What To Do Before, During and After Water Damage

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

We cannot control Mother Nature; when she hits Philadelphia, we need to make sure we are ready to go for whatever damage she leaves behind. We can’t control the weather but we can control what we do to prepare for the before, during and after water damage.

Here are the things you should do before, during and after water damage to make the remediation process easy for you.

BEFORE:

• Make a list of all the things you own; furniture, clothing, valuables
• Fill out a Family Emergency Plan (list of all emergency contacts), or if you are a business owner/property owner - fill out our Emergency Ready Plan.
• Have a To-Go Bag that you can grab if you are rushing out in a hurry
• Be aware of what your insurance company covers when damage unexpectedly hits your home or business

DURING:

• Turn off water valves and electricity circuits 
• Call you insurance company to file a claim
• Stay away from any flood water whether it’s from a storm or a leaking pipe. You’re unfamiliar with where the water came from.
• Call SERVPRO of Burlington Twp./Mt. Holly, give them the insurance claim number. After communicating with the insurance company, our crews will be dispatched out to your home to assess the situation and discuss next steps.

AFTER:

• Depending on the damage will determine what happens after the damage is assessed by our professionals. We take pride in making sure the water damage remediation process is as smooth as possible for our customers. 

Flooding is the most common U.S. natural disaster, and New Jersey has one of the highest flooding rates of all states.

If your home or business is suffering from water damage, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Society Hill now at 609-326-3663.

SERVPRO Hosts The First Responders College Bowl Game

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

It’s that time of year! Football season is upon us and SERVPRO hosts The First Responders College Bowl Game on December 27th in Dallas, Tx. SERVPRO takes pride in supporting their local first responders and SERVPRO of Society Hill is proud to be a part of that initiative. 

SERVPRO has been sponsoring the bowl game since 2014 and has given our franchises the opportunity to honor local first responders on a national level. Rick Isaacson, CEO of SERVPRO, said, “The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is one way we celebrate these dedicated first responders and their families as the hometown heroes they are.” 

Each franchise will nominate a local first responder to be considered for special recognition at this year's game. One nominee will be selected to experience an all-expenses-paid trip to the game where they will be presented with an award. 

The SERVPRO First Responders Bowl also has a virtual Everyday Heroes Wall that honors these courageous people in our community. If you know someone who has committed to risking their lives every day, view the Everyday Heroes Wall page to submit a photo of your frontline hero!

7 Reasons to Choose SERVPRO of Burlington Twp./Mt. Holly

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

Before and after a house in Willingboro, NJ was damaged by mold

Believe it or not, mold is everywhere - inside and outside. It is tough to avoid mold but there are ways to prevent mold from growing. Response time to water damage is crucial; if not, you have a new tenant: mold.

Here are seven reasons to hire SERVPRO of Burlington Twp./Mt. Holly for your mold remediation needs.

1. EMERGENCY CONTACT
The stress level is heightened when mold is discovered and that’s why our team begins the process for you immediately during the first phone call. Our front office will ask a series of questions to decide next steps in the process.

2. INSPECTION AND MOLD DAMAGE ASSESSMENT
After we gather as much information as possible, our estimators will come out to assess the damage. We use advanced technology to help detect the severity of the damage and if there are any other hidden water damage. Our cleanup team is then contacted to schedule to come out as quickly as we can.

3. MOLD CONTAINMENT
Once our tech’s get out there, their first priority is to prevent the spread of mold by containing the damage to one area. They create a tented contrapment to dry out as much of the area as possible. They set up air movers, dehumidifiers, and cooling systems to dry out the water damage. This process could take up to 3 or more days to complete.

4. AIR FILTRATION
Serpvro of Burlington Twp./Mt. Holly uses equipment to help capture microscopic spores out of the air. Powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums are brought in to prevent the spread of the spores.

5. REMOVING MOLD AND MOLD-INFESTED MATERIALS
This is where the demo comes into play. The demo of the affected area depends on the severity of the damage and the type of surface that is damaged. Our professionals are responsible for disposing of mold infested materials or cleaning them if considered salvageable.

6. CLEANING CONTENTS AND BELONGINGS
If it is determined that materials can be salvageable, our team will clean furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, etc. No job is too big or too small for our team!

7. RESTORATION
The last step but most important is the restoration process. Depending on the level of mold damage, dry wall, subfloors and other building materials may be removed. This could involve minor repairs or extensive reconstruction.

SERVPRO of Burlington Twp./Mt. Holly takes pride in making this process as stress free as possible for our customers. Mold may not be visible to the naked eye, so if you suspect mold in your home, inside or outside, call us today for an estimate!

SERVPRO Ready Plan - Businesses in Burlington Township, NJ

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

Does your business have a readiness plan in the event of an emergency? Do you know where the heater valves are located? Do you know where the electric boxes are located? If the answer to these questions is no - you need SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan.

The great thing about this program is it’s FREE. Our team will come out to assess your property at no cost to you. We also have a free app where all of your information is stored and can be easily accessed from anywhere.

Besides the program being free - here are other reasons you should consider being a part of our Emergency Ready Plan:

• A concise profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. Your property manager isn’t the only person to have access to this information. Your company also teams up with our Sales Representative so if there is an emergency, they are available to you personally 24/7.
  
  
• A guide to help your team get back into the building following a disaster. Our goal is to get your business back up and running without any huge interruption. Our team comes up with the plan so if you are ever in a situation where you need to close or there’s a disruption in business, this program will at least minimize the down time to your business.

• Establishes your local SERVPRO as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. Our team is available 24/7 to answer any and all questions relating to your profile, including any changes or updates.

• Easy insurance claim process! SERVPRO of Burlington Twp/Mt Holly, will work together with your insurance company to process existing claims and make the process easier for our clients.

• Establishing the line of command for authorizing work to begin. When disaster strikes, we will need to be in contact with someone who is authorized to give permissions to our team to begin the cleanup process.

If you are interested in learning more, you can download the "SERVPRO Ready Plan" mobile app on your Android or iPhone device from the respective App Store. Or you can contact SERVPRO of Burlington Twp/Mt Holly to begin creating ERP's for all your properties at609-326-3663.

5 Steps to Take After a Storm

7/29/2022 (Permalink)

Mother Nature doesn’t care about the basement you remodeled or the back porch that took you months to build. She’ll blow through Burlington Township, New Jersey and won’t take a second look back at the damage.

Here are five steps you should take AFTER a storm:

1. Check your home for any standing water. Flood water can be quickly contaminated with unknown dangerous chemicals.
2. Never use a wet electric device. When disaster strikes, our first move is to grab our phones. Make sure not to use any electronics that may have been affected by the storm.
3. Apply for the help you need. There are a ton of financial relief programs supporting homeowners, property owners, and businesses that may have been interrupted by a disaster.
4. Be careful near damaged buildings. Leave your home or building if you hear shifting or unusual noises. This could mean the building is about to collapse. If you hear something, say something.
5. Call your insurance company. If you suspect damage to your property. Once a claim is issued, your next call should be to your local SERVPRO, the #1 choice in cleanup, restoration and construction.

SERVPRO of Burlington Twp./Mt. Holly is a preferred vendor for major insurance companies including Travelers, State Farm, Chubb, etc. We will work with the customer and their carrier for payment directly from the carrier to ease the financial burden on the customer.

If you are in need of water damage restoration services, call us at 609-326-3663, 24 hours, 7-days a week.

7 Reasons to Call SERVPRO of Burlington Twp./Mt. Holly

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Burlington Twp./Mt. Holly, we take pride in how we take care of our customers in the New Jersey area. When disaster strikes, our professionals know what to do to minimize the damage. Here are seven reasons you should chose SERVPRO of Burlington Twp./Mt. Holly.

1. Faster to any disaster: From the moment the call comes into our office, our crew is there within the hour to assess the situation. 
2. No job is too big or small: We have the tools and experience it takes to for any size job, big or small. There’s nothing our team can’t handle. 
3. One-stop shop: We are a full-service restoration provider, meaning we do the construction after the initial demo/cleanup. 
4. Franchises are individually owned and operated: The quality of service you get depends on the experience of the team at each franchise. Between our owner and the operations managers, we have a combined 60 years of experience. 
5. We are a preferred vendor: We have partnered with a number of large companies such as State Farm, Travelers, Chubb & The Philadelphia Contributionship, etc. 
6. Easy claim process: We will work with the customer and their carrier for payment directly from the carrier to ease the financial burden on the customer.
7. Highly trained professionals: Not only do our managers have experience in the field, but our crew is required to complete certification training to ensure credibility when working with our customers. 

As always, SERVPRO of Burlington Twp./Mt. Holly is here to help! For more information, please call us at 609-326-3663.

How-To Properly Clean Your Grill

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Break out the metal spatula, tongs and metal skewers, it’s grilling season!  If this is the first time using your grill - it is important to clean it before beginning to grill. Too much grease and fat build up from last year can quickly cause grease fires.

Here are some tips on how to properly clean your gas grill before and after grilling season.

• Pre-heat grill for 15 minutes on high heat, then turn off the grill
• Turn the gas off
• Clean grill using a wire brush dipped in water. Do not lean over the grill while cleaning as it will create a lot of steam.
• If grease is too tough, add dish soap to the water.
• Remove burners from the gas supply line and remove blockages to the burner’s gas ports using a dry wire brush. 
• Clean the burner valve with soapy water and run water through the inside of the valve.  
• Clean the inside of the grill using a wire brush and warm soapy water and rinse with water. Towel dry the burners and reinstall.
• PRO TIP: When cleaning grills with bristle brushes, always wipe down the cleaned area afterwards. This will remove any bristles that may have come off during the cleaning process and get stuck to the grill. 

You’ll be ready to grill in no time!

Detecting Hidden Damage With Thermal Imaging

5/27/2022 (Permalink)

Visible temperature differences indicate the presence of moisture.

Water leaks can cause serious damage to a structure and are often difficult to detect until it’s too late. The subtle signs are easy to miss until water begins dripping from the ceiling. At SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt. Holly, we utilize advanced tools that allow us to detect hidden moisture. Chief amongst these is the infrared camera.

An infrared camera produces thermal images that reveal subtle temperature differences. How? Every object emits infrared light, even cold ones. An infrared camera measures the amount of infrared light that is emitted off of a surface. The measurement is then calculated to determine the temperature. Visible temperature differences indicate the presence of moisture.

However, identifying a pattern that looks like moisture does not always guarantee the presence of water damage. That's why we follow up on infrared findings using another valuable tool; the moisture meter. The meter will confirm whether what we’ve detected is in fact water.

These tools allow us to detect hidden moisture without cutting into walls, which speeds up the testing process helps keeps costs low. That's the SERVPRO difference!

An Emergency Flood Cleanup | SERVPRO Cares

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

Immediate Emergency Response, 24/7

Property damage doesn't wait for regular business hours, so neither does SERVPRO of Burlington Township and Mt. Holly. We're ready to respond immediately- just ask our customers!

"My basement flooded the day after Easter. I called SERVPRO and within a couple of hours, Lennon was at my house ready to handle whatever we needed. He was wonderful, answered all of our questions, he was friendly, polite, professional, and a joy to have at our house. My basement was a mess and he got it cleaned out in just a few hours and completely dried in a couple of days. We are so pleased with how easy and effective it was to use SERVPRO!" -Allison M.

Check out our Google listing for more customer testimonials: SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly Google Reviews

Hurricane Classification & Property Damage

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Reminder: Hurricane season begins on June 1st.

How do we determine the threat of an oncoming hurricane? 

Hurricanes are categorized 1-5 based on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. The scale uses maximum sustained wind speed to indicate the threat level of a storm. 

Understanding the threat associated with each category helps homeowners determine which precautions to take, including evacuating from areas vulnerable to storm surges. It also indicates the level of property damage we can expect.

Category One: 74 to 95 mph winds

Damage to shrubbery, tree foliage, poorly constructed structures, and unanchored mobile homes.

Storm Surges 4' to 5' above normal tide levels. Low-lying coastal roads are flooded.

Category Two: 96 to 110 mph winds

Considerable damage to shrubbery. Some trees are blown down. Major damage to poorly constructed structures and roofing materials.

Storm Surge of 6' to 8' above normal tide levels. Low lying escape routes and coastal roads are cut by rising water 7 to 8 hours before the arrival of the hurricane's center.

Evacuation of some shoreline residences and low-lying areas is required.

Category Three: 111 to 130 mph winds

Foliage is torn from trees and large trees are blown down. Damage to roofing materials, windows, and doors is expected. Mobile homes are destroyed and some structural damage to small buildings.

Storm Surge 9' to 12' above normal tide levels. Serious flooding at the coast destroys small structures. Large structures are battered by waves and floating debris. Low lying escape routes are cut off by rising water 9 to 10 hours prior to the hurricane center's arrival. Major erosion to beaches. 

Massive evacuation of all residences within 500 yards of beach and single-story residences on low ground within 2 miles of shore.

Category Four: 131 to 155 mph winds

Shrubs, trees, and signs are blown down. Extensive damage to roofing materials, windows, and doors. Complete failure of roofs on many small residences. Storm Surge 13' to 17' above normal tide levels. Flat terrain 2 feet or less above sea level flooded up to 6 miles inland. Major damage to lower floors of structures near shore due to flooding and battering of waves and debris. Low lying escape routes inland cut by rising water 11 to 12 hours prior to hurricane center arrival.

Category Five: Winds exceeding 155 mph

Damage as above plus the complete failure of roofs on many residential and industrial buildings. Extensive shattering of window and door glass. Many complete building failures and small buildings overturned or blown away. Storm Surge greater than 18' above normal tidal levels. Low lying escape routes inland are cut by rising water 12 to 13 hours before hurricane center arrival. 

Massive evacuation of residential areas on low grounds within 5 to 10 miles of shore is possibly required.

Source: Official U.S. Navy Website

SERVPRO Rebuilds NJ Home After Fire

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

A housefire ravaged the upper floors of this NJ home.

Can SERVPRO restore/rebuild the affected area of your home? YES!

SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt. Holly was called out to the scene of a house fire back in February. The fire erupted when a squirrel made its way into the home's attic and began chewing on electrical wires. One of the wires sparked, igniting the insulation inside of the attic. The fire resulted in significant damage to the home's roof and second floor.

Our team responded quickly and secured the structure with a roof tarp and board-up. We created a detailed inventory of our customer's belongings for insurance. Then we began the long process of clearing away the damage. Months later, the home is ready to receive a rebuild! The construction crew at SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly is excited to take on the project. Our talented team has beautifully rebuilt the upper floor and roof of the home!

Using one company for property damage mitigation & restoration can help save time and keep costs low. Trust your home to the professionals at SERVPRO.

Slab Leaks | Pt. 1 | Common Causes

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Slab leaks can range in severity from a small trickle to a full pipe burst.

A slab is a single concrete base foundation underneath a home. A slab leak occurs in the copper pipes that run underneath the concrete slab foundation. 

Slab leaks can range in severity from a small trickle to a full pipe burst. Any and all leaks should be repaired immediately, as ignoring them can lead to further property damage.

What causes a slab leak?

Top causes of slab leaks include:

Improperly built foundation. If you have a newer home and are already experiencing a slab leak, you might want to have a plumber and a home inspector see if perhaps your home was built with an improperly laid foundation.

Movement of the earth. Earthquakes can cause slab leaks. But even in places without earthquakes, soil erosion and underground waterways can shift things around putting pressure on your pipes.

Water corrosion. Extremely hard or soft water can cause corrosion of pipes, which leads to pinhole leaks. Over time, this can lead to major leaks.

Friction. Sometimes pipes rub against your concrete foundation, wearing them down. Hot water pipes expand and shrink due to the heat of the water running through them. This could cause even more friction between a hot water pipe and your home’s concrete foundation slab.

An aging home. Slab leaks are very common in older homes. Older homes tend to have a combination of several of the factors listed above.

For expert water removal and drying services, contact the professionals at 1-800-SERVPRO.

Slab Leaks | Pt. 2 | Warning Signs

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

The sooner you repair a slab leak, the less likely your home will suffer extensive damage.

Slab leaks can range in severity and tend to be more difficult to detect than other types of plumbing leaks. As a homeowner, it helps to be mindful of the subtle signs of a slab leak.

Common Slab Leak Warning Signs:

• The sound of running under your floors, even when taps and plumbing appliances are off.
• Carpets and floors are damp or wet without an explanation
• A higher than typical water bill.
• A decrease in your home’s water pressure.
• Warped or buckling floorboards.
• Standing water around your home's foundation.
• Pooling water on the floor without a clear sign of where it's coming from.
• A smell of mold, mildew, or mustiness.
• An unusually warm spot on your floor.

If your home presents one or more of these warning signs, you’ll want to contact a professional plumber immediately. The sooner you begin repairs, the less likely your home will suffer extensive damage.

For expert water cleanup & drying services, contact the professionals at 1-800-SERVPRO.

Identifying Hail Damage

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Check your roof for signs of damage after a hail storm.

Most people associate hail storms with vehicle damage, but they can also cause significant damage to a home. Hail predominantly impacts the roof of a home. A compromised roof can lead to costly water damage.

Here’s how to identify hail damage based on your roofing material:

On Asphalt and Composition Shingles

• Random damage with no discernable pattern.
• Hail hits that are black in color.
• Loss of granules, which may expose the roof felt.
• Asphalt and/or mat that appears shiny.
• Hail hits that are soft to the touch, like the bruise on an apple.

On Wood Shingles

• Random damage with no discernable pattern.
• A split in the shingle that is brown/orange in color.
• A split in the shingle that has sharp corners and edges.
• A split in the shingle that has little to no deterioration at the edges.
• Impact marks or dents along the splits.

Be sure to check your roof for damage after a hail storm. If you detect significant damage, contact a roofing company immediately.

For water damage cleanup and drying services, contact the professionals at 1-800-SERVPRO.

Fire Safety Measures for Commercial Properties

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

Have your extinguishers inspected yearly.

A building fire can happen suddenly when you least expect it. Make sure your commercial property is prepared to respond to a fire emergency by installing reliable safety equipment.

Alarm Systems

Fire alarms are the first line of defense against fire-related casualties. They quickly alert everybody in the building to the emergency and allow them to escape to safety. Make sure your alarm system is up to code and maintained at least once per year.

Emergency Lights and Exit Signs

Even a familiar building can become difficult to navigate during an emergency, especially in dark and smokey conditions. Emergency lights and exit signs guide occupants towards fire exit doors and safely out of the building. Signs must be bright and free from obstruction. Emergency lighting units should have fully charged and reliable backup batteries. It is recommended that you conduct a 30-minute test of your emergency lights every month.

Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers allow occupants to put out small fires and prevent them from spreading. They should be placed no more than 75 feet apart and the type of fire extinguisher should match the potential hazards around it. Have your extinguishers inspected yearly by a trained inspector.

Fire Rated Doors

Fire-rated doors are made of materials that are designed to prevent the spread of fires. They can help to minimize damage in the event of a fire. Have your fire-rated doors inspected annually by a qualified inspector.

Sprinkler Systems

Many commercial buildings utilize sprinkler systems to contain and put out fires. Sprinkler systems react to heat, and it’s important to make sure they are in working order so that they deploy at the right time. Control valves should be checked monthly, and the entire system should be checked yearly by a trained professional.

Commercial building managers can prepare in advance for fire damage restoration with SERVPRO Ready plan. Learn more.

A Sewage Backup Disaster | SERVPRO Cares

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

"A great team to call during your homeowner’s despair."

At SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt. Holly, customer care is our priority. We understand how upsetting property damage can be. That's why it's so important to us to let customers know their home is safe in our hands.

We recently performed a sewage backup cleanup at a home in Burlington, NJ. Here's what our customer Doreen had to say:

"SERVPRO helped me at a time I was despondent - I had a sewer backup in my house and I was so traumatized I didn’t know what to do. I called them and within an hour their techs were at my house. They calmed me down (first) and then completely cleaned the disaster. It was a serious hazmat situation and their techs were cheerful and professional. They mitigated the situation within a few hours and left dehumidifiers, fans, and most importantly, air purifier machines running in my house for several days. They checked back at my house each day to inspect their mitigation, and they were GREAT! Highly recommend! They are a GREAT team to call during your homeowner’s despair. Don’t know what I’d have done without them." - Doreen T.

Protect Your Property From Severe Winds

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

Remove dead and dying tree limbs.

Hurricanes are characterized by severe wind speeds that range from 75 to 200 miles per hour. Wind damage can be costly to repair. Here are simple ways to fortify your home against it:

Start with the roof. Your home’s roof is its first line of defense. Re-adhere any loose shingles and consider impact-resistant shingles when installing a  new roof. Adding roof strappings will help anchor the roof framing to the wall framings so the wind can’t lift your roof off your house. 

Remove dead and dying tree limbs. High winds can send tree limbs flying. Make sure any damaged trees on your property are trimmed or removed on a regular basis. 

Secure your belongings. Anchor fuel tanks and external utility links and fasten gutters and downspouts. Stow away sports equipment, toys, and other loose items.

Secure your structures. Fencing, porches, sheds, and other structures can become dislodged in a strong wind, especially when they’ve fallen into disrepair. Inspect your yard’s structures and make sure they are firmly attached and in sound condition. Secure any parts that appear weak or loose. 

Consider replacing rock and gravel. These landscaping materials are easily lifted out of place by hurricane winds. They post a serious threat when hurtling through the air. Replace these materials with a softer material, such as mulch or dirt. 

For 24/7 emergency service, contact the professionals at 1-800-SERVPRO.

Deep Cleaning & Deodorizing Your Building's Trash Chute!

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly provides trash chute, dumpster, compactor cleaning, and deodorization services for commercial buildings in New Jersey.

Chute cleaning is essential for maintaining a commercial property's safety and air quality. Neglected chutes are hazardous. They often contain waste matter, bacteria-ridden food remnants, and other toxins. Such conditions provide an ideal nesting place for insects and vermin. If left unattended, your building may fall victim to an out-of-control pest problem.

Your trash chute should be cleaned at least once or twice a year, depending on how frequently it is used. Garbage chute cleaning should be considered routine preventive maintenance.

SERVPRO’s professional cleaning services will rid your building of these problems and eliminate the source of unpleasant odors from hallways and basements. To schedule a cleaning, contact SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly today at 609-326-3663.

Preventing Sewage Backups

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO: 50+ Years of Cleanup Experience

Sewage backups are a homeowner’s nightmare. They occur when sewer lines become obstructed, causing wastewater to be pushed back into the home. Sewage backups are most commonly found in basement drains, toilets, and bathtub drains. 

The thick, black water that forms as sewage contains contaminants and should be avoided. 

Knowing what causes sewer backups can help you prevent a hazardous situation. Follow these tips to avoid a sewage backup:

• Don’t pour grease down the drain. Cooking oil can harden inside your pipes, gradually creating a clog. Dispose of grease or fat, in a heat-resistant container instead.
• Dispose of paper products properly. Hygiene products such as paper towels, diapers, or feminine products can easily clog your sewer line. Always discard them in the trash.
• Install a new plastic pipe or cut tree roots. Prevent tree roots from damaging your sewer lateral (the line buried in your yard) by cutting the roots occasionally.
• Install a backwater prevention valve. This fixture allows sewage to leave but prevents it from backing up into your home. They are typically installed into a sewer line.

Substantial sewage backups must be addressed immediately. The cleanup experts at SERVPRO are on call 24/7 to respond to your emergency.

Hurricane Season Preparation Tips

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO: Faster to Any Disaster

Hurricanes bring numerous threats to life and property across New Jersey each Hurricane season. With June 1st just around the corner, now is the time to prepare your home and family. Follow these Hurricane  tips:

Develop an evacuation plan. Check your county’s website to find out if you live in an evacuation zone. Select a safety destination and plan several alternate routes.

Determine your flood risk. FEMA’s Flood Map Service is a free online tool for determining your property’s flood risk by zip code or street address. 

Assemble a supply kit. Prepare enough nonperishable food, water, and medicine to last each person in your family a minimum of three days (or longer, if space allows).

Review your insurance policy. Contact your provider to check your coverage. Homeowner’s insurance does not cover flooding. Many providers offer separate flood insurance.

Prepare and strengthen your home. Simple upgrades and retrofits can be inexpensive and may help you protect your home and minimize potential damage.

SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly has helped New Jersey homeowners recover from storm damage for more than a decade. Call the professionals at 609-326-3663 for emergency storm response services.

SERVPRO helps local stores prepare for the Summer season

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

Having a professional cleaning company deep clean your property regularly is the best way to keep it in top condition.

It's time to prepare for a busy Summer season! SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly helps local business owners refresh their commercial spaces with professional cleaning services.

Have Carpets or Floors Professionally Deep Cleaned

Ideally, carpets and floors should be deep cleaned on an annual basis. Colder months take a toll on your building's foundations. Consider how much mud, dirt, sand, and salt visitors may have tracked in. Late Spring is the ideal time to have your floors deep cleaned by SERVPRO.

Pressure Wash Outdoor Areas

High-traffic outdoor areas can collect grime, organic buildup, and dirt. A deep pressure wash can revamp the appearance of your building. Consider having the following areas washed:

• Sidewalks and walkways
• Courtyards
• Front entrances 
• Common areas
• Parking areas and garages
• Driveways 
• Patios
• Playground equipment
• Dumpsters
• Pool decks

Establish A Regular Cleaning Schedule

Having a professional cleaning company deep clean your property regularly is the best way to keep it in top condition. The team at SERVPRO can accommodate the specific needs of your property, Reduce your concerns about property cleanliness with regularly scheduled services from professionals you can trust.

The Power of Drying Mats!

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses air circulation to save wet wood floors.

In the aftermath of a water damage, SERVPRO professionals use specialized equipment, including industrial air movers and dehumidifiers, to completely dry up residual moisture. However, flooring constructed from porous material often calls for additional drying procedures. In particular, wood floors tend to soak up substantial amounts of moisture when flooded. If left untreated, this will cause the flooring to warp, swell and break down over time. Subfloor mold growth is common in these situations.

So, how do we salvage wood floors? At SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly, we bring in the drying mats! When attached to an air mover, a drying mat traps moving air, which gently circulates over the floor. This mechanism evaporates all traces of trapped moisture and leaves wood flooring completely dried. During this process, our team members carefully monitor the progress using moisture meters until the flooring reaches an acceptable level of dryness.

Sump Pumps & Homeowners Insurance

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

A battery backup allows your sump pump to operate even if your home loses power.

A flooded basement is a homeowner’s nightmare. A sump pump protects your home from heavy rains that leave behind structural damage.

A sump is a constructed pit, usually carved below the surface level of your basement floor. This pit holds the sump pump, which has valves that sense escalating water levels. When water levels get too high, the sump pump is activated. It pumps the water out of the basement and away from your property.

Most standard homeowners insurance policies will not cover water damage resulting from a sump pump failure. It is vital to regularly check that your sump pump is in good working condition.

A battery backup sump pump is a great way to provide extra security, as it allows your pump to operate even if your home loses power during a storm. As the water level rises in the pump basin, a float switch triggers battery operation, thus preventing sump failure. Battery backup installation costs $900 on average and may save you from covering costly flood damage out of pocket.

How Fast Can Mold Grow After Water Damage?

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

The rate at which mold grows depends on several factors.

Mold is a natural and essential aspect of our biological environment. However, it can also present a severe hazard when spores attach to a damp surface and begin to colonize.

Mold “colonies” can grow on just about any organic material once it has been saturated, including many materials commonly found inside the home. Commonly affected surfaces include wood, wallpaper, ceiling tiles, cardboard, carpets, drywall, fabric, and insulation.

Typically, mold will thrive in any area that is damp, dark, and warm. The rate at which it grows depends on several factors, including surface, temperature, humidity, and mold species. According to the EPA and the CDC, a general rule of thumb is that mold can start to develop on surfaces within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure. 

If left untreated, even minor water damage can quickly turn into an aggressive mold infestation. You should contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly immediately if you suspect your property may be at risk. 

Removing Candle Soot Damage at Home

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

The acidic nature of soot makes it difficult to remove.

The acidic nature of soot makes it difficult to remove. If you’re dealing with heavy soot, you’ll want to contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt.Holly. For light candle soot on walls, follow these steps:  

• Create ventilation. Soot can irritate your lungs. Start by opening a window, turning on a fan, and opening vents. 
• Wear personal protective gear. Protect your eyes, skin, and lungs from particles with safety glasses, gloves, and a mask.
• Pull furniture away from the affected area(s). This will prevent loosened particles from settling on your belongings.
• Use a dry cleaning sponge. Soot is easy to smear, so if you use a regular sponge, you’ll push it farther into the wall and cause a permanent stain. Dry cleaning sponges (also known as chemical sponges) are specifically designed to absorb residue, which makes them perfect for cleaning soot. They’re widely available in hardware stores, cleaning supply stores, and online.
• Wipe, don’t scrub. The key to removing soot is to wipe it, as scrubbing will only cause it to spread. Us downward and overlapping strokes to wipe the wall. After each stroke, check the sponge. Flip it over and use the clean side when it becomes clogged and full of soot. Switch to a fresh sponge as necessary. Do not rinse the sponge with water or it will become unusable for cleaning soot.
• Once the soot is removed, treat the remaining stain. Use a degreaser, such as a dish detergent. In a clean bucket, mix 2 tablespoons of liquid detergent with ½ gallon of water. Dampen a sponge in the mixture and use it to clean the stain. Gently rinse with water.
• Dry. Use a towel or rag to dry the area, then allow it to air dry for several hours.
• Vacuum. Use the long nozzle attachment on your vacuum to ensure any loose particles are removed.

Remember, this method only applies to removing soot from a very lightly damaged section of wall. Attempting to remove heavy soot yourself can be dangerous. The professionals at SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt.Holly are experts in smoke and soot removal, as well as odor abatement. For your complimentary cleaning estimate, call 609-326-3663.

What is Ghosting?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

The most common cause of ghosting is candle burning.

Have you noticed a faint discoloration on your walls? Or a dark, dusty residue on top of flat surfaces? Your home is being ghosted! 

Don’t worry, you’re not being haunted. Ghosting, otherwise known as “sooting” is very subtle soot damage. It is relatively common and typically harmless, aside from being an unsightly nuisance. 

Surprisingly, the most common cause of ghosting is candle burning. Although they appear to burn cleanly, scented candles produce tiny particles of soot. As the airborne particles settle, they combine with dust and cling to cool surfaces. Over time this creates noticeable staining.

If you simply can’t forgo the cozy ambiance of a lit candle, not to worry! There are ways to limit candle soot.

• Always trim your wick before lighting, especially if it has a mushroom shape. 
• Never burn your candle close to a wall. Place it on a table instead, away from flammable materials. 
• If possible, leave a window cracked to allow for ventilation.
• Use a snuffer or lid to extinguish the flame. Doing so will trap emitted smoke.
• Keep the flame still. A flickering wick will produce sooty smoke. Consider purchasing a lid-topper, which reduces the draft around your candle, allowing it to burn evenly. 

Aside from candle burning, other causes of ghosting include cigarette smoking, woodstoves and fireplaces, poorly tuned furnaces, kerosene heaters, propane logs, and unvented stoves. Regular maintenance of such appliances and proper ventilation will help reduce the issue.

Communication & Care | Why Customers Love SERVPRO

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is the #1 Choice in Cleanup & Restoration. What sets us apart from our competitors? Communication and Care.

Our highly-trained employees are committed to providing high-quality customer service. Don't believe us? Just ask our customers!

“Eric and his assistant did a great job removing the mold in my basement. Eric explained everything he was going to do and he did it well. They cleaned up everything and worked very professionally. I would use this company and recommend their services to anyone. All and all I was very satisfied.” - Edith

New Jersey home and business owners regularly rate SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly 5/5 stars on Google! To read more customer testimonials, check out our company listing here: SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly Customer Reviews on Google

Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover Storm Damage?

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Supplemental policies can offer extended coverage.

As a homeowner, you can take steps to protect your home from the unexpected, but you can’t control what the weather throws your way. Storms are unpredictable and can cause costly damage to your property. Homeowner’s insurance can lessen the challenge of repairing your home after a storm. It is important to remember that coverage varies by policy. 

A standard homeowner’s insurance policy typically covers the following types of storm damage:

• Windstorms & tornadoes
• Ice storms
• Hail damage
• Lightning strikes
• Wildfires
• Fallen trees
• Power surges

Damages caused by earthquakes and floodwater are not typically covered by standard homeowners’ insurance. However, supplemental policies can offer extended coverage. Property owners residing in areas prone to such natural disasters may want to consider adding supplemental insurance.

In the event of storm damage, you can rest assured that SERVPRO professionals will work closely with your insurance company to safely restore your home.

Creating Your Fire Safety Plan

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Involve children in the fire evacuation planning process.

According to the American Red Cross, most house fires occur during Winter. Now is the perfect time to create (or update) your family’s fire safety plan.

Follow these tips to perfect your plan:

Plan for everyone. Consider the physical capabilities of each member of your household. Assign a family member to assist each child or elderly adult in evacuating.

Involve children in planning. Draw a map of your home and have children mark two exit routes and the locations of smoke detectors. Make sure everyone knows that they need to get out immediately if the smoke alarm sounds.

Find two ways out. Visit each room of your home and identify two routes of escape. Doors and windows will be the most common routes- ensure they open easily. Install emergency release devices on security bars.

Designate a meeting spot. Decide on a meeting place outside, such as a neighbor’s house, mailbox, or stop sign. It should be in the front of the house so emergency responders can see you when they arrive.

Be visible. Ensure that your house number can be seen easily from the street by emergency responders.

Check smoke alarms. The National Fire Protection Association recommends installing them in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping room, and on every level of the home. Check alarms monthly and replace the batteries yearly. Install a new alarm every ten years.

Have a backup plan. If the planned exit routes are blocked and it’s impossible to leave the house, close all doors between you and the fire. Place a towel under the door and go to an exterior-facing window. Call the fire department to report your location.

Practice regularly. Practice and review your plan at least once a year.

When a house fire strikes, a few seconds can make a big difference to help you and your family escape safely. If your home has been damaged by fire or smoke, the experts at SERVPRO of Burlington/ Mt. Holly are here to help.

Why do the majority of house fires occur in Winter?

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

Prevention is key to keeping a fire-safe home.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, more home fires occur during Winter than in any other season. As leaders in fire damage cleanup & restoration, the professionals at SERVPRO know a thing or two about fire prevention.

Let's discuss the top causes of house fires.

Cooking is the leading cause of fires year-round. Most cooking is done indoors throughout the colder months. Thus, the likelihood of a kitchen fire increases during Winter. Remember never to leave the kitchen unattended while cooking, especially when using hot appliances. Keep paper products, towels, potholders, and other flammable materials away from the stove and avoid grease buildup by cleaning your stove often.

Heating is the second-leading cause of home fires. Space heaters are responsible for a large portion of Winter fires. Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable items. Never plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip.

Many of us use candles to decorate our homes in Winter. Be mindful of the placement of your candles. Most house fires started by candles occur when combustible material is too close to the open flame. Remember to keep candles at least three feet away from anything that might catch fire. It is unwise to leave a candle unattended. Be sure to extinguish lit candles before going to sleep.

The majority of dryer fires start because homeowners fail to clean the dryer. A buildup of lint and other materials causes fires because the unit cannot release heat properly. That heat buildup becomes the fuel to a hazardous fire. To prevent a dryer fire, clean out lint filters each time you use your dryer. It is best to have your dryer vent and ductwork professionally cleaned once a year.

Electrical lighting is another common cause of house fires. As you decorate your home with lights, be mindful of manufacturer instructions. Avoid overloading your outlet or power strip. There is a limit to how many strands of string lights can be connected safely. Replace any string strands with frayed wires or a worn appearance. Most importantly, turn off Christmas lights before leaving the house or going to bed.

Prevention is key to keeping a fire-safe home. Now would be an excellent time to practice your fire escape plan with your family! Call SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly for immediate cleanup and restoration if you experience a house fire this Winter.

SERVPRO Sponsors the Pet Fest!

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly was proud to sponsor the 2021 Paw Prints 5k and Pet Fest at Smithville Park! The event was hosted by the Friends of the Burlington County Animal Shelter. FOBCAS supports the county’s shelter and helps its animals find their forever homes. This year’s festival was well-attended, despite rainy weather. Community members enjoyed several pet-themed events, including a costume contest and agility course. More than 300 runners and walkers participated in the 5k and the 50/50 drawing raised over $120,000! At the SERVPRO booth, Karl the office dog looked handsome in his bright green scarf and attracted plenty of visitors. Our green-themed Doggie Giveaway raffle basket received more entries than expected! Kristi P. was our lucky winner. The SERVPRO marketing team had an awesome time meeting community members and their furry friends!

Is Your Business Ready If Disaster Strikes? Don’t Leave It To Chance, Prepare In Advance.

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

The Emergency Ready Profile includes a no-cost assessment of your facility.

2021’s hurricane season caught many New Jersey business owners off guard, forcing them to shut down for extended periods. Unfortunately, as many as 50% of businesses may never reopen after suffering a disaster.

The key to bouncing back from property damage is preparing for it in advance. Does your business have a response plan in place? We can help you develop one with a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile.

The Emergency Ready Profile includes a no-cost assessment of your facility. A SERVPRO professional will then provide you with the following items:

• A concise profile document that contains the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• Facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
• A guide to help you safely re-enter your building following a disaster.
• Direct contact with your local SERVPRO as your immediate disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
   
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.

Preparation and timing are critical when it comes to disaster response. The sooner mitigation begins, the easier it is to prevent further damage. By developing an Emergency Ready Profile with SERVPRO, you’ll be completely prepared to start repairs immediately in the event of a disaster.

Click here to get started on your Emergency Ready Profile.

Advantages of Commercial Sprinkler Systems

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

In the event of a fire, commercial sprinkler systems respond automatically to control the flame

A sprinkler system is a network of concealed pipes that supplies water to sprinkler heads located throughout a building. In the event of a fire, the system responds automatically to control the flame. Each sprinkler head will pump out about 25 gallons of water per minute. 

Although sprinkler systems are an essential safety measure in commercial properties, some property managers believe they do more harm than good. A common misconception is that they exacerbate property damage by causing unnecessary flooding. In fact, automated fire sprinklers substantially mitigate property damage and loss! 

According to NFPA, fire damage in structures with fire sprinklers is reduced by approximately 71%. That’s because fires in structures with automatic sprinkler systems are contained to the room of origin 97% of the time. Containing a fire is key to minimizing its destruction. By comparison, a fire that has spread throughout a building will require many thousands of gallons of water to extinguish.

Restore Your Rental

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians are trained to remove offensive odors.

If a messy tenant leaves your rental property in shambles, you may need professional help to clean and restore the home to a livable condition. SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt.Holly is here to help.

Professional Carpet Cleaning

Carpet can collect germs and allergens. Our professional cleaning services provide a deeper clean, adding longevity to your carpet and making them look fresher for new tenants.

Odor Removal

Former tenants can leave behind stubborn odors that may be bad enough to deter prospective renters. Pets, smoke, and pungent foods are common culprits. Don't allow offensive smells to keep your unit vacant. SERVPRO utilizes professional odor mitigation technology. Allow our team to inspect your unit and walk you through the process.

Thorough Sanitization

Ensure a safely sanitized unit with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. This defensive pathogen cleaning program goes way beyond standard cleaning practices to include fogging and surface disinfection.

SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt.Holly can prepare your rental property for a new tenant. Call us today at 609-326-3663 for your complimentary estimate!

Customer Appreciation Raffle: July

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO loves our customers and it shows!

To express our appreciation for the wonderful people we serve, SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly does a monthly Customer Appreciation Raffle. At the end of each month, one of that month's customers is selected at random to win a prize.

This month's prize: a $50 visa gift card!

July's winner: Tanisha

Tanisha's review of our services: "Very responsive when I called. Always updated me on the time frame. They were nice enough to wait while I picked my kids up from school. And even returned to move around the fans when I had a reflood. I felt like they cared and had my best interest!"

As always, we appreciate the kind and informative feedback! Congrats to Tanisha!

What Makes Flood Water Contaminated? Preventing Stormwater Pollution

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

What can you do to prevent stormwater pollution?

The next time a storm passes over your home, watch how the rain water moves from your roof, down your driveway and into the street. Some of it soaks into the soil to become groundwater and some evaporates into the air. But most of it will make its way to the nearest body of water. This is referred to as stormwater runoff. 

As it flows over the land, water picks up and carries pollutants, litter, and sediments. Along the way, excess fertilizers and pesticides, pet waste, motor oil and antifreeze, cigarette butts, and other debris on the streets all can hitch a ride. Anything dumped or dropped on the ground or in the gutter pollutes the water. For this reason, any flood water that penetrates your home is considered contaminated. 

This type of pollution is significant because, unlike the water that goes down a sink or toilet in your home, storm water is untreated and flows directly to a lake, river, or the ocean.

What can you do to prevent stormwater pollution? 

• Don't dump waste into storm drains.
• Keep yard clippings out of the street.
• Dispose of household chemicals properly by following the directions on the package or by calling the local public works department for proper disposal guidelines.
• Clean up oil spills and fix leaking automobiles.
• Use drip pans to catch engine oil and other pollutants while repairing cars.
• Recycle used motor oil.
• Sweep driveways clean instead of hosing them down.
• Water your lawn by hand, or adjusted sprinklers to avoid over-watering. If any water flows off your lawn, you're using too much water.
• Wash your car at a commercial car wash, or at least wash your car on an unpaved surface so the excess water can be absorbed by the ground.
• Drain swimming pools and spas into a sanitary sewer outlet, never into a street. Check first with your local wastewater treatment plant before disposing of anything in the sewer.

Grill Safety 101- Preventing Fire Damage

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

Avoid a fire damage with proper preparation and propane grill maintenance.

Warm weather has arrived in New Jersey and the grills are out! Don’t let a fire damage interrupt your Summer cookout. Avoid a fire damage with proper preparation and propane grill maintenance! Follow these 3 tips:

Clean your drip pan. When the drip pan under your cooking grids and burners becomes too full and heat reaches ignition temperatures inside your grill, a grease fire can occur. Drip pans are removable and should be checked and cleaned regularly.

Scrape your grids. Always scrape your cooking grids before or after every use. Dried on meat and grease are a breeding ground for bacteria and they can also cause dangerous flare-ups. Using your grill brush while the grill is still hot is the best way to keep your cooking grids clean.

Be prepared. Prevention is the best way to deal with a grease fire, but if one starts you need to have the tools on hand to put it out. Baking soda quickly cuts off the oxygen supply to the flame, so keep a box or two in or near your grill station, along with a fire extinguisher. Never use water to put out a grease fire as you can severely injure yourself and damage your home.

In the event of a fire damage, SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly has your back with 24/7 emergency service. Call 609-326-3663 for immediate assistance.

Our Team: IICRC Certified.

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly is an IICRC-certified firm.

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a standard-setting and training organization. Since its founding in 1972, the IICRC has grown to become the restoration industry's primary certifying body. There are currently thousands of certified firms and technicians across the globe.

The IICRC’s primary function is to educate restoration technicians on cleaning, remediation and mitigation procedures. Such training ensures techs are capable of the jobs they are tasked with. 

SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly is an IICRC-certified firm and all members of our production staff hold one or more IICRC training certifications. 

Why should you choose an IICRC-certified company?

The mission of the IICRC is to create and teach a set of standard practices and principles that promotes the health and safety of technicians and clients. It accomplishes this goal by creating standards for worker ethics, communication practices, and technical proficiency that all professionals must adhere to.

Our customers can rest assured that SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly's employees follow specific protocols to perform safe, efficient and high-quality work.

For more information on the standards set forth by the IICRC, visit their site: https://www.IICRC.org/page/IICRCStandards

Green Clean: EPA-approved Cleaning Solutions

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly uses EPA-approved cleaning solutions.

At SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly, we believe in protecting the environment and promoting sustainability. We exclusively use EPA-approved cleaning solutions. 

The Environmental Protection Agency is an agency of the federal government that formulates standards and enacts laws and regulations which promote the health of individuals and the environment. The EPA regulates the manufacturing, processing, distribution and use of chemicals and other pollutants. It also determines safe tolerance levels for chemicals and other pollutants in food, animal feed, and water.

EPA-approved products have been subjected to rigorous testing and meet or exceed standards set by EPA engineers and scientists. Approved have been deemed safe for humans, pets, and the environment.

Some cleaning companies may use toxic, harsh cleaning chemicals that leave behind harmful residue, pollute the air and contaminate water systems. At SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly, we’re committed to using “green” products that are safe for the environment. ALL of the cleaning agents we use are EPA-approved. Customers can be confident that when their home or business has been cleaned by us, it is safe for humans and pets.  

Choosing SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly to provide cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing services is a choice for a brighter, safer, cleaner, and more sustainable future. SERVPRO is a great corporate neighbor and a friend to the environment.

On the Job with SERVPRO: Flooded Ducts

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Water safely extracted and drained

Today our Project Manager Lennon was tasked with mitigating a residential water damage. A pipe burst in our customer’s home flooded her dining room and was resting in the ductwork below the floor.

First, Lennon and his team set up a dehumidifier to remove residual moisture from the air. Then they carefully cut back and removed the saturated carpet and padding beneath. Once it was stripped away, air mover fans were placed around the room to ensure the floor was completely dried.

This was a category 1 water damage, meaning the water was clean and could safely be drained out into our customers back yard. After removing the metal cover plate, Lennon lowered a hose down into the duct and extracted the water. To finish up, an antimicrobial was applied to prevent the growth of mold or other harmful bacteria.

Storm Damage Stats

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

How costly is storm damage?

The US endures numerous storms each year, including hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards and other extraordinary weather events. Powerful storms often result in significant property damage and loss of lives, and take a toll on local economies. In some cases, storm damage causes devastating and irreparable harm to local American communities.

Just how costly are storm damages?

Hurricanes cost the United States more than one billion dollars annually. According to the national hurricane center, the most economically devastating hurricane on record is 2005’s Hurricane Katrina, which cost $125 billion

Over a thousand tornadoes hit the United States every year, reaping devastating damage. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that 1,520 tornadoes hit the U.S. in 2019. Such storms take a significant economic toll, requiring billions of dollars in recovery funds. In 2019, tornadoes and thunderstorms resulted in $20.3 billion in insured losses.

Many Americans embrace winter weather with open arms but blizzards may result in severe property damage and lasting economic impacts as they damage personal and public property. Freezing temperatures and high winds test the stability of homes, buildings and other structures. Nearby trees and vegetation are also disrupted and may fall. In 2019 alone, winter storms caused $2.1 billion worth of insured damage in the United States.

Preventative maintenance can help reduce or eliminate the damage caused by many types of natural disasters. Homeowners insurance may help cover certain causes of storm damage, including wind, hail and lightning. However, damage caused by flood and earthquakes typically is not covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy. It's important to read your policy to learn what types of storm damage may or may not be covered.

The Danger of Unseen Water Damage

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Thermal imaging detects hidden water damage.

Water damage often occurs in areas that we can’t see – like behind walls, in ceilings and under floors. If left untreated, hidden damage can result in irreversible structural deterioration.

The following may indicate an undetected damage:

• A musty odor. Musty or earthy damp smells in a home almost always originate from water damage. Where there is moisture, mold is typically also present. Mold spores rapidly overtake porous materials such as wood and drywall within 24 to 48 hours of saturation.
• Sounds of water when nothing is being used. Listen at night, when the house is quiet, and be sure that you cannot hear any running water or sounds of dripping. One of the most common causes of a dripping sound behind a wall is a leaky pipe.
• Stains and spotting. Damaged walls and ceilings will eventually show discoloration, stains and spots. Leaky water supply lines, or water leaking in from the roof are the most common culprits of spots and stains on walls and ceilings. If the spots have a fuzzy appearance, or take on a very dark green/black color, it could be visible mold – which means trouble.
• Gradual changes to walls and flooring. If water is seeping into the subfloor from a saturated foundation or leaking pipes routed through the basement or crawl space, flooring will begin to show changes. Tiles may be loosened, linoleum can begin to peel, and laminate flooring can even warp. Evidence of water damage in the walls appears as peeling or bubbling paint, and cracking in drywall. As drywall absorbs water, it will begin to swell and retract, so any buckling or dimpling should also be noted and checked for water exposure. 

At SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly, have the capability to detect hidden water damage using tools such as thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters. If you suspect a hidden damage in your home, we can help!

Timing Is Everything: 24/7 Immediate Response

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

24/7 Immediate Response, the SERVPRO guarantee.

Property damage doesn’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly provides emergency cleanup and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. Day or night, you can depend on us to swing into action.

Why Is Immediate Response Crucial?

The short answer: to keep a bad situation from getting worse. In many cases an immediate response will help contain and minimize damage, thus reducing cleaning and restoration costs. The sooner the cleanup process starts, the better.

Here are a few immediate steps you can take to help speed up the process:

• Use technology such as alarms and or smart home monitoring systems that can be managed and monitored even when you are out of your home.
• Carry out simple DIY damage control such as switching off the mains (water and electricity).
• Remember this number: 609-326-3663

Preparing For Hurricane Season in NJ

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane Season: June 1st - November 30th

Hurricane season is fast approaching. Between June 1st and November 30th, tropical storms present a serious threat to properties along the East Coast. New Jersey is no stranger to the damage caused by such storms.

While you can’t control when or where a hurricane will hit, the best way to minimize potential damage is by staying prepared. Follow these hurricane and storm preparation steps to keep your home and loved ones safe before disaster strikes.

Make An Evacuation Plan. If evacuation is necessary, turn off all utilities and follow community disaster preparedness plans. Select a common meeting place for all family members. If you have pets, have a plan for their evacuation as well.

Secure Your Exterior. Trim large trees and shrubs and bring all outside patio furniture, potted plants, bikes and toys indoors. If necessary, secure outdoor sculptures with burlap or blankets tied with rope.

Install Storm Shutters. Protect windows, doors and skylights with storm shutters or impact-resistant glass. You can nail pieces of plywood to window frames as last-minute protection.

Move Your Car. Relocate cars to higher ground or park them in your garage against the garage doors. Do not park under trees, power lines or in low-lying areas.

Power Up. Fill your car’s gas tank, charge your cell phone, test your generator and have plenty of fuel ready in case of power outages.

Store Important Documents. Keep important documents, such as legal papers, birth certificates, marriage license, financial papers and insurance policy information, as well as valuables such as jewelry, in a safety deposit box or in a bolted safe in an interior closet in your home.

Prepare An Emergency Kit. Gather flashlights, a portable radio, extra batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, cash, blankets, clothing and toiletries.

Identify A Shelter Room. This enclosed area should be on the first floor, in the central part of the house with no windows. Avoid all unprotected windows and doors until the storm passes.

If your property is damaged by a storm, SERVPRO of Burlington Township & Mt. Holly can help. Visit for more hurricane preparedness information, visit www.ready.gov/hurricanes.

Vandalism Aftermath: Where to Start.

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Having your business vandalized is a devastating experience. SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly is here to set you on the road to recovery. Here’s where to start:

Your top priority is the physical well-being of you and your employees. Stay away from broken glass or damaged areas that could result in injury.

Contact the police as soon as possible. Start the paperwork necessary to report damages. Insurance companies often require official police reports for vandalism claims, making your call an essential step in unlocking your coverage.

Call your insurer to start an insurance claim for the damages. Your representative will walk you through the process of filing a claim, including documents you’ll need to gather and what you can expect as far as coverage. 

Take photos or video of any damage you can safely observe. This will provide your insurance company with thorough documentation. Include evidence of structural damage, like broken windows or holes in the wall, as well as broken inventory and commercial vehicles.

Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses to the vandalization. Ask them to write down or record what they saw. Pass this information along to the police and your insurance claims agent in case they need testimony or further details later.

Keep a written version of your losses by recording any property or merchandise that’s missing, ruined or damaged. Include the type of loss — for instance, fire or theft. Take inventory to catalogue what’s left and compare it to any records you might have compiled before the break-in. You can provide your claims representative or insurance adjuster with a copy of this inventory.

Setting your business back on track requires the difficult task of cleaning up and protecting your property from further damage. That's where SERVPRO comes in. We provide expert cleanup & repairs, all while working with your insurance to ensure your business gets back to running smoothly.

Water Damage Prevention: Maintaining A Durable Roof

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

A durable roof is one of the most effective preventions for storm-related water damage.

Maintaining a durable roof is one of the most effective preventions for storm-related water damages. The Spring season brings heavy downpours, so consider giving your roof some TLC. Here are a few steps you can take to keep your roof in the best shape possible.

Replace missing shingles. Cracked, bent, and missing shingles provide an opportunity for leaks. You might see this manifested as shingle debris in your yard, driveway, or downspout splash blocks. Or you might notice off-colored patches on your roof. 

Repair ponding areas. If you notice pools of water standing on your roof after it rains, you could have a big problem on your hands. Ponding leaves your roof vulnerable to rot, which in turn can cause all kinds of issues, including leaks. Flat and low-sloped roofs are obviously more prone to this problem than steeply-pitched surfaces—but it can happen anywhere.

Clean gutters regularly. Gutters serve the practical purpose of carrying rain runoff away from your roof and siding. So if yours are clogged and can’t function properly, you’ll see more standing water and moisture on roof surfaces. To keep your gutters running clean and clear, clean them or have them cleaned regularly.

For recommendations on roofing companies in our area, contact SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly today.

SERVPRO Values Customer Feedback

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO values customer feedback.

At SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly, we believe customer satisfaction is the key to running a successful business, which is why we routinely ask our customers for feedback. Whether they’re offering praise or constructive criticism, we want to hear it. Feedback helps us understand what we’re doing right and where we can improve.

We encourage each of our customers to share their thoughts by leaving an online review. The best place to review SERVPRO? Google Reviews! Reviews on Google are publicly visible, meaning they help other homeowners know that they can trust our company. Our reviews have helped us cultivate a positive reputation. To date, we have an outstanding overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars! 

To offer us your feedback, leave a review by following the link below.

SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt.Holly- Leave a Google Review

Large Water Damage @ NJ Rental Property

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

One of our technicians carefully removes the saturated carpet.

Substantial damage was caused by a sink overflow on the second floor of this rental property in Willingboro, New Jersey. The entire ground floor was deeply saturated, including the ceiling, walls and floors. Within a few days, mold growth covered the entire bathroom ceiling. In situations like this, hefty demolition is required.

A few things need to happen before the drying process can begin. First, all personal belongings must be carefully removed, inventoried and stored. Next, waterlogged materials are torn out and disposed of. Due to the substantial amount of damage, the demolition process will last several days. Finally, drying equipment will be placed to prevent mold growth.

Once demolition and drying are complete, we’re ready to begin the restoration process! Beforehand, our on-staff contractor will visit the site to provide the property owner with a precise cost breakdown. Then this property will be restored to its original condition!

Extraction & Mitigation: Understanding the Difference

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

In order to minimize the amount of water damage that occurs after a pipe leak, sewage backup, flood or other disaster, SERVPRO professionals employ several tactics. Extraction and mitigation are two distinct steps in the water damage restoration process. Both are designed to limit the effects of water damage to a property. How do they differ?

Water extraction is the process of removing standing water and excess moisture from the property using industrial strength wet/dry vacuums and powerful subversive pumps. Extraction speeds up the drying process and minimizes the risk of mold growth and secondary water damage. 

Water mitigation is the process of cleaning, sanitizing, and drying a property. This typically includes removal of unsalvageable contents, cleaning of the affected areas, application of disinfecting agents, and deodorizing and drying the structure. Affected structures, like drywall and flooring, may also be removed during this process. Technicians use diagnostic tools, like moisture meters, to help measure dampness levels. Commercial-grade equipment, like dehumidifiers, air scrubbers and air movers, are also set up to dry the water-logged property.

In the aftermath of a severe water damage, a combination of extraction and mitigation techniques can help restore your property to preloss conditions.

Pre-Listing Inspection Repairs

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Looking to sell your home? We can help.

In a home sale, there are two types of home inspections: a buyer’s inspection and a seller’s inspection (or a pre-listing inspection). Buyers traditionally arrange a home inspection. However, some sellers choose to have an inspection performed before listing their house, so they can fix any potential issues and save time in the closing process.

A pre-listing inspection could make the whole sales process faster and easier for everyone involved. Sellers are not obligated to fix issues discovered during inspection, but a buyer can also walk away if they’re not satisfied. 

Water and mold damages are some of the most common issues inspectors come across. We specialize in repairing such damages. Our services include:

- Correcting leaks

- Extracting standing water 

- Replacing wet or visibly moldy insulation

- Mitigating mold damage

- Removing musty odors & dehumidifying

At SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly, we can help get your home in shape for inspection and sale!

SERVPRO's Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS)

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

A house fire is a devastating ordeal. Once the flames are extinguished, the claim process begins. One of the most daunting tasks after losing your home to a fire is properly documenting your personal property to ensure you’re compensated fully for what you’ve lost. Completing a total loss inventory list is a high-stress task that must be performed carefully so as not to leave settlement dollars on the table. Allow SERVPRO to ease the worry and confusion of the recovery process with our comprehensive contents claim inventory service.

A content list for insurance claims is a household inventory that documents all your possessions. This list can be used to file a home insurance claim after a fire has damaged or destroyed some or all of your personal belongings. Our contents claim inventory service will provide your insurance with a detailed and accurate list of belongings. We’ll take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding. 

By entrusting SERVPRO of Burlington &  Mt. Holly to collect and inventory your belongings, you can reduce the time and cost of recovering from a house fire.

Water Damage Categorization & Contamination

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Water damages originate from many different sources. Each damage falls in one of three basic categories of water damage. According to the IICRC, these categories “refer to the range of contamination in water, considering both its originating source and its quality after it contacts materials present on the job site”. 

Category 1

Category 1 water damages originate from clean and sanitary water sources. These include faucets, toilet tanks, appliances, melting snow or water pipes. These types of  water damages are generally harmless to humans and pets. However, they can cause significant risks to your home if left untreated as the moisture may cause toxic mold growth in as little as 24 hours. 

Category 2

A category 2 water damage involves what is known as “gray water” or sullage. This type of water has not come into contact with fecal matter but may contain harmful contaminants that induce illness when ingested. This water originates from dishwashers, washing machines, showers, bathtubs and sinks. If left unattended, Category 2 water can turn into Category 3 in as little as 48 hours.

Category 3

Category 3 is the most dangerous classification of water damage. Known as "black water", it refers to wastewater that originates from raw sewage or even natural disasters such as floods. This type of contaminated water is a haven for bacteria, pathogens, harmful chemicals and disease-causing organisms. Due to the unsanitary conditions of the water, porous materials like drywall, upholstery and carpets are completely unsalvageable. Extremely careful measures are required to mitigate category 3 water damages. 

At SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly, we have the training and experience to mitigate your water damage, no matter which category it falls under.

Electronic Claims Information Center

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly, we strive to make working with insurance a breeze. That’s why we use SERVPRO’s comprehensive electronic Claims Information Center to monitor all insurance-covered damages.

From the cause of the claim, response times and the complete claim file, SERVPRO's Claims Information Center provides the most comprehensive mitigation reporting data available. The CIC provides fast, accurate information you need to make sound decisions, including:

• A Complete Electronic Job File.
• First Notice of Loss.
• Detailed Estimate.
• Digital Loss Photos.
• Scanned Forms and Paperwork.
• All delivered by email or hard copy.
• On-line Access to All Files.
• New Assignments.
• Pending Jobs.
• Completed Jobs.
• Informative Reports to Improve Results
• Job Cost Data.

• Performance Comparison to Industry Standard.

Each of our project managers are responsible for accurately maintaining this information. Our CIC helps customers save time and money when repairing their property damage!

Mold in Rental Units

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let mold harm your tenants. SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly provides mold testing & mitigation for rental spaces.

Under common law, landlords are obligated to maintain their rental property in a habitable condition. This means the building must be safe to live in. If the rental space develops a mold infestation, the landlord may be liable for injury or damage sustained by the tenants due to the mold.

Not all mold is dangerous to our health. It takes an expert to know whether a particular mold is harmful or just annoying. That’s where we come in. We have the capability to determine the specific type of mold. Once the mold type is determined, we have the tools and chemicals to safely remove and mitigate the damage.

A smart landlord will try to prevent the conditions that lead to the growth of mold in the first place. This requires maintaining the structural integrity of the property, including the roof, plumbing, and windows. If preventative measures fail and mold damage occurs, SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly is here to help.

Soot Damage Removal Techniques

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Chemical Sponge

Soot is the residue left behind after a solid material is consumed by fire. It can be powdery or flakey, depending on the contents of the burned materials.

The acidic nature of soot makes it challenging to remove. It cannot simply be wiped away with a regular rag or sponge. In fact, this may push it further into the surface you are attempting to clean. Removing soot requires specific tools and techniques. 

Our crew members employ several specially designed tools and chemicals to carefully remove soot. If smoke and soot lingers in the air, we place a HEPA500 air scrubber, which removes 99.97% of airborne particles. After vacuuming up dust residue, we use chemical sponges to gently wipe the soot from large surfaces. Contents and furniture require further detailed cleaning procedures.

This photo shows a chemical sponge, which is specially designed to be used in conjunction with SERVPRO chemicals to remove soot.

Chimney Blowback: Common Causes

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Chimney blowback results in heavy soot damage.

This photograph was taken at a recent soot removal job. Blowback from the home’s chimney covered the entire living room.

Blowback occurs when smoke blows down a chimney and into the home. This occasionally results in a layer of soot covering walls, floors and furnishings.

Why does blowback occur? The most common causes are related to ventilation.

Chimney Height. The higher the chimney, the stronger the upward draft. If a chimney is on the short side, the upward draft is weak. Negative pressure in the home is more likely to cause smoke blowback.

Chimney Damage. Any spots on the chimney where smoke could possibly leak out will prevent the formation of a strong upward draft.

Poor Ventilation. Sometimes smaller rooms lack the necessary airflow for a fire to get a good draw. In a small room, the fire is going to draw all the fresh air out, and then it won’t be able to suck any more fresh air in to keep the draft going.

Airflow Obstruction. If a chimney is clogged, or if there is something around it that is obstructing the air from exiting it, blowback is almost guaranteed.

At SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly our team is specially trained in smoke, soot and dust removal. If your home is damaged by blowback, give us a call at 609-326-3663!

Water-Damaged Carpeting- Can It Be Salvaged?

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO crew members pulling up a water-logged carpet.

Many homeowners enjoy the look and feel of wall-to-wall carpeting. Unfortunately, carpets are particularly susceptible to moisture from flooding and other sources of water damage. 

Not all moisture problems are visible, especially when they occur beneath flooring. The easiest way to identify a hidden moisture problem is by a foul odor that cannot be removed by regular cleaning. If you notice a musty smell permeating your home, you may be dealing with a moist carpet. If left unattended, harmful bacteria will accumulate and may cause sickness or allergy symptoms in family members and pets.

Can a carpet be saved once it has gotten wet? 

Any carpet that has been saturated by contaminated water must be discarded immediately. Floodwater is considered contaminated because it carries sewage and other harmful contaminants. Carpets soaked by rainwater can sometimes be salvaged, but only if the proper steps are taken. The general guideline is that rain-soaked carpets should be removed if they were wet for more than 24 hours.

At SERVPRO of Society Hill, we have the technical training and tools to determine whether carpeting can be salvaged. We perform carpet removal and we also provide carpet cleaning services. If you detect a carpet moisture problem in your home, we’re ready to help!

We Do Roof Tarps!

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

Prevent further damage by placing a roof tarp.

New Jersey is no stranger to dangerous storms and the structural damage they cause. Wind gusts, debris and fallen trees pose a serious threat to roofs. A compromised roof in the midst of a downpour guarantees water damage.

The quickest way to prevent this is by placing a roof tarp. Tarping will temporarily stop leaks and protect your home from the elements. When installed correctly, the tarp can shield your home from further damage. If you lack the experience to safely and properly secure a tarp, it is best to call on the professionals.

SERVPRO of Burlington County & Mt. Holly provides 24/7 emergency roof tarping services. If disaster strikes your home or business, we are ready to respond immediately to prevent further damage!

What to Avoid During A Thunderstorm

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

About one-third of lightning-strike injuries occur indoors.

When a storm strikes, our natural instinct is to seek shelter indoors. The CDC states, “When thunder roars, go indoors.” Even within the comfort of your home, a storm can still threaten your safety. According to the CDC, about one-third of lightning-strike injuries occur indoors.

Remain safe by avoiding the following while sheltering from a storm:

• Water. Lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing, so it is best to avoid contact with water. Do not bathe, shower or wash dishes until the storm subsides.
  
• Electronic Equipment. Lightning can also travel through your home’s electrical systems. Avoid using computers, game systems, washers, dryers, stoves, or anything connected to an electrical outlet. As an extra precaution, equip your home with whole-house surge protectors to protect your appliances.
• Concrete Surfaces. It’s best to avoid touching or leaning on concrete walls, or lying on concrete floors. Metal bars in the walls and flooring, combined with concrete, can conduct electricity and put you in danger.
• Candles. If you lose power, your first instinct may be to light candles. The issue is that candles can easily start a fire. To avoid possible dangers, use flashlights instead. They produce even more light and are way safer.
• Windows. While you may feel tempted to watch lighting from your window, it’s still unsafe. In a severe storm, the wind blows around objects that can shatter the window, putting you in danger. 
• Portable Generators. A portable generator is able to keep your electronics, like refrigerators or air conditioners, running, but they should never be used indoors. These machines emit carbon monoxide that can poison people and cause headaches, dizziness, weakness, and vomiting.

SERVPRO understands the dangers presented by powerful storms. If your home is damaged by severe weather, call 1-800-SERVPRO for immediate assistance!

Spring Is Headed Our Way!

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Strong winds can cause substantial roof damage.

Today is the first day of March and Spring is quickly approaching!

Spring is the time of year when many things change—including the weather. In New Jersey, Spring is a rainy, wet season with temperatures that swing back and forth between warm and frigid. Extreme weather changes sometimes happen within a single day. 

Whenever warm, moist air collides with cool, dry air, thunderstorms can occur. They cause lightning, flooding and strong winds, which may present significant hazards to your home.

When a home is damaged by a storm, it is vital to begin repairs quickly, but the risk of danger is high.  Before you try making repairs yourself, consider the benefits of contacting a professional.

At SERVPRO of Burlington & Mt. Holly, we’ve seen our fair share of storm damage, both to the interior and exterior of homes. When it comes to flooding, we specialize in extraction and drying. For structural damage, we offer emergency board up and roof tarp services. We pride ourselves on being faster to any disaster.

Make sure you’re prepared for whatever storms come our way this Spring- check out our storm services here!

Water Damage Resulting From House Fire

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Our team was on the scene after a fire consumed eight rowhomes in Philadelphia.

Water damage is an often unforeseen consequence of a house fire.

Last week, our team was on the scene after a fire in West Philadelphia ravaged eight rowhomes. Firefighters spent half an hour battling the blaze with multiple hoses. Once the flames were extinguished, we were ready to begin the clean-up process. 

Each of the structures were riddled with soot and flooded by the water used to put out the flames. After careful inspection, our team determined a partial demolition would be necessary for several of the homes. Others would require less hefty work, such as water extraction, dehumidification and odor abatement.

Once the initial work is completed, our in-house contractor will begin rebuild and repairs. We aim to have each of the eight homes back to preloss condition!

A House Fire in 5 Minutes

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

The speed with which a small fire can grow to engulf an entire home is incredible. A single flame can spread out of control within a matter of seconds. From there, it only takes 5 minutes for fire to consume an entire home. Let’s look at the progression of a house fire minute by minute:

30 Seconds

About half of all house fires begin at the stove. Stovetop flames spread with incredible ease, igniting nearby fat and grease residues in a fraction of a second. From there, kitchen combustibles (paper towels, potholders and rags) heat up, smolder and begin to burn, introducing toxic smoke. If caught within the first 30 seconds, the fire can be smothered using an extinguisher. 

1 minute

If the stovetop fire goes unnoticed, it rapidly grows higher and hotter as it begins to spread around the room. Within 60 seconds, many combustible items are consumed by flames. As the flames advance, a plume of hot air and smoke rises up and across the ceiling.

2 minutes

The hot plume of smoke begins to grow thick and deep beneath the ceiling. Carbon monoxide levels are dangerously high. Flames begin to spread outwards into hallways and adjoining rooms. Eventually, the fire will begin traveling through the vents.

3 minutes

In a little as 3 minutes, kitchen cabinets, wooden shelves, and countertops are completely consumed by the fire. With so many combustible materials, the temperature in the upper layer of hot gas reaches deadly levels- 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The smoke is now dense enough that it hangs just above the floor, and it is growing increasingly toxic.

4 Minutes

It only takes 3.5 minutes for the heat from a fire to reach 1100 degrees Fahrenheit. This level of heat can cause all materials in the room to spontaneously catch fire, meaning everything is engulfed in flames. As oxygen is sucked out of the room, glass windows shatter. Flames pour out of doorways and begin to burn ceilings and walls, traveling to other areas of the home at a rapid speed.

5 Minutes

Flames can be seen from the street. The collapse of wooden floors and even the roof is inevitable. Just 5 minutes after the initial spark, we have a full-blown house fire.

Evacuation

During a house fire, every second matters. It is essential to have an evacuation plan in place to keep you and your loved ones safe. Gather each member of your household together to create a plan. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes. Consider drawing a floor plan of your home and marking two ways out of each room, including windows.

In the event that a fire has occurred inside your home, you will need to have it professionally cleaned to ensure deadly smoke and toxins are safely removed. SERVPRO of Burlington / Mt. Holly is able to assist in the aftermath of a fire. Give us a call today to learn more about our fire cleanup & restoration services.

Recovering Cherished Items After a House Fire- The SERVPRO Advantage

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington/ Mt.Holly can safely restore your personal items to preloss condition.

One of the hardest parts about recovering from a house fire is deciding what personal items can be salvaged and what must be thrown away. It can be heartbreaking to discard damaged items that hold sentimental value. Luckily, we have the equipment and expertise to safely salvage your cherished belongings.

Belongings not damaged by fire may still be covered with smoke and soot, or may be soggy from water used to extinguish the fire. Such items require prompt and gentle attention to avoid further damage. The longer soot remains on an item, the more difficult complete restoration becomes. Although you may feel tempted, it is important to resist handling damaged items. The very fine particles in soot are exceedingly abrasive, meaning every touch will grind it further into an item. In order to safely preserve your keepsakes, allow us to carefully collect them. Anything you wish to recover will be carefully handled by our crew, using supports that enable us to safely carry fragile items.

At SERVPRO of Burlington/ Mt.Holly, we have the tools to clean and restore your cherished items. After closely inspecting the damage, we’ll proceed with one of the following cleaning techniques:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.

• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.

• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.

• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.

• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.

• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS)

Allow us to ease the worry and confusion of the recovery process with our comprehensive contents claim inventory service. A content list for insurance claims is a household inventory list that documents all your possessions. This list can be used to file a home insurance claim after a fire has damaged or destroyed some or all of your personal belongings. Our contents claim inventory service will provide your insurance with a detailed and accurate list of belongings. We’ll take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding. By entrusting SERVPRO of Burlington/ Mt.Holly to collect, inventory, clean and restore your belongings, you can reduce the time and cost of returning them to preloss conditions.

Servicing All Medical Facilities

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington/Mount Holly is servicing all medical facilities. From hospitals, doctor's offices, and even dental practices with all types of cleaning services. These include deep cleanings  for multiple bathrooms, kitchens or cafeterias. Also we provide top of the line bio hazard cleanup from our trained professionals. SERVPRO of Burlington/Mount Holly is the best in the business when it comes to cleaning services, and making the facility look pristine. We also specialize in fire and water damage cleanups. We want to take care of our community and want you to know that we are here for your home and business 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Give us a call, and we will have a crew immediately out to help and clean in any way possible to get the facility back to running during regular business hours. Trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Burlington/Mount Holly!

Staying Prepared In Commercial Buildings

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Better safe than sorry is an all too common saying that holds a lot of value. Especially when you are responsible for many lives in commercial buildings.  Here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly we want you to be prepared for the worst. SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly believes in being READY.  One of the first ways of doing this is to have an emergency supply kit.  It may be different depending on what type of disasters you are likely to encounter but this is a good starter list. Put these kits or supplies in easy to access areas for everyone in your building.

• Water ( one gallon water per person per day)
• Food ( non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Battery-operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal help
• Dust mask
• Hygiene items
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Manual can opener
• Local Maps
• Cell phone with chargers
• Cash
• Important documents
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches

We care about the well being of you and everyone that resides in the commercial building, so this is why we recommend taking the proper precautions in being ready. You never know what could happen but wherever you may reside in New Jersey, just know that SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly . 

Servicing all Commercial Buildings that Suffer a Water Damage

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events in Burlington County/Mount Holly 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.

SERVPRO of Burlington County/Mount Holly 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.

Dealing With Hurricane Season!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

We are in the midst of "Hurricane Season" and no matter how strong a storm is you can almost always count on damage! That's where SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly steps in at a moment's notice to help get you back on your feet. Although you will never be able to predict the extent of the storm, you can always be better prepared to deal with them while you ride it out. Here are some crucial prepping steps that you should take before a hurricane hits.

Preparing for a hurricane

• Stocking up with the essential items such as; extra flashlights,candles,batteries,sanitary water, non perishable food items, and a first aid kit
• Make sure you know the details if an evacuation is necessary. So that you an your family can make it out quickly and safely.
• Boarding up any windows or doors to minimize further damage.
• Generators although not needed can help. They provide electricity to you important household appliances, lights, and more.
• NEVER Run Generators inside the household! Carbon Monoxide gas can be deadly if built up in an enclosed area.

You can never be too prepared for a hurricane and the destruction it may bring! Hopefully these tips will help you get ready, and stay safe when the big one hits.

Fire Vandalism Clean Up

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly understands your hardships and wants you to know we have a staff that is willing to do whatever it takes to get you back up and running. This means providing services at any time during almost any situation at hand.  We are always there to help fix the disaster that has taken place

We offer all services from pressure washing graffiti off of walls to bio hazard cleanings to boarding up fires and rebuilding a facility. Our staff here can clean up the smoke damages by using chemical treatment and taking down charred and damaged structures. We can remove odor out of a building and extract water that may have came out of a sprinkler system. We can dry your structure so it does not grow any mold. If you already have mold then we offer remediation and treatment for it to keep you and the others around you safe. 

If you are looking for a company who can do it all SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly is here for you and will do whatever it takes to get the job done.

Vandalism Clean Up

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Although some graffiti may have artistic merit, it is plaguing cities throughout the world. These eyesores can hurt property values, and can be associated with an increase in crime.

According to the Bureau of Justice, graffiti is the most common form of vandalism, and its cleanup is burdening businesses and property owners, while taking a chunk out of municipal budgets. American cities spend an estimated $12 billion on graffiti cleanup each year, not to mention countless law enforcement resources.

Some of the most common graffiti targets include schools, businesses, public transportation vehicles and stations, utilities, shopping malls, and government buildings. 

With everything going on in the world today SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly offers Services where we can completely remove and clean the walls and floors of these buildings for affordable and reasonable prices. We understand you want your building and your city looking clean and respectable because your image is crucial to people returning or coming in your doors for the first time. 

Our experienced staff uses chemicals, pressure washers and heat to remove these unwanted tags to make it look fresh, clean and new. We care about your business and your establishment so do not hesitate to call us!

Sewage Back Up

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

If you have any type of property such as a residential home, commercial warehouse, building small or large you are bound to run into type of sewage problem. For smaller buildings and homes the actual damage may not be so large, but it can leave behind some not so pleasant smells. For the larger buildings that may be located in the city damages can come in all sizes. Especially when you are dealing with a main city sewage line. These can cause not only terrible odors, but huge cleanups as well. Whether a small or large scale backup, SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly is ready to dive in to get the waste out! Extracting whatever kind of waste is present is the first line of duty. Followed by extreme power washing to make sure no residue is left behind. If any is missed the smell with return and linger around. Finally after everything is washed and wiped down its time to get rid of that smell. Using special chemicals that are made to rid the area of the smell and keep it that way! When stuck in a sticky and smelly situation call on SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly to do the dirty work!

Emergency Ready Profile

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO always tries to prevent what we can and try to do the least damage to property or home when disaster strikes. One big advantage the we have is what we call an ERP. What is an ERP you ask, well it stands for Emergency Ready Profiles. These are very beneficial to property manager and building engineers in large commercial buildings. Having a ready plan in place can save your business and building. A trained professional from SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly will walk through your building with you and fill out all the information needed. After completion all you have to do is download an App on your phone or tablet, and you have all the information one click away. Paper versions are also available. These ERP's come in handy when an emergency occurs and someone not familiar with the building needs important information. Changes and updates can always be made through the App whenever they may occur. This is all done at no charge to you or your building. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Protect Your Home From The Storm!

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly we care about the safety of you and your loved ones and your home. Storms can be devastating and leave you with nothing. We want to educate you on some popular questions people ask when a storm of any kind comes through a home. 

• Find your loved ones. ...
• Don't go home until it's safe. ...
• Document the damage. ...
• Contact your insurance company. ...
• Apply for assistance. ...
• Stay out of the water. ...
• Prevent further damage. ...
• Listen to local clean up news and advisories.

Standard homeowners policies cover wind damage. So, if hurricane winds or tornadoes wreck your home, you should be OK. However, if a storm surge or flood carries off your house, a standard policy won't make you whole. You'll still have a mortgage if your house is destroyed by flooding.

Fill your bathtub with water, unless you have little children. This water can be used for drinking, washing, and flushing the toilet. Water supplies are often compromised by hurricanes and either become undrinkable or stop flowing.

• Stay out of floodwater.
• Never use a wet electrical device.
• If the power is out, use flashlights instead of candles.
• Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Be careful near damaged buildings.
• Stay away from power lines.
• Protect yourself from animals and pests.
• Drink safe water. Eat safe food.

If you have no flood insurance, FEMA's IHP grant will help you in a specific set of ways after a flood or other disaster. ... This is much less coverage than NFIP flood insurance, which covers up to $250,000 to repair or replace your home and belongings.

Most important after you know your family is safe, call SERVPRO to help you get your life back together. 

Water Damage Experts

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

Equipment Set Up

Here at SERVPRO, we deal with all types of water losses. Whether it is a residential home water leak or an indoor pool flooding multiple floors in a building. This particular photo is showing the drying process of a luxury high rise condo. Fans were set up the length of the hallway in order to get a full circulation of air running. The venting hose is hooked up to a desiccant that is filtering the air the runs through it. To ensure that everything is completely dry this process usually takes up to 3 days to fully complete. We come back every day after the loss to ensure everything is drying properly and take moisture readings and check the humidity because we want you up and running as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly responded to this call in no time at all and had equipment set up immediately after we pulled up all the water off the floor from a burst pipe before the hard wood could start buckling. We are always ready to go 24 hours a day 7 days a week so whatever the damage may be SERVPRO is waiting for the call and ready to go. 

Storm Damage Safety

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Storms such as hurricanes or tropical storms can be very dangerous and very frightening. SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly wants you to be safe and aware of everything you can do to prevent more danger. 

Safety precautions indoors

• Avoid water during a thunderstorm. Lightning can travel through plumbing.
• Avoid electronic equipment of all types. Lightning can travel through electrical systems and radio and television reception systems.
• Avoid corded phones. ...
• Avoid concrete floors and walls.

Review your emergency plan with your family and support staff and post the written plan on an easily accessible bulletin board.

• Stay inside during thunderstorms and blizzards.
• Use flashlights instead of candles.
• Call the power company right away.
• Unplug as many big appliances as possible.

Protecting yourself

• Avoid using corded phones and electronics such as computers or power tools. ...
• Don't use your cell phone during a thunderstorm.
• Don't wash your hands, shower, wash dishes or do laundry. ...
• High winds and hail can shatter glass, so stay away from windows, skylights and doors.

Lightning 30/30 rule: If it takes less... Lightning 30/30 rule: If it takes less than 30 seconds to hear thunder after seeing the flash, lightning is near enough to pose a threat; after the storm ends, wait 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.

Those are just some simple tips and knowledge to keep you safe as possible. 

Learn About COVID-19

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly wants you to be educated on the current pandemic that is going on in the world today and ways to keep you healthy. 

In COVID-19, 'CO' stands for 'corona,' 'VI' for 'virus,' and 'D' for disease. Formerly, this disease was referred to as “2019 novel coronavirus” or “2019-nCoV”. There are many types of human coronaviruses including some that commonly cause mild upper-respiratory tract illnesses.

Your doctor will determine if you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and whether you should be tested. In the early stages of infection, it is possible the virus will not be detected. For COVID-19, a negative test result for a sample collected while a person has symptoms likely means that the COVID-19 virus is not causing their current illness.

Remind everyone in your household of the importance of practicing everyday preventive actions that can help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily (e.g., tables, countertops, light switches, doorknobs, and cabinet handles) using a regular household detergent and water

Avoid sharing personal items like food and drinks. Provide your sick household member with clean disposable facemasks to wear at home, if available, to help prevent spreading COVID-19 to others. Clean the sick room and bathroom, as needed, to avoid unnecessary contact with the sick person.

SERVPRO wants you to know what we are up against and to stay safe. 

Commercial Water Fire Mold Damages

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

The image your commercial property portrays can speak volumes about your business or building so when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

We as SERVPRO are available 24 hours a day to get your business back up and running. Some of the things our expertise includes are restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold remediation. 

Whether your need is removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can depend on SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly to get the job done right the first time. They’ll respond promptly and make your work space look its very best. Learn more about our Commercial Cleaning Service.

Fire damage can be very devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, water damage caused by firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Every hour spent restoring your business back to the condition prior to the fire is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If you have a fire emergency, call SERVPRO as soon as possible!

Commercial Cleaning Services

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly is being called on by numerous businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect and sanitize their properties. SERVPRO uses EPA approved products and follows the CDC guidelines cleanup practices. If you are interested in inquiring about our services we’re here to help – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, while life gets back to normal in the communities we all call home. 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 meet this standard and carry the EPA-registered 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. SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. 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 at a minimum. These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces.

Common House Fires

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

It is very easy to forget that you left the iron on went to bed with a lit candle and forgot but house fires should be taken very seriously. No one knows that more than SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly. We know the process to get you back on your feet can be tough not to mention the danger it brings to you and your family. 

Here are some tips to prevent a common house fire.

1. Stay in the kitchen. Don't leave a hot cooking surface unattended. ...
2. Check the dryer. ...
3. Maintain electrical cords. ...
4. Know your shutoffs. ...
5. Store flammable products properly. ...
6. Be careful with candles. ...
7. Be a conscientious smoker. ...
8. Use the fireplace responsibly.

Fires start very easy and can you guess the most common way?

Other common causes of home fires include overuse of appliances, home heating systems, and children playing with fire. Faulty or over-used appliances can easily cause a fire with just a few sparks.

Where are home fires most likely to start? Home fires are more likely to start in the kitchen than any other room in the home. The second leading cause of home fires are heating sources like wood stoves, and fireplaces. Fires caused by smoking are the leading cause of deaths.

Take this advice and use this information as a learning experience.

Storm Damages and Restorations

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

Storm damages can be very scary and can take a while to recover from. SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly has done quite a few clean ups after some storm damages. Here are some good things to learn about storms. 

According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, thunderstorms can cause damage due to high winds, flash flooding from rain and from lightning strikes. Strong thunderstorms can also spawn tornadoes, which can cause massive destruction to personal and business property.

According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, thunderstorms can cause damage due to high winds, flash flooding from rain and from lightning strikes. Strong thunderstorms can also spawn tornadoes, which can cause massive destruction to personal and business property.

After a hurricane hits a coastal area, it can travel inland. At this point, the storm has typically weakened, but it can still cause damage. Torrential rains from the storm can cause rivers to flood their banks and mudslides to form. Around the world, about 10,000 people die each year in hurricanes and tropical storms.

Homeowners insurance may help cover certain causes of storm damage, including wind, hail and lightning. However, damage caused by flood and earthquakes typically is not covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy.

Storms have the potential to harm lives and property via storm surge, heavy rain or snow causing flooding or road impassibility, lightning, wildfires, and vertical wind shear. Systems with significant rainfall and duration help alleviate drought in places they move through.

Stay Safe!

Educate Yourself On Mitigation

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly wants everyone to understand what consists of a water damage and understand what it takes to get your property back to normal. 

Full restoration consists of two major phases. The first, mitigation, consists of occasional demolition, cleaning and drying out the structure and belongings. This phase usually takes no more than 3 – 4 days.

Causes of water damage include:

• Bursting or leaking pipes.
• Issues with the plumbing system.
• Buildup in areas prone to collecting water, such as crawl spaces, attics and basements.
• Faulty or malfunctioning household appliances.
• HVACs (Heating, ventilating and air conditioning units) issues.

If left untreated, water damage can permanently weaken your home's structure or cause you and your family to become ill. Even a little bit of moisture can attract whole colonies of mold or bacteria.

Within 1 to 24 hours – When water damage lasts for 1 to 24 hours, drywall begins to bulge and break, furniture begins to swell and crack, and metal surfaces begin to tarnish. Within 2 hours to 7 days – You will experience growth and spread of mold and mildew.

It is safe to say that a water damage should be taken seriously and not let untreated. If you ever have to experience this, be sure to call SERVPRO!

Educate Yourself on Mold

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly wants you to understand what mold is and how to spot it to keep you safe so you know to call us for a remediation. 

With that definition, Mold Abatement means the ending of mold or removing mold from your home or business. Remediation means the action of remedying something, in particular of reversing or stopping environmental damage. ... We are removing the mold which is remediating the mold situation which is ending it, abatement.

The cleanup process is the same for Level 1 and Level 2 mold remediation and comprises these steps:

• Repair the water problem. ...
• Isolate the contaminated area. ...
• Suppress dust. ...
• Remove materials. ...
• Place materials in plastic bags. ...
• Clean. ...
• Clean the affected area and egress. ...
• Visibility test.

50-200 spores – still very low levels; the toxic mold species Stachybotrys and Memnoniella are the only species to be considered an issue at this level. 200-500 spores – the most common species (Penicillium/Aspergillus, Cladosporium and Curvularia) are not an issue and stay within the normal range.

If you think you have seen any of this make sure you call us out for an estimate!

Why Choose Us

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Fires can be very sudden and can happen at any time. Having to evacuate your home because of a fire may be one of the most scary things that can happen to a homeowner. It means that you could be in incredible danger, and it might mean that your home could be completely lost. An evacuation means you have to move quickly and effectively, while making sure that nothing is forgotten. That means having a plan set out ahead of time so you are prepared to go at a moment’s notice. Here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly we care about your well being more than just your home being put back together by us after a fire. It is important to us that you take the time out of your day as soon as possible and get together with your loved ones and put a plan in place where you have steps and procedures to get out safely and everyone understands what they must do in case the it does happen. It is better to be safe than sorry and that is why you should chose SERVPRO because we want the best for our customers and hope they never have to experience something worse because there were no precautions.

We Are The Cleaning Professionals

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

Contact us at (609)326-3663

Email: office@SERVPROsocietyhill.com 

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 Burlington Township / Mount Holly at 609-326-3663

Email: office@SERVPROsocietyhill.com

Why Choose Us

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Imagine returning home from a wonderful vacation with your family, only to find that your home has been damaged! Weather it was vandalism, water/ storm damage, or fire damage. Most people think it could never happen to them, and don't know who or where to turn to first in the event of such a tragedy. Look no further, here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly whatever the damage or loss may be its our duty to restore your house back to normal. These problems occur more often than not, because people don't take the right precautions before leaving there homes for an extended time. Here are a few tips how to keep your house safe when your on vacation.

• Make sure all doors an windows are locked an secure
• Have a neighbor or relative keep an eye on your house, and make it appear as if your home is still being lived in
• Unplug unused electronics to prevent fries 
• Turn off the main water source in the case of a pipe burst to minimize damage

Following these steps may not stop all accidents from happening, but it will lower the chances greatly!  SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly is always one call away if an incident at your home does occur. 

Storm Damage Tips

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

No matter how much preparation or planning, there is no telling what damage a storm can leave behind! Collapsing roofs, broken windows, hazardous debris, and standing water in your home are just a few risks that can be left behind. Along with possible mold growth from water getting into carpets and furniture. Following these steps after a storm strikes will help keep you and your family safe.  If you smell any gas shut off the gas line.  Look out for any broken glass, sharp objects, or nails that could cause a risk.  While taking these immediate precautions, contacting a reputable restoration company such as SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly as soon as possible to help in the recovery process. Next you will want to photograph any damage they may have occurred to have on record for your insurance company, as well as contacting your insurance company to get an adjuster out to survey the damage. After all these steps are take just leave the rest to SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly to clean up any mess no matter the extent.

Take Water Damages Seriously

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know it only takes 1 to 2 inches of water to begin damaging your property?  Any type of water leak no matter the size can turn into a much lager damage if not treated when discovered.  Unseen water can soak through carpets, walls, and pool on sub-floors causing big problems over time. The faster water is removed, the less chance of possible serious damage.  That's why SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly is ready to spring into action anytime or day to prevent these damages.  With the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, the effected area is quickly and thoroughly dried.  This is important to prevent secondary water damage from occurring. Water that is hidden can also contain bacteria and causes mold growth. This can cause rotting along with a big health hazard.  A mop and common box fan will not fully take care of water damage issues.  That's why it is very important to contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly for any water damage recovery.  The faster you act upon a damage the easier and less stressful the cleanup will be.

Learn About Clean Up

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

There are a lot of factors that go into a clean up after a water damage but here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly we are here to educate you. The water damages materials. Wallboard will disintegrate if it remains wet too long; wood can swell, warp, or rot; electrical parts can short out, malfunction, and cause fires or shock.

Mud, silt and unknown contaminants in the water not only get everything dirty, they also create a health hazard.

Dampness promotes the growth of mildew, a mold or fungus that can grow on everything.

The following steps work on all three of these problems. It is very important that they be followed in order.

Lower the humidity: Everything will dry more quickly and clean more easily if you can reduce the humidity in the home. There are five ways for you to lower the humidity and stop the rot and mildew. But you'll have to delay using some methods if you have no electricity.

Open up the house: If the humidity outside is lower than indoors, and if the weather permits, open all the doors and windows to exchange the moist indoor air for drier outdoor air. Your body will tell if the humidity is lower outdoors. If the sun is out, it should be drier outside. If you have a thermometer with a humidity gauge, you can monitor the indoor and outdoor humidity.

On the other hand, when temperatures drop at night, an open home is warmer and will draw moisture indoors. At night and other times when the humidity is higher outdoors, close up the house.

Open closet and cabinet doors: Remove drawers to allow air circulation. Drawers may stick because of swelling. Don't try to force them. Speed drying by opening up the back of the cabinet to let the air circulate. You will probably be able to remove the drawers as the cabinet dries out.

Use fans: Fans help move the air and dry out your home. Do not use central air conditioning or the furnace blower if the ducts were under water. They will blow out dirty air, that might contain contaminants from the sediment left in the duct work. Clean or hose out the ducts first.

Run dehumidifiers: Dehumidifiers and window air conditioners will reduce the moisture, especially in closed up areas.

Black and Toxic Molds

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Black and Toxic

Here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly we want you to learn about common misconceptions about mold. The term "black" mold is misleading at best. First, while the terms "toxic" and "black" mold are commonly used interchangeably, only one is recognized as black mold by most professionals: Stachybotrys chartarum, sometimes called Stachybotrys atra. Other common indoor toxic molds include - but are not limited to - Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Alternaria. Furthermore, Stachybotrys isn't actually black, but a greenish-black color instead. Finally, with more than 100,000 known types of mold, many of them are black. Unless they are Stachybotrys, however, they aren't "black" mold and may not even be toxic.

Mycotoxins

Another misleading term is "toxic." As the Centers for Disease Control explains, the mold itself isn't actually poisonous. Some molds are, instead, "toxigenic, meaning they can produce toxins (specifically mycotoxins)." These chemical compounds sometimes attach to mold spores - reproductive seeds - and drift away in search of a new home. When they are inhaled, they may cause health effects. Fortunately, mold generally only releases spores when it is disturbed, such as by the breeze of a closing door or the vibration of a pounding hammer. In addition, the mold doesn't release mycotoxins constantly, so even if spores are released, toxins may not. However, any mold is never healthy in a home - much less Stachybotrys - especially for individuals with lung problems, compromised immune systems or simply allergies to mold.

Water Damage Tips

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

If your home has suffered water damage, you’re not alone. SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly is with you when it comes to water damage repair, there are some tips you should know. Read on to learn all about what you should do if you have water damage.

Whatever the cause of your water damage the important thing is to act quickly. Water damage can begin to have permanent serious consequences for you, your family and your home within 24 hours. As well as the damage to your property, there are also health risks.

Assuming the water source is no longer a threat and you have shut down any electricity supply, now is the time to act to prevent further damage and start repairs. Save any valuables and undamaged belongings.

It’s as well to check your insurance. If you have cover for the repair of water damage you may have terms in your insurance that you must follow in order to be able to claim from your insurance. Make sure that you don’t invalidate your insurance simply by not following their instructions.

Take photographs of the damage. They may be useful later.

Water damage can be from three main types of water. Each type requires a different response.

Clean water, from leaking pipes, rain or condensation is the easiest water damage to clean up. Once you have identified the source and prevented any further damage, you may be able to mop it up and remove any damaged materials yourself. You probably won’t need specialized help unless there has been a lot of water.

Grey water is slightly dirty water. It comes from appliances such as a washing machine or dishwasher. Again, you can probably clean small spills up yourself if it is recent but if this has backed up.

Sewage or flood water from rivers is known as black water. This contains bacteria and other waste products that can be hazardous to health. Specialized personal protective equipment and methods are needed to handle black water damage.

Water damage repair can be as simple as drying out a carpet after a burst pipe or as complex as recovering from a major flood. Assess the task and if necessary consult experts. Above all, act now.

COVID-19

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly we care about our customers and we want do do everything we can to keep you healthy. That is why we are going out of our way and working all hours of the day and night to clean and prevent COVID-19 or better know as the Coronavirus. 

We provide preventative cleanings if you want to stay ahead of the curve and suspected and confirmed site cleanings if you believe someone has the virus or been around someone that has contracted it. This cleaning protocol is based on the current CDC guidelines. It can be anything from a common area lobby, a warehouse factory, a health club to even an entire building top to bottom. Our goal is to keep everyone safe and healthy and provide a service that makes people feel some sense of normality so people can go home safe to their loved ones.

These cleanings consist of using specific chemicals that kill the virus and wiping every square in on the area down while wearing PPE to protect ourselves from spreading it. If you have any concerns of the virus then please feel free to call SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly today!

COVID-19 Commercial Cleanings

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

The world is experiencing some troubling times in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, and could see it continue in months to come. SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly is here to help in anyway we can in controlling the spread of the virus. We have been getting a lot of calls regarding cleaning/disinfecting larger commercial areas. Here are some guidelines as well as links to information for these cleanings. 

- We can perform proactive and confirmed cleanings. SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly's request for proactive cleaning authorization clearly states  "While we will follow these protocols to clean and disinfect, due to the nature of certain surfaces, we cannot provide assurances that all pathogens will be eliminated, including corona-viruses. Of course, any area may be infected later if exposed to someone who is contagious with any pathogen. It is important that you continue to follow CDC’s recommendations found on their website. For example, it is important that you continue to perform routine environmental cleaning. This includes routinely cleaning with effective and approved cleaning agents. Use all cleaning products according to the directions on the label. In addition, provide disinfectant wipes so that commonly used surfaces can be cleaned before each use." which is basically a limitation of liability so that if someone enters the site after the cleaning and infects it we cannot be held accountable. From everyone at SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly stay safe,wash your hands, and just take it easy in these hard times.

Fire and Soot

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

It is not very hard to figure out if and where you have smoke damage in your home after a fire.  Most commonly you will have discolored walls or ceilings, ash or soot on the floor, and charred items.  Besides the visuals, smoke damage can also produce odor and other side effects that can damage property and health.  Although smoke damage usually is noticeable right away, sometimes it does take a few days to surface.  Another precaution to be aware of after a fire is that your electrical system could have easily been damaged as well. Electrical damage can range from signs of corrosion, experience of short circuits or just complete failure.   Certain parts of a room may experience more damage than others. Ceilings are most common because of how heat rises. Also nail heads in the wall and ceilings will attract smoke particles.  A fire will continue to cause issues even after it has been extinguished, don't put you or your family's health at risk.  Contact SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly to help in any fire or smoke cleanup.  It's always important to act quickly to minimize the health risks as well as repairs to be done on the house. 

All Types of Fire

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to personal property and structures. Quick action is the only way to minimize the destruction. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, IICRC, is a globally recognized organization whose mission is to establish higher industry standards. As a referral source for consumers, IICRC certified firms are more likely to provide a faster, better service than non-certified competitors. Restoration costs increase and damages escalate when the cleaning process is extended. By hastening the hiring process and using an IICRC certified technician, owners will be rewarded by having the damage stopped so repairs can begin. What happens only minutes after the disaster? Immediately after a fire, soot residue settles onto the property. Discoloration of porous materials is permanent, but other surfaces may be properly cleaned to remove the discoloration. Acidic soot begins staining other surfaces if not treated quickly. Within hours all surfaces begin to suffer from fire and smoke damage. Wooden furniture may require refinishing. Metal begins to rust, pit and corrode. Painted walls begin to yellow. Clothing can become permanently stained. And finally, flooring may require refinishing or replacement. If left untreated, within weeks the restoration process will take longer and cost more. Prolonged soot exposure permanently harms all surfaces and embeds in fibers. Replacement of property may be the best option at this point. The structure may continue deteriorating if not properly restored by SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly.

How to handle common molds that survive in your home

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

There are many different types of mold. A common one that can be growing inside your home is known as Botrytis mold, also known as gray mold. It can be found almost anywhere that plants are being grown including inside your home. It can spread easily through wind and water, and grow on a variety of surfaces. It first appears as a white fuzzy color rapidly turning to gray, and sometimes even brown. Like most molds Botrytis thrives in moisture and attacks the weak part of a plant and spreads to the healthy areas. Some frequent household foods that are affected are strawberries, grapes, lettuce, onions, and cabbage. Botrytis mold is highly allergenic. Because of all these issue, it is very important for this mold to be removed right away. At first sight any infected plant must be removed and disposed of to stop any further growth. To make sure your home is completely mold free contacting SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly is a smart decision. Our experts will run mold tests and make sure that all mold growth is found and removed properly. Leaving your home mold free and a safe environment to live in.

Tips for water damages to your bedroom furniture

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can affect just about any household item.  One that can be a real pain to deal with is your mattress.  Before you start to take the steps to recovery you may want to decide if it is worth it.  Some things you may want to consider are the price and age.  If you have a cheaper or older mattress it may just easier to get a new one rather than restore the wet one. Depending on the material of the mattress it may be a lot more difficult to dry out cotton, foam, or rubber ones.  Mattress's with springs dry out much easier.  Finally the extent of the damage, sometimes it's just to serious and easier to get rid of the mattress. It is important to act quickly if you decide save the mattress.  Calling SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mt Holly will save you a lot of pain and struggle.  Having the proper equipment to dry out the mattress properly.  SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mt Holly will have your mattress completely dry and odor free in no time!

We are the best for Storm Cleanups

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly has dealt with our fair share of storms over the years. We all know how devastating something such as a hurricane can be especially when you may live by the water. Flooding and then mold occur and can completely ruin your home, building, or business. SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly takes pride in how we come together across the country to help those in need. We have traveled far and wide for the largest of damages. We understand how important it is to get your life back together so with all the franchises across the country we band together to get towns, cities, states back up and running. With our tractor trailers of equipment and vehicles filled with employees ready to repair everything as soon as possible. We understand your property hold value to you in more ways than one and we want you to have that comfort knowing we care and we go the extra mile to handle a disaster recovery. Just know that you can call SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly for any job no matter how big or how small. We can handle it!

Tips on how to handle the mess and stress after the storm

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

No matter how much preparation or planning, there is no telling what damage a storm can leave behind! Collapsing roofs, broken windows, hazardous debris, and standing water in your home are just a few risks that can be left behind. Along with possible mold growth from water getting into carpets and furniture. Following these steps after a storm strikes will help keep you and your family safe.  If you smell any gas shut off the gas line.  Look out for any broken glass, sharp objects, or nails that could cause a risk.  While taking these immediate precautions, contacting a reputable restoration company such as SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly as soon as possible to help in the recovery process. Next you will want to photograph any damage they may have occurred to have on record for your insurance company, as well as contacting your insurance company to get an adjuster out to survey the damage. After all these steps are take just leave the rest to SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly to clean up any mess no matter the extent! 

Important Notes for when the fire is finished

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Fire's can bring a wave of emotions after a they burn through a home. Long after the flames and smoke have been extinguished. Families are still faced with the stress, fear, and uncertainty about the future of the home or property. So after the firefighters have put the flames to rest, it's good to know what and what not to do until SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly comes in for the mitigation process. Here are some tips of what can be done before help arrives:

Limit movement in the area to prevent soot particles from spreading.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
Place clean towels or or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
Do not wash walls or painted surfaces.
Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
Do not clean any electrical equipment.
So, before you risk causing more damage by attempting to clean up fire damage yourself, follow these steps and call the experts of SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly

We are Storm Disaster Cleanup Specialists

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly has dealt with our fair share of storms over the years. We all know how devastating something such as a hurricane can be especially when you may live by the water. Flooding and then mold occur and can completely ruin your home, building, or business. SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly takes pride in how we come together across the country to help those in need. We have traveled far and wide for the largest of damages. We understand how important it is to get your life back together so with all the franchises across the country we band together to get towns, cities, states back up and running. With our tractor trailers of equipment and vehicles filled with employees ready to repair everything as soon as possible. We understand your property hold value to you in more ways than one and we want you to have that comfort knowing we care and we go the extra mile to handle a disaster recovery. Just know that you can call SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly for any job no matter how big or how small. We can handle it!

The Different Kinds of Water Damage

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Classes of water losses are determined by the rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected by water damage to your property. Determining the Class of Water is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to restore your business. There are four IICRC water damage classifications, they are as follows:

Class 1 - Slow Evaporation Rate
Water losses that affect only part of a room or area, or losses with lower permeance/porosity materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, vinyl composition tile or VCT, concrete). Little or no wet carpet or cushion is present. Minimum moisture is absorbed by materials, releasing moisture slowly.

Class 2 - Fast Evaporation Rate
Water losses that affect an entire room or carpet and cushion. Water has wicked up walls 12" - 24". There is moisture remaining in structural materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, concrete).

Class 3 - Fastest Evaporation Rate
Water may have come from overhead. Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushion and sub-floor in the entire area are saturated.

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations
These consist of wet materials with very low permeance/porosity (hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, stone, and crawlspace). Typically, there are deep pockets of saturation, which requires very low specific humidity.

Call SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly today if you experience any of these at (609) 326-3663

Sewage Back Ups are no fun

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

If you have any type of building small or large you are bound to run into type of sewage problem.  For smaller buildings and homes the actual damage may not be so large, but it can leave behind some not so pleasant smells. For the larger buildings that may be located in the city damages can come in all sizes.  Especially when you are dealing with a main city sewage line.  These can cause not only terrible odors, but huge cleanups as well.  Whether a small or large scale backup, SERVPRO of Burlington Township/ Mount Holly is ready to dive in to get the waste out!  Extracting whatever kind of waste is present is the first line of duty.  Followed by extreme power washing to make sure no residue is left behind.  If any is missed the smell with return and linger around.  Finally after everything is washed and wiped down its time to get rid of that smell.  Using special chemicals that are made to rid the area of the smell and keep it that way! When stuck in a sticky and smelly situation call on SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly to do the dirty work!

Clean your chimneys before using them!

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

It's almost that time of year again. Where the family is gonna gather round the warmth of the fireplace. An before you throw those logs on and spark it up, its very important that your fireplace and chimney are properly cleaned, and SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly is the place to call! During the spring an summer seasons when your fireplace is not in use a variety of things could have built up in the chimney. Such as soot, leaves and sticks, or even a variety of critters! A chimney is a great place for birds,squirrels, and other varmints to build there nests. Whether the critter is still there or not this still is a huge risk or starting a fire. Always take a flashlight an do a self inspection to make sure your chimney flue is clear of all debris. Even if you think you've done a sufficient cleaning, its always safe to have a professional come out an inspect it properly. If you own a gas fireplace make sure all gas lines are tightly secured, and don't have any leaks. Although it may seem alright to leave it untended. you should always turn it off when leaving your home or going to sleep. Fireplaces are nice an cozy, but if not properly cleaned an attended to they can become a huge fire risk for your home. So just follow the step given an you and your family can enjoy your fires safely! From all of us at SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly have a great fall/winter seasons!

Facts about Mother Nature's more violent storms

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen any time, anywhere. Being prepared to act quickly can be critical to staying safe during a weather event. in 2018, there were seven weather and climate disaster events across the United States. These events included five severe weather tornado events, a major floor event, and the western drought heat wave. Overall, these events killed 353 people and had significant economic effects on the areas impacted. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others. You can never predict when a large storm may hit, or the destruction it could bring.  Knowing that SERVPRO of Burlington Township/ Mount Holly will be one of the first to respond to help in disaster cleanup is always good to know.  We are trained for these types of terrible situations! 

Tips for Avoiding Holiday Fires This Season!

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

Food was left unattended and set this whole kitchen ablaze!

TOP 7 CAUSES OF ACCIDENTAL HOLIDAY FIRES

Stay safe this holiday season by reviewing SERVPRO’s top causes of holiday fires and be prepared to prevent them.

 The holidays can be such a wonderful time of year as people enjoy putting up decorations, cooking, traveling to visit friends and family and celebrating the time together. But because everyone is operating outside of their normal routine during the holidays, it can also be a recipe for risky behavior and accidents.

As SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt. Holly has experienced over the years, one prominent accident that can often occur during the holiday season is unwanted fire! Fires can quickly lead to serious home damage or even injury. That's why it's important to look out for the top causes of holiday fires to ensure you keep your home and family safe throughout the holidays.

1. COOKING FIRES

One of the best parts of celebrating the holidays is the FOOD! Casseroles, cakes, cookies and more, food can be the focal point of the holidays. But when cooking extra food and feeding more people than usual, it can be easy to make mistakes such as leaving the stove unattended. Luckily, you may have additional people around to help monitor hot areas such as the stove and oven. The holidays can be one time where it’s perfectly acceptable to have too many cooks in the kitchen. So, surprise those family members that offer to help this year by accepting their offer!

2. PORTABLE HEATER MALFUNCTIONS

Brrr, it’s cold out there! For those of us who celebrate holidays in colder climates, it’s nice to have some extra heat around. But beware the portable space heater! According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters account for 43% of home fires in the United States! Always read your space heater safety instructions and review the safety precautions with any visitors to your home who may be using the heaters without your supervision.

3. SMOKING IN BEDROOMS

Smoking cigarettes indoors is still a leading cause of home fires. The holidays can add a lot of stress so it’s understandable that some may look to ease the stress with their favorite stress reliever, even something as unhealthy as cigarettes. But when it comes to smoking, it’s best to keep it outside whenever possible and never smoke when in a situation where you may fall asleep such as in a recliner, on the couch or in bed. When in doubt just put it out!

4. ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES AND CORDS OVERHEATING

With decorations comes the need for many plugs and extension cords. Overloaded sockets can sometimes cause sparks or fire. This can quickly escalate into a dangerous situation. Be sure to only use one extension cord per socket. Also, only use electrical power strips or block adapters that have their own fuse. To stay safe at night, be sure to unplug as many decorations as you can until the morning. Decorations are a wonderful addition to any holiday but be sure to read the safety and proper use instructions every time! 

5. CANDLES LEFT UNATTENDED

There is a reason why many hotels don’t allow guests to light candles in their rooms, they can easily lead to burns or fires. When using candles, be sure to always place candles in a prominent place away from flammable items such as napkins, curtains or clothing. Place a non-flammable object underneath the candle so as the candles burns the heat from the bottom of the candle won’t burn the object it is resting on. Finally, NEVER leave a candle unattended. If you light a candle, remember to blow it out before leaving the area or going to sleep. Turn it into a holiday game by telling the kids they can make a wish for each candle they blow out at the end of the night.

6. GRILLING TOO CLOSE TO THE HOUSE

Grilling can be a delicious addition to the holiday cooking and it’s great when entertaining guests. When grilling in the winter, however, it can be a common mistake to keep the grill close to the house or try grilling on a small porch. When a grill is placed too close to a building it can cause the wall to unsafely heat up, buckle or burn. Grills used on porches or other structures with ceilings can potentially ignite the ceiling as the heat and flames travel upward. So be sure to keep your grill at least 10 feet away from any flammable structure both during cooking and after cooking while the grill cools down. And NEVER start a grill or outdoor fire with combustible fuels such as kerosene or gasoline. Use gas grills or self-lighting charcoal whenever possible to easily get your grill heated up to cooking temperature.

7. CURIOUS CHILDREN

The holidays often bring families together with kids in tow. Children can be very curious, especially in a new location. It’s important to remember to put away matches and lighters that may normally be accessible when children aren’t present. Also, make sure flammable liquids such as gasoline are stored safely out of reach in the garage or shed. Kids should also be taught about the dangers of fire whether around a grill, indoor fireplace or outdoor fire pit. When cooking smores by the fire, be sure instruct children to never try and put out a burning marshmallow by waving their stick around and accidentally flinging the burning marshmallow into the air!

 The SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt. Holly team hopes this list helps you have a safer holiday experience this season and beyond. If an unexpected fire should occur this holiday season leading to damage to your home, please call us for a free quote on repairing the damage and getting your home back to normal!

Happy Holidays!

Don't let Frozen Pipes ruin your holiday season!

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

With winter in full swing it is ideal to take care of the pipes on the inside of your house and outside of your house. Here are some way to prevent pipes from freezing.

Preventative Measures for Outside

A frozen garden hose can cause more damage than a busted hose; it can actually burst an interior pipe. When the water in the hose freezes, it expands, increasing pressure throughout the whole plumbing system. As part of your regular seasonal maintenance, garden hoses should be disconnected, drained, and stored before the first hard freeze.

If you don’t have frost-proof spigots, close the interior shut-off valve leading to that faucet, open and drain the spigot, and install a faucet insulator. They cost only a couple bucks and are worth every penny. Don’t forget, outdoor kitchens need winterizing, too, to prevent damage.

Exposed Interior Plumbing

Exposed pipes in the basement are rarely in danger of freezing because they are in a heated portion of the home. But plumbing pipes in an unheated area, such as an attic, crawl space, and garage, are at risk of freezing.

Under-Insulated Walls

If pipes traveling in exterior walls have frozen in the past (tell-tale signs include water damage, mold, and moisture build-up), it’s probably because of inadequate or improperly installed insulation. It might well be worth the couple hundred dollars it costs to open up the wall and beef up the insulation.

SERVPRO Burlington/Mt. Holly is here to help advise people what to do during the winter to prevent pipes from bursting. 

Tips for handling Mold in the Winter

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

During the winter homes do not get any circulation of fresh air or drying out. That is how most homeowners prevent their homes from coming moldy. However, there are many different ways to prevent mold from forming in your home in the winter. Here are six ways to prevent winter mold.

1. Increase air circulation and reduce humidity                                      

One cheap and simple step to reduce moisture is to use fans and open windows. By increasing the air circulation in rooms, cold air is less likely to condense in nooks and crannies.

2. Keep an eye out for leaks that can let excess moisture

Watch for leaks in common areas such as windows, exterior-to-interior doorways, and the surrounding areas by swamp coolers and skylights.

3. Repair Any Leaky Area Immediately

Mold and mildew can grow at a rapid pace. The longer you leave a leak unattended, the more likely you are to experience mold and the damage that comes with it.

4. Limit the Possible Areas Where Mold and Mildew Can Grow

Since fungi thrive on quick-to-decompose items such as books, piles of loose papers, or boxes of clothing, use strategy when storing these items.

5. Take Care to Keep Entryway Flooring Dry During Wet Weather

In rooms where moisture is a problem, area rugs and other washable floor surfaces are preferred over wall-to-wall carpet, if possible.

6. Use Exhaust Fans in the Kitchen and Bathroom

Boiling water and taking steamy showers provide your home’s environment with plenty of moisture. Make sure not to slack when it comes to turning on exhaust fans, including the one in your oven’s hood, which can help reduce condensation formation.

SERVPRO Burlington/Mt. Holly wants to make sure all homeowners are preventing mold growth in their homes for the winter.   

Facts for dealing with Mold when it gets cold

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Winter is approaching.... SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mt. Holly is here with some tips and helpful hints on keeping mold away during the cold winter months. 

1. Make sure there is good air circulation. Use an exhaust fan or open a window when showering, cooking, and washing the dishes.

2. Prevent mold and water damage by turning off the water flow to broken appliances and pipes.

3. Replace cracked or defective mortar in basements. If you find your basement is wet or has water leaking into it, inspect the outside drainage systems.

4. Spread moisture-barrier materials in crawl spaces over the soil. Heavy roofing paper or plastic film made of polyethylene can be used for this. Make sure there is good ventilation in the crawl space and, if possible, do not enclose it. One may need to use a fan to blow out humid air from under the building.

5. One can get rid of humidity or dampness within a building by heating it for a short time. After heating, open up the doors and windows, or use an exhaust fan, to let out the air that is moist.

6. Hire a professional roofing contractor to cover a damaged roof with a tarp or tent. This will help protect the building from the elements.

7. If there are freezing temperatures, take measures to insulate pipes inside and out to ensure they will not crack and/or burst.

8. Make sure all the seals on the windows and doors are not compromised and in good-working condition.

9. Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.

10. Make sure the ground around your building slopes away from the foundation so water does not collect around or enter in to it.

11. Act quickly if you see condensation on windows, pipes, or walls inside a building. Dry out the area and determine if the source of the condensation is from a leak or the result of high humidity.

Pay attention on Turkey Day!

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

An estimated 2,400 residential fires occurred on Thanksgiving Day in the last 2 years that resulted in 2 deaths, 25 injuries and over $19 million in property damage. At SERVPRO of Burlington County/Mt. Holly we want you to be safe during the holiday season and not become apart of these unfortunate statistics. 

If you have taken the role of chef this year for thanksgiving you should know and follow the simple rules to keep your holiday season safe. You should never leave your work station when an appliance is on and working. Always have a fire safety plan and make sure your fire extinguisher is up to code and close by. On a slow cook for your turkey always have a timer set to check in on your food, a house can go up in flames in less than 10 minutes when the setting is right. If you are deep frying your turkey make sure to have your station set up safely and that you use the correct materials when cooking to avoid any accidents. 

We at SERVPRO of Burlington County/Mt. Holly want to wish you and your family a happy and safe Thanksgiving!

Strong winds can be deadly

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

As it turns out you dont need rain for a storm to be dangerous. Strong winds can easily knock down power lines and cause fires that can destroy homes and make life difficult. You cant always plan for when disasters will strike, but you can be prepared for what to do after your home or business has been affected by storm damage. At SERVPRO of Burlington County/ Mt Holly we want you to know that we have years of experience in cleaning up messes that a storm can leave behind. Whether your house is flooded from heavy rains or there's a hole in your roof from a tree falling down we have the equipment and expert man power for the job. We can handle all of your problems quickly and thoroughly to ensure that your normal life whether at home or at your business is back up and running.   

Water Leaks cause damage no matter the size!

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Water leaks within a business can seep into carpet, flooring, baseboards, and walls while moving throughout the structure.  SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly understands how disruptive water damages can be for a business. Water leaks can not only disrupt the facility, but also can interrupt day to day business functions, which could possibly close the business and affect revenues.  Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process.  Quick response time helps ensure that damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly. This saves on the amount of damage, cost of claims, and assists in reducing losses from business interruption due to a loss.  Timely and proper water mitigation will also help keep mold from developing which could cause people to become sick!  SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly will be able to identify water regardless of where it hides. We offer 24-hour emergency response from our trained professionals to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Heavy rains cause for flooded basements and leaky roofs

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

We are in the middle of tropical storm season, even if we are lucky enough to not get a tropical storm near us we can still feel the affects of storms far away in heavy rain where we are. Heavy rains can quickly find the hole in your roof that you didn't know was there and that could be a disaster if you live on the top floor or use your attic for storage. Rain can also flood a basement as quickly as a 20 min storm. At SERVPRO of Burlington County/ Mt. Holly we want you to know that we are experienced professionals when it comes to restoring your attic or basement back to normal. Be prepared this tropical storm season by knowing who to call when the rain drops start falling on your head. 

Detail Cleaning Specialist's!

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

If you thought that SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly only dealt with the water, fire, and mold damages, you thought wrong. We also specialize in detail cleanups. From local residents to commercial size buildings. Got a dirty rug or large area of carpet, no problem we deal with any size or type. Recently just moved into a new apartment or home and all the appliances are dirty, and there's a nasty odor throughout. We'll have those appliances looking brand new, and a fresh smelling living space in no time. Large buildings have massive air ducts that need cleaning every so often. Our team can get to these hard to reach areas, and have the ducts all clear pushing out clean air. Graffiti can be an issue anywhere, and to many people can be a nuisance, and also offensive. Without proper cleaning tools its almost impossible to fully remove the graffiti.  We also detail clean cars of all sizes! SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly has all the right supplies to make it look like the graffiti never happened! So no matter what type of detail cleaning job is needed. SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly can wipe that mess away just like that! 

Hoarding can lead to a big fire risk.

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

We have heard of those crazy shows about individuals hoarding stuff and not wanting to part ways of all the things they have collected over the years. At SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly wants to keep families safe and give them tips in keeping a safe and healthy home. Hoarding is something hazardous when it comes to fire safety for anyone will this problem. The risks of one hoarding can crowd stoves and ovens making very unsafe to cook because of the possibility of something falling into those appliances and starting a fire. Another risk has items to close and crowed near heating equipment like a fireplace or a furnace which is very dangerous if the items were to fall into these kinds of equipment causing it to damage and start a fire. The hoarding of items is a very serious dangerous even when it comes to saving your own life. Firefighters will have a hard time trying to get in your home to rescue you or your loved ones in case of a fire. With stuff being everywhere like in any hoarding situation can make it difficult for a firefighter to navigate in the home. It is important to remember that if you have lots of items in or around your home to keep them at least 3 feet away from cooking appliance like a stove(s) or oven(s) and as well as any heating equipment like furnaces, boilers or fireplace.  Just be cautious when your belongings start to build, and think of the risk you are putting you and your family at. 

Floods Can Cause Sewage Backup!

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

Ever own a house or a business and every time there is a heavy downpour the sewage drains come overflowing?  Well that can be a major issue and cause some big problems in many ways.  SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly is the company to call when faced with this smelly situation. First and foremost it is important to get the source of the issue fixed so the problem does not keep occurring  Once the source is fixed SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly can respond to the issue with all the necessary equipment. First all the sewage water/waste will be extracted from the area.  Once this is complete a full detailed cleaning will begin on the floors,walls, and any other affected area.  This means scrubbing, washing, and spraying everything down to insure that nothing is contaminated, and all the odor is gone.  Our experts will leave the place spotless "Like it never even happened."   

Keep an eye out for mold in schools!

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

With the second week of September almost over. All schools should be in full swing of the school year starting. However, there have been many incidents of mold being discovered in schools delaying their start date. This an issue that should be taken care of during the summer break, just because the biggest concern of mold is that it can impact the health in students and teachers. Therefore, it is wise to get your schools treated and eliminate the mold from all the schools at the first sign. Exposure to damp and moldy environments may cause a variety of health effects, or none at all. Some people are sensitive to molds. For these people, molds can cause nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation, or, in some cases, skin irritation. People with mold allergies may have more severe reactions. Call SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly for all your mold problems.

Unclean Air Ducts can be a Health Hazard

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

When was the last time you had your air ducts cleaned? Dust and dander can build up in the corners of your ducts which can lead to a deadly fire throughout your home or business, wreaking havoc and costing a fortune in damages. Not only is unclean air ducts a fire hazard, it is also a health hazard for breathing. Mold can grow in dirty air ducts that can spread throughout the ducts through the air and also be a breathing hazard for you and your family or for you and your coworkers. Vermin are also known to use air ducts to safely travel through a home or business, leaving behind dander and facile matter than can be very harmful. At SERVPRO of Burlington County/Mt. Holly we want you to be healthy whether you're home with the kids or at work. We recommend an annual cleaning for commercial buildings and a semiannual cleaning or checkup for residential air ducts to ensure that your are staying healthy and breathing clean air.

Even weak tornadoes can pack a big punch

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

Although tornadoes in New Jersey might seem like an unusual occurrence, it has become more common here in the Garden State. According to the National Weather service office in Mt. Holly, New Jersey now averages at least 2 tornadoes annually since 1999. Although cool in nature and pictures, Tornadoes can be deadly and destructive. SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly wants you to stay safe and be aware of how to avoid getting hurt in the event of tornado warning in your area.

Tip 1: When a tornado touches down, you should seek shelter in the lowest room (ex. basement) in your house.

Tip 2: avoid any and all windows, tornadoes can rip apart your house in seconds, causing shattering glass that can be more harmful then the strong winds.

Tip 3: If driving, seek shelter under an overpass is your safest bet while driving during a tornado storm.

When disaster strikes and you need help, SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly can service all of your Fire/Water/Biohazard cleanup needs!

Greater Philadelphia Hotel Engineers Association

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

We are pleased to announce our membership with the Greater Philadelphia Hotels Engineers Association. Thank you for the opportunity and we look forward to participating in the future. At SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly we are always looking to better ourselves and grow as a franchise to help assist our customers. Joining something like this gives us a better handle on how to handle larger jobs more efficiently and hear different ideas and speak to different people. This is just an example of one of the many ways we try to exceed our customers expectations with always learning the best way to handle damages, the latest equipment, making sure everyone becomes certified in what they do. Here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly we care about your home or business and we want you up and running as soon as possible. Call us here at 215 772 1203, 7 days a week 365 days a year. 

It's that April Showers Month!

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

We all worry about losing power or being stuck somewhere when it comes to storms. Here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly we worry about all the above but the most important is keeping the storm outside and keeping your residential house or place of business dry. The last thing you want to do is have to walk down to a basement with four feet of water in there or a second floor ceiling leaking due to a faulty roof that should have been replaced years ago. It can be a very painful process to see your home get torn apart and very uncomfortable as a temporary living situation. With this being said SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly always recommends to stay up on your maintenance of your home or business. A replaced roof or a better sealed basement structure could be the difference between a week of heartache and thousands of dollars rather than just taking the simple precautions. Now we understand there is also the uncontrollable when it gets bad enough such as a hurricane and can destroy anything in its path. In either scenario when the worst happens just know that SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly is on your side. 

Taking Fire damage Head On!

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

There are times when the worst happens and you can not control when a fire occurs on in your property. This is a fire started on the roof of Letitia Street in Burlington Township affecting five floors plus common hallways and the lobby. Our crew worked together to keep each tenant satisfied through the process of the cleanup. We chemical sponge brushed the entire structure. We ran vapor sharks and we had air scrubbers with charcoal filters to eliminate odors and performed demolition on anything that could not be restored. This way we could bring in brand new dry wall and kitchen cabinets to replace, remove the odors of the smog, and make it feel like it never happened. We were however able to salvage the floors as we use our top of the line equipment to make the process as quick and cost effective as possible. The picture below shows how hard SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly worked to save the original hardwood floors. With in a total of 3 days we were able to have this home completely restored. Next time you have a fire do not hesitate to call us at 215-772-1203 and know you are in good hands. 

Highly Trained Cleaning and Restoration Specialists

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Our team at SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly is not just a bunch of hired help.  We have a staff that is highly trained in property damage restoration and cleaning. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.  We also have on going e-learning which all of our staff has access to.  Video presentations and support materials are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. This keeps our technicians and office staff up to speed on industry standards and the professional quality you expect.  With technology constantly changing, and more efficient products always being shipped out.  It is important for the trained professionals at SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly to always be one step ahead.

NO Loss or Disaster too Large!

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Disaster Support Year Round!

At SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster. Our commercial loss division is only the best in the restoration business.   Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.  Also seeing that storms and natural disasters can strike at anytime and without notice.  SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly is prepared for the unpredictable 24/7 and 365 days a year.  The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood.  There is no worse feeling then thinking you have lost everything.  We strive to get families and business back on there feet no matter the circumstances.  

ERP's and the Readiness They Bring to Handling a Damage

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

ERP's are done at no cost, and well worth it!

What is an ERP you ask, well it stands for Emergency Ready Profiles.  These are very beneficial to property manager and building engineers in large commercial buildings.  Having a ready plan in place can save your business and building. A trained professional from SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly will walk through your building with you and fill out all the information needed.  After completion all you have to do is download an App on your phone or tablet, and you have all the information one click away.  Paper versions are also available.  These ERP's come in handy when an emergency occurs and someone not familiar with the building needs important information. Changes and updates can always be made through the App whenever they may occur.  This is all done at no charge to you or your building.  Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Who To Call On For All Your Restoration Needs!

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

When Disaster Strikes That's When SERVPRO of Society Hill Clocks In!

It's 3 o'clock in the morning and there is water shooting in every direction from a burst pipe in your basement.  The water is rising fast, and you think to yourself no one is going to help me at this time of night. While disasters do not work a 9-5, neither does SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly.  We work on disaster time 24 hours a day 7 days a week-even on holidays as well.  Our trained specialists are equipped and prepared to spring into action moments after the call comes in.  Not only do we respond in a quick and timely matter, but the job is done right the first time no if, ans, or buts.  Other companies may leave you waiting until the morning which is going to cause more damage on your property, and your wallet.  So remember no matter the time or circumstance don't panic, call SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly to take care of all your restoration needs. 

Common Causes of Fire in Commercial Buildings

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

Fire in a Commercial High Rise

One place that is responsible for most commercial building fires is the kitchen.  One reason being all of the equipment such as; deep fryers, ovens, grease hoods, ranges, grills, and rotisseries are just a few.  Always use extreme caution in the kitchen, as well as keeping the proper extinguishers to contain a small fire before it gets out of hand.  Studies show that about 3,300 office fires break out every year.  Once again one of the leading causes is cooking equipment that is not being used properly or left unattended.  Coffee makers, toasters ovens, and microwaves, are the main fire stating appliances.  Also offices contain a lot of flammable/combustible materials.  When a fire does start it can easily spread and grow rapidly.  That is why all materials should be stored and disposed of correctly, reducing the damage a fire may cause.  Always have a planned prepared in the case a fire were to occur.  Fire alarms along with commercial sprinkler systems, and a planned exit strategy play a huge roll in fire safety.  Frequent maintenance on alarms and sprinklers to see that they are working properly  is crucial as well.  In the event of any type of fire in your commercial building, SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mt Holly has the experienced professionals to clean up any destruction a fire may bring.

Sewage Backup!

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

Sewage Back Up From A Bathroom

If you have any type of building small or large you are bound to run into type of sewage problem.  For smaller buildings and homes the actual damage may not be so large, but it can leave behind some not so pleasant smells. For the larger buildings that may be located in the city damages can come in all sizes.  Especially when you are dealing with a main city sewage line.  These can cause not only terrible odors, but huge cleanups as well.  Whether a small or large scale backup, SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mt Holly is ready to dive in to get the waste out!  Extracting whatever kind of waste is present is the first line of duty.  Followed by extreme power washing to make sure no residue is left behind.  If any is missed the smell with return and linger around.  Finally after everything is washed and wiped down its time to get rid of that smell.  Using special chemicals that are made to rid the area of the smell and keep it that way! When stuck in a sticky and smelly situation call on SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mt Holly to do the dirty work!

Tornado Safety Tips

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

Always be prepared for a tornado!

Tornado's although not very common can be very unpredictable, as well as extremely destructive.  There is no fool proof plan to guarantee safety during a tornado, but there are actions that can be taken to increase you're odds of staying safe and injury free.  Being prepared is the most important step you can take.  Having a plan and a place to take shelter is the first thing that should be planned out.  Followed by having supplies ready such as fresh batteries, radio, and a emergency kit.  Be aware of the weather especially if thunderstorms are in the forecast.  A tornado can form without warning and rapidly at times.  Some warning signs include, a dark/green sky, a large low lying dark cloud, hail, and a loud noise similar to a freight train. When taking shelter you want to find a basement or the lowest lying room without windows.  Make sure to always protect your head, and cover yourself in a blanket or sleeping bag.  Just staying prepared is always the number one safety step.  If a tornado were ever to strike, just know that SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mt Holly has the experience and tools to clean up any damages!

Identifying Botrytis Mold & Handling It

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Botrytis Mold Growth on a Strawberry.

There are many different types of mold.  A common one that can be growing inside your home is known as Botrytis mold, also known as gray mold.  It can be found almost anywhere that plants are being grown including inside your home. It can spread easily through wind and water, and grow on a variety of surfaces.  It first appears as a white fuzzy color rapidly turning to gray, and sometimes even brown.  Like most molds Botrytis thrives in moisture and attacks the weak part of a plant and spreads to the healthy areas.  Some frequent household foods that are affected are strawberries, grapes, lettuce, onions, and cabbage.  Botrytis mold is highly allergenic.  Because of all these issue, it is very important for this mold to be removed right away.  At first sight any infected plant must be removed and disposed of to stop any further growth. To make sure your home is completely mold free contacting SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly is a smart decision.  Our experts will run mold tests and make sure that all mold growth is found and removed properly. Leaving your home mold free and a safe environment to live in.

How To Deal With A Water Damaged Mattress

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damaged Mattress

Water damage can affect just about any household item.  One that can be a real pain to deal with is your mattress.  Before you start to take the steps to recovery you may want to decide if it is worth it.  Some things you may want to consider are the price and age.  If you have a cheaper or older mattress it may just easier to get a new one rather than restore the wet one. Depending on the material of the mattress it may be a lot more difficult to dry out cotton, foam, or rubber ones.  Mattress's with springs dry out much easier.  Finally the extent of the damage, sometimes it's just to serious and easier to get rid of the mattress. It is important to act quickly if you decide save the mattress.  Calling SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mt Holly will save you a lot of pain and struggle.  Having the proper equipment to dry out the mattress properly.  SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mt Holly will have your mattress completely dry and odor free in no time!

Safety Steps To Take After A Damaging Storm

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Uprooted tree from a storm with high winds.

No matter how much preparation or planning, there is no telling what damage a storm can leave behind! Collapsing roofs, broken windows, hazardous debris, and standing water in your home are just a few risks that can be left behind. Along with possible mold growth from water getting into carpets and furniture. Following these steps after a storm strikes will help keep you and your family safe.  If you smell any gas shut off the gas line.  Look out for any broken glass, sharp objects, or nails that could cause a risk.  While taking these immediate precautions, contacting a reputable restoration company such as SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly as soon as possible to help in the recovery process. Next you will want to photograph any damage they may have occurred to have on record for your insurance company, as well as contacting your insurance company to get an adjuster out to survey the damage. After all these steps are take just leave the rest to SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly to clean up any mess no matter the extent! 

How Smoke Can Damage a Home!

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

Here we have a heavily smoke damaged house.

It is not very hard to figure out if, and where you have smoke damage in your home after a fire.  Most commonly you will have discolored walls or ceilings, ash or soot on the floor, and charred items. Besides the visuals smoke damage can also produce odor and other side effects that can damage property and health. Although smoke damage usually is noticeable right away, but sometimes it does take a few days to surface.  Another precaution to be aware of after a fire is that your electrical system could have easily been damaged as well. Electrical damage can range from signs of corrosion, experience of short circuits or just complete failure. Certain parts of a room may experience more damage then others. Ceilings are most common because of how heat rises. Also nail heads in the wall and ceilings will attract smoke particles. A fire will continue to cause issues even after it has been extinguished, don't put you or your family health at risk.  Contact SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly to help in any fire or smoke cleanup.  It's always important to act quickly to minimize the health risks as well as repairs to be done on the house.       

Dealing with Mold after Flooding or Heavy Rain

1/31/2019 (Permalink)

This is the result of not acting quickly when flood damage affected this basement.

After a flood or even just a heavy rain mold can always become an issue!  If you ever find yourself dealing with a water damage that could become mold issue contact SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly.  Responding quickly is the first action to take.  The quicker we can get out there the less damage will occur and more time and money will be saved.  Also it lowers the chance of mold spores spreading throughout the flooded area.  The first action SERVPRO will take is make sure there is good ventilation in the building so that air can circulate.  Water extraction is the next step, making sure to remove as much standing water as possible.  Any items that may have already been affected by mold will be disposed in a sealed back to prevent any spreading.  Affected items that must be kept will be cleaned properly by the experts of SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly.  The two main keys to mold prevention is 1. Keeping everything clean and 2. Keeping everything as dry as possible. Following these steps as well as keeping the number for SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly handy will be great steps in preventing mold.  We can always ensure your home is safe,dry, and mold free!

Winter Weather Hazards

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

During these winter months there are a variety of dangers that can occur and leave you in need of assistance.  First of heavy snow storms can brings lot of snow.  If enough snow builds up on power lines or tree branches they can snap and cause some serious issues.  Structural damage is a common one along with the potential of fire risk.  Always be on the look out for low hanging power lines as well as tree branches they may already be damaged. Just being aware could potentially save you a lot of trouble, as well as your life.  Another risk during these cold times is extremely low temperatures. One of the big risks of freezing temperatures is frozen pipes in your home or business.  When pipes are exposed to extreme temperatures they are at a high risk of bursting.  This will likely lead large water damages.  To help prevent this from happening look out for any pipes that me be previously cracked or just in need or replacing from age.  Also if you notice a pipe during freezing do your best to thaw it out before it get to bad.  If you are affected by any type of damage or loss this winter SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mt Holly is always ready to take on any job!

Cold Weather Means Freezing Pipes!

1/25/2019 (Permalink)

This pipe burst after a window was left open with temperatures outside way below freezing.

As we are right in the heart of the winter season we are seeing numerous pipes bursting from freezing temperatures.  Although sometimes it just happens and there is not much you can do, there are a few ways you can lower the risk of a bursting pipe.  The easiest is just inspecting the pipes.  Look for rusty pipes, cracks or leaks that may be occurring as well as any other noticeable damage.  These will all raise the chance of a pipe bursting by a large margin.  Another precaution you can take is by wrapping water line pipes in insulate.  Although this will not prevent freezing it will slow down the transfer rate of heat to cold. Leaving doors open to cabinets or closets at night will help warm air circulate preventing freezing.  Just being aware is the main key.  If you notice freezing on pipes take action to thaw the pipe out immediately.  SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly is always one call away if all fails and a frozen pipe brings you disaster and damage.

Immediate Fire Restoration and why its Important

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

Fires can be a devastating when they occur.  It is crucial though when a fire strikes that you get the restoration process started immediately.  The longer that it is put off the harder and more repairs will be needed. This also means the price of repairs goes up as well.  SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mt Holly specializes in fire damage and restoration.  Contacting us is the first step in getting the restoration underway. SERVPRO will try to save as many of your home and personal belongings that we can. Remember that safety comes first, so if there’s no way to safely gain access into your home, then stay out until SERVPRO professionals arrive.  On arrival we perform a thorough cleanup using our industrial-grade products and equipment, such as dry cleaning soot sponges to remove loose soot and specialized vacuum filters to clean carpet and upholstery.  Unfortunately fires happen, but when they do make sure you act quickly to get the damage cleaned up.  SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mt Holly takes fire damage and leaves it "Like it never even happened." 

Handling A Biohazard Cleanup

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

No matter the mess SERVPRO of Burlington Township/ Mt Holly cleans up the best!

You may think SERVPRO of Burlington Township/ Mount Holly only specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration.  SERVPRO also offers fast, reliable bio hazard, and crime scene cleanup to residential and commercial property owners.  Franchise Professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove hazardous biological substances and take the proper procedures for disposal.  All of which follow the proper steps according to OSHA, EPA, and the local health regulations.  Any exposure to biological and chemical contaminants could cause serious health issues for anyone that is involved with the building.  If proper steps are not taken to remove and dangerous substances, it could lead to unhealthy and dangerous environments. Blood borne pathogens are up at the top as a potential dangerous substance.  SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly will remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and any other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime, or death.  Although all of these may difficult to deal with they happen, and that's where SERVPRO will help turn a messy situation into a clean one.

How to handle a fire aftermath

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

Fire's can bring a wave of emotions after a they burn through a home.  Long after the flames and smoke have been extinguished. Families are still faced with the stress, fear, and uncertainty about the future of the home or property.  So after the firefighters have put the flames to rest, it's good to know what and what not to do until SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mt Holly comes in for the mitigation process. Here are some tips of what can be done before help arrives:

• Limit movement in the area to prevent soot particles from spreading. 
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
• Place clean towels or or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery. 
• Do not wash walls or painted surfaces.
• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Do not clean any electrical equipment.

So, before you risk causing more damage by attempting to clean up fire damage yourself, follow these steps and call the experts from SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mt Holly.

Be Storm Prepared!

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

Be ready for all types of storms!

There are many different storm disasters that can strike when you're least prepared.  Whether its a flood, hurricane, blizzard, or even wildfires, any of these can give no warning before they hit.  The time to prepare for a disaster is not as it approaches, or even worse as its happening, the time is now! It does not matter where you live, you will be affected by a storm disaster at some point.  When these occur SERVPRO of Society Hill is always ready to make it "Like it never even happened."  Here are some tips and information to have you prepared.

• Know your risk. These means understanding what types of weather can affect you based on where you live and your environment.  Also check the forecast regularly, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Make sure your shelter plan includes all types of hazards.
• Put together an emergency supply kit, and keep important valuables and papers in a safe dry place.
• A few important items that should always be handy are: bottle water, non perishable food, flashlight, radio, first aid kit, extra clothing, and a whistle to signal for help are some of the necessities. 

It's always best to be prepared, so use these tips to get ready for the next big storm!

Biohazard, Vandalism, and Crime Scene Cleanup

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

It may not be the prettiest or easiest jobs to do, but SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mt Holly offers fast, reliable bio-hazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration for any type of property. Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can cause serious health issues for anyone that comes in contact, or is around them.  If these contaminants are not taken care of properly, and removed they can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. Equipped with the proper safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mt Holly will make sure unsafe environments are restored into clean, safe homes and business.  SERVPRO also specializes in vandalism damage and cleanup.  Here are a few do's and don'ts when dealing with them.

DO:

• Record all damage and photograph when possible.
• Hose or wash egg or other residue damage from building exterior as soon as possible.
• Carefully vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery.

DON'T:

• Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
• Discard broken or damaged pieces from porcelain, furniture or other contents that may be used for repair. 
• Operate damaged lamps or appliances.

All of these issues can be hard to deal with physically and emotionally.  That's why SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mt Holly is here is always ready to leave it "Like is never even happened."

Preventing Frozen Pipes

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

Pipe burst from water freezing inside.

With winter in full swing it is ideal to take care of the pipes on the inside of your house and outside of your house. Here are some way to prevent pipes from freezing.

Preventative Measures for Outside

A frozen garden hose can cause more damage than a busted hose; it can actually burst an interior pipe. When the water in the hose freezes, it expands, increasing pressure throughout the whole plumbing system. As part of your regular seasonal maintenance, garden hoses should be disconnected, drained, and stored before the first hard freeze.

If you don’t have frost-proof spigots, close the interior shut-off valve leading to that faucet, open and drain the spigot, and install a faucet insulator. They cost only a couple bucks and are worth every penny. Don’t forget, outdoor kitchens need winterizing, too, to prevent damage.

Exposed Interior Plumbing

Exposed pipes in the basement are rarely in danger of freezing because they are in a heated portion of the home. But plumbing pipes in an unheated area, such as an attic, crawl space, and garage, are at risk of freezing.

Under-Insulated Walls

If pipes traveling in exterior walls have frozen in the past (tell-tale signs include water damage, mold, and moisture build-up), it’s probably because of inadequate or improperly installed insulation. It might well be worth the couple hundred dollars it costs to open up the wall and beef up the insulation.

SERVPRO Burlington/Mt. Holly is here to help advise people what to do during the winter to prevent pipes from bursting. 

6 Ways to Prevent Mold in the Winter

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Basement mold that occurred during winter.

During the winter homes do not get any circulation of fresh air or drying out. That is how most homeowners prevent their homes from coming moldy. However, there are many different ways to prevent mold from forming in your home in the winter. Here are six ways to prevent winter mold.

1. Increase air circulation and reduce humidity                                      

One cheap and simple step to reduce moisture is to use fans and open windows. By increasing the air circulation in rooms, cold air is less likely to condense in nooks and crannies.

2. Keep an eye out for leaks that can let excess moisture

Watch for leaks in common areas such as windows, exterior-to-interior doorways, and the surrounding areas by swamp coolers and skylights.

3. Repair Any Leaky Area Immediately

Mold and mildew can grow at a rapid pace. The longer you leave a leak unattended, the more likely you are to experience mold and the damage that comes with it.

4. Limit the Possible Areas Where Mold and Mildew Can Grow

Since fungi thrive on quick-to-decompose items such as books, piles of loose papers, or boxes of clothing, use strategy when storing these items.

5. Take Care to Keep Entryway Flooring Dry During Wet Weather

In rooms where moisture is a problem, area rugs and other washable floor surfaces are preferred over wall-to-wall carpet, if possible.

6. Use Exhaust Fans in the Kitchen and Bathroom

Boiling water and taking steamy showers provide your home’s environment with plenty of moisture. Make sure not to slack when it comes to turning on exhaust fans, including the one in your oven’s hood, which can help reduce condensation formation.

SERVPRO Burlington/Mt. Holly wants to make sure all homeowners are preventing mold growth in their homes for the winter.   

Heating Your Home

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

Wood burning fireplace.

With the nights getting colder, winter is fast approaching. Heating your home increases the chances of a fire starting. With the fireplaces and space heaters the number one and two way to start a fire in the winter. Here is some information about fireplaces and space heaters to prevent fires from starting. 

Fireplaces
Winter is a notorious time for house fires and it is vital to have working fire alarms around the house to alert everyone, but one of the main culprits is faulty fireplaces. The best way to prevent a disaster is having a professional properly inspect it. If your flue or chimney are blocked by debris or contain cracks or leaks, inadequate venting can occur, and toxic fumes may seep into your home. An inspection lets you know that everything is in safe working order. Always make sure your fireplace is out and cooled before going to bed.

Space Heaters
In an effort to help cut energy costs or to accommodate roommates many people use space heaters. Space heaters are an excellent way to warm up cold rooms or provide extra heat. Space heaters can also be hazardous if not used properly. Never leave a space heater unattended especially when children and pets are around, and don’t place it near drapes, shades or bedding. If your heater is more than a few years old, replace it with a new model that has more current safety features such as tip-over protection. This way it shuts off automatically if it happens to fall over.

SERVPRO Burlington/Mt. Holly wants everyone to take the right steps to prevent house fires from happening.  

Mold Remediation vs. Mold Removal

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

Drywall covered in mold.

Many people believe that mold remediation and mold removal mean the same thing however, they are different. Mold remediation is the removal and treatment of the mold, so mold does not regrow in the area. Mold removal is just the removal of mold. Mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours once water gets into your property. Mold spores flourish wherever there is moisture. These spores can rapidly grow into colonies when exposed to water. Sources of moisture or water must therefore be addressed before mold remediation can start, or else the mold may return. Mold remediation is something that SERVPRO Burlington/Mt. Holly specialists in. When SERVPRO Burlington/Mt. Holly goes out to a mold job, we want to make sure that all the mold is removed and treated properly so it doesn't come back. 

Preventing Tree Hazards

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Fallen Tree on a House.

Tree hazards should be a main focus for homeowners. Falling trees can cause major damage to houses. There are aspects to look for as a homeowner that will prevent tree hazards from happening. The first aspect is age. Tree age is important in hazard tree management. Every tree species has an inherent life span. Risk of failure increases with age. Another, aspect is the roots of the tree. Root integrity and health cannot be over emphasized. If the roots are damaged in any way, tree vitality and health are affected and the likelihood of failure increases. The probability of failure increases as the amount of the root damage increases. The final aspect is observing the trunk. If there is any fungi on the tree have it removed. Fungi can increase decaying of the bark and will increase the chance of a falling tree. These aspect will help to prevent trees from falling on top of houses. However, tree hazard are unpredictable. If a tree hazard was to happen to your home contact SERVPRO Burlington/Mt. Holly for any tree hazards that happen. 

Burst or Leaking Pipes

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Leaking Pipe in a Basement

Bursting or leaking pipes is one of the most common ways that houses get water damage. Drains and toilets that get backed up and blocked can cause undue pressure in the pipe, which then causes it to burst or leak. Garbage disposals that aren’t working properly are another common reason for pipes to burst, as are roots that grow in the yard into the sewer lines. Old or rusty pipes are also more prone to leaking. If your pipes do burst and cause water damage call SERVPRO Burlington/Mt. Holly. They will come and fix the damage fast and efficiently, so everyone can get back to there regular lives. SERVPRO Burlington/Mt. Holly will make sure that the room looks like it did before the water damage happened.

Here are some ways to prevent any of these situation from happening in your home.

1. Ensure that any outside taps and piping including drain pipes for heating or overflow pipes are insulated. You can use insulating lagging or foam to do this but make sure you do not leave any joints, bends or taps exposed. For outside taps fitted covers are available.
2. Any piping that are in unheated areas such as lofts, basements and garages all need to be lagged with good quality pipe lagging.
3. Any pipes buried in the ground outside such as pipes to garages or sheds need to be buried deep enough and/or lagged.
4. Insulate your cold water tank, this is so often forgotten and can be the major cause of Burst Pipes.
5. Leave your heating on at least 12 degrees centigrade at all times throughout cold spells. This will keep the system warm enough not to Burst Pipes and the water flowing.
6. Fix any dripping taps or existing leaks before the cold spell. Many Burst Pipes happen because of leaks.

Electrical Fires

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Electrical Outlet on Fire

Electrical fires are the most common fires in houses. They also are one of the hardest fires to put out due to the constant charge that the electric gives out. Most electrical fires are caused by faulty electricaloutlets and old, outdated appliances. Never use an appliance with a worn or frayed cord which can send heat onto combustible surfaces like floors, curtains, and rugs that can start a fire. Running cords under rugs is another cause of electrical fires. The amount of electrical fires increase in the months of December and January due to the increase of heating appliances and the increase of lights used. Therefore, to prevent this disaster from happening use newer appliances and make sure that the outlets in your house are updated. If this disaster does happen SERVPRO Burlington/Mt. Holly will clean and restore your house back to the way it was. SERVPRO Burlington/Mt. Holly will make sure your house looks like nothing even happened.

Space Heater Safety

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Always keep objects at least 3 feet from your space heaters

With colder weather on the way, many people will be bringing out their space heaters. An if you don't take the right safety measures, they can be a huge fire risk. Space heaters are the second leading cause for house fires in the United States. Up to 65,000 house fires a year are started from these heaters. Here are some safety measures that should be taken when using a space heater.

• Inspect the heater for any broken plugs,and loose or damaged wires.
• Putting your space heater in the proper place is very important. Make sure its 3 feet away from any furniture, clothing, paper, rugs, or anything that can burn
• Whenever leaving the room make sure to turn off the heater.
• Keep out of high traffic areas to prevent a tripping hazard, or possibility of knocking it over
• When not in use, unplug and store in proper place

From all of us here at SERVPRO. Have a enjoyable and safe fall and winter seasons! 

Frozen Pipes

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Frozen Pipe Leak

With the cold weather right around the corner. It raises concern about pipes freezing in homes and businesses. When pipes freeze it leaves a huge mess of water damage to your homes and businesses. That is when you call SERVPRO to help you clean up the mess and fix the areas that were damaged from the water damage. Here at SERVPRO we make it our job to make sure that the customer is happy with the outcome of the job.

Here are a couple things that will help to prevent this disaster from happening:

• Keep your home or apartment thermostat temperature set to at least 55 degrees.

• Do not block heat to areas of your residence that contain plumbing or water fixtures. Keep doors open to bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and cabinets that contain pipes, especially those located on the north side of the dwelling, to expose the plumbing to warmer air inside the house.

• Prevent drafts of cold winter air by keeping windows and storm windows closed. Repair cracks or holes around doors and windows to keep cold air from blowing in.

• Cover pipes in unheated areas with heat tape or pipe insulation. Make sure heat tapes are properly installed and working safely.

• If you plan to be away from your residence for an extended period of time, ask someone to check your house or apartment periodically. Show them what to do if water pipes freeze and where to locate your water shut-off valve in case of an emergency.

Humidity Causes Mold

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

A basement with mold on the walls.

9/6/2018

With another heat wave coming to an end. It raises concern about the mold that is forming in buildings. If the weather's been very humid for a few days in a row you might notice mold starting to grow indoors. Also, if you live where humidity in the air is naturally high, like by the coast or another large body of water, then mold growth indoors can also be a recurring problem. When these damages happen SERVPRO will step in and solve the problem. SERVPRO will get the job done so it looks like it never happened. SERVPRO will also get the job done in a timely manor, so everyone can get back to their daily activities. Here are some tips of areas to find humidity and mold and signs to look for if you have mold.

Location of humidity and mold

• Basement
• Crawl Space

Symptoms of humidity and mold

• A musty odor in your home, basement or crawl space
• Visible mold growth
• Allergy symptoms
• Increase in small insects within your home
• Visible condensation
• Peeling wallpaper and or paint

Fireplace and Chimney Cleaning

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

It's almost that time of year again. Where the family is gonna gather round the warmth of the fireplace. An before you throw those logs on and spark it up, its very important that your fireplace and chimney are properly cleaned. During the spring an summer seasons when your fireplace is not in use a variety of things could have built up in the chimney. Such as soot, leaves and sticks, or even a variety of critters! A chimney is a great place for birds,squirrels, and other varmints to build there nests. Whether the critter is still there or not this still is a huge risk or starting a fire. Always take a flashlight an do a self inspection to make sure your chimney flue is clear of all debris. Even if you think you've done a sufficient cleaning, its always safe to have a professional come out an inspect it properly. If you own a gas fireplace make sure all gas lines are tightly secured, and don't have any leaks. Although it may seem alright to leave it untended. you should always turn it off when leaving your home or going to sleep. Fireplaces are nice an cozy, but if not properly cleaned an attended to they can become a huge fire risk for your home. So just follow the step given an you and your family can enjoy your fires safely! From all of us at SERVPRO have a great fall/winter seasons!

Vacation to Disaster!

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

A home that was vandalized while the family was on vacation

Imagine returning home from a wonderful vacation with your family, only to find that your home has been damaged! Weather it was vandalism, water/ storm damage, or fire damage. Most people think it could never happen to them, and don't know who or where to turn to first in the event of such a tragedy. Look no further, here at SERVPRO whatever the damage or loss may be its our duty to restore your house back to normal. These problems occur more often than not, because people don't take the right precautions before leaving there homes for an extended time. Here are a few tips how to keep your house safe when your on vacation.

• Make sure all doors an windows are locked an secure
• Have a neighbor or relative keep an eye on your house, and make it appear as if your home is still being lived in
• Unplug unused electronics to prevent fries 
• Turn off the main water source in the case of a pipe burst to minimize damage

Preparing for Hurricane Season

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane season is nearly upon us, and no matter how strong a storm is you can almost always count on damage! That's where SERVPRO  steps in at a moments notice to help get you back on your feet. Although you will never be able to predict the extent storm. You can always be better prepared to deal with them while you ride it out. Here are some crucial prepping steps that you should take before a hurricane hits.

Preparing for a hurricane

• Stocking up with the essential items such as; extra flashlights,candles,batteries,sanitary water, non perishable food items, and a first aid kit
• Make sure you know the details if an evacuation is necessary. So that you an your family can make it out quickly and safely.
• Boarding up any windows or doors to minimize further damage.
• Generators although not needed can help. They provide electricity to you important household appliances, lights, and more.
• NEVER Run Generators inside the household! Carbon Monoxide gas can be deadly if built up in an enclosed area.

You can never be to prepared for a hurricane an the destruction it may bring! Hopefully these tips will help you get ready, an stay safe when the big one hits.     

Fall Fire Safety

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

Summer is coming to an end an fall is right around the corner. This means leaves falling, cooler temperatures, an the use of heaters and fireplaces. all of which are cause for fire concern. Here are a few fall safety tips to help prevent fires.

• When changing those clocks back make sure to change the batteries in you smoke detectors
• Have you fireplaces inspected and cleaned. As any cracks, debris, an animals are fire hazards. An never leave a fire unattended.
• Space Heaters in the home should always have 3 feet of space around them
• Clear any leaves or pine needles from roofs and gutters
• Make sure to that you are using plastic electric candles in your pumpkins rather than real fire ones to protect yourself and others around you
• Wear flame resistant costumes for you and your friends that you will be going to trick or treat with

Have a Safe an Fun fall season fromSERVPRO

Wawa Welcome America!

6/5/2018 (Permalink)

We will be sponsoring the Wawa Welcome to America event from June 28 to July 4. Come check us out at the greatest event in Philly celebrating the nation birth place with fun and free events for the whole family and fireworks! Who doesn't love fire works?! Do not forget to mark your calendar for this fun event in the area! It is free event for everyone with activities for everyone from little kids to the adults. Lets celebrate America's birthday!

Be prepare! Leaks can happen at anytime!

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

Unfortunately leaks can happen anytime. Like in this law office firm. They suffer a masses water damage to their office ceiling and rugs being saturated of water from 3 water heater from the floor above bursting. The pros immediately came out to extract all the water with our powerful equipment and the multiple set up of air movers and dehumidifiers to help the process of drying the carpet and open ceiling. We have handle all types of water damages from big commercial buidiing with multiple floors to small residential homes. We are ready for any clean ups and assistance that any homeowner, property manager or business owner will need in the time of need. We are pros at making things back to normal like water never leak!

Emgerency Ready Profile

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

Check out the benefits for your commercial property to have an Emergency Ready Profile and Call SERVPRO to assist you in making one today! Have all the important information in one app for your general manager or property manager in case of an emergency. It is a great app to have and it easy to have on all the employees phone or work tablet that is used on the field. Preparedness it key when emergency strikes. What a better way to keep important information at your fingertips. We SERVPRO are available 24 hours a day, 7 seven days a week to assist in any emergency your business might have just give us a call and we will send our crew out immediately without having to wait the next day.

Restoring Properties from Water Damages

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

When water enter your home after a flood it will damage your home in so many ways. Let the pros of SERVPRO help you clean up the water mess and restore any water effect damages in the home. With our equipment and expertly trained technician we will ensure drying up everything to avoid any possible growth of mold. We use devices like an moisture meter to ensure walls and other items are dried up. We also can test for mold to ensure that mold spores are not emerging after the drying process. Trust in the professional of SERVPRO of Burlington/Mount Holly for all your water damages. We serve all residential and commercial locations and we work 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

Cleaning Services

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

Our equipment is no match for any catastrophe that may happen to your business. SERVPRO take pride in there work to ensure work is done correctly and ever is clean where it like to damage ever happen or mess ever existed who knew a local company could restore damages to businesses and get them back to running. SERVPRO of Burlington/ Mount Holly can help and handle all types of cleaning for you and your business with no loss of time and money! You are sure to recommend us to your colleagues. The pros of SERVPRO are here to serve the community any need for fire, water damages, and cleaning service as well as biohazard cleaning and duct cleaning another one of the services we offer.

Dangers of Hoarding

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

We have heard of those crazy shows about individuals hoarding stuff and not wanting to part ways of all the things they have collected over the years. At SERVPRO of Burlington/ Mount Holly want to keep families safe and give them tips in keeping a safe and healthy home. Hoarding is something hazardous when it comes to fire safety for anyone will this problem. The risks of one hoarding can crowd stoves and ovens making very unsafe to cook because of the possibility of something falling into those appliances and starting a fire. Another risk has items to close and crowed near heating equipment like a fireplace or a furnace which is very dangerous if the items were to fall into these kinds of equipment causing it to damage and start a fire. The hoarding of items is a very serious dangerous even when it comes to saving your own life. Firefighters will have a hard time trying to get in your home to rescue you or your loved ones in case of a fire. With stuff being everywhere like in any hoarding situation can make it difficult for a firefighter to navigate in the home. It is important to remember that if you have lots of items in or around your home to keep them at least 3 feet away from cooking appliance like a stove(s) or oven(s) and as well as any heating equipment like furnaces, boilers or fireplace.

Taking Care of Smoke and Soot Damages

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to personal property and structures. Quick action is the only way to minimize the destruction. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, IICRC, is a globally recognized organization whose mission is to establish higher industry standards. As a referral source for consumers, IICRC certified firms are more likely to provide a faster, better service than non-certified competitors.Restoration costs increase and damages escalate when the cleaning process is extended. By hastening the hiring process and using an IICRC certified technician, owners will be rewarded by having the damage stopped so repairs can begin.What happens only minutes after the disaster?Immediately after a fire, soot residue settles onto the property. Discoloration of porous materials is permanent, but other surfaces may be properly cleaned to remove the discoloration. Acidic soot begins staining other surfaces if not treated quickly.Within hours all surfaces begin to suffer from fire and smoke damage. Wooden furniture may require refinishing. Metal begins to rust, pit and corrode. Painted walls begin to yellow. Clothing can become permanently stained. And finally, flooring may require refinishing or replacement.If left untreated, within weeks the restoration process will take longer and cost more. Prolonged soot exposure permanently harms all surfaces and embeds in fibers. Replacement of property may be the best option at this point. The structure may continue deteriorating if not properly restored by SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly

Types of Water Damages

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Burlington Township / Mount Holly wants to keep you educated on the different types water can damage your property.Preventing water damage is the primary challenge for any structure seeking durability. Thermally efficient homes do not dry out as quickly as the energy wasting houses of older generations. Newer, engineered lumber products are less tolerant of frequent wetting. Most damage hides behind finishes, with long term negative impacts on indoor-air quality.The most common and destructive type of water damage is typically rain related and includes many sources:

Water seepage though basement walls.

Leaks through walls at areas like doors and windows

Roof leaks, usually through penetrations and flashing errors

Plumbing leaks, an outlier but relevant

Bulk water leaks come in many forms from the rare catastrophic plumbing failure to the more common hidden leak that causes its damage over many years. Homeowner maintenance goes a long way to preventing and reducing problems. For those building new, we suggest hiring builders who take these matters seriously. We think blower door test results offer a fair measurement for distinguishing between builders for this type of hidden craftsmanship.Uncontrolled, random air leaks are responsible for the second leading cause of water and moisture damage in our homes and buildings. Humid-air will deposit its moisture on cold surfaces which adds up over time to an amazing amount of moisture and resulting damage. This type of damage rarely reveals itself in the ways bulk water intrusion does but it still causes serious problems behind the finished surfaces.Air leaks do most of their damage in the form of energy costs. Reducing air infiltration and ex-filtration is often pointed to as one of the most cost-effective strategies for reducing energy costs and resulting environmental impacts. Increasing comfort is another huge reason to pay close attention to this important issue. Vapor diffusion is a confusing subject. There are two main ways it does damage in our climate.

When moisture reservoir cladding (masonry, fiber cement siding, stucco) gets saturated with rain and the sun or warm outdoor temperatures drive the stored moisture towards the inside. Interior vapor barriers like vinyl wallpaper increases interior vapor drive problems. Expect more damage in our region with masonry against wood common practices.

In the wintertime, when exterior sheathing or framing is cold and interior humidity is too high.Amy has blogs on the subject of wintertime humidity in homes. Keep interior humidity below 40% during cold weather. Exterior sheathing helps keep vulnerable structural members warmer, thus safer from risky dew points.Its common for people to misdiagnose a vapor diffusion problem for one of the first two. When evaluating water damage, suspect number one is bulk water. Most mold inside hidden building cavities, not exposed to bulk water is caused by air leakage.If still unsure about the differences of uncontrolled air movement and vapor diffusion, this blog may help:Breathing Walls?Siding or exterior finish materials that store water can become a problem if not detailed correctly. Selecting the right Weather Resistive Barriers are important along with the right installation details. Rain screens –technically required by code for brick– are an easy way to add durability and reduced maintenance to these types of exterior.Water is lazy but also persistent. It will defy gravity given the right substrates and conditions. It starts in design with features that readily shed water and are less prone to problems. Know and account for the main weaknesses during assembly on site. Prove the project is airtight with a blower door test. These are some of the most important ways of increasing the durability of homes and buildings.

Who Is Liable

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

It is undeniable that dramatic and strange weather patterns have been on the increase. Not only have we seen the highest temperatures ever recorded in some areas, but massive hail storms and flash floods as well.This is all happening at the same time as other parts of the country continue to experience severe drought and devastating fires.During extreme weather cycles, physical damage to a property can be unavoidable.But is an owner or tenant liable for this kind of damage?“The risk and liability involved with immovable property will always be that of the owner. The owner is thus liable for all damages caused by 'vis major',” says Dickens.She says ‘vis major’ is a legal term referring to a superior force, which is outside of human control. It includes acts of nature or acts of God such as lightning, earthquake, flood or violent storms.Damage to the structure of the property, unless caused by the gross negligence of the tenant, is the responsibility of the owner.“This is also the case with permanent fittings, for instance cupboards, baths, toilets or curtain rails. If the tenant causes a fire in the kitchen through gross negligence, and in so doing burns down the house, the blame - and therefore liability - for the damage falls squarely on the tenant,” says Dickens.Cilna Steyn, Managing Director of SSLR Inc., property specialist law firm, says she can provide practical advice concerning this.“The question to ask is: who caused the damage? If the damage was caused by the tenant, it is the tenant’s responsibility to fix it. If it was caused by the landlord, the landlord is liable for the damage. If the damage is nobody’s fault, the property owner is liable for repair of the damages,” says Steyn.“Another way of looking at the problem is: who has the insurable interest? A tenant cannot take out insurance on a property, whereas a landlord can. Therefore, tenants cannot be held liable unless they were grossly negligent.”How does this contrast with a property that is sold? If a property is sold but occupation has not yet taken place and the property is destroyed due to no fault of the seller, the sale is not terminated. The buyer remains liable for payment of the full purchase price.Steyn says every set of circumstances where a dispute arises regarding damages to a property is unique, and liability can therefore only be determined on a case by case basis. Here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly want you to be knowledgeable of all scenarios and we hope that this helps you have a better understanding of the owner and landlord relationship.

Air Quality and Mold

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

Here in New Jersey SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly wants you to receive updates on the outdoor air quality so you know whether to group your errands together, consider carpooling or stay inside so you don’t risk agitating your allergies. No matter the overall exterior air quality, you should also take steps to make sure the air you’re breathing inside your home is clean and clear. Learn why it’s so important that you have nothing but the freshest air inside your residence.Your Home’s Air Quality Is Likely Worse Than Exterior AirOfficial organizations have reported that residential air is commonly anywhere from two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. This is because there are several products, materials and activities that compromise your home’s air quality. It’s also not unusual to hear of a home that’s 100 times more polluted than outside air, which is likely if you have mold anywhere inside your residence.You Spend a Lot of Time Inside Your HomePeople spend a lot of time inside their homes, and that can be hazardous to your health if your indoor air quality is compromised. Those exposed to harmful chemicals are often exposed to them while in the comfort of their own homes, but there’s really nothing too comfortable about poor indoor air quality. Even if you’re hardly ever at home, it’s still in your best interest to focus on having high quality indoor air for your health and peace of mind.More Children Are Diagnosed With Severe Asthma and Allergies.If you have children, it’s especially vital you do everything you can to make the air inside your home as fresh and clean as possible. This is because the number of children with severe instances of asthma and allergies is on the rise, mainly because of poor indoor air quality. Not only can this potentially compromise your child’s quality of life, but it also results in increased medical costs that result from addressing asthma and allergies through trips to the doctor and medication.Poor Air Quality Can Result in Lung Cancer and Heart Common Causes of Indoor Air Pollution now that you know a bit more about why it’s so essential you pay close attention to the condition of your home’s air, it’s time to learn a bit more about the sources of pollution. Such sources include:

Building materials, such as carpet, insulation, cabinetry and products made from pressed wood

Wood stoves, gas, oil, kerosene and other sources of combustion

Viruses, mold, pet dander and dust mites

Cleaning supplies, personal care products and pastes

Pesticides, radon, pollen and outdoor air pollution that trickles inside your homeSteps You Can TakeJust as there are several sources of indoor air pollution, there are several methods of boosting your indoor air quality. One of the best things you can do for your home and yourself is to invest in a vacuum with a HEPA filter, which goes a long way in sucking up a number of allergens and toxins while making your home look cleaner and more inviting.When you’re done vacuuming, you should be sure to mop up anything the vacuum might have left behind. For the best results, invest in a microfiber mop designed to pick up more dust and dirt than standard mops.Work with professionals to determine just how good your indoor air quality is and what else you can do to improve it. You might be surprised at just how much better life is when you can breathe free and easy.

Prepare For The Storm

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Preparedness for Drinking Water Utilities from SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly 

Drinking water utilities need to take precautions in advance of the arrival of a hurricane. Public water suppliers in the possible path of the storm should prepare for high winds, storm surge, torrential rain, flooding and extended power outages. To help utilities provide continuity of service to its customers before, during and after the storm, the following actions are recommended:

• Water Storage - Fill your storage tanks to help you meet demand during a power outage and to help anchor your tanks during high winds and inundation.
• Back Up Power - Fill fuel tanks for your generators. Exercise each generator under load to be sure it is running properly and power transfer is reliable. Assume a lengthy power outage. Estimate the time that you will be able to meet demand with the back-up power, fuel and water storage you have on hand. Identify several possible locations where fuel can be procured in case your primary supplier becomes unable to deliver.
• Continuity of Operation - Contact all essential employees to place them on alert. Make sure that sufficient staff will be on duty throughout the expected storm duration. Provide enough food and clean water for staff working extended shifts. Have them bring extra dry clothes, and consider providing sleeping arrangements so that extended duty staff do not become overly tired.
• Chemical and Fuel Storage - Check tanks to be sure you have enough essential chemicals (e.g. disinfectant) to get you through the storm. Check tank anchoring to be sure they are protected from wind damage and buoyancy forces (floating or overturning) should they become inundated.
• Water Sources - Identify sources that may become inundated. Prepare to remove sources from service, prior to inundation, that may be susceptible to damage from inundation or intrusion by flood born pathogens or salt water.
• Emergency Communications - Check your emergency communications equipment to be sure it is in good working order. Charge all batteries, or replace with fresh ones. Distribute communication equipment to appropriate staff.
• Public Communications - Be prepared to provide public information as needed. Check contact information with local radio and television stations. If you do not have storage and/or dedicated backup power sufficient for 3 days, consider pre-preparing water conservation advisory notices that can be issued if needed.
• Vehicles - Fill vehicle fuel tanks to be sure they are ready for use in response to the storm. Provide essential equipment (radios, instruments, tools, safety equipment, lights, ropes, etc.).

Water Categories

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly we are an IICRC Certified Firm.

There are 3 Basic Categories of Water

Category 1 originates from a sanitary source and poses no substantial risk from dermal, ingestion, or inhalation exposure. However, it may not always remain clean after it comes into contact with other surfaces or materials.

Category 2 contains significant contamination and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed by humans. It may contain potentially unsafe levels of microorganisms or nutrients for microorganisms, as well as other organic or inorganic matter (chemical or biological).

Category 3 is grossly contaminated and may contain pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Such water sources may carry silt, organic matter, pesticides, heavy metals, regulated materials, or toxic organic substances.

We want you to be aware of the types of water damages that are out there and have comfort knowing we can take care of you.

Fire Ready

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Fire spreads quickly. If fire breaks out in your home, there is no time to gather valuables or make a phone call. In just two minutes, a fire can become life threatening. In five minutes, your home can be up in flames. Be prepared for a fire before it starts.

Better Safe Than Sorry

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

Better safe than sorry is an all too common saying that holds a lot of value. Here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly  we want you to be prepared for the worst. SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly believes in being READY.  One of the first ways of doing this is to have an emergency supply kit.  It may be different depending on what type of disasters you are likely to encounter but this is a good starter list. Put this emergency kit in a safe place that easily able to be found by all members of your family. 

• Water ( one gallon water per person per day)
• Food ( non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Battery-operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal help
• Dust mask
• Hygiene items
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Manual can opener
• Local Maps
• Cell phone with chargers
• Cash
• Important documents
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches

We care about the well being of you and your loved ones so this is why we recommend taking the proper precautions in being ready. You never know what could happen but whenever you reside in the Philadelphia area, just know that SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly has your back.  

Our Fleet

2/8/2018 (Permalink)

Our green trucks, vans and cars are always ready with our many different types of vehicles. During emergency water and fire calls we respond with our trucks all ready to go! Our crews and staff goes above and beyond to make sure our vehicles are fully stocked in case of any emergency we are ready to up and leave. SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly wants to be there as soon as you have a loss happen. We have a water truck that we bring to the job site to extract water right on the premises. This helps to ensure that the drying process can start quickly so your water emergency can get cleaned up. We also have other vehicles that are designated for large loss jobs and removing your affected content for cleaning at our shop. When you see the green SERVPRO vehicles you know we are helping you, your neighbors, and your local businesses get back to everyday life quickly and efficiently.

Watch The Mold

2/8/2018 (Permalink)

New Jersey homes are known for their ability to withstand the harsh environments that come through the fall and winter every year. What you may not understand, is that a compromised roof could allow moisture to seep into the attic space from snow or ice on the shingles that have not melted away. When this new moisture is allowed to continue unchecked in your attic space, mold can find plenty of places to grow.Since mold damage to your New Jersey residence typically happens involving organic materials, you should appreciate the options available in your attic right now. Most construction uses plywood backing against the joists of your roof, and all of these components provide the right base for a mold colony to successfully feed and grow. It is a good idea to get in the habit of periodically checking up in your attic area for the presence or signs of molding, especially if you are not one to typically go into this area of your house.While you should be able to smell the overwhelming musty scent of a thriving colony, sometimes this can be difficult to do if you have a decent ventilation system in place. Visual inspections can also be misleading at times, as newly forming colonies are not often overly noticeable to the naked eye.Our SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly technicians can provide inspections of your attic space to provide assurances that fungus is not currently present and that the conditions of your attic are not likely to create these organisms in the future. If something is found, our technicians begin their remediation work right away.The process is all about preventing the spread of the fungus by neutralizing its spores in the air. The neutralization procedure uses a negative air chamber. Once these spores have been contained, thoroughly cleaning the area is the next step. This process changes based on the type of mold and how deeply it is rooted, but all of the colonies get removed at this time.

Vandalism Cleaning

2/8/2018 (Permalink)

One thing about SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly is that we are a “one stop shop”. Not only do we specialize in fire and water damage restoration and cleanup; we specialize in vandalism and graffiti cleanup! In some areas of New Jersey vandalism can happen on a reoccurring basis and require a lot of time set aside to cleanup, paint over, or tear down the damaged area. As we know vandalism can range from small pranks like throwing eggs at someone’s front yard to completely destroying someone’s house from breaking windows or spray painting on their private property. Luckily, SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly specializes in both minor and large vandalism and graffiti cleanup and restoration. If you ever encounter such a damage please know you are in good hands when you call us here. We care about you getting back up and running. Don’t worry when someone intrudes and tries to destroy your personal property, SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly will act fast and efficient to restore your personal items and remove all vandalism and destruction from your home or commercial building.

Mold Remediation

1/23/2018 (Permalink)

When a home suffers a water damage event, a mold infestation can quickly arise and spread throughout a home in 48-72 hours. Because mold can produce allergens and irritants, you will want a professional that has training and experience to properly resolve the mold infestation. If you suspect that your Stowe home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly can inspect, assess and perform remediation of your property.

Understanding Mold

Confusion and misunderstanding surround the topic of mold and mold remediation. Some restoration businesses even make claims to remove all mold from a building. This is a fallacy. Mold spores occur naturally almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. These microscopic spores float along in the air and can enter a home or business through windows and HVAC systems. Consider these facts:

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

Check Your Pipes!

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

As the weather is getting colder upon us in the winter months we are all aware that water freezes. With that being said we have had a stretch of some of the coldest days to date this year in New Jersey. Along with that can come many issues such as frozen bursting pipes and as a friendly reminder to you SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly wants to make sure you are turning off your necessary water valves so this does not happen to your home or commercial building. Something this simple can cause a closet to get wet or something as serious as multiple floors and multiple units in a commercial building that can cost upwards of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Our highly trained project managers deal with this on a regular basis and we do not want this to happen to you when it is controllable. Although when the worst happens you know who to call to make sure you are in good hands.

Fire Education

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

The local fire department is a very important part of our community. The Burlington Township Bureau of Fire Prevention's goal is to decrease the frequency and severity of fires in our town.

At SERVPRO, we understand the devastation caused by fire, which is why we strongly support the Bureau's goal. We believe it can be accomplished through an active enforcement program, public education activities, engineering and plans review, and investigations. We strive to provide these services; utilizing well trained and highly motivated personnel who understand the importance of customer service and fire safety education.

According to the US Fire Administration each year, more than 4,500 Americans die and more than 30,000 are injured in fires. Many of those deaths and injuries could have been prevented if people had a better understanding of fire.

The Burlington Township Bureau of Fire Prevention has the responsibility of educating the community, inspecting local businesses and various public establishments, and enforcing codes to ensure the safety of the community. This website has been established in order to assist in dispensing information to the community as well as aiding in its education.

SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly is very lucky to have them.

Mold From Heat

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

When temperatures have started to heat up, which means your home is at a greater risk for mold growth. Mold spores can grow in temperatures ranging from 32 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The optimum temperature range for mold growth is between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, a common temperature range in our area.

As the winter weather falls further into the rear-view, it is time to be even more cautious of any possible moisture or water damage on your property. In order to reproduce, mold spores require moist or damp areas. Excess moisture in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms are prime areas for mold to grow. Also be on the lookout for flooding, leaky pipes/windows/roof, etc., and call a professional right away should any of these problems occur. 

SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly  has highly trained and experienced crew members ready to make it "Like it never even happened."

Water Leaks

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Water leaks within a business can seep into carpet, flooring, baseboards, and walls while moving throughout the structure.  SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly  understands how disruptive water damages can be for a business. Water leaks can not only disrupt the facility, but also can interrupt day to day business functions, which could possibly close the business and affect revenues. 

Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process.  Quick response time helps ensure that damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly. This saves on the amount of damage, cost of claims, and assists in reducing losses from business interruption due to a loss.  Timely and proper water mitigation will also help keep mold from developing which could cause people to become ill!  SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly will be able to identify water regardless of where it hides. We offer 24-hour emergency response from our trained professionals to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Mold Problem?

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

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

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

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation. You can call SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly to come to the rescue! 

Classes of Water Losses

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

4 Classes of Water Damage

Classes of water losses are determined by the rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected by water damage to your property. Determining the Class of Water is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to restore your business. There are four IICRC water damage classifications, they are as follows:

Class 1 - Slow Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect only part of a room or area, or losses with lower permeance/porosity materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, vinyl composition tile or VCT, concrete). Little or no wet carpet or cushion is present. Minimum moisture is absorbed by materials, releasing moisture slowly.

Class 2 - Fast Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect an entire room or carpet and cushion. Water has wicked up walls 12" - 24". There is moisture remaining in structural materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, concrete).

Class 3 - Fastest Evaporation Rate
Water may have come from overhead. Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushion and sub-floor in the entire area are saturated.

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations
These consist of wet materials with very low permeance/porosity (hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, stone, and crawlspace). Typically, there are deep pockets of saturation, which requires very low specific humidity.

Call SERVPRO of Burlington Township / Mount Holly today if you experience any of these at (609) 326 3663

Prepare for the Season

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

As we enter the end of 2017, we also enter into the bad weather season in New Jersey. While this feels like holiday fun, we have to stay prepared. As we've begun to experience rain, snow, and sleet here at SERVPRO, we've begun to get calls reporting water damage. With the importance of being quick to respond to salvage what we can. We had to act fast of course to prevent mold, but we ask for your vigilance as well. Before consistent rain hits, clean your gutters and if you are able, get your roof examined for any damage. We would like to have people prepared this season to prevent you from suffering a water damage. But if you do suffer from one, don't stress. You can call us here at SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly at 609 326 3663 and we will make it "Like it never even happened." 

"I Don't Live Near Hurricanes"

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

With all the natural disasters happening down south such as hurricane Harvey and hurricane Irma, it may be easy to lose track of when there is an emergency other than what you see on television. Please be aware that floods can happen anywhere at anytime. Have you checked your hot water heater lately? Could one of your pipes start leaking through the ceiling down to the first floor from the bathroom? Maybe some rainfall came through the roof? The answer is YES! Unfortunately these damages can happen to any one on any given day or night. These damages can cause a long and painful process for a home owner if not handled properly. Luckily there is SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly to the rescue. With our experienced crew members and vast majority of equipment we can make your disaster look like it never happened and have you living comfortably in your home. We are just a phone call away at 6093263663, 24 hours a day 7 days a week.    

Prepare For The Storm

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

We all worry about losing power or being stuck somewhere when it comes to storms. Here at SERVPRO of Burlington and Mount Holly we worry about all the above but the most important is keeping the storm outside and keeping your residential house or place of business dry. The last thing you want to do is have to walk down to a basement with four feet of water in there or a second floor ceiling leaking due to a faulty roof that should have been replaced years ago. It can be a very painful process to see your home get torn apart and very uncomfortable as a temporary living situation. With this being said SERVPRO of Burlington and Mount Holly always recommends to stay up on your maintenance of your home or business. A replaced roof or a better sealed basement structure could be the difference between a week of heartache and thousands of dollars rather than just taking the simple precautions. Now we understand there is also the uncontrollable when it gets bad enough such as a hurricane and can destroy anything in its path. In either scenario when the worst happens just know that SERVPRO of Burlington and Mount Holly is on your side.    

Get Your Commercial Property Up And Running

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events in Burlington Township/Mount Holly 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.

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.

SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly 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 as soon as possible to make it look like it never happened.

Getting Your Property Back Up and Running

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events in Burlington Township and Mount Holly 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.

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.

SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly 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 as soon as possible to make it look like it never happened.

Be Ready For The Storm

11/27/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington and Mount Holly specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. We are the largest company nationwide to handle large losses.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre storm condition.

Faster Response Time

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. Which in the end either gets your home back to normal sooner or gets your business up and running for you to continue work and make your profit like it never happened.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit New Jersey, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today at 609-326-3663

Burlington County Event

3/1/2017 (Permalink)

Thank you to the Burlington County Regional Chamber of Commerce for the educational lunch and learn. We enjoy attending each month and look forward to seeing you all again next month. 

Home Fire Campaign

11/28/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO partnered with the American Red Cross and local Fire Departments going house to house in the Willingboro area installing free smoke detectors. We donated cases of water and provided breakfast for all the volunteers. We were broken up into teams of four to document, install and educate each resident. For residents who were not home we left packets on each door to give them the opportunity to call their local fire department to schedule a time for them to stop back. The 11 groups were able to hit about 800 houses and installed 216 smoke detectors. This is the third time this year this campaign has taken place and this year alone 800 smoke detectors have been installed in the state of New Jersey. It was a beautiful day to walk around Willingboro to increase the chances of saving a life.

SERVPRO Goes Pink for October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

BCRF Susan G Komen SERVPRO Pink October Breast Cancer Awareness and Research

October is breast cancer awareness month.  Every year, more than 100,000 volunteers and activists work through more than 120 Affiliates mobilize more than 1.6 million friends and neighbors every year through events like the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure® - the world's largest awareness and fundraising event for breast cancer. Komen advocates for breast self-awareness as a primary method for fighting breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to achieving prevention and a cure for breast cancer. We provide critical funding for cancer research worldwide to fuel advances in tumor biology, genetics, prevention, treatment, metastasis and survivorship.

In 2016-2017, BCRF will award $57 million in annual grants to more than 250 scientists from top universities and medical institutions around the globe. In addition, BCRF has established the Evelyn H. Lauder Founder’s Fund, a multi-year international program dedicated to metastasis that is the first large-scale global effort to unravel the biology of metastasis, with more than $30 million earmarked to date. It is the largest privately funded project exclusively focused on metastasis in the world. But we still have more to do.

Funeral Service Directors: SERVPRO can help your business grow

9/21/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help Funeral Service Companies and Funeral Directors or Funeral Homes

SERVPRO attends many events throughout or workweek. Next week we have a benefit sponsoring the families of injured or sick emergency workers. This past week, we sponsored an event for funeral homes and funeral directors.

We learned about those businesses and enjoyed meeting many different people who are experts in the funeral industry. We also were able to demonstrate our services that funeral homes often are in need of but don't typically know we offer.

We can offer bio-recovery and cleanup. Last week we provided service to a building where someone who lived alone passed away and was not found until several days later. Situations like that need to be handled specially and we just recently completed a week long training course to be certified in bio-recovery cleanup.

Many families are also faced with the task of moving out their loved ones' possessions. We offer pack out and move out services as well as removal of trash and cleanup of properties.

Funeral homes often find theirselves helping families grieve and get through the process respectfully. Knowing they are able to call on the SERVPRO professionals helps them grow their businesses and provide great service.

SERVPRO makes National Preparedness Month Easy: Make Your Emergency Plan With SERVPRO

9/14/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Makes National Emergency Preparedness Month Easy

We are in the middle of hurricane season.  Right now, Asia is experiencing a record-breaking typhoon, and here in the United States, September is recognized as National Preparedness Month which serves as a reminder that we all must take action to prepare, now and throughout the year for the types of emergencies that could affect us where we live, work and visit. 

The theme of this year’s National Preparedness Month is “Don’t Wait, Communicate.  Make Your Emergency Plan Today.” and suits well with everything we do at SERVPRO. 

Did you know SERVPRO offers a FREE emergency ready profile that anyone can set up using a smartphone or tablet?  SERVPRO has ensured making your emergency ready plan is available at the touch of your fingertips through our FREE app available in your app store.  Visit ready.SERVPRO.com to learn more. 

Of course, in the spirit of being prepared and ready for any disaster that could happen, we hope everyone adds SERVPRO to your contingency plans both at work and home.  Protecting your home by knowing our services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days each year is a great way to stay prepared.  Add our number to your plan: 215-772-1203 and make sure you download our ready app to create your emergency ready profile today!

Eastampton Township Youth Police and Fire Academy a Huge Success

9/7/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fire water restoration

The Eastampton Township Police Department and Eastampton Township Fire Department co-sponsored the 1st annual Police and Fire Academy from August 15 – August 19. Based upon a motto of “Service Before Self,” the free academy graduated twenty-four (24) youth cadets who participated in a variety of law enforcement and emergency services activities. The program was made possible through the generous donations of several local businesses and organizations including Eastampton Township Council, Eastampton Fire Department, Eastampton Police Department, Eastampton Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #146, 537 Subs, O’Connor’s Restaurant, Russo’s Restaurant, Rancocas Veterinary, Six Flags, and Walmart of Lumberton. The program concluded with a ceremony in which participants received graduation certificates.

SERVPRO enjoys collaborating with police and fire departments to perform tasks they need for emergency services.  

Two Easy Home Maintenance Tasks to Prepare for Fall and Prevent Water Damage

8/31/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO water restoration and cleanup

As much fun as summer can be, it has to end at some point. As the trees begin to change and the weather shifts from hot and humid to cool and crisp, it’s time to prepare for the onset of cooler months. Whether you’re not ready for the heat to be gone or are looking forward to unpacking your favorite cold weather clothes, there’s a lot to do to get ready for the changing seasons.

7. Inspect your roof
If you have a heavy rainstorm or a foot of snow, can your roof take the burden? Before settling in for another chilly fall and a freezing winter, take a look at your roof for weak spots, cracks in your shingles, granules, and wind damage. If you see anything that looks off or unstable, a roofer may be what your home needs to weather this winter’s storms.

3. Clean our your gutters
As the leaves begin to turn, you know you’re only weeks away from them falling off entirely and stopping up your gutters. Before you find yourself with a big mess on your hands, take the time now to clean out your gutters and drainpipes to prevent the possibility of water damage and clogs. A clean early in the season may not suffice through the winter, but it will make sure you’re prepared for the harsher weather to come. Water damages can be caused by clogged drains; overflowing water to collect on your roof or house and most outside water damage is not covered by insurance!

Preparing your house for fall may not be what you planned during the weekend, but it’s something you’ll thank yourself for later. With the right measures taken now, you and your family will be prepared to settle in for the fall and winter, no matter what may be coming your way.

Millions of Fish Wash up on New Jersey Shore Causing Large Scale Bio-Hazard Cleanup

8/26/2016 (Permalink)

This week millions of fish washed up and died in creeks and waterways near a northern New Jersey shore town.  Crews estimated at first an amount in the hundreds of thousands of fish were killed but have since updated that count to more than a million. 

New Jersey environmental officials say the fish were probably chased into the bay and upstream by other fish in the ocean.  Once they were there and unable to escape they died due to low levels of oxygen in the water.  Officials commented “This is primarily a natural phenomenon, but it is exacerbated by polluted runoff, including fertilizers from lawns, which is why preserving stream corridors and buffers is important”.  Highest numbers of dead fish have been found in Waackaack Creek.   Crews have cleaned the dead fish and taken them to Monmouth County Landfill. 

SERVPRO of Burlington / Mount Holly has completed bio-hazard cleanup training and is very knowledgeable when it comes to cleaning up an incident that involves the remains of animals, humans or other abnormal events that require special handling. 

SERVPRO Sponsors the 44th Biannual Pennsylvania Fraternal Order of Police Conference

8/10/2016 (Permalink)

FOP SERVPRO Banner

SERVPRO was a sponsor of the 44th Biannual Pennsylvania Fraternal Order of Police conference that was held at the Hilton Penn's Landing in Philadelphia.  SERVPRO of Society Hill/ Burlington & Mt. Holly and SERVPRO of Upper Bucks were both representing SERVPRO at the conference with a table set up in the exposition hall. 

Events for the conference included a welcome party at Sugar House Casino, a celebration at the Michael G. Lutz, Philadelphia Lodge 5 Headquarters on Monday, and our Awards Banquet on Wednesday at the Hilton Hotel.  

SERVPRO was supporting the FOP offering refreshments, information about services like bio-hazard cleanup, water damage and mold remediation.  SERVPRO supports America's law enforcement officers and it was a pleasure sponsoring the event.  

Heading to Philadelphia? Here Are Some Great Museums You Can't Miss!

8/8/2016 (Permalink)

Philadelphia Pixar Exhibit at The Franklin Institute

As summer heats up in Philadelphia, the perfect way to stay cool is to check out all of the coolest museum exhibitions that the city has to offer.  There are exhibits perfect for kids, teens and adults of all ages! 

Here are some of the picks we thought were especially cool:

1. The Franklin Institute: The Science Behind Pixar.   We love The Franklin Institute. They are one of our many great customers for emergency and cleaning services but they also have great exhibitions for people of all ages.  Learning about the science behind PIXAR animated films is also a great way to spend the hottest part of the day inside and not feel bad about it.  

2. The National Constitution Center: Headed to the White House features a great exhibit that is a perfect fit during the 2016 presidential election.  

3. Inside Out curated by the Philadelphia Museum of Art: Inside out takes the concept of an art museum to the outside by featuring high-quality replicas of famous art pieces from well-known artists outside in select Philadelphia neighborhoods.  Participating neighborhoods include Old City,  Brewerytown,  and Conshohocken. 

4. Cast of Curiosities at the Magic Gardens: One of the houses that stands out the most on South Street in Philadelphia is the Magic Gardens.  It's covered in mirrors, tiles and glass art and the artwork inside is abstract and is influenced by the artist's life as a nurse.  

There are many more in the great city of Philadelphia that as a member of this community providing water damage restoration we recommend visiting.  

SERVPRO of Burlington/ Mt. Holly Completes Crime and Trauma Scene Bio-Recovery Training

8/1/2016 (Permalink)

A mock blood mattress used in Bio Recovery Training

SERVPRO of Burlington / Mount Holly sent technicians to attend a multi-day training for Bio-Hazard related cleanup. This training course meets and exceeds the requirements of the American Bio Recovery Association (ABRA).  Our technicians successfully passed and became certified Bio Recovery Technicians.  

The training curriculum extensively covered cleanup of crime scenes, suicide and bodily decompositions. Safe and proper blood-borne pathogen cleanup is a serious business.  Clearly a service one hopes they will never require, but should the need arise you can turn to the SERVPRO professionals. 

New Jersey's Shore is a Summer Destination For Everyone

7/20/2016 (Permalink)

Jersey Shore SERVPRO Water Damage

New Jersey's crown jewel remains its 130 miles of coastline, spanning from Sandy Hook to Cape May. Our unmatched beaches boast beautiful barrier islands and bays dotted with majestic lighthouses, fishing villages and scenic views.

"Down the Shore" means there's something for everyone. Among New Jersey's most treasured prizes are the white-sand beaches that draw hundreds of thousands of visitors and families each year to enjoy the surf, sand, sun, fun and excitement of the famous Jersey Shore. 

- See more at: http://www.visitnj.org/nj/beaches#sthash.XrGW79Sm.dpuf

Mount Holly / Burlington Fourth of July Fireworks on July 3rd

6/29/2016 (Permalink)

4th of July Fireworks Show in Mount Holly on July 3rd

 Mount Holly Township will be hosting their annual Independence Day Celebration on Sunday, July 3, 2016 from 5 to 11 p.m.  The public event will have admission, rides and shows all FREE of Charge.  Food and drink available from more than 27 different vendors will be available for purchase.  The celebration will be held in Ironworks Park, located at 157 Wollner Drive in Mount Holly and will feature a variety of fun, family-friendly, free activities. Children and adults are invited to enjoy rides, bounce houses, a trackless train, slides, a glow-in-the-dark hula hoop presentation and more. The day will conclude with a spectacular themed fireworks display, which is set to begin promptly at sundown.

SERVPRO Restores More Than Water Damage, Document and Artwork Restoration Services Make Museum Exhibits Possible

6/15/2016 (Permalink)

Come Fly With Me Document Restoratino Servpro

Many Frank Sinatra fans in New Jersey will be able to see an exhibit about the famous singer at the Hoboken Historical Museum between August 2nd and June 30th, 2016. 

The exhibit features interactive displays and videos, period-appropriate listening stations, and cherished fan photographs and artifacts to illustrate the singer/actor's formative years in Hoboken, highlights from his remarkable 60-year career, and memories from legions of fans. The exhibit is accompanied by a series of monthly Sinatra singers, plus films and author talks.

SERVPRO offers many document restoration services that could make historical exhibits such as this one possible.  With our expert document, painting and artwork restoration services, SERVPRO allows history to be experienced by many people worldwide.  

Main Street Mount Holly Preserves History and Provides Family Entertainment

6/8/2016 (Permalink)

Mount Holly Main Street

Mount Holly has tons of New Jersey History dating back to the colonial days and beginnings of our nation.  

http://www.mainstreetmountholly.com/ Is a website devoted to events in Main Street of the town, the preservation of it's history and great events that offer family entertainment for all.  

Whether you are visiting or live in the area, check it out and enjoy everything there is to offer!

New Rollercoaster Opens in New Jersey

6/1/2016 (Permalink)

New Rollercoaster at 6 Flags Great Adventure

This past Memorial Day was filled with excitement all over New Jersey and especially this week at 6 Flags Great Adventure.  The park opened a brand new Rollercoaster called The Joker.  

Built by S&S Worldwide, this is "4D" Rollercoaster that rotates the passenger cars to different Angels at different points of the Rollercoaster to increase the intensity of drops, turns and loops.  

The new Rollercoaster is one of New Jersey's newest great attractions and SERVPRO is proud to be a part of this great community.  

Jersey Shore Beaches Restored in Time for Memorial Day

5/25/2016 (Permalink)

Restoring The Beaches in New Jersey and Delaware

If you're traveling to the Jersey Shore this Memorial Day for some quality time on the beach, take a moment to appreciate all the work put in to restore the beaches with more sand and beach-space.  Several storms this past winter left the beaches eroded and damaged.  Experts explained two major storms over the winter did extensive damage to the beaches.  Hurricane Joaquin last October luckily didn't make landfall but it did remain stationary off the coast for several days which caused waves to erode more than normal; in some places more than superstorm Sandy in 2012.  

Travelers from Burlington or Mt. Holly heading to the shore will find the newly restored beaches a great part of their long weekend.  SERVPRO of Burlington and Mount Holly wishes everyone a safe and happy Memorial Day!

Burlington NJ is Home to Over 40 Historic Sites

5/18/2016 (Permalink)

Burlington New Jersey is home to more than 10 Underground Railroad sites

The city of Burlington, NJ is host to more than 40 historic sites as being the first European settlement in New Jersey.   From the Underground Railroad to the country's oldest residence, Burlington is a great location for a weekend trip full of history and culture.  

Burlington is home to NJ's oldest firehouse, library and pharmacy.  Home to more than 10 Underground Railroad sites, the city offers a self-guided walking tour.  The city recommends wearing comfortable walking shoes for the tour which lasts about 2 hours.  

SERVPRO enjoys being a member and providing services to this historic community.  For more information visit: http://www.tourburlington.org/TourUGRR.html

2016 Mount Holly Townwide Garage Sale This Weekend

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

Spring Cleaning?  Left with all kinds of items that are too nice to throw away but you just don't need them anymore?  

The town of Mount Holly, New Jersey is offering all residents a free town-wide garage sale on May 14th and 15th 2016!

Visit http://twp.mountholly.nj.us/ to find a list of every resident who signed up and see what hidden treasures you can find!

SERVPRO Communities: Weather Forecasting in Mount Holly

5/5/2016 (Permalink)

A Weather Forecast Office

The great cities of Burlington and Mount Holly, New Jersey are both cities with impressive historical backgrounds in areas such as religious freedom and civil rights but also are home to the National Weather Services’ Forecast Office for the tristate area.

Weather is monitored around the clock here generating forecasts and issuing alerts for severe weather.  Modern equipment such as satellite data and advanced radar systems are the tools used to help keep the public informed and safe. 

SERVPRO of Burlington / Mount Holly professionals are also ready to help 24/7 in the event that severe weather damages your home and we are proud to be a member of this rich and vibrant community. 

Bike MS: City to Shore Ride 2016

4/6/2016 (Permalink)

Join our SERVPRO team!

We've formed a team for Bike MS because we want to experience a great ride and help the National MS Society fund research, advocate for change and help people with MS live their best lives. We believe in this cause. Can we count on your support? Were looking for folks to join our team! 

Whether you’re a veteran cyclist or you’re new to the sport, you are new to the Bike MS: City to Shore Ride. Learn how to make the most out of your first experience.

Your gift helps support cutting-edge research and programs and services for everyone impacted by MS. Ending MS means no one will receive an MS diagnosis again. Every dollar helps. Every connection matters.

Celebrate Summer Safely

7/15/2014 (Permalink)

With summer in full swing with barbecues every weekend and camping trips set, SERVPRO of Burlington Mt Holly wanted to share a few safety methods to keep your barbecues fire free and trips enjoyable:

• When using charcoal, don’t forget to use the proper starter fluids

• Gas Grills – check to make sure the hose connections are property hooked up and tightened

• When starting a camp fire, remember to build the fire downwind, and remember to make sure the fire is smothered before going to sleep!

SERVPRO of Burlington Mt Holly wishes you all a happy and safe summer!

For Immediate Services, Call SERVPRO of Burlington/Mount Holly

6/2/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals provide fire and water damage restoration services. SERVPRO of Burlington Township/Mount Holly proudly serves Burlington, Willingboro, Mt. Holly, Hainesport, Westampton, and surrounding areas. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or commercial structure caused by:

• Water Damage
• Fire Damage
• Disaster,storm and flood damage
• Mold Damage

2014 Flooding in Philadelphia

5/5/2014 (Permalink)

This was the result of heavy flooding in Manayunk Philadelphia, PA. This storm hit quickly and flooded many homes and cars with mud and water. SERVPRO responded and helped restore units.

BE Storm Smart, Storm Ready

4/21/2014 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen any time, anywhere. Being prepared to act quickly can be critical to staying safe during a weather event. In 2013, there were seven weather and climate disaster events across the United States. These events included five severe weather tornado events, a major floor event, and the western drought heat wave. Overall, these events killed 109 people and had significant economic effects on the areas impacted. 

Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others. Be Prepared 

Spring Cleaning in New Jersey

3/20/2014 (Permalink)

SPRING IS HERE! SERVPRO offers a wide variety of cleaning including, carpet cleaning, duct and HVAC cleaning, and upholstery cleaning. Allergies will start to increase during this time of year. Call SERVPRO of Society Hill and SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt. Holly for all your SPRING-cleaning needs! 609.326.3663 

Water Damage

3/18/2014 (Permalink)

Water Damage

When you have a water damage, dont leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO professionals to help make it, Llke it never even happened®.

SERVPRO® Earns Fifth Consecutive Year on Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Franchise List

1/31/2014 (Permalink)

Cleanup and restoration franchisor locks in #7 position on prestigious annual ranking

Frozen/Broken Pipes Cleanup in New Jersey

1/9/2014 (Permalink)

As the temperatures drop this winter, we've already seen many pipes start to break. If this happens to you or your business, keep SERVPRO in mind. Our professionals are standing by ready to help! 

Be Ready in 2014

12/31/2013 (Permalink)

A new year often signifies a fresh start. Many people make resolution to better themselves or some part of their life. This year, make a resolution to be READY. No one ever plans on a disaster but, now you can prepare for it. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) will help ensure you are "Ready for whatever happens." 

Contact us today to establish your Emergency Ready Profile, and be "Ready for whatever happens." 609.326.3663

Happy Holidays

12/23/2013 (Permalink)

Happy Holidays to your family from ours!  Have a safe and happy New Year!  We are open 24/7, 365 days/year.  If you need us, please feel comfortable calling us over the holiday season. 

Warm Wishes,

SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt Holly

Holiday Safety Tips

12/2/2013 (Permalink)

Each year in the United States, 21 million doctor visits and 20,000 deaths are chalked up to home accidents.  The leading cause of home accidents is falls, followed by poisoning, fire, choking, and drowning.  This month's blog will address the #3 cause of death, fire, but it should be noted that all of these types of accidents are preventable.  In any case, I will give you some information on holiday hazards and how to prevent disaster. 

December is the peak time of year for home candle fires and electrical fires.  In fact, candle fires are four times more likely to occur during winter holidays.  So how do you prevent candle fires?  Well, the most obvious way is not to burn candles, instead opting for the flameless variety.  But, if you are like me, that is not an option.  I like candles too much not to burn them, so instead I follow some simple safety rules:

1)     Only burn candles in approved candleholders, on stable surfaces.

2)     Keep the candles 12" from anything flammable.

3)     Burn candles in a well-ventilated area.  To avoid black soot on surfaces, choose candles with a 100% cotton wick.

4)     Blow out candles when leaving a room or when going to bed.  I use a candlesnuffer to minimize smoke and loose embers.

5)     Keep candles away from little fingers and wagging tails!

Definitely keep candles away from Christmas trees!  A heat source too close to the tree causes one in six Christmas tree fires.  When purchasing your Christmas tree, consider a flame-retardant artificial tree.  If this is not an option, perform a "Freshness Test" on an evergreen:  give it a little shake.  If a lot of needles fall off, the tree is not freshly cut.  Also, bend the needles between your fingers.  They should not break.  Once you've determined that your tree is safe and you bring it home, place it at least 3 feet away from fireplaces, space heaters, or central heating systems (the same goes for your wreaths and pine cones!).  Do not block exits with your tree.  And make sure your tree has plenty of water every day.  When decorating your tree, try to choose non-combustible and flame-resistant materials, and plastic tinsel. 

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 12,500 people end up in the emergency room with decorating-related injuries each year.  Of these, 5,000 are from electrical shocks or burns.  There are some simple tips you can rely on to minimize your chances of serious injury from your holiday lights!  For starters, LED lights are safer.  If you are buying new lights this year, consider LEDs.  They do not produce the same amount of heat as traditional lights.  Always, always, always look for the safety tag on holiday lights.  This usually reads "UL" for "Underwriters Laboratories," but may also read "ELT" or "CSA".  (It is important to note that when you are buying electrical toys, the same safety tag should be present!) 

Before hanging your lights, check for fraying wires.  When replacing bulbs, unplug the light string first, and be sure to match voltage and wattage of the original bulb.  Do not overload your electrical outlets or create chains.  And never use electric lights on a metallic tree.  If the wire is faulty, it can cause a shock to whoever touches the tree!

When hanging outdoor lights, start with proper ladder safety.  Keep electrical connectors off the ground and away from metal rain gutters.  Use insulated tape or plastic clips to hold the light string in place.  Use an outdoor timer certified by CSA International.  And always turn off the lights when you leave the house or go to bed.

Last, but certainly not least, I have some fireplace safety tips for you this holiday season.  Some people use their fireplaces for warmth, while others use it for ambience, but everyone should use them safely.  Do not use your gas fireplace if the glass panel is removed, cracked or broken, and only allow a qualified person to replace parts.  According to the American Red Cross, 36% of people with fireplaces report they never cleaned or inspected their chimneys!  It is recommended that you hire a chimney sweep once per year to clean and inspect your chimney.  You can find a certified one at http://www.csia.org.  It is a good idea to have your chimney capped as well to avoid birds and squirrels becoming trapped inside. 

Before starting a fire, check to see that the flue is open.  Choose dense wood, such as oak, that has been split and stored in a high and dry place for at least 6 months.  Do not overload your fireplace, and do not burn wrapping papers.  Place logs at the rear of the fireplace on a metal grate, and use kindling to start the fire.  Always use a spark guard.  

While there is no guarantee that you WON'T experience a home fire this holiday season, if you follow these tips, you will be less likely to suffer fire damage.  Nevertheless, accidents happen.  If an accident affects you, or someone you know, please call us.  We are available 24/7 and 365 days each year.  Once the fire damage mitigation begins, SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt Holly will keep you informed and answer your questions, all while working to help make the fire damage “Like it never even happened.”  Everyone here at SERVPRO wishes you and your family a safe and happy holiday season! 

Lead Hazard Information

11/6/2013 (Permalink)

An example of an EPA lead-safe certificate

In the past few weeks, I have had several people ask me about lead and lead poisoning.  So I thought it might be a good topic for our November blog.  You, too, can find this information on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's website or on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development website, but I have compiled some of the key facts for you here.  I will outline some information regarding lead and your health and how to choose a contractor for your renovations if you are a property owner.  Utilize the above links to access additional resources. 

What is lead?  According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, lead is a naturally occurring metal found deep within the ground. It occurs in small amounts in ore, along with other elements such as silver, zinc or copper. Even though it's found in small amounts, there is an abundant supply of lead throughout the earth. Because it is widespread, easy to extract and easy to work with, lead has been used in a wide variety of products including:

Since 1980, federal and state regulatory standards have helped to minimize or eliminate the amount of lead in consumer products and occupational settings.

Why is lead bad for you?  In children, lead can affect developing nervous systems and mental functions, causing learning disabilities and behavior problems.  Low levels of lead can also be harmful to adults, causing high blood pressure and hypertension.  Lead gets into the body when it is swallowed or inhaled.  The most common way to get lead in the body is from dust from lead-based paint or lead-contaminated soil.  When lead-based paint is disturbed through sanding, for example, people can breathe in lead dust or fumes.   Lead can also come from outside soil, your water, or household items.  A blood test is the only way to find out if you or a family member already has lead poisoning.  Call your doctor or local health department to arrange for a blood test.  (For more information, call 1-800-424-LEAD.) 

What are some of the things you can do to protect your family everyday?

?  Regularly clean floors, window sills, and other surfaces.

?  Wash children's hands, bottles, pacifiers, and toys often.

?  Make sure children eat a healthy, nutritious diet consistent with the USDA's dietary guidelines, that helps protect children from the effects of lead.

?  Wipe off shoes before entering the house. 

How do you know if your home has lead-based paint?   87% of homes built before 1940 are likely to contain lead.  In fact, if your home or your child's school was built before 1978, there is a risk of lead-based paint.  You or your contractor may test for lead using an EPA-approved lead test kit.  You can also hire a certified professional to check for lead-based paint.  SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt Holly is an EPA lead-safe certified firm.  As of April 2010, federal law requires that contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 be certified and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.  Our SERVPRO franchises, Burlington/Mt Holly and Society Hill, Philadelphia, became certified as of May 2010. If you are not using us for your home repairs, make sure your contractor is EPA certified.  You have a right to see a copy of their training certificate, and you can ask for and call references.  Always make sure that the contract is clear about how the work will be set up, performed and cleaned.  Don't forget to share the results of any previous lead tests with the contractor. 

If you have questions or are concerned about your home, please call us today at 609-326-3663 or 215-772-1203.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention

10/16/2013 (Permalink)

I recently had a conversation with a client about Carbon Monoxide dangers. I gave her our SERVPRO monthly newsletter with an article called "Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer" and we discussed how many of the tips we did not know. So I decided to do a little research and find out what else I did not know about carbon monoxide (CO) to share with all of you.

Let me start by telling you that I have had CO poisoning previously, and it is not fun. I was working at another company, and I was outside in a tent all day. It was November and it was cold. While the tent had "walls", they were rolled up most of the day to allow people to freely come in and out. We had two large portable kerosene heaters to make the space a little more comfortable. My fingers were numb while I was trying to type and my teeth were chattering (I am always cold anyway, so this was torture!) I moved the heaters closer to my desk and pointed them both straight at me.

I am not sure how much time passed, but I remember feeling dizzy and light-headed. I stood up and told my manager that I felt sick. I was nauseated and I could feel a headache coming on. It was not unlike a bad sinus headache. I did not know enough about CO to realize that was causing my symptoms. CO poisoning can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms often mimic other illnesses. Anyway, it took my manager and another co-worker to help me outside. In just a matter of minutes, I could not walk or talk. They helped me to a car far from the tent and told me to rest inside with the heat on. That is the last I remember. I woke up hours later with an enormous bump on my forehead. We guessed that I passed out inside the car and banged my head on the dashboard. It was a terrifying experience.

Later, I discussed it with my doctor, and he told me that it was probably CO poisoning. My co-workers were right to remove me from the tent and get me fresh air, but they probably should have taken me to the emergency room. I had a bad headache the day after the incident, but otherwise I was okay. If I was not a healthy adult, the outcome may have been very different. I was fortunate.

But here's where you can benefit from my bad experience: don't make these mistakes! Just because you are outside or the windows are open or the garage door is lifted, does not mean you are safe. Please heed the following information to protect you and your family from this silent killer!

You can't see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels, it can kill a person in minutes. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide, or CO, is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels, like gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, and propane burn incompletely.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, each year, more than 500 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning. It is estimated that another 20,000 visit the emergency room. All people and animals are at risk for CO poisoning, with some groups including unborn babies, infants, and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or respiratory problems, are more susceptible to its effects. The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.

Protect yourself by reviewing the following tips, provided by the United States Fire Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

?Have fuel-burning appliances, like oil and gas furnaces, gas or kerosene heaters, fireplaces and wood stoves, inspected by a trained professional every year. If you smell an odor from your gas refrigerator's cooling unit have an expert service it.

* When purchasing gas equipment, buy only equipment carrying the seal of a national testing agency, such as the American Gas Association or Underwriters' Laboratories.

* Open the damper for proper ventilation before using a fireplace. Have your chimney checked or cleaned every year. Chimneys can be blocked by snow and other debris. So can dryer vents!

* Never use your own stovetop to heat your home. Never burn anything in a stove or fireplace that isn't vented. All gas appliances must be vented. Make sure all fuel-burning vented equipment is vented to the outside. Keep the venting for exhaust clear and unblocked. Never patch a vent pipe with tape or gum. Horizontal vent pipes to fuel appliances should not be perfectly level. Indoor vent pipes should go up slightly as they go toward outdoors. This helps prevent CO or other gases from leaking if the joints or pipes aren't fitted tightly.

* If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Never run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open! Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice or other materials. Have a mechanic check the exhaust system of your car every year.

* If you drive a vehicle with a tailgate (like an SUV), when you open the tailgate, you also need to open vents or windows to make sure air is moving through your car. If only the tailgate is open, CO from the exhaust will be pulled into the car.

* Only use barbecue grills outside, away from all doors, windows, vents and other building openings. Some grills can produce CO gas. Never use grills inside the home or the garage, even if the doors are open. Never burn charcoal indoors. Burning charcoal - red, gray, black or white- gives off CO.

* Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows, vents and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home.

* Probably the most important thing you can do is to install carbon monoxide detectors in your home, particularly in your bedroom.  People who are sleeping or intoxicated can die from CO poisoning before ever experiencing symptoms.  Place the detector 5 feet above the floor and away from fireplaces or furnaces.

Hurricane Season Wrap-up

10/2/2013 (Permalink)

Image courtesy of cooldesign at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

I recently learned about how the Saharan Air Layer was present and very intense this year, thus effecting the development of tropical storms on our side of the Atlantic, (the SAL extended 3,000 miles over the Atlantic, from the Western coast of Africa, almost to Puerto Rico).  From what I can gather, this was true for the first half of Hurricane Season, resulting in a quiet summer.  As most of you have probably heard, a Hurricane did develop this year, but it did not affect any land masses.  As I write this final installment in my Hurricane series, most of my friends and family are feeling confident that we will not experience another catastrophic storm in 2013.  While I am hoping for the best outcome, it is always necessary to be prepared for the worst situation.  Lest we forget, Superstorm Sandy roared onshore at the end of October last year.  So, just in case, I would like to review with you what to do after the storm:  how to handle insurance, how to manage your emotional health, and how to help your community--or any community--affected by disasters. 

How to Handle Insurance

Nationwide Insurance has the following tips for handling the aftermath of damage from an incident like a major storm. Note that these tips are general in nature and not specific to Nationwide policies or Nationwide's claims processes. Always refer to your insurance policy and company for specific procedures if you may have a potential claim.

1. Call your insurance company. After you file a police or fire report (if required) , contact your insurance agent or company’s claims department. Your policy will likely require you to do so within a certain amount of time after the loss. When you call, have all of the details of the incident, plus your policy number.


2. Complete a claims form with your agent. This form includes all the details of the incident. Be thorough – note what was damaged, when and how. For smaller claims, filing a claims report should suffice. For larger losses, your agent may send an adjuster to inspect the damage.


3. Document the damages. Before you begin cleanup, photograph or record the damage and include the images with your claim. It’s a good idea to visually document your home and belongings before a loss, so you have “before” and “after” images when filing a claim.


4. Make temporary repairs so your home is safe and livable. While you’re waiting for your claim to be processed, you may make temporary repairs. But review your policy for guidelines about what’s covered and be sure to save your repair receipts. Don’t start permanent, major repairs or renovations until your claim is complete and your compensation is confirmed.


5. If you have to move temporarily, save your receipts. If the damage to your residence is so extensive that you must relocate for a while, your policy may help cover those costs. Save hotel and restaurant receipts – and discuss with your agent how to submit them for reimbursement.


6. Make yourself available. Be reachable and ready to talk with your insurance agent and claims adjuster after you file a claim. The faster you can answer questions and provide necessary information, the faster your claim may be able to be processed.

Details vary by state and policy language. Please consult your policy for the specifics of your selected coverages. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review, and approval.

How to Manage your Emotional Health

After Hurricane Katrina, I was a mess.  That's the simplest way to put it.  I had evacuated, and it would be six weeks until I knew whether any of my personal belongings were undamaged.  I didn't know if I had a home to go back to, or where to go after I left the Ramada Inn in Northeast Texas, or if my boss and his family (who chose to ride out the storm) were alive, or how I would survive without a job or unemployment eligibility.  I had packed clothes for 3 days, all of my photo albums and valuable jewelry, my pets, and my personal documents.  Knowing that was all I had, and not knowing how long I would have to wait to know more was one of the most stressful times in my life.  The not knowing was the source of major anxiety for me and my family. 

Here is some information on how to recognize and deal with your current feelings, courtesy of the American Red Cross. When we experience a disaster or other stressful life event, there are a variety of common reactions including:

Most of these reactions are temporary and will go away over time. Try to accept whatever reactions you may have. Look for ways to take one step at a time and focus on taking care of your disaster- related needs and those of your family.

Taking action. Getting ourselves and our lives back in a routine that is comfortable for us takes time.

Take care of your safety. Find a safe place to stay and make sure your physical health needs and those of your family are addressed. Seek medical attention, if necessary. 

Eat healthy. During times of stress, it is important that you maintain a balanced diet and drink plenty of water.

Get some rest. With so much to do, it may be difficult to have enough time to rest or get adequate sleep. Giving your body and mind a break can boost your ability to cope with the stress you may be experiencing. 

Stay connected with family and friends. Giving and getting support is one of the most important things you can do.

Be patient with yourself and with those around you. Recognize that everyone is stressed and may need some time to put their feelings and thoughts in order.

Set priorities. Tackle tasks in small steps.

Gather information about assistance and resources that will help you and your family members meet your disaster-related needs. 

Stay positive. Remind yourself of how you’ve successfully gotten through difficult times in the past. Reach out when you need support, and help others when they need it.

If you still don’t feel better ...
Many people have experience coping with stressful life events and typically feel better after a few days. Others find that their stress does not go away as quickly as they would like and it influences their relationships with their family, friends and others.

If you find yourself or a loved one experiencing some of the feelings and reactions listed below for 2 weeks or longer, this may be a sign that you need to reach out for additional assistance.

For additional resources, contact your local Red Cross Disaster Mental Health or community mental health professional. 

Please seek immediate help if you or someone you know is feeling that life isn’t worth living or if you are having thoughts of harming yourself or others. You can also contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) 

Let Your Family Know You’re Safe
If your community experiences a disaster, register on the American Red Cross Safe and Well Web site available through RedCross.org to let your family and friends know about your welfare. If you don’t have Internet access, call 1-866-GET-INFO to register yourself and your family. 

How to Help your Community 

According to FEMA, In the face of disaster, Americans come together with courage, compassion and unity and ask, “How can I help?”  There are many ways to get involved especially before a disaster occurs.  You can find some of these ways at: http://www.ready.gov/get-involved.  For ways you can get involved after the disaster happens, reach out to your local faith-based and community organizations.  You can also support major disasters by donating cash or goods which may help meet the needs of your community.  After Hurricane Katrina, I found the most help from family and friends donating clothes, books to pass the time, and gift cards.  Don't forget underwear and socks when purchasing new items to donate!

The Red Cross also offers programs for before and after the disaster to help your community.  You can find some of these options at: http://www.redcross.org/support/get-involved.  I also found support in the people who would listen to me tell my story, without passing judgment on my actions or on the actions of the politicians involved.  That kind of negativity would only increase my anxiety, as opposed to diminishing my fears.  Through Citizen Corps, individuals can learn about opportunities to get involved and help build capacity for first responders.  With proper training and education, civilian volunteers expand the resources available to states and local communities.  Many partner organizations offer public education, outreach and training for free.  Learn how to get involved through Citizen Corps at http://www.ready.gov/volunteer.

Thank you for following my Hurricane blog for the last few months.  I hope you learned something useful!  This will be the last month for Hurricane-related blogging (unless, of course, we have a major hurricane effecting our area) until next year.  If there is a topic you are interested in learning more about this winter, please email me with your suggestions: aflynn@servprosocietyhill.com.

The Peak of Hurricane Season!

8/23/2013 (Permalink)

Hurricane Sandy Approaching the East Coast, October 29, 2012 (photo courtesy of NASA/NOAA)

In the past few weeks, people in my community have been asking me if we are really busy at SERVPRO because Hurricane Season is starting.  If you have been following this blog, you know that Hurricane Season started months ago!  Many disastrous hurricanes have occurred in the fall months in recent years, but that's not always the case.  Hurricane Charley struck southwest Florida in early August of 2004 as a Category 4.  Hurricane Agnes affected Florida and New York City in June of 1972 and caused billions of dollars in damage and 390 deaths as a category 1 storm. Hurricane Audrey (1957), the only Category 4 June hurricane on record in the Atlantic Basin, hit along the Texas and Louisiana border, claiming at least 416 lives in the U.S., the 7th deadliest U.S. tropical cyclone on record. Only Hurricane Katrina (2005) claimed more lives since Audrey.  Nevertheless, the top 10 most devastating hurricanes (measured by strength) have affected the United States in August and September.  This month, we will discuss what the different categories of Hurricanes mean to you.  We will also review your power outage checklist, and what to do during the storm.

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale was developed in the early 1970s by Herbert Saffir, a consulting engineer in Coral Gables, Florida, and Dr. Robert Simpson, then director of the National Hurricane Center. The 1-5 category scale used to give an estimate of the potential property damage and flooding expected along the coast from a hurricane landfall. 

• Category 1: Minimal Damage (which is really not accurate, if you see the example of Hurricane Agnes above!) Winds are 74-95 mph, sustained.  (Wind gusts may be stronger.)  You may have damage to your roof, vinyl siding, and gutters.  Tree branches are likely to snap, and power outages are common.  Coastal road flooding is possible.


• Category 2: Moderate Damage.  Winds are 96-110 mph sustained.  Shallowly rooted trees will be uprooted and block roads.  Well-constructed homes could sustain major roof and siding damage; major damage to exposed mobile homes.  Coastal roads and low-lying escape routes inland can be cut off by rising water, about 2-4 hours before landfall.  Considerable damage to piers and marinas is likely.  Near-total power loss should be expected.   


• Category 3: Extensive Damage.  Considered a Major Hurricane.  Winds are 111-129 mph, sustained.  Mobile homes will be destroyed, and well-constructed homes will incur major damage and potentially structural damage.  Serious flooding, especially on flat terrain 5 feet or less above sea level (up to 8 or more miles inland).  Expect loss of electricity and water for several days or several weeks.   Hurricane Katrina was a Category 3 storm.  It was the second most intense storm to hit the US, the most costly hurricane (twice as expensive as Hurricane Sandy) and the third deadliest.  Category 3 storms are no joke!


• Category 4: Extreme Damage.  Considered a Major Hurricane.  Sustained winds are 130-156 mph.  Mobile homes will be demolished.  Complete failure of roofs on smaller homes.  Well-built frame homes will likely have damage to the roof and exterior walls.  Flat terrain 10 feet or less above sea level will be flooded inland as far as 6 miles.  Major erosion of beaches.  Massive evacuations required.  Power outages will last weeks to possibly months.  Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.  Hurricane Andrew was a Category 4 when it hit Florida in August of 1992. 


• Category 5: Catastrophic Damage.  Considered a Major Hurricane.  Sustained winds of 157 mph or greater.  (For those of you who are familiar with tornadoes, a Category 5 Hurricane would be the equivalent of an F3 or greater tornado, which represents about 5% of all tornadoes.  The reason you cannot compare the intensity of the two is because tornadoes generally last for minutes over one area, while hurricanes can last for days.)  A high percentage of framed homes and industrial buildings will be destroyed, with total roof failure and  wall collapse.  Major damage to lower floors of all structures less than 15 feet above sea level within 1500 feet of shore.  Massive evacuations as far inland as 10 miles may be required.  Hurricane Camille, a Category 5, was the second most intense Hurricane ever to hit the US, in August of 1969.  The final wind speed will never be known because all measuring devices were destroyed, but it is thought to exceed 200 mph.

So what does all this mean for you?  You only need to know 2 things:  Prepare, and Heed all evacuation orders.  According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, "Research on preparedness shows that people who believe themselves “prepared” for disasters often aren’t as prepared as they think. Forty percent of survey respondents did not have household plans, 80 percent had not conducted home evacuation drills, and nearly 60 percent did not know their community’s evacuation routes." Stay safe and stay alive.

Safety During the Storm

What are some tips for staying safe during the storm?  First of all, you need to know what to do based on the type of storm  that you  are facing.  You can find this information at: Red Paw Emergency Relief Team.  The following list is for a summer storm:

            * Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.  I would not recommend relying on an app on your cell phone as you will wear the battery down.  If you lose power, you will be unable to recharge your phone if you really need it.  So invest in a battery-operated NOAA radio (about $35) and turn your cell phone off, or on to airplane mode to conserve the battery.

            * Avoid contact with corded phones.  Cordless phones are safe to use.  Cellular phones are also safe but see above for info about the battery!  Or, purchase an alternative charging device for your cell phone so you always have power.  Kent German has some unique suggestions at Cell phone chargers - CNET Reviews.

            * Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords.

            * Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers.  Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.  (Are we seeing a pattern here?)

            * Avoid contact with plumbing.  Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.

            * Stay away from windows and doors.

 Power Outage Checklist

If a power outage is 2 hours or less, you need not be concerned about losing your perishable foods. For prolonged power outages, though, there are steps you can take to minimize food loss and to keep all members of your household as comfortable as possible, according to The American Red Cross.  For their complete list, click here.   

Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.  Use perishable food from the fridge first.  An unopened refrigerator will keep foods cold for about 4 hours.  Then use food from the freezer.  A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed. When the power comes back on, throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures of 40 degrees or higher for 2 hours or more.  When in doubt, throw it out!

Turn off and unplug any unnecessary electrical equipment.  Leave one light turned on so you will know when the power comes back on.  If purchasing a generator, consult an electrician to make sure you get the right one.  Never use a generator inside, or in a partially enclosed area.  Install carbon  monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home.  If the alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door and call for help.  Carbon Monoxide kills. 

If your community experiences a disaster, register on the American Red Cross Safe and Well Web site available through RedCross.org to let your family and friends know about your welfare. If you don’t have Internet access, call 1-866-GET-INFO to register yourself and your family.

As I write this blog, the Atlantic/Gulf/Caribbean is unusually quiet.  That worries me more than if it had been busy all season.  People tend to think the danger has passed, or is not imminent.  But now is the perfect time to start making your disaster kit (if you haven't already!) as most items will be on sale.  For more money-saving tips, see our June Blog, "Storm Preparedness."  Next month will be our last blog of this storm series.  Hopefully, the Atlantic will still be quiet.  Have a safe and happy Labor Day Weekend. 

Family Emergency Preparedness

7/31/2013 (Permalink)

Bowzer, just one example of a very important family member!

So far, in our Emergency Preparedness series, we have learned about the naming of Hurricanes, Hurricane Shutters, preparing your family and business emergency plan, and how to get prepared on a budget.  This edition, we will be focusing on what to include in your Emergency Supply Kit, what to do BEFORE an approaching storm, and how to keep your pets safe in a disaster.  

Before the Storm 

Before the storm, it is important to build an emergency supply kit and develop your emergency plan.  Please see our blog from June for more information on your written plan, and see the next section for information about your Emergency Supply Kit.  But what else can you do to prepare yourself, your family, your home and/or business, and your pets for a disaster? 

                Learn how to shut off utilities:

1) Contact your local gas company in advance to determine what your home requires, and the exact procedure for shutting off the gas. It might even be a good idea to post instructions somewhere near the meter. If at any point, though, you smell gas or hear a hissing noise, FEMA advises that you open a window and get everyone out of the house. Contact your gas company immediately.

2) Locating the main shutoff valve for your water supply in advance of a disaster is important. If you have trouble, contact a local plumber or your area water utility for assistance. Once you’ve identified the main water shutoff valve, make sure everyone in the household knows where it is, and how to turn it off. To prevent any possible confusion, consider labeling the water valve with a colored identification tab.  SERVPRO can also provide you with shutoff valve tags. 

3) Electrical sparks can ignite leaking natural gas, resulting in an explosion, says FEMA. Which is why, following a natural disaster, the electricity may need to be shut off immediately. If your home has a basement, the electrical circuit box is likely located there, but that’s not always the case. Be sure that everyone in your home knows where the circuit box is, well in advance of an emergency.  (Tips provided by Allstate) 

Some other steps you can take as the storm approaches:

• Unplug any electronic equipment.


• Unplug any electronic equipment.


• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.


• If you are outdoors, get inside a building, home or hard top vehicle (not a convertible).


• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. 


• Follow SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt Holly on Twitter and Facebook for additional tips.

For information on how to prepare for specific types of disasters, visit our friends' website: Red Paw Emergency Relief Team Emergency Preparedness. 

Emergency Supply Kit
There are many lists out there of what you could or should put in your emergency kit, or go bag.  You can even purchase pre-packed kits for the quick solution.  But you will find you have most of the basic items in your home already, and it will just take a few hours to put it altogether.  The items we suggest as necessary for every kit are:

• Water (one gallon per person per day; this includes pets!)


• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)


• Manual can opener


• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio


• Flashlight and extra batteries


• First aid kit


• Whistle to signal for help


• Clothing


• Dust masks or bandana


• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags, and duct tape


• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities


• Hygiene items


• Important documents: copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account   information


• Cash


• Fire extinguisher


• Matches in a waterproof container


• Prescription medication for people and pets


• For pets:  Food; leash, harness or carrier; records of vaccinations; non-tippable food and water containers, a picture of your pet, and a favorite toy of your pet's. 

For specific examples, please visit The Weather Channel. 

Pets
Not everyone has them, but those that do know that your pets are just as important as your other family members, and should not be forgotten about in case of an emergency.  After Hurricane Katrina, it became obvious that many people who do not heed evacuation orders are responding to the fact that they don't know what to do with their pets.  As a result, many shelters are now pet-friendly.  Just like with everything else, a little planning can help keep your pets safe in the time of a disaster. 

Often, warnings are issued hours, even days, in advance.  At the first hint of disaster, act to protect your pet.  Know which hotels and motels along your evacuation route will accept you and your pets in an emergency.  Call ahead for reservations if you know you may need to evacuate.  Ask if no-pet policies could be waived in an emergency.  Talk to friends and family members about taking your pets, but make sure your pet is comfortable with that person and that person is comfortable with your pet.  If you are not home and cannot get home following a disaster, make sure you have pre-arranged with someone in your neighborhood to check on your animals.

Ensure that all pets are wearing collars with securely fastened, up-to-date identification. Consider microchipping your animals.  Bring pets inside so you won't have to search for them if you need to leave quickly.  NEVER leave your pets behind!  There is simply no reason to anymore, unless you do not heed evacuation orders and they come to rescue you by boat--then, and only then, is it difficult to bring your pet along.  ALWAYS evacuate when told to do so and bring ALL family members with you. 

If you must evacuate, there are some additional travel tips that Progressive Insurance recommends:

• Prepare a doggie bag with food and water for travel.  Depending on where you live, evacuation routes can be congested with traffic and you may be in the car much longer than you intended.


• Bring your pet's favorite toys, and a doggie first aid kit as well.  Pets can experience anxiety just like the human members of your family.


• Secure your pet in your vehicle within a travel crate or with a harness.


• Never leave your pet unsupervised in the car.


• Make sure your pet is covered on your car insurance policy.  Progressive is the first major car insurance company to provide Pet Injury Coverage, at no additional charge, to cover your pet's vet bills in the event of an accident. 

Next month, I will provide you with information on what the different categories of hurricanes mean to you, what to do during a storm, and we will review your power outage checklist.  In September, we will consider some expert tips on how to manage your emotional health after a disaster, and ways to help your community or other communities effected by severe weather.   As always, follow us on social media for additional information on preparedness, and sign up for our monthly newsletter with quizzes and contests based on this blog!

Burlington County Times Forty Under 40 Award

7/30/2013 (Permalink)

Even the "Green Machine" made it into the paper!

On July 29, 2013, Angelique Flynn, Marketing Representative for SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt Holly, received an award as one of the forty top community leaders of Burlington County under the age of forty, at a special reception at Cafe Madison in Riverside, NJ.  Congressman John Runyon was the keynote speaker at the event.  Angelique was nominated by Rich Lewis, President of the Rotary Club of Burlington:  "In the short time she has been a member of our Rotary club, she has been tireless with her time and energy our community support efforts successful."

You can view the entire inaugural class and their bios (don't forget to scan the QR codes to watch their videos!) at 40under40. 

Storm Preparedness

6/26/2013 (Permalink)

These houses on Long Beach Island, NJ were effected by Hurricane Sandy in October 2012.

With two named storms so far this Hurricane Season, it is important to continue to stay vigilant in our severe weather preparations. This month, I will provide you with information on how to prepare before the storm is even named and how to prepare on a budget.

Are you at risk for a direct hit? Check out this Map to see if your state has a history of hurricane activity. If you are here in New Jersey, I can assure you that you are at risk! Next, take our quiz to determine your level of preparedness:

WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO PREPARE?

Are you prepared for an emergency? Quiz yourself on the questions below to see just how prepared you are. If you don’t know the answer to some of the questions, visit Ready.gov or your local Office of Emergency Management for tips and resources that can help make sure you, your family, and your community are Ready.

• Does your local government have an emergency or disaster plan for your community? If so, do you know what it is?


• Do you know how to find the emergency broadcasting channel on the radio?


• Does your city/county have an emergency alert system? Is so, are you signed up to get alerts?


• Do you know your local evacuation routes? How would you get out of town from work? How about from home?


• Does your city/county have a Citizen Corps Council? (If you don’t know, visit http://www.ready.gov/citizen-corps)


• In the last year, have you prepared or updated your Emergency Supply Kit with emergency supplies like water, food and medicine that is kept in a designated place in your home?


• In the last year, have you prepared a small kit with emergency supplies that you keep at home, in your car or where you work to take with you if you had to leave quickly?


• In the last year, have you made a specific plan for how you and your family would communicate in an emergency situation if you were separated?


• Are you prepared to help your neighbor? In most emergencies, the best way to get help quickly is by working with your neighbors. Do you know anyone in your neighborhood who might need a little extra help preparing for or responding to an emergency?


• Have you established a specific meeting place for your family to reunite in the event you and your family cannot return home or are evacuated?


• In the last year, have you practiced or drilled on what to do in an emergency at home?


• In the last year, have you volunteered to help prepare for or respond to a major emergency?


• Have you taken first aid training such as CPR in the past five years?

If you are like me, you probably don't have the answers to most of the questions in our quiz. Now is the time to seek out those answers. There is no impending doom coming towards our area as I write this, so it is our nature to assume none is coming. I like to hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. With a little thoughtful planning now, we can be ready for whatever comes our way all summer long.

Let's talk about an emergency preparedness plan for your home and business first. If you do not have one in place for your business, contact us right away. We can provide you with a no-cost assessment of your facility and compile all the data in our SERVPRO Ready Plan app for your smartphone. For your home, we recommend creating a written emergency preparedness and action plan NOW. Start by deciding where to go if you are at home, school, work, outdoors, or in a car when a hurricane or tropical storm threatens. Update these plans every school year and as places of employment and residence change. Identify two places where you and your family members can meet if you are separated: one outside your home and another outside your neighborhood. Learn how your local government handles emergencies by contacting your local American Red Cross chapter or local Emergency Management Agency (EMA). Review your insurance coverage for your home and business. Find out if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone by contacting your local emergency management office. Visit The Weather Channel for more information.

To physically prepare your home and business for a future storm, consider purchasing hurricane shutters now. If you do not live on the coast, but still want to protect your windows from high winds, plywood is a good option. Purchase it now to avoid scarcity immediately before the storm. It is recommended that you the lumber you use to cover your windows be a minimum of 3/4" thick, but preferably 1" thick. You can purchase (2) 1/2" thick boards and double up. This thickness will hold up well in most hurricane conditions up to a Category 3. The Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety provides further information on how to prepare your home, what to consider when remodeling, and tips on how to prevent water damage.

PREPAREDNESS ON A BUDGET
It Doesn’t Cost a lot to be Prepared

It is no secret that many families and individuals are looking to cut back on spending. But with the frequency of disasters, both natural and manmade, can you afford not to be prepared? Preparedness doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Here are a few tips* on how you can protect those that matter to you without spending a fortune.

• Make a Plan. Work with you family and neighbors to make an emergency plan for the types of disasters that affect your area. Make sure everyone in your family understands where to go and what to do in case of an emergency. You can download Family Emergency Plan templates www.ready.gov/make-a-plan


• Update Contact Information. Having accurate records for family, friends and neighbors will help you stay in contact and possibly help those in need. Make sure updated contact information is posted in visible places throughout your house and workplace.


• Check Your Policy. Review your insurance policy annually and make any necessary changes – renters, too! When a disaster strikes, you want to know that your coverage will get you back on your feet.


• Make a Ready List. You may not need all of the items in ready-made preparedness kits. Choose the essentials that fit your needs and budget. Don’t forget to keep supplies at work and in your car. Sample Ready Lists can be found at www.ready.gov/document/family-supply-list


• Plan Your Purchases. You can save money by thinking ahead. Don’t buy preparedness items just before a storm when they’re expensive and supplies will be in high demand. Buy items at the end of the season when you can get good deals.


• Shop Sales. Shop at sales and used goods stores. Buy preparedness items throughout the year, instead of all at once, and you won’t notice the cost as much.


• Make Sure it Keeps. Store water in safe, containers. You don’t need to buy expensive bottled water, just make sure your water containers are disinfected and airtight


• Request a Gift. We all get things we don’t need. Suggest preparedness supplies as gifts from your friends and family. It just might save your life.


• Trade a Night Out. Trade one night out to fund your 72-hour kit. Taking a family of four to the movies can cost upwards of $80. Just one night staying in could fund your Ready kit.


• The best tip: start now. Take small steps toward preparedness and before you know it, you will be Ready! 

Next month, I will provide you with information on what to include in your Emergency Supply Kit, what to do before an approaching storm, and how to keep your pets safe. In August, we will discuss what the different categories of hurricanes mean to you, what to do during a storm, and we will review your power outage checklist. Finally, in September, we will consider how to manage your emotional health after a disaster, and ways to help your community or other communities affected by severe weather. If there is anything else you are interested in learning more about, please send us an email and we will try to address your concerns in one of our blogs.

Connect with SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt Holly!

5/17/2013 (Permalink)

Find fun photos like this on Social Media!

Did you know that you can now connect with us through social media?  Stay in the know of important weather-related information, safety tips, and community-based events by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or inviting us to connect on Linked In. Keep an eye out for special contests, promoted through Social Media only! 

Rotary Golf Outing 2013

5/17/2013 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt. Holly's Tee Sign at the 2012 Golf Outing

SERVPRO of Burlington/Mt Holly is a proud supporter of the Rotary Club of Burlington's Annual Golf Outing.  This year's event will take place on Tuesday, September 24, 2013 at the Burlington County Country Club in Mount Holly, NJ.  Please email Angelique at aflynn@servprosocietyhill.com if you would like to participate as a golfer, sponsor, or volunteer.  All proceeds benefit the various programs that Rotary supports in our local community.  Please visit the Rotary Club of Burlington's website for more information.