What happens to my things?

5/3/2024 (Permalink)

our Contents Specialists are trained to safely pack up your items for safe removal to our warehouse for cleaning and storage.

After a fire and before the restoration can begin.

The process of packing up your belongings can be long and tedious. SERVPRO® Team McGinnis takes that burden from your shoulders. You have enough to tend to, let us help with packing and unpacking.

Our teams are extremely detailed and accurate with inventorying each item. When your contents are packed, they are then moved to a secure location at our warehouse.

When it is time to begin the move out process you do not have to concern yourself with packing items, as we come prepared with the essentials. SERVPRO® supplies sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, shrink wrap and various packing materials. Our teams set up a staging tables in each room while also identifying each box per room.

Boxed items are small to medium size objects and are packaged accordingly.

Large items that can be disassembled to safely transport will be. If we are unable to disassemble, then our team(s) will wrap the times with the necessary material and place moving pads around so other items do not cause damage.

Our teams are trained to identify and separate which items can be safely cleaned and returned, and which items are deemed ‘non-salvageable’. Non-salvageable items are items that have sustained severe damage, either from smoke/soot, water, or even asbestos or a biological source. These items are considered unsafe for continued use.

Documenting your contents is a high priority and we do it by hand and digitally. We have a move out checklist that the project lead will go over with you and list items in detail. When the project lead is back at the office, they will then record the information in a spreadsheet along with taking the digital photographs taken by the team onsite, then uploading those content photos to your customer file.

When the time has come that repairs and restoration is complete, we will then preform a move back. By bringing your items back, unload and unpack per room you will notice cleaned and restored items safely returned to their proper spaces.

If you find yourself in need of fire restoration or have question and concerns give us a call at 541-745-2097. Your local SERVPRO® is operated 24/7/365 with emergency services available.

Infra-Red for Water Damage?

5/3/2024 (Permalink)

Infra-Red technology allows us to see the full extent of water damage, even when its not visible to the naked eye!

Infrared camera technology allows technicians to see what cannot be seen with the bare eye.

According to an article posted online by Flir Systems, Wilsonville - Oregon,

"An infrared camera is a non-contact device that detects infrared energy (heat) and converts it into an electronic signal, which is then processed to produce a thermal image on a video monitor and perform temperature calculations. Heat sensed by an infrared camera can be very precisely quantified, or measured, allowing you to not only monitor thermal performance, but also identify and evaluate the relative severity of heat-related problems."

Pretty neat technology, don’t you think? Now, we use it *slightly* differently than mentioned above. Water Restoration Technicians use the Infra-Red tech to search for water by looking for COOLER spots, which are indicative of the presence of water. It helps us to measure just how saturated the wall, the floor, or the door might be, which helps us better map out how best to help you and your emergency.

You see this is why use the infrared technology on all of our jobs because seeing is not always believing.

When you contact us for any water damage related service, our team will use the best technology we have to ensure your property is taking care of.

Call SERVPRO® Team McGinnis anytime day or night for help 541-745-2097.

Fire Safety Tips

2/22/2024 (Permalink)

Knowing what to do in the event of a fire can help save lives!

Fires can be very frightening – they are scary, spread quickly and can cause devastating losses.  While we cannot completely fire-proof our homes, there are a few steps you can take to help protect your family in the event of a fire.

• Install and regularly test smoke detectors. Statistics show that working smoke detectors reduce the risk of death in a house fire almost in half! Fires spread quickly, and once that alarm sounds, you may only have a minute or two to escape.
• Practice Fire Drills at home. Since time is of the utmost importance during a fire, it is best to KNOW what do in the event of a fire.  What is the best escape route? Where does the family meet up outside?  In order to respond quickly, it is best to have a rehearsed plan ahead of time.
• Have fire extinguishers handy & know how to use them. Keep them in an easy access location near a likely source of fire – in the kitchen, the laundry room, etc.  And maybe buy a few extra and have your children practice using them (probably best to do OUTSIDE).
• Childproof your kitchen. To keep small children from accidentally turning on the stove, which may having something on it that could burn.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children. And teach your children they are not toys.

While no one wants to imagine what they would do in the event of a fire, it is better to be prepared, and have a plan to help keep your family as safe as possible.  And if you do experience a fire, do not hesitate to call your Fire Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO®.  We are here to help. We can take care of your home, so you can take care of your family.

Water DamageTips

2/22/2024 (Permalink)

Some helpful tips if water damage does occur

Emergency Water Damage Tips

After a storm passes, it is important to stay safe while waiting for help to arrive. Here are some tips to help prevent further damage after a storm, especially if your property has some water damage:

Shut Off Water Source

Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.  

Turn Off Circuit Breakers

Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the business when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.   

Move Important Objects

Move any paintings, art, objects, computers, documents, or other sensitive valuables to a dry place.  

Don't Enter Affected Areas

Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards!   

Stay Away From Structural Damage

Stay away from visible structural damage. Close and rope off the affected area if possible.  

Have Insurance Available

Have your insurance policy available and know the name of your insurance company and broker. Call SERVPRO® today at 541-745-2097! A professional will come out and assess damage and provide necessary mitigation services.

Winter storms can cause water damage!

2/20/2024 (Permalink)

Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to break in your home!

Wowzers!

Winter season really did a number on us here in the Pacific Northwest! From wind storms to ice storms we had an astonishing amount of falling trees on homes. This lead to massive water damage as the rain did not stop coming. 

Freezing weather also caused frozen pipes.

If you have a pipe burst, SERVPRO® has trained professionals that can repair all the damages and have your home looking “Like it never even happened.” In the meantime, here are some tips to help prevent your pipes from freezing.

• If the crawl space access is inside the home, set a fan in the opening to blow warm air from the home to the foundation 
• Leave the cabinet doors under the sink open to keep the pipes warm 
• Caulk and seal around doors, windows and faucets 
• Close all foundation vents that are near pipes 

Call on the professionals at SERVPRO® today at (541).745.2097

Count on SERVPRO® to help you in your time of need

2/20/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® has the Heart to Help!

The professionals here at SERVPRO® work on the firm mindset of "Here to Help"! This is why people continue to trust SERVPRO® Franchises to take care of their most prized possessions and investments, their home and businesses. 

We strive to make sure that our crew, production managers and all that are part of the SERVPRO® Franchise trained to have the heart to help and excel in their line of work. 

Our team members are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. In addition, we offer continuing education classes for all agents and property managers to learn more about our services. 

As a 24/7 365 days a week service provider we are always ready to assist in you fire, water, mold, biohazard or reconstruction needs. 

This is why people continue to choose SERVPRO®! Call us today at 541-745-2097

Water Damage? Call us TODAY!

2/18/2024 (Permalink)

Water Damage? Do not hesitate to call SERVPRO®!

When it comes to water damage, SERVPRO® is the company to call! We take pride in restoring your property to its pre-damage condition. We take several steps to ensure no more damage occurs, and that the damage that has happened is taken care of as quickly as possible. 

• Initial Emergency Contact: We are available 24 hours a day, if you have an emergency, call us right away!
• Inspection and Damage Assessment: When we arrive on scene, we will do a detailed inspection of the damage 
• Moisture Extraction:  If necessary, we will bring in pumps to extract excess water, and reduce drying time 
• Dehumidifying and Drying: Once the excess water has been removed, equipment will be placed to speed up the drying time and help the moisture evaporate 
• Cleaning and Repair: Items that can be saved will be professionally cleaned, anything non salvageable will be replaced or repaired 
• Restoration: This is where we restore your home to its pre-damaged condition. This includes replacing flooring, drywall, trim, and painting. 

Count on the Professionals at your local SERVPRO® franchise if you have water damage occur! Call us at 541-745-2097

House Fire? We are here to help!

2/5/2024 (Permalink)

Experience a house fire? The professionals at SERVPRO® are here to help!

You have experienced a house fire. It was not planned and now you are lost in translation of insurance jargon, municipals, technicalities and most of all out of your home. 

Here are SERVPRO® we have trained and qualified professionals that work daily in this crucial time sensitive profession. Our project coordinators work is to explain the process and guide you through the process of recovery. 

Starting with an initial inspection, they create a scope of work. Fire damage is a top to bottom experience. It will be uncomfortable and hard process, having a fire professional on your side will enable you to have a third party assisting on questions and communication through the process of mitigation and reconstruction.

With question like, where will I go? What about my personal belongings? Can it be restored? How long will it take? I don't understand. Our professionals are here to help and able to hold the hand of those that are experiencing the devastation of a fire. 

Call the professionals at SERVPRO® today, 541-745-2097!

Know that SERVPRO® is here to help!

2/5/2024 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO® can help guide you through your house fire experience

Did you know that we typically respond to every fire that we hear about in our territory? 

You might wonder why? We do this to assist in the most traumatic time of a person’s life. When you are standing in front of your home that is burning down, with absolutely no idea what to do, it is reassuring to know a professional is with you. 

There will be neighbors, looky lous, fire departments, police and sometimes utility companies present. You will be in such a state of disarray that all you will want is some to assist. 

We here at SERVPRO® can help you get to that next step via reassurance and guidance. Starting with boarding up your prized possessions and protecting them from any further liability issues. 

After the initial night we will meet with you to go over how we can help you with your fire loss. Whether it be to contents track your personal property, configure the dwelling structure integrity or start the cleanup, we are here to help. 

So when you see the SERVPRO® car show up, just know we come to help!

Protect your family during a storm

1/17/2024 (Permalink)

Carbon Monoxide Detectors can help keep your family safe

When a winter storm hits, temperatures plummet. We feel the cold, even indoors as houses can be drafty, or a loss of power causes a loss of heat.  As many turn on portable heaters, the risk of fire is probably their primary safety concern.  Most people do not even consider the risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning!  But many common practices that come with a winter storm do come with an increased risk of accidental CO poisoning. To reduce your risk, and help keep your family safer during a winter storm, please be aware of the following:

• Proper use and ventilation of portable generators. Generators can be a life saver during a loss of power in a Winter Storm.  But they also create CO, so only use a generator per manufacturer’s instructions, and only in areas with proper ventilation. Never place one in an enclosed space, such as a basement, attic or attached garage. And make sure it is placed at least 15 feet away from a window or door into the home!
• Make sure chimneys are clean. Woodstoves, or wood burning fireplaces are a great source of heat in a cold snap. However, if the chimney is clogged, that CO filled smoke will feed back into the home, putting everyone at risk.
• Do not idle your car, or any vehicle, in a garage.Even with a garage door open, the colder air condenses the CO in the exhaust from the vehicle.
• Don’t use your oven or stove to heat your home.
• ANYTHING that burns fuel can create CO.Gas-Powered Generators, Furnaces, Wood stoves, Kerosene heaters, Gas-powered tools, Gas-Powered home appliances, Gas and Charcoal Grills, and, of course, vehicles.  Only use these items in well ventilated areas.
• Check exterior vents for ice or snow covering.During a storm, your furnace and appliance’s exhaust vents can become covered in ice or snow.  This can cause that exhaust to vent into the home, putting you and your family at great risk.
• Install Carbon Monoxide detectors. Have at least one on every floor of your home. Change out the batteries when you change clocks for Daylight Savings.

While we cannot ever be 100% prepared for a storm, making sure your home’s heating systems are in good shape BEFORE winter storms strike is your best defense.  If you need the name of a good Chimney Sweep, or Heating & Cooling Company, call us at SERVPRO® for a recommendation. We have worked with many wonderful Service Men and Women in our community and are happy to help you find someone to assist you.

Faster to Any Size Disaster

1/17/2024 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, time is of the essence! Call SERVPRO® today

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO® arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

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.

SERVPRO® 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 Corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.  Need Emergency Service? Call us today at 541-745-2097

A new standard in Commercial Cleaning

12/5/2023 (Permalink)

When the Flu or COVID breaks out in your office and impacts your business, count on Certified: SERVPRO® Clean!

As we heading into Cold and Flu Season - and COVID-19 hasn't gone anywhere, we need to look to a NEW standard in Commercial Cleaning.

Starting in 2005, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) established the National Influenza Vaccination week “to highlight the importance of continuing flu vaccination through the holiday season and beyond.” In 2017, by the end of November only about 41% of the recommended US population had been vaccinated. And in 2020, we saw the tremendous toll COVID-19 on families and businesses across the country.

If you’ve already gotten the flu or COVID you can still get vaccinated to protect you against other strands of the flu, according to the CDC. People with high risk of complications from the flu include young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions and people over the age of 65, and should get vaccinated. Although anyone is at risk of getting the flu, for high-risk people, hospitalization or death is more likely than for others.

According to the CDC, flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations. Get a flu or COVID shot today to protect yourself, your loved ones and your place of business.  And Certified: SERVPRO® Clean brings a higher standard of clean to business across our Communities if the Flu or COVID impact your place of business.

Cell Phone Fire Risk

12/5/2023 (Permalink)

Understand the fire risks cell phone chargers can pose, for your family's safety!

SERVPRO® of Benton/Linn County has responded to multiple home fires that were caused by cell phone chargers. Now days it’s hard to find a home that doesn’t have a cell phone in it, and if there is a cell phone then there will be charger.  Our phones are major part of our day, and we have them will us all the time. I personally have mine on me 24/7, and I charge it on my night stand next to my bed.  Did you know that chargers produce a large amount on energy? One fire we responded to the cell phone charger caught a mattress in a child's bedroom on fire. He are some tips to help keep you safe from a cell phone charger fire.

1. Only buy and use devices that are listed by a quality testing laboratory.
2. Make sure to always follow the manufacturer’s instruction.
3. Only use the battery and charging cord that’s designed for you specific device.
4. Do not charge your device under a pillow, on your bed, on a couch or in a location that’s exposed to direct sunlight.

We here at SERVPRO® of Benton/Linn county is always here to help if your home or business has experienced a fire. We are ready to help 24/7.

What is a Biohazard?

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

Let the trained Professionals at SERVPRO® take care of all your Biohazard Cleaning needs

Exposure to biological and chemical residue and contaminates can pose serious health consequences for individuals who come into contact with them – from building occupants, employees, and customers. Failing to properly handle and remove such hazardous materials can lead to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

Your local SERVPRO® Franchise Technicians have been trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous materials and properly prepared waste in compliance with OSHA, EPA as well as State and Local health regulations.

Biohazard Clean-Up includes, but is not limited to:

• Bloodborne Pathogens

SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death.

• Methamphetamine Labs

Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs, such as methamphetamine, are volatile and can leave harmful residues.

• Crime Scene Residues

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

• Arson and Vandalism

Your local Franchise Professionals can provide general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, destruction of property, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.

• Sewage Backup

Sewage Backups and black water intrusions are not only nasty, they can also introduce harmful microorganisms into the surfaces and even below surface.

• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

If you experience any of these circumstances, or have a question as to whether your loss qualifies as a Biohazard, do not hesitate to call your Highly Trained Qualified Biohazard Professions at SERVPRO® at 541-745-2097

Ready for the Storm

11/6/2023 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO we are prepared to respond to your storm damage

SERVPRO® technicians maintain certifications from the IICRC, which allows our team to handle weather related damages to residential and commercial properties.

A rainstorm in the Willamette Valley, caused property damages and our team was dispatched to the area.

Here is an example of the certifications our team members have.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT)

Technicians learn techniques and procedures to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination such as mold.

• Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD)

Technicians learn to dry water-damaged structures efficiently and effectively. 

• Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT)
• Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT)

Technicians with AMRT certification learn safety practices and mold/ sewage remediation techniques. 

Let our trained and qualified professionals take the stress and worry away from storm damages by keeping you up to date with the process, with our fast and efficient work to get your home or business back in order, and with our courteous and polite employees.

SERVPRO® is "Faster to Any Size Disaster". Call 541-745-2097 for an inspection.    

What is an ERP?

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

In case of emergency, we offer the FREE ERP App at your fingertips!

The up keep and maintenance of a building is typically over seen by a property maintenance manager. The job duties typically entail services to keep the building up to operating standards.  

Here at SERVPRO we offer a unique free of charge building inspection called an ERP, Emergency Ready Profile. 

We meet with the building services manager and complete a full walk through of their property. Tagging all gas & water shut off values and advising of where circuit breakers or electric breakers are. We discuss knowing the entry and exit points and all potential hazards. We put together a quick and easy to read folder that contains all of the buildings pertinent information; points of contacts, insurance information, phone numbers for utilities, etc. As well as a APP that you can readily use from any device.

We feel the importance of this services is PRICELESS, as all property managers or building services departments have safety protocols they must adhere to. Give us a call today to book a ERP!

SERVPRO® for all your emergency needs

10/9/2023 (Permalink)

We are here 24/7 for all your emergency needs!

SERVPRO® was first founded in 1969, and quickly expanded into more than 1,600 franchises
nationwide. With over 45 years of experience in cleanup and restoration, our track
record has earned us the trust of the insurance industry and countless business and homeowners. No matter the size of the job, our trained professionals will be there to restore your property to its original state, “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO® is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a years for all your emergency needs.
- Fire, Smoke and Soot
- Water Removal and Dehumidification
- Mold Mitigation and Remediation
- Catastrophic Storm Response
- Move Outs and Contents Restoration
- Document Drying
- Electronics and Equipment
- Contents Claim Inventory Service
- Air Ducts and HVAC
- Biohazard, Crime Scene and Vandalism
- Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds
- Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors
- Deodorization
Call SERVPRO® today at 541-745-2097!

How to help prevent mold growth in your home

10/6/2023 (Permalink)

Taking steps to help prevent mold growth can save you money down the road!

Here are some ways to keep your home safe from mold damages and prevent further damage. Brought to you by SERVPRO® of Benton and Linn County.

1. Eliminate Clutter

Clutter blocks airflow and prevents your HVAC system from circulating air. Furniture and curtains that block supply grilles cause condensation. All this moisture creates microclimates in your home that welcome mold growth.  Push furniture away from vents and grilles to keep air circulating. On humid, still days, run a couple of fans to keep air moving.

2. Shut Windows and Doors When AC Is On

When you open windows and doors, you let air conditioning escape, waste money, and invite humid air into your cooler home. This causes condensation, which mold loves. So keep doors and windows shut when the AC is humming.  Also, maintain your home at around 80 degrees when you’re on vacation or at work. Too often, we bump the thermostat up to 85 degrees, or turn off the AC when we’re away. This raises temperature and humidity, which creates the ideal home for mold.

3. Monitor Humidity

An indoor humidity monitor will help you keep track of moisture levels that, ideally, fall between 35% and 50% relative humidity; in very humid climates, at the height of summer, you may have to live with readings closer to 55%. But if you reach 60% relative humidity, it’s time to look for the source of the added moisture; above 70% relative humidity, certain species of mold can begin growing.

4. Water Damage 

If left untreated can cause major damage in your home including serious Mold Growth. 

water damage whether it is a clean water break, a leaking washing machine, or a sewage leak, it is still very important to address it quickly before further damage occurs. SERVPRO is equipped to handle whatever the situation, whether large or small.

Permanent damage happens quickly, from wood surfaces deteriorating, carpet delaminating, or mold beginning to appear because of the moist conditions. This is why it is so important to act quickly.

If your home is experiencing Mold give SERVPRO® of Benton and Linn County a call today at (541)745-2097

Choose SERVPRO® for your Commercial Loss needs!

10/6/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® has trained Technicians to handle your Commercial Loss needs!

A commercial loss is much different than a residential loss. When it comes to SERVPRO® responding and mitigating a commercial loss, we have to take into account that there are many more parties of interest involved, and documentation of the job and proper communication about job progress and emergency response efforts may have to be distributed to multiple owners, managers, and insurance companies throughout the process.

SERVPRO® has worked within commercial buildings for over 20 years. We are used to navigating the delicate balance between communications with multiple owners, while also working with multiple vendors, to bring the structure back to preloss condition.

Experience really is key to when it comes to responding to a commercial loss. We prioritize what is most important to our customers and we get to work stabilizing the building as soon as possible. Each day a commercial property isn’t operating it is costing our customer money. As a longtime restoration vendor, we know that getting the facility/structure operational as soon as possible is key for customer satisfaction.

A large part of handling a commercial loss is efficient and frequent communication with the right parties at the right time. Our team at SERVPRO® keeps communication and customer satisfaction at the forefront of our job responsibilities at all times.

So when your business or facility has a loss, you can feel confident calling SERVPRO®. We will be able to respond to the disaster and get the situation under control faster than any other restoration company in the Willamette Valley.

We have the experience, the knowledge, the connections, and the communication and dedication to see commercial restorations come to a smooth and timely completion.  Give us a call today at 541-745-2097.

SERVPRO® Certified Clean

10/2/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in viral pathogen cleaning services

Our local SERVPRO® team is trained and certified to provide deep cleaning and decontamination services that exceed the scope of a standard cleaning service. We offer a full range of deep cleaning services to keep your commercial business virus-free. Our Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned program is a defensive pathogen cleaning program that inspires consumer confidence.

How does the program work? It’s based on our unique 3 C’s:

• Consult:Not all businesses are the same, so we’ll tailor a bespoke cleaning program based on the individual needs of each facility
• Clean:Based on the agreed plan, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.
• Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO® Cleanedby the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers, and community.

Call Us Today!

Having a Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned business will reinforce consumer and employee confidence. Our local teams are Here to Help ® when you need cleaning and decontamination services. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

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.

Fire Safety

8/4/2023 (Permalink)

Flames can spread quickly - teach your children firesafety!

Home fires can start quickly, and spread at an incredible rate.  Studies have shown that once a smoke detector goes off in your home, you only have about 2 minutes to get out safely! When you have young children in the house, that thought can be overwhelming and frightening.  Altho we cannot always prevent a fire from starting, there are things we can do to help our families get out safely if a fire occurs.

Working Smoke Detectors/Alarms are of utmost importance!! Altho you only have about 2 minutes to escape once the alarm sounds, smoke detectors in the home have been shown to reduce fire-related deaths by 50%.  Considering half of all home fires occur between 11PM – 7AM, when most folks are sleeping, a working smoke detector sounding the alarm can make all the difference. As well as with so many fires starting during the night time, it is a good idea to have working alarms in each bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home. For the best protection, install interconnected smoke alarms. This way, when one goes off, they all sound.  Practice a few times with the alarm actually sounding, to ensure that your child is not afraid of the sound, and that they know what they should do when they hear the alarm

Also, practice escaping out of every room of your home.  Make a game of it, see how many different ways you can get out to your designated ‘safe space’ and meeting area. Even have your kids help draw a map of your different escape routes. They will have fun. Drawing a map also helps ingrain it into their minds, making them more likely to remember what to do in the event of an actually fire.

Teach kids to not play with matches and lighters.  Make a habit of storing these items up and out of reach of young children. Teach children that if they happen to find a match or lighter, to take it to a trusted adult immediately!

Fires can be devastating, and sadly, we cannot completely fire-proof our world.   But just a little bit of planning can make a big difference for your family. And if you ever do experience a fire, do not hesitate to call upon your Fire Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO®! We are always here to help.

YES WE CAN!

7/5/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can provide a deep cleaning for your office or commercial building!

Yes We Can!

SERVPRO® of Benton/Linn County believes that no job it too big or too small.  We are a 24hr company, and will respond right away. Having a loss at you business can be very difficult, and we know that. Our project managers will work with the owner to schedule a time work on the loss when it good for them. SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County worked on a job where we were needed to work when the business was closed for the night, so that is would not disturb the business during the day. Our amazing technicians were more than happy to do that for the business owner.  If your place of business has experienced damage of any kind give SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County a call. We are here 24/7 to help.

SERVPRO sees the job through

7/5/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County can see your job from start to finish, with our own inhouse Construction Crew!

Did you know that Benton/Linn County SERVPRO® has an in house construction company? Well we do! When you chose to have SERVPRO come, and work on your home or business we are able to finish the job completely.   You don’t have to worry about finding another company to finish the repairs. Our construction crew is made up of two project managers, three carpenter teams, and a painting crew.  They are extremely talented and hard working.  Our project managers work with the insurance company to ensure the job is being done to insurance standards, and to what the customer wants.  Our mission is to make this situation the easiest we can on the customer, and make sure they are happy with the work that was performed on their home or business.

SERVPRO for all your Commercial needs!

6/21/2023 (Permalink)

An unnoticed slow water leak can lead to BIG damages!

When running a busy business, sometimes things fall through the cracks. You may not notice that slow leak that's been happening for months behind that large piece of equipment...until its already too late. 

But it's never too late to call SERVPRO®!

We can quickly start water clean up, damage assessment, mildew remediation, all the way to the reconstruction. SERVPRO makes it "Like it never even happened." Helping you get your business back to running on track.

In addition to services the remediation and restoration services mentioned above, SERVPRO also specializes in: 

• Fire Damage
• Storm Damage
• Covid-19 Clean
• Facility Clean
• Move-out Clean
• Bio-Hazard Clean
• Duct Cleaning
• Contruction Services

Whatever your Commercial restoration or cleaning needs, think SERVPRO first! We are here for whatever you need

Flooded Basement? SERVPRO CAN HELP!

6/8/2023 (Permalink)

Standing water in your basement? DO NOT DELAY - call SERVPRO right away!

SERVPRO Cleans Basement Flood Damage in Benton County and Linn County.

Benton and Linn County homeowners may be aware of the risks basements face when it comes to flooding, but they may be surprised to know that only 2% of basements never experience flood damage during their lifespan. While there are many preventive measures that you can take to minimize damage, when disaster strikes, it can be stressful and overwhelming to keep your family safe and salvage your home and belongings after it occurs. However, there is a team that can help. 

When Flood damage hits your basement, SERVPRO technicians are ready to bring fully-loaded trucks filled with cutting-edge equipment, EPA-registered biocides, and gas-powered generators to restore your home to a preloss condition. The Institute of Inspection Cleanup and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-accredited pros handle everything from extracting floodwaters, waste, and debris from your basement to making necessary structural repairs to your property. 

What to Maintain to Minimize Basement Floods

• Sealing tiles and foundation. Proper sealing is necessary to prevent water seepage and foundation damage.
• Proper downspout installation. If downspouts are too short, are clogged, or face the wrong way, floodwaters can quickly be redirected into your home through cracks in the basement. 
• Drain tiles. This is the drainage system built around your home, like a curtain drain.
• Clean gutters. Much like your downspouts, gutters need adequate care to prevent damage and clogs that can eventually lead to water pooling in the basement. 
• Sump pumps. Making sure your basement's drainage system is operational minimizes the risk of sewage backups and floodwater backing up into your home.

SERVPRO Restores Your Home

SERVPRO techs have the means to remove floodwaters, no matter how deep. Portable, back-mounted extractors, wet/dry vacuums, and mops are ideal for small-scale floods. Submersible, gas-powered pumps tackle floodwaters 2 inches or higher. Truck-mounted extraction systems remove large volumes of water: Anywhere from 60 gallons to well over 100 gallons of floodwater. After extraction, your basement can be sanitized with EPA-registered biocides and prepared for structural drying.

SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County provide mitigation service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. You can call (541) 745-2037 for reliable rapid-response service. 

Are you prepared for a storm?

6/8/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help make it like it never happened after the storm

Storms are inevitable in most places around the world, and as the seasons change here in the Willamette Valley, we can get hit hard. Altho we cannot change the weather, we can do our best to be prepared for an impending storm.

What you need to have to prepare for a strorm:

Canned goods and a manual can opener

Now everyone knows in a natural disaster that canned fruits, vegetables and even things like canned beans are a great food supply. They will last a long time and offer you the nutrients you need. 

However, opening a can without a can opener can be difficult and sometimes not possible. Make sure to add a can opener to your set so in a time of disaster you have access to canned goods. 

Batteries (big and small)

 One of the most important things you’re going to need in the event of al storm or hurricane is power and if you don’t have a generator, you’re going to be relying on batteries to get you through the day.

Not only are they going to be powering the flashlights you’re using to see at night, but they’re going to be powering other things as well that you’ll have to remember. For example, don’t forget to stock up on your hearing aid batteries if that’s one of the things you use.

Water

 The most important thing, and everybody pretty much knows this, is you want to have drinking water on hand but what most people do not really know: is how much do you need?

The American Red Cross recommends that you have one gallon, per person, per day in the event of a natural disaster. So that means a family of four, over five days is going to need 20 gallons of water.

Cash is King

 When the power is out, credit cards and ATMs are a no-go, so cash is a must have. Always keep a handy amount ready to go in case the storm fallout lasts longer than you anticipated, and you need to get more supplies or fill up your gas tank.

A list of Emergency Phone #s

Keep a list of emergency phone numbers pinned on your refrigerator. Do not forget to include SERVPRO of Benton and Linn County in that list! We can be there to help you recover after the storm.

How clean is your air?

6/8/2023 (Permalink)

Keeping your ducts clean help keep your employees healthier!

I didn’t know I should clean my air ducts!

It’s easy to forget that in our commercial spaces there is a cooling and heating system in the ceiling, or in the walls, that requires routine maintenance. Just as after a certain number of miles, your car requires a new air filter, your forced air system and ducts require attention also after a number of uses.

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends getting your air ducts cleaned every three to five years. However, how often you need it depends on where you are located. Some locations in the U.S. tend to be more damp, and/or have a higher level of particles (pollen, dust, mold spores, etc.) in the air. As well as, unfortunately, here in Oregon we have wildfires every year, that smoke and ash can clog up your air filtration and ducts at a much faster rate!

In addition to regular servicing, other times that you want to have those ducts cleaned are:

• If you see, or smell mold within the duct system, many people in the U.S. have mold allergies, which can make your business and home life difficult.
• You see or smell rodents within the duct system.
• If the ducts are covered in dirt and debris
• If you own pets that produce dander (which means cleaning the ducts more frequently)

In Benton & Linn Counties, we are amongst the top regions for airborn allergens. Keeping your ducts clean helps reduce the amount of allergens in your workspace. The energy savings are great as well! By keeping your ducts clean, it keeps your air system from having to work harder, using more energy, which ends up costing you more. Think of your heating and cooling system as the lungs of your office building - it takes the dirty air in, and breathes clean air out. Keeping you and your employees healthier.

When you are running a business, customers are your number one responsibility, so get those ducts checked out and know that SERVPRO® is always by your side!

Water Damage in Your Home

6/8/2023 (Permalink)

even a small leak can lead to big disasters

Coming home to a broken pipe under your sink and a flooded kitchen or bathroom floor? Discover your upstairs shower has been leaking for a while after it starts raining downstairs?? Drying your home after a water loss is important, and SERVPRO is here to help you every step of the way!

The top things 3 things to remember when dealing with a water loss are:

1. Know what kind of water loss it was: Clean water (CAT 1) = Pipe or rain water.

Gray water (CAT 2) = Toilet water, sink pipe.

Black Water (CAT 3) = Sewer water.

*CAT 2 and 3 are the most harmful to your family. The water is contaminated and can cause greater damage than mold. Seek help from a Professional if you suspect the water came from a contaminated source*

2. Make sure you investigate all the damage.
3. Establish proper air flow, and keep windows closed when drying.
4. CALL SERVPRO as soon as you notice water damage in your home!

Mold can grow quickly if the moisture is not addressed as soon as possible. SERVPRO® can help with drying out your home, we have the equipment to dry your home quickly and repair any damage. If your home is experiencing water damage, SERVPRO can fix it.

Rain or Shine, Call Our Line!

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

Storms can cause severe damage to your property, whether it's from high winds, flooding, or lightning strikes. At SERVPRO, we understand the devastating effects that storms can have on your home or business, and we are equipped to handle any storm-related disaster.

Our team of highly trained professionals is available 24/7 to provide emergency storm response services. We use state-of-the-art equipment to extract water, dry out affected areas, and restore your property to preloss condition quickly and efficiently.

One of the most common storm-related disasters is flooding. Flooding can occur due to heavy rains or rising water levels, and it can cause significant damage to your property. Our team has experience working with flood-damaged properties and uses advanced techniques to extract water, dry out affected areas, and prevent further damage from occurring.

Storms can also cause damage from fallen trees and debris. Our team can quickly remove debris and assess the damage to your property. We will work with you every step of the way to develop a customized plan tailored to your specific needs and budget.

In addition to our restoration and cleanup services, we also offer storm preparedness services. We can help you develop a plan to protect your property from future storms, including preparing your roof and gutters, securing loose items, and creating a disaster kit.

At SERVPRO, we believe that communication is key to a successful storm restoration and cleanup process. We will keep you informed every step of the way and work closely with you to ensure that your property is restored to preloss condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Contact us today for more information on our storm restoration and cleanup services, and let us help you get your property back to preloss condition.

Kitchen Leak? Call SERVPRO!

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with a kitchen leak can be a frustrating and stressful experience. Water damage can cause structural damage to your home, lead to mold growth, and even impact your health. If you are in need of assistance with a kitchen leak, you may be wondering which restoration company to choose. One excellent option is SERVPRO. 

One of the most critical factors when it comes to water damage restoration is response time. The longer you wait to address the issue, the more damage can occur. SERVPRO understands the importance of rapid response time. They offer 24/7 emergency service, so you can rest assured that help will be on the way when you need it most.

SERVPRO has the experience and expertise necessary to handle any size disaster, including kitchen leaks. They use advanced equipment and techniques to quickly and efficiently restore your home to its pre-damage condition.

When it comes to water damage restoration, there is more to consider than just drying out the affected area. SERVPRO offers comprehensive services to ensure that every aspect of the restoration process is taken care of. They can handle everything from water extraction to mold remediation and even reconstruction if necessary.

SERVPRO has a proven track record of success. They have restored countless homes and businesses that have suffered from water damage, including kitchen leaks. You can trust that they will do everything in their power to get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.

Finally, SERVPRO is known for providing excellent customer service. They understand that dealing with water damage can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. They will work closely with you every step of the way to ensure that your questions are answered and that you are satisfied with the restoration process.

Contact SERVPRO today to learn more about how they can help you get your home back to normal after a kitchen leak.

Mold: The Unwanted Guest in Your Home

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

Mold growth is a common problem that many homeowners face. Not only is it unsightly and can cause damage to your property, but it can also be hazardous to your health.

If you have discovered mold in your home, call SERVPRO! 

One of the most critical factors when it comes to mold remediation is response time. The longer you wait to address the issue, the more extensive the mold growth can become!

Mold remediation is a complex process that requires specialized training and expertise. SERVPRO's professionals are trained and certified in mold remediation and removal. They use advanced equipment and techniques to identify and remove mold from your home, ensuring that it is done safely and effectively. They can handle everything from air quality testing to containment, mold removal, and even reconstruction if necessary.

SERVPRO has a proven track record of success in mold remediation. They have restored countless homes and businesses that have suffered from mold growth.

Contact SERVPRO today to learn more about how they can help you get your home back to a safe and healthy state after mold growth.

Addressing a Toilet Leak: Tips and Advice from SERVPRO

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

A toilet leak is a common problem that can cause a significant amount of damage to your home if left unaddressed. Not only can it create a mess and unpleasant odors, but it can also lead to mold growth and structural damage. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to identify and address a toilet leak, and SERVPRO is here to help.

The first step in addressing a toilet leak is identifying that you have one. Some common signs of a toilet leak include:

1. Water around the base of the toilet: If you notice water pooling around the base of your toilet, it is a clear indication that there is a leak.

2. Damp or discolored flooring: If the flooring around your toilet is damp or discolored, it is a sign that water has been seeping into the area.

3. A musty odor: A musty odor coming from your bathroom is a sign that there is moisture present, which could be caused by a toilet leak.

4. An increase in your water bill: If you notice an unexpected increase in your water bill, it could be due to a leaky toilet.

If you suspect that you have a toilet leak, it is important to address it promptly to minimize damage to your home. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Turn off the water supply: The first step in addressing a toilet leak is to turn off the water supply to the toilet. This will help prevent further damage and give you time to address the issue.

2. Identify the source of the leak: Once the water supply is turned off, identify the source of the leak. It could be a damaged wax ring, a cracked toilet bowl, or a faulty fill valve.

3. Repair or replace the damaged parts: Depending on the source of the leak, you may need to repair or replace the damaged parts. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, it is best to hire a professional plumber.

4. Clean up the water: If there is water on the floor, use towels or a wet/dry vacuum to clean it up. It is important to thoroughly dry the area to prevent mold growth.

5. Monitor the area: After you have addressed the toilet leak, monitor the area for any signs of further damage. If you notice any issues, such as mold growth or water damage, contact SERVPRO for professional cleanup and restoration services.

Preventing a toilet leak is easier than dealing with one. Here are some tips to help you prevent a toilet leak in your home:

1. Regularly inspect your toilet: Inspect your toilet regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or leaks. If you notice any issues, address them promptly.

2. Avoid flushing non-flushable items: Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. Avoid flushing items like baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, and cotton swabs, as they can clog your pipes and cause leaks.

3. Replace old toilet parts: Over time, the parts in your toilet can wear out and become damaged, leading to leaks. Consider replacing old parts, such as the fill valve or flapper, before they cause a problem.

4. Hire a professional plumber: If you are not comfortable inspecting or repairing your toilet, hire a professional plumber to do the job. They can help identify and address any issues before they cause damage to your home.

If you suspect that you have a toilet leak, it is important to address it promptly to minimize damage. With these tips and the help of SERVPRO, you can identify, address, and prevent toilet leaks.

Why Choose SERVPRO for General Cleaning: Experience, Expertise, and Comprehensive Solutions

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

Maintaining a clean and healthy environment is important for both residential and commercial spaces. A clean environment not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a space but also keeps the inhabitants safe from various health hazards. When it comes to professional cleaning services, SERVPRO is a name that has been providing top-notch services for more than 50 years.

1. Experience and Expertise: SERVPRO has been in the cleaning business for over 50 years, and during this time, they have gained extensive experience in handling all types of cleaning needs. They have a team of experts who have undergone rigorous training to ensure that they provide the best cleaning services to their clients. The company is equipped with the latest technology, tools, and cleaning products to ensure that their clients receive high-quality cleaning services.

2. Comprehensive Cleaning Solutions: SERVPRO offers a wide range of cleaning services, including carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, air duct cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, and more. They also provide emergency cleaning services to handle unexpected situations such as water damage, fire damage, and mold remediation. Their comprehensive cleaning solutions ensure that their clients receive all the cleaning services they need from one reliable source.

3. Customizable Cleaning Plans: Every client has different cleaning needs, and SERVPRO understands this. They offer customizable cleaning plans to meet the unique needs of each client. Their team of experts will work with the client to develop a plan that fits their specific requirements and budget.

4. High-Quality Standards: SERVPRO follows strict quality standards in all their cleaning services. They use only the best cleaning products and techniques to ensure that their clients receive high-quality cleaning services. Their attention to detail ensures that no corner is left uncleaned, and every surface is thoroughly cleaned.

5. Green Cleaning: SERVPRO is committed to using environmentally friendly cleaning products and techniques. They use products that are safe for the environment and do not pose a threat to human health. Their green cleaning solutions ensure that the clients' spaces are not only clean but also safe for the inhabitants and the environment.

SERVPRO is a reliable and trustworthy choice for general cleaning services. Their extensive experience, comprehensive cleaning solutions, customizable plans, high-quality standards, and green cleaning solutions make them stand out from the competition. So, if you are looking for a professional cleaning service provider, SERVPRO should be your top choice. 

Fire in the Hole!

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

Home Fire Devastation!

At SERVPRO, we are committed to providing efficient and safe cleanup services in the event of a disaster, especially when it comes to fire damage. Recently, during a home fire cleanup, our team leader discovered a grenade on the site, and he immediately pulled the crew off the site for safety reasons.

Our team leader took the necessary steps to contact the homeowners and the appropriate officials to reassess the location and ensure that it was safe for our team to resume work. We understand that our team's safety is of utmost importance, and we do not compromise on it, no matter how big or small the job is.

At SERVPRO, we have a team of highly trained professionals who are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to ensure efficient and safe cleanup. We understand that disasters can be traumatic for homeowners, and that is why we take every necessary step to ensure that the cleanup process is as smooth and safe as possible.

Our commitment to safety has been ingrained in our company culture since our inception. We believe in providing quality services while ensuring that our employees and clients are safe. We take pride in our work and are committed to ensuring that every job is done to perfection.

SERVPRO Weathers the Storm with You!

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, we're here to help!

Storms can cause severe damage to your property, whether it's from high winds, flooding, or lightning strikes. At SERVPRO, we understand the devastating effects that storms can have on your home or business, and we are equipped to handle any storm-related disaster.

Our team of highly trained professionals is available 24/7 to provide emergency storm response services. We use state-of-the-art equipment to extract water, dry out affected areas, and restore your property to preloss condition quickly and efficiently.

One of the most common storm-related disasters is flooding. Flooding can occur due to heavy rains or rising water levels, and it can cause significant damage to your property. Our team has experience working with flood-damaged properties and uses advanced techniques to extract water, dry out affected areas, and prevent further damage from occurring.

Storms can also cause damage from fallen trees and debris. Our team can quickly remove debris and assess the damage to your property. We will work with you every step of the way to develop a customized plan tailored to your specific needs and budget.

In addition to our restoration and cleanup services, we also offer storm preparedness services. We can help you develop a plan to protect your property from future storms, including preparing your roof and gutters, securing loose items, and creating a disaster kit.

At SERVPRO, we believe that communication is key to a successful storm restoration and cleanup process. We will keep you informed every step of the way and work closely with you to ensure that your property is restored to preloss condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Contact us today for more information on our storm restoration and cleanup services, and let us help you get your property back to preloss condition.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

Choose SERVPRO!

As a new employee at SERVPRO, I am proud to be a part of a company that provides top-notch services when it comes to restoration and cleaning. We specialize in disaster recovery services such as water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, and biohazard cleanup. Our commitment to quality collaboration, being a family-owned business, and providing great benefits make SERVPRO the go-to company when it comes to disaster recovery.

At SERVPRO, we believe in teamwork, and that is why we work closely with our clients to ensure that their needs are met. We have a team of highly trained professionals who work tirelessly to ensure that every job is done to perfection. We have state-of-the-art equipment that ensures efficient and effective cleanup, restoration, and repair. We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality services, and we achieve this by working tirelessly to restore your livelihood like the disaster never happened.

At SERVPRO, we believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and that is why we provide them with great benefits. We offer dental, medical, and vision benefits to our employees, ensuring that their health needs are taken care of. We also provide our employees with opportunities for growth and development through training and career advancement programs. Our employees are an integral part of our success, and we strive to create a work environment that is supportive and fulfilling.

SERVPRO is the best company to work with in the event of a disaster involving water, fire, and biohazards. Our commitment to quality collaboration, being a family-owned business, and providing great benefits to our employees make us stand out from the rest. We believe in treating every client like family, and that is why we go above and beyond to ensure that every job is done to perfection. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you in the event of a disaster.

Why SERVPRO? We answer our Phone!

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

Where has customer service gone? SERVPRO has never lost it.

Do you ever feel like customer service is a dying art? I’m not just talking about waiting on the phone for 45 minutes trying to get through the “automated system” and talk to an actual human being, I’m talking about human interactions with businesses that make you want to return to that business and recommend that business to friends and family who inquire.

In the restoration industry, word of mouth and return customers mean the world to us. It’s not only the confidence in knowing that we cared for them the right way the first time, but it’s a customer entrusting us to care for them again…that is what really reassures us that we are doing a good job.

So, when did customer service start to be less important? When did people stop caring so much about the entire experience the customer is having and look at them as someone who they are obligated to “Take care of” or “Help” I think many customer service skills have become less important due to more and more interaction via the internet and remotely working.

At SERVPRO, we cannot do Fire Restoration, Water Restoration, Mold Remediation, and Bio-Hazard Clean-up from a remote location. We have had to stay front and center in people's lives, always, even though a pandemic. We are very much a hands-on company, both literally and figuratively.

What we hope to hear as a small business serving the Willamette Valley, is that our customers had a good experience with our services. Because when we come into a home or business that has experienced a loss, we want to leave our customers in a better mood than we found them in…at every single visit.

Back Draft, Not Just a Movie!

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

One of the biggest warning signs of a possible backdraft is black smoke.

Do you know what a backdraft is?

You may know what it is, or what it looks like, but do you know what causes it?

We have all seen the movie, whether you loved it or not…you remember the epic scene at the end.

Here is a great overview of what backdraft is from Wikipedia: A backdraft (North American English) or backdraught (British English) is the abrupt burning of superheated gasses in a fire, caused when oxygen rapidly enters a hot, oxygen-depleted environment; for example, when a window or door to an enclosed space is opened or broken.

Firefighters are taught to recognize backdraft conditions, due to space fire is contained in, smoke emitting from the fire (how dark is it? How fast is the fire burning?), no visible flame (fires often suffocate in this stage of burning due to lack of oxygen), the biggest sign I think of is the sudden movement of air inward when an opening to the affected space is finally made.

You can learn about all the signs of backdraft more here: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/blog/cb-051920.html

Water Damage can Displace a Family!

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

One of the things we at SERVPRO have seen repeatedly is a water loss displacing a family. This can be due to several factors, but it is always extremely difficult on the family to be displaced from their home while dealing with a traumatic water loss.
One of the main reasons homeowners have to find temporary housing outside of their homes is due to no bathroom being usable in the current house due to a water loss. When a water loss happens in a 1-bathroom home and the flooring and the toilet need to be removed, it is cause for displacement of the homeowners due to the lack of usable facilities at the home.
Another reason that homeowners are displaced is when a kitchen water loss happens, sometimes the cabinets, stove, fridge, and flooring need to be removed in order to effectively dry the area. A house with no usable kitchen is a common cause of customers finding temporary housing outside of their home.
Unsafe living environments. Unsafe living environments can mean a few different things, the first and most common is mold infestation. Homeowners are sometimes temporarily displaced due to mold that needs to be remediated that has been uncovered/discovered during a water loss. Sometimes the extent of the mold infestation warrants the homeowners to relocate until the mold can be safely and effectively remediated.
Inconvenience. Sometimes homeowners relocate due to the large inconvenience that comes with a water loss. Sometimes flooring, ceiling, walls, and personal belongings are affected due to a water loss. Homeowners may not want to deal with the noises of dehumidifiers, air movers, and the noise that comes with the demo and reconstruction needed at times during a water job, and therefor opt to relocate until the water loss and reconstruction has been finished.
Odor in the home from the water loss. Sometimes water losses can cause odors to emit from the materials that they affect. Sometimes water losses are also from drain lines or sewer lines that cause a strong odor to be present until they are cleaned and dried. Homeowners are often displaced temporarily due to odors.
So the reasons vary for homeowners to vacate during a water loss, but it is much more frequent than you would expect. Depending on the location and the extent of a water damage, homeowners can be displaced for days or months at a time.

Flooding Caused by Storm Drains!

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

When the rain gets heavy, the standing water can build where it shouldn't!

We have had record calls from homeowners and businesses this past year about standing water in their parking lots, and overflowed storm drains.

Many times this can happen due to debris being built up in the drain filter. Cleaning it out is hard physical labor, but regularly necessary. 

Also, sometimes storm drains simply cannot keep up with heavy rainfalls and downpours. If you notice a storm drain in your town that is flooded and not draining properly, you can reach out to your local public works department at the city and report the problem.

If the storm drain is located on your private property you are responsible for servicing the storm drain yourself. Most likely it is a build up of debris in the upper portion of the drain filter, but sometimes it is a failure of the line that runs undergroud. the later is a much more significant cost to fix.

Plumbers have specialty equipment to clear drains. SERVPRO has provided such services, but if the problem is more than a clogged drain filter, a plumber and excavator company will most likely be needed. 

You can check your storm drains with a flashlight periodically when they are free of standing water and see if you can spy any clogging or build-up of leaves and rubbish that is preventing the drain from working optimally.

SERVPRO unclogged our own parking lot storm drain this past year, it was due to leaves and branches and dirt build-up. Often times it can clog very suddenly. So best to inspect seasonally if possible. 

Water Damage to a Kitchen Can be Costly!

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

When we think about the kitchen in a home we think about cooking, food, dishes, and appliances.

Often these days we also think about the finishes in the kitchen. It’s fairly common for counters to be made of Quartz, Marble, or Granite. Also, cabinets have become more costly in the last decade, and even more costly in the last year with the lumber prices skyrocketing. Often the thing people splurge on is the appliances in a kitchen, which can run anywhere from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

The average cost of a kitchen renovation today in America is $22,184 dollars. Or roughly $150 dollars per square foot! This makes the kitchen the most expensive square footage in your home. With bathrooms only coming in at $18,000 (Master Bath, much less for guest bath).

So taking all the costs into account, it’s easy to understand how a customer can be very upset when we arrive onsite at a water loss in a kitchen. Many times water losses in kitchens means we have to take out all flooring and cabinets to dry the underpayment (and sometimes subfloor!) Most of the time water losses in kitchens are due to dishwashers, refrigerators, insta-hot devices, and freezers. Sometimes kitchen losses are due to an adjoining laundry room having a water loss from the washer.

This is why our SERVPRO technicians will try and dry wooden floors in place if possible. It saves the homeowner time without a kitchen if it can be achieved, and also many times saves the customer from having to file a costly claim with their homeowner's insurance.

If the water is contaminated, that is another situation entirely, and SERVPRO always recommends that the flooring be removed and replaced if saturated beneath the surface area.

How Hot is Too Hot?

2/1/2023 (Permalink)

Drywall that has been affected by the severe heat of a house-fire.

How hot is Scorching?
Did you know that “Scorching Hot” is slang?
There is indeed no clear cut answer to what temperature is considered Scorching.
It can be defined as a temperature that can burn you if you come in contact with it (like a hot pan on the stove), or a weather temperature that humans are uncomfortable being outside in for any period of time.
Have you ever seen a picture of heat affected drywall taken after a house fire? That is what comes to mind when I think of scorching.
Weird things happen when drywall has gotten so hot, it has almost caught fire…Drywall in this condition is usually black and the paint/sealant on the drywall is bubbling. Drywall and the minerals that make drywall start to damage at around 175 degrees F, drywall can spontaneously catch fire at 350 degrees F.
There is such a great heat fluctuation in house fires that at floor level it may be 100 degrees F (which is why humans are told to get low or crawl in the case of a fire), at ceiling height it can easily reach 1500 degrees F. No human can survive in that type of heat. In fact, the hottest temperature humans can withstand (short-term) is 248 degrees F.
Our human bodies are made up of water and other elements that heat can affect severely.
It’s a delicate balance to keep our bodies at an optimal temperature. Even if our internal temperature fluctuates a few degrees our bodies respond with flu-like symptoms.
Fire safety is so important. Many fires can engulf and destroy entire houses in a matter of minutes. With each changing season check your smoke alarms, have an exit plan, and educate your family and loved ones on the importance of fire safety.

Total Loss House Fire!

2/1/2023 (Permalink)

Total Loss House Fire

Anytime a fire strikes, its devastating!

Most homeowners never really expect a fire damage to their own property. This Dallas, Oregon home experienced a fire damage to their home and vehicle.

In all instances of home and business fires, the most important thing to do is to keep, people safe first. 

The initial urge to run back in to grab a few things could cause harm to you and others who follow in after you.

Please exit the structure immediately and dial "9-1-1"

Your life and those you love is more important than any possession you have. It can all be replaced.

When you need help cleaning up the mess, please call us anytime, day or night. We're always here- to help. Give us a call here at SERVPRO 541-745-2097.

Condensation from Water

1/18/2023 (Permalink)

Condensation from a AC Unit can Cause damage!

Water- ekkk! 

The discovery of wet feet while strolling through your home is always a unwelcomed shock. Typically the kitchen, bathroom or wash room is where you will find this.

As it starts to warm up, many are turning on their air conditioning units. They do not think that this could be a source of a water loss. However it is, the water condensation from these systems can wreak havoc and cause a major water loss. We here at SERVPRO see this annually.

Here are some tips to draining your air conditioner.

1. Turn off the power to your HVAC system at the thermostat and at the breaker.

2. If you have an indoor air handler in your attic or utility closet, you'll need to find the condensate pan. This is usually located directly under the unit. It may also be covered by a removable access panel.

3. If you see standing water in the drain pan, your drain line is probably clogged. Use a handheld or shop vacuum to remove the moisture. You can also use rags to soak up the water. At this point, you can clean the drain pan with soap.

4. Generally, clogged drains can be cleared with suction. If you have a shop vacuum, use it to pull the clog through the drain opening, which is located outside your house near the foundation. Place your hand around the pipe to improve suction and allow the vacuum to run for a minute. Then, check the vacuum canister to see if the clog was successfully removed.

5. Next, you'll need to identify the access point on the drain line. Usually, the drain will have a T-shaped vent with a PVC cover. Remove the cover and inspect the drain. Use this port to flush the drain with distilled vinegar. If you don't like the odor, you can use peroxide to gently bubble away the remaining debris. Alternately, you can use hot water and a drop of dish liquid.

6. Allow the solution to sit for 30 minutes. Complete the cleaning by flushing the pipe with water. Have a helper watch the pipe outside and tell you if the water is running freely.

Local Storms Knock Down Trees!

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

Attic is affect by tree puncturing through!

Trees were hit hard this past February...when the Ice Storm hit Salem and the surrounding areas hard. Most people with vegetation on their land lost trees, if not to the wind, to the broken branches and trucks giving up due to the heavy weight of the ice pulling them down.

SERVPRO responded to loss here in Salem, that had the occupants still living there, but they had a tree on their roof…in one place, they had part of the tree through the roof. It punctured through the shingles and plywood without any trouble at all. The shear force of the tree smashing through the roof was shocking. The homeowners described it as “Louder than anything they had ever heard” and “Scary”. The water intruded through the broken roof, down through the insulation, saturated the beams and back of the drywall on the ceiling and finally ran down the interior walls in the family room.

The water made its way through the attic, the family room, and finally ended in the garage. The wall in the family room was paneled and painted…the water warped the paneling beyond repair and the paneling and drywall in the family room had to be replaced. The garage also had part of the drywall of the ceiling removed to treat/dry behind.

Overall, most of the damage was secluded to the roof, family room, and garage. Once we got the non-salvageable materials removed and dry, it was just finishing touches from there. As you can imagine, we had to wait until the roof was secured/not leaking before we did any work. Throughout this time, we stayed in touch with the customer, the insurance, and the vendors involved. This home had good insurance in place that covered the losses due to the storm. If you haven’t checked up on what your policy covers, ask for a review with your agent. Going into a storm and dealing with damage from a storm is much more manageable when you know how the process goes, and what you are covered for.

Below is a press release issued by oregon.gov and includes insurance tips for ice storms/winter storms.

Oregon.gov provides insurance tips after Ice Storm

What are secondary damages in Water Restoration?

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

Here to Help at any Hour!

What are secondary damages in Water Restoration?

Water damages that are left unmitigated quickly develop secondary damages. The most common secondary damage is mold growth. Mold growth can begin as soon as 3 days following a water loss. It’s extremely crucial for homeowners and business owners to get water damages properly mitigated as soon as they happen, because most insurance policies have zero mold coverage/secondary damages coverage.

Another secondary damage is dry rot. Dry rot is what happens when spores in the air combine with wood that is holding more than 20% moisture, so it’s most likely when the structural integrity of the wood is compromised due to prolonged exposure to water. Dry rot can affect the foundation of your home and present very expensive repairs.

Unmitigated water damage also can encourage rodent infestations. Many times, even in brand new buildings, one small supply line leak can cause mice to occupy the structure. Rodents follow water and will go where there is a steady supply. Rodents can also more easily chew through affected drywall and wood.

Corrosion is also a clear sign that a water damage has been going on longer than it should have. With metals like pipes and nails, if there is rust or corrosion buildup that is an indication that coverage may not be a guarantee on your insurance claim.

Bottom line, if your home or business suffers a water damage, it’s important that you take immediate action and call a restoration company like SERVPRO of Salem West to mitigate the damage and prevent further issues. It may be an expense to mitigate a water loss, but it’s far more affordable than paying for secondary damages!!

Unexpected Commercial Building Damages

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

Open 24-7 365 Days a Year!

Late at night, you may be the last one in the office…it’s quiet, it dark outside, and you begin to tidy up your desk to head home. Only when you turn off the faint noise of your 80’s music playing on your laptop do you hear it, you hear something…It sounds like a water fountain. Only you know that your office doesn’t’ have one of those…hmmm…you make the decision that each doomed horror movie expendable character makes, and you start to look and see what the noise is.

As you get closer to the source of the noise, your shoes begin squishing on the carpet below…you look down and realize you’ve walked into puddles of water. You round the corner in the hall and find the culprit!! A single solitary sprinkler head spraying water in an awkward fashion onto the floor and surrounding walls. You don’t know what to do?? You worked late, and it’s now after business hours. You try to reach out to your boss, no response. You think of what to do next, and you remember the facilities man that was in to fix the overhead lights last month. You rush to the company call list and find his name and title. You try calling the manager of facilities. He picks up right away.

When you tell the facilities manager what is happening, he instructs you to turn off the water. As he walks you through how to find the shutoff switch and how to turn it off, he says he will reach out to a contact he has within the community. Someone who deals with water damages like this all the time.

You let out a sigh of relief as the water stops flowing from the sprinkler head. A moment later, your phone rings and a SERVPRO technician gives you their ETA.

Shortly after you notice a bright green van pull up outside and several team members pile out and enter the building. They greet you, their hands full of what appear to be large green machines, with hoses and vacuum heads. Some of the other team members are carrying what appears to be large green fans.

After going over the process with you and confirming they have received the facilities managers signature to move forward, they get to work.

Like a well oiled machine they move throughout the soaked space, assessing damage, and extracting water where needed. A little while passes and the facilities manager shows up, he informs you that you can leave and head home now. He also said you did a great job calling him right away.

As you leave you feel relieved and yet a bit of adrenaline still courses through your body…it has been an exciting evening. Who ever knew companies like SERVPRO existed?

Storms in the PNW!

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

We are here to help and make it like it never happened!

Here in the Pacific Northwest we see a lot of rain, however strong winds and rains that cause major damage to homes and businesses are not as frequent. Overall, this is great for our us, our homes and our businesses. What we don’t focus on, or tend to forget about, is being prepared for a storm.
A heavy storm can wreck havoc. Structures, whether it business or residential, don’t stand a chance against heavy rains and winds that can take shingles off of roofs.
We see more losses during unusually heavy rainstorms than we usually see within a 24 hour period. Most of the losses we see are from flooded basements, leaky roofing, and fallen trees onto structures. Sometimes even storm drains can’t keep up with heavy flowing water, and the drains back up into yards, houses, streets, and businesses.
We need to consider what we will do if a large storm hits? Do we have supplies if the electricity goes out? How will we stay warm or cool if the electricity stays out for an extended period? Do we have enough fresh water and non-perishable food on hand if traveling isn’t advised?
If storms do hit your home or business and you need help remediating the loss and cleaning up the debris and water, call SERVPRO of Salem West. We are available 24 hours a day to help you in the occurrence of storm damage.

Commercial Properties Experience Loss

12/3/2022 (Permalink)

Weather Can Cause Major Damage to Commercial Buildings!

Last winter we experienced a large loss Commercial building water and fire loss. This was during our deep freeze in our area. Our area was without power for over five days. The power line had frozen and snapped causing an electrical fire in the electrical box, on the third floor of a medical building. In addition to the fire in, all of the sprinklers were set off on three levels of the buildings, causing water damage to every part of the commercial building. The PSI limit on commercial sprinklers is set to let off a min of 20,000 gallons of water a minute. 

Our teams had to act fast and get mitigation going quickly to eliminate any additional secondary issue, growth. 

We here at SERVPRO were able to prevent any additional damages and protect the integrity of the building and items inside.

Fire or Water Loss? Call SERVPRO, we are faster to any disaster.

Fire Damage, We're Here to Help!

12/3/2022 (Permalink)

Overloaded Plugins Can Spark a Fire!

Tis the Holidays and up goes all the wonderful lights of the joyous season. This is the time of year when we have multiple types of fires. Electrical and heat source fires are our most common. With electrical we find folks plugging space heaters into power sources that are not strong enough, so they get hot, smolder and catch fire. Lights on Christmas trees are another source of fires, trees that are not water routinely can become dry and the lights can get hot and cause a fire. Outside power cord that are not protect from weather elements can also spark and create a fire. Power surge protectors can help prevent a fire. Open fireplaces without proper roll protection are too another fire hazard. 

With all the excitement of the holidays it is often easy to forget and overlook the simple items that could be so potentially hazardous. Take the extra time needed to ensure as is safe this holiday season! 

Happy Holidays from SERVPRO!

Biohazard Awareness

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

Homelessness Clean Up Done by Our Crews!

Over the past years we have seen a steady incline of homelessness. This has forced folks to live on the streets, without adequate facilities for cleanliness or a restroom. One of our specialties here at SERVPRO is Biohazard removal. Our crews are called out daily to clean up feces from folks defecating on public right of ways as well as businesses buildings. This is a biohazard, and our teams are trained and well protected to handle the cleanup and removal of feces. Outside of feces we often find other biohazards such as needles. We properly handle and discard these needles as they too contain biohazard. We here at SERVPRO have steps that we take to ensure the safety of all. If you are experiencing a biohazard, reach out! We are always here to help! 

Did you Know?

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

Dustpan Filled with Grease Removed from a Commercial Kitchen Clean!

Did you know?

Many folks are not aware of our building services we offer outside of our emergency fire and water services. Here at SERVPRO we have services for all building types, that include:

Duct Cleaning

Floor Cleaning

Carpet Cleaning

Janitorial Cleaning

Biohazard Cleaning

Removal of Odors 

Deep Cleaning Services for Grease Removal 

Upholstery Cleaning 

Commercial Kitchen Cleaning

Covid Cleaning

All of our services are Certified Cleaned! 

In addition to building services, we offer an emergency readiness preparedness service for building owners. This includes us completing a full analysis of your building and putting together a booklet advising off all your emergency shut off values for gas and water as well as all your emergency contacts in case there is a disaster.  

There is no cost for this program. Contact us for your free review!

Winter is Coming!

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

PNW Winter Outlook 2022-2023!

It is that time of year where we all start to ponder what winter will look like here in the PNW. 

Forcasters believe we will have our third year of La Nina.

What is La Nina? The La Nina phase tends to turn our weather cooler and wetter in the Pacific Northwest across the winter months. Frigid, deep ocean waters surface in the eastern Pacific and cause the polar jet stream to push north, bringing a parade of strong storms into the Pacific Northwest. La Nina winters can easily set the stage for snow events.

So, in preparation and protection. Folks should plan early to protect from possible winter storm damage. 

Weatherize your home! Cap outside water spickets, open your cabinets in your home to help heat keep your pipes warm, leave a drip stream running from your facet nightly to keep water flow through your pipes. 

If you do experience a busted water pipe due to frozen pipes, call us!  

Individual Cleaning Standards: What is Clean?

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

I think it’s important to note that everyone has different standards of clean. I met a man once who said he kept his home meticulously clean…and he was half right. His home was very clean, in the sense that it was clean of disorganization and clutter. But there was dust covering all horizontal surfaces within the home. So is clean “organization”? Or is clean “free from contamination & dust?” The answer is the later. If a space is well organized, it can still be filthy. But a “messy” house, with toys, books, clothes, and clutter everywhere…can be completely clean!

So how clean is your home? Most spaces appear clean until more detailed inspections take place. SERVPRO keeps our standard of clean as “Sparkling, dust free, sanitary, organized” organization matters when it comes to keeping a clean home. It’s also easier to maintain a clean home if it isn’t constantly covered with clutter. But it is interesting to note, that a space can appear messy as can be, but be completely clean.

Regular and proper cleaning is good for indoor air quality and health. Keeping the dust at bay is good for people with lung conditions such as mesothelioma and asthma. Airing out your home is very important, especially if you have no central air. Moving stale air out of a space, and inviting fresh air into the space, can give your house a crisp and fresh feel.

As spring is coming to an end, many of us are feeling the push to finish (or start) our spring cleaning list. So here are some tips on keeping your house clean, organized, and full of fresh air!).

-Make the beds daily (and keep bedding laundered weekly)

-Do laundry as it accumulates, don’t save all the laundry for one day of the week

-prioritize chores and tasks (dishes are more important right now than organizing the bookshelf)

-Be happy with 80% clean, if you get your home to 80/20 you are doing a pretty good job! Try not to obsess over the details and look at it as a 100% or nothing scenario.

-Declutter! Haven’t used it in the last 12 months and aren’t planning on using it in the next 12? Donate or throw out or sell that stuff!

-vacuum every day (or every other day if carpet is not a heavily trafficked area).

-sort and recycle paper ASAP! (Mail, magazines, bills, etc)

-Use doormats!

-Keep a cleaning schedule (Tuesday bathrooms get deep cleaned, Wednesday is dusting, etc)

-Try to wash dishes right after meals, and keep counters clean by the end of the day!

-Do a 15minute pick-up/organize routine at the end of each day!

-Air out your house often when the weather is clear and air quality outside is good.

Happy Cleaning!!

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

There’s never a convenient time for flooding or water damage to strike your business. 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.

• 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 has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion. Learn more about Learn more about our training and certifications..

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician

Mold, Mold, Mold!

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can happen to anyone at any time, in their home or business. Mold can be in places you never go, like in your attic or even in places you go often, like your bathroom. 

It’s best to get things checked out after being saturated, wet or exposed to moisture to look for mold growth. Mold is almost always a problem before it is even discovered and can start to grow after 24 to 48 hours.

SERVPRO  is here 24/7/365 to inspect, clean, treat, and remove mold. SERVPRO also handles water damage the right way, the first time, to make sure everything gets properly dried and treated to prevent mold.

If you suspect mold in your home or business, or have any kind of water damage, it can lead to having mold so call SERVPRO

House Fire Smoke...How Dangerous Is It?

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

“They say it’s the smoke that will get ya” I cannot recall the first time I heard that term, but it took me awhile to understand what it truly means. Here in Oregon we are exposed to smoke often, we have cookouts, we BBQ, we have campfires, we have burn piles when conditions allow, and all of us know what it’s like smelling like a campfire on a summer night.
You may ask what the difference is between campfire smoke and house fire smoke? The answer may surprise you, because both are very dangerous to the human lung. Campfire smoke is carcinogenic.
In fact, The environmental protection association finds that smoke from wood burning is 12 times more carcinogenic than smoke from cigarettes, and it stays in the human lungs and body up to 40 times longer!
The answer to why house fire and campfire smoke is so incredibly toxic and dangerous is simple. It is unfiltered. Particles and chemicals that have not been completely burned are inhaled and larger than any particle that even avid smokers lungs encounter.
When a house fire happens, the smoke is enclosed in a compact space, it is concentrated and can cause immediate acute respiratory effects.
The saying “Never go back inside a burning building” makes all the sense in the world when you think about it. You may rationalize, well the fire is in the bathroom upstairs, I can fetch something from the downstairs living room…in realty, if smoke is throughout the home, you need to remove yourself from the structure as soon as possible…and stay out.
House Fire safety and education is so important and can greatly increase your chances of surviving a house fire. The soot and residue that a house fire leaves behind is also a carcinogenic…even when the smoke has settled.
If you suffer the unfortunate occurrence of a fire to your home or business, entrust SERVPRO of Benton, Linn, Lincoln and Polk County to clean and repair the damage safely from the beginning.

Heart to Help!

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

We Have the Heart to Help!

SERVPRO representatives come from all types of back grounds, but all have the same focus on Why they choose SERVPRO and to work in this industry. They all have the heart to help.

What we do here at SERVPRO is more than restoring property damage. We assist our communities and work hand in hand with folks during their most tragic life happening event. 

Going through a major loss such as a house fire, back up of sewage, water loss or biohazard clean-up is a daunting process. Our team here at SERVPRO understands our expertise, the need of calmness and guidance. 

From commercial size scale of loss to the small leak in a home, all losses are the same to us.

When considering a mitigation company, choose SERVPRO, the folks with a heart to help!

Commercial Building Fire

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

Fireworks cause Fires, Practice Safety!!

On the 5^th of July in Albany Oregon, I stood in the rain just across from the courthouse downtown. I was waiting for my coworkers, who were putting in extra hours to come and help protect what was left of the once beautiful, historic commercial rental before me. Many neighbors came by to commiserate over the devastating damages. As the workday ended, Mayor Alex stopped by and expressed his empathetic sorrow for those now displaced by the fires rage, and we admired what was left of the original craftsmanship with heavy hearts. A fleet of SERVPRO vehicles began to arrive on the scene and Alex hurried off to go about doing important mayor things while my coworkers got started.

                There is a process here at SERVPRO for dealing with disasters. There are professionals who evaluate structural integrity, who remove the damage, who rebuild. In the very beginning, we work to secure the property so that no curious cats come to harm. We are well versed in the language of the insurance companies and their processes, and we work hard, efficiently, and very quickly to ensure that no liability will fall on the already burdened. We view this as an essential first response for any member of our community. We are here to help.

                 I’m sure that you have already guessed how such a large commercial rental building could have come to such a sad place in its long history. The giveaway is the date I suppose. You are right. Fireworks, that had even been watered down after their show, were left bagged up on the back porch. And Albany’s firemen watered all through the night, heroes that they are to save what they could. We’d like to take a moment to share with you how to properly dispose of your fireworks.

1)      Completely submerge your fireworks in a bucket of water.

2)      Allow them to soak overnight.

3)      Double wrap the soaked fireworks in plastic so they do not dry out 

Commercial Duct Cleaning

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

Duct Cleaning prevents Odors and Allergies!

Did you know that when your air ducts are dirty, they accumulate dust, pollen, mold and other debris? This means that when you turn on your HVAC system, you begin recirculating these pollutants into every room, and every lung in the building. Employees who become sick due to polluted or poor indoor air quality can cost businesses opportunities, profit and their reputation, and it’s worth noting for facility administrators that their company could face legal action if the occupants of their building become ill due to negligence. A healthy environment is a priority, at work or at home.

So, what can we do about it? Here at SERVPRO, we meet and strive to surpass industry standards set forth by the National Air Duct Cleaning Association (NADCA). A proper duct cleaning service allows compressors and fans to work at their peak operating competence which reduces energy consumption and improves the efficiency of the HVAC units. Humidity and compression can spread mold growth exponentially throughout your building, be it commercial or residential, so by cleaning the duct work you can prevent unwanted growth and help to keep the people inside, healthy. 

“How Soon Can You Get Here?”

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

During a disaster, SERVPRO realizes that response time is paramount at starting the job off right!

How fast can you get here?
That is one of the most popular questions we get asked as a emergency response company. Often the customer who is calling is distraught, in a panic, and the most important thing that they want to know is how fast we can be there to help them in their time of need.
SERVPRO has a reputation for being the fastest restoration company in the industry. We have set the bar higher than any other restoration company nationwide when it comes to responding to disasters and emergencies.
How fast we respond does have something to do with our location in relation to theirs. Also the availability of the nearest technician and equipment available. But all of these factors get added in to the emergency response timeline that we give the customer.
Let’s face it, when you are standing in the middle of your living room and it’s raining indoors due to an overflowed tub upstairs or a broken pipe, you aren’t worried about much else but getting your home or business stabilized as soon as possible.
So if you need fast response and trained professionals in hurry, call SERVPRO of Benton & Linn Counties. We can get you back to preloss condition, and make it "Like it never even happened."

Business Interruption Due To Disasters Is Costly!

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Interruption is a costly occurrence, especially for small business owners!
Most businesses that suffer losses and need restoration services communicate upfront that keeping their doors open to their customers is front and center when it comes to importance.
Commercial interruption is extremely costly, and SERVPRO works quickly and efficiently at mitigating how each loss is handled to lessen the headache of having to close a businesses doors to the public.
A disaster in your place of business is hard enough, but having to shutter your windows and bolt your doors to clients that are needing and wanting your services & goods is a gut punch.
SERVPRO responds to commercial/business losses with a mindset of how quickly and safely we can get the doors back open, with minimal interruption to business operations.
We have worked hand and hand with many business owners and commercial structures over the years and are trained in stabilizing a loss to prevent further damage, and providing a scope of work that is aggressive at fixing the problem so business owners and property managers can get the operations of the company rolling once more.
When it comes to caring about our customers concerns, we take nothing more seriously. The most important thing on each and every job is to make sure our customer feels prioritized, taken care of, and confident in their choice to hire us.
If your business or property has been affected by a disaster and you need help getting your doors back open to your customers and clients, call SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County.

Stormy Oregon Days Can Bring Unwelcome Losses

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

With spring showers and rainy days plentiful in the Willamette Valley, losses due to storms happen often. Storms bring about flooding, leaking from roofs, wind damage (needing board-ups) and sometimes water penetration into homes and businesses. Storm losses are category three losses for SERVPRO of Salem West. Category three losses are dark water/highly contaminated water. When it comes to servicing a loss due to storms, it is always considered a contaminated loss. This is due to the fact that storm water cannot be traced, and often flows through many different areas and environments before entering a home.
Wet/flooded basements often occur from storm losses, basement flooding and water intrusion during storms is something that SERVPRO of Salem West has seen many times over the years.
When dealing with a water loss due to storm water intrusion, our technicians are always required to follow safety regulations and always keep the customers wellbeing and safety in mind when stabilizing the loss. In contaminated cases, sanitization of areas needs to take place before air movement/drying come into play. Standing water must also be extracted and the source of the water intrusion needs to mediated/stopped before sanitization can begin.
SERVPRO of Salem West has been cleaning up after natural disasters/storms all over America since SERVPRO started. We pride ourselves on providing the best quality services during a storm event and returning your home or business to a safe, clean, and dry environment. If a storm has affected your home or business and left damages behind, call SERVPRO of Salem West, we are faster to any sized disaster!

FREEZE!

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

A freeze can leave widespread damage in it’s wake!

During a Ice Storm, many households lose power for long periods of time, in recent years longer than ever before. Hundreds were out of power for a week or more in the freeze of 2021 in the Willamette Valley. Generators became scarce, and people tried their best to start cleaning up their properties on their own.
What were the calls SERVPRO got more than any other you may ask? It was the calls from the homeowners with a flooded basement or trees falling onto their homes and structures. Flooded basements were largely due to the power outage and substantial moisture over the course of the storm. Many homes in the valley area have basements, and therefor have sump-pumps to keep that basement dry, but when the power goes out…electricity does not feed the sump pump and it becomes useless.
We saw home after home with finished basements buried in feet of storm water, we saw homeowners that carried the water out in buckets, that sucked up what they could with a shop vac, that went out as soon as the power flickered and bought a generator! It was the homeowners that took mitigation into their own hands that had the least amount of damage once SERVPRO arrived onsite. The homeowners that saw the water sitting in their basements for a week, were not so fortunate.
Insurance also came into play as an obstacle for many homeowners. So many policies only had a small amount of damage covered under sewer and drain. This caused some of our customers thousands of dollars and some large losses tens of thousands of dollars worth of uncovered damages.
We learned how to respond to dozens of jobs at once due to ice storms, and each home we encountered that had damages from the freeze we gained a whole new perspective on how unique and substantial the event was. It was a hectic and heart pounding time here at SERVPRO, but we got to help a lot of people through one of the most unexpected events of their lives, and we all learned a lot along the way.

Why SERVPRO is your best choice!

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

There is a reason that SERVPRO continually rates as the highest ranking restoration company in the nation. We are consistently elected the number one trusted restoration brand by consumers, and we pride ourselves on not only taking care of our customers, but taking care of our employees.

-We believe great customer service comes from happy employees. An employee that is unhappy at work, will not take as careful and caring steps during a disaster response.

-Making our workplace welcoming and fun is a top priority. SERVPRO wants to be a place that people want to work at, and can grow and achieve the success that they want at our company.

-Benefits and time off. SERVPRO offers both paid vacation, sick days, and offers medical and dental insurance coverage.

-We help people, every single day. Our company is best suited for those with a heart for service. We pride ourselves on the care and attention to detail with each loss we respond to.

-Learn valuable skills with on-the-job training. SERVPRO takes the time to train our technicians and employees so they feel confident in their skill set and have the correct methods to effectively handle a loss.

So whether you are someone with a heart of service, and you want to join a team that helps people every single day, or whether you are a property owner who has had a disaster strike their home or business, SERVPRO can help you find your way back to a fulfilling career, or a comfortable home.

Give us a call, we would love to be a part of your journey.

We are always open, always here to help, and always looking for fantastic people to work alongside us.

When Water Affects Commercial Properties

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

Helping Commercial Buildings Through The Water Loss Process Is One Of Our Specialties.

Businesses in the Willamette Valley have been through a lot over the last couple of years. We lost many small businesses here in Oregon due to the pandemic, and the forced closures and measures enforced and constantly updated on what it took to keep businesses open. Through this, we still responded to many water losses in commercial structures. Many caused by pipes, toilets, or even the drains in the floors.

Working with small businesses is a huge source of pride for SERVPRO. Helping a small business get back on its feet and reopen its doors after a water loss is a thrilling and fulfilling moment. At SERVPRO we understand the importance of time lost when a business cannot keep its doors open. Time is of the essence, and it helps that we are a 24 hour company with nationwide resources.

Upon arrival to a water loss at a business, one of the first things a SERVPRO Technician does it determine any safety hazards. They may ask the following questions;

-Is the water clean water? Or is it contaminated? This determines how much PPE our technicians will be required to wear.

-Has the electricity been turned off to the structure that is affected? If not, where is the electric shutoff?

-Has the source of the water been fixed? Or is the water still running? If the water is still running, where is the water shutoff?

-All water losses have slip hazards, our technicians need to be sure that our team is equipped with the proper foot attire. Flip-Flops are not appropriate.

-Each one of our technicians will ask the question “How can I stabilize this loss best?”  The stabilization of a loss is what it takes to stop any further water damage to the area. In most cases this starts with the removal/extraction of any surplus water from affected materials. It can also include the removal of materials that will not properly dry (carpet pad, insulation, warped laminate flooring, warped trim, etc.).

All of these questions set up a commercial loss response for being successful. Time is of the essence, so our SERVPRO Technician will want to start work right away after addressing any concerns the business owner may have.

Remember calling SERVPRO is the best choice you can make if your business suffers a water loss. We are truly “Faster to any Disaster!”

What Does SERVPRO Offer?

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

Let’s face it, this is an interesting line of work, Disaster Clean-Up & Restoration.

It’s not for everyone, squeezing into crawl spaces one day and responding to crime scene clean-ups the next.

I think the driving force for any employee who comes on at our franchises is an appreciation and drive for helping people.

Helping people is indeed something we do each and every single day at SERVPRO.

Also, the wide variety of services we specialize in can transfer across the board when it comes to this industry.

Someone may start at a water technician and find that they excel and enjoy being a part of the fire team more. We have employees find their passion in areas that they did not start in all the time.

In case you are curious about the kind of work we perform and the diverse services we are trained in, here is a list of our more common services:

-Water Mitigation

-Fire Restoration

-Mold Remediation

-Biohazard Clean-Up

-Crime Scene Clean-Up

-Carpet Cleaning

-Duct Cleaning

-Furniture & Contents Cleaning

-Document Drying, Recovery, and Restoration

-Reconstruction

-Complete Re-Builds

-Hazardous Materials Testing

-Commercial Large Loss

So if you are looking for a job that helps people each and every day consider joining our team of SERVPRO Heroes.

Storm Drains Can Clog Quickly!

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO technician is pictured standing in a flooded parking lot. A clogged storm drain was the culprit of this water issue!

When the rain gets heavy, standing water can build where it shouldn't!

We have had record calls from homeowners and businesses this past year about standing water in their parking lots, and overflowed storm drains.

Many times this can happen due to debris being built up in the drain filter. Cleaning it out is hard physical labor, but regularly necessary. 

Also, sometimes storm drains simply cannot keep up with heavy rainfalls and downpours. If you notice a storm drain in your town that is flooded and not draining properly, you can reach out to your local public works department at the city and report the problem.

If the storm drain is located on your private property you are responsible for servicing the storm drain yourself. Most likely it is a build up of debris in the upper portion of the drain filter, but sometimes it is a failure of the line that runs underground. the later is a much more significant cost to fix.

Plumbers have specialty equipment to clear drains. SERVPRO has provided such services, but if the problem is more than a clogged drain filter, a plumber and excavator company will most likely be needed. 

You can check your storm drains with a flashlight periodically when they are free of standing water and see if you can spy any clogging or build-up of leaves and rubbish that is preventing the drain from working optimally.

SERVPRO unclogged our own parking lot storm drain this past year, it was due to leaves and branches and dirt build-up. Often times it can clog very suddenly. So best to inspect seasonally if possible. 

The Importance Of Locally Owned And Operated

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

As the months and years pass, many businesses here in Salem and Oregon are operated and owned by out of state investors. Many of the homes that are bought outright in cash are sold to California transplants. Our State is attracting more and more people who want to relocate here, our state is also one of the most heavily costly to live in due to people wanting to move here.

What is the importance of buying local and using local services? Have you ever wondered why the cost of goods is more costly at a small general store than at a local Walmart? This is due to the big corporate businesses like Walmart being able to buy in bulk for dirt cheap prices (because they are buying so much).

The difference between goods and services is that services tend to be along the same cost whether or not they are a large or small business. But using local services that are owned and operated within your area is highly beneficial and cost effective. Local vendors have more information on current conditions within your area, laws about services you are requesting, rules for planning the services, and locally specific management perspectives than that who are out of state owned or new to the industry. Using local vendors also helps support community within your area.

When we think about community we see small shops, banks, and grocery stores, where a mother of two can talk to Mr. Policemen on the corner, call him by name, and ask how his mother is? If you take away the local human community element…all you have is a big empty corporate suit selling you goods.

Our SERVPRO franchises have been locally owned since they were started. The family that owns this company still oversees operations and shows up to work each day.

The difference between a small business and a large business is that in a small business you can usually go to the owners office and knock and enter to ask a question. You can’t do that at Walmart.

We should love buying local and sourcing local goods and services. It builds your network, encourages strength in small businesses, and is beneficial to the dying art that is small business ownership.

Plus, if something comes up that you need help with, you can call and get an answer. Rather than speaking to someone overseas after being on hold for 15 minutes.

First Hand Reviews, Choose SERVPRO!

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

We aim for 5 stars!

Here at SERVPRO we take pride in our work. We have built a very knowledgeable and skilled group of professionals. Read below of why people choose SERVPRO. "Hope and Radi showed up on time and got right to work. They were kind and so professional. When I would go check on them, they were busy and seem to be enjoying each other’s company. They did an awesome job. I would recommend these two ladies to anyone who needs to have a helping hand in cleaning a HUGE mess. Our mess was a discharged fire extinguisher. What a mess. Thank you Hop and Randi, it was a pleasure meeting you both.     Kesha and Leighton did an amazing job! Kesha was a perfection, making sure everything is documented right. They were nice and really helpful! I was happy to have them. Thank you Leighton for cleaning the water in the bathroom floor, living room, and bedroom. They put 3 Dehumidifiers in the unit. Thank you Kesha and Leighton. I'm not a client, but a fellow business in the area, but I can attest to the dedication and commitment that the company has towards taking care of a family or business in need during a natural disaster. Their willingness to do anything it takes to ensure those who are affected by flood, fire, or even mold infestations is by far, hands down second to none. I have worked personally for other restoration companies and SERVPRO does the job the right way. It's all about the people and not the bottom line." They say the greatest compliment is a referral or a review. For more reviews, check out our website, Google and Facebook.  Choose SERVPRO!   

Ice, Fire, Water!

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

3 Story Water Loss!

Last year we experienced a water loss like no other. It was originally a fire call that came in during an ice storm.  The electrical panel had short circuited due to freezing and caught fire. The fire was limited to one room, however set off the sprinkler system for a three story medical facility. With the sprinklers going off and having a PSI of 3400 gallons a minute we had a lot of water to extract and a building to dry out. 

This was; big scale drying including large generators, ducting and a 50 plus crew to remove contents, flooring and complete flood cuts for proper drying process. This job required many dehumidifiers, fans and a very detailed scope of work to insure no secondary issues would occur. 

When you experience a commercial water loss call SERVPRO!

Water Damage Could Happen at Anytime- Day or Night!

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Standing Water an Issue?

Did you know we have seasons here at SERVPRO when it comes to water damage? 

During the winter we often see a large influx of water losses due to frozen pipes, flooding and trees on houses allowing for water to inter the home, roof damage and flooded basements. 

During the summer months we tend to see air conditioning unit water losses and the remainder of the year we attend to many dishwasher leaks, refrigerator, washer machines, hot water leaks and over flowed tubs.

Water damage is often sudden and accidental. Drying processes must start as soon as possible. This will keep from having secondary issues arising such as mold growth. 

We are always here to help if you have anyone of of these water losses. WE make it "Like it never even happened."  

Do you have our Number on Speed Dial?

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Wet feet?

Unfortunately, water leaks and floods can occur at any time of year, no matter where you live. A variety of common causes can be blamed for water leaks and damage to homes. These include storms, plumbing issues, clogged drains, or malfunctioning appliances. No one wants to be surprised by, wake up or come home to wet floors or a flooded basement. 

Do not put off restoring water damage. Mold growth for example, can become a severe issue in as little as 24 hours, while sewage leaks are a health hazard that needs to be addressed immediately. The sooner any kind of water damage is taken care of, the better and less costly it will be.

Call us here at SERVPRO if you experience a water loss. We work with you, your adjusters and can inform you of the necessary steps to protect your property from further damage.  

Put our number on your speed dial list!

Being With You During a Fire!

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

House Fires are Cause Major Destruction!

Did you know that we typically respond to every fire that we hear about in our territory? 

You might wonder why? We do this to assist in the most traumatic time of a persons life. When you are standing in front of your home that is burning down, with absolutely no idea what to do, it is reassuring to know a professional is with you. 

There will be neighbors, looky lous, fire departments, police and sometimes utility companies present. You will be in such a state of disarray that all you will want is some to assist. 

We here at SERVPRO can help you get to that next step via reassurance and guidance. Starting with boarding up your prized possessions and protecting them from any further liability issues. 

After the initial night we will meet with you to go over how we can help you with your fire loss. Weather it be to contents track your personal property, configure the dwelling structure integrity or start the clean up, we are here to help. 

So when you see the SERVPRO car show up, just know we come to help!

Here to Help!

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

We Have the Heart to Help!

The professionals here at SERVPRO work on the firm mindset of "Here to Help"! This is why people continue to trust SERVPRO Franchises to take care of their most prized possessions and investments, their home and businesses. 

We strive to make sure that our crew, production managers and all that are part of the SERVPRO Franchise trained to have the heart to help and excel in their line of work. 

Our team members are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. In addition, we offer continuing education classes for all agents and property managers to learn more about our services. 

As a 24/7 365 days a week service provider we are always ready to assist in you fire, water, mold, biohazard or reconstruction needs. 

This is why people continue to choose SERVPRO! 

Someone Call SERVPRO!

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Call the Professionals at SERVPRO for a Board Up!

Did you know we often show up to a fire right behind an emergency service provider? We do this to preserve the property after a fire. Many people will want to look in or even go into a home after a fire. They are curious and do not understand the dangers that lurk. If something was to happen to one of these people, the liability would fall back on the homeowner. Fire departments often stay on scene until the home is boarded up for this very reason. 

We here at SERVPRO work very closely with our local fire departments. Once a fire happens we are ready to go out and board up as soon as they finish, allowing them to go to other calls.

If you have a fire be sure to call us here at SERVPRO, we are available 24/7/365! We will protect your property!

Heat Lamps and Smoke- Soot Damage

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Soot Removal Should be Done by Professionals!

I sometimes like to share about fires I have been out on. Today I take you on a journey of a fire job that includes a turtle.

It was a Monday when the call came in. It came directly from one of my property management friends. Went something like this, " Hey Jenn, one of my rentals had a fire over the weekend. The tenant spent the last day and a half trying to clean it.' The thought that went through my head was "Oh No, she just created more damage, as the golden rule in a fire is to leave the cleaning to the professionals." I respond and go out and meet with property manager, homeowner and tenant.

The fire started in the dining room. Turns out that the tenant was given a pet turtle that previous Friday. The turtle came in a plastic storage container with a heat lamp. The tenant also had a withstanding camping trip for the weekend. Need I say more? 

Turns out the turtle didn't make it through the weekend as the heat lamp melted down the plastic container leaving a soot/smoke filled house for the tenant to come home to.

Fortunately, there was not a massive fire. We were able to clean and restore the property to its preloss condition. 

Have a fire? Call the pros at SERVPRO of Benton & Linn Counties. 

Covid Lock Down and Cooking 2020

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Cooking Gone Wrong!

Covid brought a whole new meaning to our industry in 2020. Not only did we tackle many covid cleans we encountered those who began to learn how to cook.

Oh boy did we experience cooking fires. Walt Disney put out their ingredients on how to make at home churros.  

Teens were running wild with Tic Tok trends, one being, making at home deep fried Oreos. 

Yes, we had grease fire cleans from both of these experiences. Luckily no one was hurt in these incidents however many learned that throwing water on a grease fire does not work. 

We encourage parents to talk to their, of age children who are cooking, about the effects of a grease fire and how to prepare. Cooking is an aspect of life that we all require, safety measures must be taught!  

However, we are here to help if you have a grease fire! 

Will we see a major storm event this Winter in the PNW?

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

Checking the Roots of Tree's Can Prevent Property Damage!

Oregon's climate has been calm this winter so far. With only one snow event this winter thus far, we have not had to endure our typical winter storm events. That could all change coming the end of this month and into February. Back in 2013, it wasn't till early February that we experienced our coldest and heaviest winter storms events. 2022 has quite the feel of that year's weather trends.

We do not know if we will experience the ice, snow, wind or rain storm events, however here at SERVPRO we are gearing up for whatever may happen. Preparing your home is the best preparation one can do. One tip we suggest is: 

Make sure all trees around your home are maintained. Check the roots of the tree to see that they are healthy and strong. If they are exposing's themselves, this could mean that the tree is dying. 

Down tree's here in the PNW is a very common part of a storm event. If you have a fallen tree on your home, call us here at SERVPRO. Here to help and preserve your property. 

What exactly is SERVPRO doing for my Water Loss?

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

Top of the Line Equipment to Protect your Home!

Have you discovered water in your home? Do you need a professional to explain what to do next? if so call us. 

After the water removal step, your floors and walls may look dry at first glance, but they are still wet to the touch. Most building materials, like drywall and wood, are porous and will retain significant water. The retained water will cause these materials to warp, swell, or break down and can also cause mold damage.

What to do: Drying / Dehumidification

Our trained technicians will manipulate temperature and relative humidity to remove the remaining moisture. We use specialized equipment, including industrial air movers and dehumidifiers, to remove water retained by building materials and other hard-to-access moisture. We’ll carefully monitor the progress using moisture meters until the materials return to acceptable drying goals.

• Use Dehumidification Equipment
• Use Monitoring Equipment to Track Progress

Cleaning Options that Could Help and Bring you Peace of Mind!

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO for a Certified Clean!

Keeping your business doors open comes with a lot of challenges and concerns.  Keeping your employees and customers feeling safe has become top priority. 

These days, your customers have higher expectations of what it means to be in a clean environment. The continuing fight against the pandemic makes it necessary for business and commercial property owners to take a new approach to keeping their spaces clean so that customers will feel safe to gather there.

Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is a new defensive pathogen cleaning program that is a much deeper cleaning than standard janitorial services provide. With more than 50 years of experience in biological and microbial remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to your business, giving your customers and employees peace of mind.

Call us today to setup an inspection. 

Pro Tips for Storm Damage!

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

Professional Tips!

Fire and the Steps to Recovery!

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

Damages from a House Fire? Call the Professionals at SERVPRO!

You have experienced a house fire. It was not planned and now you are lost in translation of insurance jargon, municipals, technicalities and most of all out of your home. 

Here are SERVPRO we have trained and qualified professionals that work daily in this crucial time sensitive profession. Our project coordinators work is to explain the process and guide you through the process of recovery. 

Starting with an initial inspection, they create a scope of work. Fire damage is a top to bottom experience. It will be uncomfortable and hard process, having a fire professional on your side will enable you to have a third party assisting on questions and communication through the process of mitigation and reconstruction.

With question like, where will I go? What about my person belongings? Can it be restored? How long will it take? I don't understand. Our professionals are here to help and able to hold the hand of those that are experiencing the devastation of a fire. 

Call the professionals at SERVPRO!

Commercial Buildings Should Have SERVPRO as a Preferred Vendor!

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

Make SERVPRO Your Preferred Mitigation Company!

Commercial buildings require many maintenance and upkeep requirements.

If you have a property manager that does not take keep a property in topnotch, you could have a pipe burst or an electrical fire. Commercial buildings are also prone to accidents, as you have a magnitude of different people in one structure. 

Water and fire claims are items we service mostly on commercial buildings for mitigation services. 

This past year we have had cooking fires, clogged toilets, over filled bathtub water damages, dishwasher failures, electrical fires. These damages can be and are often spendy. The longer a structure has damages, the possibility of secondary issues arise such as mold. 

There are also many parties involved. Property owners, property management, tenants, insurance companies, public municipals, mortage companies, mitigation and reconstruction companies.

Here SERVPRO we have trained professionals able to work with you and all those involved in your Commercial property loss.

Building Services Annual ERP!

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

Preparedness at the Touch of a Button!

The up keep and maintenance of a building is typically over seen by a property maintenance manager. The job duties typically entail services to keep the building up to operating standards.  

Here at SERVPRO we offer a unique free of charge building inspection called an ERP, Emergency Ready Profile. 

We meet with the building services manager and complete a full walk through of their property. Tagging all gas & water shut off values and advising of where circuit breakers or electric breakers are. We discuss knowing the entry and exit points and all potential hazards. We put together a quick and easy to read folder that contains all of the buildings pertinent information; points of contacts, insurance information, phone numbers for utilities, etc. As well as a APP that you can readily use from any device.

We feel the importance of this services is PRICELESS, as all property managers or building services departments have safety protocols they must adhere to. Give us a call today to book a ERP! 

La Niña Round Two Anticipated for the PNW!

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

La Niña is Forecasted for the Second Year PNW!

La Niña is a world wide weather pattern and here in the PNW we are entering our second year of this pattern.

Here in the Pacific Northwest, La Niña typically results in wetter and cooler conditions over the winter period. This ultimately means very stormy conditions.

This past year, we started the winter with heavy winds. In just one day last winter we had 17 calls for trees on roofs from a major wind storm.

We then had a ice storm that put a freeze on the majority of the Willamette Valley. This type of freeze storm had not been seen in these parts for nearly 40 years. Thousands were without power and many for over a week time span. 

Storm damage can include; wind, water, biohazard and fire. Call us, the professionals at SERVPRO when your property suffers from Storm Damage! 

We are here to help!

Biohazard Remediation Experts

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Do you have a biohazard?

Yes we are going to talk about it, Biohazard & Suicide Clean Up. 

March of 2020 was by far the saddest month we have had here at our SERVPRO Franchise. We had 17 suicide clean ups and too many Covid 19 clean ups to count. 

The tragedy of a homicide or suicide is a painful and traumatic experience. It takes a professional remediation company to correctly and properly restore the property to pre loss condition. 

Biohazard remediation refers to the removal, cleaning, and disinfection of blood, bodily fluids, and other potentially harmful pathogens in affected areas after a death, accident, or communicable disease outbreak. Due to the possible high exposure risk to bloodborne pathogens, biohazard remediation is a specialty service that requires proper training, equipment and a mindset to help. 

Here at SERVPRO our technicians are prepared and trained to handle these tough situations. 

If you ever have to deal with such tragedy or are in need of a biohazard clean up, don't think twice about calling SERVPRO. 

Mold Creeps In

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Know the depth of your Mold!

Lets talk Mold.

Mold is a type of fungus that consists of small organisms. In small amounts, mold spores are usually harmless, but when they land on a damp spot in your home, they can start to grow. When mold is growing on a surface, spores can be released into the air where they can be easily inhaled.

Some restoration companies advertise “mold removal” and may even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy because removing all mold from a house or business is impossible; microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Here are the 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 health effects.
• 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.

Call us today if you feel you have a Mold problem!

Our Variety of Cleaning Options

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Did you Know? Outside of Fire and Water Restoration Cleaning we offer an array of other cleaning services! 

Other Specialty Cleaning Services:

• Air Ducts, Dryer Vents & HVAC
• Biohazard
• Carpet & Upholstery
• Ceiling, Floors & Walls
• Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program
• Documentation Restoration
• Drapes & Blinds
• Odor Removal 
• Sewage & Toilet Overflow
• Trauma & Crime Scene 
• Vandalism & Graffiti
• Commercial Cleaning Services

Life happens. Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents and homes get dirty. Retirement homes need deep cleanings, apartment complexes have an array of cleaning needs from windows to garbage shoots to floors. Restaurants with commercial kitchens. Commercial buildings incur many different types of wear and tear damages that require professionals for cleaning. Have a cleaning need? We here at SERVPRO have you covered. We specialize in the dirtiest of dirtiest jobs!

So call us for your cleaning needs! 

Are you in Need of Commercial Building Services?

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Leave the Shine to Us!

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, our SERVPRO Professionals have the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

• Retail Facilities 
• Education Facilities
• Property Management
• Healthcare Facilities
• Hospitality Facilities
• Food Service Facilities 

We are available 24 hours a day to get your business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold remediation. 

Whether your need is removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can depend on our SERVPRO Franchise to get the job done right the first time. We respond promptly and make your workspace look its very best. 

Do not hesitate to give us a call! 

Late Night Commercial Apartment Fire & Water Loss

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Quick Mitigation on a 3-Story Water Loss

This past week we received a call at 11:00 pm at night. It was a commercial apartment building experiencing a fire and water loss. The call went like this, “Help it is raining in our building, tenants on the third floor had a cooking fire and it set off all three level commercial grade sprinklers, we have water coming from the ceilings and it is in the walls.”

 Here at SERVPRO we sprang into action, dispatching twelve crew members immediately. Within the hour we began extracting water from all three floors and set up drying equipment. A total of 15 apartment units were affected. Our crews worked seamlessly through the night ensuring that all units were fully extracted and set for stabilization. Taking such action quickly prevented any secondary issues arising.

Here at SERVPRO we are always ready to help!

Cleaning for Pathogens is Our Specialty

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Leave the Deep Cleaning to the Professionals!

How we go about Deep Pathogen Cleaning here at SERVPRO!

The deep-cleaning sanitization process helps to proactively stop the spread of viral pathogens and bacteria, giving customers and employees the peace of mind to spend time together in these shared spaces. Our deep-clean process all begins with an initial cleaning of all porous and non-porous surfaces. This first sweep uses our proprietary cleaning products, such as SERVPROXIDE, to remove germs and dirt from high-touch surfaces like counters, desktops and door handles. Even soft surfaces like furniture and carpeting are cleaned and sanitized.

After everything has been thoroughly cleaned, next comes disinfection. This is when we focus on actively disinfecting viral and bacterial contaminants on objects and surfaces by using cleaning products like SERVPROXIDE or Benefect Decon-30. The application of surface disinfectants is varied, and it can range from our products being applied with a saturated towel, or sprayed with an Ultra Low Volume fogger or ULV mister method. By combining these techniques, we’re able to disinfect all high touch surfaces and surrounding surfaces, from keyboards to light switches, and floors to furniture. When it comes to deep-clean sanitization, nothing is overlooked.

Want to make sure you have taken the necessary steps of cleaning for pathogens? Call us here at SERVPRO  

Covid Variants on the Rise

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned logo

Are you one of these Commercial Facilities?

-Retail Facilities

-Education Facilities

-Healthcare Facilities 

-Hospitality Facilities

-Food Service Facilities 

If so, do you have a Coronavirus Plan of Action? 

Our continued commitment to a higher standard of clean

As we all move forward in the battle against COVID-19, inspiring safety and confidence in our communities remains the number one concern. That’s why at SERVPRO®, we remain dedicated to bringing a higher standard of clean to businesses across the country through Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is our specialized viral pathogen-cleaning program that prevents the spread of COVID-19. Going far beyond standard janitorial cleaning, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned has helped tens of thousands of businesses nationwide keep their doors open safely in the face of this pandemic. And with more than 50 years of experience and expertise in biohazard decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

How does it work? Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is grounded in our unique 3 Cs:

• Consult: Not all businesses are the same, which is why we’ll start by learning about the unique needs of each space.
  
  
• Clean: Based on the specific needs of the business, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-approved, hospital-grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to CDC standards.
  
  
• Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to comfort and security of their employees, customers and community.

So when you see the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield, you can walk in with confidence. Because you’ll know the #1 choice in clean up and restoration was there.

Cooking can lead to Grease Fires!

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know here at SERVPRO we clean up grease fires?

2020 was a twist that none of us were prepared for. Covid 19 brought an array of new ways to experience life. Including many learning how to cook and becoming their own personal chefs. With not much else to do, people were trying new fads. One of the ones, I recall, was when Disney announced how to make churros at home. This included using a deep fryer. Another was deep fried Oreos, this was a Tik Tok sensation. The two aforementioned exciting cooking ideas resulted in grease fires. The extent of damage was doubled due to people not being aware that you do not throw water on a grease fire. Keep close a box of baking soda, this is the best to put on a grease fire. In addition to the fire you have smoke damage and fire extinguisher retardant that needs to be cleaned. 

Did you know here at SERVPRO we clean up grease fires?  Call us the professionals for proper grease fire clean up. 

We Can Get The Job Done!

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

From Mitigation to Reconstruction, We Do It All!

SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County knows how to not only start a job, but to finish the job as
well. With ease we can go from mitigation to reconstruction. Did you know we have an in house construction company? Our construction team is made up of several project managers, carpenter teams, and a painting crew. Each project managers walk with you through the process of reconstruction. Pulling permits, discussing changes and working hand in hand with you and your insurance company. Our team is very talented, and will ensure the job is completed to your standards. We pride ourselves in making your home look “Like it never even happened.” Whether it’s a water loss, mold, smoke or soot
damage, we can help will all of it!
Call SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County today! (541)-745-2097.

Commercial Cell Phone Towers Can Cause Substantial Losses

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Cell Towers & Lightning Can Cause Substantial Commercial Property Loss

Commercial technology such as cell towers are a possible source of of fires due to lightning and wind.

Lightning is a discharge of electrical energy that results from the buildup of positive and negative charges in a thunderstorm, which creates a “bolt” when the buildup of charges becomes strong enough. Lightning can strike communications equipment (e.g., radio or cell towers, antennae, satellite dishes, etc.) and hamper communication and emergency response.

Lightning strikes can also cause significant damage to buildings, critical facilities, and infrastructure, largely by igniting a fire. Lightning can also ignite a wildfire.

We here at SERVPRO are actively watching active weather patterns in our area. We know that getting to the disaster as fast as possible will mitigate further possible secondary issues.  

Be Prepared, Be Ready! Know Who to Call!

Commercial Property Response, is Immediate!

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Call the Team That is Faster to Any Disaster!

Commercial Property Response, is Immediate!

A common scenario; it was the middle of the night when the call came through.

Help! Our commercial kitchen has caught fire. The fire department is still on scene, however do not know what to do next. We are on our way!

Did you know that we respond within in minutes to an emergency call? The goal here at SERVPRO is to alleviate any secondary issues arising from the initial cause of loss and to protect the property.

Once the fire has been put out and the property is released from the fire department, we begin our process of securing the property. We do this to protect the structure as well as the property owners from additional liability circumstances, ie looting. 

Our response time, has to be fast and diligent on behalf of the client, to protect them and their business property. 

Call the company that is faster to any disaster! 

What's Really Going On?

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

Water Lines Seen in Ceiling Tiles, Means Water Damage!

When it comes to owning a business, especially in a large commercial building, you may be so
wrapped in the day to day tasks that you may not have noticed the signs pointing to water
damage. Undiscovered leaks can cause damage to floors, walls and ceilings and may lead to
soft dry wall and stained ceiling tiles. These leaks can be coming from old damaged pipes, or
damages to the roof. As a business owner you should
? Inspect ceiling tiles regularly for discoloration or leaks
? Check the waterlines in coffee makers, refrigerators and water filtration systems for kinks
and leaks
? Remove standing water with a mop and seek professional assistance for proper drying
assistance
As a SERVPRO franchise, we have thermal imaging equipment that can detect even the
smallest amounts of moisture. If or when moisture is detected, we have trained professionals in
water extraction and drying. SERVPRO has been serving commercial properties for over 50
years, and will help protect your business from further damage!

Wildfire Storm Season is Upon Us!

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

Oregon is Approaching Wildfire Storm Season!

While we hope you never experience winter or summer storm damage, Oregon is notorious for its heavy rain wind and now wildfires. If you ever find yourself in need of repairs or help after a Storm call your local
SERVPRO today! We have trained professionals on call 24 hours a day.

Storm and Flood Services

• Fire, Smoke, Soot and Debris Removal
• Emergency Board Up

Water Mitigation and Storm Damage

- Mold Remediation
- Sewage Extraction & Cleanup
- Carpet & Floor Cleaning
- Odor Removal
And much more!

We have trained professionals ready to help you along the recovery process. Don’t stress too much if you find yourself in need of our help, we ensure we will have your home
or business up and running back in no time! Faster to any size disaster. SERVPRO is ready to
help you!

21 Wildfires Ignited Last Summer, Are you Prepared?

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

Wildfires Cause Devastating Damages!

2020 Wild Fire Storms. Weather alignments came together at the perfect time and caused unprecedented catastrophe.  

Per the Oregon Office of Emergency Management, 1,004,562 acres burnt in the state of Oregon. There were 21 total fires and 9 fatalities.

In Linn county alone we lost 71 homes and 122 other structures.   

To this date we are still in recovery mode. The clean up and rebuild is in process is ongoing.

Summer is on its way and so is the threat of fire season here in Oregon again. 

What we learned: 

Many were awoken at the wee hours of the morning and asked to leave their homes with literally no time to think about what to grab. 

Preparedness is of utmost importance. Having all of your important documentation in a secured location and ready to go is key. This would help in the aftermath efforts. 

Key Items;  Wallet, ID, Birth Certificates, Social Security Cards, House Documents & Insurance Documents, Money. 

Call us before going back into the home or structure. There will be many hazards. Having a trained professional by your side will protect you and your property. 

Here at SERVPRO we are always here to help! 

Protecting your home. Possible Water Issues.

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

Regularly Check Your Venting Systems for Condensation

Being a homeowner can be one of the most rewarding, but also one of the most stressful things
in life. Water damage and leaks is one of the most common things you will face as a
homeowner, and most of those leaks come from our appliances. SERVPRO has some tips on
how to keep your home safe from water damage.
? Check behind your appliances at least once a year
? Check hoses for small pinhole leaks
? Consider installing an automatic shutoff valve
? Check that valves are tightened properly
? Make sure hoses are not kinked, and leave ample space between the valve and
appliance

• Check Air conditioners, they give off condensation. Assure there is proper venting.  

Routine Inspections are a great way to keep your home safe from water damages. A small leak
can lead to big damage! Call your local SERVPRO today! We’ve got all the tools, and the
trained professionals to keep your home safe!

Fire? Water? Emergency?

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Reviews are the Best Compliment!

In the past 24 hours there have been four large loss fires in our territory. Three water losses and two sewage losses. 

Our crews have responded and been on site to help mitigate and protect from further damages.

What does this mean? 

Protect property, stop the on set of potential additional issues arising. Professional teams that are trained and educated on how to clean up a disaster.

Our crews work with insurance companies, fire inspectors, property managers, tenants and property owners to access and give direction on proper course of action. 

To most, this is their first major catastrophe and for us it is our every day job of choice. 

We are the calm in the storm. Our wonderful crew are a sign of relieve to those who are truly in need. Our reviews speak volumes and can attest to why people choose SERVPRO. 

Fire loss client review: So far we are in the fire damage clean up phase. The service has been nothing short of amazing! Jenn is a miracle worker, an angel in disguise, and excellent project manager. Everything promised has been DONE ON TIME or AHEAD OF SCHEDULE. The whole team has handled a difficult situation with incredible professionalism and grace. This has taken a tremendous amount of stress off us, as we are working from out of state (in a pandemic!) to mitigate and repair the fire damage. We are so impressed with the clean up that we will be using SERVPRO - Benton/Linn Counties for the repairs as well. Just cannot say enough good things about this company. We highly recommend and would use again.

Water Condensation Not Discovered Could Wreak Havoc!

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Water Condensation From Air Condition Damage!

Water- ekkk! 

The discovery of wet feet while strolling through your home is always a unwelcomed shock. Typically the kitchen, bathroom or wash room is where you will find this.

As it starts to warm up, many are turning on their air conditioning units. They do not think that this could be a source of a water loss. However it is, the water condensation from these systems can wreak havoc and cause a major water loss. We here at SERVPRO see this annually.

Here are some tips to draining your air conditioner.

1. Turn off the power to your HVAC system at the thermostat and at the breaker.

2. If you have an indoor air handler in your attic or utility closet, you'll need to find the condensate pan. This is usually located directly under the unit. It may also be covered by a removable access panel.

3. If you see standing water in the drain pan, your drain line is probably clogged. Use a handheld or shop vacuum to remove the moisture. You can also use rags to soak up the water. At this point, you can clean the drain pan with soap.

4. Generally, clogged drains can be cleared with suction. If you have a shop vacuum, use it to pull the clog through the drain opening, which is located outside your house near the foundation. Place your hand around the pipe to improve suction and allow the vacuum to run for a minute. Then, check the vacuum canister to see if the clog was successfully removed.

5. Next, you'll need to identify the access point on the drain line. Usually, the drain will have a T-shaped vent with a PVC cover. Remove the cover and inspect the drain. Use this port to flush the drain with distilled vinegar. If you don't like the odor, you can use peroxide to gently bubble away the remaining debris. Alternately, you can use hot water and a drop of dish liquid.

6. Allow the solution to sit for 30 minutes. Complete the cleaning by flushing the pipe with water. Have a helper watch the pipe outside and tell you if the water is running freely.

A Team that Responds Like Family, Starts with Company Culture!

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Team Work Makes the Dream Work!

Here at our SERVPRO we are often getting many kudos and heart felt welcomes. Here are a few from this past week;

Best team ever! Kesha and Cody were AMAZING! They are so friendly and were comfortable to be around and funny! Such a good team! Very willing to do anything that was needed such as moving my furniture a couple time lol THIS TEAM IS AWESOME! Awesome staff and service! SERVPRO did such a great job with communication and has an extremely kind and professional staff. They would even communicate over the weekends if we had any questions. This is the second time we used them in a disaster situation and they were just as great as the first time. A+ service and would highly recommend them to anyone! Residential Service. Mindy and Hope were awesome! Efficient, hardworking, considerate. This SERVPRO team exceeded expectations.

This starts at our Company Culture Level. Here at SERVPRO we individually work hand in hand with each of our team members to see that they are growing and feeling their importance of contributions to our work family. We pour into them the skills and listen to their needs.

Open communication allows our crew to be AMAZING at what they do and thus has the ripple effect onto our customers. Choose the team that responds like family!

Are you "Ready for whatever happens?"

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Do you have an Emergency Ready Program?

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.

Here at SERVPRO of Benton & Linn Counties, we offer an "Emergency Ready Program, free of charge for your facility!

This includes:

* a review of your property, tagging and showing your managers where your gas and water shut off values are.

* a portfolio of your property which includes all of your local municipalities, emergency contacts, photos of where items are on your property and what to do in an emergency situation.

Why SERVPRO? This service helps to eliminate catastrophe loss and mitigate damage exposure. Time is of the essence when once a emergency has happened. 

Call us today for your "Emergency Ready Program"! 541-243-3193

Commercial Fire? Call the Professionals at SERVPRO!

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Fires are often unexpected, call professionals for cleanup!

Fire damage can be very devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, water damage caused by firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If you have a fire emergency, call a SERVPRO of Benton & Linn Counties.

•  24 Hour Emergency Services
•  Faster to Any Size Disaster
•  A Trusted Leader in the Fire and Restoration

Our professionals are ready and prepared when you call. The process of experiencing a commercial fire includes having the right clean up crew on your side. Our team knows there are many people involved during this process. 

Preserving your property and making sure turn around time on your loss is efficient and seamless!

Oregon Weather!

4/23/2021 (Permalink)

Storms Can be Destructive!

Living in the Pacific Northwest you almost never know what kind of weather you are going to see. Oregon weather has a mind of its own and the temps can go from the low 90’s to the low 60’s just in a matter of a couple of days. Oregon has been known to experience heavy rain at times and multiple funnel clouds. With this kind of weather comes flooding and wind damage to homes and businesses. We here at SERVPRO of Benton/Linn county are ready to respond 24/7 to any issue you home might be experiencing from the storm. SERVPRO has many years of storm damage experience. If your home or business needs help from a storm give SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County a call at (541)745-2097.

We love our Community!

4/23/2021 (Permalink)

Community is Family!

We Love Our Community!
SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County is a company that strongly believes in giving back to the
community. SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County is involved in many charitable events during
the year. Our staff goes above and beyond to give back. Whether it’s joining a 5k to raise
money, or donating items to those affected by the recent wildfires, we strive ourselves in giving
back to our neighbors. Being part of our community is rewarding. 
SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County's mission is to give back whenever we can. That’s why
when you're looking for a company to work on your home or business for your restoration
needs, SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County is the one to pick, because we care for our
community.
Call us today! (541)-745-2097.

Continuing Education

4/23/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know? 

Here at SERVPRO we offer state approved continuing education classes. We invite agents and representatives that are seeking credits for their licenses in to learn about how our industry works and contributes with theirs. Every third Thursday a month we hold class. This class is free and includes lunch. During these classes we build engage in fun and exciting learning activities always having a blast. This is why people choose SERVPRO. We believe in giving back to our community and offering insight on our industry. Throughout the  year we teach and offer knowledge on Fire Damage Restoration, Deodorization of Malodors, Restoring Damage Contents, Bio Hazard, Hoarding, Water Damage and Law & Ethics.

Feedback from attendees is always upbeat; " That class was amazing"! " Can I sign up for the next one"?  I love the personal involvement"! 

If you are in need of Continuing Education Classes, reach out to us. 541-745-2097

Qualified & Experienced!

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

Here to Help!

SERVPRO was first founded in 1969, and quickly expanded into more than 1,600 franchises
nationwide in 48 states. With over 50 years of experience in cleanup and restoration, our track
record has earned us the trust of the insurance industry and countless homeowners. No matter
the size of the job, our trained professionals will be there to restore your property to its original
state, “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a years
for all your emergency needs.
- Fire, Smoke and Soot
- Water Removal and Dehumidification
- Mold Mitigation and Remediation
- Catastrophic Storm Response
- Move Outs and Contents Restoration
- Document Drying
- Electronics and Equipment
- Contents Claim Inventory Service
- Air Ducts and HVAC
- Biohazard, Crime Scene and Vandalism
- Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds
- Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors
- Deodorization
Call SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County today! 541-745-2097

SERVPRO Benton & Linn Counties to the Rescue

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

Have you seen our vehicles around town?

Have you ever seen those bright green trucks driving around town? That would be your local
SERVPRO Franchise! We are locally owned and operated by people who live right here in our
community. We love being apart of the community and helping our friends and neighbors. As
fellow residents of the Willamette Valley, we understand what Oregon weather has to offer, and
we will be there to help you with any size disaster. We are faster to any size disaster, and can
help restore your home or business in the event of Fire Damage, Water Damage, Mold
Remediation and much more! If you are ever in need, you can rely on your local SERVPRO to
get the job done. Always here to help!
SERVPRO Benton and Linn County
(541)-745-2097)

Why SERVPRO?

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Always Here to Help!

SERVPRO was first founded in 1969, and quickly expanded into more than 1,600 franchises
nationwide in 48 states. With over 45 years of experience in cleanup and restoration, our track
record has earned us the trust of the insurance industry and countless homeowners. No matter
the size of the job, our trained professionals will be there to restore your property to its original
state, “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a years
for all your emergency needs.
- Fire, Smoke and Soot
- Water Removal and Dehumidification
- Mold Mitigation and Remediation
- Catastrophic Storm Response
- Move Outs and Contents Restoration
- Document Drying
- Electronics and Equipment
- Contents Claim Inventory Service
- Air Ducts and HVAC
- Biohazard, Crime Scene and Vandalism
- Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds
- Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors
- Deodorization
Call SERVPRO today!

Have You Looked Under Your Sink?

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Be sure to check your pipes!

Have You Looked Under Your Sink?

One of the most common leaks found is right under your sink. Most homeowners never think to look there, and the leak goes unnoticed until it causes major damage!

• Make sure you check once a month under you sink for leaks.
• Don't keep a lot of stuff under the sink, that will make it harder to notice a leak 
• Line your cupboard with a cupboard liner, so that it can be protected from moisture.
• When the weather is below freezing leave your cupboard open to allow heat in to keep the pipes warm
• Do moisture checks once a month to make sure the wood/plywood is not wet 

Not looking for potential leaks could leak to water damage and mold issues. 

Suspect a leak somewhere in your home? Call SERVPRO today!

There are Many Ways one can Experience a Water Loss

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

What could be causing damage in my home? 

There are many things that can go wrong while being a homeowner, and some of those problems are things we never see.

A Leaky Basement 

Leaky Plumbing 

Damaged Drywall 

Roof Leaks

Gutters Fail

Sump Pump Failure

Pipe Burst

Over flowed bath tub

Malfunctioning Refrigerator, Dishwasher, Washer Machine

Water back up

Water Heater Failure

Accidents

As a SERVPRO Franchise, we have all the proper tools and trained professionals to help with any of these issues. Unseen water damage that goes unfixed for long periods of time can lead to even more problems, like mold and structural issues. If you suspect you have any leaks, or see signs of mold or water damage, call us today! 

SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County - (541).745.2097

Fire is Unpredictable, Calls the Professionals!

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to Protect and Restore your Property!

SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County believes that no job is too big or too small. We are a 24 hour/ 365 day company, and will respond ASAP . Having a fire loss at your business or home can be very difficult. We understand that a fire is traumatic and our team of skilled professionals are with you from the beginning to the end.  We start with preserving your property. This is typically with a board up, fencing or even staying on scene with the fire department until your property is deemed safe to access.  Our amazing team will see that all insurance people have all the proper documentation needed to get the repairs rolling in a timely manor.  If your place of business has experienced fire damage of any kind give SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County a call. We are here 24/7 to help.

Winter Storms Cause an Array of Water Damage!

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Downed Trees leads to Water Damage!

Wowzers!

Winter season really did a number on us here in the Pacific Northwest! From wind storms to ice storms we had an astonishing amount of falling trees on homes. This lead to massive water damage as the rain did not stop coming. 

Freezing weather also caused  frozen pipes.

If you have a pipe burst, SERVPRO has trained professionals that can repair all the damages and have your home looking “Like it never even happened.” In the meantime, here are some tips to help prevent your pipes from freezing.

• If the crawl space access is inside the home, set a fan in the opening to blow warm air from the home to the foundation 
• Leave the cabinet doors under the sink open to keep the pipes warm 
• Caulk and seal around doors, windows and faucets 
• Close all foundation vents that are near pipes 

SERVPRO Benton & Linn County - (541).745.2097

What to DO, and NOT to do, FIRE!

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Soot Damage due to a Fire is Ravaging!

While we hope that you are never in an emergency situation caused by a fire, SERVPRO
specializes in Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration. We have over 1,600 franchises in 48
states, and we pride ourselves in making it “Like it never even happened.” In the event you ever
need our services for Fire and Smoke damage, here is a list of Emergency tips to assist you
while waiting for us to arrive.
Do:
- Limit movement in the house to prevent soot particles from being embedded into
upholstery
- Keep your hands clean. Soot on your hands can soil upholstery, walls and wood
- Place dry towels on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas
- If electricity is off, empty the fridge and freezer to prevent odor
- Wipe soot from chrome faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a
light coating of lubricant
- Change HVAC filter, but leave the system of until a professional checks it
- Tape cheesecloth over the air registers to prevent soot particles from getting in or out of
the HVAC system
Don’t:
- Attempt to wash any walls or painted services
- Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstery
- Attempt to clean any electrical devices( TV sets, radios, etc.)
- Consume any food or beverages that were stored close to the fire
- Turn on ceiling fixtures, electrical may be damaged
- Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning can cause more damage

Coming Home After a Fire!

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

When the unexpected happens!

There are so many things to consider when returning home after a fire. Some things to watch out for are structural damage, mold, and poor roof drainage. Not only will there be damage caused by heat and soot, most people are unaware that water damage comes hand in hand with fire damage. If water has collected in your walls or ceilings, it can cause the floor to buckle and/or weaken the structure. A lot of water is used to put out a house fire, if that water is left pooled on the roof, it can make its way into the ceiling, walls and crawl space of the home. If not taken care of in a timely fashion, this can also lead to mold. 

Call your local SERVPRO for an inspection before returning home! We have all the tools and trained professionals to restore your home and make sure it’s safe for you and your family.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Let your customers know your business has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned!

SERVPRO® of Benton County and Linn County is qualified to clean and properly apply disinfectants according to the CDC’s protocols. 

Why Choose SERVPRO? We have over 50 years of experience in cleaning and disinfecting contaminants, including biohazards. We have trained professionals and the proper equipment to go beyond standard cleaning services. We also have training certifications in COVID-19 decontamination. 

We clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as: 

• Counters and tabletops 
• Doorknobs 
• Light switches 
• Toilets & other bathroom fixtures (faucets, handrails, tubs & showers) ? Tablets, keyboards & other office (home or business) equipment 

We also clean soft surfaces such as: 

• Carpets & rugs 
• Upholstered furniture 
• Exercise mats 

The CDC recommends cleaning and disinfecting the following areas: ? Kitchen & dining areas 

• Bathrooms 
• Schools, classrooms, conference rooms 
• Retail spaces, including 
• Sales counters 
• Racks, shelves 
• Hand-rails & elevator cars 
• Flooring, regardless of material 
• Water fountains 
• Carpets, rugs 
• Fitness equipment 

I Left the Oven On!

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Cooking can be a hot mess!

Have you ever forgotten to turn the oven off and ended up filling your home with smoke? Well it happens more often than you would think! In a recent study it was found that “Cooking equipment was the leading cause of home structure fires and civilian fire injuries and the second leading cause of home fire deaths,” and accounts for over 47% of all reported home fires. 

• If there is a fire in the oven, shut it off, and do not open the door. By opening the door oxygen is now free to feed the fire, which does not solve the problem. Keep the door shut, and the lack of oxygen will eventually cause the fire to die out.
• Do not leave dirty pans on the stove, anyone, especially children, can walk by and accidentally bump the knob and thus turning on the oven.
• Do not pour water on a grease fire! The water will sink to the bottom, and steam will make the flames rise higher. Use a fire extinguisher. In addition, 55% of non-fatal home cooking fire injuries occur when the victim tries to fight the fire themselves!

If this ever happens to you, don’t be afraid to call! SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County is ready to help you!

We Can Help!

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Need Water Extraction? Call Us Today!

Major Storms might not be common in Oregon, but lots of rain and snow is! Many homeowners here in Oregon may not be aware that basement flooding is very common, but don't worry! In the case you ever experience a flooded basement, SERVPRO has trained professionals and state of the art equipment that can remove any amount of water; no matter how deep! Once all the water is removed, we can clean your basement and repair any damages caused by the flooding. In the meantime, here are some things you can do as a homeowner to try and prevent your basement from flooding. 

• Sealing tiles and foundation. Proper sealing is necessary to prevent water seepage and foundation damage.
• Proper downspout installation. If downspouts are too short, are clogged, or face the wrong way, floodwaters can quickly be redirected into your home through cracks in the basement. 
• Drain tiles. This is the drainage system built around your home, like a curtain drain.
• Clean gutters. Much like your downspouts, gutters need adequate care to prevent damage and clogs that can eventually lead to water pooling in the basement. 
• Sump pumps. Making sure your basement's drainage system is operational minimizes the risk of sewage backups and floodwater backing up into your home.

Sprung a Leak?

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

When you have a unexpected surprise, call the professionals!

When it comes to your home and family, even the smallest issue can cause a huge disruption. When small leaks begin in areas you can’t see, it can lead to harmful mold, rot and damage to not only your home, but your families health as well. SERVPRO is a 24-hour emergency response franchise that specializes in Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration. We ensure we can find the source of the leak, no matter where it hides! Once the leak has been fixed, our trained professionals can repair any of the damages that may have been caused by the leak, and have your home looking “Like it never even happened.”

Do:

• Shut off the source of the water if possible
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building 
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting 
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture 
• Remove any materials/ objects that may be sensitive to moisture(paintings, computers, documents)

Don’t:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may be present
• Leave books, newspapers, or magazines on wet carpet (may cause staining)
• Use your household vacuum to remove water 
• Use TV’s or other appliances while standing on wet surfaces 
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet (there may be damage to the electrical) 

Did you know?

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Clean never looked better!

SERVPRO offers cleaning services for both big and small buildings. Whether you need a quick clean on a messy office, or just simply don’t have the tools to clean your commercial building, your local SERVPRO has all the tools to get the job done. Most people are surprised by the fact that we offer a wide variety of cleaning services, and thought we were just a restoration company. 

• Carpet and Upholstery 
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors 
• HVAC Cleaning
• Biohazard
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Interior & Exterior Power Washing 
• Emergency Services

Those are just a few of the services we can offer in order to get your space looking as good as new! Call your local SERVPRO today to find out more about how our trained professionals can help you! (541)-745-2097.

Water Damage? Act Fast!

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

"Flood Cut Opens the Wall Cavity for Drying"

When it comes to water damage, SERVPRO is the company to call! We take pride in restoring your property to its pre-damage condition. We take several steps to ensure no more damage occurs, and that the damage that has happened is taken care of as quickly as possible. 

• Initial Emergency Contact: We are available 24 hours a day, if you have an emergency, call us right away!

• Inspection and Damage Assessment: When we arrive on scene, we will do a detailed inspection of the damage 

• Moisture Extraction:  If necessary, we will bring in pumps to extract excess water, and reduce drying time 

• Dehumidifying and Drying: Once the excess water has been removed, equipment will be placed to speed up the drying time and help the moisture evaporate 

• Cleaning and Repair: Items that can be saved will be professionally cleaned, anything non salvageable will be replaced or repaired 

• Restoration: This is wear we restore your home to its pre-damaged condition. This includes replacing flooring, drywall, trim, and painting. 

House Fire? Call SERVPRO!

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

House fires are unexpected, so call us here at SERVPRO for help!

House Fire? Call SERVPRO!
One of the scariest things you can go through as a homeowner is having a house fire. Not only
is the fire itself scary, the aftermath is even harder to deal with. Whether it was a small grease
fire in the kitchen, or a severe fire that caused damage to the entire house, it affects many
aspects of your life and your families life. SERVPRO specializes in Fire & Water - Cleanup &
Restoration, no matter how big or small the job, we can help from start to finish!

- Mitigation Services

- Property Protection

- Heavy soot

- Smoke damage

- Structure damage and more!

We have all the tools and cleaning supplies needed to return your home to its original state.

“Like it never even happened.” Let our trained professionals help you today!

We Do It All!

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Property is our Expertise!

Did you know that SERVPRO specializes in a wide variety of commercial needs? We encourage you to speak to one of our representatives about preferred vendor services. Having the right team in place for a commercial business emergencies proves crucial. Our representatives can put together a full scope commercial needs readiness program for your company!
- Water Removal and Dehumidification
- Crime Scene, Biohazard and Vandalism Cleanup
- Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup and Restoration
- Mold Mitigation and Remediation
- Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning
- Contents Claim Inventory Service
- Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning and Care
- Stain Removal
- Odor Identification and Deodorization
SERVPRO has over 1,700 Franchises nationwide with over 50 years of experience in cleaning &
restoration industry. We ensure we are the right company to call for all your needs. Quality
services and a quick response!
SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County - (541).745.2097

Winter is on its Way!

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Prepare for Winter!

With the fall and winter seasons upon us, that also means freezing weather! Freezing weather
also leads to frozen pipes. If you have a pipe burst, SERVPRO has trained professionals that
can repair all the damages and have your home looking “Like it never even happened.” In the
meantime, here are some tips to help prevent your pipes from freezing.
- If the crawl space access is inside the home, set a fan in the opening to blow warm air
from the home to the foundation
- Leave the cabinet doors under the sink open to keep the pipes warm
- Caulk and seal around doors, windows and faucets
- Close all foundation vents that are near pipes

-Undo all hoses from the spigots on the outside of your home.
SERVPRO Benton & Linn County - (541).745.2097

What’s Really Going On?

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Is it Raining Inside Your Building?

When it comes to owning a business, especially in a large commercial building, you may be so
wrapped in the day to day tasks that you may not have noticed the signs pointing to water
damage. Undiscovered leaks can cause damage to floors, walls and ceilings and may lead to
soft dry wall and stained ceiling tiles. These leaks can be coming from old damaged pipes, or
damages to the roof. As a business owner you should
? Inspect ceiling tiles regularly for discoloration or leaks
? Check the waterlines in coffee makers, refrigerators and water filtration systems for kinks
and leaks
? Remove standing water with a mop and seek professional assistance for proper drying
assistance
As a SERVPRO franchise, we have thermal imaging equipment that can detect even the
smallest amounts of moisture. If or when moisture is detected, we have trained professionals in
water extraction and drying. SERVPRO has been serving commercial properties for over 40
years, and will help protect your business from further damage!

Biohazard Cleanup? We can help you!

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees suited up, and ready for a Biohazard clean.

Your local SERVPRO is equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products to help turn unsafe environments into clean safe spaces. Our employees are trained to safely remove biohazard substances and prepare the waste for proper disposal according to State and local health regulations. Failure to safely remove hazardous substances can lead to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO offers many biohazard cleanup services including the following;

• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

If you ever find yourself in need of help with one of these services, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO! We have been recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies nationwide. We ensure our trained professionals can restore your property to its original state: "Like it never even happened."

Mold, Don't let it Grow!

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Don't forget to look under your sinks!

As we start coming into the cold rainy season here in Oregon, moisture can start to build up in areas of your home that have water intrusion. Some examples of water intrusions are from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. If these issues do not get taken care of in a timely manner, they lead to mold growth.  While it is normal for a small amount of mold spores to be present in most environments, once it starts spreading and multiplying, it becomes a huge health risk. The mold typically latches onto organic materials in your home such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation. If your home has excessive humidity, a strong musty odor, or visible mold, call SERVPRO! Our Franchise has trained professionals in mold remediation who can safely restore your home to preloss condition.

From Carpets to Catastrophes

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

No job is too big!

Many people don’t know that SERVPRO specializes in a wide variety of commercial needs.

• Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup and Restoration
• Water Removal and Dehumidification
• Crime scene, Biohazard and Vandalism Cleanup
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
• Contents Claim Inventory Service
• Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning
• Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning and Care
• Stain Removal
• Odor Identification and Deodorization
• Upholstery and Drapes: Wet or Dry Cleaning Methods

Don’t know who to call, but need the job done right and fast? We can ensure we’ll have your business back into operation as quickly as possible. SERVPRO has over 45 years of experience in the restoration industry, with over 1,700 Franchises nationwide. Quality cleaning and a quick response--that’s the SERVPRO way.

Fire, Smoke & Odor Cleaning!

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Soot and Smoke Damage Can Be Invisible!

Labor Day Weekend 2020, a weekend we will never forget here in Oregon. Many set out to enjoy a three day weekend of warm weather, family, friends and BBQ’s. The weather was predicating a warm spell and high winds. As everyone was excited to enjoy the holiday, they never expected a fire storm. On the evening of Sept 7^th we had an unimaginable catastrophe happen. Combined weather patterns of wind and lightening caused a series of wildfires to ravage our state. We here at SERVPRO joined forces with many and set out to assist on every effort imaginable. Many of our towns were covered in ash and soot. The air quality index flexed high above of the standard of 50 and in some areas up into the 700’s. People turned on their HVAC Systems and were in search of air filters & purifiers to keep the interior of their homes air quality at a breathable level. This helped with breathing conditions however brought the ash and soot into the ventilation systems. Many of the homes in the wild fire areas sat at a Level 2 & 3 evacuation alert for over a month as the fires burned. To those that did not lose their homes, they suffered massive Fire & Smoke Damage. We here at SERVPRO are a leading Fire & Water Restoration company, specializing in Cleaning services.

We kicked into high gear to get out and assist with the recovery. Cleaning for fire and smoke damage needs to be inspected by a professional. We offer a full inspection from top to bottom on your home. This includes but is not limited to the following; ventilation systems, possible water damage due to loss of power, soot/ash concentrates on surfaces, insulation, interior and exterior walls, roof damage and air cleaning. We have an extensive process to ensure your home is returned to prior loss condition. Give us a call here at SERVPRO 541-745-2097 for a Free Inspection!  Always “Here to Help”!

Are You Ready for an Emergency?

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

4 Story water loss during COVID 19. Someone happened to catch it before the loss ran for the entire week.

As a business owner you always want to make sure you have emergency contacts close by in case anything unexpected happens. We couldn't imagine the amount of stress! SERVPRO® of Benton County & Linn County realizes that you might not think about the unexpected things that might happen to your business; flooding and fire damage, etc.

Emergency Ready Program

Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster, plan for it now! As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile Advantage is of no-cost assessment to your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.

This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes SERVPRO® of Benton County and Linn County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.

This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.” Give us a call today and set up your ERP!

Oregon Fire & Smoke Clean

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

We stand by our community. We are here to help

Oregon has experienced an unprecedented fire epidemic which affected all of Oregon in one way or another. 

We here at SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County are here to help our community in our time of need. We have called in additional SERVPRO Franchises to help our community due to the large amount of people's homes and businesses affected by the fire & Smoke damage. 

We have the largest network of restoration providers in the United States. SERVPRO provides outstanding restoration services regardless of what location services your home or business. 

If you need help. Call us today at 541-745-2097 or 541-745-3971. 

Be safe Oregon

24K SF water loss- We can help

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Benton County can handle your commercial mitigation. No job is to big for the professionals. Call us 541-745-2097

Last month (June 2020) we received a phone call around 6pm on Sunday evening for an emergency response to a 4-story water loss on a commercial building. There was a water line that broke off on the 4^th floor of the commercial building.

Water cascaded down all 4 floors, causing a 24,000 SF water damage. We extracted a few thousand gallons of water the first night. This affected acoustic ceiling tiles (fell on contents, the floors, chairs, and desks, etc), drywall, drop in floor, glue down carpet, VCT tiles and more. Not only did we have 24,000 SF of structure to mitigate, we also had to deal with completely used space! We had to perform inventory, packing, and move all contents out of the affected work zone before mitigation could be performed. Our contents crew performed well under the pressure of this time frame and task.

With our expertise and state of the art equipment, with our staff of 30+ people a day average we were able to completely mitigation this loss in 8 days, leaving the property dry and ready for the construction phase.

We want to thank our team for putting in long hard days to fulfill our requirement and take care of our customer’s needs.

As far as Commercial goes, there is no job too big for SERVPRO! With the largest footprint for restoration companies in the world, SERVPRO has you covered. Call the professionals if you need help. 541-745-2097

Fire pit tips

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a fire issue, commercial or residential call us at 541-745-2097. Faster to any size disaster.

Home Fire Pit Tips

Here in Benton and Linn County its a tradition to enjoy the nights outside around a homemade fire pit! Many of us are looking forward to spending time gathering around them to enjoy time with family and friends. Before you start dreaming of moonlit nights and toasted marshmallows, take a moment to check out some of these tips from Allstate to remember.

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips:

• Whether you prefer a built-in or portable fire pit, choose one that is not too large for the area. The pit should be a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials as well as away from trees, fences, sheds, power lines, and telephone wires, 25 feet away from apartment or multi residence buildings.
• Make sure that the seating area is large enough and properly placed for comfort and ventilation.
• Check wind direction before lighting a fire.
• Don’t use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.) to light or relight fires.
• To start the fire, use a lighter to ignite crumpled pieces of paper covered with small sticks. Then, add larger sticks and a log or two to keep it burning. 
• Burn only dry material. Damp material will create excess smoke. 
• Use a commercial fire pit screen on top to help prevent large amber from leaving the controlled area. 
• Don’t wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fitting clothing.
• Never leave the fire unattended, and keep pets and children far away from the fire as they will be attracted to it.
• Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or bucket of water nearby.
• As the fire dies down, use a shovel and spread out the ashes to allow them to cool down. Then slowly pour water over those ashes and watch them closely to be sure that no burning embers remain or reignite. Put the cooled ashes in a specially designated ash storage metal can. 

Did you Know? Cleaning dryer vents.

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

Call us to clean your ducting. 541-745-2097

Did you Know? Cleaning dryer vents. What is in your dryer vents? How long has it been since they were last cleaned? It is suggested they should be cleaned once per year! Dryer vents that are not regularly cleaned can become full of lint and become a fire hazard! Call us today to schedule your Dryer vent duct cleaning. While your at it, we clean your HVAC ducts also. Call and schedule today at 541-745-2097

Removing Malodors in a Commercial Business

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County

Have you experienced flooding or water damage in your Commercial business?

 These issues can leave unwelcome and defiantly unwanted odors in the air. This odor is most always displeasing to customers, employees or yourself. Based on the source of the issue, we have 5 tips to help solve the problem: 

1. Ventilate the Building and Evaluate the Situation - Allows any lingering scents to disperse through a window, if possible. You can then work to identify and locate any centralized, problematic scents. If sewage loss is causing the odor, it’s best to stay away from the contaminated water and contact SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County to mitigate.

2. Dry Wet Carpeting and Flooring - Carpet holds moisture and it could be the source of the scent. A wet and dry vacuum, which can be rented if needed, can shampoo the carpet and then dry it afterward. This sanitizes the area to potentially remove some of the smell.

3. Scrub Moldy Surfaces - Mold growth left alone will continue to reproduce and spread along with its musty odor

4. Spray Furniture and Upholstery - Furniture can be sprayed and scrubbed. Porous materials are likely not able to be fully cleaned this way since the fungus settles within.

5. Consult Professionals for Extensive Cleanup - There are many instances that commercial-grade machines will need to be used to remove the malodor. An expert SERVPRO technician can help remove problems caused by floodwater and/or other water damage. When dealing with flood odors, most do-it-yourself remedies will fix only the symptom. Trust the help from SERVPRO of Benton and Linn County where we can assist you to remove most of the unwanted smells alongside any mold growth or other nuisance.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

7/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the High Standard for clean. Call us for more information. 541-745-2097

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

A higher standard of clean

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that goes beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning that helps ensure the cleanliness of the restaurants, businesses and public spaces in the communities we all call home. With over 50 years of expertise, 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.

Are you interested in a free quote for our Commercial Services, or are you a Consumer who wants to learn more about the program?

How Do I Remove Water from Different Flooring Types?

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

Water quickly damages flooring materials. Depending upon the scope of damage, sometimes the floor can be salvaged.

SERVPRO has the Knowledge for Flooring Restoration After Portsmouth Water Loss Events

Your home has many different flooring types, and our SERVPRO professionals have different tools and equipment that can help to restore these after water losses. Many materials compose the construction of your home's flooring, walls, and ceiling systems. Different strategies are necessary to remove water and moisture from these structural elements because so many materials make up your home. Our team of professionals has extensive training and experience to provide the ideal approach for whatever wet surface we encounter. 

Recognizing what tools are best for actions like water removal in your homes gets determined during the initial evaluation and damage assessment. Scoping the job is a process where our project manager and crew chief work with the customer to identify preloss conditions and pre-existing conditions so that we can return the property to its original state as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible. 

Can You Remove Water from Carpeting?  

In areas like your living room and bedrooms, carpeting is one of the typical flooring types encountered in area homes. When migrating water reaches the fibers of carpeted floors, this moisture can get quickly absorbed. It is critical to remove water from carpeting as soon as possible so that moisture does not penetrate the padding and, eventually, the subflooring material. When reconstruction is necessary, the cost of recovery amplifies. Some of the water removal tools and practices for carpeted floors include: 

• Carpet Wands – Wands are fierce attachments for wet vacuums and extractors that can pull water from the surface layer and the padding of carpeted floors. These tools are wise choices when the padding is getting replaced. 

• Weighted Extractors – Stand on and ride on extraction tools can force the surface layer of carpeting and the padding together against the subflooring. This action forces moisture to the surface for an onboard vacuum to remove. 

• Floating Practices – By placing a centrifugal air mover between the top and padding layers of carpeted floors, we can dry both of these materials simultaneously in a floating process. This style is risky as it could cause de-lamination from the primary and secondary backing of the carpet. 

Is Wood Flooring Salvageable After Water Damage?  

The composition of wood surfaces, especially flooring, makes it a sensitive material to standing surface water. Absorption can happen quickly, which can be disastrous if the water does not get removed quickly. Within as little as 48 hours, saturation can reach the point where it begins to warp and distort wood planks, leaving no option but removal and replacement. Some of the approaches for drying wood floors include: 

• Air movers
• Drying Mat System
• Tenting 

Does Standing Water Damage Tile?  

Many homeowners believe that tile flooring is impenetrable, even to standing water. While it is far more difficult for water to breach even the grout joints between floor tile, a small opening or breach in this water-tight seal can allow penetration to the mortar bed and subflooring material. The water beneath tiling can be destructive and hard to detect initially. Our SERVPRO team can address potential concerns with a simple three-step formula for removing water: 

• Extraction – We cannot determine the damage that standing water has done in areas like the kitchen or bathroom until we have removed it. There are multiple extractors, but often wet vacuums and electric submersible pumps are the common implements. 

• Surface Moisture Meter – With pooling water addressed, our technicians can work to determine the damage to tile flooring and other exposed materials. Finding moisture pockets often falls to a surface moisture meter device or probing tool to identify if damp areas exist beneath the top layer. 

• Drying Mats – If pockets of moisture get detected with thermal imagery and surface meters, we can lay drying mats to slowly draw moisture from the mortar bed and subflooring materials to preserve and protect these areas. 

Does SERVPRO Replace Flooring?  

We can offer effective solutions for extraction and drying after a full-service restoration and recovery team after a water loss incident. While we strive to restore before replacing, this is not always possible. We have a full team of licensed residential contractors that can repair and reinstall flooring materials that required discarding from water damages. In this way, we can seamlessly transition between mitigation and repairs to get you back to normal life as soon as possible. 

While you might not be able to avoid water loss incidents, you can choose the team that oversees your property's restoration and recovery. No matter what materials become affected by water exposure, our SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County team can help. Contact us today at (541) 745-2097.

Who should I call for Flood Damage in my Basement?

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help our community.

SERVPRO Cleans Basement Flood Damage in Benton County and Linn County.

Benton and Linn County homeowners may be aware of the risks basements face when it comes to flooding, but they may be surprised to know that only 2% of basements never experience flood damage during their lifespan. While there are many preventive measures that you can take to minimize damage, when disaster strikes, it can be stressful and overwhelming to keep your family safe and salvage your home and belongings after it occurs. However, there is a team that can help. 

When Flood damage hits your basement, SERVPRO technicians are ready to bring fully-loaded trucks filled with cutting-edge equipment, EPA-registered biocides, and gas-powered generators to restore your home to a preloss condition. The Institute of Inspection Cleanup and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-accredited pros handle everything from extracting floodwaters, waste, and debris from your basement to making necessary structural repairs to your property. 

What to Maintain to Minimize Basement Floods

• Sealing tiles and foundation. Proper sealing is necessary to prevent water seepage and foundation damage.
• Proper downspout installation. If downspouts are too short, are clogged, or face the wrong way, floodwaters can quickly be redirected into your home through cracks in the basement. 
• Drain tiles. This is the drainage system built around your home, like a curtain drain.
• Clean gutters. Much like your downspouts, gutters need adequate care to prevent damage and clogs that can eventually lead to water pooling in the basement. 
• Sump pumps. Making sure your basement's drainage system is operational minimizes the risk of sewage backups and floodwater backing up into your home.

SERVPRO Restores Your Home

SERVPRO techs have the means to remove floodwaters, no matter how deep. Portable, back-mounted extractors, wet/dry vacuums, and mops are ideal for small-scale floods. Submersible, gas-powered pumps tackle floodwaters 2 inches or higher. Truck-mounted extraction systems remove large volumes of water: Anywhere from 60 gallons to well over 100 gallons of floodwater. After extraction, your basement can be sanitized with EPA-registered biocides and prepared for structural drying.

SERVPRO of The Seacoast, SERVPRO of Dover-Rochester, and SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County provide mitigation service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. You can call (541) 541-2097 for reliable rapid-response service. 

SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County Faster to Any Size Disaster

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO CAN HELP!

Residential and Commercial Restoration and Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

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

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Backed by a nationwide system of more than 1,800 qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size 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 Today 541-745-2097

6 Steps to Water Mitigation

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Your problem our solution. Call SERVPRO, faster to any size disaster! 541-745-2097

When your property incurs water damage, acting quickly is important

When you discover water damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County six-step restoration process to truly restore your property to its pre-damage condition.

6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration

1. Initial Emergency Contact
   • You can call us 24 hours a day to begin the water restoration process because taking immediate action is crucial after water damage occurs. When you call us, we will ask you questions to get an overview of the damage and to help us determine what resources to dispatch to you.
2. Inspection and Damage Assessment
   • When we arrive on the scene in response to water damage, we will do a detailed property inspection to assess the scope of the damage and to develop a thorough plan of action. We will identify the water source, the category of water, and check for safety concerns.
3. Moisture Extraction
   • The water extraction process will remove the majority of moisture via our extraction and pump units. We will start this process as quickly as possible to lessen the likelihood of more damage occurring and to reduce drying time. We can also help you move out of your belongings in the event that they might be damaged as well.
4. Dehumidifying and Drying
   • After the excess water has been removed, we can begin fully drying all porous materials that have absorbed water. Our industrial-grade equipment moves air quickly and helps moisture to evaporate as fast as possible, which will dry out floors, walls, and carpets as well as discourage mold growth.
5. Cleaning and Repair
   • After sustaining water damage, impacted surfaces will typically require professional cleaning. In addition to structural cleaning, we will clean your belongings that are able to be restored. We will also do odor removal to prevent the musty odor that water-damaged objects often develop.
6. Restoration
   • The final step is ensuring that your property is restored to its pre-water condition. This will involve things like drywall and flooring repairs or even reconstruction. By working with us, you are working with a company that can handle all elements of the restoration, including the difficult reconstruction parts that truly restores things back to their pre-damaged state. We also handle restoration and construction.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The world has changed what it means to be clean, so let customers and employees know that SERVPRO, the nation’s #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, was there with a higher cleaning standard, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Call us for details. #certifiedSERVPROcleaned #SERVPRObentoncountylinncounty

Technique called "Flood Cut"

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County at 541-745-2097

When flooding affects your home our technicians may perform a technique called a "flood cut".

This specific technique requires cutting out sections of drywall about two feet above the flood line to inspect the wall behind it. While this process is not always necessary, there are a few circumstances that may require it after a flood occurs, or in areas that have been affected for a longer period of time.

1. Black Water Floods - (Category 3)

When outdoor flooding invades your home from overflowing streams or rivers, it may contain sewage, chemicals or dead animal carcasses. This water can be considered contaminated and is known as black water or - (Category 3). A flood cut is usually necessary when this type of flooding occurs because your home’s drywall and any insulation behind it may be affected by the dirty water and will need replacing.

2. Wet Insulation

Flood technicians may perform a flood cut and tear out sections of drywall if they believe any insulation behind your home’s walls has water damage. Because once insulation is wet, it can loose its R value, and some cases depending on the insulation, it can be harder to dry. 

3. Mold Growth

After flooding, mold can begin to grow behind interior walls and spread quickly if it is not addressed. Flood technicians may perform a flood cut to check for mold and treat the area if any is found. Because mold does not need sunlight to grow, it can spread from interior walls to other areas and cause an unpleasant odor in your home. A flood cut can prevent this and keep mold at bay.

Why Realtors Should Choose SERVPRO of Benton & Linn Counties

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Currently, we are in a time where the real estate market is hot. Houses are selling faster than they can be listed. We are seeing interest rates drop to an all-time low and what a better time to have an edge with a reputation for having quality listings whether it be a commercial or a residential listing. SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County understands that you want to move a sale through quickly to get your commission. How your listing looks is everything to a potential buyer and we can assist in making that happen. It doesn’t matter what shape or situation your listing is in, the SERVPRO of Benton and Linn County's team can assist you in many different ways to make this sale is quick and the most profitable for you!  Our team can assist you in inspecting a crawl space/attic area for mold, water, or biohazard damage and fix this damage efficiently.  Our team can even assist in estate sales in the case of hoarder cleanouts with optional inventory itemization and cleaning services.   A SERVPRO of Benton & Linn Counties professional would be happy to attend your next sales meeting to discuss how to recognize the potential for mold and what to do in case of a fire or water emergency.

We Repair Storm Damage in Benton & Linn Counties

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Frozen pipe. When this happens call the professionals at SERVPRO of Benton County at 541-745-2097

Winter storms are not a common occurance in Benton and Linn Counties, but it can can happen with little or no advanced warning. Snow and ice buildup on the roof or other building structure can cause water intrusion damage to your home or commercial property. SERVPRO^® of Benton County & Linn County wants our community to know that we are ready to respond to your storm damage call and will begin the cleanup and restoration process immediately. We have the specialized training and state-of-the-art equipment needed to restore your business or home back to pre-storm condition. Here are some of the storm and related services we offer:

• Storm & Flood Services
• Water & Storm Damage Tips
• Disaster Recovery Team
• Water Restoration Process
• Caring For Your Belongings
• Mold Remediation
• Sewage Cleanup
• Carpet Cleaning
• Odor Removal
• Building Services
• Commercial Storm Damage

We hope you never experience winter storm damage but if you do, we want to help. We know that every minute counts when it comes to preventing storm damage repairs from becoming costly. Our team of highly trained professionals is on call 24 hours a day every day. Call us today at 541-745-2097. 

SERVPRO^® of Benton County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Do's and Don'ts for Water Damage

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

These DO's and DON'TS Emergency Tips for water damage will help home owners until we arrive to take care of them.

These DO's and DON'TS Emergency Tips for water damage will assist you in taking quick proper action to help you reduce damage and increase the chances of successful restoration before help arrives.

Sanitary Water-Clear

DO:

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party 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.

DON'T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may occur.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as this may cause staining.

Contaminated Water-Gray, Black or Sewage

DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash you're hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.

DON'T:

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
• Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated area.

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

Why SERVPRO

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

There is no job to big for SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County. Call us if you need help.

Since its founding in 1967 SERVPRO has expanded to over 1,700+ locations across the United States and Canada. Since then SERVPRO has also greatly expanded the array of services we offer. Since those services range from carpet cleaning and deodorization to large scale disaster recovery and with SERVPRO’s 1,700+ locations our collective knowledge and experience are one of the greatest assets SERVPRO has and we know how to use it. SERVPRO locations provide all kinds of support to each other ranging from equipment to people-power and technical advice. Sometimes we might run into an issue that we have not encountered before or possibly elements to a job that prevents our normal methods for jobs. This is when we have been able to rely on the knowledge base which our corporate office and other SERVPROs have accumulated. It does not matter what emergency you are facing. From Water Mitigation, Fire Restoration, or Mold Remediation. SERVPRO has the team and backing to handle it all. We are known for taking care of big problems and disasters, but we also are adept at helping people with issues you normally may not know the solution too. If you have an emergency which makes you think “I don’t even know who does this,” try giving us a call.

SERVPRO of Benton County, SERVPRO of Linn County. We can help. 541-745-2097 or 541-745-3971

Process of Fire Restoration

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to fire damage, preparation is the key.

The first 48 hours after a fire often can be the difference between "restoring" vs. "replacing" your property and/or personal items. SERVPRO of Birmingham provides timely response with restoration services ranging from fire, smoke, and soot removal, to content claims inventory and document restoration.

If you have experienced fire damage in your home or business, here is what to expect from us:

One Hour: Within one hour from notice of loss, a priority responder will contact you.

Four Hours: Within four hours of loss notification, our certified technicians will be onsite to assess the damage.

Eight Hours: Within eight hours of on-site arrival, certified technicians will be working neatly and efficiently to clean, restore, and deodorization. Pre-cleaning for restoration, to prevent any further damage from soot and smoke.

Detailed Explanation: A trained and uniformed technician will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. We then use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your home or business is back to normal in an appropriate timeframe.

Final Walk-through: After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

Fire Tips for Kids

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

Children are going to be curious about fire, but it can be dangerous and costly.

According to the American Burn Association, children are the most susceptible to burn injuries. 73% of all burn injuries happen in the home. At some point in time, children are going to be curious about fire, but it can be dangerous and costly.

Here are some tips to follow to keep your family safe according to the National Protection Association:

• Be sure to keep all matches and lighters out of the reach of children, preferably somewhere up high or in a locked cabinet.
• Closely supervise your children, making sure that they are away from any fire sources, including lit candles, cigarettes, fire pits, and stoves.
• Take advantage of any opportunity to teach your children about fire safety.
• Explain that fires are something to be taken seriously as they move very fast and can hurt you with contact.
• Teach young children to not touch matches or lighters, and to notify an adult immediately if found.
• Establish a clear set of rules and consequences about unsupervised and unapproved uses of fire.
• Remember, children are always watching. Make sure you set a good example by handling fire in a safe manner.
• Show your children appreciation for displaying respect and age-appropriate responsibility when it comes to fire.

If your children happen to burn themselves, cool the burn by running it under cold water for 10 to 15 minutes.

If it is a more serious burn, CALL 9-1-1

SERVPRO® of Benton County & Linn County is Here to Help® Businesses Get Back to Business

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

We’ll deep clean your business and get you ready to reopen your doors!

This Pandemic Won’t Last Forever

This global pandemic crisis caused by COVID-19 has taken away many of the social activities that we as Americans enjoy, but it will not last forever. When businesses reopen, people will be ready to socialize, dine, and enjoy all the activities that they used to. SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County wants to help our community businesses get back to business. We have years of experience cleaning biological contaminants and viruses similar to COVID-19 and we use EPA-approved hospital-grade cleaning products.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility

We follow the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations and adhere to their strict protocols for cleaning and disinfecting both porous and nonporous surfaces. The CDC recommends the routine cleaning of all high-touch surfaces including:

• Tables
• Handles
• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Countertops
• Desks
• Keyboards
• Bathroom fixtures
• Common areas

SERVPRO Technicians are Uniquely Prepared

Our highly trained professionals are required to undergo rigorous initial and ongoing specialty cleaning training and we are uniquely positioned to respond to any biological cleaning need. When you are ready to get back to business, SERVPRO^® of Benton County and Linn County wants to help.  Our team is specialty trained to provide the highest level of commercial cleaning and restoration services. Call us today at 541-745-2097. We’ll clean and restore your business in Benton & Linn County “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Benton County, and Linn County is Independently Owned and Operated.

We Can Clean Your Home or Business!

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County are trained professionals for cleaning for the Coronavirus

The COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic has reminded all of us how important it is to properly clean the surfaces and objects we handle.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cleaning and disinfecting are separate processes. Cleaning removes dirt, oils and most surface germs. Disinfection kills (or deactivates) remaining germs.

SERVPRO® of Benton County and Linn County is qualified to clean and properly apply disinfectants according to the CDC’s protocols.

We have numerous years of experience in cleaning and disinfecting contaminants, including infectious bio hazards. We have specific training and the appropriate equipment to go beyond standard cleaning services.  More recently, our professionals received additional training certifications regarding COVID-19 decontamination.

Many SERVPRO cleaning products include products the CDC recommends for other coronaviruses (such as SARS).  The EPA has just added three more of our branded disinfectants to their approved product list!  Although there has not yet been product testing against COVID-19, we can assure our community in and around Boulder that we follow all of the CDC-recommended guidelines.

We clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as:

• Counters and tabletops
• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Toilets & other bathroom fixtures (faucets, handrails, tubs & showers)
• Tablets, keyboards & other office (home or business) equipment

We also clean soft surfaces such as:

• Carpets & rugs
• Upholstered furniture
• Exercise mats

The CDC recommends cleaning and disinfecting the following areas:

• Kitchen & dining areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools, classrooms, conference rooms
• Retail spaces, including
  • Sales counters
  • Racks, shelves
  • Hand-rails & elevator cars
  • Flooring, regardless of material
  • Water fountains
  • Carpets, rugs
  • Fitness equipment
  • Playground equipment

Call SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County for a Proactive Cleaning Today!

We care and are Ready To Respond!  SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County 541-745-2097.

SERVPRO of Benton County and Linn County is independently owned and operated.

Conserving water and why it is important.

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Conservation can come in many forms. Water is a very important resource to us and we have to be sure to turn off faucets and conserve water when we are able to. Here are some tips for your family and children to follow when it comes to conserving water from SERVPRO of Benton County.

When it comes to water conservation, making the matter apparent to your children will have many benefits. It will begin to teach them the value and practices of conservation early on in their lives, a lesson that will hopefully stick for long into the future. Kids are sponges – chances are if you teach your child a way to save water in an interesting way, he or she will relay the message to classmates or friends.

Turning off the tap: minimize water use in the shower by turning off the shower head while shampooing and conditioning. Depending on where they live, this practice alone could save the average family up to $100 and 3,200 gallons of water per year (*based on a family of 3).

Sometimes you or your kids will pour more water than they wind up drinking. Instead of dumping this water down the drain, use it to water your plants, pour it into your pet’s water bowl, into your teapot or another practical use that will eliminate having to use the faucet. The same goes for ice cubes left at the end of your water glass.

Avoiding toys that require a constant stream of water as opposed to those that you fill can make a major difference when it comes to water usage. If it’s just too hot, limiting their time playing in the sprinkler can keep tabs on the situation. Also reminding your children to not play in the running water faucets and keep water use to just the needed usages.

Once you start conserving, expose your children to the struggles for clean water around the world. What they’re doing at home may translate into wanting to do more to help others.

Ways to prevent MOLD in your home.

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

This picture shows mold growth in a corner of a wall where it meets with a out side door.

Here are some ways to keep your home safe from mold damages and prevent further damage. Brought to you by SERVPRO of Benton and Linn County.

1. Eliminate Clutter

Clutter blocks airflow and prevents your HVAC system from circulating air. Furniture and curtains that block supply grilles cause condensation. All this moisture creates microclimates in your home that welcome mold growth.  Push furniture away from vents and grilles to keep air circulating. On humid, still days, run a couple of fans to keep air moving.

2. Shut Windows and Doors When AC Is On

When you open windows and doors, you let air conditioning escape, waste money, and invite humid air into your cooler home. This causes condensation, which mold loves. So keep doors and windows shut when the AC is humming.  Also, maintain your home at around 80 degrees when you’re on vacation or at work. Too often, we bump the thermostat up to 85 degrees, or turn off the AC when we’re away. This raises temperature and humidity, which creates the ideal home for mold.

3. Monitor Humidity

An indoor humidity monitor will help you keep track of moisture levels that, ideally, fall between 35% and 50% relative humidity; in very humid climates, at the height of summer, you may have to live with readings closer to 55%. But if you reach 60% relative humidity, it’s time to look for the source of the added moisture; above 70% relative humidity, certain species of mold can begin growing.

4. Water Damage 

If left untreated can cause major damage in your home including serious Mold Growth. 

water damage whether it is a clean water break, a leaking washing machine, or a sewage leak, it is still very important to address it quickly before further damage occurs. SERVPRO is equipped to handle whatever the situation, whether large or small.

Permanent damage happens quickly, from wood surfaces deteriorating, carpet delaminating, or mold beginning to appear because of the moist conditions. This is why it is so important to act quickly.

If your home is experiencing Mold give SERVPRO of Benton and Linn County a call today at (541)745-2097

What can cause Water Damage in your home?

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage can happen all over your home, and even underneath it.

A Leaky Basement

One of the most common causes of water damage is a leaky basement. To make repairs, you have to find the leak. We can help address this problem

Leaky Plumbing

Another cause of water damage is a leaky plumbing system. Unless the system is plagued by multiple leaks, you can do the repair yourself. Depending on the extensiveness of the damage, you can either patch up the leaky pipe or change one or several damaged pipes if the problem is internal. SERVPRO can always help you with water damage repair that is out of your hands.

Fixing the Plant Root System

Did you know that plant and shrub overgrowth could cause water damage to the home too? When the root system of the plant and shrub is too close to a structure, water could penetrate its foundation. You can resolve minor water damage caused by plant overgrowth by trimming the shrubs and removing water that pools near the foundation of your home.

Damaged Drywall

For ceilings, the usual culprit is a leaky roof or a leaky toilet. For leaky toilets, we highly recommend getting a Plumber to stop the leak. Then let the Professionals at SERVPRO repair any damages that may have occurred.  We can repair drywall, dry any moisture and help protect against mold. 

Call SERVPRO today if your home or business is experiencing Water Damage our number is (541)745-2097.

Fire Safety at Home and what you need to know.

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County working on a fire loss in Salem OR.

Fires can be very frightening – they are scary, spread quickly and can cause devastating losses.  While we cannot completely fire-proof our homes, there are a few steps you can take to help protect your family in the event of a fire.

• Install and regularly test smoke detectors. Statistics show that working smoke detectors reduce the risk of death in a house fire almost in half! Fires spread quickly, and once that alarm sounds, you may only have a minute or two to escape.
• Practice Fire Drills at home.Since time is of the utmost importance during a fire, it is best to KNOW what do in the event of a fire.  What is the best escape route? Where does the family meet up outside?  In order to respond quickly, it is best to have a rehearsed plan ahead of time.
• Have fire extinguishers handy & know how to use them.Keep them in an easy access location near a likely source of fire – in the kitchen, the laundry room, etc.  And maybe buy a few extra and have your children practice using them (probably best to do OUTSIDE).
• Childproof your kitchen.To keep small children from accidentally turning on the stove, which may having something on it that could burn.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.And teach your children they are not toys.

While no one wants to imagine what they would do in the event of a fire, it is better to be prepared, and have a plan to help keep your family as safe as possible.  And if you do experience a fire, do not hesitate to call your Fire Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO.  We are here to help. We can take care of your home, so you can take care of your family.

SERVPRO can finish the job.

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO crew repaired water damaged hard wood floors.

SERVPRO can start and finish the job.

Did you know that Benton/Linn County SERVPRO has an in house construction company? Well we do! When you chose to have SERVPRO come, and work on your home or business we are able to finish the job completely.   You don’t have to worry about finding another company to finish the repairs. Our construction crew is made up of   two project managers, three carpenter teams, and a painting crew.  They are extremely talented and hard working.  Our project mangers work with the insurance company to insure the job is being done to insurance standards, and to what the customer wants.  Our mission is to make this situation the easiest we can on the customer, and make sure they are happy with the work that was performed on their home or business.

Why SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County?

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County Marketing Team.

SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County is a company that strongly believes in giving back to the community.  SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County is involved in many charitable events during the year. SERVPRO of Benton County staff goes above and beyond to give back. Just recently we participated in two fundraisers back to back in one day. These organizations mean so much to our SERVPRO family.

On February 15th, 2020, SERVPRO of Benton and Linn County participated in the Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics which benefits our local Special Olympic athletes, and the Run Off Your Tutu for Furniture Share which helps local in-need families with beds and furniture. Both of these organizations impact our community greatly.  SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County's mission is to give back whenever we can. That’s why when you're looking for a company to work on your home or business for your restoration needs, SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County is the one to pick, because we care for our community.

Cell phone charger fires and how to keep you and your home safe

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

Always use phone chargers that are recommend for you cell phone.

SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County in January 2020 responded to two home fires that were caused by cell phone chargers. Now days it’s hard to find a home that doesn’t have a cell phone in it, and if there is a cell phone then there will be charger.  Our phones are major part of our day, and we have them will us all the time. I personally have mine on me 24/7, and I charge it on my night stand next to my bed.  Did you know that chargers produce a large amount on energy? One fire we responded to the cell phone charger caught a mattress in a child's bedroom on fire. He are some tips to help keep you safe from a cell phone charger fire.

1. Only buy and use devices that are listed by a quality testing laboratory.
2. Make sure to always follow the manufacturer’s instruction.
3. Only use the battery and charging cord that’s designed for you specific device.
4. Do not charge your device under a pillow, on your bed, on a couch or in a location that’s exposed to direct sunlight.

We here at SERVPRO of Benton/Linn county is always here to help if your home or business has experienced a fire. We are ready to help 24/7.

Top Causes for Cooking fires

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

Yes! Microwaves are helpful, but can cause extreme damage when they malfunction.

Cooking fires are one of the most common fires that accrue in a home. 

The top main cause of a cooking fire are:

1. Towels or pot holder left on the stove to close to the burner.
2. Cooking with hot oils.
3. Cooking on to high of heat.
4. Food that burns in the oven or on the stove top.
5. Microwaves 

The Damage that cooking fires can be very hard to deal with, and to clean up.

That where we come in. SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County has many years of experience with fires, and smoke restoration. SERVPRO can make your kitchen and home like new. I know I need to be reminded to keep an eye on the stove when I am cooking. If your home experiences a fire give us a call. Here at SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County we are always here 24/7 to help.

Fire Emergency Plan, and why we need one.

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

We are all busy with kids, school, work, after school activities, but we all need to take some time out of our busy schedule, and make a family fire plan. I know as a parent it hard to juggle family life, but safety for my family is always on my mind. Here is what you can do.

• Make a map of your home, and make a fire exit plan. Post you fire plan in the kitchen area a daily reminder.
• Teach safety techniques like step by step how to instructions to stay low to the ground, and cover your face with your shirt or a pillow case to protect from the smoke
• Conduct drills like listening for the smoke detector, and practicing the fire exit plan for evacuation.
• Talk about fire safety with your children. Play games to teach them stop drop and roll, and to be ready for if a fire if it happened in your home.

If a fire happens in your home SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County can help you fix your home. We are here for you and your home 24/7.

How to protect your home in a storm

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

In the Pacific North West it is very common to have wind storms, and them to cause a major damage to homes.

We live in the Pacific Northwest and we love it! That also means we have a a lot of different weather that we experience in the winter months. From strong winds and rain to heavy snow here are 4 ways to protect your home from a storm. 

1. Clear away outdoor items

Make sure all lawn furniture, gardening tools, sporting equipment and other outdoor items are stored away if a storm is heading your way. High winds during a heavy storm can potentially pick up these items and send them flying through a window or far away from your home. Putting away loose outdoor items in this situation can protect your house (and your neighbors’ houses) from unnecessary damage.

2. Trim the trees

Take time to examine the trees in your yard or surrounding your house.

Storms will often snap large tree branches, which can damage your home's siding, smash your car or even topple power lines and cause outages. If the tree has a loose connection with a big branch, consider sawing it off. It might reduce some shade in the yard, but can potentially protect your home.

3. Have standby power

Electricity lines are vulnerable during storms. Fallen branches can easily snap the power lines, and lightning strikes can blow up transformers, causing major power outages.

A whole-house surge protective device runs in the $200 to $300 range and is easy for an electrician to install. A generator is a great way to protect your home during storms and for a constant back up.

4. Flood-proof your home

Heavy rainstorms can lead to flooding, which can potentially wreak havoc on homes. Water damage can devalue a house and cause significant problems with the foundation.

Be ready in case of emergency, but if and when one occurs, rely on the professionals at Linn/Benton County SERVPRO. Call us today at (541)745-2097.

What can cause water damage in your home or business

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

Why you should you act fast when you are experiencing water damage.

A Leaky Basement

One of the most common causes of water damage is a leaky basement. To make repairs, you have to find the leak. We can help address this problem

Leaky Plumbing

Another cause of water damage is a leaky plumbing system. Unless the system is plagued by multiple leaks, you can do the repair yourself. Depending on the extensiveness of the damage, you can either patch up the leaky pipe or change one or several damaged pipes if the problem is internal. SERVPRO can always help you with water damage repair that is out of your hands.

Fixing the Plant Root System

Did you know that plant and shrub overgrowth could cause water damage to the home too? When the root system of the plant and shrub is too close to a structure, water could penetrate its foundation. You can resolve minor water damage caused by plant overgrowth by trimming the shrubs and removing water that pools near the foundation of your home.

Damaged Drywall

For ceilings, the usual culprit is a leaky roof or a leaky toilet. For leaky toilets, we highly recommend getting a Plumber to stop the leak. Then let the Professionals at SERVPRO repair any damages that may have occurred.  We can repair drywall, dry any moisture and help protect against mold. 

 We take all the precautions to make sure we repair the damage the right way and keep your family safe from mold and other issues caused by water damage. Call SERVPRO today at(541)745-2097.

What we at Linn/Benton County SERVPRO stand for

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO makes restored floors look great. We offer restoration for all different kinds of damages.

SERVPRO Stands for many different things and it makes us so happy to be able to serve our community with all their restoration needs.  SERVPRO works to help people restore their damages and make the restoration process as smooth as possible. We will make your home safe for your whole family.

SERVPRO of Linn and Benton County is all about serving our community and serving people; we want to be a resource, to be helpful to others—that is why we do business, and the why we do business is the most important thing, in our minds.  So, obviously people know what we do, but we want to be out there being involved in the community and be there when people need assistance, and so that is our number one focus, our number one mission: to serve our customers in time of need and give them the peace of mind.

If you need help restoring damage in your home or elsewhere, call SERVPRO of Linn/Benton County. We clean water damage, fire damage, biohazard, mold damage and so much more. We always want you to be happy with the job we do for you.

Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County to make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097

Carbon Monoxide - what are the risks?

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

Having CO Detectors in your home can help save lives.

When a winter storm hits, temperatures plummet. We feel the cold, even indoors as houses can be drafty, or a loss of power causes a loss of heat.  As many turn on portable heaters, the risk of fire is probably their primary safety concern.  Most people do not even consider the risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning!  But many common practices that come with a winter storm do come with an increased risk of accidental CO poisoning. To reduce your risk, and help keep your family safer during a winter storm, please be aware of the following :

• Proper use and ventilation of portable generators. Generators can be a life saver during a loss of power in a Winter Storm.  But they also create CO, so only use a generator per manufacturer’s instructions, and only in areas with proper ventilation. Never place one in an enclosed space, such as a basement, attic or attached garage. And make sure it is placed at least 15 feet away from a window or door into the home!
• Make sure chimneys are clean. Woodstoves, or wood burning fireplaces are a great source of heat in a cold snap. However, if the chimney is clogged, that CO filled smoke will feed back into the home, putting everyone at risk.
• Do not idle your car, or any vehicle, in a garage. Even with a garage door open, the colder air condenses the CO in the exhaust from the vehicle.
• Don’t use your oven or stove to heat your home.
• ANYTHING that burns fuel can create CO. Gas-Powered Generators, Furnaces, Wood stoves, Kerosene heaters, Gas-powered tools, Gas-Powered home appliances, Gas and Charcoal Grills, and, of course, vehicles.  Only use these items in well ventilated areas.
• Check exterior vents for ice or snow covering. During a storm, your furnace and appliance’s exhaust vents can become covered in ice or snow.  This can cause that exhaust to vent into the home, putting you and your family at great risk.
• Install Carbon Monoxide detectors. Have at least one on every floor of your home. Change out the batteries when you change clocks for Daylight Savings.

While we cannot ever be 100% prepared for a storm, making sure your home’s heating systems are in good shape BEFORE winter storms strike is your best defense.  If you need the name of a good Chimney Sweep, or Heating & Cooling Company, call us at SERVPRO for a recommendation. We have worked with many wonderful Service Men and Women in our community and are happy to help you find someone to assist you.

Fire Safety with Kids

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

It is extremely important to teach Fire Safety to children , and how to properly evacuate and area with fire and smoke.

Home fires can start quickly, and spread at an incredible rate.  Studies have shown that once a smoke detector goes off in your home, you only have about 2 minutes to get out safely! When you have young children in the house, that thought can be overwhelming and frightening.  Altho we cannot always prevent a fire from starting, there are things we can do to help our families get out safely if a fire occurs.

Working Smoke Detectors/Alarms are of utmost importance!! Altho you only have about 2 minutes to escape once the alarm sounds, smoke detectors in the home have been shown to reduce fire-related deaths by 50%.  Considering half of all home fires occur between 11PM – 7AM, when most folks are sleeping, a working smoke detector sounding the alarm can make all the difference. As well as with so many fires starting during the night time, it is a good idea to have working alarms in each bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home. For the best protection, install interconnected smoke alarms. This way, when one goes off, they all sound.  Practice a few times with the alarm actually sounding, to ensure that your child is not afraid of the sound, and that they know what they should do when they hear the alarm

Also, practice escaping out of every room of your home.  Make a game of it, see how many different ways you can get out to your designated ‘safe space’ and meeting area. Even have your kids help draw a map of your different escape routes. They will have fun. Drawing a map also helps ingrain it into their minds, making them more likely to remember what to do in the event of an actually fire.

Teach kids to not play with matches and lighters.  Make a habit of storing these items up and out of reach of young children. Teach children that if they happen to find a match or lighter, to take it to a trusted adult immediately!

Fires can be devastating, and sadly, we cannot completely fire-proof our world.   But just a little bit of planning can make a big difference for your family. And if you ever do experience a fire, do not hesitate to call upon your Fire Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO! We are always here to help.

What can SERVPRO do for you and your business?

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County Techs are preforming a fire clean on a commercial building

When a fire damages your business, it can be a really stressful, and scary time.

A business can be the very thing that supports your life and family, so when a fire occurs, things need to be fixed as soon as possible.

Some of the steps we use to mitigate fire damage is:

Step1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)

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

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Step 6: Cleaning and Repair

Step 7: Restoration

Usually fires have a pretty short timeline. We're first call responders. We get the fire alerts and then one of us will go out to the fire and just let the customers know that we're there to be of assistance. We stay out of the way of the professionals and will hang out and give the property owner any assistance we can. We can help them get the insurance process started by calling their agent for them while they take care of their family or simply just getting them food or water.

SERVPRO of Benton/Linn county specializes in fire restoration, so when you need help, we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

The Camp Fire, and the Damage

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

The Camp fire is still to this day California's most devastating and deadliest fire.

It’s been a year since the Camp Fire accrued November 8^th 2018. The fire took over 3 weeks to put out. The fire was caused by a transmission line owned and operated by PG& E of California. The fire consumed over 150,000 acres, and destroyed 18,000 building.  More than 10 towns were affected in some way from this horrible fire.  The Camp Fire is one of the most destructive and deadliest fires in California’s history.  SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County was dispatched to go, and help assist other local SERVPRO’s with the clean- up effort.  Over the 6 week period we were there we cleaned over 25 homes and building from smoke damage. Now that it’s been a year the people who were affected by the Camp Fire our still on our mind, and prayers.  

We here at SERVPRO don’t just do restoration, but construction too!

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Our owners and employees put many hours in to our new office and shop.This picture shows the beginning stages of the framing.

Behind SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County, we are backed by McGinnis Enterprises, the construction company.

Having a construction company behind our SERVPRO name allows us to do new construction and other projects beyond the restoration and mitigation that SERVPRO is known for.

An example of the work we do, is our new office, hand built by our franchise owners, Tim and Nick McGinnis.

Tim and Nick worked tirelessly on the building, from groundbreaking to what it is today. Now it serves as a very comfortable office, and a large warehouse, equipped to fix large quantities of contents, service vehicles, and store our machinery.

An example of the things SERVPRO of Benton County and McGinnis Enterprises is capable of is: Mitigation, Restoration, Clean up, Biohazard, HVAC cleaning, construction and carpentry.

Having a contractors license allows us to do so many things. If you are needing restoration help, or remolding you bathroom give us a call today (541)745-2097.

What SERVPRO does to keep the customer and employee’s safe.

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

In this picture is our crew lead Axel and project manager Daniel.They are doing a demonstration on how to put on, and remove PPE.

In SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County’s line of work, we face a lot of jobs that pertain to biohazard, including exposure to blood or bodily fluids. We are here with the tools necessary to clean up situations that normally would not be safe for the average individual.

Our franchise is there to clean up after deaths, sickness, sewage, or accidents, so you don’t have to!

1. Part of the precautions that we take to keep our techs safe, is proper training, and continuing education; we are never done learning how to be even better at our jobs. This includes weekly meetings where we go over a particular subject, and training's.

Another part to how we keep our techs safe is through proper PPE, also known as “Personal Protective Equipment”.  One of the important requirements for our techs is to have or acknowledge the need for a Hepatitis B vaccination.

For extreme biohazard risk, our techs  will apply a suit, gloves, face mask, and then seal it with tape, to ensure full security from biohazard elements.

At SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County, we always ensure the safety of not just out customers, but our employees too!

How to prevent mold in your home

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

In this picture a water heater had been leaking over a period of time causing massive mold growth and damage to the drywall.

Mold!        

Most hear the word and think ‘YUCK!’. It’s easy to forget that mold can ever be a good thing! We use it to make some cheeses and even penicillin.  It is one of nature’s beneficial decomposers.  Mold can, and does, grow anywhere – as anyone in Oregon knows only too well! But, it’s easy to forget any of the good reasons for mold when we find it in our homes.  Decomposing our carpets, or drywall, or floorboards…

To flip the old adage, a good defense against mold is a good offense. Its best to prevent mold growth before it becomes a problem.  And the best offense is: moisture control.  Easier said than done, here in Oregon, I know!  Mold can be costly to fix, but relatively easy to prevent. Here are a few ways you can help curb indoor moisture issues, and the mold that thrives on it.

• Identify potential problem areas in your house.While you cannot ‘mold-proof’ your home, you can take measures to make it more ‘mold-resistant’.  Inspect your home for problem areas: does your basement flood? Do you experience condensation on windows? Invest a little time and money now to address such issues.
• Dry wet areas immediately. Mold needs moisture to grow – taking a moment to wipe up any standing/pooling water can prevent mold growth.
• Proper Ventilation.Every day household activities can encourage mold growth: cooking, showering, and doing laundry…making sure your kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room are properly ventilated can help keep moisture down, and thus keep mold from taking root.
• Utilize ‘mold-resistant’ products in your home. Whether building a new home, or renovating an older home, consider using mold-resistant drywall or sheetrock in high-humidity rooms.
• Clean or repair gutters.A mold problem may be a simple matter of a roof that is leaking due to a clogged or damaged gutter. Cleaning your gutters regularly and having them inspected for damage can help prevent water from invading home.

These are just a few of the often simple measures you can take, as a homeowner, to help protect your property, and your family against the potentially harmful effects of mold in your home.  If you do suspect or find mold in your home, call your Mold Remediation Specialists at SERVPRO.

Did you know SERVPRO cleans cars?

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is not only known for their Fire and Water restoration, but we do plenty of cleanup jobs in our community.

Mostly, we do home cleanup, or business cleanup, but every once in a while, we get the opportunity to clean vehicles.

Recently, we had the honor of cleaning out a police cruiser for one of the local police departments in our area, it was pretty fun seeing it in our warehouse getting cleaned.

People will need car cleaning in the event there is a biohazard, like blood from an accident or someone gets car sick, excessive amounts of dirt, or smoke damage from smoking in the vehicle. We also do mold remediation on cars. We’re here to help when the job needs to be done!

SERVPRO of Benton County has all the equipment necessary to clean pretty much anything; including cars!

Why it is important to have your carpet cleaned in your office.

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Carpet cleaning in a office space.

Did you know that for the average household, regular vacuuming is the best way to keep your carpets clean?  Regularly vacuuming means 2x per week, with SLOW repetitive back and forth strokes. And by slow, we mean it should take you approximately 15-20 minutes to vacuum a 300sq ft room.  This should help remove about 80% of the dry soil in your carpet.  Even with regular vacuuming, it is recommended that your have your carpets deep cleaned once per year.  And this is on carpet where most folks remove their shoes before walking on.

Now, how about the carpets in your business or office?  We do not normally ask people to remove their shoes before entering...and we have a LOT of soil to track indoors here in Oregon!  It is recommended that offices and places of business have their carpets Professionally cleaned anywhere from every 3 months to a year.  It depends on the type of business and amount of traffic - school and healthcare environments should be deep cleaning more often than, say, a Real Estate Office.

Soil is not only unsightly on carpeting, surprisingly, it can actively wear down your carpet faster.  Soil particles work their way down into the carpets backing, and act as a grinding compound. As the carpet is walked on, the particles can cut the fibers.  This will eventually lead to fiber loss, and potentially, bare spots in the carpeting.

Soiled carpet can also become a breeding ground for mold and other microbes.  Regular Professional Cleaning can help reduce the risk of repeated illness in your workplace, as well as reduce symptoms of allergies or asthma.

If you need your business’ carpets Professionally Cleaned, call upon your neighbors at your locally owned and operated SERVPRO today at (541)745-2097

Your house or business is damaged by water…….What do you do?

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

Damage to the carpets and furniture.

Your house is damaged by water…….What do you do?

It is vital to act quickly, before more damage occurs. First you must stop the water source or intrusion. Once stopped, mitigating, or keeping more damage from happening, is where service professionals like SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County come in. SERVPRO can come out to your house, assess the damage, clean and dry the area affected, and restore it “Like it Never Even Happened.”

Professionals, like SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County can identify water damage in obvious areas, classify the type of water doing the damage, and put together a plan of action to mitigate and restore the affected area. In addition, restoration professionals find areas unseen that have been affected and create access, or use professionally designed equipment, that allows the drying and restoration process to occur.

Whatever type of water damage you may have, whether it is a clean water break, a leaking washing machine, or a sewage leak, it is still very important to address it quickly before further damage occurs. SERVPRO is equipped to handle whatever the situation, whether large or small.

Permanent damage happens quickly, from wood surfaces deteriorating, carpet delaminating, or mold beginning to appear because of the moist conditions. This is why it is so important to act quickly.

While you are waiting for your restoration professional to arrive, here’s a few things you can do:

1. Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
2. Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock. 
3. Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
4. Remove any newspapers, magazines or colored material that may bleed onto carpets.
5. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
6. Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture. .

To prevent future water damage it’s a good idea to make sure that you regularly maintain your plumbing and roofing. In your bathroom and other rooms you should make certain that you have good ventilation and you should use good insulation in your windows and walls – especially your basement. Make sure as well to clean your gutters regularly and to make sure that there is no overspill. If you are buying a new home, make sure to research the area first to avoid houses on flood plains.

You can also prepare for potential water damage by making sure you keep your most important belongings up high and away from basement level. You should also make sure you have the number of a 24-hour emergency water damage restoration service, like SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County, in your phone at all times, and you should have good insurance coverage for your home, and for your possessions to cover the restoration services and items that needs may need replacing.

Be ready in case of emergency, but if and when one occurs, rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County

If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097

Storms in the Pacific North West

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

Funnel cloud that was forming over the Willamette valley.

Living in the Pacific North West you almost never know what kind of weather you are going to see. The last week here in Oregon the weather has had a mind of it’s own. The temps went from the low 90’s to the low 60’s just in a matter of a couple of days. This brings very crazy weather.  Yesterday the mid-Valley experienced heavy rain at times and multiple funnel cloud.  With this kind of weather come flooding and wind damage to homes and businesses. We here at SERVPRO of Benton/Linn county are ready to respond 24/7 to any issue you home might be experiencing from the storm. SERVPRO has many years of storm damage experience.  If you home or business needs help from a storm give SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County a call at (541)745-2097.

I didn't Know Air Ducts needed to be cleaned!

8/22/2019 (Permalink)

Before and After a air duct cleaning.

It’s easy to forget that in our homes and our commercial spaces, that there is a cooling and heating machine in the ceiling, or in the wall, that requires maintenance.

Like how after a certain number of miles, your car requires an oil change; your forced air system and ducts require attention as well after a number of uses.

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends getting your air ducts cleaned every three to five years. However, how often you need it depends on where you are located. Some locations in the U.S. tend to be more damp, which can lead to mold in the air ducts.

In addition to regular servicing, other times that you want to have those ducts cleaned are:

• If you see, or smell mold within the duct system, many people in the U.S. have mold allergies, which can make your business and home life difficult.
• You see or smell rodents within the duct system.
• If the ducts are covered in dirt and debris
• If you own pets that produce dander (which means cleaning the ducts more frequently)

By cleaning those ducts, you lower the chances for allergy attacks, and get to breathe clearly (see what we did there), knowing your air is clean. Energy savings is great too, by keeping your ducts clean, it keeps your air system from having to work harder, using more energy, which ends up costing you more. As the National Air Duct Cleaners Association says “Your heating and cooling system is the lungs of your home. The system taken air in and breathes air out.”

When you are running a business, customers are your number one responsibility, so get those ducts checked out and know that SERVPRO is always by your side! Call today to schedule your cleaning  (541)745-2097

OMG Did I leave the oven on!

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

About Ten years ago I was a mother of two very small boys, and a stay at home mom with a military husband that was gone a lot for work. It was a cold winter’s night and I decided to make brownies. Well it was dinner time and I realized I was out of butter. I loaded my littlies in to the car, and off we went to the store. I took us about 30min to get back to the house. To my surprise the fire department was about to break down my front door. The smoke alarm went off which notified our security system which then called the fire department. I had forgotten the brownies in the oven!! Thank goodness there was no fire but my home was full of brownie smoke. I am sure we have all been there at some point in our lives.

In the study, the NFPA outlined that “Cooking equipment was the leading cause of home structure fires and civilian fire injuries and the second leading cause of home fire deaths,” and accounts for over 47% of all reported home fires.most cooking fires occur during the holiday season between November and December, however, the risk is always there. Be cautious, and aware of all cooking equipment.

Here are some tips:

1. If there is a fire in the oven, shut it off, and do not open the door. By opening the door oxygen is now free to feed the fire, which does not solve the problem. Keep the door shut, and the lack of oxygen will eventually cause the fire to die out.
2. Do not leave dirty pans on the stove, anyone, especially children, can walk by and accidentally bump the knob and thus turning on the oven.
3. Do not pour water on a grease fire! The water will sink to the bottom, and steam will make the flames rise higher. Use a fire extinguisher. In addition, 55% of non-fatal home cooking fire injuries occurs when the victim tries to fight the fire themselves!

Enjoy your meal, but please be careful of the dangers of cooking equipment. But if the unthinkable happens, don’t be afraid to call SERVPRO of Benton and Linn County, we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Yes We Can!

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County believes that no job it too big or too small.  We are a 24hr company, and will respond right away. Having a loss at you business can be very difficult, and we know that. Our project managers will work with the owner to schedule a time work on the loss when it good for them. SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County worked on a job where we were needed to work when the business was closed for the night, so that is would not disturb the business during the day. Our amazing technicians were more than happy to do that for the business owner.  If your place of business has experienced damage of any kind give SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County a call. We are here 24/7 to help.

Tips to avoid a brush fire, or yard fire.

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

We are approaching higher than normal temp for the Willamette valley which means the grass will dry out faster, and wild fire season will be here. Here are some tips to keep in mind to keep your yard and home safe this season.

• Avoid outdoor burning.
• Remove all dead foliage from your property.
• Mow your yard before 10am in the morning.
• Water your yard for at least 10 minutes every other day.

Keep in mind that when a Fire starts on dead or dry grass it will spread quickly, and can be very difficult to control. When fires are un-controlled it will destroy everything in its path. If your home is damaged by fire or smoke from an outdoor fire SERVPRO of Benton/Linn Can help you restore it to new.

SERVPRO and Smoke Damage Restoration

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke Damage

While some fires are a total loss not all of them are. There may be nothing or very little left to save but many fires are not as serious as a total loss. In some cases there is little structural damage to the home. Even in these cases, there is usually significant smoke and soot damage to the contents of the home. When the contents of a home such as furniture, kitchen utensils, dishes, toys, clothing, bedding and draperies or other personal items are damaged by smoke and soot mitigating the fire damage as soon as possible is important. Cleaning and restoring the contents to its preloss condition is a job for restoration professionals.

The first concern in every fire situation is safety. The fire restoration professionals at SERVPRO will take steps to make sure all workers and others entering a structure after a fire are safe. It is important to ensure the structure is sound before any evaluation work is done or before work begins.

Smoke and soot particles are Products of Incomplete Combustion (PIC). These are carcinogens that are considered to be dangerous. They can start to degrade contents of a home within just a few days, so dealing with them properly and immediately is necessary.

Once you have taken safety precautions the next step is to determine which items should be cleaned and where. Most soft goods such as bedding, clothing, and draperies will be taken to a dry cleaning or laundry facility for processing. Remaining items will be sorted as to whether the items are suitable for the restoration process or are to be thrown away.  SERVPRO is a restoration company and so taking care of all your items and restoring what we can to make it "Like it never even happened."

Odor issues come with smoke/soot damage. The first step in getting rid of odors is to get rid of the source. Most of the time, when restoration professionals are helping they will eliminate odor issues. Once the restoration is complete, if there is still a small odor then an additional step may be added to the restoration process.

When dealing with fire/smoke damage call your local SERVPRO. We are able to help you restore your home from damages. We look forward to helping you get the damage repaired as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Top 5 things you need to have on hand to prepare for a storm.

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Living in the Pacific Northwest we get the occasional storm that will knock out power for a period of time. These 5 thing will come in handy in a time of a storm that cause power loss.

1. Canned goods and a manual can opener

Now everyone knows in a natural disaster that canned fruits, vegetables and even things like canned beans are a great food supply. They will last a long time and offer you the nutrients you need. 

However, opening a can without a can opener can be difficult and sometimes not possible. Make sure to add a can opener to your set so in a time of disaster you have access to canned goods. 

2. Batteries (big and small)

 One of the most important things you’re going to need in the event of al storm or hurricane is power and if you don’t have a generator, you’re going to be relying on batteries to get you through the day.

Not only are they going to be powering the flashlights you’re using to see at night, but they’re going to be powering other things as well that you’ll have to remember. For example, don’t forget to stock up on your hearing aid batteries if that’s one of the things you use.

3. Water

 The most important thing, and everybody pretty much knows this, is you want to have drinking water on hand but what everybody doesn’t really know is how much do you need?

The American Red Cross recommends that you have one gallon, per person, per day in the event of a natural disaster. So that means a family of four, over five days is going to need 20 gallons of water.

5. Cash is King

 When the power is out, credit cards and ATMs are a no-go so cash is a must have. Always keep a handy amount ready to go in case the storm fallout lasts longer than you anticipated and you need to get more supplies or fill up your gas tank.

SERVPRO Does Cleaning Services?

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO. NO job it to large or to small.

Did you know SERVPRO offers a cleaning service? if you are tired of having a messy office or dont have the tools to clean your commercial building, contact SERVPRO. Here are some of our commercial services. We understand that there is wear and tear on an office that eventually makes it really dirty especially during the winter months.

Air Ducts and HVAC

Biohazard and Sewage

Trauma and Crime Scene

Carpet and Upholstery

Drapes and Blinds

Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Vandalism

Hiring a professional service means you are getting experience, expertise and professional cleaning tools that can clean your space more efficiently. You might be surprised by the amount of different services that we offer. We are more than just damage restoration we are a cleaning company as well. We offer monthly cleaning services. Learn more by contacting SERVPRO of Benton County. 

Hire SERVPRO for a one time clean or for reoccurring cleaning. Seeing the difference a professional service provides will not disappoint you.

Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County to make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097

4 Major Storm Protection Tips For Your Home

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

We live in the Pacific Northwest and we love it! That also means we have a a lot of different weather that we experience in the winter months. From strong winds and rain to heavy snow here are 4 ways to protect your home from a storm. If your home is damaged SERVPRO will make it like it never happened.

1. Clear away outdoor items

Make sure all lawn furniture, gardening tools, sporting equipment and other outdoor items are stored away if a storm is heading your way. High winds during a heavy storm can potentially pick up these items and send them flying through a window or far away from your home. Putting away loose outdoor items in this situation can protect your house (and your neighbors’ houses) from unnecessary damage.

2. Trim the trees

Take time to examine the trees in your yard or surrounding your house.

Storms will often snap large tree branches, which can damage your home's siding, smash your car or even topple power lines and cause outages. If the tree has a loose connection with a big branch, consider sawing it off. It might reduce some shade in the yard, but can potentially protect your home.

3. Have standby power

Electricity lines are vulnerable during storms. Fallen branches can easily snap the power lines, and lightning strikes can blow up transformers, causing major power outages.

A whole-house surge protective device runs in the $200 to $300 range and is easy for an electrician to install. A generator is a great way to protect your home during storms and for a constant back up.

4. Flood-proof your home

Heavy rainstorms can lead to flooding, which can potentially wreak havoc on homes. Water damage can devalue a house and cause significant problems with the foundation.

Be ready in case of emergency, but if and when one occurs, rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County to make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097

Top 3 Ways to Prevent Mold in Your Home

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

Here are 7 ways to keep your home safe from mold damages and prevent further damage. Brought to you by SERVPRO.

1. Eliminate Clutter

Clutter blocks airflow and prevents your HVAC system from circulating air. Furniture and curtains that block supply grilles cause condensation. All this moisture creates microclimates in your home that welcome mold growth.  Push furniture away from vents and grilles to keep air circulating. On humid, still days, run a couple of fans to keep air moving.

2. Shut Windows and Doors When AC Is On

When you open windows and doors, you let air conditioning escape, waste money, and invite humid air into your cooler home. This causes condensation, which mold loves. So keep doors and windows shut when the AC is humming.  Also, maintain your home at around 80 degrees when you’re on vacation or at work. Too often, we bump the thermostat up to 85 degrees, or turn off the AC when we’re away. This raises temperature and humidity, which creates the ideal home for mold.

3. Monitor Humidity

An indoor humidity monitor will help you keep track of moisture levels that, ideally, fall between 35% and 50% relative humidity; in very humid climates, at the height of summer, you may have to live with readings closer to 55%. But if you reach 60% relative humidity, it’s time to look for the source of the added moisture; above 70% relative humidity, certain species of mold can begin growing.

When fire happens in the work place.

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

This business went through a terrible fire. Closing the owners to close their doors for the time being.

While there are many reasons why a fire can start, many business fires start as a result of not paying attention to many different fire hazards in the workplace. 

While every workplace is different, there are some common fire hazards to watch for in your business.

Heat Generating Machinery

Hot machinery and heavy equipment can pose a fire risk. Be sure material that is combustible is kept away from sources of heat and are unplugged when not in use. Never leave equipment on overnight.

Broken Electrical Equipment

Fires caused by faulty equipment are the most common type in the workplace. Be sure to look out for loose or damaged wires. They need to be replaced immediately. Also keep your equipment checked and up to date. 

Faulty Fire Alarms

Be sure to check fire alarm systems and equipment often to make sure they are still in working order. If batteries run out your fire alarms will not sound in the case of a fire or smoke. It is important to make sure you have functional fire alarms in your office. 

Overloaded Sockets

Having too many things plugged in the same socket can be dangerous. Be sure to put one plug per socket and do not exceed 300 watts in the entire socket. This can reduce the risk of a fire in your workplace. 

What does SERVPRO stand for?

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Benton/Linn county

SERVPRO Stands for many different things and it makes us so happy to be able to serve our community with all their restoration needs.  SERVPRO works to help people restore their damages and make the restoration process as smooth as possible. We will make your home safe for your whole family.

SERVPRO of Linn and Benton County is all about serving our community and serving people; we want to be a resource, to be helpful to others—that is why we do business, and the why we do business is the most important thing, in our minds.  So, obviously people know what we do, but we want to be out there being involved in the community and be there when people need assistance, and so that is our number one focus, our number one mission: to serve our customers in time of need and give them the peace of mind.

If you need help restoring damage in your home or elsewhere, call SERVPRO of Benton County. We clean water damage, fire damage, biohazard, mold damage and so much more. We always want you to be happy with the job we do for you.

Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County to make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097

SERVPRO can start and Finish the job.

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

One of our carpenter crews on site.

Did you know that Benton/Linn County SERVPRO has an in house construction company? Well we do! When you chose to have SERVPRO come, and work on your home or business we are able to finish the job completely.   You don’t have to worry about finding another company to finish the repairs. Our construction crew is made up of   two project managers, three carpenter teams, and a painting crew.  They are extremely talented and hard working.  Our project mangers work with the insurance company to insure the job is being done to insurance standards, and to what the customer wants.  Our mission is to make this situation the easiest we can on the customer, and make sure they are happy with the work that was performed on their home or business.

We want to help!

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of Benton/ Linn County owners

SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County is a company that is more than a company we are a family. The McGinnis family started SERVPRO in 2009 when the recession was in full swing.  Tim, Cindy and Nick saw the need for a company that would help those in need, and offer jobs when most companies were laying off workers. SERVPRO of Benton/Linn County employs over 43 people.  Our SERVPRO goes above and beyond when it comes to giving back to the community.  We want to help! There is no job too small or too big. SERVPRO of Benton/Linn county has responded to 4 active storms across the United States to help those that have suffered at the hand of Mother Nature We will get the job done right, and make our customers happy, because that's why we are here.

How to Conserve Water

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

Conservation can come in many forms. Water is a very important resource to us and we have to be sure to turn off faucets and conserve water when we are able to. Here are some tips for your family and children to follow when it comes to conserving water from SERVPRO of Benton County.

When it comes to water conservation, making the matter apparent to your children will have many benefits. It will begin to teach them the value and practices of conservation early on in their lives, a lesson that will hopefully stick for long into the future. Kids are sponges – chances are if you teach your child a way to save water in an interesting way, he or she will relay the message to classmates or friends.

Turning off the tap: minimize water use in the shower by turning off the shower head while shampooing and conditioning. Depending on where they live, this practice alone could save the average family up to $100 and 3,200 gallons of water per year (*based on a family of 3).

Sometimes you or your kids will pour more water than they wind up drinking. Instead of dumping this water down the drain, use it to water your plants, pour it into your pet’s water bowl, into your teapot or another practical use that will eliminate having to use the faucet. The same goes for ice cubes left at the end of your water glass.

Avoiding toys that require a constant stream of water as opposed to those that you fill can make a major difference when it comes to water usage. If it’s just too hot, limiting their time playing in the sprinkler can keep tabs on the situation. Also reminding your children to not play in the running water faucets and keep water use to just the needed usages.

Once you start conserving, expose your children to the struggles for clean water around the world. What they’re doing at home may translate into wanting to do more to help others.

The Appliances in your home that can cause water damage !

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen from many different appliances in your home. Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Benton County on how to make sure your appliances are working properly and the water supply lines are in good condition. As a good rule of thumb, check behind your appliances once per year. This is a good way to address problems before they happen.

Washers

Small leaks stemming from a washing machine may appear to be a minor issue, but the problem should not be ignored. Even a pinhole leak in a water supply line can subsequently break out into a household flood. In fact, a burst supply line is a key cause of significant water damage involving washers. A good way to prevent water damage is to check your hoses leading to your washing machine a couple times per year.

Also consider installing an automatic shutoff valve. When water pools on the floor, the sensor detects it and closes the water valve.

Refrigerators with Ice Makers Hooked up to plumbing

We appreciate the convenience of an automatic ice maker, but it can also be the culprit of household floods. The copper or plastic water line that supplies an ice maker can leak or worse yet, become unattached if it’s not installed properly. Again, you should inspect the line periodically for crimps and make sure the valve connection is secure. Leaving a four inch gap between the refrigerator and wall also helps to prevent crimping in your water line.

Dish Washers

Dishwashers are another common appliance that can cause problems. If a dishwasher has a supply line burst it can fill your kitchen with water during a wash and rinse cycle.

Another source of household floods is when a dishwasher backs up soaking the floor with sudsy water. The problem could be the wrong detergent, a faulty float, the buildup of food and other debris in the drain gate or a clog in the discharge hose under the sink.

Routine inspection of the hoses and connections can save you major repair costs in the future. In addition, check the drain gate frequently and remove food particles and debris.

Your house is damaged by water…….What do you do?

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

Water can be extremely damaging to your home.

It is vital to act quickly, before more damage occurs. First you must stop the water source or intrusion. Once stopped, mitigating, or keeping more damage from happening, is where service professionals like SERVPRO of Benton County. SERVPRO can come out to your house, assess the damage, clean and dry the area affected, and restored. 

Professionals, like SERVPRO of Benton County can identify water damage in obvious areas, classify the type of water doing the damage, and put together a plan of action to mitigate and restore the affected area. In addition, restoration professionals find areas unseen that have been affected and create access, or use professionally designed equipment, that allows the drying and restoration process to occur.

Whatever type of water damage you may have, whether it is a clean water break, a leaking washing machine, or a sewage leak, it is still very important to address it quickly before further damage occurs. SERVPRO is equipped to handle whatever the situation, whether large or small.

Permanent damage happens quickly, from wood surfaces deteriorating, carpet de-laminating, or mold beginning to appear because of the moist conditions. This is why it is so important to act quickly.

While you are waiting for your restoration professional to arrive, here’s a few things you can do:

1. Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
2. Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock. 
3. Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
4. Remove any newspapers, magazines or colored material that may bleed onto carpets.
5. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
6. Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture. .

To prevent future water damage it’s a good idea to make sure that you regularly maintain your plumbing and roofing. In your bathroom and other rooms you should make certain that you have good ventilation and you should use good insulation in your windows and walls – especially your basement. Make sure as well to clean your gutters regularly and to make sure that there is no overspill. If you are buying a new home, make sure to research the area first to avoid houses on flood plains.

You can also prepare for potential water damage by making sure you keep your most important belongings up high and away from basement level. You should also make sure you have the number of a 24-hour emergency water damage restoration service, like SERVPRO of Benton County, in your phone at all times and you should have good insurance coverage for your home and for your possessions to cover the restoration services and items that needs may need replacing.

Be ready in case of emergency, but if and when one occurs, rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Benton County.

If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097

How we handle fires at SERVPRO.

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

This is a before picture of a fire job Benton SERVPRO worked on.

Typically, we are called out at all times of the day and night. We do get some who come in the door and referrals from the people we've worked with.

Usually fires have a pretty short timeline. We're first call responders. We get the fire alerts and then one of us will go out to the fire and just let the customers know that we're there to be of assistance. We get out of the way of the professionals and will hang out and give the property owner any assistance we can. We can help them get the insurance process started by calling their agent for them while they take care of their family.

A lot of the time we will send pictures to the insurance agent and help the customer communicate with their insurance agent. In the off-hours the customer has no way to contact their insurance agent, but we have most of their cell numbers, so we can text their agent and let them know about the incident. The agent appreciates it and the customers do too.

Every now and then, an agent, an adjuster or a customer will call us on a fire, but that's less common than us going out and actually seeing the fire right after it happens.

The other work we do is with water damage, mold, and bio-hazard. It comes to us through referrals, our corporate office and through good people who know us or see us through our advertising.

If you have a fire in your home SERVPRO can help you with so much more than just the restoration process. Let SERVPRO of Benton County take care of you in your time of need.

If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097

Why SERVPRO, because we are certified.

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Benton County 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 Benton County

SERVPRO of Benton County 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.

Why SERVPRO of Benton County?

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

2019 Polar Plunge SERVPRO team

SERVPRO of Benton County is a company that strongly believes in giving back to the community.  SERVPRO of Benton County is involved in many charitable events during the year. SERVPRO of Benton County staff goes above and beyond to give back. Just recently we participated in two fundraisers back to back in one day. These organizations mean so much to our SERVPRO family.

On February 16th, 2019, SERVPRO of Benton    County participated in the Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics which benefits our local Special Olympic athletes, and the Run Off Your Tutu for Furniture Share which helps local in-need families with beds and furniture. Both of these organizations impact our community greatly.  SERVPRO of Benton County's mission is to give back whenever we can. That’s why when you're looking for a company to work on your home or business for your restoration needs, SERVPRO of Benton County is the one to pick, because we care for our community.

What are the most common cause of a fire?

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

Outlet fire

While there are many reasons why a fire can start, many business fires start as a result of not paying attention to many different fire hazards in the workplace. 

While every workplace is different, there are some common fire hazards to watch for in your business.

Heat Generating Machinery

Hot machinery and heavy equipment can pose a fire risk. Be sure material that is combustible is kept away from sources of heat and are unplugged when not in use. Never leave equipment on overnight.

Broken Electrical Equipment

Fires caused by faulty equipment are the most common type in the workplace. Be sure to look out for loose or damaged wires. They need to be replaced immediately. Also keep your equipment checked and up to date. 

Faulty Fire Alarms

Be sure to check fire alarm systems and equipment often to make sure they are still in working order. If batteries run out your fire alarms will not sound in the case of a fire or smoke. It is important to make sure you have functional fire alarms in your office. 

Overloaded Sockets

Having too many things plugged in the same socket can be dangerous. Be sure to put one plug per socket and do not exceeds 300 watts in the entire socket. This can reduce the risk of a fire in your workplace. SERVPRO of Benton County is here to help 24/7 if you home, or workplace experiences a fire.

Do you have a emergency fire plan for your home?

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Fire evacuation map

We are all busy with kids, school, work, after school activities, but we all need to take some time out of our busy schedule, and make a family fire plan. I know as a parent it hard to juggle family life, but safety for my family is always on my mind. Here is what you can do.

• Make a map of your home, and make a fire exit plan. Post you fire plan in the kitchen area a daily reminder.
• Teach safety techniques like step by step how to instructions to stay low to the ground, and cover your face with your shirt or a pillow case to protect from the smoke
• Conduct drills like listening for the smoke detector, and practicing the fire exit plan for evacuation.
• Talk about fire safety with your children. Play games to teach them stop drop and roll, and to be ready for if a fire if it happened in your home.

If a fire happens in your home SERVPRO of Benton                  County can help you fix your home. We are here for you and your home 24/7.

Cooking Fire Oh NO!

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

The damage of forgetting a towel on the stove while cooking.

Cooking fires are one of the most common fires that accrue in a home. 

The top main cause of a cooking fire are:

1. Towels or pot holder left on the stove to close to the burner.
2. Cooking with hot oils.
3. Cooking on to high of heat.
4. Food that burns in the oven or on the stove top.

The Damage that cooking fires can be very hard to deal with, and to clean up.

That where we come in. SERVPRO of Benton        County has many years of experience with fires, and smoke restoration. SERVPRO can make your kitchen and home like new. I know I need to be reminded to keep an eye on the stove when I am cooking. If your home experiences a fire give us a call. Here at SERVPRO of  Benton County we are always here 24/7 to help.

How can SERVPRO help after a tree damaged your home….

1/24/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of  Benton County is in the heart of the pacific northwest. The pacific northwest can experience high winds all through the year. The pacific northwest is also full of beautiful large trees. Trees and high heavy winds don’t mix well. SERVPRO of Benton County has experience with handling situation on which a tree damages homes.  When trees fall on homes they don’t just damage the roof, and structure of the home. The damage can also include water getting in to the home from rain which can cause insulation and drywall issues.

SERVPRO of Benton County can come out and tarp up, and board up the affected area, and help you deal with you insurance company to help take some of the stress of you. SERVPRO of Benton County can  make it “Like it never even happened.” We are here for you and your home 24/7.

SERVPRO of Benton County can do commercial fire cleans…

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

SMR Tyler Rice on site at Sharon's cafe.

On December 31st 2018 SERVPRO of Benton                    County responded to a fire at Sharon Cafe in Corvallis OR. SERVPRO of Benton County is very experienced in cleaning fires, and contents that were affected by fire.  The fire affected the kitchen, and contents in the kitchen, and had smoke damage to other parts of the business. SERVPRO cleaned and packed-out contents for the cafe owners. SERVPRO of Benton County can even store the contents at our building.

We're first call responders.We here at SERVPRO are here to help 24/7. SERVPRO helped the owners  with getting the insurance process started by calling their agent with them, and helped them take care of others issues. SERVPRO of Benton County specializes in fire restoration, so when you need help, we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why you need to keep an eye under your kitchen sink…

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

No matter what time of year it seems like kitchen sink pipes like to leek. WE at SERVPRO of Benton                     County get many calls about leeks from kitchen sink pipes. One of the new jobs we received was a kitchen sink pipe leaking, and the home owner was not aware of the leek until it leaked in to their daylight basement and ruined the insulation, and ceiling dry wall. The leek also caused damaged to the carpet, and carpet pad in the effected area. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind to avoid this situation .

1. Make sure you check once month under you sink for leeks.

2. Don't keep a lot of stuff under the sink, so it hard to notice if a leek is happening.

3. Line your cupboard with cupboard liner, so that it can protect from moister.

4. When the weather is below freezing leave you cupboard open it bit to get heat.

5. Do moister checks also once a month to make sure the wood/plywood is not wet.

If you run in to a kitchen sink leak that has cause damage SERVPRO can help. All you need to do is call.

The after math of the CAMP FIRE....

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

As you can see the smoke and soot are terribly thick.

The Camp fire was in Butte County California in which the small town of Paradise is located. Butte County has lost over 153,336 acres to the fire. The town of Paradise has been utterly devastated by the fire. Most of the town is gone. The fire destroyed 13,972 homes, and 4,828 building. 

SERVPRO of Benton County has be in the Paradise and outlining areas for almost 6 weeks now. We have two crews down helping the residents get their homes back to like the fire never even happened. The crews have been working so hard to help the home owners affected by the Camp Fire. SERVPRO can do more than just water mitigation and repair. We can do fire cleans too. 

The crews right now are cleaning homes to remove the smoke and soot  that was left behind in the customers homes. The crews are making their homes livable again. Benton County SERVPRO here to help.

Drying your home after a water loss, and why is important.

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

Mold will happen so quick if your home is not properly dried.

The top things 3 things to remember when dealing with a water loss are:

1. Know what kind of water loss it was: Clean water (CAT 1) = Pipe or rain water.

Gray water (CAT 2) = Toilet water, Kitchen sink pipe.

Black Water (CAT 3) = Sewer water.

CAT 2 and 3 are the most harmful to your family. The water is contaminated and will cause problems.

2. Make sure you investigate all the damage.
3. Establish proper air flow, and keep windows closed when drying.

Mold can grow so quick if the moister is not addressed right away. SERVPRO can help with drying out your home we have equipment that will dry you home quickly. If your home is experiencing this problem SERVPRO can fit it.

How to get rid of odors after a fire

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

House Fire

When a fire happens, you find that your property looks dark, stained and charred and likely will have a bad smell. The first thing your fire restoration company will do is to clean up all the damage and get your property looking as normal as possible.

The first steps to start with are:

• Removing and disposing of belonging that are too badly damaged and cannot be repaired.
• If you carpet and flooring were damaged from the water that was used to put out the fire, and you have carpet cleaned and dried the flooring, but the smell is still there. The best thing would to remove the flooring and carpet.
• Painting you walls with primer and odor resistance paint will help with removing the smoke odor.

The Cleaning up after a fire can be hard. SERVPRO can help you with making those choices as well as restoring your damages and getting rid of those terrible smells that come with a fire.

Tess the season for frozen pipes

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

Keep cabinets open to let the heat keep your pipes from freezing.

Nothing is worse than waking up to a broken frozen pipe, and the havoc it can cause.   As a home owner

here are some helpful tips to remember to keep your home safe during this cold weather season.

• Open cabinets doors under sinks located to an outside wall.
• Leave hot and cold-water dripping in faucets,
• Put foam covers over outdoor spigots.
• Insulate water pipes with foam pipe insulation.

I never understood why my husband would open the cabinets until I experience a broken water pipe during the winter. I wish I knew about SERVPRO, and all the ways they can help with restoring your home after a water loss. SERVPRO makes it "Like it never even happened.”

Signs to watch for MOLD in your home

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Growth

The top 6 warning signs of Mold in your home are:

1. Smelling a musty smell “Mold Odor”.
2. Seeing Mold growth “Black and Green splatters”.
3. Water Problems

• Bubbling paint/ wall paper
• Water stains
• Damp materials like “drywall, flooring, cabinets, and ceiling tiles”

1. Water Leaks that are not addressed right way. Growth can happen so fast.
2. Home has flooded in the past.

• If the home was not properly dried and cleaned. Growth with start right away.

1. Condensation

• If your home has a moister around window, and under cabinets were your water pipes are. Mold loves moister!

We here at SERVPRO of Benton County work with cleaning and removing mold on a daily bias. If you need help with a Mold problem, let us help you. “We make it like it never happened.”

How to prevent an Electrical Fire

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

Overloading an outlet

12/5/2018

Knowing how to prevent an Electrical Fire is Important especially during this time of year when many of us have extra lights, and heaters plugged in….

Here are the top 5 things to remember when plugging things in.

1. Hold a plug securely to pull it from the wall.
2. Use multi-outlet extenders, power bars, and surge protectors sparingly.
3. Use extension cords temporarily…
4. Avoid running electrical cords beneath carpets.
5. Keep electrical cords away from sources of heat and water. 

A good thing to have in your home just in case of an Electrical Fire would be a fire extinguisher, because water can cause more problems. Keep a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible area in case of emergency.

If you have electrical fire damage, we can Help you here at SERVPRO. We come out and assess the damage and then work to make it like it never happened.

Fires are out there: What can SERVPRO do for you and your business?

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

When a fire damages your business, it can be a really stressful, and scary time.

A business can be the very thing that supports your life and family, so when a fire occurs, things need to be fixed as soon as possible.

Some of the steps we use to mitigate fire damage is:

Step1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)

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

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Step 6: Cleaning and Repair

Step 7: Restoration

Usually fires have a pretty short timeline. We're first call responders. We get the fire alerts and then one of us will go out to the fire and just let the customers know that we're there to be of assistance. We stay out of the way of the professionals and will hang out and give the property owner any assistance we can. We can help them get the insurance process started by calling their agent for them while they take care of their family or simply just getting them food or water.

SERVPRO of Benton county specializes in fire restoration, so when you need help, we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Burn season: what is it for?

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

Courtesy of the Albany-Democrat Herald

In the area where SERVPRO of Benton County is located, our community has set guidelines from out local fire department, one what times are legal to “burn” items on our property.

This includes brush burning and fire pit usage. In Oregon, and particularly the Pacific Northwest, we have a lot of trees and flammable growth, which if a burn is done, one little flicker of fire can create a whole wildfire, which damages homes and the landscape of our state.

According to the DEQ (Department of Environmental Quality), burn days are March 1 - June 15 and October 1 - December 15.

To our local customers, please remember to be safe and follow the protocols of burn season, it will keep our beautiful state, beautiful.

We don’t just do restoration, but construction too!

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

Building in progress!

Behind SERVPRO of Benton County, we are backed by McGinnis Enterprises, the construction company.

Having a construction company behind our SERVPRO name allows us to do new construction and other projects beyond the restoration and mitigation that SERVPRO is known for.

An example of the work we do, is our new office, hand built by our franchise owners, Tim and Nick McGinnis.

Tim and Nick worked tirelessly on the building, from groundbreaking to what it is today. Now it serves as a very comfortable office, and a large warehouse, equipped to fix large quantities of contents, service vehicles, and store our machinery.

An example of the things SERVPRO of Benton county and McGinnis Enterprises is capable of is: Mitigation, Restoration, Clean up, Biohazard, HVAC cleaning, construction and carpentry.

Having a contractors license allows us to do so many things in addition to the restoration; which allows us to help people from the assessment of their damage, to walking in and having it “Like it never even happened.”

Storm: Paradise, or what once was

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

Helicopter drops water on fire, courtesy of FEMA

November 8th, thousands of people’s lives were affected by the nation's deadliest fire on record. Paradise, California was leveled in a life-altering way. Not only were many displaced, but lives have been lost.

In the devastation, few companies have been sent out to help fix the disaster. SERVPRO and other restoration companies have been joined by fire fighters, phone companies, military, and adjusters from insurance companies.

SERVPRO of Benton County has sent a crew down south to see what we can do to help, so far the crew has been very busy doing cleanup, and smoke damage assessment.

SERVPRO in general, when a disaster strikes, will put out a message to the other SERVPRO franchises, essentially asking for help. That’s when we pack our vans, and we go.

It’s not exactly known how long the crews will be in California, but we hope that everyone is okay, that everyone is safe, and that the victims of the Camp Fire know our thoughts are with them.

Biohazard: The precautions we take!

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

Axel Shattuck in his PPE!

In SERVPRO of Benton County’s line of work, we face a lot of jobs that pertain to biohazard, including exposure to blood or bodily fluids. We are here with the tools necessary to clean up situations that normally would not be safe for the average individual.

Our franchise is there to clean up after deaths, sickness, sewage, or accidents, so you don’t have to!

Part of the precautions that we take to keep our techs safe, is proper training, and continuing education; we are never done learning how to be even better at our jobs. This includes weekly meetings where we go over a particular subject, and trainings.

Another part to how we keep our techs safe is through proper PPE, also known as “Personal Protective Equipment”. One of our weekly meetings this month was on how we apply our PPE.

One of the important requirements for our techs is to have or acknowledge the need for a Hepatitis B vaccination.

For extreme biohazard risk, our techs (like Axel who is featured in the photo), will apply a suit, gloves, face mask, and then seal it with tape, to ensure full security from biohazard elements.

At SERVPRO of Benton County, we always ensure the safety of not just out customers, but our employees too!

Cleaning: We do all sorts, even cars!

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

One of SERVPRO of Benton County's cars

SERVPRO is not only known for their Fire and Water restoration, but we do plenty of cleanup jobs in our community.

Mostly, we do home cleanup, or business cleanup, but every once in a while, we get the opportunity to clean vehicles.

Recently, we had the honor of cleaning out a police cruiser for one of the local police departments in our area, it was pretty fun seeing it in our warehouse getting cleaned.

People will need car cleaning in the event there is a biohazard, like blood from an accident or someone gets car sick, excessive amounts of dirt, or smoke damage from smoking in the vehicle. We’re here to help when the job needs to be done!

SERVPRO of Benton County has all the equipment necessary to clean pretty much anything; including cars!

Mold: The pink stuff in the bottom of your shower is actually mold

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

Courtesy of Google Images

When you picture mold, most people immediately think of black mold, the scary stuff.

However, there are all kinds of mold, from bread mold that was used to make vaccinations, to black mold.

But did you know, that the pink stuff in the bottom of your shower is a form of mold? When water pools in an environment like the shower, it grows a pink mold called “Serratia Marcescens” which is a bacteria that feeds off soap scum.

It tends to grow on the floor of the shower, and in crevices like where grouting is.

Ways that you can clean it is easy, according to the cleaning company “The Maids”, the easiest way to kill it is by placing white distilled vinegar into a spray bottle, spraying it onto the mold, and letting it sit an hour before washing it off.

According to “The Maids”, vinegar kills up to 82% of species of mold, which can be useful in smaller jobs like light mold removal from a shower.

ERP's and the Importance of Them

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Courtesy of SERVPRO Corporate

Being a business owner can have many responsibilities, and you may have to take on multiple roles.

In most cases, disaster is the last thing you are thinking about, but every business owner, regardless of how new or old your business is, should have a plan and guide for what to do in the event of a disaster.

SERVPRO of Benton County offers a free community service called the "Emergency Ready Plan", or an ERP.

ERP's are handy little guides that we make at SERVPRO that contain basic information regarding your property, who owns the property, and where your emergency shut off locations are.

We document and photograph where your electrical, water, and gas shut offs are, as well as your sprinkler system and security system. We also have the contacts for those utilities companies in the event that you must make contact.

Key contacts are also listed in the ERP, such as the owner, the insurance agent for the property, the SERVPRO representative, and the managers of the building.

The emergency contacts and services page has the fire department and police department's emergency and non-emergency numbers as well, that way, if contact is needed, you know where to find all those phone numbers and contact points.

It's very beneficial to have an ERP because although the business owner might know where everything is and who to contact, your employees might not know. Having a guide like this can help so much if the business owner is not present.

ERP's are very convenient as well, we are able to provide a paper copy, and we can provide a digital version on the Ready Plan app! Which makes ERP's very easy to access in times of need.

When you run a business, it's good to prepare for not just the next day's shift, but for the things that happen unexpectedly.

SERVPRO of Benton County is always here to help!

Water

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

October fog is coming a little early this year.... that means more wet weather!

Many old homes within our great Willamette Valley are historic and lack many of the protective features that many new construction homes have.

New construction has treated wood, insulation, and barriers, that prevent mold and water damage; in older homes, however, many lack these great features and thus more are adept to water damage.

Basements especially! In older and newer homes, basements flood. Pipes run above the basement and can brake in frozen conditions, which then lead to flooding.

According to Waterdamagedefense.com, 98% of basements experience some sort of water damage in its lifespan.

In addition, 14,000 people in the U.S. experience some sort of water damage emergency each day. That's a lot!

The good news is, SERVPRO of Linn and Benton county has all the equipment and expertise to fix any water damage situation. Our crews are trained to handle whatever the situation is.

As a franchise, we also follow the "1-4-8" rule.

      -Within 1 hour we are in contact with the customer.

      - Within 4 hours mitigation has begun.

      - Within 8 hours we are speaking with the adjuster about your situation.

Following these steps makes the secondary halt, and help, we make it "Like it never even happened".

Storms: SERVPRO makes the jump to help others impacted by disaster

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Linn and Benton County crew during California's wildfires.

As we enter into Fall, with Oregon weather comes lots of rain and moisture in our environment.

The rain is the precursor to storm weather, however the way we at SERVPRO interpret storms are in terms of great disaster.

A couple months ago, fires scorched California forests, which led to the damage of many homes within the area.

During disasters like this, SERVPRO will issue out a storm alert, and notify all the SERVPROs, this can be SERVPROs from the next town over, to all the way across the country.

SERVPRO crews stay in disaster zones sometimes up to a month, depending on the severity.

The crews will drive from their respective locations to the disaster and begin to sell jobs to start the reconstruction process. The sooner reconstruction commences, the less damage can occur. When damage, whether is be fire or water, is left and no intervention is done immediately, secondary damage can occur, and end up costing more.

The crews will complete the process quickly, so residents that “weathered through the storm” can move back in to their homes, and resume life “Like it never even happened”.

Disasters can be scary, but your local SERVPRO is always up for the challenge to help our community!

Ducts need love too: Why it’s important to clean your air ducts, even as a business!

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

It’s easy to forget that in our homes and our commercial spaces, that there is a cooling and heating machine in the ceiling, or in the wall, that requires maintenance.

Like how after a certain number of miles, your car requires an oil change; your forced air system and ducts require attention as well after a number of uses.

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends getting your air ducts cleaned every three to five years. However, how often you need it depends on where you are located. Some locations in the U.S. tend to be more damp, which can lead to mold in the air ducts.

In addition to regular servicing, other times that you want to have those ducts cleaned are:

• If you see, or smell mold within the duct system, many people in the U.S. have mold allergies, which can make your business and home life difficult.
• You see or smell rodents within the duct system.
• If the ducts are covered in dirt and debris
• If you own pets that produce dander (which means cleaning the ducts more frequently)

By cleaning those ducts, you lower the chances for allergy attacks, and get to breathe clearly (see what we did there), knowing your air is clean. Energy savings is great too, by keeping your ducts clean, it keeps your air system from having to work harder, using more energy, which ends up costing you more. As the National Air Duct Cleaners Association says “Your heating and cooling system is the lungs of your home. The system taken air in and breathes air out.”

When you are running a business, customers are your number one responsibility, so get those ducts checked out and know that SERVPRO is always by your side!

Did I leave the oven on? You better double check!

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

Don’t forget to turn off that oven!

According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency), between the years of 2011-2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 170,200 house fires each year involving cooking equipment.

In the study, the NFPA outlined that “Cooking equipment was the leading cause of home structure fires and civilian fire injuries and the second leading cause of home fire deaths,” and accounts for over 47% of all reported home fires.

Timewise, most cooking fires occur during the holiday season between November and December, however, the risk is always there. Be cautious, and aware of all cooking equipment.

Here are some tips:

1. If there is a fire in the oven, shut it off, and do not open the door. By opening the door oxygen is now free to feed the fire, which does not solve the problem. Keep the door shut, and the lack of oxygen will eventually cause the fire to die out.
2. Do not leave dirty pans on the stove, anyone, especially children, can walk by and accidentally bump the knob and thus turning on the oven.
3. Do not pour water on a grease fire! The water will sink to the bottom, and steam will make the flames rise higher. Use a fire extinguisher. In addition, 55% of non-fatal home cooking fire injuries occurs when the victim tries to fight the fire themselves!

Enjoy your meal, but please be careful of the dangers of cooking equipment. But if the unthinkable happens, don’t be afraid to call SERVPRO of Benton County, we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Importance of a Working Smoke Detector

8/6/2018 (Permalink)

A working smoke detector can give your family time to escape a fire.

Importance of a Working Smoke Detector

We took a call from a client who got an unpleasant early morning wake up call: her smoke alarm was going off.  She awoke to discover a small electrical fire had started in her kitchen.  With the early warning, her son and her were able to put out the fire and minimize the damage before it spread.  Now, imagine, if a fire started in the early hours in your home, while everyone was sleeping….and there was no Smoke Detector to awaken you and your family?

Since they came onto the market in the early 70’s, smoke detectors have reduced fire fatalities roughly in half.  Most fire fatalities are from smoke inhalation, a working smoke detector can get you responding sooner!

Here are some Smoke Detector tips to help keep your family safe:

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement. Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds they all sound.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
• People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
• Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.

If you and your family do experience a fire, call upon your Fire Restoration Experts at SERVPRO of Benton and Linn County today!  541-745-2097

Wildfire Season is here...

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

although we cannot prevent every fire from starting, we can take certain steps to help reduce the risk of wildfire

With the volume of rain we see every winter here in Oregon, it is surprising how quickly the landscape dries out each summer!  When you couple the lack of rainfall during summer months with the drying vegetation, we have officially entered what's become known as, "Wildfire Season".

Homes and property are damaged, even destroyed, every year because of wildfires. It’s not just the fire that damages homes, the smoke, ash and soot can get into homes as well.

While quite a few wildfires are started by lightning strikes, unfortunately, many are started by human activity.  Being aware of how your actions may impact your environment can help reduce the occurrence of wildfires. Please visit:
https://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Fire/Pages/FirePrevention.aspx
to learn how some simple actions from you can help prevent forest fires.

If your area is impacted by a wildfire, please follow any evacuation instructions given to you by authorities.  Getting yourself and your family to safety is most important! And if you do find your home has been damaged by fire or smoke, do not hesitate to call upon your Fire Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO!

Commercial Services

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can give your building a fresh look with our cleaning and painting services

Commercial Cleaning Services

You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, call in your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on local SERVPRO Professionals to make your workspace look its very best.

Specialty Cleaning Services

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals offer cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. They have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Their cleaning services include the following:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Ceilings, Floors, and Walls
• Document Restoration
• Drapes and Blinds
• Odor Removal
• Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Vandalism
• Interior/Exterior Painting

Your local SERVPRO Professional will get the job done right and get it done quickly.

Have Questions? Call Us Today! 541/745-2097

After a fire.....

6/7/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage can effect the way your home holds up, SERVPRO can help you repair your home after a fire

When returning to a home after a fire, there’s a lot to consider. Many homeowners will begin by assessing the damage caused by heat and soot. However, water damage comes hand in hand with fire damage. Before determining if it’s safe to return to your home, make sure you know how the water used to put out the fire may have affected your house. SERVPRO of Benton County can help you determine the extent of the damage and repair fire and water damage. Here are some things to watch out for when you return to your home for the first time after a fire.

Structural damage

If water has collected in your ceilings or walls, it could create a dangerous situation. Many homes have plywood subflooring, which will separate when exposed to extreme moisture. This could result in unsightly floor buckling or a dangerous weakening of your floor’s structural integrity.

Mold

As your house dries out from the water used to put out the fire, mold can begin growing. In fact, it happens fairly quickly: Mold spores can start developing in as little as 24 to 48 hours after the fire occurs. You can remove saturated carpets and furniture, but mold will grow in any areas of excess moisture – including places you can’t see, such as inside walls, ceilings or air ducts.

Poor roof drainage

If firefighters needed to direct water to the roof of your house, make sure it drained off properly. If that water poured into the yard too close to the house it could cause shifting, cracks and eventual leaks in the foundation. Inadequate roof drainage can also send water spilling into the ceilings and crawl spaces of the home.

Before returning to your home, call the experts at SERVPRO for an inspection. We can deal with all the different kinds of damage that is associated with fire and water. We look forward to working with you to restore your home and make sure it is safe for your whole family.

When a storm hits Benton County, SERVPRO is ready!

6/7/2018 (Permalink)

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

SERVPRO of Benton County 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 Benton County, 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.

Call SERVPRO of Benton County at 541-745-2097, today!

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

This SERVPRO for your Commercial Carpet Cleaning needs.

Did you know that for the average household, regular vacuuming is the best way to keep your carpets clean?  Regularly vacuuming means 2x per week, with SLOW repetitive back and forth strokes. And by slow, we mean it should take you approximately 15-20 minutes to vacuum a 300sq ft room.  This should help remove about 80% of the dry soil in your carpet.  Even with regular vacuuming, it is recommended that your have your carpets deep cleaned once per year.  And this is on carpet where most folks remove their shoes before walking on.

Now, how about the carpets in your business or office?  We do not normally ask people to remove their shoes before entering...and we have a LOT of soil to track indoors here in Oregon!  It is recommended that offices and places of business have their carpets Professionally cleaned anywhere from every 3 months to a year.  It depends on the type of business and amount of traffic - school and healthcare environments should be deep cleaning more often than, say, a Real Estate Office.

Soil is not only unsightly on carpeting, surprisingly, it can actively wear down your carpet faster.  Soil particles work their way down into the carpets backing, and act as a grinding compound. As the carpet is walked on, the particles can cut the fibers.  This will eventually lead to fiber loss, and potentially, bare spots in the carpeting.

Soiled carpet can also become a breeding ground for mold and other microbes.  Regular Professional Cleaning can help reduce the risk of repeated illness in your workplace, as well as reduce symptoms of allergies or asthma.

If you need your business’ carpets Professionally Cleaned, call upon your neighbors at your locally owned and operated SERVPRO today!

Preparing for the Storm

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

Being prepared can make weathering the storm easier.

Storm Preparation

Storms used to catch us unaware, and we only had time to react as best we could to what Mother Nature was throwing at us.  Thankfully, with today’s technology, we are usually given some advanced warning of an impending storm system.  While we still are mostly ‘reactionary’ to any storms that may come our way, by taking a few early precautionary measures, we should find ourselves in a better position to weather the storm!

Here are some steps you can take ahead of the storm:

1. Fortify your home. Check your gutters, to ensure they can safely flow water away from your home. Trim any tree branches which may hang too close to your home.  Close any patio umbrellas, or fabric awnings, which could sustain damage in high winds.

2. Sign up for Storm Alerts. Many communities send out text and email alerts during major storms to alert residents before the storm hits.
3. Build an Emergency Kit. Keep a ‘kit’ of basic supplies you may need when sheltering from a storm. Dehydrated food, extra water, portable camp stove, flashlight + extra batteries, a First Aid kit and extra medication are always good basics to keep on hand. Store your kit in an easy to ‘grab&go’ bag, in case you must evacuate your home.
4. Have an Evacuation Plan. In case you must leave your home, know the best route for leaving safely from your home. Have an idea ahead of time of a safe place you may go to in the event of an evacuation.
5. Create a Communication Plan. If you are aware of a major storm event is on its way, be sure to have your cell phones charged up. Make sure family/friend’s phone numbers are entered in to every family members cell phones, so you can contact each other easily. Also, perhaps designate a close friend or another family member outside of your community to be a ‘Primary Contact’ that YOU can check in with to update them, and others who may be concerned about you can call for updates.
6. DON’T FORGET YOUR PETS! Create an Emergency Storm kit just for your pets – extra food, water, perhaps a disposable litter box for cats. Have crates just in case you have to evacuate. And be sure your pets all have collars with the correct contact information, just in case they get away from you during an emergency.

We cannot change the weather, but by taking a few steps ahead of time CAN help a storm pass more easily.  After the storm clears, if you find damage to your home or property, do not hesitate to call upon your Cleaning and Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO today! We can help you get back on your feet after the storm!

Common Causes of Water Damage

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Quickly stopping and addressing water leaks can help prevent greater damage.

A Leaky Basement

One of the most common causes of water damage is a leaky basement. To make repairs, you have to find the leak. We can help address this problem

Leaky Plumbing

Another cause of water damage is a leaky plumbing system. Unless the system is plagued by multiple leaks, you can do the repair yourself. Depending on the extensiveness of the damage, you can either patch up the leaky pipe or change one or several damaged pipes if the problem is internal. SERVPRO can always help you with water damage repair that is out of your hands.

Fixing the Plant Root System

Did you know that plant and shrub overgrowth could cause water damage to the home too? When the root system of the plant and shrub is too close to a structure, water could penetrate its foundation. You can resolve minor water damage caused by plant overgrowth by trimming the shrubs and removing water that pools near the foundation of your home.

Damaged Drywall

For ceilings, the usual culprit is a leaky roof or a leaky toilet. For leaky toilets, we highly recommend getting a Plumber to stop the leak. Then let the Professionals at SERVPRO repair any damages that may have occurred.  We can repair drywall, dry any moisture and help protect against mold. 

SERVPRO can help make your water damages ""Like it never even happened". We take all the precautions to make sure we repair the damage the right way and keep your family safe from mold and other issues caused by water damage.

As the Storm Approaches....

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Satellite images can give us some warning of impending storms....

Storms can be frightening, and cause a lot of damage to our personal property.  Thankfully with today's technology, we generally do get some warning, which gives us a chance to prepare.

   What to do as storm approaches

-- Download an application to your smartphone that can notify people where you are, and if you need help or are safe. The Red Cross has a Hurricane App available in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store as well as a shelter finder app. A first aid app is also available.

- Bring outside items in if they could be picked up by the wind.

-- Clear gutters of debris.

-- Reinforce the garage door.

-- Turn the refrigerator to its coldest setting in case power goes off. Use a cooler to keep from opening the doors on the freezer or refrigerator.

-- Fill a bathtub with water.

-- Get a full tank of gas in one car.

-- Go over the evacuation plan with the family, and learn alternate routes to safety.

-- Learn the location of the nearest shelter or nearest pet-friendly shelter.

-- Evacuate if ordered and stick to marked evacuation routes if possible.

-- Store important documents -- passports, Social Security cards, birth certificates, deeds -- in a watertight container.

-- Have a current inventory of household property.

-- Leave a note to say where you are going.

-- Unplug small appliances and electronics before you leave.

-- If possible, turn off the electricity, gas and water for the residence.

We can only do so much to prepare for an incoming storm, and our primary concern is to keep our loved ones safe.  If you experience property damage during any kind of storm, do not hesitate to call upon our Team here at SERVPRO. Our Cleaning and Restoration Specialists will help make it "Like it never even happened.”

The 10 Things You Need to Know About Mold

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

If you see, or even suspect mold, contact the Professionals at SERVPRO today!!

Mold is everywhere – indoors, outdoors, and even on the evening news! There is a lot of concern over mold in our environment, and how it can impact us and our families.  Here are the top 10 things the EPA feels everyone should know about mold:

1. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
2. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
3. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
4. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
   1. Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
   2. Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
   3. Increasing ventilation
   4. Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
5. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
6. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
7. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
8. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
9. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.
10. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints

If you do see, or even suspect mold, in your home, do not hesitate to call your Mold Remediation Specialists at SERVPRO today!

Is it Black Mold???

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Ask for a professional mold inspection to correctly identify the mold in your home

Its what everyone fears, Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called “black mold” or “toxic mold”. Sensational news reports warn about the dangers of black mold and these stories can be alarming and confusing. Any mold in your home should be treated with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold.

Please refer to our Mold Damage Tips to learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives. 

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should contact a qualified mold remediation company regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold can exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect that you have a mold problem, contact a SERVPRO Mold Remediation Professional immediately.

If you see signs of mold, call us today at, 541-745-2097 

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

•  Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
•  Mold spores are microscopic, 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 toxins harmful to humans and pets.
•  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 that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
•  Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Preventing Mold in Your Bathroom

4/5/2018 (Permalink)

Prevention is key in keeping mold out of your bathroom

One of the most common places mold grows in our homes is in the bathroom.  This room is usually damp, exposed to high-humidity, dark, and often neglected.  Investing a small amount of time and money now, can help prevent a large amount of time and dollars down the road.  Here are a few simple suggestions to help prevent mold growth in your home:

Choose Mildrew-Resistant paint  After a nice hot shower, our bathroom walls absorb the lingering moisture, which can invite the growth of moisture.  Selecting a paint that resists mildew will give your walls an extra level of protection.

Proper Ventilation  Mildew loves moisture. To help eliminate excessive moisture, be sure to run your exhaust fan during your shower, and for about 30 minutes after. This helps ensure the walls and ceiling will dry properly. 

Let the light shine  A surprisingly simple step, that is easily overlooked, is to let in the light. Mildew loves darkness, so leaving the overhead light on, or better yet, allowing natural light to enter the room through a window will actually help keep that fungus at bay. 

Mop up water  Nip mildew in the bud by getting rid of excess water as soon as possible.  Keep a squeegee near the shower to quickly take care of the shower walls, and mop up any puddle on the floor.

Keep it clean  Simply taking the time to give your bathroom a good cleaning on a regular basis can help prevent mildew from gaining any ground in your bathroom. Spending 20 minutes a week to wipe down and disinfect can save you save you a lot of time and headaches down the road.

Prevention is the key when it comes to mold in your home.  But if you do see or smell mold, do not hesitate to give SERVPRO a call today! Our Mold Remediation Specialists are ready to respond, and make it ‘’like it never even happened”.

Spring Cleaning

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

Spring cleaning can help keep your home healthier

As the weather warms up, we want to open the windows and, metaphorically, emerge from our winter hibernation.  It is typically the time of year where homeowners take a few weekends to spruce up the interior and exterior of their homes – wash away the winter drab. Keeping your home clean and tidy is important for a variety of reasons. Most importantly, a clean home is less likely to face issues like mold damage, pest infestation and other problems that stem from a lack of attention and care. From the kitchen to the garage and from the backyard to the bedrooms, Spring Cleaning is very important in the maintenance of Willamette Valley homes.

If you are looking to spruce up your home this spring season, keep in mind the following cleaning tips:

• Clean out your refrigerator – dispose of expired items and wash each tray
• Give all of your doormats a good wash
• Clean your upholstery and carpet – get professional help from SERVPRO to make sure the job is done right
• Pay special attention to washing your baseboards
• Dust all ceiling fans
• Scrub down your stove and oven
• Sanitize all sinks
• Disinfect your kitchen sink’s disposal
• Thoroughly clean all bathrooms – including shower doors, shower walls, and drain areas
• Disinfect and clean all toilets
• Reorganize your bedroom closets and drawers
• Move boxes or storage bins to check for insect/pest nests behind them
• Pressure wash your driveway and roof
• Wash all windows – light actually helps keep mold growth at bay!!

While there are certainly additional tasks to accomplish while doing your spring cleaning, the above list should serve as a great starting point for you and your family. While spring cleaning is important, keeping your home clean throughout the year is the key to ensuring major dirt buildup is avoided. Mold damage is one of the most common side effects of untreated water leaks and other home issues. If you think your home could use some professional attention, contact our SERVPRO team at your earliest convenience.

Hidden dangers of flooding

3/31/2018 (Permalink)

Standing water inside your home can pose health risks.

Storms can bring rain and flooding.  Would you know how to protect your family in the event of a flood? Did you realize that in addition to structural damage, a flood can pose a health risk to your family, as well?  Being aware of a few simple things can help reduce the risk to you and your family.

Evacuate if instructed to do so. Do not try to wait out the flood in your home if you are advised to evacuate.

Floodwaters often contain sewage and toxins, especially in Urban areas.  Avoid contact with the water.

Standing water is a breeding ground for bacteria, viruses and mold. These can become airborne, and pose a health risk if inhaled.

Identify vulnerable populations – such as elderly, children, immunocompromised, those with asthma, or any other airway diseases, and keep them from the flood waters until area has been dried.

Turn off gas and electric before entering a dwelling that has standing water.

Make sure any workers assisting in clean up wear protective gear, this includes gloves and goggles to prevent exposure to harmful substances.

When in doubt, toss it out – damp buildings and furnishings promote the growth of bacteria, dust mites, and mold.  Anything that cannot be cleaned and dried must be discarded.

CALL YOUR Storm and Water Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO! Our professionals are experienced in Storm and Water Clean-ups and Restoration. We are ready to help, and have to tools to safely get the job done.  Call us today!

Faster to Benton County Water Damage Event

3/31/2018 (Permalink)

In the event of a flood, call on your SERVPRO Professionals to help!

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 Benton County 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 –541-745-2097

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 Benton County

SERVPRO of Benton County 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.

Design Tips to Protect Your Basement Floor Against Water Damage

3/31/2018 (Permalink)

Epoxy flooring is ideal for basements. Not only can it be beautiful, it is naturally water-proof.

Finding a home with a basement here in Oregon is almost as rare as seeing Sasquatch. When we do find a basement, our excitement is hard to contain as the possibilities are endless! This extra square footage could be ideal for storage, a guest bedroom, a playroom for the kids/grandkids, a den, a room for entertaining…..the list goes on and on.  But before we make any final decisions on what to do with this extra space, we must keep one thing in mind: basements are rare here because our ground gets very wet.  Wet ground can lead to water leaking into you home.  While there are steps you can take to help prevent water from gaining access to your basement, there are also a few simple flooring ideas that can help minimize damage IF water ever did get into your home.

AVOID CARPETING  It may seem appealing to have a softer floor covering if you plan to turn this space into a cozy room for relaxing, or a playroom for children.  But, unfortunately, carpeting and its padding soak up any moisture that may come into your home, and can become a breeding ground for mold.

Epoxy Coating a concrete basement subfloor with epoxy will make it waterproof and durable. Available in a variety of colors, epoxies can easily be applied over a weekend.

Concrete stain Stain can dress up concrete floors with very little cost an effort. Unlike some other types of concrete coatings, stain is resistant to chipping or flaking.  Stains also come in a wide variety of colors, making it easy to match your décor.

Ceramic Tile Affordable and timeless, ceramic tile can easily be applied directly over a concrete slab.  Tile is also resistant to water and humidity, making it a good choice for basement flooring.

Painted Concrete  Paint is easy  and the least expensive solution.  Do your research, and be sure to get a latex based paint that is resistant to humidity and cooler temperatures.  Use a roller to apply at least 2 coats directly to the floor.  You may have to touch up the floor every few years.

You can always accessorize for comfort by using area rugs.  These not only look nice, but can easily be replaced if any water damage does occur.  If you ever do find yourself with water damage in your basement, do not hesitate to call your Water Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO. We are on-call 24/7 and ready to help you get back to enjoying your basement.

Kids and Fire Safety

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

Flames can quickly get out of hand. Be prepared.

Home fires can start quickly, and spread at an incredible rate.  Studies have shown that once a smoke detector goes off in your home, you only have about 2 minutes to get out safely! When you have young children in the house, that thought can be overwhelming and frightening.  Altho we cannot always prevent a fire from starting, there are things we can do to help our families get out safely if a fire occurs.

Working Smoke Detectors/Alarms are of utmost importance!! Altho you only have about 2 minutes to escape once the alarm sounds, smoke detectors in the home have been shown to reduce fire-related deaths by 50%.  Considering half of all home fires occur between 11PM – 7AM, when most folks are sleeping, a working smoke detector sounding the alarm can make all the difference. As well as with so many fires starting during the night time, it is a good idea to have working alarms in each bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home. For the best protection, install interconnected smoke alarms. This way, when one goes off, they all sound.  Practice a few times with the alarm actually sounding, to ensure that your child is not afraid of the sound, and that they know what they should do when they hear the alarm

Also, practice escaping out of every room of your home.  Make a game of it, see how many different ways you can get out to your designated ‘safe space’ and meeting area. Even have your kids help draw a map of your different escape routes. They will have fun. Drawing a map also helps ingrain it into their minds, making them more likely to remember what to do in the event of an actually fire.

Teach kids to not play with matches and lighters.  Make a habit of storing these items up and out of reach of young children. Teach children that if they happen to find a match or lighter, to take it to a trusted adult immediately!

Fires can be devastating, and sadly, we cannot completely fire-proof our world.   But just a little bit of planning can make a big difference for your family. And if you ever do experience a fire, do not hesitate to call upon your Fire Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO! We are always here to help.

Creating a Defensible Space

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

Creating a Defensible Space can help protect your home from fire.

Last Summer, and into the Fall, Forest Fires ravaged the West Coast.  Thousands of acres of timber were lost.  And, unfortunately, so were many homes.  While a wildfire is beyond our control, as a homeowner, there are certain steps you can take to help reduce your property risk in case of a Forest Fire.

• Install a fire-proof roof. A metal roof is ideal here in the PNW due to the heavy rain and also provides excellent fire protection. Contact your local Roofing Professional for all your options,
• Create a ‘defensible space’ around your home – in some areas, it is required by law. Think ‘Lean, Clean and Green’ – remove all flammable vegetation within 30 feet of your home.
• Clear debris from the yard – this includes dead branches, twigs, any old building material, etc.
• Stack wood piles at least 30 feet from your home, and remove vegetation from within 10 feet of the woodpile.
• Remove lower branches, at least 6 feet from the ground.
• Trim any unhealthy looking trees. Remove dead branches, and clean out dead leaves/dried debris from under the trees.
• Consider removing any trees that are too close to your house – many fires jump tree top to tree top, as well as Emergency Vehicles need to be able to work all the way around your home in the event of a fire.
• Store any fuel tanks, propane or butane, at least 30 feet from the house.

For more information on Fire Safety & Prevention, you can visit : http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Fire/Pages/FirePrevention.aspx

If your home is damaged by a Wildfire, or sustains any kind of fire damage, please contact your Fire Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO!

SERVPRO in Our Community

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Splashers are ready to take the Polar Plunge

SERVPRO in Our Community

When you see our green trucks around town, it’s a reminder that your local SERVPRO Franchise is locally owned and operated by folks who live right here in our Community.  We understand that every call is an opportunity to help our friends and neighbors.

We also enjoy being an active part of our beautiful community. You may see the familiar face of one of our SERVPRO team members at a local sporting event, or, one of our favorite fund raising activities.  Our Marketing Team recently jumped into the chilly Willamette to raise money for Special Olympics!

As residents of the Willamette Valley, we are also very familiar with the unique needs and circumstances our environment can present.  We get lots of rain which puts us at an increased risk of water damages and mold. Since we enjoy a mild climate, many of us are not prepared for when a cold snap hits.  In, the summer, our beautiful trees put us at risk for Fire.  Your local SERVPRO team understands what you are experiencing and is ready to help you through your disaster.

Faster to any size disaster, your local SERVPRO is ready to help restore your home or business in the event of Fire Damage, Water Damage, Biohazard, Mold Remediation, and much more.  If you ever find yourself in need, know you can rely on your friends and neighbors at SERVPRO!

Candle Safety

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

Candles can be inviting, but also are a leading cause of home fires.

Candles may be pretty to look at, but they are a common cause of home fires.  Remember – a candle is an open flame.  This means that it can easily ignite anything that can burn.  Here are a few simple tips to help you safely enjoy burning candles in your home:

• Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
• Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom, or other areas where people are likely to fall asleep. Roughly one-third of home candle fires started in the bedroom.
• Keep candles at least 1ft away from anything that may burn
• Use candle holders that are sturdy, and less likely to tip over.
• Place candles on a sturdy, uncluttered surface. More than half of all candle fires start when things that burn are too close to the candle.
• Never leave a child alone in a room with a burning candle.
• Keep matches and lighters up high and out of reach of children
• Never use a candle is oxygen is used in the home.
• Consider using flameless candles in your home. Newer ones look and even smell like the real thing. 

Candles are appealing because they can create a warm, relaxing atmosphere.  Following the above tips can help you and your family safely enjoys candles in your home.  And, if the unexpected happens, know that you can count on your Fire Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO to help make it “like it never even happened”.

Heating Safety

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

Space heaters can add warmth during the cold months, but can be a fire risk if not used with precaution.

As the snow falls outside, we cannot help but think about home heating safety. Did you know that half of home heating fires are reported in December, January and February?  Home heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires.  With a few precautions, you can stay warm while preventing most heating fires from even happening.

Wood burning stoves and fireplaces are a wonderful way to heat your home during the winter months. As well as there is a comfort in the light smell of wood smoke on a cold winter day.  Install wood burning stoves following manufacturer’s instructions, or have a professional do the installation.  Any fireplaces should have a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room.  All fuel-burning equipment should also be vented to the outside to prevent CO poisoning.  This means also keeping chimneys clear/clean to allow for proper ventilation. Installing a CO detector is also a good idea.

Portable heaters are another common option used when the temperature drops.  Just remember to keep anything that can burn at least three-feet away from the heating equipment. Try to keep this three-foot space a kid-free zone, as well.  This will help prevent burns to fingers, keep children from accidentally knocking over the heating equipment, or leaving a toy or blanket ON the heater.  Also, remember to turn off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.

In addition to having Carbon Monoxide detectors in your home, it is important to have operational Smoke Detectors in various locations throughout your home.  Smoke Alarms have been credited with saving many lives in the event of fire.  Check the batteries at least twice a year – a good way to remember is to change the batteries when we turn our clocks for Daylight Savings.

Following a few simple precautions when the temperatures drop can save your family from a home fire.  But, if disaster strikes, do not hesitate to call upon your Fire Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO. 

Preventing Mold in Your Home

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

Mold. Most hear the word and think ‘YUCK!’. It’s easy to forget that mold can ever be a good thing! We use it to make some cheeses and even penicillin.  It is one of nature’s beneficial decomposers.  Mold can, and does, grow anywhere – as anyone in Oregon knows only too well! But, it’s easy to forget any of the good reasons for mold when we find it in our homes.  Decomposing our carpets, or drywall, or floorboards…

To flip the old adage, a good defense against mold is a good offense. Its best to prevent mold growth before it becomes a problem.  And the best offense is: moisture control.  Easier said than done, here in Oregon, I know!  Mold can be costly to fix, but relatively easy to prevent. Here are a few ways you can help curb indoor moisture issues, and the mold that thrives on it.

• Identify potential problem areas in your house. While you cannot ‘mold-proof’ your home, you can take measures to make it more ‘mold-resistant’.  Inspect your home for problem areas: does your basement flood? Do you experience condensation on windows? Invest a little time and money now to address such issues.
• Dry wet areas immediately. Mold needs moisture to grow – taking a moment to wipe up any standing/pooling water can prevent mold growth.
• Proper Ventilation. Every day household activities can encourage mold growth: cooking, showering, and doing laundry…making sure your kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room are properly ventilated can help keep moisture down, and thus keep mold from taking root.
• Utilize ‘mold-resistant’ products in your home. Whether building a new home, or renovating an older home, consider using mold-resistant drywall or sheetrock in high-humidity rooms.
• Clean or repair gutters. A mold problem may be a simple matter of a roof that is leaking due to a clogged or damaged gutter. Cleaning your gutters regularly and having them inspected for damage can help prevent water from invading home.

These are just a few of the often simple measures you can take, as a homeowner, to help protect your property, and your family against the potentially harmful effects of mold in your home.  If you do suspect or find mold in your home, call your Mold Remediation Specialists at SERVPRO.

Prevent Water Damage

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning your gutters regularly can prevent water damage to your home.

It might not seem like a big deal, but it is very important to clean out your gutters. Professionals recommend doing it at least twice per year. Gutters allow water to safely flow from your roof and away from your home for proper drainage. When you gutters become clogged with leaves, twigs and other debris, this can cause clogging of the down spouts.  Water that gets dammed up in the gutters will find the path of least resistance as it tries to drain…and this often means it feeds back into the walls and ceilings of your home.

Water working its way into your home can lead to a host of problems.  The moisture can create the perfect breeding ground for mold growth in your walls or attic.  Water can cause rotting of your ceilings or drywall.  If gone unnoticed, rot can even settle into the wooden frames of your home and cause structural integrity problems.

Another way clogged gutters can allow the water to damage your home is the debris dams allows the water to flow over the rim of the gutter and wash down the side of your home. This can cause damage to paint or siding, and eventually allowing water to get inside your walls and wreak havoc, unseen.

Did you know that even flooded basements and cracked foundations can be a symptom of clogged gutters? If water cannot drain away from the house properly, it can pool around the foundation.  This water then expands when frozen, which can cause cracking to your foundation, which allows even MORE water into your basement

Water can be a destructive force to your home. And here in the Willamette Valley, we sure do see a lot of rain.  Do your best to protect your home from water damage. One of the easiest steps is to keep your gutters clean.

But if you do find water damage in your home, do not hesitate to call your team of Water Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO today!

When a pipe breaks...

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

When a pipe breaks, it may not be easily detectable, especially if its in a rarely accessed part of the building.

In an office building, with staff coming and going, it can be difficult to detect a problem with the facilities. Usually a sign that a water main has broken is a loss in pressure. If you are experiencing a loss in water pressure, start by shutting off your water and then have SERVPRO of Benton County out to address the extent of the damage. 

Many things can cause a pipe to break. Overly dry or wet weather causes the ground to shift, typically resulting in round breaks wrapping around the diameter of the pipe. Sudden pressure fluctuations and the normal aging process of the mains also cause breaks, typically resulting in lateral breaks running along the pipe.

If the problem is simply a pipe blockage, you are likely to notice reduced pressure and/or volume when you turn on the shower or faucet in your home. A water main break will result in water leakage, which can turn your front yard into a swamp. You might also detect an unpleasant odor. A good clue that you could possibly have a leak somewhere in the system, is an unusual increase in your water bill.

After you get your pipe fixed give SERVPRO of Benton County a call. We will come out and fix the damage that this major break has done to your home. We can repair mold and water damage. We will get your home smelling and looking like new again!

Carbon Monoxide risk

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Having CO Detectors in your home can help save lives.

When a winter storm hits, temperatures plummet. We feel the cold, even indoors as houses can be drafty, or a loss of power causes a loss of heat.  As many turn on portable heaters, the risk of fire is probably their primary safety concern.  Most people do not even consider the risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning!  But many common practices that come with a winter storm do come with an increased risk of accidental CO poisoning. To reduce your risk, and help keep your family safer during a winter storm, please be aware of the following :

• Proper use and ventilation of portable generators. Generators can be a life saver during a loss of power in a Winter Storm.  But they also create CO, so only use a generator per manufacturer’s instructions, and only in areas with proper ventilation. Never place one in an enclosed space, such as a basement, attic or attached garage. And make sure it is placed at least 15 feet away from a window or door into the home!
• Make sure chimneys are clean. Woodstoves, or wood burning fireplaces are a great source of heat in a cold snap. However, if the chimney is clogged, that CO filled smoke will feed back into the home, putting everyone at risk.
• Do not idle your car, or any vehicle, in a garage. Even with a garage door open, the colder air condenses the CO in the exhaust from the vehicle.
• Don’t use your oven or stove to heat your home.
• ANYTHING that burns fuel can create CO. Gas-Powered Generators, Furnaces, Wood stoves, Kerosene heaters, Gas-powered tools, Gas-Powered home appliances, Gas and Charcoal Grills, and, of course, vehicles.  Only use these items in well ventilated areas.
• Check exterior vents for ice or snow covering. During a storm, your furnace and appliance’s exhaust vents can become covered in ice or snow.  This can cause that exhaust to vent into the home, putting you and your family at great risk.
• Install Carbon Monoxide detectors. Have at least one on every floor of your home. Change out the batteries when you change clocks for Daylight Savings.

While we cannot ever be 100% prepared for a storm, making sure your home’s heating systems are in good shape BEFORE winter storms strike is your best defense.  If you need the name of a good Chimney Sweep, or Heating & Cooling Company, call us at SERVPRO for a recommendation. We have worked with many wonderful Service Men and Women in our community and are happy to help you find someone to assist you.

Fire Safety at Home

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Many fires start in the kitchen. It's smart to keep a fire extinguisher easily accessible nearby.

Fires can be very frightening – they are scary, spread quickly and can cause devastating losses.  While we cannot completely fire-proof our homes, there are a few steps you can take to help protect your family in the event of a fire.

• Install and regularly test smoke detectors. Statistics show that working smoke detectors reduce the risk of death in a house fire almost in half! Fires spread quickly, and once that alarm sounds, you may only have a minute or two to escape.
• Practice Fire Drills at home. Since time is of the utmost importance during a fire, it is best to KNOW what do in the event of a fire.  What is the best escape route? Where does the family meet up outside?  In order to respond quickly, it is best to have a rehearsed plan ahead of time.
• Have fire extinguishers handy & know how to use them.  Keep them in an easy access location near a likely source of fire – in the kitchen, the laundry room, etc.  And maybe buy a few extra and have your children practice using them (probably best to do OUTSIDE).
• Childproof your kitchen. To keep small children from accidentally turning on the stove, which may having something on it that could burn.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children. And teach your children they are not toys.

While no one wants to imagine what they would do in the event of a fire, it is better to be prepared, and have a plan to help keep your family as safe as possible.  And if you do experience a fire, do not hesitate to call your Fire Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO.  We are here to help. We can take care of your home, so you can take care of your family.

Storm Damage Restoration Efforts

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

Firestorms damage homes in northern California.

Last October devastating wildfires tore through Northern California destroying over 7,500 structures. Over 37 Franchises mobilized to assist in the cleanup process. SERVPRO of Benton County was one of those Franchises that assisted in cleaning smoke and soot from homes. Their customer service and attention to detail is second to none. It is not everyday customers take their service provider out for dinner and that is exactly what happened to SERVPRO of Benton County. Because of the impression they made on one family, turning their home from soot-covered to spotless, they were treated to a dinner by the homeowner to express their appreciation. Lets congratulate Nick Mcginnis and their crew at SERVPRO of Benton County for being recognized. We can help you clean up after damages to your home. 

Winter weather and frozen pipes

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

How to protect your home from a frozen pipe situation with SERVPRO.

When the weather starts to get freezing, so do your pipes and so does your home. This means taking the proper precautions to cover your pipes on the exterior in preparation for prolonged freezing temperatures. With those precautions in place, freezing temps and snowstorms can still harm your pipes. Here are a few steps you can take.

• Let warm water drip overnight, preferably from a faucet on an outside wall.
• Keep your thermostat set at the same temperature during both day and night. You might be in the habit of turning down the heat when you're asleep, but further drops in the temperature, this could freeze your pipes. 
• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.

If you have a pipe break this winter, SERVPRO can help you get the quick damage restoration that you need. We will make sure to protect your home from damage. 

Detecting Mold in your home

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

Learn more about what to look for in your home concerning mold

Quite often, constantly smelling a musty odor could be the one of the only mold signs that your home has. If you can smell mold there is likely mold under something or mold in something. If there is a funky smell that you cant seem to get to the bottom of, it may be mold lurking somewhere hard to reach. SERVPRO can help find the mold and get rid of it in a safe and healthy way. 

Mold can often present itself in the form of allergies. If you feel better when you’re away from home, but notice your allergies tend to flare up whenever you’re at home that can mean that you have mold somewhere. Mold can cause health effects for most individuals. Mold can be behind walls, in the basement, under the carpet, in damp areas of the house, surrounding roof leaks or in an area that experiences high humidity. If you think you might have a mold problem in your home, give SERVPRO a call. We can find the source of the mold damage and locate any water damage or leaks that are causing the mold. We will repair the problem and have your home back to preloss condition in no time. 

Why drying out your home is important

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial drying your home and why it is important.

The longer water and moist air remain in your home following a storm, the greater the likelihood of increased damage to the house and health risks to your family. Within 48 hours, mold, mildew and fungus can begin to grow, producing a lasting musty odor. In addition, water can warp and rot wood, disintegrate wallboard, ruin most types of insulation, compromise electrical wiring and more.

This is why SERVPRO can help you dry out your home after water damage to help you prevent mold. We have commercial drying machines that will dry out your home in no time. 

Main areas we aim to dry ensure are dry are walls and flooring, especially carpet flooring. This is a place that mold will thrive. 

Here are some helpful tips to handle moisture until we get there. 

During the day, when the weather is dry – open all windows and doors to exchange damp interior air for drier outdoor air. Close them at night or when outdoor humidity rises.

Also, open closet doors and drawers. If drawers are hard to pull open because of swelling, remove the backs from cabinets to increase air circulation and allow access.

Getting rid of odors after a fire

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

How we at SERVPRO repair damages after fire.

After a fire often you will find that your property looks dark, stained and charred and likely will have a bad smell. The first job of your fire damage restoration company will be to clean up all this damage and get your property at least looking as normal as possible.

During this fire damage restoration process, you will also need to address any odors that can linger after the smoke has been in the room. This might involve carpet cleaning as well and you will need to address adjacent rooms as well as those directly affected by fire damage. The smell of fire is very pungent and lingers.

The clean-up part of the fire damage restoration process will also involve the removal and disposal of items that are too badly damaged to be repairable. If you have furniture for instance that has absorbed a lot of contaminated water, or if you have carpet that has been badly burned, in these cases often the best case scenario is just to throw these things out and to replace them with new items. SERVPRO can help you with making those choices as well as restoring your damages and getting rid of those terrible smells that come with a fire. 

How to handle an electrical fire

12/8/2017 (Permalink)

Handling an electrical fire can be very scary. Let SERVPRO help you get your damage remediated.

When dealing with electrical fires you must know what to look for. This can protect you from an electrical fire disaster.

these warning signs include:

• Circuit breakers that repeatedly trip

• Shocks or tingling feelings as you touch an electrical appliance

• Flickering lights

• Discolored electrical wall outlets

• A burning smell or smoke coming from wiring, a plug or an appliance

Take action with an appliance by unplugging it immediately and cutting the power at the electrical panel. Pay attention to the voltage of the appliance you are plugging in.

Never Use Water By Itself

But speaking of water, it's imperative that you never, ever try to extinguish an electrical fire with water alone. Water conducts electricity and you could be badly shocked. 

If you have electrical fire damage we can help you at SERVPRO. We come out and assess the damage and then work to make it like it never happened. 

Restoring Your Benton County Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Benton County commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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 Benton County

SERVPRO of Benton County 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.

Protecting your home from common water damage

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

Protect your home from water damages caused by common household appliances

Water damage can happen from many different appliances in your home. Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Linn County on how to make sure your appliances are working properly and the water supply lines are in good condition. As a good rule of thumb, check behind your appliances once per year. This is a good way to address problems before they happen.

Washers

Small leaks stemming from a washing machine may appear to be a minor issue, but the problem should not be ignored. Even a pinhole leak in a water supply line can subsequently break out into a household flood. In fact, a burst supply line is a key cause of significant water damage involving washers. A good way to prevent water damage is to check your hoses leading to your washing machine a couple times per year.

Also consider installing an automatic shutoff valve. When water pools on the floor, the sensor detects it and closes the water valve.

Refrigerators with Ice Makers Hooked up to plumbing

We appreciate the convenience of an automatic ice maker, but it can also be the culprit of household floods. The copper or plastic water line that supplies an ice maker can leak or worse yet, become unattached if it’s not installed properly. Again, you should inspect the line periodically for crimps and make sure the valve connection is secure. Leaving a four inch gap between the refrigerator and wall also helps to prevent crimping in your water line.

Dish Washers

Dishwashers are another common appliance that can cause problems. If a dishwasher has a supply line burst it can fill your kitchen with water during a wash and rinse cycle.

Another source of household floods is when a dishwasher backs up soaking the floor with sudsy water. The problem could be the wrong detergent, a faulty float, the buildup of food and other debris in the drain gate or a clog in the discharge hose under the sink.

Routine inspection of the hoses and connections can save you major repair costs in the future. In addition, check the drain gate frequently and remove food particles and debris.

Common Fire Hazards

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

Electrical outlets are a huge cause of fire. They should not be overloaded with more than one or two plugs.

While there are many reasons why a fire can start, many business fires start as a result of not paying attention to many different fire hazards in the workplace. 

While every workplace is different, there are some common fire hazards to watch for in your business.

Heat Generating Machinery

Hot machinery and heavy equipment can pose a fire risk. Be sure material that is combustible is kept away from sources of heat and are unplugged when not in use. Never leave equipment on overnight.

Broken Electrical Equipment

Fires caused by faulty equipment are the most common type in the workplace. Be sure to look out for loose or damaged wires. They need to be replaced immediately. Also keep your equipment checked and up to date. 

Faulty Fire Alarms

Be sure to check fire alarm systems and equipment often to make sure they are still in working order. If batteries run out your fire alarms will not sound in the case of a fire or smoke. It is important to make sure you have functional fire alarms in your office. 

Overloaded Sockets

Having too many things plugged in the same socket can be dangerous. Be sure to put one plug per socket and do not exceed 300 watts in the entire socket. This can reduce the risk of a fire in your workplace. 

Fire In The Workplace

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

Fire alarms are important to keeping your business safe and making sure you dont have an unexpected fire.

While there are many reasons why a fire can start, many business fires start as a result of not paying attention to many different fire hazards in the workplace. 

While every workplace is different, there are some common fire hazards to watch for in your business.

Heat Generating Machinery

Hot machinery and heavy equipment can pose a fire risk. Be sure material that is combustible is kept away from sources of heat and are unplugged when not in use. Never leave equipment on overnight.

Broken Electrical Equipment

Fires caused by faulty equipment are the most common type in the workplace. Be sure to look out for loose or damaged wires. They need to be replaced immediately. Also keep your equipment checked and up to date. 

Faulty Fire Alarms

Be sure to check fire alarm systems and equipment often to make sure they are still in working order. If batteries run out your fire alarms will not sound in the case of a fire or smoke. It is important to make sure you have functional fire alarms in your office. 

Overloaded Sockets

Having too many things plugged in the same socket can be dangerous. Be sure to put one plug per socket and do not exceed 300 watts in the entire socket. This can reduce the risk of a fire in your workplace. 

How a storm affects your home

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

Storm damage gets deeper than you might think. Learn more about storm damage with our blog.

Storms affect your home more than you may realize. At first glance a storm may look like high winds, rain maybe some snow and sleet. When you look closer storms and what all they bring you begin to notice how it may affect your home. 

Large trees 

Trees near your home can get weakened by storms causing branches to bend and possibly break causing damage to your home or roof. Now is a good time to get your trees trimmed and looked at. 

Heavy Rain 

Rain is pretty common in the Northwest but if there is a leak in your roof or windows the heavy rains will find their way in through these spots and cause water damage to the interior of your home. Get these spots taken care of before heavy rains. 

Chimney Maintenance

Your chimney can become packed with debris during a storm causing a blockage, this is also a place for animals to build their nest creating a bigger problem. Get your chimney cleaned out in preparation for the stormy season.  

We hope these tips get your home ready for storm season. SERVPRO of Benton County can help you with any damage you need to have repaired after a storm.

Water Damage from City Water Main Break

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a huge expense in your home. Here are some ways that water damage affects your home and what you can do about it.

Usually a sign that a water main has broken is a loss in pressure. If you are experiencing a loss in water pressure, have SERVPRO of Benton County

Overly dry or wet weather causes the ground to shift, typically resulting in round breaks wrapping around the diameter of the pipe. Sudden pressure fluctuations and the normal aging process of the mains also cause breaks, typically resulting in lateral breaks running along the pipe.

If the problem is simply a pipe blockage, you are likely to notice reduced pressure and/or volume when you turn on the shower or faucet in your home. A water main break will result in water leakage, which can turn your front yard into a swamp. You might also detect an unpleasant odor. A good clue that you could possibly have a leak somewhere in the system is an inexplicable increase in your water bill.

After you get your pipe fixed give SERVPRO a call and we will come out and fix the damage that this major break has done to your house. we can repair mold damage and water damage. We will get your home smelling and looking like new!

How to prevent electrical fires in the winter

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

Electrical fires reach an all time high in the winter months. Because of this we want you to be safe and give you tips to protect against fire.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), there are 28,600 electrical fires per year. These fires cause $1.1 billion in property damage and loss and are responsible for 310 deaths and 1,100 injuries each year.

The months with the most electrical fires are December and January due to increased use of heating appliances and lights. SERVPRO of Benton County can help you clean up electrical fire damage. Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Benton County on how to keep your house safe from electrical fires.

Some electrical fires happen because of problems in house wiring or appliance failure, but many occur due to mistakes that homeowners make like overloading electrical outlets or extension cords.

Our Tips:

1. Most electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets and old, outdated appliances. Other fires are started by faults in appliance cords, receptacles and switches. Never use an appliance with a worn or frayed cord which can send heat onto combustible surfaces like floors, curtains, and rugs that can start a fire.

2. Light fixtures, lamps and light bulbs are another common reason for electrical fires. Installing a bulb with a wattage that is too high for the lamps and light fixtures is a leading cause of electrical fires. Always check the maximum recommended bulb wattage on any lighting fixture or lamp and never go over the recommended amount.

3. Misuse of extension cords is another electrical fire cause. Appliances should be plugged directly into outlet and not plugged into an extension cord for any length of time. Only use extension cords as a temporary measure. If you do not have the appropriate type of outlets for your appliances, hire an electrician to install new ones.

4. Space heaters are a major cause of electrical fires. Because these types of heaters are portable, many times people put them too close to combustible surfaces such as curtains, beds, clothing, chairs, couches and rugs. Coil space heaters are especially dangerous in this regard because the coils become so hot they will almost instantaneously ignite any nearby flammable surface.

5. Outdated wiring often causes electrical fires. If a home is over twenty years old, it may not have the wiring capacity to handle the increased amounts of electrical appliances in today’s average home. Breakers should be triggered when circuits get overloaded by too much electricity, but outdated breaker boxes often have worn connectors that do not work, causing the system to overload and start an electrical fire.

SERVPRO hopes that you never have to handle a electrical fire but if you do then call SERVPRO of Benton County to get a speedy clean up and get your house looking like new again. 

Have you ever cleaned your air ducts?

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

Getting your air ducts cleaned is important for the health of you and your family. Air ducts can be filled with dust and particles.

In any given home there are a bunch of indoor air pollutants, from combustion sources such as oil, gas, coal or wood to deteriorating petrochemical products that off-gas toxins into the air your family breathes.

These pollutants are proven to cause serious respiratory illnesses from repeated exposure. There is a entire market for cleaning your air now.

One simple way to protect yourself, your family, and your home from these toxic pollutants is to have your air ducts cleaned regularly. Dirty air ducts are one of the most significant sources of indoor air pollution in the home. SERVPRO can come out and clean your air ducts in any season to make sure that you are breathing clean air and your family is safe.

1. You Suspect Mold:

As your ducts operate over the course of months and years, layers and layers of dust and other particles are slowly being deposited. This dust then absorbs any moisture in the air, creating perfect conditions for mold. The heating and cooling system in your home is a behind-the-scenes operator, meaning it is often not accessible or visible in order to check for mold growth.

If you suspect you may have mold, or just want peace of mind, a regular duct cleaning will help allay any fears. An expert can test for mold in your ducts, as well as give them a preventative cleaning, to keep your indoor breathing air mold-free.

2. Your Ducts Have Never Been Cleaned:

If you cannot remember ever having your home’s ducts cleaned, you should schedule an appointment to have them checked. Imagine your ducts going years without a thorough cleaning. For years, dust, dead skin cells, dead insects, and toxic particles have contributed layers and layers of debris in your ducts. When ducts become so excessively clogged with particles, these particles are actually blown out of your air vents right into the air you are breathing.

3. You Want Greater Efficiency: 

There is plenty of research that suggests that cleaning the components of your heating and cooling system can lead to greater efficiency. When you have your ducts cleaned by a licensed HVAC professional, they will also clean your fans, cooling coils, and heat exchangers for a vastly more efficient system. Having your system cleaned regularly not only makes the more efficient but results in a longer operating life, and lower maintenance and energy costs.

4. You Have Seen or Heard Insects and Rodents : –

Have you ever heard scampering through your ducts at night? Have you ever noticed trails of insects leading from your vents? If so, it is probable you have a vermin infestation. That fine layer of dust and debris in your ducts are a perfect nest for rats, mice, ants, and especially cockroaches. Having your ducts cleaned often will reduce the incentive for vermin to nest there.

SERVPRO can help you get your ducts cleaned and make your home safer for your family. Give us a call today to learn more about our services.

How to prevent frozen pipes

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

Winter brings cold temperatures and with cold temperatures come cold and possible frozen pipes. Here are some ways to prevent that.

Cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze. Frozen pipes can result in costly repairs to you as a home or business owner. The good news is there are ways to prevent pipes from freezing. Here are some tips for this winter.

Frozen Pipes Can Burst

Frozen pipes are a problem by themselves, because they prevent water flow, but even worse, frozen pipes can eventually burst, causing damage and potential flooding. There are ways to protect your pipes from freezing. These include:

Keep your house warm

If you are leaving for a period of time, make sure that the heat is kept on at your property. You should inform them that the heat can help prevent pipes from freezing, and if pipes freeze and burst, it can cause a lot of water damage to the property and to their possessions. The heat doesn’t have to be kept as high as you normally would keep it if you were home but keeping it set above 50 degrees Fahrenheit at all times is a good idea. This should provide enough heat to keep the pipes warm and to prevent any water inside from freezing.

Open Faucets

When temps hit the freezing level it is a good idea to allow faucets to drip. Allowing the faucet to be open like this will relieve pressure in the pipe. If a pipe freezes, it is actually the pressure that is created between the blockage and the faucet that will cause the pipe to burst. With the faucet open you avoid blockage in the pipes.

Insulation in key

Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help decrease the chances of freezing. This can be an easy solution for pipes that are exposed, but can get expensive if walls, floors or ceilings have to be opened in order to properly insulate the pipe. Additional insulation can also be added to walls and ceilings to keep the pipes warm.

Winterize Your Home

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

Protect your home from losing heat and energy with these tips from SERVPRO. Keep warm and dry this winter/

1.Replace any old or inefficient windows. Windows are one of the major ways heat leaks out of your house. If your heating bill seems abnormally high, your windows may be a culprit. This is a pricey step in winterization but can be well worth it for a long winter running your furnace. If you haven't budgeted for new windows yet or want to wait for drier weather, you can always seal off drafty windows and patio doors with clear plastic.

2.If your furnace is more than 10 years old, there’s a good chance that it wastes a lot of fuel. Consider upgrading to a newer one. Todays furnaces are more energy efficient and quieter to run than any furnace to date.

3.Try replacing the weather stripping around the doors in your home. This can prevent cold drafts of air in the winter months and keep your home from loosing heat through the exterior doors.

4. Trim any tree branches that are hanging near your home or over your roof. They can bend during a snowstorm or blow and possibly break during a wind or rainstorm.  Depending upon how big the branch is, it could cause serious damage. Get those branches trimmed and away from the roof.

5.Try not to use space heaters to heat large areas of your house. This racks up a pretty big electric bill and wont be very efficient when it comes to heating a large space. If you spend most of your time in one room in a large house, consider setting your thermostat low and using a small heater to heat where you are going to be.

6. Use the oven for baking during colder hours of the day to help heat your home. The best time to bake and use your oven is in the winter when it will heat the house and bring warm air into the kitchen. By using your oven to bake when it is cold you are getting a dual use out of your oven.

7.Keep all closet doors closed when possible. There’s no need to heat space that isn’t in use as long as it doesn’t contain water pipes. Keeping doors closed keeps the heat where you want it.

Check your fireplace for damage before your burn

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

Fireplace safety is very important as it is the difference between a house fire or a safely contained fire.

When winter comes it is a special treat to have a wood burning fireplace in your home.This is if the fireplace has been well maintained and works properly when you light it. Here are some maintenance tips for your fireplace this winter

Hire a Chimney Sweep

It is recommended that you get your chimney cleaned and swept out once per year. This clears it of any additional debris and also is a good way to address any problems that may be going on in your chimney. Hiring a professional for this job is probably the best idea as it requires special tools.

Install a Chimney Cap

The cap provides several benefits, including: it prevents water from entering the chimney when it rains, causing costly water damage; a chimney cap with mesh will prevent animals from getting into your chimney and nesting or getting stuck and dying; a chimney cap can prevent other types of blockage, all of which can cause deadly carbon monoxide to enter the home; a spark arrester can help prevent hot embers and sparks from escaping onto the roof or other combustible materials.

Check your chimney and fireplace for any damage.

Before lighting your first fire of the year take some time to look around your fireplace inside and out and notice any changes that may be questionable. If you find damages, hire a wood stove expert to come and address your chimney.

Leave a layer of ash when you clear out your chimney

When you clean out ashes from the firebox, leave at least one inch of ash, which acts as insulation. The ash will allow coals to heat more quickly and will also allow them to retain heat longer.

Watch out for sparks

Place a rug that is non-flammable in front of the fireplace so that if sparks escape, they won’t do any damage to your floor or carpeting. This comes in handy for those embers that you aren't expecting to come out of your fireplace. They will burn your flooring quickly and before you can grab them safely.

What you need in preparation for a storm

5/8/2017 (Permalink)

1. Canned goods and a manual can opener

Now everyone knows in a natural disaster that canned fruits, vegetables and even things like canned beans are a great food supply. They will last a long time and offer you the nutrients you need. 

However, opening a can without a can opener can be difficult and sometimes not possible. Make sure to add a can opener to your set so in a time of disaster you have access to canned goods. 

2. Batteries (big and small)

 One of the most important things you’re going to need in the event of al storm or hurricane is power and if you don’t have a generator, you’re going to be relying on batteries to get you through the day.

Not only are they going to be powering the flashlights you’re using to see at night, but they’re going to be powering other things as well that you’ll have to remember. For example, don’t forget to stock up on your hearing aid batteries if that’s one of the things you use.

3. Water

 The most important thing, and everybody pretty much knows this, is you want to have drinking water on hand but what everybody doesn’t really know is how much do you need?

The American Red Cross recommends that you have one gallon, per person, per day in the event of a natural disaster. So that means a family of four, over five days is going to need 20 gallons of water.

5. Cash is King

 When the power is out, credit cards and ATMs are a no-go so cash is a must have. Always keep a handy amount ready to go in case the storm fallout lasts longer than you anticipated and you need to get more supplies or fill up your gas tank.

How to deal with a flood

5/8/2017 (Permalink)

After your home has suffered a water damage such as a flood it is important to get into your home and address the problem as quickly and safely as possible. SERVPRO can help you get the water damage fixed and salvage the furniture and goods that were damaged. Here are some things to look out for:

Re-entering your home

• Do not return home until authorities have advised that it is safe to do so.
• If the main power switch was not turned off prior to flooding, do not re-enter your home until a qualified electrician has determined it is safe to do so.
• Use extreme caution when returning to your home after a flood.
• The main electrical panel must be cleaned, dried, and tested by a qualified electrician to ensure that it is safe.

Ensure building safety

• Make sure the building is structurally safe.
• Look for buckled walls or floors.
• Watch for holes in the floor, broken glass and other potentially dangerous debris.

Water

• Flood water can be heavily contaminated with sewage and other pollutants. It can cause sickness and infections.
• If through colour, odour or taste you suspect that your drinking water has been contaminated, don't drink it.
• Household items that have been flood-damaged will have to be discarded according to local regulations.

Water Conservation Tips

4/21/2017 (Permalink)

Save water and prevent water damage.

Conservation can come in many forms. Water is a very important resource to us and we have to be sure to turn off faucets and conserve water when we are able to. Here are some tips for your family and children to follow when it comes to conserving water from SERVPRO of Linn County.

When it comes to water conservation, making the matter apparent to your children will have many benefits. It will begin to teach them the value and practices of conservation early on in their lives, a lesson that will hopefully stick for long into the future. Kids are sponges – chances are if you teach your child a way to save water in an interesting way, he or she will relay the message to classmates or friends.

Turning off the tap: minimize water use in the shower by turning off the shower head while shampooing and conditioning. Depending on where they live, this practice alone could save the average family up to $100 and 3,200 gallons of water per year (*based on a family of 3).

Sometimes you or your kids will pour more water than they wind up drinking. Instead of dumping this water down the drain, use it to water your plants, pour it into your pet’s water bowl, into your teapot or another practical use that will eliminate having to use the faucet. The same goes for ice cubes left at the end of your water glass.

Avoiding toys that require a constant stream of water as opposed to those that you fill can make a major difference when it comes to water usage. If it’s just too hot, limiting their time playing in the sprinkler can keep tabs on the situation. Also reminding your children to not play in the running water faucets and keep water use to just the needed usages.

Once you start conserving, expose your children to the struggles for clean water around the world. What they’re doing at home may translate into wanting to do more to help others.

3 Ways to Prevent Mold In Your Home

4/21/2017 (Permalink)

Here are 7 ways to keep your home safe from mold damages and prevent further damage. Brought to you by SERVPRO.

1. Eliminate Clutter

Clutter blocks airflow and prevents your HVAC system from circulating air. Furniture and curtains that block supply grilles cause condensation. All this moisture creates microclimates in your home that welcome mold growth.  Push furniture away from vents and grilles to keep air circulating. On humid, still days, run a couple of fans to keep air moving.

2. Shut Windows and Doors When AC Is On

When you open windows and doors, you let air conditioning escape, waste money, and invite humid air into your cooler home. This causes condensation, which mold loves. So keep doors and windows shut when the AC is humming.  Also, maintain your home at around 80 degrees when you’re on vacation or at work. Too often, we bump the thermostat up to 85 degrees, or turn off the AC when we’re away. This raises temperature and humidity, which creates the ideal home for mold.

3. Monitor Humidity

An indoor humidity monitor will help you keep track of moisture levels that, ideally, fall between 35% and 50% relative humidity; in very humid climates, at the height of summer, you may have to live with readings closer to 55%. But if you reach 60% relative humidity, it’s time to look for the source of the added moisture; above 70% relative humidity, certain species of mold can begin growing.

Smoke Damage Restoration

2/24/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke damage can ruin your home. SERVPRO can restore your whole home

While some fires are a total loss not all of them are. There may be nothing or very little left to save but many fires are not as serious as a total loss. In some cases there is little structural damage to the home. Even in these cases, there is usually significant smoke and soot damage to the contents of the home. When the contents of a home such as furniture, kitchen utensils, dishes, toys, clothing, bedding and draperies or other personal items are damaged by smoke and soot mitigating the fire damage as soon as possible is important. Cleaning and restoring the contents to its preloss condition is a job for restoration professionals.

The first concern in every fire situation is safety. The fire restoration professionals at SERVPRO will take steps to make sure all workers and others entering a structure after a fire are safe. It is important to ensure the structure is sound before any evaluation work is done or before work begins.

Smoke and soot particles are Products of Incomplete Combustion (PIC). These are carcinogens that are considered to be dangerous. They can start to degrade contents of a home within just a few days, so dealing with them properly and immediately is key.

Once you have taken safety precautions the next step is to determine which items should be cleaned and where. Most soft goods such as bedding, clothing, and draperies will be taken to a dry cleaning or laundry facility for processing. Remaining items will be sorted as to whether the items are suitable for the restoration process or are to be thrown away.  SERVPRO is a restoration company and so taking care of all your items and restoring what we can to make it "Like it never even happened."

Odor issues come with smoke/soot damage. The first step in getting rid of odors is to get rid of the source. Most of the time, when restoration professionals are helping they will eliminate odor issues. Once the restoration is complete, if there is still a small odor then an additional step may be added to the restoration process.

When dealing with fire/smoke damage call your local SERVPRO. We are able to help you restore your home from damages. We look forward to helping you get the damage repaired as quickly and efficiently as possible.

4 Ways to keep your pipes from freezing and breaking in the winter

2/21/2017 (Permalink)

How to protect from frozen pipes during the winter

Here are 4 ways to keep your pipes from freezing and breaking in the winter from SERVPRO of Benton County:

There are several simple fixes to keep water pipes from freezing when the weather turns cold during wintertime. Water damage and broken pipes can be costly. The idea is to prevent cold air from entering or to warm the area where cold air can't be stopped from entering. If pipes freeze, check for pinhole leaks or cracks (after they've thawed) that can cause serious water damage to the home. If you have a burst pipe SERVPRO can help repair any damages and get your home all clean and ready for the next season.

Here are 4 ways to keep pipes from freezing in the first place:

1. Leave the cabinet doors under the kitchen sink open so that the room air can warm the pipes.

2. If the crawl access is inside the home, set a fan in the opening to blow warm air from the home to the foundation. Don't use a fan when the access is in an unheated garage or outside the home.


3. Have the home's exterior walls insulated. Caulk and seal around doors, windows, house faucets and outside outlets.

4. With rigid foam insulation, close and seal all foundation vents that are near water pipes.


5. Insulate the foundation walls and the ends of the floor joists with rigid foam insulation.

With these simple steps you can help keep your pipes warm and the freeze out.

How SERVPRO Handles a Fire

2/20/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration from SERVPRO of Benton County

Here is how we deal with a fire from one of our team members.

Typically, we are called out at all times of the day and night. We do get some who come in the door and referrals from the people we've worked with.

Usually fires have a pretty short timeline. We're first call responders. We get the fire alerts and then one of us will go out to the fire and just let the customers know that we're there to be of assistance. We get out of the way of the professionals and will hang out and give the property owner any assistance we can. We can help them get the insurance process started by calling their agent for them while they take care of their family.

A lot of the time we will send pictures to the insurance agent and help the customer communicate with their insurance agent. In the off-hours the customer has no way to contact their insurance agent, but we have most of their cell numbers, so we can text their agent and let them know about the incident. The agent appreciates it and the customers do too.

Every now and then, an agent, an adjuster or a customer will call us on a fire, but that's less common than us going out and actually seeing the fire right after it happens.

The other work we do is with water damage, mold, and bio-hazard. It comes to us through referrals, our corporate office and through good people who know us or see us through our advertising.

If you have a fire in your home SERVPRO can help you with so much more than just the restoration process. Let SERVPRO of Benton County take care of you in your time of need.

If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097

SERVPRO Offers Commercial Cleaning Services

2/15/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers commercial cleaning services for your needs.

Did you know SERVPRO offers a cleaning service? if you are tired of having a messy office or dont have the tools to clean your commercial building, contact SERVPRO. Here are some of our commercial services. We understand that there is wear and tear on an office that eventually makes it really dirty especially during the winter months.

Air Ducts and HVAC

Biohazard and Sewage

Trauma and Crime Scene

Carpet and Upholstery

Drapes and Blinds

Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Vandalism

Hiring a professional service means you are getting experience, expertise and professional cleaning tools that can clean your space more efficiently. You might be surprised by the amount of different services that we offer. We are more than just damage restoration we are a cleaning company as well. We offer monthly cleaning services. Learn more by contacting SERVPRO of Benton County. 

Hire SERVPRO for a one time clean or for reoccurring cleaning. Seeing the difference a professional service provides will not disappoint you.

Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County to make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097

What SERVPRO Of Benton County Stands For

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO makes restored kitchens look great. We offer restoration for all different kinds of damages.

SERVPRO Stands for many different things and it makes us so happy to be able to serve our community with all their restoration needs.  SERVPRO works to help people restore their damages and make the restoration process as smooth as possible. We will make your home safe for your whole family.

SERVPRO of Linn and Benton County is all about serving our community and serving people; we want to be a resource, to be helpful to others—that is why we do business, and the why we do business is the most important thing, in our minds.  So, obviously people know what we do, but we want to be out there being involved in the community and be there when people need assistance, and so that is our number one focus, our number one mission: to serve our customers in time of need and give them the peace of mind.

If you need help restoring damage in your home or elsewhere, call SERVPRO of Benton County. We clean water damage, fire damage, biohazard, mold damage and so much more. We always want you to be happy with the job we do for you.

Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County to make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097

Storm Damage Protection Tips

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

Protect your home from Storms with a few tips from SERVPRO

We live in the Pacific Northwest and we love it! That also means we have a a lot of different weather that we experience in the winter months. From strong winds and rain to heavy snow here are 4 ways to protect your home from a storm. If your home is damaged SERVPRO will make it like it never happened.

1. Clear away outdoor items

Make sure all lawn furniture, gardening tools, sporting equipment and other outdoor items are stored away if a storm is heading your way. High winds during a heavy storm can potentially pick up these items and send them flying through a window or far away from your home. Putting away loose outdoor items in this situation can protect your house (and your neighbors’ houses) from unnecessary damage.

2. Trim the trees

Take time to examine the trees in your yard or surrounding your house.

Storms will often snap large tree branches, which can damage your home's siding, smash your car or even topple power lines and cause outages. If the tree has a loose connection with a big branch, consider sawing it off. It might reduce some shade in the yard, but can potentially protect your home.

3. Have standby power

Electricity lines are vulnerable during storms. Fallen branches can easily snap the power lines, and lightning strikes can blow up transformers, causing major power outages.

A whole-house surge protective device runs in the $200 to $300 range and is easy for an electrician to install. A generator is a great way to protect your home during storms and for a constant back up.

4. Flood-proof your home

Heavy rainstorms can lead to flooding, which can potentially wreak havoc on homes. Water damage can devalue a house and cause significant problems with the foundation.

Be ready in case of emergency, but if and when one occurs, rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County to make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097

IICRC Certified Firm

7/29/2016 (Permalink)

We are an IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of Benton County 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 Benton County

SERVPRO of Benton County 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.

Restoring Your Benton County Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

7/29/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Benton County commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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 Benton County

SERVPRO of Benton County 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.

How to manage Fire Damage In Your Home or Business

6/3/2016 (Permalink)

Fire Repair for your home & business

Having a fire that damages your home or business can be scary and definitely costly in repairs.

The most important part of repairing your fire damage is to find a restoration company that will help put your worries to rest and then get to work on fixing the damage as fast and effectively as possible. Every fire damage event is different and requires a unique solution but the general process stays the same.

The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Please call SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County immediately at 541-745-2097 if you have any questions about the process.

Step 1: Emergency Contact 541-745-2097. You can call us 24/7.

Step 2: Inspection, Testing, and Fire Damage Assessment

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

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

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, our SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County Professional can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

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

After the Fire Department Leaves, there is often Water Damage. The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We will then use equipment, such as dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

The SERVPRO Benton County & SERVPRO of Linn County Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

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

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-loss condition. As General Contractors we can handle anything, making it “Like it Never Even Happened.”

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 large areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call us Today and let us make it “Like It Never Even Happened!”

Water Damage Restoration

6/3/2016 (Permalink)

Fixing water damage in your Corvallis home.

Your house is damaged by water…….What do you do?

It is vital to act quickly, before more damage occurs. First you must stop the water source or intrusion. Once stopped, mitigating, or keeping more damage from happening, is where service professionals like SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County come in. SERVPRO can come out to your house, assess the damage, clean and dry the area affected, and restore it “Like it Never Even Happened.”

Professionals, like SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County can identify water damage in obvious areas, classify the type of water doing the damage, and put together a plan of action to mitigate and restore the affected area. In addition, restoration professionals find areas unseen that have been affected and create access, or use professionally designed equipment, that allows the drying and restoration process to occur.

Whatever type of water damage you may have, whether it is a clean water break, a leaking washing machine, or a sewage leak, it is still very important to address it quickly before further damage occurs. SERVPRO is equipped to handle whatever the situation, whether large or small.

Permanent damage happens quickly, from wood surfaces deteriorating, carpet delaminating, or mold beginning to appear because of the moist conditions. This is why it is so important to act quickly.

While you are waiting for your restoration professional to arrive, here’s a few things you can do:

1. Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.

2. Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock. 

3. Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

4. Remove any newspapers, magazines or colored material that may bleed onto carpets.

5. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

6. Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture. .

To prevent future water damage it’s a good idea to make sure that you regularly maintain your plumbing and roofing. In your bathroom and other rooms you should make certain that you have good ventilation and you should use good insulation in your windows and walls – especially your basement. Make sure as well to clean your gutters regularly and to make sure that there is no overspill. If you are buying a new home, make sure to research the area first to avoid houses on flood plains.

You can also prepare for potential water damage by making sure you keep your most important belongings up high and away from basement level. You should also make sure you have the number of a 24-hour emergency water damage restoration service, like SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County, in your phone at all times and you should have good insurance coverage for your home and for your possessions to cover the restoration services and items that needs may need replacing.

Be ready in case of emergency, but if and when one occurs, rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Benton County and SERVPRO of Linn County to “Make it Like it Never Even Happened.”

If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097