Roof Damage After a Fire: Everything You Need to Know

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

If your Bryan, TX roof has suffered from fire damage call SERVPRO of Brazos Valley

Roof Damage After a Fire: Everything You Need to Know

Roof damage is never good news. In fact, you may have been in such a state of shock after a fire that you didn't even notice the damage that was done to your home's roof. You might not even realize how bad the situation is until it starts raining and water begins to drip into the living room or bedroom of your Bryan, Texas home. That's why it's important to act quickly when dealing with roof damage caused by fire. We'll explain how SERVPRO can help with this common problem, as well as other things you should know about repairing or replacing a damaged roof in the aftermath of a blaze:

Roof Damage is Devastating

Roof damage is devastating to a homeowner, and fire damage only complicates things. Damage caused by flames is one thing, but soot can also cause significant problems. If possible, have a professional tarp the roof until it can be repaired or replaced.

If you've been in a fire, it's likely that your roof will have suffered some damage. While flames are one thing, soot can also cause significant problems. Soapstone and clay tiles are easily damaged by soot and ash because these materials absorb moisture from the air, which increases their weight and makes them heavier than usual. This causes them to crack or break apart on the surface of your roof. Shingles made of asphalt are susceptible to melting when exposed to flames for long periods of time; if this happens then their water resistance is compromised as well and they may leak soon after being installed or repaired.

Soot can also be extremely harmful to gutters that have been installed over an extended period of time because they accumulate debris which eventually clogs them up entirely (even if they're made out of metal). The same goes for siding -- if there's any kind of stain left behind by smoke particles then it will become difficult if not impossible for anyone trying to clean off those surfaces later down the road without damaging them further! 

Finally. insulation has its own set of issues associated with this too -- most notably that its normal function becomes compromised due to increased heat loss. Heat is lost due to condensation caused by excessive humidity levels within an enclosed area. 

Call the Professionals

Due to the severity of roof damage, it is recommended that you have a professional tarp the roof until it can be repaired or replaced. This will help keep the elements out and prevent further damage from occurring.

When you have a company like SERVPRO of Brazos Valley come in to tarp your roof, we will also check for interior water damage. This is because when the fire has burned through the ceiling of your home and reached your attic, it can cause water from the fire sprinklers to leak down into the living space below. This can cause mold growth, which can lead to all sorts of health problems such as respiratory issues and skin irritation.

Your SERVPRO professional will take precautions to make sure that there is no mold growth in your home. 

Working with Insurance

Fire-damaged roofs can be a very stressful and confusing thing to deal with, especially if you are unfamiliar with the process. We would recommend calling a professional roofing company like ours to ensure that your fire-damaged roof is repaired as quickly and effectively as possible.

We can work with your insurance company and negotiate a fair price for your roof repairs. From that point forward, we will handle all aspects of the tarping process including:

• Finding any hidden damage on your home's exterior that may have been caused by smoke or water leaks during the fire
• Setting up temporary protection from rain until we remove damaged shingles from the roof decking
• Removing old shingle pieces (if necessary) using specialized tools designed specifically for this task

Act Quickly After a Fire

After a fire has damaged your roof, it is important to care for it properly. This will help you save money in the long term because you won't have to pay for more expensive repairs later. If you are not sure how to do this, it is best to hire a professional. A good roofing company will be able to help you get your roof back in shape and ensure that it stays that way.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the chaos of a fire and forget about your roof. But when you do have a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Brazos Valley come in, we will check for interior water damage and negotiate fair prices for your roof repairs.

Business Owners Should Expect Experts To Do These 3 Things During Mold Remediation

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Mold remediation in Burton, TX

Owners Should Expect To See The Following Three Things

One of the major concerns about water damage is moisture's ability to trigger black mold growth. Business owners may go from dealing with a broken pipe or toilet overflow to being told that fungus has infested the space. When this happens, proprietors should prepare for several stages of cleanup. To minimize the spread and restore the building, owners should expect to see the following three things.

1. Block Off the Contaminated Space

A water remediation company in Burton, TX, must start mold cleanup by cutting off the microbes' ability to migrate. After a thorough inspection, the experts determine what is harmed. They cut off the area from foot traffic and set up negative air chambers to stop airflow. It's best not to enter the space, allowing only the professionals to enter and leave. They wear protective gear to limit exposure levels.

2. Remove Moisture Promptly

Black mold feeds on water, so specialists perform a meticulous inspection to see how much dampness is present. With the supply stopped, the reproduction begins to slow down too. Moisture reading tools inform specialists about troublesome spots, guiding the team as to where to start extraction and drying procedures.

Carpet and drywall are concerning since they are porous substances that cannot be treated with chemicals. Tear out these items to reduce wetness and spore count. Flood cuts are made, usually a few feet above the waterline, to ensure proper cleanup. Industrial dehumidifiers run around the clock. These devices extract moisture from the air and materials, quickening the drying time.

3. Sanitize What Is Left

Once aired out, the mold remediation crew washes the rest of the interior and applies an antimicrobial spray. These work effectively on non-porous substances, killing lingering microbes. Content cleaning crews use high-tech equipment to tend to electronics and valuable documents.

Water damage may easily lead to black mold, so it's imperative to act immediately. Secure the impacted areas, and focus on getting these locations dry. With the help of professionals, owners can hinder mold development and restore the property.

The Best Bleach Alternatives For Cleaning Mold

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

Depending on the material, you may prefer to use standard or slightly stronger cleaning vinegar to kill mold

Mold-Cleaning Bleach Substitutes

Bleach is of limited use for cleaning mold. The most common chlorine-based solution is strictly a surface disinfectant and does not sink into porous materials. As a result, the root system of mold may resume growth after fungus cleanup. Here are several substances that are more effective for eliminating mold.

White Vinegar

Distilled white vinegar is one of the best antifungal cleaners for porous and non-porous materials. There are several ways to use a solution of acetic acid in water to cleanup mold:

• Apply standard white vinegar at 5% concentration
• Apply cleaning white vinegar at 6% concentration
• Dilute standard or cleaning white vinegar

Depending on the material, you may prefer to use standard or slightly stronger cleaning vinegar to kill mold. Vinegar may be less likely to damage, discolor or degrade many sensitive substances than bleach. Keep in mind that vinegar is acidic and may react upon coming into contact with certain substances.

Sodium Borate

Sodium borate, which is often referred to as Borax, is another effective alternative for fungus cleanup. Dissolve one cup of this white powder in one gallon of hot water. Like bleach, sodium borate is basic, whereas vinegar is acidic. If you are not sure about the best cleaning substance for delicate materials or contents, consult with mold remediation experts.

Specialized Fungicides

In some cases, it may be necessary to use a fungicide to kill mold. These substances are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency. Make sure to follow the instructions on any mold killer you use. Many commercial building owners prefer to have these treatments applied by restoration professionals for maximum effectiveness.

If you see signs of mold growing in a commercial property in Bryan, TX, you should call in fungus cleanup specialists. It is crucial to determine the true extent of an infestation. 

What Damage Can Smoke Do to Your Business?

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

Many business owners understand the devastation caused by heat and flames, but smoke damage can also impact your property.

What Harm Can Smoke Cause To Your Business?

Fire can cause damage to your Bryan, TX, property in a number of ways. Many business owners understand the destruction that the heat and flames cause, but smoke damage can also take its toll on your property.

What Damage Can Smoke Do?

Smoke can affect your property in several ways:

• It can get into porous surfaces such as drywall, carpet, upholstered furniture and window treatments. These elements can absorb smoke odor.
  
• Smoke from organic materials can leave behind grease and stains.
  
• Smoldering plastic or rubber can create a thick, sticky substance that corrodes surfaces.
• Smoke can stain surfaces, leaving behind black residue that requires smoke cleaning.

How Can Damage Be Repaired?

Fortunately, a professional restoration service can help you with smoke cleaning. Odor can be reduced or eliminated using ozone machines, thermal foggers and air filtration devices. Dry cleaning can help remove light residue or act as a pre-treatment for wet cleaning.

Some upholstery needs special treatment, as the fabrics may shrink or pucker with wet cleaning. Foam cleaning is a good alternative for these fabrics. Another option for delicate surfaces is spray-and-wipe cleaning.

Other items may require immersion cleaning, which involves dipping the damaged content in cleaner. Abrasive cleaning helps treat damage from smoke on surfaces that can withstand a more aggressive approach.

Electronics can also sustain damage from smoke.

The residue contains corrosive acid that can harm computers, printers and other devices. These surfaces should be cleaned and inspected by a qualified technician.

When Should You Call for Help With Smoke Cleaning?

The sooner you begin the restoration process, the better. Smoke can cause further damage and corrosion by lingering on surfaces. Calling a professional restoration company can help you get back to normal as soon as possible with the goal of restoring your assets instead of replacing them.

Don't neglect damage from smoke on your Bryan, TX, property. Quickly cleaning and restoring your building, furniture and electronics can help you get back in business.

3 Methods Experts Use to Contain Mold

3/19/2022 (Permalink)

Mold only grows in temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. So, if it's winter, the cold may also be a benefit in reducing mold spread.

Mold Containment: 3 Expert Techniques

Is your building in Brenham, TX, in need of mold cleanup? If it has tested positive or you have suspicions of mold, it's time to call in a mold detection and removal specialist.

1. Physical Barriers

One of the simplest and most straightforward steps a specialist takes is to construct physical barriers around the contaminated space. This helps with two things: restricting foot traffic through the area and stopping mold spores from physically spreading. Physical barriers usually consist of polyethylene sheeting. Multiple layers are used depending on the level of mold present.

2. Air Pressure

An expert uses negative air pressure to further prevent the spread of mold. The physical barriers are mainly to prevent people from tracking spores on their shoes, and the use of air pressure stops mold contamination through the air. As this is the main way that mold spreads, it is an effective technique for halting further spreading. Negative pressure is maintained with special machines and an exhaust pipe to the exterior of the building. The mold cleanup experts can tell if the pressure is negative by watching which way the polyethylene sheeting billows inside the contamination area.

3. Restricted Airflow

The pros also suggest that you shut off the HVAC system in your building. This helps to keep air stagnant and serves to also halt the spread of more mold. It's also suggested to turn off any ceiling fans, standing fans and other air circulation fixtures. Additionally, it's best to limit foot traffic through the area as people moving quickly can also stir spores into the air. An added benefit of keeping your HVAC system off is a temperature change.

Mold only grows in temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. So, if it's winter, the cold may also be a benefit in reducing mold spread. With an experienced pro by your side, mold cleanup is a cinch.

Is a SERVPRO Franchise Right For You?

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is on standby 24/7/365 and ready to respond. Our team is ready to restore your home or business, no matter the size of the damage. Call us!

Do You Have What It Takes To Own A SERVPRO Franchise?

If you’re considering expanding your business portfolio or looking for an excellent franchise opportunity in Burton, TX, that offers a solid return on your investment, a SERVPRO franchise could be just what you’ve been looking for. SERVPRO consistently ranks near the top of the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 list. SERVPRO has ranked among the Top 10 on that list for seven of the last ten years.

About SERVPRO

SERVPRO began as a painting business. It was founded in Sacramento, California, in 1967 by Ted and Doris Isaacson. Within a few years, the Issacsons expanded the business to include cleaning and restoration and began offering franchise opportunities. Eventually, the company headquarters moved to Gallatin, Tennessee, so that the headquarters would be within 600 miles of half of the people in the United States. Today, SERVPRO is a national leader in disaster remediation services, with over 1,800 franchise locations so far.

The SERVPRO Business Model

A deep commitment to quality service is at the heart of every SERVPRO franchise. While each franchise is locally owned and operated, all franchisees have the support, backing, and name recognition of North America’s biggest names in the cleanup and restoration industry. Other franchise benefits include:

• A robust startup package
  
• An exclusive, dedicated franchise territory
  
• Extensive initial training to become SERVPRO certified
  
• All necessary technology to run a successful business
  
• Unparalleled corporate support
  
• Ongoing training opportunities to stay abreast of the latest technology
  
• A proven business model with excellent success rates

How To Open a Franchise

SERVPRO is committed to finding and nurturing the highest quality franchisees. Successful franchise applicants must pass background and credit checks. All franchise owners must have prior business experience and sufficient financial stability to meet the initial costs of opening a franchise, including franchise and license fees, equipment, vehicles, and staff.

If you’re an experienced professional with a passion for providing your clients with the highest quality restoration services, a SERVPRO franchise could be right for you.