Picking the Right Company to Handle Storm Restoration | SERVPRO® of Fort Dodge

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Choosing the right restoration company is crucial to getting things back to normal. Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge to set up an appointment. 

Experiencing severe weather while you are at home or at work can be scary, and if you emerge into the aftermath to find that your property has been damaged, stress can add up. Storm damages continue to increase every year, leading to the necessity of being prepared in advance so you know how to handle it. 

Working with the right company for storm restoration can go a long way. While it will certainly be a stressful time regardless, having a company you can count on beside you can make the process much more simple and stress-free. Here are some tips for determining if the company you are interested in is a good fit for you. 

Determine if You Are Working With the Right Restoration Company After a Storm 

Do you trust their reputation in the community? Storms can cause damage to a large area at once, leaving many people desperate for quick restoration and creating a market ripe for scams. Do your research on any company you are considering to make sure they carry a sound local and national reputation as restoration providers before you enter into any contracts with them. 

Do you feel confident they can meet demand? Storm damage is unique both in the type of damage and the sheer volume of it. Not only can it cause multiple kinds of damage, but a storm will often impact a large area at one time. With our SERVPRO® partners across the nation, we can get as much backup as we need to handle every type and every incident of damage with the same incredible service we are known for. 

Do you know they will always be there to help? Storms have no regard for what is and is not convenient for people, which is why we have you covered for damage at any time, even if it occurs after business hours or on a holiday. You can get in touch with us 24⁄7 to receive a comprehensive damage response plan and have a team dispatched to you as soon as you are ready. 

When you have damage from a storm to your home or commercial building, you can always depend on us to handle it. Contact us at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Roof Leaks

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

There are many sources in a home that can create water damage. There could be a broken pipe, washing machine malfunction, a water heater failure, among others. But another source some don’t think about until it happens is the roof. Typically, home or business owners do not climb their building to visually inspect their roof on a regular basis. Until there is water dripping, or dark discoloration forming on the ceiling, it’s easy not knowing if there is missing shingles or areas that have worn over time. 

Performing inspections on the property from time to time would help identify problem areas in advance. A good place to start an inspection is the attic (if the building has one), as it rarely gets checked. Look at the decking and trusses, and see if there are any signs of water staining or water dripping. When cleaning out the gutters in the fall on some roofs, it is a great time to look at the overall condition of the roof. Inspect the shingles for any damage, as well as the edges. 

The most common sign of roof leaks are water marks or stains on the ceiling, water running down the wall, or bubbling paint on the ceiling or wall. If there is a slow leak for an extended period of time, there could be a musty odor. This can be a sign of fungal growth or rot. 

If you had a roof leak and need structural drying, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge today! 

Storm Flooding

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

As we approach Spring, the rainy season is right around the corner. No matter where you live there is a good chance your town or city has flooded before, or could possibly flood. There several critical things you need to know about flood water, and the associated dangers. 

Don’t drive in flooded areas: 

• Floodwater can pose a drowning risk 
• Always follow warnings about flooded roads 
• Do NOT drive into flooded areas; vehicles won’t protect you from floodwaters. Vehicles can be swept away and may stall out. 

Stay out of floodwater: 

Flood waters contain many substances that are potentially harmful to your health. Here is a list of some of these hazardous items: 

• Downed power lines 
• Human and livestock waste 
• Household, medical, and industrial hazardous waste 
• Other contaminants that can lead to illness 
• Physical objects such as lumber, vehicles, and debris 
• Wild or stray animals such as rodents and snakes 

Exposures to contaminated floodwater can cause: 

• Wound infections 
• Skin rash 
• Gastrointestinal illness 
• Tetanus 

If you come in contact with floodwater: 

• Wash the affected area with soap and clean water. If you don’t have soap or water, use 

alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer 

• Take care of wounds and seek medical attention if necessary 
• Wash contaminated clothes with hot water and detergent, or consider disposal 
• If you have to enter flood water, be sure to wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles 

 
SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Duct Cleaning

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to cleaning the home, duct cleaning is the most frequently-forgotten service. It’s not something you really look at everyday, such as windows, floors, and counters. But getting your ducts cleaned is just as important as getting your carpets cleaned, because it has a direct effect on the cleanliness of the air in your home. 

There can be health benefits from getting your HVAC cleaned. Your HVAC systems have been shown to collect a variety of contaminants such as fungi, bacteria, dust, pet hair and dander. All these can be irritants, especially if you have allergies. Removing the contaminants will help the indoor air quality overall. 

Doing a visual inspection of your ductwork is very simple. Remove a register, slide your smartphone into the duct (with the flash enabled), and take a picture. You may be surprised at how much loose debris is lurking in your ducts! 

How often should you have your ducts cleaned? It depends on several factors, such as: 

- If anybody smokes in the house 

- If pets live in the house (especially those that shed high amounts of hair and dander 

- If water damage has occurred in the ductwork 

- Residents with allergies or asthma 

- Recent home renovations or remodeling 

- Moving into a home that had prior occupants 

When picking an HVAC contractor, several factors should be considered. See if the company has been in business long enough to have adequate experience. Get proof that the company is properly licensed (if applicable in your state) and adequately insured. Make sure that the company is going to clean and visually inspect all of the air ducts and related system components. Avoid advertisements for “$99 whole house specials” and other sales gimmicks. Ask if the company has the right equipment to effectively perform cleaning, and if the company has done work in homes similar to yours. 

If you are interested in a duct cleaning estimate, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

SERVPRO Services

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Services 

You may ask, why SERVPRO? Why are they the best choice for our cleaning and restoration needs? Here’s why: SERVPRO of Fort Dodge provides 24-hour emergency service, we respond immediately to emergencies, and we have the expertise to handle any restoration or cleaning needs, regardless of size. 

We offer: 

24-Hour Emergency Service 

Faster to Any-Sized Disaster 

Highly Trained Restoration Technicians 

A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry 

We are Locally Owned and Operated 

Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Residential and Commercial Services: 

Whether your home needs emergency flood response or general cleaning, we are here for you. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training, and we have the latest technology and equipment to take care your property. The services we provide: 

Water Damage Restoration 

Fire Damage Restoration 

Mold Remediation 

Storm Damage Restoration 

Bio-hazard Services 

Cleaning Services 

Commercial Services 

Commercial Water Damage Restoration 

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration 

Fire or water damage never comes at the most convenient time. That’s why we are available 24/7, 

365 days a year. Getting us out to your property and starting the cleaning up process is very important for several reasons. Every hour its not being cleaned up, water damage can become worse by more deeply saturating building materials. The sanitary condition of the water can degrade, requiring more material removal, and increasing the cost of the job. Rapid response by SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can save you both time and money. 

When the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services should come up, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly. Our highly-trained technicians will get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

What Makes SERVPRO Different

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Life is always nice when things are going according to plan. 

But as we all know too well, life is not always full of rainbows and butterflies. Accidents happen or disasters strike, and when they do, your stress level rapidly increases. 

This is where SERVPRO can come in quite handy. We work hard to stay up to date on training and equipment so that we can get you back to your normal routine. 

SERVPRO offers many great advantages, but each one brings you peace of mind. 

Here on Any Day or at Any Time 

We make sure that you can access someone in our business 24 hours a day, seven days a week! 

Disasters strike during the most inopportune times, and because we understand that all too well, we make sure we stay available for you. 

Quick Service 

If you have standing water in your home, time is not your friend! 

The longer your home festers after a disaster, the more chance there is for further mold growth, more smoke smell or more water damage. Responding quickly is essential, and with a team right here in Fort Dodge, we can get to you in no time. 

Business, Residential—We Do It All 

Disaster or accidents can strike at your home or at your business. We offer custom solutions for any and all situations. 

Our focus is to help you get back to doing what you do best—running your home or business. 

Just Like New 

Seeing a project all the way through is what we enjoy the most. We take pride in our work, and it shows in every project that comes our way. 

We don’t stop until we are certain that you are satisfied with the work that we provided. 

A Whole New World 

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, disease prevention is highly valued now more than ever. We know that, and because of that, we are offering cleaning services that go far beyond the traditional janitorial services. 

We know that as a business you strive to provide a customized clean that you and your customers can feel confident in. 

That’s what we’re here for. 

As much as proactive planning can help, disasters happen. Regardless of why you need cleanup or disaster recovery, SERVPRO has the tools, technicians and training to get your situation under control. When you need help Talk to SERVPRO of Fort Dodge for the best service possible. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Why Our SERVPRO Team is "Faster To Any Size Disaster"

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, you need help.... fast! 

When disaster strikes, time is of the essence. 
 
In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge provides 24-hour emergency services throughout Columbus and the surrounding areas. We are dedicated to providing excellent service no matter how large or small the damage may be. Our highly trained and IICRC certified technicians can respond immediately to your disaster. No matter the hour of the day. 

If a disaster strikes your home or commercial property, call our SERVPRO of Fort Dodge Team today. We are always Here To Help! 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Preventing Fires At Your Commercial Property

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Call the trusted experts at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge for all of your fire restoration needs. 

Fire damage to your business is a serious concern. Even moderate damage can result in your facility being closed for repairs for weeks on end, and this can be financially devastating. 

The unfortunate reality is that no business is immune to the risk of fire. Some facilities may be more likely to endure damage from a fire, such as a restaurant that uses open flames throughout the day. However, there are many fire hazards that are present in most workplaces on a daily basis regardless of the type of activities that take place in the building. When you know what these hazards are, you can take proper steps to address and mitigate those risks and prevent possible fire damage and smoke damage. 

 
Electrical Concerns 
Damage to electrical wiring can result in sparks that quickly lead to damaging fires. Electrical wiring damage may include frayed cords, such as those connecting desktop computers to the wall power outlets. It may also include damage to internal wiring inside the walls, and these may be damaged by pests and other forces. Electrical fires may also start when power sockets are overloaded or when equipment gets too hot. Periodically review your company's wiring to identify areas of concern that need to be addressed. 

 
Poor Equipment Maintenance 
Other hazards in workplaces are related to poor equipment maintenance. For example, failing to service your furnace regularly may result in the accumulation of dust and other flammable debris. A gas leak in the furnace could result in a fire or an explosion. Fire hazards related to poor maintenance may also include dusty, dirty or greasy components, such as air ducts and vents, kitchen exhaust vents and many other features that are used throughout your facility. Scheduling necessary maintenance can decrease fire risk in these areas. 

 
Flammable or Combustible Materials 
Flammable and combustible materials are most commonly associated with industrial and warehouse environments, but even restaurants, hotels, dry cleaners and many other types of business may store combustible materials on-site. These materials should remain properly sealed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations at all times. 

 
As you can see, there are numerous fire hazards that could result in serious damage to your business. If your business has already experienced fire damage, it is essential that repair work is completed as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is your trusted leader in the restoration industry. We can quickly restore your building to its previous condition so that operations can resume in your place of business. Call us today! 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Specialized Fire Damage Services

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Along with providing structural cleaning, contents cleaning, and deodorization in the central Ohio area after a residential or commercial fire, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge also offers additional specialized services to our customers: 

Board-Up 

One of the top priorities after a fire loss is to secure your property and belongings until work can begin. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge offers board-up services for windows, doors, and other exposed structural areas to prevent intrusion by both water and unauthorized persons. 

Inventory, Pack-Out and Storage 

As the clean up and restoration process begins, our SERVPRO of Fort Dodge technicians take inventory of the contents in your home or business. As the contents are sorted, they will be categorized as salvageable, and processed to be cleaned, or unsalvageable, and documented as such for insurance purposes. Our professional SERVPRO Team can pack-out and store any unaffected materials as needed as well. Our SERVPRO Professionals are trained to properly inventory, move out and control the contents from the structure during the cleaning, restoration, and deodorization process. 

Serving Fort Dodge and surrounding areas, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is Here to Help with all your fire damage needs. Our professional team will help make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Preventing Grease Fires

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Whether you are cooking in a restaurant or in your own home, a grease fire can quickly become a big disaster. Grease fires can present themselves as a difficult issue since they are notorious for being difficult to put out. 

The first reaction to a fire is to pour water on it, which for grease fires, can actually spread the fire and make it worse!! Follow the correct steps below on putting out a grease fire. 

How do I put out a grease fire? 

1. Turn off the heat. Make sure to not pick up the pan. Picking up the pan can cause the fire to quickly spread to you or spill onto other surfaces in the kitchen. 

1. Put a lid on the pan to cut off oxygen to the fire. Once it has sufficiently cooled down, you will be to move and clean it. 

1. If the fire gets out of hand, make sure to call 911 to get assistance right away from the Fire Department. 

1. NEVER pour water on an active grease fire or fan the fire. Both of these actions will only spread the fire. 

1. Do NOT fan the fire with a dry or wet cloth, it can make it worse and spread the fire. 

1. If all else fails, use a fire extinguisher to put out the flame. 

How to prevent a grease fire 

1. Never leave your cooking unattended, always keep an eye on any pots or pans. 

1. Make sure that you have a sufficiently sized lid for all of your cooking ware. 

1. Heat the oils in your pans slowly, don't put your stove on the highest setting right off the bat. 

1. Turn the heat off if you think your pans are getting too hot. 

Due to the nature of a grease fire, it is highly recommended that you seek out the help of a professional like SERVPRO of Fort Dodge for fire restoration help. In addition to cleaning up any damage such as burned materials, soot, or grease, a professional can help your kitchen rid itself of the smoke scent. 

Our SERVPRO of Fort Dodge has the knowledge to help you quickly and effectively repair damage from a grease fire. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Classes of Damage

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

If you have ever endured storm damage to your home, SERVPRO is here to help.  Our employees are trained and certified by the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) to ensure that the technicians have the expertise in restoring your home.  

In cases where there is flood damage to your home, the IICRC categorizes four different classes of destruction as follows: 

• Class 1:  The lowest and easiest to deal with, this has a slow evaporation rate. Only part of a room or area was affected, there is little or no wet carpet, and the moisture has only affected materials with a low permeance rate, such as plywood or concrete. 
• Class 2:  With a fast evaporation rate, this level affects an entire room, carpeting, or cushioning, the wetness has wicked up the walls at least 12”, and there is moisture remaining in structural materials. 
• Class 3:  This class has the fastest evaporation rate, and ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet and sub-floors are all saturated. The liquid may have come from overhead.  
• Class 4:  This class is labeled as specialty drying situations, which means there has been enough liquid and time to saturate materials with very low permeance, such as hardwood, brick, or stone. 

If your home is ever in need of restoration services from flood damage, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Are You Covered For The Next Storm?

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is prepared for the unexpected. Call our heroes today at 515-955-4009 

Bad weather can spring up without much of a warning. Most of the time when a flash flood or bad thunderstorm is threatening your area, you barely have enough time to find shelter. As a homeowner, it is important that you think about these moments before they occur. 

Do you have the correct insurance policy? Is your home going to be covered in the event of a disaster? Is the amount of coverage going to be enough to restore your home? Thinking about these questions before the storm damage occurs can make your life after the storm much easier. 

Before you do anything else, stop and make sure your home is covered for the following: 

• Water and Windstorm Damage 
• Debris or Tree Removal 
• Sewer Backup Due to Flooding 
• Sump Pump Failures Due to Flooding 
• Additional Living Expenses In Case A Storm Forces You Out of Your Home 

Once you have the proper home insurance coverage for storm damage, you can feel safer during the event of a disaster. Seeing your home damaged after a major storm can be heartbreaking. The best thing you can do for your family and your home is to begin the storm damage recovery immediately. 

Our SERVPRO of Fort Dodge Team is here to help after every storm. We are available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year! 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

What You Should Know About Water Damage Restoration Planning

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

When homeowners find themselves faced with water from a flood or bursting pipes, they often want to know how long the restoration efforts will take. The answer depends on the extent of the damage, the type of water to invade the home and materials used throughout the affected area. Homeowners can expect the process to take anywhere from two to three days, but to not be surprised if it takes as many as seven. Some factors that affect the time it takes to dry out a home include: 

• The type of water to flood the home 
• The size of the area affected 
• The building materials affected 

Type of Water 
 
Clean water is easier to clean up than black water, as the former doesn’t require special Hazmat materials or equipment. If your problems stem from bursting pipes, the solution may be as simple as fixing the pipes and drying out the area. If you do so within 24 to 48 hours, you can prevent mold and bacteria growth as well. 
 
Size of Affected Area 
 
The type of water isn’t the only factor to affect restoration times. The size of area plays a huge part as well. If the size of the affected area is relatively small, less than ten square feet, restoration efforts can take as little as two days. However, if your entire ground floor is flooded, it could take several days of professional efforts. 
 
Materials Impacted 
 
If it is just your carpet that is affected, restoration efforts shouldn’t require much of your time at all. However, if your drywall, insulation and/or framing are impacted, you may need to do more than fix a broken pipe. Restoration efforts in the latter instance could take as long as 10 days or more. 
 
Every situation is different, and the water damage caused by bursting pipes could be far more severe than damage from, say, a leaking pipe. Talk to your local SERVPRO of Fort Dodge water damage restoration team to learn more about what to expect. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Timeline of Destruction for Water Damage

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Don't let water damage ruin your home or business. Call the pros at SERVPRO! 

A little water isn't going to hurt anything. WRONG!! When water damage is left untreated, the structure of a home or business starts to deteriorate over time. Here is the timeline of destruction if the water damage goes untreated: 

Within Minutes 

• Carpets, padding beneath flooring, subflooring becomes saturated. 
• Furniture on wet carpets starts to leach and stain. 
• Wood/wood products start absorbing water. 
• Personal belongings may be completely destroyed. 

Within Hours 

• Humidity makes the odor noticeable. 
• Particleboard cabinetry and furniture distorts and the integrity of the material weakens, crumbling over time. 
• Dyes from non-colorfast fabrics bleed (clothing stored together, upholstery, etc.). 
• In 48 hours or less, clean or grey water can deteriorate to black water, and areas that experience water intrusion clean water can rapidly become toxic. 

Within Days 

• Mold becomes visible and causes musty odors 
• Allergen sensitivities can be caused by microbial organisms. 
• Wood may severely warp and cup, making most wooden floors unsalvageable. 
• Painted walls blister and wallpaper begins to peel away. 
• Structural wood within home, such as framing, begins to swell and split. 

Within Weeks 

• Home is hazardous to human health and must be evacuated. 
• Mold infests organic materials, rendering it unsalvageable. 
• Drywall crumbles while the home’s structural integrity declines. 
• Damage to the foundation becomes apparent. 
• Home may be salvageable but may need to be gutted down to the studs. 

Within Months 

• Damage to the foundation may be significant. 
• The cost of repairs is likely more than the value of the home. 
• Damage that could have been prevented over time (i.e., neglect) disqualifies the owner from insurance claims. 
• The home may be unsalvageable 

Remember, just because it "looks dry" doesn't mean it is dry! 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-515-4009 

Our Mission Statement

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Industries Vision statement is: 

“To be the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world.”   

That statement could not be more true to those of us at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge. Our goal and core values are to be the best of the best for our customers. This means requiring our technicians to become certified within the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certifications) standards. Whether our team is helping a customer who has had storm or fire damage or if we are cleaning carpet and upholstery, we strive to be the leader in the industry.  

This is why SERVPRO of Fort Dodge should be your first and last choice for your cleaning and restoration needs. We are always “here to help.” 

Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge today at 515-955-4009! 

Why people choose SERVPRO of Fort Dodge

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

People often ask: “what is SERVPRO?” That’s a pretty loaded question because we do a lot. In short, we clean what you don’t want to clean. We specialize in fire and water damage restoration. We have teams of certified professionals that will respond to any size disaster 24/7/365. Most people hope that they never need our services but unfortunately unexpected disasters happen around the clock 365 days a year. That is why we have technicians ready to help when disaster strikes. Whether it's a house or business fire or water in your basement, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is your one stop shop for mitigation and restoration.  

Our number one goal is returning damaged areas to preloss condition, doing all we can to make it “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is dedicated to restoring both the property and the lives of the customers being helped. Like it was never dirty, like it never overflowed, like it never caught fire, like it never smoldered– whatever the case, with SERVPRO of Fort Dodge our goal is to make it “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

The Purpose of Flood Cuts

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Heavy storms can lead to severe flooding damage. 

A heavy storm can cause a significant amount of damage to your home. Lightning can strike trees, causing them to fall on the house and tear up the roof. High winds that pick up debris can lead to broken windows. The main concern during a storm, however, is likely flooding. If a weather event in Fort Dodge leaves behind a lot of standing water in your home, flood restoration specialists may have to make a flood cut to remove all the damage. 

When Is a Flood Cut Necessary? 

A flood cut is the method the cleanup team uses to tear out materials that can't be salvaged. Technicians will probably need to use a flood cut if the water damage meets certain criteria: 
 
 

• High levels of contamination 
• Suspected damage in hard-to-reach areas 
• Compromised structural integrity of the wall 

 
Flooding from a storm almost always leads to a flood cut because the water is contaminated. If the standing water in your home comes from a clean sources, however, technicians may try to save the wall, even if there is a lot of water. 

How Is a Flood Cut Measured? 

When removing drywall, the mitigation team wants to make sure that it tears out all the damage. Specialists typically make a flood cut at least 12 inches above the spot where the water damage ends. This ensures that any unseen damage is also removed. 

What Happens After the Flood Cut Is Made? 

Once the cut is made, the technicians remove the drywall. They take out all the damaged material, including any damp insulation behind the wall. Before they rebuild, they have to make sure the area is clean and dry so that no secondary damage occurs. 

If a storm causes flooding in your home, it may take more than simply removing the water and wiping down surfaces to complete the repairs. Technicians may have to make flood cuts on your walls to remove all the damage. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Commercial Water Loss

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, delay in response time can cost thousands of dollars in loss of inventory, property and additional living expenses. Without quick and skilled restoration services, water damaged items become non-salvageable, costing you thousands of dollars in replacement costs. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge will accomplish your cost savings by using proper drying techniques that restore soaked structural materials to their original condition. We have years of experience dealing with water damage restoration and related repairs. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge also works to prevent future moisture problems and protect the unaffected areas from humidity damage. These techniques will save inventories such as: wall coverings, carpeting, furniture, documents, & electronics. 

Water Damage Clean Up Process: 

• Emergency Response – 24/7/365 
• Thorough inspection using state of the art moisture detection equipment 
• Contents protection and moving 
• Extraction/removal of water 
• Assess the flooring materials and determine best restoration method 
• Ventilate wall cavities to expedite the drying process 
• Removal of drywall (only when necessary) 
• Clean and sanitize affected area (depending on source of water) 
• Determine the most effective drying equipment to use 
• Set up drying equipment 
• Monitor drying equipment daily to quickly dry the space 
• Remove drying equipment after verifying that the affected areas have reached a normal moisture content 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources 

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

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Sewage Damage Cleanup Process

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

An overflowing toilet in the public restroom of your commercial building in Fort Dodge may not seem like that big a deal at first, especially if the mess is mopped up quickly. The staff who responds to the crisis initially, however, only sees what happens on the surface. 

What to do if you Experience Sewage Damage? 

An overflow is likely to cause damage not only to the floorboards under the bathroom tile but also to the ceiling of the space directly beneath it. The cleanup process must be swift and thorough to prevent ongoing issues. 

1. Assessment of Sewer Damage

The first thing you need to do is call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge. When the team arrives, the technicians assess the damage to the building and provide a report that contains valuable information: 

• Extent of the damage 
• Cleanup procedures recommended 
• Estimated cost for restoration 

The team leader can guide you through what the cleanup process will entail and give you a general timeline for when you can reasonably expect the mitigation company to complete the repairs. Submit this report with your insurance claim to verify the work that is being done. 

2. Removal of Water and Materials

Before technicians can clean the area, they must remove everything that doesn't belong in the space. If there is still standing water in the restroom, between the floors or leaking into the room below, it has to be pumped out. Then the team tears out all materials that show signs of sewer damage. This is likely to include flooring, ceiling tiles, insulation and drywall with which the contaminated water came into contact. 

3. Disinfection of Affected Space

After all ruined materials have been removed, it's time to disinfect and deodorize the area. Sewage contains bacteria and other microbes that you certainly don't want to be left in your building. The mitigation crew uses industrial cleaners to sanitize the space. Technicians also may use an ozone machine or other treatments to remove any foul odors that linger. 

4. Drying Area

It's not enough for the space around and underneath the flooded toilet to be clean; it must also be dry. This is one of the key steps for preventing secondary damage such as mold growth, which thrives in damp environments. Every remaining surface in the area must be dried. Technicians can also ensure that the humidity level is in an acceptable range so that moisture does not become an issue. 

When there is a problem with your building stemming from an overflow on an upper level, the floors beneath it are also in danger of sustaining damage. Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge so that you can get the cleanup process started as soon as possible. Fast action prevents further issues and gets your building back to normal in a timely manner. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Tips for Avoiding Fire Damage

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

1. Be Careful With Candles

Candles can give the room a pleasant scent while providing an atmosphere that doesn't compare with light bulbs. However, you must be very careful with candles. Keep them on a sturdy surface and away from flammable materials (e.g., curtains, papers). Also, never leave them burning unattended and leave them out of reach of children and pets. 
 

2. Maintain Your Dryer

Remember to clean your lint trap every time you do a new load of laundry. Fire damage restoration experts will advise you to also clean behind the dryer to clear it of lint and clothing items. These materials can be highly flammable when exposed to the heat of the dryer. 
 

3. Keep Toaster, Stove, and Oven Clean

Keep your kitchen cooking appliances such as your toaster, stove, and oven clean. Crumbs, oil, and grease can flame up quickly when the surface gets hot. 
 

4. Have Working Fire Extinguishers on Hand

Always have an easily accessible fire extinguisher for every part of your home. Inspect them regularly to make sure they will work when you need them. 
 

5. Monitor Cooking Food

Avoid a kitchen fire by closely watching cooking food. Don't leave the kitchen area unattended while you're cooking. Teach everyone how to put out different types of kitchen fires safely. 
 

6. Maintain Smoke Detectors

It's vital to your family's well-being to have working smoke detectors in every part of your home and maintain them. Make sure you replace the battery in each detector at least twice a year and test the alarm. Also, keep them free of dust and debris that can build up. You can lightly vacuum, blow with canned air or wipe the casing off with a damp cloth. 
 

7. Safely Store Combustible Products

You may be surprised at how many products in your household can combust relatively easily. Keep these materials, such as hairspray, air fresheners, household cleaners, and shaving cream, away from heat sources like space heaters. 
 

The key to avoiding a house fire is knowing what to do and not to do to be safe. Being cautious around heat sources and open flames is essential. Ensure everyone knows how to safely put out different types of fires and how to use a fire extinguisher. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Does Renters Insurance Cover Fire?

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Because the property owner's insurance does not cover the personal property of tenants, it is important for renters to purchase their own coverage. The short answer to the question of whether renters insurance covers fire is that it does. However, different types of coverage apply to fire damage in different ways. 

Different Types of Renter Insurance Coverage for Fire Damage 

Personal Property 
 

The primary reason for renters to purchase fire coverage is to replace personal property damaged or destroyed in a fire. Examples of personal property include: 
 
 

• Clothing 
   
• Electronics 
   
• Furniture 
   
• Home decor 
   
• Cash 
   

 
Some types of property may be specifically excluded or have different limits, such as jewelry, cash, guns and musical instruments. Most policies cover personal property at replacement value, but some may cover it at actual cash value, which is the replacement value less depreciation. If you need a fire restoration service call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge to clean your smoke damaged property, this may be covered by your policy. 
 

Liability 
 

Another coverage provided by most renters insurance policies is liability. This means that if you accidentally cause a fire in your rental unit, your liability coverage may pay for any damages to the building or injuries to other tenants or guests that you are legally liable for. 
 

Medical Payments to Others 
 

Most renters policies provide a small amount of coverage for medical payments to others. This is no-fault coverage, so it applies, even if you didn't cause the fire. This coverage might apply if you had a guest in your apartment and that person needed medical attention due to smoke inhalation from a fire in your kitchen. 
 

Loss of Use 
 

If a fire makes your apartment uninhabitable, loss of use coverage may apply. This coverage may reimburse you for additional living expenses, such as paying for a hotel room. 
 

Renters insurance provides a variety of coverages for various types of fire damage. If you are unsure what your policy covers, your insurance professional can review your policy with you and make adjustments as needed. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

Does Your Insurance Cover Flooding and Water Damage?

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Will your homeowners' insurance cover the damage that occurs because of a broken pipe? The answer to this question depends on several factors. One of the most important things you need to know is that the damage is probably covered if the damage was the result of a sudden or unforeseen happening: 
 
 

• Leaking air conditioner 
   
• Malfunctioning clothes washing machine 
   
• Broken pipes because of freezing temperatures 
   

 
It's important to understand that your policy may not cover all of these specific situations. Your best source of accurate information is the insurance coverage provider. 
 

Understand Insurance Exclusions 
 

In most situations, if the damage is the result of gradual changes or the lack of proper maintenance, you'll probably have to pay for the repairs. Some examples of policy exclusions include a leaking pipe that you ignored, mold damage from an ice dam on a clogged roof gutter, and high levels of humidity in the bathroom. Again, coverage and exclusions vary from one insurance provider to another. 
 

Don't Ignore Signs of Trouble 
 

Most of the time, insurance companies expect homeowners to care for the plumbing system, taking steps to make sure pipes don't freeze, connections are kept tight, and that signs of damage, such as cracks and mold, are addressed right away. Slow-developing damage is often the result when homeowners don't address these issues, and this type of flood damage often isn't covered. 
 

Keep Up With Maintenance 
 

The best way to avoid the costs of hiring flooding and water damage cleanup crews is to regularly maintain the pipes and plumbing systems in your home. At the first sign of trouble, take steps to correct leaks, clogs, and mold. It's also helpful to contact your agent to learn more about the water damage risks in Fort Dodge. You could also ask for advice on reducing the risk of a broken pipe and other sources of flood damage. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009 

How Will I Know Which Water Restoration Firm Is Best for My Central Iowa Needs Needs?

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

As a Central Iowa business owner, when you suffer a water loss, the impact amplifies as your employees, customers, and the community absorb the consequences. At a stressful time, you may feel the pressure of many others who rely on you to make the right decision when selecting from a list of water restorers. 
 
What Should I Focus On When Comparing Companies? 

 
Focus on the restoration company’s training, equipment, experience, response time, and scalability when deciding which Central Iowa water restoration company you should select to help with your specific needs. 

Things to consider include: 

• Is their workforce trained through the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the international standards-setting organization? 
• Has the company invested in sufficient inventories of state-of-the-art water extraction and drying equipment, and the tools to locate trapped water that migrated from the initial loss site? 
• Do the company’s management team and crew members have significant experience in commercial losses, including creative and sustainable ways to permit at least partial operations during restoration efforts? 
• How quickly can the company arrive with experienced project managers, restoration technicians, and equipment to begin assessment, planning, and emergency services? 
• Can the company mobilize resources with affiliated restoration firms to increase the number of work crews and the quantities of specialized equipment in the event of a catastrophic and more extensive loss than typical? 

Is Preplanning for Commercial Disasters Available and Recommended? 
 

Our marketing team at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge urges commercial customers to reach out to us long before water restoration is needed.  We can work with you to develop a collaborative plan that permits our team to hit the ground running in reaction to a water loss event at your facility. Our Emergency READY Profile and Plan (ERP) enables us to gain a critical understanding of your layout and operations, ensuring our response is individualized and swift.  We are prepared to help commercial customers of any size with water restoration concerns before a crisis and after the worst occurs. Call us at 515-955-4009 to explore how we can work together to get you back in business as quickly as possible. 

Different Categories of Water

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

CATEGORIES OF WATER - You Need to Know 

Category 1 (Clean) Water - Refers to a source of water that does not pose a substantial threat to humans and is classified as "clean water". Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows, or appliance malfunctions that involve water supply lines. If this water moves through certain building materials, it could change the category. 

Category 2 (Grey) Water - Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to, known as "grey water". This type carries microorganisms and nutrients of microorganisms. Examples are toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines. 

Category 3 (Black) Water - Known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria, and fungi. Type 3 category is contaminated water sources that affect the indoor environment. This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water, or standing water. Category 2 Water or Grey Water that is not promptly removed from the structure and/or has remained stagnant may be re-classified as Category 3 Water. Toilet back flows that originate from beyond the toilet trap are considered black water contamination regardless of visible content or color. 

We Can and Will take care of any type of water loss! 

You can count on us if disaster strikes. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is always HERE TO HELP. 

We can be reached 24/7 at 515-955-4009 

STORM ALERT: What to do?

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Tips and Action Steps 

There have been unprecedented heavy rains in the area, as of late. No one expects there to be flooding, especially those living on a hill or on top of a bluff. But as we have seen in the last several weeks, few have been spared from the damage of water and flooding. Several safety tips that would be helpful after flooding are: 

1. Establish an evacuation plan in advance. Make sure all employees or family members are safe. Assign select individuals to keep lists of select teams with names and contact numbers.  
2. If water were to enter the building or home and evacuation becomes impossible, move to an upper floor, and wait for rescuers. 
3. Avoid driving through floods or rising water, nearly half of all flash flood fatalities are auto-related. 
4. Don't ever touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. 
5. Do not walk through moving water. Even just six inches of moving water is enough to make you fall. 
6. Avoid contact with floodwaters. Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. 
7. Listen to the local news reports to learn if the community’s water supply is safe to drink. 
8. You may return to your home or business only when authorities indicate it is safe. 

Should you experience floodwaters in your home or business, it is important that you call the areas local Storm remediation experts. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 

515-955-4009 

More than Fire & Water Restoration

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

We are More... 

There is more to SERVPRO than just fire & water restoration. When most people hear the name SERVPRO they automatically think of fire & water restoration, however, we are so much more. The following is a list of some of those attributes that you may already know about us.  

Our list of services include: 

• Water Damage Restoration  
• Fire Damage Restoration  
• Mold Mitigation & Remediation  
• Air Duct & HVAC Cleaning 
• Carpet & Hard Floor Cleaning 
• Post Construction Cleaning 
• Crime Scene, Biohazard, & Vandalism Cleanup 
• Deodorization 
• Storm Damage Cleanup 
• Contents Cleaning - both Hard and Soft 

You can count on us if disaster strikes.

No Job too Big or too Small!

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is always HERE TO HELP. 

We can be reached 24/7 at 515-955-4009 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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. 

Cleanup After a Fire Can Determine Your Business's Recovery

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Cleanup Process

Did you know that a fire could require extensive water cleanup measures at your businesses in Fort Dodge, IA? Smoke cleanup is also a necessary step to deal with the aftermath of a fire. A professional service that knows how to handle fire cleanup properly can get your business ready to operate again.

Water Damage
Firefighters use powerful hoses that emit gallons of water to extinguish flames. Although the goal is to prevent fires from spreading, the power exerted by hoses and the water they leave behind can also cause extensive damage due to soaking and flooding of:

• Carpets and upholstery
• Electronics and furniture
• Drywall and floors
• Files and inventory

It is necessary to begin urgent water cleanup measures as soon as possible after putting out a fire to prevent mold formation, which could lead to further complications. A professional water extraction service can apply powerful equipment to dry out your space, monitor humidity levels and look for mold formation signs. If mold is present, it is essential to begin remediation methods to prevent additional damage that could be extensive and costly.

Smoke Damage
After a fire, smoke can linger, causing soot particles from burning objects to attach themselves to surfaces and penetrate the air. Without the proper techniques and tools for soot cleanup, further irreparable damage is possible. Professional restoration services can analyze the damage and apply the appropriate dry or wet cleaning techniques to increase the chances of salvaging your property; however, soot-damaged objects are often irreparable.
The soot cleaning process should include air scrubbing, which can effectively remove microscopic soot particles that attach themselves to air molecules. This process usually accompanies the use of ozone and hydroxyl generator machines to eliminate lingering odors after soot or water cleanup.
Putting your business back together after a fire can be overwhelming, but you don't need to handle the job alone. Leave the fire cleanup process to knowledgeable professionals in Fort Dodge, IA, who have the experience necessary to help you recover from any disaster.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge - (515) 955-4009

3 Things You Should Know About Water Damage

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

3 Things You Should Know About Water Damage

Whether you have a pipe burst or a leak in your water line, water damage to your home is not good. Therefore, it is crucial to get a qualified restoration company out as soon as you discover the issue to clean up. But before this, there are some things you should know about water damage.

1. There Are Different Categories
Each instance of water damage is unique. There are actually three different categories for this type of disaster. Category 1 is considered clean water. Any water that has come into contact with potential pollutants is category 2. If the water is highly contaminated with dangerous pollutants, it is considered category 3.

2. You Must Respond Quickly
If a pipe burst has caused flooding in your Fort Dodge, IA home, you need to act within 48 hours to prevent mold spores from growing. You should immediately contact your insurance company and a cleanup crew. When talking to the insurance company, it is important to know exactly where the flood came from to estimate how much will be covered. They will also likely recommend a restoration company. Just remember that you can choose to use the recommended company or a different one.

3. Drying Out Your Home Is Crucial
Many people think they can clean the water, and they are done. However, this is just the beginning, and any porous materials may have to be discarded. Generally, only hard non-porous materials can be salvaged. These items will need to be thoroughly dried out. Additionally, home building materials, such as drywall, may have to be removed or undergo a drying treatment to be salvageable.
Water damage can be caused by mother nature or a pipe burst. To minimize the damage to your home, you must know some basic facts about water damage and how to react. Understanding the different categories, the reaction time, and the cleanup process can make your after-flood experience much smoother.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge (515) 955-4009

Storm Watch vs. Storm Warning: What Is The Difference?

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Living in the Midwest, we hear the words ‘storm watch’ and ‘storm warning’ many times throughout the year, but what do they really mean? A storm watch means that weather conditions are at a level where a severe storm can easily develop. A storm warning means that a current storm that already exists could turn even worse.

According to the National Weather Service, they issue two types of watches and three types of warnings during the winter time. A Winter Storm Watch is issued when “conditions are favorable for a winter storm event, which is a threat to life or property”, while a Blizzard Watch is issued when “conditions are favorable for a blizzard event” with low visibility and high winds. On the other hand, a Winter Storm Warning is issued when there is a heavy snowfall of at least 6 inches in 12 hours, 8 inches in 24 hours, or ½ inch of sleet. A Ice Storm Warning is issued when there is an ice accumulation of at least ¼ inch, while a Blizzard Warning is issued when blizzard conditions continued for at least three hours or more.

For more information on Storm Watches and Warnings, check out https://www.weather.gov/ilx/wwa_social.

If you have any storm damage to your home or commercial property, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge at (515) 955-4009 and we’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why DIY Water Extraction Efforts in Fort Dodge are Not Enough

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Utilizes Powerful Water Extraction Tools to Ensure All Standing Water Gets Removed from Your Fort Dodge area Property

Whether you recently had a flood, a water pipe broke, or encountered an appliance failure, extracting water as soon as possible is vital. Failing to begin extraction right away allows the water to migrate into dry spaces and your interior and structural materials are subject to the onset of secondary damage.

What Does Extraction Entail?

Water extraction in Fort Dodge can involve powerful equipment like pumps and truck-mounted extractors to pull up as much water as possible, as fast as possible. Even if you have a shop-vac on-hand that can handle water removal, skilled SERVPRO technicians can get the job done much quicker and achieve better results with:

• Submersible pumps are elemental when standing water measures over two inches in depth, typically in a basement.
• In many situations, the extraction process calls for multiple passes to ensure thorough drying.
• Careful selection of extraction tools to keep from damaging carpets by way of delamination.
• Portable extractors help get into tight spaces or restricted areas.
• Truck-mounted extractors have their own power source and are more potent than portable extractors, usually not needed for small water spill cleanups.

To achieve our drying goals, SERVPRO formulates a plan to use drying and extraction in unison. We determine the type and number of dehumidifiers and air movers to set up within the water-loss zone and adjust as needed to stay on track. Once our moisture meters give us regular readings within your Fort Dodge area home or business, we then wrap up the project with the application of EPA-registered cleaning agents and deodorizers.

There is no water extraction job that is too large or too small for our knowledgeable team at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge. If you need assistance after experiencing a water emergency, call us at (515) 955-4009, and we will deploy a crew to your front door within hours. We make sure it looks, “Like it never even happened.”

Reduce Exposure to COVID-19 at Your Workplace

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

The current coronavirus that countries and communities are currently battling is easy to transmit. One of the means of transmission is by touching infected surfaces. If an employee or client with the virus comes into your Fort Dodge, IA building, the virus could be left on doorknobs, tabletops, elevator buttons, and anything else the person touched. The next person to touch that surface could then pick up the virus and become ill themselves and/or contribute to the spread of coronavirus exposure.

Recommendations From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Individuals can and should take steps to avoid becoming sick. These steps are simple and effective:

• Wash hands frequently and for twenty seconds, using soap and water
• Wear a mask that covers both the nose and the mouth
• Stay home when feeling sick
• Use a tissue to cover the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing
  
  

Most people aren’t at risk of becoming seriously ill, but the steps individuals take to reduce the spread of the virus can prevent unnecessary deaths.

Unseen Exposure Increases Numbers of Infected People

Part of the problem with this virus is that people may be asymptomatic carriers for up to two weeks before getting sick or may carry the virus without ever appearing sick. This means that your business could already have been exposed to the virus. For this reason, consistent coronavirus cleanup must be a top priority. Without routine cleaning, you could inadvertently contribute to rising levels of coronavirus exposure in your community.

Professionals Are Equipped To Face the Virus

SERVPRO offers covid-19 cleanup services and is Here to Help commercial properties. Using FDA approved disinfectants and drawing upon more than 40 years of experience, SERVPRO cleanup professionals are prepared with appropriate personal protective equipment and current training. Trained technicians use modern disinfection practices to provide thorough coronavirus cleanup.

Concerns about coronavirus exposure don’t have to become fears about the virus. As individuals and companies take steps to minimize the spread of the virus, there will naturally be less cause for alarm.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge - (515) 955-4009

How To Prepare Your Commercial Property for Winter

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

For many, the word “winter” evokes images of chilly nights and cozy sweaters. For others, it’s a reminder of why they moved to Bermuda. And for most property owners, it’s a reminder that your commercial building needs to take precautions for the cooler months ahead. Here are five ways to avoid winter storm damage.

5 Ways to Prepare Your Commercial Property to Avoid Winter Storm Damage

1. Inspect Your Roof

Winter storms can wreak havoc on shingles and roof tiles. Roof damage gives water easy access to your building’s interior and can lead to property damage and mold.

2. Clean Your Gutters

While you’re up there, eliminate any leaves, sticks, or other debris that may have gathered in your gutters. If left unattended, gutter clogs can lead to water accumulation and necessitate the help of a storm damage restoration company.

3. Inspect the Rest of Your Property, Too

Depending on where your commercial property is located, a winter storm can encompass a variety of extreme weather events — everything from snow and hail to high winds. As the temperature drops, survey your building and surrounding premises to look for existing issues that may appear small now but may be exacerbated by severe and unusual weather.

4. Check Window and Door Seals

Even if winter in your neck of the woods is mild, it’s imperative to eliminate any gaps around your windows and doors. Drafts often mean more dollars spent on utilities. Break out the caulking gun or bucket of sealant and keep your energy costs as low as possible when the temperature dips.

5. Inspect your HVAC System

The lower the thermometer reading, the more you’ll need to rely on your HVAC unit. To avoid storm damage to your energy bill, look for blockages and cracks, listen for strange noises, and clean your filters and condensation drain traps before winter sets in.

Even if your Fort Dodge, IA commercial property is in for mild weather this winter, it’s imperative to prepare for winter storm damage. By taking just a few precautions, you can prevent interruption to your daily routine and revenue and eliminate the need to figure disaster restoration into your budget.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge - (515) 955-4009

Smoke and Soot Cleanup After a House Fire

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

Even with a small house fire, 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 Fort Dodge 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 – (515) 955-4009

House Fire? What You Can Do Until Restoration Help Arrives

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

A house fire can be devastating and leave you in a panic to put things back together. Many people start trying to clean up the mess right away but sometimes trying to clean it can cause more damage.

Here is what you can do until restoration help arrives

• Limit movement in your home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas.
• coat chrome faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
• place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs or wet carpet.
• DO NOT wash any walls or painted surfaces.
• DO NOT shampoo carpets or upholstery.
• DO NOT clean any electrical equipment.
• DO NOT send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

The first 48 hours after a fire can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems, restore your contents and help you get your home cleaned up.

SERVPRO professionals provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to content claims inventory and document restoration. SERVPRO has state of the art equipment and highly trained technicians to restore property. These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible.

Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge for a FREE estimate (515) 955-4009

Winter Driving Preparedness

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Vehicle covered in snow on side of road

While we may love living in Iowa during the beautiful Spring-Summer-Fall seasons, winter in Iowa is a harsh wake up call that ultimately helps us appreciate the months of the year we can enjoy the outdoors. Along with the grey skies, winter in the Fort Dodge area can bring high-volume snow storms as well as extreme winds that greatly affect the wind-chill. For those of us who have lived in the area, we know the hazards of a harsh winter on the plains. For those who are new to the area, and as a reminder for us who have lived here, we wanted to give you some pointers on what to do if you are caught in your vehicle during a snowstorm.

Driving during a winter storm

Our first bit of advice on traveling during a winter storm, is to not do it! But we know that is not always realistic. When traveling during a snow storm:

• Slow Down! Higher speeds increase the risk of injury during an accident.
• Clear your vehicle of snow and ice before embarking on your trip.
• Be sure to have an emergency road side kit as well as blankets, food, and bottled water.
• If your visibility deteriorates to the point that driving is unsafe, pull over to the shoulder of the road and turn on your emergency lights.

Should you have to stop your vehicle and wait out a snow storm:

• Do not leave your vehicle unless to get an item from the trunk.
• Run the motor in ten minute intervals each hour to retain heat inside the vehicle.
• Clear snow buildup from the tail pipe if necessary.
• Turn on your dome light at night while running the vehicle so help can find you.
• After snow has stopped falling, put up your car hood so your vehicle is easily visible.

For even more great information visit https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter-during.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge (515) 955-4009

Damage from Burst Pipe

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen pipe that has burst

Frozen pipes can be dangerous for a multitude of reasons. They can create an inconvenience but, more seriously, can cause severe damage to your home or business.

Detecting Frozen Pipes

One of the first signs of frozen pipes is a lack of running water, causing an inconvenience in performing your everyday tasks. The first step to take when you notice you may have a frozen pipe is to try to locate where the frozen pipe is situated in your home. Fortunately, if the pipe in question is easy to access, such as a pipe under a kitchen sink, you might be able to thaw the blockage using a hairdryer or a small space heater. This is the best case scenario. Unfortunately, many people do not recognize a frozen pipe in time before it becomes a burst pipe or the pipe is in an exterior wall where it may not be noticeable, which can lead to severe damage.

That is where SERVPRO can help!

Should you experience water damage from a burst pipe in your home, call the experts at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge immediately. We are standing by 24/7, ready for your call to help restore your home after water damage. From extraction and cleaning to any necessary contents cleaning, we are Here to Help.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge (515) 955-4009

Why SERVPRO of Fort Dodge?

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Pipe burst, mold, fire, home damage... words that no homeowner wants to hear. When something happens to your home, you want a team you can trust and count. Why choose SERVPRO? 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge offers 24 hour emergency service. We are dedicated to your needs, and the needs of the Fort Dodge area. At SERVPRO we strive to be faster to any size disaster that may happen! We are a locally owned and operated with highly trained technicians, and advanced cleaning equipment.  

Just a few things our team specializes in: 

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Storm Damage Restoration
• COVID19 Cleaning

If you have any questions, or just want to learn more about how we can assist you please call us today at (515) 955-4009

Emergency Services

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Whenever we get an emergency service call we must attend to that immediately. This sometimes means having to reschedule other jobs that we have going on. Luckily, our customers are understanding and always patient with us while we attend to these emergencies.

Some emergencies do require protection for our technicians, this includes; face mask,  gloves, full body suits, and goggles. We make sure not only that our technicians are safe, but also that when we clean whatever may have been near or even touched the hazardous materials that it is safe for use afterwards or that it is accounted for in the belongings that were not salvageable.

As a homeowner, whenever something occurs remember to call your insurance. Not only may it be covered but they can call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge in to handle it; quickly, proficiently, professionally, and carefully. You also can call us directly at (515) 955-4009 and we can help you through the process.

How Fire Sprinklers Work

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

A fire sprinkler system can minimize structural damage and save lives. Knowing about these important devices can help you make informed decisions regarding fire-prevention for your Fort Dodge business.

Types of Sprinklers

There are a variety of sprinkler systems currently available to business owners. They work differently and are suited for different businesses and building types. Here are five common systems:

1. Deluge
2. Pre-action
3. Foam
4. Wet pipe
5. Dry pipe
   
   

Deluge and foam sprinklers are ideal for industries that deal with flammable materials. The foam systems use foam as well as water for fire suppression, and deluge systems activate all heads at the same time, making them ideal for fires that could spread quickly over a large area. Wet pipe sprinklers keep water in the pipes at all times, so they can quickly extinguish a fire. Dry pipe systems, on the other hand, only receive water when the sprinkler heads are activated. Because they do not have water in the pipes at all times, they are ideal for cold climates where water could freeze and become stuck in the pipes. Pre-action pipes are a combination of wet and dry pipe systems, and are usually used in museums, libraries and other places with valuable materials.

How Sprinklers Work
Most fire sprinkler systems are heat-activated. When extreme heat from a fire reaches the sprinkler head, it bursts and water flows out. Usually, only one sprinkler head is activated because it suppresses the fire before the heat can reach the other heads. This minimizes both fire damage and water damage. Other systems have a different activation method that sets off all heads at one time. Ask your sprinkler technician if you have any questions about what type of system you have or how it works.
Although fire sprinkler systems minimize damage, you may still need help with the fire restoration process or fire sprinkler cleanup. An experienced restoration company can help you get your business back to normal quickly and safely.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge (515) 955-4009

5 Water Damage Issues Your Business May Face

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

5 of The Most Common Water Damage Scenarios

There are a few potential water damage issues any business in Fort Dodge, IA may face. These can include everything from a broken pipe to the destruction caused by a large storm. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can help you get your business up and running again after a flood has occurred. Here are five of the most common water damage scenarios the pros may see:

1. Storms

Storm damage can be one of the most common culprits of water destruction for businesses. High winds and heavy rain can cause roof problems that may lead to leaks and potential flooding.

2. Winter Weather

Cold weather, especially in the winter, comes with its own set of problems. Frozen water can build up and then leak into the building once it thaws. Similarly, a frozen pipe can break and lead to flooding when it melts.

3. Pipe Breakage

A broken pipe can occur from general wear and tear or stress to the structure. If you believe there may be a pipe break in your building, it's important to contact a professional as soon as you can.

4. Sewage Problems

Sewage problems may also lead to a flood at your place of business. This could occur from either a block in the sewage system or sewage backup problems in the city's mainline. If you have sewage problems, it’s best to obtain qualified assistance as quickly as possible.

5. Appliance Failure

Another way you may find your businesses needing water repair is through appliance failure, such as the refrigerator in the break room. Such appliances are often attached to a water line. If this line breaks, it could lead to possible flooding.
Water damage can create a serious issue for any business. Whether dealing with storm damage, winter weather, a broken pipe, sewage backup, or appliance failure, it's always best to contact professional help to dry the area and sanitize it. Doing this can help you get your business back up and in working condition as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge - 515-955-4009

Call SERVPRO to Board-up your Home or Business After a Fire

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Fires often create new openings in buildings from damage to the roof, siding or windows breaking. Windows often break because of the fire itself, people needing an exit or get broken by the fire department in the course of putting the fire out. When the fire has been extinguished and the firefighters have left, you have to put the pieces back together and that is where we come in. We have been helping people come back from fires and others disasters in Fort Dodge since 2010. We can help guide you through the process including the first step: Boarding up your home. 

Why should you board up?

After a fire if you have any windows broken, siding destroyed, holes in your roof or any other unsecured openings in your home they need to be secured. This is because:

• Prevents additional damage to your home and belongings from weather
• Protect your property and home from damage or burglary
• Stopping animals from getting into you home causing more damage
• Contributes to your insurance coverage by showing you are taking proactive steps to prevent more damage and address the damage

Once the board up is complete we can begin the rest or the restoration process to help you make it "Like it never even happened." Call our 24/7 emergency line at 515-955-4009 if you need an emergency board-up.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge Cleans Smoked Damaged Homes in Webster and Surrounding Counties in Iowa.

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Not every fire does an immense amount of damage to homes. In fact many fires don’t require a large amount of demolition and rebuild; especially ones caused by cooking accidents. Grease fires, protein fires, contained fires or outdoor fires can all do a small amount of damage to homes but they can produce a lot more smoke and residue than people realize.

That smoke, soot, and residue will go throughout your home covering all kinds of surfaces like walls, counter-tops, cabinets, contents, and clothes. The smoke damage leaves behind sticky residue, stains surfaces, odors, and can be toxic to breath long term especially for people with respiratory issues. The residue is not always visible either so the testing process is very important.

A home does not need to be severely damaged after a fire for you to call one of our experts for a free inspection of your home. The size and scope of damage after a small fire can be very surprising to many people when we do our inspection and show how far reaching smoke damage can be and what all is affected. In our inspection we can determine the best way to restore your home to its previous condition. 

What goes into a Fire Cleaning and Restoration Project?

Projects vary based on a variety of factors such as:

• Size and scope of the damage
• Source of the fire
• Odor level
• Type of materials affected 

To get a good idea of what is necessary for your particular situation it is best to give us a call and schedule a free inspection and estimate to determine what processes are best suited to restore your home. Typically many of our fire restoration projects include:

• Board Up
• Dry cleaning with a sponge or HEPA vacuum
• Wet cleaning with solutions or enzymes
• Ozone treatment for odor
• Thermal for odor
• Content pack-out for off site cleaning (more severe fire damage situation)
• Duct cleaning

We deal with fires all year around and we are ready to help you take back your home after fire. Make sure you review these fire damage tips and give us a call today for an inspection today at (515) 955-4009.

Dealing with Ice Dams

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

If you live in areas that freeze, ice dams are a reality, especially when we have had large amounts of snow and temperatures that have fluctuated as much as they have this winter season.

How do Ice Dams form?

• Winter storms build up snow on the roof
• Heat from the building escapes through insulation, chimneys and roof vents or heat from the sun which causes the snow to melt
• The melted snow runs down roof lines to valleys and eaves
• The melted snow refreezes at the base of the valley and at the eaves or gutters
• As day/night time temperatures cycle up and down and heat loss melts the snow, the ice dams and icicles continue to grow

Once these roofs and gutter ice dams form, subsequent water ponding behind the ice dam can lead to roof leaks, internal building damage and possible mold issues. Icicles can also cause lower roof damage, deck damage and people safety issues.

How do you deal with an existing ice dam?

• Remove the ice dam by breaking it free in small chunks. Do NOT use an ax or other sharp tool. You could cut through your shingles. Instead, tap lightly with a blunt mallet. This can be dangerous and take a while, so it’s recommended that you hire someone who is experienced in roofing.
• Clear out gutters and downspouts carefully. This work can cause damage to plastic or metal gutters and spouts
• Melt troughs through the ice dam with calcium chloride ice melt. Rock salt can damage paint, metals, and plants beneath the eave and wherever the salty water drains.
  • A good trough maker is a tube of cloth (a leg from an old pair of pantyhose works well). Fill it with calcium chloride, tie off the top, and lay it vertically across the ice dam. It will slowly melt its way down through the dam, clearing a path for the underlying water to flow free.

How can you prevent an ice dam?

The above methods will treat the symptoms of an ice dam, but won’t fix the underlying issue, which is a warm roof caused by poor insulation and venting of the space under the roof. Here are some tips on how to prevent an ice dam from forming in the first place.

• add insulation to your attic
• remove attic heat sources
• insulate attic access doors
• check the exhausts
• check flashing around chimney

If you experience water damage in your home or business due to an ice dam, call in the experts at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge and we can make it “Like it never even happened.” We are faster to any disaster and are eager to put our experience and expertise to work for you! 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge - (515) 955-4009

The "Midwest Freeze Zone"

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

For most of the Midwest, winter freezing temperatures are always a cause for concern. 

Besides the fact that it is freezing to us, it is also freezing our pipes!  Frozen pipes many times lead to broken pipes and during these times of frozen pipes, the restoration industry is swamped with work.  When this happens we are lucky to have the backing of SERVPRO to help us in this time! 

Whether it is the polar vortex or just a week of ridiculously cold weather, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is always available to help out others who are at max work capacity.

This gives you the ability to have quick service and know that you are still getting industry-leading equipment, set-up, monitoring and restoration services.  

So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster! We are eager to put our expertise to use for you. We will make things "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge - (515) 955-4009

FROZEN PIPES: Learn How to Prevent Water Pipes From Freezing and How to Thaw Them if They Do Freeze

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem

Water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal or plastic pipes. No matter the strength of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break.

Pipes that freeze most frequently are:

• Pipes that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines.

• Water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets.

• Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation.

How to Protect Pipes From Freezing

Before the onset of cold weather, protect your pipes from freezing by following these recommendations:

• Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer's or installer's directions. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed. Antifreeze is environmentally harmful, and is dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping.

• Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break.

• Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.

• Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas. Look in the garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.

• Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a "pipe sleeve" or installing UL-listed "heat tape," "heat cable," or similar materials on exposed water pipes. Newspaper can provide some degree of insulation and protection to exposed pipes – even ¼” of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that usually do not have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing.

• Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.

• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.

• When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.

• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.

• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

• If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.

• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.

• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.

• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you can not thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.

• Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

Source:  www.redcross.com

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge - (515) 955-4009

Signs to Look for When You’re Dealing With Water Damage

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage is a common headache for homeowners. In fact, one out of every 50 American homeowners files a water damage claim on their homes every year.

That’s not just because there are more of all types of claims being filed, either. Other types of claims have been falling in recent years. Water Damage Claims are growing annually, while claims for fire damage have been falling.

When to Consider Reaching Out for Help

If you’re a Fort Dodge area homeowner, you may be wondering when you might need water damage restoration help. Your local SERVPRO team can help answer your questions. And if you need restoration work, we can create a custom damage report for you.

You might notice these signs if you’re dealing with water damage that needs to be evaluated by water remediation specialists:

Fabric upholstery or curtains start to bleed or fade. Contact with water can cause certain fabrics to stain, bleed or fade. If you notice that happening to your drapes or your upholstered furniture, take notice. It can be a sign of water damage.

Wood in your home is starting to warp. Items made of wood can show damage from water only a few days after exposure. So timing is essential if you start to notice wood warping or staining. Call a water remediation technician immediately.

Signs of mold start becoming obvious. Musty odors are among the first signs of mold and mildew. So if you notice that distinctive scent, it’s important to move fast and begin the remediation process. Mold only worsens over time.

If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, you can count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge at (515) 955-4009 to learn more about our restoration services.

We’re Here 24/7 Because Minutes Matter SERVPRO® of Fort Dodge

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO® team takes water damage seriously. That’s why you can get help from experts ²⁴⁄₇ to begin the process of repairing water damage to your home.

Any time you need us, we’re here to start the process of repairing your home and ensuring you have a safe space for your family. Our team and ownership are local, and they’re here to be sure neighbors and community members get the help they need when their home needs our emergency services.

In a water damage emergency, time is of the essence. But having an expert team is important, too. SERVPRO team members have the latest training in how to deal with water damage issues. They also use the newest technology on the market and advanced drying techniques.

When you move quickly against water issues and choose a company that prefers restoration over replacing, you can save both time and money. Letting water damage sit too long or repairing it improperly can lead to costly issues like mold and mildew, as well as additional repair costs and rising insurance premiums.

Time Is Money

Here’s something important for homeowners to think about. The longer water damage is left unevaluated and treated by experts, the more expensive repairing it becomes. The damage that could be remediated early on for a few hundred dollars could become a major repair that could cost thousands of dollars.

That’s why it’s important to reach out to a qualified team as soon as you notice water damage in your home.

Water Damage Works Fast

Standing water in your home can move quickly through your home and cause problems within hours. Those issues grow with time, and can eventually lead to major problems in your home.

Here’s a timeline of how water damage goes through your home:

In a few minutes

Water absorbs into your walls, floors, carpets and things made of paper (like books and photos). Water can cause furniture to bleed.

Within 24 hours

Water causes drywall to begin swelling and breaking down. Things made of metal to begin to tarnish. A musty odor can be noticed.

Within 1 week

Things start to swell and crack, including doors, windows, furniture and wood flooring. Paint starts to blister. Metal begins showing signs of rust. Mold and mildew begin to grow and spread.

After 1 week

Structural and safety issues (like warping and mold) continue to grow.

Our team is always ready to help if water damages your home. Please contact SERVPRO of Fort Dodge (515) 955-4009.

Dripping water can cause damage!

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge Has the Answer for Property Owners Faced with Water Damage.

Water damage is one of the risks a homeowners face when they buy a home. Indoor plumbing will likely fail at some point, and when it does, it makes for a wet mess. The experienced professionals at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can help you identify the source of the problem, correct it, and restore your home to a clean, dry condition. Rapid water extraction, after the source has been eliminated, and then moisture removal to reach standard household levels, will mitigate the dangers of contaminated water and mold growth. One of the first things that need to be determined when you have flooding caused by a plumbing failure is whether the water is clean, gray or black. These classifications indicate where the water is coming from and what sort of contaminants it may contain. Water damage occurs in many forms. Clean Water refers to water that is piped into your home. It has not yet been used for any household purpose, so it is clear and free of any hazardous substances.  Drinking water. This water may be leaking from a burst pipe in the walls; it can also be the result of a failed pressure valve on your water heater tank, which allows the water to flood out. There is a large list of possible reasons for an unwanted water intrusion. Gray Water is more damaging. This is water that has flowed in sinks, showers, washing machines and all other plumbing including toilets tanks. Gray water does not contain harmful pathogens, but it does hold food waste, chemical products, and absorbed particulates from the surroundings that can harbor bacteria. Some soaps and other personal care products also contain ingredients that can be toxic if ingested. Black water is the most dangerous. It includes overflow water from a toilet, backed up septic tanks or sewer lines, and degraded gray water. This water contains hazardous bacteria that are linked with raw sewage. If you detect black water flooding, keep yourself and your family out of contact with the water. If you must enter the flooded area, you should wear rubber gloves, safety goggles, and protect your feet with rubber boots or plastic bags.

Call the professionals from SERVPRO of Fort Dodge! Whenever your household plumbing fails, no matter what the source of the water is, we can help. Rapid and safe water removal from your property will mitigate health concerns, water damage to personal possessions, furnishings, and building materials. We can also save you money by repairing and restoring rather than replacing salvageable property.

Our IICRC-certified trained technicians have the skills to return your Fort Dodge area water damaged home to pre loss condition "Like it never even happened." 

As leaders in the water damage industry, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge has advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. With pride, we service the Fort Dodge area for all residential and commercial water damage.

Call us 24/7 for help -  (515) 955-4009

Fort Dodge 24-Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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: (515) 955-4009

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 Fort Dodge 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 (if applicable)
• 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)?

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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. With IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Contact us at (515) 955-4009

Water Damage In Fort Dodge

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Do you have a small roof leak or a water spot on the floor where bathwater splashes? While those little leaks and water stains may seem inconsequential, more damage and potential health risks could be hidden underneath the surface. So what are the signs you should be looking for further water damage to your Fort Dodge area home? 

Water Leaks

If you have a small water stain on your ceiling, you first want to determine where the water came from. If you have access above the ceiling like an attic, you can get up there and look for signs of a water leak from the roof or a leaking pipe. Even condensation from a pipe can cause water to drip and stain a ceiling over time. The source of the water leak is not always right above the water stain. Water from a leak can travel down the wood framing, across wires, along pipes and other structural pieces behind your home's ceilings and walls. 

If you cannot look behind the wall or ceiling, you may want to call water damage restoration experts like SERVPRO of Fort Dodge. We have the expertise and tools to examine the water damage's full extent and determine the best steps to repair the water damage and stop any further damage from happening. 

Another sign beside a water stain of water damage is a soft spot on your home's walls, ceilings, or floors. This happens a lot around bathtubs, kitchen sinks, windows, and external walls. While there might not always be a water stain or obvious sign of a water leak, a spot where you can push in on the floor or wall, or ceiling can be a sign of water damage that is hidden below the surface. This could be an easy restoration or a potentially difficult one where there could be mold damage and extensive damage to the house's structure. 

Call SERVPRO ASAP

In any case, the sooner you call us, the faster the damage can be stopped and repaired. We call this action "Mitigation," and this means to lessen the severity. When we service a home with potential water damage, we work quickly to identify the source of the water damage, the areas of the house that have been affected, then take steps to immediately stop the water leak and restore the water damaged areas and make it "Like it never even happened."

Always Here To Help

If you notice a water stain on your ceiling or a musty smell from under the wood floor, you likely have a water leak that is causing that. Our highly trained water restoration technicians are skilled at finding the source of the damage and then fully restoring your home to its preloss condition. Click here to see what out customers have to say about us. Our office is always open and always ready to respond to your call. We service all the Fort Dodge area. (515) 955-4009

Increased Cleaning to Fight Coronavirus in Fort Dodge Businesses

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

If you’ve visited any place of business recently, you may have seen an increase in cleaning procedures happening. Grocery stores are now supplying disinfectant wipes to clean off shopping carts before each use. Employees are wiping down door handles every 30-minutes in high traffic areas. Some retail stores have placed tape on the floor every 6-feet at cash registers to persuade customers to stand apart from each other.

Businesses everywhere are taking unprecedented steps to keep their employees and customers healthy. So what can you do personally to help reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus and how can professional cleaners like SERVPRO of Fort Dodge help also.

How You and Your Employees Can Fight Coronavirus

It’s important that you communicate with your employees on how to reduce the spread of coronavirus. Since there is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus, it is important to follow CDC guidelines to protect yourself and your coworkers. If you and your employees can work from home, it is highly encouraged to do so. If you and your employees have to work at your business, there are certain things you and your employees can do to protect yourselves:

• Avoid Close Contact - Practice social distancing by avoiding large crowds and keeping at least six feet away from other people. Don’t shake hands when greeting someone. If there are people that you know are sick or are showing signs of being sick, try to limit your exposure to them.
• Keep Your Hands Clean - Practice washing your hands or using hand sanitizer every time you touch any surfaces like door handles, stair railings, elevator buttons, counters, shipping packages, mail, and gas pump handles. Avoid touching your face, mouth and eyes. 
• Stay Home if You're Sick - If you have a runny nose, cough, fever, and/or shortness of breath, stay home and call your doctor. Your doctor may want you to stay home for up to two weeks to make sure that you aren’t contagious. If you do test positive for COVID-19, it’s important that you notify your workplace so they can take steps to clean and disinfect the areas that you work in. If you are sick and must go out in public, please wear a facemask to prevent the spread of the virus you may have.
• Frequently Clean Heavy Traffic Surfaces - Make it a daily habit of spraying a disinfectant and wiping down frequently touched surfaces like doors, handles, tables, light switches, and counters. 

How SERVPRO Can Fight Coronavirus

At SERVPRO of Fort Dodge, they have the equipment and expertise to provide regular preventive cleaning and coronavirus cleanup services after an outbreak and/or exposure in a business. As a commercial large loss service provider, we can handle any size job from a single-family home to a twenty-story high-rise. 

If you have a business with high traffic or at risk of contagion, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can help keep your building, your employees, and your customers safe and healthy. Give us a call for preventive cleaning and coronavirus cleanup. We’re available 24/7 and can work around your business’s schedule to keep your business safe and clean. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge (515) 955-4009

Why Should You Choose A Locally Owned Mold Remediation Company?

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Fort Dodge Homeowners Need Mold Remediation Companies That Care.

If you live in Fort Dodge, you know the importance of your local community. Your community is where you make your home, perhaps where you work or where your children go to school, and where you do your shopping and find your friends.

If you need mold remediation in Fort Dodge, you want to be sure the company you choose cares about the local area. SERVPRO is a franchise company. That means that dedicated local entrepreneurs own each local operation. It also means we have access to national resources – truly the best of both worlds.

Why does being locally owned matter?

Because SERVPRO is locally owned, each office is run by people who are part of the local community. That means your nearby team truly understands the needs of people in the area. We know the local concerns, and we know the climate and culture. Because we work and live here, we have an investment in the community.

What does access to national resources mean?

Because we are a franchise company, each office has access to national resources from head office, including:

• Comprehensive on-site training for technicians
• Industry-standard mold remediation equipment
• Ongoing training to make sure our teams stay abreast of industry developments

Being part of a national company means every team adheres to corporate standards, including:

• Putting customer satisfaction first
• Ensuring that we are Faster To Any Size Disaster
• Caring for your home and belongings as if they were our own

What is the mold remediation process?

Once you have called in a trustworthy local company, what can you expect?

The first stage is an assessment and drawing up a plan of action. Next, our team will set up containment and switch off fans and HVAC systems so the mold cannot spread. Then it is time to clean – we wipe, scrub, and blast surfaces until the mold has gone. We also use air scrubbers to trap mold particles and to deodorize your home.

Our crew will clean up after themselves before they leave and check in with you in a week to ensure you are happy.

If you need a top-rated Fort Dodge mold remediation company that cares, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge at (515) 955-4009.

3 Steps To Care for a Commercial Property After a Fire

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Protect Your Commercial Property From Further Damage

If there is a fire at your Fort Dodge, IA business, the fire restoration process may feel overwhelming. Fully understanding what to do after a fire can make the process less stressful. Follow these steps to protect your commercial property from further damage.

1. Report
Once the fire has been extinguished and everyone is safe, the first thing you should do is call your fire insurance company. Your agent will likely have information about local restoration specialists and other contractors you may need. Remember to take photographs or videos of all damage before you begin repairs.

2. Protect
Fire-damaged buildings are vulnerable. There may be broken windows or holes in the structure. Board up or tarp over these openings to stave off wildlife and protect against inclement weather. Installing a temporary security fence adds another layer of protection.

3. Restore
Tarps and fences can protect against outside threats, but it is important to remember internal threats to your building as well. Soot is corrosive and the water used to extinguish the fire can foster mold growth within a day or so. Beginning the fire restoration process as quickly as possible helps prevent further damage.
Start by removing all standing water. You can use a pump or a wet/dry vacuum to do so. Afterward, you will likely need to run fans or a dehumidifier to dry out the remaining moisture. Next, clean the soot from all surfaces. There are different types of soot, so make sure you know which type you are dealing with and the correct cleaning materials and techniques to use.
After cleaning, you can begin making repairs. Items with severe damage may need to be replaced or professionally restored.
Even after everything is repaired, you may still smell smoke. Fortunately, there are a variety of smoke cleaning methods that should be able to fully eliminate any lingering odors.
Fire restoration can be difficult and time-consuming. Acting quickly and taking necessary precautions can prevent further damage and help you get back to work as soon as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge at 515-955-4009.

Fire Damage FAQ

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

• How long will the fire restoration process take?
  Because there are many variables and many services involved in fire and smoke restoration, it is difficult to predict exactly how long the complete restoration will take. Consult with your SERVPRO Technician on the estimated dates and phases of your restoration project.
  
• Can I clean the fire damage myself?
  We suggest that you do not attempt any “do-it-yourself” cleaning methods without consulting your SERVPRO Technician. Professional cleaning systems and products used by experienced, trained SERVPRO Technicians give you the best chance for complete restoration of your belongings. Pre-testing, using the right cleaning agent for the particular item, mixing deodorizing agents with cleaning solutions, and using correct dilution rates are just some of the ways a fire restoration technician expertly controls the results.
  
• What are some safety concerns?
  At SERVPRO, occupant and worker safety is a top priority. During the initial inspection, safety hazards are identified and addressed, including debris removal, air quality, electrical hazards, slip and trip hazards, etc. Burnt electrical cords and appliances are separate out for disposal, and questionable electrical appliances are unplugged and tagged for evaluation of the safe operation. Electrical power may be turned off and kept off until evaluation by a licensed electrician.
  
• Can I turn on my heating and air conditioning unit?
  We recommend that you not turn on your furnace or air conditioning unit without clearance from the HVAC contractor.
  
• What items do I keep in my possession?
  Cash, Medications, Valuable Jewelry, Checkbooks, Personal Documents, Valuable Paintings, Flammables, Pet, Weapons/Ammunition, Gasoline, Cans, Stamp/Coin Collections, etc.
• How do I keep track of non-restorable items?
  We recommend you make a list of items (including food items) deemed non-restorable. Use a format like a sample below, or obtain a similar form from your insurance company. Make a copy for your insurance company and keep one for yourself.
  
• Do I need to move out of my property during the fire restoration process?
  This is ultimately your decision. Some things you may want to consider are safety concerns, odors, electricity, noise from equipment, etc. If vacating your premises for any length of time, consider the following: forward your mail to your temporary residence; stop newspaper and other deliveries; notify utility company, Cable Company, etc. of temporary suspension of services.
  
• Do I need general contractors?
  There are some items that may require general contractors, such as drywall/painting, electrical, plumbing, roofing, framing/finish carpentry, flooring/carpet, installation of doors, windows, cabinets, post-construction cleanup, etc. Please talk with a SERVPRO representative as we have the ability to provide these services to you through our own in-house facility.
• Do my belongings need to be moved away from the premises?
  Depending on the source, nature, and extent of the fire, it may be best to remove all belongings to a secure facility for cleaning, storage and to make room for restoration or construction. SERVPRO will work with you and your insurance claim representative to manage this process.
• Will I have access to my belongings while they are in storage?
  Yes, with advance notice we can schedule a time for you to access your requested items.
  
• What about special items? Artwork, china, heirlooms, etc.
  Some high-value items require restoration by specialists. Working with your insurance claim representative, we can help you identify these and locate a qualified restorer.
  
• Who is responsible for payment for the service?
  Ultimately you, the property owner, are responsible for payment and will need to sign a form authorizing repairs and payment for the restoration services. If this is an insurance claim, SERVPRO generally collects the deductible (co-payment) amount from you and bills the balance to your insurance provider as a service to you. If you have a large loss, your mortgage company may be included as a payee on the payment from your insurance company, and you may need to obtain a signature from them as well. If your claim is not covered by the insurance or you decide not to file a claim, you will be expected to pay in full.

On-site Restoration Safety

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

For every fire restoration professional, understanding the nature of fire is crucial to performing quality restoration work. Fire Restoration Technicians at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge go through an IICRC approved training program to learn the effects of fire before working with fire damaged contents or materials. 

The first step in their fire restoration training is safety, both precautions and preparations. Here is an insight into the safety knowledge our technicians use every day in the field.

On a fire restoration work site – or any restoration work site – safety is the responsibility of everyone present. Our SERVPRO of Fort Dodge technicians train regularly and work as a team to identify hazards and set up engineering controls that protect workers and occupants. 

Before any work can be done or any damaged materials can be disturbed, it’s important that restoration professionals coordinate lead and asbestos testing to see if abatement is needed on the property. 

Smoke, soot, and char damage to the structure or contents within the structure can sometimes require strong restoration chemicals that, if not stored or used properly, can be hazardous to humans. This is why restoration professionals take care to secure, label, and organize our cleaning chemicals at the warehouse as well as during transit and onsite. 

When working with these chemicals, it’s important that restoration technicians are informed about what they are made of and the instructions for use. This knowledge comes from training and experience, but restorers are also able to verify information about chemical makeup, safety instructions, and more from data sheets kept on file and in vehicles, labels on the products themselves, and through regular training. 

Safety is always our top priority. If you ever experience fire, smoke or soot damage to your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO of Fort Dodge to handle the restoration with care. Call our office at 515-955-4009.

No Power? No Problem!

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

As the seasons change, so does the potential for possible power outages, stemming from Mother Nature herself. Whether it be from wind, rain, freezing precipitation, thunderstorms, or snow, keeping your home prepared for weather emergencies is crucial.  

No matter the storm event, there is always a risk of power outages in your power network. Power outages may disrupt communications, water, and transportation. They may also create obstacles to business as usual, such as preventing you from being able to use gas stations, ATMs, banks, and other services as normal. At the most critical, power outages can cause food spoilage, water contamination, and disrupt medical devices, posing health risks to communities.

Review these steps to see how you can protect yourself and your household in the event of a power outage:

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed until power is back on.
• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.
• Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power dependent medical devices.
• If safe, go to an alternative location for heat and cooling.
• Check on neighbors.

If you experience storm damage, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge @ 515-955-4009.

Saving Hardwood Flooring After a Water Damage

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help when your hardwood floors are damaged by a water damage  

Hardwood flooring is an everyday staple of construction in many Homewood homes, but caring for this material can often be a challenge. Moisture and saturation can distort the shape and weaken the integrity of these materials, which can ultimately cause homeowners to need to replace them. To avoid this costly repair and reinstallation of hardwood, seek the experience and industry-leading equipment of restoration professionals that can address this saturation effectively.  

Many homeowners mistakenly believe that addressing flooring damage in their home after a water loss incident in Homewood is only involved as removing surface moisture and standing water. In truth, these situations can often move far beyond the surface and affect into subflooring material. The only way to know the full extent of the spread of water damage is to utilize the advanced detection equipment and thermal imagery cameras available to our SERVPRO team.  

We understand how vital it is to address water damaged flooring as quickly as possible because, within a few days, hardwood flooring and vinyl alternatives can begin to swell and distort. Bloating can cause the tongue and groove connections of the individual planks to disconnect, separating entire portions of flooring. Once this degradation begins, it is no longer possible for professionals to reverse this damage and controlled demolition techniques become necessary instead.  

We understand how critical a fast response is to protecting hardwood flooring in your house, and so our SERVPRO of Fort Dodge professionals stay available 24/7 to help. You can trust our experienced and equipped professionals to make flooring damage “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call anytime that you need us at 515-955-4009 

Emergency Board Up in Fort Dodge Iowa

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

Board Ups from Fire or Storm Damage 

It is not unheard of for a severe storm, fire, or accident to cause major structural damage to a home that may include holes or openings in the siding and roof.  If the home is left exposed, it is vulnerable to further damage by the elements or even vandalism.  Our technicians are dedicated to boarding up your home quickly to secure it and prevent further damage.  We have the materials and experience to board up your home and we respond within 2 to 4 hours of your call to provide emergency board ups. 

• Closing up of all holes and openings in the structure 
• Full temporary enclosure of severely damaged buildings 
• Barricades in key areas 

• Tarping services for damage roofs 

If a disaster or accident has left your home in Matteson or Homewood Flossmoor exposed do not hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Fort Dodge for board up services.  Our technicians can effectively board up your home or building to keep it secured and protected until it can be rebuilt.  We are available 24 hours a day at 515-955-4009 for emergency board ups in Fort Dodge and surrounding areas 

Electrical Safety Tips for the Homeowner

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

ELECTRICAL SAFETY FOR THE CONSUMER  

Electricity makes our lives easier. However, we need to be cautious and keep safety in mind.  

Flipping a light switch. Plugging in a coffee maker. Charging a laptop computer. These are second nature for most of us.  

Here are some safety tips from our friends at The National Fire Protection Association. 

1. A) Have all electrical work done by a qualified electrician.
2. B) When you are buying or remodeling a home, have it inspected by a qualified private inspector or in accordance with local requirements. 
3. C) Only use one heat producing appliances such as a coffee maker, toaster, space heater, etc. plugged into a receptacle outlet at a time.
4. D) Extension cords and plug strips should not be used for major appliances such as refrigerators, dryers, washers, stoves, air-conditioners, microwave ovens, etc. These should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle outlet. 
5. E) Arc-fault circuit interrupters otherwise known as AFCI’s shut off electricity when a dangerous condition occurs. Consider having them installed in your home.
6. F) Consider having ground–fault circuit interrupters installed - GCFI.  These reduce the risk of shock they shut off an electrical circuit when it becomes a shock hazard. They should be installed inside the home in bathrooms, kitchen, garages and basements.  All outdoor receptacles should be ground-fault circuit interrupter protected. 
7. G) Test your ACFIs and GFCIs once a month according to the manufacturers You do not need a flame to start a fire. Fire can start when heat builds up near things that burn. This can happen when a hot light bulb is near things that burn.  Things such as cloth or paper, or a cord that has been placed under a carpet. 
8. H) Consider using ground – fault circuit interrupters to reduce the risk of shock.  These items shut off an electrical circuit when it becomes a shock hazard. They should be installed inside the home and bathrooms, kitchen, garages and basements.  All outdoor receptacles should be GFCI protected. 
9. I) Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets. Extension cords are intended for temporary use. Have a qualified electrician add more receptacle outlets so you don’t have to use extension cords.
10. J) When installing light bulbs be sure to make sure the number of watts is applicable for the product. There should be a sticker that indicates the right number of watts. 

Here are some additional thoughts: 

Call a qualified electrician or if you rent your landlord if you have:  

A burning or rubbery smell coming from an appliance.  

Frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers. 

Flickering or dimming lights. 

Discolored or warm wall outlets.  

A tingling feeling when you touch an electrical appliance. 

Sparks from an outlet.  

Simple safety precautions save lives and property. 

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

8/5/2020 (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. 

Extensive training and specialized products 

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities.  

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen. 

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify 

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation 

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

Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge today at 515-955-4009 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation. 

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

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated. 

Prevent Damage To Your Business In Fort Dodge

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

Mother nature is unpredictable, and it can seriously impact your business. Not only can they damage the property and equipment, but it can prevent employees from getting to work. Here are some tips to reduce your risk of disaster damage:

• Backup your company files and store them in a safe, off-site location.
• In the event of a disaster, heavy equipment and cabinets, could topple over causing injury to those nearby; make sure all large items are pinned down nicely.
• If you are replacing the roof be sure to make them as fire-resistant as possible.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on every floor, this can prevent the fire from becoming more dangerous.
• Reinforce doors and windows to protect against strong forces.
• Have an emergency kit on hand and also a complete first aid kit.
• Implement an emergency plan and make sure employees know how to respond. You can set up an Emergency Plan Readiness with SERVPRO of Fort Dodge.

Remember, a quick response time can reduce the overall costs and loss of use. We are ready when you need us at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge.  Call anytime: 515-955-4009 anytime of the day, someone is waiting to discuss your unique situation and help you determine the best course of action.

Storms & Little Warning

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

Storms occur with little warning and can be especially devastating, so you’ll need the company that you can trust to rise to the occasion. Regardless of the type of storm, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can handle any size disaster. 

 When severe weather breaks, storm water builds up on streets, near lakes, rivers, and local storm control channels.  Should storm water begin to accumulate around your house, here are a few easy steps that may help protect your home:

• Make sure all windows are closed tightly – especially check windows in your basement area
• Move valuables to higher ground
• Continuously monitor the sump pump (if you have one) to verify that it is operating properly
• Make sure to secure any outside furniture or decorations that can become airborne with high winds
• Cover basement window wells to help divert water from pooling inside the well
• Make sure to pick items off the floor that may get damaged from water exposure
• Keep your shoes, car keys, and family emergency kit near the door

Safety should always be your main focus when faced with storm water.

• Do not walk through moving water, as even 6’ of water is enough force to knock you off your feet
• Stay away for flood waters as it is contaminated and unhealthy and may pose health hazards
• People or vehicles in flooded areas can hamper Emergency Responders ability for quick response

Storm and flood water damage can be very destructive. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge has the expertise and the resources to handle any size disaster. If you need assistance with storm or flooding call 515-955-4009.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today –SERVPRO of Fort Dodge – 515-955-4009

#1 for ALL your Commercial Needs

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Carpet cleaning, Janitorial Service, Clean, Cleaning, Commercial

IMPROVE THE LOOK AND LIFE OF YOUR CARPETS

Carpet has been known as the #1 choice flooring option for conference rooms, hallways, offices, hotel rooms, reception areas and other hospitality spaces. Available in almost any color and design, carpet flooring enhances the appearance of your work environment, while also acting as an air filter. Dirt, dust, allergens and other air pollutants get trapped by carpeting, keeping the air in your building healthier. But, without proper commercial carpet cleaning, carpeting can become dirty, discolored and disheveled.

At SERVPRO of FORT DODGE, we provide commercial carpet cleaning along with janitorial services that tackle the deep down dirt and dust of high-traffic areas within your business. Using the highest quality, environmentally friendly products and advanced cleaning methods, we can help preserve the bright appearance, color and lifespan of your carpet.

REGULAR PROFESSIONAL CARPET CLEANING HELPS:

• Promote a uniform carpet appearance
  • Reduce the spread of germs, bacteria, diseases and mold
  • Remove stains and spots already present
  • Reduce the effects of wear, especially in high-traffic areas
  • Restore the natural, clean appearance and texture of the carpets
  • Extend the life of the carpets
  • Protect your carpet investment with Scotchgard carpet protector to prevent future spots and spills from settling in

A DEEP DOWN CLEAN YOU CAN DEPEND ON

Through our carpet and janitorial services, we help ensure your carpeting investment is maintained for the long term. By regular and systematic cleaning using the best techniques and technology, we help you maintain your image, put bounce back into your carpet and potentially extend the life of your carpet. Whether it's ongoing maintenance or an annual cleaning, we go the extra mile to get your carpets looking their best.

If you’re looking to hire Iowa’s #1 carpet and janitorial  professionals for your projects, contact us today at (515) 955-4009.

Services from One for Moving, Power Washing, and Cleaning

1/13/2020 (Permalink)

Being there for everything

Do you routinely keep asking yourself who should I call for this service or that service?  Do you have never ending thoughts if you've made the right choice?  Well you need to consider what SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can do for you.  The services that we offer don't just consist of cleaning up the water or fixing what the fire has done.  SERVPRO has refined all facets of being able to service your needs in so many ways.  Whether its cleaning out air ducts/HVAC,  Soda Blasting/Sand Blasting unwanted remnants, Power Washing unwanted filth and grime, or moving services to transfers properties we are here for you!!!  The scope of what SERVPRO has changed throughout the years to having the best there not just when things are at the worst, but there for you when things are at there best too.  We are here to help through any situation that you could think of.  Give us a call today and have the "Best" take care of it all.   

Roof Tarping After Wind, Hail, Storm or Fire

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Falling trees, fire, high wind and hail storms often cause roof damage. Safety should your primary concern. Initial roof assessment should be completed from the ground as damage is not always visible. If you suspect damage to your shingles or structure, contact a professional immediately.

Vacate the premises in the event of major roof damage.

Tarping the roof will prevent secondary damage while the roof is inspected and repaired. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge provides emergency roof tarp installation to prevent further damage. When disaster strikes, SERVPRO is ready to respond immediately with your roof tarping needs.

Need an Emergency Roof Tarp? Call Us Today 1-515-955-4009

Emergency Board Up Services Available

Our professional crews use approved board up techniques to minimize further damage and secure your property and protect the building from weather, animals and illegal entry.

Fire Damage in Fort Dodge

11/16/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings are the very things that make a house a home.

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call Us Today 1-515-955-4009

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Their expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. They pretest your belongings to determine what items they can restore to pre-fire condition. They use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. A move-out has several benefits, including:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, they will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.      

Fire Damage Repair and Restoration in Fort Dodge

11/16/2019 (Permalink)

Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet. 

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge

• Provides 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Fire and Water Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
• Preferred Vendor for Many National and Local Insurance Companies

Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today 1-515-955-4009

Commercial Cleaning Services in Fort Dodge

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you need cleaning for a commercial office or require industrial cleaning services, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can help. You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office or warehouse. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, call in SERVPRO of Fort Dodge. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on SERVPRO of Fort Dodge to make your workspace or warehouse look its very best.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge will get the job done right and get it done quickly, because the SERVPRO Advantage includes these benefits:

• Award-winning training
• Over 40 years’ experience in the industry
• More than 100 exclusive cleaning products

Have Questions? Call Today 1-515-955-4009

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike your commercial property at any time. Water damage can sideline your business, regardless if the damage occurs from a major storm event or a broken water line. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when you have an emergency water event, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge offers fast, 24 hour emergency services, 365 days per year.

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
• Highly Trained Water Damage Restoration Specialists

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge has the training, experience, and equipment to manage water and flooding damage. Whether you have a large water emergency or a small water damage event, they will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

Call Today 1-515-955-4009

Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration in Webster County

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Due to a cold winter storm that caused multiple pipe breaks, this customer had about 2' of water in his basement.

Storm and flood damage can be devastating. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge has the expertise and the resources to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 1-515-955-4009

Storms occur with little warning and can be especially devastating, so you’ll need the company that you can trust to rise to the occasion. Regardless of the type of storm, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can handle any size disaster. During catastrophic storms and major events, our Disaster Recovery Team can respond quickly with additional resources.

• Flooding caused by heavy rains
• Hurricanes and tidal surges
• Tornadoes and wind damage
• Ice and snowstorms
• Wild fires

The Water Damage Restoration Process

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge has the expertise and equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-water damage condition. They use a scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup that emphasizes monitoring and documenting the drying process from beginning to end.

Have Water Damage? Call Today 1-833-564-8841

Every water damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same.

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

When you call, our representative will guide you through several questions that will help SERVPRO of Fort Dodge respond to your water emergency more quickly and efficiently. This initial contact is an important part of a fast, effective restoration.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

They carefully inspect your property’s water damage, determining the type of water damage and the areas affected. This is a crucial step to creating an effective plan of action that will result in a successful restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

Typically, hundreds or thousands of gallons of water are removed using our powerful pumps and vacuums during the water removal process. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge starts this process as soon as possible to minimize further damage and to help prevent mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

After the bulk of the water has been removed, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge uses specialized equipment to target the water that’s harder to access. They use less intrusive, scientific drying methods to draw the remaining water and moisture from your property with air movers and dehumidifiers.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

Water damage also affects your belongings, like furniture, clothing, and personal items. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can clean restorable items using a number of specialized cleaning techniques. They also sanitize with antimicrobial treatments and remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 6 - Restoration

The last step is restoring your home or business back to its pre-water damage condition. The restoration step can be relatively minor, such as replacing a few drywall panels, or could include major reconstruction, such as rebuilding entire rooms of a home or business.

Water Damage Repair and Restoration

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge responds immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. They closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
• Preferred Vendor for Many National and Local Insurance Companies

Have Questions? Call Today 1-515-955-4009

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge removes moisture, sewage, and contaminants, disinfecting and deodorizing as they safely clean and dry your building and restorable contents.

So, before you risk further damaging the value of your facility by attempting to clean up the mess yourself,  call your water damage cleanup and restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009

Time is a precious commodity when you have a disaster.

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

When you need it done right and done fast, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge for all your cleaning needs. Quality cleaning and quick response – that’s the SERVPRO way.

Can’t figure out how to get the job done? Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge for all your emergency restoration needs. Because when you experience a fire, water or mold damage in your facility or home, you need fast response and the expertise to get the job done right. Through it all, expect the most reliable information and the very best service at a fair price.

You invest your time, energy and hard-earned resources to maintain, protect and increase the value of your home or business.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is committed to providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services, as well as top-quality professional services for your home or business.

Call 1-515-955-4009

We Know Stains

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Since 1967 SERVPRO has been handling stains and soils of all types, from residential homes to commercial facilities. Using IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards for carpet care as a guide, SERVPRO will walk with you through your home and guide you in the best decisions to care for your carpet.

A Franchise Professional will take time to:

• Show you what cleaning option would be best for your carpet’s level of soiling.
• Give you an estimate of time and cost of the carpet cleaning.
• Explain the benefits of soil protection.
• Explain the advantages of a clean carpet for good indoor air quality.
• Explain how you can help prolong your carpet’s appearance with frequent vacuuming.

For answers about carpet cleaning and care, contact SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 1-515-955-4009

Like it never even happened.

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Our number one goal is returning damaged areas and items to preloss condition, doing all we can to make it “Like it never even happened.” Every SERVPRO is dedicated to restoring both the property and the lives of the customers being helped.

Like it was never dirty, like it never overflowed, like it never caught fire, like it never spilled, like it never smoldered – whatever the case, with SERVPRO our goal is to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO is a Franchise System with over 40 years of leadership in fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, commercial property managers and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon.

SERVPRO uses trained, uniformed technicians using professional cleaning procedures, provide fast, efficient service to meet SERVPRO’s high standards of excellence.

Fire Clean Up in Fort Dodge

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge provides timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible.

Cleaning up soot residue must be done as quickly as possible. During combustion, soot residue and volatile vapors are carried by rising and expanding air to surfaces throughout a structure, and are deposited. This process occurs repeatedly until combustion ends, with soot residue building up on surfaces layer by layer. By the time restoration technicians arrive, lacquer-like soot residue may be quite difficult to dissolve and remove.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year to help you regain control quickly.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009

Fort Dodge Water Cleanup

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

With any leak, it’s the water you don’t see that can cause mold, rot and damage to the value of your home. So before you risk more damage by attempting to clean it up yourself, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge and your local plumber to help make it “Like it never even Happened.”

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. If you have any questions or need help to ensure your property is drying properly, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009

SERVPRO will identify the source and type of water to determine the proper course of action. Drying equipment controls temperature and humidity, minimizing secondary damage. When water takes control of your life, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge will help you take it back.

Water Damage Cleanup

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

With more than 40 years of experience, SERVPRO has restored water damaged homes and businesses from coast to coast. Whether the damage is caused by a flood, storm or a burst pipe SERVPRO of Fort Dodge has the tools and the experience to handle the job.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge knows water damage of any type can be disruptive. Water damage can affect the value of your property and cause secondary damage like mold growth if the structure is not properly cleaned. Before reaching for the mop bucket and box fan to clean the water yourself, consider how the damage could affect your property.

By responding quickly with a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can help you regain control while drying, deodorizing and protecting your home and its contents.

Don’t risk further damage by attempting to clean the mess yourself, call your local water damage and restoration specialists.

Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge today! 515-955-4009

Post Construction Cleanup In Fort Dodge

11/5/2019 (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 Fort Dodge can provide the debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design.

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 of Fort Dodge to provide the help you need eliminating moisture and preventing the potential for mold growth.

You want the facility to look its best when the doors open. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge provides cleaning services to give the building that extra shine.

Services includes:

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

Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge today @ 515-955-4009

Do You Have Mold In Your Home?

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified. Fungi produce some very useful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods, and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold (Penicillin chrysogenum).

Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people.

Intrusion of water into your home or place of business can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long –standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall, and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental  conditions that pose a health threat.

Mold Remediation In Fort Dodge

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge handles water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for long period of time. If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly. If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the 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 you think you might have a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge @ 515-955-4009

A SERVPRO professional will examine the structure for any visible signs of mold. In the event mold is found, you will be asked to approve and sign a work authorization form prior to any mold cleanup or related work being performed. The technician may also recommend you leave the affected area while the mold cleanup and associated containment process is being safely completed.

Water Damage?

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage Tips

(These tips are for clean water situations only)

• Shut off the water source if possible, and if it can be done safely.
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. Do not put cushion covers in washing machine.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature.
• Remove oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Do not use a regular vacuum to remove water.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet.

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. If you have any questions or need help to ensure your property is drying properly – call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009

When Winter Weather Strikes … We strike back

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Prepare your home

Tips for preparing your home for winter weather

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to “off”.
• If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
• Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puubacks.

Prepare Your Business

Tips for preparing your business for winter weather

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
• Ask SERVPRO of Fort Dodge about starting an Emergency Ready Profile for your business.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009

We’re Here To Help

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge provides consistent service and reliable information.

Whether you operate a single facility or hundreds of commercial properties nationwide, a fire or water damage requires prompt action to reduce losses and costly down time. Who can you trust to provide dependable services and information? SERVPRO of Fort Dodge responds quickly, providing a full line of cleaning and mitigation services to help ensure faster recovery. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge  utilizes technology designed specifically to provide you and your insurance company with quick, dependable information necessary to make more informed decisions faster, saving both time and money.

• Over 1,600 franchises nationwide
• Serving America since 1967
• Trusted by hundreds of insurance companies
• Nationwide Large Loss Response Team
• 24-Hour emergency Response

Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge

515-955-4009

Water Damage in Fort Dodge Iowa

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

A mop and common cleaning products may not be enough for serious water intrusions. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge  is 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
• Apply necessary treatments (disinfectants/deodorization)
• Utilize drying equipment and monitor drying

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge remove moisture, sewage, and contaminants, disinfecting and deodorizing as they safely clean and dry your building and restorable contents.

So, before you risk further damaging the value of your facility by attempting to clean up the mess yourself,  call your water damage cleanup and restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009

Storm Facts

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

Storm Basics

A thunderstorm is a rain shower during which you hear thunder. Since thunder comes from lightning, all thunderstorms have lightning.

A thunderstorm is classified as “severe” when it contains one or more of the following:

• Hail(one inch or greater)
• Winds in excess of 58 mph
• Stuctural wind damage
• Tornado

Tornado Facts

Tornadoes are arguably nature’s most violent storms. Generated from powerful thunderstorms, tornadoes generally appear as rotating, funnel-shaped clouds extending from the cloud base to the ground. With winds that can reach up to 300 miles per hour, tornadoes can cause massive destruction within seconds. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and fifty miles long.

• The average tornado moves southwest to northeast, but tornadoes have been known to move in any direction.
• The average forward speed of a tornado is 30 miles per hour, but may vary from stationary to 70 miles per hour.
• Tornadoes can accompany tropical storms and hurricanes as they move onto land.
• Tornadoes are most frequently reported east of the Rocky Mountains during spring and summer months.
• Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Watch vs. Warning

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

• Watch – A severe thunderstorm watch means that the potential exists for the development of thunderstorms which may produce large hail or damaging winds. A watch is issued by the SPC (Storm Prediction Center)

• Warning – a severe thunderstorm warning means that a severe thunderstorm is occurring or is imminent based on Doppler radar information or a reliable spotter report. A warning is issued by the local National Weather Service office.

Unexpected emergencies like severe weather call for immediate action. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge knows immediate reaction to the disaster is important to helping you get your life back to normal. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can also perform pack-out services, which is removing salvageable personal property from the affected area for off-site cleaning and storage.

What’s Lurking In Your Fort Dodge Ducts

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

Inspecting the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC) is a service offered by SERVPRO of Fort Dodge. 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.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to remove years of dust and grime.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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 may be an essential part of cleanup process. In these cases SERVPRO can often help restore the HVAC system to pre-damage condition.

SERVPRO of FORT DODGE CARES

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge understands that no damage is small when it comes to your home.

Your home is truly a reflection of you, your tastes, and your personality. Suffering damage to your home can feel like a part of you has been damaged as well. We recognize a loss can make you feel vulnerable, invaded or robbed of part of your life. Your loss is unique – in how it started, the emotions experienced and the extent of the damage.

When damage affects your home, you want it to be restored to preloss condition. You cannot afford to let the marketability of your home be affected. That is why SERVPRO has been restoring property for over 40 years.

SERVPRO is the trusted choice for hundreds of insurance companies nationwide, because they know SERVPRO has the experience to do the job right.

Fire and Smoke Restoration Services in Fort Dodge

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

• Structural Cleaning – After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use the specific equipment and cleaning products to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your structure.

• Contents Cleaning – All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes rugs furniture and upholstery. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge begins by inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. All of the restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition.

• Deodorization – SERVPRO of Fort Dodge provides specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO does not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them.

Fort Dodge Fire Cleanup

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

A backdraft of emotions often sweeps over the homeowners after a fire ravages a home. Fear, uncertainty, stress and doubt about the future of the property can overwhelm the homeowner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared.

So after the first wave of heroes have rescued the property, let SERVPRO of Fort Dodge help you restore it. With the industry approved training to employ rapid response, the utmost professionalism, cutting-edge technology and open communication, we strive to restore not only the home, but the customers peace of mind, as well.

So before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the fire damage professionals of SERVPRO of Fort Dodge at 515-955-4009

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is a available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help you regain control quickly.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge Emergency Fire Damage Process

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

• One hour: Within one hour from notice of loss, a SERVPRO of Fort Dodge representative will contact you to arrange for service. You’ll know help is on the way!
• Four hours: Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.
• Detailed Explanation: A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO Franchise professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.
• Pretesting: SERVPRO will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.
• Eight Hours: Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.
• Cleaning, Restoration, & Deodorization: SERVPRO will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over.
• Final Walk-Through: After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to ensure your satisfaction.

A disaster at your Fort Dodge commercial property?

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

It is estimated that up to 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster, such as fire and flood never reopen!  Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.

Are you “Ready for whatever happens?”

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood.  The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.

The SERVPRO^® Emergency READY Profile serves as a quick reference of important building and contact information or can be an ideal supplement to any well-designed emergency preparedness or existing contingency program.  Rather than simply reacting to disaster situations, most prefer proactive measures to establish a relationship with a restoration services company. 

By working with SERVPRO^® of Fort Dodge to develop your personalized Emergency READY Profile your business will 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 SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009

Commercial water damage in Fort Dodge, IA

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

All commercial buildings are different according to the plumbing and building materials used in the structure, but each is at risk of facing water damage. Even small problems, like minor roof or pipe leaks, can lead to the spread of water damage and even mold growth. With damage like this, the value of your commercial property can quickly decrease without quick action.

• Mold can grow quickly after water damage

After water has affected a particular area, mold can grow in as little as 24 – 48 hours. All excess water and humid conditions should be dried out right away to prevent the risk of mold growth.

• Problems are not fixed if the water has dried out

In hopes that the water will evaporate on its own, many property owners mistakenly assume that the issue is fixed. While the water evaporates in the area, moisture will accumulate in the walls, ceiling, and even the floor below, promoting mold growth. If this happens, it’s important to call in a mold prevention specialist to conduct a deep inspection to make sure that mold hasn’t already infected your property or spread to other areas.

• Different building materials require different cleaning methods

After water has damaged various areas of the property, the same restoration process cannot be used for all building materials. Hard surfaces like concrete can be salvaged but porous materials like cellulose insulation and flooring materials will need to be removed and replaced. 

• Water extraction is the best step to restoring water damage

Excess water can lead to costly repairs in permanently damaged material if not extracted immediately. Experienced water damage restoration professionals know exactly how to remove excess water in emergency situations like flooding or burst pipes. Hiring these specialists will also ensure that all hidden water damage and moisture from behind the walls and underneath the floors is also removed properly to prevent the risk of mold growth.

• Time is everything

As soon as you find water damage on your property, taking the necessary steps right away can make a big difference in financial costs. Simply knowing the basic first steps during an emergency can prevent the damage from spreading further.

• Contact your insurance company right away if you find water damage

It’s imperative to call your insurance company immediately after finding water damage. The insurance company can also guide you through the first steps to prevent the damage from spreading.

• A separate flood insurance policy may also be necessary

Insurance companies may offer flood insurance in addition to your policy. This may be necessary especially if you live in a flood zone. In any case, contact your insurance provider to see if this is necessary for you and whether you need additional coverage.

• Insurance policies may not cover all types of water damage

While some situations are covered by insurance policies, others are excluded for various reasons. For example, flood damage is not usually covered. For this reason, you may want to look into other sources of protection, like flood insurance.

• There are different types of water contamination

Most insurance professionals see water damage as different types of contamination: white water, grey water, and black water. The processes associated with cleaning up each type of damage will be different. This is why it’s best to leave water extraction and dehumidification to the specialists.

• Even small leaks can lead to big problems

If not checked frequently, minor plumbing leaks or appliance malfunctions can lead to big water damage problems. If the plumbing is not frequently maintained, your insurance company may not cover the cost of everyday wear and tear.

• Roof leaks are a common source of water damage in commercial buildings

Even small leaks in a commercial roof can lead to major problems for the business. Even if it was just installed, a bad storm can still penetrate through the materials and spread damage. This is especially common with areas experiencing strong winds, freezing temperatures, and hail damage.

• Building maintenance can prevent water damage disasters

It’s important to check or have the building checked on a frequent basis. These water damage preventative tasks should include gutter, roof, and plumbing inspections. You may also want to have a professional inspect the building once or twice each year to ensure everything is in proper condition.

 Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009

Power Washing Services Iowa | Questions to Ask Before Hiring

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

Does the exterior of your home or business need an economical face-lift? Then it’s a good idea to hire a power washing professional. In fact, regular power washing is incredibly essential to maintain your building. However, if you’ve never hired a power washing service before, it could be quite tricky as to what you should look for before hiring one. Don’t worry! Below is a list of questions to ask before hiring any power washing service in order to get a thorough, safe and effective cleaning that is worth the money your investment.

How do You Perform  a Power Washing?

One needs to have an idea of what will happen when you hire power washing service. Ask the company about their process, their technique, materials used, and the time frame to accomplish the task. This will help you to determine whether they’re the right people to get the job done. It's also good to know that many companies will use hot water in their a power washing for best results, but power washing just requires cold water. The right amount of power washing doesn’t cause any damage to your vinyl siding, roofing, or other parts of your building. Additionally, it keeps the outside of your commercial and residential space clean and pristine.

Do They Work According to Your Schedule?

Check if the service provider works with the needs of customers with busy schedules. Most power washing services are available even outside business hours for the customer’s convenience.

How Much do You Charge?

The cost of power washing can differ substantially based on the size and location of your home or office. However, make sure to compare the price estimates and work quality of at least three power washing companies. Check out the previous records of the companies and see whether the price estimates provided for their earlier projects were accurate or not.

Can You Show Me Some Before And After Pictures?

To see the quality of their work, one of the best things to do is to ask for some before and after images of recent jobs they've done. If a company doesn’t offer any, simply turn them down. If any company offers, browse for photos that are similar to your home or office building surface. This help you get a better idea of the finished result.

Do You Offer a Guaranteed service?

Ask the potential company, whether it offers any sort of guarantees for their work. If they don’t, you can remove them from your list. Be sure  to hire a professional company that prides in offering quality work and stands by their services. If you’re unhappy with the end results of the work they've done, then you should be able to get your money back.

Are Your Workers Insured?

Make sure that you choose a power washing service with insurance coverage. In fact, it is a dangerous business. Even experienced professionals get hurt occasionally on the job. So, hire the company who has insurance to pay for any injuries that workers may suffer on the job.

Be sure to ask the above questions before hiring any power washing company as it helps you find one that truly offers quality services.

If you’re looking for a reputable power washing service provider in Iowa, contact us today at (515) 955-4009.

Soda Blasting, Sandblasting Services Iowa| SERVPRO of Fort Dodge

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

In this blog, you will learn all about soda blasting and sandblasting along with their pros and cons. 

Soda Blasting

It is a versatile cleaning method which uses compressed air to deliver sodium bicarbonate media (i.e. baking soda) onto a surface to be cleaned. Thus, it is also referred to as a non-abrasive, non-destructive paint and coating removal method that can be safely used on most surfaces like thin metal, glass, rubber, and wood.  The sodium bicarbonate is applied with high-speed pressure onto the surface to remove anything you want like grease, dirt, dust, paint, and mildew.  This is one of the best solutions for restoring and refurbishing any surface.

Soda blasting can work on a wide variety of applications such as:

• Large scale industrial equipment maintenance
• Cleaning
• Paint stripping
• Property maintenance
• Rust removal
• Graffiti removal
• Automotive restoration
• Food processing facilities and equipment
• Boat hull cleaning
• Many other applications

It is even incredibly useful for mold restoration and can help cleanup and deodorize fire/smoke damage.

Pros of Soda Blasting:

• Eco-Friendly:
  Soda blasting is environmentally friendly and biodegradable. This could be a safe method to use without causing much harm to nature.

• Nontoxic:
  It is non-toxic in nature; sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) is a major component of the human body. In fact, it is being endorsed by the Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) due to its safe use.

• Non-Abrasive
  The Bicarbonate of soda is pretty soft. When it is squeezed with soda, the soda crystals explode and come in contact with the substrate. This process helps in removing any dirt from surfaces without damaging the substrate.

• Doesn’t Generate Heat
  The main benefit is it doesn’t cause the surface to heat up. Thus, it does not produce any excess heat. So, it will not warp or pit any metal surfaces.

Sandblasting

Sandblasting is most commonly known as abrasive blasting. It is one of the effective methods of smoothing and cleaning a rough surface, shape a surface, or to remove surface contaminants. In the sandblasting process, cleaning a hard surface at high speed using compressed air will remove all the debris thus resulting in an extremely smooth surface.

However, the sandblasting consists of two different processes

1. Air-Driven: The air-driven is best suited for metal surfaces
   
   
2. Water Driven: The water driven is commonly used for brick and concrete surfaces.

Pros of Sandblasting:

• Aggressive Abrasion Action:
  It quickly removes the surface contaminants.
  
  
• Profiling of Surface:
  During manufacturing of metal objects, the surface needs to be shaped, so that the finished coating can be stuck to the surface. Sandblasting is often used for this purpose.

If you’re looking to hire soda blasting or sandblasting professionals for your projects in Iowa, contact us today at (515) 955-4009.

Learn How to find Best Moving Companies in Central Iowa | SERVPRO of Fort Dodge

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

Finding the best moving company for your family or business could be a daunting task. Although there are many reputable moving companies, one should be careful with scams or poor practices the are followed by some. It’s vital to spend some time in choosing the best moving company. Below we’ve listed a few tips to that can help you find the right company for a successful, stress free move.

Moving Inventory

It's important to list out the items to be moved and a reputable company will do this for you. Professional movers will send out their estimator to get the list of all the items to be moved to determine the bulk and weight. You will be given a price estimate for your move based all the items being moved. Be sure to understand this price estimate and check to see if it is accurate before you select your mover.

Look At Licensed & Insured Moving Companies

Next is to make sure to hire licensed and insured moving companies. This will make you feel confident about the safe transport of your valuables.  And in case of accidental damage, you are covered.

Don’t Ever Pay A Deposit

Reputable moving companies will not ask for any  deposit before moving. You are asked to pay the amount only after the delivery. And always make sure to pay only through a bank account. This will ensure a safe transfer of payment only when you are completely satisfied with their job.

Know How Long the Company Has Been in Business

It is very hard to trust and hire a moving company that is new to the industry. So, find out how long they’ve been in business. Only refer to the companies that are registered and has an established address and, most importantly, customer support to help you with your questions. Online ratings and reviews are an excellent way of choosing the right moving company.

Research More About the Companies Before Hiring

Before hiring a moving company, learn more about them. Ask the movers about services that are included. If you need help packing your belongings or you just need moving supplies like boxes and padding, check to see if such services are available. Whether it is a long-distance move or short distance make sure to find out the cost estimation and check for any additional fees. Packing items yourself is a great way to save some money!

How You Can Benefit When You Hire Quality Moving Services

• You get relief from your moving stress
• The moving process from start to finish is taken care of
• No damage to furnishings
• Saves time

For your next move call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge, a reputable commercial and residential moving company in Central Iowa, offering stress-free moving services within your budget and timeline. Contact us today at (515) 955-4009.

Why janitorial service is essential for business

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

No matter what  kind of business you run, maintaining a well-ordered work space is indispensable. So, in order to sustain and grow your business, a clean and organized work environment is vital as it adds value to your business. In fact, research shows that an unclean business environment can lead to a 35% drop in sales. To avoid this, hiring a professional janitorial cleaning service will have several benefits. Below we are going to discuss how.

Why janitorial service is essential?

A qualified janitorial cleaning company will offer a wide range of services.

• Daily, Weekly & Monthly Cleaning Services
• Restroom Cleaning & Sanitizing
• Dusting & Vacuuming
• Carpet Cleaning
• Floor Level Windows
• Cafeteria or Break Room Cleaning
• Sanitizing Drinking Fountains
• Sanitizing of All High Touch Surfaces
• Trash Removal & Recycling
• Office System & Floor Cleaning
• Floor Care & Many Other Services

Quality Cleaning & Professional Services

Professional cleaning not only adds value to your property but will make your life easier with quality care and high standard services. They will use cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly cleaning products to ensure your business will run at peak performance.

Gives Your Company a Professional Look

The first essential part of hiring janitorial service is making sure they provide high grade cleaning to add a complete corporate look to your business. They will deliver spotless results which will impress your clients when they walk into a clean workplace. A clean office leaves a great first impression!

Increase the Productivity of Employees

Janitorial cleaning can keep your organization spic and span, which provides your employees a good atmosphere that yields good results. So in this way, clean surroundings will give your employees an environment to allow them to do what you need them to do best!

Make You & Your Company Stay Healthy

Are your employees falling ill on a regular basis? Well, we all know that one sick employee can start a chain reaction. Regular sanitizing can make your company a cleaner and safer place to work. 

Encourages Repeat Customers

Maintaining a clean business will surely encourage repeat customers and gives a positive impression to your customers and employees too. A clean reception area sets a right tone for the customers, which leads to higher customer satisfaction, recommendation and increased sales.

If you’re ready to see how hiring a professional janitorial cleaner can increase business sales and productivity, contact us today at (515) 955-4009.

Check Your Gutters Before the Storm

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

Gutter full of leaves.

Did you know that a large percentage of damage homes suffer during a rain storm is to the roof?  Keeping your gutters clear and in good condition can help reduce the amount of damage your roof receives and how much water seeps into your home.  The more prepared your are, the less damage you will have to face.

Here are some tips on how to prepare your roof gutters before a rain storm:

1. Get out your ladder. Go around your house and make sure your gutters are free of leaves and debris. This is a top tip from every government agency and safety service.  By late fall, it’s likely more than half full of leaves that have fallen and they’ve clogged your gutters.  Add a lot of rain, and it’s a receipt for water in your basement, leaky ceilings, and more.
2. Extend you downspouts. Keeping water away from your foundation is critical when there is a lot of rain. A downspout that only extends the length of the curve can be dangerous.  Even one that extends three feet isn’t good enough.  Downspout extenders or even length of downspout attached to the downspout elbow can keep the ground around your home from getting over saturated.  Water can seep through the walls of your foundation if the ground gets too wet.
3. Check your window wells. Cover them if you can keep out excess water and debris.  If a gutter were to clog, it’s often a window well that fills with water first.  The seals around the windows won’t keep water from pouring into your home.  Keep a bucket handy and check your window wells often during the storm.  A little preemptive bailing can keep from a wet basement.
4. Be courteous and don’t dump your leaves in the street. After gutter cleaning, you may want to dump all those leaves out to the street for pick up.  Do your street storm drains a big help by not dumping them out there just yet.  You’ll wind up putting a strain on local resources and services that, in a situation like this, should be going to more important issues.  Storm drains will clog if the streets are taxed with extra leaves. They also make it more difficult to get to power lines or downed trees.
5. Protect stuff in your basement. If there are places around your home prone to flood occasionally, even if you have dealt with your gutters before the storm, make sure you get them off of the ground.

Water damage after the storm can be devastating.  Don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 515-955-4009.

Commercial Fire Damage

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

A fire damage in a business can be stressful for the owner, property manager, employees and tenants. Property damage, equipment damage, document loss and temporary business closure are just some of the concerns you may experience. Timely response and thorough mitigation can alleviate these concerns.

The first 24 hours can make the difference between restoring verses replacing your business property and belongings. Our 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 contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services ensure your property and belongings are restored to preloss condition when possible while providing security in knowing normal business functions can resume in a timely manner.

What you can do until help arrives:

DO

• Limit movement in the facility to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas
• Coat chrome faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between office furniture legs and wet carpet

DON’T

• Wash any walls or painted surfaces
• Shampoo carpet or upholstery
• Clean any electrical equipment
• Send clothing to dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge understands returning to normal business operations is your primary concern. Our specialists are trained in caring for both you and your business. By responding quickly with a full line of fire cleanup and restoration services, we can help you return to business quickly and help protect your facility and belongings.

Before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge, the fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals at 515-955-4009.

Are You Selling a House with Mold?

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

Have you spent time cleaning, painting and otherwise preparing your house for sale. What you may have overlooked though, is the presence of mold and/or moisture stains that can suggest mold is present. This would be a red flag to any buyer and could stop a sale in it's tracks, if not handled properly. 

Understanding Mold

Mold spores occur naturally almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. These microscopic spores float along in the air and can enter a home or business through windows and HVAC systems.

Consider these facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• 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.

Our highly trained Project Managers use state-of-the-art technology to take moisture readings that can indicate the likelihood of mold. 

Armed with that knowledge, you can then make an informed decision on next steps for the sale of your home. 

If you think you have mold, or have any other mold related questions, don't hesitate to call us. (515) 955-4009.

Bathroom Vent Fan

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

A properly installed vent fan is an essential weapon against bathroom mold.

We all know mold likes moisture. That’s why bathrooms are so vulnerable to mold. Water that gets onto the bathroom floor is an obvious concern. The greater concern is moisture in the air –moisture that can permeate wall and ceiling materials because of poor bathroom ventilation.

When the bathroom fills with a fog of moist air while taking a hot shower, thousands of moisture droplets can condense on cool wall, ceiling and window surfaces in the bathroom and also in adjacent rooms. Some of this moist air can even penetrate into unseen building cavities through cracks and gaps around electrical outlets and molding. Because damp organic material (wood, paper-faced wallboard, paint resins, paper-faced fiberglass insulation) makes ideal mold food, we have the makings of a mold invasion.

Vent fan to the rescue–or not?

The bathroom vent fan is a major weapon against bathroom mold. The fan’s job is to move moist air outside the house before it can condense and permeate into mold-prone materials. 

However, some builders mistakenly allow the fan to blow moist air into the attic, a practice that simply moves the mold problem to another part of the house. During cold weather, warm, moist air blown into a cooler attic will deposit its moisture on attic rafters and roof sheathing. Telltale black mold stains typically result from this ventilation error. Eventually, this mold can develop into wood rot.

When you find mold

Mold spreads quickly, so a minor mold infestation can quickly escalate into a major problem. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

We specialize in water and mold damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We have the training and expertise to safely handle any mold situation.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician

Our advanced equipment helps to detect and stop the source of water feeding the mold. We then isolate the affected area using a negative air pressure chamber.

Call Us! We Can help! (515) 955-4009

Unseen Water Damage

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality  issues  over time.

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools used:

• Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals to monitor the drying process.
• Thermohygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can calculate and create an environment most conclusive to drying.
• When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.
• Ultra-Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach
• Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based produces by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor causing particles.

What is the bottom line? SERVPRO® of Fort Dodge has the training and equipment to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Tips for Kitchen Fires

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Scary Stove Fire

Did you know...

A majority of fires that take place in homes begin in the kitchen.

The holiday season is approaching, which means that many of us will be spending a lot more time in the kitchen. This also means that, with every pumpkin pie and each batch of Christmas cookies you make, there is a greater risk of a fire emergency. 

Aside from calling 9-1-1, which should be one of your first moves, here are some quick tips for dealing with a fire emergency in your kitchen.

1. Always watch your cooking; don't leave anything unattended.
2. Set a timer so that you don't accidentally burn something or forget that an appliance is being used.
3. If something on the stove catches on fire and it is small, cover it with a lid and turn off the burner.
4. Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen near your cooking area where it is easily accessible.
5. Add baking soda to a grease fire, not water.
6. Clean your appliances regularly so that grease does not accumulate and start a fire.
7. Clean and dust around and behind appliances, as dust accumulation can cause fires if it is close to electrical wiring.
8. Keep flammable objects away from cooking appliances, especially those things like tea towels and potholders.
9. Install a smoke alarm in your kitchen.
10. Test your smoke alarms and make sure they will work when you most need them!

Keep these quick tips in mind, and prevent a major fire damage emergency from taking place in your home this season!

Frozen Pipes

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Water Cascading from Broken Line in Home

When temperatures plummet, the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting skyrockets. In fact, burst pipes are one of the most common causes of property damage during frigid weather and can cause thousands in water damage—easily $5,000 or more, according to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety.

Frozen pipes are often those exposed to the cold weather, mainly ones outside of your house or in cold areas. It is great to be aware of the areas that pipes can burst from freezing such as; basements, attics, garages or kitchen cabinets. To prevent pipes from freezing it is good to:

• Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Be sure to drain water completely from swimming pools, sprinkler lines and outside hoses.
• Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air near the plumbing.
• When it is extremely cold, let the water drip from the faucets that may come from exposed pipes.
• Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night.
• These things are very important when winter temperatures kick in as freezing pipes can cause you time, money and become an inconvenience.

Do's and Don'ts of Water Damage

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Do's & Don'ts

Do:

• Shut off the source of water if possible, or contact a qualified plumbing technician to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Pin up upholstered furniture skirting to keep off damp floors.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors. 
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

Don't:

• Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Do not enter effected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items that may cause staining on wet carpet or floors.
• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.
• Do not use TV's or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixture if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

How SERVPRO Removes Mold From Your Fort Dodge Home

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in a Home

How Does Mold Remediation Work in Your Fort Dodge Home?

A chief concern among Fort Dodge homeowners is how their money gets spent towards improving their houses or to restoring damages that the property has sustained. While many might consider a situation like a mold growth to be commonplace in damp areas of their home, there are potential dangers with allowing the problem to persist or attempting to remove the active colonies on your own.

Mold damage can affect your Fort Dodge home in a variety of ways, but in summation, it poses the most significant risks to the structural integrity of the affected materials it feeds upon and poses potential health effects to occupants of your home exposed to the colony. Our SERVPRO professionals can help you to remove this colony and to restore the damaged elements of your home.

From the moment that our experienced team arrives on the property, we get to work in assessing the full scope of the damage that your home has sustained, and what areas require isolation to prevent the spread of the colonies. This isolation takes place with the use of negative air chambers and air scrubbers, trapping active mold spores within the confinements of the small proximity of the work space.

Removal of the colony can happen in numerous ways, from spraying the anti-microbial solution on the materials and sanding them until the entire hypha have gotten removed or tearing out the affected materials when the damage has become irreparable. Our SERVPRO technicians have the mindset of preserving the original materials of your home before seeking to provide cause for reconstruction, so our measures begin with what solutions have the smallest overall impact on your life.

Mold is nothing that a homeowner should face on their own, especially when you understand the risks of allowing it to grow and thrive uninhibited. No matter if you are looking for peace of mind that mold has not colonized in your home, or you have growth that has spread into many areas of your property, our SERVPRO of Fort Dodge remediation specialists can help you. Call us any time at (515) 955-4009.

Prepping for a Winter Storm Before it Happenes

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Winter Storm Damage

• Make sure you have a 3 day supply of water (3 gallons per person) and easy to prepare food.  Here is my favorite 72 hour low-prep food kit.
• Purchase a NOAA Weather Radio so you can stay aware of the situation if your other communication sources are cut off.  Make sure it is battery operated and that you have extra batteries.
• Make sure you have a good shovel.  You may need to dig yourself out before help gets there.  Or you simply may need to dig out your car!
• Purchase a supply of flashlights (with batteries) and candles.
• Clean and inspect your chimney if you have one.  Make sure you have a supply of wood.
• Make sure you have an ample supply of blankets.  If you power goes out, you will need as many as you can get!
• Clear rain gutters and repair roof leaks.
• Have an alternate way of cooking.  A small “camp stove” works well for short-term emergencies.  You may also consider a butane stove which is safe to use indoors (with a cracked window).  Make sure that whatever you choose that you have enough fuel.  Cook in a well-ventilated garage (like with the door open) to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home.  The risk of carbon monoxide poisoning increasing during winter storms as people turn to alternate heat sources.
• Learn how to care for frostbite and hypothermia.  Make sure you click on those links and print those out NOW in case your power goes out during a storm.
• Weatherstrip any drafty doors or windows.
• Purchase rock salt (or something similar) to help you keep walkways safe.
• Install good winter tires on your car and make sure the wipers work well.
• Make sure you have fire extinguishers in your home and that everyone knows how to use them.  House fires are much more common during winter storms as people turn to alternate heat sources.
• Consider purchasing a good supply of heat packs.
• Consider purchasing a kerosene heater.  Make sure it is legal in your area

Is it Necessary to Clean Commercial Air Ducts

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Air Duct Before and After

With everything that's involved in the maintenance of a commercial building, cleaning an air duct system that's not showing any obvious problems can seem like an unnecessary expenditure of time and money. While air duct cleaning isn't a job you need to do every year, it's not something you can afford to ignore entirely.

Why Air Ducts Need Cleaning

Poor indoor air quality, inefficient air filtration, and duct leaks can all result in dust entering the duct system. This dust can accumulate to the point that it starts to break off and re-enter your air. When this happens, you may notice your workspace become dusty faster.

High humidity in the building or water leaking into the ducts provides the moisture needed for mold to develop. Mold in the ducts releases tiny spores that will end up circulating through your whole building. In addition to aggravating allergies and asthma, exposure to mold spores increases risk of upper respiratory infection.

Pest infestations are another reason to have your ducts cleaned. It's not uncommon for mice, squirrels, bees, and other pests to find their way into a duct system. Once inside, they leave behind nesting material, hair, and dead insects. Particles of these are then blown out into your rooms.

If the air quality in your building is high and you use high-efficiency HVAC air filters, your ducts could stay clean for years. Even in the ideal situation, though, there's always a chance of unexpected issues. At least once every three or four years, have your duct system professionally inspected to check if it's due for a cleaning.

How Air Duct Cleaning Benefits You

Keeping your building's ducts clean protects the heating and cooling system, and the health of the building occupants.

Improved indoor air quality — When your ducts are clean, you'll have less dust, mold spores, pollen, and pest debris floating in your air. While air duct cleaning hasn't been proven to improve any health condition, cleaner air can help those with allergies and asthma.

Greater HVAC system efficiency — Debris in the ducts impairs airflow through your system, so the fan motor has to work harder to distribute conditioned air to your rooms. With the ducts clean, the air will flow freely and the motor will consume less energy moving it. Clean ducts deposit less dust on your air conditioner's evaporator coil. Even a millimeter of dust on the coil reduces its efficiency, so clean ducts really pay off in summer.

Longer HVAC component lifespan — Dust and debris blowing through your ducts can find its way into your system's fan motor and other components and cause excess wear. Keeping the ducts clean prevents this wear, helping the components last longer.

Professional Duct Cleaning Makes the Difference

Duct cleaning isn't a job to leave up to a regular building maintenance crew armed with a few vacuums. Attempting to clean the ducts without the right tools can worsen your indoor air quality because the debris dislodged will end up floating away into your rooms. You're also likely to miss a lot of the debris.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge will bring in equipment specially designed to thoroughly clean the ducts without contaminating your air. 

MOLD: Should I Be Worried?

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge at (515)955-4009

Mold

Should I Be Worried

                What Is Mold? Mold is a part of the kingdom fungi and mold is a general term to describe many different types of fungi. Specifically those that grow in colonies and reproduce with spores. Some molds do not affect people and others only affect some people. To find more information about molds affecting your body you should contact a doctor or ask your physician.  So if a mold does not affect people should we still be worried about it in our homes or businesses. The short answer is yes, but then the question is why. Let’s take a look at molds role in nature. Mold is here to help decompose natural materials like wood, grass, or animals.  Take a look around at your home, what are the materials used to build it. Wood studs in the walls, paper sheets over gypsum board. Plywood, or composite wood sheeting, and baseboards. Well now you are asking why is my home not overtaken by mold already? The answer we keep our homes dry.

 Mold comes into play when there is a water intrusion either from a roof leak, a broken pipe, or over flow from a toilet, shower or sink. Don’t be scared just because you just had a little water spill on your floor that can dry up quickly and mold won’t take root. But when water floods though your home, not taking the proper steps, quickly, can cause the moisture to dry slowly, and then mold can take root in your home. Having trained professionals, Like SERVPRO of Fort Dodge, inspect your home after a water leak can let you know where the excess moisture is and they can help you come up with a plan to get the moisture out of your home so you can be safe and your home can be safe as well.

If there is water rushing through your home, or you just want to be sure all the water is dry from the loss you had a week ago give SERVPRO of Fort Dodge a call at (515)955-4009 today.

16 General Facts About Mold

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Scary Mold in a home.

Here at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge we hear all kinds of misinformation about mold. We want you to be informed and to have an understanding not a fear of this organism and its impacts on your home. So to start lets learn a little about mold in general.

1. What exactly is mold? Molds are living microorganisms and forms of fungi like yeasts and mushrooms. Now that we have a basic definition of mold, let’s start debunking some common mold myths!
2. Most of the information you find in the media and internet on “Black Mold” is completely bogus and horribly misleading. The fact is that the color of the mold as it appears to the naked eye cannot tell you anything about whether its toxic or not. This brings us to point #3:
3. With over 100,000 species, mold comes in about any size, shape, and color you can think of, making it virtually impossible to tell what type of mold you have without a microscope.
4. While there are over 100,000 species of mold, the good news is that you do NOT need to know what kind of mold you have to eliminate mold growth. All molds are treated in the same way. Since mold is a living organism, it requires food and water to survive. But controlling mold by eliminating food sources is very difficult since mold can feed off building materials, and the tiniest of organic matter like dirt, dust and debris. Thus the best way to eliminate mold problems is to eliminate water problems.
5. Eliminating mold problems is important because the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) estimates that we spend 90 percent of our time indoors, and that the air we breathe indoors is more polluted than the outdoor air. So indoor air quality matters a lot to our health.
6. Speaking of our health, so called “Black Mold” typically refers to molds that can produce toxins (specifically mycotoxins), such as groups of molds known as Stachybotrys. Mycotoxins will not always be produced when these types of mold are present. To put it another way, the presence of mold does not necessarily mean mycotoxins are present. The conditions needed for mycotoxins to be produced are not fully understood. Further, mycotoxins can be produced by other types of molds besides Stachybotrys and these molds are not always black. But all visible molds, regardless of color, should be removed by a professional, like SERVPRO of Fort Dodge.
7. Mold is a natural organism that serves many useful purposes in daily life. It breaks down dead organic matter, helps make certain cheeses, and antibiotics like Penicillin. Mold only becomes a problem when it is found in elevated levels. Then, mold removal and remediation should be performed.
8. Molds reproduce by releasing microscopic airborne spores that find their way to a habitable surface. Molds can grow on almost anything, including most building materials such as drywall, insulation, wood, etc. If enough water is present on these surfaces, the mold grows into active colonies and releases spores into the air.
9. While mold grows most easily on porous organic surfaces such as drywall and unfinished wood, it can also grow on inorganic surfaces such as metal, plastics and glass when organic nutrients such as dust and debris are along with moisture.
10. You can be exposed to mold by breathing in mold spores or touching and/or ingesting moldy items. And under ideal conditions, active visible mold colonies can grow in as little as one or two days.
11. There are currently no federal guidelines specifying what constitutes an unsafe level of mold. But if you see visible mold growth or smell it, your environment almost certainly has elevated levels of mold.
12. If nobody knows how bad mold is, should you care? Yes! A moldy home is unappealing to buyers, and can cause allergies and illness to those living in it. It should be removed or treated as soon as possible.
13. Tiny amounts of mold are in every breath you take. Only the cleanest environments, such as a sterilized hospital organ transplant room, are mold-free. A home will continue to have low levels of mold even after mold removal and mold remediation is finished.
14. It is generally agreed that media reports of mold causing severe illness, disease or death are isolated cases that are sensationalized and scientifically unproven.
15. Everyone responds to mold differently, but certain groups such as the elderly, young children and people with autoimmune disorders are thought to be more at risk for the common allergenic symptoms associated with mold.
16. Many homeowners’ insurance policies specifically list mold as an exclusion and will not cover mold-related claims. There are insurance policies that will cover mold related claims. You should not assume your policy covers mold. Chances are, it doesn’t. If you want mold insurance, ask for it, and review your policy carefully to make sure you understand what is and is not included.

Here at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge your family’s health and well being are of the utmost importance to us. If you can see visible mold in your home give us a call at (515)955-4009. We want your home to be a safe place for you and your family to relax, and rest.

What's That Smell

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

While cleaning the house have you ever experienced a certain smell or odor coming from inside the house, carpets, flooring, or basement? Are you worried about your health from the smell? Have you considered a company to call for the smell? We are trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. Our company and team provides 24/7 days of week of emergencies, if the customer is very concerned about the odor or smell we will be out there as soon as possible. SERVPRO has classes to teach the technicians and staff on the proper removal for odors. There are different types of odors that can come from numerous of places inside the house or outside of the house. SERVPRO provides the equipment to locate and remove the odors. After identifying the source of the odor and looking at the conditions the odor will be eliminate over the course of time and won’t have an odor anymore. If you have any questions about smells or concerns please feel free to give SERVPRO of Fort Dodge a call at (515)955-4009.

Watch Your Appliances

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Most household  floods and water damage are caused by plumbing or appliance failure, according to a study by a U.S. plumbing and drain service company.

The bill for these disasters can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

This study shows that only about 8 percent of residential flooding claims are the result of weather. Thirty percent are caused by appliance failure like a dishwasher leak and 62 percent by plumbing failure a hose or pipe bursting.

So, in short, the majority of water losses are preventable.

Fortunately, there are some easy steps homeowners can take to protect their homes - and wallets -- from water damage.

1. Dishwasher

Dishwasher lines and hoses can spring a leak or blow out, often in the middle of the wash cycle, and flood your kitchen with gallons and gallons of water. 

Prevent the problem: Never run the appliances if you're not going to be home, If a pipe bursts, you can minimize the damage by shutting off the water at the water supply line under the sink.

Prevention is key.

Rubber hoses commonly are used to supply water to a dishwasher, and they deteriorate over time. Replace the rubber hose with a much sturdier steel-braided hose found at most home improvement centers and hardware stores). Buying the hose and installing it yourself costs about $20.

2. Washing machine

Malfunctioning dishwasher drains or water hoses result in some of the most common claims filed by homeowners, says Douglas Nadeau, a spokesman for State Farm. "Most homeowners leave washing machine water supply lines turned on so when a hose busts, water can discharge at up to 500 gallons per hour, causing major damage in a short period of time." Nadeau says.

Prevent the problem: Joseph King, a spokesman for the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, suggests inspecting washing machine hoses often. "If they're original equipment and more than 5 years old, replace them with stronger steel-braided hoses," King says. These can be installed by a homeowner with a little guidance from a plumbing specialist at a home improvement or hardware store.

For added peace of mind, King suggests installing an automatic shut-off valve equipped with an alarm to alert you of any hose problems. This kind of valve costs about $100 but can save thousands of dollars if it detects a leak and prevents flooding.

3. Leaky toilet

Any kinds of toilet leaks are signs of trouble. Cracks to the tank or toilet aren't common unless something hits the tank, such as a picture falling off the wall and hitting the "throne."

"More often than not, the supply line to the water tank develops a hole," Lazarus says.

Prevent the problem: it's better to replace a leaky toilet than to repair it. A new tank and bowl can run anywhere from $89 to $250 at a home improvement or hardware retailer. "If you hire a plumber to install the new tank or toilet, it may cost about $150 or more.

If the water supply line is the problem that's easy to repair. "Replace it with a metal-braided supply line because they tend to hold up better in the long run.

Water Out Now!

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO' s Expertise Saves Homeowners Money and headaches with quick and efficient Water Extraction.

Rapidly removing water reduces the damage that water does to your possessions.

Burst Pipes, broken valve, leaking drain, busted water heater, or a leaking roof can lead to significant water damage in your homes.

Here in Iowa the severe weather is always a threat, tornadoes, hail, or flooding can devastate entire neighborhoods in our area. It seems just when you start to dry out another round of storms is on its way. Water damage from weather, broken plumbing, or improper drainage can be a significant blow to a homeowner.

At SERVPRO we know how important it is to you to be back in your home as quickly as possible, to eliminate the risk of more damage we need to get the water out of you home as quickly as possible, depending on the amount of space in your home that was flooded and the amount of water released into your home this process can take a few days to a week or more, our team of technicians are IICRC certified in water removal mitigation and works fervently to make sure the process is as painless and efficient as possible for you

Each locally owned office maintains a 24-hour response team specializing in water removal. Damage with standing water in the home starts immediately and any standing water needs to be removed as soon as possible. SERVPRO owns and keeps on hand a variety of pumps and water extractors  that are designed for residential homes and commercial buildings, each office maintains generators to support the teams and equipment because what is the point of having equipment if the power grid is knocked out from the storm and not having a way to have power in the storm.

After the standing water has been removed our technicians apply and anti-microbial solution, and utilize a series of fans and dehumidifiers based of the size of each affected room and the amount of open air in the house. This is to remove the excess moisture in the affected materials and remove the humidity to prevent any anti-microbial growth (these can range from just bad smells to mold or even the decomposition of materials). The technicians also may use specialized mat systems for wood floors, and set pads under furniture to minimize staining of the carpet and to protect the furniture. Ink may bleed and run from cloth or paper good and most of the time this makes them almost impossible to salvage, but our highly trained technicians may be able to if they get to them quickly enough. 

If you are concerned about preventing damage, you can contact us for an inspection or if you have need of our services now, call us at (515) 955-4009. As a locally owned business, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is dedicated to restoring the homes of our neighbors.

What to Know About Black Water

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Immediately after experiencing life-altering flooding in Fort Dodge, IA the first thing you probably want to do is start dealing with the water damage from the flood. Before diving in to the problem it is important to know about the associated dangers of black water. 

What is this water and why should it be avoided? 

Black water is liquid presumed to house multiple contaminants. It could contain: 

• Fecal matter 
• Urine 
• Used toilet paper 

Sewage systems frequently become compromised and leak after water damage, they can pose health threats to those who encounter the dirty liquid. 

It’s also important to be aware of gray water. That type often comes from washing machines, dishwashers, sinks and showers and is not immediately as dangerous as the black variety, but can become more hazardous after 48 hours of contact with building surfaces. 

How can you stay safe from contaminated water? 

The best way to limit your exposure to hazardous water from flooding is to limit your exposure to it. Instead of trying to handle the cleanup process yourself depend on our SERVPRO team to assess the damage and tackle the steps necessary for a thorough restoration of your home. 

Black water is a likely contaminant after a flood, and it’s a primary reason why you should not deal with the water damage on your own. Contacting a professional team to assist with damage from flooding gives you greater protection from possible risks and increases the likelihood of positive outcomes.

Call us at 515-955-009 for more information on mitigating storm damage and how you can be prepared.

SERVPRO "Like it never even happened."

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge prides it self on it's slogan "Like it never even happened." When a disaster or emergency happens the dedicated team of professionals springs into action saving homeowners and insurance companies thousands of dollars by offering services to return properties to the preloss state. 

The team is professional and assists families in need to help them get back to normal as quickly as possible after an unexpected disaster or damage. Some of the property maintenance services SERVPRO offers are mold remediation, property restoration, board ups, air duct cleaning, fire and water restoration and more! 

The SERVPRO of Fort Dodge team prides itself on providing excellent customer service during the customer's time of need and works closely with insurance companies to make the entire process as easy as possible. 

IICRC Certified Firm

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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 Fort Dodge

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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.

Six Common Types of Fire Damage to Homes

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

1. Class A Fire Damage: Fire damage from a Class A fire is the result of a fire involving flammable solids, including, various plastics, paper, rubber, wood, and cloth.
2. Class B Fire Damage: Class B fire damage consists of damage as a result of flammable liquids or solids that can become liquefied. This includes gasoline and various forms of petrol, oil, various waxes and plastics, and paint. However, fires caused by cooking oils and fats don’t count as Class B.
3. Class C Fire Damage: A Class C fire damage is one involving flammable gasses, including hydrogen, propane, butane, and natural gas.
4. Class D Fire Damage: Class D fire damage consists of fires caused by combustible metals. This may include magnesium, potassium, and sodium.
5. Class E Fire Damage: Class E is fire damage that results from the factors in both Class A and Class B. The difference being, Class involves the introduction of electrical elements, which makes fighting the fire and the resulting damage very different from Class A and Class B.
6. Class F Fire Damage: Class F is a fire that results from cooking oils and fats. This type of fire differs from Class B because these fires are significantly hotter and the damage more severe.

Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge Immediately at 515-955-4009

Emergency Ready Profile

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

Keeping your business safe

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge offers a service of helping businesses develop an Emergency Ready Profile for their business at no cost.  We offer a free app to also maintain this critical contact and property information electronically in advance, where it can be accessed with a mobile device in seconds if a disaster strikes, also free.  This information can be shared very easily with staff.   

The Emergency Readiness Profile includes information such as emergency contact numbers, priority and high/risk area, shut off valve locations, insurance contacts, and more.  We believe in helping to reduce property damage when a disaster occurs.  We provide a paper copy, emailed copy, and the app copy of the Emergency Ready Profile for easy access by all employees. 

We believe in being proactive not reactive to an emergency situation.  These profiles are proven to help reduce the amount of damage that occurs if kept current and utilized. Call and schedule your appointment with one of our great staff to help develop your FREE Emergency Ready Profile.

3 Reasons to Not Attempt Smoke Damage Remediation on Your Own

8/29/2018 (Permalink)

After a fire is put out, your thoughts then have to turn to smoke damage restoration. Between the flames, soot and smoke, a lot may need to be addressed. You may think it can be easy to handle this on your own or have some people who work for you attempt it. However, at the end of the day, you always want to leave this work in the hands of competent professionals in Fort Dodge, Ia

1. It Can Take a Long Time to Clean Up

Soot damage remediation involves a lot more than scrubbing the floor and walls. First, you need to address the damage caused by the fire directly. Then you need to look at the items damaged by smoke. There may also be water damage brought in by the firefighters. Fixing all of this can take a while, and if you do not know what you are doing, then it can take even longer. 

2. You Do Not Know What to Look For

Smoke damage may not always be readily visible. The damage may have extended to behind the drywall and impacted the building’s insulation. Soot may have made its way inside various electronics that you need to address or risk short circuiting something valuable. Damage restoration experts will not stop until they have inspected every last area of the building. 

3. No Access to the Right Tools

To adequately carry out smoke cleaning, you need some heavy-duty tools. Purchasing these items outright can be rather expensive, and you are honestly better off simply hiring professionals to come out who already have the necessary tools. Hopefully this kind of thing will not happen again, so you may never need to use a thermal fogger again. 

Smoke damage can upset business operations for a while, which only makes it more paramount to take care of it posthaste. Do not waste time trying to fix things on your own. Always contact the professionals. 

For more on smoke damage visit us at http://www.SERVPROfortdodge.com.

What To Do After a Fire

8/29/2018 (Permalink)

House fires can be terrifying experiences, and recovering from them can take a long time. Depending on the size and scope of the fire, fire restoration in Fort Dodge, Iowa, can take several weeks, even a few months, to fully complete. Following these steps can help you recover successfully from this difficult experience: 

1. Assess family member safety.
2. Contact insurance agency.
3. Contact board up services.

Check Everyone’s Safety

If you have a fire safety plan, all family members probably followed it to safely exit the house; everyone then should have met at a pre-determined location. After exiting the house, begin by assessing the safety of each family member and pet. Pursue medical care promptly for all concerns. 

Contact Insurance Company

Fire restoration should be started as soon as possible, and your fire insurance coverage can help address these and other concerns. Once your family’s immediate care needs have been seen to, you can begin contacting your insurance company. It probably needs lots of information, some of which you may not have at this time. Simply beginning the conversation can be important since your insurance company can provide you with some helpful support following a City, State, house fire. 

Arrange for Board Up Services

Your insurance company can probably help you contact board up services and disaster management companies. These service providers may help secure the scene so that no one can enter the property while it is still unsafe. Often, insurance agents must inspect the scene to help assess the degree of damage; this board up service helps agents do their jobs effectively. Your insurance agent may be a point person that you can contact for questions regarding any stage of fire restoration. 

Cleaning is likely going to take a bit of time, depending on the degree of the fire and to what extent it damaged your home. Arranging for smoke cleaning can help you get back to your normal routine that much faster.

For more information visit us at http://www.SERVPROfortdodge.com for more fire tips. 

Use extra caution when navigating flooded roads during a storm

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Use extra caution when navigating flooded roads during a storm

Use extra caution when navigating flooded roads during a storm

Driving on the roads during a storm doesn't seem like that big of a deal to some.  Getting home is often the biggest concern on someone's mind and choosing an alternate route just doesn't seem efficient.

When flood waters raise it is hard to distinguish just how high the water level is.  Underestimating the power of a few inches of rain has left more than one Mid-West area driver stranded in the middle of the river flowing road.

Always pay attention to the emergency ponderer's warning signs on roads and back trails.  Using extra caution when signs aren't present reduces the risk of being stranded as well.

When water levels flood roads and buildings sustain damage, SERVPRO is your choice for repair and mitigation.

Why SERVPRO?

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 the Fort Dodge area, 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

Commercial Water Damage Best Practices

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage can damage threaten both the safety of the occupants, and the finances of the owners. But that’s not just true of residential homes, but also of commercial buildings. In Fort Dodge, Ia that means plenty of law office buildings and professional buildings. In times of severe flooding or plumbing failure this damage could even stop your business from daily tasks, which means you are losing money!

Here, we go over some basic preventative and responsive best practices so that your office can avoid being in this situation, or if you do find yourself in this situation, at least you can get your office back to normal quickly.

Preventative Measures

In an office environment, there are some things you can do to minimize the risk of damage due to water leaks. For example, it is beneficial to educate your office managers on water damage preparedness. This means that your managers should know how to turn off the water, electric, and gas supply. If they don’t have access, then they should know who to call in order to have these items completed. It’s also a good idea to have some basic tools in the office in the event of an emergency. Lastly, it’s always good to have a list of emergency contact phone numbers for all employees so that in the worst-case scenario the loved ones of those injured can be notified. Of course you should already have the contact information for your local fire and police numbers, so that anyone who is injured can get medical attention if needed.

Response

Just as with residential structures, rapid response is critical to water damage in an office. The longer you wait before the area is restored the more of a chance you there is that you will have mold, which is another problem altogether.

The best course of action is:

1. Call a plumber to fix the source of the loss;
2. Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge to remediate the damage.

At SERVPRO of Fort Dodge we are the leaders of commercial water damage restoration. Contact us today to learn more!

Top 6 Ways to Protect Your Home From Wind Damage

7/19/2018 (Permalink)

Top 6 Ways to Protect Your Home from Wind Damage in the Midwest

Wind storms can be very damaging to your home or property if you are not prepared.  Unfortunately, we rarely get much warning before a large wind storm so it is critical to prepare your home ahead of time. Routinely checking, fixing or updating areas around your home can make the difference between a hundred dollars and thousands of dollars in damages.  

Here are six ways to prepare your home before the next storm hits the Midwest:

1. Is your roof in good shape?
   1. Your shingles should be nailed down properly and all secured together.
   2. Replace any missing shingles immediately.
2. Make sure your garage door is secure.
   1. Sometimes this means hiring a company to inspect your garage door to ensure it is properly secured and functioning well.
3. Secure all outdoor items.
   1. Grills, patio furniture, trampolines, etc. These items can cause a lot of damage if the wind is strong enough to pick them up.
4. Ensure your gutters are properly secured and clean them out regularly.
   1. Clogged cutters can create water damage to your house. They are also more likely to break in a high wind storm if they are weakened by heavy debris.
5. Are your windows storm proof?
   1. Installing storm proof windows can make a big difference in protecting your home from high winds and hail from a storm.
   2. If you don’t have storm proof windows, consider installing steel or aluminum shutters on your windows or sliding doors to protect them from flying debris.
6. Remove or trim/maintain trees around your home.
   1. Trimming your trees of dead wood can help prevent large branches falling during a wind storm.

Be sure to routinely check and maintain your home so you are ready before the next storm hits the Midwest. However, if you do find yourself in need of help after a storm, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge. We specialize in restoration and water damage repair.  Call us after a storm and let us take the stress off of your family! We will make sure it's like it never even happened! 

EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT and EMERGENCY READY PROFILE

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen anytime, anywhere. In Midwest Iowa we are particularly prone to experiencing severe weather throughout every season. 

Approximately 98% of all disasters declared emergent by the president are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. Preparing an emergency supply kit can help keep you and your family safe if you're ever caught in an severe storm situation. 

Build an Emergency Supply Kit

• Water (1 gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Dust masks or bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Contact SERVPRO of Fort Dodge for more readiness tips and tools, including SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile (ERP). Having an ERP in place for your facility can help minimize business interruption in the event of a disaster. Contact SERVPRO of Fort Dodge at (515) 955-4009 and we can get you set you up with an emergency disaster plan that will help you get back in business sooner.

Fire Classifications and Extinguishers

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

Every family should have a fire escape plan, working smoke alarms, and at least one fire extinguisher on each level of their home. A fire with a stable supply of fuel, oxygen, and heat can double in size within 60 seconds; therefore, quick action is the key to preventing catastrophic damage. Fires, and their extinguishers, are categorized into 5 different classes based on fuel types. An ABC fire extinguisher is typically what most people stock within their homes as it is versatile – it can extinguish 3 out of the 5 fire groups; however, many household fires result from Class K type situations, which require their own specific extinguisher. Read the following information to learn more about these fire groups and the methods to extinguish them.

Fire Classes

Class A - Typical sources of these fires include trash, fabric, paper, wood, and plastics. Class A fires are the most common, and they will burn as long as heat, oxygen, and fuel are available. Water is a good extinguisher for these fires because it reduces heat. Water based and foam extinguishers can also be used.

Class B - Fires with fuel bases of flammable gases or liquids, not including those used/produced in the kitchen (see Class K). Some examples of Class B fuels include gasoline, propane, butane, kerosene, alcohol, solvents, and paints. These fires are typically difficult to extinguish, and they produce thick smoke. Water can spread a liquid fuel source, so it is best to extinguish these fires by smothering the flames with a foam extinguisher.

Class C - Fires that originate from electrical equipment. More common in industries that use large electrically sourced machinery, but can occur in homes with faulty wiring, overloaded outlets, etc. The first step to extinguishing these types is to turn off the electricity source. Water should not be used to control electrical fires, neither should foam extinguishers, instead use carbon dioxide and dry powder extinguishers (ABC).

Class D – Fuels for combustible metal fires include titanium, aluminum, magnesium, and potassium. They typically occur in laboratory settings, but can sometimes happen in various business industries. The intensity of a metal fire may be increased using water or foam; so many times fire fighters will allow these fires to burn themselves out.

Class K – Two out of five household fires begin in the kitchen. Their fuel types include vegetable and animal fats, grease, and cooking oil. They can be extremely difficult to extinguish because of the high temperatures in which they burn at. Water will not extinguish these fires, it may even increase their severity by spreading the flames. Class K fires require their own personal extinguisher (K) that contains a wet chemical formula to cool off high temperatures and prevent re-ignition.

Use Caution with Extinguishers

During a fire the immediate concern should be for yourself and your family members. Before you attempt to extinguish a fire make sure the fire department is being called and that everyone in your home is aware of the situation. Only use an extinguisher while a fire is small and manageable. Never try to extinguish a fire if you are unsure on how to use an extinguisher correctly, there will be no time for reading instructions. If you have any amount of doubt regarding extinguishing a fire, don’t do it. Leave it to the fire fighters and get yourself to safety.

If you experience a fire in your home, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge is here to help. Our professionals will quickly assess the impact of the flames, smoke, and moisture to create a personalized restoration plan for your home. If you have fire damage, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge for 24-hour emergency services at (515) 955-4009.

3 Reasons To Begin Cleanup Efforts Quickly After a Flood

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

No matter the cause of flooding, water damage can have a detrimental effect on your Fort Dodge, Ia, commercial building. Whether a pipe burst in a bathroom overnight or floodwaters from torrential rains caused your building’s basement to flood, you may believe that since the damage is already done, there is no rush to have the water drained. However, floodwater can cause damage quicker than you might think, and there are several benefits to having it removed as soon as possible. 

1. Mold Can Form Rapidly After a Flood 

The environment indoors changes quickly after a flood. Water might be absorbed by carpeting and drywall, which can increase a room’s humidity. In fact, humid conditions can contribute to mold growth and cause this fungus to grow as soon as 24 hours after a flood. Having a professional water damage and mold remediation company come in right away to drain away flood waters and perform mold cleanup may reduce overall repair costs. 

2. Humidity May Warp Wood 

After a flood, the humidity that builds indoors can cause any wooden building materials to warp if mitigation does not take place within at least a day or two. If standing water is not removed, it can increase the amount of water vapor in the air and cause considerable damage to wooden furniture, molding or flooring. It is wise to remove furniture as soon as it is safe to do so and store it in a cool, dry room, away from sunlight, until affected rooms are repaired and restored. 

3. Clean Water Floods Can Cause Damage 

If flooding in your building was caused by a plumbing mishap; the results can be just as detrimental. For example, if a pipe burst in the break room, the water can affect electrical systems and equipment or short them out, which can increase the risk of fire. Draining away standing water can reduce these potential hazards. 

Flooding in your Fort Dodge,Ia, commercial building can create a variety of problems for you as a business owner. However, whether the flooding was caused by a pipe burst or by a storm, acting quickly can prevent the worst of the damage and lower repair costs. For more information, visit www.SERVPROfortdodge.com

Mold Remediation Steps

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

When there's a water intrusion, like a roof leak or a broken water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can affect your health and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different, requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a "typical" mold removal process. 

Step 1 - Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us, SERVPRO of Fort Dodge, at (515) 955-4009. One of our representatives will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources and personnel needed.

Step 2 - Inspection & Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold grows best in dark, moist areas with a food source (drywall, wood, etc.), so the areas that promote growth in homes are often out of sight. 

Step 3 - Mold Containment

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

Step 4 - Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Step 5 - Removing Mold & Mold-Infested Materials

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

Step 6 - Cleaning Contents & Belongings

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge cleans your furniture, decorative items, curtains and any other items affected by mold. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. We are also able to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment. 

Step 7 - Restoration

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

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge Professionals understands mold growth, and has the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business. Call us now if you suspect mold growth in your home at (515)955-4009

Tornado Need to Know

7/15/2018 (Permalink)

Tornadoes are known to cause widespread damage throughout the United States, especially in the Southern Plains, SouthEast, and MidWest. But how much do we truly know about these destructive entities that tear through our homes and businesses?

Here are a couple of quick facts about tornadoes:

The average tornado travels Southwest to Northeast but have been known to move in any direction.

Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3pm and 9pm but can occur at any time.

Dr. T. Theodore Fujita devised the F0-F5 Scale for tornadoes in 1971.

In 2006 the National Weather Service unveiled the Enhanced Fujita Scale (EF Scale).

A tornado normally appears transparent until it picks dust and mud from the ground.

The USA averages around 1,200 tornadoes every year, more than any other country.

In the southern hemisphere tornadoes usually rotate in a clockwise direction. In the northern hemisphere tornadoes usually rotate in a counterclockwise direction.

Signs of Danger

Dark, green tinted sky

Large hail

Low-lying rotating cloud

Loud roar similar to a freight train

We are in the peak of tornado season here in Iowa and encourage everyone to be weather aware. Have a family plan in the event of a tornado warning. Know where your safe areas are wherever you are.

For more information about tornadoes and tornado safety visit https://www.spc.noaa.gov/faq/tornado/

Smoke Webs

7/10/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know?

Residues (such as burning plastics or the soot from furnace disorders) form long chains of ionized smoke particles that assemble in corners or at junctions of walls and ceilings which are called smoke webs!

Does your business have a plan? Check out these tips:

Protect your people: Your employees are your most important business asset. These tips can help prevent them from being injured in a fire.

• Fire Plans: Make sure your employees know what to do if there's a fire, including calling 911 immediately. Conduct a fire drill at least once a year to keep employees aware of your workplace fire safety protocol.
• Evacuation Plan: In larger buildings, post a fire evacuation plan in several spots around the workplace. Never include elevators in an evacuation plan; always use the stairs.
• First Aid: In case of fire injuries, your employees should be familiar with the location of the first-aid kit, which should be kept where possible hazards can occur most-such as in the kitchen.

Visit www.SERVPROfortdodge.com for more information on fire damage.

What to do AFTER water damage

7/10/2018 (Permalink)

Understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical. 

Clean water is water from a broken pipe or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean. Gray water is slightly contaminated water; clean water becomes gray water when it is left untreated. Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, and chemicals. Black water is usually caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster. Black water should ALWAYS be handled by a trained professional.

Make sure you...

-Shut off the water source if possible or contact someone to do it

-Turn off circuit breakers if safe from potential electrical shock. DO NOT enter rooms with standing water.

-Remove excess water by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing tabletop items. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.

-Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions.

-Move any paintings, art, computers, documents, and other items of value to a safe place.

-Do not leave any books, newspapers, or magazines on wet carpet.

-Do not use your household vacuum cleaner since there is potential for electrical shock. 

-Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and do not enter the room if the ceiling is sagging.

How to Come Back After a Flood

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

How to Come Back After a Flood

As the storm settles, the battle to restore homes and businesses begins. After a flood, the damage can be extensive and beginning the cleanup can be daunting.

Where do you start? Property owners in Fort Dodge, IA struggle with this question every year, but by removing water, throwing away ruined items, and content cleaning, your business will soon be back to normal.

1. Eliminating Standing Water

Before you can determine what can be cleaned, there can’t be any water left in the building. If the standing water doesn’t flow out naturally, then it may need to be professionally removed. Given the bacteria and mold that is often found after major flooding, it’s important that you don’t come in contact with the water itself. It can make you and your employees incredibly sick. In addition, it’s easier for you do a full cleanup if there isn’t any water to contend with.

2. Removing Loose Items

Unfortunately, not all items can be saved. This is especially true for porous surfaces. Porous materials include certain types of tile, laminate and granite. These permeable materials don’t have a smooth surface and because of this, content cleaning is more difficult and complex. Certain pieces of furniture or appliances may have to be removed from the property entirely to properly disinfect the building. If you’re ever confused about what to keep or throw out, a professional can help.

3. Cleaning Content

For hard surfaces, it is recommended that you use a mixture of water and detergent. While most non-porous surfaces are safe to clean, if the mold has spread over 10 square feet, then professional help is strongly encouraged. Keep in mind that black water is the best breeding ground for dangerous molds, so if you suspect or know there was waste water involved, be sure to get expert help.

It may seem like a long road to restoration, but it’s easier to consider if you break it up into simple stages. Clearing out the water, removing the items, and proper content cleaning should have your business back on track in no time.  Visit www.SERVPROfortdodge.com for more information on flood damage.

Homeowner Briefing: Broken Pipes and Insurance

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO if you experience water damage.

Having a homeowner's insurance policy is necessary to protect your investment, but it takes some work on your side to know what is included or not. Most people know that rising waters types of floods are not covered by traditional policies, but what about water damage from a broken pipe? Would that be covered by your plan?

Insurance Coverage for Unexpected Breaks

Each policy should be read carefully for details, but water damage from a pipe that breaks suddenly and without neglect should be covered most insurance policies. Damage can be mitigated by immediately responding to the flood with the use of a professional restoration company. Services such as water removal, drying and restoration may also be included in your insurance coverage.

Denied for Negligence

Homeowners have a lot of responsibility for routine maintenance around the home, including maintenance for plumbing. Make sure you keep up with maintenance of your pipes so that you don't end up with damage from negligence, which may be denied by your insurer. Here are common examples for denials:

• A homeowner ignored a chronic leak and failed to fix broken pipe, which resulted in a full break and damage to home.

• Homeowners were not maintaining a warm enough temperature in the home to keep the pipes from freezing during the winter.

Be Your Own Maintenance Manager

A flood is the last thing you want in your home in Fort Dodge, Ia. You don't have to be a plumber in order to take care of your plumbing system. You can keep your home reliable and safe by educating yourself about care and routine maintenance for your pipes. Most importantly, never shut off your heat during the winter months, even if you go on vacation, and inspect your system of pipes regularly. These actions will help with prevent breaks and all complications of water damage in your home. Visit http://www.SERVPROfortdodge.com for more information on water damage. 

Conditions In Fort Dodge Might Be Right Mold

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge knows what to do if mold grows in your home.

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at 515-955-4009

What to Do:

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

Commercial Restoration Services

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

No Job is too big for SERVPRO of Fort Dodge

The experts at SERVPRO Fire and Water Restoration know that time is money to a business owner who has had to close their doors due to a disaster. Whether you find your business damaged due to fire, water, mold, or any other type of structural damage we have the experience and equipment to get your business up and running in the fastest time possible. Our number one priority is to minimize the interruptions to your daily work operations while providing quality restoration work for both you and your customers SERVPRO of Fort Dodge will work hand-in-hand with you and your insurance company to make sure that all of your expectations are met, to restore your place of business “Like it never even happened.”

About SERVPRO of Fort Dodge

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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.

Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge today @ 515-955-4009

Smoke And Soot Can Damage Your Home

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage

SERVPRO restoration technicians know that damage increases and restoration costs escalate the longer neutralization, corrosion control and cleaning is delayed. When homeowners prolong the restoration of their home, they extend the effects brought on by the smoke exposure. The following is a timeline of the effects of fire and smoke on a home.

Within Minutes: Acid soot residues cause plastics to yellow; small appliances located close to the source of combustion discolor; highly porous materials (marble, alabaster) discolor permanently.

Within Hours: Acid residues stain grout in bathrooms; fiberglass bath fixtures may yellow; uncoated metals tarnish, counter tops may yellow; finishes on appliances, particularly refrigerators, may yellow; furniture finishes may discolor.

Within Days: In time, acid residues cause painted walls to yellow permanently; metal corrodes, pits and rusts; wood furniture requires refinishing; vinyl flooring requires refinishing or replace­ment; clothing becomes soot stained; upholstery stains permanently.

Within Weeks: Restoration costs escalate tremendously. Synthetic carpet fibers may yellow or discolor permanently; silver plate is corroded permanently; glass, crystal, china may require replacement due to severe etching and pitting caused by prolonged exposure to acid soot residues.

Cleaning up soot residue must be done as quickly as possible. During combustion, soot residue and volatile vapors are carried by rising and expanding air to surfaces throughout a structure, and are deposited. This process occurs repeatedly until combustion ends, with soot residue building up on surfaces layer by layer. By the time restoration technicians arrive, lacquer-like soot residue may be quite difficult to dissolve and remove.

In addition to removing residue, ridding your home of its smoky odor is necessary. SERVPRO professionals use this four-step process to remove odors:

• Remove the source of the odor, as possible, including unsalvageable debris that contributes to odor generation and recontamination of cleaned and deodorized areas.
• Clean salvageable surfaces and items to physically remove odor-causing residue.
• Chase remaining odor with an odor counteractant. In the case of smoke, create a deodorizing fog or gas that seeks out and combines with odor-causing substances.
• Seal salvageable surfaces that are inaccessible or slightly scorched, not only for aesthetic purposes, but primarily to encapsulate odor and prevent progressive recontamination.

Understanding the effects of a fire can help homeowners evaluate the damage to their home. By learning more about residue clean-up and deodorization after a fire, you can minimize the need for costly repair. The fire and smoke restoration experts at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge can help you return your home and furnishings to a “preloss” condition. Call SERVPRO of Fort Dodge Today!  515-955 4009

Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

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 Fort Dodge:

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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.

When Storms Or Floods Hit, SERVPRO Is Ready

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

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

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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, 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: 515-955-4009

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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: 515-955-4009

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 Fort Dodge 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 (if applicable)
• 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 Fort Dodge:

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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.

Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

11/17/2017 (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 Fort Dodge 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 Fort Dodge 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: 515-955-4009

IICRC Certified Frim

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

We are an IICRC certified firm.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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 Fort Dodge

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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.

We Specialize In Flooded Basement Cleanup And Restoration!

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

This home's basement flooded due to heavy rains.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including:

• 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 Basement Flooding?

Call Today : 515-955-4009

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 basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home's integrity. It's worth making a call to SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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 Flooded Basement 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

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today. We're Ready To Help! 515-955-4009

Does Your Home Have A Mold Problem?

11/15/2017 (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 - 515-955-4009

Smoke And Soot Cleanup

11/15/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke And Soot Damage Can Cause A Pervasive Odor In Your Home

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 Fort Dodge 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 treat your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today - SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 515-955-4009

For Immediate Service - Call SERVPRO

11/15/2017 (Permalink)

We Provide Immediate Service Day Or Night

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. 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 24/7 515-955-4009

Residential Services

Whether your 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 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. 

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Faster to your Fort Dodge Water Damage Event

11/14/2017 (Permalink)

Our Crew at SERVPRO of Fort Dodge

Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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 Fort Dodge 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 24/7 515-955-4009

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Fort Dodge

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge 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.