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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts

Safe, Effective Mold Removal for Raleigh Property Owners

8/3/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides controlled mold demolition and remediation in Raleigh. If you have mold, contact us!

Call SERVPRO® for Mold Cleanup and Remediation

Whether you live or work in Raleigh, you never want to have mold hindering your interior. Failing to address and safely clean areas with suspected microbial growth can create costly damage and possible hazards. Hiring SERVPRO ensures you get the prompt, reliable cleanup and remediation you need to bring your home or business back to pre-damage condition. Once finished with your project, your interior will get the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned seal of approval. 

From sightseeing and dining to family activities, there is plenty in the area to enjoy. If you are experiencing musty odors or mold Damage in Raleigh, SERVPRO is available 24/7 with proven methods and training to get the job done right the first time. As we are working on your remediation, you can check out some of the local hotspots, such as:

  • North Carolina Museum of Natural Science: As the largest natural history museum
  • Located in the Southeast, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Science features unprecedented special exhibits and hands-on educational opportunities. See live animals, take in the wonder of whale skeletons, and learn all about dinosaurs, all while spending time with the family.
  • Pullen Park: This is the perfect area to enjoy nature and the serene sounds of water while getting lost in a book or having a picnic with friends. There is a park café on the grounds where you can grab concessions like pizza, snacks, and beverages. Many people come here during their lunch break on a nice day, or couples take a walk while waiting for nearby dinner reservations or entertainment. 
  • Clouds Brewing: Located in the Glenwood South neighborhood, this restaurant/bar features a fun atmosphere and excellent service. There is also outdoor seating if you want to people-watch over some of the top brews and appetizers on the menu. 

Contact SERVPRO of Cary/Morrisville/Apex if you suspect issues with mold development in your home or business. We are available 24/7 for Raleigh area customers – so call us at (919) 615-1160 or request help online at your earliest convenience.

What Makes Mold Damage Threatening for Raleigh Homes?

3/27/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for mold remediation in Raleigh to make it "Like it never even happened."

Understanding the Impact of Mold Damage Shows How SERVPRO Helps Raleigh Properties.

Mold is a common threat to homes around the Triangle, especially during the warmer months, where rainfall and severe weather become a concern for the area. Under the appropriate conditions, microbial colonies can develop in as little as 48 to 72 hours, using organic matter and building materials as hosting materials and food sources for the growing organism. There are many catalysts responsible for moist environments in the house that lead to mold remediation needs, including:

  • Flooding
  • Water damage
  • Elevated humidity
  • Damp confined spaces

Types of Residential Mold

Homeowners may have an easier time choosing professional mold remediation and effective cleanup when they understand what they are dealing with on their property. There are hundreds or more types of internal mold threats a home might experience. Aspergillus, for example, is a type of mold often found in an air conditioning system. Cladosporium is the mold typically found in moist, dark spaces or on drywall behind toilets. Black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, is another possible development for Raleigh residences that requires swift mold removal.

Is Mold Dangerous? 

Certain molds can produce byproducts that infiltrate the environment, but not all of them. A driving force for professional mold remediation should be the impact of these active organisms on installed building materials, contents, and other surfaces.  

How Can SERVPRO Remediate Active Colonies? 

Choosing the appropriate mold remediation strategy is contingent on the type of organism in the house, the affected areas, and the severity of the infestation. A thorough mold inspection allows our mold remediation team to create a custom recovery plan for the property. We begin with efforts like surface cleaning, but often more aggressive and abrasive cleaning tactics will be needed.

Are There Lingering Concerns After Mold Removal? 

Often there are some lingering effects and concerns with treatment. While much of the mold remediation process can be handled rapidly through direct action by our SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians, there are other needs your home might have that can draw out the recovery process until they are resolved. Some include:

  • Mold Malodors – Volatile organic compounds generate harsh malodors throughout the property, where mold becomes a concern. We have effective deodorization equipment available to neutralize these smells and promote a comfortable living condition for the residents.
  • Mold Damage Repairs – There are times when your home may require some degree of damage repair after the treatment and removal of active colonies. Our team can help you quickly identify these areas to overcome this final step.
  • Post-Damage Surface Treatment – We can treat nearby surfaces otherwise unaffected by spreading mold using mold inhibitors and antimicrobial products. The objective is to make these surfaces uninhabitable if moisture becomes a concern again in the immediate future.

Understanding how microbes impact a home or business can help property management seek out experienced mold remediation help when these problems arise. Allowing mold to go unchallenged lets the colonies spread, worsening the situation. Our SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest team can help 24/7 when you call (919) 790-1222.

Mold Damage Cleanup After a Water Leak in a Raleigh Home

2/13/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO arrives with certified IICRC technicians to remediate the mold damage to your Raleigh property.

SERVPRO Can Help with Mold Damage Restoration in Raleigh Homes

Mold requires three fundamental conditions in our Raleigh homes to begin growing and damage contents and structure. These conditions are:

  • Food Source – mold needs an organic food source that is plentiful in our homes: E.g., wood, paper, drywall, and indoor dirt, including food particles.
  • Temperature – mold typically grows in temperatures from 68 to 86 degrees F, also typical of homes.
  • Moisture – high humidity above 65%, water leaks, AC condensation, bathrooms showers

SERVPRO helps homeowners with mold damage restoration in their Raleigh homes, cleanup and removal, and help with managing the source of the moisture in the home. Our technicians identify the source of moisture and encourage the homeowner to make repairs and control the water/moisture source to avoid future mold infestations.

Mold damage restoration depends on the size, location, and time elapsed since the infestation began. SERVPRO has encountered many mold infestations, and the combination of training (IICRC)  and experience ensures that our technicians provide the best service in the industry. The steps followed in dealing with mold damage restoration include:

  • Fast response to your call, immediate assessment of the cause, the location, and the required removal plan
  • The size of the mold infestation may require notification to local and state governments.
  • Isolation of the infested area, negative pressure rooms, HVAC systems blocked off to prevent mold spores from traveling to other portions of the home, etc.
  • Bag in place for all contents and structures that must be removed
  • Provide cleaning, disinfection, and controlled demolition as needed.
  • Restoration of your home “Like it Never Even Happened.”

SERVPRO works closely with the homeowner and their insurance adjuster to explain and inform them about all activities involved in removing mold from your home.

Call SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest for mold damage repair services. We provide service to Raleigh and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (919) 790-1222.

Are Chemical Agents Effective Against Mold?

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless whether there is a lot of mold or just traces, team SERVPRO is ready to investigate the extent and remediate. Call us right away.

SERVPRO Technicians Use Specific Chemical Agents During Mold Remediation in Your Raleigh Home

Molds are living organisms that can grow and become out of control in a home environment. While the guiding principle of mold remediation is to correct a moisture problem, chemical action may also be necessary to reduce mold growth or eliminate it.

Some chemical products can damage materials, so they should be pre-tested before used in mold remediation for Raleigh properties. Some common chemical agents for use against molds are Chlorines such as bleach are not effective, but Phenolics are adequate sporicides. However, specific steps and understanding of how these chemicals are used are essential before applying since some chemical agents may give off toxic fumes.

  • Sterilizers destroy all living organisms on a surface, making them effective at cleaning resilient non-porous items like ceramics.
  • Bio-Stats are products that slow microbial growth and are especially useful for surfaces left overnight during remediation.
  • Biocides are similar to Stats. However, these agents are targeted to affect specific microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

Chemical action can help reduce or remove mold colonies. Contact SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest for mold remediation at (919) 790-1222.

We Are The Right Choice For Fire Damage Restoration In Raleigh

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage including soot and charring can certainly surprise you. Call SERVPRO to assess and remediate the situation even any lingering odors.

Attention to Detail Is Why SERVPRO Effectively Cleans Raleigh Fire-Damaged Hardwood

When a fire moves through your Raleigh home, the harm done to walls and ceiling feels overwhelming, but drywall and ceiling tile replacement is relatively straightforward if restoration is impractical. The heartbreaking sight of sooty hardwood floors, cabinetry, and furnishings is another matter. Our technicians learn a broad range of strategies to clean hardwood during restoration-focused training courses, why we can bring most furniture, floors, and built-ins back to preloss condition.

Finish Matters

The first question we pursue when hardwood sustains fire damage in Raleigh is what type of finishes are involved. Depending on the age and construction of the furnishings, different finishes are present. Cleaning methods vary based on the finish. Our training and experience prepare our crews for likely restoration outcomes, why we start by determining whether the finish is:

  • Varnish
  • Shellac
  • Lacquer
  • Paint
  • Waxes 
  • Oils
  • Unfinished

Level of Damage Matters

We strive to be transparent in communications with you and your insurer, why SERVPRO is candid about the impact of significant fire damage on restoration potential. Cleaning works best if the integrity of the finish and wood's surface shows a limited extent of harm. Refinishing, repair, and replacement might enter the picture if we note the following damage:

Blistering -- this effect occurs when the surfaces affected were close to the heat, warping and cracking the finish and allowing soot to penetrate under the finish.

Staining -- this effect occurs if after blistering or other fire-related harm wet or protein-based soot infiltrates the wood.

Preferred Hardwood Cleaning Methods

Dry Cleaning -- used for unsealed or unfinished wood or where the residues are dry and ashy.

Details: Examples include feather or cloth dusting, dry sponges, and vacuuming.

Wet Cleaning -- Appropriate for moderate levels of wet or sticky soot using low alkali cleaners or mild detergents. 

Details: We move cloth or sponge in the direction of the wood grain, and apply oil-based furniture polish to replenish the wood's natural oils.

Semi-Refinishing -- Thick or adhesive residues might need a solvent-based cleaner that lifts off the uppermost layer of finish.

Details: We apply proprietary paste cleaners for a short dwell time (fewer than five minutes), and then remove with a soft, dry cloth, always wiping in the direction of the grain.  

Commitment to best restoration practices and the most effective products are why SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest can return the beauty of your hardwood furnishings. Call (919) 790-1222 day or night for our professional assessment.

Need Fast Turnaround from Mold Removal Companies?

6/26/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians know how to help with mold damage in your home. Contact us 24/7 to begin the remediation and mitigation process.

Restoration Technicians Remove Mold from Wake Forest Homes

Wake Forest, North Carolina, is home to one of the fastest-growing communities in the United States, with the population increasing from 30,000 in 2010 to over 45,000 as of 2019. This locale is considered part of the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill statistical area, which houses almost 2 million residents.

This bustling town, incorporated in 1880, is also home to several places listed on the National Register for Historic Places, including:

  • The DuBois Center, formerly the W.E.B DuBois School
  • Lea Laboratory
  • Wakefield Dairy Complex
  • Glen Royall Mill Village Historic District
  • The Calvin Jones Historical House, also known as the Wake Forest Historical Museum

Education in Wake Forest: 1834-Present

Wake Forest’s early years as a community are filled with the establishment of schools, colleges, and universities, including the Wake Forest University located at the Reynolda Campus in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Here is a brief look at Wake Forest’s earliest educational accolades:

  • In 1832, the North Carolina Committee on Education procured Dr. Calvin Jones’ 600-acre plantation with the intent to build the Wake Forest Institute, a Baptist college focused on providing affordable education and expanding youth access to knowledge about agriculture and science
  • Wake Forest was home to two primary literary societies in the mid-1830s: the Euzelians and the Philomathesians. These two groups trained members in forensics, diplomacy, and literacy
  • The Wake Forest Manual Labor Institute initially focused on teaching agricultural science to students. Attendees were required to perform three hours of manual labor per day in exchange for an education. This arrangement proved beneficial for both the school and the students in that tuition costs remained low while the university could expand. This institute was rechartered as the Wake Forest College in 1838

Wake Forest College’s first graduating class received their diplomas in 1839, with William Tell Brooks being among the first to receive his degree. More infrastructure was built around the college, including the College Hotel in 1850. During the Civil War, the college was closed.

How Does SERVPRO Availability Preserve Wake Forest Homes?

SERVPRO teams offer round-the-clock availability, which includes late nights, weekends, and holidays. As a result, when Wake Forest homeowners need mold removal companies, they can get necessary services more quickly. This commitment to continuous service can minimize damage to residents’ property, which can lower repair and replacement costs.

Why does mold damage require a fast response?

  • Mold means moisture is present. Mold proliferation indicates the presence of water damage or some other moisture source on your property
  • Mold damages possessions over time. Mold requires moisture, adequate temperatures, and organic material to sustain itself, and SERVPRO techs can eliminate this with EPA-registered biocides
  • Mold affects indoor air quality. Not only is mold unpleasant to smell, but it can spread through your home’s HVAC system. SERVPRO teams are trained to clean and service home ventilation to remediate microbial growth

SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest offers a fast-responding service among mold removal companies for homeowners who call (919) 790-1222.

What Does Surface Mold Removal Mean for Raleigh Homes?

4/24/2022 (Permalink)

Finding mold in a corner of your home can signal a more widespread infestation. Call SERVPRO to assess the extent and offer solutions to remediate.

Surface Treatment Is a Popular Mold Remediation Method in Raleigh Properties

One of the reasons that mold is so widespread and destructive to many properties is that homeowners do not approach it with the same urgency as other disasters. Without prompt addressing of the problem, organisms spread more completely into hosting materials and cause a greater need for aggressive remediation methods. Early approaches allow options like surface cleaning to be productive in remediating active mold damage.

How Deep Is the Mold Damage?

The first question in resolving mold damage for Raleigh homes and businesses is how widespread and penetrative the mold infestation has become. Hosting materials can be overwhelmed to require replacement after several days or weeks of exposure. A thorough inspection of the impacted surfaces shows where superficial cleaning and sporicidal products can still be effective.

Antimicrobial Products

Surface treatment solutions rely on sporicidal and biocide products in our inventory to destroy mold spores on contact. Infestations are eliminated with antimicrobial solutions, and these same chemicals work as mold inhibitors for nearby services that have yet to show signs of active mold colonization.

Are More Aggressive Remediation Measures Needed?

Surface treatment solutions are not the only option available to our remediation technicians working on the property. There are multiple instances where more aggressive and abrasive cleaning measures are necessary to overcome the full spread and severity of the organism and the hosting material. Some of these tactics include:

  • Sanding
  • Sponge Pressure Cleaning
  • Soda Blasting
  • Controlled Demolition

Our professionals work to introduce the least invasive mold removal tactics when cleaning up mold damage in your home. Surface treatment solutions offer the most direct path to addressing the earliest onset of microbial development, and we have multiple products that can provide this type of remediation. Give our SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest team a call when you suspect mold growth at (919) 790-1222.

Can You Trust SERVPRO for Flood Cleanup in Raleigh?

1/28/2022 (Permalink)

When flooding damages your home, SERVPRO will be there. We will restore your home to its previous condition.

It Pays to Hire SERVPRO for Flood Cleanup of Your Raleigh Home

Flood cleanup of your Raleigh home is much more than merely removing the standing water from the property. SERVPRO techs understand that the best way to minimize the damage after a flood incident is by removing the residual moisture as quickly as possible. 

SERVPRO techs speed up the drying process during flood cleanup from your Raleigh home by reducing the humidity ratio of the air. A lower humidity ratio increases the evaporation rate of the moisture in the building and its contents. SERVPRO techs accomplish this by establishing a ‘closed drying system’ in which air movement is restricted. The techs develop a controlled environment in the water-damaged area conducive to drying, thus speeding up the process. 

How do SERVPRO Techs Control the Humidity Ratio of the Air During the Water Cleanup of Raleigh Homes?   

SERVPRO techs control the humidity ratio of indoor air by employing the following scientific principles-

  • Removing the free moisture from the air by either condensing it or trapping it 
  • Increasing the airflow across the drying surface
  • Increase the temperature of the air

For removing the moisture from the air, the techs rely on dehumidifiers, which either condense the air (refrigerant dehumidifiers) or absorb it (desiccant dehumidifiers).  

Utility of Dehumidifiers in Water Damage Repairs

Although dehumidifiers are very useful, SERVPRO techs know their limitations. Our techs understand that these can only be used in a 'closed drying system .' Techs use them combined with air movers to get the most out of dehumidifiers. SERVPRO techs also use their frying science and psychrometry knowledge to place dehumidifiers for the best results strategically. 

Call SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest at (919) 790-1222 to know how our techs can help. 

Are There Telling Signs You Need Mold Remediation in Your Raleigh Home?

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

Mold remediation for your property is no DIY project. SERVPRO has the knowledge and understanding for all phases of mold restoration.

Knowing what signals indicate possible mold growth can help protect your Raleigh property.

As destructive as mold damage can be for area homes and businesses, it might not always be completely clear that these threats exist. Some of the telling signs of this need for remediation include:

  • Water damage
  • Foul odors
  • Visible growth
  • Ruined materials

Moist and Damp Areas of the House

To discover your need for mold remediation in Raleigh homes, signals like moisture damage that could facilitate growth should be addressed as fast as possible. Damp pockets could hide developing mold in structural cavities, so any wet surfaces should be checked for additional damage during drying.

Musty Malodors

Mold is not always visible and easily identified, making effects like malodors a trusted source of information that might indicate possible problems. Musty odors can be a formidable presence during remediation, requiring various deodorization practices to resolve.

Physical Spotting on Surfaces

The presence of active colonization leaves little to the imagination about mold damage in the house. In the earliest stages, black mold and other residential types appear as spots on surfaces of impacted materials. This spotting can often be resolved with surface cleaning strategies.

Deteriorating Materials

Another telling sign that damage is actively occurring to hosting materials sensitive to mold colonies is a deterioration of structural elements like drywall. Ceiling and wall system sheetrock can begin to crumble and degrade after a short period of being a food source for active colonization. These conditions almost always require demolition and reconstruction to resolve.

Understanding the telling signs of mold production can ensure that appropriate work begins as soon as possible to remediate colonies and restore the damage these organisms can cause. Our AMRT-Certified technicians of our SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest team are ready to help 24/7 when you call (919) 790-1222.

Why Professional Fire Damage Cleanup Is the Best Route to Take in Raleigh

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Even a small fire can produce smoke and soot throughout your home. Call SERVPRO for your water damage restoration needs.

Fire Damage Cleanup Is Faster and More Efficient When Calling SERVPRO to Your Raleigh Property

It all starts with restoration efforts when you need to put your life back together after a fire emergency. Many people with fire damaged homes may be eager to start, but it is best to wait for professional assessment and mitigation services. Jumping into such a project too quickly puts your Raleigh home at risk, and failing to use the proper methods will worsen the situation. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster at SERVPRO, so calling us will get you on the path to fire recovery.

Smoke and soot play a significant role in the need for professional fire damage cleanup in Raleigh. Quickly Moving around can kick up toxic dust and soot, making it potentially dangerous to breathe it in. Anyone inhaling lingering chemicals, smoke, and soot could end up with health effects. Safety is paramount, and our SERVPRO crew arrives using the right personal protective equipment (PPE).

What About Structural Damage?

There are risks involved with DIY fire restoration, mainly because structural aspects impacted by fire could be unsafe. SERVPRO assesses all building materials, fixtures, and structural elements so that we can proceed in the safest manner possible.

There are several proactive procedures that you can implement as a homeowner that will help keep you and your family secure in the event of a fire:

  • Ensure everyone in the home knows the fire alarm sounds and how to react when hearing them.
  • Always practice safe cooking so that you can eliminate the chance of kitchen fires.
  • Hide lighters and matches from children within the home.
  • Respect various heat sources, especially taking time to remove dangers of open flames around kids and pets – including candles, etc.

With one call to (919) 790-1222, you can have a crew from SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest at your door and ready to help with fire damage cleanup!

Why Is Professional Mold Remediation So Important for Raleigh Residents?

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

Don’t let mold take over your home. Our SERVPRO team is always ready to remediate the issue.

Proper Mold Remediation with SERVPRO Ensures Your Raleigh Interior Gets the Attention It Deserves

Many people fail to realize that mold can grow in many common areas within your home. You could find it on your drywall, carpeting, and hidden in other spots anywhere in your Raleigh property. Rather than thinking mold cleanup is something you can do on your own, it is always better to seek the help of trained technicians to safely and effectively handle black mold damage repair and more. SERVPRO shines with our IICRC-certified team in the restoration arena, making properties in the area Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned!

Why does mold call for professional remediation in Raleigh, and what can SERVPRO do to help? Whether you need help with attic mold or basement mold remediation, you need to remember the following:

  • Avoid Health Effects –Mold can cause health effects.
  • Proper Gear –Hiring SERVPRO as your local mold specialist means a team onsite using all the right gear for the job. 
  • Keep Mold from Returning –If you cannot treat the cause of the mold issue, you will run the risk of it coming back. We will determine the root cause, formulate a plan for repair and remediation so that your home gets back to normal fast. 
  • Save Money and Time –Your time is money, but you also want to save on your overall mold remediation project. We perform a professional assessment and work most efficiently to provide cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest is available to address all of your questions and concerns regarding mold remediation. Call us when you need us at (919) 790-1222.

Raleigh Property Owners Benefit from SERVPRO's Advanced Techniques for Water Mitigation

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

Unchecked water damage on hardwood floors can lead to warping and cupping. SERVPRO knows how to restore your flooring.

Why SERVPRO Combines Advanced Skills and Equipment during Water Cleanup in Raleigh

Water loss can happen at any time since water plays a significant role in day-to-day life. The steps you take after noticing the loss play a significant role in determining the outcome of the incident. Among the steps that should be prioritized is cleanup. Cleaning up the affected area helps remove standing water and any soiling or debris from the incident. We are IICRC certified, so we offer highly skilled teams and use state-of-the-art equipment to restore your Raleigh home.

Water Cleanup and Restoration

An exercise of water cleanup in Raleigh should address both current and future problems. In most cases, the current problem is making the affected areas habitable again. Extracting any standing water and drying contents should help make the area habitable. Our SERVPRO technicians use advanced equipment such as dry-wet vacs and truck-mounted water extractors to remove water fast from all affected areas. The water extractors have pumping and vacuum capabilities, which allow the collection of standing water and extraction from soggy materials such as carpets.

Extraction removes most of the water. However, a significant percentage remains as moisture, which is more stubborn to deal with, especially when involving materials like wood. This moisture is also likely to cause long-term problems if not adequately addressed. Our SERVPRO technicians tap into their Applied Structural Drying skills to overcome challenges in the drying phase. In addition to using advanced drying equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers, we also use unique approaches. For example, when drying hardwood floors, we can seal the damp area with a plastic sheet to control the drying process, further preventing issues like the splitting of floorboards.

Water loss incidents can also cause foul odors because of microbial growth or from wastes pushed into concealed spaces. Our SERVPRO technicians rely on their training to identify problem areas where mold can grow, or wastes pushed and remain hidden for long. We clean and deodorize such areas eliminating any odors.

In case of a water loss incident, call SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest at (919) 790-1222. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Does SERVPRO Offer Mold Damage Remediation in Raleigh?

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage can be frustrating on all accounts for your Raleigh properties. Call SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest for assistance today.

Can Mold Be Removed from Porous and Non-Porous Materials in Raleigh?

Mold spores are everywhere, and a mold infestation can do a lot of damage to your Raleigh home or business if not addressed immediately. Mold spores love dark, warm moist areas. Anywhere there is a leak, moisture from an air conditioner, or water seeping in through walls and windows, there is a good chance that mold colonies will form and cause damage.

SERVPRO provides mold damage remediation to Raleigh homeowners and businesses. Mold infestations can do a great deal of damage, especially to porous materials. In most cases, these materials must be carefully removed and properly disposed of. Non-porous materials can be cleaned and moved to a staging area for later return to their original locations.

SERVPRO examines the semi-porous materials and, if possible, will clean and disinfect these materials as well.

Our SERVPRO team sets up a containment area to prevent exposing other areas of the home or building to mold spores as mold removal, and cleaning takes place. Once the moisture source has been removed or repaired, we remove all damaged materials, clean up the area, and begin drying the structure to prevent further contamination.

SERVPRO provides complete service – inspection, containment, removal, cleaning, disinfection, and drying. Our services include:

  • Black mold removal
  • Removal of attic mold
  • Basement mold removal

Call SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest for mold damage remediation in Raleigh and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (919) 790-1222.

Historic Raleigh Bus Tour

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Fire and soot cleanup services are not a DIY job. Call the professionals of SERVPRO for the restoration services needed.

A Recurring Bus Tour for People to Enjoy Sights and Learn the History of Raleigh

The City of Raleigh has overcome many challenges since its establishment, including lack of economic enterprise, underdeveloped transportation, and a fire incident that damaged the first statehouse. Significant developments have also happened in the city, including the development of streetcar systems and various higher learning institutions. One great way to learn the city's history is by taking the Raleigh Historic Bus Tour since it combines the narrative with an enjoyable sightseeing experience. The Tobacco Road Tours organizes the tour.

Some of the things you can await during the trip include:

  • A two and a half-hour sightseeing session that traces the origins of the city
  • An itinerary divided into four sections: the Historic Mordecai Park, the State Capitol, a former 5,000-acre plantation, and a visit to the Raleigh City Market.
  • The event is organized weekly, except Sundays.

SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest helps homeowners in Raleigh manage fire and soot cleanup processes conveniently. Call us at (919) 790-1222 if there is an incident at your property.

Local Restoration Service helps Expedite Storm Water Extraction from Raleigh Homes.

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Does your property have flood damage from a storm? Call the professionals at SERVPRO for their expertise.

SERVPRO Uses Sophisticated Equipment to Help Raleigh Homeowners Remove Floodwater 

Raleigh was set up in 1792 to serve as the permanent seat of the North Carolina state government. Unlike other towns established during the same era, which fulfilled specific economic needs, Raleigh was set up for administrative purposes. While this aspect may seem like a minor difference, it had an impact on the development of the city since there was no dominant force driving the economy, apart from the administrative functions of the government. However, various changes over the years helped turn around the city's fortunes. One of those was the growth of its main retail venue, Fayetteville Street, which became the top commercial center in the eastern part of North Carolina. Several higher learning institutions were also established by 1899, thus supporting the mostly middle-class population even in the absence of manufacturing or other heavy industry, unlike in other cities. 

The value of education institutions to the local economy is still high even in the 21st century. When the Research Triangle Park was established in 1959, it created tens of thousands of jobs in technology and science fields, propelling Raleigh to become one of the fastest-growing US communities. According to the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the top five employers in 2017 -2018 in the city were:

  • State of North Carolina
  • WakeMed
  • North Carolina State University
  • Wake County Public School System
  • UNC Rex Healthcare

The Origins of the Term City of Oaks

You have probably use the term "city of oaks" when referring to Raleigh city without realizing its origins. Although many oak trees line up the streets in the heart of the city, the expression has more to do with the city's establishment than the current flora. A piece of land measuring 1000 acres was purchased to help establish the city. The land was part of an oak forest owned by Joel Lane. Apart from being a plantation owner, Lane was also accomplished in administrative matters since, in 1770, he had petitioned the creation of a new county by the North Carolina General Assembly.

The location of the town was chosen for various reasons, including safety since it is located in a central area, thus shielding it from coastal attacks. Initially, New Bern was the capital of North Carolina. However, the British army laid siege to the port town, so it was no longer viable as a capital. Another cited reason was its proximity to Hunters Tavern, which state legislators frequented at the time. Raleigh was chosen as the name of the new town in honor of Sir Walter Raleigh, who sponsored two attempts to establish English colonies in North America.

Exciting Places to Visit in Raleigh

The booming metropolis offers visitors a big city feel and Southern charm. There is a combination of unique historical and current attractions that visitors can try to get a feel of what the city offers.

  • The James B. Hunt Library of the future. The bold, iconic library was established in 2013. It exhibits the preeminence of North Carolina State University as a technological research center. It has a unique architectural design with glass and zigzagging solar fins. Apart from the structure, the facility offers futuristic features, including touchscreen kiosks and a robot that fetches books. 
  • The Juniper Level Botanic Garden showcases over 27000 exotic, native perennials and unusual tree specimens that you cannot find anywhere else. It covers 28 acres and is open to the public only eight weekends a year. It is famously known as the "Eden of rare plants" by gardeners and researchers worldwide, even though it is not known to some locals.
  • The North Carolina State Capitol, which was originally the city's central point before it expanded. The Capitol was originally built in 1796, but a fire destroyed it in 1831. A new building was set up and completed in 1840. The administration still uses the Capitol, but it is open to the public for free tours, events, and education programs.
  • The Drive Shack is an interactive golf complex that caters mostly to big groups. It opened in 2019, so it is one of the recent developments in the city. It has 96 golf bays, a rooftop bar, an arcade area, and a full-service restaurant.

The futuristic Amenities in the city keep the progressive tradition of the town alive considering at its establishment, it was one of the few planned cities in the US. The initial city plan was a grid with two main axes intersecting at the central square.

What Strategies Does SERVPRO Utilize for Effective Stormwater Extraction from Raleigh Properties?

Flooding from storms or other extreme weather elements can leave properties in Raleigh inundated. Damage to the structure and contents within is the likely outcome after such an incident unless the correct steps are taken to mitigate the situation. SERVPRO has years of experience in the restoration business and offers homeowners viable solutions to save their properties.

Stormwater extraction differs from regular water removal for various reasons. In most cases, it involves more water compared to water spills. The water is also likely to contain debris or contamination, thus requiring specialized handling. SERVPRO counters these challenges by having the right resources, such as advanced equipment and highly trained staff. On arrival at the affected property, our technicians inspect the situation to establish the right response.

  • In case the water contains debris such as silt, mud, or other solids, specialized water extraction equipment such as self-priming trash pumps are necessary to handle the extraction. Our crews have access to various types of self-priming trash pumps that can handle anything from slurry to solids larger than 3 inches.
  • The effectiveness of extraction equipment may vary depending on the area covered or the standing water's depth. Our technicians use various equipment, including submersible pumps, truck-mounted water extractors, or high-pressure pumps for convenient removal.
  • Wading into contaminated water during extraction can pose health risks. Our crews use PPE's such as rubber boots and bodysuits to protect against such risks.

SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest helps with cleanup and stormwater extraction from Raleigh properties. Call us at (919) 790-1222 for fast assistance. 

Why DIY Water Extraction Efforts in Raleigh are Not Enough

10/31/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can occur in your house without you even knowing. Contact SERVPRO for professional remediation and mitigation services in your home.

SERVPRO Utilizes Powerful Water Extraction Tools to Ensure All Standing Water Gets Removed from Your Raleigh Property

Whether you recently had a flood, a water pipe broke, or encountered an appliance failure, extracting water as soon as possible is vital. Failing to begin extraction right away allows the water to migrate into dry spaces and your interior and structural materials are subject to the onset of secondary damage.

What Does Extraction Entail?

Water extraction in Raleigh can involve powerful equipment like pumps and truck-mounted extractors to pull up as much water as possible, as fast as possible. Even if you have a shop-vac on-hand that can handle water removal, skilled SERVPRO technicians can get the job done much quicker and achieve better results with:

  • Submersible pumps are elemental when standing water measures over two inches in depth, typically in a basement.
  • In many situations, the extraction process calls for multiple passes to ensure thorough drying.
  • Careful selection of extraction tools to keep from damaging carpets by way of delamination.
  • Portable extractors help get into tight spaces or restricted areas.
  • Truck-mounted extractors have their own power source and are more potent than portable extractors, usually not needed for small water spill cleanups.

To achieve our drying goals, SERVPRO formulates a plan to use drying and extraction in unison. We determine the type and number of dehumidifiers and air movers to set up within the water-loss zone and adjust as needed to stay on track. Once our moisture meters give us regular readings within your Raleigh home or business, we then wrap up the project with the application of EPA-registered cleaning agents and deodorizers.

There is no water extraction job that is too large or too small for our knowledgeable team at SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest. If you need assistance after experiencing a water emergency, call us at (919) 790-1222, and we will deploy a crew to your front door within hours. We make sure it looks, “Like it never even happened.”

Click here for more information about Raleigh.

Water Damage Restoration Raleigh

9/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO for Raleigh Water Damage Restoration Services

Call SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest Now (919) 790-1222.

As the capital city of North Carolina, Raleigh is one of the areas in continual growth, only surpassed in size and growth by Charlotte in the southernmost portion of the state. As a humid subtropic zone for climate, temperatures and weather events vary significantly from one season to the next. Apart from the dangers and risks of natural disasters like Hurricane Florence that damaged many structures and homes in 2018, it is the beauty of the fall in the City of Oaks that can be a present reminder of what attracted settlers and continues to draw in new residents. As the seat of Wake County, Raleigh has more than 475,000 residents, so restoration companies like our SERVPRO team must stay prepared for water, fire, and storm emergencies.

Raleigh Area Emergency Water Removal, Cleanup, and Restoration

  • Local Restoration Professionals (919) 790-1222. 
  • Experienced Water Restoration, Extraction, Drying & Cleanup. 
  • Deodorization and Deep Cleaning 
  • Fire & Smoke Damage Cleanup and Restoration
  • Mold Inspection, Remediation, and Build Back
  • Storm Cleanup, Extraction, and Restoration
  • Commercial Cleaning Specialists

Restoring Raleigh Properties After Water Damages

While Raleigh might be best known as the capital and its namesake in Sir Walter Raleigh and his lost Roanoke colony, it is also the home to one of the state's largest universities. North Carolina State University has been a catapult to the city's growth and cultural expansion, especially in the communities immediately surrounding the campus. Wolfpack athletics draw in thousands on gameday, whether to PNC Arena for Men's Basketball or Carter-Finley Stadium on a fall Saturday.

With more than 43 inches of annual rainfall, a large portion of which results from severe thunderstorms during the east coast hurricane season, flooding and structural damage can follow along with these events and require immediate mitigation and attention. This is a testament to the Downtown District's impressive architecture and construction, including the Sir Walter Raleigh Hotel built in the early 20th century. A fast response ensures that areas like the revitalized City Market and cultural centers like the North Carolina Museum of History and Museum of Natural Sciences can resume business as usual quickly. 

Emergency Water Damage Scenarios for the Raleigh Area

  • Hurricane Flooding and Storm Damage 
  • Freezing Pipes and Fixtures
  • Malfunctioning Appliances 
  • Flash Flooding Conditions 
  • Leaking Roofs 
  • Sewage Backup
  • Flooded Basements 

Why Choose SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest?

We're Faster To Any Size Disaster

An effective strategy for protecting more of your home and business after a water damage incident is responding quickly to the situation. We have pre-stocked production vehicles and technicians ready 24/7 to help.

Expertly Trained and Experienced Professionals

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) oversees the education and training of our experienced professionals for initial accreditations and continued coursework for Water Restoration (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying (ASD.)

Advanced Water Restoration Tools and Technologies

We have advanced equipment and technologies to make water restoration as efficient as possible, from our top-notch extraction tools like submersible pumps to data collection and inspection tools like thermal imagery and moisture meters.

Questions or Concerns? We can help 24/7. Give SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest a call now at (919) 790-1222.

Also of Interest-  Raleigh Restoration Company    Durham  Mold Inspection

What Disasters in Raleigh Can SERVPRO Help Restore?

8/15/2020 (Permalink)

Raleigh Area Property Owners Rely on the Local Premier Cleanup and Restoration Company after a Flood, Fire, Mold, or Commercial Mishap--SERVPRO!

With a team of both qualified technicians and general contractors, we can help your property through multiple damaging scenarios

We did not become one of the top 100 franchises in the country by not providing an unparalleled customer service experience with every loss incident that affects Raleigh homes and businesses. We have an ever-expanding roster of qualified technicians and contractors capable of helping to return your property to preloss condition regardless of the disaster you have faced. Our team features four master certified technicians in our core niches of restoration, providing experience and knowledge when needed most for damaged properties. The restoration services that we provide can make a difference in the ultimate time and cost of recovery.

Water

Because water damage is a usual threat to the greater Raleigh area, we respond to multiple disasters every year. Our fast response to these situations can make a considerable difference in the overall time and money involved with restoring your property to its original condition. The majority of our technicians have water restoration certifications, ensuring that we always have qualified professionals to handle your emergencies as they happen. We also have a master certified water restoration technician trained through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to appropriately steer this department.

How Does Mitigation Work?

Mitigation is one of the critical tasks that our professionals undertake when we first arrive at a water damaged Raleigh home. This phase of work aims to reduce the overall loss that your property experiences, including the protection of contents and personal belongings throughout the house. Mitigation as a whole describes many specific tasks involving both our qualified restoration technicians and residential contractors to perform repairs and reconstruction as required.

What Tools Best Dry My Residence?

Drying your Raleigh home or business is not a universal approach that always uses the same tools and equipment in the same ways. A careful evaluation occurs during the job scoping phase and after mitigation completes to ensure that the right tools and devices are used to address lingering moisture and dampness concerns throughout the property. While we have stables and fundamental tools to help with the drying process, where their place and how they get used vary from site to site. Some of these standard devices and pieces of equipment include:

  • Air Movers
  • Dehumidifiers
  • Positive Pressure Systems
  • Floor Mat Drying Systems

Fire

The work required in a Raleigh property after a fire loss must begin as soon as possible. The longer that a structure sits after extinguishment, the more widespread and concentrated fire loss effects can become. Our responding SERVPRO technicians can implement emergency services that start with the arrival of our team. Between qualified restoration technicians and experienced building trade contractors on our roster, we can offer immediate action including: 

  • Temporary Construction Solutions
  • Debris Removal
  • Air Quality Control
  • Content Management

Demolition or Surface Cleaning?

Assessing the property for damage is a careful process conducted by qualified professionals like our project manager and crew chief. We also consult with the homeowner to determine pre-existing conditions within their Raleigh homes or businesses. The objective in thorough inspection is learning whether surface cleaning to remove soiling and residues is cost-efficient against demolition and reconstruction. With a team of in-house contractors capable of assisting in this area, it is often more cost-effective to choose controlled demolition and later reinstallation.

Does SERVPRO Perform Reconstruction After a Fire?

These same contractors can help with full-scale reconstruction, repair, and rebuilding after fire loss effects get removed from your Raleigh property. We can also help with remodeling and renovations to help turn the negatives of fire loss into a lasting positive for your home. We also can steer our clients to reputable construction companies when extreme build back is required.

Storm

There is no mistaking the substantial storm systems that can impact the Raleigh area. With many commercial properties spanning thousands of square feet, our involvement as a large loss recovery team can be beneficial. Many restoration teams lack the resources and equipment to manage substantial loss incidents, but with networking through sister franchises, we can pool:

  • Resources
  • Personnel
  • Experience
  • Equipment

Addressing Severe Weather as It Occurs

The Raleigh area has seen multiple hurricane-level storm events over the past decades, requiring restoration teams to stay alert and aware of rapidly changing weather conditions. Our fast response in these situations can help repair structural concerns to reduce flooding and other detrimental conditions resulting from storm loss incidents.

Removing Floodwater and Damages

Flooding is often an unavoidable concern for Raleigh homes and businesses once structural breaches exist. In addition to the damaging presence of natural flooding, water penetration from areas like the roof or siding can be equally destructive. Removing these threats involves multiple extraction tools in our inventory, including submersible pumps, wet vacuums, and weighted extractors.

Commercial

Disasters can strike all types of commercial properties, leaving hundreds at risk for direct exposure to loss effects or threatening conditions. As a team with the capabilities of addressing larger commercial structures after fire, water, storm, and flood incidents, we can respond quickly to help however your Raleigh property needs. Our professionals have helped to restore and recover massive commercial structures, including:

  • Hospitals
  • College Campuses 
  • Warehouses
  • Hotels 
  • Nursing Homes 

What Does Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Mean?

More than ever, providing sanitary environments for your staff and customers in your Raleigh business is critical. On the heels of a global pandemic, many companies recognized where they lacked the appropriate focus and attention on surface cleaning and disinfection. Our defensive cleaning program entitled Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned offers the top-tier levels of sanitation, disinfection, and surface cleaning techniques in the restoration industry.

Cleaning and Recovery on Your Schedule

One of the advantages of choosing our premier cleaning services for your Raleigh business is our technicians' flexibility. We understand that the ideal times to perform a thorough cleaning on your property is after you have closed for the day, so we work around your schedule to meet the appropriate times when cleaning best suits your business.

Disasters can strike your home or business without warning, but our SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest team is ready 24/7. Give us a call whenever you need us at (919) 790-1222.

4 Reasons a Drain Cleaner Might Not Be the Best Solution

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Drain cleaners are toxic to humans and to pets

4 Reasons a Drain Cleaner Might Not Be the Best Solution

Plumbing problems can range from a horrendous sewage backup to a simple clogged drain. The former will likely require the services of a professional disaster response franchise, while the latter might be something you can tackle on your own. There are many ways to get a drain working again, some better than others. Though reaching right away for a drain cleaner seems like a good idea, a closer look suggests pouring chemicals into your pipes should be approached with caution. These reasons clarify the dangers of resorting to chemicals.

1. Chemicals Are Harmful to People. Drain cleaners are toxic to humans and to pets. Merely breathing in the chemicals can cause stinging in the eyes and discomfort in the mouth. The chemicals can also burn exposed skin.

2. They Are Dangerous to the Environment. Chemicals that go down the drain in your home or business in Brookhaven, NC, wind up in lakes, streams, and groundwater. These chemicals are toxic enough to kill fish, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. There are less harmful ways to clear a clogged drain, including mechanical and biological options.

3. They Are Tough on Pipes. Chemical drain cleaners work by creating enough heat to burn through substances causing the blockage. Whether the source of the heat is lye, bleach, acid, or some other substance, the chemicals can harm older, weaker pipes and plastic pipes.

4. Chemicals Don't Always Work. In situations where the drain is completely blocked, chemicals often just sit in the pipes creating heat and not clearing the drain. Oil and grease buildup in the drain is another occasion not conducive to being cleaned with chemicals.
Whether your home or business has a clogged drain or a major sewage problem, SERVPRO professionals are Faster to Any Size Disaster and are trained to remediate water damage. They are experienced in sewage cleaning methods that restore a building to excellent condition again. The franchise has been helping people recover from fires, floods, and other disasters for over 50 years.

Tips To Reduce Mold in a Humid Environment

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

Humidifiers are also very useful in water damage restoration

Reduce The Risk of Mold Damage in Your Building

Your commercial building, located in Millbrook, NC, is subjected to high humidity, especially in the hottest months. Mold thrives in a warm, wet environment, so the key is to reduce the high humidity in the air. You can’t totally eliminate the humid conditions, but there are ways to decrease humidity, and along with it, reduce the risk of mold damage in your building.

Utilize Air Conditioning
An air conditioner pulls moisture and heat out of the air as it blows the cool air in.

Keep the thermostat set on “auto” mode, not the “on” mode. If the air conditioner is kept on the cooling "on" cycle, moisture doesn’t have a chance to drain off the evaporator coil before it is evaporated again and sent back into the building.
Don’t turn the air conditioning off at night. Keep it set at a constant temperature 24 hours a day. The system has to work that much harder in the morning to remove the humidity and warm air if it’s turned off at night.
Make sure your air conditioning units are well-maintained. Clean the filters every month and replace them frequently during the hottest months of the year. Check the condensate drain pipe for proper drainage. At least annually, schedule an inspection with a service professional to ensure that your system is running at peak performance.

Install a Dehumidifier
Commercial dehumidifiers can be installed within your building’s ductwork to pull moisture out of the air. Humidifiers are also very useful in water damage restoration. Since they dry wet surfaces quickly, they can significantly reduce the risks involved in mold clean up.

Choose Mold-Resistant Materials
Plastic, glass, and metal countertops and desks are more resistant to moisture than the wooden varieties. Laminate floors are also more resistant to mold than carpeting.
You can never completely eliminate the risk of mold in your building, but controlling the high humidity will help reduce the risks.

What To Know About Mold Containment

3/29/2020 (Permalink)

Containment is done to help prevent the spread of mold to other locations

Here Are Some Things You May Wish To Know

When your home faces mold contamination in Cary, NC, you may see the mold restoration team working on the space initiate some containment procedures. This is done to both prevent further mold spreading, and protect your home. Here are some things you may wish to know.

1. Why Containment is Important

Containment is done to help prevent the spread of mold to other locations. Because mold remediation could involve measures such as removing drywall or flooring, there is the potential risk for mold spores to become airborne. Containment also creates barriers that keep these spores from escaping into the rest of the house which could cause mold problems in other spaces.

2. How Containment Works

Containment prevents further mold contamination, by creating a barriers between the affected area and the rest of your home. In most cases this is achieved by the use of plastic sheeting which should block the space from the rest of the home, sealing off air vents to the space, and setting up a fan which which exhaust outside the home. This could create a negative pressure zone which should prevent mold from becoming airborne.

3. What Containment May Look Like

You may see your restoration teak set up plastic sheeting to protect the room as well as a fan that exhausts to the outside of the home. While working in the contained area, professionals may were protective safety gear to help prevent tracking spores outside of containment. This may include clothing and shoe covered where are only worn in the work space, and then are removed before going anywhere else.

Containment is important for preventing the spread of mold contamination. The professionals working on your home will often separate off the area and wear appropriate safety gear to insure spores don’t escape into the rest of the home. If you have any questions about this process your restoration team can help.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help you be proactive!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest, (919) 790-1222

Revealed: Team SERVPRO Offers Custom Solutions for Fire Damage Situations in Raleigh Homes

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage and its related odors can seem to linger for a very long time. Contact SERVPRO for effective remediation services and odor removal.

Why SERVPRO Succeeds in Raleigh Post Fire Damage Deodorization

A most frustrating effects of a house fire in Raleigh is the odor that can endure long after all signs of charring and soot are cleaned up, and your home looks as it did before the blaze. We learn in the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training that each individual perceives smells differently, complicating matters for both you, members of your family, and our technicians. This unique way of experiencing the issue is why we are patient when addressing odors.

An Art as Well as a Science

The trick to eliminating fire damage odors in Raleigh is protocol, practice, and perseverance, why we invest in training and innovative products and equipment. We follow a procedure when seeking out and eliminating odors, repeating steps, and changing strategies until success. 

The Odor-Elimination Framework

Consistency is adhering to a proven protocol, ensuring that we do not miss a straightforward solution. This theory is why SERVPRO starts smoke and soot odor remediation by following with the below agenda.

  • Remove the odor source and debris
  • Deep-clean surfaces
  • Recreate the conditions that resulted in odors penetrating
  • Seal surfaces that continue to emit malodors

Debris and Deep Cleaning

If any charred and residue-covered debris remains, chances are high they continue to give off an odor. This persistence is why SERVPRO technicians go over your home with a fine-toothed comb more than once, looking for missed items. Checking in hidden recesses and taking on the next step, deep cleaning, with vigor can make the difference. We also try options like the placement of masking and absorbent agents as we discover spaces where odors are high to try to turn the deodorizing corner.

Recreating and Adapting Conditions

The most commonly discussed “recreation” strategy is thermal fogging. We combust deodorants at a high temperature to minimize their size, with the hope of having the small particles seek out and pair with the odiferous bits still airborne or settle. The pairing neutralizes the smell by changing the chemical composition of the molecules. Slight different science underlies ozone machines or hydroxyl generators that produce invisible particles that find and alter or break up the bonds between soot particles and the bad smells.

Sealing as a Last Resort

Some porous surfaces absorb and retain the odors despite all other efforts, why SERVPRO eventually recommends using a sealant to trap the odors inside. Although not the first choice, sealing works well when demolition and replacement is not an option.

Our investment in employee training and up to date equipment is why SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest delivers post-fire damage deodorization success. Have confidence that one call to (919) 790-1222 is the first step toward eliminating malodors.

Click here for more information about Raleigh.

Did Candles Cause a Fire in Your Raleigh Home?

11/14/2019 (Permalink)

Candles are a leading cause of home decoration fires. Call SERVPRO! We have what it takes to restore your holiday cheer!

My Raleigh Home Smells of Holiday Cheer… and Smoke!

As we welcome Fall, we start to change our homes into their end-of-year persona. We carve pumpkins, take pictures of changing leaves, and start burning candles smelling of cinnamon and apple. The whole air smells of holiday celebrations and gatherings with friends. However, you may suddenly smell more than that, only to realize that one of your candles ignites a nearby decoration, provoking flames and leaving you to rush for an extinguisher to put them out. As you survey the fire damage, it does not look quite catastrophic, but undoubtedly severe.

Thankfully, homeowners in Raleigh facing fire damage can call SERVPRO for assistance. Even when the fire in your home is not worthy of a fire truck, the remaining soot and smoke can be enough to puzzle even the most resourceful homeowner. Before you decide to apply cleaning products to your furniture and walls, consult with a professional team like ours to protect yourself from causing more damage to unsuitable abrasive cleaners.

Our SERVPRO fire restoration technicians (FRT) hold certifications by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to address situations like yours. Apart from our expertise in the field, we have the technical framework to inform our action plans, and we apply them as soon as we arrive at your home. All you need to do is call our 24/7 hotline and allow our team to jump into action.

An essential step in cleaning each surface in your home includes understanding the nature of each one of them. A wood credenza does not burn in the same way your electronics do or your carpets. Knowing which chemical solution and cleaning tool to use with each item is the key to a successful restoration. Most homeowners fail at this step and end up aggravating the fire damage, ultimately damaging some items. When we restore your home effectively, we can save the value of your property, both actual and sentimental. All you need to do is rely on our expertise and allow us to work to your benefit.

SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest is an expert resource ready to work for you when there is fire damage to your home. Call our team at (919) 790-1222 and let us prepare your home for the holiday season. With our help, your home can look, “Like it never even happened.”

Read more about Raleigh.

How I Improved My Fire Damaged Home in Raleigh

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage can happen fast and you must act fast to get it fixed. Contact SERVPRO today to mitigate fire damage in your home.

Why Should I Hire a Professional Restoration Company?

Home fires can be life-changing and leave homeowners at a loss when deciding on their next steps.  Regardless of its size, fire damage affects your life and derails your sense of normalcy. When disaster strikes, you make decisions that impact your safety and your finances, and it is hard to know if you are making the right choice.  One crucial step is choosing between complete replacement of items or hiring a professional restoration service. Generally speaking, a professional restoration team will prove more cost-effective than replacing all your furniture, cabinets, and flooring.

If this cautionary tale about fire damage applies to your Raleigh home, you are not alone.  SERVPRO is your local resource to restore your home or a portion of it after flames have spread soot and smoke throughout.  When you enlist the services of a professional team like ours, you can trust that we apply our industry expertise to restoring your property.  Our goal, like yours, is to restore as much as possible before suggesting that you replace an item. This conservationist approach helps you save time and money in the aftermath of the fire. 

Restoration efforts in our SERVPRO crew apply specific principles to cleaning and restoring each surface.  Because we are experts in our field, we recognize the most effective cleaning methods based on the chemical composition of each item and work accordingly.  Aside from making our cleaning efforts effective, this approach also lets us avoid collateral manage resulting from abrasive cleaners touching unsuitable surfaces.  By keeping in mind the optimal moisture, temperature, and constitution of every item in your home, we can restore much of it in and avoid the expense of purchasing a substitute.  The interaction of oxygen, the path of the fire, and the reaction of each material to heat all play a role in the action plan our SERVPRO team develops to bring your life back to normal.

When firefighters extinguish the last flame, take a deep breath, and consider your next step carefully.  Resorting to a professional restoration service allows you to mitigate your losses after fire strikes. Call SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest at (919)790-1222 and let us work, so your home looks “Like it never even happened.” 

Click here for more information about the capital city of Raleigh.

Let the Professionals Aid in Your Raleigh Home Remediation Plans

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

When a catastrophe happens in your home you need to call the remediation specialists at SERVPRO for help immediately.

Learn How SERVPRO Helps Local Raleigh Homeowners with Restoration Services

It can happen at any time of the day or night whether you are snug in your Raleigh home or at work or on vacation. Damage to your home occurring from fire, water, storms or even mold quietly growing undetected. No matter what type of loss has happened in your property, SERVPRO has the expertise and equipment to return your home to its preloss condition. 

Why SERVPRO? We know you have choices for restoration companies. We are part of the local community and take pride in supporting our friends and neighbors when they need assistance with cleanup from fire, water, or mold. Our technicians undergo extensive training and learn the best practices for mitigation as taught through the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). This organization is considered the highest standard of quality in the restoration sciences industry. We work hard on every site with a goal to always restore rather than replace items. This mindset saves property owners the cost of replacement for things that might otherwise get counted as a loss.

Mold damage in Raleigh homes requires fast remediation. Mold relies on stealth to remain undisturbed. Each spore only needs warmth, steady humidity, and food such as wood, paper or sheetrock to maintain a colony that, once established, tends to spread rapidly. 

Many homeowners first discover mold from a musty smell that does not diminish no matter how much air freshener gets sprayed in the room. The key with mold remediation first and foremost is containment. When SERVPRO mitigates mold damage in a home, we first identify any areas of excessive moisture. These areas are likely to host mold colonies, and then our technicians contain those areas to stop spores from reaching other areas of the home. 

Dryness is the enemy of mold. It cannot exist when humidity levels average below 45%. Our technicians carefully take readings in the home until the affected areas verify less than optimum moisture levels to ensure the colonies cannot regenerate. 

Once dried, our certified Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians remove the mold. We accomplish this using gentle hand-scraping, or for stuck-on infestations, the use of lightly abrasive soda blasting is a highly effective method. After removal, we commonly apply an antimicrobial sealer to halt any regrowth.

Water damage in a Raleigh residence emanates from many sources. Any of the plumbing in the home has the potential to leak. Appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, or the supply line to the water and ice maker in your fridge tend to give out over time.

When SERVPRO answers a call for water cleanup, we know the longer the premises remains wet, the more damage that happens. We arrive on-site quickly with every piece of equipment we require in our green service vans. Our certified Water Restoration Technicians scope the residence with our moisture detection equipment such as:

  • Non-Penetrating Meters: These detectors have two sensors and compare levels of moisture for anything between the two points and assist our technicians in determining exactly where moisture absorption begins and ends.
  • Penetrating Meters: Have surface-penetrating prongs that identify trapped moisture under the surface.
  • Hydrosensors: A penetrating meter that measures moisture within porous surfaces such as carpet or padding.
  • Thermo-Hygrometers: This type of detector measures both temperature and humidity within the water loss area, and assists our technicians in determining drying goals.

This advanced technology ensures we locate every possible place water migrated for thorough extraction. We have specialized equipment to assist in the mitigation of water damaged carpeting or upholstery, so there is a higher chance of restorability. 

Thorough dryness is paramount to halting secondary water damage issues such as buckling sheetrock, warped hardwood floorboards, or mold. Using our thermo-hygrometers, SERVPRO technicians carefully set drying goals that are unique to each location. No residence has zero percent humidity. Some air moisture is vital for air quality, but it should not be enough to allow mold spores to germinate.

After thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the water loss areas, we give the homeowner a detailed report of the actions taken during mitigation as well as any repairs necessary. 

When a Raleigh home has storm damage, we act quickly to begin water cleanup. Often by the time our emergency response teams arrive, in many cases, the water has receded or wicked into sheetrock, disappeared within wall cavities and requires speedy removal. 

SERVPRO technicians tarp over any damaged areas of the home to prevent any further water from entering the property during mitigation. We then perform water extraction and controlled demolition techniques such as flood cuts as needed to save as much of the structure as possible. 

If our technicians are unable to clean and restore water-damaged items on-site, we pack them out for in-plant cleaning on a case by case basis. After water removal and drying the home, we then thoroughly disinfect the property, so it is safe and healthy for habitation. 

Fire damage in Raleigh homes ranges in size from a small corner of a kitchen with charring and smoke damage due to a hot pan catching aflame to an entire home destroyed by an intense fire where the best outcome is to prepare the property for reconstruction.

Soot travels quickly, and airborne particles can easily be smaller than the human eye can see. SERVPRO technicians install airlock barriers or use heavy plastic sheeting over doorways and vents to contain the work site area. Removal of smoke residues requires testing it to determine the type of fire that left the residue and the proper kind of cleaning method for the best outcome. Improper cleaning of soot and smoke residues has the potential to cause further damage. 

After fire debris removal and cleaning, our technicians concentrate on odor removal. We have several types of specialized equipment for odor control as fire loss often leaves behind significant scents that require a layered-approach to complete odor eradication. When SERVPRO technicians complete fire loss mitigation, we leave behind no residual reminders within the property.

When home disasters strike, contact SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest at (919) 790-1222. Our emergency response teams stand ready 24/7 to support our local community with assistance mitigating fire, water, storm or mold damage and make it "Like it never even happened."

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How to Prevent Water Damage to Your Raleigh Home

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage from Clogged Gutters in Raleigh Is Not Necessary with Inspections--SERVPRO Tip

Call SERVPRO to Restore Your Property After Rains or Floods Occur

Prevention is better than cure,’ so goes the old English adage. Water damage to your Raleigh homes and real estate property is a hazardous eventuality. As such, it is in your best interest to employ all tactics to see to it that it does not happen at all. You can only be sure of this if you are acquainted with all the possible strategies and best practices for prevention.

We at SERVPRO are familiar with these preventive strategies. This arises out of our experience with the mitigation of water damage in Raleigh. Our skilled and IICRC-certified technicians have compiled a list of these strategies and would be glad to share them with you. 

By far the most outstanding tool in this arsenal is the proactive approach. This entails putting in place timely interventions beforehand rather than waiting for the problem to arise first before responding to it. 

SERVPRO’s technicians recommend that you carry out regular inspections of your premises and properties. This way, you can be able to identify potential hotspots and develop a counteractive response. Doing this shall also earn you the benefit of spending less on restoration services and forestalling worse damages to your property. 

Unclogging your drains and gutters regularly suggested by SERVPRO ensures a smooth flow of water and eliminates most chances of water intrusion because of poor rainwater channeling from away the structure. This also goes a long way in reducing the likelihood of your property suffering damages from mold infestations and foul odors.

Nothing lasts an eternity. The plumbing parts and components of your premises are by no means exceptional. Consider a timely and regular replacement of the worn out parts and components of your property’s plumbing system. This way, you can ward off the possibilities of water damage caused by the malfunctions of these parts. 

If your home or business is in need of water removal and restoration, rely on a professional local franchise SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest for positive results. Call us 24/7 at (919) 790-1222.

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Remediating Raleigh Fire Damage Can Be Complicated

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

Raleigh House Fire? Call SERVPRO for a Stress-Free Cleanup and Restoration

SERVPRO Carefully Manages Restoration Services After a Fire

Cleaning up a Raleigh home after a fire is directed at the big items. First efforts are to examine the structural property and determine what is needed to restore floors, ceilings, and walls. That is where much of the restoration cost comes from, but it is not everything. 
 
To completely remediate the effects of fire damage in Raleigh homes; a professional restoration company looks at every item in the home. SERVPRO understands that the items most important to a homeowner are rarely ever walls and ceilings. It is the personal touches like light fixtures and in rooms like the kitchen or living area made by the owners. 
 
Kitchen cabinets are among the first personal choices made by a homeowner. The exteriors are usually covered with a clear varnish to emphasize the appearance of the wood, so we remove the handles and back plates to examine the entire surface and then use a mild cleaning agent to remove smoke and soot residues. 
 
Interiors are usually unfinished or exposed wood. Our first action is to wipe them down with a dry sponge. That normally removes the residue, but for thicker layers, we wipe down each panel and shelf with a wet sponge dipped in denatured alcohol. If the soot has penetrated the surface, we use sandpaper to remove it. 
 
Accents in the living room help define a homeowner’s style. We use special detergents and washing machines to clean curtains and drapes, but we also take care of the drapery rods and valances as well. SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians remove them from the walls and wipe down every piece of hardware. Then, they spray silicon on them to protect from future damage. We thoroughly clean the walls before rehanging them. 
 
Light fixtures in both rooms and throughout the house are not just personal, but can also be very expensive to replace. To clean them completely, we remove them from walls and ceilings and use as mild a cleaning agent as possible to prevent staining any metal finishes or etching glass covers. 
 
Restoring a home means more than just cleaning the carpets and wiping smoke damage from the walls and ceilings. SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest understands that our customers want to return to their home, and not just a house. If you need our help, call (919) 790-1222 today.

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Call Our Trusted Professionals When You Have A Fire In Raleigh

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

A simple outlet can cause a fire in your home leaving you with an enormous amount of damage, our experts are ready to handle your restoration.

Why is SERVPRO your Best Resource when there is Fire Damage to your Home in Raleigh?

The smallest of sparks can be the culprit behind fire damage to your home. It only takes an electrical failure to ignite the fire that leaves you facing a home smelling of and covered in soot. Overwhelming as it may seem, there are professionals specially trained to work with you to bring your home back to mint condition. Your most important task is to make the initial call.

When your Raleigh home faces fire damage, SERVPRO is at your service to help navigate the complexity salvaging the building and your belongings, all while taking appropriate steps to coordinate with contractors and claim adjustors who may require information regarding the extent of the damage to your home. Our team works around the clock to answer your emergency call and take quick action towards restoring your home.

The remnants of fire damage, including smoke, soot, and subsequent water damage, need to be viewed with safety as a top priority. The use of protective personal equipment is standard practice for our SERVPRO team, as is a close inspection of any openings or weakened structures the fire may have left in its wake. We can provide this level of knowledge not only because of our field expertise but also because of the formal training we offer each of our technicians. This continuous education approach prepares us with the latest practices and innovation to deal with the aftermath of a fire.

Aside from the initial steps of removing any debris and extracting remaining water residue, we focus on leaving your home deodorized and disinfected. In doing so, our SERVPRO team may apply techniques such as dry fogging, where deodorants are released into the affected areas with the goal of neutralizing remaining odors. This method, complemented by air scrubbers and direct spraying efforts, contribute to removing telltale signs of the fire.

Attempting to remove fire damage without the help of a professional team could leave potential hazards unattended, so we urge you to seek our help when the situation occurs. At SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest, we are a phone call away. Just call (919) 790-1222, so we can put our services to work for you.

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How Water Damage Can Create a Mold Issue in Your Raleigh Home

12/7/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage inside the drywall can cause mold. Call SERVPRO at the first sign of water damage.

Raleigh's Water Damage Experts Discuss How Inject-Dry Systems Are Used

The goal during any water damage situation is to remove moisture as quickly as possible and preferably within 48 hours so that fungi cannot form. When your home in Raleigh gets negatively affected by moisture, professional companies like SERVPRO can help reduce the severity of the issues created. In most cases, we speed up the natural evaporation and drying process by utilizing air movers and dehumidifiers. The air movers create air flow so that water keeps evaporating from wet surfaces while dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air and provide the fans with hot, dry air. However, when certain building materials receive water damage, other measures must be taken to drop moisture levels and prevent mold growth quickly.  

When water leaks into your home, it usually accumulates on the floor first. Then, it soaks into your drywall and starts to wick its way up your walls, possibly causing extensive water damage to your Raleigh residence. If wall cavities get wet, fungi can form on the paper backing of the drywall and the wooden studs to which the drywall is attached. In some scenarios, our SERVPRO technicians cut the drywall a foot or two up from the floor so that air can get pushed into the wall cavity. In other situations, we use advanced technology to dry out the drywall and the wood trapped behind it without tearing up your walls.  

When your walls get wet, we often use injectidry systems to get air behind the drywall material by drilling holes into your drywall. We then connect the tubes coming from the injectidry unit to the holes in the walls so that the machine pushes air into the wall cavity, thus speeding up the drying process. The use of injection drying can save you and your insurance company the cost of replacing a large amount of drywall.  

Our highly trained team always strives hard to provide fast 24/7 service if you ever suffer a property disaster. If you ever notice that your drywall got wet after a water leak, call SERVPRO of North Raleigh & Wake Forest at (919) 790-1222 right away.

Raleigh is also called the ‘city of oaks.’  Click here to read more fun facts about Raleigh.

What Few People Know About Flood Damage Remediation in Raleigh

11/25/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding affects your home when you least expect it. Contact Team SERVPRO for water removal and remediation efforts.

How We Can Help with Flood Recovery in Raleigh Home

When the waters begin to rise around Raleigh, our restoration franchise remains on alert to help those with the trauma that can result. We strive to provide the fastest possible service in the face of emergencies, and that begins with our customers. Whenever flooding occurs within your property, calling our experienced team of professionals to help can get our emergency response team in route with the tools and expertise to help preserve your home and its contents.

Overcoming flood damages within your Raleigh home begins with protecting the things that matter most. While it can be unsafe for homeowners to remain on the property once flooding has affected the house, our SERVPRO professionals can help to assess the full scope of the damage that the property has sustained and determine what items require removal to protect from further degradation.

Our fast response times and availability 24-hours a day is a direct response to the short timeline that homeowners have when dealing with formidable disasters to their residence. Within moments of exposure, construction materials can soak up pooling water and allow saturation of the material to the point of degradation in as little as a day or two. Getting the right mitigation solution started immediately is critical to preserving these structural elements to prevent unnecessary demolition and reconstruction later on.

The franchise prides itself on our top-tier equipment made available to our water restoration technicians. With extraction tools like our truck-mounted pumps in the SERVPRO Green Fleet that can pull water out of affected areas at a force of 300 psi to our drying equipment like air movers and dehumidifiers, our team gets uniquely prepared to quickly gain control of damages in a flooded home.

Flooding can be a challenging event for your home, and without the right resources and response to the situation, can get out of control quickly. Trust our SERVPRO of North Raleigh / Wake Forest water restoration technicians to help you clean up the mess and restore your property entirely. You can reach us anytime by calling (919) 790-1222.

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