Wildfires can happen in any area

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know, more than 72,000 U.S. communities are now at risk from wildfire? Every year, wildfires burn across the U.S., and more people are living where wildfires are a real risk. By working together, residents can make their property, and their neighborhood, much safer from wildfire. Keeping your property clear of debris and maintaining landscaping are easy and effective ways to prevent fuel for a wildfire. Keep flammable materials, like wood piles and propane tanks, at least 30 feet away from your home's foundation. Wildfire can also spread to tree tops; help prevent this by pruning trees so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet from the ground. Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained. Following these simple tips can help protect you and your property, and reduce the intensity of a potential fire. For more information of these and other wildfire safety tips, visit firewise.org. SERVPRO of Medina County is always here to help whether it be a #wildfire or a #kitchenfire.

Protect your home from secondary water damage!

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

The Difference Between DIY Water Damage Cleanup and Professional Extraction in San Antonio Properties

Limiting loss is the reason to begin water damage cleanup as soon as possible. Unfortunately, water moves quickly and runs downward. It is challenging to determine migration paths without professional equipment.

Often Medina County Homeowners Start Water Damage cleanup and soon find they need assistance. Water degrades by absorbing contacted materials as it sits within a property and, after 48-hours, receives the designation of black water, a category three biohazard, which is why cleanup should happen as quickly as possible after the initial event.

Why SERVPRO?

The technicians have extensive training for water extraction and the restoration of homes affected by water damage. For example, solid wood table legs may look like a loss with swelling from water exposure, but your SERVPRO technician has both the techniques and experience to give that piece of furniture restoration potential rather than have it counted as a loss. This action saves money on the purchase of a replacement. This is content preservation.

Locating Water Within the Home

Unless homeowners have access to different types of moisture detection equipment, there is no way to determine if water has migrated within floor joists or wall cavities without the removal of baseboards or portions of the flooring. SERVPRO technicians bring several types of moisture detection equipment that have sensitivity levels to detect moisture within walls and other hidden areas without the need for removal of the sheetrock or baseboards. Both pointed and flat moisture meters, infrared camera imaging, and thermo-hygrometers are in the SERVPRO arsenal of scoping and detection devices.

Professional Water Extraction is a Must

DIY water cleanup leaves the property at risk of both mold development and foul odors. SERVPRO has different kinds of equipment to use for various surfaces. Portable pumps with weighted extractor heads push the water out of carpet and padding, while squeegees are an efficient way to collect the water on tile or laminate floors.

Drying Equipment Makes the Difference

You can use every fan in your home and even borrow a few to dry wet floors, but generally, only the surface dries. SERVPRO uses centrifugal air movers, and it is not just a pretty name. These specialized pieces of equipment blow air at such high velocities, it causes embedded moisture to rise where industrial dehumidification equipment captures and ports it away. The result is a dry water loss area from top to bottom. The drying goals are to achieve acceptable moisture content levels (typically 12% or less) in materials and an ambient RH of about 50%.

At the first sign of water damage, contact SERVPRO of Medina County at (830) 584-1704. The certified technicians stand ready to assist local homeowners with any kind of water loss and make it "Like it never even happened."

We service Medina County Zip Codes

SERVPRO of Medina County has the experience needed to attack any job!

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

The People, Experience, Training and Equipment to make it

Like it never even happened.®

The People

With over 10,000 quality teammates nationwide, SERVPRO® Of Medina County Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help you get your life back.

The Experience

SERVPRO® is a Franchise System with over 40 years of leadership in fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and commercial property managers and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. 1970’s 1980’s 2000’s

The Training

SERVPRO of Medina County Professionals undergo extensive water restoration training and certification.

SERVPRO Industries, Inc. is an approved IICRC school to help ensure our training meets and exceeds accepted industry standards.

The Equipment

With over 5,000,000 square feet of building space, housing over 140,000 pieces of cleaning and restoration equipment, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals have the resources to help you take back control of your life.

Lower Recovery Costs –The SERVPRO® System Helps Save Money

_ Emergency Mitigation Services help minimize additional property damages.

_ SERVPRO® of Medina County Professionals use specialized test equipment to determine hidden water.

_ Restoration versus replacement of contents saves heirlooms and money too.

_ By using advanced drying techniques, SERVPRO® of Medina County Professionals monitor and ensure your property is properly dried. Mitigation requires quick action. The faster a

SERVPRO® of Medina County Professional arrives on-site to perform water cleanup, the better the results – including lower claim costs.

Are you familiar with flood terms?

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

When the flood waters rise...so do we.

Last year, many residents experienced flood damage and SERVPRO of Medina County was ready and able to help.  As the rainy season approaches we wanted to make sure that the Medina County community is prepared for any floods that may happen with some tips.

Before the Flood:

Tips from FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) for Preparing Your Home or Business for a Flood.

• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.
• Disconnect electrical appliances.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Do not walk through moving water. Even six inches of moving water can make you fall.

During the Flood:

• Listen for news reports to learn if the community’s water supply is safe to drink.
• Avoid floodwaters. Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged.
• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

 After the Flood:

Flooding is still possible. Listen to weather radio, commercial radio, or TV for information.

Know the terms:

Flood Watch:

Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to weather radio, commercial radio, or TV for information.

Flash Flood Watch:

Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.

Flood Warning:

A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.

Ask SERVPRO of Medina County about setting your business up with an Emergency Response Profile. 

Restoring your Medina County Commercial Building

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Medina County

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

Heavy Rainfall can lead to water damage

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

While water damage is typically associated with events like flooding or plumbing malfunctions, heavy rain can also cause its own set of issues regarding water damage around the house.

While any level of moisture can cause damage, heavy rain is considered rainfall at rates over 0.3 inches per hour and can work its way into much smaller vulnerabilities in your home. To help you better prepare and avoid water damage, we have put together a list of how these rapid rainfall rates can cause issues.

How Heavy Rains Cause Household Water Damage

Backup of clogged gutters. Clogged gutters can cause significant damage to your home after heavy rains. If there is debris in the gutters, it will be difficult for water to drain away, which can then result in leaks from puddles as the water is left standing against the roofline.

Leaks around windows and doors. Windows and doors are supposed to be sealed against the elements, but as their weatherproofing ages, it can deteriorate as well. When heavy rains roll through, water can find its way into minuscule cracks and cause damages.

Poor drainage around the foundation. If your home is at the bottom of a hill or does not have adequate drainage around the foundation, heavy rains can build up against the base of your home and lead to leaks in your basement or crawl spaces.

Leaks in and around the roof. Roof leaks are one of the leading consequences of heavy rains, and they can sneak up suddenly. All it takes is for a shingle to be scraped away or a weak spot to form and rainwater can begin seeping in as it falls.

Malfunctioning of a sump pump system. For homes with sump pumps, doing regular maintenance and checking for issues is key—otherwise, the pump system can get overwhelmed and will not be able to effectively move water away from the home.

Leaks around chimneys and skylights. Houses with chimneys and skylights tend to be more vulnerable to heavy rains than homes without them. While they are nice features to have, the seals where they meet with the roof can grow vulnerable over time and become overwhelmed when rainfall is heavy.

The Dangers of Flash Flood

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

Flash flooding is not always on people’s radar as a dangerous weather event, as things like lightning strikes and high winds appear to be far more common. However, many people are surprised to learn that flooding is the second leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States.

Part of what makes flash floods in particular so dangerous is because of how quickly they can come about and how they can impact even small bodies of water. An overflowing storm drain or neighborhood creek can quickly cause a significant impact if it rains heavily enough, which is why it is important to be vigilant if they are a possibility.

What Is a Flash Flood?

A flash flood is defined as flooding that begins within six hours of heavy rainfall, which is why they are so common after storms and other severe weather. They can be highly unpredictable, but are especially common in urban areas due to overflowing storm drains and other drainage issues that might arise during a storm.

How Will I Know if I Am at Risk for Flash Flooding?

One of the most important things to remember in regards to flash floods is to carefully heed all warnings put out by your local weather officials. A flash flood watch means that flooding is possible, so it is wise to think of your action plan. If a warning is issued, that means flash flooding is likely to begin soon and you should execute your safety plan. If there is a flash flood emergency, that means there are life-threatening levels of water in the area and you should immediately take action.

What Are the Rules of Flash Flood Safety?

Knowing the rules in regards to flash flood safety is so important for ensuring you and your family can be protected from these traumatic events. Here are the important things to remember:

• Stay away from low-lying areas during periods of heavy rainfall.
• Have a safety and evacuation plan in place in case flooding becomes imminent.
• Never attempt to walk or drive your car through floodwater.
• Do not let children play near floodwater, as it can contain harmful substances.
• If floodwaters block your route, find a different way to go.

Mold Removal Versus Mold Remediation

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

Mold removal seems to be what you hear most often in the media, etc.  However, it is truly not the correct term.  If you are in Medina County and have signs of mold you want a professional that can perform mold remediation.

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy.

A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth. SERVPRO of Medina County Franchise Professionals have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. 

• Step 1: Emergency Contact 830-584-1704
• Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
• Step 3: Mold Containment
• Step 4: Air Filtration
• Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
• Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings
• Step 7: Restoration

Signs of Mold in Medina County? Call Today 830-584-1704

Call SERVPRO of Medina County to Avoid Secondary Damage

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

You have heard it said again and again: Time is money.

The old adage is never more true than when dealing with a water-damaged home or business. Every minute matters, because every minute the property remains wet could turn primary damage into secondary- or even permanent damage.  That's why emergency response matters. 

Secondary water damage occurs when the moisture from the primary event (flood, leak, etc.) begins to evaporate on its own into the air.  Over time the air will no longer be able to hold the moisture from the evaporation.  The moisture will have to go somewhere and a very basic principle behind psychometrics is that wet goes to dry.  The moisture may go into your drywall, cabinetry, sheetrock, hardwood floors, vinyl floors, etc.  Once the moisture is allowed to sit, mold can then begin to grow.  This is why emergency action is so incredibly important.

Let's face it: Floods, burst pipes, and leaks simply don't abide by the 9-to-5 workday.  So why should your restoration provider?  SERVPRO of Medina County Professionals are on-call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with the state-of-the-art equipment and proven methods to get the job done right as quickly as possible. 

If the unthinkable happens, call your local SERVPRO of Medina County Professionals at (830) 584-1704 to help you avoid the cost and hassle of secondary damages.  We pledge to help make it "Like it never even happened."

There are many ways that a fire can start, it's always important to be aware!

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

No one likes thinking about the possibility of seeing their home damaged by fire, but unfortunately, it’s a harsh reality for a multitude of Americans.

One way you can help protect your home is by understanding fire hazards and knowing how to identify them. In this blog, we’ll be diving into two of the most common household fire hazards.

Candles can be problematic.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, during a five-year period from 2011 to 2015, fire departments in the United States responded to an estimated 8,700 home structure fires a year that were started by candles. In total, there were 82 deaths, 800 injuries and $295 million in direct property damage.

Candles caused 2 percent of reported home fires, with 3 percent of those fires resulting in death and 7 percent with injuries. There were an average of 24 home candle fires reported per day during those five years, with December being the prime time of the year for home candle fires.

Of all the candle fires during this time span, 37 percent started in bedrooms and were responsible for 36 percent of the associated deaths and 51 percent of the associated injuries.

When burning a candle, be sure it’s kept at least one foot away from anything that could burn and is in a sturdy holder that won’t easily tip over. Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home and always blow out all candles before leaving a room or going to sleep.

Smoking can result in home disaster.

While cooking is the leading cause of home fires, smoking is the leading cause of home fires.

An estimated 17,200 home structure fires were reported in 2014 due to smoking materials, which includes cigarettes, pipes and cigars. Those fires resulted in 570 deaths, 1,140 injuries and $426 million in property damage per the Coalition for Fire-Safe Cigarettes.

If you’re a smoker, it is safest to smoke outside, as most deaths result from fires that have started in living rooms, family rooms or bedrooms. Fire-safe cigarettes are the best option, and a deep, sturdy ashtray should be used.

Douse all cigarette butts and ashes in water or sand prior to throwing them out and keep in mind that one out of four fatal victims of smoking-material fires is not the smoker whose cigarette started the fire.

Fire hazards could be hiding in plain sight.

While candles and smoking are two of the most common causes of home structure fires, there are also other lesser-known hazards that could be present in your home.

Did you know that some kinds of glassware in your home could be a fire risk? When sunlight passes through them, the concentrated ray could ignite flammable materials, which is why it’s best to move glass accessories away from windows.

Dust bunnies can also pose a fire risk when collecting near electrical sockets and floor heaters. Sweeping or vacuuming your floors regularly and cleaning hard-to-reach areas like behind the entertainment system can help prevent buildup.

Also, look out for loose outlets in your home. The movement of these electrical outlets could loosen the wires connected to the outlet and create dangerous arcing.

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to homes, and in many circumstances, can be accompanied by water damage from firefighting efforts. If your home is damaged, know that SERVPRO of Medina County is here to help restore your home to pre-fire condition.