If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (608) 786-0387

To have the optimal experience while using this site, you will need to update your browser. You may want to try one of the following alternatives:

Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Blog Posts

Restoring Your Content After a Mold Loss: A Comprehensive Guide

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

Black dots of mold on a white surface. Restoring content after a mold loss can be a challenging and time-consuming process.

Mold is a common problem in many households, and it can cause extensive damage to your belongings, including furniture, clothing, and sentimental items. Dealing with a mold loss can be overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and approach, you can restore your content and minimize your losses. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with valuable information and practical tips on how to restore your content after a mold loss.

Safety First: Mold Remediation

Before you start restoring your content, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Mold can pose serious risks, and it's essential to take proper precautions to protect yourself and others. If the mold loss is extensive or if you have any concerns, it's best to hire a professional mold remediation company to assess the situation and handle the cleanup process.

Assessing the Damage

Once the mold has been remediated, it's time to assess the damage to your content. Take an inventory of all the items that have been affected by mold and determine the extent of the damage. Some items may be salvageable with proper cleaning and restoration techniques, while others may need to be discarded if the damage is too severe.

Sorting and Prioritizing

Sorting and prioritizing your content is a crucial step in the restoration process. Start by categorizing your items into three categories: salvageable, questionable, and unsalvageable. Salvageable items are those that can be cleaned and restored to their pre-mold condition, questionable items are those that may require additional assessment or testing, and unsalvageable items are those that are beyond repair and need to be discarded.

Prioritize the restoration process based on the value and sentimental importance of each item. Items with sentimental value such as family heirlooms or irreplaceable photographs may be worth investing more time and effort into restoring, while items of lesser importance may be lower on your priority list.

Cleaning and Restoration Techniques

The cleaning and restoration techniques you use will depend on the type of content that has been affected by mold. Here are some common content categories and the recommended restoration techniques:

Furniture: For moldy furniture, start by vacuuming the surface with a HEPA filter vacuum to remove loose mold spores. Then, clean the furniture with a mild detergent solution or a commercial mold cleaner, following the manufacturer's instructions. If the furniture is made of porous materials such as fabric or wood, it may need to be professionally cleaned or refinished.

Clothing: Moldy clothing can usually be cleaned by washing them with a mild detergent and warm water. For delicate or valuable clothing, it's best to consult with a professional cleaner.

Electronics: Mold can damage electronics, and it's crucial to handle them with care. If your electronics have been affected by mold, do not turn them on, as it can cause further damage. Instead, unplug them and wipe the surface with a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol or a commercial electronics cleaner. If the mold has penetrated the internal components, it's best to consult with a professional electronics technician for restoration.

Documents and Books: Moldy documents and books should be handled with care to prevent further damage. If the pages are still wet, carefully separate them and lay them flat to dry in a well-ventilated area. Once they are dry, you can gently brush off any loose mold with a soft brush or cloth. If the documents or books are valuable or have sentimental value, it's best to consult with a professional document restoration service for further cleaning and restoration techniques.

Artwork and Decorations: Moldy artwork and decorations may require special care depending on the type of material they are made of. For paintings, you may need to consult with a professional art restorer for proper cleaning and restoration techniques. For other decorations such as ceramic or glass items, they can typically be cleaned with a mild detergent solution or a commercial mold cleaner.

Restoring content after a mold loss can be a challenging and time-consuming process. If you are unsure about the restoration techniques or if you have valuable or sentimental items that require special care, it's best to seek professional help, such as our SERVPRO of La Crosse County team. Our technicians have the expertise and equipment necessary to properly restore your content and ensure that it is safe to use or display again.

Textile Restoration After a Fire: What You Need to Know

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

smoke damaged clothes Restoring textiles after a fire can be a challenging process, hire the professionals.

Fires can be devastating, causing damage not only to the structure of a building but also to personal belongings such as clothes, bedding, and furniture. While it can be challenging to restore these items after a fire, it is often possible with the help of professional restoration services. In this blog, we will explore the specific challenges associated with textile restoration after a fire and discuss the methods used to restore fabrics to their original condition.

Types of Damage Caused by Fire and Smoke

The damage caused by fire and smoke can vary depending on several factors, including the intensity of the fire, the type of materials that burned, and the length of time that the fabric was exposed to smoke and soot. Common types of damage include discoloration, odors, and soot buildup. Smoke and soot can penetrate deep into the fibers of fabrics, making it challenging to remove them without causing further damage.

Methods Used for Textile Restoration

When it comes to restoring textiles after a fire, there are several methods that restoration professionals may use. These include dry cleaning, wet cleaning, and ozone treatment.

Dry Cleaning: This method involves using solvents and other cleaning agents to remove soot and smoke damage from fabrics. Dry cleaning is typically used for delicate fabrics that cannot be wet cleaned, such as silk or wool.

Wet Cleaning: Wet cleaning involves using water-based cleaning agents to remove soot and smoke damage from fabrics. This method is typically used for more robust fabrics that can withstand water, such as cotton or polyester.

Ozone Treatment: Ozone treatment involves exposing fabrics to high levels of ozone, which helps to break down the odor-causing molecules left behind by smoke and soot. This method is often used in combination with other cleaning methods to remove odors from fabrics.

Challenges of Textile Restoration

Restoring textiles after a fire can be a challenging and time-consuming process. It requires specialized equipment and expertise to ensure that the fabrics are properly cleaned without causing further damage. In addition, fabrics that have been exposed to water during the firefighting process may be at risk for mold growth if not properly dried and treated.

Why You Should Hire a Professional Restoration Service

If you are dealing with textile damage after a fire, it is essential to hire a professional restoration service, such as SERVPRO of LaCrosse County, with experience in textile restoration. Our team has access to specialized equipment and cleaning agents that can effectively remove soot and smoke damage from fabrics without causing further damage. We also have the expertise to determine which cleaning method is appropriate for each type of fabric, ensuring that your belongings are restored to their original condition.

In conclusion, restoring textiles after a fire can be a challenging process, but with the help of professional restoration services, it is often possible to restore fabrics to their original condition. By understanding the specific challenges associated with textile restoration after a fire and the methods used to address them, you can make informed decisions about how to restore your belongings and get your life back on track after a fire.

Restoring Your Belongings: The Importance of Contents and Textile Restoration After Water Damage

3/11/2023 (Permalink)

smoke damage fabric Content restoration is an essential part of the restoration process, give SERVPRO a call today.

When a home or business suffers damage from water, fire, mold, or other disasters, contents restoration is often necessary to restore personal belongings and valuable items. Restoration professionals are trained to handle contents restoration and use various techniques and equipment to achieve the best results. In this blog, we'll discuss how restoration professionals handle contents restoration and the different techniques and equipment commonly used.

Inventory and Sorting

The first step in contents restoration is inventory and sorting. Restoration professionals will carefully document and catalog all items that need restoration, making note of the type of damage and the materials involved. They will then sort the items into categories based on the severity of damage and the restoration techniques needed.

Cleaning and Deodorizing

Once the inventory and sorting is complete, restoration professionals will begin the cleaning and deodorizing process. Depending on the type of damage, different techniques and equipment may be used.

For example, if items have been damaged by smoke or fire, restoration professionals may use ultrasonic cleaning equipment to remove soot and smoke particles from the surface of the items. If items have been damaged by water, they may use specialized drying equipment, such as dehumidifiers and air movers, to remove moisture and prevent mold growth.

Electronics Restoration

Electronics such as televisions, computers, and other devices can also be damaged by disasters. Restoration professionals can use specialized equipment to clean and restore these items.

Ultrasonic cleaning equipment is often used for electronics restoration. This process involves immersing the electronic device in a tank of cleaning solution and using ultrasonic waves to dislodge dirt and debris from the surface.

Document Restoration

Documents, photos, and other paper items can also be damaged by disasters. Restoration professionals can use specialized equipment and techniques to restore these items.

Freeze drying is a common technique used for document restoration. This involves freezing the documents and then using a vacuum to remove the moisture. This process can help to prevent further damage and preserve the documents for future use.

Textile Restoration

When your home or business experiences water damage, your textiles and fabrics can be heavily impacted. From carpets and upholstery to drapery and clothing, water damage can cause staining, discoloration, and even mold growth. Textile restoration professionals are trained to handle these issues and can use specialized techniques to restore your textiles and fabrics to their pre-damage condition.

The first step in textile restoration after water damage is to remove any standing water and dry the affected area. Once the area is dry, restoration professionals will assess the damage to the textiles and fabrics and determine the best course of action.

Depending on the severity of the damage, restoration professionals may use a combination of cleaning techniques and equipment to restore the textiles. For example, they may use steam cleaning equipment to remove dirt and stains from carpets and upholstery. They may also use ozone generators to remove any odors that have resulted from the water damage.

If the textiles have been heavily damaged and cannot be restored, restoration professionals may recommend replacement. However, in many cases, textiles can be successfully restored using specialized techniques and equipment.

Storage and Moving

During the contents restoration process, it may be necessary to move items out of the home or business to a secure storage facility. Restoration professionals will carefully pack and transport the items to prevent further damage and ensure they are stored in a safe and secure location.

Once the restoration process is complete, restoration professionals will carefully move the items back into the home or business and ensure they are properly placed and secured.

Contents restoration is an essential part of the restoration process after a disaster. Restoration professionals use a variety of techniques and equipment to carefully clean, restore, and preserve personal belongings and valuable items. If your home or business has suffered damage from water, fire, mold, or other disasters, it's important to contact a professional restoration company to ensure the best results for contents restoration.

How to file a water damage claim.

2/12/2023 (Permalink)

bathroom supply line When your in need of water restoration, give SERVPRO a call today.

Water damage can be devastating. It's a stressful time for everyone involved, including you and your insurance company. With the right information and support, however, you can get through this quickly and easily. So here are four steps to take if you have water damage at home or business.

1. Call in the experts

At the first sign of damage give the experts at SERVPRO a call. We will send out one of our qualified technicians immediately to begin assessing your situation. They will begin by taking photos of affected areas so that they can be used as evidence later on when filing a claim with insurance companies. Next they will begin removing standing water from carpets and hard surfaces using portable extraction units that produce powerful suction forces capable of pulling up even heavy amounts of moisture within minutes. This process allows them all remaining moisture content within these materials which prevents mold growth during cleanup efforts while also making sure that there's nothing left behind after this step has been completed successfully.

2. Document the damages

Document the damages Once you have a good idea of what was damaged, it's time to document and photograph the damage. You'll want to take multiple pictures from different angles so that you can show how much of your stuff was affected by water. Keep track of what was damaged, including receipts for any cleaning or repairs (if possible). You may also want to write down where each item came from and its value in case there are any disputes down the line about coverage limits or replacement costs. Lastly, keep a list of all contact information for anyone who has been helping out with the process.

3. Determine the cause of your water loss

Once you have your insurance claim form, it's time to figure out what type of damage has been done. You'll want to determine the cause of your water loss so that you can file an accurate claim and get reimbursed for all of your losses as quickly as possible.

There are many ways that water can get into your home, pipes may burst from age or pressure and plumbing fixtures (such as sinks) may leak due to poor installation or damage. Rainwater can seep through cracks in roofs or walls after heavy rain fall.

To determine whether or not filing an insurance claim is right for you, take some time first by asking yourself these questions: What type of insurance do I need? How much time do I have before things start getting worse?

Call the Professionals

If you have water damage at your home or business, call SERVPRO 24/7. When you call us after a flooding event, we will send over a professional technician who will assess how much work needs to be done onsite before beginning any cleanup process. We use advanced equipment and techniques to extract all standing water from your property so that mold doesn't grow inside your walls or under floors where it can cause further damage down the road if left untreated properly now!

Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Water Damage

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

Bathroom water damage Water damage can cause mold, and mold growth can lead to structural damage.

Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most common causes of home repair problems. Even a small amount of water can cause significant damage over time if left unchecked. Water leaks often occur in pipes or appliances and may be hard to detect without you noticing some visual signs. You should call a professional to inspect your home for water damage every time you notice any sign of moisture inside your home.

Water damage will cause mold.

The first step in preventing mold is to act fast. If you’ve got water damage, you need to get it taken care of right away.

If mold stays untreated, it can cause all sorts of damage to the structure of your property and its belongings. 

Water damage can lead to structural damage.

Water damage can cause mold, and mold growth can lead to structural damage. Mold grows when moisture gets trapped inside of a building and has a surface upon which it can grow. If the water leak is severe enough, the fungal spores from the mold will spread throughout your property and take up residence. 

Water damage can lead to rust and corrosion.

The effects are often more severe when left untreated, as water can cause significant damage to your home's structure and building materials. That's why it's important to act quickly if you detect any signs of water in your apartment or home—the sooner we intervene, the less likely it is that the issue will escalate into something expensive down the road!

Make sure you address any water damage in your home right away

The longer you wait to address water damage in your home, the more serious the problem will become. Mold is one of the most common results of water damage, and it can cause serious damage. In addition to mold, rust and corrosion also can lead to expensive repairs if they aren't addressed right away.

If you don’t deal with the water damage quickly, it can grow out of control. In fact, a severe enough leak can cause structural damage to your property and make it uninhabitable. If you think you have a water leak, it's important to act quickly. The longer the leak goes unnoticed and unfixed, the more damage it can do—and that means higher costs for repairs. 

Water damage can cause a lot of problems for your home, and if you don’t take care of it right away, it’s only going to get worse. If you see signs of water damage in your house or notice that there is dampness in the walls or floors, please contact a professional immediately. This way they can do everything they can to avoid mold growth, structural damage, or costly repairs later on down the road when things have gotten even worse! SERVPRO is always on standby and ready to help.

What Does It Mean If My Floors Are Warping?

11/14/2022 (Permalink)

Warping floors Remember, warping is an easy fix if you catch it early.

What Does It Mean If My Floors Are Warping?

If you own a home and have wood flooring, you probably know how easy it is to incur damage. Wood floors can be scratched, dinged, and stained by everyday objects like shoes or furniture. But what do you do if your floors are warping? That’s when things get serious. Warped wood flooring is not only unattractive; it can also cause major structural issues in your home that will cost thousands of dollars to fix.

There are several reasons why wood warps. As we explore the topic further below, we hope this information will help homeowners understand what they should look out for so they can prevent their floors from becoming warped in the first place!

Wood flooring is a natural product

Wood flooring is a natural product and will absorb water. The wood that makes up your flooring will not give back the water it absorbs, which means it can cause damage to your floors. Water under the floor can cause warping and cracking or crevices in your flooring.

If you have any cracks in your floors already, or if there are gaps between boards, this can allow moisture to get into them and cause more problems.

Wood absorbs moisture, but doesn’t give it back

The first thing you should know is that wood absorbs water, but it doesn’t give it back. This means that if your floors are warping, there could be a serious problem with moisture under the floor.

If you’re like most people and don’t have any idea what that means—don't worry. It basically means this: wood absorbs water and that then can’t be removed. The trouble is that if there's enough water under your floors or in their support beams to make them warp, then mold can form as well.

Mold grows anywhere there's moisture—and since wooden structures aren't very good at preventing dampness from getting trapped inside them, they're prone to mold growth even without any problems like floor warping happening first!

Warping can cause cracks and crevices in your flooring

Crevices and cracks are not only aesthetically unpleasant, but they can also be a pain to fix. When floors become uneven, their surface becomes more prone to damage. This can lead to serious problems down the road, such as structural issues and costly repairs.

The damage is hard to fix once the damage has been done.

The best thing you can do for your warped wood floors is to stop using them immediately. They are not going to fix themselves, and they will continue to get worse over time. If you have a home warranty, it may cover the cost of repairs or assist in get new flooring altogether. However, it’s far better if you just bite the bullet and do something about this now rather than later when the damage has already been done and more money needs to be spent on fixing it later down the line!

If possible, it is better to get rid of your current flooring and getting new hardwood floors installed before doing anything else. Though it may be expensive at first glance, it can save you a significant amount of money in the long run. 

If you have water leaking through your floor, get help before your warping damage becomes significant.

Water can cause warping by breaking down the glue that holds your flooring together, which results in floors that become soft and unstable. If water has been leaking through your floor, you should call a professional immediately before the damage becomes significant. Cracks and crevices in your flooring can also cause warping due to changes in temperature and humidity.

Remember, warping is an easy fix if you catch it early. Don’t let your floors get so warped that they need to be replaced—or worse, that they crack and crevice. If you see any signs of water damage in your wood flooring, get help before it’s too late.

How Do You Estimate a Fire Damage Loss?

10/14/2022 (Permalink)

Severe fire at a commercial business Severe fire damage in a commercial business

How Do You Calculate Fire Damage Loss?

Fire damage cleanup is a process that takes time, skill, and patience. The first step to estimating the fire damage restoration costs is assessing the extent of the fire damage. This means assessing how much smoke and soot was produced by the fire, as well as how much heat was generated during its course of action. We can then further assess any structural damages caused by thermal exposure; this includes charring or warping of wood, steel beams being exposed to high temperatures and other such issues that may arise due to exposure to these conditions.

The extent of the fire damage

The first thing you should do is contact a professional fire damage restoration company in your Holmen, WI area. The sooner they can get to work on fire damage, the better chance they have of minimizing its effects. Professional help is also necessary because it’s best suited for restoring your home back to its original condition after a fire has been put out and all smoke has cleared.

This type of service requires an initial inspection by professionals who know what they are looking at in terms of potential hazards and risks in your home. They will then begin removing damaged areas as well as any debris (including water) that may be present due to efforts used during putting out the flames or things such as sprinklers going off during evacuation procedures. This process can take anywhere between two days up until several months depending upon severity levels experienced inside your home during those initial moments when everything happened so quickly with little time afforded anyone involved before leaving without warning!

Water damage post-fire

Once the fire has been put out, out is very common to see excessive moisture present. The water used to extinguish the fire and clean up after it will also influence how much damage you can expect a fire to cause. The moisture of the buildings materials and contents is another factor that needs to be considered while estimating the mitigation and restoration costs. 

If the fire caused significant damage to your property, it is likely that you have water damage present on your property as well. It is important to call a company, such as SERVPRO of La Crosse County, that can handle both the water mitigation and fire, soot, and smoke damage cleanup! 

Estimating the time frame

In general, we can estimate how long it will take to complete the fire damage restoration process by taking into consideration several factors. These include:

  1. The severity of the fire damage (e.g., whether there was smoke or water damage)
  2. Your location and proximity to a restoration facility
  3. The amount of work that needs to be done (e.g., cleaning up soot from walls, cleaning carpeting)

The length of time depends on these factors, but typically ranges from 3-21 days. However, this is just an estimate; every job is different and may take longer or shorter than expected based on its specific circumstances.

The fire damage restoration process can be very long and complicated. That’s why it’s important to have a professional contractor assess your property and give you an estimate for the damages. SERVPRO of La Crosse County is the leading expert in fire and water damage cleanup and restoration in the La Crosse, WI, area. If you are ever in need of disaster restoration services, our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

5 Common Questions About Mold

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

Mold damage on wall Mold damage in New Amsterdam, WI

Protect Your Home From Mold Damage

Mold is an extremely common residential issue that many homeowners have to tackle at some point. Putting a stop to spreading mold is a big part of the remediation process, but even that is only the beginning. Read on to learn how to better protect your New Amsterdam, WI, home from mold damage.

1. What Is Mold?
Mold is a living organism. Many people mistake it for a plant or bacteria, but it's actually a member of the fungus kingdom.

2. How Does Mold Spread?
Mold spores are always present in the air around us. Mold itself needs moisture and a source of organic matter in order to actually grow, however. Mold growth occurs when the spores in the air attach to a damp surface or object. After that, it only takes about 24 hours for signs of black mold to appear.

3. How Can You Stop Mold from Spreading?
The first step to putting a stop to spreading mold is to identify the source of the problem. Perform a thorough home inspection to figure out where the moisture is seeping into your home, then resolve the issue.

4. What Are Some Common Mold Causes?
Any number of factors could contribute to your home's mold growth. Water damage, such as leaks or flooding, are common cause. You're also likely to find mold growing in your walls, ceilings or window sills if your home's humidity levels are too high.

5. How Do You Get Rid of Mold?
You can tackle smaller mold issues on your own using a non-toxic, homemade cleaning solution. A simple mixture that consists of equal parts water and white vinegar can work wonders. Larger problems might require mold remediation experts, however.

Spreading mold can quickly take over your home if you don't handle the issue swiftly and effectively. Contact mold remediation experts for assistance with your residential mold issues.

How To Be a Grill (Cleaning) Master

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning a grill Proper grill maintenance will minimize the risk of a grease fire.

Grill (Cleaning) Master

No grill master ever earned the title without first being a grill cleaning pro. Whether it’s a yard sale steal or a top-of-line splurge your summer staple needs regular maintenance and cleaning to remain the master’s tool it is. Before you grab your apron grab your gloves and prepare for major seasonal cleaning, making your grill the best it can be for a Rockland,WI summer!

Gather Your Materials

As every master knows, a successful grill session requires all materials to be prepared beforehand. With the same concept in mind, prepare for your grill cleaning session with a few necessary supplies:

  • Work gloves
  • Grill brush
  • Stainless-steel wipes
  • Whisk broom
  • Bucket
  • Dish soap
  • Foil
  • Paper towels


Know Your Terrain

Proper grill maintenance will minimize the risk of a grease fire, improve the performance of your grill and provide a clean aesthetic for your grill mastery. While there are some variances for cleaning charcoal and gas grills, start with the basics:

• Wearing work gloves, remove grill grates, racks and pans and set them in a bucket of hot water and dish soap. It is best to start this process while the grill is still slightly warm, but ensure all dials are off and the propane tank is disconnected.
• Cover heating elements with foil and use the grill brush to vigorously scrub the underside of the hood and inside walls of the grill and wipe down with a wet paper towel.
• Remove the components from the bucket and scrub down with the grill brush before replacing inside the grill.

3 Important Components of Your Fire Safety Plan

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Man installing a fire alarm Install and test fire alarms

Three Important Components of A Fire Safety Plan

A business fire occurs in more than 30,000 businesses every year. Fire prevention is important for reducing your chances of a fire occurring. However, it is also important to have a fire safety plan in place so that you are prepared if a fire does happen. 


1. Fire Safety Equipment

Installing and maintaining fire safety equipment is a critical fire preparation step. Sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers can be used to douse small fires before they can spread to the rest of your building. Have your extinguishers and sprinkler system inspected regularly to ensure proper function. Train all employees on the proper use of fire extinguishers, including when it is best to evacuate, rather than attempt to put out a fire.


2. Evacuation Plan

Your priority in any business fire should be to ensure the safety of all employees, customers, and other people occupying your property when a fire occurs. Install and test fire alarms, so that people have enough warning to evacuate your building before the fire spreads. Drill your employees on evacuation procedures and make sure they know how to assist customers and guests who also need to evacuate safely. Keep your fire exits clearly marked and free of clutter. Establish a meeting point where you can ensure all employees are accounted for.


3. Fire Safety Procedures

All employees should receive written instruction on safety protocols, such as not storing combustible materials near open flames. Make sure you are enforcing your protocols and periodically updating them and providing ongoing training. Give your employees contact information for fire restoration and other services in Holmen, WI, that they may need if fire damage occurs.
Both fire prevention and fire safety are important aspects of avoiding and mitigating the damage from a business fire. Make sure you always have a fire safety and prevention plan in place.

Mold 101

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth in bathroom Mold growth in a bathroom

Understanding Mold Growths Cycle

When you start noticing a musty smell, you know your home in Holmen, WI, has been infected with mold. While you can count on black mold remediation and restoration expert to take care of the problem, avoiding mold cleanup is always preferred. While it may not always be avoidable, understanding its growth cycle and taking preventive measures may help reduce the chances of an infestation.

Life Cycle
Mold is everywhere. Luckily, it requires the right conditions to grow in your home. When the temperature is just right, there is excess moisture and plentiful food—organic materials found throughout a home—black mold has the ability to start its growth cycle within 24 to 48 hours. These fungi have four stages in their life cycle:

Hyphae Growth: When ideal conditions come together, so do the mold’s cells. Hyphae are thread-like cells that take in all that nourishment and release enzymes, which is often where the odor comes from. They eventually grow in numbers and become mature mycelium, which is when the mold becomes visible.
Spore Formation: Spores eventually start to grow on the ends of the hyphae.
Spore Dispersal: After they are completely developed, they become airborne. They spread in search of new locations to start the process anew.
Spore Germination: Once they find a new ideal location, they begin to germinate and start the cycle over. Unfortunately, they can remain dormant for extended periods of time.

Prevention Tips
Any kind of moisture problem can bring spores back to life. Below are some tips to keep the right conditions from happening:

  • Keep humidity levels below 50%.
  • Ensure your home is well-ventilated, especially in the bathroom and kitchen.
  • If any leak appears, fix it immediately to minimize water damage.
  • Consider using mold-resistance materials when making repairs.
  • Items that sustain water damage should be replaced.

While black mold may be lurking in the shadows, it doesn’t have to become a reality. Understanding its life cycle makes it easier to take steps to avoid it.

Top 5 Water Damage Prevention Strategies

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

Shutting off water main Shut off your water main before leaving for extended periods

Ways To Protect Your Home From Water Damage

Water damage is one of the biggest headaches that residential homeowners have to deal with. On top of the initial accident, floods and leaks can cause a lot of subsequent costs in secondary damages. The best way to avoid these types of problems is to prevent the incident from happening in the first place. Follow the tips below to help protect your home in French Island, WI.

1. Check Pipes Regularly for Leaks.

It's important to perform regular home inspections for leaky or broken pipes. These types of incidents are easy to overlook, which can cause a lot of damage over time. Inspect any exposed pipes in your basement and underneath all of your sinks.

2. Monitor Your Home's Water Pressure.

If your water pressure is too high, you run the risk of putting undue wear and tear on your pipes. You can obtain a water pressure gauge from your local hardware store that you can use to manually monitor the pressure.

3. Regularly Check Home Appliances.

Any home appliances that use water, such as your washing machine or dishwasher, need to be checked regularly for leaks or other forms of damage. Floods that originate from these appliances can cause gray water damage.

4. Clean Out Your Gutters and Downspouts.

Your gutters are intended to collect and redirect water that runs off of your roof. However, they can often become clogged with dead leaves, branches and other forms of debris. When this happens, water can pool and collect in your gutters, eventually running down the sides of your house and causing damage.

5. Shut Off Your Water Main Before Leaving for Extended Periods.

If you plan to go on vacation or some other form of extended trip, make sure you turn off your water main before you go. This significantly reduces the chances of you having to deal with a water cleanup issue when you return.

Water damage can be devastating to residential properties, so it's important that you learn how to protect your home. Contact water remediation experts for more information, or assistance resolving a water-related mishap.

Resolving Sewage Backup in Your Bathtub

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage backup in a bathtub Sewage backup in a bathtub

Sewage Backup Techniques

Your bathtub is supposed to be a safe haven where you can relax, unwind and clean yourself up after a long day. Unfortunately, sewer backup can invade your tub when you least expect it, dashing your hopes for a calm evening. If your bathtub in Mindoro, WI, has fallen victim to sewage backflow, just use the following steps.

1. Protect Yourself and Your Household.
Sewage floods are considered Category 3 floods, as they contain a plethora of harmful biohazards. Protect your household by removing all children and pets from the area until the mess is cleaned up. Make sure you don the correct protective gear before tackling the mess as well.

2. Turn Off the Main Water Supply.
Prevent the flood from getting any worse by immediately shutting off your main water supply. You can usually find this valve in your basement.

3. Inspect Your Vent Pipe.
It is possible that the flood causing bathtub backup is a result of a blocked vent pipe. The vent pipe is typically located on the roof of your home, just above your bathroom. Use a flashlight to check for obstructions and remove any that you discover.

4. Snake the Bathtub Drain.
If the vent pipe isn't causing the flooding, then head back to your bathroom and attempt to snake the drain for clogs. Feed the snake down the drain, carefully, and twist counterclockwise as you slowly pull it out. If this method is successful, the sewer backup should begin to drain.

5. Thoroughly Disinfect the Area.
The biohazards present in black water are hazardous, so you absolutely need to make sure that you thoroughly clean and disinfect any surfaces that the flood water came into contact with.
Sewer backup can be messy, but the clogs are typically easy to fix, even if you don't have any prior plumbing experience. If the techniques described above did not fix the problem, then you need to contact flood remediation experts as soon as you can.

The Effects of Lightning on Residential Property

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

lightning During a house fire or lightning-related event, leave the house.

Residential Property Damage Caused by Lightning

According to the National Fire Protection Agency, homeowners are more likely to suffer lightning fire damage from June to August. Those sunny mornings transform quickly into fierce afternoon and evening showers. The storm frequency increases the odds of a residential strike.

However, strikes can occur at any time of year, leaving residents with a long list of expensive safety and cleanup needs. Anyone, therefore, is at risk, so it's crucial for owners in West Salem, WI, to understand the threat. The following are three things to know about the aftereffects of thunderstorm harm.

1. Lightning Damage Is Expensive

The Insurance Information Institute notes that in 2020, insurance companies handled 71,551 claims, paying out as much as $2.1 billion for damage. The group's report reveals that most individual requests for lightning-related destruction cost around $28,000, with situations in California costing upwards of $217,000.

2. Strikes Affect Multiple Aspects of Your Home

The high cost for repairs stems from the various aftereffects of the lightning fire. The structure faces a significant power surge when the bolt hits your home in West Salem, WI. Because an electrical current can travel through electrical, cable and phone wiring, you may experience a direct hit or find yourself the victim of a nearby strike.

Inside the house, it can wreak havoc on the appliances and technology, frying their circuits or creating short fuses. Furthermore, fires can start, spreading throughout various rooms, and the bolt's impact could crack or breach structural materials and the foundation.

3. Your Home Needs Professional Assessment

During a house fire or lightning-related event, leave the house. Request help certified fire damage experts who can assess the property, determine the extent of the damage and put together an action plan for cleanup and repair.

Lightning fire is common and devastating. Restoration is needed to ensure the property is safe to use; therefore, work with specialists who understand storm impact and how to remediate the damage.

Types of Solar Panel Damage and How To Prevent It

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Chunk of Hail Hail can damage your solar panel in your Onalaska, WI home.

The Different Types of Solar Panel Damage and How to Avoid Them

After installing solar panels on your Onalaska, WI, home, you get peace of mind that you have invested in sustainable energy. These panels are rugged and built to last, but that doesn’t mean you won’t sustain some panel damage. Awareness of the common forms of damage and how to prevent them from happening are key to them lasting as long as possible.

What To Expect

Weather and nature are the top culprits when it comes to your panels getting damaged. Common issues include:

  • Dust and Debris: From small twigs to large branches falling and dirt settling, all of these may create scratches that deter the panels from being able to absorb sunlight.
  • Animals: Along with creating microabrasions, small mammals and birds may also damage wires.
  • Hail: Whether small pieces or large ones, hail can create cracks and scratches.
  • Water: If seals are worn, water may leak in and cause panel damage. Along with potentially short-circuiting the panels, excess water may indicate a bigger problem with the roof. If not addressed, it may require the services of a water damage remediation and restoration


Roof Damage Prevention Tips

While some damage may be unavoidable, such as from hail, there are ways to protect the panels and minimize the chances of damage.

  • Regularly clean them to ensure debris and dust aren’t settling on them.
  • Install a panel protection cover, which provides protection from rain and hail.
  • Apply a layer of protective methacrylate to beef up the panels’ ability to resist cracks.
  • Stay on top of weather conditions and inspect panels after a storm.

If your solar energy system was installed correctly, it means not having to worry about panel damage for a while. It is still necessary to know the common causes of damage and take steps to prevent issues from arising and protect your investment.

What Should You Do If Water Damages Your Wooden Floor?

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Burst Pipe If a pipe bursts and causes water to accumulate in your La Crosse, WI home, you must remove it as quickly as possible.

What Should You Do If Your Wooden Floor Is Damaged by Water?

You may think that a bit of water on your property’s wood floor is no big deal. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Because wood is so porous, it absorbs water quickly. Even a small spill can therefore cause stains to develop. Larger flooding to your commercial building could also lead to floor buckling.

While waxing and sealing your floors can help block moisture, this does not completely prevent the absorption of water. If your property suffers a pipe burst that wets your hardwood floors, you should thus clean those floors as quickly as possible to prevent further damage. Here are some other steps to take when you discover water on a wooden floor.

1. Remove Objects From the Wet Floor
Any wet furniture or rugs should be removed from the hardwood floors for drying. If not properly dried, those items could encourage the growth of mold or mildew. The moisture from the furnishings could also drop onto the wood if they are left on the floor.

2. Soak up the Water
You can try to use mops or towels to soak up the excess liquid. However, if there are large puddles from a pipe burst, you may need a wet vacuum to remove the water. Cleanup and restoration professionals should have this tool available. You should thus hire them for any major water damage remediation projects.

3. Clean the Wood
The job is not done once the water is gone. The water may have still left behind dirt in the pores of the wood. Be sure the restoration experts you hire scrub away this debris.

4. Dry the Wood
Drying the wood should be the final step. The cleanup experts should use fans and dehumidifiers to expedite this process.

If a pipe burst or flood causes a buildup of water on your wooden floors, you need to remove the liquid as soon as possible. Remediation experts in La Crosse, WI, can ensure that the floor is completely dry.

3 Steps To Take Immediately After a Business Fire

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

trucks of a restoration company If you experience a Fire Emergency, call SERVPRO, our team is trained on how to restore fire damage like smoke and soot damaged contents.

3 Things To Do Right Away After A Business Fire

After a fire damages your Holmen, WI, business, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Not only will you need fire restoration services but your employees will want to know how long it might take before you can reopen. Knowing which steps to take immediately after a business fire can help you feel less anxious about the cleanup process, especially with fire damage you cannot clean up on your own.

1. Contact Your Fire Insurance Company

Once firefighters douse the blaze and you can enter your property safety, contact your insurance agent right away to let him or her know what happened and the size of the fire. Send photos and video so your agent can file a claim right away and provide you with the means to pay for a fire restoration and cleanup service as soon as possible. Keep copies of any media you send.

2. Turn Off Water and Power Sources

Your building's electricity and plumbing may be damaged by the heat, smoke and soot fires cause. If it is safe to do so, turn off the power sources and water to the building or, if you lease, ask the building's owner to do so, as this can prevent secondary damage, such as electrical shorts and flooding from burst water lines, which can make fire restoration more difficult.

3. Document Your Needs

Once you can inspect your building, make a list of all the damage you find. You may require a variety of different services, from drywall replacement to smoke cleaning, especially if the fire damaged any of your inventory. Set aside damaged electronics, as your fire cleanup and mitigation service may be able to help you restore them.

A fire at your Holmen, WI, business can make you feel anxious and unsure of where to turn. While these feelings are natural, you do not have to face the future and fire restoration alone when you understand which steps to take once is the fire is out and who is standing by to assist you.

3 Steps To Take After a Commercial Fire

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

fire damage in a store When fire damage occurs, it's important to call a professional as soon as possible so that we can get started right away!

3 Things To Do After A Commercial Fire

A fire can cause a tremendous amount of destruction to your business, even if you have a fire mitigation plan in place. After the blaze is out, you may be unsure of how to handle the fire damage. Here are three steps you should take following a commercial fire.

1. Call Your Insurance Adjuster

The first thing you should do is call your insurance company. The claims process often can take months, so you want to get it started as fast as possible and be ready to provide the necessary documentation to avoid delays. After you start your claim, your adjuster can refer you to a fire restoration company in Onalaska, WI, to begin the cleanup process.

2. Secure Your Business

The fire damage likely broke windows and burned holes through your property's ceiling and walls. If you leave those issues unaddressed, you could be opening your business to more harm from vandals and the weather.

To secure your property, seal off windows and holes in the walls by covering them with thick plywood. Place a tarp securely on the roof to prevent animals and rain from getting in.

Be mindful that a fire can weaken the structural integrity of your building, so never enter the premises without approval from the fire department.

3. Remove Your Belongings

Even if furniture, electronics and inventory don't have fire damage, they could still be destroyed when left to sit in a room filled with corrosive smoke and soot. To help protect what you can and mitigate your losses, remove your undamaged belongings as soon as possible. After you place your items in a storage facility or an off-site warehouse, have them professionally cleaned and restored.

While the fire restoration process might feel overwhelming, you don't have to handle it alone. Relying on the pros will have you back in business in no time.

Opportunities To Protect Your Business From a Fire Disaster

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Trucks from a restoration company A fire is a traumatic event regardless of the size. Our SERVPRO of La Crosse County team is the best in the business, call us!

Opportunities To Prevent A Fire Disaster In Your Business

The National Fire Protection Association consistently shows that about 500,000 fires occur annually in the U.S. that require a fire department response. While about 75% of these fires are residential, that leaves well over 100,000 significant business fires a year. This makes solid fire preparation a priority for just about any business. Fortunately, there are important steps your company in Rockland, WI, can take at different stages to reduce or stop the damage from a fire.

Disaster Preparation Before a Fire

This time frame is crucial to enhance fire preparedness. A long list of precautions can put your company in a strong position to limit the impact of fire:

  • Install smoke alarms
  • Install sprinkler systems
  • Purchase the appropriate fire extinguishers
  • Educate employees on fire response
  • Write up a fire management plan
  • Store critical data in a safe place

Smart actions at this stage can have enormous benefits. Some steps such as identifying potential hazards could even prevent a fire entirely.

Fire Preparation During a Fire

Planning can also payoff even as a fire is underway. Making sure all employees know to call the local fire department as soon as possible is critical to a timely response. The ability to move employees and customers to a place of safety often depends on a detailed and clear evacuation plan. This should be posted in accessible spots throughout your facility. The goal at this time is to save lives, prevent injuries and reduce fire damage to property.

Professional Cleanup After a Fire

A lot of fire mitigation work goes on after a fire has been put out. A local fire restoration team in Rockland, WI, can arrive quickly and hit the ground running with certified workers and specialized equipment. Experienced technicians will handle soot and smoke damage and quickly restore your facility to its pre-fire condition.

In today's world, smart fire preparation is a necessity. It protects your company's interests at all times.

Effective Ways To Clean Up After a Flood

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Above view of laptop with water drop damage liquid wet and spill on keyboard, accident concept If you need a flood cleanup after a storm, don't try to tackle the problem yourself. calling SERVPRO is the best solution.

Methods For Cleaning Up After A Flood

Working in West Salem, WI, means you may be at risk of experiencing a flood in your building. The consequences of having a flood on the property can be disastrous. Not only will you worry about your building itself, but you have many personal belongings and office items to care for. The good news is that with the right help, you can salvage many of these things with proper content cleaning.

Using the Pros

For minor water problems at work, you can probably clean up well and not stress out about whether your contents are safe. However, when the flood is more widespread, you'll need a professional water removal team to help. Experienced technicians offer the following:

  • Quick response, even after hours or on the weekends
  • The right equipment for even the biggest jobs
  • Experience and expertise in handling all types of flooding

Cleaning Carpets

Flooring, especially carpet, can suffer a heavy toll after a storm and other sources of flooding. Getting carpet back to normal is one of the most common types of content cleaning that professionals handle. The technicians will first pull up the carpet and padding to assess the damage underneath. After extracting the water and sanitizing the area, the techs will thoroughly dry it. If necessary, the team will replace the carpet.

Drying Out Electronics

Never try to clean heavily wet electronics by yourself. Professionals have the tools and skills to safely clean water-damaged computers, printers, monitors, and other devices. The team will first clean the outside of the electronics before removing any moisture from the inside.

Restoring Documents

Any type of water, particularly black water, can spell big trouble in your office. You may think that documents such as books, files, maps, and photographs don't stand a chance against flooding. Cleanup crews have the training to handle documents delicately and use freeze-drying techniques to clean these materials properly.

Content cleaning is vital after water damage in the office. Professionals companies can clean flooring, electronics, documents and more. This can give you peace of mind amid a disaster.

Top 5 Mistakes When Using a Fire Extinguisher

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

Fire extinguisher on the gray wall Large fires are often too difficult for an extinguisher to put out. If the flames get out of hand, evacuation is the best plan.

The Top 5 Mistakes To Avoid When Using A Fire Extinguisher

Most homes have a fire extinguisher, but do you know how to use one properly? Do you know where it is located in your house or residential complex? The biggest mistake is to put off learning until it's too late.

1. Forgetting the Safety Pin

The pin prevents accidental use of the fire extinguisher. However, if you forget to disarm it, the tool will not be able to do its job. Locate it on the handle, and pull upward to remove.

2. Touching the Nozzle

A CO2 extinguisher causes the nozzle to be extremely cold to the touch. This can possibly harm the skin. To be safe, don't touch this part of the fire extinguisher. The CO2 kind can be identified its stiffer nozzle and absence of a pressure gauge. Regardless, it's best to keep humans away from the front end.

3. Aiming Too High

The natural instinct is to start at the top of the flames and work your way down. However, it's most effective to make a sweeping motion at the base of the fire. This way, whatever is igniting the flames will go out more quickly.

4. Getting Too Close

Furthermore, panic sets in during a fire emergency. Resist the urge to get as close to the fire as you can. This will only make you vulnerable to burns. In most small cases, like a kitchen fire, it can be put out farther away.

5. Being Overconfident

Firefighters are trained to put out fires for a reason. It's harder than it looks. Many individuals will think that they extinguished the flames, so they are done. That isn't the case. After doing the sweeping motions, wait to see if the fire reignites.

Large fires are often too difficult for an extinguisher to put out. If the flames get out of hand, evacuation is the best plan. If fire damage occurs, you will need to contact the local fire damage remediation experts in Onalaska, WI. Cleanup on your own is not safe due to possible structural damage.

5 Tips for Preventing Water Damage in Your Home

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

Two roofers inspecting a damaged roof A leaking roof is a common source of water in your home. Look for wet or discolored spots in the attic that indicate the presence of water.

5 Ways To Avoid Water Damage In Your Home

For a new homeowner in La Crosse, WI, especially one who has only ever lived in apartments, the maintenance list for your new purchase can seem daunting! As you plan how to manage lawn care, home upgrades, and regular maintenance, make sure that your checklist includes steps for preventing water in your home. Water intrusion can be costly in a number of ways. Here are five things you can do to prevent water damage.

1. Check Seals

Especially in the basement and near windows and doors, check to make sure that all edges are sealed. Even a slight crack in the caulking can allow water to seep, causing mold damage or structural problems.

2. Inspect the Roof

A leaky roof is a common way that you can end up with water in your home. Look for wet or discolored spots in the attic that indicate the presence of water. If you're unsure as to whether water damage has occurred or is occurring, call a local water damage specialist to complete an assessment.

3. Extend Downspouts

Water that pools around the foundation of your house will compromise the structural integrity of your home. Ensure that the downspouts are not cracked and that they extend at least two feet away from your home to prevent water pooling.

4. Maintain Drains

If a sink is slow to drain, don't ignore it. A clogged pipe can lead to a broken pipe if the clog isn't cleared. The pressure of water building up can compromise your plumbing and lead to big problems.

5. Upgrade Pipes

In an older home, check the status of the pipes. Pipes that are corroded or old can easily crack under pressure or from extreme temperatures. If a pipe does crack, a leak might occur, causing extensive damage in a short amount of time. Pipe cleanup and repair can protect your home.

Preventing water in your home is a simple matter of following a regular home maintenance schedule. Always contact a professional if you're concerned about potential damage to your home.

3 Ways to Prepare for a Winter Storm

3/19/2022 (Permalink)

Trucks from a restoration company When your business operations are interrupted by storm damage, you need professional help to get your property back to business. Call SERVPRO.

3 Winter Storm Preparation Methods

Winter storms ravage the country year after year, leaving people stuck in their homes without power, heat, and communication devices. Avoid being stranded inside without the necessities you need to remain comfortable and safe. Following these simple steps will prepare you and your family for the inevitable winter snowstorm.

1. Stay Current

Several excellent sources are available to keep you updated on current weather patterns:

  • Internet
  • Television
  • Radio
  • Newspaper

Meteorologists typically warn the public of a potential winter storm a day or two in advance. As violent weather nears, the warning becomes a storm watch. At this point, the news will provide information on what to expect and how to prepare.

2. Be Prepared

When you anticipate a heavy snowstorm in New Amsterdam, WI, stock up on essentials before it arrives. Make sure to fill necessary prescriptions and purchase batteries for flashlights. Turn your water off to avoid a pipe burst, and eliminate the need for water damage repair once the storm has passed.
Roads are often treacherous in winter months, making quick trips to the grocery store impossible. Make sure you have enough food to last your family a few days. Accumulating nonperishable snacks and clean drinking water will eliminate the need to risk the icy, hazardous roads outside.

3. Communicate With Your Employer

Commuting to work during a winter storm is incredibly scary and very dangerous. Protect your safety and that of your coworkers by establishing a work-from-home plan in the event of an emergency. Be sure to remain in contact with your employer, as bad weather can last for hours, days, or even weeks.

Not only is driving to work dangerous, but many issues at home might require your attention during a big storm. Power outages, canceled school, and household damages are common and stressful in the winter months. Establishing a work-from-home plan allows you to manage your home while still maintaining your workload.

Winter weather is dangerous and unpredictable. Properly preparing for the next big snowstorm will keep your family safe, your house intact, and your work accessible.

The Best Large Loss Restoration Company Qualities

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Trucks from a restoration company Our team at SERVPRO of La Crosse was called to this Ashley Homestore after finding water damage in the building. Call us when you need it.

Characteristics Of The Most Effective Large-Loss Restoration Firm

Disasters happen. When they do, they can ruin everything in your business in Midway, WI. They can also force you to shut down until repairs are finished. The result is a serious interruption that you want to be remedied as soon as possible. That's why you need to know what qualities to look for in a large loss restoration company. Knowing what to look for can help you choose the best company. That will help you recover from any disaster, whether you face flooding or blizzards. This can get your company back to normal quickly.

Experience With Numerous Loss Sources

You want to look for a company that has experience with several types of loss sources. For instance, you should look for a company that has dealt with hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, fires, and broken sprinkler systems.

Offer Comprehensive Services

When recovering from a catastrophic loss, you need a disaster restoration company that handles it all. Find one that offers a comprehensive list of services, including:

  • Damage assessment
  • Structural drying
  • Anti-microbial treatments
  • Sewage remediation
  • Demolition
  • Power setup
  • Picture documentation
  • Daily updates

Cares About Your Business

You want a company that is going to be reliable. You also want them to do great work. Plus, you want them to communicate well. You may even be looking for someone who cares enough to focus on getting your business back open. That is the ideal catastrophic loss company. They should care about your business enough to get the job done right and work with you.

Place Value First

Obviously, you want the job done quickly. However, you also want your catastrophic loss team to prioritize value over speed. Therefore, you should look for a company that is responsive, caring, dependable, top-quality, good communicators, experts, and trustworthy.

Storm damage and other disasters can happen to any business. If you want to find restoration professionals that can help you get your company back open as quickly as possible, you need to know what qualities to look for.

Clean, but Still Dirty

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

water damage in a commercial bathroom We can react and respond quickly to your commercial damage emergency. Contact SERVPRO, Our team of technicians makes it "Like it never even happened."

Even If It's Clean, It's Still Filthy

Many business owners in West Salem, WI, incur heavy losses because they don't clean up their water issues. That doesn't mean they're lazy, it just means that they don't have the knowledge necessary to do a complete recovery. You could also be in danger if you have suffered water damage of any type, including:

  • Broken pipes
  • Flooding
  • Leaks

Black Mold

Black mold is one of the reasons that it's important to have your water damage repair performed thoroughly. This nefarious organic pollutant loves high humidity. In fact, all it needs to start taking over your business's facilities is a little extra moisture. It uses the softened building materials as both food and habitat, creating whole colonies of mold. That's the last thing you want around in a workplace.

Structural Weakening

Mold isn't the only thing that likes wet buildings. In fact, improper drying might lead to infestations of much larger life forms, such as termites or rodents. Termites prefer to eat building materials that have been softened by water, whereas rodents find it much easier to chew through weakened woods. The good news is that, like black mold, it often takes these creatures a little time before they figure out that your structure is vulnerable. If you act quickly enough, you might be able to avoid a secondary damage pest problem entirely.

Not every business owner or facility manager in West Salem, WI, who has water damage develops a secondary mold damage problem. However, it's usually difficult to tell whether or not you're at risk. Even if it seems like you've cleaned up the whole spill, there are still plenty of spaces where you might have lingering moisture and humidity, such as crawlspaces, insides of walls and around fixtures. It's usually better to inspect the area meticulously before calling your cleanup job finished.

Preparing Your Home and Family for a Fire

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Kitchen with fire damage A residential kitchen was almost burnt to ashes in La Crosse County. If you experience a Fire Emergency, call SERVPRO.

Prepare Your Family And Home For A Fire

Fire safety is one of the most important things you can teach your children about your home. Having a fire escape plan involves more than just telling everyone to vacate your house in La Crosse, WI, if a fire should break out. To help your plan go smoothly, you must prepare both your home and your family for the possibility of fire.

Preparing Your Home

The first line of defense against a home fire is your alert system. You should install smoke detectors throughout your home in prominent places:

  • Inside every sleeping area
  • Outside every sleeping area
  • In a middle common area on every level

It’s not enough to install the detectors, however. Test the detectors frequently. A sensible time to do so is when you practice your fire escape plan. This tells you if your smoke detectors are working and if they’re all connected like they’re supposed to be.

It’s also important to make sure that there are clear paths to safety. When you are devising a plan, check to see if there are two exits out of every room and that these exits are easy to use. Don’t block windows with chairs or other furniture.

Preparing Your Family

While your fire preparation plan may include contact information for a professional restoration company to make your house safe again, the main priority when a fire breaks out is the safety of the people inside. It’s essential that everyone knows what to do during a fire. Talk about how to get out and where to meet once you do. Set off the smoke detectors and have everyone walk through the process. If you have small children or elderly family members who will require assistance, designate someone specific to do so. Involving family in the plan and practice increases their chances of safety.

No one likes to think about a fire ravaging their home. With a comprehensive fire escape plan, however, you can teach your family how to stay safe if one should occur.

Outside Resources for Recovering From Catastrophic Loss

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Trucks from a restoration company From beginning to end, SERVPRO catastrophic loss teams offer vital services for helping communities recover.

Resources For Recovering After A Catastrophic Loss From Outside Sources

Storm-damaged areas often stretch for miles and miles. This makes it difficult for the families and individuals living in the area to get the recovery help they need. When disaster recovery teams are stretched to the limit, the consequences of the storm and the resulting catastrophic loss puts everything else on hold. Fortunately, some companies, such as local La Crosse, WI, SERVPRO franchises, have adapted their plans to provide large loss services when new disasters hit.

Professionals Play a Vital Role

A quick response to storm damage and flooding isn't just for preventing further damages. Professional services are necessary for the safety of members of the community: 

  • Flooded homes may conceal risks of electrocution. Entering water-logged properties requires the right protective clothing and specialized equipment.
  • Wet fabrics and upholstery become very heavy and handling the items with adequate preparation could lead to injuries.
  • Facing a catastrophic loss can be overwhelming. Trained technicians are prepared with step-by-step plans to prevent further damage and to speed the recovery process.

Franchises Share Resources

Large-scale disasters often require more labor and equipment than local franchises have on hand. Part of the plan to deal with these situations is a cooperative network. SERVPRO professionals from other communities and specialized equipment from remote locations are available. When the need arises, these resources are mobilized into affected areas. In the past few years, these teams have responded to wildfires, hurricanes, polar vortexes, and major floods.

Bringing Resolution to Communities

After storms clear out and the water recedes, La Crosse, WI, residents may be able to return to their homes. With SERVPRO professionals on hand, communities can begin the work of cleaning up and restoring their lives. In addition to cleaning properties, the technicians work to put mold growth on hold and provide remediation to prevent further spread of mildew. From beginning to end, SERVPRO catastrophic loss teams offer vital services for helping communities recover.

How To Handle Waterlogged Items in Your Home

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Trucks from a restoration company Is water damage present in your home? Call SERVPRO for all your restoration needs. Our crew is always available to take your call.

What To Do If You Have Waterlogged Items In Your House

If you’ve experienced problems with water in Onalaska, WI from flooding or a broken pipe, you may be wondering how to handle all of your belongings that have been left soaked. By following a few guidelines, you can take the first steps to handling wet items and restoring your home to normal conditions.

Items You Can Save

When looking through possessions that have gotten wet, determine which ones are nonporous. These objects do not soak up water and can therefore be cleaned up easily. Plastic or wooden furniture that is not upholstered should be entirely salvageable. Most types of flooring that are not carpet should also be able to be restored to pre-flood conditions. While you can save these items, it is important that you clean and disinfect them thoroughly to avoid mold growth or other problems that can result from contaminated water.

Items You Should Replace

Fabrics, carpet, upholstered furniture, and other items that water can soak into may have to be more carefully evaluated. Depending on what type of water has invaded your home, you may or may not be able to save these objects. If the water was black or gray water, then it can be best to simply discard and replace porous items. Black water is highly contaminated water that comes from sewage leaks or outside floods. Gray water may be less contaminated than black water but can still contain harmful microorganisms.

If the water was from a clean source, then porous items may be saved through drying and dry-cleaning processes. You can hire a professional damage restoration company to help you sort through affected items and determine the extent of damage and contamination.

Figuring out what to do with waterlogged objects can be the first step to returning life to normal after dealing with water in your home. Sorting through items can help you determine what to keep and what to replace.

Commercial Property Fire: How Fires Can Result in Water Damage

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

A store with fire damage If you already have damage due to fire or water in your commercial property, call SERVPRO, we are ready to help you.

How Can Commercial Property Fires Cause Water Damage?

While fire damage is apparent after a blaze, many business owners are shocked when they are confronted with a surprising amount of water destruction, especially when it occurs outside of the areas affected by the disaster. However, water and fire go hand in hand, and that is somewhat obvious when you consider that moisture is needed in these three common methods to extinguish flames.

1. Fire Hose

The most significant contributors to excessive water in your facility are the hoses used by firefighters to combat and resolve the blaze. These hoses operate at nearly 400 psi, going through gallons of water per second. Additionally, rescuers may need to douse other areas of your building to prevent the flames from spreading through your property onto someone else’s.

2. Fire Suppression System

While some suppression systems are designed only to operate where fire damage is occurring, others open all sprinklers throughout the building when heat is detected. Therefore, the type of suppression system you have can contribute to water buildup after a disaster.

3. Fire Extinguisher

Beyond the main moisture contributors, there are also fire extinguishers. While these are filled with CO2 or other extinguishing agents, they all leave behind residue and water damage. Though mandatory, these tools can contribute to the overall contamination to your property.

Despite the problems that all of these tools inflict on your commercial property, each is necessary and life-saving in its own right. When a fire occurs, it is more important to resolve the issue quickly than to worry about the potential damage. Insurers know the risks, which is why many provide coverage for
a disaster restoration specialist in the La Crosse, WI, area who can help mitigate loss and restore operations.

Water and fire damage are a pair; you can’t have one without the other. However, with adequate insurance coverage, you can resolve and repair the issues sooner rather than later.

Hurricane Season: Making Sure Your Business Is Covered

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Damage to the roof and ceiling of an office following a violent storm in Vientiane, Laos. Storm insurance, specifically coverage for certain severe natural disasters, is beneficial depending on your specific circumstances.

Making Sure Your Business Is Protected During Hurricane Season

Storm insurance, in the most general sense, is likely covered under most commercial policies. However, when you start to specify natural disasters into categories like hurricanes, earthquakes and floods, your policy is not as all-inclusive as you thought. To adequately protect your business this hurricane season, you may want to invest in some insurance riders and policy upgrades.

1. Hurricane and Flood Rider

Typical commercial insurance coverage will cover things like wind storms, but these are not hurricanes. Hurricanes are a different extreme breed of a storm, and as such, they require a specific rider. This is the same for flooding. These specific natural disasters are not general enough to be all-included, meaning that these disasters are typically regional and not nationwide.

2. Business Interruption

Your storm insurance coverage under your standard policy will likely not include business interruption insurance. This means that when your business is forced to close for renovations due to storm damage, your losses will not be covered possibly placing your operation in financial trouble.

3. Business Owner’s Policy

A business owner’s policy will likely bundle property, general liability and interruption insurance under one cohesive plan, but this is dependent on your insurance provider. Many owners find the convenience of bundling beneficial while others prefer to shop around.

A flooding and storm specialist in the Onalaska, WI, area or your insurance provider can offer more insight and clarification into the specific policies and their benefits. Also, they can help you decide which options are best for you and your business. These decisions are primarily tied to location and climate zones, so it pays to get an informed decision.

Storm insurance, specifically coverage for certain severe natural disasters, is beneficial depending on your specific circumstances. Not every business owner requires hurricane coverage, but for those that do, it is helpful to know that a typical policy requires additional riders for that coverage.

4 Steps To Take To Begin a Water Damage Claim

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Blue ballpoint pen, two antique brass keys and a home insurance claim from on a plywood clipboard. When you notify your insurance agent about the pipe burst, the overflowing toilet, or dishwasher eruption, the water damage claim begins.

4 Steps To Getting A Water Damage Claim Started

Filing an insurance claim after water damage hits your home in West Salem, WI, can be daunting. Stress from the water damage can linger while you try to figure out when to move quickly and when to wait for help; however, no matter what part of your home the flood water damaged, you probably want to begin the claim process as soon as possible after discovering the water. Here are some simple steps to get you started.

1. Contact Water Professionals

No matter what caused the water damage, the first step is typically to contact a water removal professional service. The team can quickly remove the water and help you prevent additional damage to your home that standing water can cause.

2. Telephone Your Agent

When you notify your insurance agent about the pipe burst, the overflowing toilet, or dishwasher eruption, the water damage claim begins. Be prepared to answer questions and send the company any photos you may have taken of the incident.

3. Request an Inspection

During your initial conversation with your agent about the insurance claim, don’t forget to request an inspection by a licensed insurance adjuster. Not only can he or she inspect the water damage, but the inspector can also interview you and collect any additional information you have gathered since the initial interview.

4. Process Claim Forms

Upon receiving the claim form, promptly fill it out and return the pages to your insurance company. If you fear you do not have all of the necessary information, contact your agent to stipulate that the company allows addendums. Request a letter stating the length of time any additional information will be accepted.

Water damage repairs and restoration can be a long process, but if you follow these four steps, you can be well on your way to moving through the insurance claim with a minimum of trouble. During the days, weeks, and sometimes months following the water fiasco, don’t forget to ask questions, keep receipts, and remain in contact with your insurance agent.

Categories

Archived Posts