Archived Blog Posts

Snowmen, Snowangels, Snowstorms… We’re Snowverloaded!

Name: SERVPRO of Greensboro North
Address: 2902 Manufacturers Road, Greensboro, NC, 27406
Telephone: (336) 379-1772

1/1/2022 (Permalink)

This guy was "too busy" to take care of that tree near his car, so nature picked up the slack for him.

Winter is here, which means it’s getting chilly out there. When it gets chilly, water freezes. I’m not forging new ground here, but hang with me. This is gonna get useful!

Snowstorms and ice storms are an unusual mix of fun and danger. We’ve all made snowmen and snowangels outside after a good storm dumped some powder on us, but there are downsides too! Snow storms, and especially ice storms, can bring down trees near your house, destroying power lines, windows, roofs, (etc.)

It’d be prudent as the winter kicks up to be proactive and look around your property for any dead or dying trees or branches hanging out near your house or car or shed and trim those puppies up. It’ll take a few minutes of your time today in exchange for a huge headache later!

Three out of three property owners who trimmed the trees near their homes were grateful afterwards. (I only asked three people.) Now chop-chop!

What is Greensboro’s Risk for Wildfires?

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

A FEMA map of National Risk of Wildfire Damage

The Gray means "No Data," which means it's either currently on fire, or never on fire. Are ya feelin lucky, punk?

If you’ve been unfortunate enough to watch the news on the television, you’ve likely seen frightening images of wildfires spreading across the West Coast, from LA all the way up to Washington. But we’re on the Eastern Seaboard over here at SERVPRO of Burlington NC, so what’s our risk for wildfire damage? Luckily, in the Piedmont Triad, we’re fairly safe from Wildfire Damage. FEMA classifies our risk as “Fairly Low.” (Seen here: https://hazards.fema.gov/nri/wildfire) Unless you’re living in the counties near the beach, especially the Southeastern Counties, you’re likely safe.

That being said, we’re not out of the woods yet! Actually, we are. We’re inside your home, where the true danger is! Most fire damage actually comes from inside the home. You can read some tips on how to avoid said damage here: Christmastime is the time for cheer, not Housefires!

You can follow the above link to see the full map of Wildfire Loss Risk, or you can peep the attached image.

One Weird Tip to Save your Life from a Fire! (It’s only $15!)

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

A Woman stands next to a wall beside a fire extinguisher

I'm not so sure the Fire Department's latest cost-saving uniform is as protective as the original model...

You probably already know the answer to this question: What can save your life in a fire, costs as little as $15, and is easy to use for anyone in a pinch? A fire extinguisher!

Almost every house has a fire extinguisher in it, and if yours doesn’t, your first order of business should be purchasing one and putting in a convenient and memorable place, so when your piping-hot vat of grease you were deep-frying a pizza in starts flaming, you’ll know exactly where to go to grab what you need to put it out (do NOT use water on a grease fire), and even though you’ll make quite a mess, you’ll save your home and family from having a sad Christmas.

If you’d like some tips on how to prevent the house fire to begin with, check out this article here: Chestnuts may be Roasting on an Open Fire, but your Home shouldn't be!

Your Business may be Booming, but are you Prepared for the Worst?

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

The stress you feel during rush hour is equal to the relief you feel when it all pays off!

Business can be a fickle beast. Your average entrepreneur/business owner can oscillate between manic highs and crushing lows, all within a week when he’s starting off, but luckily, with time, success and stability start to arise from all his hard work. But all that hard-earned payoff can come to a screeching halt if your business falls victim to a disaster or catastrophe. Anything from a flood to a fire to a natural disaster can hinder your company’s ability to operate properly, and it will continue to harm your productivity, safety, and security until the situation is rectified.

Things might seem hopeless for you when you find yourself in a conundrum like this, but you’re in luck: SERVPRO of Greensboro North is one of the best cleanup and restoration companies in the Triad! Give us a call if disaster strikes, and we can be there in a matter of hours to help get your business back to as close to preloss conditions as possible!

What to do after a House Fire?

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

Yeah, we can handle this. It's not too much damage. It might not even be damaged enough!

House Fires can be a very traumatic experience, as well as financially painful, but if you make wise choices immediately afterwards, you can salvage much of the damage. You must act quickly, however!

We are assuming the fire is currently out. If not, take care of that, and then come back.

Now, the first thing you must do is call SERVPRO of Greensboro North at (336) 379-1772. Then, you will talk to a franchise professional about your fire damage, and we can give you a timeline for an estimate and be able to get to work deodorizing, cleaning walls, floors, and ceilings of smoke damage, and restoring your fabrics and fragile items exposed to fire. We are IICRC-certified to handle fire damage cleanup and restoration and will get your home back to as close to preloss conditions as possible and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Snow is Coming; is your Roof Secure?

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

roofs of a village in the alps, covered in snow at night

Oooh, I smell a rooftop fight scene in a movie about "Saving Christmas!"

April Showers may bring May Flowers, but Winter Weather brings Snow, and Snow brings Roof Damage. You may think that your roof stood up just fine to those April Showers, therefore it should survive the Snow, but did you know that snow on your roof is heavier than water? Now, no one is trying to dispute the law of conservation of matter here--the snow is heavier because it can clump together on top of your house instead of flowing off like rain.

So what should you do to ensure your roof is sturdy enough to make it through the dark times until spring cleaning season? First, give it the ole look-down. Get up on a shaky ladder and get your four year-old to hang onto the bottom to keep it stable and see if you can spot any missing or broken shingles or anything that looks all sigogglin. If anything jumps out at you, duck! But if anything up there looks out of place and in need of fixing, get a roofer out there!

What happens if you don’t heed my solemn warning?

You’ll likely end up with a damaged roof and a flooded attic, and you’ll end up needing to call your local SERVPRO of Greensboro North to come handle the cleanup and restoration of your attic area. But that horrid scenario doesn’t have to happen! Consider this warning my Christmas gift to you. Go check your roof.

What is my Risk for Lightning Damage?

12/6/2021 (Permalink)

A Map of lightning damage in the United STates of America

The red spots are red because they got burnt by all the lightning.

Thunderstorms are normally thought of as summer storms, but it’s not unheard of to have a thunderstorm during the autumn or winter! We call it “Thundersnow” where I come from, but I’m sure you have various regional colloquialisms to describe the phenomenon, and hopefully, they’re more creative than a simple portmanteau!

So what’s your risk for lightning damage? Luckily, FEMA puts together maps of our beautiful Nation for various natural disasters, so we can easily see what your risk is!

Check out the map linked above, or follow this link to learn more: https://hazards.fema.gov/nri/lightning

It looks like there aren’t too many regions where you’re entirely safe, which makes sense--thunderstorms aren’t exactly a rarity on this earth, especially in this continent!--however, some counties are safer than others. If you do happen to find yourself walloped by a thunderstorm this season, though, you can call SERVPRO of Greensboro North and we can come get things cleaned up and restored!

When it Comes to Mold, it’s Better to Prevent than Cleanup

11/14/2021 (Permalink)

Yuck! Can't make anything Gouda from that!

Mold is a fickle beast. It ruins bread, perfects cheese, pollutes the air, decomposes garbage, causes disease, and cures disease. Mold can be good and mold can be evil, but if there is mold inside your home, that is almost certainly the bad kind (unless you’re a budding fromager!).

If you have a mold infestation inside your home or business, SERVPRO of Greensboro North can 100% help clean and restore the damage on the walls, floors, ceilings, and even furniture! Call us at (336) 379-1772 and we can come fix things right up!

However, if forced to choose between cleaning up mold and preventing it, you should likely opt for the former, unless you just like talking to our franchise professionals out of loneliness and want us to keep coming back!

Standing water, poor air circulation, and bad lighting can all contribute to different types of mold. Solving that conundrum will keep the mold out and the clean air and surfaces in! That’s a no-brainer, unless your best buddies are Fungus Gnats or Mold Mites.

Now, before you accuse me of being a selfless ambassador for clean homes, sabotaging our cleaning and restoration business with helpful tips to prevent damage, I must add that SERVPRO of Greensboro North also specialises in cleaning up water damage, standing water, dusty air vents, and other yucky components of your home, so whether you decide to clean or prevent mold, everything’s turning up SERVPRO!

Two weeks until Hurricane Season Ends!

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

You can say goodbye to this tropical tempest for the next six months! (Unless you're in the Southern Hemisphere!)

It’s been fairly quiet in the Atlantic Ocean lately, so you may be thinking the time for hurricanes in our area has passed. However, you would be wrong.

Hurricane Season runs from June to November, so we’re not quite out of the woods yet. The good news is there is a taper of sorts, so the last few weeks are far weaker than the middle few weeks, so we are hopefully smooth-sailing from here on out.

Hurricanes outside of the June-to-November season aren’t unheard of. They are, however, thankfully rare. Over the past 170 years (1851-2021), since hurricanes started being tracked in a centralised database, there have been only 87 hurricanes from December to May, which is about one every other year on average.

So is hurricane season over yet? Not quite. Is it basically over? Pretty much.

So take a deep sigh of relief and get ready for blizzard season.

When is First Frost in Greensboro?

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

This is the pipe I was talking about. I hope we were on the same page!

If you live in this lovely state, you likely know the time for first frost has already passed, and the ground has already frozen at least once. (It’s usually at the end of October, though!)

That’s a real bummer for farmers, but since you’re probably not a farmer, does it matter to you?

Yes.

If you have pipes in your home that lead to a hose, you need to know when that winter freeze is coming so you can shut those pipes off.

Why?

Because, when you leave your pipes leading to your hoses turned on during the winter, that water that sits in the pipes can freeze. Water is an unusual element--when it freezes, it doesn’t become more dense. It becomes less dense, which means it expands. If the water in your pipes expands, your pipes will burst, and then you’ve got a terrible flood on your hands.

So turn off those pipes!

How to Clean Carpets after a Flood

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Two "Wet Floor" signs sitting on wet carpet

Don't worry--we'll bring out OWN signs. Yeah, we're pretty professional!

If your home or business recently flooded, and you have carpets, you’re going to need to hire a professional carpet cleaner!

Might we recommend SERVPRO of Greensboro North? We’ve got the equipment and supplies to handle any carpet-cleaning job!

If it’s just a small job, we lightly spray it with a bit of cleaner and extract the dirt from the carpet.

If it’s a bigger stain, we bring in the bigger guns to get hot water on the carpet while we clean.

If the stains are even larger and/or older, we will have to use a soil emulsifier to pre-treat the carpet and use a shampoo on the stain to extract the mess. This is the most thorough cleaning method in the industry.

So if your home or business just flooded and your carpet got damaged, give us a call at (336) 379-1772 and we will pop on over and get to work!

What Services does SERVPRO Offer?

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Does what it says on the tin!

If you’ve recently experienced a disaster in your home or business, you may be looking to pick up the pieces and get back to your preloss state. You might even be looking for a company you can trust to help you clean up the mess.

So what does SERVPRO of Greensboro North specialise in?

All of it.

Not only does SERVPRO handle your cleanup jobs, but we also handle your restoration jobs! Here’s a list of what we have to offer:

Restoration:

Fire, Smoke, and Soot
Water Removal and Dehumidification
Mold Mitigation and Remediation
Catastrophic Storm Response
Move-Outs and Contents Restoration
Electronics and Equipment
Document Drying
Contents Claim Inventory Service

Cleaning:

Air Ducts and HVAC
Biohazard, Crime Scene, and Vandalism
Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes, and Blinds
Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
Deodorization

Call now at (336) 379-1772 and we can get you an appraisal for whatever job you have!

Best Cleaning Service in Greensboro? What is “Restoration?”

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

A sign in a forest that states: Restoration Area Keep Out

We don't do forests, though...yet.

If you’re in the business for a cleaning company after experiencing a disaster, you’re in luck--you’ve found the best! There is a plethora of businesses out there that you can choose to patronise, but not all Cleaning and Restoration Companies are created equal. Some companies will help with water damage, others with fire damage, and others with storm damage. But that’s just cleanup! What about “restoration?” Restoration involves repairing and recovering items that have been damaged by the disaster, which saves you loads of money when compared to the financial toll it would take to replace them.

So, what do we restore at SERVPRO of Greensboro North? We help restore walls, carpets, furniture, floors, and ceilings after fire damage, water damage, mold, or storm damage. We also handle electronics and other equipment, as well as document drying, if anything important gets wet.

So if you need restoration, call a franchise professional today at (336) 379-1772 and you’ll soon be well on your way to a preloss state!

What is your "Social Vulnerability" for Natural Disaster Damage?

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

A Map of Social Vulnerability in America to National Disasters

Turns out Kermit was right--it's hard to be Green!

Natural disasters can strike anywhere, but certain regions are more likely to be exposed to different hazards, and some are more likely to experience catastrophic loss from said hazards. However, what you might not know is that there’s more to the equation than just climate, altitude, and weather. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) has a National Risk Index, which is an equation the department has created to break down risk by county or district. According to FEMA’s website,

“Social vulnerability is the susceptibility of social groups to the adverse impacts of natural hazards, including disproportionate death, injury, loss, or disruption of livelihood.

As a consequence enhancing risk component of the National Risk Index, a Social Vulnerability score and rating represent the relative level of a community’s social vulnerability compared to all other communities at the same level. A community’s Social Vulnerability score is proportional to a community’s risk. A higher Social Vulnerability score results in a higher Risk Index score.”

Check out the attached map to see your Social Vulnerability, and follow this link (https://hazards.fema.gov/nri/social-vulnerability) to get a closer look.

Stay safe, and feel free to call SERVPRO of Greensboro North at (336) 379-1772 if you find yourself in a Storm-based pickle, and we can come help pick up the pieces.

How to Prevent Disasters in your Business

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

A Man Looks at a Whiteboard with Charts and Plans on It

Our plan won't LOOK this complicated, but it'll be just as well-thought-out.

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it now.

Luckily, SERVPRO of Greensboro North can help you develop a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, giving you an immediate plan of action for when disaster strikes. Here is what you get with a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile:

A no-cost assessment of your facility.
A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
Establish your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

All of this preplanning may seem like a chore, but it’ll save your keister when you need it. Go to www.SERVPROgreensboronorth.com/ready to learn more.

Remember: When Disaster Strikes, You Can be Ruined or You Can BE READY!

How Fast is SERVPRO?

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

This is a clock. It tells time. We have many of these, so we will make sure we are moving quickly.

Very.

Alright, that’s the answer, goodnight everybody!

No, we should probably elaborate more. There’s a minimum character limit here.

SERVPRO prides itself on having the best industry professionals achieving the most customer-satisfying preloss states with the most efficient use of time. That means we’re not only fast, we have a high level of quality with our work. Some companies may be faster, but they will do a worse job. You don’t just want speed; you want efficiency--quick work with quality--and you’ll find it at SERVPRO of Greensboro North!

So if you find yourself dealing with any water damage, fire damage, storm damage, or other damage that needs cleaning and restoration, give us a call at (336) 379-1772 and we can have someone there in a matter of hours!

Don’t try to Sell a Dirty Home!

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

A door and walls with peeling paint and dirt and grime

This could use some TLC. Could you sell it? Sure. Should you? NO.

In this market, the seller can pretty much do whatever he pleases. Buyers are plentiful, housing is scarce, and people are buying up houses like they’re going out of style! (Don’t worry, though—they’re not going out of style as housing has been a part of our species for millennia.)

So if you’re thinking of selling your home or property, don’t leave money on the table. Sure, you’ll get a sale if your house is a big dingy and odorous, but will it be as much money as you’d get had you hired a cleanup service to get any dust, mold, or mildew out of your air conditioning vents or water stains out of your hardwood floors?

Absolutely not.

Clean homes sell faster, easier, and for more money than homes that are dirty, or even just a bit worse for wear. Let SERVPRO of Greensboro North handle your Home Cleanup and Damage Restoration so you can get top dollar for your house and move on to the next phase in your life with no worries weighing you down!

When does Hurricane Season End?

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Sattelite photo of A Cyclone approaching land

Only one more month, folks!

If you’re like most Americans living in a state on the East Coast, you might be wondering how much longer the Atlantic Hurricane Season will persist. Sure, we in the Piedmont Triad aren’t in too much danger from Hurricane Storm Damage, but Hurricanes and Tropical Storms can still bring high winds and rainfall to Guilford County. Power outages, fallen trees, and other storm damage can still happen as a result of a solid-sized storm, even if it just passes by the Outer Banks.

The Atlantic Hurricane Season lasts from June 1st until November 30th, however sometimes a storm will fall outside of that window. 97% of Hurricanes and tropical storms happen during the season, and outliers usually fall in May, not December, which is a good thing…for now. It won’t be as we get closer to May. We’ll cross that bridge when we get there, though!

Luckily, we only have two more months until Hurricane Season ends, but that doesn’t mean we’re entirely out of the storm. There’s still about ten weeks for things to spin out of control in more ways than one. If that happens to you, and the heavy winds and rain that can come as a result of tropical storms wallops your home or place of business, contact us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North, a premier cleaning and restoration company near you. Our Storm Damage Restoration Teams are franchise professionals, well-trained in removing debris and restoring your property so it’s "Like it never even happened."®

SERVPRO Understands Emergencies need a Rapid Response

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Man Sprinting across hallway with briefcase

This Speedster is a Slowpoke Compared to our Rapid 24/7 Response

If you’ve just experienced fire damage, water damage, or storm
damage, you likely know time is of the essence! The difference between
restoring your precious belongings and having to replace them is a matter
of hours, and other Restoration Companies in Greensboro might not be
able to get to you rapidly enough to salvage everything.
SERVPRO of Greensboro North will arrange a service for you within one
hour of notifying us of your disaster, and can have a Franchise Professional
on-site within four hours to clean and restore your carpets, wallpapers, and
furniture, saving you thousands of dollars, since restoration beats
replacement any day of the week! (On another note, we are available all
days of the week if you need us, with 24/7 emergency service)
When disaster strikes your home or business, and you need help picking up
the pieces and putting it back together, remember that you’re not alone
with this task, and call SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We’ll make it “Like it
never even happened. ®”

What Flood Zone am I In?

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

A Flood Map of the Surrounding Area Around our Office.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and the world of
flood prevention is no exception. The first step to preventing a flood is
determining your flood risk. It may seem like something difficult to
quantify, but luckily FEMA has Flood Zone Maps by zip code and Flood
Zone Maps by address.

Above, you’ll see the results from looking up our address at SERVPRO of
Greensboro North. We’re fairly safe thanks to some waterways nearby that
should help any standing water drain away, but you may not be as
fortunate!
Go to https://msc.fema.gov/portal/search and plug in your address or zip
code and see what your flood risk is. Then you can look at ways to mitigate
your risk, like building smarter, getting insurance, or getting to know the
industry professionals over at SERVPRO of Greensboro North, just in case
everything goes south and you end up flooded. As a premier water cleanup
and restoration company, we specialize in doing everything that can be
done to best restore your home to the way it was before disaster struck,
and make it “Like it never even happened. ®”

4 Things To Do If Your Home Floods

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Rain, rain, and more rain. They’re moments in the year, sometimes too many where our community goes days on end with rain. Then changing over to snow and ice in the winter if the temperatures manage to drop below freezing for a substantial amount of time. While snow is pretty to look at, what often accompanies it is a fearful weather condition. Ice can cause trees to topple over onto your roof creating a hole where water can seep into all areas of your home including the basement.

Falling trees can rupture the pipes of your home as well which may cause hundreds if not more gallons of water to spew out into your basement, flooring, walls, and ceiling. Any amount of standing water in your home may spell disaster if not mitigated promptly. Significant water damage can begin to warp your hardwood floors, stain your carpeting, and create a mold growth situation.

Calling an experienced water cleanup crew with IICRC Certification and experience in restoration is key to beginning the process of getting your home back to normal. Our team is trained in proper drying methods and mold testing to help keep your family safe. We’ll also reconstruct your house after it’s been restored to streamline the process.

When many customers call our office to request our services it’s critical you’ve already completed a few tasks beforehand. Listed below are a few key steps homeowners should take if they experience water damage.

Shut Off The Water Source

Locate the cut-off valve in your home. It’s likely underneath your kitchen or bathroom sink.

Do What You Can In Order To Mitigate The Damage

Try to soak as much water as you can on your own using towels.

Call A Water Cleanup Company

Available 24/7 with 20+ years of experience and contractor license for repairs.

Speak To Your Home Insurance Provider

Save your insurance agent’s contact information on your phone, or write it down.

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, 336-379-1772.

Steps to Help Prevent Trees from Falling on Your Home?

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

When people are looking to purchase a new house the curb appeal, amount of acres and layout are the primary focus. Counting the number of trees that surround the house is possibly the last thought on a prospective buyer’s mind. It’s essential, however, that house hunters do take into account how many trees there are near or on the property for the protection of their investment. Severe weather may pose the most likely risk to that investment through the possibility of ice storms in the winter and powerful winds in the spring.

An ice storm and powerful winds may cause weakened trees to fall on your property; through a window or even the roof. Pertaining to ice storms a quarter-inch of ice may begin to weigh down branches and a half-inch of ice may even lead to them breaking. Likewise, powerful winds from a hurricane, tropical storm or any other strong system that has the potential to spawn tornadoes may result in down trees. Especially if the ground is saturated from recent rainfall.

To help reduce the possibility of a tree falling on your home our team has listed several steps you can take below.

Look to see if there are any trees on your property or even near it that may be weakened and pose a risk to your home. Perform this task regularly especially at the beginning of the winter and spring.
Consider having a professional tree service company cut down trees that are weakened or are in close proximity to your property.
Continuous severe storms can cripple a tree’s integrity leaving it vulnerable to a strong ice storm or hurricane completely toppling it over. After every storm makes sure to examine the trees around your home for abnormalities.
Check with your home insurance provider to ensure you’re properly covered if a tree does fall on your roof.

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, flood, mold, or storm damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

5 Common Causes of Fires In The Workplace

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

We all can do our part to reduce hazards in our respective workplaces including fire prevention. While the coronavirus has rightfully placed public health at the forefront of workplace safety it’s critical that people don’t forget other dangers in the workplace. According to estimates from the National Fire Protection Agency, fire departments across the United States responded to 3,340 office fires from 2007-2011.

Any sort of interruptions in your business whether in or out of your control can hurt your bottom line. Compounded by the pandemic, your business set ablaze may only add to your stresses. To help you think of potential fire hazards in your place we’ve listed out five common causes of fires according to NFPA.org. All of the common causes listed can be applied to warehouses, factories, office spaces, restaurants, and other commercial properties.

Cooking equipment including ovens, stovetops, microwaves, and burners.
Heating equipment including space heaters.
Electrical equipment including computers, printers, and other electrical office items.
Smoking on the premises.
Fires that are intentionally set.

References

https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/Building-and-Life-Safety/US-Structure-in-Office-Properties

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes

What Are The Main Causes of Restaurant Fires?

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the foodservice industry has become one of the most negatively affected industries. With mandated government closures and limits on capacity, there is much on the mind of restaurateurs. Covid-19 has forced restaurants of all shapes and sizes to think outside of the box to best stay afloat and serve their community. Colliding with those thoughts are worries that are always a concern of business owners which are fires.

According to the National Fire Protection Agency, there are 7,410 structural fires pertaining to restaurants every year. Causing thousands of dollars in fire damage. 40% of restaurant fires occur in the kitchen caused by stoves, ovens, and other electrical as well as gas appliances. Lighting equipment and smoking are also contributing causes to restaurant fires.

A few tips to help prevent restaurant fires whether it’s a fast-food establishment, fast-casual, or fine dining.

Include in your new employee training fire prevention and safety rules to be followed.
Regularly train current employees on kitchen safety.
Instruct all servers, cooks, and bussers on the fire extinguisher utilization.
Have a designated area for smoking a safe distance from the building.

References

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Heating

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/Heating_Safety.ashx

https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/Building-and-Life-Safety/Eating-and-drinking-establishments

Rising Numbers of COVID-19

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Greensboro for the ending of 2020 and beginning of 2021 was one of the top 10 cities per 100,000 for confirmed coronavirus cases according to the White House Coronavirus Task Force. It’s critical even with the rollout of the vaccine that individuals and organizations continue to follow public health guidelines from your local and state officials as well as the C.D.C.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North has performed hundreds of proactive and post cleanings for commercial spaces since the beginning of the pandemic. Equipped with our corporate patented SERVPROXIDE disinfectant our Production Technicians have disinfected small office spaces to large industrial plants. Each of our crew members is trained in effective sanitization methods to grant you and your employees peace of mind as you head back into the workplace.

2021 is a promising year with many heading back into the workplace for the first time since early spring 2020. Coming together as a community was necessary in order to combat the pandemic and show that we’re #greensborostrong. Please continue to wear your mask, practice socially distancing when required, and if you do have an employee test positive at your facility please give our team a call.

If your home or business is in need of one of our other services whether for fire, water, flood, mold, or storm damage; call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

References

https://www.wxii12.com/article/coronavirus-greensboro-north-carolina-covid-task-force/35164895

https://www.wfmynews2.com/video/news/health/coronavirus/professional-cleaners-phase-two-disinfecting-deep-cleaning-businesses-phase-two/83-d8886d0a-7ae8-45f1-8771-a8b27f860f27

What To Do If Your Hotel Catches Fire?

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

graph showing the main causes of structural fires for hotels/motels from 2009-2013 and deaths associated with them.

Report: NFPA's "Structure Fires in Hotels and Motels" (PDF, 2 MB) Author: Richard Campbell Issued: September 2015

Whether traveling for business or pleasure hotels and motels try to make their customers as comfortable as possible during their stay. Most people let their guard down when staying in a hotel believing nothing bad while away from home. However, according to the National Fire Protection Association on average, one of every 14 hotels or motels reported a structure fire each year.

If you’re planning a vacation or going on a business trip soon check to be sure the hotel has working fire alarms in every room as well as a sprinkler system. Once you get to your room review the escape route if there is a fire. When you’re sleeping Keep your key card on the nightstand then you won’t forget it if the fire alarm goes off. Lastly, stay low to the ground to avoid smoke inhalation and take the stairs not the elevator.

Structural fires located in hotels and motels can result from cooking accidents to cigarette smoking which is why it’s critical you stay on guard during your stay. If you’re unable to escape your room dial 911 and hold a light source by the window for the local fire department to locate you.

References

https://nfpa.org/-/media/Files/News-and-Research/Fire-statistics-and-reports/Fact-sheets/HotelsFactSheet.ashx

https://nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/HotelMotelSafety.ashx

https://nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/Building-and-Life-Safety/Hotel-and-Motel-Structure-Fires

What’s Your Ideal Room Temperature?

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

graph showing the main causes of structural fires from 2007-2011 and deaths associated with them.

Report: NFPA's "U.S. Structure Fires in Office Properties" Author: Richard Campbell Issued: August 2013

The battle over the coveted thermostat isn’t a fight just reserved for people’s homes. Heading into the thick of winter now offices across the Piedmont Triad will have to balance costs with worker productivity. Several studies have been conducted in the past decade surveying the effects of office temperature on employee productivity. Theorizing that room temperature does impact the productivity of a company’s employees.

Whether you own a building with hundreds of office workers or a small business with a dozen it’s impossible to satisfy everyone with the current thermostat setting. Therefore some of your employees will take it upon themselves to find a way to warm up during the working hour. One choice is the use of a space heater if your building permit permits it. While space heaters may be great for workers who prefer it to be warmer there is also a potential fire hazard as well.

Heating equipment was the cause of 11% of structural office fires from 2007-2011 according to the National Fire Protection Association. If employees are allowed to utilize a space heater in their office there are multiple fire safety and prevention tips you should be aware of to help keep everyone safe.

Information from the National Fire Protection Association(nfpa.org):

Keep the space heater at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn, including people.
Choose a heater with a thermostat and overheat protection.
Place the heater on a solid, flat surface.
Make sure your heater has an auto shut-off to turn the heater off if it tips over.
Keep space heaters out of the way of foot traffic. Never block an exit.
Plug the heater directly into the wall outlet. Never use an extension cord.
Space heaters should be turned off and unplugged when you leave the room.

With over 20 years of experience in the fire cleanup and restoration industry mitigating the effects of commercial fires. We’ve acquired a great deal of information on how to prevent one from occurring whether you own or manage a retail space, restaurant, plant, factory, or warehouse. We regularly post content concerning fire safety and prevention on our website and social media platforms. Informing the local community on the dangers of fire from the smoke odor, soot, and the impact on furniture, appliances, and other items.

References

https://www.shrm.org/hr-today/news/hr-news/pages/toohottoocold.aspx#:~:text=When%20it%20comes%20to%20the,difficult%20to%20concentrate%20at%20work.

https://epic.uchicago.edu/news/hot-temperatures-decrease-worker-productivity-economic-output/

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/PortableHeaterSafety.ashx

https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Publications-and-media/Press-Room/News-releases/2018/Space-heaters-account-for-43-percent-of-US-home-heating-fires-and-85-percent-of-associated-deaths

Is My Space Heater A Fire Hazard?

12/31/2020 (Permalink)

As the winter season sets in and temperatures prepare to plummet, thousands of families across Guilford County will be utilizing different forms of heating equipment to remain warm. Space heaters may be one mechanism homeowners use and although it may be great at creating a comfortable environment inside your home it may also present themselves as a fire hazard if not properly applied in their given area. According to the National Fire Protection Association. Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths.

To protect yourself, loved ones, and property from the potential fire hazard posed by spaces heaters the SERVPRO of Greensboro North team has listed several points below.

Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment including spaces heaters.
Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around space heaters.
Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

Providing useful information to keep your family safe this winter season is important to our team. If you do, however, experience a home fire damaging portions of your property or all of it in its entirety our team is ready to respond to mitigate the damage. The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team has performed thousands of fire restoration jobs in our twenty plus years of existence. Whether it’s staining soot damage, a lasting smoke odor, or varying contents such as furniture, toys, and precious family keepsakes you need to be taken care of. We’re here to help!

References

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/winter-holiday-fires-infographic.pdf

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Heating

https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/US-Fire-Problem/Candle-fires

https://www.esfi.org/news/5-things-you-should-know-about-space-heaters-638#sthash.LTHHLmhN.dpbs

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/Heating_Safety.ashx

Candle Fires This Winter Season

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Lit Candles

The cool crisp air reminds us to layer up for the elements before we leave our homes for the day’s activities. Pulling a sweater over your head or zipping up your coat isn’t ideal when you’re staying home the majority of the time. With recent temperatures dipping near or below freezing thousands of homeowners are finding ways to stay warm this winter while also limiting their heating bill expenditures.

Candles while not a primary heat provider is commonly used to add emotional warmth to a person’s home. Scented candles in particular perform this task truly well, however, it’s critical that you take precautions. Candles may quickly become a fire hazard potentially leading to your home becoming ablaze with flames causing smoke and soot damage. Remember to keep candles at least a foot away from any flammable objects including curtains and furniture. Blow out any lit candles before you leave the room for the evening. Lastly, consider utilizing battery-operated flameless candles which can offer the same effect as authentic candles with a minimal fire hazard.

Here are more facts on candle fires to emphasize the importance of taking safety precautions to protect your family and loved ones this season.

During the five-year period of 2014-2018 according to the National Fire Protection Association:

December is the peak month for candle fires in the United States.
Christmas is the peak day for candle fires in the United States.
? of candle fires began in the bedroom.

References

https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/US-Fire-Problem/Candle-fires

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/winter-holiday-fires-infographic.pdf

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Heating

Trauma Scene Safety & Clean-Up

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Biohazard Symbol

Handling the aftermath of a death on your property is a sensitive ordeal. Although a mortician or coroner will remove a body from your home the matter of cleanup is left to the homeowner or landlord. Contributing to the emotional agony loved ones are feeling there are serious health risks and barriers to clean-up that must be considered before moving forward. Recognizing that as a human body begins to decompose the entire house becomes a biohazard scene containing potential infections and diseases throughout.

Health Risk

Human waste including bodily fluids, urine, and feces can contain E. coli, norovirus, and pinworms.
Bloodborne pathogens including Hepatitis A, Hepatitis C, and HIV can be found in the area where the body was found including the floors, walls, mattresses, and furniture.
Along with the physical health risk of individuals cleaning up after a death has occurred, there is also the mental health risk if the person was a loved one. The psychological damage should not be discounted.

PPE & Clean-Up

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is your area leader in human waste clean-up including crime scenes and biohazard remediation.

Each of our crew members is equipped with the necessary PPE to complete the biohazard remediation process including hazmat suits, goggles, respirators, and disposable gloves.
Adding to the IICRC training, biohazard remediation equipment, and readiness our team possesses; SERVPRO has industrial-grade chemicals to properly disinfect and deodorize your home. A decomposing body can also leave a foul smell in your home which may harm the potential resale value.

If your home or business is in need of one of our other services whether for fire, water, flood, mold, or storm damage; call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

References

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/global/sanitation/workers_handlingwaste.html

https://www.osha.gov/bloodborne-pathogens

Winter Preparedness For The Workplace

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Office spaces across Guilford County have set idle for nearly the entire year due to the coronavirus pandemic. Thousands of workers in Greensboro have had the ability to work from home for months. Creating the opportunity for water damage, mold, and other structural issues to go unnoticed due to the absence of staff members. Entering into 2021 many employers will continue to grant their employees the option of working remotely while others may begin to bring their teams back into the office strategically. Business owners and managers anticipating the return of portions of their staff should plan on how to handle property damage if it is discovered.

Water damage brought on by leaky pipes or infiltration from a storm may lead to mold. Arriving back in the office to discover mold has grown in the restroom area, breakrooms, and other spots is a matter that is best attended to swiftly. To prepare, supervisors should perform a complete walkthrough of the entire area for any signs of water damage before any subordinate workers arrive for work. Mold damage likewise can be detected by a moldy or mildew smell. Black like spores may also be a sign whether on the flooring, walls, or ceilings.

Winter is upon the Piedmont Triad and at just the moment you may be welcoming administrative assistants, customer service reps, accountants, and marketers your pipes burst. Temperatures below 32 degrees can do that if water freezes in your pipes. To help prevent your business’s pipes from bursting is to review any exposed areas for leaks. Standing water may be a sign that your pipes are leaking.

Along with preparing for water, mold, and storm damage that may have occurred while everyone was away from the office helping your employees feel safe coming back is as critical. SERVPRO of Greensboro North has performed hundreds of proactive pre-cleanings this year in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Our staff are experienced and possess the necessary equipment to sanitize your office space to add to the comfortableness of your employees.

Real vs. Fake: The Great Christmas Tree Debate

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

December is here and the holiday season is in full swing. Homeowners across Greensboro and surrounding communities will be showcasing their decorative Christmas Tree whether artificial or natural. People still debate the merits of both and while we’re not going to settle the score here. They're safety precautions you should take regardless if you’re purchasing a “real tree” or a fake tree.

Natural Christmas Trees according to the U.S. Fire Administration, a division of F.E.M.A. pose a higher fire risk compared to artificial trees. Meaning homeowners should take extra safety measures in order to minimize the likelihood of a fire starting. It’s critical that in the hustle or bustle of the holiday season from shopping to entertaining guests that you don’t forget to water your Christmas Tree daily. A dry Christmas Tree may be a potential fire hazard according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

Along with watering your Christmas Tree daily, homeowners should make sure their tree is at least 3 feet away from any heating source. That will include any space heaters, fireplaces, candles, and radiators. This may require a bit of maneuvering if you live in a tighter space, however is well worth the effort. More than 1 out of 5 Christmas Tree fires was caused due to the tree being close to a heating source.

As a fire clean-up restoration company, our experienced team is ready to assist you if a fire does occur in your home. Our warehouse contains an arsenal of tools that the SERVPRO team will utilize to mitigate and remediate the fire damage. Christmas trees are a quintessential feature of the holiday season. SERVPRO of Greensboro North wants you and your family to have a wonderful holiday remember the important safety measures everyone should take.

References

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/winter-holiday-fires-infographic.pdf

Stopping Storm Damage In Its Tracks

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

2020 is a record-setting year for hurricanes. The National Weather Service even ran out of names and began using letters from the Greek alphabet. Along with numerous rainstorms this year, Alamance County including the Town of Elon has received above the average 45 inches usually expected. Going into the winter with the potential of blizzards and ice storms impacting Elon it’s critical that homeowners take precautions now to mitigate the potential losses in the future.

Protecting your home and the investment you’ve made in it from the updated kitchen to the remodeled basement requires that you take preventative measures. Working to reduce the likelihood of severe storm damage and water damage from flooding to your property. Serious damage to your home which may amount to thousands of dollars in equity gone down the drain due to a storm no matter the season it occurs in is a tragedy.

Poor foundation, inefficiently insulated entryways, and standing water around your home are some of the potential pitfalls of severe storm damage negatively impacting your home this winter. Heavy snow and ice melting near your home can possibly enter the structure including the basement damaging its integrity. To help prevent this from occurring be sure to review your property for any of these anomalies.

If water from a snowstorm or melted ice manages to seep into your home it’s critical that it’s mitigating quickly. Allowing standing water to take up space in your home’s basement or the first floor for any substantial amount of time may do more damage. SERVPRO of Greensboro North is an experienced storm damage and water clean-up crew with over two decades of experience in the water restoration industry. Two years ago our crew partnered with several SERVPRO franchises when hurricanes smash the coast. Our team is also IICRC Certified which is the industry standard.

GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Santa Claus holding Toy Drive Box with toys inside with green back ground and orange box that says give back this Christmas

Give Back This Christmas Season

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is excited to announce this year’s Toy Drive in partnership with Pleasant Garden Fire Department, Pinecroft Sedgefield Fire Department, and the Southeast Volunteer Fire Department. You’ve heard it numerous times, but 2020 has been like nothing we have never faced before. The coronavirus pandemic and economic downturn have placed a heavy burden on many people's hearts this year.

In light of all we faced together as a community it’s more important now to support one another especially those in our community who are less fortunate. Christmas is the time of year when we all come together to show our loved ones how much we care for them.

Unwrapped Gift Donations can be made at our location or one of our partners' locations.

SERVPRO - 2902 Manufacturers Rd, Greensboro, NC 27406

Our partners' addresses -

Pinecroft Sedgefield Fire Department

2239 Bishop Rd, Greensboro, NC 27406

5107 Mackay Rd, Jamestown, NC 27282

6519 Coltrane Mill Rd. Greensboro, NC 27406

301-B E. Main St. Jamestown, NC 27282

Pleasant Garden Fire Department

4814 Pleasant Garden Rd, Pleasant Garden, NC 27313

Southeast Volunteer Fire Department

6012 Liberty Rd, Climax, NC 27233

HERO VS. HERO 2020

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

white female firefighter in blue uniform smiling with blue sky and statue behind her

Senior Firefighter Hannah Johnson winning the HERO VS. HERO Competition

Our local first responders here in Greensboro and the surrounding communities in Guilford County have been through a lot this year. The coronavirus pandemic has brought new strains and never before seen adversities to the fire service, medical workers, and law enforcement. Being aware of the new stresses to the job, the HERO VS. HERO Competition brought new meaning to what it means to be a first responder this year. Our community has looked to them for leadership during these stressful times and they each have displayed tremendous valor to us all.

For this year’s HERO VS. HERO Competition, we received seven candidates. 6 from the fire service and one from the Cone Health Carelink service. They are listed below.

Nominees this year -

Senior Firefighter Hannah Johnson - City of Greensboro Fire Department

Firefighter Matt Richardson - McLeansville Fire Department

Lead EMT Rusty Gray - Cone Health Carelink

Engineer Greg Ebel - Summerfield Fire District

Lieutenant Paul Mcnabb - Southeast Volunteer Fire Department

Captain Brian Forbis - Pleasant Garden Fire Department

Fighter II Tyler Hassenplug - Guil-Rand Fire Department Photos from SERVPRO of Greensboro North's post

Congratulations to Senior Firefighter Hannah Johnson from the City of Greensboro Fire Department for winning the Annual SERVPRO HERO VS. HERO Competition! We received nominations from departments across Guilford County and after a week of voting, Hannah received the highest number of votes from those in our community. Hannah’s heart is for people; serving both in her official capacity as a firefighter as well as helping members of our community who need compassion and understanding during tough times.

What Are The Dangers of Leaving Cooking Unattended?

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

The holidays are right around the corner, and while this is one of the most exciting times of the year it’s critical that you not forget all the information learned from Fire Prevention Week the first week of October. In the haze of hosting extended family from out of town and preparing a large meal for everyone, it’s easy to fall back into old habits. Thanksgiving according to the National Fire Protection Agency is the day where the highest rates on average of home fires take place, unfortunately.

Fires can quickly spread throughout your home in a matter of minutes and while they can start from electrical malfunction or arson; cooking fires make up the plurality of home fires according to the National Fire Protection Agency. From 2014-2018, 66% on average to be exact. Kitchen fires from cooking may result in significant damage to your home. Leaving cooking unattended to welcome guests or attend to children, even for a few minutes is highly discouraged. Cooking a turkey especially should be done with the utmost care and attention.

Fires from cooking left unattended may also cause large swaths of the interior of your home to fill with smoke. Smoke may damage your kitchen appliances and countertops requiring a professional fire restoration crew to attend to them. Smoke may also spread into other areas of the home layering furniture with soot. Soot may be difficult to get out of your home and contacting an experienced fire restoration to mitigate the damage is crucial to preserving the integrity of each item.

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/Thanksgiving Safety.ashx

https://nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Cooking

Prevent Fire Damage To Your Home This Holiday Season

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

The National Fire Protection Association states that fire departments across the United States responded to an average of 160 home fires caused by Christmas trees. A startling statistic as Christmas trees is associated with happiness and peace. Moving into the holiday seasons with Thanksgiving and Christmas it’s critical in the midst of laughter and good times to remember the fire safety tips learned in October from National Fire Prevention Week.

The holidays from Thanksgiving to Christmas and New Year’s Day are peak season for home fires according to the National Fire Protection Association. Kitchen fires due to cooking are often the culprits of home fires that engulf the entire home with smoke and soot damage compromising the structure’s integrity. To help prevent home fires SERVPRO wants to emphasize the information from Fire Prevention Week back in October.

Never leave cooking unattended.
Turn the pot handles inward to not accidentally knock them over.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby for convenience.

The extra use of electricity caused by Christmas lights and holiday decorations both indoors as well as outdoors may increase the possibility of home fires. Before installing any decorating lighting be sure you are not overpowering your system. Doing research beforehand if your novice is a great idea as well. Candles can also be the cause of home fires. Beginning in different rooms in the home before spreading to the entire property. Not lighting candles near flammable objects as well as blowing them out before going to bed for the night are important prevention tactics.

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

Why Did My Pipes Burst?

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Several seasons can be experienced in a day in Greensboro, NC. From chilly mornings with lows in the forties to afternoons reaching into the seventies; the temperature range can be quite large. While that may become a hassle and knowing how to dress for the day it also may become a headache if your pipes burst. The wide temperature swings can cause water in your home and businesses’ pipes to freeze causing damage to your walls, basement, or attic.

To prevent your pipes from freezing during the colder months of the year SERVPRO of Greensboro North has a few tips . . .

Leave a faucet running when temperatures get below freezing.
Keep your doors, windows, and garage shut when you aren’t leaving or entering the house.
Seal cracks or any other sort of openings that will allow cold air to seep in.

Pipes bursting may also lead to other unattended consequences impacting the structural integrity of your home or business’s foundation. Mold growth may also be possible if the water coming out of the pipe is left unattended for a substantial amount of time. Be sure to give our SERVPRO of Greensboro North team a call if you experience any sort of water damage.

Closing Out Fire Safety Month

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is closing out Fire Safety Month with important information and exciting news for next month. Partnering with local fire departments in Guilford County from Pleasant Garden to Pinecroft Sedgefield, Summerfield, and the City of Greensboro, is critical to getting information out on fire safety.

Rounding out the end of the month it’s crucial that homeowners check their smoke alarms to ensure the battery isn’t dead and it’s working effectively. Fires can spread within minutes throughout an entire home causing destruction of property and smoke to fill the room leaving a layer of soot in its wake. Having a fire extinguisher located in your kitchen is also a great purchase decision. While sleeping close your bedroom door as well as the doors of your children’s bedroom. It may inhibit the spread of a fire for the time being.

First responders perform an essential service to the City of Greensboro and surrounding communities of Guilford County. SERVPRO of Greensboro North will be recognizing the local heroes in the communities through our HERO VS. HERO competition. Nominations will be announced on November 5 and will conclude on November 15 with the winner being acknowledged on November 20.

Emergency Water Cleanup In Summerfield

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Your basements flooded after a heavy rainstorm or your toilet overflows after one too many flush attempts. In both emergency scenarios, it’s critical that a professional water cleanup crew responds swiftly to mitigate the damage. SERVPRO of Greensboro North is equipped and ready to assist you with your water cleanup. Offering 24/7, 365 emergency services we understand the inconvenience of a water loss and are committed to helping you resume your normal life.

From the moment you call our office, you’ll speak with one of our knowledgeable staff members who will guide you through the next steps in the process. Our staff members are experts in cleanup and restoration for water damage as well as the other essential services our team provides to the Summerfield community.

The SERVPRO Production Team is made up of a dedicated team that will arrive on the scene to begin the process of resolving your water loss. Each member of our production crew is trained in the best mitigation and remediation tactics for water losses that have happened in your basement, attic, bathroom, kitchen, etc.

Why Does My Attic Smell Musty?

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Attic space is typically used for storage and not so much for actual living space. Homeowners making the rare trip upstairs to retrieve a few items may encounter a musty smell as they lift their heads above the ladder. Detecting a musty odor encompassing the entire room instantly switches their mind into panic mode. Attempting to figure out what is the cause of the smell.

Recognizing a musty smell in your attic could indicate that water infiltration has happened and mold growth is occurring. Attic’s can be several degrees warmer in the summer and lower in the winter compared to the rest of the home. Allowing for condensation to accumulate if there isn’t adequate ventilation. Not properly ventilating your attic can create a scenario where the least thought of area in your home easily shifts to the top of the mind.

Our team of professionals in Greensboro North is trained to assess the severity of the mold damage in order to provide the best resolution. This is a quality of life issue as remediating the attic mold is vital for both the health of yourself and everyone else who resides in the home. We’re equipped with the necessary tools to contain the mold, mitigate its effects, and remediate the area through antimicrobial treatment that eradicates mold colonies.

If your home or business requires our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

Potential Causes of Basement Flooding From Storms

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Many homeowners dream of having a basement that they can truly make into their own space. Whether it’s for added living space, a man cave, or even a basement apartment. Adding features to a basement requires a substantial amount of investment. Therefore it’s paramount you protect your investment and the additional equity it has contributed to your property.

Hurricanes and rainstorms can cause significant damage to your home ruining the investment you’ve made. Flash flooding and torrential rainfall may make water cleanup a further ordeal you rather not encounter. There are several steps that you can take to minimize the likelihood of a basement flood which may lead to mold.

Building a rain garden may assist in preventing excess rain from coming into your basement.
Evaluate your basement and your entire home for any plumbing leaks.
Review your basement windows to ensure they’re sealed correctly.

Your SERVPRO of Greensboro North team is experienced in the area of water cleanup, mitigation, and remediation. We’ve partnered with hundreds of homeowners during their water damage situations to resolve them effectively. Our area has experienced above-average rainfall for the last three years making these circumstances quite frequent.

Community Blood Drive Tuesday, October 20, 2020

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

Rehobeth United Methodist Church Blood Drive Flyer

The coronavirus pandemic has pressured hospitals and first responders like no other time in recent history, stretching medical personnel and first responders to make difficult decisions in hazardous conditions. In times such as these, we must come together as a community to support one another as well as our first responders. One of the key ways citizens can support their community during these stressful times is donating blood if they’re able to do so.

Donating blood may provide a precious lifeline to hospital patients in dire need of a transfusion to survive. On Tuesday, October 20, 2020, at Rehobeth United Methodist Church on 4475 Rehobeth Church Rd, Greensboro, NC 27406 the blood drive will be held from 3:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Please come on out to support this great cause.

Preventing Kitchen Fires This Fall

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

The first full week of October is Fire Prevention Week and it’s important you and your loved ones are aware of the ways to prevent house fires as colder temperatures move in. People will be cooking more during the fall and winter seasons which, unfortunately, may lead to kitchen fires.

Fires can quickly spread to all corners of the home within a matter of minutes causing the entire structure to become layered with soot as smoke moves through the hallways. Having a plan in place to exit your home and dial 911 is important as well as a pursuing method of preventing house fires in the first place.

A few quick tips on ways to prevent home fires.

Never leave your stove range or oven unattended.
Put a lit on cooking when not actively stirring or pouring ingredients in.
Don’t attempt to cook while intoxicated.

What To Do Before Disaster Strikes?

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

September is both National Preparedness Month and also the height of the Atlantic hurricane season. Reminding everyone of the importance of having a plan in place when natural disasters occur. As the nation continues to combat the Coronavirus pandemic communities will need to revamp their strategy for keeping their residents while accommodating recommendations from your local health officials and the CDC.

Protecting yourself and your loved ones as a hurricane approaches can be exhausting. Stressing over the possibility of losing power to your home or if it’s flooded making it unlivable. All of those thoughts and the many more is why having a preparedness plan is critical. We’ve listed 4 core steps below, recommended by the Department of Homeland Security to assist you in developing a plan.

Make A Plan

Communicate with the members of your household on what you will do collectively in the event of a disaster before, during, and after to keep everyone safe. Inform loved ones outside of the household of your plans as well.

Build A Kit

Roads may be closed and stores flooded, limiting your access to resources. Thinking of everyone in your house and their particular needs especially infants, the elderly, and pets gather together goods that will sustain the group for several days.

Prepare For Disasters

Evaluate your home or business for potential weak points where strong winds or flooding can cause damage. Check with your insurance provider on what is covered to ensure there are few surprises if you need to file a claim.

Teach Youth About Disasters

Start a conversation with your kids about preparing for natural disasters and how they can do their part to keep everyone safe.

https://www.ready.gov/september
https://www.epa.gov/natural-disasters/general-information-disasters

Next Steps After Flood Damage To Your Business

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Most conversations around protecting the workplace have been centered around Coronavirus. Nevertheless being aware of and planning for all potential threats to the health and safety of your employees is important for their overall well-being. Flooding from a thunderstorm or even a hurricane can impair your business and stop operations for weeks if not months depending on your circumstances.

If your business does experience flood damage these are the steps to take.

Wait for the all-clear from your local authorities before attempting to reach your business.
Once you arrive it’s vital you shut off the electricity to the building.
Take pictures of everything inside (office furniture, electronics, appliances, goods, etc.) even if it appears to have not been damaged.
Call your insurance provider to file a claim.

Also, another bit of advice: Keep pricing records of expensive items such as computers and appliances to show your insurance company proof of value.

My Basement Is Flooded, What Next?

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Walking downstairs to wash a load of laundry and after a few steps, you encounter water engulfing the lower level of your home. A boatload of emotions begins running through your mind as you reconcile your previous task with the present circumstance. Take a deep breath and let's work through this together as a team.

The first thing to do in the event is to shut off all power to that area. Water is a conductor for electricity and attempting to inspect the damage beforehand is highly discouraged. Once the electricity has been shut off having the water damage mitigated is the next step. That’s where the SERVPRO of Greensboro North team comes in. Our team of expert water cleanup professionals is equipped with an arsenal of tools to mitigate the damage before remediation and eventually repairs begin.

It’s critical that you reach out to our team quickly concerning this sort of damage. Failing to do so may result in mold growth. Wet and dim conditions such as a flooded basement are the preferred breeding ground for mold. Mold may impact the integrity of your home and may cause negative health effects. Getting our team out to your property may be paramount to preventing this sort of scenario.

How To Brace Your Home For The Next Hurricane Part I?

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

June 1 began the official start to the hurricane season with two named storms Arthur and Bertha forming in the Atlantic. Hurricane Isaias developed in late July crawling up the east coast causing power outages and property damage in its wake. While the hurricane made a minimal impact on local residents, homeowners should prepare themselves for the next hurricane that may travel further inland.

Inches of rain can fall within hours as a hurricane track’s inland. Flooding a home’s basement and weakening the sewage system essential to any family’s well-being. To protect your home’s basement it’s critical you thoroughly inspect the pipes and sewage lines to see if years of wear and tear have impacted their reliability.

Floodwaters can also infiltrate your home’s basement through the windows. Ensuring that they’re properly sealed is a critical part of your hurricane preparation plans not only for the summer and fall season but year-round. Outside of the basement creating a landscape surrounding your home that diverts water away rather than towards may also help to limit the amount of floodwater.

If your property does experience damage due to flooding from a storm or hurricane, please call us. We’re staffed with an emergency team of water mitigation experts ready to assist you. The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team has also traveled to the North Carolina Coast previously to support disaster cleanup. You’re in good hands when choosing us to lead your home recovery.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North also serves the communities of

Pleasant Garden, NC
Mcleansville, NC
Brown Summit, NC
Oak Ridge, NC
Summerfield, NC

SERVPRO Is Committed To Keeping Our Employees and Customers Safe

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team is doing our part to protect the residents of Greensboro during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Through the North Carolina stay-at-home orders and into reopening we’ve continued to provide our essential services to the surrounding community.

SERVPRO’s commitment to keeping our employees and customers safe is critical to all of us working together to defeat this virus. Our office staff is including in their screening questions; have you or anyone in your household recently tested positive or been exposed to someone who has tested positive for coronavirus? All in an effort to protect our employees and other customers from exposures to the disease.

SERVPRO’s Production Technicians and Sales/Marketing Representatives are also adhering to CDC Guidelines and established protocol when meeting with customers out in the field. Each is required to wear a face-covering while onsite and disposable gloves. Their temperatures are also checked each morning daily before going to a customer’s home or place of business.

Soot Cleanup After House Fire

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

Dealing with the after-effects of a home fire is difficult. From filing a claim with your insurance provider to figuring out where you’ll stay while cleanup, restoration, and repairs take place. All of those thoughts swirling through your head can easily weigh you down. In these sorts of situations hiring a professional fire cleanup crew is the best decision you can make.

Deciding how to clean your recovered items including those layered with soot is an important decision. Soot is a sticky substance that if left on curtains and furniture for too long may sink further into the fibers. Diminishing the likelihood of it being removed completely.

Cleaning soot is a tedious process requiring rubber gloves, chemicals, tools, and hours of work to effectively remediate the soot. Chemicals and time most people don’t have especially during a hectic situation such as a home fire.

Soot particles can cause health effects.

COVID-19 Cleaning: Reopening Study

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

Business leaders across Alamance County have stepped up tremendously in the past few months to combat coronavirus. Adjusting to “The New Normal” has been difficult for everyone, however, the SERVPRO of Burlington team continues to have the opportunity to partner with businesses desiring to keep their customers and employees safe.

Since March, our team has disinfected and sanitized businesses in Burlington. Graham, Mebane, and the surrounding area. In the midst of the pandemic, employers are asking if the proactive and reactive cleaning steps they’re undertaking are worth it. The simple answer is yes! It’s well worth the investment to go beyond the normal janitorial cleaning you’ve been accustomed to and hire a professional cleaning crew; such as SERVPRO to add a needed layer of protection to your space.

SERVPRO’s corporate office has partnered with a highly regarded public relations firm that conducted a study two months ago concerning the public’s attitude to business safety protocols. Take a look at their findings below.

Consumers expect your business to be cleaner than their homes. (71% expect businesses to have higher cleanliness standards than respondents do in their own homes.)
If you aren’t clean, your business will suffer great damage to its reputation. (76% say the way a business addresses cleanliness during COVID is a good indicator of how well that business is run in general.)
This is the start of a new era for cleanliness and businesses. (73% say they are going to be more attuned to cleanliness once COVID is over.)
Customer concerns about COVID are not going away any time soon. (68% are constantly thinking about avoiding COVID exposure when out in public.)
All else being equal (product, price, service, convenience) customers trust businesses that are professionally cleaned over ones that self-clean. (64% are more likely to choose to shop at the store that has a decal stating the store has been professionally cleaned.)
Surface cleaning remains a significant concern. (59% are worried about COVID exposure from touching surfaces that have not been sufficiently cleaned.)

https://www.SERVPROgreensboronorth.com/certified-SERVPRO-cleaned

Is Water Coming Out Of My AC Unit?

7/17/2020 (Permalink)

Blasting the AC feels like a great idea on a hot summer day in Summerfield. But after lowering the thermostat the temperature of your home continues to rise. Running upstairs to the attic you find watermarks staining the walls caused by condensation and a pool of water around the HVAC system. Come to find out water has been leaking from your unit.

An overflowed drain pan, clogged drain lines, and a dirty evaporator coil are all potential reasons your air conditioning unit is leaking. Maintaining an AC unit and assuring it’s performing correctly is a homeowner’s responsibility. Checking in on your unit regularly is an important preventative measure as the cost to repair may need to come out of your pocket and not your home insurance company. A leaky AC unit located in your attic may also deplete the integrity of your roof adding to the cost overall, reinforcing the importance of upkeep.

Responding promptly to the water damage that has occurred includes hiring a professional water restoration crew. Waiting may increase the severity of the damage to your attic and the investment needed in order to remediate once production begins. Our team is experienced both mitigating the water damage to your attic and effectively remediating the area impacted. We’ve also earned several certifications in water cleanup through the IICRC. You can find a list of them by clicking the link below.

https://www.IICRC.org/member/SERVPROgreensboronorth

Helping Homeowners After A Fire

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

Experiencing a home fire is a devastating ordeal. Even if the fire is contained to one room or spreads to the entire house the ramifications are many. The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team understands the complications a home fire brings on a family, including the desire to recover as many items as possible from the home.

Fortunately, our professionals are experienced in the field of fire restoration, in particular content cleaning. Household items, valued goods, and treasured family heirlooms are all on the list of things a homeowner hopes to salvage after a home fire. Our crew members are trained on how to thoroughly clean salvaged items from a home fire, returning the items to the homeowner in better condition.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North loves engaging with the local community including our local fire departments. We’ve listened to the heart-wrenching stories of firefighters who arrived on scene to a family that’s lost their home. Hearing those stories reminds our team of the important service we provide to homeowners during a difficult time.

Rain Expected This Week . . .

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

Purchasing a home is one of the greatest accomplishments a person may obtain in life. In Greensboro and the surrounding area, it’s quite feasible compared to other more expensive cities. The pride that comes with owning a home also contains a great responsibility even with matters that may appear irrelevant to owning a home.

Responsible homeowners learn as much as possible about taking care of their property. Learning steps and best practices to protect their property especially from water damage that ultimately could result in mold. Mold damage whether in a bathroom, basement, or attic is an unfortunate finding for any homeowner, and therefore all the more important you regularly review your property for any abnormalities. Paying close attention to the weather forecast is one of those best practices in preventing water damage.

Greensboro and the rest of the Piedmont Triad can expect several inches of rain this week as a system stagnates over our area. Being aware of impending rainstorms can help you prepare yourself and your property from the potential water damage that may occur. Helping you plan for the water cleanup that may come afterward. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Greensboro North is renowned for our experience in this realm of work, effectively cleaning and restoring properties after they’ve experienced storm damage.

Stopping Water Damage From Becoming Severe

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

Preparing your home to be placed on the market can be an emotional occasion. For many, the feeling of selling their home includes a collection of memories that can never be replaced. Safeguarding each critical memory is vital for yourself. It’s also fundamental that you protect the investment you’ve made in the property.

Selling your home quickly is key therefore any mishaps can delay that from happening including water damage to the property. If you’re not currently living in the property the possibility of damage going unnoticed may increase. Flooding is a real concern especially if you live near a river. Mold may also spread more rapidly if your not regularly checking in on your property. Frequently reviewing your investment property is a necessary part of preventing severe water damage.

It’s essential you prevent water damage to your property, mitigate, and soon after begin remediating the damage done if it occurs. SERVPRO of Greensboro North partners with homeowners every year in mitigating and remediating damage done from hurricanes, storms, and flooding. Our experienced team understands the investment homeowners have made and take seriously the importance of completing the job effectively.

Your Storm Cleanup and Disaster Recovery Experts

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Summer is a time to make boatloads of memories from evenings grilling out on your deck to weekends at your beach house overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The incredible investment you’ve made in your property has created an emotional tie to it and protecting it as well as the memories created are important. Nevertheless, being aware of the potential harm that can come to your property are thoughts best kept in mind also. A possible threat to your property is a hurricane which can cause crippling damage.

Hurricane season began this month and it’s critical homeowners prepare for the storms that may impact their area. Whether it’s a property you own here in the Piedmont Triad or a second home out on the Carolina Coast it’s paramount you do all you can you safeguard the integrity of the structure. Hurricanes, tropical storms, and tropical depressions may bring strong winds, inches upon inches of rain, and possibly tornadoes which can all spell disaster for your property.

Two years ago both Hurricane Florence and Michael struck the North Carolina coast. The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team went into action as a storm clean and disaster recovery crew. We’re experienced in this arena not only from these two hurricanes but storms and tornadoes that have impacted Greensboro previously. We’re equipped and available to respond to your disaster situation when it happens.

Commercial Cleanings In The Time of COVID-19

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Thousands of restaurants, retailers, and offices have remained shuttered for over two months to combat the spread of COVID-19. Reopening your business safely is critical from both a health and financial standpoint moving forward into this “new normal”. Staying ahead of the curve requires business leaders to be proactive; instituting new protocols of how employees interact with customers and most importantly assuring patrons that they’re not at increase risk of contracting coronavirus in your establishments.

Before opening cleanings and late-night disinfecting is a great deal to ask from your workforce especially as they adapt to the guidelines set by the CDC. Leading your business includes protecting the health of your employees and of your customers choosing to patronize your business with the continuing threat of coronavirus. Therefore, it’s your responsibility for the necessary actions to protect their health and safety. Your local SERVPRO of Greensboro North has partnered with multiple businesses and organizations in the last two months as they’ve taken proactive steps to safeguard the health of their employees.

Along with SERVPRO’s experience, we’re equipped with the equipment to efficiently execute your pre-cleaning or post-cleaning to grant you and your staff peace of mind during these uncertain times.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

Certified:SERVPRO cleaned graphic on the window of a business

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 performs. 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 Greensboro North today at 336-379-1771 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision-makers on the first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. The 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.

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY DURING TOUGH TIMES

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Friday, May 15 the SERVPRO of Greensboro North team ran a first responder vehicle sanitization drive-thru for local first responders. Engaging with the local community is vital and we enjoy giving back whenever possible. First responders including our firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and healthcare workers are on the frontlines during this public health crisis concerning COVID-19. It’s paramount that we support them as this time as they’re under an immense amount of stress protecting the community as well as their health and the health of their loved ones.

During the event, our crew sanitized the interior of first responder vehicles including two fire trucks from the Pleasant Garden Fire Department and a firetruck from the Pinecroft Sedgefield Fire Department. Our first responders are in and out of their vehicles throughout the day interacting with the community in providing first aid and putting out fires. Ensuring that they have a healthy transportation environment is quite important for the entire community’s safety.

As we move further into the summer we hope to do even more to support our first responders and the critical service they provide to us all.

Mold Remediation For Your Water Damage Property Part 1

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

mold on a white wallin the corner pulled up.

Mold underneath the wallpaper.

Now is the right time to evaluate your home for any water damage issues that may have sprouted up and gone unnoticed due to the busyness of everyday life. As people are spending most if not all of their time indoors due to the stay-at-home order the governor issued last month it’s critical that you utilize this time to take into account the vulnerabilities of your home including mold damage.

Mold is caused when moisture is allowed to build up on walls, ceilings, and flooring. Mold can occur anywhere in your home or place of business, however, it is more likely to occur in bathrooms, kitchens, and your basement. Bathrooms of course due to the possibility of water exiting the bathtub or toilet. Basements may also succumb to water damage and eventually mold due water infiltration from a storm. Broken and overwhelmed pipes may also burst to cause water damage to your basement possibly leading to mold in that part of your home.

Mold remediation is one of the SERVPRO of Greensboro North specialties. We have years of expertise and experience in the field to best assess your circumstances. Providing your best solution to safeguard your property’s integrity as well as the health of your family.

Stay tuned for more content chronicling the effects of mold damage on your property and your health. Reminding you of the importance of mitigating the effects quickly and efficiently.

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

SERVPRO Partners with Cone Health EMTs

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

brick office building with SERVPRO sign with a light blue and dark blue ambulance from Cone Health.

Cone Health ambulance retrofitted with a negative air system environment.

The past several weeks the SERVPRO of Greensboro North team has been afforded a tremendous opportunity to partner with Cone Health; the leading healthcare provider in Guilford County as well as several surrounding counties. Assisting them to retrofit two of their ambulance buses with negative air environment systems in their efforts to provide an extra layer of safety for patients as they’re being transferred to the hospital for further care.

Our team consistently seeks out new opportunities to partner with community influencers in helping to grow Greensboro. In stressful times such as these with a public health crisis and small businesses across the city experiencing huge disruptions in their ability to sustain their business, it’s important that we do our part. We’ve donated our time and resources in equipping the two Cone Health ambulances with the negative air environment systems to produce positive airflow in the bus, therefore, reducing the recycling of negative air in that contained environment. Presently, staffers at Cone Health are bleaching each ambulance after they transport a suspected COVID-19 patient to the hospital, however, we wanted to go a step further.

With all of us working together will get through this stronger than we were before. Understanding how connected everything is in our community from the small mom-and-pop shops to one of the largest employers in Guilford County.

https://bit.ly/2SCxxTc

https://bit.ly/2Wivwwc

https://bit.ly/35uJGP7

Commercial Cleaning For Your Place of Business

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employee in hazmat gear using a fog machine to clean shelving in a warehouse

SERVPRO Employee Cleaning Warehouse

Eventually, life will return to some resemblance of normalcy in the coming weeks and months. Part of your business’ reintegration into society should include disinfecting your entire commercial space to help protect the health of your employees and those who will be visiting your property. The CDC recommends cleaning high touch services including desk, keyboards, and all sorts of office components. Don’t forget about your office bathroom in terms of cleaning too. Utilizing a hospital-grade disinfectant may equipt you to minimize the risk of bacteria and germs taking hold in your office bathroom. Kitchens and kitchenettes should also be regularly disinfected throughout the day. The handle to the refrigerator as well as the buttons on the microwave is regularly touched and therefore should be cleaned.

While these are great recommendations from the CDC you may find yourself as a property owner in need of a reputable commercial clean crew with expertise and experience in disinfecting large spaces. That’s where the SERVPRO of Greensboro North team comes in. Our crew is taking all the necessary precautions to help you create a safe and healthy environment for you to welcome both your employees and customers back when the time allows.

Protect Your Employees Through Commercial Cleaning

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Group of production technicians taking a selfie in front of SERVPRO vehicle on bright sunny day.

SERVPRO Production Technicians crew.

Take the next steps during this public health crisis to protect your employees and your commercial space. Proactive measures such as a commercial cleaning from an experienced crew clean your office, retail store, warehouse, or factory from top to bottom with industry-grade hospital disinfectants is an awesome first step. Protecting your property and minimizing the likelihood of a viral infection taking hold in your space may be critical to the well-being of your employees as well as their morale.

There is a lot of talk going around at the moment from a lot of local companies advertising their services as well as the product they offer. The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team possesses an EPA registered, hospital-grade disinfectant, SERVPROXIDE. Each of our Production Technicians carries a bottle with them in their company vehicles. Along with this item, the crew also has the leadership of industry experts who know how to properly instruct the disinfection of a property.

Nevertheless, it’s crucial during this time as we prepare for the next phases in this public health crisis to take action now to resolve any matters in the past before heading into the future.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is available 24/7 to respond to your fire, water, mold, and proactive cleaning situations and can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

We’re In Spring In Case You Haven’t Noticed

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

lightning coming down from the sky with a black background

Thunderstorm with lightning over the city.

COVID-19 has captivated all of our minds and required us to change our movements as well as our lifestyles. With everything going on it’s quite easy to forget that we’re presently in spring where severe weather is most prevalent. While COVID-19 is the focus of our minds at the moment it’s crucial not to forget the dangerousness of severe weather. How it negatively impacts all of us and takes life as swiftly as any virus can.

Your SERVPRO of Greensboro North team wants to make the community aware that we’re still working and are ready to respond when severe weather strikes whether it’s heavy rain, flash flooding, hail, or a tornado which all can do significant damage to your property within a few short hours.

After severe weather strikes and you assess your property for any damage whether caused through the hail to your roof; perhaps a basement flood which is possible when heavy rains storm in. Flash flooding speaks for itself in its name and responding quickly is critical to minimizing the effects to your basement. Rainwater can also infiltrate your home through your door or if an object causes your home’s walls to falter. Nevertheless know that the SERVPRO of Greensboro North team is here when you need us.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is available 24/7 to respond to your water loss situations and can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

We’re Here & Ready To SERVE

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

Yes We're Open

The last few weeks have been unprecedented and stressful with families doing their best to navigate the COVID-19 public health crisis. In times such as these, it is more important than ever that we come together as a community to support one another during this time of need. Students are now online learning and adults are working remotely if they have the ability to. Know that the SERVPRO of Greensboro North team is still operational and actively serving the residents of Greensboro and the surrounding community.

We’re continuing to offer our services in fire, water, and mold damage remediation and mitigation. Whether it’s a fire that causes smoke damage in your kitchen. An overflowing tub or sink that causes standing water in your bathroom, or mold damage that you’ve never noticed until now. With more people at home now the likelihood of unfortunate incidents may increase and we want to ensure you that we’ll be here one you need us.

Our production technicians are also taking extra precautions during these precarious times. They are now wearing masks and disposable gloves when entering people’s homes or places of business. They’re also regularly disinfecting their company vehicles.

Critical Points For Your Next Commercial Cleaning

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Biohazard Symbol Sign

We’re living in quite stressful times at the moment and no one is sure when the effects of COVID-19 may subside. Nevertheless, life will go on and your employees will eventually return back to their workplaces whether it’s an office, factory, or retail space. Minimizing the opportunity for infectious diseases to take hold in those spaces is crucial to protect the health of your staff. Choosing to hire an experienced and knowledgeable commercial cleaning company to proactively disinfect your property before your team returns to work is a necessary investment.

Before hiring on a commercial cleaning company there are five important characteristics you want to utilize.

1. Hire a reputable company with experience in biohazard cleanup and remediation.

2. The company is trained and has access to proper protective equipment.

3. Utilizes an EPA recognized hospital-grade disinfectant.

4. Comfortable giving upfront work protocols and pricing.

5. Successful track record of meeting client’s needs.

Your SERVPRO of Greensboro North team is readily available to assess your needs if such events arise. We can be contacted at (336) 379-1772.

Measuring The Severity Of Your Water Loss

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

water on the floor of a kitchen with a window and kitchen room appliances to the right.

Flooded kitchen in a residence.

Encountered a water loss can certainly put a damper on your plans for the weekend or the vacation you were planning for later on in the year. Whether the loss was caused due to factors from a severe rainstorm that battered your neighborhood earlier in the week. A sewage backup that you weren’t expecting to occur or an accidental overuse of a water output source. That water output source could be a sink, toilet, or bathtub that was left on and ran over caused your bathroom or kitchen to be flooded. In such trying times it’s quite easy to become overwhelmed with the situation.

SERVPRO of Burlington wants to serve you well and in our efforts to do will provide you an insight into several of the terms you’ll hear our crew use once we’ve arrived on the scene.

Category 1/Cat 1 - This is relatively clean water in the sense that the source was from a sink, bathtub faucet, or showerhead where the water has no measurable contaminants.

Category 2/Cat 2 - Water in this category does contain contaminants such as microorganisms which may cause sickness. Many cases result from an overflow of a toilet bowl.

Category 3/Cat 3 - Water is heavily contaminated with harmful bacteria and other toxic agents. This includes sewage, standing water, and water infiltration from rivers and streams into your property.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is available 24/7 to respond to your water loss situations and can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is Here to Help during this time of need

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

COVID-19 molecular setup

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. Our local SERVPRO has experience in resolving biohazard situations and has also received certifications from the IICRC.

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 performs on a daily basis. Here at our local SERVPRO of Greensboro North we’ve partnered with authorities when encountering such situations.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, ad 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 Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

Proper Cleanup and Disinfectant Procedures For Your Home or Office

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

In recent weeks the CDC has reported increasing cases of COVID-19 impacting the United States. COVID-19 is a respiratory disease that is spread mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets from people who are already infected. During these stressful times it’s critical you take steps to reduce the likelihood of yourself or love one’s becoming infected.

Starting off from a personal hygiene standpoint remember to cover your mouth with a tissue or paper towel when you cough or sneeze. Immediately throw it in the garbage afterward. Secondly, minimize touching your face. It can be difficult to do and is often a common occurrence throughout the day, however, people seemingly become sick through touching a surface where germs are present then touching their mouths, eyes, or nose, the main entryways of the outside world into a person’s body.

Secondly, be proactive in your cleaning habits for your home. Utilizing CDC approved disinfectants to clean kitchen and bathroom countertops is a great next step. These are high touch surfaces for people especially if you reside in a property where a lot of people are present. Cleaning those surfaces regularly and thoroughly is quintessential in your proactive efforts.

Your SERVPRO of Greensboro North team is readily available to assess your needs if such events arise. We can be contacted at (336) 379-1772.

Property Checkup Checklist For Fire Safety

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Fire flames

This upcoming Sunday, March 4 the entire country minus Arizona will be springing forward an hour. During this time people will adjust schedules and also their analog clocks that don’t automatically add an hour when daylight savings starts. It’s also a great time to do a checkup around the interior and exterior of your property for fire safety precautions.

The checkup of the interior of your property weather a home or residence should most importantly include the fire alarm. Ensuring that your fire alarm is well maintained and functions correction could protect yourself, family, and employees from dubious harm. Check to ensure that the battery has not died out and that the ringing sound for the alarm is audible to all corners of the property.

Secondly, check all the windows of your property to ensure they’ll able to be opened easily from the inside. Teach your children how to properly open and close a window so that if the worst does occur they’ll be prepared.

Lastly, when you sleep it’s best to close your bedroom door including your children’s room. Doing so may prevent a fire from entering your or their room for a portion of time allowing them to escape outdoors through a window.

The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

The Winter Storm That Was Not

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

snowflake focused on while the background is unfocused

snowflake falling down.

This winter season has been quite calm here in the Piedmont Triad. That was until last week when the area received its first measurable snowfall in over a year. Yes, that’s right, over a year, Greensboro, as well as the rest of the central region of North Carolina, has gone without snow since December 10, 2018. With the impending snowstorm as many people were perceiving it began being forecasted on the local news. It went back and forth between several inches to barely inch if everything predicted, came to the past.

Fortunately, when the snowstorm did arrive in Greensboro, it was not as terrible as it could have been. Public school systems, of course, took upmost precautions to protect the most vulnerable. For the most part, though, the winter storm turned out not to be as disastrous as previous storms that have impacted the area. Regardless, the SERVPRO of Greensboro North team is available 24/7 to assist you with any storm damage to your property whether impacted by snow, wind or any other sort of storm damage.

The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

Protecting Your Business During The Winter

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

man standing on the sidewalk holding a board as cars drive by at an intersection

photo of a man standing while holding board near a road

Often times when discussing property damage, people often refer to their homes which makes sense since the home is where the heart is”. Nevertheless, if you own a property for business purposes whether it be an office, retail shop, restaurant, etc. It’s important to be concerned with that financial investment as well as being that the weather doesn’t pick and choose which buildings to impact.

With the winter season upon us, many business owners will close for a week, or two to spend time with loved ones and honestly, probably take a break from running a business. Being away from the office though for a substantial amount of time may result in unattended consequences one you and your staff return after the holiday. If Snow and ice storms occur it can render your property inaccessible leading to you being unable to evaluate any damage until local municipalities clear the roads. Water damage may happen from the interior as well as pipes may burst due to freezing temperatures and lack of water flow.

Being aware of these possibilities is the responsibility of any business owner and taking a few simple steps may help reduce the likelihood of the situations happening as stated above.

Plan for the possibility of a weather event cutting off your access to your property. Are there any other routes to gain access to your property and see if there are any of your staff members that live near your property to check on it regularly during the holiday break.
It may be best to leave a faucet slightly turned on in order to keep water flowing through your pipes in order to prevent the possibility of your pipes bursting.

If you’ve experienced a fire and fire damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

Keeping Your Air Clean For Your Employees

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

White wall with rectangular air vents on the wall and rectangular lights on the ceiling, and cctv security system below.

air vents on white wall with security system

The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team provides a multitude of services to help restore your property after an unfortunate circumstance whether due to fire, water, or storm damage. Another service our team brings to the community is commercial duct cleaning which may contribute to the overall well-being of your staff. Maintaining your air filtration pathways throughout your commercial property is important to your employee's health and the overall durability of the system to function correctly.

Allowing your air duct system to go without a periodic cleaning may result in the deterioration of your system due to the humidity levels of your space. Water infiltration may do a significant amount of damage to your system and may even cause mold to build up. Mold building up in your system may begin to circulate throughout your entire space. This may cause your employees and regular visitors to your establishment to begin to experience respiratory problems and may even lead to an infection.

Fortunately, your SERVPRO of Greensboro North is well-equipped to clean your air duct system and restore it to prior status to keep your staff healthy.

If you’ve experienced a fire or water damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

You Can't Control The Weather

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

snow covering wooden house in the forrest with a blue house next to it.

brown wooden house surrounded by trees

One of the facts of life is that we can’t control the weather. Rain, wind, tornadoes, ice, and snow are weather occurrences that are bound to happen especially in North Carolina where we tend to express all four seasons regardless of the current season we’re in. There are many steps that you can take to prepare your property for the impending elements, but if your property is damaged are you financially prepared to repair the damages.

Unfortunately, for many property owners who choose to forgo insurance are typically overwhelmed by the cost of restoration after the damage occurs. The importance of carrying insurance on your property even if it’s paid for can not be overstated. Older buildings are especially subjectable to damage from winter weather storms including snow and ice. Heavy snow on an older home can cause the roof to collapse causing serious damage to both the exterior and interior of your home. Cost may go well into the thousands which for most people are funds that aren’t readily available. Ice storms can cause trees surrounding your home to fall onto your home if the ice is thick enough.

Searching for the right insurance provider is paramount to protecting your property and your finances. Stay connected to SERVPRO of Greensboro North by following us on social media where will be posting blogs on how to screen insurance providers for the best one.

If you’ve experienced a fire and fire damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

Tips For Preventing Your Pipes From Bursting

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

4 grey metal pipes on a wall going in varying directions.

Grayscale Photography of Metal Pipes

Water is an integral component of everyday life including the running of your home. Even so, damage to one’s property can occur from water whether do to flooding, plumbing issues, burst pipes, and a multitude of other factors. Fortunately, your locally owned and ran SERVPRO of Greensboro North team is here to offer you a few tips and advice to avoid one of the most common causes of water damage during the winter season, burst pipes.

With the winter season upon us it is a given that temperatures will fluctuate at, below, and above freezing for the next three months. This may cause the water in your pipes to both flows as usual and freeze at points unable to unfreeze creating pressure that ultimately may cause the pipe to rupture. A good first step in preventing this occurrence is as simple as allowing your faucets in both your kitchen and bathroom to slightly dripping at night when it’s the coldest. Allowing for a constant flow of water to prevent build-up. Secondly, it is to seal up cracks and leaks to minimize the amount of cold air getting into the pipes. Lastly, it’s best to insulate all pipes to lessen the ability of cold surrounding the pipes, increasing the likelihood of freezing.

Following these tips may help you in preventing your pipes from bursting and rendering your property inadequate for business or to live in.

If you’ve experienced a fire and fire damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

Don't Neglect Your Carpets This Winter Season

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees in company polo and khakis, wearing company hats, cleaning tan carpet with vacuum. door open on the left.

SERVPRO employees cleaning carpet with commercial vacuum

Winter is here as the shortest day of the year in terms of daylight has come and gone. With your list of things to do growing ever longer and longer, one thing to not forget is the carpet flooring of your property. Whether it’s your home or business continuing to maintain your carpet especially with the increased traffic the holiday season brings is important to the entire aesthetic of the interior of your property. Going into any business whether it’s a clothing store or recording studio, the carpeting adds to the overall theme of the room. Keeping it a priority in your overall property maintenance is a point not to be left off your to-do list. With that being the case your SERVPRO of Greensboro is well-equipped with industry-grade tools to strengthen the longevity of your carpet.

While it’s great to plan for your carpet to get professionally cleaned once a year; regularly cleaning the carpet of your business is a good avenue for keeping a pleasing aesthetic. Simple things such as vacuuming periodically and if damage occurs, whether it stains, or deleveling of the carpet are best to be dealt with swiftly rather than allowing them to fester. Specifically for businesses that receive a great amount of traffic from consumers, or visitors may want to rearrange furniture every few months to allow carpeting to breathe.

If you’ve experienced a fire or water damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

Winter Weather Preparedness for the Piedmont Triad

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

The Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina isn’t known for receiving snow and ice regularly throughout the winter season. Though when it does happen it is usually the top story in the morning, noon, and evening news for everyone to know about. There’s also typically an array of memes and gifs mocking how North Carolinians respond to snow before and during its arrival. Nevertheless the importance of being prepared for winter weather in our area whether it’s one huge snowstorm that blankets the entire triad or a few inches of snow that may receive the same response as if it were a blizzard. Keeping these tips in mind for protecting your property from the worst parts of the snowy and icy weather may save you a lot of stress and money in your bank account.

The first thing to do is keep yourself tuned in to your local news station for the most accurate forecast. In the age of the internet, many people have begun to forego the wisdom of their area meteorologists for weather updates from certain apps and sites. While there’s nothing wrong with staying up to date with consistent postings from online mediums the total reliance on them could spell disaster from the most detailed messages typically given by your local meteorologist. Take a few minutes out of your day to watch your local newscast on television or streaming service on their website. Doing so will help you prepare with the closest ton concrete information to protect your property from snow, ice, or sleet damage.

If you’ve experienced a fire and fire damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro. We can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

Restoring Local Office Space For Business

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Cafeteria with 3 long tan tables and maroon chairs scooted in. Bulletin board and fire extinguisher on wall.

The restored cafeteria of Baltek Inc.

The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team recently cleaned up and restored multiple rooms of the Baltek Inc that experienced water damage during the last quarter of the year. Our team’s training and equipment in restoring facilities that experience water damage is reputable from numerous positive reviews on Google as well as Facebook. Once our office received the call of the need for our expertise in the field the team responded in due time to resolve the situation.

Unresolved water damage to your company’s facilities may result in deterioration of work equipment and health concerns for your employees. Resolving these issues in a timely manner is best advised. Damage to the foyer, restrooms, locker rooms and cafeteria required our production workers to utilize a dehumidifier to resolve to begin the process of preparing the room for more in-depth restoration. The technicians also applied a plant-based anti-microbial agent to the floor to prepare it before further inquiry. Portions of the carpet were able to be salvaged by the crew, but, unfortunately, other portions were unable to be salvaged. The SERVPRO crew also focused on water extraction for the hard-wood flooring of the rest of the facility to restore it before the water damage occurred.

If you’ve experienced a fire and water damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772.

A Fresh Cleaning For The New Year

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

office building sitting area with carpet of varying triangles and quadrilaterals. Black ottoman, tan armchairs, and windows.

ottoman, chairs, and table in the sitting room area of an office.

As the holiday season comes to a close and the new year begins; business owners have a lot of tasks on their list to knock out. One of those bullet points should be a deep cleaning of an office’s carpet and upholstery. Fortunately, your SERVPRO of Greensboro North team is well equipped to provide an above-average solution to your carpet cleaning and upholstery needs.

The professional cleaning service the SERVPRO of Greensboro North is industry certified in several cleaning methods and is ready to service your flooring regardless of its quality status. The hot water extraction is one of the methods our team utilizes for the commercial carpet cleaning service. This method enables our team to remove overzealous odors that may dampen the overall experience of your office spaces and prevents the re-soiling of the carpet, assisting in it’s continued durability.

If you’ve experienced a fire and fire damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772.

More Guests, More Problems

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

Bathroom with black and white flooring with white toilet, white sink, mirror cabinet, window, and green plants

white ceramic pedestal sink and toilet bathroom

For thousands of families across the Piedmont Triad this past Christmas season who welcome guests into their home they’re probably going to be keeping an eye out for their upcoming water bill. Some property owners may have also rented out their spaces to people during the holidays while they were visiting loved ones elsewhere. Nevertheless, it’s a great idea to do a maintenance check-up of your utilities to ensure everything is functioning as best as possible. Water damage can occur to your property from several places including the sink, shower, and toilet.

Checking the drainage is the first step in your water damage preventive efforts. If the drainage is moving slower than usual it’s important to take steps to rectify the situation before the system continues to deteriorate. Check on your property’s toilets as well as the clogging may lead to overflowing which may spill out onto your carpet causing damage that will require professional existence. If your carpet is damaged, because of water overflowing from your toilet may cause a distinct odor that may be hard to get rid of on your own. Taking these preventive steps may save you a substantial amount of money and stress during the first weeks of the new year.

If you’ve experienced a fire or water damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772.

Behind The Scenes We're Just Like You

12/19/2019 (Permalink)

head shot of SERVPRO employee with blond hair and blue eyes.

Ashly Crockett, Director of Sales and Marketing

SERVPRO of Greensboro North works with people during some of the most trying moments of their lives. Property damage can be stressful and finding a proper firm to restore it to its prior condition can be a headache. Being aware of that we do our best to provide exceptional customer service to help relieve the pain of unfortunate circumstances. Whether it's communicating on the phone, through email, or in-person; each SERVPRO of Greensboro North employee on the receiving end of the conversation strives to be as professional as possible.

Maintaining our professionalism is of our utmost importance. With that being the case we try to have fun too! With the holiday season upon us, here is our Director of Sales and Marketing, Ashly Crockett, reflecting on childhood and now adult memories of Christmas.

My favorite Christmas memory was with my dad when I was about 8 years old. My sister and I used to go to the Christmas tree farm with our dad every year. One year I picked out a tree and said “oh daddy, isn’t it the most beautiful tree in the whole wide world? He said “absolutely” and bought it and loaded it in the back of the truck and brought it home and put it in the tree stand. He said we would decorate it on Saturday. Saturday came and we decorated the tree and I thought it was the most beautiful tree ever. It wasn’t until many years later (I was an adult) I found out my dad went back to the Christmas tree farm while we were in school and got a bigger, less Charlie Brown looking, beautiful Christmas tree and brought it home and replaced the one I picked out and never told me and for years let me believe that I picked out the most perfect tree our family ever had.

My next favorite Christmas memory came when I was a teenager. My sister and I would still wake up early to rush downstairs to see what “Santa” brought us. One particular year he brought us luggage. We laughed and laughed and thought it was the most ridiculous gift because what 14 year old was interested in luggage? When mom and dad woke up we of course told them thank you and that we had been laughing about it. They asked if we opened the luggage and we laughed and said no. When we opened it we found out that we were going on a cruise as a family. It was one of the best vacations we ever went on as a family. It's one of the reasons I now live for memories over things.

Know What's Coming So You're Prepared For The Worst

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

person holding remote pointed at flat-screen tv that is on a tv stand.

turned on flat-screen tv.

Every year it appears that Winter comes earlier and earlier with snowstorms and blizzards occurring even in parts of October. This past week a Winter snowstorm has crippled parts of the midwest and northeast with inches of snow. Being aware of the weather forecast is key to helping keep your property protected from the uncontrollable elements of the season.

As new weather forecast models and radar systems have been developed in the last several decades; meteorologists are able to more closely watch and predict upcoming weather systems. For the last half-century, or so the vast majority of people got their updates on the weather for the day and week from their local weatherman. Television was king along with a sliver of radio and in some fashion, local print news. With the advent of the internet though many more people now to receive the weather forecast for their local area through digital mediums relying less on television news. Being the cast it is still important for individuals to choose their media outlets wisely before taking what the site presents as conclusive.

Just a few tips to make sure you’re being given the best information weather-wise.

Investigate to learn if the website or app you’re using for local weather updates is actually reviewed by actual people, or is it a computer just generating the report. That can be done by going to the about us or contact us page to learn if the team is located locally, or nationally. If it’s national then the chances are much higher it is generated by a computer and not deeply analyzed by a local news meteorologist for accuracy.
Secondly, while new, innovative technologies have made weather forecasting a much more efficient process it is still not completely accurately especially with long-range forecasts that go out over a week. Typically forecast that goes out that far aren’t as reliable.
Lastly, do a bit of research on weather forecasting of your own. Beforehand without the internet, the need to rely on local meteorologists to explain weather occurrences was much greater due to many people not knowing that much about the weather. Now everyone, for the most part, has access to this information.

If you’ve experienced a fire and fire damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772.

Don't Let Winter Weather Do Harm To Your Property

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

This time last year the Piedmont Triad area was in the midst of thawing out from a record-breaking snowstorm that paralyzed commuting routes for residents and halted brick-and-mortar holiday shopping for days. Fortunately, the local news station meteorologist was able to equip the area with the important information necessary to ride out the winter storm. Interestingly enough the snow the area received for this area occurred before the official start of Winter and it turned out to be the only measurable amount of snow for the 2019-2020 winter season.

Nevertheless being prepared for when storms do roll through the area no matter if it’s a regular episode, or a once a season event. With knowledge of impending storms encroaching on the area, people were able to prepare efficiently for the possibility of their property being damaged by the winter weather. It’s important to take a look around your property to see if there are any weak points on your property where snow could damage a portion of it. It could be a gutter, downspout, or any exterior objects added to the property over the years. Also, evaluating the status of your roof, preferably by a professional is a key component of any winter weather preparedness strategy.

If you’ve experienced a fire and fire damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North Assist the Pavilion Restaurant

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Fire flames

Back in October of this year, the SERVPRO of Greensboro North team was contacted by the Pavilion Restaurant due to the unfortunate circumstance of fire damage in the garage behind the restaurant where the office was located. Damage to a commercial property may upend businesses altogether and cause difficult decisions to be made about its future. The damage caused to the office space for the Pavilion Restaurant rendered much of the present contents in the facility unusable therefore needing to be removed.

Fortunately, the SERVPRO of the Greensboro North team with its specialization in fire and water restoration are also equipped to remove any possessions that are unable to be used. Disposing of fire-damaged materials from a structure is an important first step in the restoration process of your property. Doing so will allow you to clearly evaluate the necessary repairs needed to the property and take the necessary steps to move forward.

If you’ve experienced a fire and fire damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772.

Expertly Trained and Industry Certified

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

IICRC Certified Firm logo.

The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team features a well-trained staff of professionals ready to assess the situation that you are presently experiencing and deliver quality service to provide an above satisfactory result. Whether experiencing a fire, water, or storm damage our SERVPRO team is ready to assist you throughout the process. Equipped with training and certification from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification which is the industry standard for tried-and-true methods.

IICRC, as it is better known by, provides certifications and standards for companies and contractors in the property restoration industry. Including fire, water, and storm damage to cleaning services for carpet as well as upholstery. Choosing a company that is certified by the IICRC and has trained its workers in the respected practices is paramount to ensuring your situation is resolved with the highest priority.

The training and certifications received by the SERVPRO of Greensboro North team are not singular occurrences, but a reoccurring set of modules and test to prepare our team to best serve you during one of the more difficult points in your life.

Electric Fire Prevention For The Winter Season

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

Christmas lights containing an assortment of colors on the roof of a house in the evening time.

Christmas lights hanging on the roof of a house.

The holiday season is in full swing and homeowners will decorate their homes inside and out with an assortment of lights and decorations to contribute to the overall atmosphere of your residence. With the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, it is very easy to lose track of everything going on; forgetting the finer details that will keep you, your family, and home safe. Increasing the electrical utilization of your home inevitable increases the likelihood of your residence catching on fire and following these tips may equip you to fully enjoy this holiday season.

All electrical equipment purchased or utilized is required to have a statement on the box stating this equipment is acceptable to use by the federal government. Utilizing government-approved equipment for your decorations is a key step and not doing so can put your family at risk. If the equipment instructions specify for indoor or outdoor use it is paramount that you follow those instructions and not just take it under advisement.

Be sure when setting up your lights and decorations that they’re placed away from any standing water or snow to reduce the risk of causing an electrical fire to your residence. The placing of electric equipment near any standing water may also cause electrocution. Also, keep any Christmas decorations away from community power lines to reduce the likelihood of over-usage.

Lastly, turn off the Christmas decorations or unplug them completely when sleeping or leaving your residence for an extended period of time. Although an inconvenience the inability to respond immediately if a fire was to occur when the amount to more damage overall.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North Participates in the Greensboro Holiday Parade

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Whoville sign attached to makeshift chimney underneath blue sky.

SERVPRO of WHOVILLE for Greenboro Holiday Parade, Saturday, December 7.

Massive hot air figurines, carefully crafted floats, and crowd-pleasing marching bands are just a few words, to sum up, Saturday’s Greensboro Holiday Parade. The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team participated in the parade with members of our staff who assisted in creating the float utilized to cruise down Greene Street onto West Market Street and back down Church street. Bringing inspiration from the famous holiday classic television special, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the SERVPRO team constructed and crafted a SERVPRO of WHOVILLE float to represent our brand to the Greater Greensboro area. One of our SERVPRO employees chose to go a step further with the theme and dressed in a Grinch costume which was a might hit with the crowd especially the children who made comical remarks as the Grinch appeared down every corner.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is there for people during some of the worst moments of their life, assisting them in returning to some sense of normalcy after a tragedy. Understanding that we take advantage of the opportunities to engage with the community in more positive circumstances including such events as the Greensboro Holiday Parade.

Thank you to everyone for coming out and supporting us!

Preparing your home for Winter storms

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Snow covered buildings in Downtown Greensboro, North Carolina.

Downtown Greensboro covered in snow. Including the Lincoln Financial Group building, Kress Building, and Washington Street intersection.

Though the official start of Winter isn’t until December 21 it’s imperative that property owners prepare now for severe weather including snowstorms, ice storms, and blizzards. Fortunately, your local SERVPRO Greensboro North team is here to offer you tips and advice on how to ensure your residence or office remains comfortable all season long.

First things first this Winter is to take a close look at the current status of your heating and air conditioning unit. It’s best to hire a certified HVAC technician to inspect your unit for any abnormalities. Routine maintenance is key to preventing a complete breakdown in your system.

Secondly, check around the outside of your property for any standing water. Check to see if there are proper channels for water to drain away from your property. The build-up of water around your property may contribute to the degradation of your home's foundation.

Lastly, evaluate the property itself for any damage, cracks, or holes where it may be possible for cold air to seep in. Sealing those holes throughout your property may help in lowering heating costs and keep you warm throughout the Winter season.

Causes and Signs of Water Damage

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Peeling paint is one sign of water damage

Water damage can happen suddenly or over a period of time. If developing over a period of time, the condition will only worsen and continue to do more damage if not taken care of. It is good to know the most common causes and what to look out for.

Causes of Water Damage

Here’s a list of the most common causes of water damage:

Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, thunderstorms, and floods
Pipes that are frozen, have burst or are leaking
Malfunctioning appliances, such as dishwashers or washing machines
Groundwater seepage through cracks in your foundation or walls
Roof damage, such as missing shingles or cracked flashing

Signs of Water Damage

The following list provides some of the telltale signs that you are dealing with water damage. Keep an eye out for these:

Peeling paint
Warping floors
Ceilings and walls that show discoloration or sagging
A strong musty smell
Water pooling up in puddles in your yard, especially after a rainstorm

If your home experiences water damage then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North at 336-379-1772 We are here for you 24/7 and 365.

Tips to Help Prevent Water Damage During the Fall

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Roof of house, gutters filled with fall leaves

Leaves are beautiful but when they fall from the trees they can clog your gutters

After Summer gives way to Fall and the bright colored leaves appear, water damage issues are also appearing. The shift in season temperatures from summer heat to cooler autumn weather presents certain seasonal conditions that can potentially impact your home and belongings.

Here are some tips to prevent potential water damage this Fall.

In the fall is a great time to prepare for winter and the fact there will be snow and / or ice on your roof. Fall itself is not without many rainstorms. Have your roof inspected for loose or deteriorated shingles or other signs of leakage. Cut back any limbs or trees that could fall onto your home in high winds, damaging your roof or walls. Use caulking or spray foam insulation to seal any openings found in your homes exterior walls, such as points where conduits or pipes enter the house, garden hose bibs and around vents.
Clean out your gutters. Those beautiful color changing leaves don’t stay on the trees. Leaves fall down and clog gutters and downspouts. When a substantial amount of rainfall occurs, gutters overflow and spill water down exterior walls, penetrating siding and seeping into wall cavities. That results in Indoor water damage and mold growth.
Prepare the sprinkler system. Before the first freeze strikes, follow the manufacturer’s procedure to winterize your underground sprinklers. An underground rupture due to freezing in the main line or the shutoff valve connected to household water could affect the house foundation and/or cause basement flooding.

If your home experiences water damage then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North at 336-379-1772. We are here for you 24/7 and 365.

SERVPRO Facts

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Greensboro North we highly trained technicians and state of the art equipment

When your in an unexpected emergency situation and having to look for companies who can assist you with water mitigation, mold remediation and fire restoration services then SERVPRO should be who you consider most. Don’t just take our word for it. Some facts to consider are as follows:

SERVPRO has been around since 1967 when Ted and Doris Isaacson founded the company which started as a painting business. Today, more than 1,700 SERVPRO franchises exist nationwide. One of the top 10 franchises, SERVPRO has proved to be an outstanding company.
At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, our owner started our SERVPRO franchise over 20 years ago. We have the experience to go along with our state of the art equipment and highly trained technicians.
All of our technicians are trained and specialists in the work that they do. Training is constantly updated for them when there’s any new way in the industry to best assist our customers.
We help you work with your insurance company to make sure you are covered for the work that we complete. If your insurance company does not cover a service we recommend, we will let you know the price before the work is done.
We work quickly yet thoroughly to ensure that your home is restored, making it “Like it never happened”.
At SERVPRO of Greensboro North we are here for you in case of fire damage, water damage, mold, storm damage and biohazard cleanup. Not only are we here for you but we are available 24/7 and 365.

If you experience fire damage, water damage, mold, storm damage or need a biohazard cleanup then call us, SERVPRO of Greensboro North at 336-379-1772

Storms Can be Damaging to Your Home

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Storms often bring with them heavy winds and heavy rain

Lots of storms come with high winds which can be damaging. Roof damage can be incurred from strong winds that may lift roof shingles, cause cracks, or remove part or all of the roof. Harsh winds and rains can shear away asphalt tiles. Flying debris can also cause cracks and holes in your roof. A small roof leak can produce damp, moldy conditions inside your home or business.

With heavy winds and rains also come floods. If your home or business is near water or in a low-lying area, flood water damage is a risk. Heavy rains and flooding may cause water damage even being many miles from the coast or miles away from any large body of water. If the land around your home or business cannot absorb the additional water flooding may happen.

If your home experiences storm damage then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772

What Are the Four Stages of a Fire?

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Flames from a fire against black background

Flames grow during the stages of a fire

By basic definition, Fire is the rapid oxidation of a material in the exothermic chemical process of combustion, releasing heat, light, and various reaction products. (Slower oxidative processes like rusting or digestion are not included by this definition)

By most standards including according to the International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA) there are 4 stages of a fire. These stages are incipient, growth, fully developed, and decay. The following is a brief overview of each stage.

Incipient – This first stage begins when heat, oxygen and a fuel source combine and have a chemical reaction resulting in fire. This is also known as “ignition” and is usually represented by a very small fire which often (and hopefully) goes out on its own, before the following stages are reached. Recognizing a fire in this stage provides your best chance at suppression or escape.

Growth – The growth stage is where the structures fire load and oxygen are used as fuel for the fire. There are numerous factors affecting the growth stage including where the fire started, what combustibles are near it, ceiling height and the potential for “thermal layering”. It is during this shortest of the 4 stages when a deadly “flashover” can occur; potentially trapping, injuring or killing firefighters.

Fully Developed – When the growth stage has reached its max and all combustible materials have been ignited, a fire is then considered fully developed. This is the hottest phase of a fire and the most dangerous for anybody trapped within.

Decay – The longest stage of a fire, is usually the decay stage. It is characterized by a significant decrease in oxygen or fuel, putting an end to the fire. Two common dangers during this stage are first – the existence of non-flaming combustibles, which can potentially start a new fire if not fully extinguished. Second, there is the danger of a backdraft when oxygen is reintroduced to a volatile, confined space.

If you’re home or business has experienced fire damage then call us, SERVPRO of Greensboro North at 336-379-1772. We are available 24/7 and 365 to assist you with cleaning up, salvaging and restoring your property.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is Here to Assist With Fire Damage

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Broken pieces of home, charred, ash in room with windows

Fire Damage can be devastating

Fire Damage can be traumatic and devastating. Your entire home or business can be completely consumed. Recovering from a fire can be an emotional experience as you’re grateful to survive, while also having maybe lost so much.

When it comes to fire damage restoration, SERVPRO of Greensboro North is here for you. Our team cares about what you’ve been through and we are here to assist you. Whether you’ve experienced a small kitchen fire, or a devastating house fire, we are able to help you restore your home.

We are here for

Emergency Board up
Packing, Cleaning and Restoring Content
Structure Cleaning
Smoke and Odor Removal

Our highly trained technicians aren’t only skilled and experienced, but also empathetic about your situation. They understand exactly what you’re going through, as does our entire office team. We’ll bring our compassion along with our state of the art equipment.

Fires can happen at anytime, day or night. We are here for you 24/7 and 365 days a year. Just SERVPRO of Greensboro North a call at 336-379-1772

Fires Destroy More Than Just Surfaces and Structures

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke stays behind long after fires are extinguished

After the flames subside and surfaces cool what remains of your home can be coated with soot and ash. Even surfaces you can’t see, such as air vents and the fibers of fabric can trap soot and odors. Discoloration and corrosion can can be found throughout your home or office after a fire. The smell after a fire can also be so overwhelming that it is difficult for most to tolerate.

At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we are here with our compassion, empathy, highly trained technicians and state of the art equipment.

After a fire has been put out and the structure deemed safe, then we come in to asses the damage. At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we are here to help restore your home, and your salvageable belongings after a fire. We are here to remove ash, soot and smoke from not only surfaces such as walls, floors and ceilings, but also from the air. Fires leave behind toxins and smoke which must be removed from your home entirely in order to make it safe for you and your family. Air quality is just as important as the surfaces you come into contact with, if not even more so. Our state of the art equipment along with our highly trained technicians ensure that your home and it’s air quality are restored.

Fires can happen at anytime, day or night. We are here for you 24/7 and 365 days a year. Just SERVPRO of Greensboro North a call at 336-379-1772

Don’t Let a Fire Close Your Business

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Flames, firemen hosing flames, Business closed fire sign

Don’t let your business be closed due to a fire. At SERVPRO of Greensboro North we are here for you once the fire is extinguished

After experiencing a commercial fire, you will likely feel overwhelmed. Your business and livelihood are both hanging in the balance and at risk. Once the flames are extinguished and the dust and smoke had settled, you may not know what steps to take, or in what order to take them.

The fire may have caused catastrophic damage which can be very traumatizing, and it is understandable to feel lost or out of control after the fire occurs. Unfortunately, during this stressful time of anguish, you must still take important steps in order to return your property to workable condition. The sooner you address the damage, the sooner your business can be restored to its working and operable condition.

In addition to the property damage, as a business owner you must consider the impact to your customers, employees, any tenants as well as inventory loss and business interruption. By getting a qualified fire damage restoration company like us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North, you will ensure your property will be secured and protected from additional damage, properly cleaned, sanitized, and returned to working order as quickly as possible.

It is best to work with a restoration company like us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North, as we are experienced and capable of handling a variety of types of damage, including fire, flood, water and mold. Often the water used to put out the fire will have likely caused additional damage. Using a company like us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North, that can address all of these issues will mean nothing important gets missed and that everything gets taken care of properly, efficiently and at once. Our highly trained and experienced technicians, along with our state of the art equipment are here to restore your business so that your business can operate again.

If you’ve experienced a fire and fire damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772.

Fall Fire Safety

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Taking up dry leaves from around your home is a safety measure

October is dedicated to reminding us about fires and the importance of fire safety. It is deemed Fire Prevention Month. As summer and its heat make way for fall and its cooler temperatures, it is a good time to ensure that we are prepared to protect our property best we can during the next season.

With cooler temperatures comes heat. Heat sources that is. We must turn on or light up a heat source in our homes, our offices and our business locations. It is important to remember that many heating systems require regular service. While the heating systems today are much safer than those in the past, there are still fire hazards and other risks that come with being warm in the cooler months. It is best to have your heating system serviced annually by a qualified technician. By having someone qualified check out your system, you can ensure it’ll perform as it should which is the best way to guarantee safety in your home. It is also the best way to ensure that your system won’t cut out and quit working for you in the middle of a cold harsh season.

If using a fireplace or a portable heater, other risks are associated. Prior to the cooler weather is the time to check your flu and to have your chimney properly cleaned by a professional prior to use. Always make sure that fireplaces are covered with screens when lit. This is not only to try and prevent anyone from playing with the fire, but also so that if your fire is woodburning, lit ash or sparking wood pieces cannot escape the fireplace. Do not ever leave a lit fireplace unattended. For portable heaters make sure to keep them away from any items, furniture and clothing. Do not ever leave them on unattended.

If it’s time to change your clock, then it’s time to change your batteries. Daylight savings time is a perfect time to change your smoke detector batteries. If your smoke detectors are older than 10 years old, it is time to replace them. If you do not have smoke detectors, it is now time to install them throughout your home. There should be one smoke detector on each story within your home, including in your basement. It is also recommended that one be in each bedroom and hallway.

Remove dry leaves at least once a week from around your home. Dry leaves can easily catch fire should sparks fly from a nearby fire pit or a tossed cigarette. If your area has not received rain in a few days, then even though your lawn may be browning due to the cooler temperatures, water your lawn around your home to keep it from drying out. Keeping the ground outside your home from drying out, can help to prevent any fires outside your home from spreading to your home.

If your home experiences any fire damage, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We are here for you 24/7 and 365 days a year at 336-379-1772.

Some Tips to Prevent Water Damage

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Dripping pipes mean a problem needs to be fixed before it leads to a larger issue

Water damage is one of the most common issues homeowners must face. Therefore it is good to know some basic steps to prevent it. To make sure water doesn’t wreak havoc on your property, you have to be on top of possible water leakage at all times. It’s easier than you think to monitor and protect your home from water damage. Here’s a few things you should remember to do often, to keep your home dry.

Find the Drip

Drips are often hard to detect, especially since they can occur in places that are hard to see or hard to reach. Thing is, they are strong indicators of leakage or busted pipes, so it is important to deal with drips as early as possible. First observe and locate where the drip is coming from. You can turn the water valve on and off to help you map out the area. When you finally locate the source of the leak, cover the crack immediately and call in an expert like a plumber in order to ensure no further leaks.

Sweating Pipes

Sweating pipes are not exactly leaking pipes. If you notice your pipe lines have some sort of condensation present, it is because the temperature inside is much colder than the air surrounding it. It does not have a direct effect on the pipe itself, but it can lead to drips, which may eventually lead to damages. Make sure the pipes are properly insulated to avoid such from happening.

Your Roofing

As your first line of defense against the elements, your roof should be kept always in good condition. Make sure there are no cracks or crevices, especially in valleys and roof pockets, as water tends to collect there. Keep the gutters free of obstruction, too, so that there’s efficient water draining.

Appliances

Keeping an eye on appliances such as your dishwasher, water heater, washing machine, etc. can often help you detect early on if there’s a problem before it becomes a serious issue. Looking for wet spots, or condensation, too much moisture on or around the appliance, or if it’s not working or draining properly are signs of what may become a larger problem. Be sure to always maintain your appliances and monitor how well they’re working often.

If you experience any water damage to your home or office then call us at SERVPRO Greensboro North at 336-379-1772. We are here for you 24/7 and 365.

Smoke Detectors Are Important

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Alarms are an important part of keeping your family safe in case of a fire

Smoke detectors are something you have installed throughout your home. They are an important part of safety in a home, as they will automatically detect and warn you of the presence of smoke which can save your life in the event of a fire.

Having smoke detectors placed in various locations throughout your home allows for fast and effective detection. The smoke detector has a siren that will warn you, day or night, that there is a potential fire. This allows you to quickly check the nature of the problem, or if need be allows for you to try and evacuate before the fire spreads.

When placed in the right location, the smoke alarm can help firefighters quickly locate the fire in the home, allowing them to better focus their efforts. According to the U.S Fire Administration, you should install smoke alarms on every single floor of your home, as well as in every bedroom, and in the hallway outside of each sleeping area. You should also consider installing smoke alarms in often-forgotten places like basements, attics, utility rooms, and/or garages.

Smoke alarms should be placed on the ceiling or high on a wall. It’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions for further information regarding the best place to install your smoke alarm. If you choose hardwired smoke alarms, be sure to have them installed by a qualified electrician so that you’re ensured they’re installed properly. If not installed properly, you run the risk of them not working when you need them to.

While it can be easy to forget to check and test smoke alarms on a regular basis, it is important to ensure that they are not only properly maintained, and kept with fresh batteries but also correctly installed.

if you experience fire damage to your home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772. Once the fire dept has cleared the home for you to go back in, that’s where we come in to remove spot, ash and debris. We make sure the air is safe to breath again, and we clean up. We also help to salvage items and to clean them when possible.

It's grilling season! Here's Some Fire Safety Prevention Tips

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

Memorial Day, a day in which we honor and remember lives lost, kicks off grilling season each year.

Grilling season is officially underway! We just kicked it off celebrating Memorial Day in honor of, and with gratitude for those who passed serving our country. Unfortunately, safety is something that often goes overlooked during grilling season. While many of us know how to “throw down” on the grill or smokers, there are potential dangers which should never be overlooked. Before your first grill of the year and often throughout the grilling season, you must be sure to take precautions. Protection against fires can be relatively simple and inexpensive. Here are some safety tips to help prevent fire fatalities and injuries at your home this summer

First and foremost, NEVER use a grill indoors. Propane and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors. If used indoors, or in any enclosed spaces, such as tents, on balconies, they pose both a fire hazard and the risk of exposing occupants to toxic gases and potential asphyxiation.
Make sure your grill is ready for the job. Start off the season with a clean grill and throughout the season periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below the grill so it cannot be ignited by the heat while cooking.
Inspect propane fuel lines, and position your grill away from structures, trees and high-traffic walkways.
Position the grill far away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
Always supervise a barbecue grill when it’s in use.
Keep children and pets far away from grills: declare a minimum three-foot "safe zone" around the grill to avoid any potential injuries to children or pets.
If using a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluids designed specifically for barbecue grills and do not add any fluid after coals have been lit. even if you do not yet have the flames you desire just let it all sit and eventually your coals will all be hot enough. NEVER use gasoline in your grills! You can also build the fire by adding tightly wound paper (just twist it with your hands and ball it up) and twigs to your charcoal. That is an alternative to lighter fluid. It may not start your coals going as quickly but they will take.
With gas grills, make sure that the hose connection is tight and check the hoses carefully for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks. If you find any leaks make sure to repair or replace the hoses BEFORE use.
If using propane, and your propane cylinders are manufactured after April 2002, then they must have overfill protection devices (OPD). OPDs shut off the flow of propane before capacity is reached. OPDS are easily identified by their triangle-shaped hand wheel.
Use long-handled utensils to avoid burns and splatters.
Never attempt to move a hot grill.
In case of a flare-up or fire were to occur; keep an extinguisher nearby and make sure to know how to cut off fuel lines if you are using propane.
Wear short, close fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. Loose clothing can dangle onto grill and catch fire.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the grill and have the grill. repaired by a professional, if repairs are necessary.

If you should experience a fire and fire damage inside your home, then once it is extinguished, give us a call. At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we are here for you 24/7 and 365 days a year in order to assist you with your fire damage. We are also here to assist you with any water damage which can arise from fires as a result of the fire department needing to come in to extinguish your fire. Just give us a call at 336-379-1772 We will make it "Like it never even happened."

Celebrating 20 Years in the Triad!

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

We are proud to be serving Greensboro Triad Area for 20 years.

We are excited and proud to be celebrating our 20th year of serving the Triad in Greensboro, NC. At SERVPRO of Greensboro North we are an independently run, family owned business.

Our range of services include water and fire damages, mold remediation, restoration, cleaning such as biohazards, soft contents, and carpet cleaning.

We aim to provide the highest level of service to our clients in their time of need.

Our technicians and managers are highly skilled and trained in both restoration and reconstruction techniques. Their training is ongoing as we stay up to date on all new technologies and procedures in the industry. As a matter of fact, we are proud to also be a trainership for many new SERVPRO franchisee owners and their technicians.

Without our team of dedicated employees, our business simply wouldn't be what it is. From those of our team who are in our office, to our managers and technicians, each one are a vital component to our operation. Our great team consists of people from all different walks of life. Some are from right here in the Triad and others are from cities farther away. All have one thing in common though, they have a passion for what they do and they enjoy helping members of the Triad community to put their homes and businesses back together after an emergency situation. Our current team has many new faces, and our seasoned employees are mentoring a new generation. Everyone works together to get the job done! We are proud to have such a great team, proud of the work they do and grateful for their dedication not only to us but to our community. Our office members and technicians respond to calls at every hour of the day, everyday including on weekends and during all holidays.

Often due to major storms such as hurricanes, we and our technicians have had the honor of extending our services to communities outside of just the Triad. Some of our team has spent sometimes nearly a month or more working in those areas who’ve experienced devastating floods due to hurricanes. Most recently we’ve helped out in FL and Wilmington, NC. Communities in some areas are still recovering. We admire their resiliency and determination to rebuild and are glad to have had our part in helping to make that happen.

From a water damage at a large business or a fire at a home to a major storm hitting our community or in a portion of our country, we are always ready when our phone rings!

We are incredibly grateful to have been part of the Triad community for the past 20 years. We appreciate the support from the community and are very grateful we get to serve them. We hope to continue making it "Like it never even happened." for many more years to come.

If you find yourself in need of our services for water damage, fire damage of mold remediation than give our team at SERVPRO of Greensboro North a call at 336-379-1772. 24/7 and 365 we are here for you!

How to Help Your Community After a Major Storm

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

Donation bags and bins are great to prepare ahead of time

Often times after a major storm, communities pull together in order to take care of one another. Now with Hurricane Season approaching, is a great time to prepare for the storms. There will be areas impacted.

At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, our sense of community far extends beyond just Greensboro. In times of need we are there to go in through the floods to do our part to help areas recover.

We like to encourage everyone to gradually, maybe over a few weeks time, to put together some bags or bins of items for donation that can then be sent to any affected areas. Depending on where a storm hits, our own community may even need the donations. These prepared bags or bins, are also great to have in case you are affected by the storms.

Wondering What to Gather for Donation Bags or Bins?

First off, make sure that all products you intend to donate are new or unused.
Second just choose a category from below.
Third then just any or all items from off that specific category to get for your bin or bag. That way when you make your donation you can label it specifically as baby supplies, or pet supplies or non- perishables etc. Once your donation is received it is then that much easier for those on the receiving end to know where the items will be going. With lots to sort through, it just helps make things easier.

Non – Perishable Food Items

Manual Can-Openers

Plastic Food Containers

Zip-Lock Bags

Easy Open/Pop-Top Foods

Snack Foods

Bottled Water or Gallons of Water

Healthy Juices

Gatorade

Plastic Service Products (Plates/Cups/Cutlery/Etc.)

Baby Supplies

Diapers/Wipes

Personal Care Items

Infant/Baby Formula

Personal Care

Toothbrushes/Toothpaste

Deodorants/Shampoos/Soaps

Combs/Brushes

Adult Diapers/Depends

Feminine Hygiene Items

First Aid Kits

Antibacterial Wipes of Hand Sanitizer

Shelter Supplies

Tarps/Work Gloves

Batteries/Flashlights

Emergency Candles

Clotheslines/Pins

Plastic Totes w/Lids

Pet Supplies

Food – Cans/Bags

Litter/Collars/Leashes

Household Items

Cleaning Supplies

Mops/Brooms/Dust Pans

Paper Products

Laundry Detergent

Rakes/Shovels

Trash Bags - All Sizes

All items for donation will be collected by non profits such as the Red Cross for instance. Typically when making your donation, depending on to who or which organization you are making a drop-off to, you can receive a receipt so that your donation would then be tax deductible.

Should a weather incident impact our area leaving you with any storm damage, water damage, fire damage or mold, than give us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North a call. We are available 24/7 and 365 and can be reached at 336-379-1772

Beach Music for the Community

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

It's that time of year where community gathers for FUN!

Who doesn't love to have fun for a great cause?! With summer approaching us here in Greensboro, that means that things like ballgames and events like Beach Music are underway or about to be.

This year marks the 16th year of Beach Music, which raises money each week for the local Children's Home Society. They have a great lineup of bands who are ready to rock out for our community and that you can get your dance on to. Sponsored by our friends at Bill Black Cadillac, Beach Music starts May 30, and goes on for 5 weeks, every Thursday night. Beach Music night is held at LeBauer Park in downtown Greensboro! Check out the schedule and pricing below.

Location:

LeBauer Park (208 N. Davie St., Greensboro, NC 27401)
Gates open at 5:30, concert begins at 6

Tickets

$10 each

Event tickets can be purchased online using the links below.

Season Passes are $40. If you are interested in purchasing a Season Pass please visit here.

***Tickets will not be mailed. Prepaid patrons will check in at the gate.***

Schedule

Grab up your friends and families and dance the Thursday nights away. Don't forget the Greensboro Grasshoppers are also right nearby Beach Music. A great place to go afterwards or on any other home game evening. We are going to a game soon ourselves. Stay tuned for that blog! For a complete schedule of Greensboro Grasshopper Home Games, click here.https://www.milb.com/greensboro/schedule

At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we are here for members of our community in their time of need. Be it do to storm damage, water damage, fire damage or mold, we are here for you! We can be reached 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772.

North Carolina Hurricane Emergency Management

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Emergency Management for Greensboro and NC offer emergency notices for our community.

History indicates that families and communities who prepare in advance for hurricanes and other disasters are generally able to recover more quickly. In NC, Gov. Cooper is urging families not to wait until a possible hurricane is in the forecast and to make time now to discuss their emergency plans, review their homeowners and renter’s insurance policies, and update their emergency supplies.

For those of us living in Guilford County, hurricane preparedness is much different than for those living close to coastal areas, such as Wilmington, Carolina Beach, or the Outer Banks. Many of us living in the Triad or other areas inland, don’t typically live in flood zones, so we often don’t tend to prepare for hurricanes as readily as our coastal neighbors.

However, understanding what to do in case of a hurricane and for how to prepare for a hurricane is still incredibly important. Guilford County is often a safe destination for coastal evacuees as we are inland and yet still close, while being far enough away. It’s important for us to know evacuation routes, where shelters will be open in our city, and where we can drop off food and supplies for shelters and affected areas. If evacuation for coastal areas are in order, people often leave without some necessities. Knowing and anticipating the needs that may arise is key for neighbors being able to help other neighbors.

Emergency Management offices are important sources of information and news for information and planning in Guilford County and surrounding counties. Log onto their websites for more information:

Greensboro Emergency Management

https://www.greensboro-nc.gov/departments/fire/emergency-management

North Carolina Emergency Management https://www.ncdps.gov/ncem

Download the FEMA App for nationwide information such as alerts, tips, and shelter locations. The app allows you to input up to five (5) locations to receive emergency news from.

Information on hurricanes and overall emergency preparedness can be found on the ReadyNC mobile app and online at www.ReadyNC.org

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is a water damage restoration and fire and smoke damage restoration company in Greensboro North Carolina, We also perform mold inspections and mold remediation. If you experience flooding from a Hurricane or other storm, we are here for you! Our highly trained technicians are available for dispatch 24/7 and 365 days a year! Just give us a call at 336-379-1772

What You Can Do To Prevent A House Fire

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Most house fires can be prevented

Fire Departments in the U.S. respond to house fires every 86 seconds! That equates to over 1,000 house fires a day. The number one cause of house fires is they are due to unattended cooking. The second is due to portable or fixed space heaters.

Fires in your home can occur for a variety of reasons, but many home fires are entirely preventable. While they aren’t 100 % preventable, you can take steps to reduce your risk of a fire occurring in your home.

Here’s what you can do:

Install and maintain smoke alarms on every floor of your home and within every bedroom. Roughly 50% of deaths due to house fires occur during the night while people are sleeping. Make sure that not only are they installed correctly but that batteries are changed out often.
Don’t ever leave food cooking unattended. Be it on your stove or deep fryers and other frying equipment you should always be keeping an eye on your food while it’s cooking.
Avoid the use of portable and fixed space heaters, as heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fire deaths.
Have a fire plan for yourself and your family that gets you all out of your home in less than two minutes. Practice this plan often in case of a fire.
Avoid smoking in your house. Some ways smoking can cause fires, is if ashes land in the wrong place, if someone’s falls asleep while smoking or if a match is not properly extinguished.

Should your home experience a fire you will need professionals to tend to your home in order to help restore any damage. At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we not only come in to help restore, but we also get rid of soot and debris which spread throughout your home and are left behind long after the flames are put out. We are also able to take care of any water damages incurred from attempts made to extinguish the fire. Just give us a call 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772

What You Can Do to Try and Prevent Mold

5/5/2019 (Permalink)

If Mold isn’t Prevented it Will Grow and Spread Rapidly

Mold in a property, be it your home or business can be scary. If you own the property it can seem even more scary because the responsibility to get rid of it is yours, not a landlords. You either need to properly handle it yourself depending on the size of the problem, or need to call in the professionals like us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North.

Mold is certainly becoming more of a problem now. Because homes are now built more with energy-efficient in mind, they are designed to be well sealed and insulated. This allows mold to grow more easily should the property not have proper ventilation or enough air circulating in areas where high moisture is present.

Some ways you can try and prevent mold growth in your home or business include the following:

Use a Fan to Improve Circulation
Use a Dehumidifier to Keep the House's Humidity Levels Below 60%
Replace Air Filters Regularly and Often
Keep Walls and Soft Furnishings Dry
Wipe away Condensation from Walls and Windows Especially After a Shower or Bath
Insulate Cold Surfaces

If you feel that you have a problem with mold in your home or business than give us a call at 336-379-1772. At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we are here for you 24/7 and 365 days a year.

How To Treat Mold on Your Own

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let mold creep into your home

Mold has many different varieties, one of which can also be toxic. People respond to mold differently depending on their own sensitivities to it. Where allergies are concerned some may have reactions, while others may not experience any affects from it. When mold is a toxic mold however, it will affect anyone even without showing immediate symptoms of mold exposure and can cause some serious health concerns. It is best to therefore remove all and any type of mold before it spreads.

You can remove some mold yourself. However, it must be done properly. Using a wet cloth may make it disappear visually, but it will not be effective. Mold will grow back again and again unless it is properly removed. In some cases, even if it is properly removed, so long as there is not enough ventilation, and you don’t improve your ventilation, then new mold can still grow back.

The best way to try and get rid of mold on your own is to use a mix of detergent or bleach. You must eradicate the spores. It’s the spores which you can’t see that get left behind. If you only wipe the mold away with a wet cloth you aren’t going to kill them off. The spores are what grows back the mold which you can then see. Always be careful when removing mold as the spores can and often do become airborne. You should wear a mask for safety.

If your mold problem is significant, you would be best advised to hire a professional to clean away the mold. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends having professionals come in when the mold growth exceeds 10 square feet. At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we are available to be reached 24/7 and 365. Just give us a call at 336-379-1772. We can determine the type of mold, the cause of the mold and will remove it safely and completely.

What to do to Prevent Mold on Your Carpets After A Water Damage Occurs

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

ACT FAST when water damage occurs to your carpeting

No matter how big or small your water damage is in your home or business, your affected flooring and walls are at immediate risk of mold. It does not take much water at all for mold to become harmful and for it to spread. All mold needs is a dark space, a tiny bit of moisture and it’ll grow. Within a very short period. From there it will continue to spread both visibly and also can become airborne, often leading to health problems.

To try and prevent mold on your carpet you must do the following:

Act Fast

Act fast by drying up any floods or water leaks as quickly as possible. The sooner you clean up the water, the less chance you’ll have of mold growing. Use any fans you might have to circulate the air and to try and speed along the drying process. Run fans until carpets are dry completely. To ensure they are dry, keep them on for at least 24 hours.

Invest in a Dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers are machines that will remove any excess moisture in the room. They will make the air feel cooler which helps to limit the growth of mold. Dehumidifiers help to dry out the air and ground helping to speed up the dry time for your carpeted floors.

Give us a Call

At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we specialize in water damage cleanup. We not only help get rid of the water fast but also can detect and stop mold growth in its tracks. Our state of the art equipment is needed to remove the excess water and to ensure mold does not become an issue. Where salvageable, we help to get your carpets dry, fresh and clean again. We are available to be reached 27/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772

Why Choose SERVPRO of Greensboro North

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Greensboro North we are here for you 24/7 and 365 days a year.

At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we have been proudly serving the Triad for 20 years. Our franchise is owned and operated by Britt and Stacy Holcomb. Britt has always been in restoration and has been with SERVPRO for 25 years!

Due to experience our franchise location trains and teaches other SERVPRO franchise owners and technicians in the remediation process.

At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we are very involved in the community especially with helping to bring knowledge of Fire Safety. We work very closely with our local Triad Fire Departments and also with the local Triad Police Departments. We organize and host events each year to help promote Fire Safety and to bring the community together with our local Fire and Police Departments.

At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, our fast response time and our highly trained technicians are what you can rely on in case of Water Damage, Fire Damage, or Mold. At SERVPRO we get the job done quickly yet thoroughly.

We have a close and good standing with many local insurance agencies that refer us to their clients. At SERVPRO we take photos for you if any and all damages to your property and belongings. We go in to not only remediate your property, but to recover, salvage and restore your items. Any damages and items that are not salvageable are properly disposed of by us and insurance is notified of your damages and your losses.

At SERVPRO of Greensboro North we are here for you with our 24/7 emergency service for emergency water restoration services, fire remediation and mold remediation. At SERVPRO our highly trained and skilled technicians have the experience and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Let us be there for you if you are in need of our services. Just call us at 336-379-1772

Commercial Fires

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

If your business goes up in flames, we at SERVPRO of Greensboro North are here to make it "Like it never even happened.”

Once a business has experienced a fire, the course of action is very different than it would be in your home or apartment. Businesses often have rooms and spaces of varied sizes throughout the facility. Different treatments are usually needed throughout these larger areas than what is then also needed in a kitchen or a bathroom area. Depending on the type of business there may be more challenges to restoring the property. The size, intensity, and cause of the fire will determine too how we go about restoring your business.

Fires spread quickly! In fact, a fire increases in size every 60 seconds. It therefore does not take much time for a fire to weaken or destroy the already relatively fragile structure of your business. With columns and supports being typically more spread out in a commercial setting, your buildings structure can be severely compromised if ravished by a fire. Fires create huge amounts of soot and ash, especially if it starts in an area where fabrics can be easily caught in the blaze. Ash will fly all over and land wherever. It will get into every nook and cranny of your business. It can clog water fixtures and drains. Often along with damage from ash is water from sprinkler systems. This water can mix with the ash and form a thick sludge. This sludge is hard to remove and causes heavy staining. Once it dries it may also create a hardened layer of caked-on ash. Where there’s fire there’s smoke. Smoke is a big problem in most fires. Microscopic smoke particles can become embedded in materials of all kinds, but especially wood, fabric, and other organic materials commonly existing in most businesses.

Depending on the size of the fire and the amount of damage, most businesses can reopen again for operation just days after a fire has happened. With smoke odor removal, fire damage restoration, and cleaning in general by SERVPRO of Greensboro North your business can be up and running again almost in no time. Depending on the severity of the fire, it is often possible for crews to start work nearly immediately after the fire department clears the scene allowing us to have things back up and running quickly. Recovery is possible, and at SERVPRO Greensboro North we can make it “Like it never happened."!

Just give SERVPRO of Greensboro North a call at 336-379-1772. We are available and on call 24/7 and 365 days a year.

Water Damage Sign to Look for in Your Home

12/30/2018 (Permalink)

Stains on your floors can be an indication of water damage.

When it's contained properly, water doesn't pose too big of a threat to your home. However when water floods and soaks into your walls, floors, or ceiling, it can quickly develop into a serious health and safety hazard. This is because water that is not dried up or that sits causes a cozy environment for mold and mildew to begin growing. Mold is a fast-spreading, hard-to-remove fungus that can cause health problems and also weaken your property's structural integrity. Here are several methods for detecting water damage within your house. You’re going to want to walk around and look carefully at both the interior and exterior of your home.

First walk around and Inspect Outside

Carefully look over the entire exterior of your house. Look for pools of water. These can indicate poor drainage in the yard, gutter spouts that maybe aren’t moving water far enough from the house or leaky rain gutters. Any of those issues can threaten your homes foundation since water that’s standing may get into your home.

Make sure to check your roof. The most common signs of water damage to your roof often include pools of water; cracked, curled up or missing shingles.

Inside Check your Floors

No matter what kind of flooring you have throughout your home, if water damage is present the signs will show. For tile and wood floors, look for cracked, buckling or warping. On carpeted floors, be wary of damp spots, stains, gradual rises and soft spots.

Smell your way around

If you see any active mold growth it means that moisture is contacting microscopic mold spores, often in the nooks and crannies of your home. However since mold often hides, you can’t rely only on your site. Use your nose too! If there’s a smell of mold and dampness that too is a sign then that water damage is present. One can often get used to the smell of mold or dampness so make certain to walk in from outside first during your walk around so that the smell will be more obvious. Water when it’s stagnate, causes mold and bacteria can grow, which is what produces the musty, unpleasant smell. If you smell it it is best to remove yourself from the home until the level, type and location of the mold are determined.

Look for Stains Everywhere

Look for stains on your floors, walls and ceiling. If you find water stains on your floors or around your bathtub, toilet or sink than those are signs of water damage. If you find stains on your ceilings and walls than those too are some of the most obvious signs of water damage. Some of these stains can be concealing mold behind them beneath the flooring or in your walls since water damage that’s left unattended can often lead to mold. Unusual stains may indicate that there is a leaky pipe inside the wall. Perhaps there’s a leaky drain. Cracks in your drywall often mean there’s trouble. If any areas of your walls appear swollen and are soft to touch that too may signify trouble. If pain is peeing that is another sign of water loose within walls. When drywall gets saturated, paint will usually lose adhesion.

Look for Rust and Mold

Frequent Inspections of your water heater can be very beneficial. Checking for rust that’s developing on the tank or if you see rust already present on the tank, than that typically indicates a slow leak. Rust around pipe connections can also be caused by water seepage.

If you suspect Water Damage in your home or if you have experienced Water Damage in your home, than call us at SERVPRO at 336-379-1772. We are here for you 24/7 and 365 days a year.

Causes of Commercial Water Damage

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

Whether it's your store, warehouse, office, etc Water Damage can happen.

When business owners experience damage it is often due to reasons that could have possibly been prevented with a little preventative and routine maintenance. Often when a business owner thinks of water damage happening to their business, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. While it is often true that commercial water damage is usually the result of floods and water caused by weather events and storms, it is not the only cause. Some causes get overlooked and are not considered ahead of time as a possible problem being that one often only thinks about some of them where their home, not their office is concerned.

Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings and businesses. You’ll notice that some of them are probably familiar to you if you are a homeowner.

1. Broken pipes and plumbing Just like in your home residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result. It is best to ensure that you, or if you have a landlord, are taking steps especially prior to cooler weather to ensure that pipes are not damaged and will not freeze.

2. Malfunctioning fire sprinkler systems

Usually older office and retail buildings may have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, if they are faulty or in need of replacement, they can also be a major cause of commercial flood damage. Should they malfunction, fire sprinklers can easily damage inventory and business assets.

3. Backed up sewer lines Another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise is a backed-up sewer. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, you must realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. Should this happen, most products and furnishings may not be salvageable due to health reasons. In this type of situation, the business may definitely need to be shut down and all employees removed until cleanup is complete.

4. Damaged appliances and equipment

Commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If an appliance fails it’ll often send water across your building. If this happens outside of business hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a big water emergency.

5. Toilet or Shower Overflow

If your business is complete with a restroom, be it for public or employee only use, then you may experience toilet overflow. If your business also has a shower be it for employees, or perhaps you’re a hotel with guests, then you may also experience water overflowing from a shower or tub. Toilets for instance, can run and drip. Once it springs a bad leak it can then damage your floors and your walls. If your toilet is constantly running or dripping, it is best to figure out why before it becomes an even bigger problem. Be careful to not clog your toilets. While sometimes it is unavoidable, always make sure to have a plunger available in case it should be needed. If you know something has clogged your toilet, then do not keep flushing it. Until you are sure the clog has been dealt with properly, flushing can cause your toilet to overflow. Should that happen, do your best to clean up any water immediately. As for showers, it is best to ensure that the drains do not get clogged. This along with excess use of water for long showers, can lead to flooding and pooling, which if you’re not careful, can cause water damage.

You want to make sure to act quickly should you experience any Water Damage. Not only may not acting quickly possibly take your business out of commission or for a longer period of time, but it can also worsen the situation. More time not treated allows not only more time for any product, furniture or equipment to be damaged, but also then allows time for mold to begin growing. We are also here to assist with mold remediation, but it is best to avoid Water Damage getting to that point.

Once our team at SERVPRO Greensboro North determines the level of loss due to the size of your facility. The property is then further assessed, and a team of appropriate size is dispatched to get the job done quickly and efficiently in order to return your business and operation to normal, “Like it never even happened”. If you experience any Water Damage to your business, then give us a call 24 / 7 and 365 days a year at 336-379-1772

Christmas Tree Fire Safety

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Take precautions in order to try and avoid your Christmas tree from igniting a fire in your home

Christmas tree fires aren’t very common, however they are likely to cause serious damage if they occur. According to NFPA.org 200 Christmas tree fires ignite each holiday season, resulting in six deaths, 16 injuries, and $14.8 million in property damage per year. Protect your home and family with these Christmas tree safety tips:

When picking a live Christmas tree every year, choose one with fresh, healthy needles. A simple test to know if you’ve found a good one is if the needles remain intact when you touch them.
Make sure not to block any exits when putting up your tree. Should you need to escape a fire, exits such as windows, doorways and access to other rooms should not be blocked.
Position the tree at least three feet away from your fireplace, and any radiators, candles, lamps, or other heat sources.
Before placing a live tree into the tree stand, make sure to cut at least a minimum of 2 inches from the base of your live Christmas tree.
Add water to your tree stand and be sure to water your tree every day to keep it moist.
Use UL-listed Christmas tree lights rated for indoor use. Check strands closely as you hang them and replace any with frayed cords or loose light bulb connections. Only link together the number of strands recommended by the manufacturer. It is best to turn off Christmas tree lights before you go to bed.
Never use lit candles to decorate your tree.
Throw away or recycle the Christmas tree when the holiday is over. Don’t store a dried-out tree in your home, garage, or yard, as the drier it becomes, the more flammable it becomes.
Get rid of any live Christmas tree after Christmas by throwing them away or recycling them. Do not store a dried-out tree in or near your home, shed or garage. Dried up Christmas trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against your home. The more dry the tree becomes, the more flammable it becomes. Check with your local community to find a recycling program or put the tree out with your garbage pickup.
Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent any hazards and to make them last longer for more holiday seasons.

If your home does experience fire damage the professionals at SERVPRO of Greensboro North are here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 336-379-1772

Holiday Decoration Fire Safety

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Decorations can be pretty but if not handled with care can be pretty flammable and damaging to your home

According to NFPA.org US Fire Departments respond to about 840 home fires each year that begin because of holiday decorations, not including Christmas trees. These fires cause two deaths, 36 injuries, and $11.4 million in property damage per year. Don’t let your holiday decorations go up in smoke. Implement these fire safety safety tips in order to try and prevent a holiday fire in your home:

Choose decorations that are flame retardant or resistant. Then, keep these decorations at least 12 inches away from the fireplace, open candle flames, and other heat sources.
Check light strands for an indoor or outdoor rating. If hanging lights indoors, use UL-listed Christmas tree lights rated for indoor use. If hanging lights outdoors, use UL-listed Christmas tree lights rated for outdoor use.
Check strands closely as you hang them and replace any with frayed cords or loose light bulb connections. Replace any broken or missing bulbs before hanging up the lights.
Only link together the number of light strands recommended by the manufacturer.
If lighting candles for decoration, keep away from other decorations, flammable materials or fabrics and children or pets.
Stockings should be hung by the fireplace with care. It is best to make sure that any stockings or decorations hung off the mantle, or placed on the mantle, are kept away from the fire. Don’t forget that fires do spark and emit embers. It is best to have a fireplace screen for additional safety to try and prevent any embers from landing on decorations. One spark is all it takes to start a fire.

If your home does experience fire damage, the professionals at SERVPRO Greensboro North are here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 336-379-1772

Mold On and In Your Walls

12/21/2018 (Permalink)

Mold inside a wall

The most common causes of mold growing on walls are high humidity, condensation and water leaks. Water leaks are usually hidden in your walls which causes the mold to also be hidden from your sight.

If humidity stays high in your home for a long time, then you might see mold starting to grow on your walls. Usually the best way to decrease humidity is to ventilate your home by opening windows and doors. Also, things like drying wet clothes inside, taking hot showers, or boiling water on the stove increase humidity in your home. Condensation is especially common on walls which form the perimeter of a house. These walls are often colder because of cool outdoor air on the other side. This is because condensation forms when water vapor in the air meets cold surfaces and cools to become liquid. This can often cause mold on the outer part of your wall or it’s surface where you can see it. Leaking pipes near or inside of walls are another common cause of mold. If there's a leaking pipe inside a wall cavity then mold will usually be well and truly set in before it's discovered.

The mold cleanup process plays a critical role in stopping mold in its tracks. Mold can be extremely hazardous. If you want to be safe and most thorough in removing mold from your home, we recommend hiring professionals like us at SERVPRO Greensboro North. We have the experience working with mold removal. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 days a year at 336-379-1772.

Why Mold Removal Requires a Professional

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can hide in your walls even just behind your wallpaper

Mold is often a hidden danger. If you suspect mold in your home or can visibly see that you have mold in your home, it is best to act quickly in order to have it removed. At SERVPRO Greensboro North we are the professionals who can assist you. We can find any mold source even hidden mold and can remove it safely so that you can avoid the following from happening further:

Breathing in microscopic mold spores. These spores move through the ventilation system within your home. They are so small that you cannot see them but breathing in the spores can result in toxicity within the body.
Food contamination. When the mold spores are present in the air, food may become contaminated and those spores are ingested when the food is eaten.
Direct contact. When your skin comes into direct contact with the mold, it may cause several health effects of black mold. Avoid direct contact, because it is extremely dangerous.

If you suspect any sickness due to mold it is important to see a doctor. It is also imperative that you call in professionals to clean up the home in order to minimize the dangers of black mold.

The cleanup process plays a critical role in stopping mold from being hazardous to your health. If you simply treat any health problems that may be associated yet continue to be exposed, then mold will continue to be hazardous to you.

If you want to be safe and most thorough, we recommend hiring professionals like us at SERVPRO Greensboro North. We have the experience working with mold removal. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 days a year at 336-379-1772.

Why You Should Call SERVPRO to Remove Mold

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can spread rapidly

Cleaning up the mold involves identifying any and all the areas of your home that are growing mold. These areas are usually exposed to high levels of humidity or wetness, and cleanup may require building materials to be replaced. It is often likely that the walls need to be opened in certain areas in order to clean up mold growth within the walls. The area should be repaired with brand new materials in an effort to not reintroduce the mold spores.

If you are doing the cleanup yourself, the dangers of black mold increase during the cleanup process since you will be increasing your exposure to the mold. It is extremely necessary to take precautionary steps in order to prevent cross contamination and in order to minimize your exposure. Wearing goggles, a mask, and other protective clothing can help you to avoid exposure to the spores. However, this type of remediation is best left to the professionals.

If you want to be safe, we recommend hiring professionals like us at SERVPRO Greensboro North. We have the experience working with mold removal. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 days a year at 336-379-1772.

Steps to Take to Help Protect Your Home From Winter Storm Damage

12/14/2018 (Permalink)

Icicles are a sign of Ice Dams which can cause major damage to your home.

When winter sets in, storm damage is a big possibility. Winter storms are often accompanied by water damage. For instance, frozen pipes may burst during arctic temperatures, heavy snow piles on a roof can cause it to collapse, Ice dams can build on your gutters, trees can fall etc. Knowing what you can do to try and prevent damage from winter storms is important. Such as keeping tree branches trimmed and away from your house. Getting weaknesses in your roof or siding fixed. Keeping gutters clear, so that water and melted snow can drain away instead of freezing and forming ice dams. Below is a more in-depth info on some contributing factors of winter storm damage and tips on how you can try and prevent them.

Your Roof

Heavy or constant wind can blow shingles loose or take off gutters. If damage like this occurs, it will let in moisture from sleet, snow, rain and meltwater into your home. Sometimes damage can occur to a part of your roof that you can't easily see, meaning you may not even realize that damage has been caused to it until after water starts coming in to your home.

Make sure your roof is winter-ready BEFORE a storm hits. Allow ample time for this prior to the season so that anything needing repair can be fixed before winter storms arrive. Inspecting your roof before a storm comes and making necessary repairs can often help to avoid storms from taking their toll on your roof. Clean all your gutters of any debris often, especially prior to a storm. Tarps if you have them offer a temporary fix in case any shingles loosen or blow off, but it is best to get a professional over as quickly as possible in order to address any damage before it worsens or leads to more issues. A professional can help you understand where you might need some preventative maintenance.

After a storm, you may need to arrange to have snow removed from your roof. As little as two feet of packed snow can be enough to cause a roof collapse. So, if it’s going to be too cold for snow to melt in between storms, or if one storm is expected to “dump” a lot more snow on top if what is already there, than that can lead to major roof damage. Reach out to professionals who have the knowledge, experience and proper safety equipment to work on the pitch of your roof and around ice.

Your Gutters

Don’t forget about your gutters! Especially when tending to your roof. You want to ensure that your gutters stay clean and clear all year long but it is most important before any size winter storm hits to ensure that they are ready for it. If ice forms on your gutters the weight can cause them to fall right off of your home. Even without a major amount of snow, any accumulation of sleet or rain in cold temperatures can lead to a build up of ice in your gutters. Clean gutters allow water to easily drain out. As the weight of ice alone can cause damage, it is also for that reason to ensure your gutters are cleared so that additional weight on them is not a concern.

Ice is not the only concern, but ice dams. “Ice Dams” form when heat escapes from your home causing ice to melt along your roof and allowing it to drip to the edges and refreeze. Usually this causes icicles, which as pretty as they are, they are a sign that you’ve got a dangerous ice dam.

The best protection against the formation of ice dams is insulation. Prepare to prevent ice dams by sealing any gaps from light fixtures. That will help to keep warm air from rising into your attic. Also, it is best to insulate the attic itself to prevent heat from escaping out to your roof. Experts suggest keeping the attic temperatures no greater than 5 to 10 degrees warmer than the outside air.

Make certain too that your gutters are pointed away from your home. That way as any ice melts it lessons that chance of water pooling close by to your foundation, or flowing towards the side of your home which can allow water to seep into any cracks.

Tree Branches

Low, or overhanging branches will most likely break during winter storms. While the appearance of snow on branches is pretty, the weight of the snow and ice weighs heavily on the branches below. Heavy, falling tree branches can damage your roof or other parts of your home. Any nearby power lines can also sustain damage if tree branches are not maintained and tumble below as a result of winter storms.

Trim all tree branches that surround your home in order to protect against damage. Be proactive by pruning all dead, broken and weakened branches as soon as they are spotted. Survey trees on your property often to look for broken or weak branches and also to try and determine the health and stability of the tree itself. Entire trees not only branches can come down due to winter storms by high winds or the weight of ice and snow. Trees that are not healthy are more susceptible to come down, becoming a major cause of damage.

In addition to the weight of ice and snow, melting snow as it puddles below ground can weaken tree roots causing trees to fall over. Unfortunately that can happen no matter how healthy a tree is.

Snow Melting

Aside from just being able to cause trees to fall over, as snow melts, it poses a risk of water damage, such as flooding and mold to your home. As snow melts, a foot of snow can turn into an inch or more of water. Mold growth from moisture or flooding can happen quickly! Melting snow getting into your home can cause structural damage, like warping, floor separation and discoloration.

No matter what the cause of winter water damage to your home, at SERVPRO Greensboro North, our dedicated team of professionals are available to effectively evaluate and quickly repair the damage. We can be reached 24/7, 365 days a year at 336-379-1772. Be sure to give us a call in order to assist you.

Winter Storms Can Cause Lots of Damage

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

Snow as it is pretty, can be very damaging to your home

It appears Winter 2018 has begun early here in the Triad as well as throughout most areas of the country. With weeks to go until the official start of winter on December 21^st snow has already fallen and here in the Triad it’s snowed in record breaking, history making amounts. According to the Farmers Almanac North Carolina is just one area that the Almanac says will experience "above-normal" precipitation and the region will have a "wintry chill, wet & white" winter in 2018. So, it seems we’ll have plenty of more snow to come before the first signs of Spring. Plus of course if the Groundhog sees its shadow, we may also be in for a long winter.

It is always best to be prepared for winter storms in advance in order to protect your home, business and your family. In addition to snow accumulation, winter storms can bring along conditions that can affect your home on the inside and outside. When you know what type of damage can be caused by snow storms, it’s easier to find its effects and get them fixed as soon as possible. Even after snowfall, winter storms can bring and cause other challenges. Here are some possible types of Storm Damage from winter storms.

1. Strong winds may loosen roof shingles.

2. Strong winds might also pick up rocks or other small items and throw them against your siding or windows.

3. Snow or ice could sneak inside holes in your foundation, roof, siding etc.

4. If trees, especially large ones are growing close by to your home, tree branches could fall onto your roof during a storm or scrape against your homes siding. If those trees are older or if the melting snow saturates the ground enough, it can also cause trees to fall onto your home.

5. Ice dams may block water from going down gutters, and force water to go under shingles instead. They can also cause your gutters to collapse.

6. Heavy snows can cause your roof to collapse.

There are actions you can take ahead of time to help keep your home more secure during a storm. Check out our blog on How to Protect Your Home from Winter Storms for information on what you can do to prevent Storm Damage.

If a winter storm does leave a mark on your home, we recommend you take action immediately. It is wise to address storm damage issues while they are relatively small in order to prevent them from getting worse in the next storm. Small or big, at SERVPRO Greensboro North we are here for you should your home or office experience storm damage. We are available to assist 24/7 365 days a year. Just give us a call at 336-379-1772

Second Annual Volunteer Fire Department Chili Cook-Off / Health Fair and Fall Festival

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

Everyone had a blast at our Second Annual Volunteer Fire Department Chili Cook-Off / Health Fair and Fall Festival

For the second year in a row SERVPRO Greensboro North hosted its annual Volunteer Fire Department Chili Cook-Off / Health Fair and Fall Festival. In conjunction with Rehobeth United Methodist Church, this years 2018 hosts, our event was on November 3rd.

Our fun filled family event included a chili cook-off between many local volunteer fire departments where SERVPRO provided a significant contribution to the top two winning departments. This years winners were Pinecroft Sedgefield Fire Department and Climax Fire Department. Each winner was presented with a check for $1,000 from our franchise owner Britt Holcomb!

In addition, our event included a Health Fair complete with free flu shots, that were given by the Methodist Congregational Nurses. Blood Pressure Screenings, A1C Screenings and Free Health Assessments were also be provided.

Plus, we had a Fall Festival full of bouncy houses, games and food for families, along with educational activities concerning fire and personal safety for children. One of our local fire departments from Summerfield brought their trailer complete with mock kitchen and bedroom to teach fire safety. We had the Sheriffs department represent as well as some EMT's.

Throughout the festivities, we held a raffle held in order to raise funds towards benefiting fire education for children and the startup of a local food bank through Rehobeth United Methodist Church. Many local businesses participated in donating great items to be raffled off. We had everything from dining, to concert tickets, sporting event tickets and more! A great job by our very own Kathy Noble and Rachel Amelkin on gathering and collecting so many great donations for prizes.

At SERVPRO Greensboro North we love hosting the community and raising money for some great causes! If you missed joining in the festivities this year or last year than be on the lookout for next years event. We hope to see you there!

If you need us at all beforehand under different circumstances such as water damage, storm damage, mold or fire, than please call us. We are available to you 24/7 365 days a year. Just call us at 336-379-1772

Our Certified Technicians go Through Many Training Processes

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification sets standards and certification for inspection,cleaning, and restoration

SERVPRO Industries, Inc., has been established since 1967 and has redefined the mitigation and restoration industry.

All SERVPRO employees go through several different training processes in the following:

•Crew Training

•Fire Restoration

•Water Restoration

•Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination.

At SERVPRO we also train our technicians to be IICRC certified through the IICRC Training Program. IICRC stands for The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification which sets standards and certification for the inspection,cleaning, and restoration industries. An IICRC certification helps to identify the most skilled, highly trained and dedicated technicians and businesses in the field. IICRC trained professionals are able to set themselves apart from others in the industry. Due to training, experience, and comprehensive examinations that set the highest standards in:

•Fire Restoration

•Water Restoration

•Carpet Cleaning

•Upholstery Cleaning

•Applied Structural Drying

SERVPRO is an approved IICRC Training School that offers year-around classes in each of those categories. SERVPRO even has its own Applied Structural Drying Training Facility.

When you choose SERVPRO for your Water Damage, Fire Damage, Mold Remediation, Storm Damage or Cleaning we will make it Like It Never Happened. We can be reached 24/7 in order to assist you. Just give us, SERVPRO Greensboro North, a call at 336-379-1772

Fire at The Sanford Police Department in Sanford NC

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

Restoration at the Sanford Police Department in Sanford, NC

Earlier this year in January 2018, we were called in to assist with clean up and restoration at the Sanford Police Department in Sanford, NC. A fire within the building destroyed many parts of the building. It left debris in some areas and left other areas covered in soot and ash. Our team at SERVPRO Greensboro North went it and restored their facility.

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

If you experience a fire in your workplace or home, than call SERVPRO of Greensboro North at 336-379-1772. We are available to assist you 24/7.

Burlingtons Stratus Vape & Smoke Shop

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Greensboro North restoring Stratus Vape and Smoke Shop in Burlington, NC

Back in June of this year, 2018, The Stratus Vape and Smoke Shop in Burlington, NC experienced a flood. A Hot Water Heater malfunctioned and caused everything from the shop, to office areas, hallways and storage areas to flood. SERVPRO Greensboro North was called in to assist with removing the water, drying up the affected areas and with restoring the shop.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North also services Burlington and we specialize in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you experience water damage or flooding in your business or home, than call us SERVPRO Greensboro North, at 336-379-1772

Why You Should Choose SERVPRO after Water Damage Occurs

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Happens Quickly

Everyone on our team at SERVPRO are trained to clean and restore your home or business after it's incurred damage from a storm, water leak or flooding.

We take many steps when cleaning and restoring your home or business after incurred water damage such as:

- Identify the Source/ Type of Water

- Measure Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis

- Survey the Extent of Damage and Inspect the Premises for Hidden Moisture

- Perform Emergency Water Extraction

- Move and Block furniture and Contents

- Inspect Carpet Pad/Carpet and Provide Service

- Apply Necessary Treatments (Disinfectants/Deodorization)

- Utilize Advanced Drying and Monitoring Equipment

- Dispose of Refuse

All of our technicians are IICRC certified and have extensive knowledge about our services and equipment. At SERVPRO we Make It Like It Never Happened. If you experience water damage call SERVPRO Greensboro North at 336-379-1772

Got Mold? SERVPRO Can Get Rid of It

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

Mold isn’t always visible

Everyone on our team at SERVPRO are trained to clean your home and business to free it from mold and harmful mold spores. At SERVPRO our team will inspect your property looking for any visible signs of mold. Since mold can also hide out of site, our technicians also use technology and equipment specifically used to detect mold and hidden water sources. Once they locate mold, they’ll use procedures in order to contain it and to prevent it from spreading further. If necessary our technicians will isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure in order to keep mold spores from spreading during the cleanup. They will use equipment in order to capture microscopic mold spores out of air while the mold remediation is in process.

The type of mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. At SERVPRO we use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. If necessary we will remove mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting in order to remediate heavy mold growth. If any of your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, and other restorable items are affected by mold we will clean them by using a variety of cleaning techniques. Our technicians are also trained to remove odors and deodorize.

Depending on the level of mold, restoration may involve minor repairs such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet. It may also entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Characteristics of Water Damage

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage can affect your home or business

Characteristics of Water Damage Regardless of the cause of water damage to your home or office, our trained technicians are able to recognize the cause and act in order to resolve it. At SERVPRO Greensboro North, we address the cause of the problem and work closely with insurance companies to help ensure a seamless transition back to normalcy. If your home or business has been affected by water damage, it is essential that you call in professionals like us immediately. Moving water caused by a flood or a burst pipe can spread quickly throughout your home or office, permanently staining things like carpets, upholstery, books and movies. Items such as wooden furniture can swell, with individual components even disintegrating, and unprotected metal surfaces can also become permanently tarnished. For these reason among many others, water should be removed as soon as possible. The longer water sits, the more damage can occur to your home, office and all its contents. In addition, the development of bacteria and the growth of mold can begin to occur. Along with bacteria and mold come unpleasant odors and the risk of increased allergens. SERVPRO Greensboro North can also assist you with mold should it begin to grow or already be growing. However prevention is key!

Precautions and Safety Measures to Take Before and After A Storm Hits

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Storm safety should be taken seriously in order to protect you, your family and your home

As mother is nature is often unpredictable, storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. With so many types of storms, such as tornado, hurricane, blizzard, monsoon etc. it is often that damage to your home may be the result of one. Heavy rains often cause flooding and stronger than normal winds can cause damage to your roof be it from too much rain or downed trees. Having a strategy in place to deal any damage you may incur, will help you to be ready to take necessary steps immediately after the storm.

Safety Precautions

Heavy winds and rain can create many hazards. They can cause your roof to collapse, cause window damage, collapsed interior walls or cause flooding in your in your basement or in other areas of your home. Moisture can also be increased and soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making anyplace and anything the perfect environment for mold to grow. Shut off the main power box to your home if you have flooding. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Watch out for broken glass, exposed nails, other sharp objects and collapsed materials on your property or in your home.

Call in professionals in restoration, like us at SERVPRO Greensboro North to assist. We can be reached 24/7 at 336-379-1772 We will make sure your property is safe to use and be able to restore it.

In case you must entirely vacate your home, make sure that you have a backup as to where you would stay in case damage to your home were to arise.

It is good to have current and updated photos of your belongings and your home prior to any natural disaster. That way in case you do experience damage or loss of items, you can show insurance both your before and after photos. At SERVPRO we help to photograph the storm damage. If it is not determined safe for you to be on site at your home, then it is not recommended that you take any photographs of the damage. We will provide photos to you and your insurance. That will help to ensure that you are fully compensated.

Federal Disaster Assistance May be Available

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Look into whether or not you qualify for Federal Disaster Relief

Federal Disaster Assistance Should be Looked Into

After mother nature comes through with storms such as hurricanes, tornadoes, monsoons, etc., depending on the severity if the storm and the amount of widespread damage it has caused to an area, than Federal Assistance may be available to you. So long as the federal government has declared the area as affected by the storm and labeled your area as a disaster area than that should make you eligible for low-cost loans. These Federal loans can help aid in the cost to help restore your property back to its pre storm condition. You will be required to file documents to receive these loans. Make sure to request all necessary documentation from them if your area is eligible for loans.

When disaster strikes from sudden storms, it can feel overwhelming. SERVPRO Greensboro North is here for you 24/7 in order to assist and to restore your home. Call us at 336-379-1772

SERVPRO Greensboro North Restores the Richard Petty Museum

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Just one of the items damaged in the 2016 fire at the Richard Petty Museum in Randleman, NC

In 2016, a two-alarm fire was reported at the famous Richard Petty Museum in Randleman, NC.

Smoke damage occurred to the “Red Floor” area of the museum — specifically in the “Media Room.” Copies of CDs, tapes, old family pictures, lots of items that are one of a kind are kept in the “Media Room” which is where the smoke was coming from.

Several historical items in the room had to be removed and thankfully most of it was not destroyed. That portion of the building was left though in need of repair. We here at SERVPRO Greensboro North were called in for the job. We restored the “Media Room” to its original condition, removing all fire and smoke damage that had occurred.

If you find yourself in need of restoration due to Fire Damage, Water Damage, Mold, or Storm Damage than contact us, SERVPRO Greensboro North 24/7 at 336-379-1772

Storm Surges

11/22/2018 (Permalink)

Storm Surges are when water rises and rushes ashore

So what is storm surge, how and why does it happen and why should you be wary of it and heed warnings?

Well for starters, storm surge happens when water is pushed onshore by a hurricane.

A storm surge forms as the ocean water is pushed by winds and waves, and is also sucked into the air near the eye of the hurricane by low pressure. AJC.com suggests that you should imagine a bowl of water. Put your hand in the middle of the bowl and cup it. Now slowly push your hand toward the edge of the bowl. Those are the same dynamics as storm surge.

While it can be confused as such, a storm surge is not a wall of water that rushes in onto the shore. It is typically a rise of water which often happens quickly, moving at the same rate as the forward speed of a hurricane.

Surges are very powerful!! Only 1 cubic yard of sea water weighs 1,728 pounds. A 6-inch surge can knock a person down. It can and will take out and destroy things in its path due to either force and/ or a combination of force and pressure from flood water.

Storm surges kill more people in a hurricane than any other components of the storm. It is for this reason alone that it is always encouraged to evacuate from areas along the shore, or from smaller islands where there isn’t much inland area to seek what’ll remain as dry land. The overwhelming majority of deaths which are in part of the 10 deadliest U.S. landfalling hurricanes were the result of storm surge alone.

Get away from storm surges. Your life, your families lives, your pets lives depend on it. It isn’t worth the risk to take your chances and stay behind. Especially when evacuation orders are in place. While yes, meteorologists can predict wrong, it’s often only due to how unpredictable these storms can sometimes be. Safety and evacuation measures should be taken and obeyed though as it’s not recommended to gamble with your life. First responders lives are then also placed directly in jeopardy when having to go in to rescue those who choose to “ride out the storm” by not evacuating.

A surge 1 foot deep can take a car off a road. Getting out early is key because the surge can begin up to 24 hours before the storm makes landfall. According to AJC.com during Hurricane Katrina, people stayed in their homes and died there when the surge filled their homes with water and they could not escape. Also, don’t leave pets at home. Many animals died when people left them in their homes during Hurricane Katrina.

What does a 9-foot, 10 -foot etc storm surge mean?

According to AJC.com It depends on the sea level at the point where the water begins “The storm surge is how high above current sea level the ocean water gets. The number we are most interested in regarding storm surge is how many feet above mean sea level (MSL) inundation will occur. This number is known as the storm tide ... The storm tide is the height of the storm surge above the MSL, corrected for the tide.

“For example, in a location where high tide is 2 feet higher than mean sea level, and low tide is 2 feet lower than mean sea level, a 15-foot storm surge would cause a 17-foot storm tide if the hurricane hit at high tide or a 13-foot storm tide at low tide."

Storm surges are going to cause flooding to your home whether you are in it or not. Again it is best to evacuate and in a timely manner. Once it is deemed safe to return to your home, it is then that SERVPRO is here to assist. We are here to assist not only with flooding due to storm surge or lots of rainfall, but also with storm damage resulting from high winds. Give SERVPRO Greensboro North a call 24/7 and if we are not nearby, we will be able to connect you with a SERVPRO in your direct area.

Wilmington NC after Hurricane Florence

11/22/2018 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Greensboro North team welcome home residents as they return back home to Plantation Village in Wilmington, NC after hurricane Florence

SERVPRO Greensboro North, aided in and assisted in Wilmington, NC after Hurricane Florence. Upon arrival we could barely get into Wilmington due to high waters and major flooding caused by both storm surge and rainfall. After driving in through high floodwaters, one location we assisted with was the Plantation Village Retirement Center. Most residents homes experienced flood damage, as did the offices and common areas. Residents and staff had to be evacuated while work was going on. Ironically they ended up sheltered at a hotel in Greensboro, NC which is the area we operate from and cover regularly.

SERVPRO Greensboro North handled drying up any remaining water. Saving what we could, we tore out walls and tore up floors in other areas where we needed in order to replace with dry and new materials. Mold is always a concern and will grow often immediately after flooding begins to recede or dry up. We took all measures to remove mold so that residents could return to not only a dry area, but to a safe area as well. It was and always is our pleasure to be on hand during trying times and to assist after these disastrous storms.

Many people are still, even now in November, recovering their homes and businesses from recent storms. Remember SERVPRO Greensboro North is always here 24/7 for you to call on for assistance. If we are not in your immediate area, as part of the storm crew we may be sent out to your area. If we are not being sent out to you, we will be certain that we connect you to your local SERVPRO for assistance. Just call us at SERVPRO Greensboro North. 336-379-1772

Hurricane Florence Hit NC

11/22/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Florence Satelite Photo

According to weather.com, Hurricane Florence made landfall in North Carolina as a Category 1 hurricane. The hurricane caused devastating flooding, major storm surge flooding and damaging winds. Florence made landfall near Wrightsville, North Carolina, at 7:15 a.m. EDT Sept. 14 with maximum sustained winds around 90 mph. Florence’s storm surges reached 10 feet above normal levels.

Storm surges are extremely dangerous, more so than hurricane strength winds. More people lose their lives because of flooding from the surge, then from the storm’s winds. Hurricane Florence’s storm surges along with her extreme amount of rain cause deep floodwaters throughout many areas, especially along the NC Coastline. Wilmington, NC is one area that experienced extreme flooding. However inland areas experienced lots of flooding as well due to the slow speed in which the storm moved and to the abundant amount of rainfall that it dropped in all areas over the course of several days.

Florence caused many creeks, rivers, lakes and canals to rise and overflow, including in the triad area of NC. Right here in Greensboro SERVPRO Greensboro North responded to several calls for flooding inside homes due to rising waters or roof damage caused by high winds and rain from the storm.

If your home ever experiences flooding, water damage or mold due to a storm than call us SERVPRO Greensboro North at 336-379-1772 We are able to be reached 24/7 in order to assist you.

Causes and Signs of Mold In Your Home

11/9/2018 (Permalink)

While some mold is visible, most is hidden. Mold can creep out of unexpected places where moisture has built up or where water damage has been.

You may not realize it, but mold could be growing and / or hiding within your home. Knowing what to look for and what can cause mold is very important.

The biggest cause of mold is water damage that’s gone unnoticed, has been left unattended to or has not been cleaned up properly. Being that mold thrives in environments where moisture is present, areas where there’s been water damage are ideal for mold to grow and thrive. Mold can begin to form and show itself within less than 24 hours!

Indoor mold can lead to health problems. Obviously if you see mold, you have mold in your home. Don’t forget though that not all mold is visible as often it is growing or has grown hidden inside your walls or beneath your floor boards. Be aware that even if there is visible mold that may not be the only affected area in your home.

1. Humidity When a home has humid conditions, it means moisture in the air is higher. High humidity can cause condensation and excess water, providing an ample environment and food source for mold spores.

2. Condensation A lot of condensation means that there is a lot of moisture and potentially a mold problem. Mold can grow anywhere where there is condensation build up.

3. Rust Condensation can cause rusting to occur in your home. If you notice rust on pipes you may have a higher moisture level and therefore most likely also a mold problem.

3. Leaks If you have a leak in your home, it can eventually lead to water damage. In addition, it causes those prime, moist conditions mold requires to grow.

4. Warping Materials such as drywall and wood can warp if moisture is present. Warped walls or floors may mean a mold problem is present.

5. Deterioration Moisture issues can lead to paint chipping, wallpaper peeling, and other materials deteriorating. Keep an eye out for deterioration happening in your home.

6. Strange odor Mold tends to often have a musty, moldy odor. If you smell a musty odor in your home, then it’s likely you have mold hiding someplace. The worse the smell the higher the possibility of mold growing in that location.

If you suspect or believe that your house has mold, contact a qualified professional in order to assist. They can asses the situation, locate and determine a mold problem and safely and properly remove it. Attempting to remove the mold without the help of a professional may aggravate the situation as some mold spores may be accidentally missed or caused to be spread about your home further. Give SERVPRO of Greensboro North, Kernersville a call in order to have your mold removed safely and properly. 336-379-1772

Top Causes Of Water Damage In Your Home

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

Maintain your appliances and their water lines in order to help prevent water damage

Residential Water Damage is not uncommon. Knowing what the main causes are is helpful towards preventing any water damage to your home. Here are some top causes of water damage that you should be aware of.

1. Your Toilet – Toilets can run and drip. Once it springs a bad leak it can then damage your floors and your walls. If your toilet is running constantly or dripping, be certain to figure out why before it becomes an even bigger problem.

2. Your Washing Machine- Constant pressure to the supply lines causes your washing machine to fill quickly. Supply lines can wear out and rupture, be it if they are rubber or PVC lines. If this happens, your laundry room will flood with water. It is best to check your lines and replace old ones with braided stainless steel. By replacing your lines before they wear out or rupture can help avoid flooding.

3. Your Air Conditioner- It is easy for your air conditioners draining system to give out on you which can result in wet ceilings and soggy insulation. Air Conditioners pull humidity from the air and condense that moisture into the unit’s overflow pan. The water then travels from the pan outside through the condensation line. If the pan gets damaged or the line gets clogged, the drainage system will quit working.

4. Sump Pump – If your sump pump stops working, you will need to deal with water removal, must dry everything and will need to fend off and fight mold and mildew. Heavy rains or appliance failure can cause your sump pump to stop working. Be sure to have your sump pump checked and emptied out regularly in an attempt to avoid this from happening.

5. Garbage Disposal- As the garbage disposal gets older, it will spring leaks and flood cabinets with dirty water. Often food and dirt particles are also mixed in with this dirty water.

6. Water Heater- Older units can develop leaks in the bottom of the tank and often then flood entire basements or first floors. On newer units you may also experience a faulty water outlet or a faulty drain valve. Make certain to check your water heaters often.

7. Your Dish Washer- There are usually two water lines connected to your dishwasher. One that leads to the kitchen sink supply faucet and one that leads to the sink drain or to your garbage disposal. A busted hose or leak in the line are two of the most common ways your dishwasher can create water damage. Be sure to check your lines throughout the year.

Failure to maintain your appliances can cause them to work less efficiently and even break down, resulting in water leaks and related damage. If you experience any water damage, it’s always best to call in the professionals like us at SERVPRO Greensboro North, Burlington and Kernersville. We can ensure that your water damage is cleaned up properly so that further issues such as mold do not become an issue because of water damage in your home. 336-379-1772

Cooler Weather Means an Increase in House Fires

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Never leave cooking food unattended

Fall and Winter often bring an increase in the amount of people who have lost their homes, and sometimes their lives, due to house fires. Here are a few reasons why house fires typically happen more during the colder months:

More Time Spent Indoors

Colder weather means that most people find themselves wanting to make like a bear and hibernate. People are much more inclined to spend a lot more time at home curled up under a blanket with a cup of tea, or hot cocoa, than they are outside socializing. Homeowners that are normally outside during the warmer months find themselves, their kids, and their pets spending days on end staying completely indoors. All of this time indoors means that the family is using more electricity and heat sources than usual which greatly increase the chances for a house fire.

Additional Heating Methods

Most people use multiple heating sources during the winter on top of their normal furnace usage. Space heaters and fireplaces are all used to help create extra warmth or beautiful ambiance during the cold seasons. Knowing how to properly use a space heater can potentially avoid it from causing a fire. It is best to make sure you are not placing it near anything that could catch on fire, to not leave it too close to any fabrics or your bed and not to leave it unattended. When purchasing a space heater try to look for and purchase one with safety features that’ll turn off by itself if knocked over or if it becomes too hot.It is especially important in keeping your home safe this winter. Fireplaces should always be watched and attended to and not left alone to burn. It is common for sparks and burning wood to fly out from the flames, even around some fireplace screens. These can easily catch carpet and nearby flammables on fire.

Cooking

Most fires that happen inside homes during the winter are ignited from cooking. The colder weather forces most of us to cook indoors instead of using the outdoor grill. All of the extra meals, especially large holiday ones, increase the chances of a house fire. Making sure someone is always present and paying attention while a meal is cooking is key to keeping your home safe.

If your home does experience a fire, the professionals at SERVPRO Greensboro North, Burlington and Kernersville are here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 336-379-1772.

Why You Should Call In A Fire Damage Expert

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO our certified professionals are here to clean up your fire damage

Always Call an Expert

A fire has swept through part of your home and you are now at a loss in more ways than one. It can be very overwhelming, stressful and devastating when there is damage to your home. It is always tempting to get in there to recover items and to want to start the cleanup process immediately. However, if you’re wondering what to do after a fire, the best course of action is to hire a certified professional to provide expert knowledge and service. The situation requires specialized tools and knowledge that only a certified professional like those at SERVPRO can provide.

A trusted certified professional will offer an after-fire checklist that will help speed along the fire and smoke damage cleanup process. Consulting a professional will help you restore your property back to like-new condition as quickly as possible. At SERVPRO our mission is to make it like IT NEVER HAPPENED.

It’s important to remember that as anxious as you are to recover items and have the cleanup process started, that you should never ever reenter a home until it has been cleared by the fire department or other local officials. This is for your safety, your health and the safety of others.

SERVPRO Greensboro North, Burlington and Kernersville are here for you. We are available 24/7 at 336-379-1772. If you experience a fire please call us to help. We will walk you through the process and then once the home has been cleared by the fire department or other local officials, we will get in there to restore it like new.

What You Can Do To Help Prevent Water Damage This Season

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Bathtubs can easily overflow, especially if left unattended with the water running.

We should always be conscious of the water we use and how it can actually end up causing damage. If we’re not careful we can be responsible for flooding or additional water damage in our homes. It is good to know things you can do to try and prevent water damage and what to look out for.

Lookout for Water Pipes

It’s getting close to that time of year where pipes can easily freeze. Make sure you don’t have any cracks in your piping or any slow drips. Cracks in your pipes often can result in not only leaks but when pipes freeze can increase the chance of your pipes bursting.

Long Showers

Many of us love long hot showers on these cold brisk weather days. Especially in the mornings to help warm us up. However, excess use of water can lead to flooding and pooling, which if you’re not careful, can cause water damage. The stagnant water and excessive moisture in your shower is something you should closely monitor so that it does not lead to mold growth and damage. Making certain also that your shower curtain is closed completely and that no water is spraying out is also important as if you spray too much water out of the shower and onto your floor it will seep through below your flooring. If you have shower doors instead of a curtain, make certain that they too close properly and that they are not leaking water out during your shower. If a hot bath is your preference, then watch how high you fill it up! You do not want to walk away and allow for your tub to overflow. You also do not want to fill it so high that when you get into the tub and sink down you cause water to overflow onto the floor.

Your Drains

It is good to make sure that your drains are working properly. Be it in your bathtub, shower, kitchen or bathroom sink, if a drain is not draining properly it can lead to water pooling and sometimes flowing over out of the sink, tub, etc. You should clean out your drains often as hair, debris, food pieces etc can easily clog them.

Toilets

Be careful to not clog your toilets. While sometimes it is unavoidable, always make sure to have a plunger available in case it should be needed. If you know something has clogged your toilet, be it paper or something a child placed it in and flushed, than do not keep flushing it. Until you are sure the clog has been dealt with properly, flushing can cause your toilet to overflow. Should that happen, do your best to clean up any water immediately.

Plants and Christmas Trees

It’s almost Christmas! Lots of us just love freshly cut Christmas Trees. However, those trees of course require us to water them or to keep them in water. Make sure you’re keeping your house plants, any flowers watered and / or fed with what they need in order to keep them growing. Make sure to keep that Christmas Tree from drying out as it can otherwise go from a potential water problem, to a fire hazard. However, be sure to monitor how much water isn’t being absorbed by the soil, plants, or the Christmas Tree. Excess water can and often will seep through crevices and cause damage to your home’s foundation, create sinkholes and more.

Should you encounter any sort of water damage at your home than SERVPRO Greensboro North, Burlington and Kernersville, is here for you! We are open 24/7 and can be reached at 336-379-1772. To receive assistance with water, fire or storm damage, give us a call.

Mold Impacts Your Health

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Mold hides in many places

Exposure to mold can be detrimental to our health. It can cause problems that are not always reversible. Often mold is hidden from us. Either it’s been painted over or is hiding in the attic, within your walls, or within the vents and ducts. It is a good idea if you suspect mold as the cause to any of your health problems, to call in the professionals at SERVPRO to detect if there is mold in your home.

Ignoring the possibility of mold can be even worse for your health in the long run. If you suspect mold in your home or office, than call us at SERVPRO Greensboro North, Kernersville Burlington. We are here to help detect and remove mold properly. 336-379-1772

Crucial 48 Hours After A Fire

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Do not enter but act quickly

A fire unfortunately is going to not only leave fire damage, but in many cases damage also is caused by the method, or methods in which the fire is extinguished. Homeowners are often left in anguish. Fortunately not all fires leave homes a total loss. After a fire has been extinguished it is best to not risk further damage to your home, its belongings, or damage to yourself and family by attempting to clean up damage by yourself. SERVPRO is here to come in and make it “Like it never even happened.”

The first 48 hours after fire damage is crucial time as it can make a difference between being able to restore versus having to replace your property and belongings. Fire damage includes, smoke and soot which needs to be tended to properly to ensure that any belongings that can be salvaged and restored are. Precious memories can be recovered and brought back to original condition whenever possible.

Do not go back into the house out of curiosity or for any items think you can’t bear to lose. The most valuable thing is your life and the lives of everyone else who resides in the home. Everything else is replaceable. Don’t go back in because it can be very dangerous. Until the entire structure of your home is deemed safe to enter than do not return.

The sooner professionals like SERVPRO Greensboro North are brought in, the better. Should you experience fire damage, we are here to help. Please contact us 24/7 at 336-379-1772

Fight Fire With An Extinguisher

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Aim correctly towards the base of the fire

In case of Fire, do you know how to properly use a Fire Extinguisher? How about which to buy? It is always best to be prepared to fight a fire if it is possible, small enough and controlled enough to do so. If a fire is already getting out of control, or your extinguisher is not handy or blocked by the fire than for your own safety get outside and do not try to extinguish.

How to use a fire extinguisher:

Do you know what PASS stands for? It is something everyone in your home and business should know in order to be able to best try to extinguish a fire. PASS refers to how to use a fire extinguisher properly.

P- Pull the pin out

A- Aim the nozzle towards the bottom and base of the fire

S-Slowly squeeze the lever on the extinguisher

S-Sweep the extinguisher by moving the spray side to side over the bottom and base of the fire

If you are not using a fire extinguisher properly, you may avoid extinguishing a fire that otherwise you would have been able to put out.

Which type(s) to choose:

It is important if you are the one purchasing an extinguisher, to make sure that you have the right fire extinguishers, plural, in your home and business. That’s right. There are FOUR different classes of fire extinguishers. Knowing what each class may help to extinguish will help you to best choose the right one(s) to protect your home or business.

Class A- Will put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as wood and paper.

Class B- Are for use on flammable liquids like grease, oil and gasoline.

Class C- Suitable for use only on electrically energized fires.

Class D- Are designed for use on flammable metals only.

There are multipurpose fire extinguishers available which can therefore be used on different types of fires. These multipurpose extinguishers will be labeled with more than one class. For example, it may say A-B, or B-C, or

A-B-C on it.

Make sure that you are getting the correct one that could worst best for the type of fires you might experience.

Safety first:

Larger fire extinguisher are not better if you, your family or colleagues will not be able to lift it. One must be able to lift and hold a fire extinguisher while in use. It is not possible to use one properly if it is too heavy for the person using it.

Where to keep them:

Think about where you will need them. The kitchen or garage are two rooms to definitely store fire extinguishers in as they are two of the most likely locations where a fire may start. You should also always make sure to have at least one fire extinguisher on every level of your home. The larger your home or business, the more fire extinguishers you should have throughout and on each level.

Make sure that fire extinguishers are labeled, visible and easily accessible to everyone. Be certain to ensure that each family member or colleague knows where they all are kept throughout your home or office.

Don’t forget about your car! It is just as important to keep the right fire extinguisher in your car as it is in your home and business.

Practice, practice, practice:

It is a good idea to ensure that every family member or colleague knows how to operate a fire extinguisher. If you need assistance contact your local Fire Department. They would be happy to demonstrate for you on how to properly use a fire extinguisher. They will also allow for you, your family or colleagues to try to extinguish a fire by using an extinguisher in front of them. Often, they will schedule to come to you, but you can also go to them.

By making sure to purchase and have the right fire extinguisher(s) on hand where you may need them, ensures that you may be able to protect your home, car or business in case of a fire. Most importantly you’d also be protecting your family, colleagues and yourself.

If your home or business experiences fire damage SERVPRO Greensboro North, Burlington, Kernersville is here for you. Just give us a call at 336-379-1772.

Fall Tips To Help Protect Your Home Against Water Damage

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Protect your home this fall

Many of us are looking forward to fall. To the cooler temperatures, the fire pits, hot cider, apple picking, pumpkin everything, sweaters and boots. To the beautiful colored leaves that eventually crisp beneath our feet. What about those leaves though can pose a hazard our homes? What can we do to protect our homes and to ensure that our homes are ready for the leaves, the cooler temperatures and the approach of winter? Here are some maintenance tips for getting your home into top shape this fall in order to avoid water damage.

Clean out your gutters:

Believe it or not while it’s assumed leaves only build up in your gutters during the fall, during the summer you can often have build up as well. . According to Energy.gov, clogged gutters can form ice dams in the colder months which will prevent your drain systems from working properly. Leaks can then happen within the home causing all sorts of issues.

If water builds up and pools in your gutters, you can also experience damage to your roof and siding. By simply cleaning out your gutters at the start, middle and at the end of fall, you can often prevent gutters from clogging.

Test your downspouts:

Once you have cleared out your gutters, be sure to then test your downspouts. That way you can make certain that everything is draining properly. Be sure to test your downspouts each and every time you finish cleaning out your gutters. Be certain that your downspout is not draining directly into or on top of any flower beds. If the garden floods, it can leak water into your house. It is an important finishing step to make sure that you are doing your best to prevent any issues.

Landscaping:

While in can be tedious, you’ll want to trim your trees, cut your flowers and bushes so that they are pointing away from your house. Plants can often gather water inside petals, or on top of petals which can then sneak down into any cracks you might have in your foundation. Like plants, water can build up on some tree leaves, prior to any leaves falling. Water can than leak down and buildup further into your gutters or pool onto your roof.

Make any necessary repairs:

It is good to take a walk and enjoy the cool brisk air. It is good not only for the exercise, but for your home. Walk your property! Take a walk around often during the season and look for signs of damage to your roof, windows, siding and foundation. It is best that if anything does need repair that you schedule for it to be taken care of before the temperatures drop further and winter begins.

Check your pipes:

Pipes are often overlooked. Get them checked and keep them monitored for any signs of cracking or aging. Aging pipes often become leaking pipes. By catching a leak early, you’ll have a lower chance of water damage in the future.

Seal any gaps you see:

With the holidays approaching, many of us will be hosting guests in our homes. However not all guests are invited. Mice for instance only need a tiny gap, as small even as the tip of a pencil, in order to be able to sneak into your home. They too are preparing for the winter and their main goal is to stay warm. Once inside they will raid your pantry, and also make your home their home inviting their own family and friends inside.

By filling in small holes and by covering any large gaps properly and securely, you can often prevent mice from coming into your home.

Test your sump pump:

Whether you have a basement or not, it is important to get your sump pump checked and tested each year. If you cannot recall when it was last tested than definitely schedule an appointment for it to be looked at right away. You can then mark your future calendars to have it checked again that same time each year.

By doing these simple maintenance tips you can possibly prevent water damage to your home. If an emergency does arise, SERVPRO of Greensboro North, Burlington and Kernersville is here to help. Our team is highly trained in the property damage restoration of both residential and commercial properties after a fire, smoke or water damage event.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 336-379-1772

President Approves Federal Funding for Guilford & Rockingham Counties

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

Just a small example of damage.

The President has officially approved Governor Roy Cooper's request for a federal disaster declaration to help tornado victims in Guilford and Rockingham counties.

The decision came on Tuesday, April 15. All storm victims will be able to apply for low-interest federal loans or grants to help them repair their homes and businesses.
Families and business owners can now apply for financial help to repair and rebuild.
The governor declared a state of emergency for Guilford and Rockingham counties on April 20 and sent the federal disaster declaration request to the president on April 25.

He reached out to local officials today to share the good news that the request for federal help has been granted.

Storm survivors are encouraged to register with FEMA online or via phone as soon as possible, in one of the following ways:

Online at DisasterAssistance.gov

Download the FEMA Mobile App and register online

Phone 800-621-3362 (FEMA). Applicants who use 711 or Video Relay Service may also call 800-621-3362. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585

The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week

Multilingual operators are available

CONTACT SERVPRO of Greensboro North for all your storm repair needs.

Tips For Avoiding Spring Mold

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

This crawlspace is the result of unresolved problems.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North has seen a lot of mold begin to form this time of the year. Here are some things that we have learned.

The last thing most people want to find in their home is mold. Many people find mold in their home and have to go through mold remediation, however there are some things you can do to help prevent mold from growing in your home.

Mold Prevention Tips

Keep humidity levels low.
Make sure your home has good ventilation.
Make sure you don't have any leaks in your home.
If you experience water damage, dry out your home as soon as possible.
Clean bathroom areas with mold killing products.

What to Do if You Find Mold in Your Home

Do not touch the mold.
Stay out of the room where you found the mold.
Turn off your HVAC unit.
Get your house tested to make sure you actually have mold.
If you do have mold, call SERVPRO of Greensboro North to complete your mold remediation!

Mold can spread quickly throughout your home in as little as 48 hours. If you suspect that your business or home has a mold problem, call us at 336-379-1772 to inspect your home and complete mold remediation! We are highly trained mold remediation specialists and use advanced mold remediation techniques and equipment to get your home mold free as soon as possible.

Interview Regarding Mold & Your Home

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

Don't use bleach..Call SERVPRO

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is a full service restoration company specializing in fire, water, mold and biohazard remediation. We are also a general contractor so we can put everything back together after the demolition, cleaning and drying is completed. SERVPRO of Greensboro North is also a Large Loss Response Team designee. Of over 1,600 franchises, we are one of only a handful LLRTs. As an LLRT we travel anywhere in the US to help with acute damage, usually from hurricanes and flooding. We are also the trainership for Central NC. New franchise owners and there staff get their training from us as well as support with all areas of their business to ensure success.

A lot of times mold can't easily be seen or hasn't been found yet. Can you briefly talk about some of the different places or ways homes can have "unseen" mold damage?

When water spills it travels to the lowest point it can find and wicks into porous material like wood or sheetrock. Just because you can't see it doesn't mean it isn't there. And when "it's there" it continues to do damage. It will go behind walls, absorb into insulation, into floor vents, into and under subflooring and with enough volume, into crawl spaces. Untreated it can fuel mold growth in all these areas within 72 hours.

What are some of the dangers of not taking care of mold damage properly?

Small issues can become huge problems when mold is left untreated. With proper conditions it will continue to grow and continue to destroy porous surfaces?this includes wood framing, drywall, furniture.

If water spills into an HVAC vent and isn't properly dried, the likelihood of mold is high. Once in that vent, mold can be circulated throughout the system and throughout the house. That's a big problem we see often.

Mold is an allergen and affects people differently. It can cause sore throats, chronic coughing and other ailments. Exposure over time can create more serious respiratory ailments with children and the elderly being the most at risk.

Are there any specific circumstances when a homeowner should always check for mold growth?

We recommend that people go into their crawl space every 6 months just to look and see. The same rule applies to HVAC units and water heaters.
Any time there is a significant water spill of just a few gallons or more, a professional should be consulted. Most of the mold issues we see are from people trying to save a dollar by doing things themselves. What they often don't realize is that water damage is often covered by homeowners' insurance. Mold from improper drying is not. Even if the damage doesn't exceed the policy's deductible, a pro needs to clean it up. Cleaning up a small water damage is always less expensive than the thousands of dollars to clean mold.

Do you have any advice for what homeowners should do after a flood or leak in their house, before a professional mold reconstruction/remediation company arrives?

Flood water is dangerous and should be considered contaminated. Stay out and call a pro.
PRIOR to a leak, learn how to turn off water to sinks and toilets as well as main shut-offs. Train your children/parents on how to do this.

After a leak?turn off the source of the water. That might involve a plumber. Use towels to absorb as much water as possible. But, do not leave wet towels on hardwood. As the towels absorb, put them in the dryer or spin the excess water out in the washer and then dry them. Replace them with dry towels. Pay close attention to floor vents and do what you can to keep the water out of those vents so that it won't damage your HVAC system.

What's the best way for people to contact you and your company?

We are here to help and to be a value add to our community. We will provide advice and coaching all day long in an attempt to help folks with manageable situations so that they don't have to incur a bill or file a claim. We can be reached 24/7 at 336-379-1772. Our phones are answered by live people 24 hours. If you don't get a live person, hang up and call back.

May Flowers Come From Aprils Showers; You Ready?

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greensboro North (336) 379-1772

April showers bring the May flowers.
Are you SERVPRO ready?

While spring is a beautiful time of year, April showers can create flood conditions faster than you may realize. Knowing the difference between a flood warning and flood watch is important. A Flash Flood Watch, means there is possible flooding in the Greensboro area. A Flash Flood Warning, means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in the Greensboro area.

Preparing Your Family for a Flood

Your family will be better prepared to withstand a flood if you have the following items available, packed and ready to go in case you need to evacuate your home.

3 day supply of water, 1 gallon per person per day 3 day supply of non-perishable food items Flashlights, extra batteries and multi-purpose tools A first aid kit and a extra medications “ Sanitation and person hygiene items Extra pet supplies, food, ID and vet records. Extra clothing, blankets, sturdy shoes and rain gear Sunscreen and bug repellent - Emergency contact information and copies of important person documents. A camera to take photos of flood damage. Extra charges for electronic devices.

Greensboro Red Cross Emergency Number - (336) 333-2111

Greensboro Red Cross Location - 1501 Yanceyville Street Greensboro, NC 27415

Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration What to do after a Flood or Water Damage

Floods and water damage often occur with little warning and can be devastating to homes, business and entire communities. Taking immediate action after a disaster is vital. Communicating with your insurance company and calling upon the emergency response restoration experts at SERVPRO will help you move forward faster. Taking pictures, collecting items, extracting water and starting the dry-out™ process can be helpful, but safety must come first. If your home or business is not sturdy, do not go in. Leave that to us!

Regardless of the storm, flood or water damage, SERVPRO of Greensboro North is here to help! Our team of highly trained water damage specialists is faster in any disaster. And with a national network of over 1,650 SERVPRO Franchises across the country, we have the resources to handle any storm or disaster.

Did you know?

50% of businesses may never reopen after suffering a disaster. Your friends at SERVPRO are the only restoration team to offer everything you need to best prepare your business for disaster at the palm of your hand. We do this with our FREE the Emergency Ready Profile app, also known as an ERP. The ERP app stores your business™ emergency contacts and your business venders (HVAC service, plumbers, emergency restoration company, etc.).

Click here to learn more - https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp

What to Do After a Flood or Water Damage

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

What NOT to Do After a Flood or Water Damage

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

Serving Our Community In Many Ways

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

Making A Difference

Here at SERVPRO of Greensboro North we love to give back to our community, and such was the case recently when our technicians Korey and Herbert volunteered their time cleaning a local domestic violence shelter. Â The brand new kitchen, donated by a local contractor, and the deep cleaning that our guys did definitely put a smile on the residents faces.

If you or someone you know needs to find a domestic violence shelter, there are over 105 domestic violence organizations in North Carolina that provide services at some level. domestic shelters.org is a great resource in locating one if you are in need.

We hope that in giving our time to help clean this newly renovated space, we can help give those affected a safe space where they can be out of the former situations that they were in and move on towards a brighter future.

SERVPRO Makes HGTV Appearance

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

Our Greensboro SERVPRO family was fortunate enough to be part of the filming of an episode of HGTVs Love it or List it. Our SERVPRO debut on the TV screen aired this past Monday, September 21st to kick off the fall season. It was an exciting opportunity for our team to be part of this popular TV show and help out the homeowners.

On this episode of Love it or List it, we met a local couple who was having a hard time deciding whether to renovate their home to be more suited for their family of four or to list it and buy something different. So they decide to do both: renovate their house to deal with some of the pesky inconveniences and look at other houses that might meet their needs. At the end of the show they make the ultimate decision to either stick with their newly renovated home (Love it) or put it on the market and buy one of the homes they have seen (List it).

As is common with home renovations, our couple found that the water damage they thought they had taken care of in their basement on their own was returning to haunt them. SERVPRO of Greensboro North to the rescue!

Basements can be a conundrum of dampness and moisture. Did you know that even if a surface feels dry to the touch, it may still be retaining water and thus transforming into mold later on? We have the equipment needed to makes sure water-damaged surfaces are truly dry and treated to eliminate the risk of mold spore growth.

Just like we would in your home, we made sure our TV couples leaky basement was dry, sealed and like the water damage as if it never even happened. After our team, and some other talented contractors and designers were done with this couples home, they decided they loved it too much to let it go.We are sure that their newly dry and transformed basement must have played a part in making this difficult decision.

Even if you are the star of an HGTV show, we can be your go-to for dealing with those idiosyncrasies of home or business ownership and our ever-changing North Carolina weather. Whether it is water, smoke, wind, fire or mold damage we are your clean up and drying specialists. Do you want the air filtering through your ducts to be as crisp and clear as these fall days? We can clean your ducts and make that a reality in the air circulating through your system. And we are ready and equipped for anything Mother Nature may throw at us this fall and winter. So make us your go to for your home or business needs and we will make sure that you love the results when we are done!

Tips To Think About 2018

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greensboro North wants to remind you of some helpful tips to help insure a safe and happy 2018.

All smoke detectors have a manufacturing date on them. If that date over 10 years old, replace it! Also if your home has gas or oil heat it is a good idea to invest in a carbon monoxide detector.
Keep a prepacked bag handy with some cash, changes of clothes, medications, copies of important documents, etc.
Have your family practice fire drills to make sure everyone knows how to escape, what to do and where to meet should a fire occur.
Vacation soon? If you are travelling and will be away for several days, please be sure to turn off the water so you do not come home to any surprises.
If you are using rubber hoses for the water supply to your washing machine, they need to be replaced every 5 years. Consider using steel braided hoses as they are much more durable than rubber ones.
Periodically check the water supply lines on ice makers and dish washers for signs of wear and replace when needed.
Keep a properly rated fire extinguisher in your kitchen. Does everyone know where it is located and how to use.
Make sure you know where the critical shutoffs are in your home for main power, water and gas if applicable.

Hope that helps!! Contact SERVPRO of Greensboro North for any emergency needs.

Water Emergencies In Greensboro

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Greensboro North arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 386-379-1772

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

About SERVPRO of Greensboro North

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

SERVPRO Night at Grasshoppers Game

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greensboro North, Burlington, and Kernersville had a great time hosting several local insurance agents and their families at the Greensboro Grasshoppers game! The weather, attendance, and food was perfect. Unfortunately, the Grasshoppers came up short.

We at SERVPRO of Greensboro North, Burlington and Kernersville are so fortunate to have such a great group of local agents that we work with. This game was a great opportunity for us to get to know some of our agents on a more personal level, get to meet each others families, and get to watch a great game, eat some fantastic ballpark food, have a cold beverage, and cheer our local team onto victory!

Thank you again to everyone who made the 2018 SERVPRO of Greensboro North baseball night a success.

Soot, Smoke, Fire Restoration & Clean-Up

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – 386-379-1772

Restoring your Greensboro Commercial Property after Water Damage

6/27/2016 (Permalink)

Crew vehicles

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

About SERVPRO of Greensboro North

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

Meet our crew

SERVPRO night at the Grasshoppers game!

6/24/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees at the ballpark!

SERVPRO of Greensboro North, Burlington, and Kernersville had a great time hosting several local insurance agents and their families at the Greensboro Grasshoppers game! With storms all around, we lucked out and the game went on without a hitch! The game went into the 11th inning, with the Grasshoppers beating the Hickory Crawdads, 8 runs to 5 runs.

We look forward to many more fun events in the future!!

SERVPRO and the PTAA help fight hunger together!

6/14/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees give back!

SERVPRO is helping to combat hunger in our community by collecting canned goods and non-perishables through August 31st.

By partnering with the Piedmont Triad Apartment Association and the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina, we can help fight hunger right here where we live.

Second Harvest Food Bank says:

"When people do not have access to enough food to power them through their days, the costs are borne by us all. Hungry children cannot learn. Hungry adults cannot be productive. Hungry communities cannot grow and flourish.

Together, we can feed hope and feed our community. Across Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC’s 18-county service area, 1 in 6 people struggles with food insecurity. More than 1 in every 4 children lives at risk of hunger and many seniors are facing choices no one should have to make, including whether to buy food or critical medicines.

With our network of more than 400 partner food assistance programs and supporters like you, Second Harvest Food Bank provides food to help meet urgent nutritional needs and works to put an end to hunger through education, outreach and advocacy. Together, we are a lifeline for more than 300,000 neighbors in need, one third of which are children. "

Stop by our office 8am-5pm Monday-Friday with your non-perisables and help us help those in need!

Come see us at:

2902 Manufacturers Road

Greensboro NC 27406

When Storms or Floods Hit Greensboro, SERVPRO is Ready!

5/23/2016 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 in Greensboro and surrounding areas!

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

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

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

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today at (336) 379-1772.

SERVPRO employees volunteer time at local shelter

4/29/2016 (Permalink)

Korey and Herbert volunteer time

Here at SERVPRO we love to give back to our community, and such was the case recently when our technicians Korey and Herbert volunteered their time cleaning a local domestic violence shelter. The brand new kitchen, donated by a local contractor, and the deep cleaning that our guys did definitely put a smile on the residents faces.

If you or someone you know needs to find a domestic violence shelter, there are over 105 domestic violence organizations in North Carolina that provide services at some level. domesticshelters.org is a great resource in locating one if you are in need.

Preparing your home and business for Winter Weather

1/20/2016 (Permalink)

The weather man is calling for some winter weather this week in the triad so here our a few of our tips for how to keep your home and business disaster free.

• Keep cabinets in your kitchen and bathroom open to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.

• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.

• Consider installing specific products to insulate water pipes, such as “pipe sleeves” or just use a dark colored sock for outside spigots.

• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to “off”. Then make sure the outdoor faucet is open to help it drain completely while the inner valve is shut off.

• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Allowing debris to accumulate could cause damming effects on gutters, leading to roof and water damage.

• If you are traveling, leave your furnace set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

•Inspect property and pay specific attention to downed tree limbs and branches. Walkways and parking lots should be inspected for proper drainage. potential slippery or hazardous areas corrected with mats or non-slip surfaces.

•Preform or have a professional preform proper maintenance on your furnace.

•Contact SERVPRO about having an Emergency Ready Plan done for your business to ensure you are ready for any type of disaster.

•Contact SERVPRO of Greensboro North, Burlington and Kernersville at (336) 379-1772 for help when winter weather strikes.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North on HGTV's Love it or List it

9/25/2015 (Permalink)

Our fearless leader, Britt Holcomb on prime time TV!

This summer our Greensboro SERVPRO family was fortunate enough to be part of the filming of an episode of HGTV’s Love it or List it. Our SERVPRO debut on the TV screen aired this past Monday, September 21st to kick off the fall season. It was an exciting opportunity for our team to be part of this popular TV show and help out the homeowners.

Just like we would in your home, we made sure our TV couple’s leaky basement was dry, sealed and like the water damage “never even happened”. After our team, and some other talented contractors and designers were done with this couple’s home, they decided they loved it too much to let it go. We are sure that their newly dry and transformed basement must have played a part in making this difficult decision.

Even if you aren’t the star of an HGTV show, we can be your go-to for dealing with those idiosyncrasies of home or business ownership and our ever-changing North Carolina weather. Whether it is water, smoke, wind, fire or mold damage we are your clean up and drying specialists. Do you want the air filtering through your ducts to be as crisp and clear as these fall days? We can clean your ducts and make that a reality in the air circulating through your system. And we are ready and equipped for anything Mother Nature may throw at us this fall and winter. So make us your go to for your home or business needs and we will make sure that you love the results when we are done!

"April Showers Bring May Flowers." Are you SERVPRO ready?

4/15/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greensboro North (336) 379-1772

“April showers bring the May flowers.”
Are you SERVPRO ready?

While spring is a beautiful time of year, April showers can create flood conditions faster than you may realize. Knowing the difference between a flood warning and flood watch is important. A “Flash Flood Watch,” means there is possible flooding in the Greensboro area. A “Flash Flood Warning,” means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in the Greensboro area.

Preparing Your Family for a Flood

Your family will be better prepared to withstand a flood if you have the following items available, packed and ready to go in case you need to evacuate your home.

3 day supply of water, 1 gallon per person per day – 3 day supply of non-perishable food items – Flashlights, extra batteries and multi-purpose tools – A first aid kit and a extra medications – Sanitation and person hygiene items – Extra pet supplies, food, ID and vet records – Extra clothing, blankets, sturdy shoes and rain gear – Sunscreen and bug repellant - Emergency contact information and copies of important person documents – A camera to take photos of flood damage – Extra charges for electronic devices.

Greensboro Red Cross Emergency Number - (336) 333-2111

Greensboro Red Cross Location - 1501 Yanceyville Street Greensboro, NC 27415

Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration – What to do after a Flood or Water Damage

Floods and water damage often occur with little warning and can be devastating to homes, business and entire communities. Taking immediate action after a disaster is vital. Communicating with your insurance company and calling upon the emergency response restoration experts at SERVPRO will help you move forward faster. Taking pictures, collecting items, extracting water and starting the ‘dry-out’ process can be helpful, but safety must come first. If your home or business is not sturdy, do not go in. Leave that to us!

Regardless of the storm, flood or water damage, SERVPRO of Greensboro North is here to help! Our team of highly trained water damage specialists is faster in any disaster. And with a national network of over 1,650 SERVPRO Franchises across the country, we have the resources to handle any storm or disaster.

Did you know?

50% of businesses may never reopen after suffering a disaster. Your friends at SERVPRO are the only restoration team to offer everything you need to best prepare your business for disaster at the palm of your hand. We do this with our FREE the Emergency Ready Profile app, also known as an ERP. The ERP app stores your business’s emergency contacts and your business’s venders (HVAC service, plumbers, emergency restoration company, etc.).

Click here to learn more - https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp

What to Do After a Flood or Water Damage

Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.

Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.

Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.

Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.

Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.

Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.

Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT to Do After a Flood or Water Damage

Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.

Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.

Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.

Don't use television or other household appliances.

Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Interview with North Carolina Homes online

9/26/2014 (Permalink)

Check out our interview with North Carolina Homes recently regarding mold: http://www.northcarolinahomes.com/articles/five-expert-tips-on-dealing-with-mold-damage-servpro

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (336) 379-1772

Archived Blog Posts

Snowmen, Snowangels, Snowstorms… We’re Snowverloaded!

What is Greensboro’s Risk for Wildfires?

One Weird Tip to Save your Life from a Fire! (It’s only $15!)

Your Business may be Booming, but are you Prepared for the Worst?

What to do after a House Fire?

Snow is Coming; is your Roof Secure?

What is my Risk for Lightning Damage?

When it Comes to Mold, it’s Better to Prevent than Cleanup

Two weeks until Hurricane Season Ends!

When is First Frost in Greensboro?

How to Clean Carpets after a Flood

What Services does SERVPRO Offer?

Best Cleaning Service in Greensboro? What is “Restoration?”

What is your "Social Vulnerability" for Natural Disaster Damage?

How to Prevent Disasters in your Business

How Fast is SERVPRO?

Don’t try to Sell a Dirty Home!

When does Hurricane Season End?

SERVPRO Understands Emergencies need a Rapid Response

What Flood Zone am I In?

4 Things To Do If Your Home Floods

Steps to Help Prevent Trees from Falling on Your Home?

5 Common Causes of Fires In The Workplace

What Are The Main Causes of Restaurant Fires?

Rising Numbers of COVID-19

What To Do If Your Hotel Catches Fire?

What’s Your Ideal Room Temperature?

Is My Space Heater A Fire Hazard?

Candle Fires This Winter Season

Trauma Scene Safety & Clean-Up

Winter Preparedness For The Workplace

Real vs. Fake: The Great Christmas Tree Debate

Stopping Storm Damage In Its Tracks

GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON

HERO VS. HERO 2020

What Are The Dangers of Leaving Cooking Unattended?

Prevent Fire Damage To Your Home This Holiday Season

Why Did My Pipes Burst?

Closing Out Fire Safety Month

Emergency Water Cleanup In Summerfield

Why Does My Attic Smell Musty?

Potential Causes of Basement Flooding From Storms

Community Blood Drive Tuesday, October 20, 2020

Preventing Kitchen Fires This Fall

What To Do Before Disaster Strikes?

Next Steps After Flood Damage To Your Business

My Basement Is Flooded, What Next?

How To Brace Your Home For The Next Hurricane Part I?

SERVPRO Is Committed To Keeping Our Employees and Customers Safe

Soot Cleanup After House Fire

COVID-19 Cleaning: Reopening Study

Is Water Coming Out Of My AC Unit?

Helping Homeowners After A Fire

Rain Expected This Week . . .

Stopping Water Damage From Becoming Severe

Your Storm Cleanup and Disaster Recovery Experts

Commercial Cleanings In The Time of COVID-19

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY DURING TOUGH TIMES

Mold Remediation For Your Water Damage Property Part 1

SERVPRO Partners with Cone Health EMTs

Commercial Cleaning For Your Place of Business

Protect Your Employees Through Commercial Cleaning

We’re In Spring In Case You Haven’t Noticed

We’re Here & Ready To SERVE

Critical Points For Your Next Commercial Cleaning

Measuring The Severity Of Your Water Loss

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is Here to Help during this time of need

Proper Cleanup and Disinfectant Procedures For Your Home or Office

Property Checkup Checklist For Fire Safety

The Winter Storm That Was Not

Protecting Your Business During The Winter

Keeping Your Air Clean For Your Employees

You Can't Control The Weather

Tips For Preventing Your Pipes From Bursting

We're Here To Help

Don't Neglect Your Carpets This Winter Season

Winter Weather Preparedness for the Piedmont Triad