The 3 Signs of Mold

5/16/2024 (Permalink)

Mold is a type of fungus that develops from tiny spores that float around in the air, both indoors and outdoors. Mold is often found in humid or moist places, and if allowed to grow unchecked, it can present issues for a building. With that in mind, we offer this quick list to help you identify mold is growing in your building:

1) Musty Odor

Even if you cannot see mold, it can be in your home or business. A very common indicator of the fungus is its smell. When mold grows in an area of your building, you will notice a pungent and musty smell. Take action immediately when you notice the odor. Mold overgrowth can cost you a great deal of money and even your health. You may not be aware of the full extent of the problem until professionals check in between walls and under floors.

2) The Appearance of Mold

Mold may look like cotton, granules, or leather. It can appear in various colors like white, green, gray, black, brown, or yellow. Unfortunately, many people ignore small mold and mistake it for soot or ordinary dirt. Take immediate action when you see tiny discolored and fuzzy growth on furnishings or the surface of building materials.

3) Water Leaks

If you notice water leaks from ceiling pipes, water stains, or standing water, mold might become an issue. Water leaks cause moisture, and that provides an excellent growing place for mold. Check for discoloration or watermarks on carpets, walls, and other materials for hidden mold.

Any business or home can face a fungus fiasco. If you suspect that you have a mold problem, SERVPRO® can inspect the property. Mold remediation is one of our specialties and we can eliminate the issue safely. We also invest in state-of-the-art equipment and continuous training that ensures your home or business is quickly and efficiently restored.

Give us a call today!

What Cause Home Fires? Unclean Grills

5/16/2024 (Permalink)

Nothing says summer like the smell of your favorite foods on the grill. When the temperatures climb, it may feel easier to take dinner prep outdoors rather than sweat over a hot stove. However, it's important to clean your grill every time you use it. Not only does this prolong the life of the appliance, but it protects your home from fires as well.

In a survey between 2014-2018, over 10,600 home fires were linked to grills and barbecues. A buildup of oil and grease makes your grill more susceptible to putting up large flames that can catch onto porches, roofs, and dry grass. Proper grill maintenance is essential for keeping your favorite summer activity safe.

1. Clean the Grates
   Proper grill cleaning after every meal makes maintenance much easier. For either a gas or charcoal grill, scrub the grates while they're still hot and before the food particles stick too badly. 

Some people like wire brushes, though balled-up aluminum foil also works and won't leave little bristles behind.

2. Check for Grease or Ashes
   Avoiding grease fires is a top priority with gas grills. Before you turn on the grill, check the grease tray. If it gets overfilled, you'll be cleaning grease spots off your patio. 

Similarly, always dispose of all completely cooled ashes from your charcoal barbecue.

3. Deep Clean Annually
   When the grilling season ends, deep grill cleaning saves your grill and prevents problems next season. Kicking off the season the next year with a fire due to an improperly maintained grill can put a major damper on your next barbecue.
4. Know Grease Fire Safety
   Educate yourself on how to extinguish a fire in your grill. Never use water, as water can actually make a grease fire worse. Closing the lid is a good first step because it stops oxygen flow to the flames.

 If you do have a home fire, a local fire restoration company can help with repairs.
Enjoy the grilling season to the fullest by practicing good grill cleaning habits to protect your home and your dinner.

What To Do When You Have Water Damage

5/6/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can wreak havoc on your home or property. Water damage can occur from burst pipes, leaking roofs, storms, floods, and hurricanes. The consequences can be devastating, leading to structural damage, mold growth, and potential health hazards. 

When facing these situations, it is best to contact a restoration company such as SERVPRO®. However, here are some simple actions you can take while you wait on a SERVPRO team to arrive at your home. 

Turn off the Power 

Attempt to safely switch off the electricity and gas to avoid electrocution and gas leaks. If unable to do so due to an extensive amount of water in the home, wait for a SERVPRO team to arrive and cut the power off. 

Locate and Stop the Water Source

Identify where the water is coming from. If it is coming from a burst pipe or leaking appliance, turn off the water supply to prevent further flooding. 

If the source of the water is external, such as a storm or flooding, do your best to divert or contain the water from further damaging your home and furniture. 

Remove Excess Water

Use pumps, wet/dry vacuums, buckets, or towels to remove as much water as possible from the affected area. The faster you can extract the water, the better chance you have of preventing further damage and mold growth.  

Move Belongings Out of Water

To prevent further damage to your furniture, move them to another room that is dry. If you have heavy furniture that you are unable to lift and move around, wait for a SERVPRO team to arrive to assist with moving the furniture. 

SERVPRO also specializes in restoring any piece of furniture that has been damaged during the disaster. 

Call your Insurance Company

Once you have done all the above, now is the time to contact your insurance company and investigate what is covered in terms of water damage. Document the damage thoroughly and file a claim with your insurance as soon as possible in order for you to get reimbursed for the costs of mitigation. 

Dealing with water damage is a long and stressful process. Luckily, SERVPRO is available 24/7 with a team of certified professionals who are equipped with advanced equipment to resolve disasters like these. 

SERVPRO, the only restoration company that makes “Like it never even happened” happen. 

Hygrometers: The Unsung Heroes of Water Damage Restoration

5/30/2023 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO restoration technicians use hygrometers like this Protimeter Hygromaster 2 when restoring water damage here in Cherokee County, GA.

Understanding Hygrometers

Hygrometers are indispensable tools in the world of water damage restoration, yet many people are unfamiliar with how they work. A hygrometer is an instrument designed to measure the amount of moisture, or humidity, in the air. This invaluable tool can help prevent mold formation and other issues related to excess moisture, making it a key component of the water damage restoration process.

The Mechanism Behind Hygrometers

A hygrometer works by detecting changes that are dependent on the level of moisture in the atmosphere. There are different types of hygrometers - mechanical, electrical, and wet and dry bulb - and each has its own mechanism for gauging humidity.

Mechanical hygrometers, for instance, function by using organic materials such as hair or animal gut which expand and contract in response to humidity changes. These movements are then converted into humidity readings.

On the other hand, electrical hygrometers utilize humidity-sensitive capacitors. The humidity in the air changes the capacitance in these components, and these alterations are converted into humidity readings.

The wet and dry bulb hygrometers, also known as psychrometers, employ two thermometers: one dry, the other covered with a wet cloth. Evaporation from the wet cloth cools the thermometer, and the temperature difference between the two bulbs can be used to determine the humidity.

Hygrometers in Water Damage Restoration

In water damage restoration, professional technicians use hygrometers to measure humidity levels and monitor the drying process in water-damaged spaces. By accurately assessing the humidity levels, SERVPRO of Cherokee County can ensure that the area is thoroughly dried and reached what we call the “Dry Standard”. This is a target moisture level that reduces the risk of mold growth and structural damage from environmental conditions. This is a critical part of our comprehensive water damage repair and restoration services.

Hygrometers: A Tool for Prevention and Mitigation

While hygrometers are crucial in water damage restoration, they're also handy devices for homeowners. Regularly monitoring humidity levels can help maintain a healthy indoor environment and alert homeowners and property owners to potential moisture issues. By catching these issues early, property owners can call in the professionals for water damage prevention measures, potentially saving thousands of dollars in repairs.

Ensuring the Best in Water Damage Restoration

At SERVPRO of Cherokee County, we understand the significance of a thorough water damage restoration process. Armed with tools like the hygrometer, we ensure your property is properly dried and restored, mitigating any further damage or issues like mold growth.

If you're facing a water damage situation or want a consultation for prevention strategies, reach out to us today. We bring our expertise and advanced tools, including the humble yet powerful hygrometer, to every job, guaranteeing top-quality water damage restoration for all our clients. Call us at (770) 924-3848 or visit our website to get started.

The Value of Trust: Customer Reviews and Testimonials for SERVPRO of Cherokee County

5/16/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cherokee County is committed to providing a five-star quality restoration service every time. 24/7/365.

When property disaster strikes, trust is paramount. Whether you're dealing with water damage or a mold infestation, you need a reliable partner to guide you through the restoration process. This is where SERVPRO of Cherokee County steps in, serving residents and businesses in Woodstock, Canton, Holly Springs, Ball Ground and surrounding areas throughout Cherokee County.

A Reputation Built on Trust

We are immensely proud to announce that SERVPRO of Cherokee County is the top review-earning SERVPRO in the Southeast USA so far in 2023. This accomplishment is a testament to our unwavering dedication to exceptional service and customer satisfaction. We believe that our customers are not just numbers, but valued community members who deserve the best in water damage restoration and commercial restoration services.

300+ Reasons to Choose Us

With over 300 glowing Google reviews, our customers in Woodstock, Canton, Holly Springs, and Ball Ground have spoken up about their experiences with our dedicated, efficient, and high-quality service. These reviews encompass our team's hard work and professionalism in handling an array of property damage restoration projects, from water damage restoration to commercial restoration services.

Each review underscores our mission – to make the aftermath of a property disaster 'Like it never even happened.' They attest to our quick response times, thorough cleanup and restoration, and, above all, our compassionate approach during stressful situations.

Your Feedback Matters

We value the voice of our customers. Each review we receive is a testament to our commitment to delivering top-tier service. But more than that, your feedback helps us to continually refine our services and ensure we're meeting – and exceeding – your needs.

Every star, every comment drives us to better our best, to push our limits, and to find new ways to serve you. Your stories of satisfaction inspire us and help us strive to remain the premier choice for water damage restoration and commercial restoration services in Cherokee County.

Trust Us with Your Restoration Needs

At SERVPRO of Cherokee County, we understand that every property damage situation is unique, stressful, and filled with uncertainties. Our experienced team, serving Woodstock, Canton, Holly Springs, and Ball Ground, is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and empathy to handle your restoration project with the utmost professionalism.

We’re not just a company; we’re your neighbors, ready to restore your peace of mind and make the damage 'Like it never even happened.' Join the hundreds who have trusted us with their homes and businesses. Call us today at (770) 924-3848 or visit our website at https://www.SERVPROcherokeecounty.com/ to learn more about our services.

How to Detect and Fix Leaky Faucets and Toilets: SERVPRO of Cherokee County

4/24/2023 (Permalink)

Whether you live in Holly Springs, Canton, Woodstock, or anywhere in between, our local SERVPRO team is here to help 24/7/365.

Leaky faucets and toilets can cause a range of problems, from increased water bills to water damage in your home. It is essential to detect and fix these issues as soon as possible to prevent the need for costly water damage restoration, mold remediation, and structural repairs. In this guide, we will discuss how to detect leaks and provide step-by-step instructions on fixing them, ultimately saving you time, money, and stress.

Detecting Leaky Faucets and Toilets

1. Visual Inspection: The first step in detecting leaks is to conduct a visual inspection of your faucets and toilets. Look for signs of water pooling around the fixtures, dripping water, or damp areas near the pipes.
2. Water Meter Check: Turn off all water-using appliances and fixtures in your home, then check the water meter. If the meter is still running, it may indicate a leak in your plumbing system.
3. Food Coloring Test: To detect a leaky toilet, add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank and wait for about 30 minutes. If the color appears in the bowl, it's a clear indication of a leak.

Fixing Leaky Faucets

1. Turn off the Water Supply: Before attempting any repairs, always turn off the water supply to the faucet. This will prevent water damage and ensure a safe working environment.
2. Disassemble the Faucet: Remove the faucet handle and any decorative parts to access the inner components. Depending on the type of faucet, you may need to remove a cartridge, a ball, or a compression valve.
3. Replace Damaged Parts: Inspect the internal components for signs of wear or damage. Replace any damaged parts, such as O-rings, seals, or washers. In some cases, you may need to replace the entire faucet assembly.
4. Reassemble and Test: Reassemble the faucet and turn the water supply back on. Test the faucet for any leaks and ensure it is functioning correctly.

Fixing Leaky Toilets

1. Identify the Cause: Leaky toilets can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a damaged flapper, a faulty fill valve, or a cracked overflow tube. Identify the cause of the leak to determine the best course of action.
2. Replace the Flapper: If the flapper is damaged or worn, remove it from the flush valve and replace it with a new one. Make sure the new flapper creates a tight seal to prevent water from leaking into the bowl.
3. Adjust or Replace the Fill Valve: If the fill valve is the cause of the leak, try adjusting the float level to ensure the water doesn't rise above the overflow tube. If this doesn't resolve the issue, consider replacing the entire fill valve.
4. Repair or Replace the Overflow Tube: If the overflow tube is cracked or damaged, you may need to repair it using epoxy or replace it entirely.

Preventing Future Leaks

To prevent the need for water damage restoration or other costly repairs, it's essential to maintain your plumbing system regularly. Here are some tips to help you prevent future leaks:

1. Regular Inspections: Conduct regular visual inspections of your faucets and toilets to identify any potential issues early on.
2. Routine Maintenance: Replace worn or damaged parts as needed and consider upgrading older fixtures to more efficient models.
3. Water Pressure Check: Excessive water pressure can cause leaks and damage to your plumbing system. Install a pressure regulator to ensure the water pressure remains within a safe range.

Detecting and fixing leaky faucets and toilets is crucial for maintaining a healthy and safe home environment. By following these steps, you can prevent water damage, save on water bills, and avoid the need for extensive repairs in the future. However, if you are faced with water damage or need professional assistance with any aspect of water damage restoration, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Cherokee County. Our expert team is trained and equipped to handle water extraction, flood cleanup, dehumidification, mold remediation, structural drying, water damage repair, and disaster recovery. Give us a call at (770) 924-3848 to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment. Let SERVPRO of Cherokee County help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Smart Home Technology: Using Automation To Protect Your Home From Water Damage While On Vacation

4/21/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cherokee County is here to help with all of your water damage restoration needs throughout Cherokee County. Call today for rapid service!

Smart Home Technology: Using Automation To Protect Your Home From Water Damage While On Vacation

In the modern world, smart home technology is revolutionizing how people protect their homes while on vacation. Automation provides homeowners with an unprecedented level of convenience and security when it comes to safeguarding against water damage. This article will discuss some of the ways that automation can be used to effectively prevent water damage in a residence, even during extended periods away from home.

The primary benefits of smart home technology are its scalability and flexibility; it allows for both small-scale prevention measures as well as larger investments in automated systems that monitor and manage water flow within a home’s plumbing network. Furthermore, this system can be integrated into existing infrastructure, allowing users to customize their setup according to their own needs. With these elements combined, homeowners have access to reliable protection from costly water damage caused by simple oversights or unforeseen circumstances such as power outages or system malfunctions.

Finally, this article will discuss strategies for utilizing automation to protect against potential risks associated with leaving one’s property unattended over longer spans of time. By following the tips outlined herein, readers should gain a better understanding of what steps must be taken in order to ensure comprehensive coverage against any form of water damage incurred while away from home.

The Rise Of Smart Home Technology: Enhancing Home Protection And Convenience

In recent years, the development of smart home technology has unlocked a whole new world of convenience and safety for homeowners. Smart home technology is defined as technological solutions that offer users remote access to control various aspects of their homes from any location with an internet connection. From monitoring energy consumption to controlling lighting or climate settings, this technology provides homeowners with greater peace of mind knowing they can keep tabs on their house even when away.

One area in which smart home technology can be especially beneficial is water protection and mitigation. By proactively detecting leaks and responding quickly to potential problems before they become major disasters, these systems provide significant advantages over traditional methods of prevention. In addition, automated water extraction devices like sump pumps can move large amounts of standing water out of your basement if it floods, helping avoid costly disaster recovery services such as water damage repair caused by flooding or other sources.

Smart home technologies also help protect against more subtle types of water damage prevention - things like condensation buildup around windows due to poor ventilation in the winter months, or excess moisture in areas near bathrooms and kitchens where humidity levels are often higher than normal. With integrated sensors, smart alarms and automated shutoff valves activated remotely through a smartphone app, you can rest assured that your home will remain safe from preventable water-related issues while you're away on vacation.

Water Leak Sensors: Early Detection For Preventing Costly Water Damage

Water leak sensors like Flo by Moen or the Eve Water Guard are essential components of a smart home technology system. They provide early detection and alert homeowners to the presence of water, before it can cause significant damage to their property. These devices detect even small amounts of moisture in areas where pipes, fixtures or appliances might be located, such as underneath sinks, around toilets and washing machines.

The benefits that these sensors bring are numerous:

- Early warning for potential water leaks so repairs can be made quickly;

- Protection from costly water damage restoration, flood cleanup and mold remediation services;

- Prevention of structural drying costs due to prolonged exposure to high humidity levels;

- Rapid response time to mitigate sewage backups.

By providing advanced warning on any signs of approaching flooding or other types of water related issues, smart home technology systems with water leak sensors help protect both residential properties and commercial buildings alike. As part of an automated security solution, they also allow owners to stay informed while away on vacation or business trips. Homeowners who have already experienced water damage understand how important this type of protection is when trying to minimize costly repair bills.

Smart Water Shut-Off Valves: Automatically Stopping Leaks And Minimizing Damage

The next step in preventing costly water damage while away on vacation is to install smart water shut-off valves. Smart water shut-off valves are automated devices that detect leaks and automatically turn off the main water supply, stopping it from flowing into the home and minimizing potential damage. This technology can be used alongside other sensors for additional protection, such as temperature sensors or moisture detectors. The Moen Smart Water Shutoff combined with the Flo by Moen moisture detector make for a powerful water damage prevention system.

Smart water shut-off valves can greatly reduce the risk of water damage when no one is home by shutting off the flow of water within minutes of a leak being detected. This will prevent large amounts of water from entering your house, which could lead to flooding and expensive repair costs. Additionally, many types of smart water shut-off valves also come with remote monitoring capabilities so you can monitor your system’s status even when you’re away from home.

Smart water shut-off valves are becoming increasingly popular due to their effectiveness in reducing both property damage and insurance costs associated with undetected plumbing problems. Installation is relatively easy since most units require only basic plumbing knowledge and tools to install properly. Furthermore, they provide peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong while you're away, your home's safety is still taken care of. With these benefits in mind, installing a smart water shut-off valve before going on vacation may prove invaluable in protecting not just your home but also your wallet from any unexpected disasters caused by unnoticed leaks.

Smart Thermostats And Humidity Control: Maintaining Ideal Conditions To Prevent Water Damage

Smart thermostats and humidity control devices are an essential part of a smart home technology system that is intended to prevent water damage while on vacation. By automating the temperature and relative humidity in your home, these devices help maintain ideal conditions needed to reduce potential sources of water damage.

A smart thermostat such as a Google Nest Smart Thermostat can be programmed to regulate the indoor temperature at precise levels based on the season or time of day, ensuring optimal comfort when you’re away. It also helps save energy by not running the heating or cooling systems unnecessarily during times when no one is present in the home. In addition, it can alert homeowners if any problems arise with their HVAC units so they can take action before significant loss occurs.

Humidity sensors detect moisture levels in the air and transmit this data back to a central hub for evaluation against predetermined thresholds set by homeowners. If high levels of moisture are detected, automated controls within the system can respond accordingly by adjusting fans or dehumidifiers to bring the environment back into balance. This prevents mildew growth from occurring due to excess dampness, which could cause costly damage over time without early intervention. Some smart humidity sensors such as the Tuya Smart Hygrometer can connect directly to your Google Home or Amazon Alexa to help you manage the humidity in your home or commercial property effectively.

By leveraging advanced technologies such as smart thermostats and humidity sensors, homeowners can rest assured knowing their homes and commercial properties will remain safe from water-related issues even when away for extended periods of time. Such automation provides peace of mind throughout vacations, allowing users to enjoy their travels free from worry about what may be going on at home.

Remote Surveillance: Monitoring Your Home For Water Damage With Smart Security Cameras

Smart security cameras are an invaluable tool for homeowners looking to monitor their homes while away on vacation. With the help of motion detectors and facial recognition technology, smart home surveillance systems can detect potential threats before they cause significant damage. By setting up these cameras in key locations around the house, such as near windows or along paths that lead to entry points, homeowners can be alerted promptly when suspicious activity has occurred. Furthermore, many modern systems like the Google Nest Cam come with night vision capabilities so that footage can still be seen during low light conditions or after dark hours.

In addition to providing real-time monitoring of one’s home from anywhere in the world, some advanced models even offer two-way audio communication with visitors at the door. This allows homeowners to respond remotely and quickly answer questions or address concerns without having to return home early from their trip. Moreover, many homeowner insurance policies will reduce premium rates for those who invest in a professional grade video surveillance system due its ability to prevent losses associated with theft and vandalism.

By utilizing automated remote surveillance systems, homeowners can enjoy peace of mind while away on vacation knowing that their properties are being watched over by powerful technologies designed to keep them safe from water damage and other unwanted intrusions. Smart security cameras provide an easy way for people to maintain control over their homes no matter where life takes them next.

Smart Sump Pumps: Keeping Your Basement Dry And Preventing Flooding

Smart sump pumps are an important part of any home automation system, especially when it comes to preventing water damage. Sump pumps are designed to pump out excess water from basements and crawl spaces in order to keep them dry and prevent flooding. With the help of a smart sump pump like the Wayne BGSP50, homeowners can easily monitor their basement’s moisture levels remotely while away on vacation.

Sensors placed in the basement or crawl space will detect any signs of increased humidity or water buildup due to leaks or floods. When this is detected, the sensor triggers the smart sump pump which activates its motor and starts pumping out the excess water into a designated area such as a nearby storm drain or yard. The homeowner will be notified via text message or email alert that there was excessive moisture detected in their basement and that their sump pump has been activated.

Homeowners who have a traditional non-smart sump pump can add technology by attaching an additional device called a “smart switch” to the existing unit so it becomes connected with other devices within the home automation system. The LevelGuard Float Switch is a great example that uses an electric field instead of mechanical parts to detect water. These smart switches allow for remote monitoring and control through smartphone apps so they can check if the sump pump is working properly and turn it off/on whenever needed even if you aren't physically at home. Smart switches also come equipped with high-water sensors allowing them to automatically activate as soon as they detect elevated levels of moisture—great for homes located near bodies of water where flooding could occur without warning.

By investing in a smart sump pump, homeowners can ensure their basements remain safe from potential water damage while away on vacation, giving them peace of mind knowing that their most valuable possessions are protected from flooding no matter how far away they may be from home.

Integrating Smart Devices: How To Create A Comprehensive Water Damage Prevention System

Smart home technology can be used to create a comprehensive water damage prevention system that can protect your home while you are away on vacation. This requires integrating various smart devices in order to provide the best protection possible and reduce the risk of water damage.

The first step is to install a sump pump, as discussed in the previous section. The next step is to integrate this with other sensors such as temperature and humidity sensors or leak detection systems. These will detect any changes in conditions inside your home and alert you if there is an issue before it develops into something more serious. Additionally, they can shut off the main water supply if needed so that further damage does not occur.

The third step is to install an app on your smartphone which allows you to monitor all of these devices remotely from anywhere in the world. Making sure that all devices integrate with a smart home device such as Google Home or Alexa will make the third step as seamless as possible. You will receive notifications about any potential issues and be able to take action immediately if necessary. With this setup, you can rest assured that your home is being monitored 24/7 for any signs of water damage while you’re away on vacation.

Backup Power Solutions: Ensuring Your Smart Home Technology Stays Functional During Power Outages

It is important to consider backup power solutions when looking into smart home technology. This can help ensure that your automation systems remain operational during a power outage, providing peace of mind and protecting against water damage while you’re away on vacation.

The most common form of backup power for smart home technology is the use of an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). These devices like the APC Back-Ups Pro 700VA provides temporary battery-based electricity in case of an outage or surge, allowing connected devices to remain powered up until normal service resumes. UPS systems are typically used with computers, but they have become increasingly popular as a way to provide reliable backup power for automated systems around the house.

A second option for ensuring your smart home system remains functional despite a loss of electrical service is by connecting it directly to an emergency generator. Generators come in different sizes and styles depending on your needs, from affordable, small models like the Sportsman 4000 Watt Generator to larger stationary units like the Generac Guardian 26,000 Watt capable of powering your whole home while offering smart connection capabilities. They are also available in both gas-powered and electric varieties, though the latter tend to cost more initially due to their higher fuel efficiency over time. Regardless of which type you choose, having a generator ensures that even if there’s a total blackout in your area, your smart property will still be able to protect against water damage while you’re away on vacation.

Backup power solutions such as UPS’s and generators offer additional protection beyond what traditional automation systems provide alone—and can prevent costly damages caused by unexpected outages or surges while you’re away from home. By investing in one or more of these options, homeowners can rest assured knowing their smart homes will stay safe no matter what happens.

Conclusion

Smart home technology is rapidly becoming an integral part of the modern home. With the use of water leak sensors, smart shut-off valves, thermostats and humidity control, remote surveillance cameras, integrated devices, backup power solutions and real-time alerts and notifications, homeowners can be confident that their homes are protected from potential water damage while on vacation. By combining these products into a comprehensive system tailored to each individual’s needs and budget, homeowners can ensure peace of mind knowing that their property is safe even when they’re away. Investing in smart home technology can provide invaluable protection against costly water damage while allowing you to enjoy your time away with ease.

However, in case water damage does occur in your business or home, our local SERVPRO of Cherokee County team is always here to help! 24/7/365, no matter when you call, we’re committed to being faster to any size disaster.

Commercial Systems Prone to Water Damage: SERVPRO of Cherokee County

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cherokee County is ready for whatever happens! We'll restore your business after any size of property damage.

Commercial properties present unique risks when it comes to water damage in Canton, GA. Unlike residential homes, which are usually one story and have easily accessible crawl spaces and attics, commercial buildings can be many stories high with flat roofs and multiple storefront windows. They also often have expensive specialized equipment that can be very costly to repair or replace if damaged by water. In this blog post, we will discuss the different parts of a commercial building that are at risk for water damage, as well as some tips on how to prevent it.

Plumbing Systems

The first and most obvious risk for water damage in a commercial property is the plumbing system. Because commercial buildings have more bathrooms, kitchens, and other water-using fixtures, they also have larger and more complex plumbing systems. These systems are often located in hard-to-reach places, making them difficult to repair if they spring a leak.

One of the main water damage challenges according to The Hartford Insurance is an improperly maintained sprinkler system. By law, most commercial buildings must have a fire sprinkler system, but many building owners forget to regularly maintain and test these systems. While a well-maintained fire sprinkler system can help prevent extensive fire damage in the event of a fire, improper maintenance or disaster planning can cause extensive water damage that can flood multiple floors.

Another plumbing risk is burst pipes. Commercial buildings, especially high rises tend to run at a higher pressure than residential buildings. Therefore, a burst pipe has the potential to release significantly more water than a home.

One of the ways in which we help commercial property owners prevent catastrophic property damage before it happens is through our app-based Emergency Response Planning program (ERP).

Roofing Systems

In addition to the plumbing system, there are a number of exterior commercial building components that can experience water damage. One of the most common is the flat roof. Because flat roofs are not sloped like traditional pitched roofs, they tend to pool water instead of shedding it. This can lead to leaks and eventually, if left unaddressed, major water damage.

Some common commercial roofing systems include:

• Built-up Roofing (BUR): Often called tar and gravel roofs, these commercial roofing systems are built with a semi-continuous membrane installed in layers, then covered in aggregate. While they are usually simple to maintain, best practices suggest inspecting the roof for deterioration and possible leak points at least twice yearly.
• Thermoplastic Single-Ply Membrane Roofing (PVC & TPO): These roofs are installed in large rolls that are then welded together at the seams with heat. The material is very durable and oil-resistant. However, the heat-welding methods require skilled installation, which can lead to weak points and leak-prone areas if not performed correctly.
• EPDM Roofing: Some roofers call these "rubber roofs" because the material they are made of, ethylene propylene diene monomer is very rubber-like. This kind of roof is derived from oil and natural gas, and appears dark gray or black. When installed correctly and with the highest thickness available, this type of commercial roof will last a very long time with little to no issues. Unless you experience storm damage in your area, an annual check for leaks around the roof penetrations should suffice.

Window Systems

Commercial window systems are built for durability and use, however, they can often present a unique water damage challenge for commercial facilities. Most aluminum glazing systems aren't intended to be 100% waterproof. Most commercial window systems are meant to limit water penetration during extreme circumstances while also weeping water back out to the exterior.

By directing all moisture to the sill flashing, storefront systems limit water penetration. It's critical that the sill flashing be installed correctly in order to avoid water damage. Making sure that sealant is put on the top of the rear leg before installing the sill is one of the most important aspects of a good installation.

The most essential aspect of maintaining water penetration with a storefront is end dam fastening and sealing. Water will enter the building through the jamb locations if end dams are not properly fastened and sealed. Improperly (or missing) end dams can cause significant water damage to the interior drywall or flooring around commercial storefront windows.

Like anything else in a building, time and the elements can cause wear and tear and failure of these commercial window water control systems.

Commercial Water Damage Inspection Services

So if you notice moisture or water damage around your storefront windows, you should consider calling SERVPRO of Cherokee County to inspect for potential water damage issues. Our technicians are trained to identify, troubleshoot, and restore all types of commercial water issues.

Call today to schedule your commercial service!

(770) 924-3848

Tips to Stay Safe during Fire Damage: SERVPRO of Cherokee County

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

No matter how serious your property damage may be, SERVPRO of Cherokee County is your local expert for restoring your home or business.

It's that time of year again - fire season in Cherokee County, GA, and surrounding areas. Between February and May, the weather gets hotter and drier, while the risk of house fires rises. A fire may start from a variety of sources, ranging from a faulty wire to an overloaded outlet to a kitchen mishap to a bonfire left unattended. It's critical to know how to react quickly and effectively if your home catches fire.

Here's What You Need To Know If A Fire Starts: 

The first line of defense against a house fire is to know how to use the proper fire extinguisher for the situation. This simple procedure can help save lives and hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage. If the fire spreads uncontrollably, evacuate immediately and stay away, then call 9-1-1. Leave all of your belongings where they are and save yourself and your loved ones.

If your clothing ignites, remember the old adage: Stop, Drop, and Roll.

It's critical to utilize the stairs if you live in a building with elevators in case of a fire. The elevator electrical system may be damaged by a fire, causing the shaft to operate like a chimney and rapidly fill up with deadly fumes.

Doors may be used to your advantage in a fire, potentially saving your life. If the doorknob or handle is hot, don't open it. If you can't exit through the primary route, look for another option. Do not open any doors that are warm to the touch.

Close any doors that might obstruct your exits, lay a wet towel beneath the doors, and call the fire department or 9-1-1 if flames, heat, or fire block your avenues of escape. Tell them exactly where you are so they can find you.

If you're near a window that you can't use as an escape, open it and wave a brightly colored cloth or use your phone flashlight to signal for help.

What To Do After a Fire

After a fire, it is important to contact a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Cherokee County. We have the training, experience, and equipment to properly restore your home - "Like it never even happened."

If you try to clean up the fire damage yourself, you could end up making the situation worse both in your home and with your insurance company's process.

Trust the experts, and call today!

Spring Storms and Weather Events in the United States | SERVPRO® of Cherokee County

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to severe weather. SERVPRO of Cherokee County is a click away if you experience any damage.

The United States, being one of the world’s largest countries in the world, has a tremendously diverse and expansive landscape. As a result, seasonal weather here is not one-size-fits all—different sections of the nation encounter different weather patterns, which results in variable degrees of weather threats for various regions.

Let’s examine the weather patterns that may occur as spring approaches and warm and cold air masses collide throughout the country—and also what we can consider here in Georgia.

The spring months in the Pacific Northwest are prone to heavy rain, which may result in flooding and water damage. Snow will continue to accumulate at higher elevations, and the melting and runoff associated with it can bring problems of their own.

The Upper Midwest and Northeast have the longest duration of winter, and will see frigid weather throughout the season. From Maine to the Dakotas, folks can expect cold weather and the possibility of blizzards and heavy snow even until late spring or early summer.

On the other hand, the Southwest and southern West Coast will need to keep an eye out for extreme heat waves that can damage lives and property. The South Pacific region, including Hawaii, will be on high alert for the possibility of tsunamis produced by tectonic activity.

The central United States, from Iowa to Texas, will also need to be on the lookout for windstorms, derechos and the potential of wildfires, which may spread rapidly when winds are high and conditions are dry. A notable portion of this area is Tornado Alley, which is especially prone to tornadoes.

Finally, here in the Southeast, we can expect to have a wide range of severe weather events, from thunderstorms and tornadoes in landlocked areas to early-season hurricanes along the coast later in the spring. April, in particular, will see the most tornadoes in Georgia than any other month throughout the year.

Wherever you live in the United States, extreme weather is a possibility. While it may vary from state to state, it never hurts to be aware of and prepared for severe weather.

If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact your local SERVPRO of Cherokee County for fast, expert recovery.