Flood Warnings Vs. Flood Watches

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

Stay safe during flood events, and just know SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell is one call away. Please call our office at 641-672-0872.

Hello Ottumwa! 

I wrote a blog a couple of days ago about creating a Family Emergency Plan, so I wanted to continue this topic of flooding. I’m gonna be honest; I did not know the difference between flash flooding/flooding warnings and watches.

Flood Watches or Flash Flood Watches

When the local governments/news channels issue a watch, it generally means that flooding is a possibility. If a watch has been issued, you should stay alert to changing conditions and be ready to seek higher ground.

Flood Warnings or Flash Flood Warnings

You will want to ensure that you hear the warning closely because they require different actions. When local officials issue a flood warning, they want you to avoid any low-lying areas and evacuate if your home is in the flood zone. Flash Flood Warnings are more of a concern no matter if you're in a low-lying area because water will rise fast. We suggest you follow the Family Emergency Plan you created as action is recommended immediately. 

Sometimes the predictions might be wrong, but it just takes one accurate forecast to cause significant damage. I remember in 2008 when the flooding in Cedar Rapids occurred and how fast the waters rose. Please be safe and act quickly!

Cigarette Fires can Smolder for 18 Hours!

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience any fire damage, please call SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell at 641-672-0872.

It’s Jacob,  Digital Marketing Support Coordinator, and I wanted to talk about a trend I’ve noticed while going to fire-damaged properties. Cigarette fires have become a culprit for a noticeable amount of house fires in our franchise area. This isn’t casting shade on the cigarette smokers, as I once occasionally enjoyed a cigarette here and there.  

The problem we are seeing is with the record temperatures we have faced this summer; planters are drying out faster. When you think the cigarette is extinguished, you will be surprised by the amount of heat still being produced. If the cigarette is ignited, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 18 hours for the soil to reach the perfect temperatures to ignite into flames. 

The CBS Minnesota location took the blog image after they tested how fast a cigarette can cause a planter to ignite into flames. One of the easiest ways to prevent this is by filling the container with water which will fully extinguish the cigarette while eliminating the heat it can produce.

Restoring Properties after Vandalism

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell at 641-672-0872 if you need our services.

Having your commercial property vandalized can take a toll on your business and can be a stressful experience. Whether a window gets busted, or graffiti ends up on your property, SERVPRO® of Ottumwa & Grinnell can be there to clean and restore your commercial space. With our strive to be faster to any size disaster, and our 24/7 Emergency Services, you can count on SERVPRO to get your property back to its preloss condition. Cleaning up vandalism should be left to the professionals, so make sure to call SERVPRO if you experience it. Our SERVPRO team uses the following three common methods to remove graffiti from driveways, walkways, walls, stonework and more: 

• Scrubbing, using solvents and a wire brush 
• Pressure washing the affected area 
• Media blasting with sand or dry ice 

How to Minimize Leaking Toilet Damage

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell at 641-672-0872, and our team of professionals will make the water damage ‘Like it Never Even Happened.’

Hello! It’s Jacob, Digital Marketing Support Coordinator here, and I wanted to talk about water damage. The culprit is leaking toilets, which can affect multiple units in apartment buildings. After sitting down and talking to our Office Assistant, Hannah, we found the supply line. 

The supply line is what brings new water into the tank, which makes the flush mechanism work. What causes the leak to occur is when “the joints in the supply line grow weak or become loose” (Rooter Plumbing). If you find yourself in a leak nightmare, follow these easy steps, and you can prevent more damage. 

1. TURN OFF THE WATER SUPPLY! This can be found behind the metal supply line with the valve near the wall's connection point. Turn the valve clockwise to turn off the water supply.
2. Remove the water in the tank; you do this by flushing. With the remaining water, use a material such as a towel to absorb it. 

Flash Flood Family Emergency Planning

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

I hope that you never find yourself in these situations. If you do, please call SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell at 641-672-0872.

Hello Ottumwa!

It’s Jacob, Digital Marketing Support Coordinator, and I wanted to talk about the flooding events in Kentucky and Missouri. I remember the feeling of watching the Cedar Rapids flood in 2008, which took years to recover from. Flooding can happen just as fast as a tornado, so I wanted to create a blog post to go over some conversations your family should have with itself but also the extended family in case flash flooding forces you out of your home.

• Establishing Meeting Locations and Emergency Contact

If flooding causes your family to be forced out of your home, you should come up with two locations that can be “the meeting spot” for your family (if you end up getting separated) and your extended family. One location should be closer to your home, preferably higher grounds, and a location further from your home. This is in case you are told to evacuate and cannot return to the area.

• Planning the Evacuation Plan

This plan should be actively practiced, especially if your home is in a flood zone. This plan should include exits of your home and different routes that could be taken in case flooding causes certain roads to be shut down. NEVER DRIVE YOUR CAR THROUGH FLOODED ROADS. If you cannot leave due to flooded roads, you will need to find a room on the highest floor with few windows and access to television, radio, or a telephone. This area should be stocked with nonperishables so that you have a food source if you are stranded.

Creating and Storing Emergency Water Supply

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

If you find yourself with an unknown water source please follow our suggestions. Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell at 641-682-0782.

Hello! 

It is I, Jacob, the Digital Marketing Coordinator, and I wanted to write a blog that helps you all if you ever find yourself in this situation. Often intense storms are unpredictable, which leaves little to no time to prepare for the worst-case scenario. If you haven’t stocked your storm shelter with blankets, nonperishables, or water, this is your reminder to start building your defense against Mother Nature's wrath. 

During major disasters like the Derecho or the 2008 Floods in Cedar Rapids, people didn’t have access to running water or clean water, which is why I am here to tell you about what to do during a couple of scenarios.

First Things First

You will need to find a container that has never held harmful pathogens such as bleach or industrial cleaners. This container should have a narrow neck to help you control the pour without wasting drinkable water. 

Ways to Purify Water 

• One of the safest ways to purify your water is by boiling, which survivalists practice because of the ability to kill any virus’, bacteria’ or parasites. You must boil it for the correct amount of time, which changes based on your altitude. For locations below 6,500ft, you will want to boil the water for one minute and 3 minutes for those above 6,500ft. Let the water cool and store it in the clean containers you have washed out.
• Purification tablets are a common and easy way to get quick clean water when you cannot boil it. These tablets contain chlorine, chlorine dioxide, or iodine which deactivates harmful pathogens. With a shelf life of 3 years, these tablets will come in handy during a disaster or on hiking trips. Please consider purchasing some of these tablets; click here.

How to Use 101: Mastering the Fire Extinguisher

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

We hope that you never have to use the PASS Method, if you do please call us at SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell at 641-682-0782.

Hello Ottumwa!

It’s Digital Marketing Support Coordinator Jacob; I recently had the fire safety talk with two of my nieces. The topic was “Stop. Drop. Roll.” and what to do if your clothes catch fire. Of course, they thought it was funny when they saw their 6’6” uncle get on the ground and fiercely roll around like my dog Ollie. As adults, we know the jingle, so we know what to do if it happens. But, would you know what to do if you had to use the fire extinguisher? 

By following the simple P.A.S.S. Method you can ensure the flames don’t have a second more to spread.

Pulling the pin will break the tamper seal.

Aiming low is CRITICAL! The base of the fire is the source; focus your attention on this area.

Squeezing the handle will send the extinguishing agent onto the flame. When the agent is in the flame, it will deprive the blaze of its source, oxygen. 

Sweeping from side to side is critical to eliminating the flame. Just keep a firm squeeze on the handle; it only takes seconds for the flame to grow out of control. 

Commercial Cleaning Services

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

Take advantage of SERVPRO's commercial cleaning services to keep your space at its highest potential!

SERVPRO® of Ottumwa and Grinnell knows how important your business is to you and understands the stress that may come when things go wrong in your commercial space. This is why our team of professionals is always Here to help® with commercial specialty cleaning. We employ a strict code of cleanliness when it comes to getting your business up and running again, so you can be confident that our skilled professionals are doing the job right. We use our advanced, proprietary cleaning products, such as SERVPROXIDE, which helps to eliminate viruses and bacteria and is safe for daily use.

Commercial cleaning services offered by SERVPRO of Ottumwa and Grinnell include routine HVAC and air duct cleaning to keep the air clean; biohazard and crime scene clean up that requires professionals; document restoration; odor removal; vandalism and graffiti removal to uphold the appearance of your property; COVID-19 disinfections and more. 

Grilling Season Safety Tips

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you accidentally create an uh-oh moment, please call SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell at 641-682-0782.

Hello Everyone! 

It’s Jacob, Digital Marketing Support Coordinator, and I wanted to write this blog about the importance of fire safety during these warm summer months. Growing up, I developed this passion for food, and when I was old enough, I would grill dinner for my family. I will never forget my mom opening the door and saying, “Jacob John Michael Daniel Stallman stop making that flame so tall.”

It wasn’t until I started working here at SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell that I understood the dangers of letting the fire grow. On average, 1,300 house fires a year are created from charcoal or other solid-fueled grills. Follow these tips, and you will ensure that your property doesn’t fall victim to fire damage.

1. Place grill outside and on a flat surface. This will prevent the likelihood of the grill tipping over, causing a bigger problem than an overcooked steak.
2. Do not leave the grill unattended.
3. Wear appropriate clothing to ensure there isn’t a chance for it to get in the blaze. 
4. Finally, you will want to clean the grill BEFORE and AFTER every use. This is to prevent the fire from burning the burnt remains on the rack. 

Fighting Microbial Growth BEFORE it Starts

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you suspect that your property has microbial growth, please call SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell at 641-682-0782.

Owning an apartment building can be a very stressful task as you have to be ready for whatever can happen. With that being said, as seasons change, you get to let go of some worries, but others become a problem. In this blog, we will discuss one of the biggest problems of the summer season, microbial growth, and how you can prevent it from growing.

•  Monitoring the Indoor Humidity Levels

Various reasons can cause a spike in humidity levels in your home, which needs to be monitored daily to prevent microbial growth. You can purchase a hygrometer, a relatively inexpensive device that can read the internal humidity level. If it's 60% or higher, there is a good chance of growth.

• Create a Ventilation System By Opening Windows

When you open the windows, you are actually helping the outdoor air monitor the humidity levels inside. You must create ventilation because air can only hold a limited amount of water vapor, which can cause water to bead up the wall if not regulated.

• Use Exhaust Fans

Let me introduce you to a little friend of mine, the exhaust fans. These fans are critical to eliminating new water vapor into your home’s air. By turning on the fans, you are directing where this vapor should go instead of sticking to the walls causing the perfect conditions for growth.

Apartment Turnover: Duties for the Property Owner

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Our team has been hired to clean the worse of, the worse; call us at 319-338-8550, and we will make your apartments move-in ready.

The truth is that property owners who have tenants in their rental properties don’t necessarily want to go through the hassle of getting the new property tenant ready. It reminds me of when a friend of mine was moving into her new college apartment, and the property owner did NOTHING to prepare the space for a new tenant. 

One of the biggest things that a landlord MUST provide is OBLIGATED to maintain the overall structural health of the property. That means that it is in their means to provide any cosmetic or structural restoration to ensure that the new tenant has the same standard of cleanliness. 

Suppose you told the new tenant certain property features you would want to ensure that they are correctly working with previous tenants. For example, in between tenants, you will want to check the plumbing to be able to unclog or fix a drain. We recommend that landlords hire the necessary inspections to ensure everything is running efficiently. 

Finally, our team at SERVPRO suggests hiring us to provide detailed cleaning to guarantee nothing remains from previous tenants. Our team of professionals has taken on projects such as tile cleaning with 10+ years of grease stains, and we made it sparkle.

Spring and Summer Storms

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Have you ever wondered why it seems to thunderstorm more often when warmer seasons arrive?

When the warmer seasons of Spring and Summer roll around, many people get excited for nice weather and sunshine, yet fail to remember the thunderstorms that may come along. According to “howstuffworks,” thunderstorms thrive in the presence of moisture and quick-rising, hot air, which are both common in the warmer months of the year. Hotter sunlight during this time creates a warmer atmosphere, and when clashing with winter’s leftover cool, dry air, can lead to thunderstorms or tornadoes. Heavy storms can cause damage to the interior and exterior of your home, but SERVPRO can be there to help. Be prepared for these changing seasons and instable weather to come by knowing SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa and SERVPRO of Grinnell & Pella offer 24/7 emergency services and have teams of highly trained professionals to assist you.

Earth Day 2022

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

This year, Earth Day falls on Friday, April 2022! The annual, global event that supports environmental protection was first celebrated in 1970 and continues to play a role in communities and families. SERVPRO® understands the environmental impact that comes along with running a company, so it employs standards that aid in protection such as biodegradable products and a strive to restore materials instead of discarding them. Whether you want to make an effort to save the planet or celebrate Earth Day with fun activities, here is a list of things you can do: 

At home: 

1. Explore nature with your family! Have kids collect and learn about different outdoor materials and wildlife while teaching them to be respectful of the life around them.  
2. Do a check on your home systems such as your faucets, to make sure they're not leaking and wasting water, and your water heater, to make sure it is not set too high and using up unnecessary power. 
3. Plant a locally thriving tree or flowers! Help the environment by providing it with more oxygen and get your hands dirty this Earth Day. Missouri’s state tree is a Flowering Dogwood, while Iowa’s is the Quercus Macrocarpa, or bur oak tree. Iowa’s state flower is the Wild Prairie Rose, and Missouri’s is known to be the Crataegus Punctata, or Hawthorn.    

At work:

1. Invest in a reusable water bottle or coffee cup to lessen the amount of single-use plastic wasted. To make it exciting, collect and add stickers to your cups for personalization!  
2. Host a telecommute day or carpool day to reduce carbon emissions with less employees driving to work! Personal vehicles are a large contributor to harmful emissions including carbon dioxide, ozone and carbon monoxide that affect human health and global warming.  
3. As a team, raise and donate funds or items to an environmental cause or organization! There are many local and national groups that work toward environmental protection, wildlife conservation and sustainability.  

In the community:

1. Attend a community Earth Day event! Many communities have parades, festivals, and park clean-up days to celebrate the day and improve outdoor spaces.  
2. Organize a group hike! Going on a group walk can promote appreciation for nature and builds community with like-minded individuals around you. This is also a great time to clean up trash and debris left outdoors! 
3. Build a community garden! Gather volunteers to create potting areas and plant various vegetables to become more sustainable and self-sufficient.  

Be an Active Homeowner!

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Keep your home running smooth through the Spring using SERVPRO's quick tips.

Although SERVPRO®’s focus tends to fall into the interior restoration category including fire, water, mold, and smoke damage, we also know it is very important to pay attention to the exterior of your home or commercial space. Especially with seasons changing and many days of rain to come, faulty areas in your home may allow for water to enter, leading to damage. Here are some things around the exterior of your home that should be checked regularly to keep your space running at its highest potential:  

• Clean out your gutters so rain can easily flow through them and drain away from the roof. Gutters filled with leaves, sticks and other debris can become damaged or not work as well.  
• Check that your gutter’s downspouts are properly attached to allow water to drain away from the home. A detached or broken spout can lead to water flooding outside.  
• Make sure the sump pumps in your home are operational and have a working battery. An unexpected, failed sump pump may lead to a slew of future problems.  
• Check that garden hoses are properly attached to prevent water from draining into piping.  
• See if the caulking on your windows needs repair. A ripped seal in the window may allow water to enter the home.  

Why I Decided To Join The SERVPRO Team: Jacob, Digital Marketing Coordinator

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

A Fun Fact about myself is that I am a National Award-Winning Blogger.

Hello Ottumwa & Grinnell!

I am the voice that helps get the SERVPRO message into the digital space. My name is Jacob, and I’ve been a part of the SERVPRO family since October 2021. 

After college, I gained experience as a digital marketer by getting my foot-in-the-digital space with a few digital marketing positions. In August 2021, I worked as a part-time server at a local Tap + Eatery when it experienced a small kitchen fire. SERVPRO created an accurate timeline that helped my coworkers and me plan how many days we would be out of work. Sure enough, by the time they said the crew had the project completed, I was able to return to work. 

I know the relief feeling that SERVPRO provides home/business owners, and I knew I wanted to market for such a great company. This job has taken me to an array of different levels of restoration needs, and it is sad to see our clients at what could be considered a darker time for them. Our team will work their tails off to get the project done so our clients can quickly move to pass the disaster. I am proud to work for a company that constantly strives to provide the best service in the restoration industry.

If this has interested you in working for our SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell location, please send your resume to jbrecht@SERVPRO.me. 

Magic Carpet Techniques

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

We suggest trying the magic carpet drying technique to achieve the dryest form for your materials.

When carpet gets wet, the chance of microbial growth increases, especially if there are high humidity levels. When you decide to hire the team at SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell, you choose to go with a team that will go above and beyond for the client. They can use their crucial industry knowledge to tell what needs to be thrown out and restored to the preloss condition. 

Here at SERVPRO, we have magical techniques that are effective and fun when properly drying different materials. Once the moisture is removed, the fun begins because we use the “floating carpet technique” to dry the carpet thoroughly. This is achieved when air movers are set so that the air flows underneath the carpet. The carpet stays in place because they get clipped to the air mover to ensure the airflow stays underneath the carpet.

It would be best to focus on how aggressive the carpet moves as you add more air movers, the faster the carpet moves. When the motion is too aggressive, you run the chance of the tac strip separating from the backing. This technique can be achieved without our help, but to ensure it gets done correctly, please call SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell at 641-682-0782.

Handling Water Damage

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

The first step in making a water damage claim is calling your insurance agent.

When you see the initial water damage, you might feel this overwhelming dread caused by the list of things needing to be completed. SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell has comprised a list of steps you should take when getting a water claim completed. 

Step 1: Phone Your Insurance Agent

This is the first step in the right direction when relieving the stress of a disaster. You will tell the agent about the claim you want to have completed, and they will take the necessary steps.

Step 2: Finding the Source

When finding the source of the water leak, the easiest way is to pull out your Emergency Ready Profile if you had one completed. If not, you will need to walk around to try and find the source of the leak. Some examples of a possible source are:

1. Broken pipe
2. A pipe burst due to cold weather.
3. Overflowing toilet or sink
4. Crack in the foundation

Once you find the source, the next best step is to find the water shut-off knob, usually located under the kitchen sink.

Step 3: Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell

Once you speak with one of our 24/7 call representatives, they will direct a member of our staff to your home to complete a scope of work. The Project Manager will then create the best course of action to instruct the technicians on the best mitigation practices. This course of action is generated by our proprietary software that shoots information such as where to place air movers, providing optimal drying times. 

Step 4: Reconstruction

SERVPRO has recently added reconstruction services to our list, which means we can be the one-stop shop for the entire restoration process. This service is considered a different project. Once the mitigation team gives us the green light, we will have one of our Reconstruction Project Managers come out and do a scope of work. 

By completing these easy steps, we can ensure a smooth transition from disaster back to normalcy once more. If you want a smoother transition, call SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell at 641-682-0782 and ask to set up a time to complete an Emergency Ready Profile.

Frost Bite Season!

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

By wearing multiple layers, you ensure that all heat is being kept internally to prevent being exposed to the cold temperatures,

Many people don't wear the proper amount of layers to help protect themselves from unsafe weather conditions. It only takes 30 minutes of being exposed to low temperatures to develop frostbite, with severe consequences.

Frostnip

Frostnip is a mild form of frostbite, which will quickly develop into a more severe type of frostbite if kept in cold temperatures. If left out in the freezing temperatures, it will progress into a complete numbness in the affected area. When dealing with frostnip, you need to take immediate action, which comes from the reheating of the skin. The sigh of relief is when you can feel a slight tingling pain, which means blood flows throughout the affected area.

Frostbite

Often, frostbites are pointed out by someone unaffected because the affected person lacks the feeling in their body. When you notice a slight discoloring on someone's skin is when you should seek immediate medical assistance. There are two stages of frostbite, superficial and deep, different.

Superficial Frostbite

The first indicator that its frostbite and not a frostnip is when you notice a slight discoloring of the skin. If caught early on, you can reheat the skin, but it might have a mottled look with the possible stinging pain. When the skin is reheated, you shouldn't freak out if liquid blisters form 12-36 hours after reheating. 

Deep Frostbite

Deep frostbite is when all layers of the skin and tissue are either damaged or dying. Bold discoloring is a good indicator of this type of frostbite, but the primary symptoms are losing all sensation of cold or discomfort in the area. Large blisters are expected to form 25 to 48 hours after rewarming. The biggest concern is if the joints and muscles stop working, which indicates that they are drying.

Knowing What To Look For

If you are anyone notices any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention:

• Increased pain, swelling, inflammation in the affected area.
• Fever.
• When the skin is brutal, cold, or blotchy.
• In severe cases, you have a higher chance of developing hypothermia, with the symptoms being intense shivering, slurred speech, drowsiness, and the loss of coordination.  

We at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Pella want you're to stay warm during these chilly times. If you are spending a lot of time outdoors, ensure you return to the warmth to prevent getting frostbit. 

You Are Loved!

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

If you or someone you know shows signs of wanting to end their life, please reach out to one of the resources listed.

We have seen an increase in the suicide rate, 25x more significant than the general public for individuals with serious mental illness and mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder. Many people suffer in silence, often putting on a fake smile to ensure no one can see their depression. Knowing these warning signs can ensure that you can provide resources to help those who want it.

Warning Signs of Suicide

• Talking about feeling hopeless or having a lack of wanting to live.
• Talking about being a burden to others.
• Displaying extreme mood swings.
• Losing interest in things or losing the ability to experience a pleasure. 
• They are withdrawing or feeling isolated.

Suppose you recognize any of those symptoms in a friend or family member. In that case, we advise getting that person in contact with one of the following resources: 

Resources:

• Southern Iowa Mental Health Center
• Crisis Line: (641) 682-8772
• River Hill’s Community Health Center
• Crisis Line: (641) 856-4400
• Your Life Iowa
• Crisis Line: (855) 581-8111
• Text: (855) 895- 8398
• Online Chat: https://yourlifeiowa.org/ 
• Veterans Crisis Line
• Crisis Line: (800) 273-8255, Press #1
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 
• 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• 911 or emergency services

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnel wants you to know that you aren’t alone, and yes, things might be difficult in the current moment, but things will turn around. You are loved! If you or someone you know is struggling, please provide them with the listed resources above. 

Classes of Water: Rate of Evaporation

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding can cause different materials to absorb moisture differently.

When one of our Project Managers arrives at a job affected by the water, they will put each job into four different classes. These classes describe the potential rate of evaporation based on the amount of wet surface areas and porosity of materials affected. Each type requires a certain amount of equipment based on the estimated humidity load. 

Class 1: Minimal Water Means Slow Rate Evaporation 

• This class has little water absorption (less than 5%) in wet porous materials.
• Low evaporation materials such as concrete, plaster, and masonry will only be lightly affected and have absorbed minimum moisture. 

Class 2: Evaporation Progress at Significant Rates

• This class affects porous materials, between 5-40% of the surface areas such as floors, walls, and ceilings.
• This is when porous materials have absorbed a relatively significant amount of moisture; however, low evaporation materials have absorbed minimum moisture. 

Class 3: More Water Means Fastest Rate Evaporation

• This class is when water is more present than any other class and evaporation is fastest. 
• This is when 40% of the area surfaces being wet porous materials with low evaporation materials have absorbed minimum moisture. 

Class 4: Longest Drying Time

• This is when the water has saturated deeply into the material, and the moisture is being held or tapped as bound water.
• Excess water is bound to the molecules, and the only way to be released is by evaporation. It takes longer for materials to evaporate in this class.
• Low evaporation materials include hardwood, plaster, brick, and saturated concrete. 

Knowing the permeability of material can help our team understand the duration of time it will take to have material thoroughly dried.

Let Us Help You During The Hard Times...

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

We will clean up a job to ensure our clients won't have to think about it.

One of the services we offer here at SERVPRO is cleaning that involves sensitive situations. We have the most professional staff working to help our clients when their focus needs to be elsewhere for many different reasons. 

Homicide/Suicide Clean-up

There are specific topics that are very sensitive to talk about, and this is one of them. We understand that our clients will need us for a homicide or suicide clean-up, and we want to take this one thing off the list. We will remove any potentially pathogenic substances remaining on the job site, which provides a safe and clean area for our clients to grieve the loss. 

Hoarding Clean-up

Hoarding is when a client may struggle to let go of a mass amount of content due to their rationalizing feeling. This type of clean-up is complex because our client feels that each item will fulfill a particular need later in the future. They may struggle with letting go of the article, so our team of professionals will ensure that the job is completed so that our client understands that they are being heard. Animal Clean-up should be considered for severe hoarding cases where a client may not remember the last time they saw a pet. 

To read more, feel free to call our office to speak with one of our trained professionals or visit our Biohazard and Clean-up Restoration page.

Complete Your Winter Checklist

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

By completing the winter checklist, you ensure that your family will be safe and ready for this winter.

Temperatures are creeping lower and lower as we move into the winter months. We suggest that you follow this winter checklist to ensure that you and your family are safe during this wintertime. Let this list prepare you to step into the winter season without any stress. 

Turning off the space heater

Utility bills are projected to rise this year due to the increase in gas prices. This means that many people will be investing in heating alternatives. If you want to read about our tips for using a space heater properly, feel free to read our blog, “Proper ways to use a space heater.” To ensure you are keeping your family safe, we suggest turning off space heaters when you leave the room.  

Cutting the bottom of the Christmas tree’s trunk

As many families prepare to head to their local Christmas Tree Farm, we like to reiterate the importance of cutting off about 4 inches of the trunk. Once you bring in a tree inside, it will start to dry out, making the pine needles just as flammable as a cotton drape. The sap of the tree will harden, which will make it impossible for the tree to absorb any moisture from the stand, which will make the pine needles from drying out. 

Blowing out candles

We get it; the seasonal candles will transport your space into your own little safe haven when it gets blustery outside. When you mix in how the nights are longer, people burn their candles longer than during our summer months. Forgetting to blow out candles creates a higher chance of having an unwanted situation. Pets are the most prominent suspects as they often can bump into them, sending the candle on the floor. The biggest tip we can offer you is that you will want to ensure that nothing in a 3-foot radius is a flammable material when lighting a candle. 

Getting your chimney cleaned

When was the last time you thought about cleaning your chimney? If it has taken you longer than a minute to think about you might want to schedule a cleaning. When people don’t clean out the chimney, they are letting the possibility of having toxic gases enter your home. Another factor to keep in mind is if there are animals that have made your chimney their home. By having someone come professionally clean your chimney, you are ensuring your chimney is free of animals. 

By implementing these tips, you ensure that you are winter-ready and know the steps to take to keep your home free of fire.  

Joining Local Organizations

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Mallery Atkins, Pella's Sales and Marketing Representative

SERVPRO takes pride in our team member’s desire to become involved in organizations within their local communities. Being involved in various organizations gives our team the opportunity to network, welcome new businesses to town, and assist in planning community events. As a member of the Poweshiek Leadership Program, Mallery Atkins, our Sales and Marketing Representative in our Grinnell/ Pella franchise location, recently had the opportunity to tour the Iowa State Capitol Building in Des Moines.

During this visit, Mallery and the rest of the Poweshiek Leadership Program took part in a mock House debate on current topics, discussed the district mapping process, and took a tour of the Capitol building itself.

Before moving the Capital from Iowa City to Des Moines, the Capital was in Burlington, before Iowa was a state. Many fires destroyed the Capitol buildings before what we have now, and sadly there were no restoration companies to help at that time. Our Des Moines Capitol Building also has the largest gold dome of all the states and is covered in 23.7 karat gold leaf.

Inside the Capital is 136 years of paint and restoration. Instead of following a modern approach or leaving the walls white, Iowa’s Capital has referred back to some original looks. Not a single room has wallpaper, everything is hand-painted, and the same gold leaf covering the dome outside can be seen in bordered designs on the rooms inside.

If you ever get the opportunity to tour the Iowa Capitol Building, don’t walk; run.

Ways Winter Storms Damage your Home

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

By following these helpful tricks and tips you are ensuring that you are keeping your home safe from the winter weather.

Everyone enjoys the first winter storm, but everyone will admit that they hate the 50th winter storm. The truth is that the winter months can cause many issues for your home if you don't know what to look for to prevent damage. 

Wind + Frozen branches = Damage

Everyone enjoys a nice walk in a winter wonderland with all of the ice-covered branches; it can certainly create an aesthetic winter feeling. When you take ice-covered branches and mix in blistery cold winter winds, you get a winter wonderland disaster that can damage your roof. Winds can also blow leaves into the gutter, creating a clogged gutter which can cause a leak of water into your home or basement. 

Melted Frosty + Flooded Basement = Water Damage  

The kiddos love it, and the dogs love to shove their head deep into it, snow. We all enjoy the cold fluffy stuff until it comes time for it to melt. Melted snow creates a messy situation outside, but the real problem is when it leaks into the basement or the house. The added moisture combined with the warm inside temperatures can create favorable conditions for mold to grow. 

The listed examples are just the tip of the winter wonderland disaster created during the winter months. By staying on top of the maintenance of your home, you ensure that there won't be a bigger disaster later down the road. 

Removing Moisture from Materials

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Different materials can hold and react to moisture differently.

The rate at which moisture moved through materials depends on two factors: the type of material and the degree of wetness. The kind of material will vary in permeability or the ability for water to pass through the material. The degree of wetness influences moisture movement, in combination with other material characteristics, by indicating the type of water being addressed. Water will be present in one, two, or three forms. 

Surface Water

Surface water can be found on the material's surface because it is liquid, visible, and evaporates. When clearing this type of water, it's best to remove it physically using mechanical extraction equipment. The remaining water will evaporate by using different airflow and moderate temperature and humidity.

Free Water

Free water is when its present within a material but hasn't bonded. You would find it in cavities, open pores, and other air spaces within the material. It is a liquid, generally visible when darkening the material, and can evaporate. It isn't as accessible at the surface when approaching free water, so you will have to use lower humidities and warmer temperatures. As the free water near the surface evaporates, the lower humidities and warmer temperatures are significant in maintaining the rate of evaporation.

Bound Water

Bounded water is when the water gets absorbed by the material and gets held by the chemical bonds. Due to this bond, you have to release it from the bond before the water can evaporate. We will have to evaporate the water first, so directing airflow onto the material won't be successful. The fabric will dry fastest when it is warmed, and the surrounding humidity has to be very low. This type of absorption takes longer than the other two types due to the chemical bond.

This knowledge is what separates SERVPRO from other companies. When we send our Project Managers to a water-damaged job site, they will be able to evaluate the site and will be able to come up with the best course of action.  

How to Prevent Water Damage from Melted Snow

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Clearing the roof is very important in preventing the roof from collapsing.

Everyone says that one day the weather may be dramatically different from the next day. One day we might have a significant snowstorm, and the next, it could be utterly sunny with nothing but UV rays. Often people don’t associate snow with flooding issues as it’s not always a common issue. There is always a chance of snow-related flooding when ice freezes near the structure of the home. Freezing around the structure is dangerous when it causes some cracking of the frame. When the temperature changes at an accelerated rate, it can cause leakage through those cracked foundations. 

Water damage to the carpet

When that water seeps through the new foundation cracks, it allows the water to come into your home. Water coming into the house is problematic when the water absorbs into the carpet, creating perfect conditions for mold to grow. Especially if the homeowner keeps the heat on with no ventilation outwards, the warm temperature will be ideal for mold to thrive. Here are some ways to prevent water from getting inside your home.

Tip 1: Be strategic with shoveling 

If your home is on a hill, you should shovel the snow so that it flows away from your home. Directing the path helps control the direction that the melted snow will flow when the temperature rises outside. 

Tip 2: Clear excessive amount off of the roof

When clearing snow off the roof, you risk it collapsing from the weight off of the table. When you are on the top of your home putting up those colorful lights feel free to clean the gutters. Clearing the drains is essential because you are not allowing ice dams to form. 

Tip 3: Check sump pump

Testing the sump pump by pouring a bucket of water can show you if it is working. When you run a bucket of water into the sump pump, and it doesn’t turn on, you will want to evaluate it to see why it didn’t turn on. 

Don’t let the winter season bring a damper to your wallet. Stop the problem before they arise by doing the checks listed above to ensure your home is winter-ready.  

Heating Alternatives

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

The space heater turned off waiting to be used.

Heating Alternatives

Mid-American Energy Co has released a statement that heating bills for natural gas could rise by 46% to 96% over last year due to increased gas costs. The trend also continues for propane users as their heating source as projections show the prices to go over 69% over the previous year. With that being said, it’s understandable that families might look into alternative heating sources, such as electric heaters. 

Dangers of Space Heaters

The Consumer Product Safety Commission stated that space heaters are the leading cause of over a thousand house fires each year. Space heaters are a great alternative to heating when used safely and correctly. Here are a few things to remember when using space heaters in your home.

• Keep space heater on the ground:

We understand that it takes some time to totally heat up your living space. You might feel tempted to place it right next to you as you snuggle up during a snowstorm. We advise you to not do this as you should put it on the ground away from any flammable material. 

• Keep away from water: 

This might be news to you, but water and electricity do not go together. When placing your space heater in a good location, you will want to keep in mind the room you have it in. It’s best to keep it out of the kitchen and the bathroom to ensure no chance of water getting near the space heater.

• Plug the heater directly into the wall:

The number one thing I hope you take away from this article is the importance of plugging the space heater directly into the wall. When you insert the plug into a surge protector, extension cord, or anything that isn’t the wall plug, you add extra electrical connections. This is dangerous because the more electrical connections you add, the greater chance of creating resistance which creates a hazardous build-up of heat. When plugging the heater into the wall, you have to be mindful of the 3-foot rule to ensure you aren’t heating up the plug and/or the wall. 

We understand you might invest in some space heaters with the projected increase in propane and natural gas heating options. We ask that you think about the placement of these heaters thoughtfully and strategically that ensures that you keep your home and property safe!

Disinfection Season

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

A skilled technician wiping down all of the high traffic/ high touched surfaces.

Summer is on its way out, and winter is making itself comfortable with its cold weather and random stomach bugs. As everyone prepares for winter, here at SERVPRO, we are getting ready for another busy disinfection season. Many business owners are monitoring the random germ bugs that go through their business as they consider using our disinfection services. When a client calls us for a disinfection job, we like to gather all the information to know the severity of the situation. Is this COVID-related or just a stomach bug? Confirmed Case, or was it just a suspected case or maybe you just want to be preventative to bring down any viral load in the space? How many confirmed cases?

These questions help our team understand what type of service, disinfectant, and PPE they should utilize to help you and to keep them safe and healthy. We place our disinfection jobs into three different categories:

• Category 1: Preventative Action

There were no confirmed cases from our client in this category, but they want to have our team come in disinfect as a preventative measure. Since there were not any confirmed cases, our team will go in wearing a face mask and gloves as they mist the surfaces to ensure it is safe and sanitary. 

• Category 2: Suspected Case

In this category, the client suspects a case of covid, flu, or stomach bug. With that being noted, we will send in our team wearing a face mask, gloves, and goggles. Our team will go through misting the surfaces, and they will wipe down all horizontal surfaces and all high touched areas. 

• Category 3: Confirmed Case

For the safety of our team, we will send in our technicians in a full hazmat suit. This ensures that they will not be exposed to covid, flu, or stomach bugs that we were hired to disinfect. This is for businesses with a confirmed case, so our team will go in and mist twice, spray/wipe all horizontal surfaces, and wipe down all high touched areas. 

With flu season soon approaching, if you notice an increase in any germ bug-like symptoms, let our technicians come and help stop the problems before it starts.

When We Remove Carpet in Commercial Spaces

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage suddenly takes over your business, we are the team to call on. We are no strangers to dealing with storms or commercial water damage. Our aim is to bring the space back to preloss conditions in a timely manner, so the business can resume. In the case of commercial spaces, we designate a project manager to be the main point of contact that helps assist throughout the project to make sure the scope of work is handled properly. Water damage requires a quick response to salvage as much material as possible. When there is carpet in the commercial space, our team looks to see what is underneath the carpet. Rubber backing can prevent us from pulling the water through as water can get trapped underneath. In this situation, it is better to remove the carpet to prevent microbial growth since water cannot be extracted if it gets underneath the said rubber backing. Our team of trained professionals can mitigate any water damage and can complete any reconstruction.

Emergency Weather Tips

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Consider getting insurance for your home based on past weather in your area. Such as extra coverage for:

• Hail Storms
• Lightning Storms
• Tornadoes 
• Blizzards
• Floods 

*Make an Emergency Kit – Include bottled water, copies of important documents, medication, non-perishable food, important phone numbers, flashlight, and extra batteries. This can be placed in your home along with a small version for your vehicle.

*Maintain the roof, siding, and windows of your home before a storm hits.

*Keep trees trimmed about your home and out of buildings.

*Unplug electronics and major appliances before a lightning storm strikes.

Contact your local SERVPRO franchise for more readiness tips and tools.  We are just a phone call away and are available 24/7 365 days a year. If you do experience storm damage, then our team will be at the ready to help assist you and help bring your home back to preloss conditions.

What is a HEPA filter?

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

1. What is a HEPA filter?

HEPA is a type of pleated mechanical air filter. It is an acronym for "high-efficiency particulate air [filter]" (as officially defined by the U.S. Dept. of Energy).  This type of air filter can theoretically remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns (µm). A micron is one-millionth of a meter or approximately 1/25000 of an inch. The diameter specification of 0.3 microns responds to the worst case; the most penetrating particle size (MPPS). Particles that are larger or smaller are trapped with even higher efficiency. Using the worst-case particle size results in the worst-case efficiency rating (i.e. 99.97% or better for all particle sizes). Source: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/what-hepa-filter-1

Restoring Versus Replacing After a Fire

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

Our team of professionals has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Disasters tend to occur when we least expect them. Especially when a fire ravages your home or business. You can be left confused, overwhelmed, and emotional. Here at SERVPRO, we act as a resource throughout the whole mitigation and restoration process. The team aims to salvage as much as possible versus replacing materials, getting your home or business to preloss conditions.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. No matter the time of day, we can be onsite within hours of the initial call. Our Job File Coordinator and Project Manager will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources in a timely manner, so we have a better chance of restoring more of the property. 

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. We provide the necessary equipment to properly test for the extent of water, mold, and fire damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. 

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. A natural disaster can leave your home or facility vulnerable to problems such as vandalism, theft, and unwanted entry.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. We aim to be onsite as soon as possible to minimize potential microbial growth from the water damage.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Disruptive Versus Aggressive Drying Methods

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

Our team members know to stock our vehicles to help with your water damage no matter if the job needs disruptive or aggressive drying.

When going onto a Jobsite with water damage, our team members begin by assessing the damage to then determine the drying method needed for the situation. These drying methods can be broken down into disruptive and aggressive drying. 

Disruptive drying is meant for a more contaminated and damaged property. This is where replacing materials would be less expensive than restoration. This method involves removing wet items, injecting air to speed up drying. In short, repairs will have to be done after the structure has dried. This requires the removal of materials such as flood cuts.

The aggressive drying method is for a less contaminated and less damaged job site. This is where restoration is more cost-efficient for the job at hand. This method involves leaving wet materials in the structure and drying them in place using direct airflow. 

SERVPRO team members are trained in both methods to make sure you are getting the property back in a timely and cost-efficient manner.

Classes of Water: Rate of Evaporation

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs. We aim to follow a restore versus replace mentality.

Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. As leaders in the storm and water damage industry, our team of professionals has advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. To determine what equipment we bring onto a job, we need water classification. Classes of water describe the potential rate of evaporation based upon the number of wet surface areas and the porosity of materials affected. The rate of evaporation includes the density of materials, amount of water, the density of the structure, saturation of materials, and the number of materials. All these components affect how storm and water damage will be treated. Additionally, these directly influence the equipment and products utilized. Our quick response to storm damage helps our team quickly and efficiently help you get to preloss conditions.

How to Provide Cleanliness for Your Business in Grinnell

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

Our program is based on defensive pathogen cleaning that goes beyond the scope of janitorial work, ushering in a new standard of clean.

As Covid cases are back on the rise, our team is dedicated to keeping your business open and safe for customers and coworkers. Our system is broken into three C's to help provide a sense of cleanliness that goes beyond janitorial services. 

• Consult: Not all businesses are the same, so we’ll tailor a cleaning program based on the unique needs of each facility.
  
  
• Clean: Based on the agreed plan, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.
  
  
• Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned with the option for collateral that represents our commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers, and community.

Our team's priority is to provide a sense of confidence for our community no matter if it's for water damage, fire damage, or general cleaning. 

What Specialty Cleaning Services We Offer For Pella

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa and Grinnell is ready to assist with whatever job is needed from general cleaning to complete reconstruction.

From those unexpected disasters to general cleaning, our team of trained professionals is ready to come to help your business! We offer several services which include:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on our team to bring your workspace look its very best. We know to come prepared for every job no matter the time of day. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you can call on our team to help you.  We have specialized training, products, and equipment for all of our jobs.

How to Prepare for a Disaster in Ottumwa

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

We know how stressful storm damage can be for homeowners and business owners, so we make sure to come prepared.

Some things to think about when preparing for disasters (Home & Business) : 1.     Power - We have the ability to supply temporary power. We have generators that can be used for any size job to make sure we have the power to get the job done in a timely manner. Many times after a storm, the power is cut off, so our team of trained professionals knows to come prepared to get the job done. 2.     Content Manipulation - SERVPRO can move contents out of the way before flooding happens. Our contents team comes in and boxes up contents to be salvaged. 3.     Board up - Our team has the ability to board up homes, apartments, and businesses to prevent further damage to the home. It minimizes property loss by securing the building and taking care of restorable/reusable elements. A natural disaster can leave your facility or home vulnerable to problems such as vandalism, theft, and unwanted entry.

Proper Foundation Can Aid Against Storm Damage

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

Across the Midwest, storms have been known to cause incredible amounts of damage to homes and businesses. This natural disasters can include straight-line winds, lightning, hail, flooding, snow and tornadoes. All of these can ruin your home or business in a matter of hours. In order to prevent such natural disasters, you need to build your home or shop with the proper foundation and design. Building your home or business on the ground where it has been before can be expensive and dangerous. You may pay for a new foundation that will work out much more expensive than the price of building on the right foundation.

Building on a good solid foundation is important when living in an area prone to storms such as tornadoes. When you build your home with proper foundations, it will be able to withstand any weather conditions, including hurricanes and tornadoes. The best part about building your home with a strong, solid foundation is that it can last for decades. If you still experience storm damage, then call on our team to help you get your home or business back!

Getting Back On Track After A Fire

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire strikes your home or business, you need to have a trusted company clean up the damage properly. Our team's goal is to provide exceptional customer service and remain a trusted leader in restoration. We are a preferred vendor for many insurance companies, making the process that much easier for you. With timely communication and documentation, we strive for providing our clients a good customer service experience during difficult times.

Our focus is to restore your structures back to their former condition. Your business, home, or structure does not need to be in the exact way as it was before the fire. Our goal is to make your structure look as good as it was before the fire occurred. We are here to help!

Our Team is Ready to Help!

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial properties after a fire, smoke, or water damage. Our SERVPRO franchises can also mitigate mold and mildew from your business in a timely and efficient manner to minimize business interruption. Our team priority is to keep your business safe and back up and running as quickly as possible. 

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore our client’s property. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for us. Along with our current certifications listed, we are also advanced certified water damage, restoration technicians. Our staff is ready to assist whenever needed as we have 24-hour emergency services for unexpected disasters. 

Method of Cleaning: Ultrasonic

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

A fire can prove to be an emotional and overwhelming situation to handle. Our team of trained professionals comes into your home and helps get your sentimental items and property back to you. We hold a "restore first" mentality to ensure you get your normal life back. 

With our improved technology, we are able to clean more materials and items for a higher rate of restoration. One of these methods is our Ultrasonic cleaner. The ultrasonic machine works by producing high-frequency sound waves with a liquid. These sound waves that are produced work to clean the crevices of intricate items. This machine works best for delicate items such as crystal and china. It can also clean electrical tools and appliances. Our machine can hold larger items to help get more items restored.

Fire Restoration 24/7

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell is here to help when a fire affects your home or business. We know that you don’t experience this every day. We specialize in fire restoration cleaning and mitigation. We are here to help when a fire affects the structure and/or contents of your home as we are a full-service restoration company. We maintain a "restore first" mentality. You can depend on us to help you make advised decisions as you work through the process. We clean structure and contents. We provide demolition services. We will media blast and seal structure. We work with dependable subcontractors to help in the rebuilding process. We work with and communicate all documentation with insurance programs and the insured to make sure all know the status and progress of the job. We are here to help when a fire occurs.

The Derecho Effect: A Year Later

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

Needless to say, 2020 was a busy year for the SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa team members. The business that specializes in disaster relief went into storm restoration mode after the Aug. 10 derecho, and according to Business Development Manager Michele Presley, they are still in that hustling mode.

“We're checking into a lot of mold situations where people may have done something themselves,” she said, “and didn't properly do it, or they didn't know they had a problem. So, they're now finding mold with the environmental changes that we've had after winter into spring.” Derecho damage has unveiled previous and current microbial growth that needs remediation from professionals.

For example, even though the exterior of a home may have look undamaged, the wind may have got into their attic and shifted the insulation, causing condensation issues and microbial growth.

Mrs. Presley accredits these new problems to the timing of last year’s derecho storm.

Rainy Season

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

If anywhere else is like the Midwest we’ve been getting lots of rain! Rain is useful for farmers and gardeners, but at SERVPRO we try to stay ready and prepared if that rain becomes too much and finds its way into someone’s basement. Here’s some tips to avoid a leak into the home.

1. Check the basement walls. Vertical cracks can come with the age of the home, but horizontal cracks may mean a foundation issue or a lot of pressure from the outside elements. Of course, any crack vertical or horizontal needs addressed if it’s wide enough for water to seep through, but catching them early will be beneficial.
2. Clean out the gutters. Fall leaves can clog up gutters and cause the water to overflow and drop next to the foundation and cause a puddle. You want the water to flow away from the house, especially if it sits on a slope.
3. Make sure these are not bent up or damaged so there is a nice flow, and make sure there’s an extra piece on the end that releases water 3 or more feet away from the house. (And remember to put them back on after you mow!)
4. Splash Block. These are handy in case there’s a leak in the downspout to help guide the water away from the foundation. It doesn’t hurt to check these regularly for any cracks as well.
5. Build up the soil next to the foundation. Another way to help move water away from the home is to build up the soil near the home and slope it down and away. That way if there is a significant amount of rain or storm that the gutters and spouts cannot hold, the water that overflows will run away from the house.

How to Handle a Burst Pipe

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

No one wants to deal with a burst water pipe. How long it takes for your pipes to freeze and cause problems also depends on your homes insulation and where the pipes are located. General rule of thumb for water to freeze in your homes pipes the temperature outside would need to below 20 degrees Fahrenheit for a total of six hours or longer. Below are a few good precautionary steps you can take to prevent your water pipes for bursting.

1. Disconnect your hoses from you outside faucets.

If your hose is connected to your outdoor faucet the water is not able to drain out causing the water in the water pipe to freeze leading to a potential bursting pipe.

2. Keep your water faucets running

In extreme cold weather it is sometimes a good idea to leave your faucets on a small drip to prevent the water in your pipes from freezing.

3. Install heat tape

Heat tape or wrap is used to go around your pipes and is used to maintain proper temperature to prevent a busted pipe.

4. Check for air leaks around your home

keep the colder air out.

5. Maintain proper temperature in your home

Keep temperatures for dropping to 32 degrees in areas of your house where pipes are located.

6. Leave cabinet doors open

If your sink pipes are on an outside wall keep your cabinet doors open to allow warm air to enter your cabinets to prevent a frozen pipe.

Keep That Gutter Clean!

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure to keep those gutters clean to reduce an potential damage to your home. If you have any questions or you need assistance then call today.

SERVPRO is here to help. It is important to take time and reduce damage to your property by keeping your homes gutters cleaned out from debris to prevent excess water from building up. During the fall months is when most gutters become clogged due to all the leaves falling and when left clogged though out the winter months can cause ice dams to build up leaving you with potential for severe roof damage. In the spring and summer when gutters are left with debris from previous months can cause the gutter to detach from your house causing roof, soffit, and foundation problems by letting water seep in.  If let go for long periods of time the water sitting in your gutters during the warmer months can become a breeding ground for insects, mold, and weeds on your homes roof. With routine seasonal cleaning you can prevent multiple gutter issues and if you’re looking for better protection you can simply install gutter guards which are a screen that locks inside your gutter and allows water to enter and keeps the unwanted debris out allowing water to flow freely away from your house.

Our SERVPRO Services

4/23/2021 (Permalink)

This is Rick Isaacson and he is the CEO of the 1,800 SERVPRO franchises over the U.S. He is committed to helping others!

Our SERVPRO team specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. Our SERVPRO franchises can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for us. Along with our current certifications listed, we are also advanced certified water damage restoration technicians. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."  We celebrated our 10-year anniversary as a SERVPRO area franchise in 2020.  We have valued your business over the years and will continue to value it for the many years to come.

Laundry Safety

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Laundry can easily pile up, but it is essential to practice basic safety techniques to protect your home.

Not clearing your filter after each use can be dangerous. It is reported that there are over 17,000 fires related to home dryers each year.
Here are a few simple tips to follow to help prevent a clothes dryer fire.
-Clean the filter screen after each load to prevent lint buildup.
-An adult should be at home whenever the dryer is in use and the home should have working smoke alarms.
-Clean the vents outside twice a year to clean out any accumulated dust and lint.
-Commercial dryers should be cleaned out regularly because of their frequent use and shared venting system.
-Don't dry mop heads in the dryer. The dryer's heat can ignite the chemical residue on mop heads.
-Keep the surrounding area clean. The dryer's heat may ignite anything left too close to the dryer.
-The safety of your family is important to us and we hope that you don't encounter such a fire. Be sure you follow these steps to avoid a fire in your home.

What to do about frozen pipes

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

If your home or business experiences damage from a burst pipe, then call upon our team of professionals to assist with your water damage.

Frozen pipes can cause a lot of issues and cost a lot of money! One pipe burst in a home at 4-8 gallons of water running per minute. This can cause thousands of dollars worth of water damage. If not taken care of and mitigated properly, then this can then lead to mold issues.

Prevention:

1. Locate and identify any and all shut off valves in the home and make sure they work properly.  (Everyone should know where their "Main Water Valve" is at and how to operate it)
2. Identify any potential problems. (Areas where pipes are on an outside wall, ceiling, attics, crawl spaces, etc)
3. Seal any gaps around the home where cold air has a chance to come in contact with pipes.  In extreme cold temperatures, especially wind driven, even a tiny opening can let enough cold in to cause a pipe to freeze. (Dryer vents, windows, cable penetrations, etc.)
4. Turn off and drain all standard outside hose bibs.

When the temperature is expected to drop:

1. Open kitchen sink and any vanity doors of the areas that are at risk for problems.
2. With pipes that are on outside walls that may be a freeze problem, leave a small trickle of both of the hot and cold water running.
3. Temporarily seal off any crawl space vents that may be around the foundation.
4. Keep the house warm.

What to do if you experience a frozen pipe: (The first sign of a "frozen" pipe is reduced or no flow at all)

1. If you experience a "no flow" situation (First turn off the "Main Water Valve" to the house and leave the faucets "open", Second DO NOT use any open flame to attempt to thaw the pipes, Third DO NOT use any electric heater, hair dryer applied directly to the piping as any leaking water may cause electrocution, and Forth turning the water back on is best handled with (2) people.  One person turning on the water SLOWLY and the other walking about the house to be sure no water is running).
2. Heat and patience is the best way to get frozen pipes thawed out.  We do recommend that if a frozen pipe happens to find the source and correct it so it will not happen again.  (If you were lucky enough for the frozen pipes not bursting this time, you may not be so lucky the next time.)

**Please be advised if the water to your house is shut off, it may also turn off any fire prevention system you may have hooked up to your water

What to do if you leave your home during the winter months:

1. Turn the Main Water Valve off to your home**
2. Leave the heat on to the house and set it NO LOWER than 60 degrees.
3. Have a neighbor stop by daily, especially when the temperatures are in the 20's or lower.

**If your home has "hot water and/or steam heat", the water must remain on even when you are not there. A neighbor stopping by is critical if this applies to you.

The Principles of Drying

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

The restorative drying process is meant for restoration professionals and is designed to ensure that each component and variable is considered to achieve all drying goals.

Principle 1: Provide for the safety and health workers and occupants

Principle 2: Document and inspect the project

Principle 3: Mitigate further damage

Control the spread of contaminants

Control moisture intrusion

Principle 4: Clean and dry affected areas

Our team uses cleaning procedures whenever soils and debris must be removed to expedite the drying process. Restorative drying for professionals is used to control as many factors as possible to complete the most efficient drying process. Once enough water is extracted, evaporation is enhanced by:

• Lowering humidity
• Increasing airflow across wet surfaces
• Controlling temperature of air and surfaces
• Using outside air when possible
• Creating a drying chamber

Principle 5: Complete the restoration and repairs

Mold Remediation on a Roof Ice Dam

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

If you ever experience an ice dam and it has affected your property, we can be there to help you clean up and do any mold remediation.

In the case of an ice dam, we are able to help with drying water damaged walls and floors and we can remove and clean up affected insulation. This image shows how an ice dam can lead to potential water damage. If the water goes untreated then it can produce mold spores that can continue to spread. We start by properly removing all saturated and affected insulation then the area can be treated and dried out if necessary. When working in older homes, we make sure to test for lead and asbestos per OSHA expectations. The goal of a mold remediation project is to return the indoor environment to a clean, safe, livable condition. With the build up of ice on the roof and gutter, the ice melts and can seep through to the dry wall and insulation. This can then be a source for mold. If you are in need of help, call our office and we will he there to make it "Like it never even happened."

Ew! What's that smell?

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

We are prepared to be there for you, and we can help you with any mess or smelly situation, no matter how bad.

Good news! We are able to deodorize your home whether it's a water job or fire job or it's merely animal smells. We have the equipment to get the job done. Our team of professionals will use Ozone generators to remove any odor after the source is removed. Ozone gas (O3) is very effective in eliminating odors. When the Ozone generator is on, plants, animals and the team member need to get out of the area that is being treated, because ozone can be toxic when inhaled at significant levels. It is meant to make O2 turn to O3 as it is an olfactory desensitizer. Ozone works slowly, but is very effective. Depending the disaster, the ozone generator can do the trick, or it can a necessary deodorization step.

Winter Has Arrived!

12/31/2020 (Permalink)

With winter finally here, it is important to know that SERVPRO and our fellow team members are "Here to help."

Winter is upon us! With that comes the cold temps and the freezing pipes. Keep the faucets dripping to keep some water traveling through, making it harder to freeze, but there are other ways to prevent freezing or bursting pipes!

Keeping the pipes insulated is essential! If getting proper insulation is impossible before a storm, then wadding up newspaper and duct tape can provide temporary insulation around pipes. If the water pipes are in the garage, then keep the garage door closed whenever possible, to prevent freezing air from getting in and dropping the temps even further. Maintaining a consistent temperature in the home will also help, as well as, keeping the heat on when leaving the home for any extended period of time.

These are just a few ways to prevent freezing pipes, but if there is ever a surprise pipe burst, SERVPRO is there to help with mitigating the water and getting your home back to the way it was before, "Like it never even happened."

Homemade Cleaners Around The Home

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

If the mess can’t be cleaned then make sure to call the professionals. Our SERVPRO team is here to help!

Home Made Glass Cleaner

*Mix 1 part Vinegar with 2 parts water

*Add ½ teaspoon dish soap for every cup of water

*Shake to mix

ALL-Natural Homemade Floor Cleaner

*1 part water

*1 part white vinegar

*1 part 70% Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol

*A few drops of liquid dish detergent

*1/4 part lemon juice

DIY Upholstery & Carpet Cleaner   (If you have animals this can be a life saver)

*¼ cup of baking soda

*¼ cup of white vinegar

*3/4 cup of warm water

*1/2 tablespoon of dish liquid soap

Homemade Deodorizing Spray

*2 cups fabric softener

*2 cups baking soda

*4 cups of warm water

Homemade Garbage Disposal Cleaner

*3/4 cup baking soda

*1/2 cup salt

*1/2 teaspoon liquid dish soap’

*1 lemon

After first 3 ingredients are mixed, grate lemon peel into mixture. Then cut lemon the lemon in half and remove the seeds.  Squeeze both halves into the mixture until lemon is fully incorporated.  Grab a sheet pan, spoon and some parchment paper.  Cover the sheet pan with parchment paper, use the spoon to mold in half rounds, and then tap them out onto the pan.  Allow the tablets to dry overnight.  Place dried mixture into a sealable container.

This information was compiled from various on-line sources. SERVPRO is not responsible for any and all claims made by these sources. 

WINTER CHECKLIST FOR YOUR HOME

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

The colder months are quickly approaching and we are ready to help assist if you experience any damages this winter.

WINTER CHECKLIST FOR YOUR HOME

Winter weather can wreak havoc on your home if you are not prepared. Here is a list of tips and tricks for the winter months.

DRAINS

*Cover outside faucets with an insulated cover if not frost free.

*Unhook hoses and drain them before putting them away.

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING

*Cover air conditioner with a protective cover.

*Replace air filter in furnace.

*Check duct work in attic and or basement for any leaks. 

*Inspect Chimney flue for cracks, creosote and soot buildup before starting a fire.  Also, check damper to see if it is working properly and not rusted, or warped.  This could help avoid a fire hazard.

ROOF

*Check for deteriorating flashing around vent pipes, chimney and sky lights.  Seal or replace where water could seep in.

*Check for any roof damage which could create water damage from snow or ice melting on roof.

Structure Cleaning Post Fire Damage

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help when you need us most. If you have had a fire in your home or business give our team of professionals a call.

When fire damage affects your home or business SERVPRO of Ottumwa and Grinnell is here to help. We have IICRC trained professional technicians that specialize in structure and content cleaning. One of the first processes in structure cleaning is to remove soot residue. We use dry sponges to remove the soot from the affected materials. In order to reach the high areas in the home, we will attach the dry sponge to an extendable pole to reach all spots. Then the sponge can be used to wipe down ceilings and walls of any soot that might be on the structure.  Soot residue has to be removed in order for the structure seal coat to stick. You can depend on SERVPRO to have the right training and tools to get the job done.

SERVPRO Green

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

We have whatever equipment and vehicles are needed to get the job done. We make sure that the Green SERVPRO vehicles are ready to go.

Green is on the Scene with our many different types of vehicles. During emergency water and fire calls we respond with our trucks all ready to go! Thanks to some of our amazing staff these trucks keep stocked.

We have a water truck that we bring to the job site to extract water right on the premises. This helps to ensure that the drying process can start quickly so your water emergency can get cleaned up. We also have other vehicles that are designated for large loss jobs and removing your affected content for cleaning at our shop. When you see the green SERVPRO vehicles you know we are helping you, your neighbors, and your local businesses get back to everyday life quickly and efficiently.   

The Different Types of Smoke

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a home or business can bring about a world of emotions but our team is HERE TO HELP.

When concerning fire damage restoration, there are several types of smoke that could be dealt with. We have the equipment and products available to help with these types of smoke:

• Wet Smoke. (Plastic and Rubber) Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, and smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
• Dry Smoke. (Paper and Wood) Fast-burning, high temperatures; heat rises, therefore smoke rises.
• Protein Fire Residue. (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire) Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
• Fuel Oil Soot. (Furnace puff backs) While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO® franchise professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.
• Other Types. (Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue) Special loss situations require special care.

The Damage of the Derecho

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

The Derecho was devastating and many homes and businesses needed water cleanup along with board-ups.

On August 10^th 2020, one of the biggest storms blew through central Iowa, devastating many towns in Iowa, including Grinnell, with a population of about 9,500.

They called it a Derecho.

What some are calling a “Land Hurricane” swept through and damaged hundreds of homes and businesses The damage was anywhere from missing a few shingles to full grown trees toppling over onto buildings and vehicles. Immediately after the storm had passed, with rain still coming down, the residents of Grinnell moved into action. Neighbors helped neighbors pick up items in their yard, moved small branches off of cars and out of the road, and checked in to make sure everyone was alright.

What they could not help with was the plethora of large trees blocking roads, and the power lines they took with them. It was a dangerous time to be out and about trying to scope the damage and help pick up. Grinnell College reported about $2 million in damages between trees and structures on campus, $1 million of that being the removal and recovery of trees that had fallen.

Grinnell College also offered one of their buildings for residents to get a hot meal, charge their electronics, and take a shower if needed. Over 300 people had filtered through in the first week after the storm. After about 5 days, power was returning to sections of Grinnell, as electric companies worked day and night with surrounding states sending help.

It’s been 40 days since that storm, and tree services still close off roads to clear the debris one block at a time. It could be months before the town is back to normal, or maybe even a year plus. One thing for certain, is no matter how long it takes, the residents of Iowa will be there for their neighbors.

Protect Your Midwest Home From Storm Damage

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

It is important to make sure that you are ready for whatever disaster may hit your home or business. We are always ready to help.

Be Prepared Before the Storm

Across the Midwest, storms have been known to cause incredible amounts of damage. This natural disasters include straight-line winds, lightning, hail, flooding, snow and tornadoes. All of these can ruin your home or business in a matter of hours.

The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live. Make sure to check the weather forecast frequently and learn about wireless emergency alerts in your area.

The Difference between Watch VS. Warning     

Watch: Conditions are favorable for severe weather.  Remain alert for further warnings.

Warning: Severe weather has been spotted or indicated by radar.  Take cover immediately

                                                                        Emergency Weather Tips                                                         

Consider getting insurance for your home based on past weather in your area. Such as extra coverage for

*Hail Storms                                                    *Lightning Storms

* Tornadoes                                                       *Blizzards                                           

*Floods

*Make an Emergency Kit – Include bottled water, copies of important documents, medication, non-perishable food, important phone numbers, flashlight and extra batteries.

*Maintain the roof, siding and windows of your home before a storm hits.

*Keep trees trimmed about your home and out buildings.

*Unplug electronics and major appliances before a lightning storm strikes.

Contact your local SERVPRO franchise for more readiness tips and tools.  We are just a phone call away and are available 24/7 365 days a year.

Commercial Emergency Ready Program

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

We help you create a personalized profile for your business to make sure you are prepared for whatever could happen.

COMMERICAL EMERGENCY READY PROGRAM

Are you prepared if you have a disaster?  Let our SERVPRO team help you by doing a no-cost Emergency Ready Profile.

The Best way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to plan for it NOW.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.  Preparation is the key for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, large fire or a flooded area. The best time to plan for a disaster is before happens.

SERVPRO EMERGENCY READY PROFILE ADVANTAGE

*No-cost assessment of your facility.

*Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation.

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

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

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

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

The ERP can be accessed through your computer, tablet or phone. Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster. 

Contact your local SERVPRO and schedule your complementary ERP today.

Document Dying and Restoration

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

We are able to dry and restore documents to help you get back to preloss conditions.

We use state-of-the-art technology which is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration. All team members who actually do document restoration are HIPAA Master certified. We can restore many documents some of which include family portraits, photo albums, bibles, tax records, personal documents, books, historical documents and more. Freeze drying can be better than dehumidification. Dehumidification can alter the structure of the paper fibers which can cause them to become brittle. Freeze drying is efficient and effective for salvaging water-damaged documents. For documents that can be transported out-of-state, our corporate office has a fixed freeze drying unit that can be utilized. Vacuum freeze drying places items into a container which freezes documents and then dries them using a pressurized vacuum sealed system.

What is the IICRC?

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

We are trained and prepared for any situation, so we can help you no matter the incident at hand.

What is the IICRC? It is the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification and is a nonprofit organization for the cleaning and restoration industry. It is an asset for our team members to be fully trained under the IICRC. Our technicians to our office members are encouraged and supported to take classes and expand their knowledge beyond what is expected of them. Our SERVPRO team members study IICRC best practices guidelines for fire damage, water damage restoration, and mold remediation. It is a certification and standard-setting organization. IICRC standards are developed to provide the highest quality concepts, terminology and procedures recognized in the cleaning and restoration industry. There are many certifications that our team members earn and our SERVPRO team of franchise professionals make sure to keep up with the certifications as technology and material changes. Our team members take the certifications to be prepared for any situation and to properly address the problem and apply efficient and thorough mitigation.

Is it essential that our team is trained properly so that we can help your business quickly, efficiently, and professionally no matter the day.

How We Can Help With Water Damage

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

We are ready 24/7 for any emergency that may occur where you would need our assistance.

Your home is a reflection of your and make an impression on all those who enter it. You invest your time, energy, and hard-earned resources to maintain, protect and increase the value of your home. When you need work done on your home, you should expect the very best service at a fair price. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are committed to providing water cleanup and restoration services, as well as top-quality professional cleaning services for your entire home. We provide water removal and dehumidification. Franchise professionals identify the source and type of water, which determines the proper course of action. Drying equipment controls temperature and humidity, minimizing secondary damage. 

We are ready 24/7 for any emergency that may occur where you would need our assistance.

Making a Memorial New Again

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

We were able to completely remove the graffiti on the memorial and get it clean for the community to enjoy.

Graffiti and vandalism can happen anywhere and recently our SERVPRO team was called to remove spray paint from a local memorial. This concrete memorial is located on a portion of the city bike trail and we did not think anyone would even notice that we had been there as it is set back in the trees just off of the trail, allowing us to be discrete about the removal process. The day our team members showed up to do the job, we had two ladies meet us at the entrance to the trail and told us how glad that they were that we were there to clean it up as they had been trying it themselves for over a month. These two ladies had no connection to the college, but had been trying to clean it, so the trail system could look the best it could for the community that uses it. There is still true community pride which really means a lot in the world that we live in today.

Fire Residue Types

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

No matter the size of your job, we are able to get the staff and equipment to help you get back to preloss conditions.

When cleaning up after a fire, SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell cleaning specialists have to pay close attention to what kind of residue they are cleaning. There are 3 main residue classifications and SERVPRO cleaning specialists are highly trained to handle each one. The 3 classifications are:

Protein Residue: Results from burning meat, fish or beans. This type of residue is very greasy and sticks to most surfaces. Water based solutions are used to clean this type of residue.

Natural Substance Residue: This type of residue results from burning paper or wood. These residues have a dry, powder-like texture. They are the easiest to clean and are removed with vacuums and other dry preconditioning techniques.

Synthetic Residue: This type results when the burned material is oil based. Ex: carpets, upholstery, window shades, furniture and toys. These materials produce a thick, heavy, black residue that is easily smeared. If the residue is untouched, it is easily vacuumed away. If the residue is touched, other steps have to be taken to effectively remove.

After a fire, it is best to vacate the building without touching anything and leave the clean up process to SERVPRO trained franchise professionals. We are "Here to Help" and will work to help get your property to preloss conditions.

Our ERP Application

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

This application can be easily accessed and helps people when a disaster arises so the correct people are contacted.

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell is here to help you plan before a disaster occurs. SERVPRO offers a no cost Emergency Ready Profile for your business. This plan will help minimize business interruption by having a plan of action. Having a plan in place before a disaster saves time and money. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is an easy to use application that is designed to provide quick reference of important building and contact information. The application is available on any smart device. Identifying key individuals and contractors so that work can be authorized quickly allows the mitigation process to begin helping  you to get your business operating back to normal as soon as possible. With many years of experience SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell has highly trained techs who are prepared to handle any size loss at any time of the day.

Check Your Sump Pump After A Storm

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

We are ready to assist with any amount of water damage that could be affecting your property and your belongings.

When the rain pours do you check your sump pump?

A proper working sump pump can save you considerable amounts of money after a significant rainfall event. Being a proactive owner during rain storms and checking your home or businesses sump pump will help prevent damage or reduce the damage that can occur. When damage happens SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell is here to help.

If you answered no to the first question here are some things to consider checking,

• Is there power to the sump pump? Check that it is plugged in and the breaker is not tripped.
• Is the float free of any debris and away from the side wall where it won’t work properly?
• Is the inlet free of any debris that could prevent it from pumping the water out?
• Does the pump work? An easy way to test this is by filling the pit with enough water to reach the float of the sump pump to trigger the pump.
• Check where the sump pump drains. Ensure that it drains far enough from the foundation that the water doesn't leak right back in.

Water Damage Categories

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Our highly trained staff can handle and of the Category Water disasters and have the equipment to get the job done.

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell is here to help when water damage affects your home or business. The first step is to make a plan to clean up the affected areas after a water loss and bring the property back to preloss conditions. This can be done by determining the cause of the water damage and select the Category type. 

There are three different categories that a water loss is classified in depending on the category of water. 

• Category 1 Water - This category type is from a source of water that does not pose substantial threat to humans and classified as "clean water". Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows, or appliance malfunctions that involve water supply lines.
• Category 2 Water - This source is known as "gray water" and this refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to. Examples of Category 2 would be toilet bowls with urine, sump pump failures, seepage due to hydrostatic failure, and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.
•  Category 3 Water - Known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness. Type 3 category are contaminated water sources that affect the indoor environment. This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water, or standing water. Category 2 Water or Grey Water that is not promptly removed from the structure and or have remained stagnant may be re classified as Category 3 Water.

You can depend on our SERVPRO team as we have trained technicians, crew chiefs, and project managers to help determine and clean up these water damages.

What is Media Blasting?

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

We are ready 24/7 for any emergency that may occur where you would need our assistance.

Vandalism and graffiti can be very upsetting and overwhelming. Incidents of vandalism and graffiti can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can potentially lead to significant water and mold damage if not addressed in a timely manner. Media blasting is normally utilized in cases of soot, mold, or paint removal. It is done by forcibly propelling a stream of abrasive material to smooth the surface. A containment area can be built to make the cleanup process easier to limit the product from spreading to unwanted areas. The containment is easily moved to reach different parts of the affected location. At SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell, we have the capability to help with this property damage. Additionally, we help do a board-up which is done after a storm, fire or vandalism incident where the building is exposed. It is meant to prevent further damage from happening to the facility.

We Can Weather Any Storm

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

We know storm damage can be unexpected and stressful. We want to help take some of that stress away and provide and thorough/professional services.

As a business, it is your job to weather any storm that comes your way no matter the type or size. Sometimes physical storms are unexpected and can be quite devastating and detrimental to a business. Here at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell, our job is to give some peace of mind and help instigate water and fire damage cleanup and restoration. We are capable of traveling anywhere to help get the property back to preloss conditions. Our SERVPRO team of franchise professionals have access to a semi-trailer that is meant to stock up for any disaster that could strike your business. We make our services available 24 hours a day for 365 days a year for whatever could happen. We want to ensure you will be helped during overwhelming and unexpected times. We come ready for whatever disaster occurs. No matter the weather or time of day, we will be there to assist.

The Do's and Do Not's for Fire Damage

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

We offer several options for cleaning smoke and soot to help you get back to preloss conditions. We want you to know that we are "Here to help."

If you have fire and smoke damage to your property, home or business, it is hard to not start cleaning yourself. If this situation arises, please let our SERVPRO franchise professionals assist you. Here are some tips for those who experience fire and smoke damage in their home or business. The Do's are meant to help you minimize damage. Please keep movement in the building at a minimum.  Minimal movement helps keep particles from becoming embedded in carpet and fabrics. Make sure to wash your hands a lot and be cautious not to transfer or wipe soot onto something. It can make it damage the item more. If electricity is off, then empty fridges and freezers and prop doors open to prevent odors. It is beneficial to change your furnace/air conditioner filter, but don't let the system continue to run. Be certain to turn it off. The Don'ts that are stated should be left to professionals to help you get back to preloss conditions. Do not try washing anything yourself. You could further rub the soot into the item. Don't shampoo your carpet. We recommend that you take the time to talk to a professional first. Don't clean any electronics without contacting a professional. Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been affected by the fire, soot, or smoke. Additionally, do not use toiletries as they can also be affected by fire, soot, or smoke. Do not turn ceiling fans on, because this will stir up the soot residue. Our SERVPRO team is available for 24-hour emergency services.

The Different Types of Mold You'll Encounter

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Mold prospers in warm, damp area and it will continue to spread with a continuous water source. Call our professionals to help with mold remediation.

There are different types of mold.  The most common are aspergillus, cladosporium and stachybotrys atra (also known as black mold). Aspergillus and Cladosporium are nontoxic to humans but it can aggravate allergy symptoms. It is important to note that not all mold is dangerous. In fact, it is all around us, but some mold should be removed by professionals. It is found in foods and in air conditioning systems. This is found as a black or green mold that grows in little dots in bathrooms, on painted surfaces, and in flexible air ducts. Black mold should be removed for safety reasons. Call our SERVPRO franchise professionals to remove molds such as black mold. This type of mold grows on building materials with a water source available. To prevent mold growth, make sure that water leaks are dried up quickly and humidity levels are maintained in your home or business. Mold thrives in warm, damp conditions. Our SERVPRO franchise professionals are certified to test for mold.  We do visual inspections, air sampling, as well as we have a bore scope that can go inside areas that are not normally visible to look for mold.  When air samples are taken, 3 samples are taken and sent in to be analyzed. The results take about 5 to 7 days to return.  If the air samples come back positive for mold then we will do further investigation to locate the source of the positive result of the air samples. Call us for pricing if you believe you have mold present and we will help you maintain your healthy home remediate mold.

The Do's and Do Not's for Water Damage

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

We are fully stocked for any amount of water damage. As franchise professionals, we can help you get toward preloss conditions.

Water damage can happen at any point for anyone, home or business, resulting in sometimes irreversible damaged property. These do's are only for clean water and do not’s pertain to sewage water. Sewage water is treated differently since it causes different damage and requires a different cleanup process. We, the team of SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell, know the importance of having professionals helping you properly dry out your home after water damage. With the right tools and pieces of equipment our SERVPRO franchise professionals can safely dry out your home or business and the contents within it. If the proper methods are administered then it minimizes the removal of materials such as drywall (this is also dependent on how soon the water damage is being dealt with. To minimize the damage, make sure to shut off the source of water and turn off the electricity. It is essential to remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and soaking up with towels. This is especially important for wood furniture. To ensure that more damage isn't sustained by the furniture, place aluminum foil in between furniture legs and the carpet. While these are good steps, your safety is important, so make sure to NOT enter a room with standing water since there could be a risk of electrical shock. We take safety very seriously and we want to ensure your safety along with our own. Make sure to disconnect all power first. It is recommended to NOT leave rugs and furniture upholstery wet against one another, because the fabrics have the potential to bleed between each other. It is important to note that you should not be utilizing your household vacuum to try and suck up any water. If these tips are followed, then damage can be minimized and you will be better prepared for help to arrive. Remember to stay safe and get excess water cleaned up professionally to minimize the chance of mold growth.

Large Loss Response Team

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

We, as professionals, want to ensure your safety. We will work to get the business back preloss conditions with our 24-hour emergency services.

We are currently the only certified Large Loss Response Team in the state of Iowa.  We have the equipment, employees, and connections to help in even the largest disaster. We promise to be ready when you need us. Our equipment is always fueled, tested, loaded.  We have on call staff 24 hours a day for your emergency.  We have a trailer loaded with our desiccant and a dedicated generator to run it at all times. This desiccant is a 5,000 cfm piece of equipment for dehumidification. We have air movers and large portable dehumidifiers for drying a structure. We have large air scrubbers and different ozone machines for removing odor. A large loss is a loss valued at over $50,000 in mitigation or remediation work.  Every loss is managed by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation for your large loss. Our employees are trained residential and commercially for any size disaster.

We Help No Matter the Weather

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

We will make sure to help you and your home or business no matter the weather. We know how stressful these times can be

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell remains a reliable option for homeowners and business owners during disasters. Our goal is to make any disaster disappear "Like it never even happened." We offer 24-hour emergency service because we know that storms, fires and water issues can happen any day at any time. We want to help you get back to preloss conditions no matter the situation. Whether it’s two in the afternoon or two in the morning, we will respond to your disaster quickly to get you back to a safe and functioning space. This includes hazardous mold mitigation, water damage mitigation, biohazard cleanup, and fire cleanup. We know the stress that these situations can bring, and we are here to help the process move smoothly and efficiently. We make our services available 24 hours a day for 365 days a year. We want to ensure you will be helped during overwhelming and unexpected times. We come ready for whatever happens. No matter the weather or time of day, we will be there to assist.

Building a kit for an emergency

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change and make sure to replace expired food.

After an emergency, it may be necessary to build a kit that can last up to 3 days. We know how stressful unexpected storms can be and we want to help you prepare for any scenario.   To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag. It should be noted that the supplies in a kit can be different based on your own personal needs, but the list recommended by ready.gov is a great place to start.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

• Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
• Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
• Manual can opener (for food)
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

You can use ready.gov for additional kit supplies ideas as well as how to maintain your kit and where to store it. Again, we want to help you prepare to weather any storm. If storm damage ever damages your home, you can call on SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell to be there to help.

*Source: Ready.gov

We can make fire damage "Like it never even happened"

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Fire are often unexpected, and we want to create peace of mind as we are able to get the property back to preloss conditions.

The first 24 hours after fire damage make the difference between restoring versus replacing the property. SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell provides a timely response with mitigation services ranging from smoke and soot removal to contents claim inventory and document restoration. We offer a large amount of options in the case of fire damage. We can either utilize a dry or wet technique to completely remove soot off of surfaces like the walls and ceiling. Additionally, media blasting is used soot, mold, or paint removal. It is done by forcibly propelling a stream of abrasive material to smooth the surface. Lastly, thermal fogging recreates the act of penetrations and follows the same path of the smoke from a fire to deodorize. It is estimated that up to 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster, such as a fire, never reopen. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them have a preparedness plan in place. Whether it’s a home or business, SERVPRO is a lead in fire damage response and can help you quickly get the property back.

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, 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 the 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 Ottumwa/Grinnell today 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.

Emergency Readiness Profile

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

This application can be accessed from any device and can be utilized to access essential information.

We know there is a lot of uncertainty at this time, and we would like to help take some of the stress away. Call us to find out about our cost-free Emergency Readiness Profiles (ERPs) and how they can help you, especially during this time. We are continuing to operate at this time and are here to help. We offer a service of helping businesses develop an emergency ready profile for their property at no cost.  We offer a free app for all phones  to also maintain this critical contact and property information electronically prior to any incident or unexpected disaster. Everything  can be accessed with a mobile device in seconds if a disaster strikes. This information can be shared very easily with staff and whoever else needs to be ahold of the information and contacts. An ERP includes information about emergency contact numbers, priority and high/risk area, shut off valve locations, insurance contacts, and more. If also details the location and directions for the different parts of the building. This is essential since every building is different in  one way or another.  We believe in helping to reduce property damage when a disaster occurs.  We provide a paper copy, emailed copy, and the app copy of the Emergency Ready Profile for easy access by all employees. We here at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell stand by being proactive not reactive to an emergency situation.  These profiles are proven to help reduce the amount of damage that occurs if kept current and utilized. Call and schedule your appointment with one of our team members to help develop your FREE Emergency Ready Profile.

What ultrasonic cleaning can do for you!

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

This ultrasonic tank can be used on a wide variety of products in almost any size.

Our Ultrasonic Machine system is utilized to clean many different items including items damaged by mold or soot, mainly being used with fire damage. An ultrasonic tank and dryer are paired together to help create a complete drying process. Contents are cleaned in our ultrasonic tank and then they are placed in the dryer to complete the system. This dual system allows for contents to be cleaned efficiently and thoroughly, expanding our range of restorable contents. We can clean some electronics, jewelry, guns, family heirlooms, light fixtures, porcelain dolls, etc. All this is done quickly and efficiently. We can clean a whole assortment of contents as it offers a deep and even clean for even the most delicate items. This system utilizes minimal chemicals and high speed and energy efficient cleaning. Ultrasonic works with high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations, along with the special cleaning solutions to create the effect of millions of tiny bubbles which break down contaminants off the target surface without the need for scrubbing. Even if you don't have fire and water damage in your home and you just need an item deep cleaned, feel free to bring it in and we will be happy to clean the item quickly and thoroughly for you. With our ultrasonic dryer, contents are cleaned in our ultrasonic tank and then placed in this dryer to complete the process.

Our Largest Addition

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Our trailer is meant for large disaster such as storms that damage a lot of property.

Our biggest addition to the SERVPRO team is our semi trailer. This trailer is stocked for any large loss scenario. Stocked as a rolling distribution center with equipment, consumables, and tools to clean up any disaster. Whether it’s a storm or fire, SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell has the capability to mitigate any size disaster with the new addition. The new semi trailer can handle any large losses that affect places such as apartment complexes, hotels and other businesses. Storms and fires can be unpredictable and difficult to prepare for. We here at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell are here to help be “Faster to any size disaster” and to help relieve some of the stress that large losses can bring. The sooner help is called then the sooner and more efficiently our team can work to get the space back to preloss conditions. The semi trailer can hold enough machines for large scale scenarios. Our team is prepared to help mitigate any disaster. We have team members specifically named our “Disaster Recovery Team '' for the large losses.

Got Storm Damage? No Problem

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

We are ready for any size disaster no matter what time or day it is.

We are currently the only certified Large Loss Response Team in the state of Iowa.  We have the equipment, employees, and connections to help in even the largest disaster.  We promise to be ready when you need us.  Our equipment is always fueled, tested, loaded. We have on call staff 24 hours a day ant day of the year. We have a semi trailer loaded with our desiccant and a dedicated generator to run it at all times. This desiccant is a 5,000 cfm piece of equipment for dehumidification.  We have air movers and large portable dehumidifiers for drying a structure.  We have large air scrubbers and different ozone machines for removing odor.  Every loss is managed by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. Our employees are trained residential and commercially for any size disaster. The semi trailer can hold enough machines for large scale scenarios. Our team is prepared to help mitigate any disaster. We have team members specifically named our “Disaster Recovery Team '' for the large losses. We have capabilities to mitigate any size disaster with access to all the necessary supplies. Call on SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell whenever storm damage strikes.

We are Here for You

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

We offer our services every day of the year, 24/7, no matter the size of the disaster.

We know these times have been trying for each and every one of us. There are many unknowns and we want to help provide peace of mind. We are still open 24/7, helping with any disaster that hits your home or business. We, here at SERVPRO of Iowa City/Coralville, want to help you no matter the size of the disaster. We are IICRC trained and ready with whatever is needed for fire, water, and mold damage. Our team has 24 Hour Emergency Service for when problems need to be dealt with immediately. With this time of uncertainty, we are continuing our cleaning and sanitization services. We offer a ULV fog to disinfect service as it quickly and efficiently covers surfaces. The product’s dwell time is only 10-15 minutes, but we recommend that you are out of the facility for four hours to let the product settle and have the scent dissipate since it is a cleaning product that is dispersed all throughout the property. We also offer sanitizing services for porous surfaces such as carpets/rugs, and we offer disinfection services for nonporous surfaces. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Our SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell can perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfecting by calling 844-965-0001We know these times have been trying for each and every one of us. There are many unknowns and we want to help provide peace of mind. We are still open 24/7, helping with any disaster that hits your home or business. We, here at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell, want to help you no matter the size of the disaster. We are IICRC trained and ready with whatever is needed for fire, water, and mold damage. Our team has 24 Hour Emergency Service for when problems need to be dealt with immediately. With this time of uncertainty, we are continuing our cleaning and sanitization services. We offer a ULV fog to disinfect service as it quickly and efficiently covers surfaces. The product’s dwell time is only 10-15 minutes, but we recommend that you are out of the facility for four hours to let the product settle and have the scent dissipate since it is a cleaning product that is dispersed all throughout the property. We also offer sanitizing services for porous surfaces such as carpets/rugs, and we offer disinfection services for nonporous surfaces. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Our SERVPRO of Iowa City/Coralville can perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfecting by calling 844-965-0001

We Are Cleaning Experts

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

We are "Ready for whatever happens" and can come anywhere to help.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell, 844-965-0001

Sources:

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

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

What Is A Desiccant?

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Our team has the necessary equipment for any water damage disaster and the team is "Ready for whatever happens."

Our desiccant helps the process of bringing the affected area back to a state of dryness and is mainly used for commercial losses. More specifically, it helps mitigate water damage. For larger scale losses, it acts as a large dehumidifier utilizes a generator to help with the process. These use an absorbent material to extract water from the air. The material is heated to drip the moisture into a water tank. Desiccant dehumidifiers are designed to work more effectively in lower temperatures. Dehumidifiers are designed to keep a room’s humidity levels in check, so the air is more comfortable and fewer physical signs of damp air are noticed, helping minimize the chance of mold. The desiccant can be utilized if your home has been flooded, especially if the wood is soft to touch in that area. Softwood can indicate rotting and windowsills are particularly vulnerable. If you notice mold or mildew then SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell can use the desiccant to help get the moisture in the air and materials to a more stable level. Desiccants are used on a larger scale water loss to remove moisture from the air.  We used these as a tool in our balanced drying system in place or alongside dehumidifiers on a larger scale project. Desiccants operate differently than dehumidifiers. Desiccants do not collect water through condensation. They vent moisture-laden air from inside the structure to outside the structure using a ventilation system. Desiccants are usually large units and sit outside the structure with venting tubes and air input tubes from and to the structure. They create the greatest vapor pressure and are best used when trying to dry wood flooring, plaster, or concrete. They work on the principle of sorption rather than condensation. Water vapor in this process is adsorbed by a silica gel and then that silica gel is reactivated by energy causing the desiccant to release its moisture to the outside air.

What is a Flood Cut?

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Drywall being removed to make a Flood Cut.

Water issues can come unexpectedly and rapidly damage the property. Water damage, if not treated quickly and efficiently, can damage flooring and personal belongings as well as heightening the chance for mold growth. Our Franchise Professionals here at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell are here and “Ready for whatever happens.”  In some water scenarios, there needs to be a Flood Cut completed. This term is used in water remediation as well as construction for describing partial removal of drywall, allowing access to framing and salvageable materials to continue the drying process. With water damaged houses and business, this comes in handy for returning the property to preloss conditions. A Flood cut is made from the ground up, removing two feet of drywall all along the base when there is a water loss.  As the water works its way up the drywall, it prevents the water from continuing upwards and makes it easier for reconstruction. Additionally, the insides can be dried and sanitized behind wall cavity. The drywall can easily be fixed, making it look “Like it never even happened.”

We Are Ready Any Time, Any Day

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Our team is ready for any situation.

We maintain a promise to our clients: we are ready and prepared at all times. We have staff on call at night and on the weekends to make sure that when we are needed we are ready as we aim to be “faster to any size disaster.” We are available 24 hours a day, any day of the year which includes holidays.  We have different size vehicles all stocked and fueled ready to leave at a moments notice. We even have a new semi trailer available for any large losses. No matter the size, we can help with the emergency. We have a mobilized fleet accessible for your emergency.  We have a highly trained staff with crew leaders with over 90 years of combined experience in the mitigation and restoration business.  Our team at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell maintains certifications in residential and commercial approved structural drying, fire and smoke restoration, odor control, water damage restoration, carpet and duct cleaning, and biohazard. We also keep updated on materials and new methods to ensure we are giving you the most efficient and effective solution for your situation.  Our team is ready to help you.

Happy 2020 from SERVPRO

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

Our team prepping for the new year.

I'm sharing the document with you now. So you can see more Happy 2020 from your friends at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell. This year, we hope to prepare you for any sort of disaster that can come your way. We want to ensure that you’re ready for any unexpected situation that can affect your property whether you’re a homeowner, renter or business owner. Your property is important and this month is a great time to prepare for the upcoming months. One easy step for business owners is to create a free Emergency Ready Plan (ERP). This helps you prepare for any situation including fire and water damage that could happen to the property in the future. So, if anything does happen, all contacts and information is already gathered and ready to go for the next steps. We know how stressful unexpected disasters can be, and an emergency ready plan can alleviate some of that stress. SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell encourages business owners to utilize this resource for 2020 to be “Ready for whatever happens.” SERVPRO is ready 24 hours a day every single day of the year for emergencies.

We Are Prepared for Anything

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Our vehicles are loaded and prepared for any disaster.

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa strives for precise attention to detail, making sure to place customer safety first. With a careful eye and thoroughness, we aim for the best preloss conditions for any situation. These elements are essential and help bolster our professionalism. SERVPRO aims to have the customer be more at ease during such stressful times. SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa knows that there are numerous memories and precious items attached to every home, so we are diligent and work hard to get you back into your home. No matter the weather or scenario, SERVPRO is there to help and to work to get you the best results. Our trained staff brings with them the best materials, equipment, and chemicals in the business for any situation whether it is a fire, water, sewage, mold, post construction, or general cleaning job. SERVPRO fills the trucks with equipment for any disaster, highlighting that we are ready and prepared to make sure that the homeowner or business owner is satisfied with the results and can go back to day-to-day life.

Why We Need Training

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

Training helps to make sure that you are getting the best possible service.

Extensive training and certifications remain the backbone for building a capable team who is ready for any situation. Training is essential to not only grow our team’s knowledge base but also to reinforce skills when dealing with different situations. The SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa team maintains several certifications under the Institute of Inspection Cleaning Restoration Certification (IICRC). These include Water Removal Technician, Odor Control Technician, Fire and Smoke Technician, Carpet Cleaning Technician, and Health and Safety Technician among many others. These act as an important function to SERVPRO’s daily functions, enhancing productivity, building team spirit, promoting high morale and individual development. All these ensure that our team is bringing the best work into the residence so the team can make it “Like it never even happened.”  At the end of the day, our wide range of services is a result of SERVPRO’s commitment to growth and development. SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa is committed to a solutions-based mentality and continuing to grow our knowledge and certifications to help when the time calls, displaying our outstanding customer service.

Why Have a Live Burn?

10/18/2019 (Permalink)

This is a broken CSST flexible gas line that ignited gas and released a jet of fire.

Four large boxes were constructed this month by our SERVPRO team with drywall to simulate an actual room. Recently, the Ankeny Fire Department, EFI Global and our SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa franchise helped set up a live burn for insurance adjusters and risk managers to help them gain knowledge to make informed decisions when processing claims. Adjustors learned the details of how fires erupt from separate structural materials, analyzing the speed of fire scenarios. Donated furniture was used to show how different fire scenarios can alter a home. A broken CSST flexible gas line which is utilized to run gas to appliances helped create one of the potential house fires. The situation brought about a non-grounded line that developed a pin hole from an electricity arc and leaked out gas, hence, igniting the gas and creating a stream of fire. The fire department also demonstrated how quickly fires with pieces of furniture close in proximity in a corner erupt. Overall, Live burns are essential for adjustors so they know the effects of soot and smoke throughout the environment. To learn more, read our blog on the top 10 causes of house fires to learn how to protect your home.

Why SERVPRO

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes your home or business, Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa/ Oskaloosa.

Over the past few years, SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa has worked hard to become a leader in the restoration industry in Southeast Iowa. The team genuinely cares about each and every customer and treats them as they would want their families to be treated. When someone calls in with a disaster (fire, water, mold, biohazard), they are there to help them pick up the pieces and put them back together. They are proud and passionate about the work they do. SERVPRO provides estimates that detail all the services to be performed, eliminating unanticipated surprises. Once the estimates have been approved, trained professionals will arrive in fully stocked vehicles not only to mitigate the problem but also to protect the structure and contents. SERVPRO has a 24-Hour Emergency Service that provides help for those who need it.

With over 70 years of combined experience, SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa has the knowledge and training to provide assistance with any disaster that may occur. When disaster strikes your home or business, Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa/ Oskaloosa.

Halloween Fire Safety Tips for Safe Decorating

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Halloween fire safety is very important and SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is here with these safety tips. If you have an accidental fire in your home or business you can depend on SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa to help with your clean up needs. We believe though that  knowledge and prethinking helps to reduce fire damage.

• Use a battery-operated candle or glow-stick in jack-o-lanterns. If you use a real candle, use extreme caution. Make sure children are watched at all times when candles are lit. When lighting candles inside jack-o-lanterns, use long, fireplace-style matches or a utility lighter. Be sure to place lit pumpkins well away from anything that can burn and far enough out of the way of trick-or-treaters, doorsteps, walkways, and yards.
• Dried flowers, cornstalks and crepe paper catch fire easily. Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters.
• Tell children to stay away from open flames including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them. Be sure they know how to stop, drop and roll if their clothing catches fire.

Halloween fire facts

• From 2009-2013, decorations were the item first ignited in an estimated average of 860 reported home structure fires per year.
• Nearly half of decoration fires in homes occurred because the decorations were too close to a heat source.
• These fires caused an estimated average of one civilian death, 41 civilian injuries, and $13 million in direct property damage per year.
• Forty-one percent of these incidents were started by candles; one-fifth began in the living room, family room, or den. 

 Source: NFPA Applied Research

Ready to Roll to Your Commercial Water Damage

10/5/2019 (Permalink)

We have the equipment you need for your clean up project.  We have added another large loss truck to our growing fleet. This truck is stocked and ready for whatever happens. It carries over 120 air movers, 10 dehumidifiers, and 4 flood pumper water extraction units. This will be one of the first trucks to a large commercial loss followed up by our new 53’ semi trailer. Both the truck and semi trailer will allow SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa to be to your business in a moments notice with the equipment you need. We will respond with a project manager, get an understanding of the equipment needed and then dispatch these trucks to allow us to quickly get the equipment you need to your business.  Being gassed, loaded and backed into our shops allows us to roll very quickly to be there to help you when you need it most.  We can respond with these vehicles locally in Ottumwa / Oskaloosa as well as to any part of the state.  

Fire Damage - Call a Trained Crew - SERVPRO

9/29/2019 (Permalink)

After a fire strikes your home or business affected your life you need to have a trusted company cleanup the damage properly. SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is a trusted leader in fire cleanup. We are a preferred vendor for many insurance companies making the process that much easier for you. With good communication and documentation we strive for providing our clients a good customer service experience during a difficult time. We can handle everything from pack out to overseeing reconstruction services. We specialize in Fire and Smoke restoration and spend hundreds of hours training our technicians the extensive cleaning processes.  No fire is the same. Some are oxygen starved fires and some are grease fires.  They are all cleaned slightly differently. We develop a full scope for clean up and get to work. We are faster to any size disaster and can make your fire loss "Like it never even happened." At SERVPRO we use a restore vs. replace mentality meaning you can get your original items back in most cases and your structure restored quicker. Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa if you have fire or smoke damage today!  Our crews will respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Be Prepared With a Restoration Contact Number in Your Phone

9/29/2019 (Permalink)

Programming our phone number 641-682-0782 into your cell phone gives you the number you need at a quick button click on your phone.

As the winter season approaches, be sure to have your business ready for whatever happens by making sure SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is your first call when disaster strikes.

We understand firsthand how critical it is to get your commercial space back up and running after a water loss or fire loss. At SERVPRO, we are ready to respond fast to any size disaster and get your commercial space back to "Like it never even happened." We use state of the art technology to map moisture and set drying equipment quickly to mitigate any size loss day or night. We have technicians ready at a moment’s notice to respond to your commercial space quickly and start the cleanup process. We are the trusted leader in storm, fire, and water restoration. Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to get emergency cleanup service for your commercial space.  Getting your business back to work quickly and reducing business interruption is important to us too.

Check for Sources Where Rain Water Can Enter - Water Clean Up

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Inspecting common leak sources routinely and looking at your exterior foundation can help prevent rain and surface runoff intrusions in your home. Rain can cause damage by getting into small cracks in your foundation or flooring, around windows, or even from non functioning sump pump systems which can lead to all sorts of damages if not addressed timely. Here at SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa we understand how frustrating it can be to discover rain related water intrusions which are a leading cause of water damage to a home or business. The sooner mitigation and extraction of the standing water begins the better to prevent further damage.  Identifying the source and repairing it is extremely crucial.

If problems do occur you can give our team a call. We are a 24 hour, 7 day a week company and will work hard to get the issues resolved in a timely manner. We understand the importance of fast response time and mitigation services. With our professionally trained and certified team we are here to help and get your life back to normal as quickly as possible. 

Helpful Tips To Prevent Storm Damage

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Storms often come quickly and without much notice, being prepared is crucial to avoid any unexpected storm damages.  SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is here to help clean up any storm related damage you experience. We are here to give these tips ahead of time to hopefully prevent damage from occurring. 

Storm Preparedness Tips

• Protect Pipes from Freezing
• Caulk and weather strip windowsills to keep water and cold air out
• Get your heating source serviced and cleaned before the cold weather hits.
• Have a plan with your family as to what to do if a storm warning is issued.
• Bring your furry friends inside if possible.
• Have flashlights and extra batteries on hand.
• Keep dry clothes available for all family members.
• Check on friends and family and neighbors.
• Bring in any outdoor furniture that could possibly fly around.
• STAY CALM

Once the storm has past checking structural elements, doing a walk through around the interior and exterior of your home or business, and checking utility services should be done as soon as safe to do so. If you notice any damages call a professional to assess the possible damage and make necessary repairs to prevent further damage from occurring.

Winter Storms - Prepare to Prevent Storm Damage

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Winter is just around the corner. Now is the time to start preparing your home or business for cold temperatures. SERVPRO of Ottumwa/ Oskaloosa recommends doing these steps to help prevent winter water damage.

• If you live in a modular home or a home with a crawl space, make sure your water pipes have a working heat trace system and your crawl space is properly insulated.
• Turn off water to all outside spigots and open outside faucets to drain water from water pipes.  Make sure all hoses are disconnected from the outside spiots.
• Make sure your gutters are clean of all debris and leaves. This will help prevent ice jams from forming during warmer winter weather when the snow and ice are melting.
• If you have a basement, take a walk around the outside of your home, if the dirt is separated from your foundation in any area, take the necessary precautions to fill the gaps and encourage drainage away from the foundation. This will help water from seeping into your basement from the walls.
• Cover any window wells on the outside of your home to help prevent snow and ice from building up inside of them.

If winter water damage does occur in your home or business, please call SERVPRO immediately. The longer you wait to have the water remediation completed, the more damage you may have.

Helpful Tips if Your Contents Are Affected by Water

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Follow these helpful tips in the event you have experienced any kind of water damage in your home or business. Following these are steps will help you protect your personal belongings.  Follow these steps as soon as possible. The longer your contents sit in water the more likely they are to experience damage.

While you wait for SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa to arrive follow these steps:

• Move any furniture with wooden feet or legs that you can safely carry out of the affected area.  You can use a non-porous object such as coasters, plastic wrap, Styrofoam, aluminum foil, etc, to block the furniture and lift the legs out of the water. At SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa, we use styrofoam blocks to lift furniture out of wet areas.  However, it is okay to be creative as a homeowner to find other household items that can serve the same purpose. The important thing is preventing water damage to your furniture.
• Store any belongings in plastic totes. If your belongings are stored in cardboard, move any wet cardboard boxes to a dry area. It’s also a good idea to dry off items that are wet before placing them in storage.
• Move electronics that have been saturated by water to a dry area and wipe down with a clean, dry rag.
• Take pictures! Our staff takes pictures for your insurance company when we arrive, but if you do happen to move anything or have something that is really damaged, make sure to take pictures of those items.

The more contents you can move yourself, the less damage you will have to your furniture and personal items. This will also help our SERVPRO team get to work immediately extracting water and setting drying equipment.

Industrial Business Water Clean Up

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

This photo shows the water and mud that covered the floor before we started the clean up process.

SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa got a call about an industrial building having water damage on the weekend. The caller said they needed water in a 100,000 square foot refrigeration factory clean up and they wanted emergency services. 

SERVPRO was on site accessing the situation in 30 minutes. A main line to the fire suppression system broke under the concrete flooring and an estimated 150,000 gallons of water and mud had flooded the warehouse.

Within a few hours on the same day the client called our crew had set up extraction equipment and called in a semi truck load of floor scrubbers to clean the mud. By Monday, SERVPRO had the factory up and running at 75% capacity.

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/ Oskaloosa helps commercial properties get back to business faster.  We understand the importance of getting back to work. Every minute a commercial business is down it is not creating revenue. We are here to help and "Ready for what ever happens."

If you own, operate, or manage a commercial property call us and ask about our FREE ERP (emergency ready profile) and how it could help your business.

Bleach Does Not Kill Mold

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

STOP using household bleach on mold!

Information provided by https://moldpedia.com/

Although the active ingredient in bleach, sodium hypochlorite, is the main ingredient in many mold removal products, there are many reasons to use alternatives to chlorine bleach when killing mold.

One reason is that bleach cannot completely kill mold growing in porous materials. The chlorine in bleach cannot penetrate into porous surfaces such as drywall or wood. The chlorine is left on the surface of porous materials and only the water component of the bleach is absorbed into the material, providing more moisture for the mold to feed on.

Some of the mold on the surface might be killed but the roots of the mold are left intact meaning the mold soon returns, leaving you in a cycle of repeated bleaching. Perhaps this is why some people believe that spraying bleach on mold doesn't affect it but instead just bleaches its color so you can no longer see it.

Another disadvantage of bleach is that it can damage the materials it's used on as it is a harsh, corrosive chemical. Chlorine bleach also gives off harsh fumes and it even produces toxic gas when mixed with ammonia.

When dealing with mold, always call the professionals at SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa.

SERVPRO is Invested in the Community

8/16/2019 (Permalink)

Members of our team donating school supplies.

SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is more than just a franchise and restoration company. We are a tight nit group of local folk who care about the communities we live in. We are invested and committed to being a part of our community and give back whenever possible. From entering in BBQ’s to raise funds for our local emergency departments to organizing blood drives and donating school supplies for children in need.

In the Month of August, SERVPRO employees had the opportunity to shop for school supplies for children in Appanoosa, Davis, Jefferson, Mahaska, Van Buren and Wapello Counties. In addition to school supplies, SERVPRO also donated back packs and emergency planning kits for every child.

We care about our communities. We put that same level of care and commitment into helping our customers.

We Understand The Need For Speed

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is faster to any size disaster. We are prepared for floods, storms, a fire or even just simple water line leak related damage we have the experience tools and staff to mitigate any size disaster faster. The faster a disaster is mitigated the better.  Water and fire contaminants will continue to affect the structure until they are mitigated.  We know the need for speed.  Its not only better for the contents and structure for us to get there faster but faster for the business to resume normal operations and limit interruptions to operations. We will call in additional resources and staff from a large network of SERVPRO locations if we feel like the need is there due to multiple locations being affected.  This occurs maybe in a storm event that has affected a large area. We are Ready For Whatever Happens when you need it most.         

Content Cleaning Services

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

When a fire occurs in your home or business, not only does it leave the structure a mess but your contents as well.  At SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa we have specifically trained content cleaning personnel that will help to restore your personal belongings back to pre-fire condition.

 We start by taking a detailed inventory of your belongings and carefully packing them into boxes. This would include any item that SERVPRO cleaning personnel and you deem salvageable including:  clothing, shoes, rugs, drapes, linens, décor items, electronics, dishes, books, and other miscellaneous items around the home.  They are then taken back to our facilities where SERVPRO uses different methods of restoration to carefully bring life back to your belongings as quickly as possible.

After the cleaning process has taken place, your personal contents are stored for safe keeping until your home/ business is ready to be moved back into.

It is Best to Have a Plan Before Any Disaster

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is here to help you plan before a disaster occurs. SERVPRO offers a no cost Emergency Ready Profile for your business. This plan will help minimize business interruption by having a plan of action. Having a plan in place before a disaster saves time and money. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is an easy to use application that is designed to provide quick reference of important building and contact information.  The application is available on any smart device. Identifying  key individuals and contractors to that work can be authorized quickly allows the mitigation process to begin helping  you to get your business operating back to normal as soon as possible.  With many years of experience SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa has highly trained techs  prepared to handle any size loss.

Lightening Damage Clean Up - SERVPRO here to help

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

This home was struck by lightening. We provided board up services to secure the structure as well as content cleaning from the small fire that started

SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is here to help if you experience damage to your home or business from lightening. Lightening is very powerful and can cause odor, damaged structure, or even a fire. We are here to help you clean it up.  

In honor of lightening awareness week, June 23-29, 2019, the National Weather Service has provided these common lightening myths and facts:

Lightning Myths and Facts

Myth: If you're caught outside during a thunderstorm, you should crouch down to reduce your risk of being struck.
Fact: Crouching doesn't make you any safer outdoors. Run to a substantial building or hard topped vehicle. If you are too far to run to one of these options, you have no good alternative. You are NOT safe anywhere outdoors. 

Myth: Lightning never strikes the same place twice.
Fact: Lightning often strikes the same place repeatedly, especially if it's a tall, pointy, isolated object. The Empire State Building is hit an average of 23 times a year

Myth: If it’s not raining or there aren’t clouds overhead, you’re safe from lightning.
Fact: Lightning often strikes more than three miles from the center of the thunderstorm, far outside the rain or thunderstorm cloud. “Bolts from the blue” can strike 10-15 miles from the thunderstorm.

Myth: Rubber tires on a car protect you from lightning by insulating you from the ground.
Fact: Most cars are safe from lightning, but it is the metal roof and metal sides that protect you, NOT the rubber tires. Remember, convertibles, motorcycles, bicycles, open-shelled outdoor recreational vehicles and cars with fiberglass shells offer no protection from lightning. When lightning strikes a vehicle, it goes through the metal frame into the ground. Don't lean on doors during a thunderstorm.

Myth: A lightning victim is electrified. If you touch them, you’ll be electrocuted.
Fact: The human body does not store electricity. It is perfectly safe to touch a lightning victim to give them first aid. This is the most chilling of lightning Myths. Imagine if someone died because people were afraid to give CPR!

Myth: If outside in a thunderstorm, you should seek shelter under a tree to stay dry.
Fact: Being underneath a tree is the second leading cause of lightning casualties. Better to get wet than fried!

Myth: If you are in a house, you are 100% safe from lightning.
Fact: A house is a safe place to be during a thunderstorm as long as you avoid anything that conducts electricity. This means staying off corded phones, electrical appliances, wires, TV cables, computers, plumbing, metal doors and windows. Windows are hazardous for two reasons: wind generated during a thunderstorm can blow objects into the window, breaking it and causing glass to shatter and second, in older homes, in rare instances, lightning can come in cracks in the sides of windows.

Myth: If thunderstorms threaten while you are outside playing a game, it is okay to finish it before seeking shelter.
Fact: Many lightning casualties occur because people do not seek shelter soon enough. No game is worth death or life-long injuries. Seek proper shelter immediately if you hear thunder. Adults are responsible for the safety of children.

Myth: Structures with metal, or metal on the body (jewelry, cell phones, Mp3 players, watches, etc), attract lightning.
Fact: Height, pointy shape, and isolation are the dominant factors controlling where a lightning bolt will strike. The presence of metal makes absolutely no difference on where lightning strikes. Mountains are made of stone but get struck by lightning many times a year. When lightning threatens, take proper protective action immediately by seeking a safe shelter don’t waste time removing metal. While metal does not attract lightning, it does conduct it so stay away from metal fences, railing, bleachers, etc.

Myth: If trapped outside and lightning is about to strike, I should lie flat on the ground.
Fact: Lying flat increases your chance of being affected by potentially deadly ground current. If you are caught outside in a thunderstorm, you keep moving toward a safe shelter.

Visit: https://www.weather.gov/safety/ to learn more about how to stay safe during various weather events.

Water Damage Clean Up In Vehicles

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

Whooops… you left your windows down and it rained in your vehicle!! Don’t stress: Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa! 2^nd to your home, your vehicle is the biggest investments you will make in a lifetime. Due to the risk factor of mold, it is very important to leave the drying process up to the pros. When it comes to your vehicles, SERVPRO uses the same drying process as they would your home or business.

• Identify all affected materials
  1. Decide what materials should be dried and what should be replaced.
• Measure the restorable materials for moisture content. (How wet is it?)
• Set appropriate drying equipment
• Monitor for progress
• Pulling Equipment when finished.

SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa has the equipment necessary to find the hidden water throughout the vehicle and the knowledge to get it dried out and get you back on the road.

Fire Cleaning - Knowing How To Clean

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

These items all were inside of a fire and cleaned by SERVPRO staff.

When cleaning up after a fire, SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa cleaning specialists have to pay close attention to what kind of residue they are cleaning. There are 3 main residue classifications and SERVPRO cleaning specialists are highly trained to handle each one. The 3 classifications are:

Protein Residue: Results from burning meat, fish or beans. The residue is very greasy and sticks to most surfaces. Water based solutions are used to clean this type of residue.

Natural Substance Residue: Results from burning paper or wood. These residues have a dry, powder-like texture. They are the easiest to clean and are removed with vacuums and other dry preconditioning techniques.

Synthetic Residue: Results when the burned material is oil based. Ex: carpets, upholstery, window shades, furniture and toys. These materials produce a thick, heavy, black residue that is easily smeared. If the residue is untouched, it is easily vacuumed away. If the residue is touched, other steps have to be taken to effectively remove.

After a fire, it is best to vacate the building without touching anything and leave the clean up process to SERVPRO trained staff.

Check The Operation of Your Sump Pump During Storm Events

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

When the rain pours do you check your sump pump?

A proper working sump pump can save you considerable amounts of money after a significant rainfall event.  Being a proactive owner during rain storms and checking your home or businesses sump pump will help prevent damage or reduce the damage that can occur. When damage happens SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is here to help.

If you answered no to the first question here are some things to consider checking,

• Is there power to the sump pump? Check that it is plugged in and the breaker is not tripped.
• Is the float free of any debris and away from the side wall where it won’t work properly?
• Is the inlet free of any debris that could prevent it from pumping the water out?
• Does the pump work? An easy way to test this is by filling the pit with enough water to reach the float of the sump pump to trigger the pump.
• Check where the sump pump drains. Ensure that it drains far enough from the foundation that the water doesn't leak right back in.

Categories of Water - When Water Damage Happens

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is here to help when water damage happens.  The first step to make a plan to clean up affected areas after a water loss and make it  “Like it never even happened.” is to determine the cause of the water damage and select the Category type. 

There are three different categories that a water loss is classified in depending on the category of water. 

• Category 1 Water - Is from a source of water that does not pose substantial threat to humans and classified as "clean water". Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows, or appliance malfunctions that involve water supply lines.
• Category 2 Water - This source is known as "grey water".Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to.  This type carries microorganisms and nutrients of micro-organisms. Examples are toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, seepage due to hydrostatic failure, and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.
•  Category 3 Water - Known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness. Type 3 category are contaminated water sources that affect the indoor environment. This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water, or standing water. Category 2 Water or Grey Water that is not promptly removed from the structure and or have remained stagnant may be re classified as Category 3 Water.

You can depend on our team as we have trained technicians, crew chiefs, and project managers to help determine and clean up these different types of water categories safely.  We are here to protect the health and safety of your home, business, and the people that frequent that space.

SERVPRO Commercial Resources

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

When a fire, water, or mold cleanup is needed in a commercial business, SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa's understands that getting the business back up and operational as soon as possible is the main focus. Nobody likes a disaster of any kind, and we are here to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Our resources to get your business back up and running include:

Fast response time: We will respond to any commercial event within the State of Iowa in 4 hours.

Large loss response trucks: We have two 30 foot box truck’s stocked specifically for responding to commercial losses. These trucks are stocked and ready to go so we can roll out at a moments notice.

Large labor pool – Our three offices have a combined total of over 50 employees trained and ready to help. We have access to hundreds of temp laborers that are also trained in mitigation cleaning.

Qualified list of subcontractors – When the job is finished and you are ready to rebuild your commercial business, SERVPRO has a list of trusted subcontractors that we can refer you to for all reconstruction needs.

How To Prevent Storm Damage

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

Tips from SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa on how to prevent storm damage

Clean your gutters. - An inspection of your gutter system frequently can help insure that they are not clogged or damaged. If they are clogged this can lead to roof and foundation leaks. When filled with debris it prevents the water from draining away from your house. 

Check your foundation. - Look for cracks or gaps in the foundation that could allow water to infiltrate the structure. Water follows the easiest path.  

Pack up all outdoor items. - Outdoor furniture is made from light weight materials and strong wind can turn the items into projectiles and can damage the home or vehicles causing significant damage.

Know how to shut off your utilities. It is good to locate all utility shut offs; electrical, gas, water before a storm hits.  If something happens you may have to turn these off to prevent further damage.

Check trees for dead material- Trees can get knocked down or limbs blown down that are damaged or dead. Call a licensed arborist for help with this inspection.

Close Before You Dose

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

The idea that you want to leave your door open when you sleep so you can smell the smoke is a dated and dangerous one. Studies have shown that during sleep, your senses become weak. Olfaction (sense of smell) is reduced the maximum, making it the weakest among all senses. Chances are that the smoke from a fire will reach your room long before the actual flames of the fire. Smoke contains many gasses such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide that reduce the oxygen in the air and cause disorientation. Assuming you have properly placed and working smoke detectors to alert you of the fire, closing the door to your bedroom will keep these harmful gasses at bay long enough for you to make life saving decisions. SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa has seen several occasions where the doors were shut to rooms and they have minimal fire damage while other areas not shut off have extensive.  For more information on home fire safety and smoke alarm installation, please visit redcross.org/sound-the-alarm.

I smell smoke, dinner must be done! - Trust SERVPRO When Needing Fire Cleaning

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

Hopefully for most people they will never have to experience a house fire and the related cleanup and restoration that follows but if you do SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is ready to help.

The leading cause of a residential structure fire is cooking[1].

 I want you to think for a second to a time where you were sitting at a campfire. Now, regardless of how long you sat there you will likely have an odor on you now. Some more than others know exactly what I mean. That absolutely unmistakable smell of wood smoke, burning leaves, or a grass fire. It’s not exactly pleasant the next day if you wear the same coat, hat, and your shoes. This is a simple fix is to wash the items.

Now what do you do if you have a fire inside the house? It may not look bad or maybe half the house is gone, no matter. Your next steps may be critical in saving irreplaceable personal items and salvaging the remaining structure.  

SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is ready to help. We do this with our trained staff who has had IICRC fire restoration training, certifications, and continuing education for our team. We use the newest technology that is exclusive to SERVPRO. We take our technical training, technology, experience, and willingness to help people and make an otherwise devastating disaster "Like it never even happened."

[1] [1] https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/Building-and-Life-Safety/Home-Structure-Fires

SERVPRO Is Ready No Matter What the Storm

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is ready for what ever the storm may be. Our staff, equipment, and trucks are loaded and ready. When most people think of the word storm, they think about thunder, lightning, high winds and heavy rain. As SERVPRO does monitor and prepare for these situations like any other, they are contained to a few months out of the year. When monitoring and preparing for a “storm” SERVPRO has to take into consideration any occurrence that is going to affect multiple homes or businesses in an area. We are always doing inventory counts and checking our resources. You never know when the next storm might come.  For example: when the temperatures drop below freezing in the winter for a period of time, homes & businesses have the risk of their water pipes freezing and busting leaving a mess. Another great example of a “storm” situation that SERVPRO prepares for is Tornado season. In any situation, SERVPRO’s goal is to be prepared and ready to respond within minutes.

Odors in Commercial Businesses - SERVPRO is here to help!

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Do you have an odor in your business? SERVPRO of Des Moines Ottumwa / Oskaloosa technicians are trained and ready to inspect and help identify the source of odor! We use state of the art technology to pinpoint moisture and compromised materials in order to eliminate the source of the odor and to make it “Like it never even happened.”!

If your building locations has ever experienced a water loss, microbial related issue, or even rodent/insect infiltration and the structural materials were not properly mitigated and restored you may have found your odor issue. 

In door air quality for your employees is very important for an effective work environment. The businesses working space is very important and we are here to help when an odor presents itself.  We do thorough inspections and will present our findings along with an estimate for services if needed.  Give our office a call today to schedule an appointment with one of our Project Management Team. 

Sprinkler Systems Are Common Causes of Water Damage

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

Sprinkler systems are commonly installed in commercial and industrial buildings. They save life and structure when a fire occurs. They do cause water damage though when putting out the fire or when the system malfunctions.  This is when SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is here to help. We come in and dry the structure when a system malfunctions. Fire sprinklers are activated when the mercury liquid filled bulb bursts between 135 and 165 degrees. It is thought by many that they are triggered by smoke.  They are actually activated by heat. Failures occur with sprinkler heads commonly when the line freezes from cold weather or the head gets hit or pulled on by something.  We are here to help when you need it most and want to help prevent issues before they arise. It is always a good idea to know where your sprinkler line shut off valves are located in case you have a malfunctioning system and know who services these systems for your facility.

SERVPRO partners with the local Red Cross

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

We believe in prevention and preparation.  It is a natural fit for SERVPRO to work with the local Red Cross chapters.  Both SERVPRO and the Red Cross have the gift to be able to help people in their time of need so it is a natural fit for us to support each other.  SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is hosting the 2019 Sound the Alarm Campaign at our location in our Des Moines office on May 3rd.  Please come out and volunteer.  You can register from our Facebook page.  The Sound the Alarm Campaign is a program to install free smoke detectors supplied by the Red Cross in peoples homes.  SERVPRO staff and others will be going out to install these detectors.  Smoke detectors save lives and we are so lucky to help with this great initiative. 

Specialty Floor Drying Systems

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

When your building needs specialty drying services you can depend on SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa to have the systems needed to help when you need it most.  We have specialty floor drying systems to dry hard wood floors. This picture shows a hard wood floor drying system for a gym floor. Gym floors can cost a significant amount of money to replace. When they are affected by water damage the faster the water can be extracted and specialty drying equipment can be installed the better. Wood can easily warp and separate. This system uses tubes to pipe the warm dry air under the floor and exhaust the moist air back out. We also have another type of system were we can install mats on top of the hard wood flooring system.  Depending on the infiltration, the type of wood flooring and the type of install we decide on the best course of action to treat the situation.

Structure Cleaning After A Fire

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

When fire damage affects your home or business SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa is here to help.  We have IICRC trained technicians that specialize in structure and content cleaning. One of the first processes in structure cleaning is to remove soot residue. We use dry sponges to remove the soot from the affected materials. In order to reach the high areas in the home we will attach the dry sponge to an extendable pole to reach. Then the sponge can be used to wipe down ceilings and walls of any soot that might be on the structure.  Soot residue has to be removed in order for the structure seal coat to stick. You can depend on SERVPRO to have the right training and tools to get the job done.

Wet Washing After A Fire

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

When fire damage occurs there are different techniques of cleaning depending on the type of fire that occurred. You can depend on SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa to help your business or home after the fire has occurred.  We will scope the situation and determine the best plan of action. There are different techniques. One of those techniques and processes is wet washing. This process is not to be used for every fire as it can smear the soot verses remove it.  The picture shows our team wet washing a section of soot damaged area and the improvement it has made on this particular fire. We are here to help when you need us most. If you have had a fire in your home or business give our team of professionals a call.

Checking For Water Damage

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

It is the water that you don't see that can cause damage. SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa uses some of the best meters, detectors, and monitoring devices on the market to protect your home or business when water damage occurs. To make sure that the structure is dry and proper moisture progression is taking place we use these tools when drying a structure. We do daily monitoring while drying a structure as well as will provide moisture checks for residences and commercial locations that have had water infiltration to make sure that the structure is dry and there is not water hiding behind structural materials.   This picture shows a infrared camera, called a, FLIR camera. This camera is showing where there is water still trapped in below the flooring material. When you have water damage you can depend on SERVPRO to have the right tools to make sure your structure is properly dry.

Hard Wood Floor Drying

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

When you have hard wood floor damaged by water you can depend on SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa to have the specialty drying systems needed to be able to help possibly restore your flooring. Hard wood floor drying systems include mats, air movers, and dehumidification equipment to be able to remove the water trapped by the flooring.  The trick to being able to save the flooring is speed.  Quick extraction of standing water and quick setting of the floor system is key. If too much warping of the wood has taken place it is hard to bring the wood back to its original state.  When water damage occurs to any hard wood flooring it is best to call SERVPRO and have them do a moisture check of the floor and make sure the flooring is dry and there is not any unwanted moisture trapped under the floor to prevent further damage days later.  SERVPRO has the equipment for residential losses or even large commercial wood floors like those that are installed in gymnasiums. 

Water and Fire Referral Cook Outs

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa's General Manager, Billy, knows how to turn up the heat. We enjoy cooking and thanking those that refer clients to us. When water or fire damage affects a clients home it can be a devastating experience. We have built fantastic relationships with wonderful insurance companies, realtors, fire departments, property managers, and others that will refer their friends to us when damage happens.  They put their trust in us to take care of them when it matters most. We thank those that refer work to us by providing lunch. We know that they appreciate our trained staff quickly and efficiently taking care of their friends and we appreciate them for referring the work to us. We love to get behind this large grill and cook up some great food.

We Have A Cleaning Product For All Situations

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa has a cleaning product for any cleaning situation. Weather you have a sewage job, a fire job, a mold job, a carpet cleaning job, a job that might have some blood, or a job that has graffiti. We have a product specialty formulated by our scientists at SERVPRO that will be able to help remove that stubborn situation. We are here as your premier cleaning company to make it "Like it never even happened." We have products stocked and ready on our shelves all the time and our trained technicians know how to safely and properly use these resources to treat the most stubborn of situations. We have environmentally friendly "green" products as well. We have deodorizes and air fresheners also. You can depend on SERVPRO to take care of you, your home, business, carpets, upholsteries, etc. Give us a call today with your stubborn cleaning needs.

Training Is Vital In The Restoration Industry

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

Members of our team recently received training from our Program Coordinator, Nita.  Training is vital in our industry. Things are constantly changing. Our team needs to stay up on the newest technology as well as the newest information and requirements from insurance companies. She trained on the use of our proprietary software program that we utilize in the field to collect and record data in regards to clients losses. This information forms the story of the loss for insurance companies and the client for documentation. It is vital to record the information in regards to affected materials and the process of restoring the affected materials. Our team has weekly Monday production meetings to go over any thing of importance but we also do more in depth trainings like these as needed to keep us up to date on information and well informed to make sure we are always ready to help our clients with the most up to date information.

Water Damage Clean Up Requires Air Flow

7/25/2018 (Permalink)

When your business or home are affected by water damage and you don't know what to do you can trust that SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa has the equipment necessary to provide the mitigation services you need. When you find water damage call our office right away and we will be out to provide a plan of action and start providing services to stabilize the structure to minimize any further damage from occurring. A big part of properly mitigating a water damage is air flow and providing the right amount of air flow for the affected square footage.  With our trained technicians taking measurements and assessing the situation this is figured out.  We can then provide the right amount of equipment to properly mitigate the situation.  This picture shows a few different types of air movers we have on the same job and how we affectively space them to provide airflow to affected materials.  The metal silver fan in the front corner is the clients on this job. You can see the difference on this job of what was actually needed for air flow.

Water Clean Up In Commercial Business

6/27/2018 (Permalink)

Desiccant Set Up In Des Moines

Drying a large commercial space takes special equipment. SERVPRO has that equipment ready and available.  When drying 1000's of square feet of space it takes specialized equipment.

Desiccant drying systems are brought in to assist in the mitigation process. Desiccants operate differently then dehumidifiers and operate to a lower temperature as well. 

The first step in any mitigation process is to extract the standing water. Then the steps of drying the structure begins. To dry the structure if there is a lot of square footage affected a desiccant will be utilized because air flow tubes can be utilized through the building.  The moisture can then be exhausted outside the building. 

We are here to help with your Commercial Building drying needs. We have the equipment necessary to help clean up the mess and work hard to make it "Like it never even happened."

Water Removal From Basement After A Storm

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning Up Rain Water from A Storm In A Basement With One Type of Extraction Equipment

Heavy rain fall can infiltrate a home or business very quickly. Most of the time it is a problem in the lower level or basement of a home or in a crawl space. Water can seep in under garage doors, around improperly sealed windows or through cracks in the cement foundation or walls. Water will always travel the least path of resistance.  Heavy fast rainfall can cause issues very quickly and keep sump pumps from keeping up in a storm.

If you find water where you don't want it and you don't know how to remove it we are here to help. SERVPRO has several different forms of extraction equipment and are here to help. It is very important to remove the water as soon as possible to prevent further wicking into the structure materials of the building. It can be difficult to remove with out the right equipment. This is where we come in. We will extract the standing water and then set drying equipment to remove moisture from the structure. Always remember to call right away when you see a problem for help.  Water is something you want to clean up right away so further problems don't occur.

Water Removal After Storms in Ottumwa

6/14/2018 (Permalink)

Crews Loading The Van

Today in the Ottumwa area we received a very large amount of rain in a short amount of time. Our crews as soon as the rain started falling in central Iowa were making sure the trucks were loaded and ready. This happens every day though. We make sure we are ready to help when the help is needed. We are able to dispatch the teams quickly to your home or business. We can help you extract the water when your sump pump fails, water infiltrates your foundation, or your sewer backs up.  We can dry the structure of the building or even do demo of the affected materials so that the reconstruction can start that much quicker. It is all about getting you back to normalcy as quickly as possibly. Disasters happen but it doesn't have to be that way for long. Let the professionals help.

Helping to restore your house back into your home.

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

Home: (noun) 1. The place where one lives permanently, especially as a member of a family or household. 2.  Any place of residence or refuge.  

You have worked hard to turn your house into a home. You have so many memories in your home and when disaster strikes you want to preserve those memories. At SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa, we are here to help you restore your home and personal contents. We are diligent and work hard to get you back into your home.

Our warehouse cleaning technicians take good care of your contents to make sure they get back to you restored and “Like it never even happened.”

Give us a call at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa when disaster decides to strike on your home.

Document Restoration for Business

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

Businesses have lots of important documents and vital records. When water or fire damage occurs you can depend on SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa to be able to help restore these items.  It is vital to bring in professionals right away for document restoration services.  We restore tax records, historical documents, books, photographs etc.  In commercial business spaces there are so many things that can cause water damage to documents.  Documents that are years old but important and need to be maintained are often kept in the basement of a facility.  These areas are subject to water infiltration, sump pump failures, sewer back ups, mechanical room or line failures.  We are here to help if these type of situations occur.  Fire or soot damage can also ruin documents.  We are here to help with those as well. 

We have specialized freeze drying and cleaning equipment that we utilize.  If you are ever in need of having vital documents restored give us a call. We are here to help.

Storm Teams

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has storm response teams.  When a large natural disaster occurs and you think how can there even begin to be enough resources to clean it up, that is where SERVPRO comes in.  We have strategically placed storm teams around the country and franchises partnered with those storm response teams to be able to mobilize and get boots on the ground and equipment to assist those affected by the natural disaster quickly.  SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa is a responding franchise. As Iowa's Large Loss Response team we have the staff and equipment to respond to any size disaster and we work with these storm teams. This allows us if a disaster happens in Iowa we are ready to call in the resources to assist very quickly if it is a very large disaster and beyond something just our franchise can handle. Such as multiple buildings affected in a large area.  You can know as a home owner or business owner that we are ready to help you get your property taken care of.  Give us a call and let us worry about getting the resources to you. We are an independently owned franchise with the strong backing of over 1700 additional franchises across the county, storm team franchises, and a fantastic corporate office all to assist bringing in the resources to help our friends and neighbors.  You can depend on us here at SERVPRO.

SERVPRO provides Storm Damage Clean Up

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

The thing about a disaster is they are unexpected. Storm damage is even a larger disaster then a fire or water damage at a home or business because it is not just contained to one building. Storm damage is usually affecting multiple buildings, multiple residences, and/or multiple businesses.  SERVPRO is ready to help. Our 24 hour, 7 day a week on call staff are trained and ready with equipment fully ready and waiting at our facilities to roll out the minute we get the call to help. We can secure a building after wind damage, remove debris from trees, we are able to extract water that has infiltrated areas that it is not supposed to be, or clean up a back up that has occurred from storm water.  We provide services to both residential and commercial businesses and we have the resources to handle multiple calls all at once.  We are here to help ease some of the stress that occurs when a disaster happens. Know that when you make the call to SERVPRO we are making it "Like it never even happened."

Emergency Preparedness Tips for before a Storm

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Tornadoes and storms cause over 25 Million dollars in damage a year.  It is a necessity to be prepared.  Tips for being prepared for a storm, as you never know when one might hit, are below.

-Keep the gas level in your car above 1/4 of a tank.

-Record the dosages and names of medications you take and keep in a grab and go place, such as in your purse.

-Keep your purse or wallet in an easy to get to place and if you have to go to the basement in a storm take it with you.

-Test the batteries in your flash lights monthly like you do your batteries in your smoke detectors.

-Keep all emergency information in a safe place and make multiple copies.

-Have your insurance companies contact information saved in your cell phone including policy number and agents name.

-Keep electronics/phones charged at least above 20% so incase the power goes out you have a little reserve left.

These are a few items in the restoration industry we here of that people comment on that might have been helpful in a storm damage and they are the little things.

Board Up After Storm Damage

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Board Up After Lightening Hit A House

When storm damage occurs we are here to help you maintain the safety of your home or business.  We provide board up services.  If your home or business is affected by wind damage, broken windows, tree damage, lightening damage, etc give SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa a call.  We have the materials on hand to secure the building and prevent further damage to the structure or the contents until repairs can be made.  We have staff on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We work with insurance companies and take photos before and after the board up process for documentation.  It is vital to maintain the structure of a building so further damage does not occur after storm damage.  We work hard every day to help our clients recover after a disaster and make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Helps Commercial Business

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

We work for all types of commercial businesses for all types of losses. We at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa has helped business get back up to normal for educational facilities, churches, financial institutions, restaurants, hotels and apartment buildings to name a few. When water, fire, or mold, etc occur and you don’t know how to clean it up we are here to help. We specialize in getting business back up to normal. Let us bring our equipment and trained staff in to help. We will scope your loss, provide an estimate and get to work for you right away. When the work is completed we will provide all documentation including drying logs and pictures of work progress for documentation that you might need. We provide service for all size losses small to large. We are equipped to handle any size commercial facility as the large loss representative for the state of Iowa. You can trust SERVPRO to help your commercial business.

Specializing in Fire Cleanup

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa is here to help when fire affects your home or business. We know that you don’t experience this everyday. We specialize in fire restoration cleaning and mitigation. We are here to help when a fire affects the structure and/or contents.  We are a full service restoration company. You can depend on us to help you make advised decisions as you work through the process. We clean structure and contents. We provide demolition services. We will media blast and seal structure. We work with dependable subcontractors to help in the rebuilding process. We work with and communicate all documentation with insurance programs and the insured to make sure all know the status and progress of the job. We are here to help when a fire occurs.

Cleaning After A Fire Damage

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

When cleaning after a fire don’t use water initially. Soot should not be cleaned up with water first. Soot should initially be removed with dry sponges. Dry soot cleaning sponges are used to remove soot and dirt where you don’t want the surface to get wet. It is made of a natural rubber and is used like an eraser. Once the surface of the sponge is dirty it has to be thrown out. They can not be reused. The sponges hold a remarkable amount of soot in the pours of the sponge. After wiping the fine particles of soot off the surface the surface can be wet washed. This process needs to be done by a professional. If not done properly surface damage can occur. There is a science to fire cleaning and you should trust and hire a professional if you have fire clean up that needs to occur. We work hard and have trained professionals ready to make it “Like it never even happened."

Benefits of Using A Trained Professional to Clean Up Mold

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa is here to help when mold affects your building. Mold will grow under certain conditions. Mold is a living organism and needs air and moisture to live.  When conditions are ideal mold will grow. It is important to use a trained professional to properly clean up mold. A trained professional when remediating mold will set up containment, use HEPA vacuums, use antimicrobial, seal if necessary and take air samples when completed to make sure it is remediated properly. Before the work is completed photos will be taken and after the work is completed additional photos will be taken as well for documentation. We are here to help improve and take care of your property. We work hard and take pride in making it "Like it never even happened."

AMRT Certified Trained Staff to Clean Up Mold

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

Our staff at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa that lead the crews and provide mold remediation services are IICRC AMRT Anti Microbial Remediation Training certified. This is vital to make sure that services are provided properly. A lack of training and education can be harmful to the structure, occupants as well as our employees. This is why our staff are trained in this skill set before performing services.  Protecting the health and safety of all involved while dealing with microbial growth is important.  Trained technicians know how to perform testing, set up containment, use HEPA filtration equipment, and keep cross contamination from happening. You can trust our team to properly remediate your mold situation and concerns and trust that our staff that are performing the work are AMRT certified.   

Want to help commercial businesses after a water or fire loss?

4/15/2018 (Permalink)

Join our SERVPRO green team today!

We work hard to ensure our residential and commercial clients get the help they need in their time of need. Our commercial clients know to call green to get it clean. If you want to become part of the team that makes it "Like it never even happened.", you are in luck!

We are hiring for multiple positions. We are currently hiring for Production Technicians in our Iowa City and Des Moines locations. We are also looking for a Project Manager to oversee every aspect of a job that comes in. 

If you would like more information about our current job openings please go to: 

https://SERVPRO.careerplug.com

We are always accepting resumes and you can submit yours to andrea@SERVPRO.me.

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa helps to make it "Like it never even happened."

Spring Cleaning will be a breeze when you contact SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa

4/10/2018 (Permalink)

Take a minute and smell the flowers this spring!

The wonderful first day of spring where you open your windows after having your house boarded up all winter. That wonderful spring day can also be an eye-opener because of how much spring cleaning you might need to do. Let SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa help with some of that cleaning. Spring Cleaning can be a hefty job and can be overwhelming to try and get everything done. Let us help lighten the load! We provide carpet cleaning, odor removal, air testing, and mold remediation that can help get your house sparkly clean. SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa makes it “Like it never even happened.” Take a minute and smell the roses on a lovely spring day and let SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa do your household spring cleaning.

Mold Testing - Microbial Growth Assessments

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa offers Microbial Growth Assessments.  If you believe you have something that you think might be mold have it tested by a professional. It is better to be safe than sorry. We are here to help you.  Our employees are trained and certified.  We will perform the testing. Send in the samples. If mold is confirmed we will set up a remediation plan and go over the estimate.  Proper containment will be set up. Mitigation will occur and then finally another set of testing will occur to make sure that all of the microbial growth has been removed.

Microbial growth is more present in facilities than ever before as we build more efficient, tighter buildings. Everything we do produces moisture. Buildings need to breathe.  We are here to help you protect your health and safety if you believe you have mold give SERVPRO a call to perform a microbial growth assessment.

Mold Cleaning Services

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

When cleaning after a mold remediation job SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa cleans for the safety and health of our customers using multiple techniques. 

• We use HEPA vacuums.
• We use HEPA air filters in our air filtration devices during the process.
• We use microfiber cleaning cloths and change them out after cleaning so much of an affected area reducing cross contamination.
• We set up containment before starting work so that during the process contaminates are not spread to uncontaminated areas.

We clean for health and safety first and then you just get an outstanding appearance.  It is so important to contain contaminants when performing mold remediation services and cleaning. We work hard every day to make it "Like it never even happened."

April Showers bring May flowers and the possibility of flooding to your Ottumwa/Oskaloosa area home.

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

April Showers do bring May flowers but they also bring flooding. Taking precautions can help minimize the damage that occurs at your home. The first thing you need to do is check with your insurance to make sure that you are covered. Coverage options vary depending on the insurance company so it is always a good idea to check and see what is available to you. Second, have your sump pump and chimney checks yearly and make sure your gutters are clean and attached properly. If water does get into your home it needs to be removed quickly and dried out properly so you don’t have mold growth in the future.  SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa will respond to the problem and extract the water and start the remediation process to prevent mold growth at all affected levels.

SERVPRO's ERP Helps Office Buildings Mitigate Fire, Water, and Mold Damage in the Ottumwa and Oskaloosa Area

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

The ERP Helps Many Ottumwa and Oskaloosa Area Businesses Minimize Water Losses--Call SERVPRO for a Free Consultation 319-338-8550

Many Institutions and Commercial Enterprises Rely on SERVPRO to Help Prevent and Mitigate Water Losses

For some damage restoration companies, conducting large-scale water damage repairs on office buildings in Iowa can be very difficult. In the event of a sprinkler malfunction, upper floor flood, or other disasters, the vertical nature of many office spaces can pose a significant challenge even for experienced restoration professionals like SERVPRO. However, with the help of the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile system, you can make sure that your office receives the care and treatment it needs while we deal with mitigating your disaster.

The Emergency READY Profile is a mobile app that allows businesses in Ottumwa and Oskaloosa to prepare for and mitigate disasters as soon as they happen and provide details to ease the communication between multiple entities.

Our marketing team will help set up your account for you! We want to take the hassle out of a disaster and help your company thrive. If you own or manage multiple locations, we can set it up so you can see and manage all locations information. We will come and do a walk through with you, take pictures and document the location of the utility shutoffs

Creating an Emergency READY Profile for your business allows you to operate your company with a higher degree of security and peace of mind. When disaster strikes help is only a click away. The ERP is formatted to be a preventative tool, we help you identify hot-spots, and areas of concern. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Should water, fire, or mold damage happen to your building, you can alert SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa and have our IICRC certified technicians sent out with only the push of a button. Your emergency information will be available at your fingertips 24/7 helping to reduce time figuring out who you want to contact.

When Mother Nature makes a roaring entrance SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa makes it “Like it never even happened.”

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

Make March memorable and make a roaring entrance!

“In like a lion out like a lamb.” As we head into March we are still in winter and then we slowly transition into spring. Iowa weather is so incredibly unpredictable we can go through three different seasons in one day! No matter what the weather brings know that SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa is here to help. Whether there are heavy winds that require us to securely board up your home, excessive rainfall that floods your basement and damages your contents, or your neighbor has a sump pump or sewage back up that flows into your basement. Feel free to give us a call when a disaster or Mother Nature strikes. With the winter we have had you can look forward to spring starting on March 20^th.

"We're all mad here."

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

When you have severe water damage at your home you might go MAD trying to coordinate everything with insurance, mitigation, content cleaning, and then you might have to worry about reconstruction. One thing that you might not think about is all of your important documents and pictures that might have been damaged. You wouldn’t want your marriage license or your Great Grandma’s bible to grow mold because you forgot it had gotten wet in all the hustle of the water damage. We can dry your books, pictures, paintings, and important documents for you.

The Mad Hatter said “No wonder you’re lat. Why, this watch is exactly two days slow.” You don’t have to worry about our clocks being slow because we are a 24/7 company.

Let us help keep the romance lit in Ottumwa/Oskaloosa

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa is working to ensure that your romantic plans don't get interrupted.

You have been planning this day out for weeks. The flowers have been delivered, the table is set, and the wine is poured. You are sitting down with your significant other for a romantic candlelit dinner at home. Right before you put dessert on the table you get a smell of something very unpleasant. You search your home to find where the stench is coming from and it is a sewage backup in your bathroom. Sewage back up can occur for a variety of reasons. Don’t let it ruin your romantic night in. You won’t want to clean up the mess yourself put your trust in SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa and give us a call.  We will come in, extract the water, deodorize, clean your damaged contents, and restore carpets and floors.

Call us today to help make sure your romantic night can resume. We work hard to make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa is your statewide Large Loss Response Team

1/29/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is your cleanup and restoration company for the state of Iowa!

Winter, spring, summer, or fall all you have to do is call…SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa when disaster strikes. Did you know that SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa is the only Large Loss certified franchise in the state of Iowa? What does it mean to be large loss certified? Glad you asked! Being a certified large loss franchise means that we can respond to any loss across the state. We are equipped for residential and large commercial losses. You will know we are on the scene with the bright green machines but you will also know who our employees are by their uniforms and id badges.  We understand the importance of getting your business back up and running after a disaster and we work hard to make that happen. SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa is here to help with any size disaster.

SERVPRO Emergency Green Vehicles are equipped to cleanup your emergencies.

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa for your emergency water and fire cleanup needs.

Green is on the Scene with our many different types of vehicles. During emergency water and fire calls we respond with our trucks all ready to go! Thanks to some of our amazing staff these trucks keep stocked

We have a water truck that we bring to the job site to extract water right on the premises. This helps to ensure that the drying process can start quickly so your water emergency can get cleaned up. We also have other vehicles that are designated for large loss jobs and removing your affected content for cleaning at our shop. When you see the green SERVPRO vehicles you know we are helping you, your neighbors, and your local businesses get back to everyday life quickly and efficiently.

Fall Maintenance Checklist

9/14/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help.  Take the time to reduce property damage by doing these things this fall to prevent property damage.  Winter is around the corner and Iowa winter temperatures are cold and harsh.  Be prepared by taking  a little action now by doing a little fall preventative maintenance.

Fall Maintenance Checklist

• Stow Your Mower
• Store hoses and turn off outdoor water
• Drain and turn off sprinkler systems
• Seal cracks around doors and windows
• Clean your gutters
• Inspect your roof
• Direct drainage away from your house
• Get your furnace serviced
• Prune your plants
• Look up the chimney for any blockages and check the dampers to make sure they are working

When damage happens though know we are here to help make it " Like it never even happened"

Items in an Emergency Supply Kit

9/14/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa believes in being READY.  One of the first ways of doing this is to have an emergency supply kit.  It may be different depending on what type of disasters you are likely to encounter but this is a good starter list. 

• Water ( one gallon water per person per day)
• Food ( non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Battery-operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal help
• Dust mask
• Hygiene items
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Manual can opener
• Local Maps
• Cell phone with chargers
• Cash
• Important documents
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches

Put this emergency kit in a safe place that easily able to be found by all members of your family. 

Water Cleanup in Ottumwa, Oskaloosa and Surrounding Area

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

When water damage happens in Ottumwa and Oskaloosa and the surrounding areas don't hesitate with who to call.  Call SERVPRO of Iowa City/Coralville, Ottumwa/Oskaloosa, Des Moines East & SW.  We are the largest SERVPRO in the state of Iowa but we are here to handle everything from a small water leak to a large flood.  We can clean up fresh water from a water line break from a washing machine, dish washer, sink, refrigerator, or even water from an air conditioner condensate line.  We can clean up water that has backed up from a drain line or from a sump pump that has quit working. 

It is so important to call us right away.  It is the water you don't see that can cause the most damage.  We do free estimates and free moisture checks.  Don't hesitate to call. 

We have equipment loaded and ready to go and crew that works 24 hours a day to help you and respond to your loss right away to start extracting water and we will set dehumidifiers and air movers if needed as soon as we can to keep the water from wicking further into the structure. 

You can trust us. With our three locations to have staff ready to help you 24 hours a day. So when you have water to clean up we are here to help you.  Thank you for trusting us.

Home Contents Inventory-Why it’s Needed in Case of a Fire

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

Imagine having a total loss of your home due to a fire and having to recall every item that was damaged… could you do it? Would you trust yourself to remember each individual item that was in your home, especially the rarely used ones? Without a photographic memory most of us would find some difficulty with this task in an already stressful time. In the event of a fire, your insurance company will expect you to provide a list of all your personal property that was damaged. By having a pre-assembled Home Contents Inventory you can have piece-of-mind knowing that all of your contents are documented and can then be properly replaced according to your insurance policy. There are several methods to complete your Home Contents Inventory whether on paper or digitally (you can contact your local SERVPRO for a blank copy of either). You will want to make sure to list each item, its value, and include any receipts and photographs along with it. It’s a good idea to update your Home Contents Inventory list annually to include any new items you have added to the home and remove items you no longer have. Make sure to keep a copy safe in a fireproof container or safe deposit box and you can always file a copy with your insurance agent as well.

Emergency Fire Tips

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

In 2015 there were 1,345,500 fires reported in the United States. A structure fire was reported every 63 seconds and caused an estimated $14.3 billion in property damage. In order to ensure you and your family’s safety make sure to have an escape route in place so if a fire is discovered, you can move quickly to evacuate to your designated meeting place. The aftermath of a fire can be just as devastating as the initial event. Your local SERVPRO is here to help minimize damage and save your contents. Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to a fire without consulting a repair service and make sure your restoration company is IICRC certified (all SERVPRO techs are!) There is a science behind effective cleaning. Proper methods and products must be used depending on the materials being cleaned to avoid further damage. When you choose SERVPRO, you can take comfort knowing your home and contents are in the hands of trained and caring professionals.

Emergency Water Tips

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

Suffering a water loss can be a hectic and stressful time. Emotions run high and often times you don’t even know where to start! The first step should always be to identify the source of incoming water then shutoff or stop the water source if possible. Next make sure to turn off all electrical appliances around the affected area to reduce electrical hazards and turn off the circuit breakers supplying electricity to the wet areas. You will want to remove excess water by mopping or blotting and make sure to never use a regular vacuum to remove water! Keep furniture safe from additional damage by placing aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting/flooring and make sure to call your local SERVPRO to come assess the damage and get the drying process started immediately.

Commercial Restaurant Loss & Getting you Back to Business

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

In 2015 Restaurants across the United States suffered a total of $116 million dollars in damages, the average loss being $23,000 (not including revenue loss from business interruption) finding prime days for damage occurred on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. We know that even the smallest losses can impact business functionality and cause revenue loss which is why we are here to get you back to business quickly! SERVPRO of Iowa City/Ottumwa/Des Moines is a large loss certified franchise with trained crews and commercial grade equipment that can respond to any size loss within hours. Regardless of the type of loss we understand the urgency of getting damages taken care of… after all an empty restaurant will COST you money. Once emergency cleaning is completed, our professional team can also offer regular maintenance services such as hood kitchen exhaust cleaning helping to ensure your restaurant is always clean and ready for business!

Disaster Preparedness for a Storm

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

With the fluctuations in weather, Iowa has been known to experience its fair share of severe weather and storms. Two elements that cause a thunderstorm are moisture and rapidly rising warm air, which is why severe thunderstorms occur most often in hot summer months. Thunderstorms produce lightening which can severely hurt people and damage property. Heavy rain can cause flash flooding and high winds can damage your home and blow down trees and utility poles. If you happen to get caught unprepared, storms can threaten both your property and your personal safety. Make a list of items to bring inside during a storm and ensure pets are safe and any outside housing is secured. Be sure to discuss a safety plan with your family including a safe place in your home away from windows and glass to gather during a storm. Have an emergency kit including water, non-perishable food, towels, garbage bags, and first aid kit supplies and remain indoors until after the storm has passed. After a storm you can contact your local SERVPRO 24hours a day to assist with any immediate board ups needed to protect your home.

Summer Weather and Your Appliances- Fire Hazards at Your Business and at Home

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

Often time people overlook the fact that summer weather can have an impact on your appliances. Extreme Heat, Summer Storms, and Power Outages can be hazardous and increase the chances of a fire in your home or business. Be cautious of over-working compressors from refrigerators and freezers, they can get extremely hot and cause a fire. Improperly used extension cords not designed to carry the proper electric load can heat quickly and also cause a fire and considerable damage. During a Summer Storm do not use electrical appliances that have been wet or potentially shorted from a lightning strike, these can be a major fire hazard. To be sure no fires have started it’s a good idea to check your appliances during and after a storm. If you experience a power outage never run cords from generators or other appliances under carpet or rugs where heat could build and cause damage or fire. Being aware of the potential hazards can save you, your business, and your home.

Extreme Heat - How it can Affect You

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

We all know Iowa summers bring extreme heat! Extreme heat is caused by higher than normal temperature and humidity. Children, ages infant to four are at higher risk for heat related illnesses and need extra fluids compared to adults. Symptoms of heat related illness include faintness, exhaustion, nausea, muscle spasms, and fever. In the United States more than 600 people die every year due to extreme heat. During these heat waves it’s better to stay inside and stay cool if possible. Air conditioning is the highest protective measure against extreme heat illnesses. HYDRATION is also extremely important! Drink plenty of water and if you’re in prolonged heat it’s good to utilize sports drinks to replenish your body with electrolytes. If you must be outdoors you should also avoid strenuous activities, wear lightweight light colored clothing, and take breaks in the shade or a cool environment.

The Mold Mitigation and Remediation Process in Ottumwa

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

Our Technician Matt testing for microbial growth in a basement in Ottumwa

When there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking waterline, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. It is the water you can't see that may cause the most damage. Mold can affect your health and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, we are here to help and have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different, requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a “typical” mold removal process.

Call Professionals - SERVPRO of Iowa City/Ottumwa/Des Moines

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call our office. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

Inspection & Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water which can be hidden from plain view.

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment will be set in place that captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO® technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Removing Mold & Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents & Belongings

We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. Our technicians use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. We understand mold and mold growth and have the raining and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business. 

We Use HEPA filters during Mold Remediation

6/13/2017 (Permalink)

This picture shows HEPA vacuums that we use

When doing different types of restoration work we will set in the space what we call air scrubbers.  These air scrubbers are HEPA filter units that collect air borne particles that their size is 300 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair. To a HEPA filter, catching a one-micron particle is like stopping a cotton ball with a door screen.  When doing mold remediation we use these air scrubbers but we also will use HEPA vacuums to clean surfaces and trap the particles. 

HEPA filters were invented during World War II to remove and capture radio active dust particles that would present a health hazard to researchers. It was invented to protect the human respiratory system.  HEPA filters are the top form of air filtration.

Removing water from Carpet in Ottumwa

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

An employee removing water from carpet and pad

After a water intrusion we will use this type of equipment to remove the water from carpet and pad.  In order to save the carpet and pad it must be a clean water loss. Meaning the leak had to come from a fresh water line.  We use this equipment or something similar to extract the water.  This machine is called a rover but we will also use a machine called a hydroX. They work the same way.  You stand on both types of machines and the weight of the machine and the employee standing on the machine helps to squeeze out and suck up the water. The machine is self propelled using controls on the handle.  The water is then pumped through tubes into a truck mounted holding tank to be disposed of.  Air movers and dehumidifiers are still needed to remove moisture but this will remove the majority of excess water.  We attempt when ever possible to save the carpet and pad but many times if not attended to fast enough delamination occurs. This is why it is so important to know who to call if you ever have water damage and to do it right away. This will minimize cost for the dry out process and minimize property damage.

Ottumwa - We Do Carpet Cleaning

5/18/2017 (Permalink)

We are a premier cleaning company.  We specialize in carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, drapery cleaning, rug cleaning, and furniture cleaning.  We do carpet cleaning for residential and commercial customers. We have licensed technicians who are trained by the IICRC in the proper methods to clean different types of carpets and fabrics. We pretest fragile fabrics and make sure that we take the best care of your home or office that we can.  We clean carpets for general cleaning, after water damage, after fire damage, to remove odors, to remove stains, and to clean up after pets.  We pride ourselves in a job well done.  We do stair cleaning as well.  We have the right equipment and the right products to keep your carpets and fabrics safe.  Our estimates our free and we do our pricing based off of square footage.  Give us a call today. 

Weather Radio - Everyone Should Have

5/4/2017 (Permalink)

Everyone should have a weather radio. A weather radio keeps you informed of inclement weather. Early warning is your best plan to prevent damage or death from a storm.  Storms can change direction, grow in intensity, and change people's lives in a second if they are not informed promptly.  The nice thing about weather radios are that when an update comes out from the National Weather Service they immediately alert you.  You only get the information that you request based off the programming of your weather radio.  When purchasing a weather radio make sure you get one that runs off batteries and a/c power.  Make sure you check the batteries once a month and make sure that you change them once a year.  In the event of a power loss you want to be informed.  Yes they are loud and will wake you up when you are sleeping but if there is a bad storm heading your direction keep your family safe by waking up to your weather radio.

Dehumidifiers

5/4/2017 (Permalink)

We use dehumidifiers as one piece of equipment during our balanced drying system we use when we are cleaning up after a water loss.  Dehumidification helps to minimize secondary damages.  Dehumidifiers alone are not the only piece of equipment we use. These units are used to capture evaporated moisture in the air. We have to get the moisture out of the material and we use air movers and energy to get the water to evaporate.  Once evaporated the vapor can be removed from the air with a dehumidifier.  "Dehumidifiers are a sealed refrigeration system with defrost mechanism, fan, and water collection system.  The dehumidifier removes energy from the incoming air, then returns this energy as sensible heat to the exiting air.  During this energy removal process, water vapor condenses on the evaporator (cool) coil and is collected." - From Disaster Academy Training Manual

Desiccants

5/4/2017 (Permalink)

Desiccants are used on a larger scale water loss to remove moisture from the air.  We used these as a tool in our balanced drying system in place or along side dehumidifiers on a larger scale project.  Desiccants operate differently then dehumidifiers. Desiccants do not collect water through condensation. They vent moisture-laden air from inside the structure to outside the structure using a ventilation system.  Desiccants are usually large units and sit outside the structure with venting tubes and air input tubes from and to the structure.  They create the greatest vapor pressure and are best used when trying to dry wood flooring, plaster, or concrete. They work on the principle of sorption rather then condensation.  Water vapor in this process is adsorbed by a silica gel and then that silica gel is reactivated by energy causing the desiccant to release its moisture to the outside air.

Can We Save Your Structure

5/4/2017 (Permalink)

In a lot of cases yes we can. A lot of building materials are made to get wet but NOT maintain wetness.  It is very important to have a balanced drying system and start that system very quickly after water damage.  Problems with saving materials occur when the water infiltration is caused by contaminated water.

Drywall can be saved if it is a clean water infiltration.  Drywall is fragile when wet but when dried it is very strong.  If seems are intact and there is no swelling or microbial growth then the drying process can begin. 

Paneling and wallpaper are difficult to dry but cavity drying systems can be attempted if the material can not be replaced and it was a clean water infiltration. 

Lath and Plaster require a very controlled drying process with aggressive evaporation and low humidity air but can sometimes be saved. 

We use many different systems to dry different materials in different spaces.  We have floor drying systems, cavity drying systems, and general drying systems. 

We are here to help you.  Like it never even happened.

Commercial - The Benefits of an Emergency Ready Plan

5/4/2017 (Permalink)

Statistically 50% of businesses will not reopen after a water or fire loss.  Reason being they do not have a plan in place.  If no plan is in place, there is extended amounts of time where revenue is not made.  This hurts the business and then they close.  We understand this need to be prepared.  We have a completely FREE service where we come and help you put a plan in place with emergency contacts, shut offs, and pictures all in a easy to use app that can be accessed on a phone, tablet, or computer.

With a plan in place you know contacts and locations of things to be able to reduce property damage in the event of a fire or water loss.  You know who to call and help can be there faster.  We are a firm believer in don't wait until disaster strikes. Contact us today to help you be "Ready for whatever happens"

Have a Safe Place

5/3/2017 (Permalink)

When a storm is approaching always have that safe place.  Always forward think.  Take the time even when you are driving down the road where is my safe place if inclement weather would approach.  Have that safe place at home.  Make sure everyone in your house knows where that place is.  It will make the situation go smoother in the event something were to happen. Control the situation as much as you can.  Does your family know where to go in the event of a disaster? Make a plan now it will help if something were to happen.  If you are using a neighbors house, a place down the street or another family member across town just have a plan and make sure everyone knows what the plan is.  Have a plan for a storm, have a plan for a fire, have a plan for a medical emergency. 

We Do Biohazard Work

4/10/2017 (Permalink)

Most people don't realize but we do Biohazard work as well.  Biohazard clean up is:

• Unattended Death Clean Up
• Blood Clean Up
• Homicide and Suicide Clean Up
• Crime Scene Clean Up
• Industrial Accidents
• Animal Clean Up

We have 5 trained technicians with many years of experience in this profession. They have a great bedside manor and have an incredible amount of empathy for our clients.  Biohazard work is something we take very seriously. We pride ourselves in being desecrate while we do the work.  We work with police departments, fire departments, funeral home directors, medical facilities and home and vehicle owners.  We have worked for commercial and residential locations.  We pride ourselves on being your local option to help in your time of need. 

Understanding our Commercial Customers Needs

4/6/2017 (Permalink)

We pride ourselves on understanding our commercial customers needs.  We understand that every minute you are closed and/or not fully open for business you are loosing valuable revenue.  We guarantee that when you make a call into us that within an hour no matter the time of day we will contact you and set up arrangements to be on site.  We then will do everything in our power to very quickly decide what needs to be done and how we are going to do it so that you get back up and running as quickly as possible. 

If possible we will set up containments or set up specialized air cleaning equipment to get your business back up and running immediately while we work so you can work.   We know that your business is very important to you because our business is very important to us and we are lucky enough to have the trained staff and the equipment to help you and your business.

Types of Commercial Businesses we have Worked for

4/6/2017 (Permalink)

We have worked with many different types of commercial properties.

We have worked with schools; cleaning contents after a storm, drying out a water loss to reduce further damage, drying gym floors to avoid costly replacement, and cleaning after a fire.

We have worked with banks; cleaning sewage from basements, drying out and restoring important documents, and cleaning carpet to name just a few.

We have worked with many commercial retail locations; cleaning soot and removing odor after a fire, cleaning contents, removing grease from surfaces, and drying out after a sprinkler head or a water intrusion.

We have worked with many property management companies on apartments and hotels; Removing mold, removing odor, cleaning carpets, cleaning after a fire loss, drying out after a water loss.

Either way we have a proven track record of working with Commercial Businesses and getting them back and running as QUICK as possible to prevent excessive revenue loss. We even offer Emergency Ready Profiles for no charge on a handy app so that businesses have all their important information in the event of an emergency right in front of them all the time.

Ask our staff how we can help your business.

Be Ready for A Storm

4/6/2017 (Permalink)

You know storms are going to happen.  Rather it be snow, rain, wind, etc. They are going to happen.  To be prepared is a must.  The following list is what is recommended at a minimum to be ready in the event of a storm.

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

Being prepared will help keep panic at a minimum. These items kept in a safe place where you go in the event of a storm for easy access is also necessary.  Keep where you go in the basement or in possibly a bathroom closet if your home or business does not have a basement.  Pick food items and bottled water that have long shelf lives.  Make sure to test your batteries every month or so in your devices.

SERVPRO has its own Meterologist

4/6/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's corporate office maintains and has on staff our very own SERVPRO Meteorologist.  She helps our franchises with Storm forecasts and alerts so that we are ready and informed.  Storm alerts are vital she says because she has witnessed and experienced storm chasing.  She went out and chased storms and felt the power of super cells building in the Midwest.  She knows the power of weather and why it is so important to be informed and ready in our industry.  Her being a part of our team is a vital key as she helps us know where and when we need to activate our teams to different areas to help out those affected by the storm.  Being knowledgeable about the weather which is such a key factor in our industry empowers us to be ready for you. 

It is important to dry up the water

4/4/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage due to an intrusion, long standing leaks, or from high humidity need to be addressed right away.  Mold feeds and grows in high moisture and warm environments.  Mold is present every where.  There are good forms and bad.  It is very important to start the drying process right away to prevent mold growth.  Organic materials found inside a building; wood, paper, drywall and insulation are great sources of food for mold.  Different types of mold are health threats.  It is very important though to remember that if you see visible mold spores to not put air flow directly across the mold. It can send the spores airborne causing more damage.  This is why it is so important to call a professional right away to make sure all areas are brought back to acceptable moisture levels inside a home after water damage.

Testing for Mold

4/4/2017 (Permalink)

We are certified to test for mold.  If you believe mold is present either by visually seeing something you think is mold or by smelling something musty call a professional.  We do visual inspections, air sampling, as well as we have a bore scope that can go inside areas that are not normally visible to look for mold.  When air samples are taken, 3 samples are taken and sent in.  The results take about 5 to 7 days to return.  If the air samples come back positive for mold, then we will do further investigation to locate the source of the positive result of the air samples.  Call for pricing if you believe you have mold present and we will help you maintain your healthy home.

Health Effects of Mold

4/4/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can effect people's health.  People most effected by mold are people with compromised health, infants and young children, people with chronic breathing issues such as asthma and allergies, and the elderly.  Any one can experience health problems from mold though.  Possible health effects are runny nose, cough, sneeze, abnormal accelerated problems with asthma, sore throat, or sinus inflammation.  This sounds like a common cold but problems from mold linger for excessive amounts of time.  Mold spores grow very quickly so if you see mold give us a call right away so health concerns don't accelerate.  Cleaning the affected mold areas when you are already showing signs of illness can increase this level of sickness for yourself so this is why using a professional with proper personal protective equipment is a good idea.

Types of Mold

4/4/2017 (Permalink)

There are different types of mold.  The most common are aspergillus, cladosporium and stachybotrys atra (also known as black mold).

Aspergillus is non toxic to humans but it can aggravate allergy symptoms.  It is found on foods and in air conditioning systems.

Cladosporium is non toxic to humans but can aggravate allergy symptoms.  This is found as a black or green mold that grows in little dots in bathrooms, on painted surfaces, and in flexible air ducts. 

Stachybotrys is commonly called black mold. This should be removed to prevent health issues.  Call a trained professional to remove.  This type of mold grows on building materials.

To prevent mold growth make sure that water leaks are dried up quickly and humidity levels are maintained in your home or business. Mold thrives in warm damp conditions.

Our Customer Service Response Times

4/4/2017 (Permalink)

Customer service is top priority for us on any loss but especially on a commercial job.  We want to get your business back up and running as quickly as possible following a loss.  Our service response guidelines are as follows.

With in 1 hour of your initial call to us we will return your call and arrange a professional to provide service.

With in 4 hours of your initial call a professional will be on site to evaluate the loss and start mitigation services.

With in 8 hours of your initial call we will be able to give you a briefing of what we are doing and how we need to do it  and provide that scope to the appropriate people.

We are here to help you and we know that prompt service is needed when an emergency happens.  You can trust us.

Commercial Large Loss Response Team

4/4/2017 (Permalink)

You can depend on us to get your commercial business back up and running.  You are lucky enough to have us be a SERVPRO qualified Large Loss Response Team. We are right here in your back yard. What this means for you is that we are a part of an elite group of SERVPRO's that are strategically positioned throughout the United States with trucks and equipment ready to be mobilized to your loss.  The benefits to businesses that are so vital are that you know that we have a trained workforce that has under gone back ground checks, our employees are uniformed and carry id badges all the time, we are trained by IICRC in our industry, and the management programs and corporate communication we have in place are all vital for businesses to know that the people doing the work for you are professionals. We have a promise of satisfaction and a promise of professionalism.

Smoke Alarms and Fire Emergency Plans

4/3/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives. They are the tool most valuable in saving peoples lives.  Smoke alarms should be near every bedroom. It is very important to check them often and make sure the batteries are in good working condition.  Test the alarm beep every month.  Change the batteries every year and the unit may need replaced every 10 years.  If you need help with your smoke detectors, installing, servicing, or testing contact your local fire department. 

Be sure also that your home has a Fire Emergency Plan in place. Make sure everyone knows where to go and how to conduct themselves in the event of a fire.  Show children how to open windows and how to test doors to see if they are hot.  Make sure everyone knows where the safe place to meet outside the home is.  A practice fire drill with your family is always a good practice once a year.

Principles of Deodorization following a Fire

3/28/2017 (Permalink)

There are four principles of deodorization that we follow when restoring an affected area after a fire.  The first step is to remove the source.  The charred material all needs to be removed first to start the process. 

We then clean contaminated surfaces to remove soot residue.  This needs to happen as soon as we are able to. This will help minimize damage.

After removing the residue we then use different methods to remove odor.  This principle is called recreate the conditions of penetration.  We use many different methods to remove odor form objects.  We use ozone machines, hydroxyl machines as well as thermal foggers to remove odor. 

When necessary we seal and encapsulate the odor using special sealing materials so that the odor does not penetrate the sealer and continue to produce an odor.

List of items to be maintained by the customer following a fire

3/28/2017 (Permalink)

In the event of a fire and it is decided by the customer, insurance adjuster, and SERVPRO that SERVPRO is going to do a content pack out of the affected belongings while the home/business is restored there are a few items that the customer should maintain.  These items SERVPRO prefers are sorted out of the belongings before we come to pack up the others for cleaning and storage. 

-insurance policies

-licenses, birth certificates, passports, tax documents

-school and medical records

-checkbooks, credit cards, ID cards

-irreplaceable videos, media, or pictures

-few special toys; baby items

-pet foods and inside pets

-cash

-prescription drugs

Our pack out process if very organized and recorded for easy access of any items that are needed while in our hands but these are a few items that are usually needed very quickly.

Sign Up for our Periodic Newsletter

3/3/2017 (Permalink)

3/3/2017

Click the below link to sign up for our periodic informational newsletter.  We send out our newsletter frequently. The newsletter is an informational tool that we use to stay in touch with our SERVPRO friends.  The newsletter provides information about how SERVPRO is different from other restoration/mitigation companies.  We include content on the equipment we use, how we do the work we do, things that are going on in our community, and provide you information to help you be prepared in the event of a disaster. There newsletter also links you quickly to our website for easy access to blog information and before and after pictures of the work that we do. There is also a quick link to our services page so you can learn more about what we do and how we can help you or someone you know when you need us most. Please take the time to click Sign Up and we will put your email on our newsletter list.

Hiring for Production and Cleaning Technicians

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

We're hiring for all locations, Iowa City/Coralville, Ottumwa/Oskaloosa, and Des Moines East and SW - Full Time production and cleaning techs!  HS diploma/GED, valid driver's license required, competitive pay/benefits. Full description/application at www.SERVPRO.careerplug.com or send resume to andrea@SERVPRO.me

We believe in a team environment.  We support each other and cross train when needed.

We offer a health insurance option to our full time staff. 

We believe in training and supporting our staff. There are many areas of advancement in house.  Our production and cleaning staff are a big part of helping people after a disaster help put their lives back together.  All of our employees have a lot of empathy for our clients. If you have a big heart  and desire to help people this is the place for you.

Fire & Smoke Do's and Don'ts

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

If you have fire and smoke damage to your property it is hard to not start cleaning yourself.  Please let the professionals help you. 

The Do's

-Keep movement in the building at a minimum.  This helps keep particles from being embedded in carpet and fabrics.

-Wash your hands a lot and be careful not to transfer or wipe soot onto something. It can make it damage the item more.

-If electricity is off empty fridges and freezers and prop doors open to prevent odors. 

-Change your furnace/air conditioner filter but don't let the system continue to run. Turn it off.

Don'ts

-Do not try washing any thing yourself.  You could further rub the soot into the item. 

-Don't shampoo your carpet. Talk to a professional first.

-Don't clean any electronics without contacting a professional.

-Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been effected by the fire, soot, or smoke.

-Do not turn ceiling fans on. This will stir up the soot residue. 

Water Damage Do's and Don'ts

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage from clean water is much different then contaminated, sewer water.  These do's are only for clean water.  It is important to hire a professional to help you dry out your home after water damage.  With the right tools and pieces of equipment we can properly and safely dry out your home or business and the products with in it.

Do's

-Shut off the source of the water. 

-Turn off electricity

-Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and soaking up with towels. 

-Wipe excess water from wood furniture.

-Put aluminum foil in between furniture legs and carpet. 

Don'ts

-Enter a room with standing water. There could be a risk of electrical shock. Disconnect all power first.

-Leave rugs and furniture upholstery wet against and sitting on carpets.  The fabrics could bleed between each other. 

-Turn on your television or any other electronic.

-Do not use your household vacuum to try and suck up any water.  They are not made for this.

Hydroxyl vs Ozone Machines

2/13/2017 (Permalink)

Hydroxyl and Ozone machines both work to eliminate lingering odors, gases, and organic pollutants from the air. We are lucky to have both types of machines.  We put them in homes and businesses to remove pet odor, smoke odor, odor from mold, cooking odor, etc.  There are benefits and draw backs to both types of machines. 

Hydroxyl machines are able to run with living things in the same room.  They remove odor slower then when using ozone machines but you can live and work around a running hydroxyl machine.  Ozone machines can not run with living organisms in the same space.  Ozone machines will work in a few hours where a hydroxyl will need to run for a few days depending on the extent of the odor.  Ozone machines can also bleach wet fabrics and effect rubber. 

Depending on the type of odor you have we will chose the best type of equipment to work best to eliminate the smell. 

What is a Biohazard Event

2/8/2017 (Permalink)

A Biohazard Event is something effected by human blood, human blood itself, animal waste, human body fluids, microbiological waste, pathological waste, or sharps waste.  Many events that are biohazard related are very emotional.  We take pride in being a locally owned franchise here to help our neighbors.  We clean up after hoarders,  a homicide or suicide, an unattended death, bodily fluids in a vehicle, etc. 

We are here to help you handle these situations safely. We have 5 certified staff to help in properly and discreetly cleaning up and disposing of this material.  Most of our biohazard events are cleaned up at night.  This helps in keeping on looking eyes from becoming too much of a problem.  We use special equipment to find and locate all traces of biohazard material and completely clean up the materials.  You can trust our staff to clean up after your biohazard event in a caring manor.

Ready At All Times

2/8/2017 (Permalink)

One of our many van trucks.

We have a promise to our clients. WE ARE READY at all times.  We have a staff of over 40 people ready to help after any size disaster. We have staff on call at night and on the weekends to make sure that when we are needed we are ready.  We have different size vehicles all stocked and fueled ready to leave at a moments notice. We have a very mobilized fleet.  We have cars, trucks, trailers, and van trucks. We have a highly trained staff with crew leaders with over 90 years of combined experience in the mitigation and restoration business.  They maintain certifications in residential and commercial approved structural drying, fire and smoke restoration, odor control, water damage restoration, carpet and duct cleaning, and biohazard.  Our staff is ready to help you.

Large Loss Response Team

2/8/2017 (Permalink)

We are currently the only certified Large Loss Response Team in the state of Iowa.  We have the equipment, employees, and connections to help in even the largest disaster.  We promise to be ready when you need us.  Our equipment is always fueled, tested, loaded.  We have on call staff 24 hours a day.  We have a trailer loaded with our desiccant and a dedicated generator to run it at all times.  This desiccant is a 5,000 cfm piece of equipment for dehumidification.  We have air movers and large portable dehumidifiers for drying a structure.  We have large air scrubbers and different ozone machines for removing odor. A large loss is a loss valued at over $50,000 in  mitigation or remediation work.  Every loss is managed by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

Our employees are trained residential and commercially for any size disaster.

Ultrasonic Machine

2/8/2017 (Permalink)

Ultrasonic Machine

Our Ultrasonic Machine is located in our Iowa City office. This machine is used to clean many different items including items damaged by mold or soot.  We can clean some electronics, jewelry, guns, family heirlooms, light fixtures, porcelain dolls, etc. 

The benefits of Ultrasonic cleaning are;

Offers a deep and even clean

Very delicate cleaning for those delicate items

High speed and energy efficient cleaning

Minimal chemicals

Ultrasonic works with high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations, along with the special cleaning solutions, to create the effect of millions of tiny bubbles which breakdown contaminants off the target surface without the need for scrubbing.

If you have an item that you would like to have deep cleaned with our ultrasonic machine just let us know.

Even if you don't have fire and water damage at your home and you just need an item deep cleaned, feel free to bring it in and we will be happy to clean the item quickly and thoroughly for you. 

Emergency Ready Profiles

2/7/2017 (Permalink)

We offer a service of helping businesses develop an emergency ready profile for their business at no cost.  We offer a free app to also maintain this critical contact and property information electronically in advance, where it can be accessed with a mobile device in seconds if a disaster strikes, also free.  This information can be shared very easily with staff.   This ERP includes information about emergency contact numbers, priority and high/risk area, shut off valve locations, insurance contacts, and more.  We believe in helping to reduce property damage when a disaster occurs.  We provide a paper copy, emailed copy, and the app copy of the Emergency Ready Profile for easy access by all employees.  We believe in being proactive not reactive to an emergency situation.  These profiles are proven to help reduce the amount of damage that occurs if kept current and utilized. Call and schedule your appointment with one of our great staff to help develop your FREE Emergency Ready Profile.

2017 CE Classes in Iowa City/Coralville Areas

2/6/2017 (Permalink)

We are excited to announce that our CE Classes for Spring AND Fall are now available and waiting for you to get signed up!

We are offering more classes this year (morning and afternoon options) and also options for all-day classes to better accommodate you and your schedule! We hope to see you this year!

The website link can be found below, but here is a breakdown of our classes in the Iowa City/Coralville area this year:

http://SERVPRO2017ceclassschedule.eventbrite.com

1)  Course Topic: Ethics & Truth (SPRING Morning   Session) (9:00am-12:00pm) 

Date: Wednesday, April 12th, 2017

Registration: Begins at 8:30 AM

Credit Hours: 3

Instructor: Todd Davis, CIC

Course ID #: Pending Filing Processing

Cost: $25.00

Location: The Coralville Marriot Hotel

                300 E 9th Street, Coralville, IA 52241

2) Course Topic: Winners & Losers: The E & O Story (SPRING Afternoon Session) (12:30pm-4:30pm)

Date: Wednesday, April 12th, 2017

Registration: Begins at 12:00 PM

Credit Hours: 4

Instructor: Todd Davis, CIC

Course ID #: Pending Filing Processing

Cost: $25.00

Location: The Coralville Marriot Hotel

                300 E 9th Street, Coralville, IA 52241

3) Course Topic: Cowboy Ethics (FALL Morning Session) (9:00am-12:00pm)

Date: Wednesday, September 20th, 2017

Registration: Begins at 8:30 AM

Credit Hours: 3

Instructor: Todd Davis, CIC

Course ID #: Pending Filing Processing

Cost: $25.00

Location: The Coralville Radisson Hotel

                1220 1st Ave, Coralville, IA 52241

4) Course Topic: Winners & Losers: The E & O Story (FALL Afternoon Session) (12:30pm-4:30pm)

Date: Wednesday, September 20th, 2017

Registration: Begins at 12:00 PM

Credit Hours: 4

Instructor: Todd Davis, CIC

Course ID #: Pending Filing Processing

Cost: $25.00

Location: The Coralville Radisson Hotel

                1220 1st Ave, Coralville, IA 52241

Lunch is provided for all attendees (12PM-12:30PM)—come half an hour before for registration

There are afternoon options available on the same dates as the morning sessions at the same location. If there is an interest to participate in a whole day of CE Class sessions, remember to register for both the morning and afternoon classes (a whole day session is $50.00)

2017 CE Classes in the Ottumwa Area

2/6/2017 (Permalink)

We are excited to announce that our CE Classes for Spring AND Fall are now available and waiting for you to get signed up!

We are offering more classes this year (morning and afternoon options) and also options for all-day classes to better accommodate you and your schedule! We hope to see you this year!

The website link can be found below, but here is a breakdown of our classes in the Ottumwa area this year:

http://SERVPRO2017ceclassschedule.eventbrite.com

1)  Course Topic: Ethics For Dummies (SPRING Morning   Session) (9:00am-12:00pm) 

Date: Tuesday, June 6th, 2017

Registration: Begins at 8:30 AM

Credit Hours: 3

Instructor: Todd Davis, CIC

Course ID #: Pending Filing Processing

Cost: $25.00

Location: The Bridgeview Center

                102 Church Street, Ottumwa, IA 52501

2) Course Topic: Where There's Smoke, There's Fire (SPRING Afternoon Session) (12:30pm-4:30pm)

Date: Tuesday, June 6th, 2017

Registration: Begins at 12:00 PM

Credit Hours: 4

Instructor: Todd Davis, CIC

Course ID #: Pending Filing Processing

Cost: $25.00

Location: The Bridgeview Center

                102 Church Street, Ottumwa, IA 52501

3) Course Topic: Ethics & Truth (FALL Morning Session) (9:00am-12:00pm)

Date: Wednesday, November 15th, 2017

Registration: Begins at 8:30 AM

Credit Hours: 3

Instructor: Todd Davis, CIC

Course ID #: Pending Filing Processing

Cost: $25.00

Location: The Bridgeview Center

                102 Church Street, Ottumwa, IA 52501

4) Course Topic: E & O Mock Trial (FALL Afternoon Session) (12:30pm-4:30pm)

Date: Wednesday, November 15th, 2017

Registration: Begins at 12:00 PM

Credit Hours: 4

Instructor: Todd Davis, CIC

Course ID #: Pending Filing Processing

Cost: $25.00

Location: The Bridgeview Center

                102 Church Street, Ottumwa, IA 52501

Lunch is provided for all attendees (12PM-12:30PM)—come half an hour before for registration

There are afternoon options available on the same dates as the morning sessions at the same location. If there is an interest to participate in a whole day of CE Class sessions, remember to register for both the morning and afternoon classes (a whole day session is $50.00)

2017 CE Classes in Des Moines/Ankeny Areas

2/6/2017 (Permalink)

We are excited to announce that our CE Classes for Spring AND Fall are now available and waiting for you to get signed up!

We are offering more classes this year (morning and afternoon options) and also options for all-day classes to better accommodate you and your schedule! We hope to see you this year!

The website link can be found below, but here is a breakdown of our classes in the Des Moines/Ankeny areas this year:

http://SERVPRO2017ceclassschedule.eventbrite.com

1)  Course Topic: Cowboy Ethics (SPRING Morning   Session) (9:00am-12:00pm) 

Date: Thursday, May 11th, 2017

Registration: Begins at 8:30 AM

Credit Hours: 3

Instructor: Todd Davis, CIC

Course ID #: Pending Filing Processing

Cost: $25.00

Location: Glen Oaks Country Club

                1401 Glen Oaks Dr., W Des Moines, IA 50266

2) Course Topic: Insurance Claims for Water, Mold, Crime Scene & Biohazard (SPRING Afternoon Session) (12:30pm-4:30pm)

Date: Thursday, May 11th, 2017

Registration: Begins at 12:00 PM

Credit Hours: 4

Instructor: Todd Davis, CIC

Course ID #: Pending Filing Processing

Cost: $25.00

Location: Glen Oaks Country Club

                1401 Glen Oaks Dr., W Des Moines, IA 50266

*To gain access to the Glen Oaks Country Club facility: At the security gate, let the personnel know you are attending the SERVPRO CE Class* 

3) Course Topic: Ethics for Dummies (FALL Morning Session) (9:00am-12:00pm)

Date: Wednesday, October 18th, 2017

Registration: Begins at 8:30 AM

Credit Hours: 3

Instructor: Todd Davis, CIC

Course ID #: Pending Filing Processing

Cost: $25.00

Location: The Ankeny Courtyard by Marriot

                2405 SE Creekview Dr., Ankeny, IA 50021

4) Course Topic: Industry Hot Topics (FALL Afternoon Session) (12:30pm-4:30pm)

Date: Wednesday, October 18th, 2017

Registration: Begins at 12:00 PM

Credit Hours: 4

Instructor: Todd Davis, CIC

Course ID #: Pending Filing Processing

Cost: $25.00

Location: The Ankeny Courtyard by Marriot

                2405 SE Creekview Dr., Ankeny, IA 50021

Lunch is provided for all attendees (12PM-12:30PM)—come half an hour before for registration

There are afternoon options available on the same dates as the morning sessions at the same location. If there is an interest to participate in a whole day of CE Class sessions, remember to register for both the morning and afternoon classes (a whole day session is $50.00)

Hiring for Marketing Representative

5/4/2016 (Permalink)

Marketing Representative

SERVPRO of Iowa City/Coralville and Ottumwa/Oskaloosa, a cleaning & restoration Company specializing in water & fire mitigation, is currently hiring for a Marketing Representative.

Responsibilities

Primary Role:  Promote and communicate franchise services in business to business interaction to achieve increased use of, and profit from, our services for residential and commercial losses. Grow and develop residential and commercial customer base by utilizing a systematic process to identify new prospects and to routinely contact and follow up with customers or COI (Center of Influence). Build relationships with such clientele as insurance agents and become acquainted with local law enforcement and fire departments. When losses occur, this clientele should feel comfortable calling you.  Daily travel is required.  This job requires occasional overnight/weekend stays and, depending on event duration, (ie: conventions, trade shows, etc.) may require extended stays.  Conduct repetitive contact calls as follow up to losses and continue to build relationships and educate the customer as to why SERVPRO is the best cleaning and restoration company in the industry. Utilize SERVPRO marketing materials and tools to educate potential residential and commercial customers of the benefits from choosing SERVPRO and gain maximum exposure to the public.  Grow public relations by attending scheduled marketing events within the community and help orchestrate such events as assigned by existing marketing team, ie: continuing education courses in various fields related to our clientele, public relations events and community outreach.  Attendance at certain Chamber and community events will be required.  You will schedule and present Lunch and Learns for larger groups.  You will also work in conjunction with existing marketing team to provide administrative help and put together Emergency Response Profiles for commercial accounts.

Results Expected: Continual increased usage of SERVPRO’s services throughout the assigned territory. New customers are routinely added and customer base is diverse. Both internal and external communications are timely and effective.

Minimum Requirements

• HSD/GED and 1 to 2 years preferred in sales/marketing and customer service

• Valid Driver license

• Pass background check and drug test

• Subject to verbal and written scenario testing

• Understand production and estimating processes

• Complete documentation, as appropriate

• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including proper punctuation, grammar and use of courteous and professional tone, via voice, email or text at all times

• Ability to meet people in new or difficult situations and build rapport

• Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail

• Very self-motivated and goal-oriented

• Ability to multi-task

• Capability to work in a fast-paced, team oriented office environment

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (ie: Outlook, Word, Excel)

• Ability to produce well worded emails and social media posts.  Will be primary social media handler (ie: Facebook, Twitter, Webpage)

• Ability to brainstorm and bring new ideas to the table to help SERVPRO remain one of the leading restoration providers in our area

• Attend marketing meetings at least quarterly and production meetings once a month

Hours

• 40 hours/week, with the flexibility to work overtime when required, afterhours and on weekends.

 Pay Rate

Competitive base with commission, based upon qualifications and discussed during interview

Check out our website at: www.SERVPROiowacitycoralville.com for even more information.

 TO APPLY: E-mail your resume, along with salary history to our Marketing Director, shea@SERVPRO.me and/or Administrative Assistant zinnia@SERVPRO.me

SERVPRO® specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage situation. So, when disaster strikes, homeowners, businesses and insurance providers will rely on us to respond with unparalleled service excellence. As a nation's leading fire and water cleanup and restoration company with more than 1,600 Franchises nationwide, we are growing rapidly, creating exciting opportunities for "A Level" talent.  We have recently gained status as a Large Loss Response Team franchise, therefore, we travel statewide for large commercial losses.  We are also an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau.  We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. This company does not and will not discriminate in employment and personnel practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, national origin, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. 

Frozen Pipes

1/6/2016 (Permalink)

Please keep an eye out on your pipes with this incoming cold weather!  Leave a few faucets with a very slight drip so there is water moving through the pipes.  This will make it less likely for the pipe to freeze.  If you do happen to have a frozen pipe, please thaw slowly to prevent the pipe from breaking.

Happy Holidays from SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa

12/4/2015 (Permalink)

Our 2015 Christmas Tree!

Happy holidays from SERVPRO!  We wish you the happiest time this season!

Moving Day is Nearing!

10/26/2015 (Permalink)

We are almost ready to move into our new building!  We are so excited to FINALLY have a space big enough for our business to keep growing to its full potential!  We will have updates to come when that moving day finally hits!

New Building Progress

9/24/2015 (Permalink)

Things are moving great in our new Ottumwa building!  We cannot wait to get moved in! Hopefully in October or November!

New Building Progress

8/17/2015 (Permalink)

As a lot of you know, we are building a brand new building for the SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa office and shop.  This is such an exciting time for the SERVPRO family as we move from our little shop to this big brand new building!  Keep an eye out on our Facebook page for pictures of the progress!

July 4th Parade 2015

7/6/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Iowa City/Coralville and Ottumwa/Oskaloosa participated in Coralville's 4th Fest Parade on Saturday morning! 

FSRT & OCT Certifications

6/1/2015 (Permalink)

Last week we had a new group of employees go through the FSRT and OCT (Fire, Smoke, and Odor) Certification Classes.  I cannot wait to announce that all of our employees passed and add their certifications to our resume.  We train to make sure you get the best service we can provide!

AMRT Certifications

4/27/2015 (Permalink)

Three of our Estimators just returned from AMRT (Applied Microbial Remediation Technician) Training.  They were in Ohio last week to get updated on Mold Remediation and Restoration!

Springtime Maintenance

3/23/2015 (Permalink)

Too many homeowners believe spring maintenance is all about the cleaning. Sure, spring cleaning comprises a big chunk of any spring home maintenance schedule, but maintenance aimed at various structures, appliances, and systems within the home is, arguably, just as important. Nearly all homeowners love to see spotless windows for that first sunny, 70-degree day, but you can't forget your roof and the possibility that ice dams formed over the winter. Indeed, just as much as that first spring day should provide an excuse to go for a hike or a picnic, it should also provide a reminder that your outdoor spring maintenance is waiting. Follow this spring maintenance checklist to ensure your home is in optimal condition for the rest of the year.

Spring Maintenance Checklist

Gutters and downspouts: Pull leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts. Reattach gutters that have pulled away from the house. Run a hose on the roof and check for proper drainage. If leaks exist, dry the area and use caulking or epoxy to seal the leak.

Siding: Clean siding with a pressure washer to keep mold from growing. Check all wood surfaces for weathering and paint failure. If wood is showing through, sand the immediate area and apply a primer coat before painting. If paint is peeling, scrape loose paint and sand smooth before painting.

Exterior caulking: Inspect caulking and replace if deteriorating. Scrape out all of the eroding caulk and recaulk needed area.

Window sills, door sills, and thresholds: Fill cracks, caulk edges, repaint or replace if necessary.

Window and door screens: Clean screening and check for holes. If holes are bigger than a quarter, that is plenty of room for bugs to climb in. Patch holes or replace the screen. Save bad screen to patch holes next year. Tighten or repair any loose or damaged frames and repaint. Replace broken, worn, or missing hardware. Wind can ruin screens and frames if they are allowed flap and move so make sure they are securely fastened. Tighten and lubricate door hinges and closers.

Drain waste and vent system: Flush out system.

Hot water heater: Lubricate circulating pump and motor.

Evaporative air conditioner: Clean unit, check belt tension and adjust if needed. Replace cracked or worn belt.

Heat pump: Lubricate blower motor.

Foundation: Check foundation walls, floors, concrete, and masonry for cracking, heaving, or deterioration. If a significant number of bricks are losing their mortar, call a foundation professional. If you can slide a nickle into a crack in your concrete floor, slab or foundation call a professional immediately.

Roof: Inspect roof surface flashing, eaves, and soffits. Check flashings around all surface projections and sidewalls.

Deck and porches: Check all decks, patios, porches, stairs, and railings for loose members and deterioration. Open decks and wood fences need to be treated every 4-6 years, depending on how much exposure they get to sun and rain. If the stain doesn't look like it should or water has turned some of the wood a dark grey, hire a deck professional to treat your deck and fence.

Landscape: This is a natural for spring home maintenance. Cut back and trim all vegetation and overgrown bushes from structures. Limbs and leaves can cut into your home's paint and force you to have that side of the house repainted. A little trimming can save a lot of money and time.

Sprinklers: Check lawn sprinkler system for leaky valves, exposed lines, and improperly working sprinkler heads. If there is an area of your yard that collects too much water or doesn't get enough, run the sprinklers to figure out the problem. If it's not something you can fix yourself, call a professional before your lawn needs the water.

What To Do About Frozen Pipes

1/5/2015 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes can cause a lot of issues and cost a lot of money!  One pipe burst in a home at 4-8 gallons of water running per minute can cause thousands of dollars worth of water damage.  If not taken care of and mitigated properly this can then lead to mold issues.

Prevention:

1. Locate and identify any and all shut off valves in the home and make sure they work properly.  (Everyone should know where their "Main Water Valve" is at and how to operate it)
2. Identify any potential problems. (Areas where pipes are on an outside wall, ceiling, attics, crawl spaces, etc)
3. Seal any gaps around the home wherer cold air has a chance to come in contact with pipes.  In extreme cold temperatures, ecspecially wind driven, even a tiny opening can let enough cold in to cause a pipe to freeze. (Dryer vents, windows, cable penetrations, etc.)
4. Turn off and drain all standard outside hose bibs.

When the temperature is expected to drop:

1. Open kitchen sink and any vanity doors of the areas that are at risk for problems.
2. With pipes that are on outside walls that may be a freeze problem, leave a small trickle of both of the hot and cold water running.
3. Temporarily seal off any crawl space vents that may be around the foundation.
4. Keep the house warm.

What to do if you experience a frozen pipe: (The first sign of a "frozen" pipe is reduced or no flow at all)

1. If you experience a "no flow" situation (First turn off the "Main Water Valve" to the house and leave the faucets "open", Second DO NOT use any open flame to attempt to thaw the pipes, Third DO NOT use any electric heater, hair dryer applied directly to the piping as any leaking water may cause electrocution, and Forth turning the water back on is best handled with (2) people.  One person turning on the water SLOWLY and the other walking about the house to be sure no water is running).
2. Heat and patience is the best way to get frozen pipes thawed out.  We do recommend that if a frozen pipe happens to find the source and correct it so it will not happen again.  (If you were lucky enough for the frozen pipes not bursting this time, you may not be so lucky the next time.)

**Please be advised if the water to your house is shut off, it may also turn off any fire prevention system you may have hooked up to your water

What to do if you leave your home during the winter months:

1. Turn the Main Water Valve off to your home**
2. Leave the heat on to the house and set it NO LOWER than 60 degrees.
3. Have a neighbor stop by daily, ecspecially when the temperatures are in the 20's or lower.

**If your home has "hot water and/or steam heat", the water must remain on even when you are not there.  A neighbor stopping by is critical if this applies to you.

Now Hiring!

1/2/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa is now hiring for the following positions:

• Production Technician

Please email resumes to lauren@SERVPRO.me

Questions and Inquiries please call 319-338-8550 and ask for Lauren.

Happy Holidays

12/17/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa would like to wish all of our friends and family a very safe and happy holiday season!

Iowa Association of County Medical Examiners Convention

11/7/2014 (Permalink)

Chris our lead estimator will be present at the IACME Education Expo in West Des Moines on Friday, November 14, 2014!  Stop by and see him if this is an event you will be attending!  SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa specializes in biohazard cleanup and will be present for questions!

SERVPRO of Iowa City/Coralville and Ottumwa/Oskaloosa at Washington Parade

6/4/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Iowa City/Coralville and Ottumwa/Oskaloosa will be participating in the 175th anniversary of the town of Washington, IA!  Keep an eye out for all of the green in the parade 06-07-14 at 2pm!