Restoring Your St. Joseph, Maryville Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of St. Joseph, Maryville: 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.

For Immediate Service in Northwest Missouri, Call SERVPRO

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Northwest Missouri Residents: We provide immediate service day or night!

SERVPRO of St. Joseph, Maryville provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Northwest Missouri.  We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 816/232-7711

Residential Services

Whether your home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: 

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Northwest Missouri Home

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

We are an IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of St. Joseph, Maryville is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of St. Joseph, Maryville

SERVPRO of St. Joseph, Maryville specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.

When Storms or Floods hit Northwest Missouri SERVPRO is ready!

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Northwest Missouri.

SERVPRO of St. Joseph, Maryville specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Northwest Missouri, 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 816/232-7711

Emergency Ready Profile

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Take the time to plan ahead with an Emergency Ready Profile in place.

Do you own a business? Do you have a plan for when an emergency happens? Where are your water shut off valves located and who do you plan to call when you need help? 

50% of businesses that may never recover after suffering a disaster.

SERVPRO offers Emergency Ready Profiles for big and small businesses for FREE and we keep them updated when you make changes to your building! 

ERPs may benefit you and your business by saving your property, reducing the amount of damage, and overall saving your business money! Below is the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile Advantage:

- A no cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.

- A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.

- A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.

- Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.

- Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.

- Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”

Give us a call today at 816-232-7711 if you aren’t sure what to do when an emergency occurs at your business!

Call SERVPRO of St. Joseph, Maryville for Commercial Jobs

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Every Commercial Loss is Unique

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of St. Joseph, Maryville

SERVPRO of St. Joseph, Maryville 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.

Winter Precations

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Winter Weather

BEFORE THE COLD SETS IN

• Know where your main water shut-off valve is located. 
• Turn off your irrigation system.
• Eliminate sources of cold air near water pipes by fixing windows or insulating walls.

Protect exposed pipes by wrapping them with insulation, fabric or newspaper. 

 It’s all about prevention. Frozen pipes can leave you without water in the worst of weather. And they cost a lot to repair. But with a few simple steps, you can easily preserve both your budget and your peace of mind.

 BEFORE THE COLD SETS IN

• Know where your main water shut-off valve is located. 
• Turn off your irrigation system.
• Eliminate sources of cold air near water pipes by fixing windows or insulating walls.
• Protect exposed pipes by wrapping them with insulation, fabric or newspaper. 

WHEN TEMPERATURES STAY BELOW FREEZING

• Let the snow cover your water meter. Snow acts as insulation, so don’t disturb it.
• Allow a small trickle of water to run overnight to keep pipes from freezing. 
• Open cabinet doors to let warm air in your home reach the pipes.

IF YOUR PIPES FREEZE

• Shut off the water immediately.
• Apply heat to the frozen pipe by warming the air around it. Avoid kerosene heaters or open flames.
• Turn the water back on slowly once pipes have thawed, and check for cracks and leaks.

If your is damaged by fire or any other reason, SERVPRO of St. Joseph is ready and able to repair any damage.

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

Breaking Down Defensible Space | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

Wildfires are dangerous, unpredictable and hard to stop! They are a big cause of property damage, probably more so than most of us realize.

The reason they can spread at alarming rates is because of the combustible materials that we have in our world. It truly is a wonder that firefighters can get these things stopped at all.

Because wildfires are becoming more common, it’s important to take steps to limit their occurrence. This can be as simple as being more careful.

But there are also more complex steps you can implement, such as defensible space.

Protecting Your Home

“Defensible space” is a buffer area that you can create around your home. You can do this by removing anything that can feed a wildfire—for instance, dead trees or leaves.

You can also use elements such as flame-resistant gravel in your landscaping to help lower your chances of being affected.

Defensible space can be thought of as a barrier of protection that is designed to protect your home from wildfires, and it gives firefighters their best chance of stopping a wildfire before it takes over your home.

Defensible space is effective enough that many cities and states require its use. Even when it’s not required, though, it’s still a good idea.

Wildfires on the Rise

Wildfires can and do happen anywhere. There were over 59,000 wildfires across the United States in 2020.

And while California did account for 10,000+ of that number, the average number of wildfires per state in 2020 was right under 1,000. Last year, here in Missouri, we had 1,090 wildfires, burning 17,940 acres of land.

Because of that, it’s important to do everything we can to limit the risk. Defensible space is one way to do that.

If your home is damaged by fire of any sort, wild or not, SERVPRO is ready and able to repair the damage caused. Get in touch today to get the pros on your team.

Breaking Down Defensible Space

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged by fire or any other reason, SERVPRO of St. Joseph is ready and able to repair any damage.

Breaking Down Defensible Space | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

Wildfires are dangerous, unpredictable and hard to stop! They are a big cause of property damage, probably more so than most of us realize.

The reason they can spread at alarming rates is because of the combustible materials that we have in our world. It truly is a wonder that firefighters can get these things stopped at all.

Because wildfires are becoming more common, it’s important to take steps to limit their occurrence. This can be as simple as being more careful.

But there are also more complex steps you can implement, such as defensible space.

Protecting Your Home

“Defensible space” is a buffer area that you can create around your home. You can do this by removing anything that can feed a wildfire—for instance, dead trees or leaves.

You can also use elements such as flame-resistant gravel in your landscaping to help lower your chances of being affected.

Defensible space can be thought of as a barrier of protection that is designed to protect your home from wildfires, and it gives firefighters their best chance of stopping a wildfire before it takes over your home.

Defensible space is effective enough that many cities and states require its use. Even when it’s not required, though, it’s still a good idea.

Wildfires on the Rise

Wildfires can and do happen anywhere. There were over 59,000 wildfires across the United States in 2020.

And while California did account for 10,000+ of that number, the average number of wildfires per state in 2020 was right under 1,000. Last year, here in Missouri, we had 1,090 wildfires, burning 17,940 acres of land.

Because of that, it’s important to do everything we can to limit the risk. Defensible space is one way to do that.

If your home is damaged by fire of any sort, wild or not, SERVPRO is ready and able to repair the damage caused. Get in touch today to get the pros on your team.

Why SERVPRO Stands Apart

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with any damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of St. Joseph is your local restoration expert.

Why SERVPRO Stands Apart | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

Your job as homeowner or business owner is to make sure things are running smoothly while managing morale and resources. This is your primary goal.

However, when disaster strikes, your life can be flipped on its head. Brand-new responsibilities land in your lap and you feel the need to shift into a role you may not have been ready—or qualified—to do.

The crisis affects everyone and the focus of recovery takes over, but it doesn’t have to be your job. Disaster recovery is our specialty.

Here is why you can expect SERVPRO to show up for you when disaster strikes.

We’re at the Ready—Always

You can expect us ²⁴⁄₇. If the house is full of water from a busted pipe or there is a fire at the office, you need a team that can be there at a moment’s notice.

Our team stays ready so we don’t have to get ready when a crisis occurs.

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster

Every second counts in an emergency situation. Our team knows this better than anyone.

The more time that goes by before restoration efforts begin, there is a greater chance for more mold growth, more smoke smell or more water damage. A quick response is essential, and you’ll receive the nationally recognized powerhouse service of our SERVPRO network as well as the speed and care of a local service.

We’re Trained to Handle Residential and Commercial Services

Disaster can strike anywhere, anytime to homes and businesses alike.

Our custom solutions are ready for any situation, and we can have your property ready to resume normal activity as soon as possible.

We Offer the Services You Need in a Changing World

Our world changed drastically because of COVID-19, making disease prevention more valuable than ever before. Our cleaning services go beyond the standard janitorial services and can give you and your customers greater peace of mind in your business.

Some disasters are natural, others are accidental, but unfortunately it happens almost everyone. Pipes can burst, fires start, storms move in—it happens sometimes. When it does, we’re here to help.

Regardless of why you need cleanup or disaster recovery, SERVPRO has the tools, the technicians and the training to get your situation under control. When you’re ready to get help from the best, get in touch with SERVPRO of St. Joseph.

Summer Storms & Staying Safe

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of St. Joseph is on the line, ready to make things right.

Summer Storms & Staying Safe | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

Summer is almost unofficially over, but the hot days aren’t. We are wrapping up vacations or enjoying the last few days of the pool or beach and soaking up the sunshine.

But while sunny days seem to be the norm, there’s a lot of rain, too. Some say that summer time causes more storms, and it’s totally true.

In most parts of the country, there are atmospheric conditions that create moisture and warm air, which helps create thunderstorms.

Here locally, we’re no exception, and our rainiest months occur during the spring and summer.

Hear Ye, Hear Ye

Yes, wetter weather is a common part of summer, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t treat it with the same respect that you would any other weather event. Make sure to pay attention to weather alerts and reschedule outdoor events if you need to.

By keeping up with weather alerts you can stay prepared. Purchasing an NOAA Weather radio means you can still receive alerts even if there is no power.

While flooding is always possible, it’s not very predictable, so if you feel there’s a chance for it to happen, you should make plans to stay home and stay dry. Extreme storms can also bring about high winds that cause flying debris to damage your property.

Dozens of people die every year because of storm-related accidents. By staying alert and keeping up with yard maintenance, you can help reduce your risk of danger.

Keeping Your Family Safe

Lightning can strike up to 10 miles from the nearest drop of rain, so if you see lightning, it’s best to get indoors. And stay indoors until you haven’t heard thunder for at least thirty minutes.

Take extra precautions inside the home by staying away from windows. Also, stay away from water by avoiding baths or showers.

In case of tornadoes or flooding, make sure you keep an emergency kit prepared and in safe reach. Know your evacuation route so that you don’t have to figure it out at the last minute.

Flooding can be extremely dangerous, so make sure you stay off the roads. Travel can be dangerous especially considering that it only takes two foot of water to carry your vehicle away.

There are any number of dangers that can come into play in a thunderstorm, and it’s always best to be cautious and put things on hold until storms safely pass. If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO is on the line, ready to make things right again.

The Most Common Sources of Water Leaks in the Home

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of St. Joseph team if you are dealing with any water damage.

The Most Common Sources of Water Leaks in the Home | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

Water disasters can be particularly challenging because they can affect so many parts of your home. When water infiltrates a home, whether slowly through a leak or quickly through a burst pipe, it can damage more than simply the structure of the home. Furniture, cloths, appliances—anything in your home is susceptible to water damage if you experience a water disaster.

Knowing how water can enter your home can help you prevent water disasters. Here are a few common sources of water damage:

Seals on faucets. Generally, faucets are fairly durable and should last 10 to 20 years before needing replacement. However, seals on faucets can degrade over time and fail. They usually start with a slow drip, and if not addressed, can manifest into a bigger problem.

Appliances. Water heaters, washing machines and dishwashers are three of the most leak-prone appliances. The water connections in these items tend to corrode over time, creating opportunity for leaks, spills—and in the case of water heaters, flat-out explosions.

Roof problems. Roof systems are designed and constructed specifically to provide protection to your home from weather. Besides sunshine, water is the most important item that a good roof system should repel. Dips and valleys on your roof are designed to channel water into gutters and down downspouts. Properly sized and debris-free gutters are key to moving water off the roof. Construction errors during shingle installation are not common, but do happen.

Drain lines mixed with sewer lines. This is uncommon for new construction over the last 50 years. However, older houses occasionally had drain and sewer lines interconnected. If your home is 50 years or older, investigate to make sure the drains are properly separated

Clogged drains. Excess food (or the wrong kind of food) can clog disposals, and hair and oil can clog drains and other pipes. Plunging too much or too hard can cause loose fittings to give way, spilling water under your sink.

Keeping up with the state of your systems that control water flow is the first step to avoiding a major water disaster. Periodic inspection of these systems can detect the signs of a pending leak. If you can catch the signs of wear before a leak occurs, you can save yourself a big headache.

If a water leak erupts into a big problem at home, you’ve got the best team in the business on your side. Contact SERVPRO today so we can get started.

Home Organization

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

Decluttering Strategies

Hone Your Decluttering Strategy

Organizing your home bit by bit means you can avoid the overwhelm that comes with an hours-long decluttering marathon. To get started, choose a room and select one simple task to complete. Set a timer for 15 minutes and get as much done as you can within that time. If you don't finish the project, start the timer over or come back to it later.

Chip Away at Clutter

Identify your biggest clutter issue, whether that's magazines and mail, kids' gear, or another type of item. Spend a few minutes every day, or every few days, tackling this project. As you sort through the accumulated items, determine what can be tossed, recycled, donated, or stored elsewhere. Then sort everything that's left into categories and bring in organizers to neatly contain the items.

Categorize Pantry Items

Target a category of pantry items that tends to remain jumbled and difficult to access. Focus on a single pantry staple, such as baking supplies, breakfast foods, or snacks, instead of trying to reorganize the entire system. Use bins and baskets to organize similar items, and label your containers so you know what goes where when you're unloading your next round of groceries.

 Separate Bathroom Supplies

Extra bottles of shampoo and other spare toiletries can easily get lost under your bathroom sink. To avoid purchasing more of what you already have, try professional organizer Laura Leist's "shop from home strategy." Store your excess products elsewhere, such as in a linen closet or in a basket on a shelf, and check your inventory before you go shopping.

Store First Aid Supplies

Store first aid supplies in a caddy or tray to keep your closet tidy and make it easy to carry the whole kit anywhere in the house. A utensil tray works well for corralling bandages, ointments, and first aid supplies in different compartments. Clip on file tabs to identify what goes where.

If you’re business has sanitation and cleaning needs, reach out to the SERVPRO of St. Joseph team.

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Sticker of Cleaning Satisfaction

A Level of Cleaning You Can Trust | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

At one time, most metropolitan areas, including those in our area, were hotspots for COVID-19, but now the country is experiencing a major turnaround. Everyone has high hopes that “real life” or “normalcy” is around the corner.

Cleaning can cost your company time and loss of revenue, and with the hassle of trying to meet CDC requirements, you might become overwhelmed quickly. Let our technicians at SERVPRO take this worry off your plate.

Turn to a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program gives you, your employees and your customers peace of mind by sanitizing and cleaning your facility.

Having a clean home or business can make all the difference in the world, but double that feeling. Add in our advanced biohazard techniques and technologies that go beyond the traditional cleaning and janitorial services, and you will rest easy.

What makes our program different than others? Here’s how the program works:

Consult. First things first, we’ll sit and communicate. What specifics does your company require? We help you figure this out, and since SERVPRO of St. Joseph is locally owned and operated, we are already in tune with the intricacies and needs of the area.

Clean. Once the specifics have been ironed out, we get started on the fun. When our technicians show up, they are armed with proprietary, hospital-grade cleaning solutions that you won’t find anywhere else. By using this type of products, we give your building the clean of a lifetime, always adhering to (or exceeding)CDC standards.

Certify. Once our work is done, you can proudly display the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield on your front window or door. This badge proves to potential and current customers that you have gone to great lengths to ensure their well-being is your up most priority. You’ll also have access to a digital emblem that can be placed on your website and other parts of your digital presence, including social media.

If you’re ready to get serious about sanitation and have your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, get in touch today to get the best team in cleanup and restoration on your side.

Warmer Weather and Fire Safety Precautions | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Bonfire Crackle

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of St. Joseph to learn more.

It was a cold, cold winter this year, so many people have been looking forward to the warmer months for some time now. Warmer months typically bring people outdoors more, lounging around and enjoying that life has slowed down a little.

When you think of warmer days, you don’t typically think of fires, but believe it or not, spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year. While the risk is high, you can take precautions that will help.

What exactly should you pay attention to? These three areas are a good place to begin:

The grill. The grill tends to get lots of notice about being a fire risk and for good reason—it’s one of the most common ones. Grills create the perfect combination of flames, heat, grease and gas, which can make things escalate quickly. So what can you do to be proactive? Verify that the grill is in good working condition, have it placed at least three feet away from everything and clean it before each use. Cleaning the grill before each use is really important because almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.

Fire pits. There’s nothing better than sitting around the fire pit, having conversations with friends and having the kids run and play! While it seems like a no-brainer, oftentimes things happen in a instant, so be sure to never leave your kids unattended around the fire. It’s also important to keep a bucket of water nearby or have a hose that’s handy. You should never add leaves or pine needles to the fire, and finally, put the fire out slowly to avoid scattering embers.

Chimneys and dryer vents. Yearly maintenance on your home is crucial, and the warmer months present a great time to get it done. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned out on a regular basis to help avoid a dangerous buildup of ashes. Another maintenance tip is to clean your dryer vent pipes for trapped lint, since it can build up even if you always clean out the lint trap.

If you encounter fire damage, no matter the cause, we have technicians on hand ²⁴⁄₇! Our trained technicians will be there fast and have it cleaned up soon. Contact SERVPRO of St. Joseph today to experience the SERVPRO difference.

How Can I Tell if Water Is Damaging My Basement?

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Wet Basement

SERVPRO of St. Joseph is a full restoration company. Our team of experts are on call and ready to help you determine the best course of action.

A basement is a much-enjoyed part of many homes in the area. Families love them because they can provide extra living space or be used for storing seasonal items or things that haven’t been unpacked from a move. Not to mention they can serve as an ersatz storm shelter in an emergency situation.

Whatever the configuration of one’s basement, it’s important to realize that there’s one common problem among basements. Because they’re dug out from the ground, they have a tendency to become damp, and they’re a common place for water from household leaks to end up.

You may not ever encounter serious damage in your basement, but you should be aware that it’s a real possibility, and you should make yourself knowledgeable of the warning signs, should you ever come across them. Let’s take a look at some of the more common signs of a wet basement.

The Top Signs of Water Damage in a Basement

Unpleasant, musky odors. The smell often associated with basements is actually an indicator of a problem. Water coming in settles and bacteria begin to form, creating that not-so-lovely basement scent. This smell will only arise when mold and mildew are present in the environment, and while these are often hard to see because mold doesn’t present visually right away, they are easy to smell, and it’s a smell on which you should act.

Flaking paint on masonry or walls. If interior paint is cracking, bubbling or flaking, there’s likely water behind it. Even waterproof paint, while it may take longer to show, will eventually not be able to hold back a serious problem (and by the time an issue does manifest, it may have already become a more serious one). Don’t ignore this one as just a sign of age—look for leaks and prevent further damage.

Foundational cracks. If cracks show up in the floor, the ceiling or in your walls, they could be indicators of a more serious issue—a cracked foundation. While houses do shift over time, a legitimate crack is not normal and must be addressed right away. A leak under your floor could cause a fault line in your foundation, which puts additional pressure on your home’s structure, resulting in the interior cracks described earlier. Bottom line: If there are cracks, there could be a foundation crack resulting from a big leak.

If you notice any of these signs in your basement, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more.

What Makes a Thunderstorm “Severe”?

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Lightning

Thunderstorms can pop up at any moment. Contact SERVPRO of St. Joseph if you experience any damage.

Missouri is no stranger to inclement weather, especially thunderstorms. These types of storms typically come our way in the spring and summer months.

Many thunderstorms can pass through our area without much notice or damage, but others are quite capable of causing serious damage to property and people. But how do you know how threatening these storms will be? A simple distinction in the forecast: “severe.”

A thunderstorm watch or warning means that a storm is coming that has thunder and lightning. A severe thunderstorm watch or warning means that you can expect thunder and lightning, as well as hail that is at least one inch in diameter and straight-line winds that register as at least 58 miles per hour.

The Differences Between a Thunderstorm and a Severe Thunderstorm

Lightning strikes. Lightning is certainly one of the most dangerous parts of a thunderstorm, being responsible for injury to people (reportedly 300 injuries every year) and damage to property. Lightning is able to start house fires and strike and fell trees onto permanent structures. Because thunder is a result of lightning, you can’t have one without the other, so if you hear thunder, there will be lightning within a 15-mile radius.

Hail damage. Hail that is associated with severe thunderstorms has to be at least one inch or larger, but hail has the ability to grow to softball size under the right conditions! Given the size and speed at which it falls, hail is able to cause considerable damage. If cars are uncovered, pets or people are exposed to the elements, and shingles and siding are impacted, the damage could be very serious.

Flash flooding. While it would be logical to believe that flooding isn’t possible in non-designated flood plains, flash floods are possible anywhere under the right conditions: heavy rain, clogged storm drains, overfilled roadside ditches and other hazards. Flooded roadways are extremely susceptible to hydroplaning, flood damage to vehicles, and even taking a car away with the tide.

Thunderstorms can cause damage to businesses and homes that require professional recovery assistance. As a leader in the restoration industry, we are committed to helping you get your property back to pre-storm condition. Contact us to find out how we can help!

The Steady Climb of Severe Weather Cost

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

When storms do damage, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO of St. Joseph to start the restoration process.

We all made it through 2020, and after a year like that, this is something to be celebrated! 2020 brought some of the most record-setting weather disasters. Of all the years in history for which we have data, 2020 was the most financially destructive.

Disasters are defined as events that cause at least a billion dollars in damages! And in 2020, we saw 22 of these severe weather disasters, 14 of which were from severe thunderstorms. The season was so active that the NWS had to refer to the Greek alphabet just to name all of the storms that came our way.

Severe Storms Can Change Quickly

Hurricanes have always been known as one of nature’s most powerful storms, but even still, the severe storms are starting to catch up. In fact, the most expensive disasters of 2020 in the contiguous United States were thunderstorms and tornadoes.

In 2020, we had 22 official weather disasters, and 14 of these were severe thunderstorms, some of which produced tornadoes. Thunderstorms become severe when there’s a chance of hail and strong winds, and while we hear it often, we seem to forget just how quickly it can change.

Eastern Nebraska knows how quickly it can change because in August 2020, there seemed to be a typical line of thunderstorms that exploded into something called a derecho (think of something like a tornado, but with straight-line winds instead of swirling ones, combined with a heavy thunderstorm). This potent storm destroyed more than 10 million acres of corn fields, almost half the state’s corn crop—that’s over 11% of the entire country’s corn fields.

In St. Joseph, we know how severe and dangerous tornadoes can be! The last major ER-2 tornado happened in 2017 and left a small community in pieces.

Higher, Higher, Higher Costs

Severe weather is steadily climbing to catch up with the financial burdens of hurricanes! 2020 was the 10th consecutive year with at least eight billion-dollar disasters.

During 2018 and 2019, there was a combined total of $136 billion in damages. And the year 2017 set the highest total on record with a total of over $300 billion.

Thunderstorms can become severe and disastrous in a matter of only minutes, so as a home or business owner, it’s essential to take whatever precautions are possible to minimize damage to your property and take care of your loved ones.

Like the year 2020, we know that drama arises and no matter how much you try to prepare, it’s not always going to work in your favor! If you happen to have damage, it’s important to know you’ve got a friend in the restoration industry whose goal it is to recover your valued items and restore your property "Like it never even happened."

When storms do damage, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO today to see how we can help.

The Steady Climb of Severe Weather Cost

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Yield sign Warning

When storms do damage, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO of St. Joseph to start the restoration process.

We all made it through 2020, and after a year like that, this is something to be celebrated! 2020 brought some of the most record-setting weather disasters. Of all the years in history for which we have data, 2020 was the most financially destructive.

Disasters are defined as events that cause at least a billion dollars in damages! And in 2020, we saw 22 of these severe weather disasters, 14 of which were from severe thunderstorms. The season was so active that the NWS had to refer to the Greek alphabet just to name all of the storms that came our way.

Severe Storms Can Change Quickly

Hurricanes have always been known as one of nature’s most powerful storms, but even still, the severe storms are starting to catch up. In fact, the most expensive disasters of 2020 in the contiguous United States were thunderstorms and tornadoes.

In 2020, we had 22 official weather disasters, and 14 of these were severe thunderstorms, some of which produced tornadoes. Thunderstorms become severe when there’s a chance of hail and strong winds, and while we hear it often, we seem to forget just how quickly it can change.

Eastern Nebraska knows how quickly it can change because in August 2020, there seemed to be a typical line of thunderstorms that exploded into something called a derecho (think of something like a tornado, but with straight-line winds instead of swirling ones, combined with a heavy thunderstorm). This potent storm destroyed more than 10 million acres of corn fields, almost half the state’s corn crop—that’s over 11% of the entire country’s corn fields.

In St. Joseph, we know how severe and dangerous tornadoes can be! The last major ER-2 tornado happened in 2017 and left a small community in pieces.

Higher, Higher, Higher Costs

Severe weather is steadily climbing to catch up with the financial burdens of hurricanes! 2020 was the 10th consecutive year with at least eight billion-dollar disasters.

During 2018 and 2019, there was a combined total of $136 billion in damages. And the year 2017 set the highest total on record with a total of over $300 billion.

Thunderstorms can become severe and disastrous in a matter of only minutes, so as a home or business owner, it’s essential to take whatever precautions are possible to minimize damage to your property and take care of your loved ones.

Like the year 2020, we know that drama arises and no matter how much you try to prepare, it’s not always going to work in your favor! If you happen to have damage, it’s important to know you’ve got a friend in the restoration industry whose goal it is to recover your valued items and restore your property "Like it never even happened."

When storms do damage, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO today to see how we can help.

Why Should You Choose SERVPRO? | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Insurance Document

When you experience damage to your home for one reason or another, you logically want to entrust your restoration to an experienced team of professional restoration experts. But how can you choose the right team?

You’ll want to consider a number of factors, including whether the restoration provider has specialized expertise related to your specific type of home damage. It’s also important to know whether they’re available ²⁴⁄₇, or if there will be any type of delay in accessing services.

We think that when you consider our offerings alongside other restoration providers, you’ll see that SERVPRO stands apart. But let’s talk more about why that is.

Why You Might Need Restoration

Whether you’ve just moved into your home or have been there a while, damage to your personal refuge is the last thing you want to think about. But it’s incredibly common.

In fact, the Insurance Information Institute reports that one out of every 350 American homeowners will file a fire-related claim this year.

And that’s just one type of home damage! In total, one out of every 20 American homeowners will file some type of claim this year, whether related to fire, water damage or even a tree falling on the home.

What Sets SERVPRO Apart

When you partner with SERVPRO to restore your home from damage, you can rest assured in knowing that we have access to the latest technologies and techniques. We’re available ²⁴⁄₇ when damage occurs, so you never have to wait to get the restoration process underway.

But we think that our people are what truly sets us apart!

Our team of technicians is trained in the ins and outs of restoration for all types of damage. That includes when you have multiple types of damage, such as when water damage leads to mold or when putting out a fire leads to smoke or water damage.

To prepare for this type of restoration, our technicians go through both internal SERVPRO-specific training and obtain specialized certifications from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. The IICRC is the industry standard for best practices related to restoration.

That means your home is being restored by a team that’s truly the best of the best.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

IICRC Certified Firm

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

Our IICRC Certified Crew

SERVPRO of St. Joseph is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of St. Joseph

SERVPRO of St. Joseph specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.

Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

Air Movers in Commercial Building

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of St. Joseph

SERVPRO of St. Joseph 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.

Use Home Maintenance to Protect Your Home Against Rainwater Damage | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Use Home Maintenance to Protect Your Home Against Rainwater Damage | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

Use Home Maintenance to Protect Your Home Against Rainwater Damage | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

Here’s something to consider. If you have to file a water damage claim in 2021, you won’t be alone.

We know this by using some simple math. According to insurance industry experts, about one in every 50 Americans will need water damage restoration this year.

That translates into millions of American families and homeowners. Depending on your neighborhood, that means several people you know may file a claim soon.

Many people know that flash flooding, strong thunderstorms or interior accidents (like a burst pipe or malfunctioning washing machine) can produce enough water to damage your home.

Heavy rains probably aren’t at the top of your list. But they can be a real problem for homeowners. And if your home is not properly maintained, these rains can cause costly damage.

Prevent Rainwater Damage to Your Home

Basic guidelines for home maintenance can help you manage your water damage risk. These simple tips can really make a difference.

Explore sealing your roof. Experts estimate that almost 95% of damage is caused by water finding its way through gaps in your shingles, which can be prevented with this step. It’s definitely worth considering.

Add native plants to your shopping list. If you do a little homework, the flowers and shrubs you use to help you landscape your home and add curb appeal can also become an added layer of protection. Native plants can help. Talk to a local expert about native plants or visit a native plant sale.

Consider the way your yard drains. Knowing how your yard drains is key to protecting your home. If the water in your yard drains toward your home, then you may want to connect with a landscaping expert. They can help you find ways to protect your yard.

If you need help dealing with damage caused by water, fire or any other issue, we’re here to help you restore your home. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about us and how we can help you restore your home to its original state.

Faster to your Water Damage

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Joseph provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Andrew and Buchanan Counties.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of St. Joseph provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of St. Joseph arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 816/232-7711

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of St. Joseph

SERVPRO of St. Joseph specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

Andrew and Buchanan County Residents: WE specialize in Flooded Basement and Cleanup.

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

This Buchanan County home’s basement flooded due to heavy rains.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including:

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 816/232-7711

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of St. Joseph and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 816/232-7711

Does Your Home Have A Mold Problem?

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

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.

If You See Signs of Mold,Call Us Today – 816/232-7711

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in your home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPROof St. Joseph can have the soot tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke– Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke– Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue– Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 816/232-7711

How High-Quality Home Restoration Services Are Different with SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Working with SERVPRO gives you access to advanced technology you would expect when working with a national brand. Contact SERVPRO of St. Joseph today

Do you know the most common reasons homeowners file claims that require restoration services?

The answers might not be what you’d think.

Missouri residents can count on cold, snowy winters and severe storms during the spring and summer months. Across the country, severe weather issues, such as wind, hail and rain, cause a great deal of damage to homes.

Home accidents and appliance malfunctions are also common causes of fire and water damage at home.

While we will admit that our teams have never worked on two identical restoration projects, we have found that each restoration project we work on has one big thing in common in our years of experience.

It’s the importance of timing, of starting the restoration process as quickly as possible.

The home damage process can move fast, especially if there’s water involved. It can start to damage wood noticeably with warping and cracks within just a few days. Upholstery will start to show signs of water damage with fading, spotting and staining just as quickly.

Our Team Is Ready to Move Fast

Because we understand how the damage process works and why it’s so important to move quickly, we are to help you at any time you need us. Our teams are available to you ²⁴⁄₇. All you have to do is call, and we will get the process started.

The technicians you’ll meet when you work with our team are highly trained experts. They’re ready to assist you with the knowledge and experience from high-level training and the best certifications.

Additionally, our affiliation with SERVPRO gives us access to the advanced technology you would expect working with a national brand. We’ll bring that knowledge and equipment to our work at your home.

If your home is damaged due to fire, water or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Advice to Help You Prepare for Spring Thunderstorms | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

If you experience any property damage from spring storms, contact SERVPRO of St. Joseph.

Are you one of the many Buchanan or Andrew County residents with a case of spring fever?

After a cold, dreary winter, we’re getting ready for the warm, sunny days of spring, too.

Many of us are ready to enjoy more time outdoors or tackle some projects. You may want to work on your garden, start grilling again or just visit more local parks.

Spring is a good time to tackle home improvement projects, too. While you’re considering which color to paint your shutters or front door, add some projects to your list that will help protect you from one of spring’s biggest weather hazards—thunderstorms.

We can’t stop storms from hitting the community. But we can do things to protect our homes from them. Here’s what you might want to consider doing.

Spring Home Maintenance Projects

Are these items on your seasonal to-do list?

Don’t let gutter clutter build up. Clean gutters are an excellent way to keep water around your home flowing the right way, instead of causing water damage.

Examine your roof. You don’t want to discover there’s a problem with your roof after a heavy rainstorm. Instead, you’ll want to be sure your roof is in good shape if a storm starts hitting. Check for things like missing shingles and signs of leaks. Repair them.

Check your home’s exterior for possible issues. Look around for overhanging tree limbs, unsecured patio furniture or gazebos. These items can become a problem during storms. Cut tree limbs that hang over your roof or garage and secure anything you can.

If a fire, flood or any other cause damage to your home, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.

Area Business Owners Can Turn to Us for Cleaning Help | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. Contact SERVPRO of St. Joseph to learn more.

If you’re a business owner in the surrounding communities, you can count on us to support you when you need commercial cleaning and restoration services.

Why? Because we’re a local business, too. So we understand how important it is to keep your doors open and continue serving your customers.

You’ve put a lot of work into building your business. You’ve sacrificed your time and put in late nights and long days to ensure your customers are happy.

It takes a lot of planning, too. Most business owners make plans for growth, disasters or any number of situations.

But sometimes, things happen that you can’t predict or control. You’ve probably spent time recently working through new ways to connect with your customers and deliver services in new ways.

Or you’ve decided that it’s time to open your doors and offer in-person services again. If that’s you, then you might be looking for resources to help you navigate a changing landscape and ensure your business can operate safely.

Help and Support for Safe Reopening

Useful tools are available for business owners working through the pandemic. You can find information about business loans and tips, advice and more from sources you can trust. These can help you operate during uncertain times.

It’s also vital to keep your business clean and safe for your employees and the customers you serve. That’s where we come into the picture.

We’ll get your business “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.” What does that mean? Here’s how the process works:

Our technicians start by taking time to consult with you about your business and make an individualized plan.

Then, the team will clean your space. Our technicians use a high-level system to ensure you’re ready for customers to come back. Our teams work with proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions. Plus, we use cleaning and decontamination standards directly from the CDC.

Finally, our team will certify your space. That means you (and your customers) can rest assured that you’re ready to be open for business.

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our cleaning services and how we can help you.

You Can Take Steps to Prevent Winter Fires at Your Home | SERVPRO® of St. Joseph

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

House fires tend to peak during the winter. SERVPRO of St. Joseph are available 24/7 in the event of an emergency.

Did you know that more house fires happen during the cold winter months than at any point during the year? It’s true! There are many reasons for this, ranging from winter holidays and the extra time spent in the kitchen to the pitfalls of home heating malfunctions.

Not only do house fires cause property damage and cost families priceless heirlooms, but they can also cause injuries and deaths. According to industry experts, as many as 890 people die from house fires every year.

Of course, even homeowners who take necessary prevention steps aren’t always immune to the dangers fires can pose. But the good news is you can take small steps over the next few months that together make your fire risk much lower.

Making Fire Prevention Simple

We’ve pulled together some expert tips to help you stay safer at home during the winter months. Here’s some great news: Most of these tips can be implemented with very little time or money during your daily routine.

Get your furnace checked. Even if your furnace seems to be working fine, it’s a good idea to have a professional check it for maintenance issues. For example, if your blades or vents are dirty and clogged, it can be a fire hazard.

Carefully place your candles. If candles are left burning when you leave home or placed in a location where they can easily topple, then they can become a fire hazard. Please don’t leave your candles burning; blow them out instead. Never place them somewhere a child or pet can knock them over.

Make space heater safety a priority. Always plug your space heater directly into your wall. If you need to rearrange your furniture a little, it’s a smart move and makes your home safer. Also, make sure your space heater is clear on all sides.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

SERVPRO of St. Joseph 24 hour Emergency Water Damage Service

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Joseph is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 816/232-7711

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of St. Joseph has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of St. Joseph

SERVPRO of St. Joseph specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

What To Do If The Power Goes Out In The Winter

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

Depending on where you live, power outages can happen frequently in the winter — and not just during winter storms. Rain, sleet, high winds and trees falling can all damage power lines and equipment, leading to blackouts.

If your electricity powers your heat, when the power goes out, it can lead to frozen pipes and overall home damage. Being cold for a period of time can also be hazardous to your health. That’s why it’s incredibly important to be prepared for a power outage in the winter — and know what to do when one occurs.

Here are our tips for preparing for and staying safe during a power and/or heat outage in winter:

Before:

• Put together an emergency survival kit
• Make an evacuation plan and find out where the local heating shelters in your area are located.
• Buy lanterns and/or flashlights.
• Refill heating fuel, oil or propane if you have heating equipment (or emergency heating equipment).
• If you have a fireplace, stock up on wood and matches.
• Stock up on non-perishable food, bottled water, pet food, diapers, battery-pack phone chargers and flashlight batteries.
• Consider investing in a power generator. You can get one for the whole house, or get a back-up portable generator.
• Wrap any exposed pipes with insulation.
• Let faucets drip a little to avoid freezing.
• If your water supply could be affected in a power outage (say if you have a well-water pump system), fill your bathtub for sanitation purposes and fill spare containers with enough drinking water for the whole family.
• Set your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest setting.
• Make sure your home is properly insulated. Now is the time to caulk or weather-strip windows and doors.
• Have your fireplace and chimney cleaned, and get any other secondary heaters (such as pellet or gas stoves) serviced at the beginning of winter to make sure they’re in good, working condition to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• If someone in your home relies on electric medical equipment, register with your local power company and/or community emergency program.
• Buy enough warm blankets for the whole family.
• Put a bag of ice cubes in the freezer in case you have to evacuate. If the ice melts and freezes again, it’s a good idea to throw out any food that was in there because it probably spoiled.
• Buy a battery-operated or hand-cranked radio to listen for storm updates.

During An Outage:

• Make sure the outage goes beyond your home by checking to see if your neighbors have lights on. Then report the outage to your electric company.
• Keep doors and windows closed, put towels in front of any drafts.
• Layer your clothes to stay warm, put on a hat, cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs and put on mittens (they’re better than gloves). Huddle under extra blankets.
• Know the signs of frostbite — loss of feeling and color in fingers, ear lobes and the tip of the nose — and call 911 if someone has these symptoms.
• Know the signs of hypothermia — uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, slurred speech, drowsiness — and call 911 if someone shows these symptoms.
• Don’t open your refrigerator or freezer unless necessary. Food can stay frozen 24-36 hours. Don’t eat any food if the bag of ice in your refrigerator melts. You can use snow drifts as a makeshift freezer, but be aware of attracting animals.
• Listen to the news — don’t go outside if conditions are unsafe.
• Preserve your phone battery and opt to text instead of call to keep your phone lines open.
• Unplug appliances and electronics to avoid a damaging power surge when the power comes on.
• Leave one lamp on so you’ll easily know when power comes back.
• Generators, camp stoves or charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from any window or door.
• Never use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
• If you use candles to light the room, never leave them unattended and keep them away from pets and children.

If You Have to Evacuate:

• Turn off the main breaker, circuit breaker panel or power supply box.
• Turn off the water main, open all taps and drain the water tank.
• If you have a gas heater, turn out the pilot light.
• Unhook the washing machine hoses.

When The Power Comes Back

• Immediately look for burst pipes. If there appears to be flooding anywhere near electric wiring, shut off the power and call a qualified technician.
• Wait to reconnect any appliances until the electrical system has stabilized — start with reconnecting your heating system.
• Turn your heat up a little above the normal temperature to dry and heat the house quickly.
• Throw out any spoiled food.
• Be very cautious going outside to inspect your home for storm damage because downed or hanging electrical wires can be hidden by show drifts, trees or debris and could be live. If you see any downed wiring, assume the line is live and report it to your utility company. Don’t touch anything the wire is touching.
• Check on and help neighbors if you’re able to.

Keeping Your Pets Safe in Winter

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

A Guide for Keeping Your Pets Safe in Winter

Dogs and, yes, even cats, can have a blast in the winter, exploring and frolicking in freshly fallen snow. But dogs (well, most dogs anyway) particularly love a snowy terrain. They like to bound and dig in their giant, new, snowy playground and never seem to want to go inside no matter how ready their humans are to leave the cold and wet outdoors behind.

However, frozen precipitation and colder temperatures can also be dangerous for dogs if their owners don't take proper precautions. If you're a new pet parent, or simply unsure of the best way to care for your pet during the winter months, it's important to get acquainted with the do's and don'ts of keeping your pet safe and healthy out there.

Keep them bundled up

Even if the temperature is above freezing, pets' extremities, just like our own, are extremely susceptible to wind chill. They can get hypothermia and frostbite on their exposed paws, noses and ears. While dogs and cats don't typically wear hats for long, you can help protect them from the cold by putting them in insulated sweaters and jackets, and covering their feet with waterproof paw booties. Those booties will also help keep their paw pads from cracking from the de-icing salt on roads and walkways.

Wipe them down as soon as they come inside

As a form of precipitation, snow can leave pets cold and very wet at the end of a snowy play session, and if they remain like that for a while, they could get a cold or hypothermia (your furniture will also take a beating). In order to avoid all that, make sure to towel them off as soon as they come inside. You can keep a designated pet towel by the door so you never forget this important step.

NEVER leave pets outside overnight or for an extended period of time

According to the Humane Society, you should never leave pets outside for long periods of time when it gets cold. In fact, leaving a pet outside alone in temperatures below freezing for more than 30 minutes is considered neglect, which is a punishable crime. Even if you have a typically outdoor cat, they should be able to get inside somewhere warm whenever they need to.

If your pet has to spend a significant amount time outdoors, they should have access to a dry, insulated shelter that's large enough for them to move around in and maintains their body heat.

Eating and drinking guidelines

Dogs especially expend more energy when they're running outside in the cold. You can help them make up for that by feeding them a bit more food so they can replace the energy/calories they lost playing. You may also want to consider exchanging your metal food and water bowls for plastic ones if you keep them outside as a warm dog tongue could easily get stuck to them.

Keep pets from eating rock salt

Pets suffering from salt poisoning, unfortunately, becomes much more common in the winter months, because rock salt is regularly used to de-ice the roadways and walkways they walk on. If they ingest it, either while on a walk or by licking it off their paws, it can be fatal. The best way to prevent salt poisoning is to keep an eye on your pet and if you notice they've eaten salt, wash their mouth out and call the pet poison hotline. If you're not sure whether or not your pet has ingested salt, here are some warning signs of salt poisoning to watch out for: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, not eating, excessive thirst and/or urination, incoordination, tremors and seizures.

Take them for their annual vet visit

Right before winter hits is the perfect time to take your pets in to see the vet, because you'll learn if they have any new conditions that might make winter a bit tougher on them. For example, chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease can lower a pet's cold-temperature tolerance. And, of course, new or worsening arthritis can make for stiffer joints during cold snaps.

Shorten walking times

It may be tempting to let your pet play in the snow for hours on end, but like us, they have cold weather limits, they just aren't as aware of them. So if it's below freezing, you should limit playtime to under 30 minutes, especially if you have an older pet or one that's compromised in any way.

Don't leave your pet in a cold car

Just like how a car left in the hot sun can heat up fast and basically become an oven for any living thing inside it, cars left out in the winter become like refrigerators. So the general rule of thumb is don't take your pets on errands if you know you're going to be leaving them in a car for longer than five minutes, especially if it's balmy or freezing outside.

Pet-proof the inside of your house

Since your pets should be spending more time indoors in the winter, it's a good idea to secure all of your heating devices that could be susceptible to a bounding and/or large creature. For example, if you've set up a portable heater in your living room, make sure you have a barrier around it so that your pet doesn't knock into it or knock it over and potentially start a fire. And if you have radiators that can get hot, you might want to put a barrier around them as well so that pets don't burn themselves.

Winter Weather Warnings

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

Winter Warnings

10 Things the National Weather Service Wants You to Know about Winter Weather Forecasts

1. 'Not everyone in a winter storm warning is going to get a lot of snow/ice. Some will get nothing at all.'

Forecasters err on the side of caution to ensure nobody is caught off-guard by a crippling storm, and some winter storm warnings will be too large instead of too small. This allows everyone to be properly warned inside an area that may get hit by the storm, but not everyone will always feel the full effects of the system.

2. 'It's very unlikely that any snow amount forecast – especially days in advance – will be exactly right.'

Wondering why your area is forecast to receive eight to 12 inches of snow? The science still isn't precise enough to give your town an exact snow total before the storm starts. If you're seeing forecasts that say your town will get exactly 8.6 inches of snow from an event, take it with a grain of salt. Also, the NWS adds that the snow/sleet line isn't as exact as you'll see on some maps.

3. 'Don't focus so much on the exact numbers.'

In many cases, the NWS said, forecasters can give you an exact location of where the heaviest snow will fall as opposed to exact snow totals, as mentioned above. Focus on that aspect of the forecast, and if you're in one of those areas predicted to get crushed by snow, take appropriate precautions.

4. 'The first forecast numbers won't usually be as good as the ones closer to the event. That's just the way it is.'

This one is very important, and it's a complaint that forecasters frequently hear. Just because the forecast five days ago said you'd get 12 inches of snow doesn't mean you should stop following the forecast. As meteorologists refine the data, those forecasts may change. If you tuned out five days before the event, you can't complain when the actual event is accurately predicted. It's critical that you follow the forecast, because it may evolve.

5. 'Often there will be a small area – maybe a county wide – of heavy snow embedded within the main snow band. It is very difficult to pinpoint exactly where this will set up in advance.'

When your forecast says "isolated higher amounts," that's what this means. There's a chance you'll get hit by the heaviest snow from a band, but it's not guaranteed.

6. 'Forecasts are updated constantly from days before the event until it actually begins.'

This goes back to No. 4. Forecasts could change several times a day when new data comes in, so you should check back frequently. If you don't do that, you'll have old information.

7. 'People tend to focus on and remember the highest number, even if it's from a forecast they heard days ago.'

"The forecast said 12 inches, why didn't we get 12 inches of snow?" is the type of response your favorite meteorologist hears all winter long. Chances are, he or she said "eight to 12 inches," but snow-lovers always lock in on the highest number they hear. You should expect to see accumulations in a range give by the forecaster in his or her most recent forecast.

8. 'Forecasts ... often get lumped together, and attributed to the generic "they."'

We're not responsible for the snow forecast given to you by the person who bags your groceries. Secondhand forecasting is often bad forecasting.

9. 'It seems like the more people are talking about it, the worse it's going to be, but that's not always the case.'

Social media tends to blow weather events out of proportion, and it seems the further out we can forecast a big event, the crazier the chatter gets. If the forecast for a snow event in your area seems too good to be true, it probably is. That's a good sign to check in with a trusted forecaster and see what's the latest.

10. 'Having too much snow forecast information can be confusing.'

Yes, there can be too much of a good thing. Social media-rologists can post forecast model data with gaudy forecasts that probably won't pan out because they get a lot of shares due to their eye-popping information. Again, trusted sources are the way to go when you're looking for the best forecast.

BONUS: 'Timing can mean everything.'

From Tom Niziol, winter weather expert at The Weather Channel: "Often it is not the amount of snow or ice that may occur, but the time of the day and the day of the week that can determine the impacts on the public. If you are expecting winter weather during the high volume traffic times of the day or week and can at all avoid getting out on the road, you will save yourself a lot of grief."

BONUS: 'Not all precipitation is created equally.'

With regards to model data, allow meteorologists to give you that; don't try to read it on your own. If a model shows 8 inches of precipitation, that could mean eight inches of rain. But when converted to snow, that could mean a whole lot more.

From Mark Elliot, meteorologist at The Weather Channel: "One inch of rain can turn into anywhere from five to 50ish inches of snow, so small errors in the precipitation forecast can have huge repercussions in the world of snow forecasting."

Locally Owned and Operated

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

Our Production Team

SERVPRO of St. Joseph is a franchise, but we are owned and operated by local members of your community! From our owners Brett and Sam Halsey, all the way to our production crew, we are from St. Joseph and surrounding towns. We know the area that we serve and we love building relationships with our customers!

We are personal when it comes to each job that we complete. When you call our office you will speak with a real person and we will directly help you with your situation. With the personal connection we provide, we also have advanced equipment, high end technology, and high standards that get the job done quick and right. We value our customers, community, employees, and the work we provide.

Please take the time to read our reviews and see how pleased customers are with our services.  Everything from water, fire and mold remediation to COVID spraying.   

If you have any questions, stop by our office at 507 N 36th Street in St. Joseph for more information or give us a call at 816-232-7711! Thank you for trusting SERVPRO of St. Joseph for all your cleaning and restoration needs!

Freezing Pipes

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Temperatures are dropping.  Here are a few pointers to help protect your pipes.

• check sprinkler systems.  make sure they are turned off and drained.
• Locate your main water shut-off and shut it off for the winter.
• Remove exterior hoses.
• Protect any pipes exposed to the cold. wrap them with insulation.

When Temperatures stay below freezing:

• Open cabinet doors to pipes that are on exterior walls to let in warmer air.
• Keep water running trough the pipes, even a small trickle.

If your pipes do freeze:

• Shut off the water immediately
• Thaw pipes with warm air.
• One pipes are thawed be careful and slowly turn water back on checking joints for any cracks or leaks.

Please take the time to protect your pipes this winter.  

Preparing for Winter

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Take a few steps to prepare your home for winter.

 - Winterize your home:

• Install weather stripping
• Insulate water lines
• clean out gutters

 - Check your heating system:

• Have your system serviced
• Inspect chimney and fireplace
• install or replace batteries in smoke detectors.

- Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.     

• Install a Co detector to alert you of the presence of the deadly, odorless gas.  Check and change the battery regularly. 
• Learn the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning: headache, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.

Make sure your vehicles are ready for the cold weather too.

• get your car serviced and maintain antifreeze.
• check your tires.
• keep your gas tank full to avid icing in the fuel lines.
• Use a wintertime formula in your washer fluid source.
• Keep a winter emergency kit in your car. Include: portable charger for cell phone, blanket, hat, gloves, flashlight, first-aid kit, snacks and water.  

National Preparedness Month

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

In case of a power outage don't eat food in your Refrigerator that has warmed past 40 degrees.

September is National Preparedness Month and we've learned a lot from our disaster recovery work over the years. Visit SERVPROprep.com now to learn how you can plan for when disaster strikes.

https://www.facebook.com/SERVPRO/photos/a.1413132982261180/2680959125478553/?type=3

Changing Air Filters

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Change out air filters often.

Not only do dirty air filters not work to clean your air as well, but all of those trapped nasty particles are sitting in your HVAC system.  You should change our air filter to extend furnace life, reduce energy bills and improve indoor air quality.  Changing your air filter on a regular basis can improve your indoor air quality and help you HVAC run more efficiently.

If you have been running fans in lower areas of our home because of flooding you should probably check your air filter.  Replace it, and set a reminder on your phone to check it weekly until it appears clean.  Then set a reminder to check it monthly.  During allergy season you should probably replace it more often.

This will help reduce dust throughout your home.  

Summer Storm Awareness

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

With more severe thunderstorms on their way in our area, be prepared with these safety tips from the American Red Cross!

• Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms
• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household
• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm This should be away from windows, skylights and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail
• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm
• Make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches
• Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home
• Consult your local fire department if you are considering installing lightning rods
• Get trained in first aid and learn how to respond to emergencies
• Put together an emergency preparedness kit
• Review the Be Red Cross Ready - Thunderstorm Safety Checklist

Understanding what to do before, during, and after severe weather hits will make your life much easier! Contact the local office in St. Joseph, Missouri at 816-232-8439 and visit these links from the Red Cross for more detailed information to keep you safe!

• https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/thunderstorm.html
• https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/tornado.html

We are HERE To HELP!

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Crew photo

Meet Barry, Matt, Brett, Marc, Joey, Jason and Craig. This crew right here never quits!!  They work hard every day, all day - even after hours.  No job is too big or too small.  They are all HAZMAT and WRT Certified. Almost all are OSHA 10 & OSHA Construction Certified. If you see these guys out in their green SERVPRO trucks wave HI!  Be sure to call us for any of your cleaning needs.   

We are Cleaning Experts

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of St. Joseph 816-232-7711

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

We are Cleaning Experts

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of St. Joseph, 816-232-7711

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Update on Coronavirus

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

COVID-19 Resources

Understanding COVID-19 Coronavirus

• Pandemic Flu vs. COVID-19 – Comparison and Context (10 March 2020)

Accelerate and customize pandemic response plans by using pandemic flu as baseline for understanding differences

Weather Warnings

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

Be sure to watch the weather today.  We have severe weather headed our way!  Use these links to stay informed:

forcast.weather.gov

Weather.com

Before heavy rains come you might want to clear all gutters and drains of any debris.  

Charging Your Phone In Bed May Cause A Fire

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Where do you charge your phone at night?

With more kids home over break - pay attention.  

Make sure that your phone charging location is a safe, hard surfaced, non-hazardous location to avoid burns and possible fires. Charging cords become damaged after being worn down, and with the right material in contact, could cause a fire. Many young adults and teenagers charge their phone under their pillow! International Business Times discusses the risky habit here! Take these steps to avoid possible fire damage or injuries:

• Make sure to discuss the proper charging locations.
• Do not use chargers if the cord has been damaged.
• Do not charge phones under or in between pillows.
• Invest in safe charging stands for your children and household.

If a fire does happen, big or small, SERVPRO of St. Joseph can help restore your property! Give us a call at 816-232-7711! 

Storage Boxes Should Be Elevated Off of the Floor In Case of Flooding

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

Store items up off the floor.

If you keep your boxes stored directly on the floor, it's possible that the contents may someday be damaged by flood waters. How should you avoid this from happening?

According to Unclutterer.com, here are the 3 laws of basement storage:

1. Thy stuff, it shalt not be on the floor. 
2. Thy stuff, it should be stored in air-tight, hard plastic containers.
3. Thou shalt own and run a dehumidifier/humidifier when necessary. 

https://unclutterer.com/2009/07/20/three-laws-of-basement-storage/

In St. Joseph Missouri, we have had a very rainy summer season, therefore be prepared for any possible flooding in your basement. Don't always assume your basement is flood-proof and check it after heavy rains just in case.

Give your local SERVPRO location in St. Joseph a call at 816-232-7711 if you experience flood damage to your property!

This is also true in the winter with pipes that may crack.  Beware of water damage in all seasons.

We Are Locally Owned and Operated

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Here are the faces you might see in a time of need.

SERVPRO of St. Joseph is a franchise, but we are owned and operated by local members of your community! From our owners Brett and Sam Halsey, all the way to our production crew, we are from St. Joseph and surrounding towns. We know the area that we serve and we love building relationships with our customers! We are personal when it comes to each job that we complete. When you call our office you will speak with a real person and we will directly help you with your situation. With the personal connection we provide, we also have advanced equipment, high end technology, and high standards that get the job done quick and right. We value our customers, community, employees, and the work we provide. If you have any questions, stop by our office at 507 N 36th Street in St. Joseph for more information or give us a call at 816-232-7711! Thank you for trusting SERVPRO of St. Joseph for all your cleaning and restoration needs!

Flood Warning for St. Joseph, Missouri

8/13/2019 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service, St. Joseph is in a flood warning due to the Missouri River's high elevation. 

• The Flood Warning continues for the Missouri River at St Joseph until Sunday August 25.
• At 9:30 am Tuesday the stage was 18.1 feet.
• Flood stage is 17.0 feet.
• Minor flooding is occurring and minor flooding is forecast.
• Forecast... the river is cresting this morning. The river will then begin a slow fall. At 17.0 feet... lowland flooding upstream and downstream from St. Joseph occurs.

https://www.wunderground.com/US/MO/020.html?hdf=1

If you have flooding occur on your property, give us a call at 816-232-7711 and we can get our professional crew out to begin extracting water. Stay safe and avoid flood waters as they can be very dangerous!

Fire Escape Planning

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

Does your home or business office have a plan to escape the building safely if a fire occurs?

According to Missouri Department of Public Safety 

Here are some tips to think about when preparing your escape plans:

• Draw a map of each level of your home and show all doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them.
• Have a plan for everyone in your home who has a disability.
• Practice your fire escape plan at night and during the daytime.
• Close bedroom doors before going to sleep.
• Designate a meeting spot outside of your home a safe distance away to ensure that all family members are safe.
• Remind family members that once they are out, it is important to stay out. You should never go back into a burning building for any reason. If someone is trapped in the home, allow firefighters who are equipped to enter the home to rescue them.
• Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Use the ladder only in a real emergency.

https://dfs.dps.mo.gov/safetytips/fire-escaping.php

SERVPRO wants everyone to stay safe and be prepared for emergencies. If you do have a fire and need damaged property restored, we are here to help! Just give us a call at 816-232-7711! 

When Storms or Floods hit St. Joseph, SERVPRO is ready!

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Joseph specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit St. Joseph, 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 (https://www.SERVPROstjoseph.com/disaster-recovery) that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 816-232-7711!

Owner and Marketing/Sales Manager, Samantha Halsey

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Have you met our owner AND Sales/Marketing Manager Samantha Halsey?! Sam is in charge of all marketing events, accounts payable, business relationships, planning events, and the advertising that is done for our franchise. She has been the owner since 2003 with her husband Brett, but around 6 years ago, she came in to help grow the business! Some other duties that Sam often partakes in are: answering the phone, emailing contacts inside and outside of the business, and leading board meetings. Her creativity and personality are perfect for the job as Marketing Manager and to uplift the office! Not only is she busy around the office, but she also has two teenagers to raise at home. We do not know what we would do without her every day. Thank you for all you do here Sam!

Why Choose SERVPRO Vacuum Freeze Drying?

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Do you or does your business have important paper documents that cannot be lost? If those documents were to be damaged by water, how would you restore them? Here is why you should call SERVPRO!

• We use sublimation- turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage to avoid causing more damage to the documents.
• We are local!
• Vacuum freeze drying is the most efficient and effective way to salvage water-damaged documents.
• We use state-of-the-art technology.
• We use the only method approved by NARA (National Archives and Records Administration) and the GSA (General Services Administration).
• Other methods such as dehumidification can alter the structure of the paper's fibers causing them to become more brittle.
• All employees of the Document Restoration Team are HIPAA Master certified.
• Once your items arrive at our facility, we guarantee 24/7 video surveillance.
• Our goal is to make the process as simple as possible for our customers.
• Standard drying time is 7-10 days.
• We offer cleaning, trimming from fire damage, refile jacketing, deodorization, gamma irradiation, and basic drying.

As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO knows timely mitigation is the key to reducing severity and recovering damaged items. Water damaged paper can rapidly deteriorate. Without proper handling, valuable files and irreplaceable documents could be lost forever. Let SERVPRO's restoration professionals help you recover your damaged goods before it is too late! Call us at 816-232-7711 or stop by our office at 507 N. 36th Street in Saint Joseph, Missouri for more information!

Gift Baskets Given To St. Joseph Firefighters

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Appreciation Baskets

With the 4th of July this week, SERVPRO recognized and showed appreciation for all the firefighters in our area! We brought a basket of treats to each station. We know this is a busy time of year for them due to everyone having fun with fireworks. According to the NFPA...

• In 2013, fireworks caused an estimated 15,600 reported fires in the U.S., including 1,400 structure fires, 200 vehicle fires, and 14,000 outside and other fires.
• These fires resulted in an estimated 30 civilian injuries and $21 million in direct property damage, with no reported fire deaths. Most fireworks deaths and injuries occur without fires.
• Two thirds of the fires started by fireworks in 2009-2013 were brush, grass or forest fires. However, most of the injuries and property damage resulted from structure fires.
• More than one-quarter (28%) of fires started by fireworks in 2009-2013 were reported on Independence Day. Almost half (47%) of the reported fires on the Fourth of July were started by fireworks.

Our definition of a hero is someone who protects our world and continues to make it a better place. Our hero rushes in when everyone else is rushing out. Our hero sacrifices more daily than most do in an entire lifetime. Thank you to all the firefighters protecting us!

Meet Barry Throckmorton our Production Tech Crew Chief

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

Barry has been with the SERVPRO Team in Production for 5 years.  He is often the first to show up to any job and the last to leave! He is ECTP, OSHA 10 & Construction, water, and confined space certified. He also has training in water, fire, carpet & upholstery, contents management and crew training. His extensive training shows in his work too as each job that he completes is done fast and professionally. His work ethic and drive are both impressive and we love having him around. Many of our customers rave about Barry and the service he does to their property. We hope that if you do end up needing our services, that you get to meet Barry and the rest of our crew. He leads the  the whole team with positivity. We are very lucky to have an employee with such dedication! Thank you for all the time and effort you put into your job, Barry!

Does Your Business Have A Plan For Every Emergency?

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Do you own a business? Do you have a plan for when an emergency happens? Where are your water shut off valves located and who do you plan to call when you need help? 

50% of businesses that may never recover after suffering a disaster.

SERVPRO offers emergency ready profiles for big and small businesses for FREE and we keep them updated when you make changes to your building! 

ERPs may benefit you and your business by saving your property, reducing the amount of damage, and overall saving your business money! Below is the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile Advantage:

- A no cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.

- A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.

- A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.

- Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.

- Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.

- Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”

Give us a call today at 816-232-7711 if you aren’t sure what to do when an emergency occurs at your business!

Check Out These Home Maintenance Tips To Do Before Summer Hits

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

Another Nickel posted this recent article that can be very helpful for those trying to save some money this summer around the house! https://anothernickel.com/vital-home-maintenance/

It has tips from insulting your attic area more properly, to turning down your water heater. Try to make your home work for you by knowing what energy is being wasted and what is being used. Here are some other key ideas the article has for saving money:

- "Childproof" Your Outlets Even If You Don't Have Kids"

- Use WD-40 For EVERYTHING!

- Change ALL Your Air Filters

- Clean Your Refrigerator Coils!

- Seal Your Sidewalk Cracks

Here at SERVPRO, we are all about improving your home and your life! Make some simple adjustments to your house to improve your life!

Mold Prevention and Remediation

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

Mold on drywall

Mold is caused by excess moisture in an area, whether that be your house itself or the items inside your home! The removal of mold is usually very time consuming and expensive!

What To Do If You Suspect Mold

A great place to start if you believe you might have mold in your home, is to call SERVPRO of St. Joseph! We do mold remediation! Mold can not only affect the structural property but also the items within a home so be sure to check thoroughly.

Prevention

Mold can be prevented if there is proper moisture control in the area. The best plan for you as a homeowner though, is to get to the source before mold begins to appear! If you do not properly know how to clean up water damage, fix leaks, or other related water problems, call an expert! If water is not fully removed from surfaces or items, the chance that mold will grow rises.

Health Risks

According to the center for disease control and prevention, “Exposure to damp and moldy environments may cause a variety of health effects, or none at all.” Depending if you or your household members are sensitive to mold, it may cause problems! Check out the Center for Disease Control and Prevention Website for more information about mold, how to prevent it, how it arrises, how to remove it, and how it can affect your health! 

If you think you might have a mold infestation to your property, visit our website https://www.SERVPROstjoseph.com/mold-remediation for more information or

call SERVPRO of St. Joseph at 816-232-7711 today!!

Office Manager Amber Flinders Is Expanding Her SERVPRO Knowledge

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Amber Flinders

Meet Amber Flinders! She has been our office manager at SERVPRO of St. Joseph for 14 years. She is an asset to our business while overseeing all office operations and handles all of the invoicing and collections. Her responsibilities in our office are endless, but she always has a smile on her face and a positive attitude! She is also certified in crew training, water, fire, carpet & upholstery and contents management. Right now she is working extra hard completing advanced Xactimate Training to be even more prepared and skilled for her job with many hats. This training is showing her new skills to take on as well as refreshing her on current knowledge. We appreciate all you do for this company Amber, thank you so much!

Get Prepared For Severe Weather

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

With more severe thunderstorms on their way in our area, be prepared with these safety tips from the American Red Cross!

• Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms
• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household
• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm. This should be away from windows, skylights and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail
• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm
• Make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches
• Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home
• Consult your local fire department if you are considering installing lightning rods
• Get trained in first aid and learn how to respond to emergencies
• Put together an emergency preparedness kit
• Review the Be Red Cross Ready - Thunderstorm Safety Checklist

Understanding what to do before, during, and after severe weather hits will make your life much easier! Contact the local office in St. Joseph, Missouri at 816-232-8439 and visit these links from the Red Cross for more detailed information to keep you safe!

• https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/thunderstorm.html
• https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/tornado.html

Prepare For Your Memorial Day Outdoor Grilling With These 9 Safety Tips

5/15/2019 (Permalink)

On average 8,900 home fires are started by grills each year!

As grilling season approaches, be sure to take proper safety precautions to prevent any damages! According to NFPA, "In 2013-2017, grills, hibachis or barbecues were involved in an average of 10,200 home fires per year, including an average of 4,500 structure fires and 5,700 outside or unclassified fires..."

Nationwide has 9 tips for a safe grilling season and here they are:

1. Grill outside and away from any structures.

2. Make sure your grill is stable.

3. Keep your grill clean.

4. Check for propane leaks on your gas grill.

5. If the flame goes out, wait to re-light.

6. Take care around the grill.

7. Be careful with charcoal starter fluid.

8. Wear the right clothing.

9. Be ready to put out the fire.

https://blog.nationwide.com/grill-safety/

Keep your home, family, and yourself safe by following proper procedures to prevent fire damage! We are here to help 24/7 if things do go wrong; just give us a call at (816) 232-7711!

Water Restoration

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Water in the ceiling.

SERVPRO of St. Joseph is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 816/232-7711

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of St. Joseph has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of SERVPRO of St. Joseph

SERVPRO of St. Joseph specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

Fire Restoration

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of St. Joseph will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 816/232-7711

Commercial Restoration

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Large loss equipment

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of St. Joseph

SERVPRO of St. Joseph 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.

Emergency Services

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Winter weather Pointers

SERVPRO of St. Joseph specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Andrew and Buchanan Counties, 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 816/232-7711