SERVPRO CONVENTION 2023

6/30/2023 (Permalink)

Pirate Night at SERVPRO Convention!

SERVPRO's annual company wide convention was held in Tampa, FL this year. Convention is a great opportunity for all 2,000+ franchises to come together under one roof and collaborate new ideas.

For 50+ consecutive years SERVPRO has seen it's company wide revenue increase. It has also been ranked by Entrepreneur magazine 35 years running as one of the top 500 franchises in the nation, topping out at #1 in its franchise category.

SERVPRO convention is a staple in every SERVPRO franchise owner's yearly schedule. The amount of knowledge that circulates through the convention halls and work shops is unmatched.

It is always refreshing to hear from other SERVPRO owners about their successes, but most importantly their failures. As a massive company family, we are all committed to staying on mission and working every year to further our position as the #1 restoration company in the nation!

As you can see from the photo, this years opening night them was pirates!

Why Choose SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties For Your Water Lose?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties Today for Any and All Water Cleanup Needs!

Our SERVPRO professionals have several efficient and effective practices to restore your home after water damage

As tempting as DIY cleaning and restoration might be after a water damage incident, these situations often fall short of what a property needs. Our professional SERVPRO team can help in many ways.

What Are Practices You Can Expect from SERVPRO? 

As the leading Water Mitigation Company in Limestone & Lawrence Counties, our SERVPRO roster offers various recovery and cleaning solutions for water-damaged residences. Some of these include:

• Content Recovery – Protecting your personal belongings through relocation and on-site cleaning can ensure that irreparable harm does not befall the things that matter most.

• Water Removal Services – Eliminating surface water can be a considerable obstacle, but with many of our rapid-removal solutions like truck-mount extractors and submersible pumps, we can overcome standing water fast.

• Surface Cleaning – Using several potent and health-conscious cleaning products designed to protect material substrates without chemical residues, we can prevent unnecessary structural tear-out and build-back.

When you consider choosing a professional water restoration company, remember that our SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties team has multiple ways to help after water disasters. Give our experienced team a call today at (256) 233-4033

Our 1-4-8 Rule

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO has service response guidelines for water damage? We follow the guidelines 1-4-8. Our SERVPRO team realizes how important it is to be “Faster to Any Size Disaster.” Our team also emphasizes the importance of communication.

• Within ONE hour from notice of a loss, SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties will contact you to arrange for services.
• Within FOUR hours of a loss notification, SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties will be on-site to start mitigation services (if necessary).
• Within EIGHT hours, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to you by our SERVPRO staff.

Do you have water damage in your home or business? Contact the SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties today— (256) 233-4033

**Exceptions may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation**

Improving Air Quality

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

The ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, but you can help change that! Inspecting the ductwork in your home or business should be a high priority. In most cases the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your home or business. Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the lifespan of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur will inspect the ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your ductwork.

Have questions about air duct cleaning? Contact the SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties today!

Why Worry About Mold When SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties Can Remediate it For You?

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

You never want to risk it when it comes to MOLD! Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties today!

Noticing mold colonization anywhere in your Limestone or Lawrence County 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 Limestone & Lawrence Counties? 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 are:

• 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 anti-fungals 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 Limestone & Lawrence Counties? Call our team at (256) 233-4033 when you need a prompt response for mold damage remediation.

Why Should I Consider Using SERVPRO's Water Restoration Services in Limestone & Lawrence Counties?

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can impact any area of your home. SERVPRO will locate any moisture sources and restore your home to preloss conditions!

SERVPRO Is Uniquely Suited for Performing Water Restoration Work

At any moment, a water leak could impact your Limestone or Lawrence County 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 of Limestone & Lawrence Counties 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 from ceiling leaks, burst pipes, basement flooding caused by leaky water containers and malfunctioning appliances, storms, and much much more.

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

• We are strategically located in Limestone & Lawrence Counties, 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 Limestone & Lawrence Counties is well-prepared to help you with all of your water restoration needs. Whenever you need us, call (256) 233-4033 for assistance!

What Do Professionals do to Stop Mold Growth?

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth begins when there is a moisture problem and it is not treated QUICKLY!

If you’ve recently found a patch of black mold in your Limestone or Lawrence County 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 Limestone & Lawrence Counties have the knowledge and equipment necessary to handle this delicate task.

The Importance of Professional Carpet Cleaning

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Stock Photo of SERVPRO Carpet Cleaning

The dirtiness and discoloration in your carpet may sometimes looks obvious; however, at other times, a clean looking carpet can conceal unseen dirt, grime, soil, dust and pet dander. Regular traffic buries this dust and dirt deeply into the carpet fibers, where it can become indiscernible, release unpleasant odors, and harm your air quality. While regular vacuuming might remove some of the dust and dirt, most standard vacuums lack the power to extract deeply embedded dirt. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service. Our residential cleaning services will ease the burden of the constant maintenance cleaning of your home, but will also create a safe, clean and comfortable living environment for you and your family. SERVPRO will ensure that your carpet remains free from all of the unnoticeable dirt and grime. For a free quote, contact us at (256) 233-4033

Document Drying and Restoration

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Image of Wet Books

In the aftermath of disaster, some of your most valued contents—documents, photographs, and books—could be lost forever. As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO knows that timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged possessions. With years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, SERVPRO’s restoration professionals will help you recover your paper goods before it is too late.

Our Document Restoration Facility:

• Innovative: we use the latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing
• Secure: managed by HIPPA Master-certified technicians, under 24/7 surveillance
• Digital: we use a computerized inventory system for digitizing your documents
• Flexible capacity - we can accommodate large commercial losses or small residential jobs
• Full Service: we offer a range of services including drying, cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing, and deodorization

Need your valuable documents restored? Call Today – (256) 233-4033

Our Technology

The SERVPRO document restoration team uses innovate vacuum freeze-drying techniques; in fact, we use the same freeze-drying methods used by the Library of Congress to dry valuable historic documents and books. Our vacuum freeze-drying process is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA).

Types of content:

• paper documents
• books and magazines
• manuscripts and files
• photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
• x-rays
• blueprints and maps
• parchment

Document Cleaning and Disinfecting

In many water damage situations, like sewage or flood water, documents will be exposed to bacteria, viruses, pesticides, or other harmful chemicals. Our team uses a gamma irradiation process to safely and effectively sterilize your documents.

Digitizing Services

In the digital age, converting your paper files and photos to digital formats can have an invaluable impact on your business or home. With the help of SERVPRO’s restoration professionals to digitize your documents, you can save storage space and have access to your records at the touch of a button. And perhaps most important of all, you’ll have digital copies of your valuable documents that can’t be lost in a flood or fire.

What is a Restoration Company?

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Stock SERVPRO Photo of a Dehu and Air Mover

When it comes to water, fire, and other disasters in the home, you can rely on the services of a restoration company to help you get back on your feet. 

Restoration companies are businesses that specialize in the removal and cleanup of water or fire damage from residential or commercial properties. These services can include things such as:

• Emergency response to a home fire, natural disaster, severe storm, flood, or any other property damage event
• Extraction of water, mud, and other contaminants from your home
• Treatment for mold growth to prevent re-contamination of the structure
• Restoration of your home with replacement furniture, appliances, cleaning products, clothing, and more.

Restoration companies will typically provide 24/7 emergency services. This is especially important if you have water damage, as time is of the essence to prevent further damage.

If your home has experienced damage, don't waste a moment. Contact the water damage experts at SERVPRO to discover how a restoration company can help you recover from even the most unexpected Catastrophes.

Did you know that we offer crawlspace encapsulation?

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Limestone and Lawrence County homes are usually storm resistant. People here are used to the wind and rain and act accordingly to protect their roofs, walls, and floors. It is more challenging to protect basements and crawlspaces from the same water, however. 
 
To dry out a wet crawlspace, we first have to remove the water. That is not usually a problem, but since this is a storm, the ground is going to be very wet and possibly damaged. SERVPRO technicians understand that means multiple, water-filled low spots. It can be difficult to bring in hoses even in a large crawl space to siphon out the pooling water. 
 
The next step is to lower the humidity as much as possible. Bringing in a dehumidifier is not usually an option, just like pump hoses. We can set up dehumidifiers with flexible plastic conduits to direct the moist air from the space to the exterior. We can also place containers with chemical desiccants in the crawlspace to absorb water from the air. If possible, we set up an air mover above the crawlspace and blow in warm, dry air to displace the damp air we attempt to draw out using an exhaust fan. 
 
Now that we removed the water, SERVPRO technicians encapsulate the crawlspace once the moisture level and soil dampness have been reduced to normal levels. We cover the dirt floor with polyethylene sheets and a polyester mesh for reinforcement. This 12 mil plastic guard covering prevents moisture from leeching up from the ground. 
 
Next, our technicians check the walls for cracks or seeps caused by the storm. Technicians can fill weaknesses with hydraulic cement and then cover the walls with masonry cement. These two compounds form an excellent seal against further water intrusion. Now that the walls are secure, we seal the polyethylene sheets and polyester mesh floor to them with waterproof, foundation tape. 
 
Finally, to protect against further storms, we recommend applying a thick coat of liquid rubber to the outside of the foundation. Once it sets, the only way storm water can get through is for a storm to crack the foundation or shift it underneath the home. 
 
Drying out a wet crawlspace is not an easy task. It takes a professional service to remove the water and prevent further intrusion from future storms. To see how we can protect your home, call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties at (256) 233-4033 today. We are here to help.

Flooding in your area?

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding in your basement? Give us a call today (256) 233-4033

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

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

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – (256) 233-4033

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

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

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

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

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (256) 233-4033

Why Duct Cleaning is important

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

If your ductwork looks like this, give us a call today at (256) 233-4033.

Have you had your air duct system inspected recently? The Indoor Air Quality Industry recommends having your HVAC system cleaned once every five years. Cleaning your duct system will prolong the life of your HVAC unit as well as make your indoor air quality much better. If you or your children suffer from allergies in the spring make sure to give SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties a call at (256) 233-4033 to schedule your cleaning appointment today. 

We will clean the unit, all registers and the ductwork. After the cleaning is finished, we will treat with an EPA registered disinfectant. 

If you have a lot of dust in your home, are suffering with allergies, or know that you have not had your ductwork cleaned in more than five years, give us a call today!

Is mold a problem in your home or business?

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

If you have had water damage and think that you may have a mold problem, give us a call today.

Mold can seem almost benign due to its slow rate of visible damage and sluggish spreading but make no mistake; it can pose a health hazard to you once it has taken hold. SERVPRO technicians take entire courses on mold safety. There are many species of fungi that can create widely varied situations and problems depending on a high number of factors. If you have uncovered mold in your home, protecting your health and safety becomes a concern, and should top your list of priorities. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind as you live and work in your home during the remediation service. SERVPRO stance is that mold does cause health effects, we do not diagnose, but we do remediate.

SERVPRO technicians have access to industrial-grade protective masks and even suits when needed, and you should, at the very least, try to protect your mouth and sinuses with a mask when working near mold damage. For those with asthma or respiratory issues, the urgency of this precaution is even higher. We firmly recommend that you do not grapple with this problem. Our main advice is to call us to tackle your mold problem.
 
Hands Off
Some types of mold can produce toxic or infectious byproducts, making the act of touching mold with your bare hands potentially dangerous. In general, you should never touch visible mold growth, as doing so can not only hurt you but also spread the mold to other surfaces. If you touch mold by accident, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching other surfaces.
 
Be Mindful of Other Dangers
Many mold damage cases come with additional problems, whether you are aware of them or not. That patch of mold could be the result of a five-year-old water pipe leak, and in addition to allowing mold growth, it may have already long weakened the surrounding structure. Being aware of structural issues and other types of damage could save you money while protecting your home investment.
 

Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties if you suspect you have a mold issue.

256-233-4033

IICRC Certified Firm

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is an IICRC certified firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm.  We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

What to do if you experience flooding in your home.

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage happens to your home, it’s always an inconvenience to get it cleaned up and back to normal again. Many homeowners ask if it’s really necessary to bring in the professionals if one room floods, wondering if they can simply open up a few windows until the carpet and pad dry out. Do you really need to call in the pros for a flooded room?

When you should call a professional for water damage

There are times that you may not need our services if you experience a small amount of water damage in your home, but it’s always a good idea to find out if the damage you see is really all the damage there is. The question is: when is a good time to call in a professional water remediation service? A lot of times a homeowner or business owner may not realize how much they really need SERVPRO’s services. Unfortunately, the water damage you see is only the tip of the iceberg. A damp carpet and bad may also include water behind walls which can quickly breed mold if not checked.

Should you really dry to handle water damage yourself?

A lot of times before walking on a carpet or touching a wall, it may look dry. Oftentimes, that’s not the case. If you have a particularly damp carpet or pad, you need to ensure it gets completely dry to avoid damage, mold growth and odors. You may think that a small fan can do the job. Unfortunately, a small fan or dehumidifier may not be enough to dry everything out before the damage begins. 

If you’re in doubt, call SERVPRO

If you ever have a situation that you are not sure if you need us, we always are just a call away, and it’s better to call in the pros just to be safe and prevent further damage from occurring. Our experts know how to spot damage beyond what a homeowner may see. We have the equipment to measure the amount of moisture in carpets, pads and behind walls. Call us and we will come and provide you a free estimate to help dry out your home. We are always here to help!

If your home experiences water damage of any kind, it’s best to call in the pros to ensure the area is completely dry, and no more damage is done. Contact SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties at 256-233-4033 and let our water remediation specialists handle your water issue!

Why use SERVPRO for your mold remediation?

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Above is a moldy hvac duct

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

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

If mold has formed in your home, the experienced team at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is ready 24/7 to come get the remediation started.

What training do our technicians have?

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

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. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

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.

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. Modules include:

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

Why you should use SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties for your next water damage cleanup!

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Call us for more info today!

When your home or commercial property has water damage from flooding or leaks, we have the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. Our experience and scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup enable us to properly dry and restore your property. Every water damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. Getting the leak stopped,  and the water cleaned up is most important.

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

We are Cleaning Experts

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

If you need assistance with Covid-19 cleaning, give us a call today (256) 233-4033.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties (256) 233-4033. 

We are here to help our clients and customers remain as as safe and healthy as possible. 

We are the professional packout and content restoration company for your home or business

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Let us come and pack out your home or business. Our team of professionals will take care of your belongings as if they were our own.

You’ve had a minor fire or water damage at your place of residence or establishment. One of the many things that crosses your mind is all your sentimental valuables. Everything is affected: your autographed balls, cards, and photos from your favorite sports team, your family heirloom, your framed picture frame that contains all your degrees, and the list goes on. Just ruined. Or so you think. 

When you’re faced with something as overwhelming and stressful as that, you need someone to come in to turn that into a stress-free situation. That’s where our heroes here at SERVPRO® of Limestone and Lawrence Counties come in. Our heroes save the day by making it "Like it never even happened."® 

When you have fire damage or water damage at your home or business, our team can properly pack out your belongings and perform content restoration. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home or business and belongings with care.  

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO® of Limestone and Lawrence Counties can conduct an organized, efficient move-out/pack-out of the affected area. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

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

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

Content Restoration 

If your belongings are affected by fire damage, we can restore them with content restoration. SERVPRO® of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has the expertise and the “restore” versus “replace” mentality which can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

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

If you ever wonder why SERVPRO®, it’s because we have specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment. We can quickly restore your home or office to preloss condition. Allow us to take on your next fire or water damage job. Call us today at (256) 233-4033.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

We can disinfect your office space in the midst of the Coronavirus scare.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties (256) 233-4033

Free ERP for your business

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

Let us come and provide you a free assessment of your business.

As a business owner, you always strive to do everything in your power to protect your business and your investment. SERVPRO® of Limestone and Lawrence Counties  helps keep your business safe with our easy and effective Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). We make it our business to help protect your business. Why SERVPRO®? Because we are your exclusive ERP partner. 

What is an Emergency Ready Profile? An ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information regarding your business. This includes information such as emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. Learn how to keep your business safe with a SERVPRO® ERP.  

An ERP is a tool for property managers and owners -- both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency READY Profile. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation. This can help minimize how water damage and fire damage can affect your home or business.

3 benefits of an Emergency Ready Profile: 

1. Helps ensure you’re “Ready for whatever happens.” 
2. Helps minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. 
3. Helps save time and money. 

Our heroes here at SERVPRO® Limestone and Lawrence Counties encourage you to always be prepared, always be “Ready for whatever happens,” and you can achieve that with our ERP. When we implement an Emergency Ready Profile at your commercial property, we analyze your blueprints and conduct a walk-thru to ensure that we have captured all of the information needed.  Throughout the ERP process, we capture photos and document all pertinent information about your business and personally deliver it to you. 

Our mobile-friendly FREE app allows you to see all critical information in one central location. And you can access it with just the touch of a button. Take that very important step and go to your App Store to get our app now. It’s completely FREE. By doing so, you’re already taking those necessary steps to protecting your investment.

When it comes to protecting your business, count on the company that has experience in doing so. Count on the company that’s your exclusive ERP partner -- SERVPRO® of Limestone and Lawrence Counties. Our marketing heroes will be happy to implement your ERP -- for FREE. Contact us today at (256) 233-4033.

We are here to help

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

This photo is a photo of the cells of the coronavirus enlarged to see the detail. We are here to help if you have come in contact with the virus.

With all of the uncertainty in our country today, please remember we are still here to help you should you need us. If you or someone you know has come into contact with the Coronavirus, here are some tips that you can refer to. 

The CDC encourages cleaning of high touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light fixtures, bathroom fixtures, etc. The CDC also recommends using a hospital grade disinfectant. 

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is available to provide proactive cleaning as well as cleaning for an outbreak of the virus in your home or commercial building. SERVPROXIDE™, SERVPRO's proprietary disinfectant, is a hospital grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 on hard, non-porous surfaces. 

If you are in need of services, please give us a call today at (256) 233-4033.

We are a 24/7/365 Business

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

This photo is of our IICRC Certified Firm certificate. This is a distinguished honor that we are very proud of.

Did you know that here at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties, we never close? That's right. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. That includes holidays!!

We understand that disasters are not planned and you cannot choose when one will strike. We want you to know that you can rest easy knowing that we are here for you no matter when you need us. 

We have highly trained technicians, have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau https://www.bbb.org/us/al/athens/profile/fire-water-damage-restoration/SERVPRO-of-limestone-and-lawrence-counties-0513-900124747 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. Being an IICRC  Certified firm is a distinguished honor that we are very proud of. 

We want to be your first call no matter what time of the day or day of the week. We will work tirelessly to ensure that every customer is satisfied with our service. We pride ourselves on being the #1 Restoration Company in the World and we want to show you that we are the best. Give us a call today (256) 233-4033. 

IICRC Certified Firm

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Crawlspace Mold

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

Photo of mold growing on the floor joists in a crawlspace

Does your home or business suffer from mold in your crawlspace or or on your floor joists or subflooring?

Due to the high levels of humidity we experience here in North Alabama, it is very common for homes with crawlspaces to have some form of mildew or mold growing. Typically most people do not know this until they are getting ready to sell their home and get a home inspection. Although the main cause of mold in a crawlspace is high humidity levels, other causes could be leaking pipes in the crawlspace, or an inadequate vapor barrier.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has professionally trained technicians that can help you with that. Depending on the amount of mold that is present and the severity, our technicians can go in and  disinfect or kill the mold with an EPA registered anti-microbial disinfectant. After the mold has been killed, we then come in and remove the mold spores by wiping or HEPA-vacuuming the floor joists or decking to remove any residual dust or mold. Once that process has been completed, we come in and seal the wood with an anti-microbial sealant so that you have the peace of mind not to have to worry about the mold regrowing in the future. The final step is to remove the old vapor barrier where the mold spores have fallen onto, and replace it with a new one that will cover the entire floor of the crawlspace and prevent residual moisture from seeping up from the ground into the crawlspace and creating future problems. 

Call SERVPRO Today for an estimate! (256) 233-4033

Mold found in a closet

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

Photo of mold growth in a closet

Here is a picture of mold that was found in a closet in a home. The homeowner was cleaning out the closet and found this behind some boxes.

Humidity levels in your home that are too high can promote mold growth. Mold grows quickly in damp conditions. Allergens and irritants are released as it spreads, and in some cases it can become toxic.

To prevent this, you can install dehumidifiers in areas of your home that remain moist and humid. Optimal humidity levels are between 30-50%, with 45% being the best level possible. Dehumidifiers help maintain your indoor humidity at a comfortable level.

Making sure that your HVAC system is running efficiently will also help to keep your humidity level down in your home. Inspect and replace your filters on a regular basis and keep vents cleaned.

Crawlspace Encapsulation

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

Encapsulation if a crawlspace

Limestone and Lawrence County homes are usually storm resistant. People here are used to the wind and rain and act accordingly to protect their roofs, walls, and floors. It is more challenging to protect basements and crawlspaces from the same water, however. 
 
To dry out a wet crawlspace, we first have to remove the water. That is not usually a problem, but since this is a storm, the ground is going to be very wet and possibly damaged. SERVPRO technicians understand that means multiple, water-filled low spots. It can be difficult to bring in hoses even in a large crawl space to siphon out the pooling water. 
 
The next step is to lower the humidity as much as possible. Bringing in a dehumidifier is not usually an option, just like pump hoses. We can set up dehumidifiers with flexible plastic conduits to direct the moist air from the space to the exterior. We can also place containers with chemical desiccants in the crawlspace to absorb water from the air. If possible, we set up an air mover above the crawlspace and blow in warm, dry air to displace the damp air we attempt to draw out using an exhaust fan. 
 
Now that we removed the water, SERVPRO technicians encapsulate the crawlspace once the moisture level and soil dampness have been reduced to normal levels. We cover the dirt floor with polyethylene sheets and a polyester mesh for reinforcement. This 12 mil plastic guard covering prevents moisture from leeching up from the ground. 
 
Next, our technicians check the walls for cracks or seeps caused by the storm. Technicians can fill weaknesses with hydraulic cement and then cover the walls with masonry cement. These two compounds form an excellent seal against further water intrusion. Now that the walls are secure, we seal the polyethylene sheets and polyester mesh floor to them with waterproof, foundation tape. 
 
Finally, to protect against further storms, we recommend applying a thick coat of liquid rubber to the outside of the foundation. Once it sets, the only way storm water can get through is for a storm to crack the foundation or shift it underneath the home. 
 
Drying out a wet crawlspace is not an easy task. It takes a professional service to remove the water and prevent further intrusion from future storms. To see how we can protect your home, call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties at (256) 233-4033 today. We are here to help.

Mold Remediation

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation job

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

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 256-233-4033

Team SERVPRO in the Clay Shoot

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

Team SERVPRO

We love to support our community at events. We had a team entered into the Sporting Clay tournament. The money raised in the tournament goes back to the community through the chamber of commerce. Unfortunately, they did not win but fun was had by all. We will be participating again next year for sure. If you need more information on this event, give us a call and we can fill you in. 

The SERVPRO team members were Jordan Hendon (Owner), Damien Reynolds (Production Manager), Ray Glaze (Marketing Representative), and Penny Stevens (Marketing Representative). 

Participating in events helps us to stay involved and give back to the community. If you have an event that your business or organization is putting together, please let us know. Please send an email to jlowery@SERVPRO9943.com. We may want to join in on the fun!!

Humidity and Mold

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Humidity can cause mold

Usually, something fairly obvious like a leak or a flood is the cause of a mold outbreak. You trust this to be the rule to explain mold growth, so microbial activity in non-water damaged areas of your home take you completely by surprise. SERVPRO knows microbial outbreaks do not always play by the rules, but we have confidence in our mold remediation methods.

Why would mold damage be a problem in your  home if the roof is sound and all plumbing up to date? Many homes have central air conditioning or window units to minimize the discomfort of extreme heat and excessive moisture in the air. If your air conditioning system malfunctions or underperforms the air quality in your home suffers, feeling moist and sticky.

Humidity in your home of more than 60 percent supports mold growth even without any water seeping out of leaky pipes, a hole in the roof, or other water flooding situations. If you try to save on energy use by running your air conditioner infrequently or not at all when the humidity is high, do not be surprised that mold damage is an unintended consequence. When SERVPRO hears a story of mold growth absent an obvious leak we pay close attention to the level of moisture in the air of your home. We use precise measuring tools to monitor the humidity levels as we take all the steps necessary to abate the fungal damage.

Once we contain and remove the mold and disinfect the area, we turn to reducing the moisture content of the air to prevent future mold outbreaks. Air conditioners and dehumidifiers both remove dampness, and we advise continuous operation until the humidity drops. The ideal range is between 30 and 50 percent ambient moisture. Our technicians evaluate the operation of your air conditioners, checking for clogged drainage hoses or other easily repaired issues to improve their air drying capacity. We have portable dehumidifiers to decrease humidity if necessary. As a final step, we help you set up your own AC and dehumidifiers to maintain the levels we achieve with our professional equipment.

Contact SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties whenever a musty smell or mold growth invades your home. Call 256 233 4033 for an inspection and depend on us to craft a plan to remove the mold and limit moisture to prevent more growth.

Storm Travel

3/9/2017 (Permalink)

Faster to any size disaster

The Tennessee valley area has been very fortunate to not have had a wide spread weather-related emergency in a few years. I hope that we never go through another weather related disaster. 

We have had some of our teams travel to assist other SERVPRO franchises when their areas were struck by major storms and they needed extra hands to care for folks in the midst of crises.

In the same way, we at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties  are ready for any size disaster. SERVPRO franchises work together, locally and nationally to help families and businesses during times of unexpected crises. If the need happens to require more hands than we have, our fellow SERVPRO local franchises know how to work together with us to take care of our community. 

You can always count on SERVPRO. We are always ready to help!

Mold can be hazardous to your health

3/8/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can be hazardous to your health

Mold can seem almost benign due to its slow rate of visible damage and sluggish spreading but make no mistake; it can pose a health hazard to you once it has taken hold. SERVPRO technicians take entire courses on mold safety. There are many species of fungi that can create widely varied situations and problems depending on a high number of factors. If you have uncovered mold in your home, protecting your health and safety becomes a concern, and should top your list of priorities. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind as you live and work in your home during the remediation service. SERVPRO stance is that mold does cause health effects, we do not diagnose, but we do remediate.

SERVPRO technicians have access to industrial-grade protective masks and even suits when needed, and you should, at the very least, try to protect your mouth and sinuses with a mask when working near mold damage. For those with asthma or respiratory issues, the urgency of this precaution is even higher. We firmly recommend that you do not grapple with this problem. Our main advice is to call us to tackle your mold problem.
 
Hands Off
Some types of mold can produce toxic or infectious byproducts, making the act of touching mold with your bare hands potentially dangerous. In general, you should never touch visible mold growth, as doing so can not only hurt you but also spread the mold to other surfaces. If you touch mold by accident, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching other surfaces.
 
Be Mindful of Other Dangers
Many mold damage cases come with additional problems, whether you are aware of them or not. That patch of mold could be the result of a five-year-old water pipe leak, and in addition to allowing mold growth, it may have already long weakened the surrounding structure. Being aware of structural issues and other types of damage could save you money while protecting your home investment.
 

Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties if you suspect you have a mold issue.

256-233-4033

Duct Cleaning in Athens, AL

2/9/2016 (Permalink)

This is what we pulled out of a recent customer's duct system.

Have you had your air duct system inspected recently? The Indoor Air Quality Industry recommends having your HVAC system cleaned once every five years. SERVPRO can come and do that for you. Cleaning your duct system will prolong the life of your HVAC unit as well as make your indoor air quality much better. If you or your children suffer from allergies in the spring make sure to give us a call at (256) 233-4033 to come clean your air ducts and make your indoor air super clean again!

We will clean the unit, all registers and the ductwork. After the cleaning is finished, we will treat with an EPA registered disinfectant. 

The pollen count is very high this year so if you are suffering, let us come and give you a quote.