Can Water-Damaged Books Be Saved?

7/20/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can be devastating, particularly when cherished books are involved. Whether it's a burst pipe, a flood, or accidental spillage, the thought of losing precious books can be distressing. However, it's important to know that water-damaged books can often be saved through proper restoration techniques. In this blog, we will explore the potential for salvaging water-damaged books, the restoration process, and the key steps you can take to increase the chances of successful book recovery.

Understanding the Severity of Water Damage

Before diving into the restoration process, it's crucial to assess the severity of water damage to your books. Several factors contribute to the extent of damage, including the type of water (clean, contaminated, or blackwater), the length of exposure, and the level of saturation. Timely action is essential to prevent mold growth and deterioration, so it's important to address water-damaged books as soon as possible.

Restoration Techniques for Water-Damaged Books

Isolate and Remove the Affected Books

As soon as water damage occurs, it's vital to separate the affected books from other items and move them to a dry, well-ventilated area. This prevents further spreading of moisture and minimizes the risk of mold growth.

Air Drying

Air drying is an effective restoration technique for mildly water-damaged books. Gently fan out the pages and place absorbent material, like blotting paper or paper towels, between each page to absorb excess moisture. Change the material regularly until the books are completely dry.

Freezing

For severely water-damaged books or those with potential mold growth, freezing can be a temporary preservation method. Freezing halts the growth of mold and buys you time until professional restoration services can be obtained. Wrap each book in plastic to prevent further damage and place them in a freezer until you can seek professional assistance.

Professional Restoration Services

For valuable or extensively damaged books, it's best to consult professional restoration specialists. These experts possess the knowledge, equipment, and techniques to salvage water-damaged books effectively. They can carefully dry, clean, deodorize, and restore the books to their pre-damage condition, maximizing the chances of successful recovery.

Preventing Water Damage to Books

Store Books Properly

Ensure your books are stored in a dry and controlled environment, away from potential water sources, such as pipes or windows prone to leaks. Use bookshelves with adequate spacing to promote air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.

Take Precautionary Measures

Install a reliable waterproofing system in your home or business to prevent water damage. Regularly inspect plumbing systems, roofs, and windows for any signs of leaks or vulnerabilities. Promptly address any issues to minimize the risk of water damage.

While water damage to books can be distressing, the good news is that many water-damaged books can be saved through timely and appropriate restoration efforts. By understanding the severity of the damage, taking immediate action, and seeking professional assistance when necessary, you can increase the chances of salvaging your cherished books. Remember to take preventive measures to protect your books from future water damage. If you find yourself facing water-damaged books, consult with experienced restoration professionals, such as our SERVPRO team, who can guide you through the restoration process and help preserve your literary treasures.

Storm Shutters: The Essential Protection for Your Home

6/12/2023 (Permalink)

Living in an area prone to storms and severe weather conditions can be both exciting and challenging. While the natural beauty and the thrill of witnessing thunderstorms or hurricanes may be appealing, it is important to consider the safety and protection of your home and loved ones. One effective measure to safeguard your property during such events is installing storm shutters. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of adding storm shutters to your home and help you make an informed decision.

Adding storm shutters to your home is a prudent decision, especially if you live in an area prone to severe weather conditions. Storm shutters provide valuable protection against high winds, flying debris, and heavy rainfall associated with storms and hurricanes. By installing these shutters, you can safeguard your windows, reduce the risk of damage to your property, enhance security against intrusions, improve energy efficiency, reduce noise levels, and potentially increase the value of your home. Overall, storm shutters offer peace of mind and ensure the safety of your home and loved ones during extreme weather events.

Protection from Severe Weather

Storm shutters are specifically designed to withstand high winds, flying debris, and heavy rainfall associated with storms and hurricanes. These shutters act as a protective barrier for your windows, preventing them from shattering under pressure. By adding storm shutters, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your home's exterior and interior, thereby saving you from expensive repairs or replacements.

Enhanced Security

Storm shutters not only protect your home during severe weather but also provide an added layer of security against burglaries and break-ins. These shutters are typically made from durable materials such as aluminum, steel, or impact-resistant polycarbonate, making it difficult for intruders to gain access to your home. By investing in storm shutters, you can have peace of mind knowing that your property is safeguarded from both natural and human threats.

Energy Efficiency

One often overlooked advantage of storm shutters is their ability to improve energy efficiency in your home. These shutters act as an additional insulation layer, reducing heat transfer through windows during hot summers and minimizing heat loss during colder months. By minimizing thermal exchange, storm shutters can help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce the strain on your heating and cooling systems, ultimately leading to energy savings and lower utility bills.

Noise Reduction

If you live in a noisy neighborhood or near busy roads, storm shutters can provide an effective solution to reduce external noise. The thick and durable construction of these shutters helps to block out sound, creating a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment. This can be particularly beneficial for light sleepers, individuals working from home, or families with young children.

Increased Property Value

Installing storm shutters is not only a practical decision but also an investment in your property. Potential buyers in storm-prone areas often look for homes equipped with storm protection features. By adding storm shutters, you can increase the market value of your home and attract potential buyers who prioritize safety and security.

In conclusion, adding storm shutters to your home is a wise decision that offers numerous benefits. From protecting your property during severe weather events to improving security, energy efficiency, and noise reduction, storm shutters are a valuable addition to any home. Moreover, they can increase your property's value and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones. If you reside in an area prone to storms or hurricanes, it's worth considering the installation of storm shutters to ensure the safety and well-being of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mold: Understanding the Causes and Remediation Process

5/16/2023 (Permalink)

Mold is a common problem in homes and businesses that can cause significant damage if left untreated. While most people have heard of mold, there are many questions about mold and its impact on property. In this blog, we will answer some frequently asked questions about mold to help you better understand this common issue.

What is mold?

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp, humid environments. Mold spores are found in the air and can settle on surfaces, where they can grow and spread quickly.

What causes mold growth?

Mold growth is often caused by water damage or high humidity levels. This can include leaks, flooding, or poor ventilation in areas like bathrooms, basements, and crawl spaces.

How can I tell if I have mold growth?

There are several signs that you may have mold growth in your home or business. This can include a musty odor or visible mold growth on surfaces.

Can I clean up mold myself?

While small areas of mold growth can be cleaned up with soap and water, larger areas or areas that have been affected by water damage should be handled by a professional restoration company, such as our SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown team. This will help ensure that the mold is effectively removed and that any underlying water damage is addressed.

Is all mold dangerous?

While some types of mold can be harmful, not all molds are dangerous. However, all types of mold can cause damage to property and should be addressed promptly to prevent further growth.

How can I prevent mold growth?

The best way to prevent mold growth is to address any water damage or high humidity issues promptly. This can include fixing leaks, improving ventilation, and using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help prevent mold growth.

How can I remove the musty odor caused by mold?

The musty odor caused by mold can be difficult to remove. A professional restoration company can use specialized equipment and cleaning products to effectively eliminate the odor.

How long does the mold removal process take?

The length of the mold removal process depends on the extent of the mold damage and the size of the affected area. A professional restoration company can provide an estimate of the time required for the mold removal process.

In conclusion, mold is a common problem that can cause significant damage if left untreated. Understanding the causes and signs of mold growth, as well as the importance of prompt remediation, can help protect your property from further damage. If you suspect you have mold growth in your home or business, contact our SERVPRO team for assistance today.

8 Gas Stove Fire Safety Tips: How to Cook Safely and Prevent Accidental Fires

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

Cooking on a gas stove is a common and convenient way to prepare meals. However, it can also pose a potential fire hazard to your Kansas City, MO, home if proper safety precautions are not taken. Here are some gas stove fire safety tips to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience.

Keep the Stove Clean

A clean stove is a safe stove. Regularly cleaning your gas stove will prevent grease and food particles from building up and potentially catching fire. Be sure to clean the burners, grates, and surrounding areas thoroughly after each use.

Check for Gas Leaks

Gas leaks are a serious safety hazard that can lead to explosions or fires. To check for gas leaks, turn off all gas appliances, and check the gas connection lines for cracks, loose fittings, or other signs of damage. If you smell gas, turn off the gas supply immediately, open windows and doors, and call your gas company or fire department.

Keep Flammable Objects Away

Keep flammable objects such as paper towels, dish towels, and curtains away from the stove to prevent accidental fires. It's also important to make sure that loose clothing, hair, and jewelry are kept away from the burners.

Never Leave the Stove Unattended

It's crucial to never leave the stove unattended while cooking. A moment of distraction can lead to a fire. If you must leave the kitchen, turn off the stove or ask someone to watch it for you.

Use Proper Cookware

Use cookware that is appropriate for the type of stove you have. For example, if you have a gas stove, use cookware with a flat bottom and avoid using lightweight, thin, or flimsy pans that can easily tip over. Be sure to use oven mitts or pot holders when handling hot cookware.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy

In case of a fire, having a fire extinguisher nearby can help minimize damage and prevent injury. Make sure to have a fire extinguisher that is rated for Class B fires (fires involving flammable liquids and gases) in an accessible location in the kitchen.

Be Careful with the Flames

Be cautious when using open flames such as candles, matches, or lighters near the stove. Keep them away from the burners and never use them to check for gas leaks.

Know What to Do in Case of a Fire

Despite taking all necessary precautions, fires can still happen. Make sure to have a plan in case of a fire. Teach your family members how to safely extinguish small fires, when to evacuate the home, and how to call for help in case of a large fire.

In conclusion, gas stoves are a convenient way to cook, but they can also pose a potential fire hazard. By following these gas stove fire safety tips, you can minimize the risk of fires and ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience. Remember to always be cautious and vigilant when using gas stoves, and never hesitate to call for help if needed.

My Floors Are Warping - Why Floors Warp And What To Do About It

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

The floor can be a great place to rest, but it's also a place where the stresses of your life can come to a head. One of the most common signs of stress on floors is warping. When you've got warped floors, it's important to know how and why they're warping so that you can get them fixed as quickly as possible.

What is warping?

Warping is when a floorboard bends or curves. It's caused by changes in the moisture content of the wood, which can be caused by leaks, humidity, or temperature changes. It can also happen if you have improper installation procedures done on your flooring.

How do you know if your floor is warped?

If you suspect that your floor is warped, there are a few ways to find out for sure.

Look for a bow on the floor. If you have a large enough space and can see it from above, look for an obvious bow on the surface of your flooring material. It will look like a wave has formed across one end of your room. Also, look for cracks or gaps between the floorboards.

What causes warping?

Warping is caused by the wood expanding and contracting due to changes in moisture, temperature, and humidity. If you live in a humid climate or have an old house with poor ventilation, this can lead to warping. Water leaks are also a common cause of warped floors because wood soaks up moisture, causing the floorboards to shrink or swell.

How can I prevent warping of my floors?

The best way to prevent warping is to keep your floors dry. If you have a wood floor and it gets wet, it can warp. Try not to let water sit on the surface of your wood floors for too long or allow them to become saturated with moisture.

If you live in an area where there are high levels of humidity during certain times of the year, then take necessary precautions to regulate the humidity levels in your home. This will prevent moisture from being absorbed into your floorboards.

Another thing that is important to do is to regulate your home's temperature levels throughout different seasons. A rapid change in temperature can cause warping to your flooring.

If you have a warped floor, there are things you can do about it.

If you have a warped floor, there are things you can do about it. First and foremost, contact a flooring professional to come to look at your problem. They may be able to identify the cause of warping and recommend solutions for fixing it.

If there is any water damage present in your home, call the water damage cleanup and restoration company immediately! The longer this kind of damage goes unchecked, the worse it will become.

If you've noticed that your floors are warped and want to know what can be done about it, it's important to understand the cause of this problem. Warping occurs when moisture gets trapped under the finish layer of a floor and causes it to expand or contract unevenly. This expansion and contraction can cause cracks in your flooring or even make them buckle upwards in places. The good news is that there are several ways for homeowners like yourself to prevent warping from happening again in their homes!

What Are the Most Common Causes of House Fires?

2/12/2023 (Permalink)

Fires are a serious threat to any home. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), nearly half of all home fires start in the kitchen, making it the most common place for a fire to start. To protect yourself and your family from this threat, you need to know how the most common types of fires start and how you can prevent them. Below are some of the most common causes of house fires:

Cooking

Cooking is the leading cause of house fires in the United States. Over half of all home cooking-related fire injuries occur when someone is cooking, like a turkey or a pot on the stove. Here are some things you can do to prevent these types of fires:

• Don't leave the room while the food is cooking. When you're making anything that involves fat, grease, or oil, be extra careful and never leave it unattended.
• Keep your kids safe from burns by teaching them how dangerous hot surfaces can be when they touch them. Also, make sure everyone knows how important clothing choices are when dealing with high temperatures while cooking.

Space Heaters and Furnaces

Heating equipment is the second-leading cause of house fires, with space heaters and furnaces among the biggest culprits. Space heaters must be used properly to avoid fires. They should be placed away from flammable materials and cleaned regularly. Furnaces should also be checked every year during regular maintenance visits to ensure that they do not have any problems that could cause a fire.

The installation of your heating system can also contribute to house fires if it is not done properly or if you have an older unit that needs replacement. It’s important to have a professional inspect your furnace before each winter season so that any necessary repairs can be made before you use it again in the colder weather months ahead.

Electrical Equipment

Electrical distribution and lighting equipment are other common cause of house fires. Electrical equipment can cause fires if they are not properly maintained and inspected. The most common causes of electrical fires in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities are:

• Faults in the wiring or connections
• Faulty or damaged equipment
• The wrong type of power supply or incorrect installation

Smoking

Smoking is a leading cause of fire-related deaths in the home. Smoking is also a major contributor to house fires, especially those that start while you're sleeping. Over 50% of all smoking-related fires occur in bed, and more than half of these are caused by cigarettes left smoldering after being snuffed out or falling into the bedding.

Smoking-related fires can be easily prevented by taking the following steps:

• Avoid smoking in bed or near anything flammable
• Always use a sturdy ashtray on a hard surface when smoking
• Properly dispose of cigarette butts and cigars after use

Candles

Candles are a common culprit in house fires, but they don't have to be. In fact, if you're careful with them, there's no reason why candles can't be a safe and enjoyable addition to your home. Just follow these simple steps and you'll keep your home fire-free:

• Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
• Keep candles out of reach of flammable materials.
• Never leave burning candles unattended; extinguish them when leaving the room or going to sleep.

Fire Poses A Serious Threat

When you think about what causes fires, cooking often comes to mind. According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), cooking is responsible for more than half of all home fires each year in America. Electrical equipment and smoking are also common causes of house fires, as are candles and heating appliances like space heaters or furnaces.

Now that you know what to watch out for, it's easier to avoid these situations and protect your family from fire hazards. If your home or business suffers from a fire, don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown team a call today for all your fire damage cleanup and restoration needs!

Smoke Damage and Your Home

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

If you have Fire damage in your Fairway, KS home call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

Smoke Damage and Your Home

Smoke damage is a problem that can happen after a fire or any other kind of smoke-related incident in your Fairway, KS home. You may think that the smoke has cleared and everything is fine, but when you realize the smell of smoke lingers, you know it’s time to take action against this damage. Here are some things you need to know about smoke damage:

Smoke Damages Furniture 

If you find yourself in a situation where your home has been damaged by smoke, do not panic and try to clean things up yourself. It is important to know that if you have allowed water or other liquids from cleaning supplies to come into contact with the smoke-damaged furniture, it could cause additional damage. This can be fixed by using a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, which has specialized equipment and processes for restoring valuable furniture after a fire or smoke damage has occurred in your home.

The goal for any restoration company is to minimize their customer's losses as much as possible by making sure that all items are restored properly so they don't need replacing later on down the road due.

Damage to Important Objects and Documents

A home fire can damage or destroy items that hold sentimental value, and the damage is irreplaceable. If you happen to have any important documents such as birth and marriage certificates, they may be damaged beyond repair. 

Additionally, other objects that hold sentimental value such as photos of loved ones or keepsakes can also be destroyed by smoke damage. These items cannot be replaced easily if at all so it’s best not to take any chances when trying to clean up after a fire in your home

You Need a Professional

If you clean up the smoke yourself, it’s very likely that the longer the process takes, the more damage will result. This is because smoke contains soot—an oily residue that sticks to surfaces and causes them to become discolored or brittle over time. Additionally, if left untreated for too long, this soot becomes airborne again when stirred up from cleaning supplies or even just from being in your home (it will settle back down on surfaces).

The longer it takes to clean up the smoke damage in your home, the more expensive it will be. The longer it takes to clean up the smoke damage in your home, the more toxic it will be. The longer it takes to clean up the smoke damage in your home, the more work you'll have ahead of you!

The sooner you start cleaning up after a fire or other event that caused smoke damage, the better off you'll be.

If you have suffered smoke damage, it can be helpful to know that a professional company like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown will be able to help with the clean-up process. Our team of technicians has years of experience dealing with smoke damage and will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your home.

We hope this article has given you a better understanding of the damage smoke can do to your Fairway, KS home, as well as some options for dealing with it. If you’re looking for help with cleaning up after a fire or other emergency situation, we would be happy to assist in any way that we can. 

A Leaky Faucet and Mold Growth

12/4/2022 (Permalink)

A Leaky Faucet and Mold Growth

The moment you notice a leaky faucet, it's always wise to turn off the water and call for help. But what about the other times when you don't see a leaky faucet? Is there still a chance that mold is growing under the sink or around your toilet? Yes! While leaks are the most common cause of mold growth in homes, they're not the only culprit. In this article we'll discuss how to identify possible sources of hidden moisture in your Fairway, KS home and prevent them from causing trouble down the road.

Identifying the Source

Look for leaks. The first thing to do is to check for leaks in the bathroom and kitchen. If there are noticeable drips coming from either of these areas, you may have a larger problem on your hands. The next step is to check for moldy or damp spots along the baseboards and walls. You should also look up at the ceiling or wall above your sink for any signs of water stains, which could indicate that there’s a leak in need of repair above it all.

Keep an eye on your water bill. Many homeowners don’t realize how much they actually use until they see how much their monthly bill has gone down after fixing a leaky faucet—and this can be an indicator that there are other problems going on behind-the-scenes (i.e., hidden leaks).

Mold Under Sink

Mold grows in dark, damp places. You can find mold almost anywhere you look, but it thrives best on surfaces that are warm and wet. You might think that a leaking faucet would be an ideal place for mold to grow—after all, it’s both mostly dark and consistently damp. But most of the time, even with a leaky faucet, your sink won’t develop any visible traces of mold because there isn’t enough moisture to support its growth.

Mold Around the Toilet

Mold can grow in the toilet bowl. If you spot mold growing on the inside of your toilet, it’s likely that you have a leak somewhere in your plumbing. The water from the toilet is not connected to the rest of the plumbing, so it’s a good place to check for leaks.

If you suspect there might be mold or mildew in your toilet bowl, here are some ways to check for leaks:

• Check for stains around where water drains into your pipes. If there are stains, they could indicate moisture problems; if there aren't any stains and everything looks dry but still smells musty or damp after flushing (or when no one has flushed at all), it's possible there's something amiss with your pipes that causes a build-up of excess moisture near where they meet up with other parts of your home (such as walls). This is especially common if someone uses their bathtub regularly since taking baths can cause extra humidity levels throughout their bathroom space—which may then cause molds/fungi growth on surfaces like painted walls near where water drains into pipe systems below them!
• Check behind toilets themselves by sticking an old toothbrush into drain holes located inside each corner (near bottom edges) so that bristles reach underneath the surface area.

How to Prevent Mold Growth

If you’re worried about mold growth due to a leaking faucet, you should keep in mind that there are steps you can take to prevent it:

• Install a water leak detector
• Use a dehumidifier
• Use a fan to dry up the area

Install a Water Leak Detector

If your water bill has been unusually high lately, or if you have a leak in your home, it is important to install a water leak detector. This device monitors the flow of water through all of your pipes and can detect when there is leakage. There are several types out on the market that vary in price and features, but they all work by being placed directly over the pipe where you suspect there might be an issue. If one detects any leaks or problems with your plumbing then it will alert you by sending text messages or emails as well as flashing an LED light on its faceplate which makes for easy detection if it's dark outside (or if someone else isn't paying attention!). You should also check this device regularly; checking it once every week or two should do the trick.

If your detector finds that there is indeed a problem somewhere within your home's internal plumbing system then don't worry--you'll know exactly where to go from there! Simply call up a plumber who specializes in fixing such issues, explain what happened, and ask them for help. 

If you are concerned that your faucet might be leaking, contact a professional plumber. It’s important to know that mold can also grow in other areas of your home. If you have any questions about dealing with a water-damaged home or business, please feel free to call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown today!

Water Damage Types

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

For any kind of water damage, give SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown a call. we are here to Help!

Water Damage Types

Water damage is a serious problem. It can lead to mold and mildew growth, stubborn odors, and structural damage that's expensive to repair. When the source of water is unknown or untreated, it's even more dangerous. That's why the Environmental Protection Agency created a classification system that helps property owners understand how severe their particular case of water damage is. Now let's take a closer look at each category of water damage:

Category One

Category One water is typically clean and poses no threat. It's often from a leaky faucet or tub that's been draining for some time, and it can be cleaned up easily with soap and water. You could also use this type of water to water plants if need be. This water doesn’t necessarily need any sort of special personal protective equipment to clean it up.

Category Two

Water that is category two has a significant amount of chemical, biological, or physical contaminants. It's often called "grey water". It can come from a dishwasher or toilet overflow with urine but no feces, a washing machine overflow, or a broken aquarium.

Category Three

Category three water damage is serious and it needs to be taken care of quickly. Here's what you need to know about the signs of category three water damage, how to clean up after a category three flood, and how to prevent this type of event from happening in your home or business:

• Category three water is grossly contaminated and may contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents and can cause significant adverse reactions if an individual is exposed. Sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers and streams, ground surface water, and standing water are all sources of category three water.
• Category three damage means that the level of contamination in your home has reached a point where it would be dangerous for an individual to enter the space without protective gear. This category of damage should be treated by professionals because they have access to the equipment required to clean up this type of contamination safely and effectively.
• Category three water damage is extremely dangerous and should be cleaned up by professionals who have been trained for the task. If you encounter category three damage at your home or business property in Kansas City, MO then you should immediately call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

What does this mean? It means that you shouldn't wait until you can start the cleanup process yourself. You must call a professional to address your category 3 water damage situation immediately.

While it might seem like common sense to avoid contact with any form of contaminated liquids whatsoever (especially when they smell bad), there are still some steps that need to be taken when dealing with these types of spills so that they don't cause further damage while they're being cleaned up.

For any kind of water damage, give SERVPRO a call and we will help get your Kansas City home or business back to normal!

Why you shouldn’t clean puffback soot yourself?

10/7/2022 (Permalink)

Soot can be shot back into your home and onto the walls and ceiling. If you don't get it cleaned up quickly, it can leave permanent stains.

Why shouldn't you clean your own puff back soot?

A puff back is something that you don’t want to have to happen in your Fairway, KS home. A puff back is a malfunction in an oil-burning furnace, and it can cause soot to spew out into your home. These malfunctions can also lead to carbon monoxide leaks if not addressed quickly.

If you have experienced a puff back or know someone who has, contact professional restoration experts right away! You will need help cleaning up the mess and removing the smell from your home if this happens again in the future. Let’s look at why you shouldn't clean up these soot yourself:

A puff back is a malfunction in an oil-burning furnace.

When this happens, soot can be shot back into your home and onto the walls and ceiling. If you don't get it cleaned up quickly, it can leave permanent stains. A puff back can be caused by a number of different things, including dirt build-up or incorrect operation of the furnace. Puff backs are more common in older furnaces than in newer ones because some older models have fewer safety features to prevent them from happening.

These malfunctions can cause the furnace to shoot soot out into your home.

• Puffback soot can cause damage to your home.
• Puffback soot is dangerous.
• Puffback soot can be hard to clean up.
• Puffback soot causes respiratory issues, allergies, and asthma.

Contacting a professional restoration company.

Calling in professional restoration experts is the best strategy for both cleaning up the soot and removing the smell from your home.

The experts at Puffback Soot Removal, who have been cleaning up puff back soot since 2004, will be able to help you with this problem and make sure that it doesn't happen again. They will remove all of the debris quickly and efficiently so that you don't have to worry about it anymore!

Conclusion

Hopefully, we’ve made it clear that puff back soot is a big deal. It’s not something to take lightly, and it can cause serious damage to your home or office if left unchecked. If you’re experiencing this issue, call in professional restoration experts as soon as possible—the sooner they come out, the better your chances are at getting rid of all that soot before it becomes too much work for you or your family members!

Effective Ways to Eliminate the Smell of Cigarette Smoke in Your Home

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

How to Get Rid of the Smell of Cigarette Smoke in Your Home

Are you moving into a home or apartment where previous homeowners or tenants smoked? Or maybe you're a former smoker, and you're trying to erase all traces of this terrible smell. Getting rid of cigarette scent and its remnants are not easy, but it is possible. With some consistent effort and the right steps, you can do home deodorization and eliminate this annoyance and health hazard.

1. Stop the Source

The first step should be an obvious one. If you are tired of the smell of cigarette smoke in your Prairie Village, KS, home, you need to stop smoking. If you have smokers that live with you, encourage them to stop. If they are having difficulty in doing so, invite them to smoke outside. Do not allow visitors to smoke in your home either.

2. Clean All Surfaces

A professional smoke cleanup team has the tools and tactics to effectively get rid of cigarette odors. Technicians will use home deodorization methods on all surfaces such as walls, ceilings, floors, and furniture. You can count on the technicians to clean thoroughly and get rid of all odor-causing particles.

3. Ventilate the Home

Another option is to keep all the windows open and run some fans. This will promote good airflow and move out the unpleasant smells.

4. Paint the Walls and Replace the Carpet

This method is a little pricier, but it may be necessary, depending on the extent of the odors. Before you paint, make sure you clean the walls well. Removing the carpet could be a good alternative to cleaning the floors if the odors are too strong or have been in the home for several years.

Home deodorization is a good way to remove the smell of cigarettes from your house. This unpleasant odor can be detrimental to your health as well. Follow these steps to promote a more fresh-smelling home.

Why SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is the Company to Call for Your Restoration Needs

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration at a property after a Kansas City flood.

Fire, floods, and natural disasters can all really do a lot of damage to your home or business. There is a lot of work to be done if you have experienced some type of accident or natural disaster.

Safety for yourself and your family or employees is always number one. But, once it has passed, what do you do from there? The first thing you want to do is find a company to help you get back on your feet again. 

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown has all the tools, equipment, training, and experience to get you through your time of need. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

ICRC Training and Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Some of the areas covered include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Not only are there other areas covered, but education and training are also on a continuum. We are learning and upgrading their skills all the time to stay on top of all new policies, tools, equipment, methods, and even insurance concerns.

We also understand that all situations are not the same. That’s why we use the same methods tailored to suit your distinct situation. Whether you have had a fire, a flood, or other types of disaster, we can take care of the problem quickly and professionally.

When Disaster Strikes

When you need help getting back on your feet, you want a company that can handle everything from the clean-up to restoration, the inspection to the insurance.

We have the experience and training to make sure everything is taken care of. Whether it is a business or your home, you can count on us.

Restoration is the final step. That means getting your home or business to its pre-fire or pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet.

We can also simplify the restoration process from water and fire damage by handling both the initial water or fire damage mitigation and rebuilding of the affected areas.

Using the same company for all the needs after a disaster can save you time and money. Working with your insurance company and a professional team that can handle all the clean-up and restoration also means less worry for you.

Contact us to find out how we can help you find your way back from a disaster. It doesn’t have to define you and once you have everything restored back to new, or better, you will forget it ever happened.

The Top Causes of Commercial Water Damage in Your Kansas City Business

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

A commercial Kansas City building with visible water damage.

Top Commercial Water Damage Causes in Your Kansas City Business

Water damage restoration services for commercial buildings can be more challenging than residential properties. In most cases, this necessitates an intensive and professional approach. The structure and size of commercial buildings, the extent of the damage, the varied use of the spaces, and the total number of occupants will all affect the restoration process used. Besides these, there is usually a time constraint for the job to be done because the business needs to keep running and avoiding a significant amount of downtime.

While some issues related to water damage are inevitable, most issues are preventable if the cause of water damage is found and dealt with.

Some of the most common causes of water damage in commercial buildings are found here.

Damaged Windows

In many commercial buildings, water damage is caused by windows that aren’t properly sealed. If windows are damaged, it can cause moisture to seep inside. This can trigger many issues, including warped drywall and wood along with potential mold growth. Regularly resealing the windows is crucial because caulk may breakdown as time passes.

Damaged Pipes

Issues related to broken pipes can be caused by an array of issues. They can occur because of changes in pressure, cold weather, and deteriorated sewer drains and water supply lines. Some of the signs of damaged pipes in your building include:

• Musty odors
• Loose tiles
• Cracked tiles
• Stains on the floors and walls
• Bulging walls

Detecting leaky pipes is something that is quite challenging, and it will usually require some type of inspection utilizing special equipment such as thermal imaging cameras, moisture meters and borescopes.

The Foundation of the Building

If the gutters of your commercial building aren’t cleaned properly or regularly, they may become clogged. This will cause water to leak into the property through the roof or the foundation. A common sign of leaks in a commercial building foundation include puddles close by or framing that is wet. Improper drainage systems may also cause damage in the foundation.

Roof Leaks

A roof that is leaking may result in water stains and potential mold, compromised structural integrity, and fire hazards resulting from faulty wiring. Exposure to snow and heavy rains make roofs very vulnerable to serious damage. Also, if ice or snow is not removed properly, it can trigger even more water damage for a commercial property.

Problems with the HVAC System

The HVAC system heats or cools the air through a series of ducts. It is essential to clean the ducts regularly and the additional water from the condensation reservoirs. This must be removed to prevent water damage.

If you notice water damage or related issues, it is best to call the professionals of SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown right away. They can help reduce the issues that may arise and ensure that your business or building doesn’t experience significant downtime or other issues.

Did you ever wonder why we like quick mitigation?

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

If your office is flooded call your local SERVPRO.

Have you ever wondered why we prefer quick mitigation?

Water Damage Timeline after your home is inundated with flooding from a broken pipe.

Within Minutes of a Water Damage

• 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 after a Water Damage: 

• 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 after a Water Damage: 

• 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 After a Water Damage:

• 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.

Call us at 816.895.8890 if you have questions about the problem in your home.

How Does Commercial Water Mitigation Work?

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

What Is the Process of Commercial Water Mitigation?

A leak in a commercial property can cause a wide variety of primary and secondary damage. If you have noticed a supply line leaking, you should contact a plumber and then schedule an assessment with a service that specializes in leaks and pipe burst cleanup. If a leak involves sewage, the process for cleaning up gray or black water will involve thorough sanitization. Here are three standard steps involved in most commercial water mitigation.

1. Eliminate excess water: A service that provides commercial water damage restoration will get started by pumping out all excess water from the area of the property affected by a leak. It is important to get rid of all standing water as soon as possible to limit the extent of the damage.

2. Clean and dry the affected area: A service that specializes in pipe burst cleanup can pump out standing water. If you are dealing with a leak that involves gray water or black water, sanitization is necessary and you may need to dispose of contaminated porous contents such as carpet.

3. Restore the affected area: Once the affected area of a commercial property has undergone water cleanup and drying, a restoration service or the property owners or occupants can return contents to this part of the property. Items that have been destroyed by water damage may need to be replaced.

Whether you are looking for a commercial restoration company that provides pipe burst cleanup services or solutions for a supply line leaking, you can find a certified water cleanup company Westwood, KS, that will restore your commercial property or business. Water mitigation is covered by most standard commercial property insurance policies. If you are dealing with water from a flood, you will need additional flood coverage. Cleanup experts can restore areas affected by category one, two, or three leaks to the original condition.

Faster to your Kansas City Midtown Water Damage Event

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown 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 Kansas City Midtown 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 – 816-895-8890

About SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown 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.

Conserve Water by Implementing These Helpful Tips

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Use These Practical Tips to Conserve Water

Lowering your water consumption has many benefits. Besides decreasing your bills, using less equates to a lower impact on sources such as rivers and estuaries. Additionally, reducing your use can prevent water issues such as shortages due to drought in Kansas City, MO. Here's how businesses can alter their usage and upgrade their equipment to use this resource more efficiently. 

Effective Upgrades To Lower Overall Consumption

Water can be used more efficiently by making the following upgrades:

• Installing low-flow plumbing fixtures throughout your business
• Insulating pipes to decrease the amount of time it takes to heat the contents
• Adding rain sensors to irrigation systems
  Creating a rainwater catchment system for conservation purposes
• Installing a greywater system where the leftover liquid from washing machines, sinks, and showers can be reused appropriately
  Using tankless heaters instead of traditional ones

Over time, you'll find that these upgrades are worth the labor and financial investment.

Other Options To Decrease Water Issues
Not all conservation tips involve installations or upgrades. You can also make behavioral changes, such as searching for and addressing plumbing or roof leaks. Should you notice any problems, contact a water damage repair service. Additionally, you can lower the temperature on water heaters to 110 degrees. If you use an outdoor hose, examine the area around it to ensure that water is only sprayed on grass and plants and not wasted on parking areas, roads, or driveways.

The most effective way to mitigate water issues is to make people aware of how much they are using. Communicate with employees about your efforts to save water and encourage them to suggest changes that can be made to decrease consumption.

When it comes to conservation, even one water upgrade or behavioral change can make a difference. In many cases, a great deal is used in commercial buildings, so implementing any of the changes listed will have a beneficial impact on the use of this precious resource.  

Water Damage at Rental Properties

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Rental Properties with Water Damage

Damage from water can be fixed in most cases but will lead to more severe issues if left unattended. If you have noticed signs of wear at your rental property in Kansas City, KS, take action immediately to prevent additional problems. Learn more about what to look for and how to address necessary maintenance. 

Water Damage at the Source 
Having a good understanding of potential problems is a smart way to handle a situation before it goes bad. While weather events also require disaster remediation services, they are less likely to cause issues that pain the pipes and pocketbooks of building owners over time, like old polybutylene materials and regular wear and tear. Here are the four most common issues to look out for.

1. System Problems
Older properties regularly suffer from leaks at pipe connections, shut-off valves, and fixtures, whether from faulty installation or just from years of constant commercial use. Checking visible areas for signs of pooling or a steady drip will help you identify the source. For internal regions, look to your water bill for steadily climbing costs or sudden spikes. 

2. Clog Crises 
Clogs happen in above-ground drains, but mainline pipes are also standard. A yearly inspection and cleaning will help mitigate most blockages. 

3. Polybutylene Woes 
If your property was built between the mid-'70s and the mid-'80s, there’s a high chance that you have PB pipes somewhere in the building. This specific piping is known for splitting, bursting, and causing significant harm. Scheduling an inspection from professionals in Kansas City, KS, is an ideal measure to prevent damage. 

4. Root Ruptures 
At the mainline level, tree and bush roots are common issues that lead to ongoing troubles. The first sign of tree roots rupturing or blocking your pipes is low water pressure and depressions in the surrounding grounds, if not visible breaks in the lines. In some cases, the trees will have to be removed and some piping replaced.

Older tenant-occupied properties need continual maintenance to mitigate future damage. While repairs and polybutylene pipe replacements are necessary over time, they prevent more significant problems from surfacing when addressed proactively.

Fire Alarms 101

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Alarms

The best strategy to ensure that everyone safely evacuates your Kansas City, MO, home during a fire is to have a smoke alarm. Knowing that a fire damage restoration company has the know-how to restore the property, fire safety should always be the top priority. To maximize this essential tool, it’s important to understand the types available and their proper placement.

Smoke Detector Options
There are three common types of alarms available, including:

• Ionization: Designed to detect flames, it has two electronically charged plates with a harmless radioactive material between them that ensures an ionic current is maintained. The alarm goes off when this current is interrupted by smoke.
• Photoelectric: Ideal for smoldering fires, this type has a beam of light that is pointed away from a light sensor. As smoke enters a chamber, the light is reflected toward the sensors to trigger the alarm.
• Combination: This is a combination of the above two types. While still beneficial, they may not be as sensitive as installing a specific type.

Many studies suggest that having each type of smoke alarm in the home is the best way to maximize protection.

Where and How Many To Install?
Ideally, an alarm should be installed on every level of the home. It is especially important to have on inside all bedrooms and in hallways outside of the sleeping areas. The kitchen is another essential location. Ensure that it is installed a minimum of 10 feet away from appliances to minimize the chances of a false alarm. Other areas to consider installing a fire alarm include the basement, attic, and garage.

A smoke alarm is a proven tool that quickly alerts everyone in the home of a fire. Knowing the different types and key areas to install them are key ways to get the most out of your alarms.

How To Handle Toilet Overflow

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

What To Do If Your Toilet Overflows

You're rushing through your morning routine, but when you step out of the shower, you notice that there is water from the toilet all over the floor. This typically happens when a pipe is clogged. You must not only fix the problem that's causing the overflow but also arrange for sewage cleaning professionals in Prairie Village, KS, to mitigate the mess.

Snake the Clogged Pipe

With any luck, the clog will come loose with the use of an auger. You need one that is at least 25 feet long because you may not be able to tell exactly where the problem in the pipe is located. There are three places you can insert the snake:

• In the toilet bowl
  
• In the floor drain under the toilet
  
• In the main drain of the house

Hopefully, snaking the drain will clear the clog, allowing the shower to drain the way it's supposed to. If this doesn't work, though, you'll need to enlist professional help.

Call the Plumber

Before you start the sewage cleaning process, you need to fix the problem that caused the mess. If snaking the drain didn't do the trick, find a trusted plumber to investigate the clog. Hiring a professional to complete a complicated job may seem expensive, but it ensures that the problem is resolved the first time around.

Hire Cleanup Professionals

A sewer backup can cause a lot of damage to the floor and wall in the room where the toilet overflow occurred. Water restoration experts can assess the problem and mitigate it thoroughly. This prevents further structural issues and mold growth.
When running your shower causes your toilet to overflow, you know something isn't working well.

Quick action is the key to getting to the root of the problem before it gets out of hand. Sewage cleaning specialists and plumbing technicians can resolve the issue and take care of the damage.

Storm Damage vs. Ordinary Damage

5/30/2022 (Permalink)

Damage From A Storm Versus Damage From Everyday Life

While any water damage in your Prairie Village, KS, home is unwelcome and needs immediate attention, cleanup depends on the source of the problem. If it is from flooding, it’s important to understand how that damage is classified versus a simple pike leak. The former requires special attention to ensure safe and proper cleanup.

Flood Damage Classification

The EPA has determined three classifications of water loss:

• Category 1: It is considered clean water since it comes from water sources that are considered sanitary, such as a pipe break or sink overflow, and does not have any bacteria or solid waste.
  
• Category 2: Called grey water, it may contain some chemicals or microorganisms that will require extra safety precautions during cleanup. Sources of grey water issues include dishwasher discharge, toilet overflow with urine only or leaking aquarium.
  
• Category 3: This type is the most contaminated and referred to as black water. Typically scenarios that create this type of damage to your home include flooding, sewage backups and rising underground water.

Cleanup Methods

Regardless of the category, even a small water issue may quickly turn into a big problem. Hidden clean water may quickly turn to grey water if left unchecked and mold starts to grow. If the damage was from black water, it is recommended to leave the cleanup to a certified water, storm and mold damage restoration company. Since black water is highly contaminated industrial-grade antimicrobial and anti-fungal treatments will be required, as well as the removal of affected materials, such as drywall and carpeting. A professional will have an arsenal of tools to properly dry out the home, find hidden damage and complete restoration to preloss condition.

Any home that experiences flooding requires quick action. Before jumping into the cleanup process, it's important to know the source of the problem to ensure it is taken care of properly.

4 Ways To Protect Your Home From Storm Damage

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

4 Storm-Proofing Tips

While rain is typically beneficial to your yard, when too much rain falls in too short a timeframe, disaster can happen. Your foundation may leak. Fallen trees may damage your roof. Tree limbs can break windows. When dealing with storms in Fairway, KS, or outside flooding, there are many ways to prevent damage. Here are four ways you can protect your home before the next storm.

1. Prepare Your Garden

Design a rain garden in a low area where stormwater accumulates. Place plants with deep roots that prefer wet soil. Plants absorb excess moisture.

Place heavy mulch in garden beds. Lightweight wood chips wash away and clog drainage systems. Appropriate mulching also allows rain to drain into the garden, rather than pooling on top of the soil.

2. Divert the Rain Storm

Examine the terrain when it is dry and when it is raining. See how the rainfall flows across your property. Regrade the yard and create swales or trenches to redirect the water away from your foundation and your neighbor’s property. Install drains near your concrete or asphalt driveway to manage rain drainage.

Clean out your gutters. Divert rain spouts so water discharges at least 6 feet away from your foundation. Inspect and replace any clogged spouts.

3. Prepare Your Yard

Remove or trim trees that can fall or break in a storm, damaging your roof, windows or structure. Debris can clog your storm drainage system. Be sure to clean out and around drains to prevent outside flooding.

4. Choose a Restoration Team

Be prepared for severe weather in Fairway, KS, with the contact information for your insurance company and a professional storm damage restoration team. They specialize in assessing and repairing damage to your home, allowing you to return to your home faster.

Outside flooding and storm damage is frustrating for the homeowner. Take time now to develop a few proactive measures to protect your home.

Why Insurance Agents and Their Clients Should Use SERVPRO's Claims Inventory System

4/30/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides more than just emergency cleanup services as a preferred vendor of many insurance companies.

Why Should Insurance Agents And Clients Use SERVPRO's Claims Inventory System?

Accuracy is paramount as you prepare each insurance claim. You need to double-check all the numbers and facts. You also must do research to ensure your details are reliable. With so much information available on the internet, the process can seem overwhelming. That is why SERVPRO created its own Claims Inventory System. This system lets agents in Kansas City, KS, easily find the data they need. Here are the top reasons to use this service.

Data

An insurance agent can use the Claims Inventory System to research the response times and costs of other restoration projects. This information should help you quickly and accurately compare losses and estimate the expenses involved in your latest insurance claim. You can sort the numbers by:

• Region
  
• State
• County

Collaboration and Convenience

Insurance agents are not the only people with access to this database. The restoration professionals and adjusters can also utilize it to communicate with clients and each other. This speeds up the entire claims process, letting you move on to other parts of your job, and letting your clients get back to their businesses.

In fact, your clients themselves will also have remote access to the database. They should thus receive instant information about the status of each claim.

The system additionally features an estimate of the costs, photos of the loss and digital copies of important documents. Your clients should also receive hard copy or email versions of their files for their records.

Business owners are likely to appreciate that they are being kept completely in the loop. They can even see how SERVPRO's performance compares to the standard set by the restoration industry.

As a preferred vendor of many insurance companies, SERVPRO offers more than just emergency cleanup services. The company's database provides accurate information that helps agents expedite each insurance claim. Speeding up the claims process should reduce the cost of the cleanup and make your clients happy.

What Fire Extinguisher Is Best for My Home?

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

What Is The Best Fire Extinguisher For My House?

Keeping a fire extinguisher in your Kansas City, KS, home can save you and your property from a small fire. If you're wondering which kind to choose, here is some information about different types of extinguishers.

Extinguisher Classes

Each class of extinguisher fights a different type of fire:

• Class A: Wood, paper and trash
  
• Class B: Grease, oil-based liquids and gasoline
  
• Class C: Electrical equipment
  
• Class D: Flammable metals
• Class K: Animal and vegetable oils used in cooking

Household extinguishers are rated A, B or C.

On the label, the numbers that precede the letters give the rating of the extinguisher's effectiveness against that type of fire. An extinguisher with a 4-B rating, for example, is more effective against a grease fire than one rated 2-B. Higher effectiveness usually means a higher-priced extinguisher. There is no number designation for Class C.

Extinguisher Sizes

You can choose your extinguisher size based on where you will use it. A 5-pound extinguisher is suited for a typical home fire and is easy to pick up and use. A 10-pound fire extinguisher is a good choice for the garage, where a fire may grow before you see it. You can also find stove-top extinguishers that mount above the range.

Best Extinguisher Locations

Safety experts recommend you keep an extinguisher on each floor of your home for maximum fire preparedness. The kitchen is an ideal place because of the enhanced risk of fire in that room. Keep the extinguisher where household members can reach it quickly and easily. The best location is near an exit if the fire gets out of control and you must evacuate.

If you've experienced a home fire and have been through the process of fire restoration, you know that prevention is the best policy. If you have not had a home fire, you can take steps to avoid one by learning to use your fire extinguisher and equipping your home with the correct sizes and types.

3 Reasons You Might Find Water in Your Crawl Space

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

You should deal with a wet crawl space as soon as possible to avoid mold growth and water damage to your home.

Three Possible Causes Of Water In Your Crawl Space

A wet crawl space can create more problems than you might expect. It makes water damage less visible, but it also creates the perfect conditions for mold growth. The moisture also weakens the Fairway, KS, house's structural materials, creating greater damage as a result. Learn about the most common causes for water inside the crawl space so you can prevent an incident.

1. Overwatered Plants

You can accidentally flood the crawl space by doing something as simple as overwatering plants, especially those close to the house's foundation. Whether you use too much water or leave the hose or sprinkler running beyond the necessary time, the excess will seep into the house and reach the lower sections first. You can easily turn off the water to resolve this issue. You can spot this problem if you see water pooling near the affected area.

2. Poor Sloping Grade

Another factor that can result in a wet crawl space is the lack of proper grading around your house. Ideally, you want the grading to slope away from the building and towards the outer yard or the streets. This feature ensures that any incoming water flows away from the foundation, preventing flooding. Check the grade after winter, intense rainfall or an overwatering incident. If the slope is altered or missing, build it up between six to eight inches away from home.

3. Defective Plumbing

Another reason why you might find water inside your crawl space involves defective or broken pipes. Even if the leak or burst pipe is in the house's upper floors, the water will always trickle down. If you find water in the crawl space or lower area, conduct a detailed search to find the source and fix it. Hire a plumber if you are unable to find it.

You should deal with a wet crawl space fast before mold growth and water damage threatens your home. Identify these occurrences to avoid this situation and contact emergency remediation services if you find water in that area or anywhere else.

Kansas City Fire and Smoke Cleanup Involves an HVAC Inspection

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Thorough Post-Fire HVAC Inspections in Kansas City Consider Several Key Questions

When your Kansas City business suffers a fire, it is essential to inspect its HVAC system thoroughly. Although this involves several key steps, these actions are likely to minimize further damage by preventing the spread of smoke particles that could impact more surfaces, reduce interior air quality, and circulate foul, fire-related odors.

SERVPRO, a commercial fire, and smoke cleanup service in Kansas City, routinely performs extensive, post-fire HVAC inspections. Our skilled fire restoration technicians complete these crucial examinations as part of the smoke remediation and fire damage restoration process. Some of the specific questions SERVPRO’s fire and smoke damage experts seek to answer during their inspection of your ventilation ductwork are:

• Where did the fire occur? Did it break out near the HVAC furnace unit or one of the system’s vents?
• Did any smoke get into the ducts and, if so, did it enter through the network’s return or supply-side?
• Are there any factors, like the HVAC blower being on during the fire, residue magnetism/ionization, or fire-related pressure differentials, which may have forced smoke residues into ductwork?
• What types of residues, heavy, moderate, light, wet, dry, greasy, or odorous, are in the ventilation system?
• What kind of filters, reusable or disposable, does the network use, and are they clean?
• How is the HVAC system made, is it composed of duct board, flex duct, sheet metal, or lined with insulation, and must it be disassembled for cleaning?

Taken together, the answers to these questions enable SERVPRO to effectively evaluate a fire’s impact on your ventilation system and quickly remediate it.

With all that said, if you ever need fire and smoke cleanup at your place of business, don’t hesitate to call your helpful neighbors at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown. We are available whenever you need us at (816) 895-8890.

Kansas City Residents Often Deal with Flood Damage in the Spring.

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Spring storms can bring havoc let SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown assist you today.

Dealing with This Damage Safely in Kansas City Requires Certain Steps to Be Taken.

Every year in the spring, as seasonal storms pass through, Kansas City’s chances of falling victim to the effects of flooding increase substantially. Whenever flooding does occur, it puts significant hardships on local residents. It also prompts the need for professional cleanup services that can handle the special requirements of biohazard remediation work.

According to flood damage cleanup firm SERVPRO, Kansas City flood damage often involves the presence of hazardous wastes like sewage, toxic chemicals, and farming refuse. Fortunately, our biohazard cleaning company and its highly-trained technicians are experts at eliminating dangerous debris, sewage cleanup, water removal services, and comprehensive flood restoration.

A listing of some of the specialized actions we take to remediate flood-damaged homes is:

• Contaminants that could spread to other, unaffected places are contained, and EPA-approved disinfectants are sprayed in impacted areas and on affected surfaces
• Hazardous materials, silt, and other debris are removed with rakes and shovels, then professionally discarded
• Extractors are used to pull excess standing water from affected rooms and other places
• Structural components are evaluated for their salvageability based on pretest results, the porosity of the impacted materials, and the contaminants in the water involved
• Flood-damaged carpeting and padding are pulled up and carefully disposed of as hazardous waste
• Structural elements that have come into contact with floodwaters are cleaned, disinfected, and pressure washed if necessary 

Following the completion of these biohazard cleanup procedures, flood-impacted homes are thoroughly dried using an air mover-dehumidifier network and are fogged with powerful deodorants.

With all this in mind, remember that your helpful local SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is always here to help you overcome any flood damage your home may have. Contact us anytime at (816) 895-8890 for assistance.

Storm and Wind Damage Often Impacts Kansas City Interiors

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

This Is Often as Troublesome as Exterior Problems for Kansas City Homeowners

The most noticeable signs of storm damage are often observed on the roofs and around the exteriors of Kansas City homes, but this can be quite deceiving. Often, seemingly minor outside issues, like missing roof tiles, leaf-clogged gutters, or impacted shingles hide slow leaks that can eventually cause significant problems for you and your family.

As your neighborhood SERVPRO knows, storm and wind damage in Kansas City can be fairly severe. We also understand that small, weather-related leaks can quickly morph into something more costly to repair. The most common and insidious interior issues result from:

• Water seeping into weather-beaten roofs and leaking down between walls from blocked gutters
• Rain slowly dripping from deteriorated window seals and cracked panes
• Storm-fed, rising groundwater permeating damaged foundations and flooding basements
• Primary water damage, occurring over time, where the water comes in contact with materials, rusting metal surfaces, delaminating backs of carpets, and warping hardwood floors
• Secondary water damage that impacts hygroscopic, or water vapor absorbing/susceptible, materials eventually causing mold growth on affected surfaces, deteriorating ceiling tiles, and making drywall crumble 

With all that said, our emergency water damage services division routinely performs professional inspections of storm-damaged properties and deals with ceiling leaks, burst pipes, basement flooding, and other issues that frequently arise from inclement weather conditions. Over time, we have also worked to resolve water vapor's often silent, harmful effects. 

As you can see, your helpful neighbors at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown know what it takes to identify and clean up severe wind and storm damage. So, if you ever require our assistance, don’t hesitate to call us at (816) 895-8890 for fast and dependable service.

Preventing Flood Damage Recurrences in Kansas City Homes

2/27/2022 (Permalink)

When flood damage hits home, SERVPRO should be the first call. Storm and flood damage restoration is a job for us.

Structural repairs and preventative measures protect Kansas City properties against flood damage.

There are times when natural disasters like flooding are unavoidable for Kansas City homes. Despite the fast arrival of our SERVPRO team for mitigation, we must also have suitable solutions to repair structural damage and prevent flooding recurrences.

Fast Extraction and Mitigation

We understand the urgency of managing flood damage in Kansas City homes fast. Because floodwater can move so quickly through a household, extraction is one of the most vital services we can offer.

Repairing Damaged Roof Elements

The roof can also be a penetration point for direct precipitation, runoff, and flooding. While many roofs are installed to withstand years of abuse by the elements, some of nature’s fiercest storms far exceed the expectations and thresholds of even newly installed roofing systems. Some factors that contribute to flooding include:

• Snowfall Weight
• Ice Damming
• Hail and Wind Damage

Standing Water Concerns in the Crawlspace

The crawlspace is a common area for flood damage as well. This designed opening beneath the main floor of your home can prevent direct flood damage but still must be cleaned and restored after natural disasters occur. Prolonged standing water in this area can result in mold development and other potential concerns.

Effective Flood Cleanup for Kansas City Homes

Once the damage has been identified and our SERVPRO team begins to formulate the needed actions to prevent recurrences, the rest of the technicians work to mitigate loss through effective and efficient water removal services. From the need for extraction that also manages solids to thorough drying with air movers, dehumidifiers, and portable electric heaters, we have production vehicles stocked with the needed equipment to control the mitigation and restoration needs rapidly.

While it is important to work quickly to manage and mitigate loss after flood damages impact your home or business, we must also prioritize the steps necessary to prevent additional damage moving forward. Flooding can recur multiple times when structural repairs are not completed, and provisions are not taken to identify penetration points appropriately. Our experienced SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown team is ready to help 24/7 at (816) 895-8890.

What Variations of Smoke Damage Threaten Kansas City Homes?

2/20/2022 (Permalink)

Preparedness for all types of fire and smoke cleanup in Kansas City homes saves customers time and money.

Fire and smoke damage restoration and remediation involve dozens of steps and approaches that must begin as soon as our professionals arrive. Mitigation of smoke threats is vital, as this can take many forms to compromise the safety and stability of your residence.

Soot and Smoke Residue Removal

Fire and smoke cleanup in Kansas City homes most directly point to the methods of our SERVPRO team for managing soot and smoke residues coming to rest on flooring, building materials, and contents. Based on the composition of these soils, multiple removals and recovery options are possible. While more abrasive and aggressive measures are sometimes necessary, lighter soot damage can be managed with:

• Solvents
• Wet wipe cleaning products
• Chemical sponges
• Dry vacuuming

Airborne Contaminant Regulation

When soot and smoke solids become aerosolized and moved through the environment, these airborne effects can cause health effects. In the earliest stages of fire restoration, our team has personal protective equipment like respirators and SCBA gear for protection. We rely on HEPA filtration to trap these circulating particles.

Malodor Spread in Fire-Damaged Homes

Another way that smoke can impact a property after fire extinguishment is through harsh odors. Combustion of various materials can create volatile environments overwhelmed by offensive smells. We have cleaning products and counteracting approaches to reduce the severity of these odors throughout the property. We utilize powerful deodorization tools in our inventory to finalize the removal of this challenging effect.

Understanding the impact of smoke damage on your home and business might encourage homeowners to consider their need for professional restoration and recovery services. Fires can be heavily destructive to a residence, making the mitigation that our SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown team provides vital to protect the property and its contents. Give us a call 24/7 at (816) 895-8890. 

What Water Removal Equipment is Ideal for Kansas City Offices?

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has all the manpower and equipment for every size commercial water removal service needed. Call now!

Fast mitigation is critical when pooling water damage threatens Kansas City commercial properties.

From sprinkler head damage to burst pipes, substantial water loss incidents can quickly overwhelm the entire floor of an office building. Standing water is one of the most pressing threats during a water damage emergency, so our team responds fast to help.

Engine-Driven Extractors

The truck-mount extractor is the most powerful tool for water removal in Kansas City office buildings. This vehicle in our Green Fleet generates unparalleled suction and power compared to other water removal equipment used. We also can utilize this machine with attachments to make it more versatile to changing materials and flooring in an office building like:

• Light wands
• Squeegee wands
• Carpet wands

Wet Vacuums

Wet vacuums remain one of the more versatile water removal tools available to our SERVPRO team. Their portability makes them ideal for smaller and confined spaces like closets or office bathrooms, and they have the power to help with the sufficient removal of standing water in larger areas.

Carpet Wands

With glue-down carpeting options and short pile flooring throughout the main working areas of the office, water restoration and recovery must also address water after this thin carpeting has absorbed it. Using carpet wands attached to powerful extraction units like the truck-mount motorized machines, we can pull out trapped water absorbed into carpet fibers to protect this flooring from requiring removal and replacement in many cases.

Air Movers Promote Fast Drying

Drying involves many tools and devices from our inventory. Air movers continue to be a foundational element in removing moisture and surface water. With hundreds of units available, we can daisy chain multiple air movers together to provide a large coverage area in open spaces of the office building.

When water damages of any type impact office buildings, the spread, and severity of these conditions can be overwhelming. Because office buildings feature many open areas where water flow can spread rapidly, large loss extraction and drying tools are vital to overcoming damage. Our SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown team is ready to help when you call (816) 895-8890. 

Essential Things to Note About Water Mitigation for Electronics in Kansas Homes

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Electronics and appliances are common items in every home. SERVPRO is always on call to safely restore your home.

SERVPRO Uses Simple and Advanced Approaches in Kansa Homes to Save Electronicsl

Since there are several electronics in a home, water intrusion can impact some if not all of them. An appropriate response helps limit damage or salvage some affected items. Electronics pose many challenges to water restoration, unlike other house items like furniture, which can be readily dried or subjected to rigorous cleaning procedures.

When conducting water mitigation in Kansas households, managing affected electronics depends on how the damage occurs. SERVPRO facilitates some of the mitigation processes or involves a specialist to help clean and restore appliances and other electronic items

Water damage can affect electronics through:

• Direct water contact
• High indoor humidity
• Temperature plummeting to the dew point

Water can splash on items or submerge them if placed on the floor. Such direct contact causes significant damage since the water involved is sufficient to reach the internal components of an appliance. Timely intervention can improve the chances of saving such items since significant damage rarely happens immediately on contacting water.

Actions that help electronics exposed to water include:

• Unplugging all items from power sources
• Extracting any water inside the items
• Maintaining temperature above the dew point

SERVPRO helps ensure that such actions are taken in good time for effectiveness. For instance, when you call, our customer support staff guide you on the immediate steps you can take to save valued items, including unplugging them from power sources. We can also assist with water removal and temperature regulation on arrival at your property, especially if portable heaters are necessary.

Apart from the damage caused by direct water contact, problems can develop from exposure to humid air due to condensation inside the items. When our SERVPRO technicians set up dehumidifiers in the property during restoration, evaporation from standing water cannot drive humidity to unsafe levels.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown handles all types of water mitigation. Call us at (816) 895-8890. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Does Storm-Related Flood Damage Always Destroy Kansas City Homes?

1/16/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Estimate Damage Levels and Takes Action to Salvage Kansas City Properties

Storms affect properties in different ways, including inundating them and causing various forms of physical damage. If your Kansas City home is impacted, there is a significant chance of destruction. However, you should not assume extreme damage until you have confirmation.

The level of flood damage left in Kansas City properties can depend on the intensity of an incident or the safeguards established in a property to combat storms. The response mounted after the incident can also influence the outcome. That is why SERVPRO expedites restoration.

Some property safeguards that limit storm damage include:

• Installation of storm shutters
• Trimming tree branches
• Flood-proofing foundations and crawl spaces
• Having standby power

If there are no structural enhancements against storms and flooding, significant damage can occur even from a minor incident. For instance, high winds and flying debris shatter glass windows without storm shutters easily. As the wind blows inside the house, it applies upward pressure on the roof, which increases the chances of shingles being blown off, thus letting rainwater into areas that would otherwise escape flooding. 

Flooding is most destructive when it involves groundwater. Some measures help modify how a property interacts with groundwater. Dry flood-proofing is an option that includes using concrete to make the foundation watertight. Wet flood-proofing is another option in which crawl spaces and basements are modified to allow water to enter and exit the structure, minimizing damages. 

Whether a house is reinforced against storms and flooding or not, the response mounted influences the outcome. SERVPRO teams are always prepared to offer assistance within a few hours after flooding sets in, thus saving a property. 

Crucial actions that control the impact of flooding include:

• Managing contaminants
• Expediting stagnant water extraction
• Moving contents to limit exposure

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is committed to helping homeowners fight flood damage. You can reach us at (816) 895-8890 for assistance in making any incident "Like it never even happened."

Choice of Water Damage Restoration Products for Kansas City Homes

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO techs are trained in all aspects of water damage restoration.

SERVPRO Improves Cleaning in Kansas City Homes by Focusing on Specialized Reactions

Soiling is a common outcome of water damage. Luckily, you can purchase a significant variety of commercial cleaning agents to help remove the soils left in your Kansas City home. The choice of a cleaning agent should be informed by its chemical composition and the type of soil you intend to remove.

Professional water damage restoration helps Kansas City homeowners with everything, including improving the cleaning processes. Our SERVPRO technicians receive advanced training, which provides the proper knowledge on product choice. For instance, we choose products based on their reactions to the soils they remove.

Typical reactions that aid cleaning includes:

• Bleaching
• Chelating
• Buffering
• Dispersion

Most people understand bleaching, which helps remove stains or brighten fabrics. However, you may not comprehend that there are different types of bleaching. Bleaches can be broadly classified into two categories. Oxidizing bleaches add Oxygen to help break down soils while reducing bleaches counteract the oxidation process. Our SERVPRO technicians can evaluate the changes in your upholstery or draperies to determine the best bleaching action.

The pH levels and hardness or softness of water heavily influence the outcome of a cleaning exercise. For instance, a constant pH is necessary for efficient cleaning, yet the pH changes as cleaning solutions interact with soils. Hard water, on the other hand, contains insoluble salts. After evaluating your property, our SERVPRO technicians determine the correct buffering agents to maintain pH levels and chelating agents to counter hard water.

Other considerations are necessary apart from considering a product's chemical composition. In most cases, this means the additional actions that help break up soils or complete the cleaning process faster.

Some typical actions that help cleaning water damage include:

• Increasing temperature
• Allowing sufficient dwell time
• Supplying sufficient agitation force

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown uses advanced approaches to control water damage restoration addressing soiling "Like it never even happened." Call us at (816) 895-8890.

How Can I Keep my Home in Kansas City from Getting Water Damage Caused by Frozen Pipes?

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Water Removal Services During the Winter in Kansas City

As most people know, winterizing your home in the fall can help prevent issues in the winter when the temperatures drop and snow flies. Prevention is always the key to avoiding costly damage caused by cold temperatures or snowfall. 

When it comes to deterring frozen pipes and ice damming in Kansas City, most homeowners know the basics of winterizing your home. However, for houses that seem to be prone to damage in the winter, there are several steps you can take to prevent issues related to cold weather. First off, it is always wise to remove outdoor water fixtures, including hoses and sprinkler systems.

If certain sections of your pipes have frozen in the past, you may need to take steps to keep them warm in the wintertime. One way is to wrap a UL-endorsed heater tape to your water lines with a thermostat to prevent overheating. A less expensive way is to cover all of your pipes with foam insulation. It is also wise to heat your sink drain lines with a lamp or leave your cabinets open, especially on cold nights.

If your power happens to go out during a storm, you should open both your cold and hot water faucets so the water keeps moving. You can also go through your hose and seal off any gaps or cracks near any of your water pipes. Other more permanent prevention methods are a thermal convection-powered hot water recirculation valve or installing a "RedyTemp" system that monitors the water temperature inside your lines.

But, if you still notice a leak caused by a pipe freeze or ice dam, our SERVPRO technicians can help in the following ways:

• Water Removal Services
• Water Damage Repairs
• Applied Structural Drying (ASD)
• Water Clean Up

Anytime you notice water inside your house where it is not supposed to be, call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown at (816) 895-8890.

Smoke and Fire Cleanup After a Kitchen Fire in Kansas City Requires Fire Restoration Technicians

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Staff Leads Fire Damage Restoration for Kansas City Homeowners

Kitchen fires in Kansas City are not uncommon, but they are all different. Depending on the combustion source and which materials catch on fire, the ensuing soot and smoke residue have specific characteristics. Enlisting the help of a certified fire restoration crew who can recognize and act upon these differences is essential to a successful fire restoration job.

Fire and smoke cleanup in Kansas City becomes easier when SERVPRO’s certified staff leads the effort. Upon arrival, our crew can handle temporary repairs necessary to create a safe work environment. As required, they can provide move-out services to remove unaffected items from the home and facilitate the movement and cleanup of damaged things. Similarly, we discard unsalvageable items following environmental and local regulations. 

When personal items, furniture, and appliances are involved in the fire, not all of them are a total loss. Despite the fire’s high temperatures, our SERVPRO staff is ready to apply techniques to preserve them if possible. Examples of techniques we often use may include-

• Soda blasting and dry ice blasting, which help remove baked-on soot
• Agitation equipment to dislodge soot from surfaces and facilitate vacuuming and wiping
• Elimination of smell molecules with ozone generators and deodorizing pellets

Our clients often have priceless items affected by the fire. SERVPRO technicians can offer tailored solutions to preserve them without damaging them further. It is also common for personal belongings to suffer water damage following the fire’s extinguishment. We offer specialty drying solutions to help preserve documents, pictures, and electronics when this happens.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is your ally when you need us. With one call to (816) 895-8890, you can count on a team ready to help and coordinate with other parties like insurance and contractors. Give us a call and let us leave your home “Like it never even happened.”

Which Type of Businesses Provide Water Removal Services for Commercial Establishments in Kansas City?

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is always here for your Kansas City commercial water damage.

SERVPRO Assists Businessowners in Kansas City When Water Causes Damage

Running a business in Kansas City is challenging, and when a water incident threatens its operations, it is time to act quickly. Whether the offending water source comes from a leaky appliance, a plumbing issue, or a ceiling leak, the damage can be widespread and escalate quickly. Before water damage derails your bottom line and significantly impacts your bottom line, reach out to a professional water restoration team for help.

Help for water removal in Kansas City business establishments is available around the clock through SERVPRO. Trained to handle the most complicated situations involving water damage, our staff completes a thorough assessment of your needs. It proposes a course of action focused on efficiency and mitigation of your losses. Prolonged exposure of your business to standing water can severely damage building materials, flooring, and inventory. It can also lead to the growth of mold, which presents an even more complex situation to resolve.

Flooring materials can easily absorb water, especially carpets and wood. To counteract the water’s effects, our SERVPRO team removes any carpet padding and subfloors saturated beyond repair and proceeds to extract water and dry the affected area while being mindful of your business operations. Removing the upper layers of flooring material can ease the use of other equipment such as the following to complete water extraction activities:

• Use of drying mats
• Use of carpet wands
• Use of air movers

Along with pumps, extractors, and wet vacuums, the equipment above speeds up the drying process and helps avoid costly reconstruction and extensive repairs.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is your best business partner when disaster strikes. Just call our competent team at (816) 895-8890 and let us work to bring the best in water restoration to you. Our goal is to leave your business operating “Like it never even happened.”

Who Is the Stormwater Removal Leader Kansas City Residents Call with Confidence?

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

A speedy response from fully equipped and experienced flooding and storm damage experts is why SERVPRO tops the list of Kansas City restorers.

Severe weather patterns constantly sweep over Kansas City, requiring stormwater removal and flooding restoration year-round. Prompt provision of the critical emergency services water damage necessitates is the heart of our mission, why SERVPRO proudly asserts We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Why Seek Immediate Mitigation and Remediation of Basement Flooding?

Whether your Kansas City home suffers from overland flooding, leaking roofs from storm winds or precipitation, or foundation seepage from the saturated ground after repeated rainfall or winter thawing and refreezing, it is vital to line up water cleanup immediately. Fast flood restoration interventions protect your property, urgently needed because water is incredibly corrosive to most building materials upon contact. Progressive destruction and secondary damage such as mold growth underlie why SERVPRO crews are ready to roll 24/7 with cutting-edge water removal services provided by highly trained personnel. 

Is Sewage Cleanup a Typical Complication During Stormwater Restoration?

Heavy rains and damming of municipal sanitary waste systems with leaves, debris, or, during cold months, snow and ice cause sewer backups needing cleaning inside Kansas City homes. The biohazards presented by

• Human waste
• Deceased animals and insects
• Vermin seeking shelter from the storm 
• Various flood-borne chemicals 

These biohazards, forced into dwellings, are why SERVPRO invests in advanced safety and containment training for managers and technicians and specialized equipment for basement flooding cleanup. We stay current on local regulations for hazardous waste disposal, infectious fluids, debris management, and the paperwork needed for legal stormwater removal. Deep cleaning and disinfection with EPA-registered products precede through structural drying. 

Reliable stormwater removal and associated water damage repairs are why SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown should be on your speed dial. One call to (816) 895-8890 schedules timely professional assessment and provision of rapid water cleanup. 

Should Professionals Handle Fire and Smoke Cleanup and Hazard Mitigation in Kansas City?

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Have confidence that SERVPRO safely and efficiently plans and completes Kansas City water and fire damage restorations. 

Many consider it a badge of honor to take care of house maintenance and repair tasks solo, but is it wise to clean up fire and smoke damage in Kansas City as a do-it-yourself project? Consider the following issues before rejecting professional fire damage mitigation and remediation help:

• Fire and smoke damage residues frequently contain toxic and carcinogenic substances, dangerous to handle without personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Residues can remain airborne, requiring SERVPRO’s specialized equipment for removal.
• Efficacious cleaning products and techniques vary even within a single fire event, necessitating research-based assessment and matching interventions with different soots by certified workers.

What Kinds of Structural Damage Needs Professional Evaluation During a House Fire Clean-Up?

The typical Kansas City homeowner rarely faces smoke damage and fire restoration tasks and thus has little knowledge about the severe impact on structural integrity ablaze and firefighting efforts imparts. SERVPRO crews are well-versed in current best practices for water and fire restoration strategies through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training. Before securing affected spaces inside your home, our managers and technicians complete a thorough inspection for safety hazards such as:

• Partially burned or leaking ceilings that risk collapse
• Electrical shock potential linked to fire charring or firefighting water saturation of wiring, cords, and outlets
• Slip, trip, and fall possibility because of slick floors or fire damage debris
• Poor or absent lighting
• Significant charring or burn-through of structural components, including floors, walls, and supporting structures

 The team at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown has the training, skills, and experience essential to safely deliver emergency services leading to water and fire damage restoration. Call (816) 895-8890 to schedule an immediate assessment and rapid mitigation and remediation.

Who Provides Effective Commercial Water Damage Restoration for Kansas City Properties?

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is prepared for whatever damage has occurred from water damage.

Rely on SERVPRO for fast and professional emergency services after water damage in your Kansas City business

Successful commercial water damage restoration of Kansas City properties relies on immediate access to highly trained and well-equipped professionals. Scaling interventions to the intensity of the disaster and the size of the business is vital, limiting disruption to operations while providing the rapid mitigation and remediation that halts progressive and prevents secondary damage. 

Why Choose SERVPRO to Deliver Necessary Commercial Water Clean Up and Structural Drying Services?  

SERVPRO is uniquely prepared to support your Kansas City business after a water disaster. Our crews master primary and evolving disaster industry best practices through coursework and hands-on training from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Investment in state-of-the-art equipment, tools, and products enhances rapid and comprehensive recovery. The local SERVPRO team arrives at your commercial site fast, assessing and securing spaces. When needed, collaboration with a nationwide network of water mitigation and remediation experts streamlines solutions for significant large scale commercial water restoration challenges from: 

• Sewer Backup and Sewage Cleanup
• Basement Flooding
• Ceiling Repairs from Water Damages
• Burst Pipes
• Leaking Roof from Storms

How Can Kansas City Businesses Proactively Plan for Successful Commercial Water Damage Recovery Outcomes?

Failing to respond quickly and effectively to commercial water damage exposes your company to the risk of permanent closure. Before your company faces the potentially ruinous aftermath of a water crisis, consider developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP). Combining an on-site assessment by an experienced project manager with personalized answers to prompts on an easy-to-use and updated mobile app equals access to a concise digital plan for responding water damage restoration technicians. 

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is poised to help your business restore structures, contents, and operations after a water damage emergency. Call us at (816) 895-8890 to explore your options.

Water Extraction and Drying Challenges Inside Multi-Family Dwellings in Kansas City

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is ready in action for your water damage.

SERVPRO Offers Water Extraction in All Types of Buildings for Kansas City Locals 

Having a water incident inside any building can be challenging, but a multi-family dwelling brings a different set of unique obstacles. If you have burst pipes on the floor above, it can cause ceiling leaks below and a lot of hidden damage. No matter the makeup of the building or the level of water infiltration, you need a team onsite to get to work on water clean-up right away. SERVPRO is available for basement flooding, flood restoration, skilled drying, and so much more. All you have to do is give us a call, and our IICRC-certified team can get to work within hours.

When you leave water extraction in Kansas City to SERVPRO, you have reliable results in a fraction of the time of DIY. We are used to getting calls for emergency services water damage needs, and our Green Fleet gets set in motion to arrive quickly. We get to your property, inspect all areas where water may have migrated, and take special care to ensure safety throughout. There are many factors we keep in mind with any multi-family dwelling water removal service:

• Following the path of migration to see where water traveled
• Utilizing moisture detection tools to ensure nothing gets left behind to cause mold growth or secondary damage
• Full inspection of all building materials and structural elements to ensure safety and integrity
• Addressing any potential slip and fall hazards for our team and residents of the building
• Handling saturated ceiling materials that could sag and cause injury if they fall
• Determining if moisture or water got into electrical outlets or impacted wiring that could cause shock

Water extraction, drying, and detailed cleaning are major working parts of any water damage remediation job. Our team at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is available when you need us – contact us by calling (816) 895-8890 24/7!

Why Worry About Mold Remediation When You Suspect Development in Your Kansas City Property?

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Ensures Proper Mold Remediation Takes Place Safely and Effectively and Kansas City

Noticing mold colonization anywhere in your Kansas City property can feel like a nightmare. You never want to take a chance of disturbing the spores and making matters worse, so contacting skilled professionals for mold inspection and remediation is best. The good news for all area residents and business owners is that SERVPRO features mold specialists that can address the cleaning and sanitizing of your interior to make everything Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Why call on SERVPRO for mold damage remediation in Kansas City? Once you call us, we mobilize a team for mold inspections, remediations, and cleaning. Our Green Fleet comes packed with all the right products and equipment to address your mold infestation issue. Some of the steps included with our black mold remediation projects include:

• Inspection and containment, with the impact zone getting quarantined with containment barriers of plastic sheeting
• We ensure your HVAC system is off to halt airflow that could otherwise carry mold spores into unaffected areas
• A negative air chamber might get put into play, allowing the crew to contain spores within the work zone
• We implement cleaning measures with air scrubbers, HEPA filtration vacuums, and various equipment to trap spores and filter them from the air
• Treatments using antifungals and antimicrobials to inhibit re-infestation
• Controlled demolition for any areas that materials get deemed unsalvageable 

Whether you had a small colonization area or noticed a significant development, everything gets cleaned and thoroughly sanitized to ensure safety and enjoyment for your family and pets. SERVPRO always makes it “Like it never even happened.”

Why wait to address a black mold issue when you can call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown? Call our team at (816) 895-8890 when you need a prompt response for mold damage remediation.

Incidents at Your Kansas City Property that May Call for Professional Water Damage Restoration

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is here to help in any way possible after your water damage.

Water Damage Restoration and Clean-up When You Need It, 24/7 With SERVPRO in Kansas City

Whenever you have a water-related incident at your Kansas City home, it is customary to wonder if you can handle the water clean-up on your own. However, all homeowners and property managers must know that DIY methods can do more harm than good. There are numerous reasons to call skilled, experienced technicians like SERVPRO to handle the clean-up and drying. 

What constitutes a phone call for professional water damage restoration in Kansas City? The answer usually depends on the spill area, how much water is involved, and materials impacted. However, SERVPRO is fast, efficient, and ready to go 24/7 for all water-loss incidents for commercial and residential clients. Some of the calls we receive are most often related to:

• Burst pipes
• Ceiling leaks
• Broken dishwasher hoses
• Overflowing washing machines
• Water heater tank malfunctions
• Water infiltration due to storms and leaking roofs
• Basement flooding
• Overflowing tubs, shower leaks, and more

The extraction of standing water in these and other incidents is not enough. DIY methods with a mop and bucket or a wet/dry vacuum will only pull up the water you can see with the naked eye. SERVPRO technicians bring along dehumidification equipment, industrial-grade fans, and moisture detection tools to ensure nothing gets left untreated. 

What About Unpleasant Smells?

Water removal services must also include the application of deodorants with a complete cleaning of each impacted area. SERVPRO technicians use EPA-registered antimicrobials to battle foul, musty odors while inhibiting mold and mildew growth.

There is nothing that our team at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown cannot cover when you call us for water damage restoration. We are reachable around the clock for emergency response by dialing (816) 895-8890.

Mitigation, Water Removal and Cleanup Can Help Rebuild Your Kansas City Business

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage to your business is serious. SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is here to help get you and your business back up and running.

SERVPRO Helps Keep Your Kansas City Business Running – Call Us for Water Removal and Cleanup!

Day or night, when any water emergency strikes at your Kansas City business, you need to be ready. No matter the project's scope or time of day, SERVPRO can deploy a team that gets to work fast. Quick water mitigation lessens downtime, cuts costs, and helps you to keep your commercial property up and running. Whether you run a bakery, laundry mat, or production facility, We're Faster to Any Size Disaster, meaning we can be there to get started within hours of your call. 

The pros best handle water removal and cleanup in Kansas City for many reasons. Here is a loose timeline of what you can expect after a water event happens in your place of business:

Within Minutes:

• Water spreads fast following the path of least resistance, saturating all porous materials in its path – this includes floors, walls, and contents.
• Furnishings with finish can bleed, leading to permanent stains on office carpet, etc.

Within the first 24 hours:

• Metal surfaces will start to tarnish
• Drywall can swell and begin breaking down
• Ink and dye from paper goods and cloth can spread and cause stains
• Musty odors begin to develop

48 Hours to a Week:

• Mildew and mold grow and spread
• Structural elements, doors, and windows can swell and warp
• Paint can start to blister and peel
• Potentially dangerous biohazard contamination becomes possible

Over a Week:

• Cost and time for restoration dramatically increases, and the need for structural reconstruction may be extensive
• Structural integrity and safety become an issue

The only way to ensure your water removal and cleanup goes as planned is to have a trusted team on the job. Contact SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown by calling (816) 895-8890, and we can initiate a team for water removal services.

Kansas City House Fire Clean Up Calls for Professional Fire Damage Restoration Equipment

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Handles Fire Damage Restoration with Care and Precision Using the Best Technology in Kansas City

The success of any water and fire damage restorations rests on the skills of the technician and the equipment they have access to. Anyone navigating the loss after a fire will find that calling SERVPRO to the job ensures rapid, efficient results. We bring all the right equipment to the job and carefully adjust our processes to better achieve our restoration goals. The main objective is always to clean everything to help restore it to the way it was before the fire, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO has our Green Fleet of vehicles filled to the rafters with the latest products and equipment to handle your fire damage restoration needs in Kansas City. Some of the equipment you will most likely see us using to control a fire restoration project includes:

• Dehumidifiers – Our industrial dehumidifiers help remove moisture from the air, helping to address any water used to extinguish the flames.
• Air Scrubbers – HEPA filtration pulls odorous particulates and contaminants from the air to deodorize and clean it with air scrubbers.
• Air Movers – Our commercial air movers promote as-needed evaporation, drying, and ventilation depending on the project.
• Ozone Generators – Ozone features three bonded oxygen atoms and acts as a powerful oxidizing and sterilizing agent when used in fire restoration projects to battle foul smoke odors.
• Hydroxyl Generators – These units work to put hydrogen peroxide molecules into the air, creating an interaction with odor-causing elements at a molecular level.

We have skilled fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) who have been thoroughly trained in best practices for safely using these and other tools that we bring to each job. Everything gets restored and cleaned so that there is no trace left of the fire and soot residue.

Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown when you need a team onsite for rapid fire damage restoration. You can reach us by dialing (816) 895-8890.

Kansas City Residents - Know Your Options When You Need Floodwater Removal

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

When storm damage strikes, call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown. We are prepared and ready to go.

SERVPRO Offers Professional Floodwater Removal Solutions for Homes and Businesses in Kansas City

Even if you try to stay prepared for Kansas City storms and flooding, there is always the chance that something happens, and you need skilled technicians to handle the cleanup. Working with a team like SERVPRO helps return your property to pre-event condition fast if you have flooding and water damage. Additionally, because floodwater is often full of contaminants, hiring trained technicians get everything done in the safest manner possible.

It is wise to have our number handy if you need prompt floodwater removal in Kansas City after a storm. Our IICRC-certified water restoration technicians (WRT) are ready 24 hours a day so that you are not left waiting with standing water or storm damage. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster and provide our clients with detailed estimates before beginning restoration. Some of the quality services that you can expect when you call us include:

• Rapid water extraction with powerful pumps, extractors, and various attachments
• Packout services to either store items off-site or relocate them for detailed cleaning and drying
• Board up and tarping services for addressing a leaking roof from storms, broken windows, and more
• Controlled demolition to replace drywall, ceiling tiles, wood panels, and structural elements
• Precision drying and dehumidification to return the air inside your property to normal relative humidity (RH) levels
• Sanitizing and deodorizing with the help of EPA-registered antimicrobials and cleaning agents – leaving your property Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
• Documenting any relative inventory and details regarding your project to aid in the insurance claims process

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is here to help with floodwater removal and storm response. Call us at (816) 895-8890, and we can deploy our Green Fleet within hours of initial contact.

Can Professionals Deliver Successful Water Damage Mitigation for Kansas City Ceramic Tiled Floors?

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians use Different Strategies to Restore Water Damage Suffered by Kansas City Residential Flooring

Ceramic floors are popular in Kansas City, and water damage mitigation is the goal when they experience harm from spills or burst pipes. The ability of skilled Water Damage Restoration Technicians (WRT) trained through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to remove excess water and dry the subflooring is the key to water damage restoration.

Can SERVPRO Crews Mitigate and Remediate Water Damaged Ceramic Tile Floors?

Durable and close to waterproof if installed, grouted, and sealed properly, ceramic tiles in Kansas City homes frequently sail through a plumbing or appliance malfunction and subsequent water incursion with few residual effects. What do SERVPRO managers and IICRC certified technicians check when evaluating a tile floor’s integrity after possible water damage?

• Cracked or loosened grout and dislodged ceramic tiles signal water damage beneath tiles.

• If possible, we examine the subfloor from beneath for evidence of water leak-through.
• When the subfloor has plaster, drywall, or acoustical tiles beneath, we look for new staining, bulging, crumbling drywall, or broken plaster to indicate a ceiling leak.

When Kansas City Ceramic Tile Floors Need Water Damage Restoration, What Is the Protocol SERVPRO Follows?

Although the ceramic tiles themselves rarely suffer damage, the plywood subfloor often warps and expands. Breaks at the grout joints occur, and the tiles need resetting and grouting. This cannot happen until the repair or replacement of the subfloor. The SERVPRO crew will:

• Check for moisture under the ceramic tiles using a nonpenetrating meter.

• Dry the subfloor from the bottom, if possible, to reduce the warping. 

• In some cases, holes drilled into the subfloor can facilitate drying.

• Strategic removal of some ceramic tiles can permit top-down drying.

• If the plywood subfloor continues to exhibit warping even after appropriate drying, it may need full or partial replacement, requiring removing all ceramic tiles before resetting.

Your ceramic tile floors are in good hands with SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown if in need of water damage mitigation. Call us at (816) 895-8890 to explore your options.

How Do Local Disaster Recovery Leaders Handle Kansas City Fire Cleanup and Restoration Best?

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

IICRC Training and State-of-the-Art Products and Equipment are Why SERVPRO Should be Your First Call for Kansas City Water and Fire Damage Restorations

Fire cleanup and restoration in Kansas City takes teamwork and a 24/7 workforce response. An investment in an extensive inventory of immediately available and cutting edge resources stocked on our ready-to-roll service vehicles is also critical:

• Proprietary cleaning and antimicrobial products 

• Tools and supplies
• Mitigation, remediation, and deodorization equipment 

What Is the Rush When Reacting to Fire Damage?

After the chaos and fear engendered by a Kansas City house fire, you might want to collect your thoughts before devising a plan after researching the issues. Realistically the clock is ticking even before the fire department takes its leave, impelled by the rapid and destructive action on building materials of both firefighting water and smoke and soot residues. Feel confident in calling us immediately as:

• Reviews confirm SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown’s place as a leading local smoke and fire damage restoration contractor.

• We are also rated as the #1 rated water damage restoration company in Kansas City, including working with firefighting fluids.
• Our management  strives to measure our response time in minutes, so SERVPRO can pledge that our experienced crews get an essential jump on all aspects of fire restoration. 

Who Can Help Me with Insurance Documentation and Communication During My Kansas City Fire Restoration Project?

We hold preferred vendor status for many insurance and property management companies because of our reputation for the highest quality customer service delivered with integrity and professionalism. Our excellent working relationships with insurers are other reasons why SERVPRO streamlines your fire damage project’s positive outcomes.

House fire clean up proceeds more smoothly when a scalable and well-equipped workforce responds fast, why SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown should help you shoulder the load from initial assessment through comprehensive restoration. Call us at (816) 895-8890 to partner with our team.

Is It Dangerous for Homeowners to Do Their Own Stormwater Removal in Kansas City?

8/15/2021 (Permalink)

Has your area recently been affected by storm damage? Team SERVPRO can help with cleanup and water removal. We are standing by to take your call.

Take Advantage of SERVPRO’s Skilled Crews and High-Capacity Equipment for Storm Flooding Mitigation and Remediation in Kansas City

Property owners naturally feel responsible for repairing any kind of harm to their dwelling, but Kansas City stormwater removal is a formidable task. Torrential rains and overland flooding can quickly fill all the recesses and cavities in your home’s lower levels. A leaking roof from storms activity might funnel water over ceilings and between walls, with the fluids migrating unchecked throughout the house.

Why Is Professional Assessment Necessary to Locate Trapped Water?

When water becomes trapped inside building structures in Kansas City, the potential for structural collapse increases rapidly. When SERVPRO crews answer a call for help, the first task on the agenda is a safety hazard assessment. In addition to controlling for slips and falls, contaminated water, and electrical shock, our project manager evaluates structures for hidden caches of water by looking for signs:

• Bulging ceilings or walls

• New staining on surfaces

• “Sweating” on surfaces

• Pooling of water on lower levels without overland flooding or foundation seepage
• Infrared imaging indicating fluids behind walls, under floors, in cinder block foundations without with flooding or seepage from saturated ground

How Do SERVPRO Professionals Manage Safe Stormwater Removal?

Some significant controlled demolition will become necessary to release the water and open up wet cavities for effective structural drying. Trained IICRC-certified professionals should perform the intentional demolition to limit the chance of structural collapse. Controlled demolition methods include:

• Punching weep holes in ceilings, from the edge of the room to the center

• Removal of baseboards to cut or drill drainage holes to release stormwater between walls

• Sawing of flood cuts several inches above floodlines between studs, taking professional care to avoid wiring and other utility conduits

• Removing disintegrated drywall and plaster during the flood cut process while opening up wet spaces for better airflow to facilitate rapid drying

• Drilling holes in mortar joints to remove stormwater from cement block cells and brickwork

Partner with SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown for stormwater removal. Call (816) 895-8890 day or night to request assistance.

How Can I Avoid Needing Professional Mold Remediation for My Kansas City Business?

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let mold colonize in your office. Call SERVPRO! We can locate the moisture source and remove the mold.

There Are Ways to Prevent Mold, But Sometimes Mold Remediation is Unavoidable

The seeds of mold, called “spores,” are omnipresent in the environment, so there is always a chance that mold colonies might grow somewhere in your Kansas City business. If this happens, it could impact your facilities, damage your inventory, or even force you to cease operations.

SERVPRO’s mold remediation experts in Kansas City know that it is exceedingly difficult for business owners to prevent mold growth because mold spores can be found floating in the air almost anywhere. These airborne seeds are relatively harmless until they land on a surface where the right conditions exist for them to sprout and grow into thriving colonies. To prevent this from happening, our mold specialists suggest that you:

• Look for and try to eliminate all potential water sources that mold can use to survive
• Avoid using wooden elements and furnishings in moisture-rich parts of your business, like kitchens and restrooms, whenever possible
• Maintain interior temperatures below 77 F
• Keep interior humidity levels under 55% with dehumidifiers, if necessary
• Treat water/moisture-prone areas of your business with antifungals

If, after taking these measures, you are unable to prevent mold issues, SERVPRO can assist you with mold inspection, mold removal, and black mold damage repairs.

Whenever you need us, your neighborhood SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is ready to do whatever it takes to complete your mold remediation job. Call us anytime at (816) 895-8890 for assistance.

Why Should I Consider Using SERVPRO’s Water Restoration Service in Kansas City?

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can impact any area of your home. SERVPRO can locate the moisture source and restore your home.

SERVPRO Is Uniquely Suited for Performing Local Water Restoration Work

At any moment, a water leak could impact your Kansas City residence. Such a leak could come in many forms, occur at varying speeds, and be of differing levels of severity. Regardless of how they result, SERVPRO is uniquely capable of remediating their effects.

SERVPRO, a Kansas City water restoration company, is experienced in handling a wide variety of water leaks and cleaning up the issues they cause. Our skilled technicians have successfully performed water damage remediation work on the effects of ceiling leaks, burst pipes, and basement flooding caused by leaky water containers and malfunctioning appliances.

Some reasons why we are so effective at cleaning up and restoring water-damaged homes:

• We are strategically located in Kansas City, so our technicians, equipment, and facilities are often close enough to your home to offer you the fastest emergency water damage services
• Our experts are trained by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification in applied structural drying, applied microbial remediation, water damage restoration, carpet cleaning, color repair, and odor control
• The SERVPRO arsenal contains all the latest industry tools, like powerful wet vacs and extractors, advanced air movers and dehumidifiers, cutting edge Injectidry systems, and state-of-the-art foggers that disinfect and deodorize even the most inaccessible areas

As you can see, SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is well-prepared to help you with all of your water restoration needs. Whenever you need us, call (816) 895-8890 for assistance.

What Do Kansas City Fire Damage Cleanup Crews Typically Encounter After a Fire?

7/16/2021 (Permalink)

Following a Fire, Cleanup Crews in Kansas City Often Find Certain Types of Fire Damage

When a fire ravages your Kansas City home, it usually leaves behind certain kinds of damage. These fire-related scars affect surfaces around your residence, foul its air in at least a couple of ways, injure its structure and contents, and ultimately impact its overall livability.

After years of performing fire damage cleanup work in Kansas City, SERVPRO technicians have grown accustomed to finding particular types of fire and smoke damage. While completing their house fire clean up efforts, our professionals have generally found:

• Foul, smoke particle-laden air throughout fire damaged homes
• Acidic, fire-related residues that discolor and corrode, or otherwise harm any surfaces they are deposited on
• Scorched or charred structural elements and household contents
• Seriously damaged rooms or areas of houses that require substantial reconstructive efforts.
• Smoke particle-coated HVAC ductwork that could facilitate the further fouling of interior air

After discovering such issues, SERVPRO employs its specialized fire damage restoration expertise and equipment to return your residence to its pre-fire condition as soon as possible. Some of the state-of-the-art tools that enable us to do this are air movers, air scrubbers, ozone machines, advanced foggers, and a wide array of commercial-grade deodorants.

So, if you ever suffer a house fire and need fire damage cleanup assistance, call your helpful neighbors at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown. We are always ready for your call at (816) 895-8890.

Prompt Water Removal After Flooding in Kansas City

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's skilled water damage control technicians can deploy LGR low grain refrigerant dehumidifiers in commercial and residential properties

Don’t Let Interior Flooding Wreak Havoc on Your Kansas City Home – Call SERVPRO for Water Removal Services

There could be many events that cause water to flood your interior. Regardless of the cause, be it burst pipes or a faulty appliance, you need skilled water damage remediation – and fast! Even if you have a shop vac handy to try to pull up water, you may not have the capacity for the standing water before it migrates into dry spaces. SERVPRO arrives quickly to get started on the assessment so that water clean up may begin.

Standing water has a significant impact on your interior and structural elements. This is why rapid water removal in Kansas City is best.  The longer it takes to remove water, the higher the risk of secondary damage and mold development. Some effects on your home happen right away after the water emergency, while others start to develop over time.

Common issues that arise from standing water include:

• Corrosion or discoloration on various surfaces
• Floorings that buckle, delaminate, or collapse
• Plaster and drywall begin to disintegrate
• Walls could warp and paint or wallpaper bubbles or peels
• Any water that migrates gets trapped behind walls and other areas difficult to access

SERVPRO has skilled water restoration technicians (WRT) on the team to handle water removal services using state-of-the-art tools and EPA-registered cleaning agents, including:

• Powerful pumps and extractors with the capacity to pull up hundreds of gallons of water
• Industrial-grade air movers, high-velocity fans, and dehumidification equipment
• Floor pads and Injectidry technology to address hidden moisture under flooring and behind walls

Let us handle your water removal and water damage repairs! Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown at (816) 895-8890 for emergency response.

SERVPRO Kansas City Participates in Charity Golf Tournament to Benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Our team had a great time at the recent Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City Legacy Golf Tournament. It was a beautiful day of playing golf.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown proudly joined other local business leaders to raise awareness for Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City playing in the Legacy Golf Invitational Tournament, the premier entertainment golf tourney in the area. 

The tournament took place Monday, May 25, 2021, at Loch Lloyd Golf Club and hosted the BBBS KC.  All of the golfers were treated to a memorable experience as the Legacy Invitational has been designed to deliver a top-notch experience to both local and visiting golfers, including: 

• Exceptional gifts for the golfers given post-tournament
• A pre-tee-off gourmet prepared breakfast and coffee bar
• Relaxing massages
• For smoking aficionados, a fabulous cigar emporium

During the tournament, the golfers had their cars washed on-site. The course-play saw different challenges set up along the way with prizes.  Since golfing can be a parching game, hospitality tents were placed along the course to serve up refreshments, lunch, and any needed golfing supplies. 

Once the game ended, the teams took part in a 19 Hole Reception at the Clubhouse, where the winners were announced, and each golfer left with a bouquet of fresh flowers. Special thanks to Rob Smith for taking photos of this fun occasion; we look forward to lending our support to Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City for future events. 

Fire and Smoke Cleanup When You Need It in Kansas City

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO with Fire and Smoke Cleanup So Your Kansas City Property Is Like-New Again

Even a more minor fire can leave behind copious amounts of smoke and soot residue. Waiting too long to address smoke damage opens up the potential for costly secondary damage due to corrosion and odor penetration. Depending on the type of fire, the materials burned, and the temperature, your interior may call for specialized cleaning techniques. SERVPRO promises that We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, bringing our customers the results they deserve.

Fire and smoke damage and cleanup in Kansas City require a multi-faceted approach. The best first step is assessing fire damaged homes to determine the right way to approach smoke remediation and overall cleanup. SERVPRO works to restore rather than replace, which means saving building materials, furnishings, and personal belongings with careful cleaning and foul odor removal methods.

Note: SERVPRO also offers pack-up/move-out services – this allows us to relocate valued possessions and contents for off-site cleaning.

In many cases, we handle smoke damage and non-oily residue with mild surface agitation. Such mechanical action is good for contents that cannot be immersed, washed, or do not have a smooth surface. Some of the options we have for cleaning include:

• Vacuums
• Feather dusters
• Compressed air
• Paintbrushes
• And more

No two house fire clean up projects are the same, and we tailor our methods to meet our goals for each job. Odor control and indoor air quality (IAQ) are two areas where our team excels, ensuring we leave no trace of the fire behind once we wrap up the project.

You can reach SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown by calling (816) 895-8890 so that we can send out a team for fire and smoke cleanup!

Kansas City Residents Get Peace of Mind with Professional Storm Damage Restoration

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

Storm water mitigation and drying Kansas City properties is a cornerstone of SERVPRO services. Advanced equipment, minimal demolition

SERVPRO Can Handle Storm and Flood Damage When You Need It in Kansas City – Call Us 24/7

If a recent storm left you with damage, including floodwater with debris and dirt, you need to know that DIY cleanup alone is not enough. Contaminated water from rain storms brings biohazards best left to emergency services water damage professionals. SERVPRO can come to your Kansas City property to handle any water that raged through your neighborhood. When we get done, your property can be back to pre-storm condition.

With our experience handling flooding and storm damage in Kansas City, you can rest easy knowing your property is in good hands. We are ready and on-call 24 hours a day, every day of the week. We feature a Green Fleet filled with all the equipment and tools necessary to quickly and efficiently address standing water, repairs, excessive moisture levels, and more.

Steps our water restoration technicians (WRT) take in any storm, and flood damage events include:

• Placement of tarps over damaged areas on your roof
• Boarding up of damaged windows and doors
• Rapid water removal services using high-powered extractors and pumps
• Drying and dehumidification by our applied structural drying technicians (ASD)
• Hidden moisture detection using sensors and meters
• Total cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfection
• Repairs using controlled demolition, as needed

With controlled demolition, we address any non-salvageable materials with excessive water damage or contamination. Everything is reconstructed with all-new materials to make your home “Like it never even happened.”

When a storm rolls through, know that you have a team on your side at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown to handle the damage. We are available 24/7, including overnights, weekends, and holidays. Call us for flood restoration at (816) 895-8890!

Addressing Kansas City Ceiling Leaks After Storm Damage

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

Ceiling water damage is common after storms. SERVPRO has the tools to make it "Like it never even happened."

Floodwater can Come in Through Your Ceiling, Causing Immense Storm Damage – Let SERVPRO Restore Your Kansas City Home!

Severe weather may bring on high winds and heavy rain – leading to a leaking roof from storms. All Kansas City property owners must know what to do should water damage form due to a recent storm. The sooner you enlist the help of trained SERVPRO technicians to handle water damage remediation, the easier the clean-up and repair will be!

Storm damage in Kansas City can happen at any time, but SERVPRO is the team to call when you require ceiling repairs from water damages. There are a few telltale signs to help determine whether you have water damage from a storm, including:

• Excessive dripping
• Stains on your interior walls or ceilings
• Damp or soft spots on your roof
• Materials that begin to sag
• Notable signs of structural collapse

Should you have ceiling leaks and roof damage, SERVPRO offers emergency board-up and tarping services to keep your interior from suffering excess loss. We will also handle all debris removal, water extraction, and drying required during the restoration process.

You must know what to do and who you can call once you suffer from storm damage that impacts your home. SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown has a Green Fleet filled with equipment, and we can dispatch a crew to your home within hours of your call. Reach us at (816) 895-8890, 24/7!

Fire Damage May Require a Move Out of Your Kansas City Business

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

Kansas City Commercial Spaces Impacted by Fire Damage may Require Pack-Out/Move-Out Services From SERVPRO

As a business owner, you know you must watch your budget and overall business operations. If you have a fire, be it big or small, you may need to think about having items packed up and moved out to get stored or cleaned off-site. SERVPRO offers a no-fuss pack-out service for Kansas City business owners so that your fire damage restoration project goes off without a hitch.

Fire damage at your Kansas City commercial space must include clean-up of charred debris as well as detailed smoke remediation. When needed, SERVPRO can help with affordable move-out service:

• Pack-out/move-out allows items like equipment, office furniture, documents, and more to get packed up and moved to a secure destination during fire restoration.
• While not always necessary, a move-out is a great way to open up space so that our skilled fire and smoke damage technicians can get to work.
• SERVPRO always carefully logs and monitors inventory before and during moving to ensure everything is in place. 
• Once cleaning is complete, we return all items to your Kansas City business. 

Minimizing additional damage during fire restoration is imperative with our team at Kansas City Midtown. Call us at (816) 895-8890 when you need emergency service. We have crews standing by 24/7 – We Are Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Kansas City Homes Need Speedy Restoration to Handle Storm Flood Damage

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Sometimes flood cuts are necessary to expose the structure for drying. You can trust the professionals of SERVPRO to restore you home.

Let SERVPRO Take Care of Your Flood Damage Needs After a Storm Rolls Through the Kansas City Area!

Not only is Kansas City known for being the largest city within the state of Missouri, but it is also the sixth-largest across the entire Midwest. Founded in the 1830s, Kansas City comprises several prominent neighborhoods, including Country Club Plaza, 18th and Vine District, and River Market District.

Dining and Sipping Your Way Through Kansas City

Grabbing a bite to eat or cooling down with a refreshing beverage is easy in Kansas City, with all of the fantastic options from which to choose. Whether you are looking for a local bakery to grab something quick for breakfast or planning a night out with friends, you will discover something for everyone to experience. Top stops in the area for restaurants and pubs include:

• Q39 – Midtown
• 801 Chop House
• Pierpont’s at Union Station
• Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
• Café Trio Restaurant
• Blue Nile Cafe

Taking Time to Explore the Attractions Kansas City Has to Offer

Are you hoping to learn more about Kansas City, Missouri history or wish to experience local parks and nature destinations? There are many beautiful things to see, do, and enjoy when you are in the area, including top attractions like:

• National WWI Museum and Memorial –Located on 2 Memorial Drive, this is an outstanding museum and war memorial dedicated to the history and memory of WWI and the impact on the local and global community as a whole. 
• Kansas City Zoo –Whether you are an animal buff looking to learn about specific species or you want to enjoy a memorable day out, you will find this world-famous zoo on Zoo Drive will make an excellent destination. Here, over 1700 amazing animals are housed across over 200 acres, making it an ideal stop for the whole family. Be sure to look at the regular events and activities scheduled each weekend.
• Arabia Steamboat Museum –Grand Boulevard is where you will find this unique destination filled with the rich history surrounding steamboats and the related industry. The museum itself houses 200 tons of impressive cargo dating back to life in the 1856 American frontier. 

Flood Damage Restoration Calls for Extraction, Drying, and Proven SERVPRO Techniques for Kansas City Residents

SERVPRO technicians are available to ensure your Kansas City property gets back on track following flooding from a recent storm. As a property owner, the last thing you want to face will be costly repairs from a leaking roof from storms or floodwater seeping into your ground floor. We feature high-tech tools, equipment, and proven techniques to get results quickly.

When you call us for help with flood damage in Kansas City, we can assess damage intensity behind walls and within ductwork using borescopes. Such equipment is useful for:

• Gaining access to hard-to-reach areas
• Minimizing the need for wall demolition
• Capturing video and images in challenging spaces

You never want moisture trapped behind walls, within tight spaces, or behind baseboards where it can lead to potential mold growth. Our skilled IICRC-technicians perform water damage remediation to scope out hidden moisture to ensure it gets addressed accordingly.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is the team you want in your corner for help with flood damage after a powerful storm. Call us at (816) 895-8890 for 24/7 emergency response.

How to Minimize the Risk of a Kitchen Fire

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Damage from a fire in a Kansas City kitchen.

Most of us are so at home in our kitchens, we hardly take any notice of any potential risk or problems. Besides burning dinner or having the potatoes boil over, we assume we are fine.

But fires happen in kitchens all the time. In fact, well over half of the fires that start in our homes start in the kitchen. Clearly, we need to be more aware. People can get seriously injured, our homes get damaged or destroyed, and people lose their lives.

How to Minimize the Risk of a Kitchen Fire

There are so many easy ways to make sure we are safe while using our kitchens. So many fires are completely preventable.

Check Smoke Detectors

These are supposed to be checked at least semi-annually for the entire household. Change the batteries in all your detectors and check to make sure they are working.

Don’t Leave Cooking Unattended

It only takes a second for something to go wrong when you are cooking. If you need to leave the room, even for a minute, turn the burners off. Elements won’t cool down very fast, so food will continue to cook, and gas stoves will heat right back up again.

We live in an age where we are constantly distracted. Phones and gadgets can all be attention-grabbers. If you use an electronic device for your recipes, shut off email, texts, and other messaging applications so you won’t lose yourself in the banality.

Keep Area Clean

Grease from cooking can build up on the stovetop, above the stove, and on the backsplash. Wipe these down after each use or at the end of the day. Spilled or dropped food items or liquids can start a fire in seconds, whether you are in the room or not.

Remove things like potholders, tea towels, paper towels, cookbooks, aprons, and the like from coming in contact with the flame, the hot pot, or the burner. These can ignite in a flash and they crumble and bits can go everywhere, starting a larger fire.

Remove all packaging right away from the food you open, the wrappers, the grocery bags, and put them in the garbage. Make sure nothing was spilled from them when they were opened.

Wear Appropriate Clothing

Avoid wearing long floppy sleeves with wide wrists, clothing that flows out or can get caught on knobs, handles or pot handles, and tie your hair back. Always use oven mitts or a potholder when touching hot lids or handles. Wear an apron and make sure your feet are covered and comfortable.

Keep Kids Away

Many kids are eager to help out in the kitchen. Give them a task they can safely do and make sure they are seated away from the stove. Always educate them on kitchen safety, heat, knives, appliances, everything.

They can get in and get underfoot, as can the family dog or cat. They are all interested when there is food being prepared. Be aware of where they are to prevent accidents from happening.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher

You should always have a fire extinguisher handy. A small one in the kitchen can save your kitchen and save lives. Baking soda, a lid, and education will help you if you know how to use them, and when.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

If you do have a fire in your kitchen, contact SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown. We can clean and restore your home as good as new. We have highly trained fire restoration technicians with all the right tools and knowledge.

5 Tips for Keeping Your Commercial Building Free from Mold

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Mold remediation in a Kansas City hotel.

Mold and mildew don’t need very much encouragement to grow. Once it starts, it can spread very quickly. Not only can it cause damage, but it can affect people’s health.

Mold can grow on a variety of surfaces, cloth, carpets, drywall, and wood. With a large commercial building keeping everyone cool or warm, condensation can form and provide the mold the moisture it needs to spread.

5 Tips for Keeping Your Commercial Building Free from Mold

Regular cleanings and maintenance inspections will help keep mold from taking over the building, in particular, areas that are not often used.

1. Deep Cleaning

Start with your HVAC system. Getting it cleaned, changing or cleaning the filters, and keeping it in great form will help stop the spread of mold spores. The vents, ducts, and the rest all need to be maintained.

When the air is not moving through the vents, dust and mold can just sit there, so when you turn it back on, the room fills with it all. Any amount of hair, dust, dirt, animal hair and waste, and mold can be in the vents.

The mold can get inside these areas and grow. There are times when you don’t need the system, so have it maintained in the spring and fall, to be safe. Reducing the movement of the mold will help considerably.

2. Dehumidify

Condensation can form during the hot months, during the cold months, at any time. A commercial building will have a lot of people, and people can cause condensation.

A dehumidifier will help draw moisture out of the air. It can make a big difference in a building that is very populated and turning off the heat or air conditioning is not an option.

Put them in areas when moisture is prevalent. Basements, upper floors, kitchens or cafeterias, shower rooms, laundry rooms, and anywhere that has excessive moisture. They are available in different sizes.

3. Make Repairs

Fixing small problems will help them from becoming big problems. Leaks in the roof or foundation, cracks in the walls or foundation, gaps around windows, taps or pipes that drip, or leak, and faulty thermostats.

These can all allow heat and cold air in or out, which means it makes it harder to control the humidity inside the building. Damp patches or pooling water, or a recent flood, should all be taken care of right away. Hire a professional.

4. Regular Checks

Building maintenance should be looking for anything suspicious on a regular basis. Keeping an eye on areas that have higher concentrations of moisture or humidity for signs.

Dark spots, fuzzy patches, musty smells, can all appear anywhere. Carpets, walls, ceilings, floors, and under sinks, behind walls in shower rooms, laundry room, bathrooms, and kitchen areas.

5. Regular Inspections

It’s a great idea to have your maintenance team take care of regular checks and repairs, but hiring a professional to inspect the building can be a great help. They can spot areas that may be developing mold that you are not aware of.

They are also great at finding areas of potential mold, too, so you can stop it before it gets a chance to start.

If you find mold, call in a professional team to take care of it right away. You don’t want to try and clean it by yourself. Professionals have the right tools and products to take care of it.

You can trust SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown to take care of any mold problems you encounter in your commercial building. Contact us today for a professional cleaning.

8 Reasons Your Toilet May Be Leaking

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

A leaking toilet in a Kansas City home.

Our toilets are one of the most common causes of leaks in our homes. While it may not be leaking out onto the floor, it can still be leaking inside. This can cost you money.

If there is water around the base of your toilet, you need to address it right away. There could be a lot of damage happening beneath the surface, and it may have been going on for some time.

8 Reasons Your Toilet May Be Leaking

Water leaking around your toilet can soak into the floor and beyond.

1. Cracked Tank or Bowl

While tanks and the bowls are pretty durable, they can get cracks. These often start with a small, hairline crack, but can get bigger. Toilets may get shifted or jarred and can get cracked in the back where you won’t notice them. They may have simply been faulty, as well.

2. Worn Washers

There are two large bolts that keep the tank attached to the bowl, and two more that keep the toilet bolted to the floor. If the bolts or washers get stripped, rusted out, break, or wear out, they won’t be able to hold it all together.

3. Pipe Corrosion

There could be corrosion in your pipes because of age, impurities in the water, or heavy metals in your water. Rust will develop in the metallic portions of the toilet because of this corrosion.

Pipe corrosion can often cause a lot of damage because you often don’t know it is even there. It starts inside the pipes, so it could be there for a long time before you even see any signs of trouble.

4. Float

The float is the hollow ball that floats on the surface of the water in your toilet tank. It can become unhooked, cracked, or it isn’t lined up properly, the fill valve may run too much, causing a leak. The chain may come off, or if it gets a crack, it can take on water and not work properly.

5. Faulty Supply Line

If there is any kind of damage to supply lines, it can put a major strain on your toilet. Sometimes, if the joints in a supply line come undone and break down, water starts to drip out. The rubber lining in a supply line can also start to leak after several years.

6. Worn-Out Fill Valve

The fill valve on the toilet can also wear down over time. This is often due to mineral deposits, but they can also rust. If enough builds up to warp the fill valve, it can stop working properly, preventing your toilet from shutting off and causing leakage.

7. Stuck or Worn-out Flapper

The flapper is that plug in the bottom of your tank. It releases the water when you flush. If it gets stuck, either open or closed, you have a problem. This can also happen if your handle is stuck.

If the flapper is stuck open, the fill valve will not shut off, so it will just keep running. If the flapper wears out, no longer fits properly, or gets a tear, then it will not be able to regulate the water in the tank.

8. Broken Connections

Your toilet has many different connectors that prevent water leaks. If any of these connections lose their seal, water may end up on your bathroom floor. You can check your toilet’s connections to see if there are any problems before they turn into leaks.

Water Damage From Leaks

Don’t despair over the damage caused by your leaking toilet. Call the experts at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown to clean it up.

Weathering Winter Storms With SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration after a winter storm in Kansas City resulted in frozen water pipes.

Winter can really wreak havoc on your home and property. When disaster strikes, it is worse when it is freezing outside. All too often, one disaster can lead to another.

Made worse by fluctuating temperatures, ice and snow will intermittently melt and freeze. Add heavy snow or sleet, high winds, and even just the weight of the snow, it can be a massive headache for homeowners.

Winter Storms and Problems

Even if you prepare for winter, freezing temperatures and winter storms can still cause damage.

Roof

Heavy snow and ice can damage your roof, even to the point of collapse. If there were already small cracks or holes, the snow and ice can settle in there. This is bad news.

When the sun hits the roof, the snow and ice melt, soaking into any little crevice it can find. This alone causes damage but when it refreezes, it expands, causing even more damage.

Without proper repairs or insulation, it can cause water to pool and then freeze. It can damage vents, your eaves troughs, and tear up your shingles or tiles. Drips, floods, or worse, a cave-in can mean a big job and a big mess.

If you add in blowing wind and snow or sleet, it can tear the shingles right off, not to mention damage your chimney. The wind can also tear off nearby branches and that can fall against your home, damaging the roof and more.

Siding

When the wind blows it causes pressure against the siding and allows moisture to get up underneath of it all. That can seep into your walls and down into the foundation.

Flooding

Floods are a massive problem in severe weather. Whether they start from the roof or fill your basement, they are a common problem. Melting snow and ice can overwhelm your drainage system and flood the yard, the home, and your neighborhood.

Depending on what pipes have ruptured, there can be a problem with toxic or dangerous substances involved. This is not something you can handle on your own.

Frozen Pipes

Frozen or bursting pipes are one of the most common winter problems we encounter. One of the biggest concerns is that you may not know it has burst until it begins to thaw out again.

This can flood the area and cause structural damage to the home. Floods in cold weather can lead to more damage if the water is running into an unheated area. This can turn your basement or crawl space into a hockey rink.

What’s Next?

If you are caught in a winter storm that has caused some severe damage to your home, you do not need to fix it on your own. If it is a water-related problem, shut off the main water source and call your plumber.

You will need a team who can come in and clean up the damage caused by the broken pipes. You want a company that will arrive quickly, assess the damage, and gets to work right away.

Covering up any open holes or broken windows should be done to prevent further damage before the clean-up can get started. This type of storm damage needs to be treated right away.

Cleaning and Restoration

If you find yourself with winter storm damage, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown. We provide fast and efficient 24-hour service for emergencies.

We are faster in a disaster and specialize in water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We have extensive water damage restoration training that helps you get back to normal more quickly.

Fire Restoration Tips for Your Kansas City Business

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration after a fire in a Kansas City business.

Very few events in our lives are more shocking and devastating than a fire. It happens suddenly and completely disrupts our lives. If this has happened to you and your business, all is not lost.

The most important thing to know is, you are not alone. Help is available and you should be able to get your business back up and running just as it was before.

After The Fire at Your Business

Getting out of the building alive is your number one priority. Everything thing else can be restored or replaced.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Call them as soon as you can. They will handle all the necessary paperwork, inspections, and anything else that needs to be dealt with.

They will also have some recommendations for cleaning and restoration companies that will get your place of business back together. A company that works with your insurance company and complies with the terms of your insurance agreement.

Choosing a Cleaning Company

You want to choose a company that will work quickly and communicates with you clearly and in a timely manner. With a lot of fire, smoke, and water damage, it needs to be taken care of as soon as possible.

Depending on what was burnt will also depend on what type of residue is remaining. There may be toxic fumes, exposed wires, holes, fallen beams, and damaged walls.

They should be able to safely remove everything, including hazardous wastes safely. Getting everything out will allow them to assess the damage faster and set out a plan for rebuilding.

It’s much better if you can find a company that will take care of all the damage and restores the building or space that was damaged. It makes it much easier for you and the insurance company to put the trust in one team, rather than trying to find several.

If they can handle all the damages that occur from a fire, that is a bonus. If they are also able to make the repairs, replace the carpet, drywall, and paint, then you are cutting the time and the job in half.

Ideally, you want a company to be able to come in and handle the entire process from the assessment to the final consultation. When you have the same team throughout, you can be assured that they are familiar with the place, the process, and what the terms of your insurance are.

Prevention and Education

The company you choose for the cleaning and restoration should also be able to consult with you on why the fire happened and what you can do in the future to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

Even if you were not directly responsible, having regular inspections, fire drills, and being aware of what the most frequent causes of fires are will ensure you don’t have another one too soon.

Prevention is key. Make sure you have working detectors in your place of business, clearly defined fire exits, and what to do if there is a fire. Have your fire extinguishers checked regularly, as per the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Count on Professionals

If you need help after a business fire, contact SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown. We can take care of everything from after the fire to your grand re-opening. With 9 project managers on staff for all of our claims you will be well taken care of, from start to finish we will be your one point for all of your questions. We communicate with the insurance company, property manager and anyone else you want looped into our daily updates.

Contact us for business restoration after a fire. We are a trusted leader in the restoration business and can offer 24-hour emergency service.

6 Steps to Take When Your Commercial Building Has Mold

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Mold in the bathroom of a commercial building in Kansas City.

Mold is never a welcome sight. It’s also not something you should tend to on your own. This is a job for professionals. There is more to taking care of mold than just cleaning it up. You want to make sure it doesn’t come back.

Unfortunately, mold can start to grow in any number of places, and not always obvious ones. If there is excess moisture it can start growing on carpets, behind appliances, in the ceiling, insulation, paper, wood, and even in your ventilation system.

If you discover mold or even suspect you may have it, you should take steps right away to get rid of it. It will spread very quickly and not only pose health effects but can cause damage to the property.

What to Do When You Discover Mold

It is important that you act quickly when mold is discovered. 

1. Alert People

Let people living or working in the building know that there has been mold discovered and move them to a different area. People can experience health effects to the spores let out by growing mold. 

2. Ventilate The Area

Do your best to get air moving through the space. Open doors, windows, or use fans to start getting the moisture down and the air flowing. Once the cleanup starts, the mold spores can get disturbed. 

3. Remove Water

Clean up the water or the leak that is causing the mold to grow. If you are not clear where it is coming from, call your maintenance team or your plumber to check it out.

Clean up all the water that may be pooling in the area. If it is a lot, get professionals to do it for you. The water needs to be removed and the source needs to be stopped.

4. Discard Moldy Items

Remove carpet, books, cloth, boxes, anything that has come in contact with the mold. Anything that can’t be cleaned completely should be bagged up and discarded. Always wear protective gear, like a face mask, gloves, or anything you have available.

5. Call The Professionals

You really need to call professionals in to clean up the mold and affected area. They know what to look for, how to identify different types of molds, have the proper cleaning supplies, and the proper clothing protection need.

6. Education and Prevention

Once your building has been given the all-clear, people can return to those areas. It is important that people are aware of the causes and signs of mold or even potential mold.

Everyone should be made aware of the signs to look for and where mold is most likely to appear. Basements, laundry room, breakrooms, washrooms, and mop closets.

Look behind appliances, in corners, on the ceiling, and anywhere there may be damp spots, leaks, or water pooling.

Repair all leaking taps, pipes, or appliances that use water.

Have the HVAC system checked regularly, twice a year is recommended. Spring and fall work best.

Have regular cleaning maintenance on floors, walls, common areas, and basements.

Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

Regardless of your role in the commercial building, you should never have to take these types of jobs on yourself. Find a trusted professional team you can count on to service your building regularly.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is just such a team. From cleaning to inspecting and damage recovery, we are the company to trust, contact us today!

Why SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is the New Standard of Clean

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Hallway in a Kansas City business during the COVID-19 pandemic.

If this past year has taught us anything, it’s the need to be clean. While wearing masks and keeping our hands clean help us personally, what about all the surfaces we encounter every day?

If you are slowly reopening your business, you want to be able to promise your team and your customers that your business is safe. This may not be an easy task. People are reluctant to gather and enter places that are not on the necessity list.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is going the extra mile to make sure you get the best cleaning possible to ensure a safer place of business for everyone. It is understandable people will be leery, but we have to start somewhere.

From office buildings to nursing homes, SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown will design a cleaning program suited specifically for you. Not everyone’s needs will be the same, nor should they be.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is dedicated to inspiring confidence in communities across the country as we all find our way to a new normal. And they are doing just that with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

What is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned?

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is our new defensive pathogen cleaning program. It goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning.

We have set up a new cleaning program, developed to serve all of our customer’s needs and businesses. Starting with our very own Three Cs Program.

The Three Cs programs help make sure you get the cleaning service that is designed just for you. It is a program you can trust to get the most professional and deep clean available.

Consult:

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown will take a look at your business, ask you questions about what you do and what your needs are, and then design a cleaning regime that will be unique to you and the needs agreed upon by both parties.

Clean:

Our team will arrive with all the products and tools needed for the clean designed for your business. You can expect an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards that have been set by the CDC.

Certify:

When the team has finished cleaning and inspected everything, they mark it with the shield of approval by posting The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield in the front window.

Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers, and community. Let others know you care enough to get the very best.

This shield tells your community you care about their health and well-being. So when you see the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield, you can walk in with confidence. Because you’ll know the #1 choice in clean up and restoration was there.

Trust the Professionals

Getting your business back open is a big enough job for you and your team. Before you start, start with a clean, sanitized space that will be safe for all your employees and customers.

Contact SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown today if you need help getting your business back on track and open to the public. We are available for 24-hour emergency services and work with residential and commercial buildings.

With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown Professionals to bring a higher standard of cleanliness to the places we gather.

Why Even Small Water Leaks Need to be Fixed Immediately

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Damage from a small water leak in a Kansas City home.

Dripping faucets or a small leak behind the dishwasher might not seem like a big deal, but it can be costly. More importantly, you need to worry about the small drips and leaks that you can’t see.

Water damage is one of the worst nightmares for any homeowner because it has the potential to wreak havoc with everything. Wood, concrete, insulation, and the roof down to the foundation.

How Do I Know if I Have A Leak?

It’s those leaks that are quietly ruining your home that you need to be worried about the most. The ones you can’t see. Here are a few signs to keep in mind.

• Higher humidity
• Stains or damp patches
• Peeling wallpaper
• Soft areas on the floor
• Musty or moldy odors
• Sagging floors or ceilings
• Lower than usual water pressure
• Rust in metal surfaces, like hinges and screws
• Mold or mildew forming
• Excessive condensation

If you have noticed any of these signs, you should call your plumber right away and have them checked out.

Get Small Leaks Fixed

Unfortunately, plumbing problems become whole-house problems. In particular, if they have been left for too long. The first sign of a leak should be taken care of right away.

Mold

All that mold needs to grow is moisture and a surface. It can grow rapidly and cause health effects. Mold lets off spores that can make your entire family sick. Mold and mildew can also cause a lot of damage to your home.

The smell of mold is exceedingly difficult to get rid of. It can eat away at almost any surface it is growing on. If it goes for too long without treatment, you will need to bring in experts to come and take care of it for you.

Floors and Walls

Pipes leaking under a sink in your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room can cause massive soft spots on the floor. Left alone, they can cause damage all the way through the flooring leading to holes.

The thing about water is that it continues to spread. This can move all the way over to walls, as well. Insulation, electrical wiring, and support beams can all be damaged without you ever knowing.

Safety First

Once the damage starts and the structure of the home is compromised, it can make it dangerous for people living there. Floors, walls, and ceilings are weakened and make it a hazard to be around.

People can trip if floors are weakened or carpets care lifting due to dampness. Lighting fixtures can become unsafe hanging from ceilings, and pipes can become corroded and break or start larger leaks.

The dangers of mold forming are also a health concern. The mold will continue to grow, even if it has been removed unless the leak is fixed, as well. Even if the mold doesn’t make you sick, it looks terrible.

Water damage of any kind decreases the value of your home and makes it look uncared for. Repairing the stains and blemishes of water damage without fixing the source is just throwing money away.

Clean-up and Restoration

Once you have located and fixed the leaking water, now you need to clean up the mess and fix the damage. Ideally, you want a company that can do both. That company is SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

Our team is certified and trained to make the water restoration process quick and easy. We understand that disasters never strike at a convenient time, that is why we are ready to respond 24-hours a day. 

Common Causes of Residential Fires and How to Avoid Them

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

The day after a fire in a Kansas City home.

The slightest misstep can cause untold damages in a house fire. These small accidents can turn into massive blazes within seconds. Even small fires can injure people and cost thousands in repairs.

The best way to prevent a fire in your home is by understanding how easily they can start.

Common Causes of Home Fires

Fires can start in several different ways, but the main cause of fires are heat and chemicals.

Kitchen Fires

Grease fires are extremely common while cooking. They are also known for getting completely out of hand very rapidly. Even a little bit of spilled grease will spread quickly and be very difficult to control.

Other culprits are smaller cooking appliances, like toasters, toaster ovens, and griddles. They can have an electrical short or frayed cord. They can start fires when they are touching other objects like the bread bag, a tea towel, or paper.

Avoid these fires by never leaving cooking food unattended. For a grease fire, DON’T PANIC. People tend to freak out and that’s where the fire can take control.

Turn the heat off and cover the pot with a metal lid. Never throw water on it or try to cover it with a towel. Keep baking soda nearby to toss on the grease fire, and your kitchen should always have a fire extinguisher.

Keep cookware clean and free of built-up grease. Clean out smaller appliances, like a toaster to get all the crumbs out. Never put small cooking appliances away hot.

Electrical Fires

Another area for fires in the home is electrical. These start from short circuits, circuits overheating. They can also be caused by frayed wires in the walls, broken or damaged cords, or poor electrical work.

These types of fires are very deadly, as we often don’t know they are even present. Some older homes can have wiring that is simply outdated. If you can’t blow dry your hair while mom makes toast, your wiring needs an upgrade.

Prevent overtaxing your electrical system. Don’t plug too many appliances into the same socket or power bar. This is vital at the holidays if you are putting up a tree and decorations that require electricity.

Always check your cords on your lights, lamps, all appliances, and extension cords.

Have regular inspections to make sure everything is working and there are no damages. Do not perform these inspections on your own. You may have more problems than you can see, like rodent damage or dampness.

Smoking

A dropped cigarette can start a fire so quickly, and it can travel fast. Carpets, furniture, beds, or newspapers and magazines.

Don’t smoke in the house.

Candles and Space Heaters

These two are also responsible for causing a lot of undue fires. Don’t leave either of these unattended, around children, or close to flammables.

After The Fire

If you have suffered a fire, you likely have a lot of smoke damage. Don’t attempt to clean it yourself. At SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown we are ready and waiting to take care of it for you.

From clean-up to restoration, we will take care of your home. Get in touch with us today!

Importance of Commercial Cleaning During COVID-19

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

Kansas City commercial hallway in need of COVID-19 cleaning.

Some business and public areas need to be open during the pandemic, such as retail stores, nursing homes, grocery stores, and other essential establishments. Keeping people safe and healthy needs to be the number one priority.

Chances are, the staff working or tenants living in the space are already busy enough just trying to do their own jobs. That’s why you need to consider using a professional commercial cleaning service.

Why You Should Use Professional Cleaners

Safety precautions, like masks and social distancing, are very important but can be extremely difficult to enforce. In particular, they are difficult to enforce in larger grocery stores, banks, and retail stores.

Slow The Spread

Doing everything we can to slow the spread of the virus will help keep everyone healthier. Employees often have no choice but to be close to each other, their customers, and delivery people.

All communal areas are at risk of being infected, putting employees and customers at risk. Breakrooms, office areas, washrooms, and the area where the general public are shopping or working.

Cleaner surfaces mean cleaner air quality. Whether it is an office building or a retail store, professional cleaners know where the germs are most likely to settle and can take of them quickly and efficiently.

Better, Stronger Products

A professional team of cleaners will also have access to cleaning and sanitation products that are not available off the shelf. It is vital that your commercial space is disinfected to keep everyone safe.

They will use approved disinfectants to sanitize the entire place, making sure there is less chance of germs settling and spreading. The sanitizing products that professionals use will be approved for COVID.

Professionals are Thorough

While your regular cleaners do a great job of cleaning and maintaining the area, the professionals will be able to come in and clean and disinfect everything. They don’t just do a surface cleaning, but the entire place will get sanitized.

If you need, walls, corners, ceiling, floors, vents, all areas where virus germs may have settled. They won’t just clean the most obvious areas that get a lot of traffic.

Proper Gear

From the protective gear they wear while working to the actual tools they use, you can trust that they will be protected and use the best types of equipment to protect you and your environment.

They know how to use their tools and what to do with them after they have finished. They will come in, do their jobs, and then take everything with them and dispose of it all properly.

A team of professionals will also have access to and follow the cleaning recommended guidelines put out by the CDC. This ensures your commercial area is getting the best possible cleaning for everyone’s safety.

Save Money

Depending on what type of commercial space you have, if you have regular cleaners or expect your employees to clean, that is putting many people at risk of getting sick.

Many people are working from home, but not everyone is willing to follow the rules. Sick time, medical expenses, and prolonged illness are what you really want to avoid.

You can’t be there for what they do in their own time, but you can ensure their safety on yours.

Why not trust your commercial cleaning to the professionals at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown? Contact us here with any questions you might have or to book an appointment.

You can depend on us to get the job done right and get it done quickly. Our highly trained technicians use top-of-the-line equipment to make your business shine again.

Fire or Water Damage? SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is there 24/7

12/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown equipment restoring a water-damaged kitchen.

If you have had to cope with a fire, flood, or water damage from leaks or even the result of your fire, the damage can be devastating. While a fire’s damage can be seen, the damage that water causes isn’t always as obvious.

If left unchecked, water can lead to serious structural damage to your home or business. Likewise, with fire, there can be many amounts of toxic ashes and residue left behind.

Fire Damage

Fire will damage and destroy plenty of items in the home, but can also do damage to the walls, textiles, contents, ceilings, and floors. Depending on what type of fire it was and where it originated.

Do not enter the home until it has been inspected and you have been given the all-clear. Your safety must come first. Plus, going into a home or building that has suffered fire damage can simply cause more.

Water Damage 

Water-logged floors, ceilings, and walls pose the same danger. They can be on the brink of collapse at any moment. There is also the possibility of shock or electrocution due to unchecked power sources and live wires.

Floors or ceilings can fall in at any time, so once again, even if it is after a flood of some type, do not re-enter the property until it has been inspected and you have permission and reassurance it is safe.

Fire and Water Damage Restoration

The property must be assessed by professionals before anything can be done. You have to call your insurance company and report all damages and losses back to them.

After a flood or a fire, there is going to be a massive clean up. This is always best left to professionals. You are too close to the situation to handle it without emotional attachment.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown has the best team and equipment to properly handle any size loss you may have experienced. Our team is certified and trained to make the water restoration process quick and easy.

We know that disasters don’t happen when it is most convenient so that is why we are ready to move at a moment’s notice, 24-hours a day. We have the proper tools and equipment to take care of all the clean-up and restoration required after a flood or fire.

We are highly trained to cope with these types of losses. We are water damage specialists who get started promptly to get your property dry and back to pre-water-damage condition.

We have advanced water removal and drying equipment and scientific drying methods to get your property dried quickly. We will also document the drying process to validate your home or business is ready.

We have invested in the latest technology and equipment to help restore your home more quickly and to minimize cost. This equipment allows us to detect hidden moisture and extract standing water quickly and efficiently.

At SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown we also utilize professional-strength cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing products to cleaning and sanitize the affected water damage area for your comfort and safety.

You want a company that can come in and assess the damage, and know exactly what to do. A professionally trained team with past experience who can clean-up and restore the building fast and efficiently.

We understand that each situation is unique, so we use the same professional process but adapt it to your unique problem. You can trust SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown for all your fire and water damage clean-up and restoration needs. Contact us today for an appointment or any questions you may have. 

How to Prevent Long Term Water Damage in Your Home from a Burst Pipe

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration from a burst pipe in Kansas City.

Water damage doesn’t have to come from a massive source to cause a lot of problems. Even a small leak you are not aware of can really do a number on your home.

Burst pipes can cause a lot of damage. It’s not just the clean-up required, but the lasting damage it causes to the structure of your home. It can ruin floors, walls, your electrical system, the foundation, and encourage mold.

If you are unfortunate enough to have a pipe burst, there are some steps you need to take right away.

What To Do When Your Pipe Bursts

Regardless of when you discover the burst pipe, you must act quickly to prevent even more damage from the water.

Turn off Electricity

Water and electricity do not mix. Cut the main power to the home. Do not stand in water to do this, and if you are unable to reach it, call an electrician right away.

If you can do it from a different area, then proceed with caution. Make sure there is no pooling or standing water near the main switch. If there are already sparks, get out of the home and call your electrician.

Shut off The Water

Close the main water supply. This will prevent the leak or flood from continuing. Locate the valve that controls the source of water to your home and close it off tight to prevent more water from coming through.

If there is a valve on the pipe itself, close it off there, as well. It might seem obvious, but frozen water won’t flow until it is warmed up, so be aware there is still potential for flooding from the water frozen inside the pipe.

Remove Valuables

Try to save as many valuables as you can from the affected area. There may be furniture, boxes, rugs, or anything you may have stored there. Even if you aren’t sure if it can be salvaged you should still clear the area. SERVPRO specializes in restoring rather than replacing.

Remove Excess Water

Try to remove as much of the standing water as possible. If there is a floor drain, use whatever you have to direct the water down the drain. Depending on where the flood is, you may need to use buckets to remove it or mop it up.

The more water you can remove, the less chance it has to soak into the floors and surrounding areas. If there is a carpet, it will absorb a lot of water. You shouldn’t remove it yourself.

Call Your Insurance Company

Let them know what has happened and they will be able to guide you on what to do next. They may want you to take pictures and document everything that has been damaged or affected but the water. It’s always a good idea anyhow.

They will likely recommend a clean-up and restoration company. Pick one that will be able to show up right away and start working. A company that can handle the clean-up and the repairs are a good choice.

That makes it easier for everyone when you can trust the same team for everything. Our team at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown can handle all your water damage problems.

We can handle any job, offer 24-hours emergency service, and are highly trained water damage specialists. If you have had a burst pipe or any type of water damage, contact us for all of your water damage restoration needs.

Water causes a lot of damage, so don’t wait too long to get it cleaned up and your home restored.

Sewer Backing Up? Contact SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown for Help!

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Sewage backup in a Kansas City home.

Out of all of the possible disaster scenarios from flooding, to fire and electrical storms, the one disaster that so many of us are most afraid of is a sewer backup, and for good reason, it’s downright disgusting! Can you imagine walking into your bathroom to find that either your toilet, bathtub, or both are backed up and flooding over with human feces? Of course not! Unless of course you have or are currently experiencing this nightmare.

As a homeowner, you’re accustomed to the weight of responsibility. You pay your bills and keep up on maintenance tasks around your property. You don’t just do this out of obligation, you do it out of a noble sense of pride. So what do you do when you experience a sewage backup and your home is being flooded over with liquid fecal matter?

The short answer is to call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown right away! For formality’s sake, we’ll give you the long answer in this article. Although you can repair some of the damage by yourself, it’s certainly not recommended. Companies like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown are highly experienced in these matters. That’s why calling SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is the smart choice to make when facing a sewage backup and the resulting damages to your property.

How to Know When You Have a Potential Serious Sewage Backup Problem

So how do you know when you have a potentially serious sewage backup problem on your hands? Usually, you can get some kind of warning sign from your home that tells you that you’re about to experience a serious sewage backup problem.

The most obvious warning signs involve sewage coming out of alternative outputs when you flush the toilet or run the washing machine. Odds are, if sewage starts shooting out into your bathtub after you either flush the toilet or do laundry, you’ve got a serious sewage backup problem on your hands.

Consequences of Ignoring Early Warning Signs of a Sewage Backup

If you choose to ignore any signs of a potential sewage backup problem, you’re just asking for a bigger problem later on down the line. In fact, if you are experiencing sewage coming up through the pipes of certain appliances when you flush a different appliance, it's a clear warning sign that you're experiencing a serious potential risk of a sewage backup. In this case, it’s time to call a professional, it’s time to call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

Common Causes of Sewage Backups

There are several common causes of sewage backups, none of them are pleasant. Although no one ever really wants to deal with a sewage backup, these things happen anyway from time to time, and when they do, it’s important to know why.

If you live in town, clogged drainage lines within the city sewer system can cause a major sewage backup and wreak havoc on your home. Alternatively, a sewage backup may be caused by flooding or soil settlement. When the soil that supports drainage lines gets washed away, the lines can collapse, resulting in a nasty sewage backup that can cause significant damage to your home.

When You See Sewage Coming Out of the Faucet, it’s Time to Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is the preferred solution for sewage backups and other extreme cleanup and restoration situations. If your home has a sewage backup, or if you suspect that one is underway, it’s time to call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown and have it taken care of before it gets any worse!

Worried about a sewage backup? Have a chat with the experts at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown before it’s too late!

How to Remove Odors from Your Commercial Building

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

Bad odors being removed from a commercial building in Kansas City.

One of the most challenging and frustrating aspects of owning a commercial building is the removal and eradication of unpleasant odors. Most commercial buildings are built to last for a long time and over the years. Unfortunately, they tend to accumulate some truly horrific odors, especially when there are other troubles afoot such as mold or water damage. Breathe easy with this quick guide on how to get rid of all of those terrible odors and restore your building to its former, clean-smelling glory.

Common Odors in Commercial Buildings

There’s a variety of common odors that end up affecting most commercial buildings at one time or another. One of the most common of these is the offensive odors that are found in the carpeting. When you think about it, there’s a lot of nasty stuff on carpets throughout commercial buildings all over the nation. Carpets collect every imprint, every footstep, and with them, they collect the odors from those footsteps. They also collect everything that anyone has ever spilled before.

Carpets also collect an unbelievable amount of human sweat. Just think about all of the sweaty faces you’ve seen throughout the building over time, especially in the Summer months. Office buildings are notorious for having sweaty carpets that smell bad.  Have you ever walked into an office building and immediately detect a terrible, foul-smelling odor that you can’t place? It just might be the sweat from everyone who has worked and visited that building over several years. Of course, it could be a lot of other things too, things best left unmentioned.

Gyms have odors that can make the smells you’d find in an office building seem trivial in comparison. These facilities have people that produce excessive amounts of sweat through exercise, and where does that sweat go? The carpet.

Sweat, dried food, and 10-year-old macchiatos aren’t the only things that can make carpets smell terrible. They can also smell musty! A musty odor emanating from the carpet makes your entire building seem shoddy, which can inevitably turn customers off fast. Remember, bad odor in a carpet can be caused by anything from black mold, sewage loss, or dirty water from a previous flood.

How to Remove Foul Odors From Carpets in a Commercial Space

Now that you know more about what types of odors can settle into the carpet throughout your commercial building, it’s time to take a look at the best way to get rid of that odor before it starts driving employees and customers away.

It all starts with identifying the source, followed by systematic eradication of the odor or group of odors in question. The single most effective way to get rid of bad carpet odors in a commercial building is to partner with a professional extreme cleaning service like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.  

Although you could have the carpet scrubbed, steamed and cleaned by conventional means, odds are you’ll still end up with traces of the foul odor left over. 

Got Bad Carpet Odor? Give SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown a Call

Bad carpet odor is nothing to mess around with as the owner of a commercial building, especially if it’s a restaurant. While some folks might be more understanding if the carpet in a gym smells a little funky, that’s not the case for restaurants, office buildings, and other businesses.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown can remove any odor from any carpet, if we can’t get the odor out, it’s time to buy new carpeting!

Any time you detect a foul odor coming from the carpet of your commercial building, do yourself, your business, and your customers a favor by having a chat with the specialists at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

Fire Safety Tips for Your Home

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a Kansas City bedroom.

There are many things in life that we can replace somewhat easily. One thing that cannot be replaced so easily, is your home. For many of you, a home is irreplaceable. Your home is where you make some of your most precious memories. It’s a place that’s special to you and your family, and it’s the place that you feel safe and well. A fire can total a home and cause enormous damage. That damage will have to be repaired. While the emotional damage will take time to heal, SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown has the manpower and the expertise to restore your home and reverse the fire damage.

Although SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is more than capable of taking care of any damages from a fire, it’s always best to prevent house fires in the first place. Here are some practical tips to help you prevent a house fire. 

Fire Safety Essentials

When it comes to house fires there are a few essentials that every homeowner should take into account. You should always have a functioning smoke detector in your home to help warn you when a fire has started. If something started as a small fire, hearing the alarm from a smoke detector can give you a chance to put the fire out before it grows larger and more dangerous. Of course, if the fire is already quite large, your focus should be on safely getting yourself and any pets or loved ones out of the house.

It’s good practice to check your smoke detectors once every month or so to ensure that they are still working properly. If the smoke detector isn’t working, try replacing the batteries and check it again before replacing the unit entirely. You should also have an escape plan that you and your loved ones can follow and easily remember should there be a fire.

If you have children, it’s important to teach them the stop, drop, and roll technique and that they should never touch a metal doorknob when there’s a fire.

Check Your Wiring

For those of you who live in an older home, the aging wiring in your electrical system should be thoroughly checked by a trained electrician. Although living in an older, vintage home can be great, you’re bound to run into problems with the wiring sooner or later.

If you can’t afford to have the wiring completely overhauled, having a trained electrician check the wiring routinely should eliminate any major problems down the road. More importantly, you won’t be caught off guard by a massive electrical fire.

Keep Your Yard Free of Debris

Another practical fire safety tip is to keep your yard free of debris. More specifically, keep it free of piles of certain combustible materials like bark, mulch or compost. These materials can become combustible and set fire during dry seasons if someone tosses so much as a cigarette in the wrong direction.

Things to Avoid

Sometimes it’s not about what you do to prevent a fire, it’s about what not to do, like leaving food on the stove or in the fryer unattended. Countless house fires begin and rage out of control simply because someone stepped away from the kitchen while cooking food.

Space heaters are another thing that you should avoid. While convenient as a heating solution, space heaters start a lot of fires. Although some of them are designed to be safer than others, it’s just not worth the risk.

Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown for Fire Damage Restoration and Repairs

Here at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, we care about the communities we serve. This is why we cooked up these helpful tips. While we’d love to have your business, we sincerely hope that your home will never be damaged by a fire.

If your home has fire damage, we can help, get in touch with one of our technicians at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown!

What Steps are Needed to Restore Your Commercial Building after Flood Damage?

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding in a commercial building after a Kansas City storm.

Flooding can cause terrible and sometimes irreparable damage to residential homes. However, flooding can also inflict unfathomable amounts of damage to commercial buildings. What happens when your commercial building is soaked in water and you find all of the paneling peeling off due to water damage? You need a professional repair service to come out and start making things right.

What to Do When Your Commercial Building Has Flood Damage

So what exactly happens when a commercial building that you own experiences flooding? For one thing, the flooding is going to decimate your wood paneling, wallpaper, and other similar materials throughout the structure. That means that you’re going to need to call in a restoration service to remove and replace all of that material.

Any time that a commercial building that you own has flood damage, one of the first things that you’re going to have to do is close it down for repairs. The second thing that you’ll need to do is call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

The Challenges of Restoring Commercial Property Affected by Flooding

One of the most challenging aspects of handling commercial flood damage is the paperwork. By the unfortunate virtue of being a commercial building, there will be a substantial amount of paperwork involved when trying to provide the appropriate repair and restoration efforts.

Completing the kind of paperwork that’s involved in restoring a commercial building that’s been damaged by flooding can be much more complicated than one might think.

Professional commercial cleaning and restoration services like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown know how to handle the paperwork and speed things along so that you’re not stuck waiting a ridiculous amount of time before your building is restored.

The Importance of Expedience When Repairing Flood Damage

After your commercial building has been ravaged by flooding, you might find that you feel sorry for yourself and don’t want to deal with it. That would be a big mistake. As bad as things are, you still need to take care of the building and take responsibility. Although the damage caused by flooding is extensive, you’ll need to pull yourself together and put a plan into action.

Remember, the longer you wait to address it, the more expensive your problem will be. The best thing to do is to get serious and get on it fast! When you call a company like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, you’ll get expedient service at an affordable price. This means you’ll be able to open up the business in a timely manner.

Most businesses can’t afford to stay closed due to complications from flooding or anything else. The longer you stay closed for repairs the more money you’ll lose. This is why it’s so important to call a 24/7 service like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown to get the job done.

Eradicate Commercial Flood Damage By Calling SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

Commercial flood damage can grind your business to a screeching halt. Don’t stay down. Get back on your feet by calling the flooding restoration experts at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown. We know how to deal with flooding, and our expertly trained teams have a wealth of experience in restoring commercial buildings that have been damaged by flooding.

Don’t let flood damage keep you down, get on the phone with the restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown today!

Tips for Preventing Commercial Water Damage

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Kansas City commercial building.

Commercial buildings can make you a lot of money depending on what you do with them. Whether you own a series of stores or warehouses, it’s imperative that you protect your commercial property from water damage.

One of the worst things for a commercial building, or any building for that matter, is water damage. The more that you invest in water damage prevention, the more money you’ll save down the line. Here are some key water damage prevention tips to help you save money on commercial maintenance, restoration, and repairs.

Keep Your Roof and Windows Well-Maintained

A roof that’s in poor condition is one of the leading causes of water damage to both homes and commercial buildings. Once the roof starts to fall into disrepair, the interior of the structure will be exposed to the elements. Rainfall and snow can get in through the cracks or holes in your roof and start causing some serious damage.

Poorly maintained windows are another common source of water damage. When the seal goes, water flows, and you’ll have water pouring into the building every time it rains.

Try to keep the area around any windows in the building free of clutter. A buildup of clutter like crates or overhead materials can make it hard to spot a leak around the seam of the window. The sooner you spot a leak, the less expensive it will be to have repaired.

By keeping the roof and windows well-maintained, you’ll greatly reduce your chances of experiencing serious water damage.

Commit to a Regular Maintenance Schedule on Pipes and Plumbing Systems

Some of the most devastating cases of water damage to commercial buildings involve problems with pipes and plumbing. Most of these problems could have been avoided by having routine maintenance performed on the pipes and plumbing systems.

For commercial buildings, it’s recommended that you have the pipes and plumbing system inspected once a year, or at least biannually.

Unless you schedule the inspection on a day that you’d normally be closed, you’ll probably need to close down the building on the day of the inspection. This might mean that you miss out on a little business. At the end of the day, missing one day’s worth of business is trivial compared to how long you’d have to stay closed if the building has been flooded from busted pipes.

Update Appliances and Clean Out Your HVAC

HVAC units generate a lot of water through condensation. When they’re not cleaned out or properly maintained, that water can end up in your building and cause a lot of damage. Many HVAC systems are equipped with a condensation reservoir, but if that reservoir isn’t cleaned out regularly, the excess water will begin to cause damage to your building.

All kinds of commonly used appliances in commercial buildings can leak if they're older or in disrepair and cause surprisingly extensive water damage. The most common way that appliances can cause serious water damage in a commercial building is when the leak is caused by ruptured hoses. In order to prevent this from happening and saving yourself some money, not to mention a killer headache, be sure to keep the building’s appliances updated and in good condition.

Make Commercial Water Damage Disappear by Calling SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

While these tips will certainly help you keep your commercial structures safe from water damage, anything can happen. If your building has water damage, you can trust the professional technicians at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown to repair, refresh, and restore the property.

When your commercial building has water damage, it’s time to call the experts at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown!

Why SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown are the Experts You Need for Fire Restoration

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Damage caused to a Kansas City home after a kitchen fire.

Fire can cause more damage than almost any other possible disaster affecting a property. It burns homes into piles of dust. For those of you who have experienced a house fire and are left with extensive and traumatizing damage to your home, what do you do when your home is riddled with fire damage? You call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown and help will be on the way. With 24/7 service, you can count on SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown to solve your fire restoration issues and restore your home to its former glory. Here's what you need to know about fire restoration and why SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is your best bet anytime you need fire restoration services!

What to Do When Fire Strikes

Although it’s certainly possible to reduce the chances of having a fire, nothing offers 100% immunity. That said, there are some things that you should keep in mind that can help you whenever there’s a fire in the household or even in a commercial building.

After a fire has spread through a home or commercial structure, it’s important to open up all of the windows and doors to reduce the damage inflicted by fire and smoke.

Another thing that you should do after a fire, especially if it knocked out your electricity, is to empty the food from your freezer and refrigerator. Once a fire has fried your electricity, you’ll have to find alternative means of preserving all of the food that you had stored in your fridge and freezer.

How the Fire Restoration Process Works

The fire restoration process is highly effective when it's done right by professional restoration services like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown. It all starts with the emergency contact. As soon as you call us, we’ll send a team to assess the damage. The assessment will include an analysis of how far the smoke and fire damage spread through your home, and how badly it affected walls, furniture, and upholstery, etc.

Upon assessing the damage, our team will tarp any holes that the fire burnt into the home, especially on the roof to prevent water damage. Next, we will go about cleaning everything up so that the home is safe and easy to work in. Finally, our team will administer any repairs and restoration that are needed.

Odor Removal After Fire Damage

If your home isn't completely burnt to the ground after a fire, odds are it’s going to have some hellacious odor issues. Fortunately, the professionals at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown know how to take care of those odors and eradicate them from your home. 

When you think about it, aside from brats, burgers, and hot dogs, there aren’t many things that smell good after being on fire. Just think about all of the materials in your home and how those materials will smell after a fire. Carpet, wallpaper, and upholstery all have a bad habit of smelling pretty rank after being set on fire. SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown can remove those horrible odors from your home and repair any other fire damage that has afflicted the property. With 24/7 availability, SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown should be your first choice in fire damage restoration services.

Fight Fire with Fire, by Calling the Experts at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

House fires are serious and the best way to remedy the damages that they inflict is by enlisting the help of professional restoration services like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

Serious fire damage calls for serious help, do your home a favor and call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown!

Flood Damage in Your Kansas City Home? Contact SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown!

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

Flood damage restoration cleaning after a Kansas City storm.

Flooding can wreak havoc on a home, the cruel destruction is indescribably devastating. No one wants to think that a flood could come to ruin their home, but oftentimes, this is exactly what happens. If you have flood insurance, you at least won’t have to worry as much financially. However, that does little to remedy the sorrow and emotional pain of losing some of your most cherished possessions.

When a flood hits and tears up a neighborhood, people need assistance, and they need help from someone that cares about the community. While neighbors often team up to help each other in these situations, the damage left by most floods is far too great to take on independently. If a flood hits your home, you need to get SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown on the phone.

We clean, fix and restore what others can’t and we’re the best at what we do. Unlike other companies offering similar services, we’re available to help 24/7 with exceptional talent.

Let’s face it, someone watching their belongings float back and forth in 4 feet of water throughout their home isn’t going to want to wait 5-6 days for someone to help clean out the water and fix everything. The truth is, in these situations, you shouldn’t have to wait, you deserve immediate service. With SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, that’s exactly what you get! Our highly trained teams of restoration specialists are always at the ready and are more than capable of clearing out the water and performing all of the necessary repairs to make your home whole again. You won’t get this kind of service from any other company. This is just one of the many reasons why you should call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown after a flood!

What Needs to Be Done

Whenever there’s flood damage you’ll need to have a wide variety of things removed, restored, and repaired. You’ll need to have things such as wallpaper, wallboard, and wood paneling removed and replaced. 

Water can cause a tremendous amount of damage to any home, especially when it comes to certain materials like wood paneling and wallpaper. Materials like this have to be replaced, there is no way around it. If you try to paint over it, the water damage will just seep on through and waste your time and money. There really is no substitute for professional repairs and restoration.

Get it Done Fast and Get it Done Right, with SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

Flood damage isn’t something that you put on the back burner. It’s something to take seriously and handle right away. Your home is more valuable than you think, and you need to make every effort to protect it and keep it in good condition. That means you can’t afford to procrastinate and should handle flood damage promptly and properly.

If you have flood damage in your home, you need to get in touch with a reliable restoration service right away. You need to call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

When You Have Flood Damage to Your Home, Your Need SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

Any time that you have flood damage to your home, you’re going to need to call a company like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown. Why should you call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown? You should call us because we’re the only ones that can help you overcome the challenges of serious flood damage on a 24/7 basis.

If you have flood damage and don’t know how to fix it, have a chat with SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown!

Mold, Fire, or Water Damage? How SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown Can Help Restore Your Home

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Professional SERVPRO equipment used in the restoration of a Kansas City home after water damage.

Being a homeowner is pretty great, but it’s also a lot of responsibility. You worked hard to get where you are today and it’s your responsibility to take good care of it. If you take good care of your home, it’ll take care of you. Mold, fire, and water damage comprise the trinity of a homeowner’s nightmare.

Any of these three types of damage, individually, can be ruinous to a home. When combined, the damage is even worse. This kind of damage can be overwhelming, leaving homeowners frazzled and struggling to decide where to begin. Fortunately, the solution is easier than you think. When your home has mold, fire, or water damage, all you have to do is pick up the phone and call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown!

Why You Should Call Right Away

Whether it’s mold, fire, or water damage, it’s imperative that you call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown right away. Mold can spread through a house in as little as 48 hours. The longer it goes unfixed, the worse the damage will be, and the more expensive it will be to have it corrected. The same is true of water damage. It doesn’t go away, it just keeps getting worse until it’s fixed properly.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown specializes in repairing, cleaning, and restoring homes that have suffered all kinds of damage including mold, water, and fire damage. Even if you consider yourself to be an expert handyman, these types of damages are nothing to mess around with. 

Not only do they require years of specialized training to handle properly, but they’re also potentially dangerous to work on. Trying to remove mold on your own without the appropriate equipment can be hazardous to your health.

Being around mold causes potentially severe health effects and stirring it up while trying to get rid of it by yourself will just make those problems even worse.

What We Do

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is an all-in-one service that cleans, repairs, and restores almost any type of damage imaginable. Our technicians are expertly trained and dedicated to restoring your home to good condition. We work on homes that have been ravaged by water damage, fire, damage, and even mold. We also perform odor removal services.

Fire Damage - Our fire damage restoration specialists are fire and smoke restoration, odor control, fabric, and upholstery cleaning. 

Water Damage - You can count on our highly trained team to assess, inspect, and restore homes affected by water damage.

Mold - We know how to stop mold in its tracks and can provide you with the expertise of water restoration specialists to ensure that your water is purified as we eradicate mold from your home. 

No home is too far gone for us to bring it back. When you call our team of professional technicians you can expect us to send the best, because that’s what you and your home deserve.

Need for Speed

Unlike other companies, SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is faster to any disaster. This means we’ll get there faster than almost anyone else. Our lines are always open and there’s a team ready at all times. You can call our 24/7 emergency service any time day or night.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, at Your Service!

If your home is riddled with mold, water, or fire damage and you don’t know what to do, call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown. We have the know-how, the talent, and the experience to restore your home.

Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown today, and let us take your stress away!

Why is Professional Commercial Restoration Cleaning so Important?

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Professional commercial restoration cleaning at a Kansas City business.

Professional commercial restoration cleaning is among the most vital services available to owners of commercial property. Let’s face it, most commercial properties get a lot of wear and tear over the years, especially multifamily housing units and office complexes. Why is professional commercial restoration cleaning so important? You’re about to find out!

What Can Go Wrong, and Why You’ll Need a Professional Commercial Restoration Cleaning Service

There’s a lot that can go wrong with a commercial structure, especially if it’s an older one. Commercial buildings can be damaged by mold, water, fire, or most unfortunate of all, a sewage backup. You hear about that kind of stuff happening all the time, but most people never think that it could actually happen to their own properties. Unfortunately, it can, and as time goes on, the chances of experiencing at least one of the preceding types of damage rises steeply.

At this point, you might be thinking that you still won’t need a professional commercial restoration cleaning service because you’re on top of everything and confident that you can prevent any such damage. While confidence is great, you’re going to need something more than a little bravado to fall back on.

Fire is spontaneous, you never know when or how one might start, especially since it might not even start in your building at all. For example, say you did everything right, you bought a bunch of smoke detectors, had them installed, check them regularly, and replace the batteries. What happens if the owner of the building next to you didn’t do any of that stuff? What if that owner doesn’t have any functioning smoke detectors in their building and they have an ancient electrical system? The building will burn and it’ll probably set your building on fire too because they’re so close together, that’s what’s going to happen.

Now consider this, after paying a professional plumber to inspect and maintain the pipes in your building for several years, there’s a flood. No one has any control over flooding, it just happens, and always at the most inopportune time, it would seem. After a flood, providing that your structure is still standing, there will be a substantial amount of water damage, and that damage will have to be fixed by a professional commercial restoration service like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

When you have damage from mold, fire, or water, that damage has to be repaired professionally, there’s just no other substitute.

Why You Should Look Into Partnering with a Professional Commercial Restoration Cleaning Service Ahead of Time

When it comes to finding a reliable professional commercial restoration cleaning service, it pays to be proactive. You don’t want to be stuck combing through reviews while your building is still spewing mold, crumbling from fire damage, or soaking wet.

Savvy commercial property owners know that it’s best to have someone lined up that they can call day or night, someone they can trust to get the job done right, someone like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown. 

Partner with a Commercial Cleaning and Restoration Service You Can Trust: SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

Now that you know more about why it’s so important to have a professional commercial cleaning and restoration service on hand, it’s time to make a decision. Do you want to partner with some sketchy outfit that you heard from the friend of a friend of a friend? Or do you want to partner with the kind of business that countless companies across Kansas City and around the nation have trusted for years? That’s what we thought.

If you own a commercial building, it’s time to connect with SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, call today!

Are You Dealing With a Disaster Following a Fire or Flood? SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown Responds Immediately

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Emergency restoration immediately after a Kansas City flood.

There is no such thing as a good disaster, there are only disasters that cause various degrees of damage. Tornadoes are catastrophic and leave widespread destruction in their wake. Fires and flooding are two of the most horrific destructive types of disasters that anyone can experience. They ravage homes and destroy property indiscriminately. So what happens after a fire or a flood tears through your community?

To say that there’s going to be a lot of cleaning up to do would be an understatement. There will also be extensive repairs to be made as a monumental restoration effort will be needed to bring homes in the area back up to snuff. Here’s what you need to know about SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown and how we can help. 

Why You Should Contact SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown When There’s a Flood or Fire?

When it comes to fire and flood damage, there are a lot of companies out there offering restoration services. How are you to make the best decision on flood or fire restoration services?

For one thing, SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is available 24/7, meaning, even if you call at 4:00 in the morning after discovering you left the stove on when making mac n cheese, you can count on SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown to make it to your home in a timely manner and start performing the necessary repairs. 

Expediency aside, another reason why you should turn to SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown for all of your sewage backup repairs and restoration needs is the fact that our teams are professionally trained and exhibit a genuine concern for our customers.

The Importance of Speedy Service After a Flood or Fire

Any time there is a flood or fire, the expediency of relief efforts is critical. The longer you wait, the more extensive the damage will be down the road. Fire and flood damage becomes more intensive and significantly more expensive to correct over time. Folks who call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown receive 24/7 service from highly trained teams. Our years of experience and 24/7 service is the reason we are the 1st choice of countless homeowners across the country.

Remember, the faster that you call, and the faster that you get service, the more you’ll save on restoration costs.

Dealing with Fire or Flood? Give SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown a Call for 24/7 Relief

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is the premier destination for all fire and flood restoration services. Believe it or not, our 24/7 availability is not our strong point, our strong point is the fact that we look after every single customer that we serve. Remember, if you’re calling us, odds are you’re not having a good time, to begin with. By the time people call us, they’re in the middle of a disaster, and SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown makes that disaster more bearable by providing superior service at an affordable cost. 

Whether it’s fire or flood damage, call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown for the best service around!

How Does Smoke Damage Affect the Contents in Your Kansas City Home?

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke damage following a fire in a Kansas City home.

A fire can destroy your property and cause serious, irreversible damage. The flames move from one item to another, burning everything into ash. The heat created by the flames radiate, causing the surrounding items to crack, melt, and in some cases shatter. After the flames are put out, you have to deal with smoke damage.

If smoke damage is not addressed, it can devastate your home along with everything inside it. Smoke damage can even occur in rooms the fire never reached. For example, during wildfires, businesses and homes have been totally ruined just from the smoke while the building stayed untouched by the flames.

Even a small fire that is put out quickly may still cause smoke damage to the items inside. Also, smoke can impact your home’s structure. That is why cleaning up soot and smoke right away after a fire is so crucial. Smoke acts like an acid and can start to corrode many different materials if left too long.

If fire strikes a structure or home, or if you live near areas that are prone to wildfires, you must act fast to reduce the damage that occurs. Professional smoke damage restoration specialists can quickly assess the damage and create a customized mitigation plan to make sure your home is clear of all fire related damages.

What Can You Salvage?

The answer to this question depends on the extent of the damage and what something is made of. You also need to consider the cost of salvaging some items. You can work with a smoke damage specialist to figure out what items you should clean and which ones you should replace or discard.

How Will Smoke Impact Your Home?

Smoke affects materials in unique ways. Also, the type and temperature of the fire will result in different types of smoke damage through your home. One of the worst ways smoke can cause damage is if it gets into small crevices and cracks, since the particles are so small.

In fact, these issues often go undetected for a long time, leaving that lingering smell of smoke that may last for several months. The best way to remove the smell from your home is by removing or cleaning the affected items and to clean the building materials in the home with agents that are designed to remove the smell. Having this handled as quickly as possible will reduce the potential of cross-contamination.

How Quickly Do You Need to Act?

Time is something that is of the essence when you are talking about smoke damage. The sooner that you act, the more likely you will be to prevent serious damage. For example, there are some materials like porous items and synthetic fires that need intervention within hours of exposure to be saved.

The components of your house or building like painted walls and floors must be addressed quickly. Metal surfaces may corrode and rust when soot and smoke particles sit on them too long. The longer you do not deal with smoke damage, the more extensive the damage is going to get and the cost to mitigate it will keep going up. The best way to know for sure is by getting in touch with the professionals at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

What to Do When Water Damages Your Commercial Property in Kansas City?

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration cleaning at a commercial building in Kansas City.

If you are a commercial property owner, an emergency, like water damage may stop business activities in their tracks. No matter if the water issues are caused by a burst pipe, flood, major leak, or another cause, water damage is something you should always take seriously.

Determine the Extent of the Water Damage

One of the first things you should do when you find signs of water damage is to determine how serious it is. At this point, just looking for signs of water damage probably won’t be enough.

Water may soak into an array of building materials without creating obvious signs of damage for a while. To determine how far the water has spread, you require a specialized tool to measure moisture in building materials, such as a moisture meter used during a building inspection.

With a moisture meter, you can determine the moisture content level in the items where you found the water damage. When you keep checking the area, you can determine how far the damage has gone. Remember, if you don’t have this device, you can call the professionals who can take care of it for you.

Dry Out the Affected Area

It’s best to call the professionals if you are dealing with extensive water damage. However, after your call to the professionals,  you can make sure the source of water is completely shut down and repaired, move contents out of wet areas, start removing some of the standing water and working with occupants on a temporary location.

It will be necessary to use specialized tools to ensure the entire area is dry. Usually, this requires the help of the professionals because they will have access to the items needed. Some of these tools include:

• Wet vacuums to help quickly remove standing water
• Dehumidifiers or air movers to extract humid air
• Thermohydrometer to track the humidity in a space
• Moisture meters for tracking the content of moisture in the building and nearby items

If your building has a climate control system, then turning the temperature up slightly may help keep the water from condensing, which will help things dry out faster. As the building is dried, you need to keep it sealed against exposure to outside air as much as possible as controlling the indoor environment without the influence of unfavorable outside air will help dry the structure and contents faster.

If there is furniture or other materials that are moisture compromised, remove them from the space and assess their condition. If it is too water-damaged, it will need to be discarded and replaced completely.

Call the Professionals of SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

If you are dealing with water of any type in your commercial building, it is important to make sure that you take the right steps and contact the professionals for assistance. They will be able to ensure that the water issue is handled properly and that the issue won’t get any worse. If you fail to take action in a reasonable amount of time, you may discover the issues are permanent.

Fire Damage Restoration Services in Kansas City: Why You Must Act Fast After a Fire

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage on wood flooring in a Kansas City home.

Everyone is well aware that fire can cause serious damage to their home or commercial property. However, what many homeowners don’t realize is the fact that damage may be much more extensive and go much deeper than what it seems like on the surface. In just minutes, a fire can take over an entire home, burn through the walls, and get into areas that you cannot see.

Once the fire is extinguished, the toxic smoke may leave behind a residue that has to be removed. If you try to clean this alone, it may result in you inhaling carcinogens that are harmful to your body. This is why it is essential to get in touch with professional fire damage restoration services right away.

If You Wait It Can Harm the Process 

After the flames have been extinguished, it is essential to get to work right away with fire damage restoration. Before you can go back home or reenter a commercial property, all aspects and signs of the property need to be removed. You can’t return until all soot and smoke damage, along with the impact of the flames, have been removed.

The longer you wait to call for service, the more challenging it will be to clean up the home or building and get back to “normal” life. With the help of the professionals, you can feel confident that your home is cleaned and restored quickly. This also helps to ensure you are back living in the home or using the building quickly. When you contact the professionals, you will also see they can make a huge difference in the loss you experience. They know how to handle the issues after a fire and make sure your home is properly cared for.

It is crucial that you focus on the safety of you and your family first, or the people who use the building, regardless of if it is an apartment building or retail store. Don’t go back into the building or home after the fire until it has been deemed as being livable. You should avoid breathing in any toxic fumes from a fire that may have a long-term impact on you, your family, or your pets.

Find Immediate and Emergency Fire Damage Restoration Assistance

When you call the professionals for fire damage restoration services, you can feel confident that a professional and experienced team will come to your location, ready to provide you the services you need. Remember, you should never wait to call for service when a fire has occurred. The longer you wait, the worse the issue will become.

Fire can strike at any time. If you are the victim of this, it is essential that you call for help right away. The sooner you can get someone to your property, the more likely they will be able to mitigate the issues and damage that may otherwise occur. The best way to know for sure is by getting in touch with the professionals at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Your Residential Restoration Needs in Kansas City?

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Mold in a residential bathroom in Kansas City.

When it comes to fire, water, or mold restoration services in Kansas City, there’s no question you have more than a few options. While this is true, there are a few reasons that SERVPRO of Kanas City Midtown stands out from the crowd. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of choosing SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown for your residential restoration needs in Kansas City here.

24-Hour Response Services

When it comes to controlling damage, downtime, and recovery costs, timely mitigation is key. You along with everyone who lives in your house will appreciate the fast response time and the professional level of training and experience that the SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown team has. Their abilities and equipment will help limit the damage in your home and get you back to normal life as quickly as possible.

Communication

With SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, you will know what is going on each step of the process. From the original phone call until the job is complete, you can count on this team to let you know what is going on each step of the way.

Each job is fully documented using itemized estimates, digital photos, and videos, signed work authorization forms, and regular reports. The professionals will use technology that is developed specifically for documenting insurance claims, store project information, and collect important data to share and track what is always going on with the job. Once completed, a signed customer satisfaction form will be the final piece of information that is put into a client’s file.

Reduce Total Recovery Time

If mold, water, or fire damage strikes a home, it can negatively impact everyone. Even small issues need to be addressed in a timely manner to help reduce the possibility of secondary damage.

By calling SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown professionals for help, you can feel confident someone who understands the urgency of your situation is coming to help. They will arrive quickly to help mitigate the damage to your home and everything inside.

Reduce Recovery Costs

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown offers emergency mitigation services that will help to reduce secondary damages. Communication is key when it comes to handling emergency situations and the quick and effective response offered by this company will help to minimize loss expense related to all damages that may occur.

Full Line of Response Services to Help Mitigate Damage to Your Home

When it comes to ensuring the right processes and tools are used, there is no question that SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown has the solutions you want and need to get things back to “normal” as quickly as possible. If you want to learn more about these services or have questions, contact the team.

Are you ready to ensure your home isn’t completely destroyed because of water, fire, or mold? If so, contact SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown today. This team is ready to provide you with the services and solutions you need, for a price you can afford. With trained and experienced technicians, there’s no question that this team can restore your property, quickly and effectively.

4 Factors That Affect the Cost of Water Damage Repairs

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration in a Kansas City living room.

If you live in an area that is prone to adverse weather conditions like Kansas City, water damage is a real possibility. If this happens, repairing it right away is a must. Finding the underlying cause of water damage and addressing the problem is just half the battle.

The other half of this is mitigating the damages that have occurred. Sometimes, the extent of the water damage is misleading when looking at the outside surface but, in some cases, the water will seep into the deeper materials in your home or building. Because of the unique nature of water, the damage that occurs can result in costs that range from high to low. Some of the top factors that affect the price of water damage mitigation can be found here.

Understanding the factors that impact water damage will help you know what to expect when it comes to restoring your property.

1. The Size of the Area Affected

Just as you may expect, the bigger the damaged area is, the more costly it will be to fully repair. It will take more time, manpower, and materials to fix a whole room that is flooded compared to just a few square feet of damage. However, this is not the only factor that impacts the cost of the process. Some of the other factors found here will begin to add up. This may result in even a small area coming with varying costs.  

2. If Water is Still Present in the Area 

If water is still present, it should be removed right away to prevent additional home deterioration. This can be achieved by using both truck-mounted and portable extraction units, sump pumps and once all of the standing water is removed air movers and dehumidification equipment will help complete the drying process. Removing the excess water reduces the time needed to complete the drying process as there is less moisture to evaporate.  Once the bound moisture within the building materials is dry, reconstruction can begin. can begin.

3. Damaged Materials

Depending on what was affected by the water, the mitigation costs will vary. For example, sometimes porting holes behind the baseboard vs. removing the affected drywall can save time and money to get you back into that area of your home and business.  Removing drywall unnecessarily can be more costly as it requires additional services to be performed and a longer time to reoccupy the space.  Another important factor to consider that will impact the mitigation cost is the materials that must be repaired or replaced.

4. The Type of Water Present

The water that caused the damage also comes into play. The varying classifications of the category of the water are always important to understand as with some types of water such as a sewer back up many materials have to be replaced for health and safety reasons. This also results in a higher cost. The worst case would be black water, which is sewage water that has come in contact with human waste. Grey water is water that has been used for dishes or showering, but not sewage. Mitigating issues related to black and grey water than a clean water source is usually more expensive because the area must be treated for contaminants.

As you can see, there are several factors that may impact the cost of water mitigation and repairs. The best way to know for sure is by getting in touch with the professionals at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

How You Can Protect Your Kansas City Business with a Commercial Emergency Disaster Plan

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

Water restoration at a Kansas City business.

If you own or manage a commercial business or property, you have a lot of responsibilities. One of these tasks is protecting the property, employees, and tenants during disaster situations. The fact is, you have more than just natural disasters to contend with. From water intrusion and burst pipes, to fire, crimes, and an array of other issues, the list of things that may go wrong is vast and it is easy to see why planning ahead of time before an emergency takes place will make sense.

If you don’t plan ahead, the recovery process may be time consuming and complicated, and it may even interrupt the flow of business. However, with the help of the professionals, you can easily create a recovery plan, get help, recover quickly, and get back to normal quickly.

Preparing for an Emergency

Disasters can strike your commercial property at any time but acting quickly can help mitigate the damage that has occurred, save you money, hassles, and time. Planning ahead is essential in helping you act quickly and to protect the property.

Recognize What Your Responsibilities Are

If you own or manage a commercial or rental property, you have certain legal obligations to your tenants, and you could face liabilities, too, especially if you aren’t prepared to handle emergency situations.

Don’t leave this area unaddressed. Take some time to research and seek professional advice, which includes human resources, insurance, and legal input along with the advice of a professional restoration company to make sure you have covered all your bases.

Planning for Common Emergency Situations

Take some time to think about and even write out a formal plan of action for each of the problems mentioned below that may occur and result in the need for commercial restoration cleaning:

• Water Damage: This is considered one of the most common reasons that commercial property damage occurs. It can be caused by burst pipes, roof leaks, storms, sewage backups, HVAC leaks, flooding, and other unexpected sources of moisture.
• Natural Disasters and Storms: Kansas City is known for an array of weather issues, such as hail, tornadoes, strong winds, lightning, hail, flooding, and other weather conditions that may cause issues.
• Fire: It may be caused by an electrical mishap, lightning strike, or an act of arson and can result in water damage, smoke, flame, and heat.
• Crimes or Trauma: These are tragic situations and may cause damage that has to be cleaned up by the professionals.
• Lost Valuables: Disasters can affect the building structure and the property inside it – flooring, furniture, documents, electronics, jewelry, and more.
• Mold: Mold is a common problem in many moist environments.

If you are unsure if you can create an emergency or disaster plan for recovery on your own, it’s a good idea to reach out to the professionals. They can evaluate your business, the potential risks, and ensure you have the right steps in place to quickly recover from a disaster when it occurs. CALL SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown for your FREE EMERGENCY READY PLAN today.

The First 48 Hours – What Happens After a Storm When Water Damage Occurs?

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

Water restoration following a Kansas City storm.

If you have ever experienced flooding in your home because of a storm, then you likely know it doesn’t take long before things go wrong. This is why it is essential to take care of problems as quickly as possible. Remember, water is an unrelenting and destructive force that can cause serious damage in a very short period of time.

One of the first things you should do is to call a professional for help with water and flood restoration services. If you try to handle this on your own, you will find it takes up to five times as long, and you will likely be less than satisfied with the results you achieve. A professional can help clean up the mess that is present and restore the building to maintain health and safety while reducing the likelihood of permanent damage.

Structural Compromise and Water Saturation Issues

If your commercial building or home is suffering from standing water because of a flood after a storm, the water is already working on the hidden wood studs, subfloor and drywall. If wood is saturated in water, it will bulk up and expand beyond its capabilities. This results in cracking, stretching, and eventually, deformities. Usually, this occurs at the bottom part of the wood where stability is essential. The sooner you have all the excess water removed; the less damage will occur.

Sanitation and Health Issues

If your home or commercial building is flooded on the lowest floor of the basement, make sure you don’t contact the water – at all. If you are wondering what may be in the water within the initial 48 hours, consider the list below:

• Paint and related substances
• Cleaning agents and chemicals
• Backed up sewage from the mainline
• Food
• Grime and dirt from the outside and that’s in the carpet and flooring
• Dirty laundry water
• Electrical or wiring components

Dealing with Insurance Issues

The initial 48 hours are the most important when dealing with your insurance agent. Before contacting your insurance agency, though, it is a good idea to contact a property restoration contractor.

A restoration and cleaning professional can help document where the water damage originated and can provide this information to you so you can present it to the insurance carrier.  Once the carrier has all of the information, coverage can be determined based on your contract/policy.  Your insurance adjuster is the only one who can determine coverage based on your contract/policy.

A restoration professional won’t play sides. What the Project Manager can do is to clarify that flooding, rather than pre-existing conditions, resulted in the damage. They can help you by providing professional consultations through the eyes of an experienced contractor.

When it comes to handling water damage, there is no question that there are more than a few things that must be considered. Working with the professionals of SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is the best way to ensure that the results are achieved and that the water issues are resolved, along with any damage that has occurred.

Why Storm Related Damage Should be Handled by the Pros

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

Basement restoration following flooding caused by a Kansas City storm.

After a storm moves through the area, your home may suffer flood damage, wind damage, and more. The situation may leave your home or commercial building devastated. However, if you act quickly and contact the professionals right away, you can minimize the possibility of secondary damage while restoring anything that has suffered more serious problems.

Why Contact the Professionals?

Contacting the professionals at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown means you have access to experienced and skilled individuals who have restored homes and commercial buildings through the years. They have access to the advanced equipment along with cutting-edge techniques to handle any storm flood damage that may occur.

After flooding has occurred, it isn’t unusual to find interior water damage to the kitchen cabinets, clothing, furniture, floors, ceilings, walls, and other areas in the building or home. If you don’t restore the property properly, flood damage can cause mold infestation and decay. There are several services you can count on the professionals to provide. These include:

• Prompt Response: These professionals understand that when you call for help with flood or storm related damage restoration, timing is critical. This is why they respond to any emergency quickly. The restoration process can begin right away, and the best and most efficient solutions will be used.
• Help with Insurance Claims: These professionals will offer a service that involves listing anything that was ruined during the flood or storm in a detailed list. They will also take an inventory of all the contents in every room.
• Use Professional Grade Tools and Equipment: In most cases, the rental equipment you get from the hardware store may not be able to handle the job effectively. These professionals have access to commercial grade equipment that will completely dry the affected areas to ensure the growth of mold is avoided.
• Removal and Replacement: These professionals will carefully remove or replace any contaminated or unsalvageable structures, such as window trim, door, drywall, padding, and carpeting.

Help with the Restoration Process

Before the professionals arrive at your property, you should remove any furniture or other valuable items like electronics, paintings, and more, until they are put in a safe place. You can also open the doors and windows to help increase the airflow in the home or building.

Proper Cleaning Areas Affected by Contaminated Water

Contaminated water can cause serious health problems for you and for your family. These professionals know the right way to clean the area with strong and effective antimicrobial products. They will also make sure that all affected surfaces and materials are addressed to ensure that no dangerous substances are left behind.

If flooding or other water-related issues arise, the best thing you can do is contact the professionals right away. Make sure you don’t put off calling SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, as this is going to let help prevent the problem from getting worse and lead to even more issues. Being informed and knowing what to look for and consider is the best way to ensure serious problems don’t occur.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown for your Commercial Restoration Needs

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

Restoration of a commercial building in Kansas City.

When you choose SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, you will be working with a defensive cleaning program that goes much further than carpet or janitorial cleaning services. This includes high-tech, effective cleaning services that remove all traces of the issues and that helps to ensure the cleanliness of any property or business including restaurants, public spaces, and more.

With years of experience and technicians who have undergone extensive training programs, you can count on SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown to deliver superior solutions, regardless of the situation you are dealing with. The team will always adhere to the decontamination and cleaning standards that are set by the local authorities and Centers for Disease Control.

Learn more about commercial restoration cleaning services offered by SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown Professionals Can Handle Any Disaster of Any Size in Any Location

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is a name that is well known in the disaster restoration industry. The team is always ready to respond to any disaster in the local area. They have the ability and equipment to handle any disaster from mold or fire to water, biohazard and more. The crew is available at any time for responding to a disaster or answering questions that residential or commercial property owners are dealing with. They also understand how important it is to get started with the disaster remediation process as soon after the problem has occurred as possible.

Advanced Technology Solutions to Deal with Any Disaster Situation

In the past few decades, there has been a rapid advancement in technology and techniques used in the restoration services industry. It is these advancements that make it possible for SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown to restore any property back to the preloss condition, quickly, effectively, and reliably.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown technicians use scientific drying principles that rely on specialized equipment for detecting, measuring, and monitoring the total moisture in a property. New advances, such as infrared cameras can help the professionals detect water through floors, ceilings, and walls. This makes the services offered by this company more effective and thorough than ever before.

Along with having the needed equipment to detect water in a building, the professionals also have powerful extraction equipment which helps to speed up the drying process by removing most of the water from the home or business. This includes things like gas-powered and submersible pumps along with portable and truck-mounted extraction units.

Drying equipment is also brought on-site by the professionals. This includes high-speed air movers along with industrial grade dehumidifiers. Once all water is removed and the building and materials are dry, the SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown professionals will use odor removal and deodorization processes to ensure that all airborne contaminants are fully removed.

The goal of SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown professionals is to leave no trace of the disaster, regardless of if the problem was water, fire, mold, or something else. For business or homeowners who are dealing with issues that require access to the professionals and technology, contact SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown today. We are ready to help with any disaster situation and ensure that the results are achieved, regardless of how severe the problem may seem.

How Fast Can I Restore and Occupy My Kansas City House after Fire Damage?

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Helps Find Ways to Complete Fire Restoration in Kansas City Properties Faster

When a fire occurs, you may be surprised how fast it consumes various parts of your Kansas City home. Although firefighting efforts and good fortune can help put out the fire before it brings down the structure, you are left with a considerable renovation challenge. SERVPRO has knowledgeable technicians in Kansas City who can help you estimate the time it might take to restore your property for safe occupancy.

 What actions are necessary during fire restoration in Affected Kansas City properties?

• Cleaning residues from surfaces
• Repairing or replacing charred materials
• Deodorization
• Refinishing surfaces

The combustion of different materials produces a wide range of products, including gases and residues, which settle in different parts of the house. You cannot occupy the house until you remove all the soils. Unlike regular soiling, fire soiling is indiscriminate, so you need to clean all contents and surfaces in the rooms affected by the fire. After major fire incidents, cleaning is necessary for the entire house.

Soiling also affects the exterior parts of the house, and especially the area around the eaves since smoke concentrates there as it billows from the burning structure. Cleaning after fire incidents is more challenging than spring-cleaning, which you can complete in a few days to a week - so it can take longer. Our SERVPRO technicians can help you cut down the time by availing more people, equipment, and expertise to expedite the processes.

 Which types of repairs are essential after fire damage?

Fires damage a wide range of materials in the house through soiling, heat, or exposure to flames. Damage is typical on:

• Drywall or other wall coverings
• Carpets or wooden floorboards
• Ceiling tiles
• Utilities such as power cables and air ducts

Depending on the intensity of the fire, the damage could be massive soot deposits, surface charring, or deep burning. In case of slight damages, it is possible to renovate the material through cleaning and resurfacing. However, deep charring and other severe damages necessitate the replacement of the affected materials. Although it is the less desirable option, it might be faster to tear down and replace the damaged materials compared to cleaning and refinishing, which involves several steps.

Our SERVPRO technicians help ease the restoration of soiled or slightly charred materials by availing the right resources. For instance, we have different tools for agitating the soiled surfaces depending on the cleaning power needed:

• Mild agitation

Brushes, feather dusters, vacuums, and compressed air systems

• Medium agitation

Dusting cloths, dry cleaning sponges, cleaning towels and crumbly cleaners

• Heavy agitation

Blast cleaners, abrasive powders, sandpaper, and Roto pads

 Can odor prevent me from occupying the house?

The nose detects odors when the inhaled air contains unique molecules. The volatile nature of odorous substances means they evaporate continuously until the source is depleted. Whether the odor is harmful depends on the source. For instance, if you experience odors because of aerosols and particulate matter suspended in the air, staying in the house exposes you to respiratory problems.  On the other hand, odors originating from deep within materials are only likely to cause discomfort.  

Our SERVPRO technicians help remove all odors to ensure a comfortable and safe stay in your house. We ventilate the interior of the house using axial air movers because they move large volumes of air, thus pushing out the air filled with particulate matter and aerosols. We also perform full deodorization to deal with stubborn odors.

 Which deodorization steps help remove all fire odors?

• Identifying hidden odor reservoirs
• Neutralization of odor molecules
• Sealing surfaces

Although odors are readily discernible, it is not always easy to identify the source. Failure to fix the source can limit the effectiveness of any deodorization steps taken. In many cases, stubborn odors emanate from porous materials such as unfinished wood since the molecules penetrate beyond the surface. Some areas, such as crawl spaces, wall cavities, and spaces above suspended ceilings, can act as odor pockets. Finally, the HVAC system can re-circulate odorous materials back into the house if it was on during the fire incident.

Our SERVPRO technicians take several steps to neutralize the odors. For the HVAC system, we place cheesecloth over the vents to detect whether it emits residues. If so, we clean the system. In the case of odors emanating from porous materials, we fog the area using ULV or thermal foggers, which deliver deodorizers that pair with the odor molecules, neutralizing them. In the case of charred structural supports, we apply a sealing agent to lock in any remaining after cleaning them.

Even a trivial fire incident can make your house uninhabitable for some time if not properly managed. Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown at (816) 895-8890 to help with full restoration. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Do I Respond When My Kansas City Home Suffers Flooding After Storms Knock Trees or Down Utility Lines into My Property?

6/21/2020 (Permalink)

Many Things Can Go Wrong During Kansas City Storms -- Flood Damage Is an Emergency SERVPRO Can Bring Under Control

Recent severe storms woke some Kansas City residents to the stress of flooding after large branches and power lines damaged home exteriors. Heavy rain pours in through crushed eaves or broken siding and windows, collecting in the lower levels of your house after flowing down walls and stairs.

What Makes “Top-Down” Flood Damage Different?

Wherever the storm’s flood damage presents, Kansas City residents need help getting it under control.  Failure to mitigate the migration of rainwater is a recipe for slow, steady deterioration of structural components and mold growth from rooftop to cellar.

Can the Migration of the Water Be Traced?

SERVPRO does a visual inspection to get a sense of where the water wandered. We look for water percolating down from the roof that can collect in building cavities under floors, above ceilings, and between walls. Pooled water is incredibly heavy, capable of breaking through drywall and ceiling tiles. We look for:

• Bulging or blistering paint, wallpaper, or surfaces 
• Staining or darkening of surfaces 
• “Sweating,” where walls or ceilings glisten with moisture

More subtle signs of water migration are discovered, measured, and monitored through the use of:

• Penetrating or non-penetrating moisture detectors
• Moisture meters
• Thermal imaging

How Do Professionals Get the Flood Water Out?

If the bulk of the storm water hides in cavities, mindful controlled demolition might be the only option. Our technicians cut or punch weep holes in or below the bulges, and we often take the pressure off overhead by drilling release holes or making flood cuts between floor level and several inches above where water lurks behind drywall. Opening up wet, hidden areas not only permits us to extract the flood water, but also enhances the effects of the air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers we use for structural drying.

Count on SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown to find and eradicate storm-related flood damage no matter where it shows up in your home. Call us at (816) 895-8890 for a consultation on how to manage your storm water emergency.

Click here for more information about Kansas City.

Is Drying Out a Flooded Kansas City Property Complicated?

6/14/2020 (Permalink)

Successfully Drying a Kansas City Property with Flood Damage is an Exact Science

What are the best conditions for drying?

Drying your Kansas City home relies on balancing heat, air movement, and humidity. These conditions are controlled by sealing the property to control conditions then set up drying equipment to speed up the evaporation process. Psychrometrics is the measure of indoor humidity that SERVPRO uses to establish an active drying system. Usually, we can measure an unaffected area of the home to identify the standard conditions. These conditions become a dry goal that we can work toward in the affected area. It is common for technicians to take measurements throughout service to assess the effectiveness of the drying systems.

Should I open windows after flooding?

Opening windows can be a useful way to control flood damage in your Kansas City home while you wait for restorers, but that depends upon relative humidity levels both inside and outside your structure, and also the ability to properly secure your home or business with windows opened.

Ventilating space can help to quickly reduce humid air in the property when there is drier air outdoors. But usually, once SERVPRO technicians arrive, they aim to control the temperature conditions using dehumidifiers and provide airflow using rapid air-movers. When water intrudes into your home, it raises humidity as indoor air becomes humid. Once the moisture in the air becomes saturated, it can no longer take on more moisture slowing the evaporation process. Dehumidifiers can help to remove that moisture and ensure that drying continues at an efficient rate.

What equipment is useful for drying a property?

    •    Portable heaters and portable generators if power is shut-off at the property
    •    Desiccant and Refrigerant dehumidifiers to control humidity in the affected area
    •    Air-moving equipment and, in some cases, air scrubbers to help ventilate the property

To minimize the length of flood restoration, contact SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown at (816) 895-8890.

How Long Does the Smell of Smoke Linger After My House Fire?

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Available for Expert Fire Damage Restoration, Including Addressing Smoke Odors in Your Kansas City Home

There are times when one of the more significant challenges after a house fire in Kansas City is ensuring that there are no lingering odors from smoke and soot residue. Unless these particles get addressed using tried-and-true expert techniques, there is the potential to spread throughout the home and to become a constant reminder of the fire event. This is where our IICRC-certified technicians at SERVPRO are here to help!

What Can Be Done to Fight Smoke Odors?

When our skilled technicians get called to help with fire damage in Kansas City, we pay close attention to the entire job. This means assessing the full scope of your loss, including any areas where soot particles and smoke residue settled. Even the smallest bit of residue left behind can cause odors to sprout up weeks or months down the road. This is why we have a series of carefully planned steps we take to execute a full restoration on your property.

How Do You Work Through the Damage?

Once you call us for fire restoration services, a fully equipped crew arrives at your property in as little as 4 hours or less. Our crew chief begins the assessment so that a detailed plan of action can get put into place. Addressing a fire loss with heavy smoke damage includes:

•   Testing and Cleaning

Once your interior is deemed safe to enter, and the plan is formulated, we work to remove items that are too charred to salvage. This helps us to limit the amount of soot spread from one location to another while also lessening odors throughout the interior. Our technicians test the smoke residue, which allows us to select cleaning agents carefully. This ensures more efficient cleaning as well as cuts back on the potential for damage using incorrect cleaning measures.

•   Residue Cleaning Options

We see two main types of smoke damage after a fire loss. Dry smoke requires careful cleaning because wet cleaning agents might drive the residue further into the surfaces. We take our time, using care to lift the dry smoke using sponges and soft cloths. With wet smoke, it often binds to surfaces. This calls for solvent-based cleaners to lift it for removal safely. The initial testing done helps ensure no marring happens on any surfaces.

•   Content Cleaning

There will be items within your home covered in soot and smoke residue. We handle all of these items on a case by case basis, using a variety of methods to suit each item. Non-porous items can be cleaned using our specialized immersion method. This is when items get immersed in a cleaning solution that helps carefully remove the residue, restoring it to like-new condition. Fabric items and upholstery get tested to ensure no damage comes to the materials, with our technicians often using soft bristle brushes to remove particles. 

Why Can’t I Handle the Cleaning on My Own?

Regardless of the nature or scope of the blaze, we have the cleaning technicians equipped to handle the job. Our team is fully accredited in both Odor Control (OCT) and Fire and Smoke Restoration (FSRT). Just a sampling of the tasks we cover throughout the restoration process includes:

•   Debris removal
•   Pack out services
•   Dry vacuuming
•   Surface cleaning
•   Moisture detection
•   Soot removal
•   Controlled demolition

We Make Sure No Foul Odors Linger

For any fire damage call, addressing odors is paramount. Deodorization is a critical element of the process, no matter the severity or size of the fire loss. Burning odors and smoke can intensify without professional mitigation such as removal of charred debris and surface cleaning. Our skilled technicians remove all of the noxious odors and neutralize them with a variety of advanced equipment, such as:

•   Thermal Fogging Equipment: These are units that heat up a deodorizing compound to put a fine mist on surfaces. This compound penetrates the porous materials to trap the odors in both your contents and structural materials. 
•   Hydroxyl Generators: These units utilize UV cleaning to help neutralize odors across an open area. The equipment features a HEPA filtration system that works to cut back on harmful particulates in the air. 

When Will My Home Be Ready?

Our team does everything we can to provide you with a working timeline of the project from start to finish. The crew works according to a plan that helps us to maintain efficiency without leaving anything unattended to. The job is wrapped up with a full cleaning and deodorization to ensure everything is sanitized and safe for your family to enjoy. We make it, “Like it never even happened.”

To have a crew deployed to your location 24/7 for emergency fire damage restoration, contact us at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown by calling (816) 895-8890.

Is There a Team That Can Remove Flash Flood Damage from My Basement?

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Techs Are Certified to Eliminate Flash Flooding from Kansas City Homes

Flash flooding can be overwhelming for Kanas City homeowners to tackle. After ensuring your family is safe, it can be overwhelming to consider the cleanup that now has to take place. However, there is a team that works fast to restore your home.

If a flash flood has damaged your Kansas City home’s basement, SERVPRO technicians coordinate with property owners and insurance adjusters to ensure a quality, thorough cleanup that returns your property to a clean and safe condition. SERVPRO’s documentation measures can bolster your proof of loss claim with paper evidence, as well as photos and videos.

How Do I Troubleshoot Problems with My Basement Sump Pump?

The sump pump is one of the main lines of defense for minimizing basement flooding. However, problems can arise from inconsistent maintenance, older systems, pump size, or clogs and debris in your system. Keep an eye out for these common sump pump issues:

• Clogged or frozen discharge lines
• Obstructions in the intake
• A burnt-out or overwhelmed pump
• Power outages, which can leave your pump unable to drain water

What Does SERVPRO Use to Extract Floodwaters?

After a flash flood, it may not be safe to use your electrical system to power extraction. SERVPRO is ready to bring power sources that allow for effective floodwater and debris extraction using truck-mounted pump systems. Submersible, gas-powered sump pumps can supplement water removal if there is still water at least two inches deep in your basement. Thorough extraction is key to sanitizing and drying your home safely.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is ready to keep your home looking, “Like it never even happened.” You can call (816) 895-8890 to have an emergency response team at your home within hours.

Can a Local Restoration Company Meet the Water Damage Needs of a Large Business?

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO show you the right way to handle your Kansas commercial water loss.

SERVPRO Has the Scalable Workforce and Extensive Equipment Inventory to Respond to Any Size Kansas City Disaster

When large commercial buildings spread out over one or more business campuses confront a substantial water loss, their owners reach out for professional help. A supply line break or waste backup flooding acres is not a routine cleaning job. Who can handle a massive undertaking on a local level?

Who Can You Rely Upon for Comprehensive Water Removal, Cleaning, and Drying?

Kansas City commercial water cleanup has a tight timeframe, with little room for false starts. Lining up multiple contractors for a nearly endless variety of challenges is not the answer. Finding a reliable mitigation and remediation company that can handle all aspects of water removal and structural drying is preferable.

How Are Our Services Uniquely Matched to Large Commercial Water Losses?

SERVPRO covers the three main elements of an effective response:

Why Is a Local Presence Essential?

We know our city and region is only as vital as the businesses in the area. Our team members commit to and live in the community, so when asked, we are "all hands on deck" today, and when needed in the future. Our stability as a restoration partner is crucial to the successful resolution of your current crises and helps minimize future challenges.

How Does a Trained and Motivated Workforce Make a Difference?

We deliver a fully-trained and equipped crew to your site fast. The speed of response is key in reaching the desired outcome. Restoration is our mindset. We arrive promptly and avoid secondary damage.

What Is Our Capability to Get the Quantity and Quality of Equipment on the Scene?

We invest in a vast inventory of commercial-grade equipment to support our crews and your interests. Tasks do not wait, because we have the resources needed right here.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown stands ready 24/7 year-round to assist our community's business leaders with water cleanup circumstances of all intensities and complexities. Schedule an assessment from one of our Catastrophic Loss Teams (CAT) by calling (816) 895-8890.

To learn more about Kansas City, click here.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

The world has changed what it means to be clean, so let customers and employees know that you are SERVPRO clean.

Ushering in a new standard of clean

As America gets back to business, we all have a new sense of what it means to be clean. In fact, 89% of consumers are uneasy about going back to brick-and-mortar locations*. At SERVPRO, we’re dedicated to inspiring confidence in communities across the country as we find our way to a new normal. And we’re doing just that with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

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

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

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

Have Questions? Call Today 816-895-8890

*#1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019
**Certified SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the job according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry standards (CDC, RIA, IICRC) with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience and result.

(*The Harris Poll conducted online on behalf of Fast, between April 28 and April 30, 2020. About 2,048 U.S. adults aged 18 or older participated.) https://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/350922/89-of-consumers-concerned-about-returning-to-bric.html

An Upstairs Pipe Ruptured in My Kansas City Home, and Covered the Living Room with Water, What Can I Do?

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

We are equipped to handle any water loss event you might experience.

Whenever Something Like This Occurs, It’s Important to Contact a Good Water Damage Remediation Service As Soon As Possible 

Leaky and ruptured pipes are often the cause of residential water damage and are frequent headaches for Kansas City homeowners. Leaky pipes can be especially insidious, with damage sometimes remaining unnoticed for months or even years.  

Unfortunately, when a homeowner does eventually discover these problems, the harm already done to their home is usually quite substantial. So, it is crucial that you routinely have your home checked for leaks and excessive moisture. As far as catastrophic pipe bursts go, they often occur during hard freezes but are possible at any time. Whenever they do occur, you need help fast and should call a reputable service provider like SERVPRO for help. 

What Makes Some Water Damage Restoration Companies Better than Others? 

As with all products and services, not all are of equal quality or value, and it pays to shop around. The same, of course, goes for Kansas City water damage remediation businesses. Some providers may offer affordable help but do shoddy work, while others do quality work but are overpriced. It is also important to know that not all companies have workers trained and experienced in fields related to your particular problem. Others do not possess the right equipment to handle your job. With all that said, a company like SERVPRO is usually your best option. SERVPRO is a good, reliable choice because: 

• We are an Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) – certified firm
• Our technicians are certified in, among other things, Water Damage Restoration (WRT), Applied Structural Drying (ASD), Applied Microbial Remediation (AMRT), Carpet Cleaning (CCT), Carpet Repair & Reinstallation (RRT), Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning (UFT), and Color Repair (CRT)
• Company workers have had OSHA General or Construction Industry Training
• Our Catastrophic Loss Teams can handle and remediate significant water loss events, twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year
• We have a 5-star rating on Google Reviews 

Does SERVPRO Have the Right Equipment to Effectively Deal with My Particular Issue? 

Our company uses all the latest state-of-the-art cleaning and water damage remediation equipment. Whatever your service needs are in Kansas City, we likely have the tools necessary to help you. Some of the advanced equipment we use is listed below: 

• Moisture sensors to find moisture in walls, carpets, and baseboards
• Moisture meters to detect moisture levels in various household items
• Thermohygrometers to determine the relative humidity, specific humidity, vapor pressure, dew point, and temperature inside your home
• Extractors to remove standing water and clean carpets and upholstery
• Air movers to facilitate evaporative drying
• Refrigerant and desiccant dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air 
• Injectidry systems to dry areas behind walls and ceilings
• Ultra-low volume (ULV) foggers that inject deodorants, disinfectants, or fungicides into difficult-to-access areas
• Thermal foggers that produce deodorizing fogs to eliminate unwanted odors in confined spaces 

Our technicians are often able to limit damage and repair most water-related issues using theses resources. 

How Does SERVPRO Handle My Water Damage in Kansas City? 

We dedicate ourselves to restoring your Kansas City home to its pre-water damage state. Rest assured that our Kansas City professionals are trained and skilled in handling water-related issues like yours. They deal with your case in a fast, time-tested, cost-effective way. Our general work process is as follows:  

• We usually arrive on-site within four hours of being informed of your issue
• Technicians remove any standing water with wet vacs or extractors
• Using extractors or wet vacs, we dry carpets and upholstery
• Utilizing Dehumidifiers, air movers, and injectidry systems to dry the interior of your home
• Workers periodically monitor moisture levels in your home and its contents with moisture sensors/meters and thermohygrometers
• Upon reaching the pre-determined drying goal, technicians deodorize your residence with high-tech foggers and odor sealing techniques 

After completing all the work, customers are generally impressed by the results. They appreciate the speed at which we complete our work, our service quality, and how we always endeavor to save them money. In the long run, our efforts usually prevent additional damage from the homeowner’s water issue, help protect their house from dry rot, and hinder harmful odor-causing microbial growth. 

When considering hiring a water damage service company in Kansas City, do your research. Evaluate company reputations, the credentials of their professionals, the services they offer, the resources they have to handle your job, and, if available, their rates. This effort should not only save your home but also safeguard your wallet in the long run. When you need water damage cleaned up and your home restored, contact SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown at (816) 895-8890 for help.  

Fire Damage Recovery In Kansas City

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Supports Kansas City Residents Through All Phases of Fire Damage Recovery

A household fire in Kansas City can be a terrifying event for you and your family. During the aftermath, images of debris floating in dirty water and soot-covered walls create haunting memories of the catastrophic experience. Because we appreciate that you consider your home as a sanctuary, we take very seriously our opportunity to return you and your loved ones to a clean and comfortable abode quickly and reliably.

Count on Communication
Our commitment to transparent and consistent communication during mitigation and remediation of your Kansas City fire damage scenario underlies the partnership we build with every customer. Our highly-qualified team of project managers and technicians take the time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions throughout the restoration process. Fire damage recovery can seem overwhelming until we break it down, clearly and respectfully explaining what to expect during each phase.

Entrust Us to Facilitate Insurance Claims
Life turns upside down for our customers after a fire. SERVPRO helps work through the worry and confusion by managing the documentation and other claim paperwork for your insurance company. We keep you in the loop, advocating for your carrier to cover the most stress-free solutions for you and your loved ones during mitigation and remediation. The focus is not only on restoring the damage done to the structure of your residence, but also reversing the harm sustained by furnishings, household goods, and personal possessions during the fire -- the familiar and treasured items that make your house a home.

Motivated by Our Desire to Give Back
The success of SERVPRO depends on the trust our customers extend to us. We are humbled by the confidence you show in our workforce and management. Each SERVPRO team member is honored to assist during the disruption and devastation in the wake of a home fire. As you reach out to us for help, we respond by using our training, experience, and equipment to give back. We live and work alongside our customers in the community, finding inspiration in your belief that our crew can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Depend on the professionals from SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown to restore your home to preloss condition after a fire. Schedule expert assessment, planning, and implementation by calling (816) 895-8890.

For more about Kansas City click here.

Professional Mold Remediation for your Home

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Anytime you open your windows to let fresh air in, mold spores are blowing through your home. Turning on your air conditioner or heater may produce mold. Rainy days? They are great for watching movies, taking naps, and stirring up mold.

Take a moment and look all around you - everywhere you look, mold spores are present. Moisture provides mold with the perfect climate for growth, and by the time you see mold, it has typically been growing for a long time.

No matter what any business might advertise, you can’t ever fully get rid of mold. There’s a great deal of misinformation about the mold remediation process, and it’s imperative that you work with a company that is forthcoming about the process. At SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, we will always be open and honest with you about what our capabilities are.

Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown to Help

All it takes is one simple phone call for help to be on the way. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, we are here for you. We want to start your mold remediation process as soon as we can, and we respond to your call and dispatch crews quickly. Mold spreads so rapidly - the faster we get started, the easier and more affordable it is to contain.

Mold Damage Assessment

Peace of mind arrives within hours of calling SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown. We quickly dispatch a Project Manager who helps navigate you through the entire process. They work alongside the crew to locate the water source that is feeding the mold growth. Using advanced technology and equipment, we are able to locate damage even if it isn’t in plain sight.

Mold Containment

The entire mold remediation process must be handled strategically, so there isn’t additional mold spreading during cleanup. For everyone’s health and safety, our highly trained team uses advanced containment equipment and procedures. Negative air chambers help us isolate the area, and negative air pressure can prevent further spreading during cleanup. It’s crucial that we successfully isolate and contain the area before moving forward.

Air Filtration

It takes professional-grade air purifiers and HEPA vacuums to help trap the mold particles. Powerful air scrubbers and filters are used to help filter out the mold spores during the remediation process. At SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, we work hard to make sure that we stop the spreading.

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

Every home and every situation is unique, which is why there are so many different variables involved in the mold remediation process. Mold can be found anywhere from your carpet to your ceiling. While some areas of mold can be eliminated with anti-fungal or antimicrobial treatments, other areas and items might require full removal. If you have carpet or drywall that needs to be disposed of, we make sure to handle it safely.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings

If mold has spread to furniture or other personal items, we have multiple ways to help restore them. We understand that you might have sentimental items that have been compromised, and we do everything we can to restore those items. Throughout the entire process, your Project Manager works closely with you to make sure that everything is handled with care. Our high-tech equipment cannot just clean and sanitize, but it can also deodorize.

Restoration

It can feel so nice once you are in the final homestretch of the project. The Project Manager assigned to you goes through the area with the team to make sure that your home is all ready to be repaired. Some homes may require some hefty rebuilding of areas, while others may require some fresh drywall or new flooring. No matter what needs to be done, we have experienced workers to make sure it gets done right.

During mold remediation, stress is inevitable, and we understand that this has affected you in multiple ways. We don’t just care about the mold in your home - we care about you. That’s why we assign you a Project Manager who is your one-stop contact and who walks you through the entire process. They are familiar with the insurance process and can provide you with any documentation your insurance company may need.

There is no one-size-fits-all process for mold remediation because there are so many ways and areas that mold can make its appearance in your home. Until we assess the magnitude of the situation, it’s hard to say what your home needs. One thing we can be sure about is that we have the skills and equipment to handle whatever remediation your home may need.

Protect your health and your home - call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown at the first signs of mold in your home.

A message from the Owner at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

The Kansas City Star today published a remarkably candid story by Dr. Evan Shaw of Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. Many of us are isolated in various ways. We're isolated from our social circles, work environments, family, friends, and loved ones to name a few. Dr. Shaw and indeed the entire global community of medical professionals, are isolated in their own very different way. His story in today's Star captures much of what we can only imagine goes on today inside our hospitals, emergency rooms, ambulances, senior living centers, etc. These remarkable people were drawn to the medical profession for their own unique reasons, but I would guess that few if any could imagine the reality in which they are now consumed. We are forever grateful to the professionals who make up this new-age army, from the doctors, the nurses, lab technicians, EMTs to the facility managers and custodians. You are the inspiring heroes of a generation. While your remarkable stories are just now being written, know that they will perpetually endure. Through a collaborative application of science and experience combined with your sacrifice and determination, we as a people will make it through this battle. We're tremendously grateful for and honored to know you.

https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article241839331.html

With gratitude,

- Cory Bates, President @ SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

#perspective #respect #covid19 #firstrespondersrule #bepositive

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown Water Restoration

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

We have helped countless homeowners in the Kansas City Midtown area with water damage remediation.

One of the best things about living in Kansas City Midtown is our changing of seasons. Moving into spring from winter brings beautiful scenery and warmer temperatures to thaw everything out. Spring can also bring strong storms and drastic temperature changes - our weather can quickly go from freezing to warm, and back to freezing again. Rapid temperature changes can be hard on older pipes, and powerful downpours can become disastrous if your sump pump stops working. It’s no secret that unpredictable weather can cause unwelcome destruction inside your home.

When you realize that you have extensive water damage it can be hard not to panic. It often happens at the worst time - perhaps you walk down to a flooded basement or realize that a pipe has burst inside a wall. No one is ever fully prepared. There is so much involved - from dealing with homeowners insurance to cleanup and repair. If you haven’t experienced anything like this before it can be difficult to know where to even begin.

24 Hour Emergency Response

The first call you make will be the most important one. Around the clock, our emergency dispatch crew is ready for your water emergency and we are prepared to take immediate action. A dedicated Project Manager will be assigned immediately and will work with you until completion. Our crews will be en route to your Kansas City Midtown home so we can begin the restoration process within one to four hours. From the moment you contact us we strive to ensure that you have as little stress as possible.

Comprehensive Inspection

Compromised electrical systems, chemical hazards, and exposure to sewage can put everyone in jeopardy. Do not try to tackle this on your own. There are multiple safety factors to consider which is why our crews will prioritize safety first. They are trained to effectively assess the situation - looking for any exposed or hidden dangers. Always let us know ahead of time if you are aware of any lead or asbestos in your Kansas City Midtown home.

During our inspection process we contain all safety threats and personal property. Identifying the type of water we are dealing with will help up determine which restoration process we will use. From documenting all the damage to moving your furniture, our immediate response helps make insurance claims easier and keeps damage to a minimum.

Our Trusted Removal Process

Depending on the magnitude of the damage we will determine if a move-out or pack-out is required to ensure that your property is protected. We have the ability to create an organized move so that you don’t have to worry about doing it yourself. As soon as the area is clear, the hard work begins.

Using our meticulous process of removing as much water as possible makes it easier for the area dry faster and greatly reduces the risk of mold and bacterial growth. It can feel overwhelming to the average homeowner but rest assured, we have industrial strength equipment to handle the intense removal process.

Infrared cameras will help us locate unseen water damage that can be hiding in your walls or ceiling. Our wet/dry vacuums and water submersible pumps are large enough to remove enormous amounts of water. Carpet can hold a great deal of water which is why inspecting both the carpet and the pad, and removing when necessary, helps make sure that the job is done right.

Strategic Drying and Dehumidification

As a Kansas City Midtown resident you are likely familiar with our multiple weather patterns - which can include high humidity. In order to fully dry the affected area we have to remove all moisture from your home. Our crews take a very strategic approach to analyze the size of the space, temperature, humidity, and air movement.

Air movers and axial fans are not your average fans. Both work in conjunction with our commercial strength dehumidifiers which is why proper placement makes all the difference. By monitoring moisture levels throughout the drying process, we are able to make any adjustments along the way.

Cleaning and Deodorizing your Kansas City Midtown Home

Have you ever been in a home where you could smell the musty odor from previous water damage, especially on high humidity days? If proper cleaning and deodorizing didn’t take place, an unpleasant smell can linger indefinitely. One very valid concern of homeowners is if their home will ever return to its normal state. At SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown our goal is to ensure that it does.

Sanitizing and deodorizing is not a process that you ever want to rush. Our cleaners, disinfectants, and antimicrobial sanitization solutions are EPA-registered. We have products to solve any problem area that we might encounter. While working alongside your insurance adjuster, we can dispose of any damaged material so that we can permanently remove potential odors.

Our crews and your Project Manager will always treat your home as carefully as if it’s their own.

Restoration

The final restoration process will help make sure your home is back to its original condition as soon as possible. Our licensed reconstruction services give us the ability to rebuild and install new material in your Kansas City Midtown residence. Focusing not only on your home - your priceless possessions and family keepsakes will be carefully restored as well.

We will work hard to ensure that when our work is complete, no one will ever know that damage occurred.

Why SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown?

Every situation is unique and your home is our number one priority. In a time of crisis you need someone you can trust. Our goal at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is to make the process as painless for you as possible. We understand how devastating water damage can be and we have helped countless homeowners in the Kansas City Midtown area. Our proven process, thorough documentation, and your dedicated Project Manager will strive to make everything from insurance to rebuilding is handled with care. 

We Put The Flames Of Worry Out In Kansas City After A Fire

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

Fire is a devastating force that causes a lot of damage in a short amount of time, and we act fast to prevent further damage.

How Do I Remove Protein Fire Residues in My Kansas City Kitchen?

SERVPRO Techs Use Specialized Cleaners to Restore Fire-Damaged Kansas City Residences

Cooking fire damage can pose unique challenges for homeowners, especially because consumer-grade cleaners do not easily remedy the odors and soils left behind by these fires. That is why SERVPRO is here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

How can IICRC-certified SERVPRO professionals remove cooking-related fire damage from affected Kansas City properties? 

• Enzyme Digesters. This substance alters protein fire residues by breaking them down into water-soluble byproducts that can be cleaned normally. Enzyme digesters also remove most protein residue odors. 
• Dry Cleaning Sponges. These sponges are ideal for addressing light to moderate fire damage on surfaces like walls and cabinet interiors. Think of these vulcanized rubber cleaners like large erasers designed to combat stains and odors.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown offers cleanup that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (816) 895-8890 to start the mitigation process in mere hours.

See more about Kansas City.

When Flooding Invades Your Kansas City Home

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

Keep the family in and the water out of your living room!

Eliminating Living Room Flood Damage from a Kansas City Home 

While there are many preparations Missouri homeowners can make before flooding occurs, it can be challenging to take care of everything necessary to protect your home during the United States's most common natural disaster. From 2005 to 2014 alone, the usual flood claim was a staggering $42,000, and premiums were $700 per year. The costs these disasters impose on homeowners in both insurance filings and property loss are high compared to other water-related emergencies. 

If your Kansas City residence has endured flood damage, the IICRC-certified techs at SERVPRO are ready to extract the damage and return your home to its previous condition. These professionals use cutting-edge cleanup technologies and precise calculations to clean and dry your home. In the event of large-scale damages, your local mitigation crew can deploy a CAT (Catastrophic) loss team to move your belongings to a safe location for restoration. 

Flooding Brings More Than Just Water

•   Bacteria. Microbes that can cause gastrointestinal illness, like shigella and E. coli, or skin conditions, like Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, are among the most common ones found in floodwaters. 
•   Chemicals.Whenever flooding occurs in an industrial area, it carries the risk of spreading commercial chemicals that are not safe for regular exposure. Common industrial chemical risks include butadiene and benzene. Gaseous materials like methane and sulfur dioxide can also affect air quality. Lead from flood-damaged homes built before 1978 can also pose a risk.
•   Insects. Flooding can push insects and common pests out of their nests and into homes, as well as create an environment that is suitable for increasing mosquito populations. 

SERVPRO Preserves Your Belongings

SERVPRO technicians can pack the contents of your home and take careful inventory room by room. We use specialized content management software to catalog each item, its condition, and take pictures. Specific details, such as make, model, serial number, and whether the contents in question can be cleaned or replaced, are also recorded. Cleanup for items moved off-site is performed while maintaining active communication with both property owners and insurance adjusters. 

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown offers a mitigation service that leaves your home looking, "Like it never even happened." When you need an all-in-one disaster cleanup for your residence, you can call (816) 895-8890. 

More about Kansas City.

Water Damage In Kansas City

3/8/2020 (Permalink)

Contractors Rupture Main Water Line Causing Water Damage in Kansas City

Water spills can happen at any time leading to financial losses and general inconveniences. A home in Kansas was heavily damaged when an excavator hit a main pipe during a landscaping project. The resulting jet of water hit a wall of the house and gained access through an open window damaging contents and building materials.

Saving Electronics
Water damage at the Kansas home took different forms, including affecting some electronic items. Although they were not submerged in water, there was some moisture intrusion, which could lead to rusting and other damages if left unchecked. Our SERVPRO technicians take different steps to help save electronics affected by water. We set up a dehumidifier at the loss site immediately after arrival to control humidity levels. Controlling temperature levels also helps prevent cooling to the dew point to prevent damages caused by condensation.

Dealing with Vapor Barriers
Some of the water that spilled into the house found a way into the wall cavities. Walls usually have different porous materials such as drywall and insulation, which can be damaged by oversaturation. The walls at the house presented a unique challenge because they had wallpaper, which acts as a vapor barrier delaying the drying process. Our SERVPRO technicians use different approaches to handle vapor barriers. Drilling holes at the bottom of the walls allowed us to ventilate dry air into the wall cavities countering the effects of the vapor barrier.

Tracing Hidden Wet Spots
When resolving sudden water spills, there is a possibility of leaving some wet spots, which can cause problems later. Subfloors and non-living spaces such as attics and basements are easy to overlook. Our SERVPRO technicians do thorough scoping to ensure we do not overlook any section of the property. At the home, the water spill had not reached any of the non-loving areas. However, inspecting the floor using a thermal camera revealed some water intrusion before the surface. We set up drying mats to help remove the water without tearing down the tiles.

A water loss incident can happen when you least expect it. Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown at (816) 895-8890 to help. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

For more about Kansas City click here.

Commercial Flood Damage In Your Kansas City Shopping Center

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Fallen Tree Leads to Commercial Flood Damage at a Kansas City Shopping Center

A flooding incident, which involved strong winds and torrential rain, left extensive damages at a Kansas City shopping center. A branch of a tree fell through the roof of a convenience store at the center, creating a hole that let in rainwater freely. Luckily, there were no shoppers in the affected section, so there was no injury. However, it was crucial to address the physical damages immediately to avert further losses.

In many flood damage incidents in Kansas City, other factors combine to complicate or delay the restoration for the initial loss. The fallen tree at the shopping center was not an isolated incident since the strong winds had left heavy debris, including downing power lines in other areas disrupting power and limiting movement. These additional factors would have worsened the situation at the shopping center, but assistance from SERVPRO helped save the day.

Flood damage is an undesirable outcome that most people do not intend to face, which limits the preparations that people make. Our SERVPRO teams prepare to offer assistance in such situations. We have different kinds of production trucks, which are fully stocked with the resources needed to deal with the damage. Some of these include emergency generators and access equipment such as foldable ladders and elevated platforms such as cherry pickers. Our support team also keeps abreast of the latest news so we can tell which sections of the roads are impassable and alternative ways to access the loss sites.

When we arrived at the shopping center, our crews scoped the area to establish the best course of action. Stopping water intrusion into the building was essential to halt further damages. We removed the branch that has damaged the roof and set up a roof tarp to cover the hole.  As some of our technicians were setting up the tarp, others were salvaging contents and setting up pumps to extract water inside the shop. We also set up dehumidifiers to help keep humidity levels constant as we completed the restoration.

Dealing with flooding can be challenging. Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown at (816) 895-8890 to assist in the restoration, dealing with any incident, “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Kansas City click here.

Why SERVPRO Is a Premier Company for Water, Fire, Mold, and Commercial Recovery in Kansas City

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Advanced SERVPRO Cleanup and Restoration Equipment for Structural Recovery in Kansas City Homes and Businesses.

Kansas City Property Owners Call SERVPRO for Cleanup and Recovery Services

We are a preferred vendor for restoration services in the Kansas City area primarily because of our established track record of dependability and top-tier results. We know how important it is to recover a property quickly, and we can do this with integrity and professionalism. Part of this dedication to our customers comes with helping them through the traumas and stresses of loss recovery situations by explaining the process and answering whatever questions that they might have through any phase of mitigation or restoration.
 
Water Recovery Efforts
 
One contributing factor to the fast turnaround on many of our water loss recoveries in Kansas City homes is the thorough inspection, and job scoping that occurs before our team first fully arrives to begin restoration. Our project manager and crew chief can work with our customers and premier discovery devices to record the presence of moisture and standing water throughout the home. The better educated we are on the migration and severity of the damage, the more accurate and useful the restoration response from our team can become. Also, this discovery phase can identify the source of the water damage to ensure that you secure the right skilled professionals to help with repairs if necessary.
 
Extraction is not always a necessary component of water loss recovery, but when it is, we have dozens of high-efficiency water removal tools at our disposal. From the truck-mounted pumps in our fleet of vehicles to more common choices like the light wands and portable electric submersible pumps, we can help to remove pooling water conditions before we set our sights on thorough drying and structural assessment.
 
Apart from common implements like our air movers and refrigerant or desiccant dehumidifiers, we also have specialty drying equipment that can help us to address moisture and saturation of flooring materials, drywall, and even structural cavities above ceilings. No matter what your Kansas City home needs, our SERVPRO team can make it “Like it never even happened.”
 
Mold
 
Containment protocols help our SERVPRO professionals to quickly establish control in mold damage scenarios that can affect Kansas City homes. With how fast these organisms can spread throughout a residence, stopping this migration is critical to protecting a home and its occupants from worsening conditions. Setting up a barrier of this damaged zone with thick (6-mil) plastic poly sheeting allows our team to regulate air filtration, drying, and the flow of clean air into the area to reduce microbial threats.
 
When colonies have seated and spread through a Kansas City home, one of the challenging obstacles remediators must overcome is the musty odor these organisms emit. The noxious scent can penetrate soft materials like clothing, but also become embedded in drywall, carpeting, drapes, and more. We have numerous solutions that can work to reduce and eliminate these odor threats and airborne contaminants, including air scrubbers and thermal fogging machines.
 
Removing the physical colonies is also most effective within an established containment area, especially with the efforts like media blasting. Using compressed air, our SERVPRO Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians (AMRT) can eliminate colonies and reduce odors emitting from damaged surfaces without damaging the substrate of the material. This practice can help to reduce the need for tear-out and reconstruction in your Kansas City residence.
 
Fire Cleanup and Odor Control
 
Many homeowners might see fire losses as a confusing and stressful time, especially when they have to navigate the red tape and hoops of insurance claims. Because we are a preferred vendor for restoration services for area insurance providers, we have an understanding of what these companies need and expect when approving a damage claim after a fire. This knowledge saves you time and reduces potential fire damage to your Kansas City residence by getting work started more efficiently.
 
The removal of odors and present soot are priorities of our Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) when we first arrive at Kansas City residences and large commercial buildings. Both of these effects can be hazardous to those exposed in the right circumstances, so our SERVPRO team relies on our experienced cleaning technicians and restoration professionals to clean surfaces with the use of chemical sponges, agitative brushing to remove settled residues, and potent cleaning products. HEPA filtered vacuum cleaners are often the tool of choice for the initial removal of burnt residues.
 
Another area where we can help our customers through this devastating experience is with our content management practices. By determining your personal belongings that are at risk for further damage or irreparable ruin, we can make provisions to move these possessions to a safe location on-site or our nearby facility for focused cleaning and restoration. Fire damage in Kansas City homes can be widespread and devastating in some situations, leaving no choice but to use our warehouse as temporary and secured storage for items that could get recovered from the house.
 
Storm and Flooding
 
Storms are an unpredictable presence in the middle of the country, and we can contend with everything from tornadoes and hailstorms to torrential rainfall and excessive snowfall. No matter what season brings the severe weather events to Kansas City homes and businesses, we have a growing division of skilled professionals ready and willing to help.
 
Preparedness is a big part of restoring the properties impacted by severe weather in Kansas City, and for our SERVPRO team, that begins with ready trailers stocked at our facility. These units have our extraction and drying equipment loaded up, allowing us to address a common pressing threat after structural storm damage: flooding. From our continuous draw electric sump pumps with long lead hoses to our electric heaters, portable generators, and air movers for effective drying in these emergencies, our professionals can help.
 
Cleaning and decontamination are a focus that our team must have to truly make flood losses “Like it never even happened,” for Kansas City homes. Because contaminants can exist in natural flooding, we have a line of potent antimicrobial, biocides, and disinfectants to ensure that whatever structural elements remain after flooding are well protected from any continued bacterial or microbial threats.
 
No matter what loss incident your home faces, you can always count on the experience and swift response of our SERVPRO of Kansas City / Midtown team. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. Give us a call 24/7 at (816) 895-8890.

The Mission-driven Team at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown Supports the Military

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

News Release

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (February 13, 2020) – SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown owner Cory Bates is pleased to announce his company’s sponsorship of the USS KANSAS CITY (LCS 22). The goals of this commitment are to support the ship’s crew with ongoing morale building infrastructure, supply sustaining items the Navy does not provide, and to help fund scholarships that benefit the crew.

From assisting Kansas City homeowners who have been devastated by a natural disaster to helping Fortune 100 companies rebuild after major destruction, this veteran-owned business provides quality service to people in their greatest time of need. The owner said the decision to sponsor the ship was a natural extension his time in the military.

“Though our company is very involved with various local charities and outreach programs including Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City, supporting the crew of the USS KANSAS CITY is somewhat personal. I see it as a way for me to give back in appreciation for the education, discipline and rewarding experience received during my four years of Navy service that now helps me operate and grow SERVPRO every day,” Bates said.

“Our pledge to bring the highest level of restoration expertise to area victims of disasters and emergencies mirrors the mission-driven culture which is distinctive of the military,” Bates said. Each of the skilled and talented of restoration experts at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown appreciates what the ship’s symbolism brings to our area and we are proud to start this journey with the Navy sailors who serve and protect our country.”

Christened in 2018, the 418-foot ship is described by the military as a high-speed, agile, multi-mission combatant that delivers superior seakeeping and performance. The Kansas City (LCS 22) is the 11th in the Independence-class coastal combat ships. The vessel is primarily intended to operate in shallow coastal waters, but also is compatible with sailing the open ocean. Featuring a modular design, the flight deck is the largest of any current U.S. Navy surface combatant, and two MH-60 helicopters fit in the hangar bay.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown actively recruits former service men and women. “The character and dependability of veterans are unrivaled,” said Bates. “These are the same skills we need on our team as we plan and implement clean up and restoration services which directly affect people’s lives in our community.” Current open positions include crew chief and production technician. To apply for a position, resumes should be emailed to admin@SERVPROolathelenexa.com.

SERVPRO encourages everyone to be a part of something bigger than yourself. You can support the USS KANSAS CITY through a tax-deductible donation online or by mail at USS KANSAS CITY Commissioning Committee, P.O. Box 410584, Kansas City, MO 64141. For more information about the USS KANSAS CITY click here.

The trained team of specialists from SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown have been providing professional cleaning and emergency restoration services to the area since 1997. The company is a member of International Facility Management Association‎ (IFMA) and the Kansas City Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA). For more information or for fast disaster cleanup and restoration services, call (816)-895-8990.

We Respond Fast To Your Kansas City Home After A Water Damage Disaster

2/1/2020 (Permalink)

We have the best team and equipment to properly handle any size water damage disaster in your home. We are available 24/7, so don't hesitate.

Reliable and Compassionate Water Damage Recovery Assistance in Kansas City

Experiencing an emergency like a plumbing leak or appliance malfunction can be frustrating and even a little scary for Kansas City residents. Managing a substantial quantity of water with mere household tools is overwhelming and ineffective, exposing your home to the risks of trapped water and lingering moisture because you have neither the equipment nor the skills required for the job. Our team pledges to be there for you at your time of need, ready to help our neighbors and community members fast and professionally.

Consistent Testing

Coping with water damage in Kansas City is much more successful when you engage our trained and talented technicians. Possessing the tools and skills to map out the extent of the water damage is crucial. We prefer to nominate one of our technicians to operate the thermal imaging camera, moisture detectors, moisture meters, and thermo-hygrometer as we scope out the migration of the water and the intensity. We reason that we want the testing to be performed in a like manner in every environment inside your dwelling, so we are confident the loss is mapped accurately. That same employee is tasked with revisiting wet areas with the same tools throughout the project, making sure drying goals are reasonable and reached promptly. No trapped water or saturated structures are left behind, avoiding progressive deterioration and secondary damage.

Working as a Team

Having a core group of technicians work with you on the water damage extraction, and drying permits a bond to build between the customer and our work crews. SERVPRO is aware of the uncertainty and stress our customers undergo during mitigation and remediation of a water emergency. Our mission both when our owners and many technicians were active military was to serve selflessly. That attitude is now brought to your home, ensuring exemplary customer service that goes beyond industry-leading training, experience, and the proper equipment. We commit to bring your home back to preloss or better condition, “Like it never even happened.”

Our Honor Is to Help Our Community

When you place your trust in SERVPRO, we deliver on all aspects -- from transparent and regular communication to exceptional extraction and drying. Our crews take every opportunity to assure your family we care and know how tough a water loss can be.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown prepares to answer your call 24/7. Contact us at (816) 895-8890 to get the process rolling.

See more about Kansas City.

How SERVPRO Restores Fire Damage in Kansas City Homes

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

What it Took To Fix Fire Damage and Odor in a Condo in Kansas City

Condo fires present many challenges because flames from one unit quickly send plumes of smoke all over the property even if the blaze does not spread to the other units. In Kansas City, a fire in one of the Condo units left extensive residue damage and odor in several units on the same floor and the ones above, requiring extensive action to restore normal conditions.

The management had to find a solution to fix the fire damage and odor in the Kansas City condo without creating a great deal of inconvenience to the residents in different units. When our SERVPRO team arrived at the site, we prioritized actions that would limit additional damages. By boarding up the loss site, we managed to restrict the movement of people in and out of the affected areas, which would have spread debris further around the facility, increasing the space to deodorize.

Boarding up also helped assure residents in occupied units of their safety during the restoration period. Many of the exterior surfaces blackened by soot required extensive cleaning, including aggressive agitation and chemical action. Perhaps the biggest challenge would have been accessing these areas. However, our SERVPRO teams are trained in the use of elevated platforms when performing restoration tasks. We also supply our technicians with the ladders, scaffolding, and cherry pickers necessary for fulfilling the restoration tasks.

There is a tendency for soot and other smoke residues to adhere to colder, elevated areas such as ceilings and concealed areas. It was no different in this Kansas City Condo where our team had to open up walls to remove the top layers of insulation blackened by soot and clean residues from various surfaces.

After removing areas soiled by the fire, we had to perform various deodorization steps. These techniques include spraying or using ULV foggers to deliver water-based odor counteractants on contents and surfaces. We also thermal fogged to remove deeply penetrated odors from materials since the process recreates conditions almost similar to the smoke from the fire. Ventilating the area helped remove remnants of the fog and any suspended odor particles eliminating the odors from the fire, "Like it never even happened."

The effects of fire damage can have a long-term impact on a condo. Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown at (816) 895-8890 to help perform restoration with minimal inconvenience.

More about Kansas City.

Removing Kitchen Water Damage in a Kansas City Home

1/13/2020 (Permalink)

Frozen or Leaking Pipes Causing Problems in your Kansas City Kitchen

Winter can be a trying time for pipes in any home. Whether you are struggling with pipe leaks, frozen pipes, or other plumbing concerns that come from the weather during this season, it is crucial to address them quickly. All it takes is a hole as small as 1/8" to pour hundreds of gallons of water into your home each day.

If the kitchen of your Kansas City home has suffered water damage, IICRC certified SERVPRO technicians are ready to restore your home to a preloss condition. These disaster mitigation specialists are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, because disasters do not occur on a 9-to-5 schedule. Along with a stringent background check, our employees are often US veterans. We appreciate their service to our country, and we have a hiring campaign to have these exceptional individuals as part of our team. 

Signs of Damaged Pipes in Your Kitchen

Winter can be a risky time for pipes, so keep an eye out for the signs of frozen or damaged plumbing in your kitchen:

• Temperature. The most significant factor that determines whether pipes can freeze is whether the weather is at or below freezing temperatures. Have your plumbing inspected for potential vulnerabilities as soon as possible, ideally before the first frost or the next dip in temperatures.
• Frost. Check exposed pipes for frost accumulation on the outside of the pipe, especially under the kitchen sink. This is a common warning sign that the pipe is frozen.
• Water. If water is not coming out of the faucet and there is either no water or only a slight trickle, the pipe supplying the water to that faucet might be frozen.
• Odors. One of the biggest giveaways of a blocked or frozen pipe comes in the form of strange smells. Because blockage prevents the travel of water through the pipe, the only way for odors to move is up through drains.

How SERVPRO Can Help

The most crucial step technicians take before establishing drying goals and extracting water from your home is measuring moisture with a variety of advanced tools. If you have a pipe leak behind an exterior kitchen wall, for example, technicians can use infrared cameras to detect moisture behind visible surfaces that might be affecting structural materials such as studs, insulation, and drywall. 

Other measurement tools, including penetrating and non-penetrating sensors and meters, are consistently used throughout the cleaning and drying process and compared with the ideal relative humidity for various materials.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown can ensure that your kitchen looks, "Like it never even happened." You can call (816) 895-8890 for a cleanup that begins within hours.

Learn more about Kansas City.

We Get You Back To Business In Kansas City After A Water Damage Disaster

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Our crew arrives on site to assess and properly handle your commercial water damage as quickly as possible to prevent further damage.

Commercial Water Removal in a Kansas City Retail Store

Water damage does billions of dollars in damages every year. Everything from small pipe leaks to water damage from firefighting efforts, to natural disasters such as floods, can do extensive damage to property. Without extensive mitigation, this can put businesses at risk of mold and other contaminants, which can affect the safety and comfort of your facilities.

If your Kansas City business requires commercial water removal, the pros at SERVPRO are ready to handle it fast. This IICRC-certified team has the tools and techniques needed to assist business owners and restoring their property after a disaster occurs. Whether the damage is caused by pipes or other infrastructure issues, this is a crew you can count on to restore your facility to its preloss condition.

Protecting Your Facilities

• Be vigilant. Notice an uptick in water expenses? It may be a plumbing issue. Make sure to regularly inspect your building for damp areas and hire a certified professional to make the fixes required for your property.
• Prepare for disaster. Sandbags, sump pumps, and other preventive measures can go a long way towards protecting your business. Commercial water sensors can also detect and limit the amount of water damage that occurs in your facility by quickly alerting you to damage.
• Check openings and prepare them accordingly. This includes windows, doors, trim, and other gaps and cracks on your property. Use weatherstripping and waterproof caulking, as well as other measures for waterproofing your store.

How SERVPRO Helps Businesses

When SERVPRO comes to your business, they can get started right away on water extraction, drying, and disinfection for your property. If your retail store features carpet and other porous fabrics, SERVPRO back-mounted extractors and rovers can pull moisture out of the carpet and prevent the need for disposal with careful drying. Carpet, in many cases, can be saved from disposal if delamination--that is, the separation of pad from the carpet--has not occurred.

Air movers can be placed every 10 to 16 linear feet at 45-degree angles to dry the walls. If the ceiling is affected, technicians can move ceiling tiles to facilitate the removal of moisture through just a couple of openings. In open areas, plastic sheeting can be used to construct chambers for more effective drying in a contained space.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown serves the community by being Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (816) 895-8890 for your disaster cleanup needs today.

See more about Kansas City.

Water Damage in a Kansas City Server Room? Call SERVPRO!

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Eliminating Commercial Water Damage in a Kansas City Office Server Room 

Missouri business owners may find that news headlines often showcase disasters like fires, hurricanes, or tornadoes. Still, water claims tend to top the charts in terms of everyday risk to commercial facilities. Not only can water damage deteriorate structures without thorough mitigation, but it can create the conditions that allow mold and other microbes to thrive. 

If your Kansas City office has been affected by water damage, you can count on SERVPRO technicians to eliminate the disaster quickly and easily. This team knows that water damage does not occur on a 9-to-5 schedule, so technicians strive to provide service 24/7, 365 days a year, including during the holidays. Professional cleanup that focuses on salvaging your assets when it is safe and feasible to do so can be vital to saving you time, money, and stress. 

Critical Factors for Preserving Office Electronics  

Maintain consistent temperatures. Temperature fluctuations can have significant effects on computer equipment, especially servers. Keep the air around servers at 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit to maintain reliability. 

Monitor humidity. In your office's computer room, data center, or similar areas, keep relative humidity between 45% and 55% to prevent condensation that can corrode, rust, or short-circuit equipment.

Be mindful of water-related risks. Water leaks cause a whopping 24% of data center outages, which is both harmful for your possessions and your ability to generate revenue.

Manage your cables. Not only can disorganized cables cause equipment interference that can lead to network outages, but mitigation experts may need more time to repair and maintain equipment.  

How SERVPRO Saves the Day

SERVPRO technicians train in proper safety practices with water damage and electronic equipment. They have extensive experience in cleaning data centers, computing areas, and server rooms in commercial facilities. Professionals take great care in ensuring that electronics are turned off and safely contained. We erect drying chambers made of plastic sheeting or polyethylene to contain devices and maintain proper relative humidity and temperatures during the drying process. SERVPRO can also recommend or enlist the aid of certified electronics restoration professionals to preserve your equipment and minimize replacement costs. 

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown strives to aid local businesses by being Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (816) 895-8890 today for fast disaster cleanup. 

More about Kansas City.

Our Certified Technicians Have The Training And Equipment Necessary In Kansas City After A Water Damage Disaster

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Our experts are highly trained in water cleanup and restoration and are available day or night. Call us right away to prevent further damage.

Addressing Heater-Related Water Damage in Kansas City

In many homes, the water heater is one of those fixtures that homeowners count on to always work. With regular checkups, these items can last as long as 8 to 12 years with minimal issues. However, an estimated 75% of water heaters fail before the 12-year mark. Leaks from loose valves, old connectors, or damage to the tank are factors that contribute to these appliances being one of the top five causes of water damage. 

If your Kansas City home has experienced water damage, IICRC-certified SERVPRO technicians are always available to clean up the damage and restore your home to a preloss condition. These technicians strive to provide homeowners with clean up services that use cutting-edge technologies and scientific theory to restore structures while minimizing repair and replacement costs for homeowners when possible.

Preventive Maintenance for Water Heaters

Keep these items in mind for maintaining your water heater throughout its lifespan:

• Monitor the pressure relief valve. This valve is typically located on the top or the side of the heater. It opens automatically if the pressure is too high. To check it, gently lift the valve after placing a bucket under the discharge pipe to collect any excess water. If the valve does not release any water, replace the valve. 
• Periodically drain sediments from the tank. Allowing sediment to build up without regular draining can affect the lifespan of your water heater and increase your energy costs. To fix this, open the drain valve and let the water run until it is free of sediment. Releasing 2 to 3 gallons is usually enough to flush out of the system.
• Keep an ear open for gurgling, groaning, and similar noises. These noises are typically signs of air entering the system as water drains from it. If you have trouble closing the drain valve after checking on your heater, drain the tank, unscrew the old valve, and screw in a new one instead. Restart the water heater by opening the shut-off valves and letting the hot water run at the nearest faucet to remove air from the system. After that, you can turn the power back on or relight the pilot.

SERVPRO Removes Water Damage Fast

After SERVPRO comes to your home to evaluate the water damage, they can get to work measuring moisture levels and extracting water from the affected area with extraction wands, wet/dry vacuums, mops, squeegees, and other materials. Afterward, the area can be prepared for drying with centrifugal air movers and industrial-grade low-grain refrigerant dehumidifiers. These systems work together to remove moisture from surfaces and accelerate drying with the introduction of warm, dry air.

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown strives to serve residents by being Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (816) 895-8890 today for rapid disaster cleanup.

See more about Kansas City.

We Have Effective Techniques To Restore Your Kansas City Home After A Fire

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Our crew handles restoration of your home after it has been damaged by fire with our expertise, experience and state of the art equipment.

Considerations to Ensure a Fire Cleanup Exercise in Kansas City Achieves the Desired Goal

Cleaning up a fire-damaged property is essential in restoring the preloss condition of the house by eliminating debris, soiling, and any odors left by the fire. Depending on how the fire cleanup is done, it can help reduce the number of items to replace during the restoration process.

Using the Right Cleaning Solutions

Fire cleanup in Kansas City requires various inputs, ranging from clean water, detergents to specialized cleaning agents. For the best outcome, at a fair cost, there is a need to choose wisely. Our SERVPRO technicians assess the soiling prevalent in the affected area to help make the right choice. If we determine there are only hydrophilic residues, we can use plain water to clean the soiled areas. Other types of residues may require professional cleaning agents.

Safe Agitation

Agitation is a crucial aspect of fire cleanup, especially when dealing with massive or stubborn deposits. There are many ways to agitate a soiled surface, but it is crucial to choose the right one depending on the type of underlying material to avoid damaging it in the process. Our SERVPRO technicians utilize:

• Air pressure
• Water pressure
• Rotating Brushes
• Scrubbers
• Blasting

We can also use different techniques simultaneously. For example, when cleaning carpets through hot water extraction, we utilize both air and water pressure to agitate the soiled areas. Options such as sandblasting are only feasible when eroding the material being cleaned does not damage it. Soda and sandblasting are useful when removing charring from frames and other unfinished surfaces.

Safeguarding Materials from Chemical Action

Various solvents used in the cleaning process can leave permanent damages such as stains, discoloration, or fire damage to the physical qualities of the material. Our SERVPRO technicians take caution to avoid wetting surfaces, especially when cleaning porous materials. For surfaces made with specialized materials such as acoustic tiles, we use specialized cleaning techniques such as Peroxide-Active cleaning to safeguard the physical qualities of the tiles.

Cleaning a fire-damaged property takes effort. Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown at (816) 895-8890 to help do it the right way.

See more about Kansas City.

Kansas City Homeowners Prefer to Restore and Not Have Replaced Water Damaged Hardwood Flooring!--They Call SERVPRO!

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Rescues Water-Damaged Hardwood Flooring in Kansas City Gyms and Homes and Much More!

Why SERVPRO’s Training and Equipment Leads to Appropriate Water Damage Remediation in Kansas City

When your hardwood floors become saturated from a leak or appliance malfunction in Kansas City, it is hard to be patient during water removal and drying. It can take several days or more to return all affected flooring moisture levels to normal. Our training and experience in balancing the variance in moisture levels between the surface walked on, and the subfloor is one of the reasons why engaging our services during drying can protect your property.

Start at the Top

Water damage to your Kansas City floors requires the removal of visible water quickly. Pumps and extractors take care of pooled surface water, but water migration between strips and planks is a concern. As water trickles through, it saturates the plywood or particleboard subfloor. Selecting efficient strategies to remove water below the surfaces is essential, why our team’s training and experience come in handy. Negative air pressure floor mat systems can suction water from several levels. Air moving equipment aimed at the subfloor if there is access from beneath is another option.

Collect Moisture Data to Inform Drying Goals

When working on a hardwood floor project, information about the moisture content of unaffected flooring in other areas of the house must be collected. Every home has a unique moisture level. In fact, when carpenters install a new hardwood floor during initial construction or a remodeling project, best practices dictate that the materials be delivered to the location and acclimate for a few weeks to adjust to the home’s regular moisture readings, avoiding shrinkage or distortion when finally installed. Accurate moisture meter readings sampled by our skilled technicians are why SERVPRO delivers successful results.

Achieving a Balance Needs Professional Evaluation

When the top layer of hardwood flooring reduces to approximately 10 percent moisture content, that typically meets the drying goal. A problem arises if the subfloor still holds significant levels of moisture, more than plus 4 to 6 percent of the surface moisture or an even higher measurement. The dilemma presented is that more drying techniques need to address the subfloor wetness, but the strategies cannot overdry the surface. Achieving this balance requires the skills of highly-trained technicians and continuous monitoring, why SERVPRO is a reliable partner for homeowners navigating these difficulties.

Comprehensive training, state of the art tools, and dedicated technicians are why SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is a premium, water damage recovery provider. Call (816) 895-8890 immediately when floors experience water loss for the best outcome.

Kansas City Property Owner and Water Loss--What To Do? Why Call SERVPRO, of Course!

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

The Forms of Moisture Damage We Combat in Kansas City Homes

Many sciences are essential to the recovery of Kansas City homes after water and moisture damages. From vaporizing moisture from saturated surfaces by our centrifugal air movers to the condensation of humidity into collection trays of refrigerant dehumidifiers, much of the work that we do in the recovery of damaged homes involves changing the state of water damage into a manageable form. To do this, our SERVPRO professionals must understand the nature of water or moisture and the infiltration into a given material.

The types of water damage Kansas City homes experience in and around construction materials and contents affect the chosen approaches to dry up these effects. Each of the three forms of moisture damage our technicians expect to encounter in restoration tasks has specific approaches to overcome and eliminate. These forms often vary by the length of time that materials remain exposed to water damage and the porosity of exposed contents and surfaces.
 
Surface water is what our restorers and our customers can immediately see when water loss incidents take place. These damages utilize some of the widest arrays of our recovery tools, including our extractors, pumps, mops, air movers, and other equipment. Surface water is among the easiest to treat and restore, as evaporation can happen quickly along with direct drying methods.
 
Free water is moisture that has initially become absorbed by material like flooring, drywall, or other exposed surfaces. Free water is a more significant challenge to remove from these materials, but effectively doing so can often protect the installed construction elements. This form of moisture has not bonded on a molecular level with the damaged material, allowing it to get drawn back out more readily.
 
Bound water has gotten absorbed into the wood and porous materials and perhaps chemically bonds with the cells and molecules. Once this occurs, restoration and removal of the moisture damage become far more challenging. Even still, specialty drying equipment like drying mats, injecti-dry devices, and positive pressure systems can have a chance at restoring the material.

 Understanding what we are up against is part of the scoping process that occurs before mostly every restoration project we undertake. Let our SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown team show you how we can help. Give us a call at (816) 895-8890.

What's in Your Kansas City Floodwater? Contaminants!

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

When Contamination Is a Concern After Kansas City Flooding  

Natural flooding can come with many risks and hazards, especially when Kansas City homeowners stay ill-prepared for how compromising these disasters can become. Contamination is one of the first things that must get assessed when professional restoration technicians arrive at your house after a flood, primarily because exposure could lead to health effects or amplify the possibility of mold and microbial growth on nearby surfaces. 

Classifications of contamination get determined by the severity of flood damage in Kansas City homes and the likelihood of foreign substances and other threats being present in the floodwater. Because natural flooding has a higher likelihood of encountering hazardous pollutants like sewage, chemicals, oils, and bacteria, we must exercise caution with our assessment and early-stage mitigation. Our SERVPRO team has advanced training techniques through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and the American Bio Recovery Association (ABRA) to knowledgeably address these concerns. 

Because of how destructive flooding can be in a home, we arrive with multiple tiers of extraction equipment ranging from our smaller capacity wet-vacs to our 300 psi truck-mount extractors in our SERVPRO Green Fleet. The more efficiently we can remove standing water from areas of your house, the better able to protect structural elements and framework from contamination threats. 

We have a team of biohazard cleaning specialists that can address Class 3 flooding contamination threats where presumed blackwater is present in the property. Through the use of multiple extraction units and drying tools, we can remove the immediate threats so that our bio-recovery technicians can get to work with our potent cleaning and disinfectant products. Germicides and sporicides can remove many contaminants on contact and make a material uninhabitable to further microbial and fungal threats. 

Many threats exist in a home after flooding occurs, and it is critical to get the right steps started immediately to protect your property and its occupants. Our SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown team has the experience and equipment to make loss incidents “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at (816) 895-8890.

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Confidence and Reliability Are Why SERVPRO Is Kansas City’s First Choice for Water Removal

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

We will be there every step of the way for your Kansas City water loss.

Clean up of minor spills and quickly discovered leaks are certainly within the DIY capabilities of a Kansas City homeowner who has a bucket and a mop. On the other hand, if a major plumbing fail or an appliance malfunction pours gallons of water into your home, you need to find trustworthy professional help. Not only are the quantities of water in these cases substantial, but the migration of the fluid into building cavities and materials is also a concern. 

We Extract Water Rapidly and Efficiently

All it takes is a broken dishwasher hose, a ruptured water heater, or a clogged toilet to require significant water removal in Kansas City. Our ability to respond fast with a well-trained and equipped crew is why we can extract large amounts of water safely and to dry out spaces thoroughly. Investment in training through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) aligns with investment in up to date, commercial-grade equipment and products to provide our customers with results that meet or exceed industry best practices.

We Follow Research-Based Protocols

A solid understanding of the science of drying, psychrometry, is why SERVPRO’s efforts in removing water and returning your home to preloss condition are successful. Research demonstrates that the more liquid water initially removed, the faster and more efficient drying operations can be. Our submersible pumps clear out water deeper than two inches. Wanded extractors then take on the task of removing as much of the remaining fluids as possible. 

We Are Skilled at Moisture Detection and Monitoring

Mastery of IICRC coursework in the tracing of water migration combined with decades of experience in detection implementation are why SERVPRO can go that extra mile for our customers. Surfaces can look dry, yet hide caches of water in cavities or absorbed into the structural components. We use thermal imaging to find temperature disparities that signal trapped water and moisture meters to set drying goal baselines. Controlled demolition techniques like flood cuts or weep holes release hidden water. Air movers and heaters accelerate evaporation, moving water into the air for our commercial dehumidifiers’ collection and disposal.

Dependable and experienced workers and top-notch equipment are why SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown meets your water removal needs fast. Contact us at (816) 895-8890 day or night to schedule an assessment.

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How to Improve Your Fire Damaged House in Mission

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO Helps Resolve Fire Damage Incidents in Mission Safely

Incidents involving fire in Mission pose risks to anyone in the vicinity. Even after putting out the fire, some dangers remain. Such issues can be a risk to the house occupants or the people handling the restoration. A professional restoration company such as SERVPRO helps restore the property to its preloss state safely because we have IICRC certified Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians in our team who prioritize vital tasks.

Cleaning the Air

One significant hazard leftover after fire damage incidents in Mission literary hangs in the air. Noxious fumes, aerosols, and other particles can remain suspended in the air over extended periods and, if inhaled in large quantities, can lead to respiratory issues. Our SERVPRO teams tackle this problem in different ways, including wearing PPE, Personal Protective Equipment such as respirators, and using air filtration devices to remove particles from the air. We can also use ventilation box fans, which move 3000 to 5000 cubic of air a minute to force the particulate filled air out of the structure, reducing the risk.

Checking Structural Integrity of Support Structures

The flames or embers of fire consume various materials in the affected structure, including frames, joist, or other structural supports. From casual observation, it is easy to dismiss such materials as only slightly charred, yet their structural integrity might be compromised, reducing their load-bearing capacity. Our SERVPRO technicians open up walls and ceilings to expose the underlying support structures. We use char depth gauges to find out if any of the frames are charred past their load-bearing capacity.

Checking Utilities

Different aspects of the fire have varying effects on various utilities in the house. While the flames consume most materials, heat can alter them indirectly. For example, the heat might melt the insulators on power cables causing short circuits when power is restored. Smoke, on the other hand, readily filters into air vents spreading debris all over the house. Our SERVPRO technicians remove all cables in areas directly affected by the fire. We also have specialized duct-cleaning equipment to ensure your air conditioner does not spread debris all over your property.

Safely restoring a fire-damaged home to its preloss state is a great achievement. Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown at (816) 895-8890 to help. We have the resources you need to make it, "Like it never even happened."

Click here to learn more about the city of Mission.

Water Removal and Restoration in Kansas City Homes Done Right by SERVPRO!

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO Can Help Reduce the Impact of Water Damage in Your Kansas City Home

When water spills occur in Kansas City, it can lead to widespread damages unless the right actions are taken immediately. Water is a natural solvent that causes a wide range of materials to deteriorate, especially when left exposed over extended periods. A professional water damage restoration like SERVPRO has the skills and other resources to deal with the issue reducing the overall impact it might have on your property.

Working Faster

Time can be a friend or foe after water damage incidents in Kansas City. Taking long before responding to an incident creates an opportunity for secondary damages like mold and degradation of building materials and contents to add to the restoration service. Our SERVPRO crews work faster because we have the necessary resources, such as equipment. For example, we have truck mounted water extractors, and high-speed pumps to hasten water removal. We also have cavity drying systems such as the injecti-dry devices, which reduce the amount of demolition work needed to dry property. Because We're Faster To Any Size Disaster, we can often salvage hardwood flooring from permanent damage with the use of drying mats and injecti-dry equipment. Customers always appreciate it when our team can cut costs, deconstruction, and restore their homes to preloss condition as rapidly as possible.

Using Superior Techniques

Fixing water damage takes skill, especially when saving wet items. Issues such as the setting of stains, mold development, and damage to electrical appliances can drive the cost of restoration higher because such items have to be replaced. Our SERVPRO technicians use various superior approaches such as freezing documents to halt deterioration, then drying them through sublimation. We also quicken the drying process of wet areas by regulating temperature, air movement, or isolating them by creating drying chambers.

Identifying Potential Long-term Issues Early

Some effects of water damage can have long-term implications if not addressed. An issue like moisture remnants in semi-porous materials can lead to health effects in the future due to mold development. Our SERVPRO technicians can preempt mold development by drying all materials to normal levels. We have many moisture detection devices, including borescopes, thermo-hygrometers, penetrative, and non-penetrative moisture meters, and infrared camera imagery, which help us, identify whether there is any hidden moisture that might cause future problems.

Water loss incidents can have far-reaching effects. Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown at (816) 895-8890 to help clean up and dry your property, restoring the preloss conditions. "Like it never even happened."

Common Sources of Water Damage in a Commercial Building

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

Owning and running a building in Mission Hills, KS, means that you have a lot on your plate. You probably want to avoid reacting to problems, but instead nip them in the bud.

When It Comes to Water Damage, How Do You Do That?

Drainage

Bathrooms and kitchens in a place of business get a lot of traffic. This means that your drains and toilets are doing a lot of work, so you should do what you can to keep them flowing and avoid flooding. Have maintenance check on them regularly and consider conducting a camera-scope inspection every so often. Some tips to avoid a clogged toilet:

• Buy thin toilet paper.
  
• Post signage about what can go in the toilet.
  
• Provide plenty of labelled waste receptacles.
  
  

Pipes

First, you should look into what type of pipes you have. If they are older, they might be polybutylene, copper or galvanized iron. These materials are prone to damage and don't usually last long. Please consider replacing if this is the case. Regardless of material, it is important to check them for corrosion or leaks as often as possible, because even the smallest drip can accumulate. Winters can also be hard on pipes, so be sure to keep your building warm enough to avoid freezing and broken pipes.

Fire Sprinklers

Sometimes your sprinklers can be triggered to go off without a fire- a warm light nearby or burnt food in the microwave can do the trick. This can cause water damage, especially if not taken care of right away. You should have a water damage restoration company picked out so you can move forward right away with water repair should something like this happen. Especially if the incident was above a carpet, this may eventually turn into a mold problem.
There's a lot to keep track of in a large building. If you know what to add to a regular maintenance routine and some simple preventative measures, your life could be made a lot simpler.

Finding and Preventing Mold Growth

9/22/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a Prairie Village, KS bathroom

Mold damage in your Prairie Village, KS, home can be a serious problem. However, knowing a little about mold growth patterns can help you catch the problem early and maybe prevent it altogether.

Common Places for Mold Infestation

Certain areas of your home are more susceptible to mold growth than others. It is important to keep these areas as dry as possible, inspect them frequently for any hidden mold and check for water stains or a musty odor:

• Ceiling tiles and drywall
  
• Paper goods
  
• Wood products
  
• Humid areas such as bathrooms
  
• HVAC vents
  
  

Tips for Preventing Mold and Mildew Growth

Mold needs certain conditions to grow, such as mold spores, warmth and moisture. Unfortunately, most homes naturally have all of these conditions. Keeping mold spores and moisture to a minimum will go a long way toward preventing mold damage in your home. The following interventions may prevent mold infestations:

• Use a dehumidifier
  
• Use an air purifier to trap mold spores
  
• Repair leaks and dry up any standing water
  
• Open windows and use fans to circulate air
  
• Invest in mold-resistant paint, décor and
• furniture
  
• Inspect HVAC ductwork for mold
  
  

Mold Remediation

Even the most meticulously maintained homes can experience a mold problem. In this case, you should address the concern as quickly as possible to keep the mold from spreading. For small areas, a diluted bleach mixture and a little elbow grease will likely be enough to take care of the issue. You can also use a commercial cleaning agent designed for mold. Whenever you are working with mold or chemicals, make sure to open a window or door for fresh air and wear gloves. Depending on the extent and type of mold present, you may need a respirator mask and other protective gear.
In many cases, you can prevent mold growth and address small infestations yourself. However, you may require the help of a certified restoration company for severe mold damage.

4 Tips for Making a Flood Insurance Claim

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

4 Tips for Making a Flood Insurance Claim

If your home has been damaged in a flood in Kansas City, KS, then you will need to make a flood claim to help cover the costs of repairs. Addressing the situation in the right way will help you get through the process more easily and with less stress. The following tips may help.

1. Call Right Away

When making a flood claim, it is important to contact your insurance company as soon as you can. Waiting too long to do so can cause your claim to be denied, as many policies require you to make a report within a certain time period. Filing your claim sooner also allows you to get the process started and finished more quickly.

2. Go Over the Details

While you may have read over your policy when you purchased it, you probably haven’t spent much time studying it since then. Look over it carefully so you know what to expect and what is expected of you.

3. Start on Mitigation Quickly

It can take some time for your insurance adjuster to arrive to inspect your house, so don’t feel like you need to wait to start taking care of the damage. In some cases, waiting too long to begin mitigation and allowing the damage to worsen can cause your insurance claim to be denied. To avoid this, contact a cleanup and restoration company to start work right away.

4. Document Any Damage

While you don’t need to wait for your adjuster to begin cleaning up, you should make sure you have evidence of the damage. Take photos of affected areas and belongings and set aside items in a safe location. The restoration company can help with this task before they begin working on repairs.
Filing a flood claim might seem like a complicated process, but keeping a level head and following these steps can make it go more smoothly. If you are uncertain about anything, don’t hesitate to ask your adjuster for help or clarification.

Why Does the Toilet Overflow When I Take a Shower?

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

Having plumbing problems in your home in West Wood Hills, KS, can be a big headache, especially when something like a toilet overflow starts happening unexpectedly and requires sewage cleaning. If one of your toilets is overflowing when you take a shower, it is likely being caused by a clog between the shower and the sewer. As the shower runs, the water is stopped by the clog and pushed into the wastewater lines and comes out the first spot it can, which in this case is your toilet.

Sewage Cleaning

When this type of problem happens, it can create a major mess in your bathroom. It can be even worse if you take a shower upstairs and the overflow is happening in a bathroom you don’t use every day, such as in the basement or in a guest bathroom. If you have a toilet overflow that has gone unnoticed for a few days, to the point where water damage and mold has begun to set in, there are many professional water damage remediation companies that can thoroughly repair and clean up the area. Proper sewage cleaning is important to ensure everything is fully decontaminated to prevent disease.
You may be able to clear out the clogged pipe yourself using an auger “snake”:

• Through the toilet drain.
  
• Directly through the floor drain after you remove the toilet (this is often easier for cleaning out the clog).
  
• If this doesn't work, you can also take a snake through your drain clean-out which may be located in your basement or crawlspace. Be aware that sewage could spill out after removing the cap if it's clogged here.
  
  

Hiring a professional is often recommended to avoid spending money and time only to realize the problem is bigger than you expected, or unreachable by a common snake.

Fix Your Pipes

A clogged pipe can be an easy, quick fix and may not cause much of a mess or damage if taken care of immediately. But, if the clog has been building up for many years and is far down in the sewage lines, it could require professional tools and the hand of an experienced plumber.

The Best Methods for Maintaining a Commercial Roof

8/16/2019 (Permalink)

Roof damage isn't always apparent. Harm to a commercial roof can happen over time from the effects of sun, wind, storms and other factors. Fortunately, there are several tried and true methods you can practice to get the most out of your roof in Mission Woods, KS. It all begins with developing a partnership with a trusted roofing contractor. From there you can move forward and develop a plan to give the best care possible for your roofing system. As with every part of your business, your roof will benefit from some tender loving care. By using these best practices, your roof will last longer and protect everything underneath it.

Roofing Best Practices

One of the most important elements of a well-maintained roof is the inspection process. This should be done at least once a year and possibly more frequently, especially if you suspect wind damage. The inspection can spot the following problems:

• Normal wear and tear and aging
  
• Broken or cracked areas
  
• The presence of debris
  
• The collection of water into pools
  
• Damaged flashing
  
  

The roofing contractor in Mission Woods, KS, should be able to spot any roof damage and develop a plan to address it. Timely repairs can prevent small problems from getting bigger and even delay the expense of a roof rebuild.

The Top Roof Repairs

Shingles that are cracked can quickly and inexpensively be replaced. Flashing areas that have been damaged can be reworked to prevent moisture from coming into the building. Waterproofing is effective in extending your roof's life. This technique seals your roof and protects against the effects of heavy rain, high temperatures and snow and ice. Several options exist for waterproofing, using such coatings as acrylic, urethane and silicone applications. Waterproofing can even improve the energy efficiency of your building by laying down a coating that reflects the sun. Staying on top of roof damage is a smart way to maintain your commercial roof.

The Aftermath of a Fire at Your Commercial Property- Filing an Insurance Claim

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

There's a lot to deal with in the aftermath of a fire on your commercial property in Fairway, KS. One of your top priorities should be to get your insurance involved with a fire claim. Your insurance company may even determine how you move forward with restoration or help offset costs when rebuilding.

First Contact

Before doing anything else, you should call your insurance company and spell out your situation. You will need to have your policy number ready. Be sure to mention to them whether or not you are completely evacuated, or if the fire somehow effected your living situation. You should also provide them with backup contacts and establish who your claims adjuster will be. They should be able to guide you through the claims process. They might be able to provide you with a list of recommended fire restoration companies to choose from, as well.

Hunker Down

Next in the fire claim process is to secure the property. This means preventing further damage from the elements and keeping the looters at bay. An open-air, burnt property can be pretty tempting. Some common practices are:

• tarping your roof if it was damaged
  
• covering any blown out windows
  
• shutting off your water and electricity
  
• installing a security fence
  
• padlocking the entrances
  
• posting signage or caution tape
  
  

Get Organized

Your insurance company and the claims adjuster will require a lot of documentation. It's a good idea to get it ready as soon as possible in order to speed up the process. Be sure to take lots of pictures of the fire damage and property. Gather documentation of the value of damaged equipment or contents. Provide proof of income if you plan to file a business interruption claim- this can include tax information, business contracts, budgets and financial statements.
A fire claim can be a complicated undertaking if you go into it blind. If you already know what to expect, it can be smooth sailing until you're back in business. Now you can be prepared!

Removing an Unwanted Breakroom Guest

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

The employee breakroom should be a place where employees feel comfortable enough to relax and catch a quick breather before heading back to their desk or workspace. Nothing is very relaxing about stashing away your lunch and finding an abundance of fridge mold growing. With the open access to kitchen or refrigerator in the breakroom, it can be difficult to establish who is responsible for cleaning things out. Left unchecked, mold spores can create a more serious, company-wide problem. Here are some tips to for keeping the breakroom clean and reducing mold growth.

Implement a Manageable System

If your maintenance or cleaning crew isn’t responsible for cleaning out the kitchen, you need to get creative in your approach. Educating your employees is one way to everyone on board with your system.

1. All food containers in the fridge must labeled with names and dates.
2. All food and containers not retrieved by end of business day on Friday will be thrown away.
3. Establish a kitchen rotation list, and use emails reminders and notifications to ensure it is cleaned.
4. Keep a stash of disinfecting fridge wipes in the breakroom for easy access and cleaning.

Problems With Mold

Food that has been left in the fridge and long-since passed it usage date will greet your employees with a distinctive mold smell. Even in containers or wrapped in plastic and tinfoil, there is no mistaking the odor of mildew. Beyond its growth on old food, the mold spores travel to other surface areas and create fridge mold that is visible on the sides, floor, or in the drawers. These spores can also travel beyond your breakroom and set up residence throughout your business.

If your company in Mission Hills, KS is experiencing a mold problem, there are remediation specialists that can help. Taking small steps, such as removing fridge mold, is one way to keep your company free of mold spores and help it avoid a more costly problem.

5 Home Fire Prevention Steps

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent a Home Fire

The best way to survive a home fire is by preventing one from occurring. Fortunately, fire preparation tasks are straightforward.


Install enough smoke alarms in your home.


Ideally, these alarms should be located inside each bedroom, on every level of the home, at least ten feet from cooking appliances, and in the halls outside of the bedrooms. Don't forget to test the alarms every month and replace the batteries on an annual basis. Make sure that family members know how to recognize the alarm and how to exit safely.


Perform home maintenance consistently and thoroughly.


Greasy buildup in burners, lint in the dryer hose, and neglected chimneys are all cause of fire damage. Many household chores and repairs, such as repairing damaged sockets, have a significant impact on fire preparation and prevention.


Store flammable items safely.


Keep gas for the lawnmower, lighter fluid, and similar products stored in a cool location and out of reach. Additionally, consider the many other potentially combustible items. Go through the cabinets and closets of your home, watching for things such as lighters, matches, chemicals, and other flammable items.


Prepare for emergency situations.


A ten-gallon can of baking soda near the cooktop quickly puts out grease fires, safely and effectively. Fire extinguishers with BC or ABC rating are best. An A rating indicates that pressurized water is in the canister and that the extinguisher is not appropriate for cooking fires.


Teach Your Family Fire Safety


In addition to teaching children not to play with matches, fire safety education should include not throwing laundry over a lamp or leaving papers near heaters. The more your children are aware of how fires start, the better they'll be at avoiding them.

Fire preparation is one of the best ways to avoid fire damage and the cost of fire damage cleanup and restoration services. Visit the Prairie Village, KS, fire department or check out the many resources online to learn more about fire safety.

What To Do When Making a Flood Insurance Claim

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

What To Do When Making a Flood Insurance Claim

Most homeowner’s insurance does not offer flood coverage. However, if you have a separate flood policy for your Kansas City, KS home, then you will want to file an insurance claim if your home has been damaged. The process can sometimes be frustrating or confusing, so use the following tips to get through it more smoothly.

1. Call Your Insurance Agent

The first step in filing a flood claim is calling your insurance agent. In some cases, the company can deny your claim if you have waited too long to contact them. Getting the process started right away will prevent this.

2. Take Pictures

After you have contacted your agent to begin the process, you should take photos of any areas of the house that have been flooded. Be sure to photograph any affected items as well. This will help the insurance company determine the extent of the damage. Keeping a list can be helpful as well.

3. Set Aside Affected Belongings

Once you have taken pictures and documented the damage, you don’t need to wait for the insurance adjuster to arrive to begin moving your items. If you allow them to sit in the water, the damage will only worsen, so you should relocate them to a dry area quickly.

4. Prevent Additional Damage

If the insurance company does not believe that you have taken the necessary steps to prevent further damage, this can affect your flood claim. It is a good idea to call a water damage restoration company to do repairs, but you can start on remediation before they arrive. Along with moving affected items, you can board up areas and place tarps to prevent the water from spreading.
Making a flood claim may not always be the simplest process, but there are things you can do to make it easier on yourself. Following this advice will help move it along more quickly and ensure you get the most that you can from your policy.

What Do Professionals Do to Stop Mold Growth?

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

If you’ve recently found a patch of black mold in your Kansas City home, you’re likely beside yourself with worry. Mold cleanup does not have to be stressful. In fact, the easiest and most reliable method of mold remediation relies on the knowledge and equipment of professionals. These experts can help get your home back to normal by taking the following five steps.

Steps professionals follow to stop mold growth

• Find the moisture source. Because mold needs moisture to grow, it’s important to find the source of moisture. A roof leak or condensation buildup may be the culprit of your mold problem. However, if this source isn’t found, the fungus will continue to come back. Finding and fixing the issue helps contain your mold growth.
• Wear personal protective equipment. While mold can cause structural damage to your home, it can also be a hazard. For this reason, professionals often put on masks, gloves and goggles before working with the mold in your home.
• Remove the porous materials. Porous materials must be discarded when affected by moisture and mold damage. For this reason, any affected dry wall will have to be cut out of the home and discarded. Carpets, mattresses and other objects may also have to be discarded.
• Clean and disinfect non-porous objects. Professionals may use a detergent-based disinfectant to clean the hard surfaces affected by mold. This cleaning should remove all spores.
• Dry out the area. After the cleaning, the entire area of your home affected by mold should be properly dried out. The remediation team may bring in air movers and dehumidifiers to help remove moisture from your home.

The growth of mold can be stopped by the proper cleaning steps. The only true way to stop this growth is to remove the source of the moisture and git rid of as many of the spores as possible. It may be tempting to do the remediation yourself, but remediation experts in Kansas City have the knowledge and equipment necessary to do this task well.

Steps to Reduce the Risk of Tornado Damage in Kansas City

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Tornado damage mitigation tips from Disastersafety.org.

About 1,000 tornadoes occur each year in the United States, causing an average of $1.1 billion in property damage and 80 deaths. These storms vary in intensity and the accompanying damage can result in everything from minor repairs to complete destruction with little warning. Most tornadoes are relatively weak, and therefore, primarily damage roofs, windows and trees. While only two percent of tornadoes achieve the most violent and damaging classification, one quarter of tornadoes are powerful enough to cause 90 percent of the damage and two-thirds of the deaths.

In an effort to gain a better understanding of who is most at risk from these destructive forces, the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) conducted a regional analysis of tornadoes of F2 or greater strength that were reported during the 50-year period beginning in 1957 through 2006. This analysis, coupled with the construction guidance included below, is intended to better define which areas are most likely to be affected by tornadoes and to suggest methods for mitigating property risks.

The analysis used tornado records from a period of time when the older Fujita Scale classification F0 through F5 was being used. Since 2006, tornadoes have been classified by the Enhanced Fujita Scale using EF0 through EF5. Both scale classifications are based on damage observed after a tornado strikes. The EF scale, which provides a larger number of damage indicators for different types of buildings, attempts to recognize the difference between poorly constructed and well constructed buildings and results in lower estimates of wind speeds for the most intense storms, which are classified using the highest number on the F or EF scales. Efforts to re-classify the older F-Scale tornadoes using the EF-Scale are very labor intensive and subject to judgment because it requires a review of old damage reports, many of which will not have pictures of the damage. The simple approach, which is reasonable and probably slightly conservative, is to simply use the new wind speed estimates with the older classifications.

In creating the map below, IBHS used a grid of 100 square mile cells in the analysis. This is a smaller cell size than used by most other analyses. The advantage is a finer resolution of tornado risks at the expense of greater variability between adjacent cells. The effects of this potential limitation were reduced by employing a process to smooth out differences in tornado frequencies between nearby cells.

Tornadoes have a unique destructive power among wind-related natural disasters because they concentrate a massive amount of energy in a relatively small area. The strongest category of tornadoes can generate maximum wind speeds of greater than 250 mph, which is enough to destroy most buildings and structures in their path. These maximum wind speeds generate forces that are about twice as large as those generated by the strongest hurricanes.

Only a few specialty buildings are designed to withstand the direct impact of a severe tornado. However, well engineered, large and tall commercial structures are not likely to suffer structural collapse. For smaller commercial structures, good construction choices can give added protection and increase the likelihood that at least part of the structure will remain standing to provide shelter. Buildings that have been strengthened in critical areas and particularly at connection points, such as between the roof and walls and walls and foundation, would have a good chance of surviving intact or with minor cosmetic damage if subjected to the outer edges of a tornado.

Despite the annual tornado exposure, many walls and roofs of businesses in inland areas of the United States are typically built to resist gravity loads and have little resistance to uplift and lateral loads. Construction where all parts of the building are well connected is more common in hurricane-prone areas, but should also be considered by anyone who wants to increase their property’s protection from other severe windstorms, according to the building science experts at IBHS.

A CHECKLIST FOR MITIGATING TORNADO RISKS

While there is no way to eliminate all the damage of a direct hit from a violent tornado, businesses in tornado-prone areas can implement a variety of affordable measures which, for the majority of tornadoes, will effectively minimize damages to facilities, injuries to employees and the losses associated with business disruptions.

While the measures below focus specifically on tornado risks, many also will help protect businesses from other types of high wind and thunderstorm-related weather risks outside of tornado-prone regions.

ASSESS THE LIKELIHOOD OF A TORNADO STRIKING YOUR BUSINESS

Is the area where you live and work prone to tornadoes? Look at the map in this report to identify areas with the highest risk of tornadoes. Knowing what tornado risks are present is essential for choosing the appropriate mix of measures to protect your business. Businesses located in areas with a heightened tornado risk should take the following steps to minimize their risk of tornado damage:

PROTECT YOUR EMPLOYEES

• Prepare and disseminate an emergency plan describing what supervisors and employees should to do as a tornado threatens. Practice these procedures through tornado drills.
• Purchase a weather radio with local discrimination capability. Monitor weather conditions so employees can be moved to secure locations when necessary:
• Have an adequate source of weather information, such as a tone alert weather radio, to keep abreast of weather conditions.
• Have someone monitor local radar and warning information during a tornado watch and especially if a tornado warning has been issued for the area.

Watches and Warnings:

• A tornado watch is a caution indicating a high probability of tornadoes within an area approximately 250 miles long and 120 miles wide.
• A tornado warning means that a tornado has been spotted on the ground in your county or moving toward your county, or that weather radar indicates a high probability of a tornado existing.
• Keep exterior doors and windows closed to minimize rain and flying debris. Closing interior doors will also help to compartmentalize the building and provide more barriers between your employees and the storm.
• Select the best protective area for employees to seek shelter if there is a tornado:
• Basements are usually considered a good area, as are corridors and small interior rooms on the first floor of a structure.
• Never shelter employees in rooms where there is an outside wall, particularly those with glass windows, or where the ceiling or roof has a span between supports of more than 40 feet.
• If your building does not provide adequate protection and you are located in a tornado prone area, work with a contractor to harden a section of your facility or build a safe room.
• Safe Rooms: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and International Code Council (ICC) offer shelter guidelines.
• If you have 10 or fewer employees, a small size room designed according to the requirements and guidance published in FEMA 320 or ICC 500 for residential shelters may be sufficient.
• For larger safe rooms, use FEMA 361 or ICC 500 guidance for community shelters.

Make provisions to shelter employees working in portable out buildings and those operating trucks and other vehicles.

PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY

Wind-resistant construction can be cost effective and minimize the risk of structural damage for the majority of tornadoes, particularly damage from weak to moderate tornadoes, hail and wind associated with thunderstorms, and even to buildings on the edge of strong or violent tornadoes:

For new construction in a tornado prone area:

• Work with an architect or contractor to incorporate wind mitigation techniques and high wind-rated products when constructing your building, including safe areas for personnel.
• These techniques provide state-of-the art solutions to minimize structural risks by withstanding pressures created by specified high winds, strengthening roof and wall connections, roof systems, walls and wall covering, windows, doors, and skylights.
• It is less costly and more effective to harden buildings during design and construction rather than later.

For an existing structure, not built to wind mitigation standards:

• Consider retrofitting, especially when remodeling or replacing building components.
• Retrofitting may include:
• Bracing and strapping the roof.
• Adding recommended fasteners, ties, reinforcements, roof covering and anchors as building components are modified and maintained.
• Making entry doors and overhead doors more wind-resistant.
• Building a safe room to protect against tornadoes.
• For additional information on protection for existing buildings, see “Protecting Commercial Property” in the Tornado section of our website www.DisasterSafety.org.

MINIMIZE THE THREATS FROM WIND-BORNE DEBRIS

• Identify and remove trees and branches that could fall on the building walls or roof, or on power lines.
• Inspect and repair loose or damaged building components such as siding, soffit and fascia, shingles and roofing, brickwork, and brick chimneys.
• Avoid using built -up roofs with aggregate or pavers on the surface.

Tips for Managing a Business Interruption

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

There are many reasons your company could face a business interruption. You could be the victim of a devastating cyber attack, powerful storms could shut down part of your operations, or a fire could cause damage and disruption. Whatever the reason, you can make the situation better by planning ahead. There is even interruption insurance that will help you manage the costs of such an event.

Dealing With a Business Fire

Whether a fire strikes a factory, a hospital, a bank, or some other facility, it can wreak havoc on normal business operations. A fire can cause damage in the following ways:

• Fire damage
  
• Smoke damage
  
• Soot damage
  
• Electrical damage
  
  

To get your business back online as soon as possible, a number of steps need to be taken. One of the first orders of business is to have a fire damage assessment. A team of professionals in West Wood Hills, KS, will provide you with a good idea of how extensive the damage is and the length of time a business interruption may last. This is also a good time to notify your insurance advisor, and see if you are covered not only for property damage but also for loss of revenue during a shutdown.

Handling Fire Cleaning

From this point, you will be most interested in cleaning up the damage from a commercial fire. This includes replacing property that has been burned, as well as cleaning items such as walls, flooring and computers that have undergone smoke damage. The experts in West Wood Hills, KS, will use the latest technology to remove contaminants from your building and get you back up and running. In the interim, they will make sure your property is safe and secure so that no further losses can occur. The experts are Here to Help.

A business interruption is a challenge to any company. Relying on remediation experts and a good insurance policy can both be a big help.

The Steps You Should Follow After Fire Damage

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Few things are more complicated than having to deal with fire damage in the home. Sometimes, the steps that you as the homeowner take after the fire damage determine the speed at which the home will be restored to the state it was in before the fire damage happened. Below are is a guideline outlining the steps you ought to take after an electrical fire or another type of fire breaks out in your home.

3 Steps to follow after suffering Fire Damage. 

1. Evacuation

The very first thing you need to do is ensure that all the people who were in the building have gotten out. In case there is someone still trapped in the building because of soot damage or smoke damage, you should call in emergency services such as the fire truck, fire sprinkler systems, fire hoses, and firefighters to help rescue them and put out the fire. Do not try to get back into the house once you are out where it is safe.

2. Calling the insurance company

When the fire has been put out by the fire sprinkler systems, and the fire trucks have left, the most challenging part of the fire restoration process starts. As a homeowner, this is the point at which you call the insurer and inform them of the accident. Making the call to your insurer gives you the peace of mind you need to proceed to the next important step in commercial fire damage and restoration.

3. Contacting the fire restoration company

Commercial fire damage experts recommend that you should stay away from a building that has suffered fire damage until a fire restoration expert has certified it safe to enter. Contact SERVPRO of Kansas City and let us know about the fire. Once contacted we will send a project manager to you home to assess the damages and work with you and your insurance carries to put you back to pre loss condition! 

Smoke damage and soot damage in the house is a typical result of the fire. We will clean up the smoke damage on all surfaces and make sure the house is as clean as it was before the fire.

Spring Storms Affect Kansas City

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Storm Damage in local Kansas City area airport.

Whether it's your home or your business (or recently a local Kansas City area airport), strong storms can wreak havoc on your property.

Living in the Kansas City area we have grown accustom to living with the lively weather patterns that the spring season brings.

Sometimes, there's not much you can do to protect your property when 100+ MPH winds hit. Generally, we focus on what's most important... our loved ones. After the storm clouds clear a small percentage of our population will find damage to their homes and businesses.

SERVPRO is prepared to assist after spring storms. 

So whether it's a flooded basement in your home, or the entire roof ripped from your building, there's only one call to make. The cleanup professionals at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown quietly taking to the streets 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with the best training and equipment. Call us at 816.895.8890

We are prepared to do the hard work necessary to make it "Like it never even happened."

Who Handles Disaster Remediation in Your Community?

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Some emergency restoration companies are better prepared to handle catastrophic loss situations than others. Whether the emergency involves major flooding following a storm system or high winds bring daily schedules to a standstill, the resulting damages could be more than some crews could handle. For large loss situations, a disaster recover company with plenty of history and a well-established network of resources.

Large Loss Situations

Emergencies happen in every state at some time or another. Some examples of catastrophic loss include hurricanes, earthquakes, and tornadoes.

•  Flooding
•  Freezing temperatures
•  Severe storms
•  Tropical cyclones
•  Wildfires

Each of these catastrophes have the potential to close businesses, disrupt transportation services, and confine people to their homes. Unfortunately, they also have the potential to force people out of their homes. When this happens, what can you do?

Available Resources 

When you need immediate storm damage remediation, choose a company with the resources and workforce to respond. Large loss recovery teams require plenty of equipment, highly-trained, staff, and the resources to move more of each into the community. SERVPRO franchises are connected throughout the country, so when Kansas City, KS, is affected by a large-scale disaster, the necessary people and supplies can be moved quickly into town.

Local Teams

This doesn't mean that damage restoration will be handled by complete strangers. SERVPRO franchises are locally owned, so technicians from your own communities could spearhead the work. The local team may serve as the command center for the work or may be the point at which supplies and additional technicians gather. 

SERVPRO Prepares for Large-Scale Disasters

In 2017, the United States was home to 15 disasters that claimed lives, brought communities to a standstill, and cost more than a billion dollars. The country experienced many disasters again in 2018. Without the right resources in place, communities would struggle to recover. 

However, catastrophic loss can be handled with the right planning. SERVPRO has the training, the workforce, the resources, and the preparation to respond to storm damage, of any size, in Kansas City, KS.

Tips for Dealing With Water Damage at Your Commercial Property

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in commercial building due to toilet overflow in Mission Woods, KS

Whether you are dealing with a busted pipe or toilet overflow, water damage in your commercial building in Mission Woods, KS, is never fun. When this happens, there are so many things to think about that people often become overwhelmed and miss some important steps. Preparing your team and yourself ahead of time and having proper protocol in place can make a big difference. Be sure to follow these guidelines when dealing with this type of problem.

Identify the Source

Cleaning up the mess is extremely important, but if you don't identify the source, the issue will keep happening. One of the most common sources of leak in a commercial building are broken pipes. Besides that, you may be looking at a flooded toilet or roof damage. Getting the problem fixed right away may help you avoid larger issues down the road.

Take Safety Measures

If you are dealing with contaminated water, you need to take the proper safety precautions. Sewage contains bacteria and viruses and should be dealt with accordingly. Clearly mark the area off and wear the right equipment when cleaning up. You may want to call a professional to come help you in this situation.

Document the Damage

Do not try to leave the water damage in place for the insurance company to come look at. Instead, you should take photographs from every angle before you begin the water cleanup. Leaving it can actually lead to more problems, which the insurance agents may view as neglect. Be sure to call them as soon as possible to get the ball rolling.

Depending on the size and severity of the water damage, you may be able to handle it yourself. If you are dealing with unsanitary water, such as a toilet overflow, or if you are at all uncomfortable identifying and fixing the leak, you may want to call a professional water restoration company in Mission Woods, KS, to come help you.

4 Steps to Take When Your Basement Is Flooded

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

How to Deal With a Flooded Basement

Unfortunately, many homeowners in Prairie Village, KS, have experienced a basement flood at one time or another. If you have standing water down there, it is vital to know how to deal with it. Before you begin the cleanup process, follow these steps.

1. Shut Off the Electricity

Before you do anything else, you want to shut off the electricity and power to the basement. Not doing so could lead to serious injuries, so take every precaution possible. If you are unsure of how to do this, it is best to call a water damage specialist.

2. Find the Source

If the basement flood was caused by rainfall, you can go ahead and begin the cleanup process. Otherwise, you need to find the source. To prevent any more contamination to the area, you should shut off the water. Once you have located the cause, you either need to fix it yourself or call a professional to come help.

3. Remove the Water

Getting rid of the water can take time. What you use depends on how badly the room was flooded. Sump pumps or pool pumps can be effective. If there is only a small amount of liquid on the ground, you may even be able to use a mop.

4. Call Your Insurance Company

You want to check on what type of insurance coverage you have after an ordeal like this. Oftentimes the company is more likely to pay if the problem is treated quickly and was not caused by negligence on your part. Using a trusted business to help with the cleanup may also help you get a better payout.

It is important to remember that a basement flood can be extremely dangerous. Take the utmost care when handling the damage yourself. If you feel at all uncomfortable or unsafe, call a water damage company in Prairie Village, KS, to come help you.

Why Is Your Bread Moldy Again?

5/26/2019 (Permalink)

Bread mold is a frustrating experience that often leads to hangry feelings. While it is not the type of issue that will garner celebrity PSAs, it is an aggravating part of everyday, mundane life with little recourse. Because of the nature of mold and bread, the two are forever compatible despite being better apart. However, to truly understand why moldy bread occurs, you must understand the persistent and ever-present nature of mold.

1. Mold Spores

Mold spores are microscopic and everywhere. Some companies claim they can remove every speck of mold from your home, and while that may be true of real fungus growth, the spores will survive. These microscopic little buggers will come into your home through open doors, on the back of your cat Moses and even on your clothes or body. There is no eliminating mold spores, not 100 percent, not ever.

2. Environment

Bread mold loves dark and warm spaces. Therefore, if your bread drawer is located near the dishwasher or your oven, spores may find your bread more enticing, leading to the rapid spoilage of your loaves. However, if your bread is in a well-sealed container in a cooler location, then it may last a little longer.

3. Colonization

While mold spores are everywhere, they do not colonize in all types of spaces. For instance, while there is such a thing as fridge mold, it is not as common due to frigid temperatures and poor air circulation. However, in a dark, damp and humid basement, mold colonies thrive, so it’s probably best not to store your bread downstairs, despite the popularity of basement sandwiches.

Although moldy bread is a common occurrence for most households, there is a point where it may lead to larger concerns. For instance, if your bread is always expiring before the labeled expiration date due to rapid mold development, then you might want to contact a mold or plumbing specialist in the Kansas City, KS area to assess your property for moisture problems.

Bread mold is common, and there is likely little to be done about it. However, by understanding mold, you may prolong bread life a little longer.

4 Fire Prevention Tips for Your Home

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

How to Stay Safe and Prevent a Fire in Your Home

Your home is your safe haven, and proper fire preparation helps it stay that way. Most homes are built with safety in mind, but the bulk of the work is up to you, the homeowner. There are several ways to prevent a fire in your home in Mission Hills, KS, or stay safe and help minimize fire damage if one breaks out.

1. Avoid Overloading Circuits

A common fire hazard in homes is an overloaded electrical circuit. Make sure that your plugs are not trying to power more appliances or devices than the voltage allows. Additionally, keep an eye on cords to make sure that they are not worn or frayed, as this can also cause a home fire.

2. Teach Children Fire Safety

The traditional advice to stop, drop and roll is still good advice. Practice this technique with children, and encourage them to fall and crawl when escaping a fire. Talking about fire preparation tips ahead of time can help them remain calm during an emergency.

3. Install and Maintain Smoke Detectors

Having a reliable alert system is essential for fire safety. Install one smoke detector in a central location on each floor of your home, and make sure every bedroom has a detector outside and inside it. Change the batteries at least once a year.

4. Have an Emergency Plan

The whole family should know what to do in case of a fire emergency. Everyone needs to know two escape paths from every room and where to meet once they are out of the house. Make sure that you have emergency services, your insurance company and a reliable fire damage cleanup company on speed dial.

Fire preparation is an important part of safeguarding your home and your family. Knowing not only how to prevent a fire but also how to escape it and get quick fire cleanup is vital.

What To Look for While Inspecting Your Building’s Exterior Before a Storm

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

How to Prevent Storm Damage to Your Business

When a storm affects businesses in Prairie Village, KS, business owners may wonder what they could have done to prevent the damage. Performing exterior maintenance and inspecting your property prior to a storm, however, may make it easier to prevent storm damage.

1. Obvious Signs of Damage

When inspecting a building, there are certain issues that may be quite obvious. For example, mold growth on a building can be highly visible, and damaged siding can also be easy to spot. Visible signs of exterior damage may also be an indicator that your building has sustained interior damage, and it is sometimes useful to employ water and mold restoration professionals if you suspect your business has existing damage that could become worse if a storm occurs.

2. Loose, Cracked or Worn-Down Materials

Thoroughly examining building materials and areas that are prone to damage before a storm can also be helpful. If you know there are building materials, such as old roof shingles, that may be prone to damage, it can be helpful to check that the materials aren’t loose, dented or otherwise damaged before a storm. Perform frequent exterior maintenance in these areas can help to keep your building maintained.

3. Potential Sources of Damage

When inspecting the exterior of your business, it may be easy to forget to examine your environment. However, even you don’t see any visible indications of a problem and you don’t notice any worn-down materials, it can be important to look around your property for debris or other materials that could damage your business during a storm. You can also use landscaping to your advantage by planting shrubs, flowers or trees that are able to absorb excess water, which may be able to prevent floodwater from affecting your building.

By performing exterior maintenance before a storm can prevent your building from sustaining damage. In your building inspection, it can be helpful to look for obvious signs of damage, worn-down materials and potential sources that could cause damage to your property during a storm.

3 Ways to Mitigate Roof Damage

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

When you live in Kansas City, KS roof damage may occur due to varying weather conditions. It's important to do what you can to mitigate any potential problems before they leave lasting damage to your home. Some things you can do include

1. Regularly Inspect your Roof

Performing a regular inspection of your roof can allow you to look for any water, storm or wind damage that may have occurred. Many experts recommend having an inspection performed biannually. You may also want to look a roof over after any severe storms or weather.

3. Take Care of Problems As they Occur

One important mitigation tip to keep in mind when dealing with roof damage is to take care of any problems as they occur. This may keep a small problem from turning into a larger issue down the road, and also keep you in compliance with your homeowner’s insurance policy. Additionally, making small repairs as necessary may help prevent a costly roof replacement down the road.

4. Contact a Professional

If you are unsure how to properly care for a roof, or what repair sets may be necessary for any damage you may find, then you may want to contact a storm damage restoration professional. A professional service often has the equipment, materials and tools necessary to perform any repairs as efficiently and safely as possible. They should also be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have about your roof.

If you're worried about roof damage to your Kansas City, KS home, you may want to consider taking some of these steps mitigate potential problems. Doing a regular roof inspection will it allow you to be aware of the condition of your roof and take care of any problems as they occur. If you have any doubt as to the severity of the damage or what steps may need to be taken, a professional may be able to help.

How Do Experts Mitigate Major Sewer Damage?

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

Damage restoration professionals have the experience necessary to handle major sewer damage such as a backup or flooded toilet that affects more than one floor of a building. Learn more about the measures necessary to deal with extensive sewage damage at a commercial property in Kansas City, KS.

Assess and Mitigate Damage

As soon as a plumber or sewage company has addressed the cause of damage, a building owner or manager should schedule a consultation with a mitigation and restoration company. Trained professionals can assess damage and take the following measures:

• Pump out standing water
• Remove solid waste
• Determine the extent of damage
  

Extracting contaminated water and solid waste is the most important mitigation measure. The risk of contamination and mold growth will increase the longer that sewer damage is left standing within a structure.

Tear Out Damaged Building Materials

Porous building materials exposed to contaminated water from a sewer backup will likely need to be torn out and replaced. These materials may include any of the following:

• Ceilings
• Drywall
• Insulation
  

Extensive damage will probably call for the removal and replacement of some building materials and contents. Tearing out and rebuilding is particularly important if a backup or flooded toilet affects more than one floor of a structure.

Disinfect and Dry the Area

It will be necessary to disinfect areas exposed to contaminated Category Two gray water, which may contain microbes, or Category Three black water containing solid waste. Cleanup should take place after damaged materials and contents have been removed to reduce the risk of recontamination.

A building owner or manager should contact a plumber to clear a clog or a sewage company if the blockage is further down the line or a backup originates in a municipal main in Kansas City, KS. Restoration can only proceed after the portion of a building that has suffered sewer damage is completely dry.

Mold Problems in a Rental Space: 3 Steps for Resolution

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Mold contamination can grow from a variety of sources, but moisture and humidity are typically the main culprits.

Mold Problems in a Rental Space

Keeping an apartment over a rented commercial space can be convenient for you as a Kansas City, KS business owner. Bundling rental costs for both areas can help you save money on daily commutes and other expenses. However, when you discover fungi growth in your apartment and mold cleanup is necessary, knowing how to proceed and who to contact can be difficult. If you find yourself with a mold issue in your rental space, there are a few steps you can take to resolve the problem.

1. Alert Your Landlord

Once you discover mold in your apartment, it is wise to leave it alone until you can alert your landlord and have him or her come to look at the infestation. Even if it is a minor issue, such as bathroom fungi, mold spores can still detach from small patches and move through the building’s air ducts, where it could spread to your commercial space. Letting you landlord know about the problem right away can prevent this.

2. Discover the Source

Mold contamination can grow from a variety of sources, but moisture and humidity are typically the main culprits. Check cabinets under the bathroom and kitchen sink, the shower and any water lines in the apartment. If you suspect the problem may have originated in your commercial space, you may want to check those water sources as well.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

Depending on the source of the mold, you may be responsible for its removal. Calling your insurance agent as soon as possible can help you understand whether your renter’s insurance covers mold cleanup and the cost of a fungi removal and cleaning service. Your insurance agent can also help you make a claim to cover costs as soon as possible.

Discovering mold in a rented apartment that is attached to your Kansas City, KS commercial space can be stressful. However, when you know which steps to take and who is responsible for the mold cleanup, you can feel more confident about working toward a quick resolution.

3 Ways SERVPRO Can Help With Claim Services

3/24/2019 (Permalink)

Working with a restoration company recommended by your insurance provider, like SERVPRO, may make your restoration process easier.

3 Ways SERVPRO Can Help With Claim Services

When your Kansas City, KS business is hit by fire, storm, or water damage a quick emergency response time can make all the difference. However, after the crisis has been averted you may be left with some restoration needs. Choosing a professional restoration service, such as SERVPRO, to do the job can be made easier by looking at those recommended by your insurance provider. In many cases they may recommend a company that offers a number of claim services, which can speed the process along.

1. They Can Provide a Claims Inventory Service

One service offered by SERVPRO is a claims inventory. This may include both an itemized list, and photographs of any important items that may have suffered damage. Having such a list can help your business go over any items they may need to repair or replace such as inventory, office equipment, or any important documentation.

2. They Allow You To Access Claims Information Electronically

Another important inclusion in the offered claim services is the ability to access claims information electronically. This may include photographs, the notice of loss, job estimates, progress completed, and any new information that may be discovered during the process. This can allow you and your insurance agent to stay up-to-date every step of the way.

3. They Restore Materials Whenever Possible

One aspect in the insurance agent may appreciate when working with such a company, is the fact that they try to restore the existing materials whenever possible. Restoration is often cheaper than a full replacement, and in many cases is a fully viable option. This may not only save your company money, but can help your claim as well.

Working with a restoration company recommended by your insurance provider, like SERVPRO, may make your restoration process easier. These companies may offer a variety of claim services which can make communicating with your insurance agents more efficient, and help you and your agent stay up-to-date on the information you need. If you have any questions your restoration service professional may be able to help.

Tips for Dealing With Sewage Damage

3/16/2019 (Permalink)

Tips For Dealing With Sewage Damage

A sewer backup must surely be among the least pleasant of messes to clean up. The foul odors and the potential for extensive property damage are just the beginning of the problem. Sewer cleanup requires a lot of time and hard work. Before you get into it, however, spend time doing a bit of research to make sure you get the results you want.

Prevent Contamination From Spreading

• Respond to damage immediately
• Keep family and pets out of the affected area.
• Wear protective clothing and gear while in the area.
• Open windows or doors to provide ventilation, but don't run the air conditioning system.
  

Whether the backup is the result of trouble along the Fairway, KS municipal sewer line or the result of a flooded toilet in your home, take the same precautions to control damage. For example, before you do any sewer cleanup work, turn off the electrical power to the area. If the switch is anywhere near the water, wear rubber boots and gloves and use a wooden stick or spoon to flip the switch.

Tips for Sewage Backup Response

There are several other tips you should use while responding to the sewer backup.

• Don't use the water in your home until you've had a safety inspection. This means turning off the running water for showers and toilets as well as in your kitchen.
• Remove uncontaminated belongings and furnishings from the area.
• Alert municipal authorities to the backup. You may also need to contact the health department, depending on the extent of the situation.
• Call water damage restoration technicians. These technicians have the training and the tools to thoroughly clean and disinfect your home.
• Contact your insurance company and notify them of the spill in your home. Take pictures of the damage for insurance purposes before belongings are cleaned or repaired.
  

The best option when dealing with sewer cleanup is to let professionals handle the work. After taking immediate action to prevent the spread of damage, call Fairway, KS restoration technicians.

3 Common Misconceptions About Black Mold

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can grow anywhere there's excess water.

3 Common Misconceptions About Black Mold

An unpleasant, musty odor is a sign that you may have a fungus growth somewhere in your home. Rather than assuming your home in Fairway, KS has a Stachybotrys infestation, hire a certified professional to perform a mold inspection. Many people believe certain things about black mold that simply aren't true. Here are three misconceptions to erase from your knowledge about this particular type of fungus.

1. It's Always Black

Contrary to its common name, Stachybotrys isn't always black. While it is a dark mold, it sometimes has a green tint to it. It is also often dense and slimy. Don't dismiss a mold growth as a milder form of mildew just because it doesn't fit a preconceived notion of how this particular mold should look.

2. It's Always Visible

If a mold has a dark color, you may believe that it is always easy to spot. That is not necessarily the case. Mold can grow anywhere there's excess water. You may see it growing up your wall, but a mold inspection could reveal that the bulk of your problem is actually within the wall or in the insulation behind it.

3. It's Easy To Remove

When you see house mold, you may think all it takes to get rid of it is to give it a good scrubbing. Mold remediation is typically a more involved process, though. Mold mitigation experts typically seal off the affected area to prevent the fungus from spreading to the rest of your home. Then they employ the techniques that the assessment indicates are necessary to thoroughly remove the growth. A final test can confirm that the issue is fully remediated.

If you suspect you have black mold, a professional mold inspection can let you know for sure. Don’t rely on your own assumptions of what a confirmation of this issues entails, though. Leave the remediation to the experts who understand how to get rid of the problem.

Beyond Flooding: 3 Types of Weather-Related Damage That Could Impact Your Commercial Building

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

3 Types Of Weather-Related Damage

As a Kansas City, KS business owner, you might think of rainstorms and other types of flood damage when it comes to the kind of harm bad weather might cause to your commercial building. However, trouble can come from other sources as well, even from those you did not expect. Before the storm season hits your area, it may be helpful to understand what kind of weather-related harm could befall your building, especially those that are not flood related.

1. Impact Damage

Storm damage can be common during high winds, when large tree branches, neighborhood objects like trash cans and other debris might strike your building. This can be especially damaging if a falling branch or projectile breaks a window. If you are expecting high winds to hit your area, consider covering your windows with thick sections of wood or treated rubber, especially at ground level.

2. Electrical Damage

While flooding is a common cause of damage to commercial buildings during bad weather, other types of events could impact their electrical systems to the point where they might need replacing. For example, ice and hail storms can affect fuse boxes and heating, ventilation and air conditioning units, rendering them inoperable. If your HVAC and electrical controls are on the exterior of your building, consider protective covers that can withstand all different types of weather.

3. Roofing Damage

Flood damage would likely affect the lower floors of your business; however, heavy rains and wind that often accompany flooding could impact its roof as well. Wind may pry tiles off your roof or tear away sections of protective material, exposing the underside to moisture. Contacting a flood damage and restoration company may be useful when it comes to finding out how to protect your roof from the kind of harm powerful storms can cause.

Bad weather and flood damage are likely sources of worry for you as a Kansas City, KS business owner. However, when you know how to protect your property, you may feel greater peace of mind when wind, rain and floods threaten your area.

A Home Fire Extinguisher Buying Guide

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Every home should have a fire extinguisher to suppress minor fires. This buying guide identifies the main classes of fire extinguishers and explains why a multi-class or rechargeable extinguisher may be ideal for home use.

Extinguisher Classes

Extinguishers are classified in accordance with standard 10 set by the National Fire Protection Agency. Suppressants are selected for effectiveness and safety:

•  Class A extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate and work on ordinary combustibles
•  Class B extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate and work on flammable liquids or gases, but not cooking oils or grease
•  Class C extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate and work on appliances or powered electrical equipment
•  Class D extinguishers contain sodium chloride or copper powder and work on combustible metals
•  Class K extinguishers contain potassium compounds and work on cooking oils and grease

The most common home fire extinguishers are classes A, B, and C. Underwriters Laboratories assigns the number that precedes these letters and indicates the effectiveness of a fire extinguisher. A 4-A extinguisher is more effective than a 2-A extinguisher.

Multi Class Extinguishers

Some extinguishers are rated for multiple classes. Homeowners may prefer a multi-class extinguisher to promote comprehensive fire preparedness. Determine the most likely fire risks and purchase an extinguisher rated for all of these classes.

Disposable or Rechargeable

Disposable extinguishers have plastic valves and must be replaced after a single use. Rechargeable extinguishers have durable metal valves and cost more up front. Suppressant refills are more affordable than purchasing a new disposable extinguisher.

All of these factors are important to consider when purchasing home fire safety equipment for a residence in Mission Hills, KS . Homeowners may want to install a different class of fire extinguisher in the kitchen, garage, laundry room, and other areas based on the most likely fire risks. If a fire results in property damage, contact a mitigation and restoration company.

3 Important Facts About Black Mold

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Mold at a Kansas City, KS bathroom.

Facts About Black Mold

While some types of mold that exist in your Kansas City, KS, home can be simple to clean up, others are more stubborn and can even be dangerous. Of all mold types, Stachybotrys, or black mold, can be the most difficult to eradicate. If you find this fungus growing in your home, it can be important to learn about the possible reasons for its presence and what you can do to remove it.

1. It Is Not a Surface Fungus

Unlike other types of fungi, such as mildew, black mold cannot be wiped away easily with a rag and a household cleanser. This is due to the way it grows, as it sinks roots deep into building surfaces like wood and drywall. This makes mold cleanup difficult, especially if the fungus has been present for some time.

2. It Can Appear Less Than 24 Hours After a Flood

Stachybotrys can grow rapidly after the introduction of moisture and humidity. For example, if a weather event caused your home to flood, the dirty water can encourage mold growth almost right away. As a result, walls, floors and carpeting may start to show signs of this type of mold as early as that same day. You can identify it by its slimy dark surface, which differs from the type of dry, fuzzy mold you might find on old food.

3. Professional Removal Might Be Required

If you are experiencing a widespread infestation of Stachybotrys mold, then it is a good idea to call a mold remediation and removal service for help. Not only can professional technicians properly identify the fungus, they can also give you options for removal and the restoration of building surfaces that have been affected. This may give you greater peace of mind that your home can be returned to normal.

When black mold invades, it can be stressful for you as a Kansas City, KS, homeowner. Knowing as much as possible about this fungus can help you better understand your options when it comes to the cleanup process.

Why Is My Toilet Leaking, and How Do I Fix It?

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

Water cleanup in a Prairie Village, KS residential

Why Is My Toilet Leaking, and How Do I Fix It?

If you have a leaking toilet in your Prairie Village, KS, home, you need stop it as soon as possible. A constant bathroom leak could weaken the house's structure and cause further damage from mold. If this is the case, you may want to call a professional water remediation company. But if caught quickly, you can easily prevent more damage from occurring with the following steps.

1. Turn off the Water Supply

First, turn off the shutoff valve. Check to see if the problem is coming from a leaking supply line. If so, try replacing the hose. If not, undo the supply line. If the leakage is coming from the bottom of the toilet, drain it and proceed to the next step.

2. Take the Toilet Out

First, check the bolts around the bottom of the leaking toilet to see that they are tight. By simply tightening them, you may get the leak to stop. If this doesn't work, you should remove the toilet. Loosen and remove the bolts, then gently rock the toilet until it comes loose. Holding onto the bowl, lift the toilet and put it aside onto some cardboard or old newspaper.

3. Change the Wax Ring

Scrape away the wax ring, taking care to inspect the flange for breakage or cracks. If necessary, replace the flange. Then set down the new ring, making sure to center it properly.

3. Put the Toilet Back in Place

Place the toilet above the bolts and lower it into position, making sure that a complete seal is formed with the new wax ring. Securely but gently tighten the bolts, and then put the caps back on.

4. Turn the Water Back On

Reconnect the supply line and turn on the water valve. Flush the toilet, checking to make sure there are no leaks coming from around the bottom of the toilet or the supply line.

A leaking toilet, if not repaired quickly, can cause all sorts of problems beyond the immediate mess. By following the steps outlined above, you can stop the leak and avoid more costly repairs to your home.

How To Make an Office Fire Escape Plan

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Every workplace needs a fire escape plan. This plan should be posted throughout a building and shared with all occupants. Be sure to train new employees and perform regular drills to ensure that the emergency escape plan will prove useful in the event of a fire.

Plan Evacuation Routes

Use an accurate floorplan to determine evacuation routes from every room in a structure. It is a good idea to do the following:

• Identify primary and secondary routes
• Ensure that routes are reasonable for occupants
• Obtain equipment such as an escape ladder

Secondary routes may be less than ideal, but they should still be practical. Keep the age and physical condition of occupants in mind. Post the emergency escape plan at strategic locations.

Test Fire Detection and Suppression Equipment

Many commercial properties are equipped with advanced detection and suppression systems. A fire escape plan should include regular tests to ensure the functionality of detectors and sprinklers. Hardwired alarm systems should have battery backups, and it is important to replace batteries that function as a main or backup power source. Make sure that fire extinguishers are of the appropriate class and filled with suppressant.

Keep Track of Occupants

Every business should maintain a current contact list. This list should include these details:

• Names
• Contact information
• Departments

Keep this list in a location where it can be accessed remotely or physically removed in the event of a fire. Every business should have a safe location where employees can gather outside. This place should be far enough away from the structure without being downwind.

An office fire escape plan may also identify which employees are responsible for attempting to evacuate critical contents. It is smart to plan ahead and back up important records off-site. If a fire damages a building in Kansas City, KS, rely on a mitigation and restoration company to resume business as soon as possible.

Is your commercial building a flood risk?

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Dealing with water damage in Kansas City isn’t something that your neighbors will envy you for. It can be absolutely devastating for your commercial property, not to mention the possibility of being temporarily displaced, and business put on hold. In preparation for the possibility of a flood in your area, here are a few precautionary steps to ensure you are prepared.

1. Know your flood risk.

It’s important to keep track of your region’s flood risk. There are a number of factors that can determine your flood risk, but keep in mind that nowhere in the United States is free of flood risk. If you live in a coastal city during hurricane season, your flood risk will dramatically increase. Other areas with typically high flood risk include low-lying areas near bodies of water or downstream from a dam or levee.

2. Know your insurance options.

When it comes to natural disaster-type flash floods, typical commercial insurance policies often will not cover the damage. Flood insurance is a separate policy purchased through FEMA, so it’s important to keep that in mind if you do live in an area with high flood risk. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with local disaster restoration companies and choose one you prefer beforehand, since the time to act must be immediately after the flood. 

3. Know the signs of water damage.

Some floods are more severe than others, and in those cases, it will be obvious when your business has been affected. In other cases, however, water damage can be more insidious and it’s important to recognize the signs, as well as knowing the difference types of water that can damage your home. Black water, for example, is highly contaminated and will cause severe odor and mold damage to your property if not treated immediately. Flood water is, in every case, considered black water. Grey water can also cause damage, but is derived from appliances and pipes in your building.

How To Flush a Water Heater

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

5 Steps To Flush a Water Heater

Flushing a water heater can maintain its functionality. The tank in this appliance can fill up with minerals and sediment, depending on the water quality at a residence in Kansas City, KS. These five steps walk a homeowner through the water heater flush procedure.

1. Turn Off the Heater

Switch off the power to an electric heater at a circuit breaker. For a gas unit, turn off the valve and extinguish the pilot light.

2. Connect a Hose

Attach a garden hose of sufficient length to the drain valve on the heater and run the other end to a floor drain or outside. Make sure that the destination will not suffer as a result of exposure to mineral deposits.

3. Drain the Tank

Open the water heater drain valve and allow water to flow for several minutes. Turn on a sink hot water spigot to drain remaining water. Turn the water supply valve on and off to flush the tank.

4. Close the Valves

Close the drain valve and turn the cold water supply back on. Then, turn on the hot water spigot at a sink or tub. The water will be cold, but this will push air out of the system. Turn the spigot off once the flow becomes consistent.

5. Turn the Heater Back On

Restore the power to an electric heater from a circuit panel or turn on the flow of gas and relight the pilot. It may take up to 20 minutes to produce hot water.

Perform a water heater flush at least once a year. Follow these steps every eight months in a household of three to five residents, or every six months in a household with more than six residents. If a water heater leak results in damage to a home in Kansas City, KS, contact an appliance repair professional and a water damage restoration company.

How To Teach Kids To Escape a Fire

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Every family needs a fire escape plan, and parents should teach kids safety measures. Be sure to schedule regular drills to make sure kids know how to escape from a home fire.

Make an Escape Plan

The most important fire safety measure is an escape plan. This plan should cover:

• Primary and secondary routes
  
• Kid-safe strategies
  
• A meeting point outside
  

Parents and kids should practice using all escape routes. Kids should know where to go and what to do in the event of a fire.

Bed Rolls

If a child is awoken by a fire alarm, they should know to roll over rather than sit upright. Have kids practice:

• Rolling over in bed
  
• Keeping their heads low and facing down toward the floor
  
• Putting a hand down
  
• Sliding out of bed onto the floor
  

You may want to sound a fire alarm during drills. Rolling out of bed can limit exposure to heat and smoke.

Fire Crawls

Heat and smoke rise during a fire. Crawling will keep kids in the coolest area with access to the clearest air. There are several types of kids safety fire crawls:

• Crawling on all fours
  
• Crawling on all fours with flat forearms
  
• Crawling with legs flat on the floor
  

These methods can help kids escape a home fire. Practice crawls during drills.

How to Check Doors

Opening a door during a fire without checking can result in burns or sudden ignition. Checking a door involves:

• Pressing a door with the back of a hand
  
• Leaving hot doors closed
  
• Cracking open cool or slightly warm doors
  
• Proceeding if clear and re-closing doors
  

These fire escape methods are useful for children and adults. Keep in mind that regular drills are necessary for all family members.

After ensuring kids safety, homeowners may be faced with severe damage to a home in Prairie Village, KS. A damage mitigation and restoration service can make it possible for a family to return home as soon as possible.

How to Prepare Your Company for a Storm

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

How to Prepare Your Company for a Storm

This time of year, a winter storm is imminent. While not every storm will cripple a business, it is still necessary to be prepared. Along with frigid temperatures and snow, winter can create problems with plumbing and operations. Therefore, it is essential to make a plan for the worst-case scenario.

1. Prepare Your Building

In an effort to prepare for potential storm damage, it is wise for a business to focus on plumbing and electricity. Outside plumbing should be shut off and cleared to prevent freezing and possible burst pipes. Additionally, it may be a good idea to secure a generator if your business does not already have one. If your company does have a generator, it is a good investment to have it serviced before the winter weather sets in.

2. Plan for Ice and Snow

Any winter storm is going to bring issues of snow and ice. Being prepared for this situation means having a plow service on contract and ensuring that all walkways and driveways are cleared and salted. It is vital to do everything in your power to ensure that customers do not get hurt on the way into your business.

3. Focus on Inventory

Also, as storms have the potential to cause significant business interruption as well as property damage, it is vital to take an accurate inventory of all your assets. This inventory will be used for insurance claims if property damage results in an inventory loss. You should move stock to a secure and climate-controlled area, photographing and documenting everything. This will help streamline the process if a claim is made.

4. Make a List of Contacts

While taking inventory is necessary, it is also crucial to make a list of emergency contacts. This list should include all personnel who are essential to your operations. Additionally, you should include a disaster restoration specialist in the Mission Hills, KS, area in case of an emergency.

Winter storm season can produce significant threats to business operations. Massive snowfalls and ice storms can wreak havoc on a business, so it is essential to have a plan like the one above.

How To Remove Mold From Air Ducts

11/26/2018 (Permalink)

What is The Reason Mold Growth is Such a Problem in Air Ducts?

Mold colonies seem to favor HVAC systems. The heating and cooling system in your building, in Fairway, KS, is no different. How can you prevent mold from taking root in your AC system? Here are some of the reasons why mold is such a problem in commercial heating and air systems:

• Mold, such as black mold, makes airborne spores that enter the ductwork via the intake system.
  
• Particles get trapped in ducts due to buildup of dust and dirt in the system.
  
• Particles thrive and become colonies due to the moisture and availability of an organic-based food supply.

If you smell mold but you haven’t found the source, start checking out the vents. Do you see any specks of discoloration around your vents? Do you smell musty air when you are near vents or when the system is running? If the answer is yes, you may have a mold issue in your ducts.

Clean Your Ventilation System

Cleaning should be done frequently, with some recommendations suggesting every 3-5 years, but may be needed more frequently depending on the situation. For example, if you have had any construction or remodeling, you should have your ducts cleaned. When your system is cleaned, professionals remove dust and debris that serves as food for black mold and other mold colonies. There are two basic steps a professional will take to make sure you have clean ducts:

1. Loosen contaminants. Agitators such as brushes, air tools, and vacuums may be used.
   
2. Contain contaminants. Negative air pressure is utilized to collect contaminants as well as to prevent them from spreading into your building.
   

A professional will be thorough, cleaning the entire system, including coils, ducts, motor, drip pans, vents, blower, and more.

Conclusion

Cleaning your air ducts and HVAC system periodically will help prevent the growth of black mold, improve the quality of your indoor air and keep your HVAC system running more efficiently. Rely on professional mold remediators to help ensure proper cleaning and containment of mold for your organization.

Train Employees for Fire Safety

11/23/2018 (Permalink)

Fire extinguisher training should be done on an annual basis, at least, and should also be part of the initial training for new employees in Fairway,KS.

The P.A.S.S Technique

If employees aren't confident they can safely put out a fire, they should evacuate instead. The acronym P.A.S.S. helps employees remember each step of using an extinguisher to reduce fire damage.

• Pull the pin. Find the pin at the top of the canister and pull it out to break the tamper seal.
• Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. When the source of water is doused, the flames should die down.
• Squeeze the handle to release the pressurized chemicals inside the canister.
• Sweep the spray from side to side, maintaining your focus at the base of the fire.
  

After working through the steps, keep your eye on the area. If flames reappear, repeat steps 2 to 4.

Annual Fire Response Drills

Use the following steps in case of a fire (and during yearly drills.)

• Pull the fire alarm and alert the fire department.
• Protect the designated evacuation path. If fire, heat, or smoke threatens to come between employees and the exit, personnel should evacuate instead of fighting the fire.
• Choose an appropriate extinguisher.
• Complete the P.A.S.S. technique.
• Observe the location of the fire to catch any flames that may reignite.
  
• Evacuate immediately if the fire is too big, if the air isn't safe to breathe, if the room is too hot or smoky, and/or if the evacuation path is compromised.

Once the ability to use the fire extinguisher has been mastered and employees have been trained in the fire response routine, schedule opportunities for employees to practice their responses to a fire.

Practice Safety

It doesn't take long for a kitchen fire to pop up in a restaurant or flames to appear in an industrial setting. Protect your employees with training on how to use a fire extinguisher and regular drills in fire safety techniques. Fire damage restoration professionals could provide you with further resources.

How To Prepare for Flood Damage

11/17/2018 (Permalink)

Start Preparing For A Future Flood

No Kansas City, KS, homeowner wants to think about the possibility of flood damage affecting his or her home. Maybe you've put off preparing for such worst-case scenarios. Deep down, however, you know that it is better to be prepared for flooding in advance than to have high water levels suddenly affect your life without a plan in place. Read on for three ways to start preparing for a future flood right now.

1. Learn About Your Flood Risk

If it seems like floods are a persistent problem in your area, you may live in a flood zone. The best way to find out is by visiting the Federal Emergency Management Agency's online Flood Map Service Center. This allows you to quickly and easily figure out whether or not you are at high risk for flooding so you can purchase flood insurance if needed.

2. Get Your Property Storm-Ready 

Protect your property against future storm damage to the best of your ability. Cleaning gutters and storm drains is a great way to keep water flowing smoothly outside — and only outside — your home. You may also want to consider buying a battery-operated sump pump and finding ways to protect your valuables.

3. Practice an Escape Plan

You will want to make sure that you and your family are ready to escape at a moment’s notice in the event of an emergency. Know where to seek shelter, keep supplies on hand and memorize your exit route. Contact the Red Cross for information about emergency shelters in your community, as well as suggested provisions for both your home and your family, including your pets.

Flooding is not a fun thing to think about, but it is better to be prepared than to be blindsided by a storm with no safety or storm damage restoration plan in place. Follow the three steps above for a greater chance at protecting your home and loved ones the next time flood water threatens your Kansas City, KS, home.

Top Reasons Your Insurance Company May Deny Your Fire Claim

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

A home insurance policy typically covers numerous situations, including fire damage. However, there are two home fire circumstances that are usually not covered under most policies: arson and a fire inside a vacant home.

Investigating for Arson

Deliberately setting fire to a home is a criminal act, and a desire to collect insurance money is often the motive. For this reason, insurance companies require a fire investigation as part of the claim process. This helps the insurer establish the cause of the fire and note potentially suspicious details, such as multiple points of origin.

To help further reduce the risk of insurance fraud, your insurance company may also evaluate your personal finance and insurance claim history. Examples of potentially suspicious findings that may result in a denial of a home fire claim include the following:

• A recent increase in coverage or decrease in deductible
• Extensive debt or pending bankruptcy
• Prior insurance claims and loss history
• Recently purchased, high-value items on claim list
• The value of destroyed contents is inconsistent with household income

Because of this detailed investigation, any homeowner filing a claim in Mission Hills,KS, should be prepared for a potentially lengthy claim process.

A Vacant Home Fire

Like arson, a vacant home fire is also not typically covered under most insurance policies. A home is considered vacant if it is uninhabited for 30 or more consecutive days. If your insurance company can verify this circumstance, it may deny your claim, forcing you to fund cleanup and restoration costs out-of-pocket. To protect your financial interests, you should consider purchasing vacant home insurance or add an endorsement to your existing policy for any vacation homes or rental property you own.

Protecting Financial Interests

Your home insurance policy can be a strong financial safety net in the event of a home fire. However, because arson and insurance fraud are serious problems, insurance companies must thoroughly investigate fire claims to protect their financial interests. To further safeguard your financial security, you should update your policy to ensure vacation and rental properties are adequately protected.

What Are the Best Flood Prevention Strategies?

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding may seem inevitable, but a few preventative measures can reduce the severity of the situation. From the choice of location to structural improvements, here are three of the top flood prevention strategies.

1. Look Over Flood Maps and Data Before Building or Buying

If you build or buy a commercial property located on a flood plain, you will probably need to obtain flood insurance. Most business insurance policies do not include flood coverage, which is available through the National Flood Insurance Program or private insurers. You should also determine whether the risk of flood at a property will undermine the overall value of your investment. Factor in the presence of local flood prevention installations such as detention basins, retaining walls, sea walls, or tide gates before you decide.

2. Flood Proof a Commercial Property

Flood proofing involves the use of barriers, pumps, and seals to make a building watertight up to typical flood levels for the location of the property. Depending on the ratio of benefits to costs, some of these improvements may qualify for federal grants. In addition to these improvements, you should also consider the warning time that you can expect to have at this location. Regularly test flood proofing and emergency systems as well as the integrity of the flood panels, floor slab, openings, and walls.

3. Use Grading and Vegetation Strategically

Grading can prevent water from accumulating around the foundation of a building, where it may lead to basement leaks or structural damage. Vegetation can also break up the flow of moving water and help to reduce erosion. Drainage and flood waters should be directed away from the building, if at all possible.

These flood prevention strategies can help you make more informed decisions about a commercial property in West Wood Hills,KS. If you need flood cleaning services, contact a storm and water damage restoration company.

Steps for Fixing Toilet Leaks

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Residential sewage restoration in a Kansas City, home

A leaking toilet can be a frustrating problem to have. Fortunately, it's usually an easy problem to fix. A large amount of water will likely call for professional remediation. If you notice only a little water on the floor of your bathroom, however, you can probably remedy the issue by following these steps.

1. Identify the Source

Seeing water on the floor of your bathroom does not necessarily mean you need toilet repair, but the toilet is the likely culprit. Mop up the water with a towel and watch where the new puddle that forms comes from. That way you can identify if the toilet is leaking from the base or from somewhere else, such as a faulty supply line.

2. Remove the Toilet

If the water is seeping out of the base, you can sometimes tighten the bolts that secure it, and that fixes the problem. If it doesn't, however, you may need to remove the leaking toilet so that you can replace the gasket that seals it. Loosen the bolts and lightly rock the old toilet back and forth until it separates from the floor.

3. Remove the Gasket

Lifting the toilet off the floor leaves behind the wax gasket that provides the seal against leaks. You will probably need to scrape to get the gasket completely off. It is important that removal is thorough so that the new gasket will work.

4. Replace the Gasket and Toilet

After the toilet has been removed, you have the space to replace the gasket. Put it in place and then set the toilet back on top of it. Align it so that it will seal where it is supposed to seal and then replace the bolts to clamp the toilet firmly in place.

If you have a leaking toilet in your home in Kansas City,KS, it is generally pretty easy to fix the leak. Just follow the appropriate steps so that your toilet can function without problems.

How to Recover Your Business After Water Damage Occurs

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

Though maintaining a successful business in Kansas City, KS, takes dedication, time and money, water damage can quickly create a variety of issues for the company. Making repairs and recovering products after the damage can be costly, but there are various steps you can take to make the process easier.

Collect What You Can

Assuming that it is safe for you to be in your business, collect important items to ensure they don’t become lost or damaged. Even if you feel that an item is damaged, removing it from the area can make water cleanup easier. Make sure to take note of any items made of cloth, such as furniture or rugs, and relocate them if possible to prevent staining and mold growth.

Remove Water

Eliminate as much water as possible. Mopping up areas that aren’t saturated with water can help to prevent further damage. If the ceiling is not damaged, you can turn on fans to help dry up the water. Air flow can also help the water dry quickly.

Avoid Potential Hazards

When you remove items and clean your business after water damage has occurred, it’s essential to be aware of your environment and prioritize safety. Make sure you and others don’t slip on puddles of water, trip over broken pipes or use any electrical fixtures or appliances. If you’re unsure if you can safely move something, or if you don’t know if using an item is safe, it’s best to err on the side of caution. The old adage that it is better to be safe than sorry applies here.

Water damage can take a toll on businesses, and it’s important to know how to safely and efficiently clean your business. It’s also important to work with experts to repair your business after the damage occurs. By working with qualified professionals and mitigating the damage on with expert help, your business can be restored quickly. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROkansascitymidtownks.com/.

Ready the Barricade and Secure the Adirondack: How to Prepare Your Home for a Flood

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

Despite popular belief, flooding does not always occur rapidly. Sure, flash floods happen, and you aren’t given months of advanced warning, but those who live in flood zones understand the potential risks and when they are most vulnerable, especially during the rainy season. The question most asked by those new to flood zone areas is how do you prepare and stay safe? While there are many answers to that question, one of the best is the three-pronged approach provided by FEMA.

1. Prepare To Evacuate

The first step in preparation is to make sure that you protect yourself. Pay attention to the public warnings and alert systems, and don’t think that you know better, just listen. Evacuate when you’re told to evacuate. If you don’t leave, you risk being trapped in flood waters without the luxury of emergency services.

2. Protect Your Belongings

Before you evacuate, and before any significant flooding begins, you would be wise to secure and protect any of your valuable belongings. Protecting items is simple and can be done by elevating any critical mechanics and technology, waterproofing any personal items like photographs by putting them in sealed plastic bags, and clearing away or tying down any exterior furniture that may cause damage to your home during the flood.

3. Protect Your Interests

Beyond the short-term objectives of evacuating yourself and securing your belongings, if you live in a flood zone, you should have flood insurance to protect your home from flood damage over the long term. While not a typical element in most insurance plans, flood insurance can be beneficial and is often a requirement in high-risk flood zones.

While there are undoubtedly restoration specialists in the Kansas City, KS, area, it is ideal to limit any potential storm damage from flooding by taking the above precautions. Being attentive to official warnings, protecting your belongings, and safeguarding your interests ensures that you are in the best possible position when the storm comes, literally and figuratively. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROkansascitymidtownks.com/.

Recurring Black Mold Means Concealed Problems

9/9/2018 (Permalink)

With your repeated efforts using any number of remedies, you may have once thought you were victorious over black mold. To your surprise, it has come back despite a thorough cleaning. This may be symptomatic of a more serious infestation at your home in Kansas City, KS. This mold will continue to grow if you do not treat the core problems.

What Allows Mold to Grow Again

Mold continues to grow as long as it has sources of food and a wet environment. Your home is unavoidably going to have materials where black mold can thrive, so you cannot treat that. A problem you often can remedy, however, is the mold’s access to water. Water can be where it shouldn’t be and feed mold for a number of reasons, including:

• Humid weather and bad insulation
• Condensation from poor airflow regulation
• HVAC problems
• Flooded or wet rooms
• Leaking or broken pipes

By treating water damage, the mold will no longer have ideal conditions to centralize and spread its spores. These locations are often dark and out of sight, so the source of all your recurring mold problems may not be easily locatable.

What Can I Do to Stop Mold

You can help protect your residence with regular inspection and repair of pipes, attics, crawl spaces, sinks and any HVAC system. By properly securing your home from water infiltration, you can stop the mold from having a place to ever begin.

Without commercial equipment and extensive knowledge for mold remediation, however, you may not be able to fix the problem by yourself. Fortunately, there are services offered by professional mold cleanup crews that can fully remove mold and any associated water problems. This includes mold hidden inside walls and other difficult places. These companies can remove every single spore from your residence to treat the problem instead of just control it.

Black mold doesn’t have to have a hold on your home. Without any spores left to spread, the seemingly never-ending mold growth will finally reach the end of its story. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROkansascitymidtownks.com/.

Top Strategies for Creating an Effective Office Fire Escape Plan

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

Fires are frightening, destructive and unpredictable disasters that no business in Kansas City, KS wants to battle. While you can’t guarantee that your staff will never have to worry about a fire, the best way to protect your employees and ensure their safety is to prepare and implement a fire safety plan. In fact, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires most businesses to have a fire escape plan in place.

Communicating Your Plan

To be effective, your employees must be aware of your emergency escape plan and the proper procedures for executing it. All new employees should receive evacuation training as part of their orientation process. Your staff may also benefit from completing routine evacuation drills to remind everyone of the proper procedures and ensure evacuations can be completed both quickly and orderly.

Reporting a Fire

Your business should have a carefully crafted communication system for alerting building inhabitants of the fire as well as reporting the fire to authorities. Existing fire alarms need to be distinctive and easily recognizable, so they can be quickly located and activated. You may also choose to have an auxiliary power source for your alarm system in case of disrupted power.

Designating Escape Routes

Every fire escape plan should include primary and secondary escape routes and exits. Appropriate signage is essential and should include the following:
• Visible floorplans or route maps that clearly illustrate the location of all available exits
• Well-marked exits that are clear of debris
• Visual reminders that employees should avoid using an elevator in the event of a fire
Regrouping Outside of the Building
To ensure everyone is safe, you need to establish a procedure for accounting for personnel. Designating specific meet-up locations outside and away from the building should be a key aspect of this plan.
Protecting Your Assets
A well-developed fire escape plan can help minimize chaos and confusion should your business ever face a fire. As part of your plan, you may also want to designate a secure place to store duplicates or originals of important documents, such as accounting records, legal paperwork and employee files, that cannot be easily salvaged or restored during the cleanup and restoration process. Visit http://www.SERVPROkcmidtown.com for more information on fire damage. 

Keep Your Business Afloat During a Flood With 4 Preparatory Steps

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

A mishandled flood can mean dire damage to your business in Kansas City, KS. Not only is the building itself at risk, but important inventory stands to be lost. Preparation is a very important part of stopping any flooding from becoming financially detrimental. These four steps are essential preparation for reducing flood-related problems.

1. Evaluate Special Considerations for the Area

While every business is at risk of an unexpected pipe burst leading to flood damage, some areas may also be at high risk of nearby bodies of water overflowing. A specialty flood insurance policy offers a way to recoup losses in an environment where water can rise and flood the streets.

2. Secure All Computers and Their Data

Networks and computers contain important business or customer data. They should be relocated to an elevated place near no pipes or water-connected utilities. By being high up, they are more protected from ground level flooding.

If the data is extremely important for operations, the computers should be regularly backed up and stored on a secure, remote server or external drive kept off the premises. By doing so, a backup is always available to prevent catastrophic data loss.

3. Keep the Building Maintained

Plumbing and utilities should regularly be inspected by a professional. Any problems identified during an inspection are best treated as soon as possible. If these problems are ignored, a resulting burst pipe can lead to extensive water damage.

4. Plan for Any Imminent Floods

Having a plan for the event of an oncoming black water flood can save your business time and money. This plan should include relocating company vehicles and products, identifying waterproof locations to store important documents and providing instructions on how to shut off every utility.

Despite stellar planning, water may still damage a commercial property. If damage occurs, an expert water damage restoration crew is worth contacting to remove the water and restore the building back to its original condition. Planning ahead is key for completely preventing or, at the very least, lessening the consequences of flooding. Knowing what to do before will help you after. Visit http://www.SERVPROkcmidtown.com for more information on commercial storm damage. 

Extra Steps of Sewage Cleanup

8/15/2018 (Permalink)

Sewer cleanup poses some unique challenges for a home repair in Kansas City, KS. Not only does the residential cleanup team have to worry about removing standing water and drying out your house, but there may be an added worry of bacteria and other contaminants. What extra steps does this type of cleanup require?

• Identify the source: A flooded toilet can pose different problems than water from a sewer main. Both water sources will fill your home with what is essentially dirty water, but the level of contamination is different. Toilet water could be considered a category two flood because it is contaminated with urine, bacteria and other viruses, but does not contain feces. However, if the water comes from beyond the toilet bowl, it may be category three water because of the added feces, chemicals and microbes.
• Use special equipment: Because of the potential of bacteria and other contaminants being in the water, a sewer cleanup requires the use of some special equipment. Workers coming into contact with the water need to wear gloves, special suits, goggles and masks to protect themselves. A regular wet vac may not be enough to get rid of the standing water either. If the sewage contains sludge, your team of experts may need to use a trach vac because it can suck up liquids and solids.
• Disinfect the area: When dealing with dirty water from a sewer backup, the entire affected area has to be disinfected after the water is removed. If this step is skipped, your home may be dry but full of extra bacteria. Most building materials and belongings touched by category two or three water has to be thrown out rather than repaired.

Sewer cleanup often follows a lot of the same path as any residential water damage repair. However, the water may contain certain chemicals and bacteria that make the cleanup process a little more in depth. Visit http://www.SERVPROkcmidtown.com for more information on water damage. 

Freezing and Thawing Patterns in Spring

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

While a bust pipe is usually the most common cause of flooding, your building may be affected by thawing and freezing weather patterns as well. Rapid thawing can cause melting snow and ice to create standing water on your property, which may seep into your basement and cause flooding. A storm damage and flood remediation service can advise you about your building’s flood risk and what steps you can take to protect it. 

Whether a burst pipe or an early thaw causes flooding in KC, commercial building, the results can be costly. Knowing what to watch for once temperatures drop can help prevent flood damage and the problems it can cause.

When your Kansas City home has water damage from flooding or leaks, you need the company that can respond immediately and has the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown uses advanced water damage inspection and extraction equipment to help them find the moisture and to remove it as quickly as possible. Our highly trained technicians will monitor and document the drying process so that you know your property is back to normal.

Deodorization After a KC Fire

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Recovering from a recent fire, regardless of its size, can be a complicated process. Contact us at SERVPRO of Kansas City / Midtown to walk you through the entire restoration process and help to bring these damages back to their pre loss conditions.

Call us anytime at 816.895.8890.

Since formidable smells (like those left behind after a fire) are challenging to live with, be sure to speak with our technicians assigned to your residence about deodorizing the area as soon as possible. Fogging can happen alongside our cleaning and restoration efforts, which makes the entire process more streamlined and efficient.

Though this chemical has no scent, it reacts on a molecular level with the foul-smelling odor molecules lingering in the air after the fire gets extinguished. This new chemical compound is entirely neutral, leaving behind no smell at all. The process is a far cry from traditional deodorizing techniques, which merely overpower the harsh smell with an overbearing new scent for the damaged areas. Fogging leaves the room smelling like nothing has ever happened, even if you are still in the process of restoration efforts for the damages.

Timely Attention is a Key Element in Remediation

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold remediation involves both mold cleanup and moisture control. 

When you call mold remediation specialists to handle your mold problem, their service includes not only cleaning up the growth but also fixing the moisture problem that led to it. High humidity can also lead to mold problems, so it's good to keep the humidity level of your building to 45% or lower.

Timely Attention is a Key Element in Remediation

Once you discover a mold problem on your property, call the experts at once. Mold does not just go away. It multiplies quickly, and it may keep growing until the problem is resolved.

Mold growth is not a problem to take lightly. If you call remediation experts quickly and manage to control the moisture problems that led to it in the first place, you can resolve issue.

Call us at 816.895.8890 if you have questions about the problem in your home.

Precautions to Take While Grilling

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Propane:

• Stay alert when grilling. Avoid grilling when you are tired or have consumed too much alcohol.
• Do Not leave your grill unattended.
• Keep the grill in a place that is free from flammable items and away from porch rails, and low lying branches.
• Keep children and pets as far away from the grill as possible
• Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.

NOTE: A light soap and water solution applied to the hose is a great way to check for leaks. You can often smell a propane leak, but propane will also release bubbles when the soap and water solution is applied. If you detect a leak, turn the gas tank and grill off. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department.

• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before igniting.
• If you smell gas while cooking, immediately move away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.
• If the flames go out for any reason, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least 15 minutes before re-lighting it.
• Keep your grill clean by regularly removing grease or fat buildup from the grates and trays below.

Charcoal grill safety tips to consider:

• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquid to the flames.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• Electric charcoal starters do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container with a lid.

Moisture and Mold Growth Mold

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold spores are already present throughout your home. They can be microscopic in size and dormant. They can already be on any surface from fabrics to the wall studs.

Flooding of any kind can trigger rapid mold growth, especially mold growth behind your walls. It does not matter if the flooding source was a broken freshwater pipe or dirty water from a stream that rose above its banks. The moisture triggers the growth of the mold in your home. If you detect any smelly odor that smells like mildew, you have a mold problem that could benefit from professional mold remediation.

Mold removal typically begins with drying everything that got wet, including the use of commercial dehumidification units that can remove 15 gallons of moisture or more that is present in the ambient air.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call us at 816.895.8890 

Heat and Mold Damage

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

The warmer it is, the better the mold likes it. Combined with moisture, higher heat can exponentially increase mold growth. You have likely at one time seen the results of leftover food that got lost in the back of the fridge. It is an example of how quickly mold can grow in refrigerated environments.

The heat makes it grow faster. Fungus begins to grow as soon as spores, moisture, heat and a food source are present. The smelly odor of mildew is the first sign of its presence as mold growth behind your walls is not going to be seen until it reaches an advanced stage. Deodorization attempts without mold mitigation and remediation are of no benefit.

Call us at 816.895.8890 if you have questions about the mold problem in your home

Call us at 816.895.8890 if you have questions about the problem in your home.

Benefits Of Getting Professional Service Mitigation

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Professionals understand how crucial it is to act immediately when there is an emergency such as a pipe break, a supply line break, or water in your business from plumbing failure. Recognizing that a flooded business causes a devastating setback to businesses, they do whatever it takes to get things back to normal as soon as possible.

No matter the cause of the flood damage or how large the water restoration project, SERVPRO of Kansas City / Midtown can handle it. We will conduct an initial inspection to assess the damage. During the inspection, our mitigation expert use special tools and equipment to identify the source of the flood and stop more water from coming in. As water damage mitigation professionals we use procedures like structural drying to ensure quick and complete drying of the entire structure and contents. This will ensure efficient drying of the structure and contents, and will also help to eliminate odors.

We will restore your business to the previous condition, before the damage occurred. It is important to understand that a lot of work is involved in fixing water damage problem, whether it's caused by a pipe break, supply line break or other issue.

Call us at 816.895.8890 if you have questions about the problem in your business.

How do you get flood water out of my business?

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

The conventional flood damage mitigation process used by SERVPRO of Kansas City / Midtown to eliminate flooded water in your business property entails:

1. Flood damage inspection - The initial step in a flood damage mitigation process involves a visual inspection on your business property or home to determine the scope of the flood damage.
2. Water removal - Following inspection, the restoration company’s water cleanup experts will start extracting water from the flooded home using powerful pumps and vacuum units. 
3. Drying and dehumidification - After extracting water from the flooded business, your floor, walls, drywall, wood and other surfaces will still retain a significant amount of water.
4. Cleaning And Repair - After drying your property’s wet surfaces, the restoration company will help you clean and sanitize the dirty surfaces, rugs, furniture and other restorable property damaged by water in home or water in business. 

Call us at 816.895.8890 if you have questions about the problem in your company.

Inspecting a Water Damage To Determine Scope

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Inspecting the flood helps the technicians from SERVPRO of Kansas City / Midtown to determine the size of the project, the fundamental process also helps experts to identify the source of water damage, determine the type of water in your flooded home, and to move furniture and other valuables within your flooded home. Furthermore, this step helps the company to formulate a suitable cleanup process to eliminate the water in home. 

Following inspection, our restoration company’s water cleanup experts will start extracting water from the flooded home using powerful pumps and vacuum units. A reputable restoration company will also use moisture detectors and infrared cameras to spot and eliminate water from crevices. Water removal reduces the drying time of your property's floor and wall, it prevents subsequent damage, and it prevents mold growth. 

If these surfaces are left wet, they may start to break down, grow mold, swell, or even warp. To avoid this loss, SERVPRO of Kansas City / Midtown will use specialized equipment like dehumidifiers and industrial air movers to accelerate the process of drying. After that, they will use moisture meters to ensure that all surfaces achieve the desired drying goals.

Call us at 816.895.8890 if you have questions about the problem in your home.

How do I prevent mold in your home?

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Once SERVPRO of Kansas City / Midtown goes to a home or business to see about the mold we often tell the property owner ways to prevent mold growth in the future.

The best way to fight mold is to prevent it.

Prevention includes keeping the humidity level in a home below 40%. It seems very low, but anything higher than this can welcome mold into the home with open arms.

Another way to prevent mold is to keep the moisture level low and prevent water from getting into the home. Keep leaks from forming, fix any water seepage right away, and always keep doors and windows secure so water is unable to get inside the home.

SERVPRO of Kansas City / Midtown is Here to Help.

Without professional help, it’s often difficult to find a way to get mold out of the home or business. Ignoring the problem or attempting any DIY mold removal projects only makes the situation grow and become more expensive to fix.

What should I do if my KC home is flooded?

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Don't take a flooded home as a lighthearted matter. You should be very serious in your attempts to enter your home after it has been flooded. Keep these in mind after a flood damage in the KC area.

1. Disconnect all the Electronics - these can start fires if left on
2. Move anything not Bolted to the Ground - furniture and tables should be moved out
3. Have a Restoration Company Remove the Water - extraction of water helps with the drying process
4. Get Rid of Moisture in the Affected Area - dehumidification will keep the mold from growing.
5. Disinfect the House - part of the cleaning process is to disinfect the house before rebuilding.
6. Dispose of Waste Responsibly - tearing out items from the home is naturally the case. Remember to take into consideration items with asbestos or you could be fined for disposing them incorrectly

Common Causes of Summer Flooding That May Affect Your Business

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

As a business owner in KC, you may think of heavy rains and torrential summer storms when it comes to flood risk. However, flooding does not only occur during the spring and summer months. Cold weather can cause indoor flooding from a burst pipe and other problems, and being aware of these risks may help you take steps to prevent them before the next cold snap.

1. Broken Pipes

When the temperature plummets, your building’s pipes can be vulnerable to freezing. When this occurs, any water inside the pipes tends to expand, which can cause them to burst. A burst pipe can cause severe flooding, especially if it happen overnight and you do not discover it until the next morning. Indoor pipes in uninsulated areas of your building, such as the basement or under restroom cabinets, can be especially prone to freezing. You can prevent frozen pipes by ensuring your entire building’s plumbing is well insulated.

2. Broken Water Supply Lines

If you own a hotel or restaurant that may have additional water supply lines, they could cause winter flooding unless you take steps to maintain them. For example, if your hotel includes a small pool, have the lines drained thoroughly during winterization to prevent them from bursting. Water lines that remain in use over the winter, such as those that supply hot tubs or other water features, should be inspected daily, especially when temperatures drop into the single digits.

Understanding Secondary Damage

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

If you experience flooding in your home, you may think things can’t get worse. Unfortunately, they can. The more time that goes by before you contact a water damage mitigation specialist in KC, to dry out your home, the more extensive the water damage can become. This is because it wicks up walls and saturates porous materials, causing irreversible damage. When flooding isn’t dealt with in a timely fashion, it can also cause secondary damage, including black mold.

What Is Secondary Damage?

Secondary damage includes the problems that arise as a result of having standing water in a house, rather than the direct damage caused by the water. As floodwater sits in your home it evaporates into the air, causing high humidity. The moisture in the air then condenses on walls, furniture and other possessions elsewhere in your home. That means even areas of your house that weren’t affected by the initial flooding may now become saturated and suffer water damage. Wood warps, plaster and drywall crack and crumble and upholstery and fabrics become chronically damp.

Mold Is Also Secondary Damage

These damp conditions also create ideal conditions for black mold growth. Because mold spores are found everywhere, they will flourish anywhere there is sufficient moisture. Once walls, furniture and carpeting are infected with mold they may need to be thrown out. The small spaces in porous materials become filled with mold and cleaning them is often far more expensive than replacing them. Even non-porous materials will need to be scrubbed, disinfected and dried to prevent mold regrowth.

If your home suffers a flooding event, don’t wait to contact a water damage mitigation specialist in KC. The longer water sits inside your house, the more humid conditions will become, causing water damage far from the original source and creating ideal conditions for black mold growth. By taking action quickly to clean up excess water and dry out your home, you can prevent secondary damage.

Learn more about KC by visiting their wiki page.

5 Steps for Extinguishing a Grease Fire

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

No one plans to have a grease fire in the kitchen, but when oils from cooking build up, fire is more likely to occur. What you can plan is how to put out the fire once it has started. It is also important to know your limits and when to involve emergency services. If a fire breaks out on the stove in your home in KC, MO, here are some steps to help minimize the damage.

1. Contain the Flames.

A metal lid or cookie sheet is a great tool for suffocating a fire. The lid can be especially helpful, as it is more likely to be able to cut off more of the oxygen feeding the fire.

2. Turn off Heat.

The faster you can get the burner cool, the better. If you can safely get to the knob on the stove to turn it off, you should do so.

3. Smother the Fire.

If the fire is small, use baking soda or salt to put out the flames. Never douse a grease fire with water; it will only antagonize it!

4. Recognize Limits.

If the fire is still going strong after the first three steps, call emergency services as you are leaving the house. Don't try to fight a fire that is too big on your own, and don't stay in the house with the fire. Get to safety and call in the experts.

5. Repair Damage.

No matter how small the fire is, it likely left some damage behind. Fire restoration specialists can assess the damage and restore your kitchen and any affected surrounding area to be like new again. Let them take the lead on the fire cleanup.

A grease fire may start small, but it can become big in a hurry. If you are not able to extinguish it immediately, it is best to call professional firefighters to do the job.

Get Rid of That Mildew Odor Post Flooding: Here's How

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding in the KC

Your home is decontaminated, your contents clean and your life getting back to normal post flooding. You are finally able to take a deep breath, but when you do, you notice that something smells off. You take a whiff just to make sure, and yes, there's that smell again—the smell of mold and mildew. Despite your cleanup efforts, your home still has that telltale sign that a flood recently invaded your home. If you're tired of dealing with the after effects of a flood, there are a few things you should and should not do for odor removal from flooding. Here are a few things you should NOT do:

• Ignore the smell
• Think that bleach alone will kill the odor
• Cover the odor up with other scents
• Close the doors and windows.

Doing either of these things can put your home and your family at risk. Instead, do the following:

Contact a Professional

A professional flood remediation expert in KC, is the only person who can really help you kill post-flooding odors. This is because such an expert combats the source of the odor and not just the odor itself.

Act in the Meantime

In the meantime, there are steps you can take for odor removal from flooding on your own. First and foremost, open the windows. Doing so will help air out your home and provide for better circulation.

Next, remove any furniture that smells of mold and mildew. Whether or not the furniture is salvageable can be determined at a later date. For now, your goal is to remove the odor, and any affected furniture is allowing that odor to remain in your house.

Finally, wash items that can be laundered. These include clothing, bedding and draperies.

Once your KC, KS, flood restoration team arrives to begin odor removal from flooding, it can begin to tackle the heart of the issue. This may include drying out and deep cleaning your carpets, performing flood cuts on affected drywall and deep cleaning furniture.

KC is a great place. Here are some things you can do in the area.

"Mold growth in your commercial building is not a problem you want to ignore. You may not know a lot about mold or the remediation process that comes

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growth in your commercial building is not a problem you want to ignore. You may not know a lot about mold or the remediation process that comes after you discover that your property in KC, MO, has an issue. Here are some mold basics that can help you make faster decisions and thus save yourself time and money.

1. There is no such thing as a mold-free environment.

Mold spores are present in the air, particularly outside. They can come into your office or warehouse on worker's clothes and shoes, or they can simply blow in with the wind. The mold in the air is not the problem. Only when it settles and grows on surfaces is there an issue.

2. Mold growth often gives off a musty smell.

Mold can hide in walls and under floorboards, making it difficult to detect. One way to pinpoint the location of a patch of mold is to follow your nose. Mold gives off a musty, unpleasant odor.

3. Water damage and the situations that cause it are breeding grounds for mold.

Mold loves moisture. It cannot grow without it. One side effect of water damage caused by flooding or leaks is the increased potential for a mold problem.

Grilling Safety Tips

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Grill Safety to consider when breaking out your inner backyard culinary skills.

June and July are peak months for summer grilling fires in Kansas City. The Memorial Day weekend opened up grilling season so if you haven't already, it’s time to dust off the grills and let the inner backyard culinary skills to work. As exciting as it is to break out the grill for the official start of the summer season right, we have to always consider the safety that needs to be taken when preparing to light up the grill.

NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency) says that the U.S. fire department responded to an average of 8,900 home fire that involved the use of grills, hibachis, or barbecues per year.  These 8,900 fires caused annual averages of 10 civilian deaths, 160 injuries, and $118 million in direct property damage. Almost all the losses resulted from structure fires. The leading causes of grill fires were a failure to properly cleaning of the grill, placement of the grill because it was placed to close to a structure and leaving the grill unattended. Five out of six (83%) of grills involved in home fires were fueled by gas while 13% used other sources of fuel.

Deodorizing Your Home Following A Fire

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

After a small fire in your home, you quickly start to assess the damage to the areas. You visually inspect the furniture and walls. Even if there is no real lasting damage, there is one problematic element that tends to linger for weeks after a fire: the smell. Odor removal is an often overlooked, but significant aspect of fire restoration services.

While our SERVPRO team is well educated in restoration techniques and cleaning processes to restore areas of your home that have been damaged aesthetically by an unexpected fire, the lingering odor that remains is often something that homeowners are less concerned with initially. It becomes more and more problematic as the home is being restored, but the smoke and charring scent of the fire’s destruction remains as powerful as ever.

Fortunately, our team of technicians has state-of-the-art equipment for removing foul smells from a residence or business. Deodorizing happens through the use of dense fogging machines. The machines are capable of producing a heavy chemical fog that is sprayed throughout the entire affected area, ensuring that all of the affected structure and contents are also affected by the fog.

Call us anytime at 816.895.8890.

Cleaning Up After a Flood in a Commercial Building

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

Dealing with the aftermath of a flood in Kansas City can be devastating. In addition to water damage that can take a long time to repair, a flood can damage the contents of a business. When you are cleaning contents, you need to categorize each item into one of two material types to know if your belongings can be saved.

Porous Materials

Anything in your commercial property that could possibly absorb water may have to be thrown away, particularly if your building was flooded with black water. Porous materials can include anything from carpets to upholstered furniture and drywall. Because these contents can absorb filthy water, they cannot be cleaned thoroughly enough to prevent health hazards. When you begin the process of content cleaning, know that any item made of porous material that possibly came in contact with the contaminated water will likely need to be disposed of.

Non-Porous Materials

Any item that will not absorb water is made of non-porous material. These contents should be safe after a flood. Items may include metal desks or cabinets, waterproof safes, or even plastic furniture. Thorough cleansing with clean water and disinfectant will likely save any belongings made of non-porous materials and keep them useful after restoration. Because these contents did not absorb the dirty water, they do not pose a significant risk if they are kept.

Losing critical business information may be one of the most devastating parts of surviving a flood. Content cleaning can be challenging because you may have to throw away many items, but if you have the right knowledge of porous and non-porous materials, you may be able to save some items. When dealing with black water, knowing which items pose a health hazard is critical to the restoration process. Separating belongings into one of these two categories can help make the cleaning process faster and easier.

Restoring Your Kansas City Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call at 816.895.8890 and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

SERVPRO of Kansas City 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.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl For Kid's Sake

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Bowling Team

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City hosts their Bowl 4 Kids Sake every year and we had the pleasure of participating in the 2017 campaign! We were lucky enough to have two representatives of BBBS, Erica and Tahir, come and speak with us at our monthly SERVPRO employee breakfast in June. While they spent a lot of the time discussing what it means to be a big brother or big sister to a child in need in the Kansas City area they also spoke to us about their upcoming event and we got a lot of interest from the employees! We decided to have try outs to see which 4 would make the cut and represent us trying to raise the team goal of $1,200 with a fun little game of “Chem-sponge Bowling”. The object of the game was similar to bowling, where you would try and throw a dry chem-sponge down a lane and knock down as many empty spray bottles as you can, sounds easy right? Not when the sponge is rectangular and doesn’t roll! We had so many participants we decided to form two teams making our goal double to $2,400. With only a few short weeks we pulled all of our resources and with days left till the event we over shot our goal and raised $2,500 for our first year! Not too bad!

On July 20^th our two teams and a hand full of cheerleaders went to the Bowl 4 Kids Sake event at Park Lanes in Shawnee, KS. It was such a great time spent with other amazing companies all coming together to help raise money for Kansas City youth. After the weeks long event concluded they announced the record breaking year of raising more than $826,000! We are so proud to have been a part of that and look forward to participating for years to come.