Prevent Electrical Fires in your home

3/5/2024 (Permalink)

Electrical fires are the cause of many house fires can be some of the most difficult to put out due to the difficulty of identifying the source. Proper care of electrical outlets and appliances will help to prevent electrical fires.  It is very important to follow manufacturer guidelines when using electrical appliance and systems, such as the wattage guidelines given when changing light bulbs.  Be sure that you do not plug in too many electrical units into one outlet, as this could burn out the outlet and cause a fire.  Be sure that you have your wiring checked regularly by an electrician. Faulty wiring is a leading cause of electrical fires and is a common problem in many homes.  If you hear a sparking sound near a particular electrical outlet or appliance or see smoke or smell burning after plugging a unit in, immediately unplug the object and call an electrician to check your wiring.

                Finally, if an electrical fire does occur, do NOT attempt to put the blaze out with water.  This will only make the fire worse and could shock or electrocute you.  If safe to do so, attempt to unplug the source.  Put the fire out using baking soda or a blanket to smother the flames.  If the fire is larger, a class C fire extinguisher can be used.  If the fire continues to grow, leave immediately! Do not be tempted to put out a growing fire by yourself.  Allow the firefighters to do so.

                If your home has been damaged by fire, please call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties at (434)-525-9559. 

The American Red Cross has this to say about Kitchen Fires:

3/5/2024 (Permalink)

The never-ending winter weather is keeping a lot of people stuck inside and that means more of us spending time in the kitchen cooking.

Did you know the kitchen is where more home fires occur than anywhere else in the house and that cooking is the number one cause of home fires? The American Red Cross has steps everyone can follow to avoid a cooking fire:

1. Never leave cooking food unattended – stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a second, turn off the stove.

2. Check your food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking.

3. Use a timer so you’ll remember that the stove or oven is on.

4. Don’t wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.

5. Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

6. Keep anything that can catch fire - pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.

7. Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.

8. Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.]

9. Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.

10. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.

To learn how to prevent a fire in your home and how to keep members of your household safe, you can take our cooking safety quiz and download the Red Cross Fire Prevention and Safety Checklist. Downloadable fact sheets are also available on how to avoid home heating fires, candle safety, proper use of smoke alarms and teaching your children what to do in the event of a fire.

Fire, Smoke & Soot Cleanup

3/5/2024 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?  Call Us Today – 434-525-9559

What causes water damage

3/5/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including leaks, storms, burst pipes or appliances, sewage overflows, etc., and each of these can create extensive and long-lasting damage in a short period of time. Therefore, the best remedy for water damage is to take preventative steps to avoid and then mitigate as much damage as possible. Below is a list of the most common causes of water damage; select one to learn more about the steps you can take to prevent each incident from occurring, as well as steps that you can take to mitigate the problem should an incident occur.

1. Frozen pipes
2. Pipe leaks (for reasons other than freezing)
3. Sewage overflow/backup
4. Burst appliances (such as a dishwasher or washer machine)
5. Excessive rain that leads to flooding (See the article listed under Storms for more information on this type of water loss)

Should you experience a water loss from one of these or any other causes, SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties has teams of professional and highly-trained technicians who specialize in water-damage repair and recovery.

If your home or business has suffered a recent water loss, call us at (434)-525-9559 and make an appointment for one of our experienced teams to come out and repair the damage.

Do you know where your water shut off valve is?

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

Do you and your family know where the main water shutoff valve is located in your house?  It is always harder to find something when in a panic.  That is why we highly recommend that you be aware of its location before a disaster strikes.  

”Where It Is Not:  It is likely not under a sink.  The shut-off to the water heater may look promising, but that only affects the outflow of hot water from that point.  Do not confuse the gas shut-off to the furnace or water heater with water lines.”

“Check Your Inspection Report:  If you still have your property inspection report from when you purchased the house, it should indicate the location of the shut-off valve.  Inspection reports often follow a standardized format, so you may find this information located in Section 6.1.”

Follow the link for more helpful tips to help you locate the shutoff valve in your home.

Once you have located your main water shutoff, give us a call or stop by our office and we will give you one of these brightly colored shutoff tags at no cost to you to help you quickly find the valve should an unexpected water damage occur.

SERVPRO Available 24/7

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 434-525-9559

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties 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.

Lynchburg Residents: We Specialize in flooded basements

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

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

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

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 434-525-9559

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

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

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

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

Follow this link for a basement cleanup done by SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties following a heavy rain.  The article was taken by WSET news crew.

http://wset.com/archive/storm-leaves-cleanup-crews-to-deal-with-flooded-basements

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 434-525-9559

Does your Lynchburg home have a mold problem?

11/10/2023 (Permalink)

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

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 434-525-9559

Common cause of Fires in homes and how to avoid them.

11/10/2023 (Permalink)

Fires can start very quickly and once started they can be very difficult to stop. The damage left by fire goes beyond the objects that were directly burned by the flames.  Smoke and soot left from the fire can spread throughout a home or business into areas that the fire itself did not reach.  The clean-up required from smoke damage is often more extensive than the clean-up required for areas that were burned.

While there are several steps you can take to address the damage after a fire has occurred, the best solution is always prevention, and prevention requires awareness of possible hazards that could cause fires.

Below is a list of the most common causes of fires in homes:

1. Heaters
2. Clothing dryers
3. Unattended stoves
4. Electrical failures/overburdened electrical outlets

Should you experience a fire loss, SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties has teams of professional and highly trained technicians who specialize in fire-damage repair and recovery. Call us today 434-525-9559

Water Damage in Lynchburg? We are IICRC certified.

11/10/2023 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Lynchburg we understand how important it is to uphold the condition of your home and the memorabilia within it that help make your house your home.  We know that above all else, the number one important factor is the safety of your family (pets included of course).  That is why we have made certain that our franchise be certified by IICRC and uphold their standards as well as continually train our crew the IICRC standards and for each member to work towards being personally certified as well.  We take our work seriously knowing that if a Fire, Water, or Mold Damage happened in our home or business, we would want it to be restored as efficiently, and safely as possible.  That is why when disaster strikes your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO of Lynchburg!

What is IICRC?

IICRC stands for Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification.

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is recognized internationally as a knowledgeable industry voice and resource. It serves as an independent, nonprofit standard-setting and certification body, to set and promote high standards and ethics; and to advance communication and technical proficiency within the inspection, cleaning and restoration service industries.

The IICRC is the leading, independent, non-profit, certification and standard-setting body within the cleaning, inspection, and restoration industry. The IICRC sets and promotes high ethical standards, and advances communication, collaboration and technical expertise.

How to help prevent storm damage to your home.

10/6/2023 (Permalink)

Here is some great info provided by the Property and Liability Resource Bureau about preventing storm damage.  Check them out at plrb.org

Severe Thunderstorms

It is the severe thunderstorm that produces the tornado, large hail, and high wind damage to structures, as well as frequent lightning strikes that cause most property damage. All thunderstorms are dangerous. Though small in size, compared to a hurricane for example, they are extremely powerful. The National Weather Service rates approximately 10,000 thunderstorms as severe each season.

Hail

Background

            The majority of the structural damage caused in a severe thunderstorm occurs during a hailstorm. Hail damage to structures, foliage, vehicles, and agricultural crops is estimated to exceed $1-billion annually.

            Hail that causes damage to structures is usually at least 1” in diameter. The larger the diameter of the hailstone, and the harder the stone, the more severe the impact on a building. The so-called baseball-sized hail causes more severe damage that the so-called golf-ball sized hail.

            Vehicle damage can be caused by hail that is about .75” in diameter. Crop damage has been caused by hail as small as .25”.

Preventing Damage

            Roof damage is the most frequent structural loss caused by hail. Reducing roof damage that might result from a major hailstorm is possible. It depends on the type and quality, as well as the maintenance of the structure’s roofing system. It is a fact the cedar shake roofing is more likely to be damaged than 50-pound composite roofing material. The choice of roofing is a decision made by the building’s owner, although building code requirements sometimes restrict it.

Mitigating Damage after a Storm

            Close any openings made in the structure by the hail. Broken windows are the most common problem. Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that can be quickly cut to size and nailed over the opening.

            Openings in the roof and in siding from hail are rare. If they occur it is best to close them as soon as possible. Keep your personal safety in mind and attempt such a closure yourself only if it can be done with little or no risk. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of emergency close up. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

Wind

Background

            The number two cause of structural damage in a severe thunderstorm is from the so-called straight-line wind. This is wind moving in one direction and not rotating, such as a tornado.

            Wind is considered severe when it reaches about 60 miles per hour. Some very severe windstorms can achieve a velocity of 100 miles per hour. Both are dangerous and will cause structural damage.

            A form of wind that causes damage approaching that of a strong tornado is the downburst. This is usually in a very concentrated area. It is created by air blasting out of a thunderstorm to the ground beneath the storm cell.

Preventing Damage

            Minimizing and preventing wind damage to a structure is possible. Roof and siding damage are the two leading types of loss following a windstorm.

Roof damage can be reduced during the construction phase when the roof deck and the shingles or membrane are applied over the decking. A well-designed roofing system will firmly anchor the trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the building in a strong wind. Roofing material must be properly fastened to the deck. Weakly connected shingles will lift easily from the deck.

            Siding damage can be reduced at the construction phase as well. Properly fastened siding is less likely to lift off a structure in strong wind. Building codes will likely direct the minimum standards for connections. You, your architect, or your contractor may decide to exceed these minimums for a stronger and more storm resistant structure.

            Falling trees and tree limbs are another significant type of damage to structures in a windstorm. Tree maintenance to remove dead limbs or identify and remove weakened trees will reduce the likelihood of the structure being damaged.

Mitigating Damage after a Storm

            Close any openings made in the structure by the wind. Roof openings and broken windows are the most common problem. Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that can be quickly cut to size and nailed over the opening.

            Keep your personal safety in mind and attempt such a closure yourself only if it can be done with little or no risk. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of emergency close up. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

            Falling trees and tree limbs can open a structure with sudden violence. A tree on a structure is a very serious personal and structural safety issue. A tree may look as if it will not shift position. But it can shift and cause serious injury to the unwary. A fallen tree may also mask other very serious safety issues, such as downed electrical wires. The wires may still be live and the tree itself energized. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

Tornadoes

Background

A tornado is a violent rotating column of air. It originates in a severe thunderstorm as a funnel and dips to the ground. Once on the ground it is a tornado and a highly dangerous storm. About 1200 tornadoes occur annually, according to the National Weather Service. Fortunately most of them are the so-called weak tornado with winds of less than 110 miles per hour. While these will damage structures they cause few deaths. The most violent tornadoes, such as the storm that destroyed a swath of property in Oklahoma City and Moore, Oklahoma, during the 2003 season, are very rare. However they kill the most people and cause landscape clearing, catastrophic structural damage.

Please see the wind section for preventing and mitigating damage from a tornado.

Flooding

 Background

            Flash flooding sometimes follows rain during a severe thunderstorm. This peril is the leading killer of people during the severe thunderstorms. The fatalities occur not in structures, but usually in vehicles and after dark. Drivers under estimate the depth of water, the energy of its velocity, and how easily a vehicle can begin floating in about 24” of water.

            Structural flooding typically occurs in areas that are known to be flood plains and have been mapped by the National Flood Insurance Program.

Call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell counties for mold remediation.

10/6/2023 (Permalink)

If you look on the internet, there are scores of DIY mold test kits. Before you invest in one of these kits, here are things you ought to know about mold:

• Mold is everywhere and every single house has some form of “mold.”
• Most self-test mold kits only tell you if your home has mold, but often provides false negatives and positives. It also does not tell you what kind of mold or how to kill it.

A true mold test can only be conducted by a Professional Environmental testing company; they determine the type of mold, the source of the moisture, and how to kill the mold at the core. They create a protocol, which can be read by an IICRC professional like SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties.  It’s best to use a testing company that does not do cleaning themselves because their assessment will be unbiased.

• Mold is more often hidden, sometimes under the floor or in the walls, or in your air ducts

Where the mold is located, often dictates where the moisture is affecting the building

• Untreated water damage may result in mold growth within 24-48 hours of the event

Wood, insulation, fiberglass, carpet and other organic substances become a thriving environment for mold once there is moisture present for more than 24 hours. After a week, it is almost guaranteed.

Free estimates or removing mold yourself cost homeowners more in the long run!

Be wary of companies who advertise free mold testing. Free mold tests are often offered by people who are uncertified or inexperienced and if they do the mold testing themselves, they are using these kits mentioned above. Unless they are a certified Environmental Hygienist and have a PhD in microbiology, they do not have the knowledge or resources to truly diagnose the mold condition in your home.

• The source of the mold is never addressed, so the problem is reoccurring.
• They use the “self-test” kits mentioned above instead of environmental testing with diagnostics
• Remove only topical mold instead of killing it at the source
• They often remove more walls and floors than needed which increases the price to rebuild.
• They do not remove enough, or don’t use the right materials which brings the mold back.

This means you have to pay to have it removed again, and have more sanitation and demolition performed, which increases the price to rebuild and replace tremendously.

What you should do instead

Having mold can be scary, especially if anyone in your home is prone to getting sick (people with asthma, low immune systems, allergies, babies and the elderly). We recommend the following course of action if you need to have mold removed from your home.

1. Measure the area affected and check for moisture.
2. Call your insurance company to check for coverage.

Now that you’re armed with knowledge, it’s time to start making some calls!

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties' technicians are qualified to help you with your mold clean up, and have the following certifications:

• IICRC, Water Restoration Technician
• IICRC, Mold restoration
• IICRC, Applied Structural Drying

When rainstorms cause flooding call SERVPRO

10/6/2023 (Permalink)

It is tragic when a flood brings devastation and water damage to your home. But rapid water removal, clean up and repairs certainly must get under way for you home to get back to normal with minimal losses.
 
Safety is a top priority. After the flood damage, evaluation of the home's safety issues must be completed before you dare to enter your home again. 
 
You do need to call your insurance agent to be certain if you are covered under your standard home owners policy or if you do possess flood insurance coverage.  An insurance adjuster will be dispatched to your property to inspect the damage and eventually offer a settlement. Ask for help in retaining a competent water damage restoration company. SERVPRO does work with many agencies. We can assess and document all water damaged items, help you with your claims and paperwork, and expedite the water removal and restoration.  Our inspection will indicate to you the severity of the water damage that your home has suffered and any potential health effects you may have to address during the process of getting the flood damage repairs done on your home. 
 
When these concerns have been addressed, and if you have been given permission to enter your home, you should also document all the flood causing water damage for insurance purposes. Be sure that you do take pictures of the flooded areas of your home and any damaged belongings, including damaged furniture. This, along with the input from SERVPRO, will help you to be fairly compensated by the insurance company. 
 
Once you have done the documentation and the adjuster had done his inspection, then the clean up starts to get under way. The home needs to be made dry and needs to be cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent any other damage from occurring. This will also lessen the likelihood of mold and mildew growth.  Contamination is a given if the flooding is the result of groundwater intrusion, whether from rain, bodies of water, or a sewage blockage. Do not attempt to clean and sanitize on your own. The potential for future illness is too great.
 
It is wise to call the professionals from SERVPRO because they can immediately begin to pump out the water and mitigate on-going water damage. And they have the skill and knowledge, along with the professional equipment required to start and complete the entire restoration process for you. 
 
After the water removal and clean up are in operation, then repairs need to be done. They could be extensive, depending on how much structural damage has occurred and the condition of the contents of your property.

If you have water damage to your home, call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties at 434-525-9559.

Water damage from the eyes of the Technician:

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

Ever wonder what a water damage is like in the eyes of the technician?  Well know you can know!  Here is what Mike Dodson, one of our lead water technicians here as SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties, has to say about it.

"There are a million things that run through my mind as a technician when I receive the call for a water damage. Where did the water come from? What kind of floorings are we working with? How many levels of the property are affected? Although these questions are typically answered by the customer on the initial call, we still wonder about the unknown things to prepare for.

These questions are turned to assumptions of the worst as we prepare the trucks to respond, and then we arrive only to ask more questions. What is wet, how wet, how far has the damage spread, and what are the best methods to dry it quickly to prevent further damage? While most technicians can diagnose with a simple tool, we have to diagnose using tools and by looking in places that property owners never even imagine water could have went.

During the course of drying a structure we still ask constant questions like; is it drying, how dry is it, when might it be completely dry. We answer these by frequently checking the amount of moisture content in the air and structure. Water is so good at hiding and most times a property owner is thinking; why are they looking there? Some will say it, while others will just look at you with the eyes of disbelief, but just as we gauge our equipment’s readings, we read the customer and give the response to their possibly unasked concern.

Above all else in the mitigation of a property, I have some other questions that I ask myself. These are the questions that, I feel, distinguish SERVPRO in our industry. How can I make this customer's nightmare turn into a mere uncomfortable dream, and what can my team do to keep our customer confident in us throughout this process? These answers are only available by communication and assurance that the home or business they've worked so hard for are being cared for as if it were ours."

- Mike Dodson-Lead Technician at SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties 

Every second counts

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.

Everyone needs to have an escape plan!

• Draw a map of your home with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
• Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
• Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

via http://www.nfpa.org/

Have you contacted your local fire department? See how you can get involved with them and your community to prevent house fires. Sometimes they will have events or give out smoke detectors for your home. Don't think this could never happen to you because it easily could. We don't have control over everything in our homes! Be safe and have a plan!

Indoor Air Quality

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

Indoor air quality/environmental professionals evaluate the quality of the air inside a structure. Some specialize and are skilled in testing buildings for the presence of molds. Using various testing devices, these professionals collect air and surface samples to compare the indoor mold spore count to the outdoor environment.

If you have concerns about mold, SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties can assist you in locating a qualified indoor air quality/environmental professional. 

SERVPRO cares about proper restoration of your structure. In most water damage situations excessive mold growth is not a problem and SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties can safely restore your building to preloss condition.

The need to address the presence of mold can be determined by an on-site, indoor environmental inspection.

The American Red Cross has this to say about Kitchen Fires:

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

The never-ending winter weather is keeping a lot of people stuck inside and that means more of us spending time in the kitchen cooking.

Did you know the kitchen is where more home fires occur than anywhere else in the house and that cooking is the number one cause of home fires? The American Red Cross has steps everyone can follow to avoid a cooking fire:

1. Never leave cooking food unattended – stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a second, turn off the stove.

2. Check your food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking.

3. Use a timer so you’ll remember that the stove or oven is on.

4. Don’t wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.

5. Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

6. Keep anything that can catch fire - pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.

7. Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.

8. Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.]

9. Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.

10. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.

To learn how to prevent a fire in your home and how to keep members of your household safe, you can take our cooking safety quiz and download the Red Cross Fire Prevention and Safety Checklist. Downloadable fact sheets are also available on how to avoid home heating fires, candle safety, proper use of smoke alarms and teaching your children what to do in the event of a fire

Lynchburg, Bedford and Campbell County Smoke/Soot cleanup:

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford and Campbell Counties will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 434-525-9559

Water damage from the eyes of the Technician:

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

Ever wonder what a water damage is like in the eyes of the technician?  Well know you can know!  Here is what Mike Dodson, one of our lead water technicians here as SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties, has to say about it.

"There are a million things that run through my mind as a technician when I receive the call for a water damage. Where did the water come from? What kind of floorings are we working with? How many levels of the property are affected? Although these questions are typically answered by the customer on the initial call, we still wonder about the unknown things to prepare for.

These questions are turned to assumptions of the worst as we prepare the trucks to respond, and then we arrive only to ask more questions. What is wet, how wet, how far has the damage spread, and what are the best methods to dry it quickly to prevent further damage? While most technicians can diagnose with a simple tool, we have to diagnose using tools and by looking in places that property owners never even imagine water could have went.

During the course of drying a structure we still ask constant questions like; is it drying, how dry is it, when might it be completely dry. We answer these by frequently checking the amount of moisture content in the air and structure. Water is so good at hiding and most times a property owner is thinking; why are they looking there? Some will say it, while others will just look at you with the eyes of disbelief, but just as we gauge our equipment’s readings, we read the customer and give the response to their possibly unasked concern.

Above all else in the mitigation of a property, I have some other questions that I ask myself. These are the questions that, I feel, distinguish SERVPRO in our industry. How can I make this customer's nightmare turn into a mere uncomfortable dream, and what can my team do to keep our customer confident in us throughout this process? These answers are only available by communication and assurance that the home or business they've worked so hard for are being cared for as if it were ours."

- Mike Dodson-Lead Technician at SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties 

Fire, Smoke & Soot Cleanup

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?  Call Us Today – 434-525-9559

Do you know where your water shut off valve is?

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

Do you and your family know where the main water shutoff valve is located in your house?  It is always harder to find something when in a panic.  That is why we highly recommend that you be aware of its location before a disaster strikes.  

”Where It Is Not:  It is likely not under a sink.  The shut-off to the water heater may look promising, but that only affects the outflow of hot water from that point.  Do not confuse the gas shut-off to the furnace or water heater with water lines.”

“Check Your Inspection Report:  If you still have your property inspection report from when you purchased the house, it should indicate the location of the shut-off valve.  Inspection reports often follow a standardized format, so you may find this information located in Section 6.1.”

Follow the link for more helpful tips to help you locate the shutoff valve in your home.

Once you have located your main water shutoff, give us a call or stop by our office and we will give you one of these brightly colored shutoff tags at no cost to you to help you quickly find the valve should an unexpected water damage occur.

Water damage from Frozen Pipes: Call SERVPRO

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties to clean up water damage from burst pipes.

Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem

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

Pipes that freeze most frequently are:

• Pipes that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines.
• Water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets.
• Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation.

How to Protect Pipes From Freezing

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

• Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer's or installer's directions. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed. Antifreeze is environmentally harmful, and is dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping.
• Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break.
• Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.
• Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas. Look in the garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.
• Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a "pipe sleeve" or installing UL-listed "heat tape," "heat cable," or similar materials on exposed water pipes. Newspaper can provide some degree of insulation and protection to exposed pipes – even ¼” of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that usually do not have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing.
• Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.
• When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

• If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.
• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you cannot thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
• Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

Does your home have a mold problem?

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

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

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

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

We specialize in Flooded basement cleanup and Restoration

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

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

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

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 434-525-9559

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

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

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

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

Follow this link for a basement cleanup done by SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties following a heavy rain.  The article was taken by WSET news crew.

http://wset.com/archive/storm-leaves-cleanup-crews-to-deal-with-flooded-basements

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 434-525-9559

SERVPRO Available 24/7

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 434-525-9559

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties 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.

Why SERVPRO of Lynchburg

11/2/2022 (Permalink)

Mission

To develop a team of Quality People, who Focus on Excellent Service, Fairness and Mutual Respect.

Vision 

To be the Premier Fire, Water, Mold Restoration Company in the Communities we Serve.

Values 

Integrity: To act with integrity and honesty in the work that we do, the people we interact with, and the decisions we make. We will not compromise what is right, for what is easiest. 

Customer Service: To provide premier services through continual reviewing of our goals, expectations, and training. 

Leadership:  To lead others by our example. 

Responsibility:  To maintain our team’s strong foundation, and to be a positive agent of change. 

Respect:  To show respect to others with our words, our actions and our attitudes.

Goals 

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties seeks to honor the Lord in all that we do, and to have a positive impact on the lives of our employees, customers, and community.

Fire! What you see, and what you don't

11/2/2022 (Permalink)

The flames can be dramatic while watching a news story about a home or apartment fire on the television or the internet. Rightly so because they cause the most visible damage to your property during a fire. But, it is the smoke and soot that are the silent and sometimes invisible hazards that could cost lives. Water is also a reason for damage after a fire. Even firefighters themselves may cause some damage before they can completely put out a fire. Here are 10 important things to know about fires.

1. In a fire, more people die from inhaling smoke than from the flames. Never think that if you avoid the flames you are safe. Always keep away from smoke.
2. Soot is a coating of fine, black dust created when wood, coal, or oil-based substances are burned.  These carbon particles float into the air and settle anywhere.  Inhaling soot can caused severe lung deficiencies or even death. 
3. If soot contaminates items in your home or business, a fire restoration service provider like SERVPRO of Lynchburg, Bedford and Campbell Counties must assess the damage to see if restoration is possible.
4. The worst possible effect of soot is its tendency to cause cancer and cause serious defects in newborns. Soot produces poly cyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. These hydrocarbons are responsible for gene mutation for particular groups of genes. They can cause birth defects and increase the chances of getting cancer.
5. Water’s great at putting out most fires but the water itself can cause great damage. You must make sure, after the fire is out, that your home or business is completely dried.
6. Mold colonies can begin to grow just 48 hours after water damage occurs.  The combination of fire, water, and mold damage to your commercial property or home could result in a complete loss if not handled properly. See our posts about mold,  mold myths, and how to clean up mold.
7. Use caution if you decide to do some of the cleanup after a fire. Never start your cleaning process until you’re properly attired. Wear heavy-duty gloves, safety goggles, and a face mask. Carefully cover your nose and make sure your safety glasses have no place for dust or soot to get into your eyes. If in doubt, call on the services of a professional restoration company as you may do more harm than good. Some household cleaning products may actually set a stain on your home or personal belongings.
8. Firefighters are true heroes. However, they often must break windows and cut holes in the roof of buildings on fire. As a fire burns, the fire moves up and down and across, growing very fast. Firefighters break windows and cut holes in roofs to provide ventilation that slows the fire’s growth. Ventilation also helps get rid of dark smoke that makes it hard for firefighters to see where they’re going. The holes and broken windows help firefighters fight the fire more quickly. The bottom line is that breaking windows and cutting holes in roofs help save lives and property.  9. Firefighters will also cut holes in walls at times. That’s not about ventilation. It’s done so the fire department is sure that the fire is completely out. Fire departments don’t want to risk leaving a fire that’s not visible but is still active inside the walls or in other hidden places. 
9. If you have a fire, get a copy of the fire report. In most areas, a fire report is a public document. Ask for it at the fire department or fire marshal’s office. The fire report will help you with information to begin the restoration process.

SERVPRO of Lynchburg, Bedford and Campbell Counties stands ready to respond 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to your catastrophic event. Please call us with your questions or concerns at 434.525.9559 or visit us at www.SERVPROlynchburgbedfordcampbellcounties.com for more information.

Better yet, save our contact information in your phone for when an emergency strikes you. When you think fire, smoke, water damage, think SERVPRO. Locally owned and operated.  

Faster to your Lynchburg water Damage event.

11/2/2022 (Permalink)

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

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties 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 –434-525-9559

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 SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties

SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties 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.

When a storm or disaster strikes, SERVPRO is here to Help!

10/6/2022 (Permalink)

When a storm or disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties is 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 Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

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

Able to access a network of over 1,600 Franchises strategically located throughout the United States allowing for a faster response time, SERVPRO is trained and equipped to handle the largest storms and highest flood waters.

In the aftermath of a disaster, SERVPRO is Here to Help!

Have Mold in your Business or Home

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

- Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.

- Mold may present a grater risk to children, the       elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.

- A strong, musty odor may indelicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

Mold can be visible or hidden and will almost always occur in areas that have recently been affected by excessive moisture or humidity. If you suspect that there is a mold problem in your home or business, there are several steps you can take to get help and resolve the problem as quickly as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties if you see mold. 

When Storms hit Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties, SERVPRO is Ready!

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynchburg 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. 

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call us today

434-525-9559 or 540-586-1579

When Water Damages your Central VA Home

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

Once a flood has damaged your home, it's important for you to obtain water damage restoration services.  Restoration services are multi-faceted in so much as they involve both cleaning, removing excess water from your home and repairing regions of the house that have been subjected to substantive water damage. As the water damage specialists know from SERVPRO, it is important to start the cleanup and repair process right after the flood or fire to ensure that the water damage is minimized and that mold and mildew do not begin to accumulate on the property.

Fire, Soot and Smoke Clean Up

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?  Call Us Today – 434-525-9559

What to Do If you Spot Mold

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

Mold is an invasive fungus that grows in wet or humid environments and can spread rapidly in only a few days. Mold can be very dangerous to the health of those living in the home, especially if it spreads into air ducts or grows in an area of the house in which the family is frequently present. Mold can be visible or hidden and will almost always occur in areas that have recently been affected by excessive moisture or humidity. If you suspect that there is a mold problem in your home, there are several steps you can take to get help and resolve the problem as quickly as possible.

Step 1: If you suspect that you have a mold problem but the mold is not visible, you must call a certified professional to conduct Indoor Air Quality Testing on your home (SERVPRO does not provide Indoor Air Quality Tests). Do not attempt to use a self-test kit to test for mold as these are highly inaccurate.

Step 2: Call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties! SERVPRO personnel will be on site within four hours of receiving and processing your notice of loss.

Step 3: Do not attempt to remove or treat any affected areas. Attempting to do so will only cause the mold spores to spread further within the affected area and can even spread into other areas of the property. Instead, isolate the area by turning off any air units and fans that could be blowing air into or out of the area. Do not touch the mold; wait patiently until a SERVPRO crew arrives to take care of the situation.

Once our team of highly qualified SERVPRO technicians arrives on the scene, they will take several steps to mitigate the situation and take care of the mold as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO Available 24/7

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 434-525-9559

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties 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.

Every Second Counts

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.

Everyone needs to have an escape plan!

• Draw a map of your home with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
• Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
• Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

via http://www.nfpa.org/

Have you contacted your local fire department? See how you can get involved with them and your community to prevent house fires. Sometimes they will have events or give out smoke detectors for your home. Don't think this could never happen to you because it easily could. We don't have control over everything in our homes! Be safe and have a plan!

How to Protect Against Water Damage

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

Want to prevent moisture and mold from damaging your home?

Make sure the gutters on your home are in good order and will flow water efficiently. Clear them of debris when needed and check them twice a year if you have nearby trees.

Divert rain water at least 10 feet from the foundation of your home. Buried piping can work very well and doesn't look out of place even on the most manicured yard.

Don't be afraid to put on your raincoat and inspect your downspouts and the flow of your gutters in the rain! Leaks or poorly implemented systems should show leaking water pretty quickly during a soaking rain.

If you have any questions or concerns when it comes to water damage don't hesitate to call SERVPRO at 434-525-9559! We are here to help!

Fire Extinguishers = Valuable Tools

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

Portable fire extinguishers can be life and property saving tools when used correctly. In order to operate an extinguisher, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests remembering the word PASS:

P - Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from your and release the locking mechanism.

A - Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

S - Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

S - Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. Remember, extinguishers do have limitations. It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your facility. To find more information on choosing the appropriate class of extinguisher, please visit the NFPA website at nfpa.org.

*Courtesy of the SERVPRO Restoration Newsline Volume 28, Issue 2.

Remediating Mold Damage in Campbell County, VA

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Air quality is an issue for every homeowner and resident. Airborne mold is not a dangerous threat to most people, but it can cause adverse health effects in many.

Remediating mold damage and improving air quality requires more than a spray bottle of bleach and a scraping tool. SERVPRO restoration teams use specialized equipment and materials to kill active mold, remove it from the home surfaces, and reduce the levels in the air.

Once a mold infestation spreads across walls and ceilings, the mold content in the air around them increases as well. Individual mold spores are microscopic, so there can be thousands of them in the air as a homeowner walks into the kitchen and he never sees them.

SERVPRO technicians use air scrubbers to remove the spores and clean the air inside a home. Each commercial grade device has multiple stages of filtration and uses specialized HEPA to catch even a single mold spore from the air, trap it in the scrubber or send it through a hose to a containment bag outside the home. The air scrubbers are also very useful in removing pollen, dust, and pet dander.

As technicians set up air scrubbers, other team members spray anti-fungal agents on mold covering structural and personal property surfaces. Once they dry, team members use commercial-grade vacuums with the same type of Hepa filters to remove spores. If the mold layer is very thick, team members wipe down surfaces using sponges or a scrub brush with a mild cleaner if needed and then vacuum again.

Although it is not possible to remove all mold, bringing down the level of spores in a home to a safe level can be done. Our goal is to return each home to its original, pre-infestation condition as quickly as possible.

If you see mold, call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties.

Water Damage from Frozen Pipes: Call SERVPRO!

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties to clean up water damage from burst pipes.

Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem

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

Pipes that freeze most frequently are:

• Pipes that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines.
• Water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets.
• Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation.

How to Protect Pipes From Freezing

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

• Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer's or installer's directions. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed. Antifreeze is environmentally harmful, and is dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping.
• Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break.
• Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.
• Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas. Look in the garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.
• Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a "pipe sleeve" or installing UL-listed "heat tape," "heat cable," or similar materials on exposed water pipes. Newspaper can provide some degree of insulation and protection to exposed pipes – even ¼” of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that usually do not have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing.
• Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.
• When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

• If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.
• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you cannot thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
• Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

Practice Fire Safety

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

• Fireplaces should not be used as furnaces. Use a fireplace for a short-duration fire — no longer than five hours.
• Keep the glass open to allow air to be drawn up to cool the chimney, but keep the screen closed to prevent sparks from jumping onto the carpeting.
• Never leave a fire unattended when children are in the house. Adults, even if near, should not allow children to play near or with fire tools and equipment.
• Open a window when using the fireplace to prevent the room from becoming smoky. The air coming in from the window will go up the chimney.
• Before making a fire, open the glass doors, pull aside the screen curtains, and place the kindling, newspaper and logs inside. Next, open the damper and a window. The window needs to be open only a few inches. You can check to make sure the smoke will go up the chimney properly by lighting a match, quickly blowing it out and watching the smoke to see whether it's going up and out.
• Keep a nonflammable rug (available at fireplace-supply stores) in front of the fireplace so that sparks won't melt or otherwise damage your carpeting.
• Use fireplace tools to handle burning logs. Never use your hands.
• Use a chimney cap to prevent water damage, to keep animals from nesting and to keep debris from blocking the chimney and causing carbon monoxide to flow into the house. Use a spark arrester to help prevent sparks from flying out, which could start a fire on the roof or lawn.
• Glass doors may develop tough stains from flames and heat. To clean them, make sure the glass doors are cool, then scrape off any thick gunk deposits with a razor blade. Add a squirt of liquid dishwashing detergent to a bucket of warm water, or add a cup of vinegar to a gallon of water. Spray or sponge the cleaner on, and then wipe it away with newspaper (which is lint-free). Another option is to buy glass cleaner at a fireplace store.
• Fireplace coals can remain hot enough to start a fire for up to three days, so always wait at least that long before removing the ashes. At that point, close the damper to prevent cold air in the flue from stirring up excess dust while you're removing the ashes. Be sure to wear a dust mask and open a window in the same room as the fireplace to prevent negative air pressure. Use a shovel to scoop the ashes into a metal container. Store the container far from combustible materials and surfaces and wood floors.
• Never use a vacuum to clean up ashes, because live coals may remain in those ashes.
• Have a certified chimney sweep inspect and clean the chimney when necessary. Have him show you how to check it yourself, too. The chimney should be checked at least once a year or after about 80 fires.
• Shine brass fireplace utensils with Worcestershire sauce and a toothbrush.
• Clean the firebox (the area where the logs burn) at least once a week during the months you use it, when ash builds up. Leave about an inch of ash because it acts as insulation, allowing the coals to heat faster and retain the heat easier. Keep the firebox completely clean during the months when the fireplace is not in use.
• To clean an exterior slate hearth, wash, dry and coat it with lemon oil every six weeks to make it shine. For cleaning exterior brick hearths, buy a brick cleaner at a fireplace shop.

Lynchburg Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 434-525-9559

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

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

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

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

Follow this link for a basement cleanup done by SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties following a heavy rain.  The article was taken by WSET news crew.

http://wset.com/archive/storm-leaves-cleanup-crews-to-deal-with-flooded-basements

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 434-525-9559

Do You Know Where Your Water Shut Off Valve Is?

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Do you and your family know where the main water shutoff valve is located in your house?  It is always harder to find something when in a panic.  That is why we highly recommend that you be aware of its location before a disaster strikes.  

”Where It Is Not:  It is likely not under a sink.  The shut-off to the water heater may look promising, but that only affects the outflow of hot water from that point.  Do not confuse the gas shut-off to the furnace or water heater with water lines.”

“Check Your Inspection Report:  If you still have your property inspection report from when you purchased the house, it should indicate the location of the shut-off valve.  Inspection reports often follow a standardized format, so you may find this information located in Section 6.1.”

Follow the link for more helpful tips to help you locate the shutoff valve in your home.

Once you have located your main water shutoff, give us a call or stop by our office and we will give you one of these brightly colored shutoff tags at no cost to you to help you quickly find the valve should an unexpected water damage occur.

Is Professional Carpet Cleaning Worth the Cost?

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Yes, and here's why.

There are certain chemicals that can be used to clean stains on a carpet. However, knowing which chemicals to use on what type of carpet as well as the proper procedure to use the chemical should be left up to a professional.

There are various materials used to manufacture carpets and rugs, and they cannot all be cleaned with the same equipment.

Attempting to remove stains yourself and cleaning your own carpets with rental equipment is a bad idea. Call SERVPRO today at 434-525-9559! We offer commercial carpet cleaning at this franchise. We hear to help and our technicians are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week!

Fire! What You See, And What You Don't

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

The flames can be dramatic while watching a news story about a home or apartment fire on the television or the internet. Rightly so because they cause the most visible damage to your property during a fire. But, it is the smoke and soot that are the silent and sometimes invisible hazards that could cost lives. Water is also a reason for damage after a fire. Even firefighters themselves may cause some damage before they can completely put out a fire. Here are 10 important things to know about fires.

1. In a fire, more people die from inhaling smoke than from the flames. Never think that if you avoid the flames you are safe. Always keep away from smoke.
2. Soot is a coating of fine, black dust created when wood, coal, or oil-based substances are burned.  These carbon particles float into the air and settle anywhere.  Inhaling soot can caused severe lung deficiencies or even death. 
3. If soot contaminates items in your home or business, a fire restoration service provider like SERVPRO of Lynchburg, Bedford and Campbell Counties must assess the damage to see if restoration is possible.
4. The worst possible effect of soot is its tendency to cause cancer and cause serious defects in newborns. Soot produces poly cyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. These hydrocarbons are responsible for gene mutation for particular groups of genes. They can cause birth defects and increase the chances of getting cancer.
5. Water’s great at putting out most fires but the water itself can cause great damage. You must make sure, after the fire is out, that your home or business is completely dried.
6. Mold colonies can begin to grow just 48 hours after water damage occurs.  The combination of fire, water, and mold damage to your commercial property or home could result in a complete loss if not handled properly. See our posts about mold,  mold myths, and how to clean up mold.
7. Use caution if you decide to do some of the cleanup after a fire. Never start your cleaning process until you’re properly attired. Wear heavy-duty gloves, safety goggles, and a face mask. Carefully cover your nose and make sure your safety glasses have no place for dust or soot to get into your eyes. If in doubt, call on the services of a professional restoration company as you may do more harm than good. Some household cleaning products may actually set a stain on your home or personal belongings.
8. Firefighters are true heroes. However, they often must break windows and cut holes in the roof of buildings on fire. As a fire burns, the fire moves up and down and across, growing very fast. Firefighters break windows and cut holes in roofs to provide ventilation that slows the fire’s growth. Ventilation also helps get rid of dark smoke that makes it hard for firefighters to see where they’re going. The holes and broken windows help firefighters fight the fire more quickly. The bottom line is that breaking windows and cutting holes in roofs help save lives and property.  9. Firefighters will also cut holes in walls at times. That’s not about ventilation. It’s done so the fire department is sure that the fire is completely out. Fire departments don’t want to risk leaving a fire that’s not visible but is still active inside the walls or in other hidden places. 
9. If you have a fire, get a copy of the fire report. In most areas, a fire report is a public document. Ask for it at the fire department or fire marshal’s office. The fire report will help you with information to begin the restoration process.

SERVPRO of Lynchburg, Bedford and Campbell Counties stands ready to respond 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to your catastrophic event. Please call us with your questions or concerns at 434.525.9559 or visit us at www.SERVPROlynchburgbedfordcampbellcounties.com for more information.

Better yet, save our contact information in your phone for when an emergency strikes you. When you think fire, smoke, water damage, think SERVPRO. Locally owned and operated.  

Our Marketing Department

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, a typical day in the marketing department largely involves communication with insurance companies and local agencies. Because of the nature of SERVPRO’s work, customers often call their insurance companies before they call us. Since the majority of SERVPRO’s jobs involve insurance companies, our marketing department constantly works with insurance companies and their local agencies to ensure that everything is going well with our ongoing jobs and claims. The SERVPRO marketing department makes rounds to our local agency partners to see how we can assist them. We work with over 250 local insurance agencies in the Lynchburg, Bedford, & Campbell County areas.

Training is another part of our marketing effort to assist the insurance companies and local agencies. At least once a year, SERVPRO offers a continuing education course to help insurance companies maintain their licensing requirements. We are very grateful for the stellar marketing team that we have here at the SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford/Campbell Counties!

Danger Can Be Lurking

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Have you heard the expression, “What you can’t see can’t hurt you?" This might be a true statement when it comes to a children’s story or a fairytale, but not so with water damage to your home or business.

The smallest water intrusion into your space may result in serious water damage and more importantly, a health hazard to your family or employees. Indoor air quality can be affected over time and symptoms from headaches to irritated eyes to allergies may occur. If you see signs of water damage, call a professional to investigate it as soon as possible.

Be proactive in protecting your home, business and family. Do you notice the following?

• A damp spot on your ceiling or drywall?
• A new smell that cannot be explained?
• Excessive utility bill after a weather event?
• An unexplained damp or soft spot in your flooring?
• Complaints of allergy symptoms?

Any one or more of these may be a sign of a water event in your space. Avoid the high costs of a future large restoration by addressing the problem sooner rather than later. The SERVPRO difference in Lynchburg, Bedford County and Campbell County is the use of the right water detection tools:

Moisture Sensor-Used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls.

Moisture Meter-Used to determine the actual moisture contact of various materials. This also is the equipment that allows us to monitor the drying process.

Thermohygrometer-Used to measure temperature and relative humidity to calculate and create an environment most conductive to drying. When handling a contaminated loss (CAT 2 or 3), it is not only important to dry the structure, but to disinfect and often deodorize as well.

Ultra-Low-Volume (ULV ) Fogger-Used to atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. It can also inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard- to-reach areas that typical residential products and methods cannot reach.

Thermal Fogger-Used to dispense solvent- based products by creating a dense fog that consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor causing bacteria.

Early detection and treatment of water damage is the key to promoting a healthy living space and getting your domain back.

Contact us to learn more or to schedule an appointment with one of our trained professionals here at SERVPRO of Lynchburg, Bedford and Campbell Counties by calling 434.525.9559.  

Preparing for Storms

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can bring powerful winds and dump inches of rain in a short period of time which can cause significant damage to your home. The damage can be extensive and expensive.  It is important to be to take preventative steps in order to help protect your home against any potential damage. Below are a list of precautionary steps that should be taken in the event of a storm:

1. Monitor local weather stations, and sign up for local alerts on your phone. These bring important warnings in case the storm changes course, or if your area becomes at risk of flash flooding.
2. Ensure that you have stocked up on enough food, water, and other essentials to last for a few days in case of a power outage or severe local flooding.
3. Create an emergency plan for your family. Have a list of emergency phone numbers prepared. Have an exit plan in case your home becomes unsafe, and make sure that there is an assigned meeting location in case family members are separated.
4. Clear outside gutters and drains of any leaves, sticks, or other blockage. This will ensure that water is able to flow freely, and will help to prevent water from backing up into your home.
5. Remove any large tree branches and brush around your home. Store or secure items such as garbage cans, lawn furniture, and other items that can be blown away or damage your home during a storm.
6. Create an inventory list of the items in your home. This will be very important for insurance purposes in the event that your home floods.
7. Finally, remember to stay safe and dry by remaining in a secure location for the duration of the storm.

Taking precautions is the first step toward protecting your family & your home in a storm situation.  If your home has flood damage from the storm, please call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/ Bedford & Campbell Counties at (434)525-9559. It would be our privilege to serve you!

SERVPRO's Technicians are IICRC Certified

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties 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.

If you have water, fire, or storm damage to your business or home, call us 434-525-9559.

Water Damage in Lynchburg? We are IICRC Certified

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Lynchburg we understand how important it is to uphold the condition of your home and the memorabilia within it that help make your house your home.  We know that above all else, the number one important factor is the safety of your family (pets included of course).  That is why we have made certain that our franchise be certified by IICRC and uphold their standards as well as continually train our crew the IICRC standards and for each member to work towards being personally certified as well.  We take our work seriously knowing that if a Fire, Water, or Mold Damage happened in our home or business, we would want it to be restored as efficiently, and safely as possible.  That is why when disaster strikes your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO of Lynchburg!

What is IICRC?

IICRC stands for Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification.

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is recognized internationally as a knowledgeable industry voice and resource. It serves as an independent, nonprofit standard-setting and certification body, to set and promote high standards and ethics; and to advance communication and technical proficiency within the inspection, cleaning and restoration service industries.

The IICRC is the leading, independent, non-profit, certification and standard-setting body within the cleaning, inspection, and restoration industry. The IICRC sets and promotes high ethical standards, and advances communication, collaboration and technical expertise.

Lynchburg Business Owners: Be Emergency Ready

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties is a leading expert in providing Emergency Ready Profiles (ERP’s) for area businesses, churches, municipalities and non-profit organizations. 

What is an ERP?

An ERP is simply a plan of action of what to do, who to call, and emergency contacts!  It will also include where water shut off valves are, and electrical panels, plus so much more.  

Why get an ERP?

One advantage to being prepared for a disaster includes reducing business interruption.  Most people do not know that as many as 50% of businesses never recover following a disaster because a plan was not in place ahead of time.  We can provide a no cost assessment of your facility and not only provide you with a concise profile that contains critical information needed in the event of an emergency, but give you access to our “SERVPRO ONLY” mobile app which puts this information at your fingertips at all times!  

Call us today to get started!  434-525-9559

SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties is here when you need us, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year

Lynchburg VA, Flash Flooding

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

LYNCHBURG, Va. (WSET) -- When dealing with flooded homes or roads remember that the water could have contained sewage.

You want to protect yourself and your family during the cleanup.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said to keep children and pets out of the affected areas until cleanup has completed.

INSIDE THE HOME:

• Wear personal protective equipment, including rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles during cleanup of affected area.
• While cleaning up areas with mold damage, wear a NIOSH-approved N-95 respirator, or one that provides even more protection.
• Remove and discard items that cannot be washed and disinfected (such as, mattresses, carpeting, carpet padding, rugs, upholstered furniture, cosmetics, stuffed animals, baby toys, pillows, foam-rubber items, books, wall coverings, and most paper products).
• Remove and discard drywall and insulation that has been contaminated with sewage or flood waters -- this should include material that are located a foot higher than the high water line.
• Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces (such as flooring, concrete, molding, wood and metal furniture, countertops, appliances, sinks, and other plumbing fixtures) with hot water and laundry or dish detergent.
• Help the drying process by using fans, air conditioning units, and dehumidifiers.
• After completing the cleanup, wash your hands with soap and clean water.
• Wash all clothes worn during the cleanup in hot water and detergent. These clothes should be washed separately from uncontaminated clothes and linens.
• Wash clothes contaminated with flood or sewage water in hot water and detergent. It is recommended that a laundromat be used for washing large quantities of clothes and linens until your onsite waste-water system has been professionally inspected and serviced.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you become injured or ill.

OUTSIDE THE HOME:

• Wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles during cleanup of affected area.
• Have your onsite waste-water system professionally inspected and serviced if you suspect damage.
• Wash all clothes worn during the cleanup in hot water and detergent. These clothes should be washed separately from uncontaminated clothes and linens.
• After completing the cleanup, wash your hands with soap and clean water. Use water that has been boiled for 1 minute (allow the water to cool before washing your hands); or you may use water that has been disinfected for personal hygiene use:

• - When using 5-6% unscented liquid household chlorine bleach – add a little less than 1/8 teaspoon (8 drops or about 0.5 milliliters) per 1 gallon of clear water. Stir well, and let it stand for 30 minutes before using. If the water is cloudy, add a little less than ¼ teaspoon (16 drops or about 1 milliliter) per 1 gallon of water.
• - When using 8.25% unscented liquid household chlorine bleach – add a little less than 1/8 teaspoon (6 drops or about 0.5 milliliters) per 1 gallon of clear water. Stir well, and let it stand for 30 minutes before using. If the water is cloudy, add 12 drops (or about 1 milliliter) per 1 gallon of water.

• Seek immediate medical attention if you become injured or ill. See wound care for more information.

Flood waters and standing waters pose various risks, including infectious diseases, chemical hazards, and injuries.

Eating or drinking anything contaminated by flood water can cause diarrheal disease -- this could be caused accidentally after coming in contact with flood waters.

To protect yourself:

• Practice good hygiene (handwashing with soap and water) after contact with flood waters.
• Do not allow children to play in flood water areas.
• Wash children’s hands with soap and water frequently (always before meals).
• Do not allow children to play with toys that have been contaminated by flood water and have not been disinfected.
• For information on disinfecting certain nonporous toys, visit CDC Healthy Water’s Cleaning and Sanitizing with Bleach section.
• Do not bathe in water that may be contaminated with sewage or toxic chemicals. This includes rivers, streams, or lakes that are contaminated by flood water.

If you have open wounds, avoid exposure to flood waters and cover clean, open wounds with a waterproof bandage.

Flood waters can displace animals, insects, and reptiles.

Prevent Electrical Fires in Your Home

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

Electrical fires are the cause of many house fires, and can be some of the most difficult to put out due to the difficulty of identifying the source. Proper care of electrical outlets and appliances will help to prevent electrical fires.  It is very important to follow manufacturer guidelines when using electrical appliance and systems, such as the wattage guidelines given when changing light bulbs.  Be sure that you do not plug in too many electrical units into one outlet, as this could burn out the outlet and cause a fire.  Be sure that you have your wiring checked regularly by an electrician. Faulty wiring is a leading cause of electrical fires and is a common problem in many homes.  If you hear a sparking sound near a particular electrical outlet or appliance, or see smoke or smell burning after plugging a unit in, immediately unplug the object and call an electrician to check your wiring.

                Finally, if an electrical fire does occur, do NOT attempt to put the blaze out with water.  This will only make the fire worse and could shock or electrocute you.  If safe to do so, attempt to unplug the source.  Put the fire out using baking soda or a blanket to smother the flames.  If the fire is larger, a class C fire extinguisher can be used.  If the fire continues to grow, leave immediately! Do not be tempted to put out a growing fire by yourself.  Allow the firefighters to do so.

                If your home has been damaged by fire, please call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties at (434)-525-9559.  

Faster to Lynchburg, Bedford & Campbell Counties Water Damage

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

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

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties 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 – 434-525-9559

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 of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties 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.

When Rainstorms Cause Flooding, Call SERVPRO

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

It is tragic when a flood brings devastation and water damage to your home. But rapid water removal, clean up and repairs certainly must get under way for you home to get back to normal with minimal losses.
 
Safety is a top priority. After the flood damage, evaluation of the home's safety issues must be completed before you dare to enter your home again. 
 
You do need to call your insurance agent to be certain if you are covered under your standard home owners policy or if you do possess flood insurance coverage.  An insurance adjuster will be dispatched to your property to inspect the damage and eventually offer a settlement. Ask for help in retaining a competent water damage restoration company. SERVPRO does work with many agencies. We can assess and document all water damaged items, help you with your claims and paperwork, and expedite the water removal and restoration.  Our inspection will indicate to you the severity of the water damage that your home has suffered and any potential health effects you may have to address during the process of getting the flood damage repairs done on your home. 
 
When these concerns have been addressed, and if you have been given permission to enter your home, you should also document all the flood causing water damage for insurance purposes. Be sure that you do take pictures of the flooded areas of your home and any damaged belongings, including damaged furniture. This, along with the input from SERVPRO, will help you to be fairly compensated by the insurance company. 
 
Once you have done the documentation and the adjuster had done his inspection, then the clean up starts to get under way. The home needs to be made dry and needs to be cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent any other damage from occurring. This will also lessen the likelihood of mold and mildew growth.  Contamination is a given if the flooding is the result of groundwater intrusion, whether from rain, bodies of water, or a sewage blockage. Do not attempt to clean and sanitize on your own. The potential for future illness is too great.
 
It is wise to call the professionals from SERVPRO because they can immediately begin to pump out the water and mitigate on-going water damage. And they have the skill and knowledge, along with the professional equipment required to start and complete the entire restoration process for you. 
 
After the water removal and clean up are in operation, then repairs need to be done. They could be extensive, depending on how much structural damage has occurred and the condition of the contents of your property.

If you have water damage to your home, call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties at 434-525-9559.

Storms Caused This Home to Flood

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm or disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties is 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 Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

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

Able to access a network of over 1,600 Franchises strategically located throughout the United States allowing for a faster response time, SERVPRO is trained and equipped to handle the largest storms and highest flood waters.

In the aftermath of a disaster, SERVPRO is Here to Help!

Practical Steps to Prepare for Rain Flooding

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Rain is unpredictable and if excessive, can cause flooding into a home or basement in just a few hours. The water can be difficult to remove and therefore stands a very high chance of causing mold. Be aware that most insurance companies will not cover flooding that results from an outside source unless your home is covered by flood insurance. If your home stands a high chance of flooding during the rainy season, you may want to consider purchasing flood insurance. Beyond this, there are several steps that you can take to guard your home against flooding.

1. Ensure that exterior drains are clear, free of any blockage & properly working. If the drains are clogged with leaves and debris, the rainwater will not be able to drain and could flood back into the house.
2. Check roof gutters and make sure that these are clean. Dirty gutters will not allow rainwater to run-off properly and the water will be forced to flow in other directions – including back into the house.
3. Move items away from flood-prone areas or elevate them, especially electrical appliances or outlets. If your basement or a lower area of your residence is prone to flooding, take precautions to remove important and moveable items out of the area. For items that cannot be removed, attempt to elevate them by at least a few inches using 2x4s or alternative methods. This will prevent your items from being damaged by the rainwater.

If you have water damage from flooding, call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties 434-525-9559.

If Your Home Floods

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Even if you have taken the precautions listed in the blog post “Practical Steps to Prepare for Rain Flooding,” there is still a chance that your home may experience flooding. If this happens, there are several additional steps that you can take to contain the water and mitigate any damage that may occur until a SERVPRO crew can arrive to take care of it.

1. Identify and stop the source, if safe to do so.  This will ensure that the work done by the crew is not damaged by more water coming in.
2. Stay out of the area if the flooding becomes excessive. Do not attempt to walk through deep water as the water may become electrically charged, even if this is the only way to get to and stop the source.
3. Do not walk barefoot through the water. It could be contaminated (especially if the flooding caused a sewage backup) and pose a serious health hazard. If you must enter the area – and only do so if the flooding is not excessive and it is safe to enter – wear high boots and gloves and avoid touching the water unless necessary.

As always, SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties is ready to help if you experience any form of flooding or water damage. Call us at (434)-525-9559 and allow us to assist you. We are Here to Help!

Tornado Hits Businesses in Campbell County, VA

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

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.

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a storm 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.

Mold Remediation Process for Commercial or Residential

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties technicians are professionally trained and will work quickly and efficiently to ensure that your home or business is properly treated for mold in a timely, safe and effective manner.

Step 1: Timely Response. Within one hour of receiving your call, a SERVPRO team member will reach out to you and confirm a time to come and survey the mold damage. A SERVPRO team will be on sight within four hours of the call.

Step 2: Appropriate Procedures and Safeguards. SERVPRO technicians will arrive and assess the damage.   Protective suits, masks, and headgear are required when dealing with mold.

Step 3: Containment.  SERVPRO technicians will create a containment area around the affected part of the house so that the mold does not spread further. The SERVPRO technicians will set up containment barriers under negative air using a HEPA filtration system, in order to isolate the mold.

Step. 4: Remediation.

Whether an area or object can be cleaned or has to be removed depends on the stage of mold growth, as well as the type of material that makes up the affected area or object. 

Step 5: Assessment.  A SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties' project manager will inspect the area upon completion. 

When Wind and Rainstorms Flood Your Home

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs to an already anxiety provoking situation. SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties delivers the help you need.  We are able to call upon a network of over 1,650 franchises nationwide to respond. 
  
Storm damage can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues you face.

Call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties. We are Here to Help!

When Water Damages Your Central VA Home

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

Once a flood has damaged your home, it's important for you to obtain water damage restoration services.  Restoration services are multi-faceted in so much as they involve both cleaning, removing excess water from your home and repairing regions of the house that have been subjected to substantive water damage. As the water damage specialists know from SERVPRO, it is important to start the cleanup and repair process right after the flood or fire to ensure that the water damage is minimized and that mold and mildew do not begin to accumulate on the property.

One of the benefits that results from employing a water damage restoration company is that they complete the cleanup, repair, and restoration processes quickly. A water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties employs a professionally trained staff who can work with expedience and excellence. This group effort ensures that they can tackle a large number of problems that have resulted in the accumulated water damage in your home. The end result is the rapid restoration of your home, a reality which can greatly reduce the onset of secondary water damage and offer you peace of mind.

Commercial Cleaning Service

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties understands that cleanliness is an important part of running a successful business and we are here to partner with you in order to keep your business looking as sharp and professional as the services that you provide.

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties offers high-quality and professional cleaning services to businesses and commercial properties. Our franchise specializes in a variety of techniques designed to make your business appear at its absolute best.

Below are some of the services that we provide, as well as information on how to reach us to schedule a commercial cleaning.

• Basic sanitization and disinfection cleaning services
• 5 different forms of carpet cleaning
• Rug cleaning
• Limited duct cleaning

If you would like to have your commercial property cleaned by a company dedicated to high-quality service and professionalism, then call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties 434-525-9559.

Have Mold in Business or Home?

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

Mold is an invasive fungus that grows in wet or humid environments and can spread rapidly in only a few days. Mold can be very dangerous to the health of those living in the home, especially if it spreads into air ducts or grows in an area of the house in which the family is frequently present.

Mold can be visible or hidden and will almost always occur in areas that have recently been affected by excessive moisture or humidity.  If you suspect that there is a mold problem in your home or business, there are several steps you can take to get help and resolve the problem as quickly as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties if you see mold.

What Causes Water Damage

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including leaks, storms, burst pipes or appliances, sewage overflows, etc., and each of these can create extensive and long-lasting damage in a short period of time. Therefore, the best remedy for water damage is to take preventative steps to avoid and then mitigate as much damage as possible. Below is a list of the most common causes of water damage; select one to learn more about the steps you can take to prevent each incident from occurring, as well as steps that you can take to mitigate the problem should an incident occur.

1. Frozen pipes
2. Pipe leaks (for reasons other than freezing)
3. Sewage overflow/backup
4. Burst appliances (such as a dishwasher or washer machine)
5. Excessive rain that leads to flooding (See the article listed under Storms for more information on this type of water loss)

Should you experience a water loss from one of these or any other causes, SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties has teams of professional and highly-trained technicians who specialize in water-damage repair and recovery.

If your home or business has suffered a recent water loss, call us at (434)-525-9559 and make an appointment for one of our experienced teams to come out and repair the damage.

When Water Damages Your Central VA Home

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Once a flood has damaged your home, it's important for you to obtain water damage restoration services.  Restoration services are multi-faceted in so much as they involve both cleaning, removing excess water from your home and repairing regions of the house that have been subjected to substantive water damage. As the water damage specialists know from SERVPRO, it is important to start the cleanup and repair process right after the flood or fire to ensure that the water damage is minimized and that mold and mildew do not begin to accumulate on the property.

One of the benefits that results from employing a water damage restoration company is that they complete the cleanup, repair, and restoration processes quickly. A water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties employs a professionally trained staff who can work with expedience and excellence. This group effort ensures that they can tackle a large number of problems that have resulted in the accumulated water damage in your home. The end result is the rapid restoration of your home, a reality which can greatly reduce the onset of secondary water damage and offer you peace of mind.

Common Causes of Fires in Homes and How to Avoid Them

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Fires can start very quickly and once started they can be very difficult to stop. The damage left by fire goes beyond the objects that were directly burned by the flames.  Smoke and soot left from the fire can spread throughout a home or business into areas that the fire itself did not reach.  The clean-up required from smoke damage is often more extensive than the clean-up required for areas that were burned.

While there are several steps you can take to address the damage after a fire has occurred, the best solution is always prevention, and prevention requires awareness of possible hazards that could cause fires.

Below is a list of the most common causes of fires in homes:

1. Heaters
2. Clothing dryers
3. Unattended stoves
4. Electrical failures/overburdened electrical outlets

Should you experience a fire loss, SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties has teams of professional and highly-trained technicians who specialize in fire-damage repair and recovery.

Is Professional Carpet Cleaning Worth the Cost?

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

Yes, and here's why.

There are certain chemicals that can be used to clean stains on a carpet. However, knowing which chemicals to use on what type of carpet as well as the proper procedure to use the chemical should be left up to a professional.

There are various materials used to manufacture carpets and rugs, and they cannot all be cleaned with the same equipment.

Attempting to remove stains yourself and cleaning your own carpets with rental equipment is a bad idea. SERVPRO can clean all of the carpets in your home or simply remove a single stain. Call SERVPRO today at 434-525-9559! We hear to help and our technicians are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week!

Merry Christmas from SERVPRO!

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Light Tree

The SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties wants to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Big thank you to our crew and office members for setting up and decorating outside to make the holidays a fun and festive time for everyone!

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties Community Involvement

8/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties loves to get involved in the community beyond the typical restoration services!

How do they do that?

SERVPRO loves to work with local schools, churches, and businesses! They have also partnered with local softball teams and Relay for Life. To keep things extra fun and engaging, they have used high-power fans in fun runs to cool off participants or to cover them in glitter!

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties is also involved in open houses and customer appreciation days with the local businesses. Their goal is to get their name out there so that the community knows who to call when they need help!

If you are interested in partnering with SERVPRO in the Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell area, please give us a call at (434) 525-9559.

Commercial Roof Leaks in Lynchburg, VA?

8/16/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings tend to be significantly larger than residential units, and therefore catching structural problems early enough to prevent problems can be difficult. Because of this, it is important to conduct regular inspections of the building in order to catch any potential hazards or structural defects before they develop into major (and often expensive) liabilities.  One of the most important areas to inspect in a commercial building is the roof.  Roofs are often the first line of defense against water and storm damage.  Keeping a roof secure and in good condition can significantly reduce your chances of springing a costly leak during a storm.  Make sure that your roof undergoes regular inspections to ensure it is in excellent condition.  Be sure to check for the following issues:

• Check for water spots or bubbles in the ceiling, which could indicate a hidden leak.
• Be sure to remove any puddles of standing water on the roof. Allowing water to sit for long periods of time on the roof could rust metal roof decks, or rot wooden ones. Excessive water weight could strain the roof structure.
• Check for gaps in the roof cover perimeter, which could allow rain water to seep in.
• Ensure that the roof’s gutters and drains are regularly cleared of debris. This will allow water to flow freely during a rainy season, ensuring that water does not get backed up into the building.

While we hope that these tips help to keep your commercial business damage-free during rainy seasons, we understand that problems still arise, even after taking preventative steps.

If you experience a water loss at your commercial building, call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/ Bedford & Campbell Counties at (434)-525-9559.  We have teams of highly qualified water technicians ready to help!

With Fire Comes Water

8/15/2019 (Permalink)

Often, when a fire breaks out in a commercial building, there's more to worry about than soot and damages from the fire. Once a fire has grown great enough, if there is a sprinkler system set up, they will trigger and hopefully put out the fire. Additionally, the fire department is called out regardless, and either come in with fire suppressant or use of water to relieve the building of fire.

Typically, if the sprinkler system or water from the fire department are in use, there is going to be significant water damage. Whether it be high pressure water from hoses, or excessive water soaking in the floors, walls, ceilings, and items, water damage will more than likely occur.

Because of this situation, there are now 2 sources of damage, and they need to be restored accordingly. The soot from the fire creates soiled material and the water can create unimaginable damage. You don't want to let the water sit and or give it time to soak and seep into areas and deeper material that could severely worsen your damage.

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies.

Proper Ventilation for Mold Prevention

8/14/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can spring up very quickly in humid environments and many homes have areas that are prone to mold growth for this reason. Bathrooms, kitchens, attics, and basements all have the highest chance of developing mold because humid air often circulates in these rooms.  Proper ventilation can help to significantly reduce the chance of mold growth in these areas of your home. It is important to take steps to ensure that each room is well-ventilated and that the air is circulating well.

Some of the most important areas to vent are the bathrooms and the attic. Bathrooms are usually quite small with a lot of warm, moist air circulating within them regularly.  This makes them very susceptible to rapid mold growth.  Investing in vents and fans that push the humid air outside of the home will help to keep mold growth to a minimum.  Attics often have poor ventilation and many homeowners are tempted to quickly ventilate bathrooms by placing vents in the bathrooms that push the humid air into the attic.  This will result in mold growth in the attic, which could then spread into the ducts as well as tight, difficult-to-reach spaces.

Avoid these potentially costly problems by investing in quality fans and vents that will draw humid air out of the rooms, sending it outside of the home, rather than into the attic.

If you see mold, call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties 434-525-9559.

What To Do If You Spot Mold

7/20/2018 (Permalink)

Mold on Ceiling.

Mold is an invasive fungus that grows in wet or humid environments and can spread rapidly in only a few days. Mold can be very dangerous to the health of those living in the home, especially if it spreads into air ducts or grows in an area of the house in which the family is frequently present. Mold can be visible or hidden and will almost always occur in areas that have recently been affected by excessive moisture or humidity. If you suspect that there is a mold problem in your home, there are several steps you can take to get help and resolve the problem as quickly as possible.

Step 1: If you suspect that you have a mold problem but the mold is not visible, you must call a certified professional to conduct Indoor Air Quality Testing on your home (SERVPRO does not provide Indoor Air Quality Tests). Do not attempt to use a self-test kit to test for mold as these are highly inaccurate.

Step 2: Call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties! SERVPRO personnel will be on site within four hours of receiving and processing your notice of loss.

Step 3: Do not attempt to remove or treat any affected areas. Attempting to do so will only cause the mold spores to spread further within the affected area and can even spread into other areas of the property. Instead, isolate the area by turning off any air units and fans that could be blowing air into or out of the area. Do not touch the mold; wait patiently until a SERVPRO crew arrives to take care of the situation.

Once our team of highly qualified SERVPRO technicians arrives on the scene, they will take several steps to mitigate the situation and take care of the mold as quickly as possible.

Indoor Air Quality

7/7/2018 (Permalink)

Mold on walls? Call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties!

Indoor air quality/environmental professionals evaluate the quality of the air inside a structure. Some specialize and are skilled in testing buildings for the presence of molds. Using various testing devices, these professionals collect air and surface samples to compare the indoor mold spore count to the outdoor environment.

If you have concerns about mold, SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties can assist you in locating a qualified indoor air quality/environmental professional. 

SERVPRO cares about proper restoration of your structure. In most water damage situations excessive mold growth is not a problem and SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties can safely restore your building to preloss condition.

The need to address the presence of mold can be determined by an on-site, indoor environmental inspection.

Call SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties for Mold Remediation!

1/17/2018 (Permalink)

If you look on the internet, there are scores of DIY mold test kits. Before you invest in one of these kits, here are things you ought to know about mold:

• Mold is everywhere and every single house has some form of “mold.”
• Most self-test mold kits only tell you if your home has mold, but often provides false negatives and positives. It also does not tell you what kind of mold or how to kill it.

A true mold test can only be conducted by a Professional Environmental testing company; they determine the type of mold, the source of the moisture, and how to kill the mold at the core. They create a protocol, which can be read by an IICRC professional like SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties.  It’s best to use a testing company that does not do cleaning themselves because their assessment will be unbiased.

• Mold is more often hidden, sometimes under the floor or in the walls, or in your air ducts

Where the mold is located, often dictates where the moisture is affecting the building

• Untreated water damage may result in mold growth within 24-48 hours of the event

Wood, insulation, fiberglass, carpet and other organic substances become a thriving environment for mold once there is moisture present for more than 24 hours. After a week, it is almost guaranteed.

Free estimates or removing mold yourself cost homeowners more in the long run!

Be wary of companies who advertise free mold testing. Free mold tests are often offered by people who are uncertified or inexperienced and if they do the mold testing themselves, they are using these kits mentioned above. Unless they are a certified Environmental Hygienist and have a PhD in microbiology, they do not have the knowledge or resources to truly diagnose the mold condition in your home.

• The source of the mold is never addressed, so the problem is reoccurring.
• They use the “self-test” kits mentioned above instead of environmental testing with diagnostics
• Remove only topical mold instead of killing it at the source
• They often remove more walls and floors than needed which increases the price to rebuild.
• They do not remove enough, or don’t use the right materials which brings the mold back.

This means you have to pay to have it removed again, and have more sanitation and demolition performed, which increases the price to rebuild and replace tremendously.

What you should do instead

Having mold can be scary, especially if anyone in your home is prone to getting sick (people with asthma, low immune systems, allergies, babies and the elderly). We recommend the following course of action if you need to have mold removed from your home.

1. Measure the area affected and check for moisture.
2. Call your insurance company to check for coverage.

Now that you’re armed with knowledge, it’s time to start making some calls!

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties' technicians are qualified to help you with your mold clean up, and have the following certifications:

• IICRC, Water Restoration Technician
• IICRC, Mold restoration
• IICRC, Applied Structural Drying

SERVPRO of Lynchburg's Mission, Vision, Values & Goal!

9/16/2017 (Permalink)

Mission, Vision, Values and Goal!

Mission

To develop a team of Quality People, who Focus on Excellent Service, Fairness and Mutual Respect.

Vision 

To be the Premier Fire, Water, Mold Restoration Company in the Communities we Serve.

Values 

Integrity: To act with integrity and honesty in the work that we do, the people we interact with, and the decisions we make. We will not compromise what is right, for what is easiest. 

Customer Service: To provide premier services through continual reviewing of our goals, expectations, and training. 

Leadership:  To lead others by our example. 

Responsibility:  To maintain our team’s strong foundation, and to be a positive agent of change. 

Respect:  To show respect to others with our words, our actions and our attitudes.

Goals 

SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties seeks to honor the Lord in all that we do, and to have a positive impact on the lives of our employees, customers, and community.

Fire, Smoke & Soot Cleanup

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Lynchburg or Bedford Home.

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell Counties will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?  Call Us Today – 434-525-9559

2017 Golf Outing - Susan Myers Memorial Trophy

5/22/2017 (Permalink)

In the photo from left to right: Gary Barkman, Bill Farmer, and Earl Clarke with the Susan Myers Memorial Trophy

Words from Gary Barkman (Executive General Adjuster with The Hanover Insurance Group):

As many of you are aware, one of our most loyal and dedicated members, Susan Myers, lost her life in a tragic car accident earlier this year. She was the hardest worker and truly a friend to us all. Susan was always the first to raise her hand to help at all functions, and put a lot of time into our golf tournament each year. She was one of the most well respected members of our community, and her smile and personality shined for everyone to see. She will truly be missed by all of us!

Susan would ask me every year, “Why don’t we give out trophies to the winners?” The reply was always the same-winners have always preferred cash prizes over trophies, which tend to disappear into a closet or drawer. While still giving out cash prizes, we will be honoring Susan’s question, starting this year!

We have created the Susan Myers Memorial Trophy, pictured while under construction below as the finishing touches are being added. This perpetual award will be engraved with the winners names each year and will be on display at the SERVPRO offices in Lynchburg.

Words from Earl Clarke (Owner of SERVPRO of Lynchburg and SERVPRO of Charlottesville):

Our Susan was always very involved in this tournament success every year.  As a result you can see the very nice tribute that they have done.  Well today was the tournament and we won first place and will be the very first name to be placed on the trophy!  I cannot put into words how proud I am to have our name shared with Susan’s.  She would be proud.  I personally have never wanted to win in one of these tournaments and have not even bothered to look at the scoring.

A very special thanks to Bill Farmer for all of his work to make all this a possibility.  I was asked the other day at our ribbon cutting about what separates us from our competitors.  The words, I could not get all of my thoughts out on this subject...what separates us IS our team of professionals!  I have been in this industry a long time and have seen people come and go.  I have also had the privilege to see other SERVPRO franchises from all over.  We have never been so blessed to have the team of professionals that we currently have.  Today is just one of the results.  Never have I seen a team care so much about their work of truly being there to help our customers at their time of need.  Never have a seen a team care so much about the other team members!  Through each of you individually I see the results of the greatest team.  I seen this today with Bill Farmers  complete dedication to our brand and represents ALL OF US with a passion unmatched by anyone.  Bill and I are both very proud to bringing this trophy home for OUR team, in Susan s honor.

Also on the course today, Jason Eagle (independent adjuster) spoke highly of our team that did a fire damage cleanup in front of a Nationwide agent from Charlottesville.  Agent commented on how it speaks volumes about a adjuster calling on us for his personal home...

Keep at the task of being the very best team ever and thank each of you for your part of truly Being there to Help!

Lynchburg, Bedford, & Campbell County Smoke/Soot Cleanup

9/19/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Lynchburg, Bedford, or Campbell County Home.

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford and Campbell Counties will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 434-525-9559

Restoring Your Lynchburg Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

8/12/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Lynchburg 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 Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties

SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Meet our Crew:

http://www.SERVPROlynchburgbedfordcampbellcounties.com/employee-photos

When Storms or Floods hit Lynchburg, SERVPRO is ready!

8/4/2016 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Lynchburg and Campbell Counties

SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties 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 Lynchburg, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 434-525-9559

Faster to your Lynchburg Water Damage Event

7/27/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Campbell County and surrounding areas

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

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties 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 –434-525-9559

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 SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties

SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties 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.

http://www.SERVPROlynchburgbedfordcampbellcounties.com/employee-photos

Does Your Lynchburg Home Have A Mold Problem?

6/2/2016 (Permalink)

In Lynchburg, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

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

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 434-525-9559

Water Damage from the Eyes of the Technician

4/14/2016 (Permalink)

Mike gives us insight on what it's like responding to a water damage.

Ever wonder what a water damage is like in the eyes of the technician?  Well know you can know!  Here is what Mike Dodson, one of our lead water technicians here as SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties, has to say about it.

"There are a million things that run through my mind as a technician when I receive the call for a water damage. Where did the water come from? What kind of floorings are we working with? How many levels of the property are affected? Although these questions are typically answered by the customer on the initial call, we still wonder about the unknown things to prepare for.

These questions are turned to assumptions of the worst as we prepare the trucks to respond, and then we arrive only to ask more questions. What is wet, how wet, how far has the damage spread, and what are the best methods to dry it quickly to prevent further damage? While most technicians can diagnose with a simple tool, we have to diagnose using tools and by looking in places that property owners never even imagine water could have went.

During the course of drying a structure we still ask constant questions like; is it drying, how dry is it, when might it be completely dry. We answer these by frequently checking the amount of moisture content in the air and structure. Water is so good at hiding and most times a property owner is thinking; why are they looking there? Some will say it, while others will just look at you with the eyes of disbelief, but just as we gauge our equipment’s readings, we read the customer and give the response to their possibly unasked concern.

Above all else in the mitigation of a property, I have some other questions that I ask myself. These are the questions that, I feel, distinguish SERVPRO in our industry. How can I make this customer's nightmare turn into a mere uncomfortable dream, and what can my team do to keep our customer confident in us throughout this process? These answers are only available by communication and assurance that the home or business they've worked so hard for are being cared for as if it were ours."

- Mike Dodson-Lead Technician at SERVPRO of Lynchburg / Bedford & Campbell Counties 

"Storm Leaves Cleanup Crews to Deal With Flooded Basements"

4/12/2016 (Permalink)

"When it rains it literally pours for us"

On June 7th 2013 our SERVPRO crew was placed in WSET after a storm caused a lot of homes in the Lynchburg, Virginia area to flood.  Below is the article written with comments from, at the time, Crew Chief-Adam Evans who is now one of our Project Managers.

Lynchburg, VA - The rain that drenched our area is over, the clouds have parted, but not everyone is in the clear. For some, even a little storm can mean a basement full of water. It's a mess to have to clean up, not to mention it can be dangerous if it's not cleaned properly.

For some, all the inches of rain we had here in the Hill City, wound up in their basement.

"You can see the base of the door, all the way down here, where the water was up about this high, and when I opened the back door it all just kind of came in like a wave" said Cheri Hammer.

Hammer's home was hammered by inches of rain, all of which wound up in her basement.

"The books, and the memorabilia and stuff like that, it's heartache. Because you do, you're throwing away memories."

Hammer was left with four inches of water in her basement. Her sump pump, used to drain rain water from around the outside of the house failed during the storm.

"When it rains it literally pours for us" said SERVPRO Cleaning Crew Worker, Adam Evans.

Workers from clean up companies like the ones in Hammer's basement have their work cut out for them.

"We're getting the carpet and pad up and then we're going to get the rest of the standing water up" said Evans.

The first thing the experts say you've got to do when water hits your home is dry it up.

"In general we can dry most floor coverings but then there's some that there's just no safe way to dry them without risking any kind of mold contamination and they have to get removed and replaced" said Evans.

Vinyl and ceramic tile almost always have to be replaced after flooding. And the most important part of cleaning up after a flood is making sure every drop of water is gone.

"If you have continuous water problems, you could have wet rot, and eventually that could be a structure issue" said Evans.

This time, a lesson learned for Hammer, "Yeah I'm lucky. I know there's a lot of people here in the area that have probably lost a whole lot more than we did."

It will take days to completely dry out Hammer's basement. If you didn't have as much flooding as Hammer did you can try and clean up yourself. Evans suggested after water is removed, extensive cleaning must be done to ensure no mold or mildew will remain."

http://wset.com/archive/storm-leaves-cleanup-crews-to-deal-with-flooded-basements

What would you do if you found hazardous mold or sewage in your home or business?

9/9/2015 (Permalink)

Be careful during a disaster or when discovering mold. Both can be dangerous.

f you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

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

What NOT to Do:

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

What To Do After Flooding

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

What NOT To Do After Flooding

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

How to help prevent storm damage to your home.

9/9/2015 (Permalink)

Be prepared when a storm hits!

Here is some great info provided by the Property and Liability Resource Bureau about preventing storm damage.  Check them out at plrb.org

Severe Thunderstorms

It is the severe thunderstorm that produces the tornado, large hail, and high wind damage to structures, as well as frequent lightning strikes that cause most property damage. All thunderstorms are dangerous. Though small in size, compared to a hurricane for example, they are extremely powerful. The National Weather Service rates approximately 10,000 thunderstorms as severe each season.

Hail

Background

            The majority of the structural damage caused in a severe thunderstorm occurs during a hailstorm. Hail damage to structures, foliage, vehicles, and agricultural crops is estimated to exceed $1-billion annually.

            Hail that causes damage to structures is usually at least 1” in diameter. The larger the diameter of the hailstone, and the harder the stone, the more severe the impact on a building. The so-called baseball-sized hail causes more severe damage that the so-called golf-ball sized hail.

            Vehicle damage can be caused by hail that is about .75” in diameter. Crop damage has been caused by hail as small as .25”.

Preventing Damage

            Roof damage is the most frequent structural loss caused by hail. Reducing roof damage that might result from a major hailstorm is possible. It depends on the type and quality, as well as the maintenance of the structure’s roofing system. It is a fact the cedar shake roofing is more likely to be damaged than 50-pound composite roofing material. The choice of roofing is a decision made by the building’s owner, although building code requirements sometimes restrict it.

Mitigating Damage after a Storm

            Close any openings made in the structure by the hail. Broken windows are the most common problem. Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that can be quickly cut to size and nailed over the opening.

            Openings in the roof and in siding from hail are rare. If they occur it is best to close them as soon as possible. Keep your personal safety in mind and attempt such a closure yourself only if it can be done with little or no risk. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of emergency close up. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

Wind

Background

            The number two cause of structural damage in a severe thunderstorm is from the so-called straight-line wind. This is wind moving in one direction and not rotating, such as a tornado.

            Wind is considered severe when it reaches about 60 miles per hour. Some very severe windstorms can achieve a velocity of 100 miles per hour. Both are dangerous and will cause structural damage.

            A form of wind that causes damage approaching that of a strong tornado is the downburst. This is usually in a very concentrated area. It is created by air blasting out of a thunderstorm to the ground beneath the storm cell.

Preventing Damage

            Minimizing and preventing wind damage to a structure is possible. Roof and siding damage are the two leading types of loss following a windstorm.

Roof damage can be reduced during the construction phase when the roof deck and the shingles or membrane are applied over the decking. A well-designed roofing system will firmly anchor the trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the building in a strong wind. Roofing material must be properly fastened to the deck. Weakly connected shingles will lift easily from the deck.

            Siding damage can be reduced at the construction phase as well. Properly fastened siding is less likely to lift off a structure in strong wind. Building codes will likely direct the minimum standards for connections. You, your architect, or your contractor may decide to exceed these minimums for a stronger and more storm resistant structure.

            Falling trees and tree limbs are another significant type of damage to structures in a windstorm. Tree maintenance to remove dead limbs or identify and remove weakened trees will reduce the likelihood of the structure being damaged.

Mitigating Damage after a Storm

            Close any openings made in the structure by the wind. Roof openings and broken windows are the most common problem. Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that can be quickly cut to size and nailed over the opening.

            Keep your personal safety in mind and attempt such a closure yourself only if it can be done with little or no risk. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of emergency close up. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

            Falling trees and tree limbs can open a structure with sudden violence. A tree on a structure is a very serious personal and structural safety issue. A tree may look as if it will not shift position. But it can shift and cause serious injury to the unwary. A fallen tree may also mask other very serious safety issues, such as downed electrical wires. The wires may still be live and the tree itself energized. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

Tornadoes

Background

A tornado is a violent rotating column of air. It originates in a severe thunderstorm as a funnel and dips to the ground. Once on the ground it is a tornado and a highly dangerous storm. About 1200 tornadoes occur annually, according to the National Weather Service. Fortunately most of them are the so-called weak tornado with winds of less than 110 miles per hour. While these will damage structures they cause few deaths. The most violent tornadoes, such as the storm that destroyed a swath of property in Oklahoma City and Moore, Oklahoma, during the 2003 season, are very rare. However they kill the most people and cause landscape clearing, catastrophic structural damage.

Please see the wind section for preventing and mitigating damage from a tornado.

Flooding

 Background

            Flash flooding sometimes follows rain during a severe thunderstorm. This peril is the leading killer of people during the severe thunderstorms. The fatalities occur not in structures, but usually in vehicles and after dark. Drivers under estimate the depth of water, the energy of its velocity, and how easily a vehicle can begin floating in about 24” of water.

            Structural flooding typically occurs in areas that are known to be flood plains and have been mapped by the National Flood Insurance Program.

Does your house have mold?

9/9/2015 (Permalink)

Water and Mold Damage

How do you know if your home has mold? 
Mold can be a very dangerous problem for your home and your family. Here are some steps to follow, to find out if you have mold in your home.

Smelling a Mold Odor
When you have mold growing hidden away in your house, often a musty smell might be the only clue that it's there. Don't ignore mold odors if you can't see any mold. You should thoroughly inspect your home before any mold problems get worse.

Seeing Signs of Mold Growth
Sometimes you might not realize there is mold in your house, especially if it is unusual looking mold. Some mold growth looks white and thread-like. Other mold appears as clusters of small black spots. Mold can be black, gray-brown, gray-green or white in color. Mold growing behind wallpaper made of vinyl can even appear orange, pink or purple.

How much can LED lightbulbs save your business each year?

9/9/2015 (Permalink)

Save money by being more energy efficient!

LED Lightbulbs are kind of expensive right? Well, not really.

10 LED bulbs might cost $200. Guess how long it takes to get that money back in savings on your utility bills......

4 months! And if used 12 hours a day, they should last 6 years!!

Next time you are shopping for bulbs, do the math!
http://www.ledwaves.com/pages/led-calc

The American Red Cross Has This to Say About Kitchen Fires:

9/9/2015 (Permalink)

Avoid Kitchen Fires with These Tips

The never-ending winter weather is keeping a lot of people stuck inside and that means more of us spending time in the kitchen cooking.

Did you know the kitchen is where more home fires occur than anywhere else in the house and that cooking is the number one cause of home fires? The American Red Cross has steps everyone can follow to avoid a cooking fire:

1. Never leave cooking food unattended – stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a second, turn off the stove.

2. Check your food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking.

3. Use a timer so you’ll remember that the stove or oven is on.

4. Don’t wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.

5. Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

6. Keep anything that can catch fire - pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.

7. Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.

8. Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.]

9. Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.

10. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.

To learn how to prevent a fire in your home and how to keep members of your household safe, you can take our cooking safety quiz and download the Red Cross Fire Prevention and Safety Checklist. Downloadable fact sheets are also available on how to avoid home heating fires, candle safety, proper use of smoke alarms and teaching your children what to do in the event of a fire

We believe in the power of good people!

9/9/2015 (Permalink)

Good People do Exsist

Here is a story to remind us that good people still exist. At our SERVPRO shop here in Lynchburg last week, a man came to the door. He was holding one of our SERVPRO iPads. Apparently one of our amazing technicians is a little excited about getting married soon (congratulations by the way!) and left his iPad on the roof of his van. As he drove away to provide service to central virginia folks in need, his iPad went flying.

So there was Mike Kidd, on his way home from a morning spent fishing. Mike said "I almost forgot I found it!". He looked through the contact information on the device and simply dropped it off on his way home.

If you know Mike Kidd, give him a pat on the back, buy him lunch or just know that good people do in fact, still exist.

125th Fireman Celebration

10/7/2013 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynchburg's Bill Farmer was onsite at the 125th Fireman’s Celebration, and awarded Jeri Plott with a SERVPRO green machine!!!! 

Child Safety Awareness Day

8/29/2013 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynchburg partnered with Jeff Persinger’s State Farm Insurance Agency, and several other vendors, for their 2nd Annual Child Safety Awareness Day on Aug. 12th. SERVPRO provided the free hotdogs and all the fixin’s for approximately 200 in attendance for this very successful event! Activities included free car seat safety checks by the police department, free safety coloring books from the fire department, face painting, bounce house and much more. Everyone who attended had a wonderful time, with special thanks to Jeff and his staff at State Farm who organized the event.