structural components get sanitized. Examples of category three damage include when a sewer backs up, or muddy water from the outside gets into your dwelling.

When mitigating category two and three scenarios, our SERVPRO crew can use a variety of disinfectants to help rid your home of any harmful microorganisms. Disinfectants are also known as germicides, and they are antimicrobial chemicals that can kill about 99% of organisms on surfaces where they are applied. However, in some cases, certain disinfectants may or may not be useful when attempting to kill mold spores. Examples of this type of chemical are phenols, quarternaries, alcohols, formaldehydes, and chlorines. Disinfectant products we often use include Sporicidin, Vanquish, and Microban.

If your apartment ever suffers from a water leak, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 24/7. Our crew can help you return your home to the way it was before, “Like it never even happened.”

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Smoke And Soot Restoration In Chicago

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City today at (773) 337-3900, and we will send a team of technicians out as quickly as possible.

Smoke and Soot Restoration After Fire Damage in Chicago

Fires bring on a copious amount of damage, especially when the fallout is not cleaned up quickly enough. To address the soot and smoke that penetrates all of the nooks and crannies throughout your home, calling in the professionals is the best course of action. The experts at SERVPRO have the experience and equipment to inspect, plan, and address various levels of damage to get you the results that you need.

When it comes to fire damage in Chicago, it is critical that you understand how soot and smoke impact your home. Hot smoke gets into all areas of your home, flowing through your walls, penetrating various materials, and leaving behind a harsh residue. The kind of smoke present will play a significant role in the measures taken to complete restoration.

Types of Smoke
Wet and dry smoke present different challenges after a fire in your home. There are also different degrees of soot residue that must be addressed. SERVPRO technicians test the soot throughout your home to determine the level of damage to ensure the best cleaning procedures follow suit.

Wet Smoke – This is smoke that develops with low heat, often stemming from rubber and plastic. The smoke webs, making it difficult to clean, creating a sticky, pungent residue that smears easily.

Dry Smoke – This is smoke created at high temperatures, fast-burning, and rises with the heat. The dry smoke often comes from paper and wood.

It is also essential that proper measures are implemented to address protein fire residue, which comes from material evaporation. This residue isn't visible to the naked eye but creates a pungent odor and discolors varnishes and pain.

Professional Fire Restoration
When you call SERVPRO, you know that you have smoke and fire damage professionals on the job. We craft solutions tailored to your unique needs based on the condition of your home post-fire. Our technicians arrive at your property with specialized equipment to remove the water that seeped into various surfaces from extinguishing the fire. We then work to remove all damaged materials for replacement, carefully inspecting to ensure no moisture is left behind.

We always respect your property with care, and you can trust that SERVPRO cleans all surfaces with disinfectants to ensure no smoke residue lingers once we are gone. Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City today at (773) 337-3900, and we will send a team of technicians out as quickly as possible.

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Artificial Air Movement Can Help Dry Your Water Damaged Chicago Home

12/21/2019 (Permalink)

Getting your property dry is essential to restoring it to a preloss condition and reducing secondary harm.

Artificial Air Movement can help to Dry your Chicago Home Faster after Water Damage

The central concern of a qualified water damage restoration technician (WRT) is to dry the affected area. While odors, as well as staining, may appear to be a priority concern, these can often dissipate or clear away once the affected area is adequately dried. To ensure processes are working effectively, a restorer may take readings from unaffected areas of the home using a thermal hygrometer. The relative humidity is a crucial indicator of how effective our drying procedure is, with the goal being to restore the area to a level similar to unaffected areas. We refer to this level as a dry goal.

Dealing with water damage in your Chicago home is a complicated process that requires professional equipment. However, the core principles of natural drying are the same. We need to use temperature, airflow, and humidity to encourage evaporation. SERVPRO technicians may decide to use a variety of different equipment to achieve this goal. In well-ventilated spaces opening windows can be an effective drying method. But most homeowners need professional assistance because open-system drying is not possible.

The process of evaporation relies on exchanging wet or moist air with dry air. Moisture naturally moves from wet to dry, so ensuring the surrounding air is warm and dry speeds up the evaporation process. Of course, drying a property can become complicated by contents, furnishings, and fittings, which make reaching the dry goal more challenging. SERVPRO has equipment specially designed to reach these areas and get your home back to its preloss condition.

Creating artificial air circulation requires powerful equipment. SERVPRO technicians may decide the best course of restoration is by deploying rapid air-movers. Air-movers are fitted with inlet and outlet screens and blast hot air into a room, exchanging moist air near surfaces with drier air. Fitting an air-mover with carpet clamps allows us to float a carpet. This process allows us to dry underneath carpets or fittings without requiring removal. Shrouds can be attached to concentrate air movement into wall cavities. SERVPRO favors using air-movers because they are adaptable to the home.

Getting your property dry is essential to restoring it to a preloss condition and reducing secondary harm. Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

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We Are Ready 24/7 To Restore Your Chicago Home After A Flood

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

This fallen tree limb from storm damage required removal of the debris, and then the placing of protective tarps on the damaged structure.

Flood Removal in the Basement of a Chicago Residence

Illinois homeowners may be well aware of the risks that a flood can pose, but may not necessarily be prepared for how disastrous it can be for the home. A sewer backup, clogged drain tile, or flash flood are all you need to have standing water in your basement that can damage the foundation of your home.

If your residence requires flood removal from its basement in Chicago, SERVPRO professionals can be at your home at any time of the day or night. This team knows that disasters do not happen on a 9-to-5 schedule, so technicians are always available to restore your home to a preloss condition. SERVPRO uses scientific analysis, cutting-edge tools, and reliable cleanup methods to ensure that your basement is moisture-free once more.

Filing a Claim After a Basement Flood

• Contact your homeowners' insurance provider right away. Set up a time for a claims adjuster to visit, as most policies have specific time limits on when you can file. It is also crucial for the adjuster to see your property before you get it cleaned and repaired.
• Take inventory of losses. When you fill out your claim, describe the cause of the flood and what damage was incurred. Survey your basement and make a list of damages to appliances, furniture, and other valuables. Describe each item and include its value, brand, and model when you can. Take photographs and don't throw anything away until the insurance adjuster has seen it.
• Know your policy in and out. Standard homeowners' insurance policies may not include natural disasters like flood damage. If you upgrade your plan with flood or disaster insurance, you can get the coverage you need to repair your basement and replace your possessions.

How SERVPRO Can Help

Depending on the amount of standing water that might be in your basement, technicians have a variety of extraction tools handy to dry your structures and clean them thoroughly. Back-mounted pumps are useful for small amounts of standing water. In cases where there are more than two inches of standing water, sump pumps and truck-mounted pumps can be used to remove water from the structure thoroughly. For spaces that are more difficult to access, technicians have extraction wands available to remove moisture from in and behind structures. 

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is committed to bringing the community service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (773) 337-3900 to get fast disaster cleanup 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

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Chicago Basements Present Special Post Water Loss Drying Issues--Call SERVPRO for a Professional Restoration

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

Chicago Basements and Cellars, Water Removal and Drying, Whom to Call?--SERVPRO

Cinder Block and Exterior Wall Water Damage and Drying Challenges in Chicago

The extreme temperature swings experienced in the Chicago area during a year require specific building decisions to provide adequate shelter. Most residences are built above in-ground, cinder block foundations featuring full or walk-out basements. Exterior walls almost always contain significant quantities of loose or sheet insulation. Both of these building construction choices help moderate the effects of severe cold and heat, helping HVAC systems operate more efficiently.

Building Configurations Impact Extraction and Drying Efforts

Water damage in Chicago poses some unique challenges to straightforward loss recovery. Hollow construction materials like cinder blocks and methods like sandwiching a cavity between exterior and interior walls do insulate but also create spaces where water can hide. Difficulty in obtaining access to the cells in cinder blocks and building cavities also impairs professional drying efforts.

Basement “Improvements” Can Limit Moisture Transfer

If water from the stories above migrates down the walls into the block construction of your finished basement, complications can ensue. Gloss or semi-gloss paint applied to cinder blocks can act as a vapor barrier, preventing water release from the cells. To moderate the temperatures in what otherwise can be a cool space, vermiculite, cellulosic, fiberglass, and foam insulation can fill the hollow spaces. Intentional use of vapor barriers to prevent seepage inside can limit airflow during drying. SERVPRO crews often use holes drilled into mortar joints at floor level or higher to permit water to drain out.

Drying of Exterior Walls

Although choosing to remove and replace drywall is an option, SERVPRO’s attempts to dry the exterior walls are typically less disruptive to building occupants and more reasonably priced. Although the insulation in your home’s walls does slow down drying efforts, a successful outcome is possible. As long as the water is Category 1 and sheetrock is not backed with a vapor barrier, walls protected from uncomfortable temperatures with fiberglass insulation can be dried. We again use strategically spaced drilled holes to gain access for the warm, moving air needed for evaporation.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City has a broad range of solutions available when drying complications arise in cinder block or exterior wall applications. Call us round the clock at (773) 337-3900 for a rapid evaluation.

We Provide The Best Results In Fire Damage Restoration In Chicago

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

We are equipped to tackle projects like this from start to finish. Call our experts we are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

Agitation Used During Fire Debris Cleanup In Chicago

Structural burns that occur in Chicago can go from being minor to severe quickly if efforts do not get made to extinguish the flames and promptly mitigate the damage caused. Even smaller blazes can require fire debris cleanup conducted by a professional restoration company such as SERVPRO. The longer charred materials are left inside your home; the longer burnt odors can linger.

During every restoration project we conduct, our SERVPRO crew takes many measures to deodorize your home and return it to its preloss state, "Like it never even happened." In many situations, malodor particles get removed from your Chicago residence once fire debris cleanup gets conducted. When anything burns inside a building, the burnt particles and soot residues left behind by the smoke created can be a prime source for unpleasant aromas. In some cases, though, further deodorization procedures must be taken to rid the structure of all of the foul odors present.

During any fire-related restoration project, our SERVPRO technicians first work towards securing the building. We can inspect your property and look for any potential hazards. If we find things like broken light fixtures or burnt drywall that is hanging down, we quickly mitigate the potential safety issue.

Once we make the work area safe for all occupants, we start removing any severely burnt items from fire damage. Often times after a burn, many things will be charred to the point where they have to be removed and replaced. But, many times, we can save items by cleaning and refinishing them.

For example, if charring is only present less than a quarter-inch deep in your building materials like your wooden studs, then we can often remove the charred content, seal the item, and then refinish it if necessary. Agitation, in one way or another, can be one of the most effective methods to use when removing charred material.

In situations where the charred materials are in-depth, sanding can be used to remove it. In cases where the charring is not as deep, steel scrub brushes can be used to remove the burnt materials. In other situations, soda blasting or dry ice blasting can be useful when removing charred materials.

Our team of restoration experts knows the best ways to save your possessions and building materials by removing the charring, sealing, and refinishing the items. To receive the best results after suffering from a fire, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 24/7 because We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

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Our Professionals Will Address Water Damage In Your Chicago Home

10/18/2019 (Permalink)

Our entire team stands ready to provide professional cleanup and restoration services day or night (773) 337-3900.

Addressing Water Damage In Your Chicago Area Home

Homeowners in Chicago face burst pipes, damaged or cluttered gutters, and flood-inducing rains regularly, it is easy to become complacent. However, you need to understand that any amount of water can put undue stress on your home, often leading to structural damage, loss of personal possessions, and even the threat of mold.

The severity of water damage found in your Chicago area home can worsen, depending on the type of water intrusion you face. Water issues generated by broken pipes or fixtures are easy to treat, whereas sewage or flooding often accompanies contaminants such as dirt, bacteria, and a variety of debris that cause additional threats.

At SERVPRO, it is our goal to provide you with complete water damage restoration services you can count on that cost a fraction of totally replacing damaged contents. We can help you tackle water problems occurring on your property and return your home to a quality preloss condition, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO’s Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Technicians offer a variety of water damage restoration services, including:

    •    Immediate Response – Have professionals on your doorstep, ready to assess damages, and limit your losses.
    •    Water Removal – Experienced Technicians with access to the latest equipment, including both hand-held and truck-mounted water extractors.
    •    Dehumidification – We offer fast, efficient, drying solutions that often exceed homeowner expectations.
    •    Deodorization – Creative and time-tested methods used to eliminate odors and return your home to a clean, safe condition.
    •    Mold Remediation (if needed) – Gain access to qualified experts who recognize potential problems, eliminating the need for you to contact multiple companies to get your restoration done right.

SERVPRO teams are available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, to provide quality emergency response services throughout the area. We have access to all of the personnel, equipment, and resources needed to tackle any size job. Our technicians can help make addressing water problems, with quality solutions, look effortless, restoring your property as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City to obtain more information about our services or to schedule your home’s initial inspection today. Our entire team stands ready to provide professional cleanup and restoration services day or night (773) 337-3900.

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We Discuss Cleaning Residues Left Behind After A Electrical Fire in Your Chicago Home

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

The certified technicians arrive quickly and make the fire loss “Like it never even happened.”

Cleaning Residues Left Behind After Electrical Fires in Chicago Properties

According to the Electrical Fire Safety Commission, Fire damage caused by residential electrical fires are the third most common type of residential fire and account for an estimated 51,000 fires each year and costing property owners more than $1 billion in property damage.

There are many issues left behind to address in a Chicago home with fire damage. Unfortunately, incorrect methods for cleanup has the potential to make matters worse. That is one of the most crucial reasons to bring in a professional restoration services company.

Testing of Smoke Residues
Electrical fires leave behind different types of smoke damage and all smoke residues bond with the surfaces they come into contact with. Determining the type of smoke residues left behind on surfaces is vital for choosing the right cleaning method. Fire loss cleanup is never a one-product-fits-all task. SERVPRO technicians have multiple products and processes involved in the removal of smoke residues, including bleaching agents and enzyme treatments.

Handling Dry Smoke Residues
SERVPRO technicians know using liquid cleaners on dry smoke has the potential to ruin surfaces and drive the deposits further into walls, ceilings, and countertops. They use hand vacuums to lift it away carefully and follow up with the use of dry cleaning sponges to pick up any remaining smoke damage.

Unique Methods for Wet Smoke Residues
When cleaning this type of loss away, the residue requires lifting from the surface. The technicians do testing to see if they need to use a water-soluble or solvent-based cleaner and wipe it away by hand using sponges. This is a prevalent type of damage left behind when rubber or plastic materials burn.

Cleaning and Deodorizing
In many cases, as technicians remove smoke damage from surfaces, odors also reduce within the property. This assists with lessening the time odor control techs spend neutralizing residual smoke odors.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 is ready to clean up and restore properties with any size fire damage. The certified technicians arrive quickly and make the fire loss “Like it never even happened.”

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Commercial Water Removal Teams In Chicago Tell Us About The Various Equipment They Use

9/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO knows how to get your office back to business after a Chicago water damage.

Let us help you with your commercial water damage in Chicago.

Many disasters, such as plumbing failures can take place inside your Chicago warehouse when you least expect it. Once even the smallest quarter-inch leak erupts on one of your warehouse's water pipes, several gallons of water can pour into your structure forcing you to call in a professional company such as SERVPRO to conduct commercial water removal. Our technicians can start working promptly so that the problems do not get worse over time.

Whenever moisture enters your warehouse in Chicago, commercial water removal efforts are required. The longer your warehouse's building materials and contents stay wet, the more involved the overall project can become. Our SERVPRO technicians utilize specialized equipment to help speed up the extraction and drying processes, including the following six tools.

1. Moisture Sensors

Moisture sensors consist of a handle and a rod with two sharp prongs at the end that pokes into carpet and pad to test for the presence of moisture.

2. Thermal Imaging Cameras

Also called infrared cameras, they can be used to detect and monitor moisture present in your warehouse's building materials.

3. Penetrating Moisture Meters

Penetrating moisture meters operate on the principle of electrical conductivity by penetrating the material being tested. These can be used to detect the moisture content of drywall and wooden materials.

4. Non-Penetrating Moisture Meters

These meters use conductivity, capacitance, or radiofrequency emissions to detect moisture. Since these meters do not penetrate the material being tested, their use causes no surface damage.

5. Thermo-Hygrometers

Thermo-Hygrometers measure the relative humidity and temperature of air masses. These instruments are used in testing the moisture content of the air in affected areas, the air in unaffected areas, the air outside, and the air being dispensed out by dehumidifiers. We can use these to come up with an end goal for the relative humidity in the affected area as well as monitor the success of our drying and dehumidification efforts.

6. Manometers

A manometer does not measure moisture; rather, it measures the pressure of gases or vapors. The device is used to measure the difference in static air pressure between two adjacent areas.

Any time your warehouse in West Englewood, Lansing, or Dolton ever becomes the victim of a plumbing failure, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900. Our technicians are local, and We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

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Our Flood Damage Specialists Discuss Ways You Can Help Restore Your Own Home After A Storm In Chicago

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 because the locals say that We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Flood Damage Professionals In Chicago Point Out Ways You Can Help Restore Your Own Home After A Storm

Everyone who lives in the Chicago area has seen what a vicious thunderstorm can do. One minute everything can be fine and then the next minute you can find yourself being obligated to mitigate flood damage on your property. Whenever rainwater enters your home, it is always wise to call in a professional restoration company such as SERVPRO. Our team knows the best ways to quickly remove moisture from your structure, thus reducing the severity.

Prompt actions can aid in the preventing of the formation of secondary issues like mold or humidity problems. Calling in a professional restoration contractor to help you with your flood damage project in Chicago can also help you reduce the overall cost of your catastrophe. However, sometimes calling in an experienced crew like SERVPRO is not possible right away. For example, you might not notice the problems the storm caused to your building until much time has already passed. Or it is possible that phone systems can go down during a storm and you are not able to make a phone call right away.

If you ever find yourself dealing with one of these two scenarios, it is wise to take steps yourself to reduce the overall severity of the damage. Once a storm strikes, and you start seeing rainwater enter your dwelling, this is when you need to start taking steps to mitigate. First off, follow the water to an exterior wall and try to find its source of entry into your structure. Once you discover where the leak is, you can then try to seal the leak so that moisture stops entering your building. For example, if moisture is coming in from a worn lower door seal, take plastic or rags to seal off the gaps so that the liquids stop entering your interior.

Next, it is a good idea to start removing any water that you can see by mopping, squeegeeing, or vacuuming. If you had contents such as blankets or clothing get wet, remove them from the affected room and store them somewhere until you can clean and dry them. Then, once you think you have removed as much liquid water as humanly possible, you can take steps to jumpstart the applied structural drying or ASD process. Setting up fans and turning up the heat in your house can both help speed up the natural evaporation and drying process.

But, if the storm-related problems inside your home in West Englewood, Lansing, Dolton, or Mount Greenwood ever get too big for you to handle, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 because the locals say that We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

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How a Space Heater Caused Fire Damage in Chicago

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

Space heaters cause several fires each year. Inspect yours regularly!

Space Heater Leaves Debris in My Chicago Home

You never know just how much you have in your living room until a space heater catches on fire and leaves bits and pieces of your life lying around.  Even when first responders arrive quickly and extinguish the flames before they burn out of control, there still is much damage following the fire. Your furniture, electronics, books, and pictures may all be charred and wet, leaving you in need of a professional team to help you sort through your belongings.  

Before you discard any items, make sure to reach out to SERVPRO for your fire debris cleanup needs in Chicago.  Our technicians are trained in the restoration of fires and the eradication of fire damage and are a significant source of expertise when sorting through the remnants.  We work around the clock to have our staff available as soon as you notify us of your emergency.

Most people do not realize that pictures and books can be restored even after they have been in a fire.  Our SERVPRO crew can comb through the fire and identify those items we can salvage by applying industry best practices.  Similarly, we can identify objects that are beyond repair. Most typically, porous materials need to be discarded as soot, smoke and extinguishing agents have saturated them.  When this is the case, our team takes care of the removal and disposal of the items according to local guidelines and environmental regulations. At the same time, we work on tailoring cleaning solutions to eliminate the trace of the fire from all salvageable items.

Sometimes the most disturbing aspect of a fire can be the smell that permeates your home.  It can feel overwhelming and that it is seeping from your walls. When our SERVPRO crew comes into your home, we can tackle this by using tools such as ozone generators, air scrubbers, foggers, and charcoal-activated filters.  These techniques are all designed to neutralize and eliminate this invisible reminder of the fire.

Do not tackle fire debris cleanup on your own.  Save yourself time and effort by letting the experts restore your home as soon as possible.  SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City is ready by calling (773) 337-3900. Like you, we strive to leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”  

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Let The Professionals Handle Water Damage in Chicago 

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can cause flooding in your home if left unchecked. Call the professionals at SERVPRO today for remediation assistance.

Water Damage Chicago – Frozen Pipes Cause Water Leaks

Winter weather can be brutal in the Chicago area with temperatures well below freezing. Some consumers reduce the temperature in their homes to conserve energy and save money. However, there can be unintended consequences of turning down the thermostat. One consumer did not realize that the temperature in their laundry area would be below freezing with the door closed, and no heater in the room. Pipes froze and cracked, allowing water to spray all over the room for hours.

The consumer called our SERVPRO office when water damage in their Chicago home was discovered. We advised the owner to quickly shut the tap off and begin mopping up as much water as possible until we arrived. The owner removed clothing and a few other items that were in the room. Also, there was ice on the walls and the floor. Which, helped to control some of the damage.

Our technicians quickly vacuumed up the water using powerful wet vac's and scraped the ice off the walls and floor. Next, we brought in heaters to raise the temperature and vacuumed up the water as the ice melted. Blowers and dehumidifiers quickly dried all of the remaining surfaces and lowered the humidity substantially.

Water had also seeped into the floor and the ceiling below the laundry room. Removal of the ceiling in one corner of the room below was required. Fortunately, the leak was contained before the water had penetrated the ceiling tiles and migrated into walls and flooring. Once our technicians dried the ceiling area. Arrangements were made to restore the ceiling area under the laundry room. SERVPRO worked with the homeowner to restore his home like it never happened.

The homeowner leaves the door to the laundry room open now to allow warm air from the rest of the home to keep his laundry room warm. In freezing weather, he plans to run a small heater in the laundry room to avoid the possibility of frozen pipes again. He has also replaced all of his flexible hoses to his washing machine. Some damage was sustained to the hoses.

Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 for 24/7 service. We serve West Englewood, Calumet City, Lansing, and surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. We work in all kinds of weather!

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Our Vice President of Operations, David Mason, and SERVPRO Property Loss Recovery

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

David Mason Our Vice President of Operations at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago

David Mason is Why SERVPRO Excels as a Restoration Service Company

Restoration Services to treat properties in the Greater Chicago area are quite numerous. So Why does one, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago excel? Here is the main reason--the personnel! Example: David Mason.

High Caliber Personnel

No company can perform up to customer expectations without the right mix of trained personnel led by accomplished professionals. Chicago area property owners benefit from the expertise provided by David Mason, our promoted Vice President of Operations. His extensive experience with affording outstanding results to our residential customers and commercial clients is truly exceptional.

David and SERVPRO go back together since 2006; longevity and experience produce cleanup and restoration results second to none. David's awards through the years signify successes in the field which increase productivity and revenue for our operation. From the BDP Business Development Program specialist that assisted over 90 SERVPRO franchises to thrive, he nurtured business relationships with leaders in the restoration industry from coast to coast. This is the attitude that enhances our brand in local communities, a sense of family, melded with a profound knowledge to achieve desired results.

Our SERVPRO franchise is an essential segment of the National Storm Team that travels to help after natural disasters like floods and hurricanes strike another region of the country. Our Commercial Large Loss Team has been managed by David since 2014.

The SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago franchise is run like a large family that pulls together to meet our neighbors' expectations. We are grateful that David Mason is part of the family. Trust us for cleanup and restoration services. (773) 337-3900

We Get You Back In Business After A Water Damage Disaster In Chicago

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

We have state of the art water removal and drying equipment ready to begin restoration on your business.

How Quickly Water Loss Affects Your Chicago Bakery

Reducing the dramatic effect of water loss in your Chicago bakery might not seem like a daunting task, but depending on the source of these damages and your ability to get mitigation work started quickly, restoration could become a costly and drawn out experience. As with any emergency, you must respond to the situation immediately – either determining your competency to handle the effects or choosing to seek out more professional alternatives with industry-leading resources like our SERVPRO team.

While many might focus on water removal for Chicago bakeries in severe conditions, the full recovery of the property is multi-faceted. Even with a trained custodial or maintenance team, which few bakeries in the city realistically have, these individuals are often left unprepared for the substantial spread of the loss, equipment that gets involved and potentially damaged from the moisture, and the best approaches to get things set back to normal quickly after water removal. Our SERVPRO professionals can help.

Depending on the kind of baker you are, you might have either very traditional equipment and appliances, or advanced options. Even with natural gas-powered ovens, excessive moisture and dampness experienced from pooling water on the tile floors can affect the function of these appliances. Extraction is vital to start immediately to reduce the relative humidity level inside the building. Lingering moisture that persists for more than a couple of days can result in mold growth which can shut your business down until environmental testing and health department approvals occur.

While there are extraction tools available through home improvement locations, often business owners have other concerns to manage while disasters take place. Our SERVPRO team can help with a fast response to the emergency and the skills to get efficient extraction solutions like shaft-driven, truck-mount pumps and trash pump options going immediately to remove standing water threats.

Bakeries have considerable competition throughout the Greater Chicago area, so getting your business back up and running immediately is critical for customer retention. Our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City professionals can help. To make water loss incidents “Like it never even happened,” give us a call today at (773) 337-3900.

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After A Fire Damage Disaster In Your Chicago Home, You Need To Contact Our Professionals!

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

For SERVPRO, the goal is to return each home to a clean, odor-free environment as quickly as possible.

Fire Damage Cleaning And Restoration For Chicago Homes

With a metropolitan area of over 10 million people, there are more residences at risk for fire in Chicago than almost anywhere else in the U.S. Each home and fire are a little different due what is consumed by the heat and flames, but certain areas, like ceilings, always require cleaning unless they were physically damaged.

Smoke generated by fires always leave some residue deposits on ceilings. If they are constructed of drywall or wood panels, and not drop-ceiling tiles, then cleaning them is far more cost-effective than replacing them. Cleaning ceiling panels after fire damage in Chicago homes fall into two categories for SERVPRO response teams: Clean For No Paint and Clean For Paint.

The first category is when the ceiling has a small, or light, amount of residues and does not require repainting afterward. In these homes, specially trained Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technicians or FSRTs use dry sponges to wipe the ceilings clean. For slightly stickier residues, they add water or a very mild cleaning agent to break them up for removal with the sponges. For high ceilings, FSRTs attach a long handle to a sponge mop-head for dry or wet cleaning.

The second, Clean For Paint, category requires the same actions as the first, but with additional work as well. For these moderate-to-heavy residues, the ceiling has to be more than clean to the naked eye. SERVPRO technicians have to deodorize the ceiling surfaces and neutralize the acids contained in ash and other residue deposits.

They can use a cleaner with both a deodorizing and neutralizing agent, but if the smoke penetrated deeply, FSRTs use a fogger that can get into the surfaces as far as it did. After that, technicians use a sealant such as a pigmented alcohol shellac which provides an excellent surface for paint.

For SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City, the goal is to return each home in our area, Calumet City, Lansing, and West Englewood to a clean, odor-free environment as quickly as possible. To schedule a service call and begin the restoration process, call our office today at (773) 337-3900.

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Tips for Handling Water Damage in Your Chicago Home After a Pipe Bursts

7/7/2019 (Permalink)

We will help you with your water damage from every outlook.

Call SERVPRO for your water damage issues always. 

Plumbing mishaps like burst pipes usually leave a big mess. A skilled plumber can perform repairs to get the plumbing working properly again, but it is your responsibility to clean up your home after the water leak and dry it out. Water can damage your furnishings, walls, and floors, and so your cleanup efforts should begin as soon as possible after the incident.

If the leak has occurred in a single room, you can begin the cleanup work. To prevent further water damage in your Chicago home, remove soaked furniture, carpets, and other removable items from the flooded area. If the items did not absorb a lot of water, they may be salvageable. If there’s water on the floor, you can use a wet-dry shop vac to remove it. If the weather permits, open windows and doors in your house to bring in dry, fresh air. You can also bring in a fan into the affected area and turn it on to the highest setting. 

If the water loss has affected several rooms, traveling from an upper floor to a lower floor or it occurred when you were away and no one noticed it for over eight hours, it is necessary to use professional water mitigation and specialized drying equipment. SERVPRO franchise professionals have the expertise and equipment required to dry your property to return it to its preloss condition. 

If water has seeped into the drywall and subflooring, our Water Restoration Technicians (WRT) can help you remove it to prevent mold infestation. We use detection and monitoring devices like moisture sensors to detect moisture in soft materials. The sensor has sharp probes that penetrate through carpets and pad to show how far the moisture has migrated. Moisture sensors only show if moisture is present; they do not measure the amount of moisture. That’s the reason our WRT use moisture meters to find the actual moisture content of materials. We use penetrating moisture meters to detect moisture within wall cavities and underneath wood flooring. 

Our SERVPRO crews use portable extractors to remove water from floors and clean carpets and upholstery. Portable extractors have a pump, a heater, and a vacuum system. The heater heats cleaning and rinsing solutions, making them more soluble so they can penetrate surfaces more easily. The pump generates pressure to spray cleaning solutions through the wand onto the carpet or fabric. The pressure of the solutions agitates the surface being cleaned. The vacuum removes moisture and soils from the surface and collects it in the waste recovery tank. We also use portable air movers, dehumidifiers and desiccant products to dry out the affected areas. 

When a plumbing leak has caused water damage in your home, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City can help you remove the water and dry the affected areas. Contact us today at (773) 337-3900. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

To learn more about Chicago, click here.

Wind Can Spell Big Flood Damage Trouble For Your Chicago Home

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City rapid response team is available anytime by calling (773) 337-3900.

Hard Wind Can Lead To Flood Damage In Your Chicago House

Everyone can recognize Chicago and its surrounding areas as a persistently windy location to live and work. Most of the residents here have grown accustomed to this steady presence, but when severe weather systems pass through the area, the steady breeze can turn into gale-force threats capable of doing substantial damage. From tearing off roof shingles and siding from your home to breaking windows and even doors with hurdling debris, a strong storm system can leave your house exposed to potential flood effects.

Many of the homes constructed in this area have gotten reinforced to reduce potential flood damage to Chicago residences, but even these precautionary measures can be insufficient in the right conditions. When storm damages occur, you can count on the fast response of our SERVPRO professionals. With our central location, we can reach the entirety of Chicago and its suburbs in a short time, reducing the potential widespread effects of flooding as it occurs.

With many larger homes throughout Evergreen Park and other boroughs that we service, we have a Large Loss Recovery Team we can rely on when situations exceed the limitations of our specific team. We can join forces with other local branches serving the area for a significant roster of certified personnel, a nearly endless inventory of recovery tools and drying units, and a fleet of service vehicles capable of handling many restoration projects simultaneously as is often the case with severe weather.

With the damage that wind can do to the property, homeowners can also depend on our SERVPRO general contractors that can offer emergency construction solutions like board ups and tarping to eliminate further penetration of floodwater while mitigation continues.

We know how devastating floods can be for area homes, and we respond quickly to these storm emergencies with the full measure of our personnel and advanced recovery equipment. Our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City rapid response team is available anytime by calling (773) 337-3900. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

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We Put The Flames Of Worry Out In Chicago After A Fire Emergency

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

A fire caused damage to this Downtown Chicago building in the stairwell. Dry-sponge cleaning of the soot prepared the walls for repainting.

Call For Help Immediately When Your Chiropractic Clinic Suffers Fire Damage

Facing fire damage is a challenge that no business owner wants to face. It is especially the case when your business is based on daily appointments, such as a chiropractic clinic. Whenever fire, water, mold, or storm damage breaks out on your property, it is essential for you to get help as soon as possible so that you can get your business schedule back on track swiftly.

A chiropractic clinic faced fire damage in Chicago after some faulty electrical wiring caused a blaze in the reception area. The desk, files, and computers all sustained damage as well as the carpet across the floor. While the situation may seem grim, getting experts to the scene as quickly as possible can help ensure that the remediation goes as smoothly as possible.

Here at SERVPRO, we model our business around your needs. We understand that the stress of canceling appointments is unpleasant, but we are always available to come to your property whenever you need us, to ensure that the job gets done as swiftly as possible. Midnight or midday, we can send a team of our highly trained SERVPRO techs to your clinic, equipped with advanced technology to fight the damage inside.

Our technicians can start the remediation with an investigation and taking inventory of everything that was lost to the damage. We can help you get your insurance claim rolling, taking one less factor of stress off of your shoulders. At SERVPRO, we want to make this process as easy as possible for you so that you can focus on rescheduling appointments and other needs of your business.

Our technicians can remove the fire damaged carpets and can send both the filing cabinets and the desk unit to be thoroughly cleaned at our facility, using a house-made cleaning solution. From there, SERVPRO can throw out anything that is unsalvageable, while cleaning the walls and the floor to remove soot stains. To finish things off, SERVPRO can use a thermal fogger to address the malodor from the fire and then return your filing cabinets as well as your desk unit.

Whenever your business suffers damage, call for help right away. Speak with SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City by phoning (773) 337-3900. Whenever you need us, we can be there.

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Why Handle Water Damage Remediation Alone in Your Chicago Business

6/16/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let your Chicago business get taken over by water damage. Contact the professionals at SERVPRO today for help.

Efficient And Flexible Water Damage Mitigation In Chicago!

Leaks in business offices are likely more severe than you might think. A broken pipe left overnight can output hundreds of gallons of water into your real insurance office, forcing you to shut down the following morning. If left unaddressed, your office may sustain water damage, so it is important that you contact professionals as soon as possible.

SERVPRO water damage restoration technicians (WRT) are highly experienced in dealing with commercial water damage in Chicago businesses. Our techs are Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certified and can work efficiently to get your office reopened.

The most important asset of insurance agencies is the clients. However, water from a burst pipe can quickly flood a waiting room, potentially causing permanent damage and stains. SERVPRO can help you maintain a professional appearance after a leak to help preserve your client-base. We can use industrial-grade wet vacs and pumps to remove standing water and then use carpet removal tools to peel off delaminated sections of your carpeting. When possible, we aim to dry commercial carpeting before discarding and replacing it.

Water can also seep into the furniture present in your waiting room. Wood sections of furniture can absorb and release moisture, sometimes leaving behind unsightly water lines. Additionally, the upholstery on chairs and sofas can easily absorb water. To combat these problems, SERVPRO professionals can wipe down wooden furniture to prevent water lines from forming and can remove upholstery to better facilitate drying with the assistance of air movers and dehumidifiers. Our team members can arrive at your business at times that work best for you so that we minimize interruptions to your work schedule.

If your office is facing a water damage emergency from an overnight leak, then call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900. We are available at any time, so call as soon as an emergency happens to begin speaking with one of our professionals.

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Our Professionals Explain Why It’s Important To Address Water Damage In Your Chicago Apartment

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

Give our professionals a call anytime at (773) 337-3900.

Addressing Spreading Water In A Chicago Apartment

While many might believe that water loss incidents can get easily remedied in your Chicago apartment, often conventional drying methods are not enough. From the moment that water damage occurs in the property, materials, and contents exposed begin to absorb this moisture. The best solution for apartment owners is to address these concerns with the expertise and advanced technology available to professional restoration specialists like our team.

As a contributor to a large loss recovery team, our professionals have the resources and the experience to handle a need for water removal in Chicago apartment buildings. With how quickly these situations can get out of control and affect more than the initial unit, it is vital to get mitigation and containment processes started right away. The more efficient the response of professional restorers, the better they can protect the building. That is one of the advantages of choosing our SERVPRO team, as we have a 24/7 response to water emergencies to get personnel and effective equipment on site as promptly as possible.

The most critical concern for restoration technicians responding to a water loss incident in an apartment building is the spread of the effects to different floors and units. During the initial inspection and damage assessment portion of our restoration process, our estimator and project management can utilize sophisticated tools like our moisture readers and thermal imagery cameras to get a better understanding of moisture pockets and dampness levels in areas that can be more challenging to access.

Our SERVPRO team arrives with industry-leading equipment that can quickly work to extract standing water and begin rapid drying solutions for the affected properties. For shared wall cavities and moisture trapped between floors, we have advanced machines like our Inject-Dry unit. This device can force heated air into these spaces to work on drying them out efficiently.

While many steps often come with water loss recovery in an apartment, time is never on the side of the property owner in these emergencies. You can count on the fast response and the expertise of our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City professionals to make water damage “Like it never even happened.” Give our professionals a call anytime at (773) 337-3900.

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Chicago Stormwater Problems?? Don't Wait!! Call SERVPRO for Mitigation

5/27/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded Home in Chicago? Call SERVPRO for Cleanup--We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Flash Floods Bring Damage to Chicago Home

Flood damage is the most severe type of water loss a homeowner can experience. Storms with high winds are a common feature in the Windy City, and sometimes they result in water damage to residential properties. The faster mitigation begins limits the potential loss to both your home and its contents.

SERVPRO answered a call to clean up and assist with flood damage in a Chicago home. Flash floods from heavy storms in the area caused groundwater to enter a home and soaked the kitchen and living room. The homeowner used a mop and towels to remove as much water as possible and quickly realized he needed help. His insurance adjuster recommended professional mitigation for the situation to begin as fast as possible. Often SERVPRO is at the top of the preferred list of vendors for water loss restoration with many agencies.

Groundwater is sometimes referred to as "black water" and is considered a category three biohazard. This is one type of water loss event that should always have professional mitigation for both health and safety reasons. Our technicians arrived on site soon after the initial call and immediately extracted the visible water.
We scoped the affected rooms to locate every area the water may have migrated. The quick action by the homeowner stopped the absorption of water into the subfloor, but floodwater wicked into the sheetrock in the kitchen. Once exposed to water, sheetrock is not restorable, and we cut it away using a technique referred to as a "flood cut." This action allows for the removal of damaged sheetrock and lets airflow happen within the wall cavity for complete drying.

When SERVPRO technicians work on a site, along with restoring as much of the water loss contents as possible, we try to limit disruptions in the home and dry furnishings in place when possible. We removed a saturated area rug and placed the sofa and chairs up on blocks for drying as only the legs of the furnishings had been exposed to groundwater.

Our air movers blow high-velocity air that causes water vapor inside objects to rise to the surface. Once that happens, the dehumidifiers capture and port out the moisture. This method enables warm, dry air to bring down the moisture levels in the room and its contents in an expedient manner. Once confirmed dry though moisture readings, we clean and disinfect all surfaces affected by groundwater to ensure they are sanitary.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is available at (773) 337-3900 to mitigate flood damage in your home. No matter the time of day or night or how large or small the water loss, we can be onsite within hours and make it "Like it never even happened."

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When Your Chicago Property Experiences A Flood Damage Disaster, Call Our Experts Right Away!

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

You can depend on our technicians to be there any time you need us.

Window Damage That Can Allow Flooding In Chicago Apartments

With many high-rise apartments throughout Chicago, severe wind storms that come along with torrential rainfall could introduce many aging apartment complexes to widespread flooding. When windows break, you have a direct line of access for direct rainfall and runoff to access individual units in the apartment building. With the connection of units to one another, multiple properties could become affected simultaneously by both multiple points of entry and quickly spreading effects. Our professionals can help all property owners in this scenario to quickly dry up water damage and work to reduce the spread of these flood effects throughout the building.

No matter when flood damage occurs to Chicago apartments, people have come to depend on the fast response and expertise of our SERVPRO professionals in a crisis. We can arrive quickly with all of the tools to help address the spreading effects quickly and confidently. Before we can get to work on removing the water damage from the building, however, we have to address the broken windows to prevent further elemental effects from pouring into these vulnerabilities.

We have a contacting division with years of experience in the building trades to quickly address the structural damages that have occurred to the high-rise apartment building. We can quickly board up and tarp over penetration points to prevent further water flow, allowing our SERVPRO technicians to get to work in other areas of the building to dry up and extract any water damage encountered.

Once the mitigation phase has completed, our contractors can seamlessly transition into a full-scale repair and replacement of damaged or missing structural components. We can install new windows and help to rebuild or repair damaged elements like electrical systems and interior construction weakened by flooding.

Our specialists know how crucial it is to have every professional that your building needs respond to your emergency at once, and that is what makes the comprehensive restoration approach of our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team to effective. You can depend on our technicians to be there any time you need us. Give us a call 24/7 at (773) 337-3900.

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Your Chicago Pizzeria Can Be Restored After A Water Damage Disaster

4/4/2019 (Permalink)

Water leaks can present quite a significant threat to your pizzeria in Chicago.

Commercial Water Removal Services For Your Chicago Pizzeria

Water leaks can present quite a significant threat to your pizzeria in Chicago. Since your business uses much more significant amounts of water daily than a residence would, leaks in your commercial building can lead to the waste of many hundreds of gallons of water each day. Not only would your water bills go up, but your building can suffer from a considerable amount of damage and expensive repairs. Therefore, keeping regular maintenance up on your building is essential.

When you do find a leak, water removal services in your Chicago business are needed right away before the problem gets larger. SERVPRO, a professional restoration company, is always standing by with highly trained staff and heavy-duty equipment. We work quickly but efficiently to get your business back in order as soon as possible.

Your public toilets in your business get much use. The parts on them wear out fast and can let water leaks happen. A flapper which no longer creates a reliable seal, for example, lets water leak from the toilet tank drain and then the fill valve does not shut off when the tank is refilled. A toilet leak is not a big deal if it is taken care of, but if it is neglected, it can lead to long-term, substantial water loss and damage.

No matter the reason you need us, SERVPRO techs assess the damage when they arrive at your pizzeria to see where the issue is located. We can then proceed to fix the issue and dry the affected areas. Once any standing water is removed, we use industrial fans and dehumidifiers to finish drying out the damaged areas.

Plumbing leaks, including deteriorated sewer lines and broken water supply pipes, are some of the most common causes of water damage to a building. Both of these issues can cause extensive water leaks and severe damage. To make things worse, piping and sewer lines are usually buried underground or found inside your walls, so the leaks are hard to detect. We use special meters to find any hidden moisture, however, so we make sure to find all moisture and repair the damage, not just the visible problems.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City can handle your water damage emergency in your business building in Riverdale, Dolton, or Morgan Park. Just call us at (773) 337-3900 anytime you need so we can restore your building before additional damage can be done.

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Are You an Evergreen Park Homeowner with a Water Damaging Odor Problem? Contact SERVPRO

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

Presenting in Evergreen Park The SERVPRO Green Team--Exceptional Water Removal Technicians

Water Damage Needs Attention on Many Levels in Evergreen Park Properties

Water damage may occur as a sudden event such as a sudden pipe break from the harsh sub-zero winter temperatures in Evergreen Park or an appliance like a dishwasher or washing machine dumping water mid-cycle all over the floor. Sometimes a slow leak has quietly been eroding drywall from the inside out and collecting moisture and inviting mold to the party for a long time before it was discovered. The key to turning around the damage is to begin cleaning and restoration as soon as it is seen.

Absorbing or Mopping Water Alone is Not the Answer

Using towels or a mop to pick up the water you can see, is a good start for eliminating the water you can see, but water cleanup should not stop there. SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City technicians use those methods too when needed. However, moisture can remain, and water may have run under flooring, wet carpet padding and there can be vapor barriers inside drywall that need drying. That begins the part of recovery from a water loss where you need professional assistance.

Fast Extraction is the Keystone of Water Damage Restoration

The more water that can be removed on the front end, the faster the premises can dry. SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City technicians get to work with portable wet vacs or in the case of large-size water removal needs or tight places such as an attic or crawlspace; we have truck mounted pumps with long hose attachments to get the job done.

Secondary damage from moisture can come in the form of mold, mildew and weakened building materials is a real concern and eliminating the water you can see is only half the issue. When our SERVPRO technicians arrive on site, they have several types of equipment that measure moisture in different ways to ensure nothing is missed.

Our water damage technicians utilize moisture probes to determine how far moisture has migrated into soft objects such as carpet and padding. Thermal imagery is useful for peering behind walls and hard surfaces to find hidden pockets of water vapor. The affected areas are noted so when the drying phase begins; they are correctly addressed.

Thorough Drying Techniques for Rooms and Contents

When SERVPRO technicians set up air movers to dry a room, it is much more than merely setting up fans and walking away until the room is dry. Our technicians are certified in the science of psychometrics, or the study of air, gas and water vapors. The air movers are only one part of the process used when lowering overall moisture in a room. The air movers are strategically placed to bank off walls and move air rapidly across the surfaces. This action causes moisture to rise, and the water vapor is captured by a dehumidifier. Heaters are also sometimes employed to speed the drying process along when needed.

Special Drying Situations SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City Handles

Certain things in the property need special attention to dry correctly. Just because the carpeting in the living room was drenched by a plumbing mishap does not mean it is an irretrievable loss. Our technicians can use a weighted extractor that pushes down as it is moved over the carpeting and effectively pushes out water from the padding. Rovers are particularly useful for this as the technician stands on the rover and the added weight pushes out water from the carpeting. Much like a small riding lawn mower.

Carpeting may be dried in place using methods such as "floating" where one side of the carpet is lifted, and air movers are directed underneath to dry out the padding and the carpeting from the bottom up at the same time. Our goal is to clean and restore as much as we can on site.

If water removal and drying begin quickly enough after a water loss event in the home, we can turn around damage to real hardwood flooring. Engineered wood flooring and composite boards often do not fare well when saturated. Hardwood boards that show signs of cupping and buckling may still be recoverable with a specialized drying technique our technicians use with drying mats. The mats have many hoses that direct air into the floor and are placed and moved strategically around affected areas as it dries. This method is also used on tile flooring. For larger areas affected by water penetration, we can rig a "tent," plastic sheeting, low to the floor, to decrease

SERVPRO technicians are specially trained to handle unique drying situations where the application of various techniques may be needed to ensure proper drying of both the structure and contents. That is Why so many property owners trust our brand, SERVPRO.

When it Cannot be Cleaned and Dried On-Site

There are times we cannot clean or restore water damaged items on-site. In those cases, with the permission of the property owner and adjuster, we offer a pack-out and move service to dry items in our facility using our proprietary methods. This can apply to anything from books, papers to carpeting, personal contents, and more on a case by case basis.

Avoiding Mold as Secondary Damage

Where there has been water, there could be mold at a later date. SERVPRO technicians confirm through meter readings that areas that could harbor mold have low moisture readings and follow up after drying by wiping down surfaces with professional-strength antifungal and antibacterials to inhibit mold growth.

What About That Smell?

Even a little water damage can leave a big smell if it not cleaned up correctly and all the excess moisture removed. Fortunately, thorough drying and the location and elimination of vapor barriers behind walls, for example, is often enough to neutralize unpleasant scents. In cases where a stronger application is needed to get rid of water odors, our odor control technicians (OCTs) come into play.

There are numerous methods of removing odors from both the property and contents. Dependent on the nature of the odor, our technicians may use multiple methods to ensure the scents are eradicated. Simple techniques such as time release pellets are an effective masking agent when there is a low amount of residual odor. For more intense concentrations of odor, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City OCTs may choose to use ultra-low volume (ULV) fogging. This equipment delivers an odor neutralizing solvent as a fog that changes the molecular structure of odor-molecules and makes that recognizable water odor a thing of the past.

If you suffer water damage in your home or commercial property, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City immediately. We are proud to serve the Chicago area including the areas of 60805, 60617, and 60649. Water emergencies cannot be planned, and our certified technicians are available 24/7 to clean up and restore water damage to any size property, we have the equipment and expertise to do the job.

How Thawing Snow and Ice Can Create Water Damage in Your Chicago Home

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

Icicles are often a sign of ice dams.

Ice Dams and Water Damage Restoration for Your South Chicago City Home

Snow covered roofs in South Chicago City can form ice dams as they melt and refreeze this winter. With the warmups that have occurred, water damage is a concern for many homes. Ice dams can cause water to back up and go under the shingles and into your home, causing damage to your drywall and ceilings. In these situations, prevention is critical to avoid costly repairs.  

If your South Chicago City home has already experienced water damage due to ice dams, you need the immediate help of our professional staff at SERVPRO. We are an experienced remediation company who can dry your home out and repair the damages that the ice dams have caused. The faster you pick up the phone and contact us the better, as the water leak continues to harm your home until it stops.  

In a case like this, you’ll likely have hidden water damage inside your walls and ceiling. Therefore, SERVPRO techs use special moisture sensors that can detect the hidden leaks, which allows us to restore your home thoroughly. If we did not do this and any water is left behind, it causes mold growth, making a big problem even more significant. Once we find where all the issues are, we can begin drying and restoring your home. Industrial fans and dehumidifiers help to dry your structure and the air and remove all the excess moisture.  

To prevent ice dams in the first place, begin by keeping your gutters clear of debris and leaves. Check and seal any areas that can allow warm air to leak from your home to the attic such as chimneys, exhaust fans, vent pipes, light fixtures, and attic hatches. You should also get your attic and roof inspected for insulation and proper ventilation. Inadequate signs of ventilation include rusty nails, rust spots, or mildew smell.  

Do not let snow accumulate on the lower three to six feet of your roof. For extra protection, you can install ice and snow slides to stop the ice and snow from bonding to the lower portion of your roof. Installing rubberized water and ice shields under the roof shingles for the first three to six feet, and heating cables along the eaves help to melt any ice.  

If your home in Riverdale, Morgan Park or South Deering has been the victim of ice dams creating water damage inside, SERVPRO of can Evergreen Park/South Chicago City help whenever you need us. Give us a call at (773) 337-3900 as soon as you realize there is an issue so we can take care of everything for you and prevent further damage.

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Call Us When Your Chicago Apartment Has Suffered Flood Damage

3/3/2019 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City emergency response team is standing by 24/7 to help at (773) 337-3900.

Roof Damage On Chicago Apartments Can Lead To Flooding

Many of the apartment buildings in Chicago are among the oldest structures in the city. While this adds some historical value to the skyline, it does not always mean that the buildings get as maintained as they should. While you might not be responsible for the upkeep of the structural integrity of the apartment building, damage to the roof could allow flooding to occur in your apartment below, which requires fast and immediate response on your end to protect your belongings and property as much as possible.

While someone owns the building you purchased your Chicago apartment from, their failure to upkeep on potential risks to the roof can create breaches in the material that allows runoff and rainfall to penetrate directly into the ceiling area of your apartment beneath. Our SERVPRO professionals can respond quickly to flooding situations in Chicago, working to avert a further crisis with the emergency board up or tarping services for the penetration points and offering effective mitigation strategies to protect the things you value most in your apartment.

Many apartment owners do not add in coverage for flooding to their property primarily because of their residence being so far above potential flood zones. In situations like this where flooding can occur, it is vital then for mitigation to begin as quickly as possible to limit your out of pocket expenses to restore the damage to your unit.

Our SERVPRO estimator can work quickly to determine the full scope of the damage and communicate what your property needs after this emergency. We can work quickly to begin extraction of floodwater and dry up damaged elements with our initial visit, beginning the process of restoring the unit completely.

While you cannot account for the possibility of flooding in your apartment building, knowing whom to call when disaster strikes can save you time and money. Our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City emergency response team is standing by 24/7 to help at (773) 337-3900.

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Our Experts Explain How Mold Can Be Prevented By Your Exhaust System In Your Chicago Bathroom

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Call us, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City, at (773) 337-3900, so we can help you prevent microbial-related situations from escalating.

How Your Bathroom Exhaust System Helps Prevent Mold Damage In Your Chicago Home

Taking a hot shower not only gets you clean but also relaxes your body and can help relieve stress. Steam that builds up in the bathroom can cause damage, just like a leaky pipe can cause. Microbes in your Chicago residence do not care where their water comes from or if it comes in the form of liquid or water vapor.

When an exhaust fan and correctly installed ducts carry steam out of your bathroom and keep moisture from entering the rest of your living space, mold damage in your Chicago home becomes much less likely. Once you turn off the shower, letting the exhaust fan run for a few more minutes makes sure that all of the moisture in the air gets pulled out of not only the bathroom but also the length of the ducts. When the interior of a duct regularly stays damp because of stagnant steam, mold can grow.

If any cracks exist that allow steam to escape along the way to the outside of your home, that area can become saturated after every shower. This can cause not only mold damage, but also dry rot, water damage, and compromise any insulation. It can also create electrical hazards. We can check to ensure that moisture does not accumulate inside your home where it should always remain dry when we use our moisture detecting equipment.

When looking for mold activity, we use infrared thermal imaging cameras. These detect the cooler temperatures associated with relatively damp materials. This is an effective method because microbes cannot grow in arid conditions. Concentrating on the areas with the most microbe-friendly conditions saves time, ensuring we search in the most likely locations. We then seal any leaks, effectively starving microbes.

After all of the sources of moisture that fed microbes no longer provide them sustenance, our team of mold remediation specialists can begin restoring your home. In an attic, we can use blasting methods, using either dry ice pellets or baking soda, that otherwise leave structures intact. Abrading any contaminated wood beams leaves them structurally sound. We can then treat them with antimicrobial liquids that keep any newly deposited spores from starting new colonies.

When your Beverly, Lansing, or Dolton home's exhaust systems work as they should, your property stays protected from mold damage. Call us, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City, at (773) 337-3900, so we can help you prevent microbial-related situations from escalating.

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Water Damage Can Add To Your Heating Costs This Winter In Calumet City

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Water that enters your attic because of ice dams or torn shingles from storms earlier in the year can increase the rate that heat leave your home.

Attics With Water Damage Raise Winter Heating Costs In Calumet City

Water that enters your Calumet City's attic because of ice dams or torn shingles from storms earlier in the year can increase the rate that heat leaves your home. This can cause you to spend more on heating costs than you might otherwise need to do to keep your family comfortable during the colder season.

Your home might seem colder than others, and this can be an indication of water damage in your Calumet City attic has spread to exterior walls. SERVPRO specialists use imaging devices with infrared technology to locate the areas through which lost or invasive water traveled. Once we know the location of these affected areas, we can perform the mitigation work to get the moisture removed.

Clearing away water damage from a property includes not only drying things out but also removing damaged materials. This can include insulation that has become compressed after water saturated it. This often happens in attics that lie under ice dams, or wherever openings in the roof allowed snow or rain to come inside. When we search for sources of water, we can mark areas that require other professionals like roofe rs or plumbers. Such simple markings can help them carry out their work faster after you have contacted them.

We can remove the insulation in the attic, but you should wait to bring in new insulation until after the completion of any necessary roof repairs. Sometimes, repairing damage from ice dams only requires some minor patching with roofing compound to keep water from re-entering. Ice dams are less likely to reoccur once new insulation prevents heat from escaping too rapidly. A little bit of work can make a huge difference in the way your house's living space feels to you and your family.

When walls lose heat to the outside because of moisture ruining the insulation's ability to retain heat and prevent its loss, re-insulating walls becomes a priority. Our experts can discuss your options with you and help your chosen contractor with different stages of the process, including cleanup.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City, always Faster to Any Size Disaster, including those involving hidden water damage that makes your Riverdale, Dolton, or Lansing residence chillier than usual. Call us at (773) 337-3900 to get things straightened out and warmed up.

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Our Fire Damage Specialists Can Remove Foul Odors From Your Chicago Home!

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

Once your home in Chicago sustains fire damage, the smell of smoke and soot can linger.

Getting Odors Caused By Fire Damage Under Control In A Chicago Residence

Most disasters that harm a house also create odor-causing particles to form. When your Chicago home becomes inundated with these particles, sharp and unpleasant odors begin to get more pronounced.

Once your home in Chicago sustains fire damage, the smell of smoke and soot can linger. These odors only slightly improve when the air becomes less moist or when the temperature decreases, but never truly disappears. Structural mitigation and restoration does very little, and sometimes nothing at all, to alleviate an odor problem that can make your family miserable.

Heavy odors like the ones that come from soot particles left behind by burning plastics and other synthetics can make food taste bad, your clothing smell, and even cause health effects in some individuals. SERVPRO's Odor Control Technician (OCT) can eliminate the odors ruining your enjoyment of your home.

As we carry out fire damage mitigation, we eliminate most of the smoke residue. Some areas remain inaccessible, and these are all over your home's interior. If your ventilation system was running during the fire (heating, cooling, bathroom or kitchen exhaust), soot could have found its way inside and into adjacent areas. Hollow areas behind cabinets, above ceilings, and inside walls hide continually disintegrating soot particles.

Our OCT uses a technique to get to these particles wherever they might hide. Instead of removing them manually, thermal fogging eliminates their ability to return to your home's air. The forced mist spreads out in the same way the smoke did, and while still hot, its components chemically bond with any loose soot particles encountered. The added weight makes it impossible for the soot to get lifted back into the air currents that travel through your home, keeping your family and guests from smelling them again.

Other areas that might hold onto odors include carpeting. While soot can remain trapped here and thermal fogging might not reach all of the residue hiding in the backing and pad underneath, we can still treat the area with potent and long-lasting liquid deodorizers. We can inject these directly into the absorbent padding. Other areas that continue to harbor odor sources often respond well to hidden gel packs, of which we have several different scents. These also last a significant amount of time.

We always discuss the needs of our customers, and adequate control of odors related to smoke and soot is no different. Our experts want to make sure you're completely satisfied with our services. Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 to make sure that every aspect of your home's fire damage mitigation, including the elimination of odors, is handled professionally and by skilled specialists.

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Don't Fret After A Fire In Your Chicago Home Call Our Team At SERVPRO

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

Call us when you need help getting your home back in shape after such a disaster.

Clean Up Tasks Related To A House Fire In Chicago Can Become A Messy Chore

One of the most terrifying disasters that can happen at home involves fire. Even small fires in a Chicago home that remain contained can make a terrible mess – large fires can create severe hazards and contamination risks that make clean-up difficult.

Homeowners want to get things cleaned up as fast as possible after a fire in Chicago. Smoke deposited everywhere in the home becomes easily spread from one location to another with the slightest touch. Sooty grime can ruin the luster on portrait frames, gradually becoming more embedded in grooves and creases.

Not only does the soot create a severe odor problem in the home, but it steadily dries, making it more difficult to remove. SERVPRO works to rid your home of this and get things bright and beautiful again, “Like it never even happened.” Other aspects that we remedy include the water used to put the fire out in your home.

Water left behind by the fire department can cause rusting of metal hinges on your doors. This water can also cause wooden pieces in your home to swell and crack. We use specialized drying equipment to ensure your home becomes dry as well as clean again. We remove moisture from walls, ceilings, floors, and the air. Personal belongings can also hold onto water that condensed and then seeped into their surfaces. We can dry these in special chambers designed to get them dry quickly. We also remove soot from these items and make them usable again.

Odor control can become a crucial comfort issue for your family after a fire. The odor comes from the soot particles. Even after we clean up the visible soot, much soot remains hidden and out of sight. Air currents still lift these small particles up and into the air. When you breathe these in, you detect them as an odor. Thermal fogging carried out by our IICRC certified Odor Control Technician (OCT) can rid your home of these odors relatively quickly.

Cleaning up everything after a fire is much more than removing the soot from your soot-covered belongings and removing charred and burned sections of your home. SERVPRO provides our customers with services that help make their property livable again, safe, and comfortable. This helps families move forward and forget about the tragedy of a fire.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City helps those in Dolton, Mount Greenwood, and Beverly with clean up services after a fire. Call us at (773) 337-3900 when you need help getting your home back in shape after such a disaster.

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When Your Bathtub Causes Significant Water Damage To Your Chicago Bathroom, Call Our Team At SERVPRO Immediately!

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

The sooner you get professionals to the scene of the damage, the better.

A Leaking Bathtub Can Cause Water Damage In Your Chicago Bathroom

Water damage can be expensive to fix, so the quicker that you get it fixed upon finding it, the more affordable the repair can be. In the case of your bathroom, a plumbing leak behind the tub has caused water damage to the floor and wall around it. The sooner you get professionals to the scene of the damage, the better.

The water damage in your Chicago bathroom can cause the tile flooring to crack and the wooden framing around the tub to swell, giving your bathroom and unsightly appearance. It is not only financially unwise to initially ignore the problem, but it can also be potentially unsafe. It takes less than seventy-two hours for microbial growth to begin once mold spores have been exposed to excess moisture. Letting the mold eat away at the structure around the tub can make it unsafe to bathe.

When you reach out to SERVPRO, we try our best to arrive at your home as swiftly as we can. We can bring advanced drying equipment to your home, designed to dry out water damage and remove the possibility of further complications arising. Our techs can shut the vents in your bathroom and enclose the space, making it even easier to dry, as we set up. SERVPRO uses equipment such as drying mats, dehumidifiers, and air movers to create an environment that is ideal for evaporation. We can also drill small holes in the wall and feed small tubes into them, allowing us to blast the area between the walls with dry air.

Once we think that your bathroom is dry, our SERVPRO techs can use moisture meters to check the levels in your bathroom as well as thermal imaging technology to check for any undried pockets of water. When we're satisfied with the moisture levels, and sure no water pockets remain unchecked, our job is finished. You can enjoy your home as it was before water damage struck.

If you find that leaking plumbing is causing water damage inside of your home, never wait to get help. Use your phone to contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City by dialing (773) 337-3900. 24/7, we're available to help you in your time of need.

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Some Mistakes When Dealing With Chicago Mold Damage That You Should Avoid

12/23/2018 (Permalink)

Finding mold in your home does not need to be a reason to move. Call SERVPRO and our team will identify the source of the infestation.

Advanced Equipment for Fast Mold Removal in Your Chicago Home

Some disasters that impact your Chicago home happen all at once and are impossible to ignore. Other situations can provide comparable damages to your property, but they do not occur dramatically. Mold and microbial growth are a good example of this potential threat and taking care of this problem immediately must be a top priority for homeowners. The effects from a mold colony can irreparably damage structural elements and pose potential health effects for the people and pets within the residence.

While many homeowners might not consider mold damage in their Chicago house to demand immediate attention, there are several considerations to make. A primary concern that a homeowner should have about mold growth is the potential health effects that could result. Exposure to colonies can be challenging to avoid, and that is where highly trained professionals like our SERVPRO applied microbial remediation technicians can help.

Our team undergoes significant training to obtain the IICRC mold remediation certification that sets the bar for quality remediation work in the industry. Additionally, our highly trained personnel can continue their educational opportunities through e-learning experiences and in-house courses designed to improve their ability to respond to disasters and preserve your home in an emergency. We strive to provide our customers with well-prepared technicians who can overcome any obstacle to restore damaged property.

This franchise offers a 24-hour response for mold mitigation. With how quickly active colonies can spread throughout a moisture-ridden environment, you need our SERVPRO technicians there quickly to isolate the colony and prevent it from spreading further. Our approach can also prevent spores from seating in new areas through the use of OSHA-approved antimicrobial solutions on potential surfaces that could support a colony.

Mold is not something that a homeowner should attempt to remove on their own, as this approach rarely removes the entire problem and can allow further damage to their home and its occupants. Give our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City applied microbial remediation technicians a call today at (773) 337-3900.

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How Our Water Damage Experts Reduce The Chance Of Secondary Problems In Your Chicago Property

11/16/2018 (Permalink)

If something ever leaks inside your Chicago brewery, the moisture that gets inside can create several different issues.

Commercial Water Damage Technicians In Chicago Talk About Secondary Problems

If something ever leaks inside your Chicago brewery, the moisture that gets inside can create several different issues. When a pipe breaks or a piece of machinery malfunctions, commercial water damage can take place very quickly. When moisture comes into direct contact with your business' building materials or contents, the problems created are considered primary issues. When moisture enters a structure, the humidity levels inside increase which can create other issues. Any commercial water damage that gets caused by vapor in the air is considered secondary.

The key to reducing the chance of secondary problems such as ruined drywall that did not initially get wet or mold contamination is to get problems mitigated immediately by a professional company like SERVPRO. Whenever we work on a commercial water damage project in Chicago, we try hard to remove moisture quickly so that no secondary issues arise. When we rapidly dry out a structure, we use dehumidifiers that lower indoor humidity levels so that building materials in places that were originally unaffected do not get wet due to vapor. We also take measures to dry out any organic substances within a 48 hour period so that microbial growth cannot take place.

Our SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified and have experience in working with a variety of types of companies. We know that any time a disaster takes place, it can be detrimental to your business' day to day operations. We also know that the restaurant and brewery industry is all about cleanliness and keeping a sanitary working environment. Our technicians realize that time and efficiency are important when completing a project at your place of business and we sometimes change the way we conduct work procedures in order to save time, money and to make sure we do not create sanitary issues inside your brewery.

If secondary issues do happen to take place as a result of the pipe break or appliance malfunction, we also have experience in mitigating those types of problems. Once secondary damage does occur, we take measures to mitigate it and prevent the issues from getting worse. If you ever experience building materials getting affected by excessive moisture, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 as soon as you notice a problem.

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How Our Specialized Equipment Can Help You Get Rid Of Odors After A Flood In Your Chicago Home

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Even if you mask these odors with Febreeze, perfume, or cologne, it can still linger around your establishment.

Fogging Equipment Mitigates Flood Causing Odors In Chicago

Weather-related problems like heavy rain, hurricane, or anything that can cause vast amounts of water to enter your residential area can lead to severe flood damage. Since flood water contains a lot of contaminants, toxins, and micro-organisms, it can leave a nasty odor after the traumatic experience. Even if you mask these odors with Febreeze, perfume, or cologne, it can still linger around your establishment. If you don’t get rid of them, the smell can only grow stronger and stronger to the point where it can reduce the value of your real estate.

There are two main instruments that you can use to get rid of the odor from flood damage in the Chicago location. The thermal fogger and the Ultra-Low Volume Fogger (ULV) are often advance equipment that experts used to get rid of the disastrous odor. However, these tools can be very pricey and often require an experienced person to utilize it correctly and to its full potential.

The SERVPRO technicians are experts when it comes to deodorization equipment. They know how to use it effectively, and they understand the mechanism behind these tools. The ULV fogger can produce a fine mist that can penetrate areas where odor-causing residues have accumulated. The SERVPRO techs can also use the equipment to inject fungicide and disinfect into inconspicuous areas that are hard to access. The thermal fogger can release a large amount of solvent product in confined areas. They can release fog products that have small solutions that can destroy odor-causing particles. With flood remediation experts, you can rest assured that your home can be odor free after experiencing flood damage.

If you're ready to get rid of odor-causing residue from the aftermath of flood damage, then feel free to give SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City a call at (773) 337-3900, and we can promptly send our flood remediation experts to your residential establishment to get started immediately.

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How Equipment Used for Home Deodorization in Chicago Can Make a Home Smell Great After a Fire

10/21/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage can affect BOTH the contents and the structure of your home. Call SERVPRO right away to assess and remediate.

Deodorizing Your Chicago Home - The Best Equipment Used By Fire Damage Restoration Experts

Did you know that in two minutes a small fire can turn into a life-threatening situation? Not taking immediate action in the next five minutes can lead to your Chicago home burning down. Making that lifesaving call to the local fire department can save you and your family. If the damage is not extensive, your home is easy to restore back to the pre-fire damage condition. Before entering your home, removal of the smoke odor is a must. Here are three deodorization equipment used by fire damage restoration technicians.

Ozone machine
Using the ozone machine by fire damage technicians in your Chicago home eliminates odors caused by mold and fire. As a portable unit, it works by generating ozone, an unstable gas composed of oxygen molecules. The gas reacts with smoke odor oxidizing the residue and removing it. Before turning on the machine, SERVPRO restoration experts ensure no pets, people or plants are present. After completion of the deodorization process, the gas reverts to normal oxygen.

Electric sprayer
SERVPRO fire damage experts also use the electric sprayer to dispense chemicals. It does this at 50 psi. During restoration, we spray the chemical directly on the surface. The electric sprayer method is applied to heavily charred structural components or carpets. When sprayed, the chemical wets the surface. This is the reason why we only use it on surfaces with little or no potential of discoloring.

Ventilation box fan
Unlike the ozone machine, the ventilation box fan generates airflow at great velocity. With a velocity range of 3,000 to 5,000 cubic feet of air per minute, the machine works by removing odor, vapors, and fumes. To ventilate and deodorize fire damages, thermal fogging is necessary. To ensure complete removal of all smoke odor and residue, the exchange of air must be done 40 times. The ventilation box fan is also useful when drying a wet structure after firefighting. To dry the structure completely, the machine introduces dry air from outdoors.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is a trusted leader in the fire damage restoration industry that homeowners have come to rely on. To get rid of smoke odor professionally, call our 24/7 emergency line at (773) 337-3900.

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The Benefits Of Hiring Our Team To Restore Your Water Damaged Property In Chicago

10/4/2018 (Permalink)

Damage to your Chicago home is not always as easy to remedy as you might initially believe.

Finding The Right Professional Help For Water Damage In Your Chicago Home

Damage to your Chicago home is not always as easy to remedy as you might initially believe. As much as you want to be the type of homeowner that can handle situations as they arise, some incidents require experience and the right equipment to overcome. Water loss incidents in your home, even on a smaller scale, require immediate attention and a crew of professionals that can remove the moisture completely.

One of the things that many Chicago homeowners do not realize about water damage is how quickly it can spread throughout the affected area. Often the worst aspects of the saturation and presence of the water penetrate into materials and the contents of the area, which make them easy to miss but potentially severely hazardous as the persistent moisture continues unchecked.

Professional restoration technicians like our SERVPRO team have experienced all facets of water restoration and have the training and techniques to overcome these effects in your house. From the immediate needs for extraction and drying in obvious areas to the spread of this damage into the flooring and walls that remains out of sight, we work to offer the most comprehensive and complete service possible.

Part of the way that our team can assure our successes when it comes to water restoration work is the industry-leading equipment that we use on the job. In incidents of water damage, our moisture and leak detection equipment can help to isolate the problem areas and reduce the need for cutting out portions of drywall unnecessarily. This approach limits the tear out but also reduces the restoration time by leaving fewer points where rebuilding has to occur.

The essential thing to remember when you get posed with water damage in your home is that you're not alone in facing these effects. Our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team of experienced professionals can respond quickly and help you to overcome the spread of the water and the damage that it has caused. Give SERVPRO a call anytime that you need us at (773) 337-3900.

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Could You be Making Mistakes When Cleaning Out Dryer Vents in Your Chicago Home

9/30/2018 (Permalink)

Regular vent cleaning can help to prevent mold from forming. Contact SERVPRO for remediation and some mold prevention tips.

Improper Dryer Venting can Cause Mold Damage Inside Your Chicago Home

Dryers with clogged vents can easily lead to fires in Chicago, and keeping these clean and free of lint build-up helps prevent such disasters. However, these same vents, as well as any ducts leading away from a bathroom, can cause other problems in a house's interior.

If the ducts and vents leading from your dryer to the outside of your residence contain any breaks or if gaps between any joints form, the chances of mold damage in Chicago drastically increase. Warm air saturated with moisture provides a suitable environment for mold to quickly grow when that water vapor leaks out through any broken ducts. SERVPRO technicians can remediate such developments with highly effective methods. These same techniques also help prevent the reappearance of microbial infestation.
 
Mold can grow almost anywhere, and while doing so, these microorganisms steadily consume porous materials. When you encounter staining and deterioration of the materials in your house, the presence of mold is often the cause. When gaps exist in your home's duct system, it can make it impossible to control the amount of humidity in your home. Sealing these openings off can force humidity levels to return to normal.
 
Our technicians then remove sections of materials damaged by mold infestation. We put these pieces into doubled bags to ensure nothing escapes to contaminate other areas of your home as we carry these bags out. Other areas that only harbor mold need cleaning to remove living mold. Because mold sends spores into the air whenever someone disturbs it, we make temporary enclosures around the area we need to remediate.
 
Thick plastic sheets close in the area while tubing and an air mover forcefully direct the area's contaminated air outside of your house. Negative air pressure like this is highly effective in protecting clean areas from spores and mold particles.
 
When smaller spaces contain mold infestations, we might opt to use dry ice pellets that gently scrub away mold particles while also freezing them and rendering them inert. Just like all other aspects of our work, we always clean up any debris or dust caused by this procedure.
 
After we complete remediation, we treat the area with antimicrobial sprays to help prevent problems with reinfestation. These sprays safely protect at-risk areas of your home and pose no threat to children or pets.
 
SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City covers the Mount Greenwood, Dolton, and South Holland areas. Mold damage from high humidity can concentrate in areas of your home that you rarely see, making heavy infestation possible. When you discover mold or notice musty odors indicative of mold growth, call us at (773) 337-3900 for effective remediation services.

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Get Rid of Water Damage in Your Commercial Property in Chicago

9/16/2018 (Permalink)

Whether water damage seeps in from the ceiling or the floor, contact SERVPRO right away for effective remediation services.

Team SERVPRO Follows a Proven Water Damage Remediation Process to Help Prevent Any Secondary Damages

Water damage and commercial properties can result in a loss of revenues and customers. These damages can be due to broken plumbing, flooding, leaky pipes, or other issues. When it comes to your business, it is essential to get remediation as soon as possible. If water damage is left untreated, it can lead to the growth of mold, mildew, and fungi. Your carpets and furniture can have a strange odor which can deter your clients and customers. The further you allow the problem to persist, the more costly it can be in the future. Luckily, there are steps that you can take when you notice the first hint of damage.
 
Whether it is a flood or some form of moisture, commercial water damage in Chicago can be a major headache. One of the first things that you want to do when you discover potential water damage is to verify the extent of the problem. A visual check might not be enough to establish the full scope of the issue. Water can soak into many materials without showing any visible signs of damage for an extended period. To accurately tell how far the water has spread, you would need a unique tool to measure the moisturizer in the building.
 
A moisture meter can help you measure the moisture content of the material to help you establish how much damage has spread and the severity of the moisture. Unfortunately, these type of high tech tools can be quite costly and difficult to use and interpret. This issue is why it is essential to contact a water restoration expert to help you with this mess. Experts such as SERVPRO can send a technician that can utilize advanced equipment to assist you in this battle.
 
The SERVPRO technician can use the mitigation process to get rid of water from the scene as quickly as possible. The extractor can clean your carpet and remove liquids from the floor. The air movers can enhance evaporation at the surface to reduce drying time. They can also use a thermal fogger to spread solvent-based products to neutralize odor-causing particles. Once the technician has completed their task, they can have a final walk-through with you to ensure that you are satisfied.
 
If you are in need of a reliable water restoration expert, definitely give SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City a call at (773) 337-3900, and we can promptly send over a technician to help you get through this disaster.

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Dealing With Fire Damage For Chicago Residents

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Most home fires are relatively small and contained quickly.

Dealing With Fire Damage

Most home fires are relatively small and contained quickly. However, in spite of a small blaze smoke can travel throughout your home causing extensive damage. When materials burn the smoke, composed mainly of carbon, can pick up toxins from that particular material and deposit them causing bad, although rarely harmful, smells to remain long after the fire has gone.

We learn about the behavior of smoke to ensure that homes dealing with the aftermath of fire damage in Chicago get the best possible service. Smoke residues from the burning of natural materials like woods or paper can usually be easily wiped away using wet cleaning methods. However, when synthetic materials burn the smoke is thicker leaving odorous deposits in places you might not see.

Smoke travels by convection, the process by which hot air rises and pushes cold air beneath it. Convection is why the predominant areas of damage in a fire are ceilings. It's also why you are taught to crawl to safety in a fire. The temperature of the fire determines how hard the smoke is pushed up against a surface and therefore how much residue it deposits onto that surface.

Since smoke always travels by convection, it makes smoke damage easy to predict. It is likely that any free upper airspace contains a thick deposit of smoke, especially in smaller cavities such as the gap between the home appliance and wall. SERVPRO technicians are trained to recognize the way smoke behaves which allows us to find smoke where you would not usually think to look.

Taking an educated approach is an essential part of what we do. SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified before working on the job. It is this training that allows us to deliver an extensive assessment and comprehensive restoration service to our communities.

Within one hour of notification of loss, we can arrange for a SERVPRO technician to contact you for service. Within 4 hours we can arrive on site and begin mitigating loss. After that, we can pre-test your contents for the extent, and type of smoke damage, before embarking on a full restoration, cleaning and deodorizing of your home and contents after fire damage.

If you need a professional to help cope with the damage left behind by a fire, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City 24 hours a day on (773) 337-3900.

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Water Mains Can Allow for Major Flood Damages to Your Chicago Residence

8/26/2018 (Permalink)

Water mains and other associated plumbing equipment can malfunction causing flooding in your home. Call SERPVRO right away to remediate.

Team SERVPRO is Always Ready to Help You Deal with Flooding in Your Home Regardless of the Cause

All throughout Chicago, substantial water mains weave through commercial and residential areas. These lines get tapped at every residence to provide drinking water. The size of the line itself gets determined by the draw of usage, and if the lines need to feed storage tanks and other offshoots at future junctions continually. The greater the diameter of the main line, the higher the pressure inside.

Many of the main lines still in service throughout the area are ductile iron. This type was the standard at one point for water lines, and until they see a string of problems happen over a brief period, they do not get changed over to the sturdier and more reliable PVC material that holds up better over time. The trouble with these materials is that they are essentially ticking time bombs waiting for the right circumstances to split or break apart, which can cause nearly immediate flooding damages to your Chicago home in a couple of ways.

Not all water meters contain backflow prevention devices to stop back-siphonage into your home when a water break occurs. Depending on your proximity to the break, an open service line demanding water can create a vacuum when a water break occurs, pulling the contents of the water line into a residence until they break this vacuum by shutting off their service line inside their house. Our SERVPRO professionals can quickly extract this water from the affected area, but not before damages ultimately occur.

Another way that this break could potentially flood your home is simply being downhill from the incident. Water continually flows at a high pressure from this break until valves on the main line get shut down, and by this point, you might already require flood damage restoration services from our experienced SERVPRO professionals.

There are no ways to adequately prepare for the possibility of a main water line break, but there are ways that you can help to limit the damage you might experience. One way is familiarizing yourself with the primary shutoff valve for your service line. If you have already experienced flood damages in your home, give our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City restoration specialists a call right away at (773) 337-3900.

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Identifying Mold Growth During Mold Damage Remediation In Chicago

7/26/2018 (Permalink)

There are over 100, 000 species of mold which exist in both the outside and indoor environments.

Identifying Mold Growth

There are over 100, 000 species of mold which exist in both the outside and indoor environments. For mold damage to occur, organic materials and moisture must be present - that is why they commonly grow on wet ceiling tiles, gypsum wallboard, carpeting, paint, wallpaper, and fabrics. Mold can also grow on dirty and moist surfaces such as ceramic tiles, fiberglass insulation, and concrete. We are going to look at some of the facts that we consider during the remediation of your Chicago property.

When our SERVPRO technicians arrive at your Chicago property to perform mold damage remediation, we perform an evaluation and determine whether the site is safe to enter. We can also set up barriers using plastic sheeting to separate clean areas from the contaminated areas. To avoid the trip, fall, and slip hazard while at the site, we might provide portable lighting.

Our SERVPRO technicians are aware that mold can cause health effects and as a result observe protective measures during the remediation process. If we are working on a structure which was renovated or built before 1970, we are aware that asbestos may be present. It is usually found in floor coverings, insulation pipes, furnaces, and siding shingles. The same applies to structures which were constructed before 1978 which may be having lead-based paint. By using N-95 particulate respirators, we can avoid such forms of exposure.

To visually identify the mold, we watch out for discoloration on walls, staining, musty odor, and leathery growth on building materials. In most cases, mold grows on hidden areas, so, we check behind the insulation, wallboard, wallpaper, carpet backing, and padding. We can also use moisture meters to measure moisture levels of materials such as wallboard, brick, plaster, carpet, and concrete. It is because mold grows typically on surfaces with moisture accumulation.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is an industry leader in mold remediation and cleanup. Call SERVPRO at (773) 337-3900 when you need professional help from our highly trained and experienced technicians.

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Chicago's Commercial Water Damage Experts Discuss Primary And Secondary Problems

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

If large amounts of moisture remain present inside organic materials microbes can form into a mold.

Commercial Water Damage

If a water leak ever takes place at your Chicago company's storage warehouse, several problems can arise. Excessive moisture inside a building can cause structural components to weaken. Elevated humidity levels can make materials outside of the affected area wet. If large amounts of moisture remain present inside organic materials microbes can form into a mold.

If water gets into your storage facility, it can ruin your building materials and supplies stored inside there. Any time our SERVPRO technicians mitigate a commercial water damage incident in Chicago, we conduct our operations in ways that minimize strain on your company's daily functions. The longer moisture stays inside a structure; the worse problems can get. As soon as we get a call that there is a problem with your business we arrive promptly and begin remediation.

Any time something happens that causes water to spill into your warehouse, primary and secondary damage can result. Primary damage occurs when contents or building materials come into direct contact with water. Secondary damage takes place when materials get damaged by water vapor. As soon as an issue related to moisture comes up, our SERVPRO team begins restoring the primary damage to minimize the amount of secondary damage that occurs.

For example, the primary damage would be the carpet in your warehouse office getting wet due to a pipe break. If the office carpet got delaminated due to saturation, it would be considered a primary problem. Any hardwood floors that are present in the storage unit can swell and buckle as a result of having direct contact with water. When water gets onto metal surfaces, rusting can occur.

An example of secondary damage is if the drywall inside your warehouse gets elevated moisture content due to high relative humidity numbers. When water vapor gets into ceiling tiles, they can crumble and fall. Water vapor can also cause wallpaper to soften and fall off the walls. Mold and mildew growth can also occur as secondary damage.

In many cases, if the primary issues are treated promptly and correctly, secondary problems do not take place. As soon as an issue with water happens, extraction and rapid structural drying can reduce the chances of secondary damage developing. If you ever need help with excessive moisture in your storage warehouse, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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Mold Damage Remediation Steps That Chicago Residents Should Know

7/10/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Setting Up a Containment Barrier During an Evergreen Mold Remediation

SERVPRO Follows Protocols and Informs Customers Concerning Mold Cleanup and Restoration

When performing mold damage remediation, the initial assessment goes typically beyond the growth that is visible on the walls or floors. Mold can grow in hidden areas, and that is where professional skills come in handy to deal with such situations. Mold spores usually grow when there is a moisture or water problem, and it is essential to identify the source of the water. The moisture source can help in locating the hidden mold in your Chicago property.
 
When our SERVPRO team arrives at your Chicago property to perform mold damage remediation, creating a remediation plan usually comes first. We do this by documenting the situation through writing, taking videos and photos. It clarifies everything about the remediation - including when the work is to start, the duration it takes, and the procedures to use. If necessary, we can advise occupants to temporarily halt their operation in the building until it is safe.
 
It is possible to contaminate clean areas by disturbing the affected areas. That is because the mold spores are very light and air can readily carry them around. Our SERVPRO technicians always ensure air is not flowing from the contaminated area to other areas. We achieve this by setting up negative air pressure at the site. We can also establish decontamination rooms where we can enter when it is necessary to decontaminate materials and equipment. Misting the contaminated regions can also help in suppressing the dust. Sealing of HVAC vents and installation of plastic sheeting to act as containment barriers is part of the effort.
 
By using a wire brush, we can scrape off surface mold and then wipe with disposable wipes. To entrap the spores, dust, and pollen, we use air scrubbers that are fitted with HEPA filters. During the cleaning process, our SERVPRO technicians remove all mold-damaged and wet porous materials and place them in plastic bags - which should be at least 6-mil thick.
 
SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City offers 24-hour emergency services to help any residential or commercial property after water, fire, mold, or storm damage event. Call us at (773) 337-3900 if you want your property to appear “Like it never even happened.”

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Saving the Contents of Your Chicago Home Amid a Flood

6/30/2018 (Permalink)

Finding your home under a few inches or even feet of water is a reason to immediately contact SERVPRO for drying out and remediation services.

Our Certified Technicians Respond Quickly to Your Flooding Emergency

As many homeowners in the Chicago area know, the weather can be a little unpredictable. While the moniker of the Windy City has stuck around for decades, homes here have to contend with a lot more than high paced breezes. With roaring storms that can roll off of the Great Lakes and cause much damage to the area, homes often find themselves contending with natural disasters like flash floods and traditional flooding scenarios with little warning.

Knowing that your house is at the mercy of rising waters can be a little unnerving, and also leave you overwhelmed at the thought of preserving what can get saved and restoring the damage once it is said and done. Flood damages to your Chicago home often come on quickly, leaving you little time to formulate a plan. The best thing you can do is to plan on what professional restoration team can help you amid the crisis to save your home and ultimately return it to its former condition.

Our SERVPRO technicians can respond quickly to the flooding and help you to seal off the vulnerable areas and assess the damage that your home faces. Items and contents within these affected areas get removed from harm's way as part of our pack-out service. This process ensures that these items do not suffer irreparable damage being left in the damaged areas for too long.

Also, this process ensures that our SERVPRO professionals have room to work. By removing the contents of your home from these affected areas, we have the space to bring in larger pieces of equipment that can make shorter work of the damage you face. Once the restoration is complete, these items get returned to their original locations.

Flooding in your home is often a difficult thing to have to witness. Fortunately, you are never asked to deal with the damage that it causes alone.

You can rely on our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team of experienced technicians to quickly clean up the mess and remove the water. Give us a call 24/7 at (773) 337-3900.

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Lightning Can Strike Your South Chicago City Property and Wreak Havoc—Call SERVPRO for Emergency Cleanup

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Strikes As Fast As Lightning for South Chicago City Cleanup and Restoration

Trust SERVPRO to Secure and Cleanup Your House after a Lightning Strike

A South Chicago City family experienced a "bolt out of the blue" during a recent thunderstorm, their home suffering significant physical and fire damage in an instant. Lightning struck right through the roof, the electrical force and subsequent fire destroying both the roof and the ceiling of an interior room, exposing the attic and the living area to the elements. Within the hour Ed Kowalski, our Business Development Manager, arrived on the scene to arrange for emergency fire and storm damage recovery. The accompanying photo depicted the damaged and exposed exterior requiring securing with tarps and boards. The hanging debris and possessions within the structure need careful removal to ensure a safer working environment for our SERVPRO crew.

Storm damage this extreme in South Chicago City might be rare, but when it happens to your family's residence swift and sure action on the part of a reliable restoration company is exactly what is needed. The tasks are many -- securing the areas blasted and burned openings, assessing the extent of the fire and water damage, developing a comprehensive remediation plan, and setting the plan in motion. We wasted no time moving on this project, proving We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.
 
Our high-qualified crews use their training and experience to complete a controlled demolition of the devastated area, followed by a thorough cleanup of all related damage. The combination of the violent, almost explosive action of the lightning, fire, and firefighting efforts challenge the SERVPRO team to bring their very best to this catastrophe. We remove water and debris, dry out the affected spaces, and employ appropriate cleaning tools, products, and techniques to clear the smoke and soot residues.
 
We reduce the potential for secondary microbial damage through treatment with EPA registered disinfectants. Lingering odors from the fire and water damage require elimination, any residual unpleasant smells preventing homeowners from putting the shocking and destructive events behind them. SERVPRO technicians choose from an array of strategies to rid a storm-damaged home from malodors. If deep cleaning and sealing of surfaces do not eradicate the smell, we employ technological advances to deodorize. Thermal fogging or oxygenation delivered via hydroxyl generators seeks out the odor-carrying particles and alters their chemical composition on a molecular level, neutralizing the stench permanently.
 
Protected, clean, sanitized, and deodorized, SERVPRO leaves your storm-damaged home ready for repairs and restoration from the general contractor of your choice. Move on with your rebuild confident that all preliminary preparations are in place courtesy of our expert disaster response team.
 
SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City shows its commitment to our promise to make it "Like it never even happened," with every job we complete. Call us any time of the day or night at (773) 337-3900 to schedule a speedy and proficient evaluation of your emergency scenario.

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Chicago's Water Damage Technicians Discuss Problems With Wet Carpet

6/18/2018 (Permalink)

To remove moisture from the subfloor sections of carpeting may be lifted to ensure complete removal of water damage.

How SERVPRO technicians dry wet carpeting after water damage

If a pipe ever breaks inside your Chicago apartment complex, water will follow gravity as it flows into your home. Whenever moisture gets into a structure, the carpet can get damaged. Carpet fibers are porous so water can soak into the material and hold moisture. If carpeting gets saturated, glues can weaken causing the backing to peel away from the fibers.

Carpet can also hold in moisture causing microbes to develop on the surface of the subfloor underneath. When mitigating water damage in Chicago, our SERVPRO technicians take extra measures to save carpeting materials. When the padding underneath the carpet gets wet, it can disintegrate and fall apart. Pad often gets removed and replaced since it is rather inexpensive to install.

The first step in removing moisture from carpet is to extract it using specialized equipment. Either a portable or truck-mounted extractor gets used to pull water into a disposal tank. If the carpet has a high level of saturation, heavy-duty weighted extraction tools get used to suck up the moisture. Weighted extraction tools use the weight of the operator that stands on top of the unit and rides it across the carpet. The weight of the operator compresses the carpet allowing more moisture to get pulled out.

After extraction is completed, drying equipment gets set up to dry out the carpet inside your apartment. Air movers push air in a circular motion speeding up the evaporation process. Dehumidifiers then get utilized to pull moisture out of the environment and lower the building's relative humidity.

In some cases, the carpet gets extremely wet and the subfloor underneath also gets affected by moisture. In situations like these, our SERVPRO technicians pull up the carpet and place an air mover underneath it to float the flooring material drying the floor covering from underneath while drying the wooden subfloor at the same time. Once moisture levels in both affected elements return to what they were before the loss occurred, the air movers get removed.

Before we finalize the project we use carpet tools to put the material back into the same condition, it was before drying procedures took place. The last step usually involves cleaning the carpeting with disinfectant solutions. If you ever need help dealing with wet floors, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 24 hours a day.

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Lingering Moisture Can Lead To Mold Damage In Your Chicago Home

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

When your home does not get adequately dried after a water incident, you open the door for mold damage in your residence.

Lingering Moisture Can Lead To Mold Damage

Many Chicago homeowners have a mindset that when something threatens their home or requires immediate cleaning/restoring attention, this is a task that they are suited to do on their own. While there are undoubtedly many scenarios where this is the case, cleaning up after a water loss incident is not one of them. Failure to completely restore the area can lead to symptoms far worse than a damp area of your home.

When your home does not get adequately dried after a water incident (regardless of its size or severity), you open the door for mold damage in your Chicago residence. Much like the cause above, mold and microbial growth are usually out of the wheelhouse of the average homeowner to contend with as well. Conventional cleaning methods are often ineffective against a growing colony and fail to remove the entire organism. Professional mold remediation, like what our certified applied microbial remediation technicians at SERVPRO provide, is a wise choice for this hazardous condition.

Our technicians can help to isolate the area where mold is growing and prevent these active spores from spreading throughout the house. To aid this isolation of the colony, your circulating air appliances like your AC or furnace get shut off during the remediation process.

When you consider the cause of the mold damage in your home, our SERVPRO technicians have to allow time towards removing the lingering effects from your water loss incident to remove the food source for the mold spores. A visual inspection can also indicate if other areas of your home are at risk for developing colonies based on present moisture.

Finding mold in your home is nothing that any homeowner wants to discover, but it also does not have to be something that you feel inclined to tackle on your own. At SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City, our certified mold remediation specialists are always ready and prepared to help you overcome any hurdle that mold growth has placed in the path to restoring your home. Give us a call anytime at (773) 337-3900.

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Return Your Property to Its Pre-loss State after Fire Damage in Chicago

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

House fires can leave a big part of your home unrecognizable. Contact SERVPRO for remediation and restoration services to get the house looking great.

Team SERVPRO Arrives With the Training and Equipment to Tackle the Damage Left by a Fire

According to the National Fire Protection Association, around 1,342,000 fires were reported in the US back in 2016, and 475,500 were structural fires. That shows how severe fire damage is and the need to have working options if you ever experience such incidents. Professionals in the industry offer critical restoration services which can help you return your Chicago home to its preloss state if you ever go through such experiences.
 
If you decide to work with SERVPRO as your restoration service provider once you experience fire damage in your Chicago property, there are certain things you should expect. The moment we arrive at your home, we first find and identify the type of residues, and this helps us to determine the most suitable cleaning process to use. Dissolving and vacuuming are the most common techniques we use to capture and remove smoke particles from the site.
 
There are certain aspects we look at before we decide on vacuuming as a technique. For instance, the residues need to be dry and loosely attached to the surfaces for the method to be efficient. When there is moisture, there is a possibility of the surfaces absorbing the particles, hence making it difficult to remove.
 
Before our SERVPRO technicians remove soils and residues that are firmly attached to the surfaces, there is a need to perform dissolving. When we dissolve them, we weaken the bond connecting the particles to the area, and that makes it possible for a cleaning product to flush away the dirt. We are careful when choosing the solvents we use since we understand that some of them can react with surfaces and lead to further damage.
 
Once we capture the residues, our SERVPRO technicians follow the local regulations and dispose of the particles. When then perform deodorization to neutralize the odors and improve the quality of air in the building. Deodorants also have antimicrobial properties that prevent the possibility of mold growth.
 
SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City offers proven mold, storm, fire and water damage restoration. Call us at (773) 337-3900 when you need services from a trusted industry leader, and we can make it “Like it never even happened.”
 
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Commercial Water Damage Equipment Used In Chicago

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

If a pipe breaks inside your Chicago flower shop, products, and building materials are at risk.

Commercial Water Damage Equipment

If a pipe breaks inside your Chicago flower shop, products, and building materials are at risk. Excessive moisture can ruin flowers inside your store and cost you much money in inventory. It is possible though if dealt with quickly that contents can be saved with cleaning and drying.

Restoring contents and materials is always cheaper than removing and replacing them. When mitigating commercial water damage issues in Chicago, measures get taken to save as many materials as possible. Extraction and drying can prevent items from being ruined if completed promptly.

Whenever our SERVPRO restoration team works with businesses, we often complete the work differently than residential projects. We know that losing out on business can get expensive for you and your insurance company. We can change our processes so that our operations do not impede your business functions and cause you to lose out on revenue.

SERVPRO works hard to keep your business functioning as usual even if it requires completing the mitigation work when the business is closed. If mitigation procedures are urgent and must be completed during business hours, then we work in small sections at a type so parts of your flower store can stay open to customer traffic. We also can change the way we complete the drying process so that it helps remove moisture from your flower products.

When removing moisture from a structure, we start by extracting as much water as we can from the building. When there are more than two inches of standing water, then a sump pump gets used to suck up the water. Submersible pumps vary in strength and capacity based on which type is used. Whenever using pumps to remove water, we export the water into a sewer drain such as a toilet.

After the deep standing water gets removed, we use specialized extraction equipment to pull moisture out of the carpet, upholstery, and other materials. An extraction system consists of a vacuum pump, hoses, storage tanks and extraction tools. Extraction tools vary in size according to what type of materials are saturated.

Light extraction wands get used for delicate materials, whereas heavy-duty extractors get implemented to pull excess moisture out of thick carpet. If your business needs assistance with unwanted moisture, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 24 hours a day.

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You can breathe easier when you call SERVPRO after fire damage

4/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO removes odors that remain after a fire

SERVPRO is the only one to call after a fire

Your Chicago home never gets repaired for some of the disasters that it might get asked to face in its life. An occurrence like fire, even one that does not leave widespread damages, could prove difficult to live with over even a short time. Lingering effects like foul odors and soot or smoke damage might not impede your ability to remain in your home after a blaze, but it can make comfortable living impossible.

Foul odors are one of the most typical complaints that our SERVPRO professionals hear about in Chicago homes that have recently been affected by fire damages. These odors that hang around after a fire can get attributed to the charring of various contents in your house as well as the extinguishing efforts used to quell the flames. Whatever the primary cause of the scent, it is difficult to move on from the traumatic occurrence with this annoying reminder every time you get near the affected areas.

Our SERVPRO technicians arrive at your home and immediately get to work on assessing the scope of the damage that your home faces, and drawing up a list of the necessary restoration processes that have to happen to bring your home back to pre loss condition. During this inspection, areas affected by a noxious odor get noted, and a plan gets devised to remedy this concern.

Cleaning the area from the soot and fire damages can help to limit these lingering scents, but they are often stubborn and challenging to get rid of by traditional means. Our team uses thermal foggers with a stable chemical compound that reacts with the molecules of the foul scent and neutralizes them on contact. This process is suitable for open areas as well as concentrated deodorizing on specific materials and contents within the affected areas.

Working to bring your home back from fire damages can be a challenge if you try it all on your own. Trust our SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City team of restoration specialists to help you restore your home back to the way it was while also helping to streamline this process with your respective insurance provider. Give us a call anytime you need us at (773) 337-3900.

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Commercial Water Removal is the First Step in Restoring Flooded-Out Chicago Bowling Lanes

4/11/2018 (Permalink)

Chicago Bowling Alleys and Business Call SERVPRO When Water Leaks Strike

SERVPRO Spares No Efforts in Water Damage Restoration

Chicago residents love entertainment and keeping fit, making a bowling alley a perfect spot for many to enjoy their free time while socializing with friends. Mishaps with sprinkler systems or exterior weather can cause water to enter and threaten the finish on your otherwise perfect bowling lanes.
 
Chicago entertainment owners can rely on SERVPRO to act quickly with water removal equipment in such circumstances. Our pump trucks can remove gallons of water fast and efficiently so we can begin drying out the rest of your facility. Our Injectidry equipment can dry out floors, walls, and ceilings, wherever a problem exists. We can also feed the tubing into the tracks where balls return during a game of bowling.
 
The hardwood sections making up the lanes need specialized drying to prevent damage from happening. Replacing these can force substantial financial hardship on even the most popular bowling alleys. Restoring them instead can keep financial expenses manageable. At SERVPRO, we also know that the paperwork involved in such situations can help make insurance claims proceed more smoothly, so we can work with both you and your insurance adjuster.
 
When such events happen in a large facility, restoring normal levels of humidity throughout the building often plays a significant role in the overall outcome. We use desiccant machines and dehumidifiers along with air movers and heaters to dry everything out, from the floor to the ceiling, and everything in between.
 
Sprinkler problems saturate carpeting with clean water, making them cleanable, but flooding from rivers or streams nearby leaves them filthy and in need of replacements. We remove such carpeting before we begin drying out the building, as doing so also removes substantial amounts of water while allowing us to direct our efforts to the underlying floor.
 
SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City can help your bowling alley stay in business with minimal downtime with our expert water removal professionals. Call us at (773) 337-3900, so we can begin helping you get things back to normal once again.

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Fast Reactions Can Save Your Chicago Home From Substantial Water Damages

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

Don't Let Your Belongings in Chicago Hang Around from Water Damage--Call SERVPRO for Cleanup and Restoration

SERVPRO Can Provide Rapid Water Extraction to Mitigates Damages to Your Chicago Area Property

Owning your own home can be a bit of a headache at times. While you work hard to keep up with the ever-growing list of needs that your Chicago house requires to function as it should and to ultimately save you money, several potential problems can arise out of nowhere to make things significantly more difficult to manage. One of these would be an unexpected water emergency.  
 
The problem with water damage in your Chicago home is that you might not always be fully aware of where the issue is originating. While you hunt for the source of the problem that is allowing water to impact the floors, walls, ceilings and other surfaces of your home, the damage is only getting worse. Your best solution, once you have the water shut off to the house (preventing it from continuing to flow unabated through the affected areas) is to contact professional restoration services to help you clean up and restore the damage that occurred.  
 
From the moment that our SERVPRO team arrives at your home, we begin the assessment process to not only determine the full extent of the damage that you face but also to determine the source of this problem. Understanding what went wrong is a step towards repairing the issue for the future and potentially diagnosing a larger problem that could exist and allow the water emergency to happen again in a different area of your home.  
 
With substantial water damage, materials used in the construction of your home are often affected the worst by the pooling liquid. Often drywall, ceilings, and flooring materials take the brunt of the effects. While our professionals work to restore the damage to these areas as best as possible with drying mats and other equipment, there are several instances in which the only real solution is to remove the highly damaged flooring or walls to prepare them for remodeling or reconstruction efforts.  
 
Water damage in your home does not have to be overwhelming to face. You can trust in the professionals we have at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City to help you clean up the mess and to get your home back to the way it used to be. Give us a call today at (773) 337-3900.

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Mold Damage Treatment and Prevention in Chicago Homes

3/15/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can appear in plain sight or you can smell the musty presence of mold behind cabinets and walls. In either case, contact SERVPRO to investigate.

Team SERVPRO Understands Mold and Mold Remediation in Homes

Mold and mildew develop quickly and can become a nuisance to many homeowners. Since they thrive in humid conditions, they are often widespread during the cold and rainy seasons. While they are welcomed in nature for various benefits, they may cause health effects in the house.
 
If you notice signs of mold damage in your Chicago home, contact SERVPRO immediately. We are a trusted company in the restoration industry and can return your property to pre-damage conditions quickly and efficiently. Our experts are highly trained and certified by the IICRC to ensure a swift and seamless cleanup process.
 
One way to reduce the impact of mold damage is fixing plumbing problems and other water leaks as soon as possible. Indeed, it takes less than 48 hours for mold growth to take effect. It is important to keep all items completely dry, as moisture is one of the requirements for mold and mildew to thrive.
 
SERVPRO mold remediation experts may have to discard certain porous or absorbent materials such as carpet and ceiling tiles, if they become moldy. When this fungi grows on or fills in the crevices of porous materials, it can be difficult to remove completely. For protection purposes, technicians working on treating mold damage should wear personal protective gear in every cleanup job.
 
A general rule of thumb is to avoid painting or caulking surfaces with mold damage. SERVPRO technicians use effective mold removal techniques to eliminate the mold and dry the surfaces before painting. Our staff can also help you determine whether it is better to replace or repair mold-damaged items such as art portraits, furniture, and carpeting.
 
Mold usually feeds on water and cellulose and can be difficult to spot. We use advanced tools to detect the spores and hidden water sources. To contain their growth, we use different procedures to seal off their habitats and can even isolate the contaminated area with negative air pressure and physical barriers during the cleanup process. It is equally important to turn off all fans and a/c units to prevent the spread of these microorganisms.

Mold growth can have an impact on you and your family, if left untreated. As a part of your community, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City offers 24/7 mold damage remediation services and can be on the site within a few hours. Call us anytime at (773) 337-3900.

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Understanding the Equipment That Professionals Use to Restore Water Damage to Your Chicago Home

3/5/2018 (Permalink)

Protect Your Chicago Property from Water Damage by Calling SERVPRO

SERVPRO Provides Top-Notch Gear and Cleaning Products for Cleanup and Restoration After Water Intrusion or Leaks

Water damage restoration can be frustrating and time consuming for a homeowner. Whether the damage is caused by a blocked drain, a busted pipe or any other reason, you often need professional help to tackle it.

When the restoration experts arrive at your water damaged home in Chicago, they can bring quite a few pieces of equipment to get the situation under control as soon as possible. SERVPRO professionals can use this equipment for a range of reasons including removing the stagnant water to eliminating the residual moisture. Let us take a closer look at some of this equipment and what role they play during the restoration process.

Moisture sensing  
Equipment such as Moisture sensors, Moisture meters, and Thermohygrometers are used to detect the level of moisture in your home after a water damage incidence. These devices are crucial for a restoration expert to devise a strategy to get your home in pre-damage conditions in no time. While moisture meters calculate accurate moisture readings, the thermohygrometers can help the SERVPRO experts to determine valuable parameters such as relative humidity, dew point, and vapor pressure.

Extraction  
The equipment in this category is used to extract or remove water from the premises. Extractors are used to eliminate standing water from your property after a water damage incidence. There are different types of extractors depending on the amount of water they can remove. Some are handheld while other are truck mounted as well.

The residual moisture remaining after the stagnant water is removed can be removed using dehumidifiers and air movers. The dehumidifiers can extract water vapor from the air and condense it into liquid water. It speeds up the drying process. The dehumidifiers can be either refrigerant or desiccant. While the earlier ones work on the same principle as an air conditioner, the later use special (silicone) chemicals called desiccants. The chemicals absorb the moisture from the air and absorb it.

Deodorization  
After the standing water and residual moisture has been eliminated, the next step is to deodorize your home. It can be done using the deodorizing equipment. Some of the most commonly used equipment to eliminate odors include thermal foggers and Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) foggers. They are used to distribute chemicals to combat the odor producing molecules in the air.

Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City today at (773) 337-3900 to discuss your restoration needs.

This great city has plenty of neighborhoods.

Responding To Fire Damage Throughout The Chicago Area

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can provide you with all of the personnel, equipment, and resources needed to restore your home to a quality pre-fire damage condition.

Responding To Fire Damage

Should a fire disaster occur in your Chicago area home, it is important to remember that time plays a significant role in restoring your property to a quality pre-fire damage condition. You must act fast and make decisions that help control the level of damage you experience.

You want access to a company that offers 24-hour emergency response services addressing fire damage throughout the Chicago area. A trusted company that has employees with the experience and training to address damages to furniture and other household belongings to help you get things back to normal, fast.

There are plenty of calls to make after a fire occurs on your property, first to 911 for emergency assistance with dousing the flames, then to your insurance company to obtain the financial help you need to begin your home’s restoration. SERVPRO can provide you with all of the personnel, equipment, and resources needed to restore your damaged home to a quality pre-fire damage condition.

However, making the appropriate preparations can drastically reduce any losses you experience. Install safety devices and educate the entire family regarding a general escape plan, fire extinguisher locations, and what everyone’s immediate reaction to emergency situations should be. Nothing beats being proactive in your fight against fire damage on your property.

It helps to have a pre-existing relationship with your local SERVPRO. We can inspect your property for problems that already exist and help you determine which steps to take to deal with the situation you are currently facing. You gain the opportunity to share valuable information about your property while receiving the assistance you need to get ahead of situations that may spin out of control.

SERVPRO technicians are IICRC-industry certified and put an advanced cleaning, deodorization, and restoration technique to work for you. We tackle fire damage found on your property as quickly and efficiently as possible and work with your insurance company to make the entire process as stress-free as possible.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City provides fire damage solutions for Calumet City, Dolton, and Morgan Park, along with several other local communities that we call home (773) 337-3900.

Visit https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en.html for more about Chicago.

Fire Damage Cleaning and Restoration Tips to Help Protect Your Chicago Area Home

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Overloading electrical outlets can often lead to electrical fires in your home.

Contacting SERVPRO Can Help Protect Your Home from Fire Damage

You can avoid fire damage in your Chicago area home by following a few fire prevention tips that most professionals highly recommend. Practicing proper fire safety etiquette and having a pre-existing relationship with your local restoration company can reduce your losses and recovery time drastically. 

Your actions and the choices you make have a direct impact on how susceptive your Chicago area home is to fire damage. Learning what to do or not to do during certain situations helps keep your family safe and prevents severe damage to the property that you call home.

SERVPRO technicians can help provide you with the answers you need to protect you and your family during emergency situations that might occur. You may even find us hosting fire safety events to help inform residents and property owners alike to the risks fire poses to your community. 

Consider implementing some simple, yet significant, precautionary measures that help prevent fires in your home. Never leave stoves unattended and always keep your countertops free of flammable cooking products, objects, or supplies. Remain as safe as possible, maintaining a clean, sanitary, and disaster-free cooking environment in your home.

Ask a qualified professional, like those offered at SERVPRO, how to handle or store propane, coal, or accelerants used for grilling correctly. Getting advice specific to your situation can help you avoid injury, death, or extensive damage that can cause your family to lose more than their home.

Help avoid overloading electrical outlets that often lead to electrical fires in your home. Portable AC units, heaters, fans, and dehumidifiers can cause significant problems if misused. Also, remember to check each electronic device for frayed cords or cracked plugs to avoid additional problems.

SERVPRO can help homeowners located existing hazards, learn how to store boxes and cherished items correctly while also maintaining a fire-safe home. You should make an emergency plan that helps each member of your family remain safe, install the proper smoke detectors and fire extinguishing equipment and help everyone get used to implementing fire prevention tips in your home.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City serves the entire Dolton, Beverly, Morgan Park area, providing fire damage cleaning and restoration services throughout the area, call today. (773) 337-3900

For more information on fire prevention in the city of Chicago, click here.

Exposed Indoor Plumbing Can Create Water Damage To Your Chicago Home

2/13/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Tip for Chicago Winters--Protect Against Frozen Pipes Causing Water Damage

Busted Frozen Pipes, Damage from Ice and Water, and Help from SERVPRO

Chicago winters often get extremely cold. With lake effect weather pouring into the city and surrounding areas, most people find themselves ill-prepared for temperature drops. With a network of indoor plumbing spanning to the farthest reaches of your house, any pipe exposed to the elements can be a potential problem. 

Most of the indoor plumbing that people have in their homes get comprised of either lead or copper. While these were durable and sound materials to use, they are also incredible conductors for extremely low temperatures, making it very easy for the water inside of these pipes to freeze, expand, and ultimately rupture. Even with newer construction using plastic materials, prolonged exposure to these elements could cause the same rupturing, resulting in water damage to your Chicago home.  
 
The unfortunate aspect of this reality is that most people are not fully aware of what plumbing is susceptible to these harsh conditions and what is not. While you can have your home inspected and tested, most do not consider this possibility until after they have already experienced a water emergency. In these cases, you need to act quickly to prevent the damage from continually compounding and worsening, and our SERVPRO team can help you.  
 
Our priority is limiting the exposure of your home to this water damage by stopping the flow to the pipe that has burst. Repairs are a part of the restoration process, but even this is difficult to achieve if the feed to the damaged line does not get stopped. Once the source of the water emergency has gotten quelled, our SERVPRO technicians can begin assessing structural damages while extracting water and drying the affected area. To be clear, we are not a plumbing company, though we can stop a minor leak or isolate a busted pipe, large projects are not within our scope of service.
 
Our extraction process uses several pieces of equipment depending on the severity of the water damages. Most incidents can get resolved using a combination of wet vacuums and portable pumps, but more substantial volumes could require the use of a pump truck from our fleet. Drying is also a combination of equipment, typically air movers, some heated, and dehumidifiers. The completed restoration process involves necessary repairs to the plumbing and affected materials (like drywall).
 
Water damage to your home might seem overwhelming at first, but if you reach out to SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City, you can entrust it to the hands of our experienced professionals. You can contact our emergency response team 24/7 at (773) 337-3900.

Visit Evergreen Park by clicking here.

Professionals Address Mold Damage in Chicago Area Homes

2/1/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses containment and control methods to keep the mold from spreading while checking your crawlspace or basement for damage.

Rely on the Professionals at SERVPRO to Remediate Mold Damage

Having mold in the crawl space under your Chicago area home usually means you are dealing with two problems at once: the mold itself, and the source – which means that you have a moisture issue to deal with as well. Both problems need to be taken care of as soon as possible to avoid causing considerable damage to your home.

Like many homeowners throughout Chicago, you probably avoid checking for mold damage or spending much time in your crawl space at all. We all do it, so you should not feel ashamed, even as someone in the remediation industry, it can be hard to keep a close eye out for mold in our own homes.

If you find mold on your property, the first thing you should do is determine whether or not to call in a professional. Areas over 10 square feet or larger are considered a significant outbreak and are likely too much for you to handle alone. SERVPRO has trained professionals, the right equipment, and protective clothing. So, consider avoiding taking chances with spreading the problem further or personal exposure and call for help to eliminate the problem.

Most homes have a crawl space or basement underneath, basements themselves often lead to mold problems all of their own, but have more space to work with while crawl spaces are smaller and harder to manage without the proper experience, tools, and resources. However, SERVPRO’s IICRC certified technicians can help you locate any problems that already exist and help you decide which steps can help you protect your property from mold issues in the future. 

SERVPRO can check every inch of your crawl space for mold while using containment and control methods to help avoid spreading mold spores to additional areas of your home. We have foggers, negative air-flow machines, air-movers, and use a controlled environment to cordon-off the affected areas; cleaning or disposing of contaminated materials according to local, state, and federal guidelines.

Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City for additional information about available services or to begin your home’s mold remediation process, today. (773) 337-3900

Click here for more information regarding the city of Chicago.

How Do Professionals Get Rid of The Odor After Commercial Water Damage to Your Chicago Restaurant?

1/28/2018 (Permalink)

After Water Damage, Call SERVPRO to Keep Your Chicago Area Restaurant Fresh Smelling and Open

SERVPRO Supports Water Removal and Odor Control in Many Types of Retail Trades

Water damage to your restaurant is the last thing you want to deal with, but the truth is, it is almost inevitable. Many of the vast numbers of Chicago eateries suffer this problem. Whether it is a busted pipe, a clogged drain or a broken dishwasher, water damage can cripple your business if not promptly handled.

One of the worst outcomes after water damage to your Chicago restaurant is having to deal with the odor. If the smells are not eliminated, they can drive your customers right out of your restaurant. Thankfully, professional water damage restoration technicians can help you eliminate your odor problems in no time. SERVPRO technicians use various deodorizing techniques to eliminate the damp and musky odor that is characteristically present after a water damage incidence.

Here are some of the procedures that professionals can use while combating the odor after water damage.

Carpeting
Carpets are notorious for holding on to the moisture and being difficult to dry. They can quickly develop an odor that can linger on for a long time in your establishment. SERVPRO technicians can get rid of carpet odors by applying EPA-registered disinfectant after the water extraction. The area can then be fogged using either an Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) fogger or a Thermal fogger to reconstitute the chemical makeup of the odor. Small hand sprayers can also mask unwanted scents until the more robust treatments kick-in.

Upholstery
If water damages the upholstery, it can develop an odor as well. Our technicians use a multi-step cleaning and deodorizing process to eliminate such odors. Once the upholstery is cleaned and the residual moisture is eliminated, the technicians can spray a deodorizing agent to mask any remaining odor. SERVPRO technicians are well-versed in cleaning and sanitizing booths and soft fabric covered chairs.

Hard surface floors  
Technicians deodorize these surfaces by applying deodorizing agent during and after the mopping process. Hydroxyl generators can change the chemical makeup of odor molecules that may once again settle on these surfaces.

Walls and ceilings  
If the water damages walls and ceilings, the first thing that SERVPRO professionals can do is to eliminate any residual moisture from these structures. Once the surfaces are dry, ULV and thermal foggers can be used to eliminate any significant odors. If ceiling tiles made of porous materials are water-logged, they are discarded, and the above void is dried with dehumidifiers that also mitigate and prevent moisture from causing new odors.

Our IICRC certified professionals have the necessary experience and expertise to get rid of that odor after water damage. Call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/ South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 today to discuss your restoration needs.

Information about Evergreen Park Area of Chicago by clicking here.

Preparing For Floods Can Help Minimize Flood Damage to Chicago Homes

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

Floods can damage your home, but our SERVPRO team can help restore it.

Prepare Your Chicago Home For Flood Disasters 

The aftermath of Hurricane Irma in 2017 was a painful reminder of the fury of Mother Nature and the consequence of playing ignorant in the wake of such a disaster. Chicago, which got its fair share of the calamity, is naturally chilly and prone to torrential downpours, as you are probably aware, but the resultant water damage led to thousands of dollars of losses. Of course, you may not always be in control of such a situation, so it is important to plan ahead. This means having a flood damage restoration company at speed dial to deal with the outcome of the disaster.

At SERVPRO, we have a team of highly skilled, highly motivated flood damage restoration experts for dealing with flood disasters in Chicago. Our tools and techniques are in line with IICRC guidelines to ensure a seamless restoration process. Every action we take is designed to restore your property to pre-damage condition, “Like it never even happened.”
Controlling flood damage from natural disasters begins by understanding the risk of flooding in your area.

According to NOAA (The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), the four different flood alerts are flood advisory, flood watch, flood warning, and flash flood warning. Any warning means that you should respond at once.

Flood damage can include blocked roads, power outages, polluted water, and debris. Extreme conditions may hinder SERVPRO technicians from accessing the site and initiating the water removal and cleanup process. A general rule of thumb is to always have sufficient food and water in the house to feed your family and animals for at least three days.

SERVPRO has an efficient response system for controlling flood damage. Once we arrive, our water damage restoration experts proceed to restrain any hazards in the area and then remove the excess water using truck mounted or portable extractors. During the water removal process, we apply a moisture meter to find out how far water has traveled within the walls, ceilings, floors, and carpets.

Before drying, our experts check the flooring and carpets to determine the extent of flood damage. If these have not sustained severe damage, we treat them with an appropriate deodorizer and then position air movers to dry the wet surfaces. Every job ends by cleaning all debris from the structure.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

If your home, unfortunately, sustains flood damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City to restore your property. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, thanks to our strategic position that allows us to respond quickly to local emergencies. For any assistance, call us today at (773) 337-3900

For more on Chicago, click here. 

New Years Resolutions To Avert Fire Damage In Chicago

1/3/2018 (Permalink)

Open flames of all sizes can directly lead to significant fire damage in your Chicago home.

Fire Damage

New Years' resolutions are a staple of many Americans' holiday seasons when decisions are made to fundamentally change the lives of those making them for the better. While we often struggle to maintain and meet up to our expectations, these resolutions can be very beneficial and impactful if heeded at all. In the interest of your home and family, we recommend adding in a few changes to reduce your risk of incurring fire damage in Chicago. Make these alterations to your lifestyle and home, and you should not need the help of SERVPRO for a long time.

Being Careful With Flame
Open flames of all sizes can directly lead to significant fire damage in your Chicago home. From candles to stovetops to hearths, anything in your home that produces an open flame could represent an enormous fire hazard. In general, we recommend keeping the use of these devices to a minimum, but instead of giving up your habits entirely, consider making them more safe and well-contained. Make sure the fireplace has a suitable barrier, preferably of glass, that prevents stray flames and embers from reaching out. Never let candles and kitchen appliances run without your presence in the room. Little changes like these can make a big difference in the future.

Cleaning Up Around The Home
Keeping your home neat and clean not only makes it look better and more livable but also reduces your risk of fire damage. Many fires start because of excess dirt and clutter in a home, and can easily be averted with a reduction to these factors. Keep the home clean for added safety in 2018.

Perform Monthly Maintenance
Conducting monthly maintenance checks and runs could be the key to keeping your home safe and free from the effects of fire and other damage. Every month or two, inspect essential safety devices such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and any relevant escape routes to make sure they are ready and able to react to disaster. Just thirty minutes per year could avert a disaster that might otherwise cost thousands to clean up.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is a local expert in fire damage mitigation and restoration. When things go wrong, call us at (773) 337-3900.

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Chicago and Water Damage, We Have Options To Restore Your Home

11/6/2017 (Permalink)

Leaks Lead to Major Restorations if not Attended to in Chicago Properties

Leaks and Drips Can Mean Extensive Damage without Professional Water Removal and Cleanup Services

Have you ever keenly looked at your home in Chicago recently? There is a possibility you notice water damage indications and effects all over. Most of these leaks are not noticeable at a single glance, while sometimes it might be quite clear; like leakage from your ceiling or beneath your floors.

There are several water damage scenarios in Chicago. With a lot of research and experience, SERVPRO can point out to you all the main situations that we have dealt with in the past. These include; leaking appliances and plumbing, overflowing sinks and toilets, flooded basements, lake driven thunderstorms and sewage back up. There are so many scenarios from what you may consider being insignificant to substantial issues. However, we are here to tell you there is nothing like slight water damage. It may start with a small drip or leak, and you find yourself involved with major home renovations that you had not planned.

When it comes to water damage, you not only need to repair but also ensure you take measures to it completely. It is also advantageous to have a professional assessment of the losses. To explicitly deal with a water damage problem there is need to use advanced equipment and techniques. We detect moisture and removes water very fast, giving your home more time to dry after we set up our drying equipment.

You can see that water damage is a very critical issue that you need to deal with adequately. You need a professional service, and SERVPRO should be your first choice. There are so many services that we offer including carpet drying, property restoration, sewage cleanup and water removal.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City is your ideal solution to any water damage scenario. No matter the size of damage in your home, you should always turn to us. We are here to help you reclaim your home and live with peace of mind. Call us at (773) 337-3900 and get professional services at an affordable price.

Information on this area, click here.

Drying Cabinetry Out In Your Chicago Assisted Living Home After Flooding

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

Drying time is affected by the construction of the cabinets.

Drying Water Damaged Cabinetry

Disaster can occur anyplace, anytime. Temperature changes can cause the water pipes to break or the fire-sprinkler line to leak in your assisted living home in Chicago. When this happens, you can experience significant flooding inside your property, even if the water only runs for a few minutes. You need expert help to get the place up and running as usual again, and to keep it safe for all your staff and residents.

You need someone who acts fast to come to the rescue after you experience commercial water damage in your Chicago property. SERVPRO are the ones to contact, as we are trained, experienced, and do not hesitate in getting to you in your time of need. Plus, you can even call us in the middle of the night if that is when the disaster strikes.

Depending on where the water damage is, you could be facing several affected surfaces, including cabinetry. Drying walls and floors behind or under cabinetry can be tricky. It can take more time because of the multiple layers of drywall and cabinet back.

Drying time is affected by the construction of the cabinets. If it does not have a back, SERVPRO techs can drill holes in the wall to let air circulate in the wall cavity. Once the all is dry, we patch or cover the holes. If there is a back on the cabinet, drying times are extended from the multiple layers which need drying. In these cases, holes can be drilled as well, and we then patch with a material that is similar to the cabinet back. We follow all regulations and laws and go over everything with you as the owner before doing anything.

If the walls were exposed to moisture for an extended amount of time, it is possible that the sheetrock is loosening. In this case, we consider drilling holes in the top of the wall, which allows for higher airflow in the cavity of the wall. If it is an exterior wall, fiberglass insulation could also be saved with this technique.

We can remove the toe kick, or under part of the cabinet as well to give more airflow under the cabinet. We treat the area with an appropriate biocide and use a vent system to force dry air into the cavity. Once drying is complete, we replace the base.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City can help you in your time of need so you can have a safe environment again in your business. Contact us right away at (773) 337-3900 to prevent more damage in your commercial building in the areas of Mount Greenwood, Chicago, or Evergreen Park.

Visit https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en.html for more about Chicago.

Get Professional Mold Damage Remediation in Chicago

10/9/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can be visible or hidden behind furniture. Rather than tackling the damage with a home remedy, contact SERVPRO and prevent a full infestation.

SERVPRO Technicians Have Vast Experience Dealing With a Mold Infestation

Individuals often try one or more times to remove mold from their homes on their own. The reasons for this vary, but the result is usually the same -- the mold keeps coming back. Understanding how mold becomes active and grows is important in understanding why it is a smart move to engage a professional mold abatement company.
 
You may despair because there are a few places in your home where mold damage in Chicago just seems impossible to remove. Hours of research and trips to the store to try new solutions fail. If mold growth in your house is a constant problem, the answer is hiring an experienced and reputable restoration company that puts a premium on training its technicians to respond successfully to a wide range of household crises, including mold growth.
 
SERVPRO is such a company. We believe the only way to meet our customers’ needs is to anticipate that often an issue that damages a home is probably linked to another problem that needs to be managed as well. In order to restore your home for the long term, our work crews are educated thoroughly as to both effective solutions and the many causes of a broad range of situations that damage both structure and contents of your home.
 
Mold damage occurs only when water intrudes and mixes with mold spores. The spores are found everywhere inside your home and also outside, ready to hitch a ride on your clothing, shoes, pets, and the wind blowing through your open door. It is unreasonably hard to eliminate mold spores in a typical home, business, school, or other spaces. What can be eradicated is the water, including the moisture you unknowingly infuse into the mold area when you use common DIY approaches.
 
Diluted bleach is probably the most frequently used home remedy, but it introduces more water into an area where mold spores wait for their next meal. SERVPRO breaks that cycle of incomplete mold treatment with strategies learned from IICRC approved courses.
 
When SERVPRO evaluates a mold damage job, there are two separate components to the job. We contain and remove the mold per EPA recommendations, sanitizing the areas to slow or halt future growth. Then we take the steps necessary to isolate the source of water that fueled the infestation. Until this part of mold remediation completes, mold will return.
 
Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 for a mold damage solution that has long-term stability. Dealing with microbial outbreaks is best left to professionals with the training and equipment that is more than a match for mold.

For more information regarding Chicago, click here

Repairing And Restoring A Chicago Home From The Effects Of Flood Damage

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

Repairing and restoring your home from the effects of flood damage can be an expensive process.

The Effects Of Flood Damage

Storms are a common occurrence in our city. Not so common is the flooding that happens afterward, but it has been more of a problem in the last few years.

Repairing and restoring a Chicago home from the effects of flood damage can be an expensive process. SERVPRO works not just to fix your home now, but to prevent more damage in the future.

The best repair and restoration work we can do is before a flood happens. Much of the damage we find related to storm flooding comes from damaged or improperly installed drainage systems. A small gap between two gutter sections or a misdirected drain pipe can allow hundreds of gallons of water to flow down an outside wall. It can cause damage to the inside and outside of a home from the foundation to the attic.

Our technicians are trained to replace or fix most gutters, but we help you check if yours might still be under warranty before we get started. Drain pipes are easier to fix; in most cases, the pipe simply pulled away from the wall. It takes just an hour or two for us to check and either tighten or replace the restraining straps and bolts that hold the drains in place around your home. It takes another hour or two to make certain the reattached pipes drain away from your home and into the nearest storm drain.

Foundations are a source of leaks and seepage that can affect an entire home. Small leaks can put water into a basement which means not just water damage, but mold as well. To stop more flood water from coming into your home, we recommend waterproofing. To do this, our technicians dig out and expose the foundation walls. After we clean them, we apply a commercial-grade, liquid rubber sealant to all concrete and cement surfaces. This procedure stops water completely unless it rises high enough.

The weather looks good for the next few days, but the rain is coming back next week. If you prepare ahead of the next flood or may have damage left from the last storm, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900.

For more information about the city of Chicago visit https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en.html.

Mold Damage Remediation Services in Chicago

9/6/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can remediate mold damage in your home and prevent the problem from occurring again.

Mold is the result of excess moisture or water leaks in your home

Mold is a stealthy and often hidden problem that may cause property damage and health effects in your Chicago home, in addition to being unsightly. It is a naturally occurring microorganism that builds up in damp areas over time. The best way to protect your home from the effects of mold and mildew is to consult a professional mold remediation company.

With many years of experience, SERVPRO has the tools and expertise to fight any mold damage in Chicago homes. We have IICRC-approved technicians who can diagnose the damage and offer advanced cleanup services to get rid of the problem for the long term. Our professional deodorization techniques neutralize mold odors for a cleaner and more habitable environment.

When dealing with mold damage, you should understand that mold is just a symptom of the problem. The actual problem is water intrusion from any of a wide range of sources. It can be in the form of water vapor (such as excessive humidity in the attic or a poorly ventilated crawl space or bathroom) or liquid water (like a pipe or roof leakage). Removing the mold without fixing the cause is just a waste of time and money, and the fungi are bound to grow back.

At particularly high risk for mold growth are carpets that have been wet for a prolonged period, carpet in damp or moist areas, and carpeting located in basements. Visible mold growth on carpets is rare and occurs in extremely severe cases. If it can be identified by visual inspection, it is often irredeemable. Where there are small areas of mold growth on the carpet, SERVPRO technicians can apply antimicrobial products in addition to fast drying for quick remediation.

Wood is also highly prone to mold damage because it contains cellulose - a common food for the fungi. In fact, most building materials today are made of cellulose, including drywall and house insulation. When these materials get wet, they tend to promote mold growth. To counter the damage, we remove contaminated materials and then apply EPA-registered disinfectants and fast drying.

If mold has taken over your home, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City can offer swift and efficient mold damage remediation services. We aim to restore your property with professionalism, compassion, and respect. Call us anytime at (773) 337-3900.

Visit https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en.html to learn more about the city of Chicago.

Preventing Foundation Water Damage to Your Chicago Home

8/9/2017 (Permalink)

Keeping gutters and downspouts clear of debris can help prevent water damage to your foundation.

Take Steps to Prevent Foundation Water Damage

The number one culprit which weakens the foundation of your home and the core which holds your house together is water damage. We have all heard about core strength for our bodies. Water damage hits the core strength of your home, creating serious structural damage. Damp wood invites carpenter ants and termites, plus causes mildew and mold. Preventing water damage is the key to protecting your home, and you can do so with three simple strategies.

Ensuring you have good drainage is the first step to preventing water damage to your Chicago home. Poor drainage causes cracks in your foundation, pathways for water to enter your home, and uneven settling. Cleaning your gutters on a regular basis and ensuring that your downspouts are directing water five to ten feet away from your home are needed steps. Making sure your yard slopes at least six inches over a ten-foot span away from your foundation is also something to make sure of.

Sump pumps should also be tested regularly. Check yours at least once per year and perform more checks during heavy storm seasons.

When water has seeped into your foundation, allowing water to enter your home, SERVPRO is the water damage remediation company to call. Our equipped technicians have the experience and expertise needed to quickly and efficiently dry your home back out.

Checking for water leaks and getting them fixed is also essential. Persistent leaks lead to mildew and mold, termites and carpenter ants, and rot. Look for dark spots inside sink cabinets, under pipes, toilets which rock, stains on ceilings, and drips. Get your roof inspected once per year and have any loose, missing, or damaged shingles repaired. Repair any caulking which is cracked and look for leaks around flashing.

Our SERVPRO technicians inspect any water damage to your foundation, draw up a plan for remediation, take you through it, and get your home back to its prior condition in a timely fashion.

Just give SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City a call as soon as you realize you have a water leak in your foundation. Reach us easily at all times by dialing (773) 337-3900, so do not delay when you find the problem.

For more information on the city of Chicago, click here.

What Types Of Mold Damage Can Occur In Your Chicago Home?

7/27/2017 (Permalink)

There are several types of fungus which can cause mold damage to your Chicago home.

Types Of Mold Damage

There is a great deal in the media these days about mold. You have probably seen blog posts warning you about the dangers of mold in your home. SERVPRO is aware that fungus certainly can cause problems for homeowners, including unsightly mold growth, an unpleasant musty smell, and even potential health effects. Fungal growth might also decrease the value of your home.

“Mold” is a broad category. In fact, there are several types of fungus which can cause mold damage to your Chicago home. Some of the most common include:

Penicillium
Penicillium usually grows in carpets or wallpapers and can also be found in any decaying fabric. It is the same substance that is used to make the drug Penicillin – but of course, you do not want it in your home!

Alternaria
Alternaria is particularly fond of wet places such as bathrooms or around leaks, and also grows in carpets that have become damp. Alternaria spreads easily.

Aspergillus
Aspergillus is more common in warmer climates, and can also be found in building materials.

Cladosporium
Cladosporium can grow on either fabric or wood and is particularly common outside of the home, although it can enter your house through the HVAC system or on clothes and shoes.

Stachybotrys chartarum
Stachybotrys chartarum has a black appearance and grows in areas that have constant moisture such as bathrooms or around leaks, although it can easily spread to other regions.

We recommend putting in a call to SERVPRO at the first sign of mold damage in your house. We train our IICRC-certified experts to assess the extent of the mold damage and the type of mold present to draw up the best action plan for your home. We know that a visual inspection is not enough, which is why our teams have access to tools including moisture meters, penetrating moisture probes, and thermal hygrometers. We use tools to test for dampness and humidity. Our tools allow us to seek out patches of mold and see at-risk areas and ensure your home receives a thorough treatment.

Our professional technicians set up containment to help prevent the further spread of spores. We clean all visible mold and dry out damp carpets, furniture, and walls to reduce the risk of regrowth. Do not let mold harm your home. Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 for help.

Click here for more about Chicago, Illinois.

Raccoons Cause Damage And Expose Your Evergreen Park Home To Biohazards

5/8/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Bags Biohazardous Attic Insulation in a Chicago Property's Attic

SERVPRO Treats Biohazardous Events in Your Attic Caused by Vermin

Raccoons can make their way into your attic, leaving behind a variety of damages including biohazard waste, making it critical for you to avoid handling materials such as insulation, drywall, or wood found in the area.  
 
Sadly, this wild creature is the primary host of a roundworm infection called, Baylisascaris Procyanidins, that is harmful to humans. If you discover raccoons living in or around your Evergreen Park area home, it is simple; biohazards exist that put you and your family at risk of infection.  
 
Raccoons living in your attic tend to leave fecal matter and urine in common areas, called latrines. However, there is far more damage (biohazardous) that a raccoon can do and the longer they inhabit the area, the more types of damages they are likely to cause.  
 
You should always consider these areas hazardous and obtain professional biohazard cleaning services from a company, like SERVPRO. Our IICRC certified technicians utilize full personal protective equipment and follow all safety protocols necessary to limit exposure and loss.
 
SERVPRO’s expertly trained staff understands how damaging this type of intrusion can be and have years of experience returning your attic space to a safe, healthy condition, helping you improve your living environment and remove biohazards from your home.  
 
SERVPRO performs all cleaning and repair services needed to return your attic space to normal. We start with removing contaminated insulation and then blow in new insulation after the area is clean and sanitized using fogging equipment with the appropriate antimicrobial agents.  
 
We help eliminate odors and unsanitary conditions related to raccoon infestations after pest control services successfully trap and remove the animal. Technicians locate entryways or openings made by raccoons to gain entry to your home and make repairs to your roof, flashing, or framing.  
 
In some cases, raccoons can also do damage to air ducts and contaminate ventilation systems where repairs become necessary as well. These pests also use pipe insulation, electrical wiring insulation, wood and other materials for creating nesting areas, promoting possible fire damage and other hazards that make your home unsafe.  
 
Our staff at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City provide you with expertly trained technicians that make hazards caused by raccoon intrusion a thing of the past, “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today. (773) 337-3900

Finding Commercial Mold Damage In Chicago Diners Is More Common Than What You Might Think

5/5/2017 (Permalink)

When businesses have walk-in patrons or use water in their establishment's daily activities, the risk of commercial mold damage increases.

Commercial Mold Damage In Diners

Mold only needs a few environmental factors to grow out of control. Mold is everywhere. However, mold usually grows very slowly, keeping it manageable and either easily cleaned away or hidden in locations that are rarely seen and hold all the three needed items for overgrowth simultaneously even more rarely.

When Chicago businesses have walk-in patrons or use water in their establishment's daily activities, the risk of commercial mold damage increases. When a business has both factors, the risk increases even more dramatically.

Patrons often bring in not only two things that mold needs to grow – moisture and cellulose, but also the mold itself. Cooking pasta, steaming seafood, and washing dishes with high-powered sprayers can all increase the level of moisture in the kitchen area. Contrary to what many people believe, combating mold growth does not mean that the air must be uncomfortably dry.

The moisture needed for mold to grow is the same moisture that makes the air comfortable to breathe. As people breathe in, the air in their lungs picks up moisture, and this moisture is also expelled when they breathe out. While this might be a small amount of moisture, it is felt on a personal basis. Drier air is noticeable because of the larger contrast between two different environments – moisture vs. drier.

When an area, such as a kitchen or bathroom area, is more humid than other sectors, like the dining or waiting areas are, a dehumidifier can decrease the amount of humidity that can linger in the air, without making the air uncomfortable to breathe. Other ventilation methods, including intake vents and ceiling fans, can help keep moisture from settling on surfaces. Having none of these measures can lead to mold damage throughout a restaurant. SERVPRO technicians have extensive experience and training to remediate mold disasters of any size. Proper remediation requires more than cleaning surfaces. Even cutting away and replacing materials heavily infested or destroyed by a mold infestation is not enough in most situations. Mold remediation, when conducted by SERVPRO, always includes preventative techniques.

These methods include cleaning or removal of anything affected by mold, but also include setting up HEPA-filter devices to clean the air of escaping mold particles and spores while we work. To continue filtering the air to help reduce the number of particulates, including mold-related ones, floating in the air, we can install an air filter that you can easily maintain. Along with air-filtration, we use sprays that encapsulate any mold found. As this sprayed-on liquid dries, it shrinks, crushing mold, spores, and any exposed hyphae. Hyphae are the root-like parts of mold that feed off materials and provide an anchor to the material – this is the part of the mold that leaves a stain behind when mold is cleaned away.

Situations involving commercial mold damage need the attention that the professionals at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City are accustomed to providing. Calling (773) 337-3900, at any hour of the day or night, can be the start of the end of your mold disaster.

Mold Damage Cleanup in Chicago

3/27/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Spores that Develop in a Chicago Home Need Remediation by SERVPRO

SERVPRO Provides Safety First Mold Remediation

Mold colonies are often unseen and can develop and grow inside crawlspaces, wall cavities, plants, and furnishings, plus just about any area of the home where there is moisture. Spores are in the air you breathe, and spores can also be absorbed by your nose, eyes, lungs and throat. About thirty percent of people are allergic to mold and suffer health effects due to this.

Mold needs moisture and organic matter to feed on and grow. Relative humidity which is high in a home indicates a moisture level conducive to growth. Also, lower humidity usually decreases the release and growth of mold spores in your Chicago residence. Central air handling systems which are contaminated can fast become breeding grounds for fungi and spread mold damage throughout your home. SERVPRO can help you clean up the mold and damage created with our special training and tools.
 
Our treatment for mold goes beyond the testing phase. When we arrive in your home, we determine what is going on, and we then offer solutions to fix the problem. We talk to you and ask if you sense a strong, musty odor or if you are aware of any mold growth. Thermal imaging is done to scan for moisture behind your walls, moisture meter readings are taken, and a report is written to specify what processes are taking place.
 
We ensure that we go over everything with you first before beginning any work so you can feel comfortable and understand what actions we are performing on your home.
 
Safety is of great importance to our staff at SERVPRO, and we ensure that all of our technicians wear the proper protective gear whenever they are dealing with a mold situation. It includes a filter type respirator for spaces that are small and contained. A half-mask respirator with the right cartridges for larger contaminations, or a full-face respirator (HEPA filter) for some extensive growth areas.
If the contamination is quite extensive, full HAZMAT body suits may also be necessary, and we always wear chemical resistant gloves and eye protection.
 
If you suspect mold growth in your home, contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City right away. We come quickly to inspect your home for mold and begin a process for remediation. (773) 337-3900

Tiny Leaks are Capable of Causing Thousands of Dollars Worth of Water Damage in Chicago

3/10/2017 (Permalink)

When water damage has been building over time, secondary water damage should also be a concern.

Water Leaks? SERVPRO can clean and restore the mess! 

Many people expect all water damage to be the result of a water line breaking, or from flooding, or perhaps a bathtub overflowing. Not all water damage is the product of such dramatic events. Even a minuscule leak can cause as much damage as a larger one, simply because it either is not noticed or because it seems so insignificant.

Chicago homes need to be protected from even tiny leaks, as these can create water damage, also. Leaks can exist anywhere there are plumbing lines. These are not the only sources of minute amounts of water. SERVPRO has the technicians you need to repair water damage, of any type, and to stop the water from leaking again regardless of the water's source.

Faucets can leak under the sink they are situated on, allowing water to spread slowly under the cabinetry. Leaks under the sink can include where the water lines meet the faucet, and also where the drain pipe connects to the sink's drain. Water can slowly travel from small cracks in either location and create a mess that can take months to make.

When tubs and faucet are not matched, misalignment can happen. Water flowing from the faucet into the tub can flow over the overflow vents. Unless these are properly connected, water can pool inside the wall or under the tub.

Appliances that use water can also be the reason for water damage. Leaks, overflows, and other malfunctions can either, over time, or suddenly, cause water emergencies. When an incident like this occurs, extra caution is warranted so that electrical shock does not cause injury or death. Your safety needs to always be a priority in such events.

When water damage has been building over time, secondary water damage should also be a concern. Water affects different materials in various ways, and this can change over time. Even small amounts of water can allow pathogens to grow, provide incentives to pests, such as ants, to colonize inside your home, and weaken structures, such as the flooring under your tub or washing machine.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

For any degree of water damage in your home, call us, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900. We can start within an hour of your call.

Preventing Ice Maker Leaks in a Chicago Home

1/23/2017 (Permalink)

Chicago Ice Maker Can Cause Extensive Water Damage

Inspect and Replace Defective Parts or Call SERVPRO for Help

Ice makers are a great convenience item to have in your home. You do not ever have to worry about those annoying ice trays again, or someone not refilling them and you running out of ice. When you add this device in your home, you need to be aware of some things first. The installer should use a small metal saddle, called an ice maker valve, that is attached to a cold-water pipe close to the refrigerator. The kits for ice makers usually include a clear plastic water pipe fitted to the valve and the water inlet on the fridge. This flexible piece of plastic tubing is the biggest culprit for a leak and water damage.

Miniscule holes in the tubing are unnoticeable during installation in your kitchen, and stay unnoticed for years, hidden behind your refrigerator. Over time, many gallons of water seeping out the tubing can cause serious structural water damage in Chicago to the floor systems and walls around the refrigerator. This water damage means you need professional help from SERVPRO, a water damage remediation company. Our experienced technicians have the tools and the knowledge to fix any water damage these types of leaks can cause.

Preventing Ice Maker Water Damage
There is usually a shut-off valve in modern homes that is installed inside a wall panel behind the refrigerator. Here, soft copper tubing is used to connect the valve to the ice maker. Fractures or pinhole leaks to the copper tubing are possible, however not as likely as with the plastic tubing. Two things to prevent water damage include using copper tubing for the connection and installing a battery-operated flood alarm. When positioned properly, the battery-operated alarm, which is inexpensive, reacts to a water pooling problem. This alarm can be used in a basement, kitchen, near water heaters, or any other appliance near a water source. These devices can be easily found and purchased.

When your ice maker does fail for any reason, SERVPRO can step in and help you right away. SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City can respond to an emergency quickly and efficiently. We understand that water damage of any kind can halt the daily routines of your home. Just pick up your phone and dial (773) 337-3900 whenever you need us.

Free 3 Credit Hour Ethics CE Class for Illinois Insurance Professionals

1/16/2017 (Permalink)

The Class will be held Friday, February 3 from 10 am to 1:30 pm at Camelot Banquets in Hickory Hills. Please arrive early for registration.

We will be holding a FREE 3hr ETHIC's CE Class on Feb 3, 2017, for all of Our Agents/Adjusters/Producers licensed in the state of ILLINOIS. Registration is 9:30 - 9:50 and the Class will start Promptly at 10 am. Lunch is Included. Call or Email me to reserve your seats: 

Phone: (708) 906-0708

Email: Patricia@SERVPROSouthChicago.com

How to Seal Up and Contain Mold Damage in Mount Greenwood Homes

1/6/2017 (Permalink)

Mold needs to be properly remediated. Call SERVPRO as soon as you see or smell any sign of mold.

SERVPRO Technicians are Certified to Remediate Your Mold Damage Problem

The prospect of having mold remediation specialists enter your home and set up decontamination areas is the stuff of science fiction movies for the most part. If you have never experienced extensive mold damage before, it will be an entirely new process. And yes, it can look a little strange at first.

The reality, however, is that containment booths and decontamination areas are a lot less dramatic than they seem. They are very common, and they really are not designed to protect homeowners at all. The primary purpose of mold containment is to protect the property. Mold damage in Mount Greenwood homes can spread very quickly if left unchecked.

This guide to the containment procedures used by SERVPRO will tell you a little more about what to expect.

What Does Containment Look Like?

The level of containment will depend entirely on the extent of the problem. Usually, however, we only set up small areas and cause minimal disruption to daily routines. If the mold damage is spreading across a bedroom wall, for example, the SERVPRO team may need to establish a containment perimeter around the room.

While this does mean that you will not be able to enter, there is no danger to worry about. Containment prevents mold spores from being carried out of the space and into other areas of the home. The technicians will wear special PPE suits and footwear, which are treated to neutralize spores every time that they exit the perimeter.

There will be clear polyethylene sheets set up around the affected area. They may be hung over doorways, across carpets, and along ceilings in some cases. If items or materials are removed from the containment space, they will be wrapped in this plastic first. Once again, it can look a little strange, but the SERVPRO team will discuss any concerns that you might have.

What Happens Inside the Containment Area?

The processes carried out inside the containment area are no different to those that are used on any other mold remediation job. The use of polyethylene sheets simply helps to maintain certain drying conditions. The technicians will set up dehumidifiers, negative air movers, and possibly ozone generators to deal with the source of the damp.

It may be necessary to keep some of the machines (such as fans) running constantly over a period of days. You will be informed of this, and the experts will be on site regularly to check progress.

Don’t let mold and mold damage take over your home. Get in touch with the experts at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City. We are experienced, highly skilled, and provide excellent customers service. Call us 24/7 on (773) 337-3900.

Visual Commercial Fire Damage Cleanup in Morgan Park

12/14/2016 (Permalink)

A fire can engulf your business. Call SERVPRO quickly to help recover!

Your Business Needs to Look and Smell Inviting after Fire Damage Restoration

Presentation is important for any business, and doubly so in the service sector. If you own or manage a store or restaurant, your customers will likely be discouraged or even scared off by obvious signs of damage and visual blemishes on your property. SERVPRO knows first-hand that some of the most thorough visual damages to a building can come from fires, whether through the burn itself or any associated events and factors. These blemishes and issues are commonly cleaned up by our restoration teams, to ensure that once a company's doors get back open, they stay open.
 
Burn Marks
 
Burns and char easily rank among the most visible types of commercial fire damage in Morgan Park, immediately giving away to any observer the fact that a fire has burned in the area. Blackened or darkened materials, even if they have no other major damage beyond discoloration, can still be resource and time-intensive to cover up, often requiring a wide cleaning and repainting job to make sure colors blend well and no burn material remains.
 
Smoke and Ash
 
Smoke and ash leave a profound impact on a building, to both the sight and smell of anyone nearby. Smoke is a pervasive scent and easily noticeable in most cases, but can also leave behind a great deal of smearing and coat surfaces. Depending on the type of smoke and conditions of this fire, this may be a relatively easy cleanup job, or a more thorough repainting may be in order.
 
Structural Damage
 
SERVPRO can also help to restore mild structural damage caused by a fire, rebuilding walls, floors, supports, and other elements of a building if they have been burned through or collapsed on. We always aim to restore before replacing, and in this way can potentially save you thousands in reconstruction costs where they are not necessary.
 
SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City helps businesses to get back on track after a disaster. Give us a call at (773) 337-3900.

Water Damage in Beverly and the Need for Professional Help

11/26/2016 (Permalink)

A Failed Coupling to a Water Drain Can Cause Havoc in a Chicago Home

SERVPRO Can Restore Your Home After Water Has Caused Damage

Many pieces of equipment are needed for a water damage restoration job to be executed properly. This is a technically complex field which requires a lot of expertise and technology. Our workers at SERVPRO need to use special clothing to protect themselves (PPE) before entering a job site in some instances. Our technicians set up drying machines in the interior of your home for the removal of moisture from the air. Disinfectants and chemical cleaners are needed as well, plus moisture detection devices which are invaluable for finding problem areas. If your home has heavy damage, we store an array of demolition tools to rid these non-salvageable materials from your property.

Cleaning up water damage in Beverly can require full body protective clothing such as rubber boots, rubber gloves, safety glasses or goggles and a respirator. This PPE gear is especially important since it can prevent a SERVPRO technician from inhaling any contaminants that are airborne like fungi or microorganisms. Demolition tools such as axes or sledgehammers could be needed if there is extensive damage. Pressure washers also help to clear a water damaged area of debris and mud.

Before our technicians start work to repair your home, they will need to know where the worst damage is. The areas affected the worst are where liquid has totally penetrated materials. It is not possible to detect this by sight alone so that a moisture meter will be essential. These pieces of equipment will measure accurately the percentage of moisture in most materials. It is effective for determining possible hidden damage to wood, drywall and paper materials. Our technicians will be able to use the moisture meter to check the progress of a job as the property starts to dry out.

After the source of the standing water is stopped, and the technicians take stock of the damage, it will be time to dry the area out. There are several pieces of restoration equipment which are used to do this. Most of them include high-velocity fans which aid in increasing the evaporation rate so that dehumidifiers can capture the water molecules and expel them from the air. Wet vacuums which are industrial strength are expedient for getting rid of small patches of water.

If your home suffers water damage, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City. By dialing (773) 337-3900, we will respond to gather your information and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.

Commercial Flood Damage To Your Chicago Property

11/1/2016 (Permalink)

If you've had a flood in your office, warehouse, or other business, the damage caused by the water can seem to keep on mounting.

Restoring Instead Of Writing Off Your Losses

If you've had a flood in your office, warehouse, or other business, the damage caused by the water can seem to keep on mounting. When you look at it all as one big catastrophe, it can end up feeling like it's the end of your business. SERVPRO can help your business recover when we provide you and your business with some of the many different services.

SERVPRO can meet, and even exceed, your expectations for cleanup after you've had commercial flood damage in Chicago. We can help protect your business's financial health by undoing the damage caused by the water that invaded your property. This includes your inventory, the internal structure, and the furnishings. Many of these items may have had your business's trademark, logo, or other branding, increasing the cost of replacing them. We can decrease the cost of these replacements by restoring what may only seem irreparable. Because we are experts in restoring many different types of items, many insurance companies are willing to work with us in getting everything sorted out and back to normal for businesses who have had flooding and other disasters.

While paperboard items such as displays will need to be replaced, other advertising materials can often be saved. Inventory that is washable can always be restored, and with the Esporta system, we can regain a sanitary and cleanliness for clothing and many other items. We'll place your damaged but salvageable items in containers and take these to our site, then return them to you in better condition. Other items that are fixed in place, such as equipment, can be cleaned at your site, and then sanitized to ensure a healthy environment is restored.

Appearances are only on the surface; we want to restore your business to a healthy state. Another aspect of our cleaning is eliminating the odors that also come with flood damage. If odor remains, we know that there is something remaining that is causing it. We'll work to find the source of the odor, remove it, and if the odor remains, as it sometimes does, we'll deodorize, as well. For structural damage, we have professionals who can restore the interior areas that were damaged by the flood waters, such as drywall. Our technicians can decrease the drying time of other materials by increasing the ventilation in conjunction with raised temperatures.

When commercial flood damage is affecting your business, call SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900. We can have your business back to new in a short time, save your inventory and business materials, and much more. We are accessible 24/7 to answer your questions or begin cleaning up and restoring your business.

Steps to Take When Dealing with Water Damage

10/13/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding can cause large scale water damage. Call SERVPRO to remediate!

Quick Actions Can Help Reduce Damages

Illinois residents are no strangers to storms that bring heavy rain, tornado strength winds and flash flooding. Unfortunately, flooding is the result of these events. To keep your family safe, protective practices must be instituted within the first 24 hours.
 
If residential flooding appears ominous to cause serious water damage and it seems that you and your family may be displaced, take these steps quickly. Turn the water off and all electrical connections within the home. Even if the power is interrupted, it is still a good idea to go to your fuse box and turn off the main.
 
Hopefully, you will be able to return to your Chicago home after waters have receded. There are precautions that must be taken, but they should be performed by a professional restoration service like SERVPRO. First, your home must be checked for damage to your home, i.e., cracks or warping. If you suspect damage to utility or sewer lines, immediately contact your local utility company.
 
Don't attempt to remove the water or make repairs. Documentation should also be done via photographs or make a video with your cellphone. A digital history is better because water removal efforts can be stored electronically for evidence later. If you do not document your work, you could potentially decrease the amount of your claim coverage.
 
Standing waters during the first 24 hours, is an environment for contamination. SERVPRO should conduct your home's inspection because they are trained in bio-hazard conditions. Contact your insurance carrier to file a claim. Groundwater is not always covered, therefore, you will need talk with the insurance carrier to determine the extent of your coverage. Here again, SERVPRO is available to help with your claim process.
 
Don't forget that mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours after any type of water damage. A professional restoration service can remove all your wet contents quickly. SERVPRO is a remediation company whose motto is to “restore” not “destroy.” They will work with you to decide what can and can not be saved and restored.
 
If your first 24 hours involves your inability to move back into your home, then your property should be secured. Depending on the water damage, a restoration service can help secure your windows, doors and use a tarp for any damage to your roof. The perimeter of your home must also be secured with temporary fencing.
 
Let SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City allay your fears about how to care for your home after a flood. We are leaders in the restoration industry. With our experience, training and state-of-the-art equipment and methods, it is our goal to have you back into your home very soon. Call us today and let us restore you back to normal again - (773) 337-3900.

National Preparedness Month Focuses Home and Business Owners on Advance Planning for Disaster Recovery

9/17/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO READY Mobile App Is Offered to All Chicago Areas

SERVPRO Offers Property Owners No-Cost Tools for Preparing a Disaster Readiness Plan

It is always a good idea to be prepared for the unexpected. If a flood, house fire, terrorist attack, storm, or different form of natural disaster strikes your property or business, by having contingency plans in effect, you can mitigate the losses and perhaps even save lives. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) sponsors an awareness event each September to remind our residents to update their emergency plans or to initiate one. This campaign has done much to develop a sense of awareness in individuals to always be prepared.

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City's owner, Patricia Zubricki, deals with material damage to property daily since this is the core business of her fire & smoke and water damage restoration Chicago company. She states that most business and homeowners have prepared for emergency events by having necessary equipment like fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and exit signs in place. However, Patricia emphasizes that the sooner first responders arrive on the scene, already knowing what to expect, the quicker they can react to the urgent event, whether extinguishing a fire, shutting off a burst water line, or securing the residents from an external threat. The trick is to forewarn them so they can leap right into action.

This is where SERVPRO can provide to residential and commercial property owners the SERVPRO READY mobile ready app. This acts as a memory bank for time critical information that can be accessed from any mobile device. You can store electronically information about your property, contact numbers, and any other relevant items that can expedite rapid responses to diminish damage and more quickly terminate the threat to your property. We provide an additional service to business customers who designate us as their official go-to service provider after a business damaging event has occurred. We, at no cost to the client, conduct an assessment of the premises and then develop a comprehensive action plan that covers most emergencies. This Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) lists key information about the facility that can be stored in the READY app for instantaneous retrieval.

Creating a READY profile in advance and being prepared for negative external forces can mitigate business losses, lessen downtime, and more rapidly restore residential homes to preloss condition "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO® of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City proudly serves our local communities and encourages you to be prepared. If the need arises for mold, fire or water damage restoration rely on us to reduce your stress as we minimize your costs. Contact us 24/7 at (773) 337-3900.

It Is BEST To Leave Dealing With Mold To Professionals

6/16/2016 (Permalink)

Mold and Mold Spores Can Spread Through Your HVAC Ducts

SERVPRO Technicians Will Treat Your Mold Before It Becomes Airborne

Downtown Chicago mold damage can cause your business a lot of expense and time. You need to take action as soon as you see the intrusion of water and of mold growing to lower your loss. You can get professional mold remediation from our professionals at SERVPRO. You will definitely need someone trained and experienced to handle these problems. If you disturb the mold yourself, it will become airborne, and it will spread throughout the area and into your HVAC ducts.

Remember that air samples from inside compared to air samples from outside will almost always have more mold than the air outdoors. This is true usually even if there is a small or minor exposure to mold in your commercial building, which is why you should not touch the mold. Small leaks, or water intrusion, plus high humidity, many times in basements or lower levels, are two of the most common problems for mold growth that is minor which we usually see. You will need to find the leaks for water intrusion. These can come from leaking windows, roof, pipes with excessive condensation or leaking pipes. You will need to search for and repair the leak as soon as you can since mold usually won't start to grow for about forty-eight hours, or a bit sooner. Using air conditioning effectively along with a dehumidifier will be needed to help with drying out the area after the mold has been cleaned. At SERVPRO, however, we have all of the professional equipment that is needed to take care of this as well. These two things can actually help to stop minor mold issues in the future, though.

There will be no single solution that will work for all cases of mold damage, but there are some easy prevention controls we have seen to be effective. These are cleaning and fixing gutters, directing surface water away from your building, using ventilation in areas of higher humidity such as basements and bathrooms, using air condition to keep levels of humidity low, using dehumidifiers in areas of high humidity, putting the dehumidifier away from drains in the floor and establishing a cleaning and disinfecting schedule for any areas that have greater exposure potential.

We will assess your situation as soon as you call us, and treat it individually as we do with all other cases so that we can find the solution that will work best for you and your business. We can handle your mold remediation with little to no downtime for your business as well, so you can avoid a total shutdown due to mold damage.

As soon as you suspect that you have mold damage in Downtown Chicago, get a hold of our technicians at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City by calling them at (773) 227-3900. The sooner you do this, the better so that the mold growth does not spread.

Sun Can Cause Commercial Damage on Rooftops

6/14/2016 (Permalink)

UV Radiation On a Roof Can Destroy Shingles and Cause Damage

Regular Roof Maintenance Can Prevent Damage

Homeowners and business owners understand that rain and wind can damage rooftops. But, there is another major factor in commercial damage to roofs – the hot sun! The extreme heat from the Chicago summer sun can cause premature failure of roofs. Roofing materials are made to withstand the sun's rays. Standard tar shingles are purposefully made with an adhesive that melts in the sun to form a permanent seal. If your building is an older structure, then harsh weather conditions, including the daily deluge of sunlight, can weaken shingles.
 
For solar rays to begin damaging a roof, that roof must be in a position to receive direct sunlight daily. The real enemy for possible roof damage is the ultraviolet radiation. Asphalt roofing directly affected by a day to day sunlight can age it very quickly. The mixture of oxygen and hydrocarbons in asphalt roofing can fail under heavy sunlight quicker than tile rooftops. But, even the more resistant roofing technology, including metal, all can succumb to the weathering effects of Chicago's strong sunshine.
 
The heat from the sun beating down on top of your office roof can cause damage to your shingles. For buildings that have a southern or western exposure, the immense heat can cause different types of damages. This includes shingles that curl up, cracks form, blisters form, and loose shingle granules. The sun's heat and rays can also cause problems in your attic. Commercial attics can experience softened wood, and/or mold or mildew can form due to poor ventilation.
 
Chicago's weather can bring wind, hail, and ice. In addition to a fire and flooding, your commercial building can sustain severe Chicago storm damage from any of these events. If your office building or your roof is damaged by fire, a storm, water damage or the sun, we at SERVPRO are available to help you. Our experienced technicians will arrive and assess your damage. We will protect your building by providing rooftop service, which means that we will place tarps on your damaged roof.
 
We at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park / South Chicago City are trained roofing professionals that can assess exactly what your building needs. Our expert restoration team can help your business with any damages, to save your business any down time. With our specialized equipment and techniques, we can help get your business back to its pre-damaged condition. Call us today at (773) 337-3900 to help keep your building structurally sound.

Mold Causes and Prevention

6/14/2016 (Permalink)

Mold Spread Can Be Prevented or Lessened

Quick Contact With SERVPRO After Damage Can Help Prevent Mold

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park South Chicago City is a very reliable mold remediation service. In fact, our mold damage staff have served thousands of customers over the years. Therefore, we are well acquainted with the type of mold that grows in the local environment.

We've discovered that mold has a tendency to go unnoticed by the property owner for a long time. The customer finally notices the mold and contacts us. They are frantic because they had no idea that mold was developing on their property. Here is something to consider about the mold damage. Mold springs up quickly. Often, within 48 hours and multiplies like crazy. However, we are a service that is available around the clock. Contact us and we respond immediately to your call and work fast to remove the mold before it spreads further.
 
What Causes Mold

Customers are frantic to know why the Southside Chicago mold damage developed on their property. They wonder if the mold was caused by some action that they performed. Well, the simple answer is yes. Most mold problems develop in response to the environment. The fact is that mold is a fungus. Our customers really get upset at that fact because they realize that a fungus might affect the health of those in the home. Here is something that is interesting to note. Mold spreads through tiny spores that are in the air. Mold develops in locations that lack light, but have high humidity. For example, a dark basement or an attic. Mold quickly develops in areas that are wet or contain leaks. For example, leaky pipes in the home might cause a mold outbreak. Even leaky faucets in the kitchen or bathroom might cause a mold infestation to take place. Mold requires food to survive, just like people. Therefore, the mold will attach to paper, fiberboard, wood, and other high cellulose material.
 
Preventing Mold

Some mold remediation companies might think it is unusual for us to give our customers advice about preventing future mold damage. The fact is that our customers are our main priority. We want to keep them happy and satisfied. Therefore, we give them tips on future mold prevention to protect their home and family. Our top tip to prevent mold is to be vigilant. Mold requires darkness, warmth, and moisture to develop and grow. Check the home regularly for things that encourage mold development. For example, leaky pipes in a dark basement, leaky roof tops, poorly ventilated areas, flooded areas, damp basements, damp foundations. Correct those problems immediately to prevent mold damage to the area.
 
Mold Damage Southside Chicago

Any home might become infested with mold. The best course of action is to act quickly to remove the mold. Contact SERVPRO of Evergreen Park South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 for immediate service. We will respond to your call fast and remove the mold promptly.

Your House is More Susceptible To Mold Damage in the Summer Months

6/10/2016 (Permalink)

Water and Mold Damaged Basement

Keeping Your House Cool and Dry May Prevent Mold

SERVPRO Of Evergreen Park South Chicago City responds fast to any type of emergency situation or disaster that involves mold. We are a mold damage company that provides around the clock service to commercial and residential customers. In fact, we are a reliable and trustworthy source for local restoration services. We are also a locally owned restoration service that offers our customers highly trained technicians with years of service in the industry. We handle every mold cleanup job with specialized mold remediation equipment that quickly handles clean-up, whether the job is large or small. We have some valuable advice to share with you. Summer is coming, and it is time to check for mold.
 
Why Do I Have To Check For Mold?

You are probably wondering why you have to check for mold. You try your best to keep your house clean because you are very proud of your home. Of course, you want to keep it clean and sanitary for the entire family during the summer and all year long. The fact is that most homes or commercial buildings will experience mold, at least once in their lifetime. Mold has a tendency to creep up on our customers, and before they know it, mold is a major problem. Mold requires a specific type of environment to thrive and spread. Mold loves dark places that provide a lot of moisture. For example, mold has a tendency to develop in dark, damp areas with a persistent leak. Check the secluded area of a basement with leaky pipes or even in an attic that is attached to a leaky roof. Of course, living in a hot, humid, home during the summer increases the chances of mold developing.
 
Preventing Mold

We realize that mold is a very depressing issue for most of our customers. Mold might affect the health of people in the home or property. Mold issues also make it almost impossible for you to sell property in the future. After a mold cleanup, it is advisable to take certain precautions to make sure that the mold does not return again. Certainly, we, at SERVPRO, want our customers to live a mold free summer. We advise our customers to check for water leaks, damp areas, and high humidity areas that are breeding grounds for mold development. Check around pools, pipes leading into the house, faucets, leaky gutters.

If you suspect that mold is an issue, call us immediately. We will arrive fast and make sure that the mold damage issue is handled promptly. It is our specialty; it is what we do to the best of our ability.
 
Mold Damage Downtown Chicago

Here is why you should choose SERVPRO Of Evergreen Park South Chicago City: We are highly trained Downtown Chicago mold remediation specialists, and we always respond fast to your call. Also, we are available 24 hours a day. Contact us at (773) 337-3900 for more information on our professional services.

Commercial Building or Storefront Damage

6/4/2016 (Permalink)

Storefront Open After Remediation

Experienced Restoration Professionals Can Handle Water Damage Under or Inside a Property

In Downtown Chicago, commercial damage caused by flooding can be devastating to a building. Water can seep into flooring, carpeting, furniture, and walls. This can create mold as well, plus rotting or other damage which could go undetected until it is too late. That is why it is important to call us at SERVPRO so that we can come and inspect your property as soon as possible.

How Restoration of Commercial Water Damage Works

Our technicians are IICRC trained, and will first use specialized equipment to discover how severe the water damage in your structure is. After we have evaluated the damage, we’ll get rid of any standing water. This process can vary depending upon whether the water is inside the property or under the property.

Under the Property – We’ll vacuum up water with an extractor so that there is nothing soaking wet anymore. If a broken pipe were the cause, we'd make sure the pipe is accessible to a plumber. After the pipe is fixed, we will get rid of any soil that is contaminated, spray anti-microbial and then replace the old, bad soil with fresh, new soil.

Inside Property – We will be there as soon as possible after you contact us when the water is inside your property. First, we’ll vacuum up the water with an extractor and then take out any furniture that has been affected or put it up on blocks. If the water is dirty, padding and carpeting will be thrown away. If possible, we’ll dry the carpet if the water is clean. Carpet padding is thrown away since it is cheaper to replace than to dry them properly. If there is Downtown Chicago water damage to a wall, small holes will be made where the base board was to let air movement dry the wall.

We’ll Accommodate Your Business

From the start to the end, our experienced professionals are ready to take care of all your restoration needs.

Allow us to remove the water and get your property dry again so you will experience the least amount of downtime to your business as is possible. We’ll be on site to your commercial property quickly after you call, and if you want, we can dry your property after hours and take out our equipment in the morning so you’ll be able to reopen.

When it comes to water damage near Downton Chicago, there are strict protocols which have to be followed and carried out fast. Your total loss, otherwise, will be much higher than needed. We have a proven track record for removing water from businesses efficiently and saving wet items that range from furniture to electronics, to even vital paper documents.

Commercial damage in Downton Chicago doesn’t have to halt your business’ operations for a long period of time. By calling SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900, you can let us take care of all your commercial damage remediation problems, which we will handle in a timely and professional fashion.

Remediation Guidelines for Mold Damage

6/2/2016 (Permalink)

Mold Growth Requiring Quick Remediation

Professionals Have the Training and Certifications To Handle Mold Before it Spreads

In Chicago, mold damage can occur in your structure for a variety of reasons. However, no matter the reason, mold needs to be handled appropriately and quickly to prevent it from spreading to other areas in your home. It can cause health effects for you and your family and should not be handled by someone who is inexperienced. Therefore, if you suspect you have a mold damage problem, speak with us at SERVPRO, as we have technicians who are professionally trained and knowledgeable about how to deal with mold problems. Plus, we have the proper safety gear and equipment to help us remediate the mold without risking our health.

There are five major principles of mold remediation as outlined by the IICRC: 

1. Ensure that health and safety precautions are being taken by the professionals who are cleaning up the mold and by the occupants. Buildings that are contaminated by mold can be associated with various health effects. Anyone involved in the remediation of the mold has to be protected from exposure through various controls and practices.

2. An assessment post-cleanup done by an independent environmental expert. A Chicago mold remediation that is effective can’t be made without first knowing the extent of the contamination which needs to be removed. To make sure the remediation is performed correctly, it is recommended highly that accurate documentation of the remediation be kept by a project manager.

3. Control of the mold before it spreads. It is essential to get rid of the mold at the source of contamination. After the spores have spread throughout the air, it will be a lot hard to capture them.

4. Oversee that the removal of mold is done correctly. It has to be removed physically from your structure. Trying to remove signs of mold on the surface or isolate it are not enough. Bleach alone will also not kill mold.

5. Make sure the moisture is controlled so that future contamination or recontamination is limited. Mold growth is inevitable if there is no control of moisture. Moisture problems have to be identified, found and fixed or controlled as soon as you can.

Mold damage in Chicago can be taken care of quickly and adequately when you choose to use our trained technicians at SERVPRO. We will first find the source of the moisture so that we can correct that problem and then move on to proper remediation. Moisture is not the type of problem to handle on your own, as you could miss hidden pockets of moisture in your structure, plus not have the correct solutions and methods to get rid of the existing mold.

When a mold problem arises in your property, calling SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City at (773) 337-3900 is your safest and surest way to take care of your mold issues. Let us handle it for you so the health of everyone involved can be protected.

Mold Damage Chicago: Better Sooner Than Later for Cleaning

5/25/2016 (Permalink)

Mold Spreading Below a Window

Professional Remediation Can Quickly Address Your Mold Concerns

For any occurrence of mold damage in Chicago, it is better to deal with it sooner than later because it could quickly spread throughout the home. Among the issues that could occur as a result of mold being left alone in the home are health effects. However, it is not a good idea to try to get rid of mold all by yourself. In order to effectively get rid of mold, you need to contact us so that we can look at the mold problem and come up with an effective solution for your home. We have the equipment, and the experience to handle mold.
 
Each mold infestation problem is unique. Therefore, we must come up with a unique solution for the problem. However, the steps are the same. The first step is that we get a call. Then we go over to the place of residence or commercial property to inspect it and check for mold. We also assess the problem and check for any damages done to the property as a result of the mold infestation. We have special equipment to detect not only mold but also potential problems for mold like leaks and moisture in dark places. Once we find the mold damage near Chicago and understand the extent of the problem, we contain the mold. Then comes the removal process where all of the mold and the infested contents are taken out of the property. After that, the contents of the property are cleaned. Then any damaged piece of property is restored.
 
We at SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City are very knowledgeable about mold and are very passionate about handling every Chicago mold damage problem in the home. We are also available 24/7 and will answer you quickly to take care of the mold problem. We understand that mold can spread quickly in the home, and it only takes mere hours for it to spread throughout the home. We understand the importance of quick action and will not have you too long before we visit you. Give us a call at (773)337-3900.

Chicago Fire At Capri Ristorante Italiano

3/28/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO helps Capri Ristorante Italiano after the fire

SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City responded quickly after a fire damaged the popular neighborhood restaurant Capri Ristorante Italiano. Locals in Palos Heights and Chicago have been dining at the family run establishment for over twenty years. An electrical fire from the outside sign caused smoke damage on the inside banquet hall.

"Fire damage to a business can be a very traumatic event" said Patricia Zubricki, Owner of SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City. "My husband Frank and I are regular customers and it’s our favorite neighborhood restaurant. We have the specialized fire and smoke restoration training and equipment needed to restore the local landmark to pre-fire condition. Our goal is to put the property owner back in control as quickly as possible.”

A large SERVPRO team of experienced restoration professionals cleaned the restaurant from ceiling to floor. The SERVPRO team is capable of cleaning and restoring the fire and smoke damaged building and its contents, including: wall, ceiling and floor surfaces; furniture; fabric; fixtures and more. 

Capri Ristorante Italiano owners Donna and Maurizio Mancuso and their son Maurizio had total confidence and trust in Pat and Frank Zubricki and SERVPRO of South Chicago to restore their business.

"We’re an active member of the community and ready to use our expertise to help the Mancuso family recover quickly and get their popular restaurant back to business” Zubricki said. For more information on our commercial cleaning services in the Chicago area, call us at 773-337-3900.

When A Chicago Flash Flood Is Over The Cleanup Begins

7/7/2015 (Permalink)

A flash flood situation is very dangerous.

When A Flash Flood Is Over The Cleanup Begins 

You didn't anticipate a flash flood, but it happened. A building that held your business or the place you call home has felt the impact of flood water. How should you handle this situation? What is the next step? Questions will fill a person's mind, and their emotions will be difficult to handle. Recovering from a flash flood will not happen quickly. It will take time to return to normal.

Remain Informed
When trying recover from Chicago storm damage, it's important to stay aware of events from the local media such as television or radio. Weather radio can also provide important information. There is always a chance of dangerous flooding even after the water levels have dropped. The news media will be able to provide information on when it will be safe to return or go outside.

Examine Utilities
If a person returns to a building and sees wires that are frayed or broken, smells burning insulation or sees sparks, the electricity needs to be turned off immediately. Avoid going into water to reach a fuse box. Ask for help from a professional electrician if this is the case. It is possible that a building's sewage or water lines have sustained damage. A licensed plumber needs to be asked for help. In some cases, people may smell propane or natural gas or hear a hissing noise. If this happens, a person should leave the area immediately and inform the fire department.

Do Not Consume The Water
When a flash flood has impacted a building or home, neither the well or tap water should be used for drinking or anything else. It is best to wait until the authorities declare the water does not contain any type of pollutants. It is best to get bottled water or water from a safe source to use until the building's or home's water is safe. Boiling water will kill most types of unsafe microorganisms. Bleach will destroy most types of bacteria. Eight drops for each gallon of water should be effective. Once the bleach is put in the water, it should not be used for at least 30 minutes.

Children And Pets
A flash flood situation is very dangerous. Children and pets need to be watched closely to keep them safe from harm.

Flooded Areas
It is important to stay away from flooded areas. Barricades should not be challenged. There could be a number of problems that are visible as well as invisible. This includes road damage, bridge damage, and a number of other problems. It's important to follow the recommendation of emergency workers. Avoid driving as much as possible and keep roads clear for emergency vehicles.

Moving Water
It's important for people to stay away from any moving water. It only takes half a foot of moving water to knock a person down. A few feet of moving water can sweep away most automobiles.

Traveling
When going any place after a flash flood, it will require the utmost caution. Traveling should only be done with necessary. It would be best only to go when the flood water is no longer moving. If going across flooded areas, a stick should be used to determine depth and firmness before each step. Contaminated water is a danger as well as dangerous debris, unnoticed animals, weakened roads and walkways can make traveling very dangerous by both foot or car. Do not go into any building surrounded by flood water. Wait until authorities have declared it to be safe.

Get Help
SERVPRO can be contacted to restore items in a building or home that have been impacted by water damage.

Cleaning and Disinfecting
Once the floodwater has lowered, it is time to begin the process of cleaning and disinfecting all wet items in a home. This will protect homeowners from chemical contaminants as well as sewage and more. Wearing protective clothing such as rubber gloves and boots is essential during this process. In many cases, to eliminate the damage caused by Chicago storm damage, it may require upholstery cleaning as well as carpet cleaning, mold remediation and more.

Throw Away
Any food in cans or jars that came in contact with flood water need to be thrown away. It's also a good idea to get rid of any plastic utensils, bottled water, baby bottles and more that were in flood water.

Scammers
After every flood, there are going to be fake contractors who will try and take advantage of the situation. This is the time to only work with reputable contractors who are professional. They will provide the best cleanup and repair service.

Drainage
When a building's basement get flooded, it is best to drain it slowly. Experts recommend approximately 1/3 each day. This is a safe drainage method and will prevent structure damage. If water is removed too quickly, it could cause a structure to collapse.

Insurance Claims
Once a flash flood has happened, it's time to contact the insurance company and start the claim recovery process. Many homeowner policies do not cover Chicago flood damage. Confirm flood coverage prior to a flood.

Help
When trying to figure out recovery steps from a flash flood, it's important to stay in touch with the local television and radio. They can provide important recovery information such as government and other organizations to contact. SERVPRO is able to restore any building or home impacted by a flash flood. Contact us immediately, and the work will begin as soon as you need.

Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Evergreen Park/South Chicago City is close by and ready to respond to storm and disaster events. We are proud to be an active member of the Chicago community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.