Got Storm Damage? Call SERVPRO of Savannah!

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Summers in Savannah are full of storms. Whether it is a small thunderstorm or a hurricane coming in, SERVPRO of Savannah is prepared to repair any storm damage you may have. As a leader in storm damage restoration, you can rest assured that we strive to repair your home or business back to pre-storm condition.  

We know that storms do not only hit between 8 am-5 pm, but often in later hours when most businesses are closed, and families are home taking shelter. SERVPRO of Savannah is open 24/7, 365 days a year to help you when it matters the most.  

If you experience storm damage, call us at (912)-234-9690. Let SERVPRO of Savannah help your home or business’s storm damage look Like it never even happened.  

The Do's and Don'ts after Experiencing Fire Damage

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

When your Savannah home or business suffers fire damage, it can be devastating. After the fire has been put out, you may be wondering what you can and cannot do until help arrives to being restoring your home. Here’s a list of do’s and don’ts that can help you get started:  

What To Do After A Fire 

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets. 
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork. 

• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas. 
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open. 
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil. 
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves. 
• Change HVAC filter. 

• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers. 

What NOT To Do After A Fire 

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us. 
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service. 
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water. 

• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged. 
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 

At SERVPRO of Savannah, we focus on helping you restore your home back to the pre-fire condition you know and love. If you have questions about our restoration process for fire damage, give us a call at (912)-234-9690.  

The Process of Fire Damage Restoration

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire, the smoke and fire damage are often paired with extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. Since every fire damage is a little different, at SERVPRO of Savannah, we create unique solutions with a process that relatively stays the same. Check out the steps below to understand our process during a typical fire emergency:  

Step 1: Emergency Contact 

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources.  

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment 

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

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

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.  

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

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.  

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces 

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing 

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

Step 7: Restoration 

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

Although our process stays mostly the same, we are prepared to restore your home or business with unique solutions, specific to your needs. If you have fire damage, give us a call at (912)-234-9690. SERVPRO of Savannah will restore your home “Like it never even happened.” 

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

Businesses are open, people are out, and COVID-19 is still spreading around us. We understand that keeping your doors open is vital for retail stores, restaurants, doctor’s offices, daycare centers, schools, and all other businesses. SERVPRO of Savannah is ready to help ease your mind and give your business the certified cleaning you need!  

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive, proactive viral pathogen cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the COVID-19 pandemic.   

So how does it work? It’s grounded in our unique 3 C’s: 

• Consult: Not all businesses are the same, so we will tailor a cleaning program based on the unique needs of each facility. 
   
   

• Clean: Based on the agreed upon plan, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC. 
   
   
• Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers and community. 

Give us a call at 912-234-9690 for a free estimate.  SERVPRO of Savannah is here to help business get back to normal in Savannah, Pooler, Bloomingdale, Port Wentworth, Garden City, Tybee Island, or anywhere in between.   

SERVPRO of Savannah can Restore Commercial Water Damages

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Savannah, we understand that water damage never comes at a convenient time. When businesses must close for cleaning, productivity and money are being lost minute by minute. While the remediation must occur, we strive to have your business back open as quickly as possible while also ensuring the damage has been taken care of to the highest standard.  

 SERVPRO of Savannah can respond immediately to your commercial water damage emergency regardless of the size or scope of the damage. As a Large Loss Responder, we can help in any disaster, no matter the size.  

When you are faced with water damage of any size and call us at (912)-234-9690. SERVPRO of Savannah is here to help our local businesses in Savannah, Pooler, Bloomingdale, Port Wentworth, Garden City, Tybee Island, or anywhere in between.  

Hurricane Watch versus Hurricane Warning

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

As hurricane season begins to ramp up, make sure you are prepared with these hurricane watch and warning tips from the Chatham Emergency Management Agency. 

What is a Hurricane Watch? 
A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 48 hours (about 2 days).  
 
What to do during a Hurricane Watch 

• Fill up your car with gas. 
• Secure buildings. 
• Review evacuation plan. 

• Listen to a radio or television for official instructions. 
• Check your family's emergency supplies. 
• Bring in outdoor objects (i.e., toys, garden tools). 
• Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings. 
• Secure outdoor objects which cannot be brought inside (i.e., boats, lawnmower). 

• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils. 

What is a Hurricane Warning? 
A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions (winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas) are expected in 36 hours (about 1 and a half days) or less. 

What to do during a Hurricane Warning? 

• Listen to a radio or television for official instructions. 
• If in a mobile home, check tie downs and prepare to evacuate. 

• Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container. 
• Stay inside, away from windows, skylights, and glass doors. 
• Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy. 
• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power "surge" when electricity is restored. 

*Source- https://www.chathamemergency.org/PrepareNow/HurricanePreparedness 

The Steps of Water Restoration

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

Every water damage is a little different, but at SERVPRO of Savannah, our steps to taking care of you and your property are the same. Experiencing water damage? Here are the steps we take to help get your home and business back to normal.  

Step 1 - Emergency Contact 

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

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment 

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

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction 

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

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification 

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

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing 

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

Step 6 - Restoration 

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

Whether a pipe bursts during the night, or the tide gets a bit too high and into your home, we are available 24/7, 365 days a year. Give us a call at (912)-234-9690 and let our trained professionals take care of your restoration needs.  

Call SERVPRO of Savannah Immediately for Water Damage Restoration

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Savannah, we don’t waste time when it comes to water damage. Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. We make sure to arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately. Curious of what happens if water damage isn’t treated? Check out our timeline below: 

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. 

If you experience water damage, don’t wait to call. We are open 24/7, 365 days a year. Our team is ready to respond to your emergency, no matter the time. Call us at (912)-234-9690 for your water damage restoration needs.  

SERVPRO of Savannah is Here to Help with Flooding

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in water damage caused by a variety of sources. Since Chatham County is a coastal county, we see water damage often. A home or business can flood at any time due to heavy rainfall in a brief period or when storms come in during high tide. Flooding could also occur due to the following events:   

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe 
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home 
• Storm sewer backup 

• Sanitary sewer backup 
• Foundation drainage failure 
• Water supply-line break 
• Hot-water tank failure 
• Dishwasher leak 

• Air Conditioning system overflow 
• Refrigerator water supply line leak 
• Washing machine supply line leak 
• And many more 

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. 

Let our trained, certified, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly.  

Have questions about water damage or flooding in your home or business? Call SERVPRO of Savannah today. We are here to help 912-234-9690. 

Water Damage and Insurance

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Different types of water damage are covered by several types of policies. 

Insurance Information Institute shares insight on water damage and insurance coverage to help us ask the right questions and make sure we have the coverage we need. 

Homeowners and renters' insurance provides coverage for burst pipes, wind driven rain and damage resulting from ice dams on your roof. Water that comes from the top down—such as rainfall and burst sprinklers—is covered by a standard homeowner's policy. 

Some policies cover sewer and drain backups, but many do not; however, you can purchase a sewer backup rider to your homeowners or renters' coverage. 

Typically, water that comes from the bottom up—such as an overflowing river—is covered by a separate flood insurance policy, which can be purchased from the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and from some private insurers. If you live in a flood prone area, learn more about appropriate coverage. 

Be sure to check with your local insurance carriers to ensure you have the proper coverage for your home or business. 

Preparing for Hurricane Season

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for hurricane season? While it is already an active season, it is never a bad time to replenish your emergency kit. Take a moment to review this list from FEMA of necessary items to keep stocked in your emergency kit.  

• Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation) 
• Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food) 
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert 
• Flashlight 

• First aid kit 
• Extra batteries 
• Whistle (to signal for help) 
• Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air) 
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place) 

• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation) 
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities) 
• Manual can opener (for food) 
• Local maps 
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery 

As your neighbor, we want you to stay informed of any potential storms. We keep weather updates posted to our Facebook page and monitor the storms as closely as possible. Make sure to follow us at SERVPRO of Savannah and watch for any storm updates. As always, if you have storm damage, give us a call at (912)-234-9690. We will make it look “Like it never even happened.” 

What Happens When a Structure is Not Dried Out Properly?

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

We see water damage from Savannah residents daily. Water damage can occur from leaks, broke pipes, storms, etc.  

But what happens when a structure is not dried out properly?  

MOLD! 

Mold can grow in as little as 48 hours (about 2 days).  

What to do when you find mold? 

Get SERVPRO of Savannah there fast.  

Protect your company, your clients and yourself. 

Be wary of any company who pre-tests, remediates and post-tests.  

Use an independent, third-party firm to do the testing, write the protocol and post-test.  

If you think you might have a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690. We will send out a trained professional who will examine the structure for visible signs of mold, check for moisture and check the humidity. Our teams follow protocol to rid your home of mold and bring the levels back to normal.  

SERVPRO of Savannah Takes Care of Your Contents

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Your home or commercial facility contains many of your most valuable possessions. SERVPRO of Savannah understands the trauma that follows a loss. When fire damage takes control of your life, we help you take it back. 

Some of our Contents services include: 

Inventory – One of the first priorities in fire restoration is to complete an accurate inventory to help ensure you can properly account for all your belongings. Your SERVPRO of Savannah technician can provide a detailed room-by-room inventory of contents, including digital photographs and bar codes for each item, suitable for filing insurance claims forms and relieving you of this often stressful and time-consuming process. 

Move Outs – When the structure has suffered extensive damage, the cleanup and restoration process may need to be facilitated by relocating the contents for cleaning, deodorization, and storage while structural repairs are being completed. A supervised moving crew can carefully pack and move the entire contents of your home or office. 

Contents Cleaning – All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery. SERVPRO of Savannah technicians begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO of Savannah can provide wet or dry cleaning. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to as near as preloss condition as possible. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more. 

Call SERVPRO of Savannah today! (912) 234-9690 

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and proactive response. Whether we are dealing with a 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. Our technicians' goal is to get you back to business as quickly as possible.  

SERVPRO of Savannah's 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 arises in your business, give us a call and we will be there fast with the help you need.  

SERVPRO of Savannah 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 certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. 

Call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690. We are ready to help whether your business is located on Tybee Island, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Bloomingdale, Georgetown, Skidway, Wilmington, Whitemarsh or anywhere in between. 

SERVPRO of Savannah is available 24 hours a day

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can increase the severity of the water damage. 

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help 
Call Today – 912-234-9690 

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Savannah has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business. 

What to Expect 

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed. 

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions: 

• Your name and contact information? 
• Your insurance information? (Company and Agent) 

• The street address of the water-damaged home or business? 
• When did the flooding or water damage occur? 
• What caused the water damage (if known)? 
• Is there electricity available (on-site)? 

About SERVPRO of Savannah 

SERVPRO of Savannah 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. 

Call SERVPRO of Savannah Immediately After a Fire

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

What to do immediately after your home or business suffers from a fire or smoke damage? Call SERVPRO of Savannah!  

The first 48 hours (about 2 days) after a fire can make the difference between restoring vs. replacing your property and personal belongings.  

Allow SERVPRO of Savannah to respond and help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. We provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to content claims inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property is restored to preloss condition when possible. We are happy to work with insurance companies to relieve some of the stress.  

Contact SERVPRO of Savannah to arrange service. Our trained professionals will be on-site quickly to start mitigation services. SERVPRO of Savannah will communicate with the appropriate person to provide a verbal briefing of the scope.   

Contact SERVPRO of Savannah with any fire, smoke, or soot damage at (912)234-9690. We are here to help.  

Cooking Fires Are the Number One Cause of Home Fires

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Cooking brings family and friends together, provides an outlet for creativity and can be relaxing. But did you know that cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries? By following a few safety tips, you can prevent these fires.  

“Cook with Caution” 

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol do not use the stove or stove top. 
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a brief period, turn off the stove. 
• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking. 

• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains — away from your stove top. 

IF YOU HAVE A COOKING FIRE... 

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire. 
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave. 
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out. 

• Keep a lid nearby when you are cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled. 
• For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed. 

Thanks to the National Fire Protection Agency for sharing these tips. 

If you have a fire in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690. 

Until SERVPRO of Savannah Arrives to Assist in a Fire

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Helpful tips until SERVPRO of Savannah arrives to assist in the fire damage: 

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring. 
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery. 
• Coat chrome faucets, trip and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil. 
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.  
• Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces. 

• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery. 
• Do not clean any electrical equipment. 
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor.  
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and carpets.  
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open. 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? 

Call SERVPRO of Savannah Today – (912) 234-9690 

Grilling Tips for Fire Safety

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

There is nothing better than grilling out in the summertime. When you see fire in the grill, under hot dogs and burgers, it is a welcome sight at any outdoor party or family cookout. But if a grill is not managed properly, an unwelcome fire can turn your cookout into a catastrophe. Here are some tips for keeping everyone at the party safe while grilling: 

General Grilling Tips 

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors. 
• The grill should be placed far away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. 

• Keep children and pets away from the grill area. 
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill. 
• Never leave your grill unattended 

For more information and grilling safety tips, please visit http://www.nfpa.org/. 

SERVPRO of Savannah Cleans Messes of All Degrees

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians are trained to clean up after vandalism, crime scenes, sewage backup, or other biohazard situations. Our technicians are trained to cleanup and restore messes of all degrees:

Bloodborne Pathogens

SERVPRO Professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO Technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect and deodorize the scene.

Crime Scene Residues

Whether it's fingerprint powder, evidence-gathering chemicals, tear gas, or pepper spray residues, SERVPRO Professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Arson and Vandalism

SERVPRO of Savannah provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO Professionals remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting and deodorizing as they clean.

If you are dealing with any of the contaminations listed here, give us a call at (912)-234-9690.We provide the expertise to make it "Like it never even happened."

Do's and Do Not's of Water Damage Clean Up

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage from flooding is common in Coastal Georgia. Whether it occurs from storms or high tide, we are prepared to help you restore your home or business when affected. While waiting for SERVPRO of Savannah to respond, here are a few tips on what you should and should not do until help arrives:  

Do:  

• 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. 

Don’t:  

• 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 the ceiling is wet and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging. 

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in every aspect of water mitigation and remediation, including reconstruction, so give us a call at (912)-234-9690 and let our professional team take care of your home or business. 

Hurricane Season is Here!

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

There’s nothing quite like June in Savannah. We have the best weather, the prettiest city, and the most unpredictable hurricane season! Since we’re locals too, we understand how important it is to have a plan for your family when it’s time to restore and rebuild.  

SERVPRO of Savannah has been serving the Savannah area for over 40 years. Storm damage is no stranger to us, and we are prepared to respond whether it's an afternoon thunderstorm or a major hurricane. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have teams and equipment standing by to help our community recover from any size disaster. Rest assured, we are watching the storms with you and are ready to help when damage occurs. Check out our Facebook page for regular storm activity updates. 

If your home or business has water damage from any storm event, give SERVPRO of Savannah a call (912)-234-9690.  

Is Your Business Ready for Hurricane Season?

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

June 1st marks the start of Hurricane Season. Is your business prepared?  

FEMA is a great resource to use when planning for hurricane season. FEMA offers a free resource, The Ready Business Toolkit, to help you navigate the planning process for hazardous weather conditions.  

The Ready Business Toolkit series includes hazard-specific versions for earthquake, hurricane, inland flooding, power outage, and severe wind/tornado. Toolkits offer business leaders a step-by-step guide to build preparedness within an organization. Each toolkit has the following sections: 

• Identify Your Risk 

• Develop A Plan 
• Take Action 
• Be Recognized and Inspire Others 

Since hurricane season has begun, it is the perfect time to brush up on your emergency business plans. As a business leader, it is important to be prepared for our local natural disasters before they occur.  

If you would like more information on Storm preparedness or if your business experiences an emergency, call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690 and we can help you get back to business quickly. 

Need a Continuing Education Class? We've got tons!

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah offers Continuing Education courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, and real estate professionals. The Continuing Education courses provide you with information to better serve your customers through a deeper understanding of the restoration process. 

These programs are designed to improve the knowledge of your staff regarding emergency mitigation.  
 
Here are some of the CE courses that are offered by SERVPRO: 

• Property Fire Damage Restoration 
• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry 
• Restoring Contaminated Buildings 
• Restorative Drying for Water Damage 

• Cleaning and Restoring Smoke-Damaged Contents 
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar 
• Deodorization of Malodors 
• Biohazard Cleanup 
• Ethics 

Allyson Harvin, co-owner of SERVPRO of Savannah, is an approved instructor of these courses, with 15 years of experience in the restoration industry. Contact SERVPRO of Savannah at (912)-234-9690 to schedule one for your office.  

This is just one more way SERVPRO of Savannah is Here to Help! 

Why SERVPRO?

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

When the pipe bursts, the house is damaged by fire, or mold is present in your home, who do you call? For most people, it’s their insurance agent. Your next call should be to SERVPRO of Savannah. 

We create and maintain relationships with insurance providers at both the national level and in the Savannah area. As an insurance preferred service provider, we are focused on restoring your home or business "Like it never even happened."® We are proud to be a “one-stop” service provider, providing seamless restoration and construction services to help restore and rebuild what has been damaged. Partnering with SERVPRO for restoration and repairs also reduces the number of companies, and people, in and out of your home or business during the process.  

During a disaster, we know that time is of the essence. By creating and maintaining our relationships with major insurance providers, we are experienced in what each insurance company requires during the restoration and reconstruction process, so we can get the necessary approvals quickly and get started right away, eliminating costly delays. 

When disaster strikes, call (912)-234-9690 because we are Here to Help! 

How to Prepare for Hurricane Season

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Flashlight? Check. Generator? Check. Movie bucket list? Check. SERVPRO of Savannah’s contact information? CHECK!  

How do you prepare for hurricane season? At SERVPRO of Savannah, we are very familiar with preparing for hurricanes. Because we live here too, we know exactly what is needed when creating a hurricane preparedness plan.  Although we may get a hurrication, (Hurricane Hermine, we’re looking at you.) We want everyone to understand the seriousness of having a plan in place for the upcoming season. When the storms come, the water rushes in or trees fall on your home, we want to be your trusted partner in developing your restoration and rebuild plan. 

What’s the best part of including SERVPRO of Savannah into your preparedness plan? We are open 24/7/365! We have certified, professional technicians that are faster to any size disaster. Don’t wait until the damage is done… add SERVPRO of Savannah’s contact information to your phone today as part of your hurricane preparedness plan.  

WHY SERVPRO?

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

Definitely NOT a DIY!

We've all had the occasional spills in our homes and can often clean them up ourselves.  But then there are the leaks that lead to floods that lead to panic! These are the times when you need help.  Professional help.  But how do you know who to call?  Why would you call SERVPRO?  Because this is what we do 24/7/365!  This is where we shine!  We have certified, professional technicians that are faster to any size disaster.  We have a skilled office team that will document the loss in accordance with your insurance companies requirements to streamline your claim.  How do we know what your insurance company requires?  Because we work with all the major carriers every single day.  For these and so many other reasons, don't panic...call SERVPRO!

We Live Here, Too!

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

Savannah Is Our Home, Too!

There is just something about the way Savannah does business.  We like know each other and like to support our local businesses because they're the people that, well, live here, too!  We have been a family owned business for over 40 years now.  Savannah is our home and it's our employees home, too.  We see you at the sports fields, sit next to you in church, and probably know your cousin!  Yes, that one! We love being a part of this community and we take care of our neighbors. We've weathered storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, and now, Covid together.  And we are still here to help.  If your home has suffered fire damage, water damage, mold or any other disaster, call us, because we understand what home means.

Give Your Customers Peace of Mind

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah is Here to Help Businesses Stay Open

SERVPRO of Savannah has been in operation in Savannah for over 40 years and understands what it means to be a small business.  We also understand that even brief business closings can have catastrophic consequences for both businesses and their employees. 

Should your business be affected by Covid-19, SERVPRO of Savannah is Here to Help!  We have been providing our proprietary Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned cleaning protocol in and around the Savannah area as businesses, schools, and churches that have had exposure to Covid-19.  These responsible business owners and managers reached out to us, had their facilities cleaned, and were able to display the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned window decals on their doors, assuring customers that they were cleaned, ready, and open for business!

We are all in this together!  SERVPRO of Savannah is ready to do its part to keep Savannah safe until we get on the other side of these difficult and challenging times.  From our family to yours, stay safe and be well!

SERVPRO of Savannah is prepared for storm season

8/25/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah is a family-owned local company for over 40 years.  We have responded to many storms and hurricanes over the years.  Rest assure, SERVPRO of Savannah is well-prepared to endure this hurricane season.  We are watching these storms carefully with you, our neighbors, and are ready to help in the event that storm damage occurs. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have teams and equipment standing by to help our community recover from any wind or flooding damage that happens.  Please be safe and tune in for updates on conditions on hurricanes or tropical storms from local news outlets and law enforcement officials. 

SERVPRO of Savannah is a Large Loss Response Team and is ready to respond to any size storm damage, whether large or small scale.   Give us a call 24/7 and we can take control of the situation and put you at ease.  Allow our SERVPRO family to take care of your family's home or business.  Call us at 912-234-9690.  

SERVPRO of Savannah is a pro at cleaning after a fire damage

8/25/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a fire in your home or business, allow SERVPRO of Savannah to help.  Smoke and soot can damage the structure and the contents of your space.  Our technicians are trained to assess the structure and contents and use their training to create a scope of work to get your home or business cleaned and back to preloss condition.

When it comes to cleaning smoked-damaged contents after a residential or commercial fire, the variety of contents in a typical job requires restorers to utilize a variety of cleaning methods.

Here is a quick description of each method of content cleaning:

• Dry Cleaning - Removes light to medium nongrease-based soils.
• Wet Cleaning - Removes moderate to heavy residues. The process involves cleaning using water, with or without a cleaning agent.
• Spray and Wipe - Apply a cleaning product using a spray bottle. After spraying, wipe the surface with a clean white towel. This method is effective for materials possibly damaged if saturated with cleaning product.
• Foam Cleaning - Effective for light residues or delicate materials. Clean with the foam of a cleaning agent rather than the liquid
• Abrasive Cleaning - Agitates the surface being cleaned. Apply a cleaning product containing abrasive ingredients
• Immersion Cleaning - Dipping contents items into a bath of cleaning product. This bath is an ultrasonic tank filled with water and cleaning solution. High-frequency sound waves then create high temperatures and microscopic jet streams of fluid to agitate and scrub contents.

SERVPRO recommends that you DO NOT attempt to clean smoke-damaged surfaces or contents yourself, and call the professionals at 912-234-9690.

Kitchen cooking safety tips from SERVPRO of Savannah

8/25/2020 (Permalink)

Cooking in the kitchen is something we do often, but it is important to be smart and safe when cooking. Kitchen fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries.  Follow these safety tips to prevent kitchen fires: 

“Cook with Caution”

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stove top.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire (such as oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains) away from your stove top.

IF YOU HAVE A COOKING FIRE...

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Thanks to the National Fire Protection Agency for sharing these tips.

If you have a fire in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690.  We can help get you back to preloss condition.

Do you know the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning?

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah is prepared to respond whether it's an afternoon thunderstorm or a major hurricane.  However, make sure your family and your home are prepared if a hurricane is heading toward Savannah.

Do you know the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning? 

What is a Hurricane Watch?
A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 48 hours. 

What is a Hurricane Warning?
A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions (winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas) are expected in 36 hours or less.

Stay tuned to local weather authorities and have a plan to stay safe in the event of a hurricane watch or warning.   

Websites such as chathamemergency.org and nhc.noaa.gov are great resources to get reliable local and national information for hurricane preparedness.   

If your home or business has water damage from a hurricane or thunderstorm, give SERVPRO of Savannah a call 912-234-9690.  We are ready to respond to Savannah, Pooler, Tybee Island, Port Wentworth, Bloomingdale, and anywhere in between.

SERVPRO specializes in restoring commercial water damage

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges 

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and proactive 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.  Our technicians' goal is to get you back to business as quickly as possible.  

SERVPRO of Savannah's 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.  

SERVPRO of Savannah 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 certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690.  We are ready to help whether your business is located on Tybee Island, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Bloomingdale, Georgetown, or anywhere in between. 

Get your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned for your employees and your customers

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah's Cleaning program gets your business clean for customers and employees

Whether your business is a retail store, restaurant, school, daycare, doctor's office, or any other type of business, SERVPRO of Savannah can give the peace of mind knowing your space is cleaned.  

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, proactive viral pathogen cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic.  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.

Give us a call at 912-234-9690 for a free estimate.  SERVPRO of Savannah is here to help business get back to normal in Savannah, Pooler, Bloomingdale, Port Wentworth, Garden City, Tybee Island, or anywhere in between.  

Fire Damage can affect the whole house

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

According to redcross.org, home fires are more likely to start in the kitchen than any other room in the home. The second leading cause of home fires are heating sources like wood stoves, and fireplaces. 

A fire in one room can damage belongings and surfaces throughout your entire home and leave odors that could last for years.  Our technicians are trained to determine the extend of damage and work with your insurance company to get a scope of work and plan to take care of it.  

Trained, uniformed technicians can be on-site of a fire damage in Savannah within hours to begin assessing he area and begin emergency mitigation services.  By responding quickly with a full line of fire cleanup and restoration service, SERVPRO of Savannah can help you regain control quickly and help you protect your home and belongings. 

We understands how a fire can affect your life.  Our office offers emergency response and is trained in caring for both the home and homeowner.

SERVPRO of Savannah's professional fire crew have the ability to help, should the need arise. Call 912-234-9690

Until SERVPRO of Savannah arrives to assist in a fire

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a fire at your home or business in Savannah, Pooler, Port Wentworth, Tybee Island, or anywhere in between, call SERVPRO of Savannah and follow these helpful tips until help arrives.  

Helpful tips until SERVPRO of Savannah arrives to assist in the fire damage:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
• Coat chrome faucets, trip and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet. 
• Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Do not clean any electrical equipment.
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and carpets. 
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open.

If you have any questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage, we can help.  Our trained, professional technicians will respond with the expertise needed to take care of you and your home or business.

Call SERVPRO of Savannah Today – (912) 234-9690

Let SERVPRO of Savannah help you get back to business with a higher standard of clean

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO helps Savannah's businesses re-open with a new higher standard of clean

Let us help you get back to business

As our Savannah 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.

SERVPRO of Savannah is aware that each business varies with their needs for getting their space cleaned.  Give us a call at 912-234-9690 and we can assess your needs and create a plan to keep your employees and customers feeling like you have achieved a higher standard of clean.  

Is your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned?

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah helps business clean and sanitize after COVID-19 exposure

SERVPRO of Savannah can help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. We understand every business is different and we are here to help with our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program.

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. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning 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. 

Call SERVPRO of Savannah today at 912-234-9690 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

What happens when a structure is not dried out properly?

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

We see water damage from Savannah residents on a regular basis.  Water damage can occur from leaks, broke pipes, storms, etc.  If you are home when the water damage occurs, call SERVPRO of Savannah for help immediately.   

What happens when a structure is not dried out properly?  

MOLD!  

Mold can grow grow in as little as 48 hours under the right conditions.  

What to do when you find mold?

Get SERVPRO of Savannah there fast. 

Protect your company, you employees, your clients, and yourself by calling SERVPRO of Savannah for help as soon as possible.

Be wary of any company who pre-tests, remediates and post-tests.  

Use an independent, third party firm to do the testing, write the protocol and post-test. 

If you think you might have a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690.  We will send out a trained professional who will examine the structure for visible signs of mold, check for moisture and check the humidity.   Our teams follow protocol to rid your home of mold and bring the levels back to normal.  

If you suspect water damage in your home and want a professional to take a look, call 912-234-9690 and let our trained professionals assess the area and try to dry the water before any secondary damage occurs.  

Smoke and Soot Cleanup after a fire

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah is trained to clean smoke and soot after a fire in your home or business

Have you experienced a fire at your Savannah home or business?  SERVPRO of Savannah can help. 

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 Savannah 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.  SERVPRO of Savannah has 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 SERVPRO of Savannah Today – 912-234-9690

Call SERVPRO of Savannah immediately after a fire

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

What to do immediately after your home or business suffers from a fire or smoke damage?  Call SERVPRO of Savannah!   

The first 48 hours after a fire can make the difference between restoring vs. replacing your property and personal belongings.  

Allow SERVPRO of Savannah to respond and help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.  We provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to content claims inventory and document restoration.  These services help ensure your property is restored to preloss condition when possible.  We are happy to work with insurance companies to relieve some of the stress. 

Contact SERVPRO of Savannah to arrange service.  Our trained professionals will be on-site quickly to start mitigation services.  SERVPRO of Savannah will communicate with the appropriate person to provide a verbal briefing of the scope.      

Contact SERVPRO of Savannah with any fire, smoke or soot damage.  We are here to help.  912-234-9690

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in Flood Cleanup & Restoration

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in water damage caused by a variety of sources.   Since Chatham County is a coastal county, we see water damage often.  A home or business can flood at any time due to heavy rainfall in a short period of time or when storms come in during high tide.  Flooding could also occur due to the following events:  

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break
• Hot-water tank failure
• Dishwasher leak
• Air Conditioning system overflow
• Refrigerator water supply line leak
• Washing machine supply line leak
• And many more

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety and cause severe damage to your home’s structure.

Let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. 

Have questions about water damage or flooding in your home or business?  Call SERVPRO of Savannah today.  We’re ready to help 912-234-9690.

SERVPRO of Savannah is ready to assist

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

We are Flood Specialists:

Whether you have unwanted water in your home or business due to weather outside or failed water supply lines or pipes inside, SERVPRO of Savannah is ready to assist.  Our technicians are highly trained to respond to water disasters of any size with the professionalism and training necessary to ensure the space is restored as quickly as possible.  

• We are available 24 hours a day and 7 days per week
• We’re a preferred vendor to many national insurance companies
• We work directly with insurance companies, so that's one less thing for you to worry about
• Our technicians are highly trained in Water Restoration Techniques to dry out your home or business
• We follow s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• We use specialty inspection and extraction equipment
• SERVPRO of Savannah has been family owned for over 40 years, so rest easy knowing our family will take care of your family

Call SERVPRO of Savannah today at 912-234-9690 and our professional team of technicians will respond quickly to your home or business.  We are here to help!

SERVPRO of Savannah is here to help if you have water in your home or business

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah is here to help no matter the cause of your water damage.   Whether rain causes flooding that pushes water to enter your home or business or if a pipe bursts in your home, our trained technicians can help.   Sometimes the water comes from a refrigerator or dishwasher with a loose water connection or from an HVAC unit or hot water heater that isn't functioning properly and caused it to overflow.   No matter the cause of the water damage, call SERVPRO of Savannah to help get your home or business dried out and back to normal as soon as possible. 

SERVPRO of Savannah has been owned by the Harvin family for over 40 years and we want to make sure your family or business is taken care of so you can continue to serve others in Savannah and surrounding areas. 

Our team responds 24 hours a day to make sure you are taken care of.   Call our office at 912-234-9690.

IICRC Certified Firm responds to storm-related damage

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah is an IICRC Certified Firm and is ready to respond to any size storm or water damage disaster

SERVPRO of Savannah is ready to respond to any size storm-related disaster.   We have been an IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) Certified Firm for many years and we continue that certification every year to make sure our customers know their water damage is being taken care of by professionals in the water restoration industry.   Whether your water damage is from a storm event, burst pipe, sewage backup, or whatever the cause, our team of technicians and managers is trained and read to respond to get you back to normal as soon as possible.  We follow strict IICRC guidelines to ensure your property is taken care of after a disaster.   Check our our IICRC Certified Firm link here: https://www.IICRC.org/members/default.asp?id=50455461&terms.

Be sure to contact SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690 for all your storm-related needs.

Storms in Savannah - SERVPRO of Savannah can help

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Have you ever watched an afternoon thunderstorm approach and thought to yourself "What to do if my house floods from this rainstorm?"  In the event of an unpredictable rain storm bringing water into your home, SERVPRO of Savannah is able to help.  Our professional technicians are trained to evaluate your home and come up with a plan of action.  We work with insurance companies and adjusters to get approvals and get your home dried out as soon as possible.  No matter whether the storm hits Tybee Island, Wilmington Island, Thunderbolt, Downtown, Garden City, Port Wentworth, Pooler, or anywhere in between, our technicians are ready to respond quickly to the water damage in your home or business.  SERVPRO of Savannah is ready to respond 24/7.  Give us a call at 912-234-9690.  

SERVPRO of Savannah restores messes of all degrees

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

Sometime businesses have biohazard issues or situations that arise out of the ordinary cleaning.   SERVPRO Technicians are trained to clean up after vandalism, crime scenes, sewage backup, or other biohazard situations.  Our technicians are trained to cleanup and restore messes of all degrees: 

Bloodborne Pathogens

SERVPRO Professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO Technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect and deodorize the scene.

Crime Scene Residues

Whether it's fingerprint powder, evidence-gathering chemicals, tear gas, or pepper spray residues, SERVPRO Professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Arson and Vandalism

SERVPRO of Savannah provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO Professionals remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting and deodorizing as they clean.

If you find yourself in a situation where you are dealing with contamination such as the ones listed here, make sure to call SERVPRO of Savannah at (912) 234-9690!   Our professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. 

Emergency tips for a water damage from SERVPRO of Savannah

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in Water Removal and Dehumidification, so give us a call and let our professional team take care of your water damage. 

If you experience a water leak, here are some tips to keep in mind until SERVPRO of Savannah arrives:

Do:

• If the water is coming from a pipe or water source in the house, turn the water off.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting with something such as towels.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and pillow cushions and lay flat in a dry space for even drying.
• Place a barrier such as plastic or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. 
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove Oriental rugs or other colored rugs from wet flooring.
• Remove valuable paintings and art objects to a safe, dry place to reduce moisture to those items.
• Gather loose items from floors.  

Don't: 

• Leave wet fabrics in place; dry as soon as possible.  Move items to dry separately at room temperature. 
• Leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.
• Use your household vacuum to remove water.  
• Use TV's or other household appliances while standing on wet flooring.  
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

Follow these tips if you have water damage in your home or business and call SERVPRO of Savannah immediately.   Our technicians respond to water damage calls 24 hours a day and are happy to help you get your home or business dry as soon as possible.  Call us anytime at 912-234-9690.

Understanding water damage and insurance

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage and insurance

Understanding the source of the water will help you understand which insurance coverage is needed if you have water damage.  

In general, homeowners insurance and renters insurance provide coverage if the rain comes from the top down, such as burst pipes, rainfall, or burst sprinklers.  

Typically, water that comes from the bottom up, such as an overflowing river, is covered by a separate flood insurance policy.   This type of policy can be purchased from the federal government's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and from some private insurers.  Check with your local insurance agent and they can help you secure one of these policies to help protect from this type of water damage.  

Some policies cover sewer and drain backups, but many do not.  However, you can purchase a sewer backup rider to your homeowners or renters coverage.

Be sure to check with your local insurance carriers to ensure you have the proper coverage for your home or business.

SERVPRO of Savannah is happy to communicate and coordinate with your insurance company if you have water damage to help the process go smoother for you.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

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.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

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

Call SERVPRO of Savannah today at 912-234-9690 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

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.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program uses proprietary products

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program uses proprietary products to clean your home or business

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.

Call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690 to schedule an estimate to clean your home or business. 

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

When Storms or Floods hit Savannah, SERVPRO is ready

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Disaster Recovery Team Truck is ready to respond

SERVPRO of Savannah 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 Savannah, 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 912-234-9690

Water You Don't See

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Water you don't see in walls or flooring

Water can do more damage than you may initially see.   Many times, there is water damage to many different layers that cannot be seen from above.   This image is a good visual of what you can't see when carpet gets wet.   The water goes quickly through the carpet and soaks the carpet pad down to the subfloor.   Walls can be affected as well.   The baseboard can get water behind it and therefore the adjacent drywall gets saturated.   SERVPRO of Savannah's trained technicians can test various areas in your home or business and come up with a drying plan specific for your space.  They have the tools to see the water you can't see.  Call SERVPRO of Savannah 24/7 at 912-234-9690 any time of the day.  

IICRC Certified Firm

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

From the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification:

SERVPRO of Savannah is registered with IICRC, and has pledged to implement an advanced training program and a course of study leading to the certification of all On-Location Operators actively engaged in providing services to the consumer in cleaning and restoration and has pledged its support in establishing and maintaining a professional attitude in the conduct of its daily business at all times and providing the consumer with the highest degree of professionalism possible.  

SERVPRO of Savannah is pleased to be recognized as an IICRC Certified firm for our expertise, professional excellence, and quality of service.  Many of our employees are proud to hold IICRC certifications and we strive to uphold this level of excellence in every job.  

You can be sure our team of professionals has the training and certifications you want to provide service at your home or business.

Continuing Education Courses

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah offers Continuing Education courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters and Real Estate professionals. The Continuing Education courses provide you with information to better service your customers.

These programs are designed to improve the knowledge of your staff regarding emergency mitigation. 

Here are some of the CE courses that are offered by SERVPRO:

• Property Fire Damage Restoration
• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
• Restoring Contaminated Buildings
• Restorative Drying for Water Damage
• Cleaning and Restoring Smoke-Damaged Contents
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar
• Deodorization of Malodors
• Biohazard Cleanup
• Ethics

The owner of SERVPRO of Savannah is an approved instructor of these courses.   Contact SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690 to schedule one for your office.   

This is just one more way SERVPRO of Savannah is Here to Help!

SERVPRO of Savannah is a Large Loss Responder

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know SERVPRO of Savannah is a Large Loss Responder?  Our team of technicians are trained to respond quickly to any size disaster.   We respond 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.  Our priority is making sure you and your structure are able to get back to business as quickly as possible.   We provide the technology to organize and document the process along the way to ensure every detail is accounted.   Whether your structure is a small office building, high-rise building, apartment complex, restaurant, hotel, large retail center, multi-level residential, industrial, government or anything in between, our team is ready to respond.   We provide the expertise to make it "Like it never even happened."  Call our local office in Savannah at 912-234-9690.

SERVPRO of Savannah partners with Fire Fighters at Golf Tournament

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah with Johnny Hinton of IAFF Savannah Fire Fighters

SERVPRO of Savannah loves to find ways to interact and give back to our community.  We are excited to be the title sponsor of the Great Balls of Fire Golf Tournament six years in a row.  This event benefits the St. Joseph's Candler Telfair Mammography Fund.  We see firsthand the devastation fire causes, so anytime we can partner with our first responders is a good partnership for us.  Thank you to IAFF Savannah Firefighters for inviting us to be a large part of this event every year.   Not only is it a pleasure to sponsor this event, but it is a joy to spend the day on the golf course and interact with these brave men and women.   A very sincere Thank You to our First Responders!  

SERVPRO of Savannah takes care of you

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah takes care of you

SERVPRO of Savannah is independently owned and operated by the Harvin family since 1980.  The Harvin family lives, works, eats, plays, and shops in the Savannah area and strives to make sure each customer is taken care of as if they are family.   SERVPRO of Savannah holds their employees to a high standard as professionals and as fellow citizens of our beautiful city.   Feel assured that you are in the best hands possible when you have an emergency such as a water leak, have smoke or soot damage from a fire, find mold, or have damage from a storm.  We also provide general cleaning services for your home or business.  SERVPRO of Savannah will bring the expertise you need and the service you desire.   Call us anytime day or night at 912-234-9690. 

SERVPRO of Savannah takes care of your contents

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

Your home or commercial facility contains many of your most valuable possessions. SERVPRO of Savannah understands the trauma that follows a loss. When fire damage takes control of your life, we help you take it back.

Some of our Contents services include:

Inventory – One of the first priorities in fire restoration is to complete an accurate inventory to help ensure you can properly account for all your belongings. Your SERVPRO of Savannah technician can provide a detailed room-by-room inventory of contents suitable for filing insurance claims and relieving you of this often stressful and time consuming process.

Move Outs – When the structure has suffered extensive damage, the cleanup and restoration process may need to be facilitated by relocating the contents for cleaning, deodorization and storage while structural repairs are being completed. A professional moving crew can carefully pack and move the entire contents of your home or business.

Contents Cleaning – All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized.  SERVPRO of Savannah technicians carefully inspect and test fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO of Savannah can provide wet or dry cleaning. 

Call SERVPRO of Savannah today!  (912) 234-9690

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning Process

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning Process:

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

Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, SERVPRO of Savannah can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.  

Call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690 to schedule an appointment.

Not All Smoke Damage Can Be Cleaned With Soap

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to cleaning smoked-damaged contents after a residential or commercial fire, the variety of contents in a typical job requires restorers to utilize a variety of cleaning methods.

Here is a quick description of each method of content cleaning:

• Dry Cleaning - Removes light to medium nongrease-based soils.
• Wet Cleaning - Removes moderate to heavy residues. The process involves cleaning using water, with or without a cleaning agent.
• Spray and Wipe - Apply a cleaning product using a spray bottle. After spraying, wipe the surface with a clean white towel. This method is effective for materials possibly damaged if saturated with cleaning product.
• Foam Cleaning - Effective for light residues or delicate materials. Clean with the foam of a cleaning agent rather than the liquid
• Abrasive Cleaning - Agitates the surface being cleaned. Apply a cleaning product containing abrasive ingredients
• Immersion Cleaning - Dipping contents items into a bath of cleaning product. This bath is an ultrasonic tank filled with water and cleaning solution. High-frequency sound waves then create high temperatures and microscopic jet streams of fluid to agitate and scrub contents.

SERVPRO recommends that you DO NOT attempt to clean smoke-damaged surfaces or contents yourself, and call the professionals!

Cooking Fires Are The Number One Cause Of Home Fires

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

Cooking brings family and friends together, provides an outlet for creativity and can be relaxing. But did you know that cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries? By following a few safety tips you can prevent these fires. 

“Cook with Caution”

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stove top.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stove top.

IF YOU HAVE A COOKING FIRE...

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Thanks to the National Fire Protection Agency for sharing these tips.

If you have a fire in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690.

Restoring Commercial Water Damage

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges 

Flooding and water damage events at 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.

SERVPRO of Savannah's 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.

SERVPRO of Savannah 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 certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690.  

Is Your Business Prepared?

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

FEMA has some great tips for making sure your business has an emergency plan.

Preparedness Planning for Your Business

Businesses and their staff face a variety of hazards:

• Natural hazards like floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes.
• Health hazards such as widespread and serious illnesses like the flu.
• Human-caused hazards including accidents and acts of violence.
• Technology-related hazards like power outages and equipment failure.

There is much that a business leader can do to prepare his or her organization for the most likely hazards. The Ready Business program helps business leaders make a preparedness plan to get ready for these hazards.  FEMA has more information on their website to help you prepare. 

If your business experiences an emergency, call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690 and we can help you get back to business quickly.  

SERVPRO of Savannah is well prepared

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah is well-prepared as we await hurricane season. We are watching these storms carefully with you, our neighbors, and are ready to help in the event that storm damage occurs. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have teams and equipment standing by to help our community recover from any wind or flooding damage that happens.  Please be safe and tune in for updates on conditions on hurricanes or tropical storms from local news outlets and law enforcement officials.  SERVPRO of Savannah is a Large Loss Response Team and is ready to respond to any size storm damage, whether large or small scale.   Give us a call 24/7 and we can take control of the situation and put you at ease.  912-234-9690.  

Hurricane watch vs hurricane warning

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Do you know the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning? 

What is a Hurricane Watch?
A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 48 hours. 

What is a Hurricane Warning?
A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions (winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas) are expected in 36 hours or less.

Stay tuned to local weather authorities and have a plan to stay safe in the event of a hurricane watch or warning.   

Websites such as chathamemergency.org and nhc.noaa.gov are great resources to get reliable information for hurricane preparedness.   

If your home or business has water damage from a hurricane, give SERVPRO of Savannah a call 912-234-9690.

Smoke and Soot cleanup

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage?

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 Savannah 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 SERVPRO of Savannah Today – 912-234-9690

SERVPRO of Savannah responds to fire damage

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

The first 48 hours after a fire can make the difference between restoring vs. replacing your property and personal belongings. 

Allow SERVPRO of Savannah to respond and help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.  We provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to content claims inventory and document restoration.  These services help ensure your property is restored to preloss condition when possible.  

Contact SERVPRO of Savannah to arrange service.  Our trained professionals will be on-site quickly to start mitigation services.  SERVPRO of Savannah will communicate with the appropriate person to provide a verbal briefing of the scope.  We are happy to work with insurance companies to relieve some of the stress.     

Contact SERVPRO of Savannah with any fire, smoke or soot damage.  912-234-9690

Fire Damage Can Affect the Whole House

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

According to redcross.org, home fires are more likely to start in the kitchen than any other room in the home. The second leading cause of home fires are heating sources like wood stoves, and fireplaces. 

A fire in one room can damage belongings and surfaces throughout you entire home or odors that could last for years. 

SERVPRO of Savannah understands how a fire can affect your life.  Our office consist of a 24 hour emergency response team, trained in caring for both the home and homeowner.  

Trained, uniformed technicians are on-site of a fire damage within hours to begin emergency mitigation services.  By responding quickly with a full line of fire cleanup and restoration service, SERVPRO of Savannah can help you regain control quickly and help you protect your home and belongings. 

SERVPRO of Savannah's professional fire crew have the ability to help, should the need arise. Call 912-234-9690

Until SERVPRO of Savannah arrives to assist in a fire

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

Helpful tips until SERVPRO of Savannah arrives to assist in the fire damage:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
• Coat chrome faucets, trip and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet. 
• Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Do not clean any electrical equipment.
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and carpets. 
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call SERVPRO of Savannah Today – (912) 234-9690

Emergency Ready Profile for Commercial Building

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

Is your commercial building prepared if there is an emergency?  If water is pouring into your business in the middle of the night, does your night staff know what to do to stop further damage and who to call for help? 

SERVPRO of Savannah can help prepare you and your staff in the event of an emergency.  The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is a free service offered by SERVPRO to equip you with the necessary information.  Just enter the contact information and location of important shut-off valves into the ERP app and this information is at the finger-tips of anyone who needs it.  You can also keep printed copies around your office to reference anytime as well.   

Give us a call and we are happy to help you get this free ERP app set up and include the information that is important to you and your business.   

Call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690.   

What happens when a structure is not dried out properly?

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

We see water damage from Savannah residents on a daily basis.  Water damage can occur from leaks, broke pipes, storms, etc.  

But what happens when a structure is not dried out properly?  

MOLD!  

Mold can grow grow in as little as 48 hours.  

What to do when you find mold?

Get SERVPRO of Savannah there fast. 

Protect your company, your clients and yourself.

Be wary of any company who pre-tests, remediates and post-tests.  

Use an independent, third party firm to do the testing, write the protocol and post-test. 

If you think you might have a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690.  We will send out a trained professional who will examine the structure for visible signs of mold, check for moisture and check the humidity.   Our teams follow protocol to rid your home of mold and bring the levels back to normal.  

We Specialize In Flood Cleanup & Restoration

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah sees flooding often since we are a coastal county.  A home can flood at any time due to heavy rainfall in a short period of time or when storms come in during high tide.  However, flooding could also occur due to the following events:  

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

Let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. 

Have questions about flooding?  Call us today.  We’re ready to help 912-234-9690.

We are Flood Specialists

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

We are Flood Specialists:

SERVPRO of Savannah is ready to assist if you have unwanted water in your home or business.  Our technicians are highly trained to respond to water disasters of any size with the professionalism and training necessary to ensure the space is restored as quickly as possible.  

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Call SERVPRO of Savannah today at 912-234-9690 and our professional team of technicians will respond quickly to your home or business.  We are here to help!

SERVPRO of Savannah restores messes of all degrees

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Whether it is an act of vandalism or a full on crime scene, SERVPRO Technicians are trained to cleanup and restore messes of all degrees: 

Bloodborne Pathogens

SERVPRO Professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO Technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect and deodorize the scene.

Crime Scene Residues

From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO Professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Arson and Vandalism

SERVPRO Professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. Our professional team also provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO Professionals remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting and deodorizing as they clean.

You don’t want to sit in a house or business contaminated with anything listed above, so make sure you call SERVPRO of Savannah at (912) 234-9690!

Hurricane Season is here

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

NOAA.gov informs us that hurricanes, tropical storms, and tropical depressions pose a variety of threats to people. Most importantly, long-lasting damage can occur from wind, heavy rainfall, and storm surge, which is the number 1 cause of loss of life during hurricanes.  Tornadoes and rip currents are additional threats that can result from hurricanes. The best time to  prepare for a hurricane is before hurricane season begins. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30.  

Be sure to listen to local authorities and follow their instructions to keep you and your family safe from unpredictable weather conditions.   Once the weather passes and you are able to safely re-enter your home or business, call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690 if you find water in your space.  

Storm Surge

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Storm surge

NOAA.gov is a good source of educational information about weather throughout the year and especially when storms affect our area.  National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shares about the reality of storm surge.  Although hurricanes are well known for their strong and destructive winds, a hurricane’s storm surge is by far the greatest threat to life and property along the immediate coast.  Storm surge is simply water that is pushed toward the shore by the force of the winds swirling around the storm. This advancing surge combines with the normal tides to create the hurricane storm tide, which can increase the mean water level 15 feet or more. In addition, wind driven waves are superimposed on the storm tide. This rise in water level can cause severe flooding in coastal areas, particularly when the storm tide coincides with the normal high tides. Because much of the United States' densely populated Atlantic and Gulf Coast coastlines lie less than 10 feet above mean sea level, the danger from storm surges is tremendous.

Avoid soggy disasters with these tips

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is one of the most common and costliest disasters your home can experience, costing billions of dollars annually.  Avoid soggy disasters with these tips:

Prevent basement water seepage:

• Reseal your basement. 
• Make sure water drains away from the building. 
• Install a backwater valve to prevent sewage from coming into your home. 

• Inspect appliance hoses and faucets. 
• Inspect the seal and caulking around showers and tubs. 
• When away on vacation, shut off the water supply to the washing machine. 
• Know the location of the main water shut-off valve in your home to react quickly if you have a water leak. 
• Install an emergency pressure release valve in your plumbing system to prevent pipes from bursting. 
• Check plumbing and heating pipes for cracks or leaks. 

Repair and protect your home's exterior.

• Caulk and seal windows to guard against water seepage.
• Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles.
• Check your downspouts and remove debris. 
• Check sprinklers and irrigation systems. 
• Install gutter guards to prevent clogs.

• Store off-season and other bulk belongings in waterproof bins. 
• Never store valuables or memorabilia where there is risk of destruction from water. 
• Keep belongings stored on shelving off the floor in basements. 
• Keep and up-to-date home inventory.  

Water Damage and Insurance

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage and insurance

Different types of water damage are insured by different types of policies.

Insurance Information Institute shares insight on water damage and insurance coverage to help us ask the right questions and make sure we have the coverage we need.

Homeowners and renters insurance provides coverage for burst pipes, wind driven rain and damage resulting from ice dams on your roof. Generally speaking, water that comes from the top down—such as rainfall and burst sprinklers—is covered by a standard homeowners policy.

Some policies cover sewer and drain backups, but many do not; however, you can purchase a sewer backup rider to your homeowners or renters coverage.

Typically, water that comes from the bottom up—such as an overflowing river—is covered by a separate flood insurance policy, which can be purchased from the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and from some private insurers. If you live in a flood prone area, learn more about appropriate coverage.

Be sure to check with your local insurance carriers to ensure you have the proper coverage for your home or business.

Restoring Your Savannah Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah's technicians are trained to respond to residential and commercial water damage events regardless of how big or small.  

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges 

Flooding and water damage events at 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

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 at 912-234-9690 and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.  

Does Your Home Have A Mold Problem?

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Got Mold?

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 912-234-9690

Water You Don't See

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Water you don't see

Water can do more damage than you may initially see.   Many times, there is water damage to many different layers that cannot be seen from above.   This image is a good visual of what you can't see when carpet gets wet.   The water goes quickly through the carpet and soaks the carpet pad down to the subfloor.   Walls can be affected as well.   The baseboard can get water behind it and therefore the adjacent drywall gets saturated.   SERVPRO of Savannah's trained technicians can test various areas in your home or business and come up with a drying plan specific for your space.  They have the tools to see the water you can't see.  Call SERVPRO of Savannah 24/7 at 912-234-9690 any time of the day.  

When Storms or Floods hit Savannah, SERVPRO is ready!

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Disaster Recovery Truck is ready to respond

SERVPRO ofSavannah 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 Savannah, 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 912-234-9690

Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage? No problem.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Savannah for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 912-234-9690

IICRC Certified Firm

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

From the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification:

SERVPRO of Savannah is registered with IICRC, and has pledged to implement an advanced training program and a course of study leading to the certification of all On-Location Operators actively engaged in providing services to the consumer in cleaning and restoration and has pledged its support in establishing and maintaining a professional attitude in the conduct of its daily business at all times and providing the consumer with the highest degree of professionalism possible.  

SERVPRO of Savannah is pleased to be recognized as a 2018 IICRC Certified firm for our expertise, professional excellence, and quality of service.  Many of our employees are proud to hold IICRC certifications and we strive to uphold this level of excellence in every job.  

Continuing Education Courses

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah offers Continuing Education courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters and Real Estate professionals. The Continuing Education courses provide you with information to better service your customers.

These programs are designed to improve the knowledge of your staff regarding emergency mitigation. 

Here are some of the CE courses that are offered by SERVPRO:

• Property Fire Damage Restoration

• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry

• Restoring Contaminated Buildings

• Restorative Drying for Water Damage

• Cleaning and Restoring Smoke-Damaged Contents

• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar

• Deodorization of Malodors

• Biohazard Cleanup

• Ethics

The owner of SERVPRO of Savannah is an approved instructor of these courses.   Contact SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690 to schedule one for your office.   

This is just one more way SERVPRO of Savannah is Here to Help!

SERVPRO of Savannah can handle your loss no matter the size

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know SERVPRO of Savannah is a Large Loss Responser?  Our team of technicians are trained to respond quickly to an size disaster.   We respond 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.  Our priority is making sure you and your structure are able to get back to business as quickly as possible.   We provide the technology to organize and document the process along the way to ensure every detail is accounted.   Whether your office is a small building, high-rise building, apartments, restaurants, hotels, large retail, multi-level residential, industrial, government or anything in between, our team is ready to respond.   We provide the expertise to make it "Like it never even happened."  Call our local office in Savannah at 912-234-9690.

Ice Cream Truck brings smiles to faces

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

Ice Cream truck

Ice cream is not just for kids.  Grown ups love ice cream too.  Here at SERVPRO of Savannah, we love to find ways to put a smile on the faces of others.   When the Savannah heat feels as hot as fire, nothing is better than hearing the Ice Cream Truck pulling into your neighborhood.  We brought Jenni's Treats on the Street Ice Cream Truck around to some of our Insurance offices during the heat of the summer.  Sometimes the hardest part is making the decision of which ice cream is their favorite that day.   This is just one small way to make their day a little better.  Ice Cream Truck has been a tradition for several years and our office looks forward to it every summer. 

SERVPRO partners with Fire Fighters at golf tournament

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO at the Fire Fighters Golf Tournament

SERVPRO of Savannah loves to find ways to interact and give back to our community.  We are excited to be the title sponsor of the Great Balls of Fire Golf Tournament six years in a row.  This event benefits the St. Joseph's Candler Telfair Mammography Fund.  We see firsthand the devastation fire causes, so anytime we can partner with our first responders is a good partnership for us.  Thank you to IAFF Savannah Firefighters for inviting us to be a large part of this event every year.   Not only is it a pleasure to sponsor this event, but it is a joy to spend the day on the golf course and interact with these brave men and women.   A very sincere Thank You to our First Responders!  

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning Process

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning Process:

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

Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, SERVPRO of Savannah can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

SERVPRO of Savannah takes care of your contents

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Your home of commercial facility contains many of your most valuable possessions. SERVPRO of Savannah understands the trauma that follows a loss. When fire damage takes control of your life, we help you take it back.

Some of our Contents services include:

Inventory – One of the first priorities in fire restoration is to complete an accurate inventory to help ensure you can properly account for all your belongings. Your SERVPRO of Savannah technician can provide a detailed room-by-room inventory of contents, including digital photographs and bar codes for each item, suitable for filing insurance claims forms and relieving you of this often stressful and time consuming process.

Move Outs – When the structure has suffered extensive damage, the cleanup and restoration process may need to be facilitated by relocating the contents for cleaning, deodorization and storage while structural repairs are being completed. A supervised moving crew can carefully pack and move the entire contents of your home or office.

Contents Cleaning – All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO of Savannah technicians begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO of Savannah can provide wet or dry cleaning. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to as near as preloss condition as possible. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more.

Call SERVPRO of Savannah today! (912) 234-9690

Is Your Business Prepared for a Disaster?

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.

While it may be difficult to prepare for the unpredictable, there are steps you can take now to ensure you are ready when disaster strikes. One way to prepare your business for any type of disaster, is to establish an Emergency READY Profile (ERP). 

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile, your business can receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

Call today to get started! (912) 234-9690 or visit www.SERVPRO.com/Ready 

Every Second Counts: Plan Two Ways Out

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

The theme for this year’s Fire Prevention Week is “Every Second Counts: Plan Two Ways Out”. Fire Prevention Week is designed to teach people the importance of home escape planning and practice.

A home escape plan should include:
• Working smoke alarms on every level of the home, in every bedroom and near all sleeping areas
• 2 ways out of every room
• A clear path to an outside meeting location

Here are 6 tips for coming up with your home fire escape plan:
1. Draw a map of your home with all members of your household, making sure to show two exits from each room and a path to the outside for each exit
2. Have a practice fire drill twice a year, practicing both ways out each time
3. Teach children how to escape
4. Make sure that the number of your home is clearly shown so that the fire department can easily find you
5. Close doors behind you as you leave to help slow down the spread of smoke, heat and fire
6. Once you get outside, stay outside

Having a fire escape plan ready and keeping these tips in mind will truly help in the event of a fire. And remember, “Every Second Counts: Plan Two Ways Out”.

Not All Smoke Damage Can Be Cleaned With Soap!

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

When it comes to cleaning smoked-damaged contents after a residential or commercial fire, the variety of contents in a typical job requires restorers to utilize a variety of cleaning methods.

Here is a quick description of each method of content cleaning:

• Dry Cleaning - Removes light to medium nongrease-based soils.
• Wet Cleaning - Removes moderate to heavy residues. The process involves cleaning using water, with or without a cleaning agent.
• Spray and Wipe - Apply a cleaning product using a spray bottle. After spraying, wipe the surface with a clean white towel. This method is effective for materials possibly damaged if saturated with cleaning product.
• Foam Cleaning - Effective for light residues or delicate materials. Clean with the foam of a cleaning agent rather than the liquid
• Abrasive Cleaning - Agitates the surface being cleaned. Apply a cleaning product containing abrasive ingredients
• Immersion Cleaning - Dipping contents items into a bath of cleaning product. This bath is an ultrasonic tank filled with water and cleaning solution. High-frequency sound waves then create high temperatures and microscopic jet streams of fluid to agitate and scrub contents.

SERVPRO recommends that you DO NOT attempt to clean smoke-damaged surfaces or contents yourself, and call the professionals!

Post Construction Cleanup

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Once the floors are down and the drywall is up, it’s time to remove the debris and dirt in order to lay carpet, paint and decorate. SERVPRO of Savannah can provide the debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design.

Dehumidification and Drying

During the construction phase, a building can trap moisture. Excessive moisture could result in mold growth. If you think one of your projects may have a moisture issue, rely on SERVPRO Professionals to provide the help you need eliminating moisture and preventing the potential for mold growth.

Final Cleaning

You want the facility to look its best when the doors open. SERVPRO of Savannah Professionals provide cleaning services to give the building that extra shine. Services include:

• Carpet, resilient and non-resilient floor prep and finish
• Ceiling, walls and fixture cleaning
• Deodorization
• Air Duct Cleaning
• Debris Removal (if necessary)
• Window Cleaning

Rely on SERVPRO of Savannah to help ensure your post-construction cleanup gets done as quickly as possible!

Call SERVPRO of Savannah 24/7 for your Residential or Commercial needs

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

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

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

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 912-234-9690

Residential Services

Whether your Chatham County home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Chatham County commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. 

Biohazard and Crime Scene Cleanup

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Whether it is an act of vandalism or a full on crime scene, SERVPRO Technicians are trained to cleanup and restore messes of all degrees: 

Bloodborne Pathogens

SERVPRO Professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO Technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect and deodorize the scene.

Crime Scene Residues

From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO Professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Arson and Vandalism

SERVPRO Professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. Your professional also provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO Professionals remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting and deodorizing as they clean.

You don’t want to sit in a house contaminated with anything listed above, so make sure you call SERVPRO of Savannah at (912) 234-9690!

SERVPRO of Savannah is a Large Loss Responder

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Corporate has an entire division that supports Large Loss across the country.  SERVPRO of Savannah has been designated a Large Loss Responder for our region based on completed projects on hotels, multi-story, multi-family housing facilities, military training and recreational facilities and senior assisted living facilities that were all well over $500,000 total loss costs.

Our franchise has a large inventory of equipment.  We also have access to strategically placed equipment that can be pulled in from our area and can have a tractor trailer full of commercial equipment in 5-9 hours. 

For losses exceeding $100,000, specialized Large Loss Supervisors will be brought in from the southeast region to manage the large number of laborers needed for this type of project.

Do you know the difference between a Hurricane Watch and a Hurricane Warning?

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

It’s important to know the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning. Make sure you’re prepared this hurricane season with these hurricane watch and warning tips from the Chatham Emergency Management Agency.

What is a Hurricane Watch?
A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 48 hours. 

What to do during a Hurricane Watch

• Fill up your car with gas.
• Secure buildings.
• Review evacuation plan.
• Listen to a radio or television for official instructions.
• Check your family's emergency supplies.
• Bring in outdoor objects (i.e. toys, garden tools).
• Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings.
• Secure outdoor objects which cannot be brought inside (i.e. boats, lawnmower).
• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils.

What is a Hurricane Warning?
A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions (winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas) are expected in 36 hours or less.

What to do during a Hurricane Warning?

• Listen to a radio or television for official instructions.
• If in a mobile home, check tie downs and prepare to evacuate.
• Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container.
• Stay inside, away from windows, skylights, and glass doors.
• Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy.
• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power "surge" when electricity is restored.

*source- http://www.chathamemergency.org/preparedness/hurricanes.php

What are Industrial Hygienist and Indoor Environmental Professionals

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

What are Industrial Hygienist (IH) and Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP)?

The Industrial Hygienists (IH’s), or Indoor Environmental Professionals (IEP’s), are used to assess fungal ecology, sample the indoor environment, determine the condition of mold, and establish the scope of work

• When to consult with an IH/IEP
• Surface Mold Growth
• Limited Mold Growth
• Extensive Mold Growth
• What does an IH/IEP do:
  • Perform an Assessment of the Fungal Ecology of Property, Systems, and Contents
  • Create a Sampling Strategy
  • Sample the Indoor Environment
  • Interpret Laboratory Data
  • Determine Condition 1, 2, and 3 to Establish a Scope of Work
  • Verify the Return of the Fungal Ecology to a Condition 1 Status

If an IH/IEP is called in he/she will test for the mold types and spore count, determines the site protocol, performs hazard assessment, meets and communicates with all parties as well as preforms the final clearance testing.  

If an IH/IEP has set a protocol for your mold, call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690. 

Escape plan for your business

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

An emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses, however, OSHA recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan:

1. Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company's emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.
2. Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.
3. Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover and conduct a head count. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.

These tips are provided by the National Fire Protection Association and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Hurricane Preparedness: Red Cross Tips

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are strong storms that can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property-threatening hazards such as flooding, storm surge, high winds and tornadoes.

The best way to protect your home and your family from a hurricane is preparedness. SERVPRO of Savannah works closely with the Southeast and Coastal Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross, and they have some tips to make sure you are prepared the next time a hurricane (or any type of tropical storm) hits:

• Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
• Check your disaster supplies. Replace or restock as needed.
• Bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind (bicycles, lawn furniture).
• Close your windows, doors and hurricane shutters. If you do not have hurricane shutters, close and board up all windows and doors with plywood.
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting. Keep them closed as much as possible so that food will last longer if the power goes out.
• Turn off propane tank.
• Unplug small appliances.
• Fill your car’s gas tank.
• Create a hurricane evacuation plan with members of your household. Planning and practicing your evacuation plan minimizes confusion and fear during the event.
• Find out about your community’s hurricane response plan. Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs and make plans for your pets to be cared for.
• Obey evacuation orders. Avoid flooded roads and washed out bridges.

Please visit http://www.redcross.org/ for more information.

Savannah Residents: Follow these mold safety tips

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Savannah for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 912-234-9690

Savannah Fire Mitigation Services

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

Residential fire occurs about every 90 seconds in the United States according to national fire statistics.*

A fire in one room can damage belongings and surfaces throughout you entire home or odors that could last for years. 

SERVPRO of Savannah understands how a fire can affect your life.  Our office consist of a 24 hour emergency response team, trained in caring for both the home and homeowner.  

Trained, uniformed technicians are on-site of a fire damage within four hours to begin emergency mitigation services.  By responding quickly with a full line of fire cleanup and restoration service, SERVPRO of Savannah can help you regain control quickly and help you protect your home and belongings. 

SERVPRO of Savannah's professional fire crew have the ability to help, should the need arise. 912-234-9690

*Source - U.S. Fire Administration

SERVPRO of Savannah: Fire Service Response Guidelines

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

The first 48 hours after a fire can make the difference between restoring vs. replacing your property and personal belongings. 

SERVPRO's 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.  We provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to content claims inventory and document restoration.  These services help ensure your property is restored to preloss condition when possible.  

Within 1 hour - SERVPRO of Savannah will contact you to arrange service.

Within 4 hours of the loss notification - SERVPRO of Savannah professional will be on-site to start mitigation services if necessary. 

Within 8 business hours of the on-site arrival - SERVPRO of Savannah will communicate with the appropriate person to provide a verbal briefing of the scope.

Contact SERVPRO of Savannah with any fire, smoke or soot damage.  912-234-9690

SERVPRO of Savannah is available 24 hours a day

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

24/7 clock

SERVPRO of Savannah is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 912-234-9690

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Savannah has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information?
• Your insurance information? (Company and Agent)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business?
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah 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.

Smoke and Soot cleanup

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage

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 Savannah 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 – 912-234-9690

If you see signs of mold

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in wall corner

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

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

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 912-234-9690

What happens when a structure is not dried out properly?

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

We see water damage from Savannah residents on a daily basis.  Water damage can occur from leaks, broke pipes, storms, etc.  

But what happens when a structure is not dried out properly?  

MOLD!  

Mold can grow grow in as little as 48 hours.  

What to do when you find mold?

Get SERVPRO of Savannah there fast. 

Protect your company, your clients and yourself.

Be wary of any company who pre-tests, remediates and post-test.  

Use an independent, third party firm to do the testing, write the protocol and post-test. 

If you think you might have a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690.  We will send out a trained professional who will examine the structure for visible signs of mold, check for moisture and check the humidity.  

Faster to any size water disaster

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Faster to any size disaster

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Savannah provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

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 Savannah 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 – 912-234-9690

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.

Commercial Water Damage Present Unique Challenges

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges 

Flooding and water damage events at 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

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.

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah 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.

Tips for grilling safely

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Grilling fire at house

There's nothing better than grilling out in the summertime. When you see fire in the grill, under hot dogs and burgers, it is a welcome sight at any outdoor party or family cookout. But if a grill is not managed properly, an unwelcome fire can turn your cookout into a catastrophe. Here are some tips for keeping everyone at the party safe while grilling:

General Grilling Tips

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended

For more information and grilling safety tips, please visit http://www.nfpa.org/.

We specialize in flood cleanup and restoration

8/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah sees flooding often since we are a coastal county.  A home can flood at any time due to heavy rainfall in a short period of time or when storms come in during high tide.  However, flooding could also occur due to the following events:  

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Flooding?

Call Today - 912-234-9690

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded building can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Savannah and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flood Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Building Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 912-234-9690

Water Damage Timeline

8/6/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Timeline

The sooner you respond to a water emergency on your property, the less the damage will cost you. Go with the team that’s faster to any-sized disaster.  Call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690.

• Within Minutes - Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery and belongings. 
• Within 1to 2 Hours - Drywall swells, metal surfaces tarnish and furniture begins to warp/mold.
• Within 48 Hours to Week - Mold grows, doors and furniture warp, metal begins to rust.
• Over Week - Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks.

Here at SERVPRO we have the following Service Response Guidelines*:

• ONE – Within one hour from the notice of loss, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will contact you to arrange for service.
• FOUR – Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services.
• EIGHT – Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person.

*Exceptions may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation.

It's Hurricane Season in Savannah

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

Although hurricane season started on June 1st, we are now headed into the peak of the season here in Savannah, GA. 

According to the National Hurricane Center, approximately two-thirds of the hurricanes form in August and September.  The season will last through November 30th. 

Savannah has been extremely blessed when it comes to hurricanes but that doesn't mean we shouldn't be prepared. 

Below are a few reminders on being prepared:

• Keep a close watch on the predicted storm routes, storm watches and storm warnings.
• Have an evacuation route planned.
• Have key contact information for loved ones.
• Keep a supply kit ready.
• Make sure you gather medicine or medical equipment for any special needs.
• Have a plan in place for your pets.
• Make sure you have copies of insurance and vital records.

For more information, visit www.fema.gov or www.nhc.noaa.gov.

Types of Storms

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

There are so many types of storms out there - many people get hurricanes, typhoons and cyclones confused.

Do you know the difference between these storms?

The location of where the storm occurs is the only difference. 

Hurricanes are large tropical storms in the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts of the United States of America.

Typhoons are the tropical storms in the region of the Western Pacific Oceans and/or the region of the Indian Oceans.

Cyclones are the tropical storms in the in the South Pacific Oceans and Indian Oceans.  

These storms are all created by a combination of preexisting weather disturbance, warm tropical oceans, moisture and relatively light winds.  

For more information on these storms go to www.oceanservice.noaa.gov.

The National Ocean Service helps coastal communities prepare for and recover from major coastal storms such as hurricanes. 

Until SERVPRO of Savannah arrives to assist in a fire

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

Helpful tips until SERVPRO of Savannah arrives to assist in the fire damage.

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
• Coat chrome faucets, trip and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet. 
• Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Do not clean any electrical equipment.
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and carpets. 
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (912) 234-9690

When a mop and a bucket aren't enough

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah is trained to safely clean and restore your customer's home, utilizing the following procedures: 

• Identify the Source/Type of Water
• Measure Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis
• Survey the Extent of Damage and Inspect the Premises
• Perform Emergency Water Extraction
• Move and Block Furniture
• Provide Floor Service
• Inspect Carpet Pad/Carpet and Provide Service
• Apply Necessary Treatments
• Utilize Drying Equipment and Monitor Drying
• Dispose of Refuse

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah 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.

For help restoring your home or business after a water loss, call SERVPRO of Savannah at (912) 234-9690. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Savannah is a Large Loss Responder

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Corporate has an entire division that supports Large Loss across the country.  SERVPRO of Savannah has been designated a Large Loss Responder for our region based on completed projects on hotels, multi-story, multi-family housing facilities, military training and recreational facilities and senior assisted living facilities that were all well over $500,000 total loss costs.

Our franchise has a large inventory of equipment.  We also have access to strategically placed equipment that can be pulled in from our area and can have a tractor trailer full of commercial equipment in 5-9 hours. 

For losses exceeding $100,000, specialized Large Loss Supervisors will be brought in from the southeast region to manage the large number of laborers needed for this type of project.

Emergency Tips for a Water Damage

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

Do:

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and table top items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and pillow cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. 
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove Oriental rugs or other colored rugs from wet wall-to-wall carpeting.
• Remove valuable paintings and art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Open and place luggage, in sunlight to dry, if possible.
• Gather loose items, toys, etc. from floors.  

Don't: 

• Leave wet fabrics in place; dry as soon as possible. Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature. 
• Leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.
• Use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Use TV's or other household appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors. 
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

7/10/2018 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Savannah for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 912-234-9690

Continuing Education courses

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah offers Continuing Education courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters and Real Estate professionals. The CE courses provide you with information to better service your customers.

These programs are designed to improve the knowledge of your staff regarding emergency mitigation. 

Here are some of the CE courses that are offered by SERVPRO

• Fire Damage Restoration

• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry

• Restorative Drying for Water Damage

• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar

• Biohazard Cleanup

Contact SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690 to schedule one for your office.   

When Storms or Floods hit Savannah, SERVPRO is ready!

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Savannah.

SERVPRO ofSavannah 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 Savannah, 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 912-234-9690

Does Your Home Have A Mold Problem?

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 912-234-9690

Restoring Your Savannah Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges 

Flooding and water damage events at 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

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.

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah 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.

Grilling precautions

7/3/2018 (Permalink)

Summer time is here! One of America’s favorite summer past times is lighting up the grill and cooking up some burgers. With any activity comes danger.  Here are some helpful tips to the homeowners getting ready to grill up some goodies this summer.

1.) Make sure that your grill is placed far away from your home.

2.) Grills should only be used outdoors, unless they are gas.

3.) Look up! Do not use your grill under any overhanging branches.

4.) NEVER leave your grill unattended.

5.) If you use starter fluid, never add any other flammable liquids to the fire.

6.) When you’re done grilling, be sure to let the coals cool completely before disposing of them into a metal container.

Even when all proper precautions are taken, some accidents are inevitable. In case of a fire, try and use a fire extinguisher. If the situation is worse, call 911. Once the fire is put out and the damage is assessed, call SERVPRO of Savannah. We would love to make it “Like it never even happened!”

Pipe burst story

7/3/2018 (Permalink)

Imagine it’s 2:00 am, you are comfortably tucked into bed and sound asleep. Next thing you know, you faintly hear a steady stream of water. You assume it’s just the toilet running so you ignore it, but the sound gets louder! You roll out of bed and see that there is water EVERYWHERE. Your pipe burst in the middle of the night. You are half asleep and your thought process is all over the place.  Where do you start? Who do you call? Is anyone even open? That’s when you remember you saw a green and orange SERVPRO of Savannah truck in your neighborhood last week. You aren’t sure if they are even available this late, but you give them a call anyway. Thirty minutes later, your friendly SERVPRO technician is knocking on the door ready to help!

You show the technician where the leak occurred and he pulls out what you learn to be is a moisture meter. He starts taking measurements and discusses your drying plan.  Based on how much certain rooms were affected, the technician begins to place equipment. Once the problem is addressed and the drying has begun, he leaves and lets you get some sleep.

If you ever find yourself in the same situation, now you know. . . call SERVPRO of Savannah.  We will make it “Like it never even happened!”

Commercial fast food restaurant fire

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Checkers fire

SERVPRO of Savannah was called after this fast food restaurant had a fire that started near the fryer in the kitchen area.  The fire department extinguished the fire, which turned this fire and soot job into a water job as well.  While the employees and customers were safe, there was work to be done to get this restaurant cleaned out and back to operation.   Our SERVPRO of Savannah fire and commercial cleaning crews were ready to respond.  They used the professional drying equipment first, then moved on to the demo work, then finished with the detailed cleaning phase.  Our SERVPRO of Savannah team worked with the restaurant owners to make this process as smooth as possible.  

Water you don't see

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Water you don't see

Water can do more damage than you may initially see.   Many times, there is water damage to many different layers that cannot be seen from above.   This image is a good visual of when carpet gets wet.   The water goes quickly through the carpet and soaks the carpet pad down to the subfloor.   Walls can be affected as well.   The baseboard can get water behind it and therefore the adjacent drywall gets saturated.   SERVPRO of Savannah's trained technicians can test various areas in your home or business and come up with a drying plan specific for your space.  They have the tools to see the water you can't see.  Call SERVPRO of Savannah 24/7 at 912-234-9690 any time of the day.  

IICRC Certified firm

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

From the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification:

SERVPRO of Savannah is registered with IICRC, and has pledged to implement an advanced training program and a course of study leading to the certification of all On-Location Operators actively engaged in providing services to the consumer in cleaning and restoration and has pledged its support in establishing and maintaining a professional attitude in the conduct of its daily business at all times and providing the consumer with the highest degree of professionalism possible.  

SERVPRO of Savannah is pleased to be recognized as a 2018 IICRC Certified firm for our expertise, professional excellence, and quality of service.  Many of our employees are proud to hold IICRC certifications and we strive to uphold this level of excellence in every job.  

Heating Hazards - Savannah Fire Safety Tips

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

The winter season is here.  Even though Savannah usually has mild winters, there is still a need for heating homes or businesses at some point during the winter months.  

Remember these tips when heating your Savannah home or business:

• Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or a portable space heater.  Have a three foot "kid-free" zone around open fires and space heaters. 
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be completely cooled before putting them in a metal container.  Keep the container a safe distance away from the home.  
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed. 
• Always us the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters. 
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. 
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer's instructions. 
• Test smoke alarms monthly. 

Should you suffer fire damage, contact SERVPRO at 912-234-9690!  Let us help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Is your Savannah building prepared for the New Year?

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

Each new year brings the opportunity for new beginnings! Make 2017 a year to remember and resolve to be READY! SERVPRO of Savannah wants to help ensure you enjoy a safe and happy new year by helping you be prepared for anything the year may have in store.  

Did you know, up to 50 percent of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen? Of the businesses that do survive a disaster, the overwhelming majority had an emergency preparedness plan in place. 

Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can help you build an emergency preparedness plan for your property.  The best part is, this is an absolutely free service...No strings attached!  

Call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690 and ask to speak with the marketing representative, Parker Roberson. 

Let Parker help you make a resolution that will help protect you and your business so that you can be "Ready for whatever happens" in the new year!  

Christmas Safety in Savannah

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

Christmas tree fires are very dangerous.  Per the U.S. Fire Administration, on average, one of every 31 reported home Christmas tree fires results in death.  This compared to an average of one death per 144 total reported home fires. Christmas trees too close to a heat source account for one in every four fires.  

Below are just a few important tips for fire safety during the Holiday season:

• Water your Christmas tree.
• Keep decorations away from heat sources. 
• Inspect decoration electrical cords and follow the manufacturer's instruction. 
• Always unplug your tree and lighted decorations prior to leaving or going to bed.
• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree.
• Make sure your tree stand is sturdy and your tree is fitted in the stand properly. 

If you or someone you know has experienced a fire, SERVPRO is here to help. Call 912-234-9690.

*Source: U.S. Fire Administration

Preventable Homeowners' Insurance Claims

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

We’re very fortunate that many homeowner losses are preventable. But because homeowners’ insurance may not pay a claim that could have been avoided with proper maintenance, it pays to take care of your home. Below is an example of preventable claims and tips on making sure that you avoid these issues.

• Washing Machine mishaps
• Its recommended that you replace your washing machine hoses every three years and inspect them regularly
• Leaks in your bath tub and shower
• Grout and caulking can decay or develop cracks over time. This will allow water into the walls and/or floors. Its recommended that you inspect and maintain your seals every year
• Toilet Issues
• Improperly installed and leaking toilets. Make sure that you regularly check that the seal of your toilet is not worn out and that there is not any water around the base
• Refrigerator water supply leaks
• The water lines that connect to your fridge can cause extensive home damage. The lines to your fridge should be checked regularly for kinks
• Roof Leaks and collapses
• Basic maintenance is key to a longer roof life
• Chimney and fireplace fires
• Dirty or plugged chimneys can cause fires. Implement fire safety best practices and maintain a regular cleaning schedule
• Hot water heater leaks
• Small leaks that go unnoticed can quickly turn into a major claim. Make sure to regularly inspect the water heater and the pipes around the unit for leaks, moisture, mold, buildup and corrosion
• Electrical Fires
• Make sure to check for loose-fitting plugs in electrical outlets and avoid overloading outlets
• Cooking or candle fires
• Cooking equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires injuries. Candles and cooking equipment should be monitored closely.
• Furnace issues
• Have your furnace inspected regularly and have a professional make any repairs
• Dishwasher leaks
• You should check all hoses for sign of wear and tear every three months. Ensure that you are cleaning your dish washer to prevent buildup and clogs that could potentially cause leakage later on

Source

Every Second Counts: Plan Two Ways Out

10/13/2017 (Permalink)

The theme for this year’s Fire Prevention Week is “Every Second Counts: Plan Two Ways Out”. Fire Prevention Week is designed to teach people the importance of home escape planning and practice.

A home escape plan should include:
• Working smoke alarms on every level of the home, in every bedroom and near all sleeping areas
• 2 ways out of every room
• A clear path to an outside meeting location

Here are 6 tips for coming up with your home fire escape plan:
1. Draw a map of your home with all members of your household, making sure to show two exits from each room and a path to the outside for each exit
2. Have a practice fire drill twice a year, practicing both ways out each time
3. Teach children how to escape
4. Make sure that the number of your home is clearly shown so that the fire department can easily find you
5. Close doors behind you as you leave to help slow down the spread of smoke, heat and fire
6. Once you get outside, stay outside

Having a fire escape plan ready and keeping these tips in mind will truly help in the event of a fire. And remember, “Every Second Counts: Plan Two Ways Out”.

Source

Is Your Business Prepared for a Disaster?

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.

While it may be difficult to prepare for the unpredictable, there are steps you can take now to ensure you are ready when disaster strikes. One way to prepare your business for any type of disaster, is to establish an Emergency READY Profile (ERP). 

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile, your business can receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

Call today to get started! (912) 234-9690 or visit www.SERVPRO.com/Ready 

Flood Safety Tips

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, out in the country, or even in the desert, there is potential for flooding. Anywhere it can rain, it can flood.

Flood Safety Tips:

• Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
• Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be swept away quickly.
• Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage.
• If your property suffers flood damage, clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwaters can contain sewage and chemicals. Dispose of any food or personal hygiene items exposed to floodwaters.

If you experience residential or commercial water damage due to a flood, call SERVPRO of Savannah immediately! (912)234-9690

Escape Planning for your Business

9/19/2017 (Permalink)

An emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses, however, OSHA recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan:

1. Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company's emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.
2. Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.
3. Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover and conduct a head count. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.

These tips are provided by the National Fire Protection Association and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

The Silent Killer: Reduce Carbon Monoxide Exposure

9/19/2017 (Permalink)

Carbon monoxide, considered "the silent killer", is a gas you cannot see, taste, or smell. It can be created when fuels, such as kerosene, gasoline, coal, natural gas, propane, methane, or wood do not burn properly. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, around 150 people die every year from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. Often times, it is the result of faulty, improperly used or vented consumer products like furnaces, ranges, water heaters, room heaters, and engine-powered equipment, such as portable generators. However, there are precautions you can take to help protect yourself, your family and your employees from deadly carbon monoxide fumes.

Reduce the change of carbon monoxide exposure in your workplace by performing regular maintenance on equipment and appliances that can produce carbon monoxide. Consider switching from gasoline-powered equipment to equipment powered by electricity or batteries. Prohibit the use of gasoline-powered engines or tools in poorly ventilated areas.

To protect your home, install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home, including outside of all bedrooms. Consider having all fuel-burning heating equipment and chimneys services annually by a professional. Use portable generators only in well-ventilated areas away from doors, windows, vents, and any other openings to prevent fumes from entering the home.

For additional carbon monoxide safety information, visit usfa.fema.gov or osha.gov

Not All Smoke Damage Can Be Cleaned With Soap!

9/18/2017 (Permalink)

When it comes to cleaning smoked-damaged contents after a residential or commercial fire, the variety of contents in a typical job requires restorers to utilize a variety of cleaning methods.

Here is a quick description of each method of content cleaning:

• Dry Cleaning - Removes light to medium nongrease-based soils.
• Wet Cleaning - Removes moderate to heavy residues. The process involves cleaning using water, with or without a cleaning agent.
• Spray and Wipe - Apply a cleaning product using a spray bottle. After spraying, wipe the surface with a clean white towel. This method is effective for materials possibly damaged if saturated with cleaning product.
• Foam Cleaning - Effective for light residues or delicate materials. Clean with the foam of a cleaning agent rather than the liquid
• Abrasive Cleaning - Agitates the surface being cleaned. Apply a cleaning product containing abrasive ingredients
• Immersion Cleaning - Dipping contents items into a bath of cleaning product. This bath is an ultrasonic tank filled with water and cleaning solution. High-frequency sound waves then create high temperatures and microscopic jet streams of fluid to agitate and scrub contents.

SERVPRO recommends that you DO NOT attempt to clean smoke-damaged surfaces or contents yourself, and call the professionals!

Post Construction Cleanup

9/18/2017 (Permalink)

Once the floors are down and the drywall is up, it’s time to remove the debris and dirt in order to lay carpet, paint and decorate. SERVPRO of Savannah can provide the debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design.

Dehumidification and Drying

During the construction phase, a building can trap moisture. Excessive moisture could result in mold growth. If you think one of your projects may have a moisture issue, rely on SERVPRO Professionals to provide the help you need eliminating moisture and preventing the potential for mold growth.

Final Cleaning

You want the facility to look its best when the doors open. SERVPRO of Savannah Professionals provide cleaning services to give the building that extra shine. Services include:

• Carpet, resilient and non-resilient floor prep and finish
• Ceiling, walls and fixture cleaning
• Deodorization
• Air Duct Cleaning
• Debris Removal (if necessary)
• Window Cleaning

Rely on SERVPRO of Savannah to help ensure your post-construction cleanup gets done as quickly as possible!

What is Lurking in your Ducts?

9/18/2017 (Permalink)

Since the ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, inspecting the ductwork should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO of Savannah's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC system and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may save you money.

The SERVPRO proven Duct Cleaning System is cost efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO uses a Portable Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime. 

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning Process

9/18/2017 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning Process:

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

Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, SERVPRO of Savannah can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

Mold Awareness

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

Mold has been around forever because mold is a naturally occurring microscopic fungi that can be found almost anywhere.  

Here are a few key years regarding the history of mold awareness.

• 2001  Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Guidelines for Schools and Commercial Buildings (www.epa.gov)
• 2003  OSHA Safety and Health Information Bulletin
• 2003  IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for         Professional Mold Remediation (S520)              (www.IICRC.org/s520info.shtml )
• 2006  National Indoor Mold Society is formed            (http://afamerica.com/nims/)
• 2008  IICRC Standard and Reference Guide (S520) 2^nd Edition is released
• 2009  EPA Designates September as National Indoor Toxic Mold Awareness Month

Litigation Prior to 1993 Was Limited:

• Initial cases were:
  • Landlord-tenant
  • Faulty construction
• Lawsuits are in state and federal court
• Regulatory Organizations such as State Health Agencies, State Attorney Generals and the outcome of litigation are defining the future of how we conduct mold mitigation and remediation and how mold liability is handled.

SERVPRO of Savannah requires that our techinicans become certified throught the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).  The IICRC S520 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mold Remediation. 

Call SERVPRO of Savannah today for any and all mold questions or concerns. 912-234-9690

What are Industrial Hygienist and Indoor Environmental Professionals?

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

What are Industrial Hygienist (IH) and Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP)?

The Industrial Hygienists (IH’s), or Indoor Environmental Professionals (IEP’s), are used to assess fungal ecology, sample the indoor environment, determine the condition of mold, and establish the scope of work

• When to consult with an IH/IEP
• Surface Mold Growth
• Limited Mold Growth
• Extensive Mold Growth
• What does an IH/IEP do:
  • Perform an Assessment of the Fungal Ecology of Property, Systems, and Contents
  • Create a Sampling Strategy
  • Sample the Indoor Environment
  • Interpret Laboratory Data
  • Determine Condition 1, 2, and 3 to Establish a Scope of Work
  • Verify the Return of the Fungal Ecology to a Condition 1 Status

If an IH/IEP is called in he/she will test for the mold types and spore count, determines the site protocol, performs hazard assessment, meets and communicates with all parties as well as preforms the final clearance testing.  

If an IH/IEP has set a protocol for your mold, call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690. 

Hurricane Preparedness: Red Cross Tips

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are strong storms that can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property-threatening hazards such as flooding, storm surge, high winds and tornadoes.

The best way to protect your home and your family from a hurricane is preparedness. SERVPRO of Savannah works closely with the Southeast and Coastal Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross, and they some tips to make sure you are prepared the next time a hurricane (or any type of tropical storm) hits:

• Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
• Check your disaster supplies. Replace or restock as needed.
• Bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind (bicycles, lawn furniture).
• Close your windows, doors and hurricane shutters. If you do not have hurricane shutters, close and board up all windows and doors with plywood.
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting. Keep them closed as much as possible so that food will last longer if the power goes out.
• Turn off propane tank.
• Unplug small appliances.
• Fill your car’s gas tank.
• Create a hurricane evacuation plan with members of your household. Planning and practicing your evacuation plan minimizes confusion and fear during the event.
• Find out about your community’s hurricane response plan. Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs and make plans for your pets to be cared for.
• Obey evacuation orders. Avoid flooded roads and washed out bridges.

Please visit http://www.redcross.org/ for more information.

Do you know the difference between a Hurricane Watch and a Hurricane Warning?

9/5/2017 (Permalink)

It’s important to know the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning. Make sure you’re prepared this hurricane season with these hurricane watch and warning tips from the Chatham Emergency Management Agency.

What is a Hurricane Watch?
A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 48 hours. 

What to do during a Hurricane Watch

• Fill up your car with gas.
• Secure buildings.
• Review evacuation plan.
• Listen to a radio or television for official instructions.
• Check your family's emergency supplies.
• Bring in outdoor objects (i.e. toys, garden tools).
• Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings.
• Secure outdoor objects which cannot be brought inside (i.e. boats, lawnmower).
• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils.

What is a Hurricane Warning?
A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions (winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas) are expected in 36 hours or less.

What to do during a Hurricane Warning?

• Listen to a radio or television for official instructions.
• If in a mobile home, check tie downs and prepare to evacuate.
• Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container.
• Stay inside, away from windows, skylights, and glass doors.
• Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy.
• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power "surge" when electricity is restored.

*source- http://www.chathamemergency.org/preparedness/hurricanes.php

Its Time to Have Your Ducts Cleaned!

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

If we’re keeping our HVAC system at home clean to keep our family happy and healthy, why no extend the same service to our customers? Businesses sometimes tend to overlook or simply forget about certain aspects of their maintenance checklist and one that is often forgotten about is air duct cleaning. Dirty ducts can create all sorts of problems from odor to circulating mold or other contaminants throughout your business. SERVPRO of Savannah is Here to Help! Below are some benefits to cleaning your air ducts:

1. Improved indoor air quality
2. Greater HVAC system efficiency
3. Longer HVAC component lifespan
4. Air duct cleaning conserves energy
5. Air duct cleaning will save you money in the long run

You may not need to clean your air ducts every year, but it is something that you should keep maintained routinely!

Has Your Building Been Vandalized? Here's what to do

8/29/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners quickly recover from fire and water damage. They also provide general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.

If you ever encounter an act of vandalism to your home or building, here are some tips on what to do until SERVPRO arrives:

DO:

• Hose or wash egg damage from building exterior as soon as possible.
• Blot freshly spilled food from carpets and fabrics with a dampened cloth or sponge (but don’t overwet). Scrape and blot (don’t rub: it may damage fibers).
• Carefully vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery
• Save containers, which reveal the composition of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints.
• Record all damage and photograph when possible.

DON’T:

• Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
• Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
• Discard wood chips, broken pieces from furniture, porcelain or other art objects.

Cookout Catastrophe: Tips for grilling safely

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

There's nothing better than grilling out in the summertime. When you see fire in the grill, under hot dogs and burgers, it is a welcome sight at any outdoor party or family cookout. But if a grill is not managed properly, an unwelcome fire can turn your cookout into a catastrophe. Here are some tips for keeping everyone at the party safe while grilling:

General Grilling Tips

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended

For more information and grilling safety tips, please visit http://www.nfpa.org/.

Restoring your Savannah Commercial Property after a water damage

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Savannah 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

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.

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah 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.

Does your Savannah home have a mold problem?

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

Savannah Residents: Follow these mold safety tips

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Savannah for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 912-234-9690

When storms or floods hit Savannah, SERVPRO is ready!

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah 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 to Damage

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 Savannah, 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, and always ready for action.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Savannah Today at (912) 234-9690

Savannah Fire Mitigation Services

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

Residential fire occurs about every 90 seconds in the United States according to national fire statistics.*

A fire in one room can damage belongings and surfaces throughout you entire home or odors that could last for years. 

SERVPRO of Savannah understands how a fire can affect your life.  Our office consist of a 24 hour emergency response team, trained in caring for both the home and homeowner.  

Trained, uniformed technicians are on-site of a fire damage within four hours to begin emergency mitigation services.  By responding quickly with a full line of fire cleanup and restoration service, SERVPRO of Savannah can help you regain control quickly and help you protect your home and belongings. 

SERVPRO of Savannah's professional fire crew have the ability to help, should the need arise. 912-234-9690

*Source - U.S. Fire Administration

SERVPRO of Savannah: Fire Service Response Guidelines

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

The first 48 hours after a fire can make the difference between restoring vs. replacing your property and personal belongings. 

SERVPRO's 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.  We provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to content claims inventory and document restoration.  These services help ensure your property is restored to preloss condition when possible.  

Within 1 hour - SERVPRO of Savannah will contact you to arrange service.

Within 4 hours of the loss notification - SERVPRO of Savannah professional will be on-site to start mitigation services if necessary. 

Within 8 business hours of the on-site arrival - SERVPRO of Savannah will communicate with the appropriate person to provide a verbal briefing of the scope.

Contact SERVPRO of Savannah with any fire, smoke or soot damage.  912-234-9690

Mold - Don't let it grow

8/26/2017 (Permalink)

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

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

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 912-234-9690

What happens when a structure is not dried properly, SERVPRO of Savannah can help

8/26/2017 (Permalink)

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

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

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 912-234-9690

Water Damage Timeline

8/25/2017 (Permalink)

The sooner you respond to a water emergency on your property, the less the damage will cost you. Go with the team that’s faster to any-sized disaster.

• Within Minutes - Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery and belongings. 
• Within 1to 2 Hours - Drywall swells, metal surfaces tarnish and furniture begins to warp/mold.
• Within 48 Hours to Week - Mold grows, doors and furniture warp, metal begins to rust.
• Over Week - Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks.

Here at SERVPRO we have the following Service Response Guidelines*:

• ONE – Within one hour from the notice of loss, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will contact you to arrange for service.
• FOUR – Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services.
• EIGHT – Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person.

*Exceptions may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation.

SERVPRO of Savannah: 24 hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/25/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 912-234-9690

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Savannah has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information?
• Your insurance information? (Company and Agent)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business?
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah 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.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/25/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Savannah 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 – 912-234-9690

Faster to your Water Damage Event

8/25/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Savannah provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

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 Savannah 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 – 912-234-9690

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.

We specialize in flood cleanup and restoration

8/25/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah sees flooding often since we are a coastal county.  A home can flood at any time due to heavy rainfall in a short period of time or when storms come in during high tide.  However, flooding could also occur due to the following events:  

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Flooding?

Call Today - 912-234-9690

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded building can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Savannah and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flood Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Building Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 912-234-9690

Emergency Tips for a Water Damage

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

Do:

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and table top items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and pillow cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. 
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove Oriental rugs or other colored rugs from wet wall-to-wall carpeting.
• Remove valuable paintings and art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Open and place luggage, in sunlight to dry, if possible.
• Gather loose items, toys, etc. from floors.  

Don't: 

• Leave wet fabrics in place; dry as soon as possible. Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature. 
• Leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.
• Use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Use TV's or other household appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors. 
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

SERVPRO of Savannah is a Large Loss Responder

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Corporate has an entire division that supports Large Loss across the country.  SERVPRO of Savannah has been designated a Large Loss Responder for our region based on completed projects on hotels, multi-story, multi-family housing facilities, military training and recreational facilities and senior assisted living facilities that were all well over $500,000 total loss costs.

Our franchise has a large inventory of equipment.  We also have access to strategically placed equipment that can be pulled in from our area and can have a tractor trailer full of commercial equipment in 5-9 hours. 

For losses exceeding $100,000, specialized Large Loss Supervisors will be brought in from the southeast region to manage the large number of laborers needed for this type of project.

When a mop and bucket arent enough

8/21/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah is trained to safely clean and restore your customer's home, utilizing the following procedures: 

• Identify the Source/Type of Water
• Measure Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis
• Survey the Extent of Damage and Inspect the Premises
• Perform Emergency Water Extraction
• Move and Block Furniture
• Provide Floor Service
• Inspect Carpet Pad/Carpet and Provide Service
• Apply Necessary Treatments
• Utilize Drying Equipment and Monitor Drying
• Dispose of Refuse

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah 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.

For help restoring your home or business after a water loss, call SERVPRO of Savannah at (912) 234-9690. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Until SERVPRO of Savannah arrives to assist in a fire

8/21/2017 (Permalink)

Helpful tips until SERVPRO of Savannah arrives to assist in the fire damage.

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
• Coat chrome faucets, trip and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet. 
• Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Do not clean any electrical equipment.
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and carpets. 
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (912) 234-9690

Types of Storms

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

There are so many types of storms out there - many people get hurricanes, typhoons and cyclones confused.

Do you know the difference between these storms?

The location of where the storm occurs is the only difference. 

Hurricanes are large tropical storms in the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts of the United States of America.

Typhoons are the tropical storms in the region of the Western Pacific Oceans and/or the region of the Indian Oceans.

Cyclones are the tropical storms in the in the South Pacific Oceans and Indian Oceans.  

These storms are all created by a combination of preexisting weather disturbance, warm tropical oceans, moisture and relatively light winds.  

For more information on these storms go to www.oceanservice.noaa.gov.

The National Ocean Service helps coastal communities prepare for and recover from major coastal storms such as hurricanes. 

Its Hurricane Season in Savannah

8/15/2017 (Permalink)

Although hurricane season started on June 1st, we are now headed into the peak of the season here in Savannah, GA. 

According to the National Hurricane Center, approximately two-thirds of the hurricanes form in August and September.  The season will last through November 30th. 

Savannah has been extremely blessed when it comes to hurricanes but that doesn't mean we shouldn't be prepared. 

Below are a few reminders on being prepared:

• Keep a close watch on the predicted storm routes, storm watches and storm warnings.
• Have an evacuation route planned.
• Have key contact information for loved ones.
• Keep a supply kit ready.
• Make sure you gather medicine or medical equipment for any special needs.
• Have a plan in place for your pets.
• Make sure you have copies of insurance and vital records.

For more information, visit www.fema.gov or www.nhc.noaa.gov.

New Evacuation Zones for Chatham County

5/26/2017 (Permalink)

Chatham County Emergency Management Agency has posted their new evacuation zones for the county.

Be sure to check to check your area so that you are prepared as we begin to enter hurricane season!

For more information, please visit the CEMA website.

SERVPRO restores your contents from fire damage too!

1/3/2017 (Permalink)

Your home of commercial facility contains many of your most valuable possessions. SERVPRO of Savannah understands the trauma that follows a loss. When fire damage takes control of your life, we help you take it back.

Some of our Contents services include:

Inventory – One of the first priorities in fire restoration is to complete an accurate inventory to help ensure you can properly account for all your belongings. Your SERVPRO of Savannah technician can provide a detailed room-by-room inventory of contents, including digital photographs and bar codes for each item, suitable for filing insurance claims forms and relieving you of this often stressful and time consuming process.

Move Outs – When the structure has suffered extensive damage, the cleanup and restoration process may need to be facilitated by relocating the contents for cleaning, deodorization and storage while structural repairs are being completed. A supervised moving crew can carefully pack and move the entire contents of your home or office.

Contents Cleaning – All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO of Savannah technicians begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO of Savannah can provide wet or dry cleaning. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to as near as preloss condition as possible. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more.

Call SERVPRO of Savannah today! (912) 234-9690

Is your Savannah building prepared for the New Year?

12/29/2016 (Permalink)

Picture of New Years Celebration in Savannah, GA.

Each new year brings the opportunity for new beginnings! Make 2017 a year to remember and resolve to be READY! SERVPRO of Savannah wants to help ensure you enjoy a safe and happy new year by helping you be prepared for anything the year may have in store.  

Did you know, up to 50 percent of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen? Of the businesses that do survive a disaster, the overwhelming majority had an emergency preparedness plan in place. 

Your local SERVPRO of Savannah Franchise Professionals can help you build an emergency preparedness plan for your property.  The best part is, this is an absolutely free service...No strings attached!  

Call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690 and ask to speak with the marketing representative, Amanda Neidlinger. 

Let Amanda help you make a resolution that will help protect you and your business so that you can be "Ready for whatever happens" in the new year!  

SERVPRO of Savannah Employee of the Month

12/5/2016 (Permalink)

Kevin with the Golden Air Mover Award

Kevin Horton is our Employee of the Month.   Kevin definitely deserves recognition for all of his hard work!

Kevin is a Warehouse Assistant at SERVPRO of Savannah. Kevin has been with SERVPRO for 10 months and has quickly become a valuable member of our team. He is vital in helping maintain the warehouse. Kevin is responsible for checking in, cleaning, and shelving equipment. He previously worked for 17 years in the Car Dealership industry, specializing in vehicle detailing, and keeps our fleet in mint condition.

Kevin’s favorite thing about SERVPRO of Savannah is when he joins crews on the job-sites. Kevin works incredibly hard and plays just as hard as evidenced by his many medals earned while competing in the Special Olympics in Bowling, Tennis and Basketball.

Congratulations to Kevin! 

Turkey Fryer Fire Safety Tips for Savannah

11/22/2016 (Permalink)

Turkey Fryer

Vandalism Cleanup

10/31/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners quickly recover from fire and water damage. They also provide general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.

If you ever encounter an act of vandalism to your home or building, here are some tips on what to do until SERVPRO arrives:

DO:

• Hose or wash egg damage from building exterior as soon as possible.
• Blot freshly spilled food from carpets and fabrics with a dampened cloth or sponge (but don’t overwet). Scrape and blot (don’t rub: it may damage fibers).
• Carefully vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery
• Save containers, which reveal the composition of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints.
• Record all damage and photograph when possible.

DON’T:

• Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
• Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
• Discard wood chips, broken pieces from furniture, porcelain or other art objects.

Biohazard & Crime Scene Cleanup

10/31/2016 (Permalink)

Whether it is an act of vandalism or a full on crime scene, SERVPRO Technicians are trained to cleanup and restore messes of all degrees: 

Bloodborne Pathogens

SERVPO Professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO Technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect and deodorize the scene.

Crime Scene Residues

From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO Professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Arson and Vandalism

SERVPRO Professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. Your professional also provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO Professionals remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting and deodorizing as they clean.

You don’t want to sit in a house contaminated with anything listed above, so make sure you call SERVPRO of Savannah at (912) 234-9690!

Keep Your Home/Building Safe During Thanksgiving

10/25/2016 (Permalink)

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don't practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It's important to be alert to prevent cooking fires. Here are some tips for safe cooking:

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don't use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while the food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire - oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains - away from the stovetop.

Did you know? Thanksgiving is the leading day for home cooking fired, with three times the average number!

Community Fire Safety Tips: Business & Home

9/30/2016 (Permalink)

Though some fires are unavoidable acts of nature or unpredictable accidents, many fires in the home and workplace are avoidable. The following tips, courtesy of the National Fire Protection Association, can help reduce the likelihood of a fire in your business or home.

1. Watch your cooking. Stay in the kitchen if you are frying, grilling or broiling food. Never allow young children around the stove or oven, especially if they are not closely attended.
2. Give space heaters space. Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn.
3. Smoke outside. If you must smoke inside, have a sturdy, deep ashtray. Never smoke in bed.
4. Keep matches and lighters out of reach. Keep matches and lighters in high cabinets, preferably under a child lock.
5. Inspect electrical cords. Replace cords that are cracked, damaged, have broken plugs or have loose connections.
6. Be careful when using candles.  Keep candles at least one foot from anything that can burn. Blow them out before you leave the room or go to sleep.
7. Have a fire escape plan. Make a fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year.
8. Install smoke alarms. Install alarms on every level of your office or home and inside bedrooms. Interconnect them so they all sound at once.
9. Test smoke alarms. Test alarms once per month. Replace batteries once per year or as needed.
10. Install sprinklers. Sprinklers can help maintain and sometimes even extinguish fires, giving your local fire department a better chance of saving you properly.

Don't Wait Until Spring for Spring Cleaning!

9/30/2016 (Permalink)

Summer is coming to an end, and your efforts from spring cleaning are as well. So why wait until the birds start chirping again to clean your facility? Sure, spring cleaning is a tradition that allows us to freshen our environment and get a head start on the hectic seasons of spring and summer, but many times, winter is just as hectic! 

SERVPRO of Savannah can help get your facility in tip top shape. In addition to air duct and HVAC cleaning, SERVPRO Professionals are trained to use state-of-the-art equipment to remove soils hiding deep within your carpet, as well as focused stain removal and stain resistance applications. Other services include: upholstery and drapery cleaning, hard floor cleaning and care, and odor deodorization. 

A clean environment is a healthy environment! Improve your living and work spaces this fall. If you need a little help, don't worry, SERVPRO of Savannah has the tools to make your home or business sparkle in no time!

For a free cleaning estimate, call SERVPRO of Savannah today at (912) 234-9690

SERVPRO Knows Deodorization

9/28/2016 (Permalink)

One of the worst things about fires in our home or office - even small fires that do relatively little damage - is the odor they leave behind. No matter how many cans of air freshener you use, no matter how many scented candles you light, the stench always seems to come back. 

There's a good reason for the lingering smell. More often than not, the source of the odor hasn't been removed. Imagine finding a dead animal in your office building's storage room or in your home's crawlspace. Would you douse the creature in your favorite scented spray and consider the problem solved? Of course not.

From greasy stove fires to smoke damage caused by outdoor wildfires, SERVPRO of Savannah Professionals are trained and certified in fire damage restoration, including advanced deodorization principles.

If you or a customer suffer a fire damage - or some other accident - and require deodorization services, give SERVPRO of Savannah a call at (912) 234-9690. Whether it's a fire, water or mold damage - or even just a stubborn, unpleasant odor that refuses to go away - we'll help make it "Like it never even happened."

Cleaning Black Water Intrusions

9/28/2016 (Permalink)

A mop and common cleaning products may not be enough for black water intrusions. SERVPRO of Savannah Professionals are trained to safely clean and restore your building utilizing the following procedures:

• Identify the Source/Type of Water
• Measure Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis
• Survey the Extent of Damage and Inspect the Premises
• Perform Emergency Water Extraction
• Move and Block Furniture
• Provide Floor Service
• Inspect Carpet and Padding
• Apply Necessary Treatments Including Disinfectants and Deodorizers
• Utilize and Monitor Drying Equipment
• Dispose of Refuse

SERVPRO of Savannah understands how disruptive and dangerous contaminated water can be and offer 24-hour emergency response. Under normal circumstances, a trained, uniformed restoration technician arrives onsite within four hours of loss notification to begin emergency mitigation services.

By responding quickly with a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of Savannah Professionals can help you regain control quickly through proper drying, deodorization and protection of your facility and contents. Abiding by OSHA guidelines and all applicable health regulations, SERVPRO of Savannah Professionals remove moisture, sewage and contaminants by disinfecting and deodorizing as they safely clean and dry your building and restore contents. Please remember to practice extreme caution when dealing with contaminated water.

Caution: Contaminated Water

9/28/2016 (Permalink)

Any water damage in your facility is bad, especially when the water contains potentially harmful bacteria that can affect the health of occupants and the value of your property. Toilet overflows, sewage backups and other black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly messes; these bio-hazardous damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into your building, as well as the moisture necessary to ensure their continued growth. 

Sewage damage poses serious health risks to anyone exposed to the contaminated water. The danger arises from various harmful substances, including parasites, that can cause intestinal disease. Some common risks are hepatitis A, E-coli and Salmonella. This grossly unsanitary water is often referred to as "black water." Building occupants should practice precautionary and safety measures at all times when dealing with the threat of black water.

Safety Tips for Building Occupants

DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items

DON'T:

• Don't spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas and by tracking the contamination elsewhere.
• Don't turn on the HVAC system if impacted by water. The HVAC system could spread contaminated air to other parts of the building.
• Don't use household fans to dry the structure which could possibly spread contaminants.
• Don't use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if they have been exposed to the contaminated areas.
• Don't consume food or drink that has been exposed to the contaminated areas.

Hurricane Categories

9/13/2016 (Permalink)

Savannah has been very fortunate when it comes to hurricanes.  The last hurricane to make landfall in Savannah was Hurricane David back in 1979.  That hurricane made landfall as a category two hurricane.  Below is the description of the different hurricane categories.  

• Category one: sustained winds of 74-95mph (119-153 km/h); some damage and power cuts
• Category two: winds of 96-110mph (154-177 km/h); extensive damage
• Category three: winds of 111-129mph (178-208 km/h); well-built homes suffer major damage
• Category four: winds of 130-156mph (209-251 km/h); severe damage to well-built homes, most trees snapped or uprooted
• Category five: winds of 157 mph (252 km/h) or higher; high percentage of homes destroyed, area uninhabitable for weeks or months

While it is our hope that Savannah doesn't experience another direct hit, we are ready and prepared for whatever is to come.  

Call SERVPRO of Savannah at 912-234-9690 for any of your hurricane/tropical storm/flood damage. 

SERVPRO of Savannah Employee of the Month

9/9/2016 (Permalink)

David and Courtney with the Golden Air Mover Award.

SERVPRO of Savannah would like to recognize our August employees of the month, David Kosciuk and Courtney Holliday. 

This is the second time David had been awarded the Golden Air Mover Award for his outstanding service.  To receive this award twice within 4 months of working at SERVPRO really says a lot about David's work ethic and dedication to make SERVPRO a better place. 

What's That Smell?

9/1/2016 (Permalink)

Odor particles are small – they are tiny, microscopic objects measured in microns. Their small size allows easy penetration into porous surfaces. There are quite a few factors that help these particles to penetrate surfaces.

• Surface porosity - The more porous a material, the more likely it is to absorb odors.
• Heat - Heat from fire causes materials to expand, where the odor particles will then penetrate. Once the materials cool after the fire, they contract to trap the odors.
• Heavy concentrations of residues
• Long exposure time
• Humidity can also have an effect on odors:
  • High humidity dissolves odors and carries vapors to the nose.
  • Cleaning involves wetting surfaces – that moisture reactivates dormant odors such as pet urine.
  • Odors may appear to be neutralized, but come back months later in humid weather.

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in several areas of cleanup and restoration, and this includes sanitation and deodorization of these terrible odors!

Harmful Waste: Proper Handling & Safety

8/25/2016 (Permalink)

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies nationwide, SERVPRO Professionals offer fast, reliable biohazard cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

If you encounter harmful waste, such as sewage or blood borne pathogens, here are some helpful tips on what to do until help arrives:

Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening.
• Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
• Turn off HVAC system if there is sewage damage.

Don't:

• Attempt cleanup of any kind.
• Touch or handle items that might be contaminated with bodily fluids.
• Eat, drink, smoke, apply cosmetics or handle contact lenses in affected areas.

If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult your local health department or physician.

General Cleaning in Savannah

8/25/2016 (Permalink)

You only have one chance to make a first impression with your customers. Using safe and biodegradable products and a range of specialized cleaning methods for sanitation and deodorization, SERVPRO of Savannah Professionals can create a clean, fresh and long lasting impression.  

Ways to Impress Your Customers:

• Clean dirty and stained ceilings. 
• Scrub lobby, furniture and draperies. 
• Establish maintenance plans for furnishings, carpets and draperies. 
• Clean HVAC & air duct systems. 

SERVPRO of Savannah can clean everything from residential homes, commercial buildings, apartments, hotels, etc.  No job is too big or small.  

Remember SERVPRO of Savannah when your janitorial staff or maintenance staff can't get to the cleaning or cleanup of an issue, or requires supplemental help.  We are ready to make it "Like it never even happened."

Call Us Today – 912-234-9690

Biohazard & Crime Scene Cleanup

8/25/2016 (Permalink)

Whether it is an act of vandalism or a full on crime scene, SERVPRO Technicians are trained to cleanup and restore messes of all degrees: 

Bloodborne Pathogens

SERVPO Professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO Technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect and deodorize the scene.

Crime Scene Residues

From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO Professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Arson and Vandalism

SERVPRO Professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. Your professional also provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO Professionals remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting and deodorizing as they clean.

You don’t want to sit in a house contaminated with anything listed above, so make sure you call SERVPRO of Savannah at (912) 234-9690!

Home Chemical Safety Tips

8/25/2016 (Permalink)

Keep household cleaners and chemicals out of reach of children!

There is an endless supply of cleaning products in our home – everything from glass cleaner and disinfectant wipes, to chlorine bleach and insecticides. These can be found all over the house inside cupboards, under bathroom sinks, and in garages. If these chemicals are used or mixed incorrectly, the result can be extremely hazardous. So what can you do to increase chemical safety at home (and even in the workplace)? Here are some tips that the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) suggest:

• Make sure you read the warning labels carefully – these contain important instructions on proper use, storage, and disposal.
• Don’t use too much of one cleaning product.
• Immediately wash your hands with warm, soapy water after use of any chemical product.
• Always properly ventilate the area that you are using the chemicals – keep a window open and turn on the fan.
• Make sure you properly dispose of chemicals. Always dispose of any bottles that you notice are leaking or expired.
• Keep all cleaning supplies and hazardous chemicals away from food and food preparation areas.
• Do not combine chemicals or household cleaners.
• Keep hazardous materials out of reach of children.

 If you are unsure of what substances in your home could be potentially harmful, look for the following characteristics:

• Corrosive - They eat or wear away at many materials;
• Flammable - They easily ignite;
• Reactive - They can cause an explosion or produce deadly vapors; and
• Toxic - They are poisonous to humans and animals.

Some examples of hazardous wastes found around the home include antifreeze, batteries, brake fluid, chemical strippers, chlorine bleach, contact cement, drain cleaners, insecticides, lawn chemicals, nail polish remover, spot removers, toilet and oven cleaners and used motor oil.

In case of accidental ingestion, immediately contact the Poison Control Center (in the United States it is (800) 222-1222).

If you ever need more information about a specific product, you can always find the manufacturer's contact information on the label.

For more information, please visit http://ehstoday.com/safety/chemical/ehs_imp_39314

How To Protect Your Workers From Excessive Heat

8/25/2016 (Permalink)

The human body is programmed to cool itself down when it gets too hot, usually by sweating. However, severe heat conditions can cause body temperatures to rise to dangerous levels. Without drinking enough water or resting in the shade, heat exhaustion or heat stroke may occur.

Signs of Heat Exhaustion include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Sweaty skin
• Weakness
• Cramps
• Nausea, vomiting
• Increased heart rate

Signs of Heat Stroke include:

• Red, hot, dry skin
• High temperature
• Confusion
• Convulsions
• Fainting

OSHA requires that employers provide workplaces free of any known safety hazards, and this includes protecting them from extreme heat. Here are some tips for establishing a heat illness prevention program:

• Make sure workers are provided with enough water, rest and shade.
• Allow new or returning workers to gradually increase workloads and take more frequent breaks as they acclimatize, or build a tolerance for working in the heat.
• Train workers on signs and prevention of heat illness, and to keep an eye on fellow workers.
• Consistently drink water every 15 minutes.
• In order to cool down, find time to rest in shady areas.
• Wear a hat and light-colored clothing.

If a worker becomes ill, a supervisor should be called immediately, followed by 911 if applicable. Make sure that someone is with the ill worker at all times until help arrives.

This issue hits home for us, since SERVPRO of Savannah technicians are constantly outdoors in the Georgia heat. Their safety and wellbeing is a priority at SERVPRO.

For more information, please visit: https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/heatillness/index.html?utm_source=Twitter

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Savannah Home

8/23/2016 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must:

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

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

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

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

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

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

For Immediate Service in Savannah, Call SERVPRO

8/22/2016 (Permalink)

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

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

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 912-234-9690

Residential Services

Whether your Chatham County home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Chatham County commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. 

Indoor Air Quality

8/15/2016 (Permalink)

Mold is found naturally in our environments.  However, an overabundance inside buildings is undesirable; some people can become ill.  Experts agree that if you have excessive mold, it needs to be removed.

Control Moisture and Reduce Mold

Act Within the First 24 to 48 Hours

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

Proper Maintenance Saves Money

The World Health Organization estimates that poor indoor air quality costs $60 billion in employee sick leave and lost production.  Proper Maintenance and prompt response to situations that could lead to an illness or health concern is a responsibility owed to tenants, workers and/or students.    

Dirty ducts can work to circulate odors and contaminants like mold and irritating dust throughout the building.  Inspecting the ductwork is SERVPRO’s first order of business when addressing air quality. 

SERVPRO of Savannah Service Response Guidelines

8/15/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah follows the Service Response Guidelines.  

These guidelines state the following:

• Within one hour from the loss notice, a SERVPRO of Savannah Professional will contact you to arrange service.
• Within four hours from the loss notice, we will be on-site to start mitigation service.
• Within eight hours from the notice of loss, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person.

Exceptions may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation. 

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah 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 of Savannah - About Our Owners

8/14/2016 (Permalink)

Blu and Allyson Harvin

Blu Harvin, with his wife Allyson Harvin, own and operate SERVPRO of Savannah. Blu is a second generation owner, having purchased the business from his parents in 2007 giving SERVPRO of Savannah the distinction of having been under the same family ownership for over 35 years.

Blu holds many IICRC certifications and over 15 years of restoration industry experience. He is a member of SERVPRO Industries Large Loss Response Team and has led recovery efforts on many commercial restoration large loss projects.

Allyson's focus is on the business management and marketing management division. She has Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certifications (IICRC) as Water Removal Technician, Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician and is certified to teach Continuing Education classes for the insurance and real estate industries.

SERVPRO of Savannah Employee of the Month

8/12/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Savannah would like to recognize Joe Waters as the employee of the month for July.  Joe was awarded the Golden Air Mover Award for his continued outstanding work.  Joe has been with SERVPRO of Savannah for over 2 years.  He holds a certification from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in Water Damage Restoration Technician.

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of Savannah Employee of the Month

7/8/2016 (Permalink)

Beth proudly displaying her Employee of the Month trophy, the coveted Golden Air Mover.

SERVPRO of Savannah would like to recognize Beth Barrow as the employee of the month for June.  Beth was awarded the Golden Air Mover Award for her continued, outstanding work as part of our administration team.  Beth has been with SERVPRO just over a year but has already been labeled as the "Multi-Tasking Ninja" of the office.  She specializes in referral program uploads and has mastered advanced job file management. 

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of Savannah Employee of the Month

6/2/2016 (Permalink)

David proudly displaying his Employee of the Month trophy, the coveted Golden Air Mover.

SERVPRO of Savannah would like to recognize our employee of the month, David Kosciuk.  David was awarded the Golden Air Mover Award for his outstanding service this past month.  To receive this award after only a couple of months at SERVPRO, speaks volume to David’s work ethic and dedication. 

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of Savannah Employee of the Month

6/2/2016 (Permalink)

Rick proudly displaying his Employee of the Month trophy, the coveted Golden Air Mover.

SERVPRO of Savannah would like to recognize Rick Sinex as the employee of the month for April.  Rick was awarded the Golden Air Mover Award for his outstanding work with our fire crew this month.  Rick has been a member of the SERVPRO family for 33 years.  He is a Crew Chief, trained and certified by the Institute of the Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification in Water, Fire, Mold and Biohazard.  

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of Savannah Employee of the Month

6/1/2016 (Permalink)

Kathy proudly displaying her Employee of the Month trophy, the coveted Golden Air Mover.

SERVPRO of Savannah would like to recognize Kathy Sutton as the employee of the month for March.  Kathy was awarded our first ever Golden Air Mover Award for her outstanding service.  She has been a member of the SERVPRO family for 22 years. Kathy is instrumental to our technicians and our administrative staff.  She is handles billing, company uploads, specialty program jobs and adjuster contact, just to name a few.

About SERVPRO of Savannah

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.