Highly Trained Fire Restoration Technicians

9/8/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

After the fire has been extinguished, we are often the next team to arrive on the scene. SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained fire restoration technicians ready to help.

• Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

Using the right tools and cleaning methods are key to quickly and efficiently restoring fire damage. Our professionals are trained to know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns.

• Wet Smoke – Plastics and Synthetics; Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary.
• Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood; Fast burning, high temperatures, dry, powdery, non-smeary residues.
• Protein – Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
• Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs.
• Other Types – Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue

We examine all items prior to cleaning to determine the appropriate cleaning method, and we work quickly and methodically from the source of the fire out to the other parts of the structure.

Call Us!

When your home or business needs fire cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of Ravenswood can help. Our fire restoration technicians are on-call 24-hours a day to mitigate and remediate fire damage. Call us today at 773-878-5200. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Prepare NOW with an Emergency Ready Profile

9/8/2022 (Permalink)

Plan now with a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile.

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW.

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

This is what is covered in our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)

• A no-cost assessment of your facility 
• A concise Profile Document that contains only critical information needed in the event of an emergency
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
• Establishes SERVPRO of Ravenswood as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
• Provides Facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority area, and priority contact information

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood at 773-878-5200.

Use Technology to Create a Home Inventory

7/26/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can handle your storm damage emergency.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can help you clean up after a storm. 

We know that having an up-to-date inventory of household items and belongings helps insurance claims to settle faster. Here are some tips from the Insurance Information Institute for using technology to make your home inventory easier.

• Take pictures – Create a photo record of your belongings. Capture important individual items as well as entire rooms, closets, or drawers. Label your photos with what’s pictured, where you bought it, the make or model—whatever information might be important to replacing and/or getting reimbursed for the item. Use your smartphone or digital camera—some give you the capability to put in the description of the item when saving the photo.
• Tape it – Walk through your house or apartment videotaping and describing the contents. For example, you might describe the contents of a kitchen cabinet: “Poppies on Blue by Lenox, service for 12 that includes a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, cup, and saucer. Purchased in 2015.”
• Use an app – There are many mobile app options that can help you create and store a room-by-room record of your belongings.

Call Us Today!

If you experience storm damage, SERVPRO of Ravenswood is available 24-hours a day to help.  Call us today at 773-878-5200.

SERVPRO can provide Reconstruction Services

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood provides reconstruction services.

In addition to water mitigation, fire cleanup, and mold remediation, SERVPRO of Ravenswood also offers reconstruction services.  After our professionals are done with drying out a property or removing smoke-damaged materials, we can put your home or business back together just like the way it was before the damage occurred.

Here are just some of the reconstruction services SERVPRO of Ravenswood offers:

• Drywall repair and installation
• Baseboards
• Floor repair and replacement
• Kitchen and bath installation and remodeling
• Cabinet and trim replacement
• Insulation installation
• Ceiling repair
• Fixture replacement
• Painting

The convenience and savings of working with one company to assist with mitigation and repairs can be significant.  We are a one stop shop for all of your construction needs. SERVPRO of Ravenswood has experienced professionals that believe in delivering quality workmanship. Please contact us at 773-878-5200.

Be Ready for the Rain

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can help with your water damage emergency.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood restores water damage 24-hours a day, and our fast emergency response time prevents secondary damage in many cases. Rainwater intrusion is a common cause of water damage that impacts residential and business owners. Here are some tips from the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety for protecting your home or business from rainwater intrusion:

Maintain Gutters and Downspouts

• Clean gutters and downspouts twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall, to prevent clogs that can cause water damage to your roof
• Keep trees trimmed and away from the roof to prevent leaves from clogging gutters
• If there is standing water, adjust the gutters so they gently slope toward the downspout allowing water to drain
• Ensure downspouts funnel water away from the building to prevent water from accumulating at the foundation or entering the basement

Water Damage Restoration Process

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business needs water damage restoration services, SERVPRO of Ravenswood is available 24-hours a day to help.  Please contact us at 773-878-5200.

Keep Your Business Running

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood provides several commercial restoration services.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood understands the need to keep your business operational, even after an emergency.  If your business experiences a fire, water leak, or a mold problem, we are available to help.  We offer flexible solutions and work after hours or around the clock to complete your restoration project. Our highly trained professionals will respond quickly and provide the expertise to get the job done right.

We offer the following Commercial Services:

• Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup and Restoration
• Water Removal and Dehumidification
• Crime Scene, Biohazard and Vandalism Cleanup
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
• Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning
• Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning and Care
• Stain Removal, Stain Resistance Applications
• Odor Identification and Deodorization
• Upholstery and Drapes Cleaning

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. Please contact us at 773-878-5200.

Food Service Cleaning & Restoration

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is trained in food service cleanup.

From the smallest family-owned restaurant to food processing plants, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has the experience and equipment to restore your facility to its preloss condition following a disaster.  Time and safety are our top priorities, just as they are to you in running your business.  Our highly trained technicians are available 24-hours a day to help mitigate the damage done to food manufacturing facilities and commercial kitchens, so you can get back to serving your customers safely and quickly.  While conducting the cleanup and restorations of your facility, we take special care to pay attention to the regulations, health codes, and potential hazards involved in restoring your food service spaces.  We will work to help ensure that all surfaces are restored to preloss condition and sanitized.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood technicians are trained and experienced in the cleaning and restoration of food service facilities of all sizes, including:

• Food Manufacturing Facilities
• Fast Food Establishments. Restaurants and Cafeterias
• Food Processing Plants
• Commercial Kitchens

If your food service facility requires cleanup or restoration services, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians on call 24-hours a day to help.  Please contact us at 773-878-5200.

Power Outage - Plan Now!

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

Plan now - be prepared for a power outage.

Power outages can happen when you least expect them.  Plan now to have what you need in the event of a power outage.  Here are some tips from the American Red Cross to stay safe:

Create a support network. Identify people who can help you stay at home or evacuate during an extended power outage. Keep a paper copy of your contact list.

Stay connected and alert. Sign up for alert systems and apps for text alerts. Have communication devices that work without home power, including a crank or battery radio, a non-cordless home phone, chargers/batteries for your cell phones and your computers.

Stock food and water. Store non-perishable food and water supplies for at least two weeks. Plan to use coolers and ice to extend food refrigeration and keep a thermometer in the fridge, freezer, or cooler to monitor the food temperature.

Know and plan for your personal and medical electrical needs. Take an inventory of your electrical needs. Consider both back up and non-power alternatives for lighting, communication, medical devices and refrigerated medicine, cooking, garage doors, locks, and elevators. Discuss a plan with your doctor for your medical needs.

Plan how to decide to stay or go. Plan how and when you will evacuate safely to maintain needs such as power-dependent medical devices. Keep your car gas tank at least half full.

If your home or business suffers from storm damage, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians on call 24-hours a day to handle your storm damage.  Contact us at 773-878-5200. 

Water Heater Maintenance Tips

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood responds to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

Springtime is a great time to check on your water heater.  Water damage can happen quickly, and it is important to make sure that it is in good working condition.

Here are some tips to inspect and maintain your water heater from the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety (IBHS): 

• Inspect your anode rod every two years, or every year once the warranty has expired, to determine if it needs to be replaced.
• Flush water heater tanks every six months to remove sediment by attaching a garden hose to the valve at the base. For safety, first turn off the power and run hot water until it is cool.
• Get an annual inspection from a plumbing professional including the shut-off valve and all piping. Signs of broken valves and loose or wet joints and rust are a sign that more severe damage is coming.

If you experience water damage, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained professionals to help 24-hours a day.  Please contact us at 773-878-5200.

Big or Small Disaster - SERVPRO Offers 24-Hour Service

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can respond to your disaster 24-hours a day.

When disaster strikes your home or business, SERVPRO of Ravenswood will respond quickly to bring you the help you need.  We are a trusted leader in the restoration industry serving the Chicagoland area.  We provide 24-hour emergency services including Water Damage Restoration, Fire Damage Restoration, and Mold Remediation for both residential and commercial properties.  Our highly trained technicians have the training, specialized equipment, and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs.  We are a locally owned and operated business that is proud to serve the Chicagoland area. 

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

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is close by and ready to respond to your cleaning or restoration needs.  Call us at 773-878-5200.

Generator Safety Tips

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these tips to stay safe during a power outage.

Springtime in the Midwest can bring rain, wind, and storms.  Downed utility lines, power company blackouts, heavy winds, or thunderstorms can all lead to power outages.  Portable generators offer a temporary solution. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) about generator safety:

• Generators should be used in well ventilated locations outside at least 5 feet away from all doors, windows, and vent openings. Measure the 5-foot distance from the generator exhaust system to the building.
• Never use a generator in an attached garage, even with the door open.
• Place generators so that exhaust fumes can’t enter the home through windows, doors, or other openings in the building. The exhaust must be directed away from the building.
• Make sure to install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in your home. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for correct placement and mounting height.
• Turn off generators and let them cool down before refueling. Never refuel a generator while it is hot.
• Store fuel for the generator in a container that is intended for the purpose and is correctly labeled as such. Store the containers outside of living areas.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians available 24-hours a day to handle any fire damage emergency.  Call us at 773-878-5200.

Know the Signs of a Tornado

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can help with storm damage restoration.

Tornadoes often accompany thunderstorms. When there are thunderstorms in your area, being prepared can help you stay safe from the storm.

Here are a few tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to be prepared for a tornado:

Know the signs of a tornado

Some tornadoes strike quickly without time for a tornado warning, so it is important to know the signs of a tornado.

Signs that a tornado may be approaching include the following:

• Rotating funnel-shaped cloud
• Approaching cloud of debris
• Dark or green-colored sky
• Large, dark, low-lying cloud
• Large hail
• Loud roar that sounds like a freight train

If you notice any of these signs take cover immediately.

Identify the safest place to take shelter

Although there is no completely safe place during a tornado, some locations are safer than others. Safe places include a storm cellar, a basement, or an inside room without windows on the lowest floor (such as a bathroom, closet, or center hallway).

If you have suffered storm damage caused by a tornado or a powerful thunderstorm, SERVPRO of Ravenswood can help, call us at 773-878-5200.

Water Damage Cleanup Tips

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can handle your water damage emergency.

Water damage can occur at any time. SERVPRO of Ravenswood wants commercial and residential property owners to know that water damage in commercial buildings and residences can not only be unsanitary, but it can also be dangerous as items that are not thoroughly dried out can cause mold. Here are some tips from the American Red Cross to follow in the event of water damage to your business or home:

• Pump out flooded basements gradually (about one-third of the water per day) to avoid structural damage.
• Bring all soft items outside if possible – sunlight and wind will help them dry faster
• Throw out items that have absorbed water and cannot be cleaned or disinfected
• Remove all drywall and insulation that has been in contact with floodwaters
• Consider removing vinyl floor coverings and tile to allow the substructures beneath or behind them to dry
• Keep the windows open and run fans – or keep them shut and run dehumidifiers to pull moisture out of wood floors and subfloors, beams, doors, etc.

If you experience water damage in your home or business, SERVPRO of Ravenswood wants to help. Our highly trained water restoration technicians are available 24-hours a day. Call us at 773-878-5200 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services.

Be Ready for the Wind

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can handle your storm damage emergency.

Spring weather in the Midwest can bring thunderstorms and high winds into our area quickly.  It is important to be aware of the dangers that are associated with them.  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration offer some information about wind warnings, watches, and advisories:

High Wind Warning: Take Action! Sustained, strong winds with even stronger gusts are happening. Seek shelter. If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheel.

High Wind Watch: Be Prepared! Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose items and adjust plans as necessary so you are not caught outside.

Wind Advisory: Take Action! Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong to warrant a High Wind Warning. Objects outdoors should be secured, and caution should be taken if driving.  

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Take Action! A thunderstorm is happening or is imminent in the warning area. Severe thunderstorms have 58 miles per hour wind gusts and/or hail one inch or larger. Seek shelter inside a sturdy building.

Preparing for High Winds

• Remove any dead trees or overhanging branches near structures
• Remove loose objects outdoors, on patios, roofs, or balconies that could blow away
• Shutter windows securely and brace outside doors
• Bring in unsecured objects from outside and secure things that could blow away and cause damage or injury

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business needs storm damage restoration services, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained storm damage specialists available 24-hours a day to help.  Call us today at 773-878-5200.

Commercial Fire Damage Cleanup

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood will respond to your fire damage emergency.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

We provide:

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Fire and Water Restoration Industry with over 1950 Franchises
• Highly Trained Fire and Water Damage Restoration Specialists

We have a wide range of experienced technicians:

• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

When your business has been damaged by fire, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of commercial fire restoration technicians ready to respond 24-hours a day. Call us at 773-878-5200.

Deep Cleaning for your Commercial Property

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can deep clean your commercial property.

As people return to work in their office buildings, this is a good time for building owners to make sure their work environment is clean and ready to welcome employees back.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood offers a full range of deep cleaning services to keep your properties looking and showing their best. We can send in a team to deep clean and deodorize your property quickly and efficiently.

Commercial Cleaning Services

• Air Ducts and Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

We have many years of experience working in all kinds of business settings and buildings:

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing and Industrial
• Government/Military

When your commercial property needs a deep cleaning, count on SERVPRO of Ravenswood to help. You can reach us at 773-878-5200.

Small to Large Water Damage - Count on SERVPRO

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can handle any size water damage emergency.

When a home appliance leaks or a large water damage event happens at your business, you can count on SERVPRO of Ravenswood to help.  Water can travel fast, and it can seep into floors and walls without being noticed.

When SERVPRO arrives to help you after a water damage, our team brings several devices, such as moisture meters, measuring tools, drying equipment, and a lot of experience. These pieces of equipment in the hands of trained staff can help you recover quickly, with no surprises afterward.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home or business requires extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO of Ravenswood can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. A move-out will provide several benefits, including the following:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

When your home or business needs move-out and pack-out services, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day. Call us today at 773-878-5200. 

Storm Season is Approaching

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood will respond to your storm damage emergency.

The weather in the Midwest can change quickly and bring powerful storms into our area.  Here are a few tips from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to prepare for storm season:

Tornadoes often accompany thunderstorms. Pay close attention to changing weather conditions when there is a severe thunderstorm watch or warning.

• A severe thunderstorm watch means severe thunderstorms are possible in your area.
• A severe thunderstorm warning means severe thunderstorms are occurring in your area.

Know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning

Tornado watch

A tornado watch means that a tornado is possible. A tornado watch is issued when weather conditions favor the formation of tornadoes.

During a tornado watch, you should

• Stay tuned to local radio and TV stations, or your mobile phone for further weather information.
• Watch the weather and be prepared to take shelter immediately if conditions worsen.

Tornado warning

A tornado warning means that a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. You should immediately take shelter during a tornado warning.

When your home or commercial business needs storm restoration services, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians that can respond 24-hours a day, call us at 773-878-5200.

SERVPRO - Count on us to Help

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

Count on SERVPRO of Ravenswood to help with all of your restoration needs.

A storm, flood or plumbing problem can leave your home or business with extensive water damage.  Immediate action is necessary to mitigate the damage.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood specialize in repairing and restoring your property. 

• Highly Trained Restoration Specialists

We specialize in water damage restoration, with training focused on restoring salvageable items, accelerating drying time with documenting the entire restoration process.

• Customer Care

We have years of experience in the cleanup and restoration industry.  We care about you and your property and want to help you get back to normal after you have water damage to your home or business.

• # 1 in the Cleanup and Restoration Industry

We’ve earned the reputation as a trusted leader in the restoration industry and specialize in fire and water damage, specialty cleaning, mold, and so much more.

• Easier Insurance Claims Process

We will help you navigate the insurance process and coordinate the necessary paperwork for a quicker, easier experience.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians that are available 24-hours a day to help with all of your restoration needs.  Please contact us at 773-878-5200.

Tips to Stay Safe around the Pool

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

Springtime in the Midwest brings thoughts of warmer weather and outdoor activities.  As we start to dream of floating in the pool or sitting in the hot tub, we also need the be aware of electrical hazards while enjoying the water.  Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association on how to stay safe around swimming pools, hot tubs and spas.

• If you are putting in a new pool, hot tub, or spa, be sure the wiring is performed by an electrician experienced in the special safety requirements for these types of installations.
• Outdoor receptacles must have covers that keep them dry even when appliances are plugged into them.
• Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are special devices designed to protect against electric shock and electrocution. They are required for most pool, spa, or hot tub equipment. They may be in the form of an outlet or a circuit breaker.
• Electrical appliances, equipment, and cords should be kept at least 6 feet away from the water. When possible, use battery operated appliances and equipment, such as televisions, radios, and stereos.
• Avoid handling electrical devices when you are wet.
• Do not swim during a thunderstorm.
• Have a qualified electrician show you how to turn off all power in case of an emergency.

If you experience fire damage, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians that can respond 24-hours a day, call us at 773-878-5200.

Water Damage Restoration for your Business

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood will respond to your water damage emergency.

Water damage to your industrial or commercial property can be particularly devastating. Not only is there the damage itself that needs to be repaired quickly, but there’s the disruption of your service to customers and employees.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood professionals are prepared to evaluate your water-damaged property. We want to help you understand the severity of the water damage to your commercial property so that you’re able to make the best decisions on moving forward with the restoration process. Whether you’re dealing with minor water damage to your commercial property or a large-loss event, we can develop a restoration plan to help ensure your property is clean, dry and restored to its pre-damaged condition.

Our team of professionals will assess the water damage to your property. Then we’ll help you understand the severity of the damage so you’re able to make the best decisions for the restoration of your business. We use only the most advanced equipment to detect hidden moisture and extract standing water.

If your business experiences a water damage emergency, you can count on SERVPRO of Ravenswood to respond 24-hours a day, call us at 773-878-5200.

Mold Problem - SERVPRO can Help

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can help if you discover mold.

A musty smell is often the first sign of a mold problem.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood will respond quickly and work fast to manage the situation.

If you discover mold in your home or business, here are a few facts from our website to consider:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has the training, equipment, and expertise to handle the situation.  Call us at 773-878-5200.

Fireplace Safety Tips

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

There is nothing like warming up by a fire in the fireplace, but a dirty chimney can cause a house fire.  Creosote is a black or brown residue that can build up over time and could cause a fire.  It is important to make sure that your chimney is clean and safe for a fire. 

Follow these tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for preventing creosote buildup that can cause chimney fires:

Limited air supply and unseasoned wood encourage the buildup of creosote. To avoid that buildup, do not restrict the air supply by:

• Closing the glass doors
• Not opening the damper wide enough
• The longer the smoke is in the flue, the more likely it is that creosote will form
• Do not burn unseasoned wood

Fireplace Safety

• Keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace to prevent embers or sparks from jumping out
• Do not burn paper in your fireplace
• Put ashes in a metal container with a lid, outside, at least three feet from your home
• Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home

SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond to a fire damage emergency 24-hours a day.  Call us at 773-878-5200.

Stay Safe after a Flood

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

We are available 24-hours a day to respond to storm or flood damage.

Heavy rain caused by thunderstorms and melting snow can lead to flooding at your home or business.  It is important to be prepared for unpredictable weather.

Here are a few tips from Ready.gov to stay safe after a flood:

• Return home only when authorities say it is safe
• Avoid driving except in emergencies
• Wear heavy work gloves, protective clothing, and boots during clean up and use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris
• Be aware that snakes or other animals may be in your house
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity to prevent shock if it is safe to do so.
• Avoid wading in floodwater as it can be contaminated or charged with electricity from downed power lines
• Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.  We are available 24 hours a day – Call us today at 773-878-7378.

Keep your Animals Safe from Winter Weather

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience winter storm damage, SERVPRO of Ravenswood is available 24-hours a day.

The snow is falling in the Chicagoland area, and more is on the way.  The snow can be a pretty sight, but it can also cause dangerous cold and icy conditions for many of us.  In addition to our safety, we also must think about the safety of our animals. 

Here are some tips from the American Red Cross to protect your animals during a winter storm:

• Bring your companion animals indoors. 
• Create a place where your other animals can be comfortable in severe winter weather. Horses and livestock should have a shelter where they can be protected from wind, snow, ice, and rain. Grazing animals should have access to a protected supply of food and non-frozen water.
• Be aware of the potential for flooding when snow and ice melt and be sure that your animals have access to high ground that is not impeded by fencing or other barriers. You may not be able to get to them in time to relocate them in the event of flooding. 
• Install snow fences in rural areas to reduce drifting snow on roads and paths, which could block access to homes, barns, and animals' feed and water.

If you experience a storm damage emergency, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians that are available 24-hours a day.  Please call us at 773-878-5200.

Safety Tips for your Microwave

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood provides 24-hour service for any fire damage emergency.

The microwave oven is a great kitchen appliance that provides a quick and easy way to reheat a meal or warm up a cup of coffee.  It is always important to follow a few tips to prevent burns or a possible fire.

Here are some microwave safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association: 

• Purchase a microwave oven that is listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Make sure to complete and return the product registration card. This way, the manufacturer can reach you if there is a recall on the product.
• Plug the microwave oven directly into the wall outlet — never use an extension cord
• Make sure the microwave oven is at a safe height, within easy reach of all users
• Open food slowly, away from the face. Hot steam or the food itself can cause burns.
• Food heats unevenly in microwave ovens. Stir and test before eating or giving to children.
• Never heat a baby bottle in the microwave. Since a microwave oven heats unevenly, it can create hot pockets, leading to burns.

If you experience fire or smoke damage, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians available 24-hours a day to assist you.  Please call us at 773-878-5200.

Biohazard Contamination Tips to Stay Safe

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is trained to safely remove biohazards.

Biohazard contaminants should be considered very dangerous as they can pose a serious health risk. Sewer backups and flood water are two common biohazard scenarios that can affect homes and businesses. SERVPRO of Ravenswood has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore this type of contamination.

Here are a few tips from our website that can help while you are waiting for help to arrive:

What to Do After a Contamination

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening.
• Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
• Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage.

What Not to Do After a Contamination

• Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang leather goods.
• Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don’t use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don’t use television or other household appliances.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

When your home or business needs biohazard remediation services, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day. Call us today at 773-878-5200.

SERVPRO - Commercial Restoration Specialists

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can handle your commercial restoration project.

When you need a restoration team to tackle a large project or to help get your business back up and running, SERVPRO of Ravenswood is among the best that SERVPRO offers.  We handle small residential projects, as well as large industrial and commercial projects.

Large Loss Commercial Specialists

There are certain distinctions within the SERVPRO organization regarding commercial and large loss projects and SERVPRO of Ravenswood is proud to be listed among an elite group.  Not only are we a member of the Disaster Recovery Team but we also earned the distinction of being named an Extreme Response Team member.

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm and Major Events
• Disaster Recovery Team

No Job Is Too Large

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. 

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is available 24 hours a day to restore your commercial property and get you back to business. We have the expertise, equipment, and highly trained personnel to handle your commercial water, fire, or mold damage.  Call us at 773-878-5200.

Tips to Avoid a Soggy Disaster in Ravenswood

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these tips to keep your belongings safe from water damage.

Water damage is one of the most common disasters that your home can experience.  Our homes are filled with many items that range from household items, toys, games, books, and many treasured heirlooms.  It is important to take steps to protect these items in case you experience water damage in your home.

Here are a few tips from the Insurance Information Institute to avoid a soggy disaster:

• Store off-season and other bulk belongings in waterproof bins, especially in areas where there are plumbing pipes or that are prone to dampness, such as basements and attics.
• Never store valuables or memorabilia where there is a risk of destruction from water. Water and dampness also bring with it the threat of mold damage. 
• Keep belongings stored on shelving off the floor in basements. In case of water seepage or sewer backup, they're less likely to get damaged.
• Keep an up-to-date home inventory. Having a comprehensive list of your possessions will save time, trouble, and stress in case of loss from water damage.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond to your water damage emergency 24 hours a day.  Call us today at 773-878-5200.

Winter Storms are headed our way

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can help with your winter weather emergency.

Winter storms are approaching the Chicagoland area and they can deliver some serious weather, which can lead to property damage.  From ice dams, to snow covered roofs and fallen trees, all of these weather-related problems demand fast attention, especially when the temperature can be extremely low and your home or business is exposed to the elements.

Available 24 hours a day to respond to your Storm Damage

When choosing SERVPRO of Ravenswood, you are partnering with a restoration company who not only has experience delivering all forms of restoration service, but we also understand the situation that you’re in.  If your home or office is damaged and exposed to the outside elements, you want it sealed quickly, cleaned up, repaired and back to normal quickly and properly.  That’s what we do.  We live in the area as well, so we understand the need to have your home or business stabilized and repaired, especially in the middle of a Chicagoland winter.

If winter has delivered damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Ravenswood to help at 773-878-5200.

Be Prepared for Winter Weather in Ravenswood

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood responds to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

Winter Weather has arrived in the Chicagoland area.  It is important to stay safe during a winter storm event.  A winter storm can last a few hours or several days.  According to Ready.gov here are the differences in winter weather terms:

Winter Storm Warning

Issued when hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet is imminent or occurring. Winter Storm Warnings are usually issued 12 to 24 hours before the event is expected to begin.

Winter Storm Watch

Alerts the public to the possibility of a blizzard, heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet. Winter Storm Watches are usually issued 12 to 48 hours before the beginning of a Winter Storm.

Winter Weather Advisory

Issued for accumulations of snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, and sleet which will cause significant inconveniences and, if caution is not exercised, could lead to life-threatening situations.

Know Your Risk for Winter Storms

Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. Listen for emergency information and alerts.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood responds to storm damage emergencies frequently in the winter months.  We are available 24 hours a day.  Please contact us at 773-878-5200.

Water Damage at Work? Call SERVPRO

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

You can count on SERVPRO of Ravenswood to handle your commercial restoration needs.

A small leak was detected in the kitchen of our office. Luckily, the maintenance staff was able to repair the leaky pipe quickly with no damage to the kitchen area. In a commercial office space, there are several places that water leaks can go unnoticed and could result in an expensive water damage event.

Here are some tips from the Environmental Protection Agency on ways to minimize water damage in the workplace:

• If you see a leak – in the restroom, pantry, or outdoors, report it to your maintenance staff
• Put up signs in restrooms and pantries to encourage everyone to look for leaks and report problems. Include information on who they should contact. 
• Spread the word about saving water to all tenants, as well as cleaning, housekeeping, maintenance, and landscaping staff

SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a team of highly trained technicians that can respond to a commercial water damage emergency 24-hours a day. Call us today at 773-878-5200.

Christmas Tree Safety

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Christmas Tree Fire Cleanup Specialists

No one wants to spoil the holiday season, but Christmas trees in the home can present a fire safety issue. A primary concern with a Christmas tree is fire danger, often brought on by the combination of electrical malfunctions and, in the case of a real tree, a drying tree. In the United States, Christmas trees start approximately 210 house fires per year. Electrical failures or malfunctions were involved in nearly half of the fires, igniting the tree with sparks or small electrical fires. Decorative lights with live voltage were involved in more than 20 percent of the instances. However, putting trees too close to open fires or heaters caused a significant number of fires as well: nearly a quarter occurred because a heat source was located too close to the tree.It isn’t just real trees that are a problem. Electrical malfunctions can also ignite plastic artificial trees, and homeowners should take the same precautions in terms of tree placement and decorations as they would with a real tree. Click HERE to download and share helpful tips for your staff, tenants and neighbors. From All of Us at SERVPRO of Ravenswood We Wish a Happy & Safe Holiday Season!

We're Hiring

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Immediate Hires accepted!

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is seeking team players to join a strong workforce of emergency response cleanup and restoration! SEEKING:Administrative Assistant $15.00/HRProduction Technicians $16.00/HRProduction Manager $18.00/HR Send Qualifications To: Tom@SERVPROravenswood.com “Gusto” and “Spirit” are characteristics we search for when employing new staff. We recognize that when a person has the enthusiasm and heartfelt attitude to help people in need, they put 100% into their work. This is reflected from the day they arrive at your property, all the way through the end of the restoration process. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. Our ongoing training sets us apart from the competition.  We stay informed and adhere regular IICRC industry requirements.  You may rest assured knowing that our team is equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to restore your property.

Storm or Shine We Are Here For You

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

Have a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

Wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday.  Here are some tips to remember for the Thanksgiving weekend.  Remember, no matter what the catastrophe SERVPRO of Ravenswood is here for you with our 24-hour emergency services.

TIPS:  Turkey Frying Safety

1. Thaw and dry turkey completely before frying.
2. Keep outdoor fryers off of decks and out of garages.
3. Watch the weather! Don't fry a turkey outdoors during rain or snow.
4. Wear googles to shield eyes and oven mitts to protect hands.
5. Have a multi-purpose fire extinguisher nearby-just in case!

Getting Rid of Cat Urine is Easier Than You Think

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

The attacks your carpet, SERVPRO fights back with Urine Odor & Stain Remover

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is an expert at getting rid of that nasty urine odor.  We know that odor can linger for a long time if not treated appropriately.  Fortunately we have the chemical to do the job!  

SERVPRO's Urine Odor and Stain Remover is an environmentally friendly mixture of bacterial cultures with their natural enzymes. It is used to eliminate odors and stains caused by-organic residues and organic wastes such as:

• Urine
• Feces 

• Vomit 
• Spilled foods 

• Skunk
• Perspiration

Keep in mind this is a 2-day process, as the mixture must sit and set into the affected area for at least 12 hours. After that the removal and cleanup process is quick and very effective!

If you are battling an odor issue, then call SERVPRO of Ravenswood.  We will provide you with a free assessment and move forward at your discretion.

773-878-5200

Meet Our New Mascot

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Hi I'm Socks! I need a home. Will you play with me?

Last week during a residential cleanup our crew came across this cute little feline.  Poor thing was hiding in a closet. Though the owners were no longer present at the job location we did not want to leave this sweet cat on it's own, so we adopted her (temporarily)!  

Meet Socks! She is approximately 3 years old and is looking for a good home.  We love her activeness and her speed as she races between the warehouse and office areas. Thought we love having her in our office we do not feel she will receive the 24-hour, well deserved attention she needs.  Therefore, we are seeking a family who is willing to adopt Socks.

The cleanup went smoothly.  We were able to put the home back into a livable status and is officially hoarder free.  We care about our customers and we care about animals too!

Call us today if you are interested in either adopting sweet Socks, or if you require a cleanup!

Thank you!

Fire Prevention Week October 3-9

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Test your smoke alarm batteries at least once per month!

During Fire Prevention Week we stride toward educating the public, ourselves, our employees and our families on the safe practices used and measures to take in order to keep ourselves safe from fire.  The website below is an excellent way do this.  Within the home page you can find an awesome video on the sounds that smoke and carbon monoxide alarms make when activated.  You can also find pictures and diagrams on setting up these alarms.  

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/fire-prevention-week.html

The following link explores the latest research and studies conducted on fire sprinkler systems and retrofitting your home or business.

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/blog/ci-052720.html 

A special message from our President:  A Proclamation on Fire Prevention Week, 2021

There are many ways to spread the word on fire prevention...just have to take the time to read and pass along the information.

Happy Halloween

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Trick or Treat? I say Trick!

Dear School Engineer,

There is no better time than now to start planning your special projects for the year.  School holiday breaks are an excellent opportunity to take care of your cleaning agenda.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is happy to help! As a preferred vendor we can serve you in the following capacity:

• Water Damage cleanup and demolition
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Calcium Buildup Removal
• Paint Chip Removal
• Vandalism Cleaning
• Document Restoration
• Biohazard and Sewage Cleanup

All service estimates are FREE!  Call today and schedule your complimentary inspection!  773-878-5200

Have a Spooktacular Month!

P.s. Did you receive your SERVPRO key tag?  Earlier this month we mailed you a key tag to your office. If you did not receive it, please let Donna know and she will get one to you right away!

Floormat System

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

It's always good practice to test your equipment before it goes out.

The SERVPRO of Ravenswood floor mat system is the best way salvage hardwood floors in your home or business.  Whether the damage is due to flooding caused by natural causes or a broken pipe, we can help!  Hardwood floors are tricky if you do not act fast.  The key is to call SERVPRO of Ravenswood right away and we can setup our floor mat system.  The system is installed over the affected hardwood flooring.  As the system works it pulls moisture out of the flooring and the area restores its integrity.  Our technicians have a great deal of experience using this method and our “floor-save” rate is over 90%. 

Call us today for your free assessment.  Time is of the essence, so call now! 

773-878-5200

A picture tells 1000 words

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Some things cannot be saved, sadly.

Do your best not to have a fire! But if you do, we have the experience and the know-how to get you back in your humble abode very quickly.  Check out our Photo Gallery and read how we’ve helped around the neighborhood.

Dealing with the aftermath of a house fire is overwhelming and stressful. You have just been with a devastating tragedy and now have to figure out how to fix everything. Going about fire restoration might be the last thing you want to think about, but it is important to start the process immediately. For one, the sooner you start the sooner you can get your life back to normal. The longer you wait the bigger the risk of long-term issues developing. Smoke damage can also cause irreversible repairs and health issues if not dealt with quick enough.

We’re Fire and Water Damage Specialists

We specialize in fire and water restoration. We’ve received advance training in restoration techniques, and we have the experience and specialized equipment to quickly restore your property.

• Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

Emergency Communications

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

CISA Logo

Disasters happen all over the United States and in all sorts of capacities.  During National Preparedness Month, what better time to provide public education than now.  Below are 2 major players who help the public and first responder stakeholders who are working hard to make the connections and providing best practices guidance to all levels of our communities; state, local, tribal and territorial government.

CISA ensures Public Safety and National Security and Emergency Preparedness communities can seamlessly and securely communicate during steady state and emergency operations to keep America safe, secure, and resilient.

SAFECOM was formed in 2001 after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 as part of the Presidential E-Government Initiative to improve public safety interoperability, allowing emergency responders to communicate effectively before, during, and after emergencies and disasters.

Watch this video to hear more about what is happening behind the scenes:  https://youtu.be/hmRVS6sG9fk

Did you get the message?!

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

The communication cricle

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency's (CISA) National Coordinating Center for Communications (NCC) continuously monitors national and international incidents and events that may impact emergency communications. Incidents include not only acts of terrorism, but also natural events such as tornadoes, floods, fires, hurricanes and earthquakes.

But how does the public receive these critical communications at the time of an emergency?  The SHAred RESources (SHARES) High Frequency (HF) Radio program provides an additional means for users with a national security and emergency preparedness mission to communicate when landline and cellular communications are unavailable.  Follow these outlets to learn more:

FCC High Frequency Stations: https://www.fcc.gov/general/fcc-high-frequency-stations

Tweet @CISAgov | @cyber | @uscert_gov

Facebook.com/CISA

Insta @cisagov

Note:  Review your communication plan with your staff and stay in the know!

National Preparedness Month

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

There's an app for that!

National Preparedness Month is sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) within the Department of Homeland Security. This month’s initiative encourages people to take steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, schools, and communities.

SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile® offers a complete profile for your property. The ERP organizes critical building and business information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services following a fire or water damage incident. To find out more about this add-on service, please contact Donna@SERVPROravenswood.com. 

Fire Prevention Week October 3 - 9th

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms can save your life by alerting you with different sounds. Join the U.S. Fire Administration this week in sharing important information about fire safety.

Find Handouts that you can distribute to your facilities staff here:  https://www.usfa.fema.gov/fire-prevention-week.html 

We Are Hiring

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Be part of the solution by keeping our communities clean.

Primary Role: Perform all office administrative tasks related to customer calls, job management and tracking, scheduling of jobs and customer satisfaction activities. Perform basic accounting duties relating to accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, and banking. Perform general office duties such as drafting correspondence, filing and creating reports.

Results Expected: All administrative work is processed and documented accurately and timely. Customers, COIs (Center of Influence), Production Team, Marketing Reps/ Estimators and the Office Manager/Owner are communicated to in a timely and accurate manner. Customer satisfaction is maintained at a high level. Processing of accounts payable and receivables are current. All files and reports are maintained and provided as required. All administrative tasks are completed as assigned.

PRODUCTION TECHNICIANS (2 OPEN POSITIONS) - $16.00/HR

Primary Role: Perform services as assigned, following SERVPRO production guidelines. Communicate with the customer to make sure that all needs are met. Support crew chief and other production personnel as needed. Clean and maintain vehicles, equipment, warehouse and office areas as needed.

Results Expected: Production processes are performed according to guidelines and work orders. Communications to crew chief and customer are timely. Jobs are completed at or beyond customer expectations. Vehicles, equipment, and facilities remain clean, orderly, and working properly.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. This company does not and will not discriminate in employment and personnel practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, national origin, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Who Knows Who

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

Who's in charge here?

When living in a multi-unit building it is hard at times to determine who is responsible for what when a water or fire incident occurs.  Typically the rule in our industry is “walls-in owner, walls-out building.”  But what does that mean?  In laments terms any damage within the walls of a unit is the homeowner’s responsibility and anything outside of the walls is the building’s responsibility, but it is not always that simple.  Finding out if the owner or the building’s homeowner association is responsible can be tricky.  Factoring in the HOA’s bylaws, the owner’s insurance policy and the source of the incident all come into play.  At the time of the emergency determining the responsible party is critical.  However, all the pieces usually come together after the restoration services have begun.  A restoration company such as SERVPRO of Ravenswood will help the owners determine who is responsible.  We will communicate with the assigned insurance adjuster, as well as the facility manager to help resolve questions.  Here is a good article of reference:

https://chicago.cooperatornews.com/article/whos-responsible-for-repairs/full

Donut Start an Oil Fire

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Source of fire

Kitchen fires are messy!  We recently helped out a local restaurant in Andersonville.  The bakers accidentally sparked a fire when cooking oil spilled onto a hot grill.  A small fire erupted and quickly escalated into extremely hot flames.  The smoke from those flames ignited the kitchen’s fire suppression system, exactly doing what it is designed to do – stop the fire!  Unfortunately, the wet chemical from the suppression system mixed with the oil and water turned into a nasty, goopy mess.  The smoke damage also overwhelmed the entire restaurant, shutting them down.

Once the fire department had deemed it safe for entry, SERVPRO of Ravenswood went to work.  Within a few days our technicians cleaned, setup equipment and odorized the entire store.  The quick action of the staff, owner and SERVPRO crew were able to put that business back to working order in 1-week’s time.

When a fire occurs call 911 immediately.  Anticipate some downtime for cleaning and repairs.  And remember to call SERVPRO of Ravenswood professionals who help pick up the pieces and get your business back to working condition.

Do You Know?

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

Place a hang tag on your water shut off valve.

Yikes! Water is gushing from an internal water source in your home! Do you know where your main water shutoff valve is located? Be sure to educate your family members, co-workers or tenants on how to turn off the main water shutoff in your building. This is a critical lesson to share with others, especially if you have had an experience where your dishwasher leaked or your toilet overflowed. Know what to do next.

Stopping the water is critical.  But fixing the source is just as vital.  Once you stop the water flow, assess the situation.  Make a determination if a plumber or roofer may be needed to fix the leak.  Once that is determined, than contact your insurance agent to see if filing a claim is your best course action.  There are times that customers may choose not to involve insurance and just pay out of pocket.  Ultimately that decision is made once you receive a quote for the damage cleanup.  This is when you call SERVPRO of Ravenswood.  We will come to your house, provide a free estimate for damage cleanup and speak to your insurance adjuster about appropriate action. 

Be prepared and have your plumber, roofer, agent and our phone numbers ready.  Time is of the essence when water or fire damage cleanup is concerned.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood

773-878-5200  

Introducing SERVPRO U

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO U(niversity)

To support franchise learning and development, SERVPRO U is an enhanced Learning Management System maintained by SERVPRO HQ. This brand new platform will offer our staff a full catalog of content by subject matter experts, and allows our technicians and staff up-to-date industry training. Providing our teams to continuous education throughout the years. What better way to unify our teams throughout the system than to educate and train in uniform.  SERVPRO U will continue to help us grow so that we can deliver accurate service, optimal prices and timely action to help consumers and insurance companies streamline processes.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood plans to keep up-to-date with all the new teachings our headquarters have in store for us in the future.  Our technicians and office personnel are geared up and excited to learn more in the restoration world!

SERVPRO's New Webpage on the horizon

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO.COM is here for you no matter where you are!

A full-scale redesign of SERVPRO.com is currently underway. Not only will the website look newer, cleaner and be easier to navigate, it's a shift from being operationally-focused to being customer-focused. Through months of planning, and with the input of multiple HQ teams and highly specialized outside vendors, we'll be delivering a streamlined website for easier consumer navigation.

This new website will connect our clients, agents and franchises all over the country, making our storm teams easier accessible no matter where you are during an emergency!  Stay tuned as we roll out the new website.

In the meantime, we are still hard at work keeping your home or business clean.  Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood today to find out how our franchise can help you better prepare for disaster cleanup and restoration.

773-878-5200

SERVPRO Convention 2021

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

Convention 2021

Each year SERVPRO Industries LLC invites all 1800+ franchises throughout the US to their annual convention. The location is hosted in a different city each summer. Though 2020 threw us a (COVID) curveball which forced us to move convention from Boston to Online - we still made it work! Convention is an important time for our teams, as we are able to congregate in a non-emergency situation and learn, play and share experiences collectively. This year our hosts chose sunny Orlando, FL! 

It was a wonderful time to learn, collaborate, to build relationships, and to celebrate successes of the past year. In the next few blogs we will be highlighting some of the headliners on what we at SERVPRO of Ravenswood are excited about this year!

Power Hour

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

Crazy Bill Spicer's Equipment Power Hour

While at SERVPRO Corporate's annual convention we always make it a priority to attend Bill Spicer's Power Hour.   This exciting workshop was an interactive session chopped full of tips to making our work lives more productive, safe and successful. Here Crazy Bill taught how to use a hydroxyl generator ("deodorizer"), power vacuums, desiccants and more. All of which we utilize in the field for fire loss cleanups. 

This was a great opportunity for our Production Manager to further understand how to dry large loss situation accurately and effectively.  Having the proper equipment, tools and resources are important and our HQ recognizes this.  That is why our Brand is #1 in the industry!

Should you encounter a fire loss trust SERVPRO of Ravenswood to help! Call your local Chicago office at 773-878-5200 and schedule a free inspection today!

Yikes! Water is gushing from an internal water source in your home!

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

This is an example of a type of water shut off valve.

Yikes! Water is gushing from an internal water source in your home! Do you know where your main water shutoff valve is located? Be sure to educate your family members, co-workers or tenants on how to turn off the main water shutoff in your building. This is a critical lesson to share with others, especially if you have had an experience where your dishwasher leaked or your toilet overflowed. Know what to do next.

If the water damage is extensive and you are unable to mop it or clean it up yourself, then call us.  We are happy to help.  

If you have hardwood floors it is best not to wait.  Our floormat system can restore your beautiful floors and hopefully prevent cupping or discoloration.  

If it is a sewage issue, we too can help clean it and deodorize the area so that you aren't burdened with the memory.

If you don't know what to do, just call and we will advise the best step to take, even if you don't want to use our service.  

Call 773-878-5200

Commercial Water Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Day or night, we are here for your emergency cleanup needs

SERVPRO of Ravenswood has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion. Learn more about Learn more about our training and certifications.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Ravenswood can respond immediately to your commercial water damage emergency regardless of the size or scope of the damage. We are part of a national network of over 1,600 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large scale events and disasters.

We are proud to serve our local communities in the Chicagoland area!

Commercial Building Cleaning Services

7/17/2021 (Permalink)

We can clean this up for you!

SERVPRO of Ravenswood offers professional cleaning and preventative maintenance for your carpet and upholstery that keeps your property looking its best. Our cleaning system offers a number of specialized cleaning options to match your needs. Whether your business needs a deep cleaning or a persistent odor removed, you can trust SERVPRO of Ravenswood. Learn more about our commercial cleaning services:

SERVPRO of Ravenswood specializes in:

• Biohazard
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Vandalism
• Odor and Deodorizaion
• Viral Pathogen

For a complete list of services and description, click HERE, or call 773-878-5200 today!

We'd be remised not to mention SERVPRO's new CSC Program.  Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning - yes, that included COVID-19 and it's variants.  To know more about how we can keep your office virus-free, call Donna at 773-878-5200.

Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Crime scene police banner

Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. Our first focus is always safety, since crime or accident scenes may involve bloodborne pathogens, harmful chemicals, and other dangers. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.

After the police have finished processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin. Many times, crime and accident scenes have blood and other biohazard contaminants that pose a serious health risk. SERVPRO of Ravenswood will respond immediately and has the specialized training, protective equipment, and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.

Crime Scene and Trauma Cleaning Services

• Fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals
• Tear gas and pepper spray residues
• Fire extinguisher residue
• Blood, bodily fluids, and tissue remnants

Common Trauma and Crime Scene Scenarios

Crime Scene Residues

From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, we can clean and restore your property after a crime scene investigation.

Bloodborne Pathogens

We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Our trained Professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

Illegal Drug - "Meth" Labs

Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as "meth" are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. Our technicians follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

Knowledge about water damage

6/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood could clean up this mess!

If your house experiences water damage, it can cause a number of problems. For example, water damage issues may stem from plumbing problems, a washing machine default or simply just poor weather.  These problems can be minor or severe, depending on how long it goes untreated. While water damage is a serious issue, not many people realize how many things can cause it. Flooding feels like an obvious answer, but other factors that exist inside your home can also cause this problem. Keep in mind, that water damage is preventable most of the time. Knowing what causes it can help you to be proactive.

We are water removal and cleanup specialists and are ready to service your Chicago home when flooding or water leaks cause water damage. SERVPRO of Ravenswood will quickly dry your property using state-of-the-art water removal equipment and advanced drying techniques, documenting the drying process to make sure your property is dry and the job is done right.

Please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Severe Weather Event - Chicago

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Tornado Warning vs Tornado Watch

During the late evening into early overnight of Sunday, June 20, storms increased in intensity rapidly as they moved toward and into the Chicago metropolitan area, with damaging winds and tornadoes. 

The most significant storm damage occurred in the southwest suburbs of Naperville, Woodridge, Darien, Burr Ridge, and Willow Springs between 11:00 and 11:30 pm, where a preliminary EF-3 tornado tracked through the area. The tornado damage survey for this tornado has not yet been completed, with additional details likely determined on June 22. 

Take some time to refresh your approach to severe weather safety! 

Ensure you have weather safety procedures at home, work, school, place of worship, on the road, and elsewhere.

Decision-makers and overseers of large groups of people should review preparedness plans and ensure they have adequate means to monitor the weather and shelter individuals.

Be a "Force of Nature" and spread awareness of severe weather!

When it is all over, contact any of our SERVPRO franchises located throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.  Our crews are manned any time, day or night, and are prepared to service your storm damage needs.

Source:  https://www.weather.gov/lot/2021jun2021

Buyer Beware - A Different Kind of Storm

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is a IICRC Certified Firm

When SERVPRO talks about storms it typically relates to tropical rain, hail or hurricane storms.  But in this series we will be discussing a different kind of storm.  One that seems to never end for victims of so-called “restoration companies”.  Our local Chicago News Channel 9 investigated a case where a person lost over $45,000, important valuables and many months of time during a water loss that should not have gone the way it had for her.  The full story is covered in this video.

The reason we are sharing this scenario is because we want to help educate the public on the right things that should occur during a water or fire loss, and identify what should not happen to home or business owner during such catastrophes.  Here are quick tips that will help any one new to water or fire damage experiences.

• Whenever there is a fire or flood in your home or business, DO call your insurance agency. Your Agent is experienced in these situations.  They will advise you on your coverages and they will recommend reputable cleanup companies who you can trust to get work do correctly.
• Decisions do not need to be made instantly. DO NOT sign any contract without doing your research.  People will appear from out of the blue handing you business cards, promising you the moon and the stars for restoration, and compel you to sign a contract right there on the street.  You are vulnerable at this time, undergoing a terrible loss, and are not in the right mindset to make such important decisions. Take your time. 
• When working with a reputable cleanup and restoration company the insurance company WILL assign a Insurance Adjuster to your claim – not to be confused with a Public Adjuster, as they are two different people. Cleanup companies, such as SERVPRO of Ravenswood, WILL work alongside the insurance company to make sure all processes are properly documented and prices are aligned with industry-standard rates.  There SHOULD NOT be any additional “% Fees” included on contract paperwork.  If you see added percentages, then something is not right!
• DO continue communication with the insurance adjuster and the cleanup company. There SHOULD NEVER be unreturned phone calls or denial of inventory items.  Your possessions are always your possessions, unless written authorization to dispose of items is requests by you.
• Depending on the capacity of damage in a water loss the drying & cleanup processes SHOULD take anywhere between 2-10 days. A fire loss cleanup will take longer, but NOT more than 1 month.  Reconstruction, or rebuild, of properties will take longer.
• DO read reviews and testimonials on company websites and rating platforms. The BBB is an excellent source to visit as well.  DO NOT be afraid to ask for company references.  Many references should be available to you from insurance agents who work with restoration companies on a daily basis. 
• DO look for IICRC certified firms and restoration trained professional

Going through a water or fire loss can be devastating.  You are already under so much stress to pick up the pieces, that you should not be undermined.  That is why we encourage clients to take the time to do their homework before making any decisions on claims and contracts.  Doing your research should not take more than a few hours.  Listen to your agent.  Get multiple quotes.  Read company reviews, and check the status of contractors on the Better Business Bureau website.  This will not only save you much more time and money during the process, but it WILL also bring you piece of mind knowing that the cleanup is being done the right way and in a timely manner.

We Want You On Our Team!

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

ALS Walk

We are participating in the Chicago Walk to Defeat ALS on June 5, 2021 in honor of those stricken by this life-changing illness, and we need you on my team!! Every 90 minutes someone is diagnosed with ALS — it robs a person of the ability to walk, speak, eat, and eventually breathe. And what’s even worse is that right now, there’s no cure. Will you join us and join the movement to cure ALS?

Our team is committed to raising money to support people in our community with ALS and spread awareness of the urgency to find treatments and a cure. Please consider joining our team in the Walk to Defeat ALS® or choose a team member from the list or DONATE to our cause. 

We plan to walk on Saturday June 5th around the Ravenswood neighborhood.

Thank you!

Donna & Maggie, SERVPRO9758@hotmail.com

773-878-5200

Getting Back to Work and School

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

Spring Special $ .25 cents per square foot

Now that we are gradually returning to our daily routines we are preparing ourselves to answer your calls for fast response should you be hit with a COVID case. You can rely on us to disinfect your infected space with our Spring Special; $ .25/SF!! What’s the Difference?

• Cleaning refers to the removal of dirt and impurities, including germs, from surfaces. Cleaning alone does not kill germs. But by removing the germs, it decreases their number and therefore any risk of spreading infection.
• Disinfecting works by using chemicals, for example EPA-registered disinfectants, to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs. But killing germs remaining on a surface after cleaning further reduces any risk of spreading infection.

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance – A Critical Life Safety Component

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Faster to any size disaster!

Properly maintaining fire extinguishers is critical. Per OSHA requirements, you must perform monthly inspections to ensure fire extinguishers are properly charged and certified. In addition, you must ensure each fire extinguisher is mounted at 48” to comply with the American Disabilities act, that the wall hanger is secure and that there are no obstructions. All extinguishers must be clearly visible and accessible.

All public entities must undergo annual testing on all fire extinguishers located in their buildings. In
most states, this annual service must be performed by a licensed technician that works for a company that is licensed by the State Fire Marshal. Life Safety Technicians must participate in continuing education and pass mandated tests in order to obtain their licenses, therefore, they have the knowledge, experience and expertise to make sure fire extinguishers are in proper working order.

If you ever view a fire extinguisher and find tags attached, this means they likely have been serviced properly. These tags indicate the fire extinguisher was inspected. This information can provide owners and occupants critical information regarding the maintenance of their fire extinguishers.

Fire extinguishers are more complicated than most people realize. They require major service (basically an overhaul) at least every 6 years. That is why it is important to find a professional to conduct regular inspections, recharge and testing on fire extinguishers. These professionals look for a number of things when conducting annual inspections. Annual inspections will examine whether there was any tampering or signs of damage to the fire extinguisher which could result in it not working properly. Also, these inspections will look for the correct pressure which is a necessary component of a properly working fire extinguisher. In addition, professionals are able to check whether there is the proper amount of the
extinguishing agent inside.

In addition to fire extinguishers, it is critical to make sure your emergency lighting system that provides illumination for your path of egress is in proper working order. These systems contain rechargeable batteries that need to be replaced periodically in order to work as required. In an emergency where power is lost, emergency lighting is supposed to guide you to a safe exit for up to 90 minutes. 

Bottom line – all fire safety systems are critical and need to be maintained regularly in order to be effective. Fire Extinguishers, Emergency Lighting, Fire Alarm Systems and Fire Sprinkler Systems must be serviced at least annually by a licensed & trained fire safety professional. 

Research and contact a local fire safety professional today to ensure your facility is prepared in case a fire emergency happens!

Albert Zorn
NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist
City Wide Fire Protection Services
2919 W. Irving Park Rd. | Chicago, IL 60618
Telephone: 773.539.7831
albert@citywidefire.com
www.citywidefire.com

DO YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO AFTER A BIOHAZARD OCCURS?

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

Unexpected death can become odorous if not properly cleaned.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health effects. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to hazardous environments. SERVPRO of Ravenswood is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health department regulations.  EXAMPLE SCENARIOS: 

• SEWAGE BACKUPS
• CRIME SCENE RESIDUES
• SUICIDE/ACCIDENTAL DEATH
• CHEMICAL DISPOSAL
• PLASMA (blood) CLEANUP
• VIRAL PATHOGENS
• HOARDING SCENES
• ANIMAL WASTE/REMAINS
• METH LAB CLEANUPS

SERVPRO of Ravenswood's franchise is certified when it comes to cleaning certain biohazards.  Special training is required when and our technicians hold that particular training. Additionally our office can hold a special Continuing Education course on the subject.  If your insurance agency would like to hold a special class, feel free to contact Donna. She can make the appropriate arrangements to meet your needs.

Call us today for a free quote: 773-878-5200

When To Use A Fire Extinguisher During An Emergency

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

Having a fire extinguisher easily accessible is always good practice.

1. The outside of the extinguisher is clean, and all parts are operable and not damaged or restricted.
2. You have identified an escape, and the fire is not between you and the route.
3. You have alerted other occupants, and someone has called the fire department.
4. You are safe from the toxic smoke produced by the fire.
5. The fire is contained to a single object, such as a wastebasket.
6. Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood to clean up the damage.

The U.S. Fire Administration is an excellent resource on fire safety.  Click on the link below to find information on training, prevention, statistical data, handouts, videos on installing fire alarms, and much much more.  

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/fire-prevention-week.html

Mark your calendars and help spread the word on fire safety during Fire Prevention Week on October 3-9, 2021.

Ready For Whatever Happens

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Teams throughout the US are ready to mobilize at any time

When the storm is a major event, you need more comprehensive restoration support!

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is "Ready for whatever happens."

SERVPRO has mobilization teams across the country to travel as needed to support recovery after large storm events.  Need a few hundred of our crews for a month? Only SERVPRO can make it happen!

When localized storms overwhelm local restoration companies, SERVPRO's storm response helps to manage the volume you need served.

Because SERVPRO has answered calls for help in storm situations over the years we have developed a specialized storm team and large loss response network to provide the resources you need - management, crews and equipment to get service to your property when others cannot.

That's why when disaster strikes, so do we!

COMMERCIAL LARGE LOSS PROGRAM

• Best of our best, SERVPRO's Large Loss Response Team recruited to serve your needs
• Elite group of large loss specialists pre-qualified and strategically positions throughout the US (approx. 110)
• Substantial resources through network of 1,800+ locations nationwide
• Six and seven-figure projects routinely assigned to our Large Loss Response Team members
• Clients include: Insurance Companies, Manufacturing Facilities, Hospitality Industry, Restaurants, Property Managers, Universities, Health Care Facilities, Libraries, Churches, Municipalities, Local, State and Federal Government
• Corporate oversight and communication on every large loss filed
• Business interruption minimized due to our timely response
• Unit Pricing utilized on routine losses, Time and Material recommended on losses exceeding $25,000
• 24/7/365

Did You Know We Will Clean & Restore Any Hoarding Scenario ?

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Armed and ready to clean up any hoarding scenario!

Hoarding is a serious problem for many people. A hoarder's home may be a very dangerous place. But with the right clean up help, hoarding can easily be defeated and become a thing of the past. If you are concerned that you or a loved one is at risk due to hoarding, call us to help clean it up. Hoarding Causes:

• Biohazardous Conditions
• Water Damage
• Fire Damage
• Blocks Exits For Emergency Personnel
• Mold
• Illness & Injury
• Unsanitary Conditions
• Odor
• Weakened Structural Integrity

Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood today to discuss your hazard cleanup options; 773-878-5200.

Prepare. Plan. Build.

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Disasters strike this time of year. Best to be prepared!

In combination of this month's anticipated rain season plus last month's melting snow may result in flooding parts of Chicagoland and surrounding suburbs. Educating yourself, your family and your employees is important. Below we are sharing great resources from Ready.Gov to help better prepare all your stakeholders. Know that SERVPRO of Ravenswood's Storm Team is also prepared to help, day or night, should you encounter water damage.

• MAKE A PLAN - Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area. Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find.
• PREPARE TOGETHER - Whether you’re a kid or teen yourself, a parent or loved one, or work with youth, Ready Kids has tools and information to help before, during and after disasters.
• BUILD A KIT - After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.
• CLEANUP - When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial. You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job. SERVPRO of Ravenswood can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Upcoming Virtual Continuing Education Course - Friday June 11, 2021

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Register Today - Seats Are Limited!

Thanks for your interest in our Upcoming CE Class. With the following link below, you will be able to pre-register for the class and receive your links and passwords to join the day of the course. We highly encourage you to register prior to the day of the class.

On the day of the course please join us one hour prior to class time in order to show us a copy of your photo ID. Once your ID has been verified you will be officially registered for the class and have time to do what you need that morning prior to class. Class size is limited to 20 so please register early, and show up for Photo ID verification early as well.

Register in advance for this meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMvfuurpzMuHNPYX-Sj-36QK1sIymbleM0X

We Do Commercial Cleaning

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood ad

Commercial Building Cleaning Services

When the dirt, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you need SERVPRO of Ravenswood. You can depend on us to get the job done right and get it done quickly. Our highly trained technicians use top-of-the-line equipment to make your business shine again.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned:   Our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO of Ravenswood Professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

All of our cleanup practices are in accordance with the guidelines provided by the CDC and local authorities.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood offers proactive disinfecting to help minimize the spread of viruses such as COVID-19. 

Document Restoration: In the aftermath of a disaster, some of your most valued contents could be lost forever. As a leader in the restoration industry, we know that timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged possessions. With years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, our restoration professionals will help you recover your paper goods before it’s too late.

Vandalism:  Vandalism and graffiti can be very upsetting. It can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed in a timely manner.

Learn more about our commercial cleaning services by contacting us at 773-878-5200.

Why SERVPRO, Because It's Personal

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Picture of burnt charger

Many of you have seen the SERVPRO commercials on television which markets our 1-800-SERVPRO phone number. But did you know that when you dial the 800# those reps turn around and call the closest SERVPRO-owned franchise to your location to expedite your emergency?  That’s because there are over 1800 SERVPRO individually owned and operated branches throughout the USA.  Each one of those branches (or franchises) – though all following industry-standard cleaning protocols – like to make themselves stand out.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood likes to stand by sharing personal stories of their own by blogging about it.  Today I share my personal story to help educate families on what could happen to you.

Like many residents across Chicago, my home is on technology overload! Between working from home on my laptop for months, my daughters Zooming in and out of classes throughout the days, and the cable television always on in the background so not to miss the latest breaking news our WiFi has been tested to the max this past year.  As are our charging cables. 

Over the weekend my daughters and I were just doing our own weekend thing in our condo playing with the cats, streaming shows and of course snacking throughout the day when we noticed an odd burning smell in the air.  It was a sunny fresh Saturday, so we opened the balcony door for fresh air, checked our oven to make sure it wasn’t on and made sure the curling iron wasn’t left on in the bathroom.  All checked out on our end so we brushed it off thinking our neighbor must have accidentally burned something next door.  But I kept smelling it throughout the morning, hmm?  A few hours later I sat down on my couch and went to plug in my phone to charge when I noticed my charging station was super hot to the touch, odd!  I picked up one of the cords that laid down onto the carpet below only to find the end completely burned and melting.  BINGO!  We found our culprit.  Apparently, our charging station had reached its capacity and began the very scary and real process of burning.  Not only was I lucky to find it in time, but I also found this to be an excellent teachable moment.  I called my daughters over and showed them what had happened.  They were shocked, because they too knew that this could have been a fire hazard.

So, I post my little story today to encourage our readers to always pay close attention to odd burning smells, and to look further than just the standard oven or curling iron checks.  We now have technology to watch out for in the background.  My takeaways to you are: 1. Don’t Buy Cheap Chargers! 2. Don’t Charge Devices on Carpets or Couches (or any cloth-type areas for that matter) and 3. Should you encounter a fire or smoke damage, call SERVPRO of Ravenswood (773-878-5200) to get rid of that awful odor!

For more helpful tips, click HERE.

Water Damage Continuing Education Virtual Event

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

MARS CREDIT HOURS

INSURANCE COURSE CREDIT: 2 HOURS COURSE NUMBER: 6000075714 Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (MARS) IICRC S500 Water Damage Restoration

About this Event

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

The insurance professional or property manager will gain a better understanding of:

• what to expect from a good restoration professional aka SERVPRO of Ravenswood
• how a SERVPRO professional inspects a water-damaged buildings and contents
• emergency procedures performs by the restoration crew
• how the SERVPRO's monitor the drying process
• how the SERVPRO's complete restoration of the building
• the tools used the clean and restore smoke-damaged contents and structure
• cost comparison of restoring vs. replacing
• what is takes to remove odors and deodorize

SIGN UP TODAY! Class begins on Friday, March 12th at 10AM.

The Importance of Renters Insurance

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

We provide one-on-one free consultations.

The Chicago Fire Department receives over 500,000 calls for emergency assistance, including fire calls in both apartment and rented condominiums. Unfortunately, in many cases these tenants do not have renters insurance and they suffer significant losses of their belongings due to water and smoke damage. Though it is not mandated it is strongly encouraged that landlords recommend to their renters that they look into obtaining coverage. This Quick Reference Sheet can be provided to tenants to help them learn what they need to know about renters insurance. SERVPRO of Ravenswood works with all insurance companies.  We work directly with your agents and adjusters to make the process easy and less stressful during difficult times.  Remember to call 773-878-5200 for your cleanup service claim - your best choice for emergency restoration.

When Winter Weather Strikes, Be Prepared to Strike Back

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

We are prepared to answer your call!

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial. You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job. SERVPRO of Ravenswood can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. Here are some helpful tips that better prepare your home and business during these harsh winter months.  And remember to add our phone number to your contact list as your choice for emergency fire and water damage cleanup; 773-878-5200. PREPARE YOUR HOME:

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pips for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it off.
• If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
• Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Inspect walkways, and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potentials.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas.
• Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
• Ask SERVPRO of Ravenswood about starting a Disaster Recovery Plan for your business.

Dang those dams!

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Ice dam figure

With the winter months among us snow storms and ice can be the culprit of many water damage concerns and cleanups.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood has been through 12 winters in Chicago, cleaned up many situations, and we know what to do when catastrophe strikes.  

Ice dams are one example of a major problem during the winter season. These damns form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water.  Then that water creates a "dam-like" block of frozen ice. As you will see in the diagram when trapped water cannot safely flow or run into a gutter system it creates a backflow under the roof's shingles and into the structure's interior area. This then causes leaks and damage to the interior of your home or office.

We can help mitigate water damage caused by these ice dams and dry the inside of your structure.  Keep our number in your contact list as your emergency fire and water cleanup source.  Our trained crew will provide a free estimate, work with your insurance company directly and get your home or office back in order.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood, 773-878-5200, is always here to help!

SERVPRO OF RAVENSWOOD IS AN IICRC CERTIFIED FRANCHISE

12/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood IICRC Certified Firm 2021

Being IICRC Certified is necessary when a restoration company claims they are certified technicians for fire damage cleanup.  That is why SERVPRO of Ravenswood takes all the required steps each year to showcase our professionalism and dedication to a higher standard of care.  Our technicians undergo the education to better understand the importance of industry standard protocols.  Each technician carries their own certificate better aligning themselves with our franchise and our commitment to clean.

There are many variables when defining "standards" in the restoration industry.  Our shop focuses mainly on Professional Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration, as well as Water Damage Restoration.  These two typically go hand-in-hand given that when there is a fire, water is used to put it out - lots and lots of water.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood has been implementing these standards for over 10 years and we intend to continue operations to better serve our communities.  

Finding Certified Firms is easy through IICRC's Global Locator.  For example if you type zip code 60640, then you will find SERVPRO of Ravenswood at the top of the list!

Should you undergo fire damage call the professionals you can trust and count on to it right!

773-878-5200 - Schedule your free assessment today!

First Responder Bowl 12.26.20

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

FRB LOGO

Bowl season is coming! We are happy to announce the date for the 2020 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl will be December 26! The game is scheduled to kickoff at 2:30 p.m. CT from the Gerald J. Ford Stadium on the campus of Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, and will air on ABC!  In December 2014, the bowl began honoring first responders, including police officers, firefighters, EMS workers, correctional officers, search and rescue, dispatchers, security guards, federal agents, border patrol agents and military personnel who have specialized training and are the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency. In 2018, the game was renamed to reflect the efforts to show appreciation to first responders. SERVPRO of Ravenswood is a sponsor for this years event with a charitable focus on our Chicago Police Department. Join SERVPRO of Ravenswood and Donate Today! Thank you and God Bless.   

You Can Clean with SERVPRO Products!

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned vs. Cleaned with SERVPRO Products

Earlier this month, SERVPRO Industries had launched the Cleaned with SERVPRO Products (CSP) beta test through Amazon. CSP is the in-demand-extension of Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned (CSC). Welcoming the Cleaned with SERVPRO Products initiative we are so proud to announce that we have extended one of our core services to the public. We recognize that many community facilities are taking extraordinary precautions in the combating against COVID-19 by investing in fogging machines of their own. In the midst of a pandemic surge SERVPRO has decided to help empower your machines by selling our BEST disinfectant directly to the public: SERVPROXIDE - your #1 choice for effective disinfectant cleaning! We’ve heard your cries to provide a proactive, regular daily use cleaning solution to apply on your own. To which we replied a resounding, “YES!” In the history of SERVPRO we have never sold our products direct before…sssh! We hope the Cleaned with SERVPRO Products initiative will only strengthen trust in our partnerships and overcome the objection that partnering with SERVPRO for proactive cleaning is just too costly. This beta will launch the direct sale of SERVPROXIDE to businesses online through Amazon and Amazon Business. CSP offers a win-win solution to bridge the gap between the commercial clients’ needs and resources and those of SERVPRO. As consumers master the use of CSP to disinfect suspected or confirmed COVID cases, we anticipate that business owners and decisionmakers will first contact the brand you rely on and the people that you trust as the “experts in clean” (a.k.a. SERVPRO of Ravenswood) when other disasters strike!

What’s the Difference??

• Cleaning refers to the removal of dirt and impurities, including germs, from surfaces. Cleaning alone does not kill germs. But by removing the germs, it decreases their number and therefore any risk of spreading infection.
• Disinfecting works by using chemicals, for example EPA-registered disinfectants, to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs. But killing germs remaining on a surface after cleaning further reduces any risk of spreading infection.

Each purchase will come with a Cleaned with SERVPRO Product shield to display on your front door or window.  So, when your patrons or students or clients walk into your building, you can say with confidence that, “I’ve made the Best choice in cleaning and disinfecting.”

BUY NOW

More about Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

Did you know we have our very own Meteorologist?!

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Storm tracker during a hurricane storm event

Yes we do! And it's no surprise since disaster recovery is our niche! Forecasting the weather benefits us by better preparing our Storm Teams to respond immediately after a large storm passes. Many of you already know that these past few weeks hurricanes have wreaked havoc on the US Gulf coast. Our Chief Meteorologist, Lela Davis, has helped track tropical storms Sally, Delta and currently Zeta for our Storm Teams. Lela's input is critical as she can predict targeted areas that will be affected the most, post-storm. Her input entails information, such as: target areas, category strength, flash flooding, and wind gust speeds. All of which are vital when responding to those areas quickly. Our Storm Teams then use this information to activate the SERVPRO tools and resources in order for them to effectively coordinate team mobilization, equipment and power setups, communication protocols, and much much more. Having such measures in place makes a world of difference when helping homes and businesses put the pieces back together. We are proud to have Storm Teams available to you and remember SERVPRO if always here to help!

Why Reviews Matter

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Our franchise industry average review rate chart 4.23 of 5.0!

More than ever before we are relying on the internet to provide feedback on specific service industries.  Today you can gather quick information on food, clothes, books, movies, music, commodities, and professional services.  With a simple click you can make informed decisions based on the public’s opinion and their experiences.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood also relies on such feedback for future client business.  Here are several reasons why review matter.  We hope this information will help provoke you to leave behind your story about the services that SERVPRO of Ravenswood provided for you during a time you needed help most!

1. Social Proof Drives Purchases. We are more likely to make a purchase if others say (or write) it’s a good idea.  If you experience a flood or fire in your home or business, we understand that you want things to get back to the way things were before – quickly, safely and correctly.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood can and will do that for you!
2. They Make Your More Visible. The more we feed the internet content machine, the more brand algorithms will increase in your favor.  We just LOVE to see 5 Stars across the board!
3. They Make You Look Trustworthy. Positive reviews build significant trust and brand credibility.  SERVPRO is a brand you should be able to trust, especially during times of crisis.  We value your trust and we stride not to ever let you down.
4. Conversation About You. Positive online presence promotes a good reputation.  The more good stuff people have to say, the more likely others will utilize your brand.  Let’s face it, we like it when people talk about us!
5. They Are Increasingly Essential to Decision Making. Almost two-thirds of shoppers that that online reviews are an essential part of the decision process. This is Huge! Your opinion matters, even to complete strangers.
6. They Have a Clear Impact on Sales. From our perspective we agree with this point.  Doing a phenomenal job in the beginning will bring re-turning customers.  We are fortunate to have a solid client base of customers who call us repeatedly for their cleanups.  We take those gestures as the greatest compliment of all!
7. They Give You An Open Line to Consumers. Positive and negative reviews are an excellent opportunity to open a dialogue about how we operate.  The more stories (good or bad) we put out there the more able we are to educate on our processes and cleaning methods, so that every situation is analyzed and corrected to better serve our consumers.

Please share your experience with us, as well as the world-wide-web, and help us help others!  We appreciate you and we appreciate your time!

Click HERE to leave your review.

Source:  Mention, Blog, Media Monitoring, “7 Reasons Online Reviews are Essential for Your Brand”. Smith Wallas, March 6, 2020, https://www.SERVPROravenswood.com/testimonials/fire-smoke-damage-restoration.

Do I call a plumber or do I call SERVPRO?

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Broken pipe cartridge leak

This past weekend I had a near-disaster experience in my daughter's bathtub.  Like all children, they don't know to tell you something is wrong until something is really wrong!  Apparently there has been an ongoing slow drip in the tub.  I happen to discover this when I inspected their chore completion; one of which was to clean the tub!  

Since I work for SERVPRO of Ravenswood I know the first thing you should do during a water overflow scenario is to turn off the main water line.  So I did.  Then I called my building engineer to come and inspect the problem.  When Gus pulled off the wall faucet we discovered that the pipe's cartridge was warped.  Luckily this was a $25 part replacement.  We also discovered that the leak was on the outer side of the wall.  You see, had the leak been inside that wall, then that would be a "Call SERVPRO" situation.  Leaks within walls tend to travel downward and ultimately affect the floors below you.  In some high rise cases water damage can affect several units below.

The lesson here folks is; call a plumber (or building engineer) to fix the parts, and call SERVPRO to clean and dry out the water damage.

24/7/365 Service Line:  773-878-5200

Plug Us Into Your Contacts

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

We are a 24 Hour - 7 Days a Week Franchise

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best
help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood is so important.
To get the team that’s faster to any size disaster we recommend you tell your building engineers and property managers to add the following contact to their mobile devices:

Emergency Fire Water Cleanup

773-878-5200

Having this important contact information will increase the response time for our technicians to mobilize and act swiftly to get your home or business back to the way it was.

We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire
communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for
1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best: Your trusted, local
SERVPRO of Ravenswood franchise professional.

Disaster Recovery Teams Located Conveniently in your Chicago Neighborhood

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Wind Storm Diagram Development

When disasters hit it is common for you to feel hopeless and overwhelmed. In Chicago disasters can cause large losses and cost you a lot of money to restore your property. But you should know that not all hope is lost when it comes to disaster recovery. There is no better restoration company for the job than one of our SERVPRO Storm Teams, our nation’s BEST restoration recovery team – who has a franchise located locally in Andersonville Chicago. For business and residential communities SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s restoration teams can handle any fire or water loss, BIG or small.

Damaging Natural Disaster Examples are:

• Tornadoes and Wind Storms
• Hurricanes and Heavy Rain
• Blizzards and Snow Storms
• Earthquakes

As with the recent event, Hurricane Laura, you can be certain that SERVPRO Storm Teams were there from the beginning to help remedy the situation for so many victims of that terrible storm. 

When it comes to disaster recovery, you want to seek a professional service to effectively restore your property in a timely manner. SERVPRO of Ravenswood follows the 1-4-8 Rule.  Within the 1st hour, we will dispatch a Restoration Manager to assess the situation.  Within 4 hours, crews will begin to mobilize.  And within 8 hours, our technicians will be fast at work beginning the cleanup process.  

These are the business verticals SERVPRO of Ravenswood has experience helping:  

• Schools & Daycares (secondary and post-secondary)
• Hospital and Senior Living Facilities
• Property Management Buildings (Rentals/Leases – residential and commercial)
• Government Buildings
• Churches and Worship Centers
• Municipalities and First Response

Available 24/7, SERVPRO of Ravenswood can help clean up the damage to your buildings caused by a natural disaster. We are standing by to ensure that they meet your needs, regardless of the time or day. 773-878-5200

Fire Restoration Company in Chicago

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Soot and smoke damage can become aggressive to clean. Best to do it right away with the professionals!

Fires can be extremely destructive. When out of control, they can completely destroy everything in their path, including things that are important to you. They can leave behind negative effects not only on buildings but your emotions as well. In the Chicago area, many homes and businesses have become victims to fire and smoke damage. These events can be catastrophic and can cause you to feel as if there is no bringing your life back to normal. However, with SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s 24-emergency service, you can be certain that fire damage restoration is easily attainable. SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s professionals specialize in Chicago neighborhoods if damages occur from fire, water and smoke.

Do not attempt to clean up from disasters on your own. Rather refer to these tips until help arrives. Our professionals possess the expertise and resources to strategically restore your building or structure to its original condition, if not better. Let a professional service take away your stress and confusion. We empathize with you as we are skilled in this arena. We also possess the proper certification and equipment to effectively and thoroughly conduct a full restoration of the property. We carefully treat your space with attention and professionalism. Neighbors of Andersonville, know that our technicians will provide you with helpful tips on protecting and preventing you from future incidents.

Fires can spread rapidly so it is essential to enlist with using a professional restoration service immediately. We can respond quickly and greatly reduce more damage and costs you may have to pay for continued structural damages. Fire damage can also induce other damages such as water, odor and smoke. A skilled technician can help you with restoring damages associated with:

• Offensive Odors
• Fire
• Smoke
• Water
• Upholstery and Fabrics

These situations can accrue even more damage to your building costing you more time and money over time. You have the ability to remedy these issues by contacting a professional disaster recovery team near you; SERVPRO of Ravenswood, 773-878-5200. SERVPRO of Ravenswood helps cleanup and restore spaces to help you get back to “Like it never even happened.” We work to restore, not replace your environment. We want you to return to the space you have always known so you can begin rebuilding at a mental capacity. Do not let disasters such as fires take control of your life. They can be extremely devastating, but it does not mean that you cannot recover from them.

Your Commercial Cleaning Choice

9/7/2020 (Permalink)

Disinfecting services offered daily, weekly or monthly.

You have enough to do to keep your business running – especially during a pandemic.  You shouldn’t have to find room in your day to deal with the inevitable wear and tear that gradually builds in your office over time. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, call in SERVPRO of Ravenswood professionals to help with your commercial cleaning projects. Whether it’s disinfecting your offices, removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look and feel its very best.

When you call 773-878-5200 you will be bringing in a quality contractor who carries these benefits:

• Award-winning training
• Over 40 years’ experience in the industry
• More than 100 exclusive cleaning products

Specialty Commercial Cleaning Services 

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals offer cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. They have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Their cleaning services include the following:

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned:   Our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO of Ravenswood Professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

Air Ducts and HVAC: If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating odors, dust, and other contaminants. We routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC).  Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can, in turn, save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.

Biohazard: Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. We are trained to safely clean and remove biohazardous substances and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

Ceilings, Floors, and Walls: Ceiling and wall cleaning should be part of the cleaning maintenance of your business. You should also clean walls before painting so that the primer and paint can adhere properly. Whether you are preparing to paint or just looking for professional cleaning, we can help.

Document Restoration: In the aftermath of a disaster, some of your most valued contents could be lost forever. As a leader in the restoration industry, we know that timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged possessions. With years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, our restoration professionals will help you recover your paper goods before it’s too late.

Odor Removal:  As experts in deodorization, our professionals are trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. These odors can come from a number of sources both inside and outside a structure.

Sewage:  Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. Our team has specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.

Trauma and Crime Scene:  After the police have finished processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin. Many times, crime and accident scenes have biohazard contaminants that pose a serious health risk. We will respond immediately with protective equipment and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.

Vandalism:  Vandalism and graffiti can be very upsetting. It can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed in a timely manner.

No matter what your needs may be, we have a commercial a cleaning solution for you.  Call us today for more information or to set up an appointment – 773-878-5200.

Emergency Ready Plan - Are you ready when disaster strikes?

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

"ERP" Emergency READY Profile

SERVPRO of Ravenswood Recognizes National Preparedness Month with a Reminder to Home and Business Owners:

“Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead. You Can.”

Local disaster restoration specialist offers no-cost tools to help property owners prepare a comprehensive emergency readiness plan

September is National Preparedness Month (http://www.ready.gov/September), an annual event sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to raise awareness about the importance of preparing—in advance—for the unexpected. In support of this initiative, Tom Williams, owner of SERVPRO^® of Ravenswood, encourages Chicago property owners to take the following two steps now to protect their family, home, and business in the aftermath of a disaster.

1. Review and update your emergency preparedness plan, including business and life continuity plans. If you don’t yet have a plan, use the tools provided by FEMA to get started.
2. Collect and store time-critical information, like the location of shutoff valves, fire suppression system controls, and emergency contact numbers electronically, where it is immediately available to assist first responders.

Because SERVPRO knows the time to create a disaster readiness plan is before you need it, they have developed the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program to help business owners create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for their facility, at no charge.

“Evacuation plans and emergency supply kits help you survive a disaster, but a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan helps you recover from a disaster,” said Williams. “The most effective response to any emergency is a fast response. That’s why having critical system and contact information at your fingertips is so important. A quick and effective response helps minimize repairs and downtime, helping both businesses and families get back on track in less time, with less stress.”

SERVPRO offers tools for both commercial and residential property owners to help them minimize damage and recover quickly from emergencies. The SERVPRO READY app stores essential contact and property information electronically where it can be accessed with a mobile device in seconds if disaster strikes. Both home and business owners can download the free app at https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp. Local business owners can take an additional preparedness step by designating SERVPRO of Ravenswood as their disaster mitigation and restoration provider. SERVPRO professionals will conduct a no-cost assessment of the facility and assist the owner in completing a comprehensive Emergency READY Profile^® (ERP) and storing that profile in the READY app.

“Rapid response from a disaster cleanup and restoration specialist can help the property owner evaluate options, start the insurance process, and take the right steps from the beginning to bring their property back to normal,” said Williams. “Even in the confusion and panic that often surround a disaster, a property owner or manager using the SERVPRO READY app can reach out for expert help right from the scene, using a cell phone.”

SERVPRO^® of Ravenswood specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO^® of Ravenswood, please contact Tom Williams at (773) 878-5200 or SERVPRO9758@hotmail.com. For more information on SERVPRO^® and the SERVPRO^® Emergency READY Program, please contact Marketing Manager, Donna Bugosh, donna@SERVPROravenswood.com

About SERVPRO^®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO^® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO^® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Fire Damage Restoration

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Bring fire awareness to kids

When you search Chicago fire damage cleanup you will likely see companies who clean up and remove soot and smoke; the byproduct of a fire incident. SERVPRO of Ravenswood is an Expert at that! Soot and smoke can be very aggressive and will infiltrate various openings, crevices and cracks within your walls, windows, ceilings, floors and content.  Fire damage restoration is also known to cause hidden odor and secondary damage due to water. SERVPRO of Ravenswood smoke damage is knowledgeable and has a deep understanding that allows us to assess the extent of the damage in order to develop a thorough action plan.  

Fire Damage Ravenswood byproduct facts:

• Scorching smoke travels to cool areas and climbs to up to additional levels of the building.
• Smoke makes its way around plumbing systems, moving through the holes used by pipes hitting every floor to floor.
• There are variations of smoke which greatly affect the process for cleanup and restoration.

Fire Damage Ravenswood Smoke Types

There are 3 types of smoke; 1. wet, 2. dry and 3. protein. Wet smoke is considered as fire produced by rubber or plastic.  This nasty stuff will web, making the cleaning process extremely difficult.  It is sticky and pungent in odor.  Dry smoke however is something that burns fast, like wood or paper.  In this circumstance the temperature is high, thus causing heat to rise and smoke as well.  The last type is protein fire residue which is the vapor from burnt materials such as paint, varnishes, etc.  

Consequently, the type of smoke makes for 2 types of soot residue after a fire. SERVPRO of Ravenswood must test the soot in order to accurately determine if the smoke is wet or dry before starting restoration. Based on these pretest procedures, only then can we determine a plan.  All components of information are then communicated with the insurance adjuster making sure all parties are aligned.

Fire Damage Ravenswood Restoration Services

Every fire loss scenario is different, therefore each are treated with a unique solution tailored to that scenario.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood has all the equipment, trained technicians, and knowledge to restore your home or business.  We treat your family or employees with the respect and empathy they deserve.  Call us to schedule a free assessment for any fire, water, mold cleanup needs. 

Disaster Recovery Teams Located Conveniently in your Chicago Neighborhood

8/28/2020 (Permalink)

Wind Storm Diagram Development

No one is ever ready for a disaster. When disasters hit, it is common for you to feel hopeless and overwhelmed. In Chicago disasters can cause large losses and cost you a lot of money to restore everything back to normal. But you should know that not all hope is lost when it comes to disaster recovery. There is no better restoration company for the job than the SERVPRO’s Storm Teams, our nation’s BEST restoration recovery team – who has a franchise located locally in Andersonville Chicago. For business and residential communities SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s restoration teams can handle any fire or water loss, BIG or small.

Damaging Natural Disaster Examples are:

• Tornadoes and Wind Storms
• Hurricanes and Heavy Rain
• Blizzards and Snow Storms
• Earthquakes

These disasters wreak havoc on buildings and neighborhoods. However, with the onslaught of disasters you can be certain that SERVPRO Storm Teams will come to help remedy the situation for you. Thus, this can help reduce your stress levels. It also helps you with working towards rebuilding your life and business.

When it comes to disaster recovery, you want to seek a professional service to effectively reconstruct your building in a timely manner. A skilled business can strategically dispatch technicians to sites and help businesses reduce the cost of repair and restoration. They conduct services that also include temporary labor to ensure your space is refurbished either to its original state or better.

There are many businesses and establishments in Chicago that many people rely on. Without them, they may not have an alternative, which is why it is so important to restore them as soon as possible. Typical Chicago businesses that may need immediate restoration services are the following:

• Schools & Daycares (secondary and post-secondary)
• Hospital and Senior Living Facilities
• Property Management Buildings (Rentals/Leases – residential and commercial)
• Government Buildings
• Churches and Worship Centers
• Municipalities and First Response

As these establishments are restored, people who rely on them can slowly reincorporate them back into their lives, post-disaster.  Plus SERVPRO works with all insurance companies directly to help ease your mind of financial burdens turning a dire time.

Available 24/7, SERVPRO of Ravenswood can help clean up the damage to your buildings caused by a natural disaster. They are standing by to ensure that they meet your needs, regardless of the time or day. We realize that disasters can trigger at any time so it is important you know that our teams are prepared and ready to answer your call for help – 773-878-5200

Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Before and After cleaning

During flu season are you contemplating the air quality at your business? Does it feel as though it is less than high quality? Air ducts and a lack of HVAC cleaning can be to blame for this. In fact, a non-maintained ventilation system is usually the culprit behind getting good, quality air circulation in any building. This is why you should make it a priority to get your air duct systems maintenance by professionals who serve the Chicago area. SERVPRO of Ravenswood can help.

Ask yourself; how long have I had this system in place?  Have I ever had it cleaned? Whether your building is new or old, you should be mindful of your running systems as you would maintain any other appliance in your establishment. Our professionals can evaluate air quality and the system to see if it’s time for servicing.  If your system has been around for a long time and you have not conducted a thorough HVAC cleaning, there is a chance that your air ducts have begun to accumulate a lot of the following:

• Contaminants
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dust
• Dirt
• Debris

These particles can cause allergies and illness for everyone who breathes the air. Having your HVAC cleaned at your Chicago business can help clear out your air ducts to help circulate better air quality, and bring your employees better peace of mind. Call us for a free estimate, (773) 878-5200.

Additionally, proper maintenance of your air ducts and having regular HVAC cleaning can extend the life of your system. If you are looking for a vendor in Chicago call SERVPRO of Ravenswood, (773) 878-5200. The sooner you call, the sooner your system will receive the attention it needs.

Derecho Event Storm Peaked at 110 mph Winds

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Many trees were lost during the storm.

Last week’s tornado swooped through Chicago and our suburbs so quickly that we barely had time to take shelter.  The storm’s path caused massive power outages and severe damages from Wheaton to Rogers Park.  15 total tornadoes were confirmed.  Such catastrophes occur fast and leave a lot of clean up behind.  Fortunately, SERVPRO of Ravenswood is prepared to address such situations and retaliate with responsive cleanup services.  SERVPRO’s storm teams are ready and able to help with requests ranging from boarding up broken windows to cleaning up flood damage. 

When a storm hits your Chicago home or business, you need help immediately. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs. As water and storm damage specialists, we have the experience and advanced training that enables us to restore your property quickly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete.

Get help now by calling 773-878-5200.  We work with all insurance companies for stress-free claims processes. 

Recent Fire Event

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Fire source

In this recent job event, we had a smoke damage cleanup assignment after an electrical fire.  The picture shows the small source of the electrical default which sparked the flames, however it does not show the damage it caused as a whole. 

In this instance the incident occurred while the resident was home.  They quickly put the fire out with a bucket of water.  No one was hurt, nor was the fire station called.  The homeowner did not attempt to clean up the damage themselves.  Rather they contacted us, SERVPRO of Ravenswood.  This was a good judgment call on their behalf because even though the fire may have been small, the smoke damage was immense.

Our work spanned throughout the kitchen, attic, bathrooms and a couple of bedrooms.  We cleaned kitchen cabinets, floors, windows, blinds, fans, walls, ceilings, and all content.  Some plaster had to be removed in some areas.  Hydroxl and air-scrubber equipment was staged to remove and oxidize the air.   The entire process took over 4 days.  The total cost was approximately $15,000.  Insurance was used to cover much of that cost.

We all know accidents happen.  This homeowner was able to move on after 1 week.  Fortunately nobody was injured during the incident, and he knew who to call to put the pieces back together.  

Should you experience such an event, please call SERVPRO of Ravenswood to help with your cleanup needs.  773-878-5200

What to expect when the unexpected happens to you

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

An example of a homes flooded, finished basement.

Water damage does not occur all the time, but when it does do you know what to do?  Let me help outline some of the basics on the subject.  

Though there are many situations of how water damage can occur, some of the most common examples of are typically caused by flooding, toilet or tub overflow, water valve leaks, holes in roofs, basement seepage, gutter clogs, and post-fire remediation.  When you undergo one of these scenarios it is best to act fast and not postpone any water damage cleanup.  

1. Turn off your water.  
2. Be cautious.  Do not walk in water where there are any active electrical outlets.
3. Notify your home insurance agent of the situation.  You do not need to file claim, but it is still good practice to let them know what is happening so that they are prepared should you decide to file a claim in the coming days.
4. Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood to cleanup the damage.  Our service line is maintained 24-hours per day, 7-days per week. 773-878-5200 
5. We will have a technician out to you within 24 hours to provide you with a free cost assessment.

SERVPRO of Ravenswoood  is called for the cleanup side.  Our work involves extracting water, cutting out drywall or wet walls, removing carpet and pads or flooring.  In most cases we can save hard wood floors if we called immediately.  Our crew will also move and pack up furniture and furnishings.  Next we clean and sanitize the affected areas thoroughly.  Then, we systematically setup drying equipment that creates a warm airflow to remove moisture.  Depending on the spread of the water damage the drying process may take 1-4 days.  During those days a SERVPRO trained technician will monitor and record moisture levels to determine the condition of the affected areas.  Lastly, we will remove and deodorize the area and leave it in a "ready-to-go" position for your contractor to began their rebuild process. 

SERVPRO of Ravenswood documents and coordinates the entire job with your insurance carriers or property managers from start-to-finish.  Pictures and records are maintained in a cloud-based system and can be shared upon the client's request.  

I hope this quick How To explanation provides you with the insight you need in order to be prepared for water emergencies. Though we do not wish for such disruptions in your life, we do hope it brings you comfort in knowing that help is nearby and here for you at any time - no matter the size of the damage.  

Call 773-878-5200 if you wish to discuss your unique situation.  We are located in the north side of Chicago, near the intersection of Ashland and Foster Avenues.  

Thank you for reading my blog.  We encourage you to check out our reviews on either our Facebook page or Google! 

CE Course in August - Sign Up Today!

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

Registration banner

INSURANCE COURSE CREDIT: 3 HOURS COURSE NUMBER: 66384

About this Event

AGENTS & ADJUSTERS WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

The premise for this ethics course is that although we may have solid ethical foundations and usually make rational ethical decisions, ethical lapses are likely to come when we are stressed, angry, upset, worried, or otherwise disengaged.

Each and every day we are faced with decisions that could cause harm to others or ourselves. Facing ethical decisions can be very difficult, especially when we make decisions that may seem correct at first, but we later find out were not so great. As we explore what “Ethics” is, you will be challenged to become involved in hourly group activities. The group activities will help reinforce what has been learned, as well as the ability to better deal with ethical decision-making in our own lives.

Date And Time

Fri, August 14, 2020

9:00 AM – 1:00 PM CDT

Location

Northcenter Chamber of Commerce

4054 North Lincoln Avenue

Chicago, IL 60618

REGISTER HERE

SERVPRO Annual Convention

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

Agenda

Did you know that SERVPRO Industries, LLC hosts an annual convention for all it’s franchises?  Each July, for the past 40+ years, our HQ puts together a week long extravaganza action-packed with workshops, conferences, award ceremonies and networking dinners.  I had the privilege of attending in 2018 in Orlando FL.  It was so big and overwhelming at first.  But once I received my badge and chose the workshops that interested me to most, I felt right at home! 

Convention is an exciting time for vendors to introduce the latest in restoration technology.  It’s a grand opportunity for our lab technicians to explain and demonstrate all the proprietary products, equipment and tools that our crews use in the field on a daily basis.  Safety is covered. Human Resources is covered.  And, most dear to me, Marketing experiences and new strategies are uncovered.  It’s such a joy to be part of this convention each year.  It brings friendships, old and new, together as discussions spark on all kinds of different scenarios each community in all states encountered throughout the past year. 

These conventions are important and SERVPRO Industries did not allow the pandemic to interrupt it.  Our company CEO, Mr. Rick Isaacson, cares about his franchises and wanted to bring us together this July even if it could not be in person.  He put together a Convention Team who cooked up the first-ever online SERVPRO Annual Convention.  They spent many weeks setting up virtual workshops, games, ceremonies, and with great surprise to many of us – Everyone Showed Up!! 

It’s a good feeling to know that we are not alone and that the green army is still strong and always here to help!  As Mr. Isaacson wisely expressed, “Thank you for proving once again, when we face adversity, we dig in and fight to keep winning together. That’s one of the keys to success of the SERVPRO system. We will get past this pandemic and get back to a more normal world. We are doing the work to build a stronger foundation for this team to expand and grow on as we finish 2020 strong.”

Happy Independence Day

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Fireworks Q&A

Did you know that there are approximately 18,500 fires caused by fireworks each 4th of July?  We honor our independence with celebration and we do not want to ever lose that tradition.  That is why it is important to keep it safe and ensure our friends and family have fun and enjoy the celebrations across our nation.  Here are a few tips if you decide to put together your own light show.  

- A sparkler remains hot long after the flame has gone out.  Avoid a burn by dropping sparklers into a bucket of water after use.

- Don't allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. They may still be ignited and can explode at any time.

- Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper. This is often a sign that they were made for professionals displays and could pose a danger to consumers.

From SERVPRO of Ravenswood's family to yours, we wish you a very happy 4th of July!!

The Answer to the quiz is E - All of the Above!

How To Prevent Water Damage

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Seepage vs. Flood

Water damage can completely ruin parts of your house if left untreated. Sometimes, flooding and busted pipes are inevitable. However, there are a few tips you can follow to try and prevent water damage. It can be an awful thing to happen to your house. If left untreated for too long, the entire thing may have to be gutted. It can also cause mold, and breathing that in might lead to health effects in the future. For those reasons, it is smart to be proactive about water damage. Of course, you can’t guarantee it will never happen. If water damage does harm your home, there are ways to fix it.

Water Seepage in your Basement

Basements are a common place for water damage to start. Depending on how often you use your basement, it may take a while to notice. By the time you notice, the damage could be unfixable. To prevent water damage in your basement, reseal it. Cracks in the foundation or floor could lead to water getting into the basement during a storm. While this may not have been a problem before, walls and floors can deteriorate over time. Using water sealant can help.

Another reason for water collecting in your basement may have to do with draining. After a heavy storm, the water should drain away from your house. However, sometimes this doesn’t happen and rainwater will drain into your basement. If you notice a problem with drainage, try and get it resolved.

Indoor Plumbing Systems

Your indoor plumbing systems may be the cause of water damage at some point. This can come from pipes and appliances. You should make it a habit to check dishwashers, washers, and hoses every year. Cracks or leaks can quickly lead to water damage. There is also the option of putting in a leak-monitor, which would shut off your water system if a leak is detected. The seals around your shower or bathtub can also deteriorate. Make sure to check them regularly, and reseal if needed.

Whenever you go on vacation, make sure to get the water that runs to your washing machine cut off. It is common for this water supply to cause issues, and if you’re on vacation you won’t be there to notice it. In addition, make sure not to leave the house while your dishwasher or washing machine is running. If an issue arises, areas of your house can flood quite quickly. An emergency pressure release valve might also be a good idea. Any increased pressure on your pipes could make them burst, but installing a release valve will protect against it.

It is important to note that water damage can still happen. No matter how cautious and proactive you are, accidents come up. A bad storm or busted pipe could lead to flooding. In an event like that, reach out to SERVPRO. You can call us at any time, day or night, 773-878-5200.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

logo

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood today at  773-878-5200 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Team group cleaning demonstration

Ushering in a new standard of clean Before, During and After any Disaster

As America gets back to business, we all have a new sense of what it means to be clean. In fact, 89% of consumers are uneasy about going back to brick-and-mortar locations*. At SERVPRO, we’re dedicated to inspiring confidence in communities across the country as we find our way to a new normal. And we’re doing just that with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

So how does it work? It’s grounded in our unique 3 C’s:

• Consult: Not all businesses are the same, so we’ll tailor a bespoke cleaning program based on the unique needs of each facility.
  
  
• Clean: Based on the agreed plan, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.
  
  
• Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers and community.

So when you see the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield, you can walk in with confidence. Because you’ll know the #1 choice in clean up and restoration was there.

Are you interested in our Commercial Services, or are you a consumer who wants to learn more?

Have Questions? Call Today 773-878-5200

*#1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019
**Certified SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the job according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry standards (CDC, RIA, IICRC) with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience and result.

(*The Harris Poll conducted online on behalf of Fast, between April 28 and April 30, 2020. About 2,048 U.S. adults aged 18 or older participated.) https://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/350922/89-of-consumers-concerned-about-returning-to-bric.html

Vehicle Disinfecting

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning vehicles too!

SERVPRO is being called on by numerous businesses and households to perform the necessary viral pathogen remediation services to clean, disinfect and sanitize their properties. SERVPRO of Ravenswood is expanding their efforts and opening their warehouse doors to vehicle disinfecting as well!

If you want your personal or work vehicle cleaned of decontaminates come spend 15 minutes with us.  We will use our EPA-approved solvents to wipe down the hard surfaces of your vehicle and apply an additional mist to the interior of your vehicle.  Both methods will eliminate any viral pathogens that may have landed in your vehicle.  Our technicians will be in full PPE making your visit a safe one.

We are located at the corner of Wolcott and Balmoral Avenues.  For more information please call 773-878-5200 or visit www.SERVPROravenswood.com

Combating COVID-19 for you

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPROxide ad

As we contemplate re-entry into normality we blog to ask; how may we assist you during your property cleaning planning period? Proactively disinfecting your building's offices, common areas, and perhaps units during city closure is an excellent strategy.  Consider SERVPRO of Ravenswood for this job.  Our company’s substantial reputation for quality service and disaster response should put us at the top of your list.  Our proprietary product, effective equipment and experienced technicians can make this endeavor straightforward and proficient.   

Call our franchise at 773-878-5200 to discuss our qualifications and explain how we can put your properties in tip-top shape for re-entry!

SERVPRO of Ravenswood eagerly awaits your call.  We humbly wish you and your families harmony and good health during this remarkable time.

Here To Help

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Business partnerships matter

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to respond to the novel Coronavirus outbreak. SERVPRO franchise professionals are uniquely preparing themselves during this unprecedented time to provide cleaning and disinfecting services to your home and business strictly according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. Viral pathogens cleaning is not something new to our company.  We have been battling viruses for decades.  However the COVID-19 virus is new to the world and we intend on following the recommendations set forth from the health department authorities.  At this time the CDC encourages cleaning of counters, tabletops, doorknobs, and other high-touch surfaces with a hospital-grade disinfectant.  Our EPA-approved solvents reach those standard requirements. Therefore we continue our efforts and apply our cleaning methods accordingly.

Visit our Coronavirus resource page for more information or call 1-773-878-5200 to talk to a professional offering these specialized cleaning services.

Coronavirus Resource Link

Help During Unprecedented Times

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

First Responders Vehicle Disinfecting Day flyer

As the world continues to battle the invisible COVID-19 pandemic, we at SERVPRO of Ravenswood want to do more to help our front-line workers.  This Friday we called upon Chicago Police Force and EMS drivers to bring their first response vehicles to our warehouse for a free disinfecting clean.  Last week we invited District 20 CPD and it was a great success.  Therefore, we are keeping the momentum rolling and are doing it again every Friday until the end of July!

We honor and respect our first responders and want to do our part to help them feel a little more at ease when working the city as we fight this invisible storm.

We are always here to help at SERVPRO of Ravenswood Fire & Water Restoration & Cleanup

773-878-5200

We're Still Cleaning Post-Fires

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Microwave fire

We at SERVPRO of Ravenswood hope this email finds you and your families doing well and staying safe. We realize that many of you are working from home or conducting business as usual to maintain your client's needs. Well, we are too! We are happy that we are all doing our part by practicing social distancing and staying at home as much as possible. However, accidents, storms and mishaps still occur.That is why we want you to know that SERVPRO of Ravenswood is standing by ready to help with cleanup and restoration needs.

As fire and water restoration specialists, we have the training, experience and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business. We are committed to providing superior service while restoring your property back to pre-fire condition.

Link to Fire Damage Tips-Until Help Arrives

Call 773-878-5200 for your free estimate.

April Showers Bring Green Trucks!

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood Warehouse

We at SERVPRO of Ravenswood hope this email finds you and your families doing well and staying safe. We realize that many of you are working from home or conducting business as usual to maintain your client's needs. Well, we are too! We are happy that we are all doing our part by practicing social distancing and staying at home as much as possible. However, accidents, storms and mishaps still occur.That is why we want you to know that SERVPRO of Ravenswood is standing by ready to help with cleanup and restoration needs.

Spring is in the air, and storm clouds aren't far behind.  Nature is persistent in this particular season to bring heavy rain, which evolves into heavy flooding.  Rest assured that even at this world-altering time SERVPRO of Ravenswood technicians are here for you.  We are trained, equipped and ready more than ever to help your home or business if you are affected by storm damage, flooding, sewage cleanup and more.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Water Inspection, Extraction and Drying Equipment

Link to Water Tips-Until Help Arrives

Call 773-878-5200 for your free quote!

Clean - It's What We Do

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial cleaning services Here to Help logo

Thank you for calling me regarding SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s ability to continue to provide commercial cleaning during the COVID-19 pandemic.  SERVPRO Industries, LLC has been dealing with biological hazards such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi for over 50 years.  However, not with this much urgency! Nonetheless, we are ready and our awareness is heightened.    

Cleaning versus Sanitizing versus Disinfecting

It is important for all parties to understand the different levels of cleaning that may or may not be possible for each surface. All surfaces can be cleaned, many surfaces can be sanitized, and some surfaces can be disinfected.

Definitions of microbe control are:

• General Surface Cleaning – physically removes visible dirt, organic matter, viruses, fungi, and bacteria. General surface cleaning is accomplished with water, detergent, and physical scrubbing of the surface. The guiding principal is to remove microbes if possible, rather than kill them (with a sanitizer or disinfectant). In addition, thoroughly cleaning a surface can reduce the need to disinfect because without the nutrients and moisture needed to survive and multiply, most microbes cannot live on a clean and dry surface for very long.
• Sanitizing – reduces but does not necessarily eliminates all the bacteria on a treated surface. Sanitizers do not have claims for viruses or fungi. To be a registered sanitizer, the test results for a product must show a reduction of at least a. 99.9% in the number of each type of bacteria tested on non-food-contact surfaces. Examples of non-food-contact sanitizers include carpet sanitizers, air sanitizers, laundry additives, and in-tank toilet bowl sanitizers.
• Disinfecting – works by using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs. Disinfecting destroys or irreversibly inactivates infectious or other undesirable microbes, but not necessarily the spores of bacteria and fungi. The number of microbes killed during a disinfecting process will vary, depending on the specific chemical and how it is used.

The cleanup scope involving the COVID-19 virus:

1. High Touch Cleanup: Cleanup of high touch surfaces is required for a situation involving a person who is suspected to have COVID-19 or a Person Under Investigation (PUI); which is someone who is involved in a quarantine situation or has come in contact with someone who has been in a quarantine situation, or has come in contact with someone testing positive. This includes cleaning and disinfecting of high touch nonporous surfaces and cleaning and sanitizing of high touch porous surfaces.
2. Enhanced Cleanup: Enhanced cleanup is required for an area in which a person who has been confirmed positive for COVID-19 has inhabited. This includes cleaning and disinfecting of all nonporous surfaces and cleaning and sanitizing of all porous surfaces. This enhanced cleaning includes walls up to 8 feet but excludes ceilings.

A combination of High Touch Cleanup and Enhanced Cleanup may be needed within a structure based on where the infected individual has directly traveled or occupied.

General baseline pricing formula for up front estimating only (budget planning purposes):

1.       General Cleaning

Proactive cleaning to minimize the transmission of Emerging Viral Pathogens (NO potential or actual exposure to SARs-CoV-2 has occurred)

(Time & Material rate sheet is attached)

$0.50 cents/SqFt

2.       High-Touch or Enhanced Cleanup

Request for Cleaning and Disinfection to Limit the Survival of Emerging Viral Pathogens (Confirmed or suspected exposure to SARS-CoV-2)

$1.00 per SqFt

Ideally, SERVPRO of Ravenswood prefers to conduct General cleaning (#1) services now while an empty environment exists (unoccupied).  This scenario allows our laborers to efficiently and effectively; build containment areas, gear up with PPE, and do what we do best – CLEAN!

Please Contact 773-878-5200 to Book your Cleaning Appointment

Temporary Laborers For Hire: Email SERVPRO9758@hotmail.com Ref “COVID ATTACK TEAM”

We are Cleaning Experts

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Here To Help COVID-19 Cleanup

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 Ravenswood, 773-878-5200.

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

Upcoming CE Course: Ethics

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Course Offering Announcement

AGENTS & ADJUSTERS WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

The premise for this ethics course is that although we may have solid ethical foundations and usually make rational ethical decisions, ethical lapses are likely to come when we are stressed, angry, upset, worried, or otherwise disengaged.

Each and every day we are faced with decisions that could cause harm to others or ourselves. Facing ethical decisions can be very difficult, especially when we make decisions that may seem correct at first, but we later find out were not so great. As we explore what “Ethics” is, you will be challenged to become involved in hourly group activities. The group activities will help reinforce what has been learned, as well as the ability to better deal with ethical decision-making in our own lives.

Date And Time

Fri, March 20, 2020

9:00 AM – 12:30 PM CDT

Location

Northcenter Chamber of Commerce

4054 North Lincoln Avenue

Chicago, IL 60618

The Benefits of Commercial Air Duct Cleaning

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

A Chicago school's air duct can be a small space, but our guys can and will go in there to clean it out.

If you own commercial property, it is your responsibility to keep it well maintained. This includes many things, and air duct cleaning is a big one. It might seem unnecessary, but dirty air ducts do not perform as well as clean ones. There are several benefits to having your air ducts cleaned, some of which have a bigger impact than others. Clogged air ducts may cause health issues, or damage to your building. Broken air ducts are costly to replace, so keeping them clean and maintained can save you a lot of money. There are even more benefits that cleaning can provide, and signs to indicate if cleaning is needed.

The Benefits

Having clean air ducts will help to keep your building dust free. This can make a big difference for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. Clean air ducts mean clean air, and this can make breathing much easier. This benefit is especially important in a building where children or senior citizens frequent. They are more susceptible to issues caused by contaminants in the air. In addition to clean air, clean ducts will help to get rid of unwanted odors. Mildew smells can come from dust, dirt, and mildew that has collected in the ducts. Cleaning out these built up substances will eradicate any musty smells.

There is another huge benefit of saving costs. Dirty air ducts burn more energy. They raise the heating bill, because the furnace will be working harder. You may have to replace your furnace filter more often if this happens. The dust will also cause strain on your furnace, which might lead to some costly repairs.

The Signs

It might be difficult to know if your air ducts should be cleaned. There are a few signs that you can look for in order to figure it out. Mold in your furnace or air conditioning system is a big sign. It can also lead to health problems down the road. If your building was just built, or renovated, you should have the air ducts cleaned out. Dust will get in the ducts, no matter how careful the workers are. Construction dust also poses some health problems, more so than regular dust, if breathed in for too long. If your building is always full of dust, even after numerous cleanings, it might be a sign of a bigger problem. Dusty air ducts will cause dust to collect all over the building. A rise in heating and cooling costs is also another sign. As mentioned above, dirty air ducts will make the furnace and cooling systems work overtime.

The Cleaning

If you want your commercial property to undergo this kind of cleaning, you will have to reach out to professionals. SERVPRO of Ravenswood is one such company that will make sure the job is done right. We are available for a multitude of commercial cleaning services. This includes office buildings, civics, schools, retail stores, and more. You can reach out to them at any time, day or night, for your free estimate; 773-878-5200.

Anticipated 2020 Polar Vortex

1/13/2020 (Permalink)

The Snowbelt

This year the Farmers Almanac predicts another record-breaking year for winter storms.  The coldest outbreak of the season is predicted to arrive during the final week of January, and last through the beginning of February.  Temperatures could possibly drop to 40 below zero across the northern Plains! As the freezing air blows across the Great Lakes, intense bursts of heavy snow showers and squall could, in the most extreme cases, deposit 30-40 inches in a single day, especially in the snowbelt areas.  

With this information we can prepare ourselves for a very cold winter in the weeks ahead.  Leave a slow drip in your faucets, stay inside as much as possible, leave blankets and hats in vehicles, and brace yourselves for extreme cold.

Your local SERVPRO is here for you should you need help with water damage.  Plug in an emergency water cleanup contact in your phone and be ready to call us; 773-878-5200.  

How To Prevent Water Damage

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

This powder room wall had to be removed due to not drying when the water damage occurred.

Water damage can completely ruin parts of your house if left untreated. Sometimes, flooding and busted pipes are inevitable. However, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has tips you can follow to try and prevent water damage. It can be an awful thing to happen to your house. If left untreated for too long, the entire thing may have to be gutted. It can also cause secondary damage in the future. For those reasons, it is smart to be proactive about water damage. Of course, you can’t guarantee it will never happen. If water damage does harm your home, there are ways to fix it.

Water Seepage in your Basement

Basements are a common place for water damage to start. Depending on how often you use your basement, it may take a while to notice. By the time you notice, the damage could be unfixable. To prevent water damage in your basement, reseal it. Cracks in the foundation or floor could lead to water getting into the basement during a storm. While this may not have been a problem before, walls and floors can deteriorate over time. Using water sealant can help.

Another reason for water collecting in your basement may have to do with draining. After a heavy storm, the water should drain away from your house. However, sometimes this doesn’t happen and rainwater will drain into your basement. If you notice a problem with drainage, try and get it resolved.

Indoor Plumbing Systems

Your indoor plumbing systems may be the cause of water damage at some point. This can come from pipes and appliances. You should make it a habit to check dishwashers, washers, and hoses every year. Cracks or leaks can quickly lead to water damage. There is also the option of putting in a leak-monitor, which would shut off your water system if a leak is detected. The seals around your shower or bathtub can also deteriorate. Make sure to check them regularly, and reseal if needed.

Whenever you go on vacation, make sure to get the water that runs to your washing machine cut off. It is common for this water supply to cause issues, and if you’re on vacation you won’t be there to notice it. In addition, make sure not to leave the house while your dishwasher or washing machine is running. If an issue arises, areas of your house can flood quite quickly. An emergency pressure release valve might also be a good idea. Any increased pressure on your pipes could make them burst, but installing a release valve will protect against it.

It is important to note that water damage can still happen. No matter how cautious and proactive you are, accidents come up. A bad storm or busted pipe could lead to flooding. In an event like that, SERVPRO of Ravenswood. You can call us at any time, day or night, and they will rush over to repair any water damage.

What is Smoke Damage?

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Before picture for soot damage in a residential home.

Everyone knows how devastating a house fire can be. It is possible that you will lose many loved belongings in the event of one. However, not many people realize that extinguishing the fire is just the first step in protecting your home. The smoke that fills your house in the event of a fire can be incredibly damaging, as well as leave behind a terrible odor. In some cases, it might even harm you and your house more than the actual flames. Not many people really know what smoke damage is or the negative impact it can have on your life.

Smoke Residue

Smoke residue will seep into your walls, carpet, and furniture, and it won’t go away on its own. The only way to truly get rid of smoke damage is by having professionals come out and clean it. The awful smell it produces is the main way to tell if smoke residue is in your home. In addition, it might cause portions of your walls to appear discolored. While smoke damage is an awful thing to deal with, it is always accompanied by soot, which can sometimes cause even more issues.

Soot

Just like smoke residue, soot will settle into your home after a fire. At times, it can be as easy to see as smoke damage. It is a substance that appears to look like black powder, and typically finds its way into furniture or walls. Soot is actually the byproduct of fossil fuels burning. It typically is comprised of acid, dust, and various chemicals. Smoke residue and soot will cause damage to your house, belongings, and even your health if not properly dealt with. Signs of soot and smoke damage in your house tend to present themselves within a few hours of a fire, but you may not notice anything awry for up to a few days.

The Damage

Smoke damage can cause an extensive list of issues that many people don’t even think about. For one, the damage to your home can be irreversible if left untreated for too long. Ceilings, walls, and floors can become discolored. This can start right after a fire, but discoloration might not appear for a couple of days. Metals appliances can become tarnished and start to rust. Material like marble and granite, which are typically found in countertops, might be permanently discolored.

In addition to interior damage, smoke residue and soot can have a serious impact on your health. This can present itself in skin irritation, respiratory issues, or eye irritation. All three of these problems may be more serious than they appear, and could require medical attention.

To minimize the impact that smoke damage can have on you and your home, reach out to SERVPRO of Ravenswood. Their fast response time and professional restoration process means that you can have smoke damage cleaned up before it becomes too serious. They will clean everything from your clothes to your furniture in order to get rid of any smoke residue. SERVPRO of Ravenswood can help out immensely after a house fire.

SERVPRO of RAVENSWOOD F1RST Responder Bowl Watch Event

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Get Fired Up logo

Join SERVPRO of Ravenswood as we celebrate and recognize the HEROES across our communities who protect and serve. The annual SERVPRO First Responder Bowl will feature the best in College Football.

Watch the game locally, enjoy a free lunch, taste samples from our neighborhood breweries, meet our team & tour the warehouse.

Doors open at 11AM, December 30th ~ 5401 N Wolcott Avenue, Chicago IL 60640 ~ Game begins at 11:30 AM

• Lunch and drink will be served

• Learn 911/311 Procedures

• Watch CPR Demonstrations

• Gain Insight on Community Policing

• Raffle Prizes!

Can’t make the event? It’s okay! Donations are being accepted for the 100 Club Chicago – a wonderful nonprofit organized to provide for families of fallen first responders. Please select the SERVPRO F1rst Responder Bowl Watch Party in the Donation Category by clicking HERE.

RSVP HERE!

Sidewalk Snow Removal

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Right and Wrong Diagrams

Snow season is among us. Creating safe passage for your home or business is the right thing to do. Below is the City of Chicago's guide that outlines proper snow and ice removal procedures, reporting contact information and potential fine criteria. Be a good neighbor keep your surroundings safe and sound. Here is some helpful information provided by the city of Chicago. Who is responsible for clearing the sidewalks of snow and ice? According to the City of Chicago Municipal Code, “Every owner, lessee, tenant, occupant or other person having charge of any building or lot of ground abutting upon any public way or public space shall remove the snow and ice from the sidewalk...”It is everyone’s responsibility to make sure the sidewalks are clear of snow and ice. If you do not own your residential or business property, consult your rental agreement, lease agreement, or management company to determine your shoveling obligation. When do I have to clear the sidewalks? Sidewalks must be shoveled 7 days a week. If the snow falls between 7 am and 7 pm: Clear the snow as soon as practicable, but no later than 10 pm on the day of the snowfall. If the snow falls overnight between 7 pm and 7 am: Clear the snow before 10 am on the next day. How can I report locations that do not clear their sidewalks?Make a “Snow - Uncleared Sidewalk” request to the City of Chicago 311 Service Request line. Dial 311 or request online at www.cityofchicago.org/311 People who live outside the City of Chicago may call (312) 744-5000.

Post-Fire Next Steps – What Now?

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Logo with fire background

Often times the victims of a fire loss have lost all forms of identification and money. This blog will assist you with the means to understand how you can start putting their lives back together. SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s intention is to provide you with a reference tool to better assist you during such trying times.  We hope this helps!

Take Care of Yourself and Family

Contact your local disaster relief service, such as the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army.  They will help you find a place to stay and to find food, clothing and medicine.  Make sure that you have a safe place to live temporarily. Get plenty of rest and ask for help. Do no try to do it all alone.

Do Not! Eat, drink or breath in anything that has been near the flames, smoke, soot, or water used to put out the fire.

Help Your Pets

Try to leave pets with family members, friends or a veterinarian temporarily. Keep your pets out of the house until the cleanup is complete to keep them safe.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent right away. Your property will have immediate needs such as covering windows, doors and more.  Avoid signing any documents with strangers until after you have spoken to your trusted insurance agent.

Security and Safety

DO NOT enter a damaged property unless the fire department says it is safe to enter. Watch for damage caused by the incident. Roof and floors may be damaged and could fall.  The fire department will make sure the utility services (water, electricity and gas) are safe to use. If they are not safe, firefighters will have your utilities turned off or disconnected before they leave.  DO NOT try to turn them back on by yourself.  Contact your police department to let them know that you will be away from your property.

Finances

Get in touch with your landlord or mortgage lender ASAP. Contact your credit card company to report credit cards that were lost in the incident and request replacements. Save all of your receipts for any month you spend. The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company. You will need the receipts to prove any losses claimed on your tax return.

Handling the Damage

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is a trusted expert in cleaning and restoring your personal items. Whether you or your insurer buys this type of service, be clear on who will pay for it. Be sure to ask for an estimate of cost for work and agree to in writing.

STEPS TO FOLLOW: THE FIRST DAYS

• Contact your insurance agent right away – Don’t sign any papers until you’ve spoken to them first
• Notify utility companies of incident
• Contact your child(ren)’s school of temporary address awareness
• Contact local police departments to let them know your property is temporarily vacant
• Allow SERVPRO of Ravenswood to help you cleanup the mess and make it “Like it never even happened” Call 773-878-5200

QUICK STEP REFERENCE:

• Safely take pictures of the damage
• Ensure your property is secured
• If you rent, contact the owner or landlord right away
• Contact family or friends to let them know you are okay
• Secure emergency accommodations
• Keep all your receipts (for insurance reimbursements)

MULTIPLE INSURANCE CONTACT PHONE NUMBERS

Alfa, 800-964-2532

Allstate, 800-255-7828

American Family, 800-692-6326

Cincinnati, 877-242-2544

Famers, 800-435-7764

Hartford, 877-805-9918

State Farm, 800-732-5246

Nationwide, 800-421-3535

Travelers, 800-252-4633

Liberty Mutual, 844-339-5299

MetLife, 800-854-6011

Safeco, 800-332-3226

USAA, 800-531-8722

Replacing Documents and Records

Driver’s License ~ Birth/Marriage/Death Certificates ~ Debit/Credit Cards ~ Passports ~ Social Security/Medicare Cards ~ Banking Information ~ Titles/Deeds ~ Insurance Policies ~ Prepaid Burial Contract ~ Wills/Testaments ~ Mortgage Papers ~ Medical Records ~ Auto Registration ~ Military Papers (DD-214) ~ Investment Documents

Detecting Water Damage in Your Chicago Home

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Water-stained baseboard

Chicago water damage can cause severe issues in your home. Detecting water damage early can make all the difference when it comes to restoration. Not many people know what to look for, or even where to start looking. You may have no idea how water damage presents itself. This can make early detection nearly impossible. However, there are some steps that you can follow to find hidden signs of water damage. You must know what to look for, where to look, and who to call. After all, detecting water damage is just the first step to getting the problem taken care of.

What To Look For

Water damage presents itself in various different ways. The most obvious sign of water damage is pooled water that has collected in your house. Standing water might come from a leaking pipe or an appliance that malfunctioned. Another sign is discoloration. This typically occurs in ceilings, with the water damaged part appearing darker. Walls may also stain, and paint could bubble and crack. Floors can also show discoloration, but the main sign of water damage will be texture changes. These changes could be warping, buckling, sagging, or expansion. All four happen because of water in the floor boards, or collected around them. Another sign of water damage is an odor, which happens because of mold. If mold is starting to build up, the water damage has been around for too long.

Where To Look

Water damage can happen anywhere in your house, but some areas may be more susceptible. They present a higher-risk, and should be the first places you check. Ceiling water damage may come from a leaking roof, or tops floors in your house. A bathroom on the top floor of your house could damage the ceiling under it if a pipe bursts. Stains on your walls are one of the main signs of water damage. Any odd stain may be evidence of a leaking pipe inside your wall. When checking your walls, make sure to pay close attention to the area around your doors and windows. Many problems can cause water damage to your floors, and it is hard to pinpoint exactly where the damage has come from. Insulation in your attic may swell as a sign of water damage. This is why you should check your attic if you have one. It may also collect mold. Looking behind appliances, like your fridge and washer, is also a good idea when checking for water damage. Faulty pieces in these appliances are not easy to see without moving them around.

Who To Call

Once you have detected any sign of water damage, reach out to professionals for help. The smallest sign may be evidence of a bigger issue that will not go away on its own. SERVPRO of Ravenswood is a company that is available immediately to take care of water damage in your home. They are a trusted company in the water restoration company. Call 773-878-5200 today!

Fire strikes on its own!

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

The culprit!

Catastrophe has no regard when it comes to our long-awaited holiday weekends.  Let’s take for example what occurred earlier this month on Labor Day.  The Monday before school was supposed to open its doors for a brand new school year, an electrical conduit suddenly self-ignited a fire within the ceiling of a 3^rd floor classroom overheated and burned straight through a wall.  Upon hitting the floor, the fire continued and caused much havoc.  No one was in the school at the time. Chicago’s very best fire-fighters received the alarm from the sprinkler system and arrived quickly to put out the aggressor.  Unfortunately the fire did cause smoke and water damage to several classrooms, hallways and the floors below. 

The school was properly prepared for such an emergency and the facility managers knew what to do and who to call for help.  This is because SERVPRO of Ravenswood had an emergency clean up plan in place and had been to this school prior to the incident.  Once our team received the notice, they left their holiday plans, suited up and went straight to work.  After a very long shift of cleanup duty, we are happy to state that the school was able to open up it’s doors for their first day.  The environment was safely secured and odor free. 

Having a contingency plan in place does help.  A SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) tool will allow facility personnel to map out important utility shut-off locations, provide quick reference for operational/emergency/non-emergency contacts, familiarize vendors (such as SERVPRO of Ravenswood) with access areas or parking restrictions, which effectively speeds up the cleanup process and puts everyone back into an environment where work can continue.  Fire or water damage is no joke.  Call for to make an appointment for your free customized ERP today!

Lollapalooza Misfire!

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

The culprit

What started as a touring music festival in 1991 by Jane's Addiction frontman Perry Farrell, Lollapalooza has become a definitively unique music experience. Today, Lollapalooza takes place every summer in historic Grant Park, Chicago, between the iconic Chicago skyline and the shores of Lake Michigan with 4 fun-filled days of music festivities!

Unfortunately mishaps arise, especially in scenarios when you are far from home.  In this blog we tell a tale of a couple music-goers who came to hear live music, but left with the clothes on their backs.  They are safe - not to worry.  

On day 1 of the LaLa festival they entered their hotel room with excitement, as expected by any person going to hear their favorite bands play live.  After primping and preparing they locked up their belongings, turned off their devices and hit the fair!  One thing went wrong though.  As anyone would suspect, turning off your laptop means it's off, right? Sadly, not in this case.  The laptop was turned off, however it was place on top of a refrigerator.  Then some clothes had been draped over the computer.  This caused overheating.  The laptop literally ignited a fire - causing havoc.  The fire spread throughout their room.  The sprinkler systems went into effect and efficiently watered down the room.  Though smoke and water damage endured from there.  By the time the guests returned to their rooms there was nothing left but singe and darkness.  

SERVPRO of Ravenswood was quickly on the scene once they received the call from the building Engineer.  First responders gave us the go-ahead and we were off to clean up the damage.  2 floors and mulitple rooms were uninhabitable temporarily.  We worked quickly to remove the smoke odor and dry all the hallways and rooms, so that all other guests can carry on with their vacation or business plans.  The hotel accommodated the guests graciously and in the end Lollapalooza went on as planned!  

This is a teachable moment where we encourage everyone to keep their laptops in cool areas and away from heat intensive environments.  If a fire should ignite, call SERVPRO of Ravenswood to get things back to "Like it never even happened." 773-878-5200

Soot Cleaning Chicago Northside

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

If you look closely you will see that the writing IS on wall!

This is a story about a very smart and attentive lady.  We will call her Nancy, like Nancy Drew! Nancy decided it was time to give her home a thorough deep clean.  She began with the basics; dusting, washing, vacuuming, etc.  She took her drapes down and noticed that there was discoloration in certain areas of the material.  She thought it strange, but figured it must have been sun damage from the beautiful rays that shine each day through here bedroom window.  Then she began dusting her picture hangings on her living room walls.  Being the thorough cleaner that she is, she took them down to give them a real good wipe down.  Here she noticed dark spots on the walls that were perfectly shaped around the location where the pictures hung.  This too was bazaar and she did not have an answer for that.  She looked up at her vents that were located along the ceiling, near the pictures.  With a closer glance, she saw that the vents too were changing color from a bright white to a yellowish-brown tone.  Now she knew something was not right!

Nancy was very smart and called a HVAC (heating and air conditioning) company to schedule a routine maintenance check.  The HVAC company performed their analysis for the home’s ventilation system.  He quickly discovered that the furnace was releasing small amounts of soot into the air ducts.  This malfunction in their furnace released so little of an amount into the air that naked eye or nose would not be able to see or smell what was happening.  Fortunately, Nancy’s keen instinct caught the issue before it turned to something worse (fire). 

Nancy contacted her insurance agent, who for her was State Farm.  They recommended she have the HVAC system maintenanced, as well as contact a local restoration company to help with soot damage cleanup and odor elimination.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood was the vendor she chose.  (Another good call on Nancy’s part)!  In a matter of 3 days, SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s team cleaned the entire house from the top, down.  This soot cleaning process included; content manipulation, soft & hard surface item wipe ups, walls/ceilings/floors cleaning.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood also used hydroxyl equipment to pull out any contaminated odor throughout the house, and air scrubbers were systematically placed throughout to properly pull out any bad particles floating around the breathable air.  When we were done doing our part, Nancy was able to bring in contractors to repaint her home.  Nancy’s insurance policy covered all costs.  Thank goodness for insurance!

It is worth noting this story as there is always a lesson to be learned.  Pay attention to your home.  If you have a doubt contact a professional and ask your questions.  It this case it was indeed better to be safe than sorry.  Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood for your soot cleaning or odor removal service today!

773-878-5200

Water Damage Chicago Northside

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

In this photo you will notice the crowning floor. Our technician is taping the area that will be pulled out during the demolition process.

When a hard wood floor starts to buckle without any sign of damage, it’s safe to assume that something is wrong.  This week we had such an incident occur at one of our local schools.  A gym floor began to buckle out of the blue.  Allow me to preface with a couple of definitions.  The term “buckle” usually refers to a wooden floor which is either crowning or cupping.  (And when I write wooden floor, I am speaking of hard wood, not engineered or vinyl flooring).

Cupping (too wet) – A condition that develops on wood plank flooring materials when the joints between planks absorb moisture and swell, causing expansion and raising of the edges of each plank.  The edges rise up higher than the center of the plank forming a cup appearance.

Crowning (too dry) – A condition that develops when wood flooring materials are sanded and refinished before they are fully dried.  As drying progresses, the edges of wood planks continue to shrink, dropping them below the center of the plank, creating a crown effect.

When we received the call from the engineer of the school this week, his concern was in regard to a hardwood gym floor that was “coming up along the edges”.  He was baffled about the cause of this, as there had not been any flood or any signs of water damage.  Of course our first instinct at SERVPRO of Ravenswood was that there must be an issue from under the gym floor.  We scheduled a free inspection immediately.  Timing is critical when it comes to wet wood floor, as the sooner we mitigate that water damage Chicago northside, the better the chances of saving those floors! 

When Eduardo arrived he quickly took measurements, performed his meter readings and located the wettest points on the floor.  Discussions of where the source of the moisture began.  Flooding was eliminated, nearby water fountains and bathrooms were eliminated, leaks from above where eliminated, leaving us with questioning “what is going on underneath the planks?”  SERVPRO of Ravenswood knows that is it not sensible to begin drying anything until we first finding the source and correcting the issue that is causing the floors to buckle.

Upon facility approval a plan was devised to pull up some planks – not all - in two spots; the area that had the most moisture and the area that had the least.  Again, our experience shows us that water travels from its sources and ends up in an entirely different area leaving the wettest spot.  Sure enough after a small demolition process it was discovered that the floor boards underneath were rotting due to concrete deterioration in the first area we worked.  Water was coming up from the foundation and damaging the gym floor above.  The resolution was to reseal the concrete areas and replace flooring to its proper home. 

In 1 day SERVPRO of Ravenswood was able to demo, discover, dry, decontaminate and essentially save the remaining gym floor.  The lesson here is to always call SERVPRO of Ravenswood, a reputable mitigation specialist who deals with such scenarios on a daily basis.  Time, money and stress will be lessened when appropriate protocols are followed. 

Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood for your water damage or mold remediation service today!

773-878-5200

Why Immediate Damage Restoration is Important after a Fire

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Dealing with the aftermath of a commercial fire loss is overwhelming and stressful. Getting production back on track, employees back to work and making decisions on rebuild are all priorities to any facility manager. Starting the fire restoration process should be immediate. For one, the sooner you start the sooner you can get your work life back to normal. The longer you wait the bigger the risk of long-term issues developing. Smoke damage can also cause irreversible repairs and health issues if not dealt with quick enough. SERVPRO of Ravenswood can help with all of this!

Start The Cleanup

While you are still going to need to contact a professional restoration company (SERVPRO of Ravenswood) to clean up after a fire, there are a few things you can do on your own. Of course, make sure that it is safe to enter the facility before attempting to cleanup on your own. Even if it is safe, make sure to wear proper clothing, like gloves, long sleeve shirts, and a mask to keep from exposing yourself to soot. Make sure to open up all of the windows first thing. It is key to getting the polluted air out of your house. Of course, we will come in with industrial equipment to get rid of unsafe air.

Caring for your Belongings:  After opening the windows, make sure to scrub what you can with soap and water. This includes counters, cabinets, tables, and other surfaces. After scrubbing down surfaces, you can start to wash clothes and anything else that can be machine-washed. Keep in mind, more delicate items should be sent to a dry cleaner, and anything you wash at home may need more than one cycle to get the odor out.

What We Do

SERVPRO of Ravenswood will come with industrial equipment to clean up fire and smoke damage. Doing what you can to clean your home can help speed up the process. Just make sure that it is safe enough to enter you house for cleaning, and always wear protective clothes. Even if you do not see any evidence of smoke damage, make sure to wear a mask anyway. Smoke damage may not appear for up to a few days, but it can be extremely harmful to your health. After cleaning what you can, make sure to call a professional to come and restore the damage.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood provides 24/7 emergency services and is a trusted vendor. Many insurance companies actually prefer them for cleaning up fire damage. They have the training, experience, and equipment to clean your house from top to bottom. In doing so, they will bring your home back to normal and get you back in your house in no time. With over 1,700 franchises across the nation they are able to help hundreds of thousands of people. If your home was struck with a house fire, be sure to call 773-878-5200 to come and help you out. Our fast service will take care of all the fire and smoke damage in no time.

The Benefits of Commercial Air Duct Cleaning

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Before and after photo of a filthy air duct tunnel

If you own commercial property in north Chicago, it is your responsibility to keep it well maintained. This includes many commercial cleaning services that SERVPRO of Ravenswood can provide; such as, air duct cleaning - a big one. It might seem unnecessary, but dirty air ducts do not perform as well as clean ones. There are several benefits to having your air ducts cleaned, some of which have a bigger impact than others. Clogged air ducts may cause health issues, or damage to your building. Broken air ducts are costly to replace, so keeping them clean and maintained can save you a lot of money. There are even more benefits that cleaning can provide, and signs to indicate if cleaning is needed.

The Benefits

Having clean air ducts will help to keep your building dust free, north Chicago property owners. This can make a big difference for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. Clean air ducts mean clean air, and this can make breathing much easier. This benefit is especially important in a building where children or senior citizens frequent. They are more susceptible to issues caused by contaminants in the air. In addition to clean air, clean ducts will help to get rid of unwanted odors. Moldy smells can come from dust, dirt, and mildew that has collected in the ducts. Cleaning out these built up substances will eradicate any musty smells.

There is another huge benefit of saving costs. Dirty air ducts burn more energy. They raise the heating bill, because the furnace will be working harder. You may have to replace your furnace filter more often if this happens. The dust will also cause strain on your furnace, which might lead to some costly repairs.

The Signs

It might be difficult to know if your air ducts should be cleaned. There are a few signs that you can look for in order to figure it out. Mold in your furnace or air conditioning system is a big sign. It can also lead to health problems down the road. If your building was just built, or renovated, you should have the air ducts cleaned out. Dust will get in the ducts, no matter how careful the workers are. Construction dust also poses some health problems, more so than regular dust, if breathed in for too long. If your building is always full of dust, even after numerous cleanings, it might be a sign of a bigger problem. Dusty air ducts will cause dust to collect all over the building. A rise in heating and cooling costs is also another sign. As mentioned above, dirty air ducts will make the furnace and cooling systems work overtime.

The Cleaning

If you want your commercial property to undergo this kind of cleaning, you will have to reach out to professionals. SERVPRO of Ravenswood is one such company that will make sure the job is done right. We are available for almost any commercial cleaning job. This includes office buildings, restaurants, retail stores, schools, banks, factories and more. Call 773-878-5200 for your free assessment!

What To Do After A Flood Ravenswood

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

A flood can be a devastating event. If your Ravenswood home has been flooded you may have no idea what to do, especially if you never thought it would happen. Water may be standing in your house, and you will be right there having no idea what steps to take. A flood can be traumatic, but it is important to know what to do after one strikes. Try to remain calm, and take note of the following steps.

Don’t Risk It

Some floods are worse than others. It may be that you had to evacuate your home just to stay safe. If this is the case, be cautious when you try to go back. Before going back into your house, check for obvious structural damage. This includes warping, cracks, holes, and loosened areas of the foundation. There could also be damage to water, gas, and electric lines. Make sure to look out for that, and contact companies to have them shut off if needed. If you believe you water and electric lines are fine, have them cut off before reentering a house with standing water anyway. Damage could still be there, even if it isn’t obvious. Since the lights will be shut off, make sure to bring a flashlight so you can see.

Document and Protect

It is important to document all of the damage by taking pictures. Do this before removing water or making repairs. Documenting first will help when it comes time for your insurance to cover costs. Repairing any damage or removing water could lower your coverage. Pictures on your phone are the best option, as they can be easily stored and shared. No matter how clear your house appears to be, you should also wear protective gear when returning. Chemicals could have contaminated the water, even if you can’t see them. You should wear waders and waterproof boots that reach your waist or hips. If you plan on moving anything that has been water damaged, wear rubber gloves. This will help keep you safe from contaminants that you can’t see. In addition, throw out food that was touched by water and refrain from using the water system until it has been cleared.

Call Your Insurance and Clean

Once you have inspected your home, cleaned what you can, and documented the damage, it is time for the final steps. You should call your insurance company as soon as possible. If the flood reached your entire community, it may take a while to get your agent on the phone. Once you do, you will discuss the extent of their coverage. In some cases, insurance companies won’t cover flooding. This depends on what caused it and how extensive the damage is.

Whether or not your insurance company will cover the flooding, you still have to have it cleaned up. To do this, a professional service company will have to get involved. SERVPRO of Ravenswood operates twenty four hours a day, and has an extremely fast response time. They will get your house up and running again in no time.

The Importance of Renters Insurance

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

We deal direct with insurance claims, so that you won't have to!

Recent natural disasters from tornadoes to wildfires have left hundreds of thousands of people with lost or damaged belongings. This devastation is awful, but those who rent their homes are too at great financial risk.

Most home owners are able to protect their property and belongings thanks to policies that were put into place when they purchased their homes. However, less than half of renters in America lack the insurance that can protect them in the same way. If this describes you, then it might be time to rethink if you should purchase renters insurance. It can be an important way to protect your belongings and finances in a time of devastation, because cleanup and restoration can be costly.

What It Covers

When you think about renters insurance, it is possible that you are imagining it as financial burden, something that will ask you to fork over more money than it could save you. However, that is not the case. On average, renters insurance costs less than two hundred dollars a year, and the benefits it offers can be a lifesaver.

In the event of a fire or water disaster renters insurance can cover the cost of lost belongings and arrange accommodations for you if your home becomes uninhabitable. It even offers liability if there is ever an accident that happens on your rented property. It is important to keep in mind that this type of insurance does not cover earthquakes or floods, usually, so a separate policy might be needed if those are natural disasters that present a risk in the area of which you reside.

Business Coverage

While renters insurance will typically cover any of your lost belongings, it does not extend to anything business related. Anything work related that you store at home is not covered, and if someone visits you for business reasons and gets hurt, your renters insurance will not offer liability. It is suggested that if your rented property is a place where you conduct business or store business items you should get a different type of insurance policy in addition to your renters insurance.

Standard policies tend to be pretty similar across the board, no matter what company you turn to, but the amount of coverage you get is up to you. When it comes to renters insurance, your policy will cover the actual-value of your items, or the replacement value. Actual-value coverage will cover the cost of your belongings, even if those belongings lost or gained value over time. With replacement value, your policy will cover the cost of you buying new belongings. Deciding on actual-value coverage might save you on premium cost, but replacement value will help you out more in the long run.

Policies tend to limit what insurers will pay you for some valuable items, but you can up your policy to increase coverage on them. If you own a lot of valuable items, it may be in your best interest to add more coverage on them, though it will cost more.

Not all landlords require you to have renters insurance, but it is good coverage to take advantage of. You never know when it might help lessen the financial burden that comes with fire or water damage Chicago.  

If your home has been impacted by a disaster such as a house fire restoration, water damage, mold mitigation, or large storm events, you can reach out to SERVPRO of Ravenswood. We are there to help and we work with ALL insurance companies! Contact us today with questions; 773-878-5200.

Examples of Biohazard and What To Do About Them

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

Bloodborne pathogen cleanup

Biohazard is an umbrella term for biological materials that are a threat to living organisms. If you own or manage a Andersonville commercial property, biohazards can pose serious harm. Not just to you, but anyone who frequents your establishment. Biohazards could show up almost anywhere, Andersonville. If you have commercial property it is extremely important to be cautious of this threat. However, some people may not know everything that the word biohazard encompasses and how to clean it up. It covers numerous materials. There are even levels of biohazard, each one presenting different threats.

Examples of Biohazard

There are different kinds of biohazard. It is possible that some of these examples will never present themselves in your building. Of course, that does not mean you are safe from harmful materials. Blood is a huge biohazard risk. This also includes anything that has come into contact with blood, or other bodily fluids. Bloodborne pathogens and fluids can lead to disease if they come into contact with someone. Animal bedding and animal waste are also threats. This is especially true if the animal is sick in anyway. Microbiological waste is another example of biohazard. Of course, this kind of threat is more common in labs. A threat that is common in medical settings is sharps waste. This includes needles, glass slides, and scalpels.

While your Andersonville commercial property may not be exposed to as many biohazards as other places, it is still exposed. It may not be obvious, but biohazards will be a threat no matter what.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood can clean it up safely and efficiently.

Levels of Biohazard

There are numerous levels of biohazard, four to be exact, with different threats. Level one includes E. Coli, Bacillus subtilis, and more. These materials are just a minimal threat to people and the environment. Level two includes HIV, Hepatitis B, and Salmonella. These have the possibility to make people extremely sick. Level two biohazards are contracted through contact with any infected materials or items. Level three includes tuberculosis and other airborne pathogens. They expose people to serious illnesses. Level four biohazards pose the highest threat levels. The diseases they cause have no treatments, and could even be life threatening. This includes the Ebola and Lassa viruses. For threats of this nature it is recommended to contact your nearest EPA office for help.

What Do You Do About Them

If there is biohazard exposure in your Andersonville commercial property you may have no idea what to do. It needs to be cleaned immediately, but most levels require specialty cleaning services. These services are trained to get rid of the problem quickly and efficiently. However, if you have no experience with this, you might not know who to call. SERVPRO of Ravenswood is a 24/7 company that specializes in cleaning up many levels of biohazard exposure. We comply with health regulations and possess all of the equipment needed for safe disposal. We will decontaminate your building in the event of trauma, chemical spills, sewage backups, hoarding, and more. When it comes to biohazard, the substances must be cleaned up properly to prevent serious health risks. SERVPRO of Ravenswood will make sure this gets done so your Andersonville building can go back to normal.  

Property Management and How It Helps

4/13/2019 (Permalink)

We work with all Property Management companies in Chicago

Property management can be a huge help when it comes to overseeing your property. It can be used for residential, commercial, and industrial property. Property owners may not think that they need a management firm. However, there are numerous reasons for hiring a manager.

What Is Property Management

First things first, what exactly is property management? It has to do with a property manager overseeing property owned by another entity. This can be any kind of property from industrial to residential, condos to shopping malls. A property manager will act in place of the owners to preserve value while also bringing home income. Property managers also do various other things. They will help owners with budgeting, advertising, collecting rent, and building services – (the latter is where SERVPRO of Ravenswood comes in). The owners of the property will pay a fee for the services the manager provides.

It is not uncommon for a real estate broker to also act as a property manager. They are able to offer buyer and seller services, in addition to management services.

Why Should You Hire a Property Management Firm

There are a number of reasons for hiring a property management firm. If you own several rental properties it can be hard to take care of all of them on your own. In this case, a management firm would step in. They would maintain the property, collect rent, and handle tenants. This can be a good thing if you own a rental property for the sole purpose of generating income. You would be able to do this and not have to worry about the smaller details that can be a headache.

A property owner who is part of an affordable housing program may also take advantage of a management firm. Many people do this because to be in such a program you need knowledge of federal guidelines. Not everyone is well versed in these guidelines, but property management services are. These services would step in to help the property owner follow the guidelines. In addition to these services, management firms also provide maintenance, cleaning, and construction.

The exact services covered will vary depending on what type of property they are managing and how much of a fee they are getting paid.

What Are They Responsible For

Property management services have many responsibilities, but the main one is maintenance and repairs. The property must be kept in good condition. Managers must take care of physical repairs, including emergency fire and water cleanup and restoration. If your property is damaged by flooding, fire, storms, mold, or something similar your management firm will have to take care of it. This typically means hiring a company to come out, as firms tend to have a long list of available restoration and cleaning companies. SERVPRO of Ravenswood, a trusted industry leader, may just be the company they hire. We specialize in repairing damage from fires, floods, storms, and mold. Our restoration and cleaning services are available for residential properties as well as commercial properties.

The Impact of Smoke Damage after a Fire Ravenswood

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

Using a Hepa vacuum to clean off soot caused by smoke damage

Any Ravenswood house fire is devastating in its own right. It destroys your belongings, prized possessions, sometimes entire rooms of your house. Fires are obviously a tragedy that can completely turn your life upside down, but there is something that accompanies fires that many people don’t think about; smoke damage. Smoke damage Ravenswood can be just as harmful as fire damage and, in some cases, even more so. A lot of people tend to overlook it as a danger after experiencing a fire in their house, but it can have damaging impact if left untreated. While your house might continue smelling like smoke, the damage left behind can cause serious health issues.

Problems with Breathing

One dangerous impact smoke damage can cause has to do with your respiratory health. The smoke might be gone, but it will linger in your air ducts, walls, furniture, and many other places. Coming in contact with any part of your house that was damaged by smoke can be harmful. You will be at risk of inhaling soot. This can cause damage to your lungs and sinuses, and lead to bigger respiratory issues down the road.

Skin Problems

Soot and the residue left by smoke act as irritants to your skin. One big issue they present is drying out your skin, and no amount of lotion can help. You can wash many of your things to get rid of soot and smoke residue, but your skin is a different story. The smoke damage will linger in the air and continue irritating your skin until it has been dealt with. While your skin drying out might not sound too awful, it has the potential to lead to more serious medical issues. A few years down the road, you may end up with severe skin problems that can only be treated by a doctor.

Eye Irritation

Just like the case with skin, soot and smoke residue will linger in the air and irritate your eyes. Your eyes might get red, itchy, and sometimes watery after exposure to smoke damage. While eye irritation might not seem too bad at first, after prolonged exposure yours eyes could be damaged behind repair. It is hard to tell how serious eye irritation is on your own, so it is best to seek out a doctor the moment any symptoms present themselves.

The impact of smoke damage after a fire can be serious and cause numerous health issues. That is why you should reach out to SERVPRO of Ravenswood, a Chicago fire cleanup professional, after any Ravenswood house fire to get your home back to normal. SERVPRO of Ravenswood is a leading cleanup and restoration company committed to getting your life back on track. It is our mission to respond immediately to any size disaster, and our trained specialists operate by the “restore first” mentality. That means we will do everything we can to restore your property and belongings to normal so you don’t have to worry about replacing anything. Call 773-878-5200 to clean up any Ravenswood fire damage in your home or business.

Recovering From A Tornado

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

Tornadoes are a terrifying, often devastating, weather event. They can turn houses into dust, and flip lives upside down. Living through a tornado can be traumatizing, and sometimes the aftermath is just as bad. Parts of your home may be destroyed, and the idea of fixing it can be overwhelming. Recovering from a tornado could be a huge task, depending on how bad the damage was. However, there are steps to take toward recovery and people ready to help along the way. There are steps that should be taken right after the storm passes, and other steps to take down the road when it is time for repairs and cleaning.

Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

The first step is to stay in your safe place until the storm has completely passed. If you are able, try and wait until you get the all clear from local officials. After the storm, check yourself and those with you for any injuries. If someone is hurt, the next step is seeking out first aid. After everyone has been checked and is okay, you should see how bad the damage to your house is. Make sure to watch out for anything that is unstable and likely to fall. If you go outside, look out for any downed powerlines. They can be life threatening, so if you see downed powerlines stay inside.

Protect Your Property

After you make sure yourself and your loved ones are protected, start protecting your property. You can make temporary repairs in order to prevent further damage. Many insurance companies will reimburse you for the cost, so make sure to keep receipts just in case. In addition to temporary repairs, living expenses may also be reimbursable. If your house is damaged to the point of you having to stay in a hotel, keep the receipts. Your policy may pay you back for the cost of it. Make sure to make a list of anything that was damaged, and don’t throw out damaged belongings. An adjuster will need to assess them for value if your policy covers replacing them. You should also inspect all utility lines and appliances. Any damage could lead to a gas leak or electric shortage. Damaged electric wires may also cause a fire. You may even have to turn off the main valve in order to prevent more harm to your house. Once these steps have been taken, contact your insurance company. From there, they can work with you to see what your policy covers. Most of the time, they will hire services to come out and repair damages.

Clean Up and Repair

SERVPRO of Ravenswood has highly trained storm damage specialists, and your insurance company may choose to work with them. We have an incredibly fast response time when it comes to disasters. We have equipment and personnel ranging across 1,700 franchises. Our experience and training will allow us to restore your property quickly and efficiently. In addition, we will document the entire process.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood CE Course Vote

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

2018 Course: Ready to learn photo!

As many of you know, SERVPRO is well known for offering free continuing education classes to property managers, insurance agents and adjusters to help stay abreast to ever-changing cleaning technology in our industry, as well as keep IL insurance licenses updated.  This year's Continuing Education course will be held on August 21st.  Save the date and location & time will be announced in the forthcoming months. At this time we would like to receive your input on which course you are most interested in learning about.  Help us decide which subject to choose. Below is a list of SERVPRO-sponsored course offerings. TELL US which course is important to you. We will tally your votes and pick the one with the most responses. Your opinion is valuable - thank you for casting your vote! 

1. Understanding the Restoration Industry: Property Fire Damage Restoration
2. Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
3. Restoring Contaminated Buildings
4. Restorative Drying for Water Damage
5. Cleaning & Restoring Smoke-Damaged Contents
6. Deodorization of Malodors
7. Mitigation Awareness and Response Seminar (MARS)
8. Ethics
9. Biohazard Cleanup

Five Things To Know About the Mold Remediation Process

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Icky - yes! Fixable - yes!

Mold remediation is handled by experts Lincoln Square, as these cleanup jobs need to be handled in a very particular way each time. SERVPRO of Ravenswood knows how the process goes because we are trained to know. Lincoln Square property or business owners still wonder about the mysteries behind the mold removal process. Here are five things that may help clear that wonder.

1) You might have to leave your home during mold remediation

Depending on the extent of the mold damage, yes there is a possibility you may have to leave your home or business while the remediation work is being conducted. In many cases, insurance companies will not cover the hotel room expense. During the process contaminants become airborne – having the proper equipment to capture anything airborne is very important.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood has air filtration tools that is necessary to prevent spores from spreading and eliminating the chance of breathing it in. 

2) The overall process depends on the types of mold found

The very first thing that a legitimate mold remediation company should do is request a test of the mold to see what spore levels exist in your home or business Lincoln Square. A certified Indoor Environmentalist can conduct such testing.  Based on their findings, SERVPRO of Ravenswood will be able to determine the very best way to remediate. Removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Many restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy.  Mold exists naturally and is everywhere, indoors and out.

3) A good mold remediation company will talk you through the steps

SERVPRO of Ravenswood will talk you through everything required in order to cleanup the affected area. We will advise on the how you can help during the process, while we continue with our process.  Many times removing wall panels and drywall to applying cleaning solutions designed to mitigate mold Lincoln Square is required. No matter what each step consists of it, all will be explained to you in detail. The best companies will answer all of your questions.

4) Mold removal isn’t always the same thing as mold remediation

 Some companies might try to tell you that they’ll remove all of the mold in your house. This isn’t quite the case (see number five below), which is why removal and remediation are two very different things. Remediation refers to taking care of the problem. Removal implies getting rid of all of it. You always want to find an honest remediation company such as SERVPRO of Ravenswood who will tell you how why mold exists and how it can be cleaned.  

5) Some specks of mold will get left behind.

Though it is impossible to clean up every last bit of mold, our mold remediation specialists will do their best to get as much of the organism as possible and then kill what remains to prevent it from returning. Staining be occur.  During the restoration process you can decide whether to remove the mold damaged walls, ceilings or floors or whether to keep and paint over the affected areas.

We understand that when mold comes into conversation a sense of panic may overcome you.  Please do not worry, rather call for remediation help at 773-878-5200.  You will feel better once it is taken care of.

Commercial Cleaning Services for Ravenswood – Choosing the Best Restoration Company for Your Business

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Don't Go With The Cheapest, Go With The Best

When it comes to choosing a commercial cleaning service, many Ravenswood business owners or managers aren’t sure where to begin. A quick Google search “Cleaning Ravenswood” on the subject brings up so many options in many major (and even minor) metropolitan areas, which can be overwhelming. Thankfully, we know where to begin the search and how to choose the best commercial cleaning company for Ravenswood businesses.

Start With Recommendations

It always helps to start out by asking nearby businesses for their recommendations. Which commercial cleaning services do they use? Why do they recommend that company? Or are they looking for a new one as well? Sometimes you might be able to offer a discount for referring this Ravenswood commercial cleaning company that the business next door to you uses. After all, if they can clean your offices right after they finish your neighbor’s, that’s less traveling that they’ll have to do.

Know What Questions to Ask

Once you narrow down your list of commercial cleaning companies, you’ll have to call up their owners and ask some questions. These include how often they’ll be able to clean your offices, how much they generally charge per employee that they need to send out. If they offer any other type of specialty cleanings (which we’ll get into a bit more later). You also need to inquire about references. Can they provide 3 references. Naturally this query will be stemmed from your cleaning needs, Ravenswood. Speaking of which…

Understand What Type Of Cleaning You Need

There are several things to go over here. You need to know how often your Ravenswood offices will need to be cleaned, as well as which areas should be focused on. Do you want the company to do the bathrooms and empty the trash cans every day, but only wash or vacuum the hallway floors once a week? Make these specifications clear to the commercial cleaning companies before you hire them because you’ll need to find out if they can meet your expectations.

Inquire About Specialty Services If You Need Them

If your Ravenswood business requires special services, such as additional security measures or air duct cleaning, then you need to let your potential commercial cleaning companies know about them. They need to be able to produce an accurate quote for you, one that will help you decide whether or not you want to go with them.

Don’t Just Hire the Cheapest Commercial Cleaning Company

Speaking of quotes, you’ll probably end up with quite a few from different commercial cleaning companies. You don’t want to hire the cheapest one based on price alone necessarily. Instead, pick the commercial cleaning company in Ravenswood with the best overall package. They need to be able to meet all of your cleaning needs and be highly recommended by their current clients. This means that you might end up choosing a company that charges slightly more than the lowest bid. However, that difference in price will bring value worth paying for.

What You Can Do Before The Storm Damage Cleanup Team Arrives Lincoln Square

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

What You Can Do vs. What We can Do

Let’s set the scene – your home or business has become an object of storm damage. It’s damaged, but not so badly that you can’t move around it and tackle some minor cleaning tasks. What should you do? SERVPRO of Ravenswood is on their way and will be able to handle all of the major issues, but you feel helpless at this moment. Well, there are some things that you can do, Lincoln Square.

Protect Your Furniture from Additional Damage

The number one thing that any storm damage cleanup expert will tell you is to protect your furniture from further damage. There’s an easy solution here – take some bricks, aluminum foil, plastic or wooden blocks and prop up all of your furniture on them. Place one block under each leg. This is great to do, especially if you have wooden legs on carpeting, as the water in the carpet will continue to soak into the furniture. SERVPRO of Ravenswood will need less time drying out your affected area if the furniture is no longer directly on it.

Turn On the Air Conditioning and Any Fans

If it is safe to do so (and the weather is warm enough) turn on your air conditioning and any fans – either floor models or ceiling units. Air circulation will assist in dry out. Anything that the fans are pointing at will dry faster. Leave these fans on until SERVPRO of Ravenswood arrives. REMEMBER: DO NOT USE ELECTRICAL OUTLETS AROUND AREAS WITH STANDING WATER.

Move All of Your Breakable Objects

Whether the damaged rooms of your Lincoln Square home are filled with art, vases, collectible ceramics, or even model cars, you’ll need to move them into a different room. Choose a room that hasn’t been hit by the storm, or if there are none, pack them up well and place them in the garage or even in a neighbor’s house for safekeeping. You don’t want risk any further damage when cleanup crews arrive.  

Remove As Much Excess Water As You Can

While you may not have access to the professional tools and equipment that SERVPRO of Ravenswood carries, you can still do your best to soak up some of the water. Get some dry clothes and begin to blot the water out of your carpeting, wipe up puddles on tile or wood floors, and do your very best to get rid of that excess water. Once the storm damage cleanup crew arrives, we will take over from there.

Pick Up Items from The Floor

Although you’ve already been warned to remove breakable objects, you also want to remove non-breakables from the area. Before SERVPRO of Ravenswood arrives, get as many waterlogged items off of the floor as you can. These include floor lamps (but only if it’s safe to do so), books, or anything else that found its way to the floor during the storm. This task will allow more room for crews to begin their water damage restoration process, as well as provide safe passage for your family or friends. 

Finally, read these tips on What You Are NOT To Do After A Flood, Lincoln Square.

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

When Winter Weather Strikes Be Prepared to Strike Back

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Ice Dam diagram

Here's how to prepare your Ravenswood home:

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it off.
• If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
• Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.

Here's how to prepare your Ravenswood business:

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Inspect walkways, and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potentials.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas.
• Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.

Ask SERVPRO of Ravenswood about starting a Disaster Recovery Plan for your business.  Call us at 773-878-5200 today!

Ice dams can be a major problem during the winter season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water that is dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof's shingles and into the structure's interior area, causing leaks and damage. We can help mitigate Ravenswood water damage caused by these ice dams and help you get your structure back to preloss condition.

Puffback is a messy furnace malfunction that occurs when an oil burner backfires, sending soot throughout your home or business. It can happen all at once, covering an interior in grimy soot, or a puffback can leak soot particles more gradually. Equipped with the training, tools and experience to quickly and efficiently clean and restore your Ravenswood home or business, we will help make your puffback seem "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of RAVENSWOOD F1RST Responder Bowl Watch Event

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

Working together to make this world a better place.

Join us at our new office (5401 N Wolcott Avenue) and help us celebrate as SERVPRO of Ravenswood recognizes Heroes across our communities who protect and serve. The inaugural SERVPRO First Responder Bowl may include teams from the Big Ten, Big 12, ACC or Conference USA. Let's watch together, enjoy a free lunch, taste samples from our local breweries, and tour our new warehouse. 

~Warehouse doors open at 12PM
~Game begins at 12:30 PM
~Lunch and drink will be served
~Email Donna@SERVPROravenswood.com to let us know if you are coming - bring a guest or a pet!

Can't make the event? That's okay! Donations are being accepted for the 100 Club Chicago on our donation page. The 100 Club of Chicago provides for the families of first responders who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Please select the SERVPRO F1RST Responder Bowl Watch Party in the Donation Category: www.100clubchicago.org/donate

Everything That Storm Damage Cleanup Entails

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

After your Edgewater neighborhood has been hit by inclement weather know to call SERVPRO of Ravenswood professionals to make everything look like new again. However, do you really understand the steps that will take place? Here’s a quick breakdown of everything that a storm damage cleanup job may entail, from start to finish.

1) An Inspection of the Damage

The first thing that the storm damage cleanup professional at SERVPRO of Ravenswood will do is do an assessment of damage. They’ll walk through your house and make a note of everything that the storm had affected. Any puddles of water, soaked carpeting, holes in the walls, and more will be thoroughly documented and photographed. The storm damage cleanup team at SERVPRO of Ravenswood will provide you with a punch list of everything that needs to be done.  We will also work with you home insurance company to help mitigate the situation. This assessment will contain costs, scope of work description and a timeline Edgwater.

2) Removing Any Existing Water

After the storm damage cleanup company has received written permission to begin the restoration process Edgewater, they will remove all content from the affected area and start the extraction of water that’s in your home. They’ll use special equipment soak up puddles that a simple set of towels cannot handle and ensure that every bit of standing water in your home is removed. They will go through every step necessary to complete this task, including blotting your carpeting and taking care of any sodden curtains. Know that any content damaged Edgewater can also be service by SERVPRO.

3) Running a Dehumidifier and Drying Everything Out

Next, the storm damage cleanup crew will set up dehumidifiers for the drying process Edgewater. They are necessary. The lack of puddles of standing water doesn’t mean that the job is over. Your floorboards, walls, carpeting, ceilings and everything else that received water damage could still be moist. That dampness, when left alone, will lead to mold. It’s SERVPRO of Ravenswood duty to make sure that this mold doesn’t have a chance to set in, so they’ll go through the additional steps to completely dry every surface.

4) Sanitizing the Space

Once everything is dry, our team will start cleaning and sanitizing Edgewater. This ensures that things like mold won’t be able to set up shop, so to speak. The storm damage cleanup crew will SERVPRO patented cleaning solutions to kill off any potential germs or irritants lurking in your formerly waterlogged home. This can only be done once all of the water has been removed, and those carpets and walls are now dry.

5) Performing Restoration Services

Finally, the last of the restoration services are completed. This consists of the storm damage cleanup crew going through and repairing holes in the walls and ceiling, replacing broken windows, and even repainting walls, if necessary. They will do everything required in order to make your home look just like it did before the storm – only cleaner. In addition, the best companies take the time to ensure that you’re pleased with the results.

Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood today, Edgewater, if your home has experienced any water damage – large or small! 773-878-5200

Ceiling, Floor and Wall Cleaning Bowmanville Chicago

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

When general cleaning is done in either your Bowmanville Chicago home or business, there are usually a couple of places that often get overlooked.  Specifically, the ceilings and walls.  This is a mistake as cleaning the walls and ceiling should be included as part of the regular cleaning maintenance, just like you would clean the floor.

Just like floors, carpet, furniture and every other part of your home or business, ceilings and walls are just as exposed to the elements and get hit with dust, dirt, grease, cooking splatters, pet fur, cigarette smoke and other contaminants as well. 

While a trained professional is always the best way to get your ceilings, walls, and floors clean, you may also want to have an air duct and HVAC specialist complete a check of your heating and cooling systems.  If they are full of dirt, dust, and mold, it will further expose these contaminants to your walls, floors and ceilings.  So once we have a clean bill of health for our heating and cooling systems, it’s time to get the ceilings, floors, and walls cleaned Bowmanville Chicago.

Again, a specialist is always recommended, but here are some tips to help you get the job done right.  Just remember, if your ceiling, walls and floors haven’t been cleaned in some time, they may be dirtier than normal and may take a little longer to get cleaned.  But once it becomes a part of your regular cleaning routine or to have a specialist do it regularly, it won’t take long at all.

It is always a good idea to start high and clean the ceilings first.  This way any dust that falls to the walls and floor will be cleaned when you get to the walls and floor.  And since they are ceilings, they do not require cleaning as often as the other parts of your home or business Bowmanville Chicago. 

If you’re not too keen on moving a ladder all around your house to get to ceiling height, you can simply use a duster with a long handle or handle extension.  With the right microfiber attachment, you will be able to remove dust and dirt easily.

Once the ceilings are cleaned, it’s time to move onto the walls.  The first thing to do would be to dust them.  Once all the dust has been removed, cleaning the surface of the walls is the next step.  Ideally, you would pull all the furniture or shelves away from the walls, so you are able to clean behind them.

Once the ceilings and walls have been cleaned Bowmanville Chicago, it’s time to finish up with the floor.  The best thing to do is to vacuum first to remove most of the dust and dirt.  Next, you can use a special cleaner (depending upon what type of floors you have) to really clean and protect them.

While cleaning ceilings, walls and floors can be a chore; it is good to have them done about once per month.  With the right trained specialist, they will be able to get the job done for you and maintain the neat, clean ceilings, walls, and floors Bowmanville Chicago that you are proud to have in your home or business.

Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning Edgewater

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Before and after

More and more people are becoming aware of indoor air pollution.  It is definitely an area of growing concern and is something that can easily be prevented with air duct and HVAC cleaning Edgewater.  In fact, you’ve probably seen some companies promote this service which will improve your indoor air quality on T.V. or in the mail.

How will cleaning the air ducts and HVAC system help to improve indoor air quality? When one of our qualified service technicians cleans your air ducts and HVAC system, they typically check and clean various cooling and heating system components.  These can include grilles and diffusers, supply and return air ducts, cooling coils, heat exchangers, fan motors and housing and condensate drip pans.

When one of these components is not properly maintained, the parts may become contaminated by pollen, other debris, and dust.  If there is moisture present, it can increase the chances for mold growth and spores may then be released into the indoor air.  These contaminants are then able to cause an allergic reaction or symptom in the people who were exposed to them. 

If you decide that you are going to have your air ducts and HVAC system cleaned Edgewater, be sure that the vendor is going to be cleaning all the components of your system.  If one element isn’t cleaned correctly, it can result in a re-contamination of the entire system. 

While there are various methods that can be used to clean your air ducts and HVAC system, standards have been established by industry associations.  Typically, special tools will be used to remove any dirt and debris, and then a high-powered vacuum will be used to vacuum the dirt and debris out. 

Once the air ducts have been thoroughly cleaned, our service technician may want to apply chemical biocides, which will kill any microbiological contaminants.  This would be applied inside the ducts and to the other components of the system.  And in some instances where there are signs of mold growth, a chemical treatment may also be required to cover the surfaces of the air ducts.

So how do you know if you need your air ducts and HVAC system cleaned?  What you can do is to do a visual inspection to see if there are any deposits of mold or dust, if there is a musty odor, or if someone is suffering from allergies more than normal.  These are all signs that a professional air duct-cleaning specialist should come out and inspect your heating and cooling systems.  Depending on where you live and how often you use your heating or cooling systems will determine how often you should have them cleaned.

Air ducts and HVAC systems Edgewater should be regularly cleaned to help keep dirt, dust, and mold from being spread throughout the building and decrease the indoor air quality.  With proper maintenance performed by a qualified air ducts and HVAC cleaning professional, you will ensure that the indoor air quality stays high.  Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood today to schedule your free assessment; 773-878-5200.

Five Things To Look For When Hiring A Fire Damage Restoration Company Andersonville

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

We Care About Your Belongings

Hiring a fire damage restoration company isn’t something that should be done quickly. Yes, you’re probably in a hurry to have your home or business restored to its original state, but that’s no reason to make an emotional decision that you’ll regret. Overcoming a traumatic experience of fire damage Andersonville requires the help of an expert fire damage restoration company, such as SERVPRO of Ravenswood, that’s the absolute best for the job – not the first company that approaches you making promises they cannot keep.

1) Experience

Let’s put it simply – experience matters. SERVPRO of Ravenswood knows what to doing. Ask to see a portfolio or some examples of our work. We are THE BEST fire damage restoration company!  We will have before and after pictures on hand and will be willing to show them to you and talk the appropriate process to have your Andersonville home or business back to looking like a fire never happened.

2) Reliability

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is very reliable. We will show up when we are supposed to and stick with the overall plan that’s in place. It’s okay for things to take a bit longer than necessary, as no one can control every aspect of these cleanup jobs, but if the job drags on for weeks over the estimate, there’s a problem. Make sure to ask your insurance agent which fire damage clean up company is best to choose   and confirm our reliability and expertise.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood has partnered with insurance companies such as State Farm, American Family, Allstate and many many more.

3) Ability to do the Job

While this sounds like it should fall into the “experience” category, it really doesn’t. Whether or not the fire damage restoration company can do the job has nothing to do with their experience. Some local fire damage restoration companies might be booked up for months and won’t have the time to handle your restoration work. The scope of the job might be too difficult, or larger than anything that they’ve ever done.

4) Honesty

The best fire damage restoration companies are honest. They tell you about their booked schedules or that the amount of work needed is outside of their wheelhouse. They also need to give you a reasonable and honest timeline for the job, as well as a good quote for services. On top of this, once you SERVPRO of Ravenswood, we will tell the truth about what parts of your home can be saved and which ones cannot. The fire damage restoration process will be thoroughly explained and how to care for your belongings Andersonville.  This really goes a long way when picking a good restoration company for your home.

5) Location

Location is the final qualifier. No matter the location, SERVPRO of Ravenswood will come to your area in order to successfully cleanup on your job. While you don’t want to hire the closest company without first doing some detective work, you need a business that’s close enough Andersonville to come in every day and get the job done. Choose a reputable business that has your interests in mind.

Signs That You Need To Hire a Water Damage Repair Professional Lincoln Square

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

AVOID entering a room that has a water-logged ceiling!

Your Lincoln Square home was flooded. There’s little doubt about it. You arrived home from work to find puddles of water on the floor with objects floating about, all caused by a broken pipe. You turned off the water to your Lincoln Square home and are about to call in a water damage repair professional to take on the cleanup job. But do you? Or is it something that you can handle yourself? Let’s go over some of the criteria in order to help you make this decision.

Your Lincoln Square Basement Is Submerged In Several Inches of Water

A submerged basement can lead to a number of problems, all of which an expert water damage repair company can deal with. They can pump out the water, work with a plumbing company to repair the problem (if it was a damaged pipe), and then restore everything in your basement until it looks just as it did before the flood. SERVPRO of Ravenswood experts can even identify secondary problems, such as the beginnings of mold before they even begin.

Your Carpeting Is Soaked

It can be tricky to remove water from carpeting. The pad underneath is most likely soaked and will probably need to be discarded. Since mold can easily grow in these waterlogged conditions, you want to call in a water damage restoration company to restore your carpeting back to how it used to be. There’s no need to rip out the carpeting and have a new one installed if SERVPRO of Ravenswood could save it!

Your Ceilings Are Sagging

A sagging ceiling is a sign that water has ruined the structural integrity of your building. You should never go into a room with a sagging ceiling because you don’t want to be underneath if it were to collapse. If you see problems of this magnitude, then you need to call your local water damage repair company Lincoln Square. They will be able to remove the water, shore up the ceiling, and then conduct any necessary restoration.

You Want the Experts to Handle the Job

Sometimes you just don’t have the time to deal with a flooded basement Lincoln Square, no matter how minor the incident is. If this is the case, then go ahead and call SERVPRO of Ravenswood. It’s their duty to help. Call for your free inspection today, 773-878-5200

The Highly Detailed Business of Fire Damage Repair Northcenter

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Our Fire Cleanup Crew Is Ready To Move!

There are several types of clean up and repair jobs in the world. Some companies deal with the issues brought about by mold and mildew, while others handle fire damage restoration Northcenter. The latter is a very specialized field that consists of several different types of jobs that work in tandem with each other. Many fire damage restoration companies hire technicians who can handle each of the following problems, coming up with and following through on solid solutions.

Odor Control

This is very important and is often an important step undertaken by fire damage restoration SERVPRO, Northcenter. They’ll send out a technician to handle odor control. As you can imagine the smell of smoke and fire can linger in the air. Once the house or building is deemed safe to enter (an inspection must be done first to ensure that the structure is sound) the SERVPRO of Ravenswood technician will take account of those lingering odors and take the necessary steps to eliminate them. This will consist of cleaning the walls, ceilings, floors, light fixtures, content and more.

Content Cleaning

Yes, SERVPRO of Ravenswood specializes in content cleanup, as well Northcenter. Our technicians are able to discern the types of fabric (cotton, lace, damask, and so on) upon entering the building and examining the material. They then are able to use the right techniques to get out any water damage or smoky odors. The fire damage repair company knows that these technicians are highly skilled and are able to restore everything from carpeting and curtains to upholstered furniture like couches and chairs. This process plays a very important part in the overall fire damage restoration cleanup.

Water Damage Remediation

Next are the water damage remediation specialists. These SERVPRO of Ravenswood experts know what can happen if that water damage is left unchecked. Mold and mildew Northcenter can form on the walls, in the ceilings, and under the floorboards. Everything, as far as furniture and belongings are concerned, that was damaged by the water must either be removed and replaced or restored as needed. Cleaning up the water damage involves removing any standing water, then cleaning up the walls, floors, and ceilings with SERVPRO’s patented treatment solution in order to prevent mold from growing. As you can imagine, this requires a lot of work from the fire damage restoration company.

Fire and Smoke Restoration

Finally, there are the specialists from the fire damage repair company that handle general fire and smoke-related problems – SERVPRO of Ravenswood does just that! This goes beyond clearing the air and making the room smell better. Instead, we will remove or demo any sections of the building that are burned or covered in stains from the smoke. Then general contractors will rebuild these areas to make them look as good as new, especially after the entire affected rooms receive a coat of new paint. In the end, your fire damage Northcenter will look even better than it did before the fire broke out. Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood Today for your free cleanup inspection; 773-878-5200.

How To Hire The Best Mold Remediation Service

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

Trained technician treating affected areas.

Okay, your house has mold Ravenswood. Now what? Well, it’s time to find a reputable mold remediation service company who can handle the cleanup. There are many companies out there that it can be tricky to choose the very best one. Here are some tips on what you can do in order to find the right one for you.

Ask For Recommendations and Check References

Checking references on several local mold remediation companies in Ravenswood and asking for recommendations in general is a great start. You want the company that you pick to be highly recommended and well trained for such intricate work. They need to be able to prove that they’re experts in the field. You can start by asking your friends, family, and neighbors to see which companies they’ve worked with in the past. They’ll be able to steer you in the right direction. Once you have the names of a few companies, it’s time to do some research on them. Look up online reviews, but keep in mind that some of those negative reviews might have been written by people hired by their competitors in order to affect their business. Use your best judgment when reading them.

Check with Your Home Insurance Agent

In some cases, mold removal Ravenswood is covered by your home insurance policy. This means that after paying your deductible, the insurance company will pay for your mold remediation service. However, you’ll have to hire one of the companies that they work with. In most cases SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a national partnership with national insurance providers. Your insurance provider should give you a list of trusted contractors, such as SERVPRO of Ravenswood, in your area and allow you to pick one. You can rest assured that they won’t allow you to hire a mold remediation company that doesn’t know what they’re doing. They’ll only recommend the best.

Ask About Their Certifications and Training Methods

Removing mold Ravenswood is a very specialized service. This means that these vendors should not hire and place untrained employees to do the job. Those employees must go through specialized training and, depending on the state that you’re in, have official certifications that prove their expertise in mold remediation. Before you hire a company to remove the mold in your home, make sure to ask about this certification. The best companies will allow you to see the certificates that their employees have earned.

The Company Should Be Licensed and Bonded

Although not every state requires for Ravenswood mold remediation companies to be licensed, they should at least be bonded. This means that they have insurance liability to protect against unplanned damage during the mold removal process. Be sure to ask companies when performing reference checks that they have such licensure and bonding. If they don’t, then move on.

Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood today for more information for your mold scenario; 773-878-5200.

Saving Photographs and Documents as Part of the Water Damage after a Storm in Ravenswood

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

No job is too large or too small for SERVPRO when it pertains to saving important documents or images.

There’s nothing worse than realizing that a flood has inflicted water damage in your Ravenswood business to some of your most valuable objects – all of those pictures that you’ve spent your life taking, developing, and cataloging. Whether you took these pictures yourself or inherited them from family members, you absolutely need to find a way to save them. Thankfully, all hope is not lost. SERVPRO of Ravenswood can restore those photographs and other important documents.

There are multiple methods restoration experts will use in order to reverse the damage to your photographs and documents. They are:

1) Air Drying

In some cases, simple air drying will work to make your photographs look as good as new. The water damage repair experts will simply spread the items out on a clean cloth (usually one that’s acid-free and archival) that will soak up the moisture. The water damage repair experts then will let the photographs sit out in the open for several days or however long it takes, weighing them down should they begin to curl up on the edges.

2) Dehumidification

Dehumidification requires the water damage repair experts to remove all of the moisture from the air. As a part of this process, the photographs are placed in a special box, or even a room (depending on how many of them there are) and a dehumidifier is run in order to dry them out. This process works well for particularly waterlogged items.

3) Freeze Drying

Freezer drying is exactly as it sounds. SERVPRO of Ravenswood experts place the damaged documents in a very cold location, such as an actual freezer or freezer room (imagine a walk-in freezer, like the kind found in restaurants) in order to freeze all traces of moisture. In some of these cases, the mildew and debris clinging to them will freeze as well, making it easy for the water damage repair experts to brush them off simply. Before you know it, your important photographs will look great again.

4) Vacuum Freeze Drying

The vacuum freeze drying practice SERVPRO of Ravenswood experts also may use is designed to remove all of the air from the box holding the documents before cold air is pumped in. This is a bit more effective than the freezer drying technique, as it kills off the mildew and mold growing on the documents. They can’t live in a vacuum, where there’s no air. The freezing process works to immediately halt the progression of the water damage, literally “freezing” it in its tracks.

5) Vacuum Thermal Drying

As you can imagine, water damage repair experts use vacuum thermal drying, a process that involves placing the photographs in a box, removing all of the air, and then applying heat, for items that are extremely damaged by water. This is used when no other treatments will work, and when there’s little chance of the heat damaging the items further.

With all these wonderful and proved to work techniques, there is no need to worry about the storm damage your Ravenswood business may have experienced. Your local water damage cleanup experts are here to help bring your contents back to Like It Never Even Happened!

Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood at 773-878-5200 to schedule your consultation.

Fire Damage Repair for Chicago Historical Structures – What You Need To Know

8/9/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Repair for Chicago Historical Structures – What You Need To Know

Historical structures in Chicago were not only built to last, but many are protected by certain building designations. This means that when they are damaged by fire the fire damage repair company hired to clean the damage must stay within those designations and make the building look like it was completely undamaged in the fire. This is highly specialized work that must be done by an experienced fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Ravenswood. If you maintain or manage historical structures in Chicago, then here is what you need to know before the cleanup begins.

Find Pictures of the Original Structure

In many cases, this is tough, because many of those pictures might have been in the structure itself when it caught fire. Having such records for SERVPRO of Ravenswood will help their technicians know the exact details of the parts of the house that they’re restoring. If photos are not readily available you may turn to the local historical society in order to see if any photos exist in their archives. Otherwise like SERVPRO of Ravenswood will rely on the owners or managers of the structure to determine best repair or replacement options for the fire damaged Chicago historical building.

Work With a Historian

There are cases when a local historian, one who specializes in historic architecture, will be hired by the like SERVPRO of Ravenswood as a consultant. This historian will work with like SERVPRO of Ravenswood to ensure that every repair fits the overall architectural plan of the structure. If something is deemed too modern, then it will have to be redone. Our goal is to make the building look like it did before the fire, and that includes all of the period detailing.

Hunt Down the Original Historical Designation Paperwork

This one is easy, as this information is usually placed online. In order for a Chicago historical building to be declared a local century home or historic landmark, an application must be filed. These applications are usually online in PDF form and held by either the county, state, or federal governments. like SERVPRO of Ravenswood will need to examine that form to see if any specific details about the structure of the building are described. In some cases, photographs might be attached to the application, of which would be very helpful for like SERVPRO of Ravenswood who undergoing the heavy tasks of fire damage restoration.

Special Permits Might Be Needed

If the fire damaged Chicago historical structure is in a local historically designated area, then SERVPRO of Ravenswood will have to gain special permitting to proceed with their work.  We would be required to stay within those codes throughout the restoration process. This isn’t always easy to do, which is why hiring SERVPRO of Ravenswood who have the right expertise for completing this specialized work is of great importance. 

In the end, all that matters is that your historic structure is cleared of all fire damage and restored by a reputable Chicago fire damage cleanup company. It’s worth the expense required to keep these gems standing for future generations to enjoy.

Help Hoarders Decrease the Risk of Fire

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Hoarding can be a mental condition that prevents people from getting rid of things most people would consider trash. In their mind, there are emotional attachments to whatever it is they cannot get rid of. These items can include newspapers, magazines, fast food bags, old clothes, broken toys, junk mail, all of which that has the potential to ignite a fire and quickly spread to your home Ravenswood Chicago. While this can quickly get out of control and become a huge fire or water safety hazard to anyone living in the building, there are several tips that be applied to help hoarding clean up in Ravenswood Chicago.

• Be sure to acknowledge and identify what the problem is. Hoarding is when a room in a house becomes unusable for the intended purpose. Therefore, the first step would be to help a hoarder determine if the rooms of their home have become become unusable.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help regarding your hoarder help situation. It may be difficult at first as you may feel ashamed, embarrassed or afraid that you will be judged or have to give up your ‘treasured’ possessions, but you may be surprised by people who are willing and want to help you overcome this problem, especially if there is potential for a disaster such as fire or water damage. Additionally, there are local organizations that focus on helping people in your exact situation. They are able to give you the psychological, emotional and practical support that you need to overcome hoarding. These organizations specialize in helping hoarders and the best part is, most of them will even come to your home Ravenswood Chicago to visit with you.
• While a hoarder’s home can be full of clutter, start small. Instead of thinking you must clear the entire house at the same time, focus on cleaning one thing at a time. This can be anything from a tiny box, your car, a cupboard or maybe even an entire room. These smaller more achievable goals will help you to start to clean up the clutter, as well as provide mini-victories along the way.
• Since you are starting small, be sure to stay consistent with your cleaning. Instead of doing a little here and a little there, try to stay consistent. For example, spend 20 minutes per day cleaning out the same room until it is completely de-cluttered. Every day add a couple more minutes to how much time you spend de-cluttering. The hardest part about undoing the hoarding is to simply get started. But once you do get started, you can easily get lost in it and continue cleaning the hoarding clutter for even longer. Be sure to follow through every day until that particular area has been finished.
• Utilize the 20-second rule. For every item that you have hoarded, make a decision within the first 20 seconds about whether you need to keep it or not. The longer you touch, look at and think of an item, the more likely it is that you will want to keep it. So when you look at something, and your first thought isn’t ‘I have to have this to live,’ get rid of it. And moving things to different parts of your house is not ‘getting rid of something.’ It’s actually called churning.
• Come up with a timetable that you can commit too. If you create a schedule of cleaning sessions that you can regularly follow every day or week, you can set goals for yourself within that time frame. The best thing about setting goals is that you can reward yourself when you hit them. For example, set yourself a goal of inviting your family over when the living room has been cleaned. Set a date and stick to it.
• Be aware of everything that you have already achieved. You can even take a before photo prior to getting started, and then an after photo once the room is cleared. This will give you a sense of pride, not just when the room has been cleared, but also with the progress that you are making. When this happens, feel free to give yourself a non-hoarding related gift, such as a nice dinner out or a massage. Try not to use shopping or something that will acquire more things for a reward. The whole point here is to de-clutter and clean Ravenswood Chicago.
• Be sure to set rules for your hoarding helpers in advance. This could be that you have the final decision over whether items can stay or have to go. If you give the hoarder helpers guidelines that they can follow, it will help to make their work more efficient and an easier transition for you as well. For example, make a decision that any newspaper that is over 1 week old has to be recycled, but any personal photos and letters need to be kept. Set some guidelines that you can follow. For example, ‘I can only keep 20 books.’

Remember, a hoarders house can be a dangerous as it has the potential to become fire hazard. Though SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s ability to cleanup and bring your home back to a livable condition, it is also known that Fire damage cleanup is costly. But with the right hoarding clean up help and the right advice, hoarding can easily be defeated and become a thing of the past in your home Ravenswood Chicago. Just be sure that you follow the tips outlined above, and you will be able to defeat hoarding and change your life for the better.

Call us today for a free assessment on cleanup services; 773-878-5200.

Free CE Course for Facilities Managers, Insurance Agents & Adjusters

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

“Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry Course”

SERVPRO of Ravenswood cordially invites Facilities Managers, Insurance Agents and Adjusters to attend this free course on Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry. This course has been specifically designed to teach and explain the special procedures used by cleanup professionals in mitigating mold damage. The purpose of the course is to provide attendees with a better understanding of the work performed by the mitigation specialists at mold damage work sites. Attendees will learn remediation processes which can help control the cost if performed in a timely manner. The course host, SERVPRO, will demonstrate examples of work performed to mitigate mold damage. This course will help attendees better understand what clients are going through when they have mold damage.

IL Insurance Agents will receive credit hours toward their state licensure upon completion of the CE class.

RSVP Today to Donna@SERVPROravenswood.com or

http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=qdzvcnzab&oeidk=a07efheicz1cbb07e37

(seating is limited)

Date: Thursday, 09/20/2018

Location:  The Private Bank Fire Pitch/Heineken Pub97

3626 N Talman Chicago IL 60618

Time: Class begins promptly at 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Complimentary breakfast and lunch will be served before and after the class. Doors open at 8:45 AM.

Odor Removal and Deodorization North Chicago

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

Call for your Free Estimate Today!

When an odor is present, there is only one thing people want to do. Get rid of it! Unfortunately, it’s not always as easy as that. You first have to find the odor North Chicago, make sure you have the equipment to eliminate the odor, clean any other surfaces that have come in contact with the odor, and finally make sure that the odor has been removed without a trace of it left behind. Most of the time this is a small job. However, occasionally contacting SERVPRO of Ravenswood, a professional odor removal and deodorization company, gets the job done for you.

Why is it important to remove and deodorize odors as quickly as possible? Mainly due to their ability to permeate an entire living space or job site. This can make living or working in the area unpleasant and intolerable. So, it’s best to let a SERVPRO of Ravenswood fix the problem as quickly as possible.

With odors coming from multiple sources, it can be hard to reduce possible causes that can contribute to the problem. So here are the most common sources of odors that you can watch out for:

Smoke is one of the leading causes of odors North Chicago. Since smoke comes from a number of different sources, it can be hard to pinpoint what the main source really is. Whether it’s a fire in a fireplace that got out of control, some type of cooking fire in the oven or from grease splashes, those scented candles that are suppose to help you relax that were accidentally left burning a little too long, or even after an actual fire damage, these smoke odors are all candidates that may require odor removal.

Then you have the odors associated with water and water damage North Chicago. These odors are typically more of a mildew type smell and originate from conditions due to sewage, structural or building contents. If this were the case, you would want to get it fixed immediately. The longer it sits with the moisture, the stronger and more powerful the odor will become. Some common causes may include overflow from a toilet, a leaky water pipe, or even a sewage backup.

Of course, there are always the possible animal odors. This can be anything from a skunk that sprayed, pet urine and feces, or maybe that rat died inside the walls. These types of odors have the ability to penetrate deep down into walls, carpets, fabrics and essentially spread throughout the North Chicago houses or businesses quite rapidly.

One of the worst types of smoke though has got to be smoke odors from tobacco. This is caused by smoking cigars, pipes and cigarettes indoors. Without the proper ventilation, the smoke odor will become stronger and stronger until it is extremely difficult to be removed.

Contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood today for your free cost of service estimate; 773-878-5200. No matter what the odor may be North Chicago, it is always best to have an odor removal and deodorization specialist come out, assess the situation and use their skills, equipment and knowledge to find, fix and eliminate the problem!

Yes - We Can Clean Curtains, Drapes & Blinds Northcenter

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

These are window curtains that hang in an elementary school cafeteria

Auditorium curtains, drapes and blinds are one of the first things people notice when they make an entrance, albeit a Northcenter auditorium, a home or a business. If they are clean and nice, it makes a great impression. However, if the curtains, drapes or blinds are dirty, dusty and not well maintained, it can potentially affect a person’s initial thoughts about your home or business. This is why a cleaning specialist should be used about once per year to keep away dirt, dust, and stains.

While there are various types of materials that can be used on your wall and window hangings, one of the consistent cleaning treatments will be some form of vacuuming. This will help to keep windows cobweb and dust free, thus keeping curtains, drapes and blinds clean.

Once the windows are cleaned, you will need to decide whether you would like to clean the drapes and blinds yourself or go with a professional cleaner. Each option has its pros and cons, but keep in mind that if you decide to do the cleaning yourself, you will need to decide is what/how are you going to be cleaning the windows, as well as have all the required tools and equipment (aka, scaffolds in the case of auditorium curtains) that you will need to get the job done correctly.

Since there are going to be various cleaning needs, there are going to be various approaches and methods to getting the cleaning done correctly. For example, different types material and the types of stains or smudges will determine the cleaning method that would work best.

When it is time to clean your curtains, drapes or blinds, there are 3 main categories that your drapes and blinds may fall under. The first is regular cleaning them, then the washing of the drapes, and finally the cleaning of the blinds.

The first category would be to clean your drapes and blinds regularly. It’s just like any other chore around the house or office, the longer they go without being cleaned, the tougher it is going to become to clean them. The simple solution is to perform regular cleaning or have a cleaning professional do it for you. If nothing else, be sure to keep the windows clean. This will help limit the amount of dirt and dust that end up on the drapes and blinds.

The next phase would be to wash or have your drapes washed. This normally involves removing or pulling down the drapes. How you wash them depends upon the type of fabric they are made of, so if you’re not sure, be sure to ask an expert first. In most Northcenter auditorium curtain cleaning services, onsite (none removal) cleaning is more practical. Especially in case of a post-construction cleanup scenario.

Finally, it’s time to clean your blinds. While many find this a tedious task, a popular method is to regularly vacuum and use a duster to help get the blinds clean. Depending upon what they are made of, you may even want to put a protective product on them to help them last longer.

When it comes to cleaning curtains, drapes and blinds - from small to large scales - it can become an overwhelming and cumbersome task. Be sure to try and clean them yourself regularly, or find a professional that can do it for you. Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood for your free consultation; 773-878-5200 or visit www.SERVPROravenswood.com.

Ravenswood Mold Remediation

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Ready to address any size damage at your commercial location.

After a disaster water works its way into your Ravenswood commercial business, mold can start growing in under 48 hours, then the health concerns begin. If you have reason to believe that your commercial business has developed mold issues Ravenswood, your first call should be to SERVPRO of Ravenswood. Our mold remediation experts will assess the situation of your home or business and let you know what to do.

If secondary water damage (mold) does exist, a mitigation plan will be put together and carried out to ensure effective mold remediation of your Ravenswood home or business.

A Few Mold Facts

• Mold is essentially everywhere, both inside and outside.
• Mold spores are microscopic airborne particles that can enter your home through doors, windows and even on your clothing in a similar manner that pollen can.
• Mold spores grow in moisture. Colonies can spread when exposed to water.
• Mold colonies are what produce the toxins that become harmful to humans and animals.
• Mold often has a strong, musty odor. That odor is what often points homeowners to suspecting mold issues.
• Higher-than-normal humidity in the home is enough to support the growth of a colony. It’s best to keep indoor humidity below 45%.

Understanding SERVPRO’s Mold Remediation Process

Every mold remediation scenario is a little different, requiring a unique solution, but the overall process of cleanup can be broken down into the following basic steps.

1. Inspection of the Property

Before any mold remediation plans begin, an inspection from a certified Environmentalist must inspect your property before SERVPRO of Ravenswood can come in.   A number of technologies are used to detect colonies and water sources. The inspection will include a remediation plan of action, of which our technicians work from to properly clean the area affected by mold to your Ravenswood commercial business.

1. Addressing the Water Source

At the beginning of the mold remediation process, the first thing that will need to be addressed is the source of moisture that gives a colony its fuel. If it isn’t, there is a good chance it will come back.

1. Containment

The mold will be contained through several methods to prevent spores from spreading during remediation. HVAC systems and fans will also remain off to keep them from spreading mold as well.

1. Air Filtration

Our trained team will come armed with specialized air filtration units designed to catch even the smallest spores from the air. They also contain powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacs to keep the spores from escaping during the mold remediation.

1. Removing Captured Mold and Mold Infected Materials

Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments are also used in mold remediation to kill off the colonies and help keep them from reforming. Porous items like drywall and carpeting may need to be removed completely if the level of mold is especially heavy.

1. Cleaning House

After containment and removal, the team will clean all furniture, curtains, clothing, and decorative items affected but not excessively. Several mold specific cleaning techniques will be used to sanitize everything, and special fogging equipment will remove odors and deodorize the areas.

1. Final Rebuild

Rebuild will be completed to replace any drywall, subflooring, carpet and more that had to be removed for the mold remediation.

Our Goal

After a water disaster, the ultimate goal for SERVPRO of Ravenswood is to leave your Ravenswood commercial business mold free and put back together "Like it never even happened." Call us today for your Free consultation, 773-878-5200.

Fire Damage Cleanup at your Chicago Home, School or Business

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

Fires are devastating, but the fire damage cleanup Chicago does not have to be. Not only do the flames themselves tear through a Chicago home, business or school, but the chaos created in the act of putting them out piles on. Consequently, there is a vast range of damage left in the wake that will probably include extensive smoke and water damage too.

Although each fire and the aftermath it brings may require individualized solutions to repair, the overall process of fire damage repair can be broken down into 7 basic steps:

Making the Call

The fire damage repair process starts when you make the call. The SERVPRO of Ravenswood is staffed around the clock, so you’ll be able to reach a trained professional as soon as the need arises. Each representative knows what questions to ask to dispatch our team to your Chicago home or business to get to work.

Inspection and Assessment

The first thing the SERVPRO of Ravenswood team will do is thoroughly inspect and test each area of the home to determine the range of the fire, smoke, soot and other damage. They will take the time to check every area for the exact damage received, making complete notes as they go. These notes will be the building blocks to create your individual plan of action for your fire damage repair.

Securing the Property Against More Damage

Fires often compromise the walls, roof, and windows of a home, leaving the home, school or business exposed to outside elements. To help maintain security and to protect against additional damage the our SERVPRO of Ravenswood team will tarp the roof and board-up any holes in the exterior walls and windows.

Water Removal as Required

Since fires are typically fought with a deluge of water, you can count on water remediation Chicago being a part of the fire damage repair process. From extraction to dehumidifiers and air movers, our team will remove excess water and help prevent any potential secondary damage.

Preliminary Clean-up for Fire Damage Repair

Smoke and soot removal process requires specialized equipment and techniques to ensure a thorough elimination of the residue from every surface of the home including walls, ceilings, doors and more.

Final Clean-up and Sanitizing

After the smoke and soot are eliminated, our SERVPRO of Ravenswood team will continue the Chicago home, school or business fire damage repair procedure by cleaning all restorable items and structures of the house. A variety of cleaning techniques are used to help restore your contents to a pre-fire state.

These techniques include the use of air scrubbers and fogging machines to eliminate air born odors and other contaminants

Repair

Finally, repair may begin with various contractors to replace any drywall, paint, carpet, etc. to your Chicago post-fire damage clean home, school or business.

Trust SERVPRO of Ravenswood to Handle Fire Damage Cleanup

At SERVPRO, our teams are specialists in fire damage repair. Our goal is to get you back to pre-fire conditions quickly and safely so you can go on living your life "Like it never even happened." Call us at 773-878-5200 for your free inspection; www.SERVPROravenswood.com

Fire Damage Restoration Chicago

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Chicago fires are devastating to your commercial property and once the fire department has done their duty, it’s time for SERVPRO of Ravenswood to do theirs.  To be as proactive as possible, your first call after 911 should be to our 24 Hour Dispatch Center at 773-878-5200.  Our professionals will ask the right questions to determine which of our skilled teams is best qualified to handle your Chicago fire damage restoration needs for your business.

While you are waiting for the fire damage restoration team to arrive your immediate focus should be safety for you and your staff.  If you aren’t sure if the building is safe to be in, its best to err on the side of caution and not reenter the structure until it can be assessed by a professional.

If you do enter the building, here are some other things to be aware of before fire damage restoration process gets started.

What You Can Do Before Fire Damage Restoration Begins

• Electrical hazards are very possible, be careful.
• Slip and fall hazards are also very possible.
• Cover air registers with a double layer of cheesecloth.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Put clean towels or old sheets on high traffic areas of carpet, rugs and upholstered areas.
• Limit your movements, so you don’t deeply embed soot into the carpet and other fabrics.
• Keep your hands clean, so you don’t add to the number of items that need to be cleaned.
• If the power is off, take all food and drinks out of the fridge and freezer, leaving the doors propped open.
• Throw out all canned and packaged foods or drinks that were stored near the fire or water.
• Wash your plants on both sides of leaves and completely around the stems and stalks.

What You Should NOT Do Before Fire Damage Restoration Begins

• Soaked materials can be extremely heavy. If you decide to move soaked items around, do so with care.
• Don't try to do any cleaning yourself. This includes not scrubbing walls or shampooing carpets or upholstery.
• Don't do anything with electrical appliances that were exposed to the fire or water until you’ve consulted an authorized repair professional.
• Don't turn on ceiling lights or fan if the ceiling is wet until the wiring can be inspected.
• Don't have any clothing cleaned through standard methods, including dry cleaning. Smoke odors need to be specially treated to prevent permanently setting the odor into the fabrics.

Beginning the SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration Process

When your SERVPRO of Ravenswood trained technicians arrive, two initial tasks will take place.  One, a full assessment will be made as to what needs to be done. Two, damage by fire and water can create areas of exposure.  Steps will be taken to secure areas that have been affected.

The Final Stage of the Fire Damage Restoration Process

Chicago fire restoration is actually the final step of the fire damage restoration process. After extensive water remediation and specialized cleaning to remove smoke, soot and other fire damage, the restoring of your home to its pre-fire condition is our end goal. Restoration tasks may include:

• Building Services and Reconstruction
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Drywall Removal and Installation
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• Tile Floor Repair
• Painting

SERVPRO of Ravenswood professionals can simplify the commercial fire damage restoration process for your business in Chicago by taking care of the damage mitigation and the restoration process. Only needing to work with one qualified company during this entire process will help keep costs down, and be less stressful overall.  Contact us 24/7/365 for your free inspection today!

Biohazard Cleaning Ravenswood

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

Our trained technicians utilizing protective gear.

Exposure to different chemical and biological contaminants can be a serious health risk and have dire consequences. In fact, failure to correctly remove biohazard substances Ravenswood can lead to extremely unhealthy and even dangerous environments. That is why SERVPRO of Ravenswood, a biohazard cleaning company, should be called in to safely clean and dispose of anything that is considered to be a biohazard.

What is a biohazard? A biohazard is an organism or one of its byproducts that can be harmful or even potentially harmful to a person. Here are different types of biohazard cleanup services SERVPRO of Ravenswood can service:

• Sewage backups
• Crime scene residues
• Suicide/death accidents
• Homicide cleanups
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup
• Meth lab cleanup

While most people believe that a commercial cleaning product will be able to clean the biohazard thoroughly, there is actually no way to be 100% positive if the area that was affected has been properly disinfected. This is why a SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s specially trained biohazard cleaning technicians should be used. We are able to employ highly effective cleaning methods to the affected area and ensure that the site is safe.

It is very important that any biohazards Ravenswood is handled by a professional. While most people think that a biohazardous material can only be in a hospital or some sort of health care setting, they actually occur anywhere.

The most common scenario for biohazardous contamination would be a sewage backup. When you have a sewage backup, it is nasty and can be extremely smelly. Since it is sewage water that is usually full of urine, feces and other contaminants, harmful microorganisms can be introduced into the structure. The best plan of action a biohazard cleanup specialist can do, is to remove all the sewage and contaminants and make sure that the entire area has been properly cleaned, disinfected and deodorized.

The second most common biohazard scenario is from bloodborne pathogens. This can range from bodily fluids, blood, tissue or any other type of pathogenic substance. All these types of bloodborne pathogens can be a result of an accident, crime, trauma or even death. Again, a certified specialist should be called in to clean the area, disinfect the area, deodorize as well.

How will a biohazard technician cleanup a biohazard scenario Ravenswood? While there are OSHA and health regulation standards, the general process is to clean the area, disinfect the area, and finally deodorize the area.

When the scene is being cleaned, all traces of biological material, blood, chemicals, and dirt are removed from the area. Any personal property that is unable to be remediated becomes medical waste and is then disposed of.

The scene is then disinfected. A disinfectant spray is used on all surfaces and then the scene is wiped manually for a second time. Adenosine triphosphate fluorescence testing is then used to test the area to verify sanitation.

The final step is then to deodorize the scene to eliminate the possibility of any types of odors. Click here for additional tips.

Any biohazard scenario Ravenswood has the potential to be a health hazard. By utilizing SERVPRO of Ravenswood for biohazard cleaning services, you will be able to make sure that all possibilities of this are eliminated, and the area will become usable once again. Call today for immediate service; 773-878-5200.

Commercial Mold Removal Lincoln Square

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

This began in a corner and spread underneath the entire carpet

Why do I have mold on my premises?

Mold in a commercial property Lincoln Square can be caused by water damage or water intrusion from various sources such as a roof, window or plumbing leaks. The humidity caused by the presence of moisture combined with the warmth and poor ventilation in a property gives mold the perfect conditions to develop, and it can spread quickly if left unchecked. This can cause damage to internal structures, damage to products in storage and is also a serious health risk for you, your customers and your staff.

Should I Clean Mold Myself?

It may be tempting to clean the mold off of surfaces yourself, however, this will only remove the surface mold. Although an area may look clean of mold Lincoln Square the root cause of the infestation and there will be spores within the surface that you will not be able to reach with household cleaning items. The spores that are left will continue to multiply and grow and the surface growth will soon be visible again. A few things you can do in the case of a mold infestation are:

• Turn off your HVAC system if you have one
• Make sure that movement in the area is limited to prevent spores from transferring elsewhere
• Do not touch or disturb the affected areas
• Make sure that you vacate the property

What Will a Mold Removal Team do?

If you have a mold infestation on your premises, you should call the SERVPRO of Ravenswood expert mold removal team as soon as possible. They will be able to determine the cause of the mold growth and remove all spores from the property ensuring that it is fully eliminated.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood team will carry out a preliminary assessment of the problem to ascertain the severity of the infestation and the underlying cause. There is a protocol we must follow to properly address the severity of the damage. The first step is to contact a certified Environmentalist who can test the area and report the specifics of the spore counts, the risks and the step-by-step remediation. S/He will then ensure that there is no cross contamination within the premises.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is trained to perform the step-by-step remediation, Lincoln Square commercial property managers, provided by the Environmentalist. Mold isn’t always visible to the human eye so our experts will use special equipment to clean areas that are affected or that have high moisture levels that will encourage future mold growth.

Once the assessment and containment of the mold are complete, SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s team will then remove the mold at the source ensuring that there are no mold spores present within the premises to safeguard against further infestation. Finally, the team will remove the underlying cause of the infestation by repairing the affected area to stop the further intrusion of water.

If left untreated Lincoln Square mold can cause serious structural damage to your commercial property such as brickwork and drywall which could lead to more serious issues that will take longer and cost more to correct in addition to the loss of business while the premises are being treated and repaired. Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood today at 773-878-5200 for a consultation.

Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration Edgewater

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

Storm Team Is Faster To Any Size Disaster

Anybody in Edgewater who has ever experienced a storm or flood knows about how devastating the damage can be. Action should immediately be taken for the cleanup and restoration that follows. With the amount of damage that can occur, SERVPRO of Ravenswood professionals are storm damage cleanup and restoration experts & should be called, as we have the knowledge, the tools and the ability to help you during this troubling time.

First thing is first when it comes to storms and floods. Safety first! Always protect you, your family, friends, and anybody who needs help. These can be tough times for all involved.

After the storm has cleared and it has been reported by the appropriate authorities that the conditions are once again safe, should you start your storm damage cleanup and restoration. Even though the storm has passed, mind your safety. Reports have shown that most injuries actually come after the storm during careless cleanup efforts.

When it comes to storm damage cleanup and restoration Edgewater, there are four steps to take. While SERVPRO of Ravenswood is able to make the entire experience much easier, the same four steps are always going to be utilized.

The first step is to clear away any brush or debris that may be dangerous or a threat to your home. Examine the outside area around your home or business and take note of any possible safety hazards. These may include; low hanging branches, debris, fallen trees, etc. Hire the appropriate help to eliminate most of the trees, branches, and shrubs that will need to be removed. This step is always advised first, as it can make cleanup and restoration of your home or business much easier.

The next step is to assess any damages to your home. Whether you can make the repairs to the damages yourself and not require SERVPRO of Ravenswood to do so, make sure that you are able to complete the project and have all the right tools. The last thing you want to do in a situation like this is to take on a project that will put you in danger.

Before moving into the home or business to examine the damages, be sure that the exterior of the house is sound. Make sure to check for any broken windows, if there is any roof or wall damage or if any debris have fallen and compromised the stability of your home or business. Our technicians can perform such duties should you choose not to do these tedious tasks yourself.

Once the outside has been examined, it’s time to move into your Edgewater home or business. Note any damages that may have occurred. One of the main things to pay attention to would be flooding. Most storms come with water damage and that water needs to go somewhere.

Once the yard house and inside of the house have been examined, it’s time to get to work. While a storm damage and restoration specialist SERVPRO of Ravenswood will help clean, repair and restore any damages, it is ultimately up to you and how you would like to proceed. Just be sure to plan ahead in case another storm is to come your way. Contact Donna at 773-878-5200 for a free consultation on creating an emergency contingency plan for your business or property.

Vandalism and Graffiti Cleanup Albany Park

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

Broken windows? We can board them up!

When vandalism and graffiti happens in your neighborhood, Albany Park, it can be very upsetting and costly. Whether it is a minor prank or mass destruction of a home or business, it needs to be addressed in a timely manner. Even simple acts of vandalism such as breaking a window can have huge damage implications. Say the window is broken during a rainstorm. Now, besides just a broken window, there is also the risk of water and mold damage inside. That is why whenever there is a form of vandalism, it is good to know that SERVPRO of Ravenswood is nearby and prepared at any time of day, or night, to contact for quick vandalism and graffiti cleanup.

Another effect of vandalism and graffiti are the extra cost to get them cleaned up and fixed. No matter where vandalism or graffiti happens in Albany Park, the cost for cleanup and repair may not be covered by your insurance policy. Call your agent to inquire.

So how can you help protect your property from vandalism and graffiti, or even assist with catching the culprits behind the damage?

Some well-placed security cameras will go a long way to help prevent any further vandalism. Not many people that are about to cause damage to a property like to be caught on camera. So if they see that they are under surveillance, they will often times move on to another house or business. This is unfortunate as well, but at least your house or business will now be protected. Also, catching the vandals on camera will help provide local law enforcement helpful information. Investing in a security camera system may help not only help your home or business, Albany Park, but also your community.

Of course this is not a sure method of vandalism prevention, even with a security system installed at your home or business, unfortunately vandalism and graffiti can still happen. If this is the case, it is best to contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood a vandalism and graffiti cleanup specialist to come in and take care of the damage. We will be act quickly to remove any graffiti and vandalism that has occurred. Even if the graffiti is located on a walkway, wood, glass window, car, garages, driveways or anywhere else, we will have the right tools and the right knowledge to get the situation fixed immediately.

No matter how unfortunate it is to have vandalism and graffiti happen, it does happen. By utilizing simple security precautions such as a security camera system, looking out for other neighbors or businesses and just being aware of what is going on in the neighborhood; Albany Park residents and businesses will be able to help limit the occurrence of a vandalism or graffiti attack from happening to your home or business. If vandalism does happen Albany Park, remember to contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood at 773-878-5200 as quickly as possible, so that we will be get the vandalism cleaned up and the graffiti cleaned off.

Sewage Cleanup and Restoration Northcenter

3/15/2018 (Permalink)

Sewage backup fail, damage leading to adjacent room.

While not all too common, Northcenter residents & property managers, sewage backups can be quite nasty and should be considered a type of emergency. This is because the water in a sewage backup may have bacteria, viruses, feces and other waste materials in it.

That is why when sewage cleanup and restoration are required; it is best to go to a certified sewage cleanup and restoration specialist– SERVPRO of Ravenswood. They will be able to safely clean and remove contaminants and restore any damages that may have been sustained during the sewage backup.

It is not advised to do sewage cleanup yourself, as there are risks to health associated with sewage. It is no big secret that sewage usually contains some sort of feces or urine. This causes the sewage water to contain various types of allergens and pathogens that can be extremely harmful to a person’s health.

Northcenter residents & property managers, anybody who comes into contact with the sewage backup is at great risk of acquiring illness. This does not just include the general public. It also includes the sewage cleanup and restoration specialists – SERVPRO of Ravenswood - who will be cleaning the sewage, disinfecting the area and restoring anything that was damaged. During any stage of the sewage cleanup and restoration process, there is a real threat of contracting some sort of bacterial, fungal, viral or parasitic illness.

While the possibility of contracting some sort of illness during the sewage cleanup and restoration process is very high, there are different types of contaminated water related to sewage backups; examples are:

• When of water is considered to be clean water to the common eye. This is water that comes from a source that has not been contaminated. This may include a broken water pipe or leaky sink faucet. This water is fresh and has not yet been contaminated by anything. However, if this is left untreated, it has the possibility to turn into contaminated water, so must be addressed immediately.
• When water appears gray. This may be contaminated in some sense and has the possibility to cause illness or discomfort. Some examples of this kind of water could be water from a leaky washing machine or dishwasher, soapy water or dirty dishwater. This water more than likely contains viruses and bacteria and also needs to be addressed immediately. If not addressed, it can quickly evolve into the third and final category of water.
• When is water is black. This water is extremely contaminated and will cause severe illness and even death if not handled correctly or ingested. Water like this may be contaminated with harsh chemicals, microbes, and untreated sewage.

No matter which level of sewage backup you experience, Northcenter residents & property managers , it is highly advised to have a sewage backup and restoration professional – SERVPRO of Ravenswood - come out and handle the situation. We will be able to clean and dispose of the contaminated water and restore any damages that occurred during the sewage backup. Call today and schedule your FREE inspection; 773-878-5200.

Mold Remediation Ravenswood Chicago

3/9/2018 (Permalink)

Small spots on an exterior wall lead to large mold spores behind the wall.

There is no place to hide when it comes to mold Ravenswood, Chicago. Whether it is a home or business, understanding there is always the chance that it may catch a mold infestation with any new introduction of moisture. Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.

When you think that mold may be present in your home or business, the first step is to call a certified environmentalist immediately. They will be able to test for and identify if mold is present and what type of mold it its.

If you can already see the mold, you probably don’t need to waste any money pretesting, as the mold is already present. When this is the situation, the entire mold infested area simply needs to be removed.

There are several steps to successful mold remediation process, once certified by an Environmentalist:

• Call an Environmentalist.

• Contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood to remove the mold; 773-878-5200

• Free Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

• Mold Containment

• Air Filtration

• Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

• Cleaning Contents and Belongings

• Restoration

These steps apply to all types and colors of mold and when done correctly by a mold remediation specialist such as SERVPRO of Ravenswood, can save your house or building. By controlling the mold growth and removing the source, there will be no need to take a wrecking ball to the building. Just be sure to enlist the services of SERVPRO’s trained professionals to make sure that all the mold is removed, as well as the air cleaned. Any missed mold can and will eventually spread, and you will be back to square number one.

Ravenswood Chicago mold can spread quickly and become a serious health problem if left untreated. If mold is spotted or suspected, the best thing that can be done is to contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood at 773-878-5200. They will be able to help by containing and eliminating the mold, repair the source of the mold, as well as disinfect the area and air where the mold was present.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration Albany Park Chicago  

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

High meter reading for a large water loss at a pristine hotel.

If you have a commercial building in Albany Park, Horner Park or Irving Park that has had water damage due to burst pipes or flooding time is of the essence. You don’t want to lose business due to restoration work, however, delaying the work or doing this yourself improperly could mean you lose a lot more time and money for your business in the long run.

So what do you do in the event of a burst pipe or flood? Firstly if possible and safe to do so turn off the water supply to prevent further water entering the premises, but be aware that with water damage comes other safety risks such as electrical items being in contact with water, if in doubt stay out.

Next, you should call SERVPRO of Ravenswood at 773-878-522.  Our specialist team will arrive within 24-48 hours to ensure that the damage does not worsen and cause more problems. We have specialized equipment that can sense areas with elevated water and moisture levels so we can ensure that all areas are treated and all areas where water has penetrated to ensure that they are properly dried out this includes flooring, both carpeted and wooden, wallpaper and the drywall itself.

Levels of Water Damage

There are three types, and two levels of water damage that you should be aware of, primary and secondary. Primary water damage is the areas of your property that have become wet or damp as a result of water intrusion and is not always visible to the naked eye. Secondary damage is moisture damage where an area that has been left untreated or has not been properly treated, results in drywall disintegrating, wooden flooring that is warped or split and mold growth can begin which also has a strong smell which can further damage furnishings. SERVPRO of Ravenswood will provide a full inspection to help identify the type of damage your building endured. 

What do Commercial Water Damage Restoration companies do?

Whether your business is in Albany Park, Horner Park or Irving Park our professionally trained SERVPRO of Ravenswood team will assess the premises and identify the root cause of the water damage then, mitigate the water to prevent further damage. They will then extract as much water from the affected areas as possible. This will be followed by drying and dehumidifying the area using a combination of specialty equipment to ensure that the moisture readings are back at acceptable levels. Finally, they will clean and treat the area to protect your premises from the development of contaminants which may be prone to cause serious health and safety concerns for you, your employees and your customers.

While hiring the SERVPRO of Ravenswood cleanup and restoration team in Albany Park, Horner Park or Irving Park may seem costly it will save you money in the long run. If the primary damage is mitigated quickly and properly, then secondary damage cannot occur and this will save you money down the line as secondary water damage is more costly to repair both in terms of the cost of the repairs and the time it will take to complete the restoration which may prevent you from conducting business at the property.

Hoarder Cleanup Tips Edgewater

2/22/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood technicians bagged waste that was not placed in trashcans initially.

Hoarding is a serious condition that can easily lead to injury and illness if not dealt with immediately. That is why hoarders residing in Edgewater, Rogers Park and Andersonville should enlist hoarding help cleanup specialist, SERVPRO of Ravenswood, to assist them de-clutter their home. But even before a professional hoarder cleanup crew like SERVPRO of Ravenswood comes in, there are several different things that you can do to help get the process started.

Here are 5 simple and practical tips from hoarding help that will put you on the right track to finding the solution for this growing problem of yours, which is hoarding. These tips will help you not just to simplify what you are going through, but will also greatly lessen the amount of stress of having to do something you don’t want to be doing anyway; cleaning and getting rid of waste that you see as treasures. However, by following these simple tips, it will help to make this experience less stressful, more enjoyable, and will help to prevent this situation from happening again.

The first thing that hoarders can do is to throw out more waste. Although this sounds like something that anybody can do, it actually is not. With hoarding, one becomes attached to everything, even waste. However, if you don’t stay on top of getting rid of waste, it can quickly accumulate, and this clutter can easily start to take over the space in your house.

Trashcan Placement

One simple trick to help get rid of waste in a hoarder’s house is to put trashcans all over the residence. Have a trashcan in the bedrooms, kitchen, garage, bathrooms and every other room as well. This way, you are more likely to put the waste in the garbage, as oppose to dropping it on the floor or even throwing it in a pile in the corner. There are even smaller trashcans available that will be easier to empty, and this will eliminate any possibility of quickly growing an overwhelming pile of waste.

Vacuuming

Next, be sure to vacuum on a weekly basis. Whether you need to vacuum the entire house room by room or vacuum a little bit of the house each day, by doing weekly vacuuming, you will help to keep the house clean and tidy. And if for whatever reason you feel like there is a lot of clutter, simply vacuum again.

When it comes to hoarding, some people will even go as far as to vacuum their furniture. The reasoning behind vacuuming your furniture is that most hoarders usually don’t vacuum very often. So when the vacuum is out, there is no time like the present to clean something that probably won’t be getting cleaned again for a really long time.

Dusting

Now that we’ve thrown out our waste and vacuumed, it’s time to do some dusting. Dusting is the perfect way to help things to look amazing, as well as reduce any dirt, grime and allergens that may be floating around your home. Especially in the case of hoarders, spider-webs can easily pop up everywhere. To help prevent this, simply grab a duster and dust the cobwebs off the walls and ceilings. Plus, this has the added benefit of making sure your house isn’t overrun with unwelcome bugs.

You may be surprised how even a quick little dusting can clean up so much dirt and dust in a hoarders house. This is especially true, Edgewater, Rogers Park and Andersonville residents, for a hoarder house.

Doing the Dishes

Next is to do the dishes. Chances are, if you do dishes immediately after using them, they will actually get done. However, by waiting to do the dishes until the sink finally fills up, you are less likely to get the daunting task done. What sounds better? Doing the dishes from one meal or doing the dishes that overflow from the sink and spill onto the countertop and stove. By doing the dishes immediately after using them, you make a daunting task much more manageable.

Most people who hoard will find that washing a few dishes at a time is not a problem at all. But when the start to stack up, it becomes a chore that nobody wants to deal with and ‘can be done later.’

Everything Has a Place

The final tip to help with hoarding cleanup is to simply put it away. That’s it. Just put it away. Hoarders start to get into trouble when they stop putting things away and leave everything sitting out. But as silly as it sounds, by putting stuff away it will make a huge difference in any hoarder’s life. Now there are going to be times when you forget to put stuff away. That happens and is no big deal. However, the more you practice it, the easier it will become. Plus, the more you do it, the better you will become at it and the less cluttered you will be. This will also make the rest of the clutter that much more manageable.

Utilizing the ‘put it away’ technique will also help to give you a boost in confidence. It will make you feel good about yourself. When you do put stuff away, it’s like you just conquered a mountain and will have a sense of accomplishment that will come over you. Plus, when you need to use something again, you can find it because it will actually be where it is supposed to be.

There are many different stages of hoarding. As tough as it can be, when you have the right tools and advice, you will be able to overcome even the most severe of cases. That is why hoarding cleanup is so important. When things are left to accumulate, the task of cleaning and organizing become scarier and scarier. However, by following the simple ideas of throwing out the waste, doing a weekly vacuum of your home, dusting and keeping the spider-webs away, doing the dishes immediately after using them and putting things away when they are done being used, you will have helped to keep clutter out of the home. But for whatever reason, residents of Edgewater, Rogers Park and Andersonville, the clutter and hoarding does become a little too much and more than you can handle, it is always a great idea to seek out a hoarding clean up specialist at SERVPRO of Ravenswood, who will be able to help you with your problem. Call today for your free estimate; 773-878-5200, or request help online at http://www.SERVPROravenswood.com/fnol.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Lincoln Square Chicago

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Restaurant kitchen fire

If you have a commercial building in Lincoln Square, Ravenswood or Northcenter that has been damaged by fire, it can be hard to know what to do once the fire has been put out. Not only will the premises be damaged by the fire, but the property may also have suffered water damage from the firefighting team and or sprinkler systems efforts to stop the fire. Other damage to your property may include:

• Discoloration of surfaces
• Corrosion (particularly of porous material)
• Soot damage
• Smoke damage
• Structural weakness or damage

Can I clean the property myself?

Firstly if you must enter the premises ensure that you know it is safe to enter but do not be tempted to try and start cleaning the property yourself. Not only could this be hazardous to you, without specialist equipment and materials you could end up causing more damage which can add to the restoration costs further down the line. If at all possible try to limit the amount of movement within the premises to ensure the minimum amount of soot and ash being entrenched in soft furnishings and carpets which may render them unsalvageable.

The best thing to do is to call our specially trained team who will ask you a few questions to ascertain the extent of your damage and find the best solution to restore your fire-damaged premises. We will then send our expert team of fire damage restorers out to inspect the fire damage and carry out an in-depth assessment. From this, we will decide the best plan of action to restore your premises.

What do Commercial Fire Damage Restoration companies do?

Whether your business is in Lincoln Square, Ravenswood or Northcenter fire damage is devastating and can cause extensive damage to windows, walls, and roofs. This means that it is imperative that your property is properly protected from the elements while the work is taking place. SERVPRO of Ravenswood will make sure that all openings to the outside are boarded and covered up as well as covering any holes in the roof of your premises.

If your premises are also water damaged, then SERVPRO of Ravenswood will use their specialized equipment to remove all water and moisture from your property using a combination of pumps and dehumidifying units to rid the premises of water before secondary water damage causes further issues.

Once we are sure that there is an acceptable moisture level in the property SERVPRO of Ravenswood will get to work removing the damage to the surfaces of the property removing all soot and smoke damage. Once this is completed, we can then clean and sanitize all recoverable items to pre-fire damaged conditions where possible using both wet and dry-cleaning methods and give advice where an item is beyond repair. During this process, SERVPRO of Ravenswood will use industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment to remove any lingering odors caused by the fire. If we can save and restore an item, we will, which will save you paying for costly replacements.

Finally, we will start the full restoration process of your commercial premises involving minor repair, which can include replacing damaged drywall, painting and replacing carpet or flooring and also major repair works such as repairing damaged walls and roofs. Remember, it does not matter if your business is in in Lincoln Square, Ravenswood or Northcenter, once SERVPRO of Ravenswood has completed the restoration, your commercial property will be free of any damage and clean ready for use again. Call us at 773-878-5200, or submit your request online HERE.

Flood Damage Restoration North Park

1/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood office flood due to pipe break!

It’s raining, it’s pouring, SERVPRO is not snoring!  During these treacherous cold months, homes and businesses in North Park and beyond are feeling the damage.  Old pipes cannot take the pressure and burst without notice.  But do not fret, SERVPRO of Ravenswood is ready to help.  It is critical to deal with flood or water damage as soon as it occurs. Waiting for even a few hours can cause unnecessary water damage that could be irreversible. When objects become waterlogged and are left to sit, they can develop foul smells, and even become infested with mold. Working with our professional team of flood damage and restoration experts will ensure your property is cleaned and restored quickly. The sooner you call us, the sooner we can begin cleaning up after you’ve experienced a flood. 773-878-5200

Types of Water Damage

There are several types of flooding and water damage that we can help with; these include:

• Flood damage from storms or weather
• Flood damage from water pipes bursting
• Sewer line backup and flooding into homes or commercial properties
• Appliance leaks and malfunctions
• Flood or water damage from firefighting efforts
• Toilet leaks, bathtubs, and more

We specialize in cleaning up after water and flood damage. Regardless of the kind of water damage your home or commercial space has undergone, contact us to discuss how we can help you restore and repair your property quickly and safely.

Our Clean-up Process

When you call our flood damage and restoration team in North Park, we’ll send a highly trained restoration technician to your home or commercial property to assess the damage and provide a plan for clean up and restoration. Our technicians and professional team will remove the water from the property or damaged areas of your property, and begin the drying and dehumidification process. We use state-of-the-art industrial drying machines that enable us to quickly and easily clear your home or office of unwanted and potentially dangerous water. As part of the restoration process, we work to save as much of the original materials and surfaces as possible. Sometimes, though, it is essential to remove severely damaged surfaces, such as drywall, and flooring to reduce the risk of mold and odor developing.  We’ll then clean and sanitize your property and begin restoring your home or office space so that you can’t even tell there was a flood.

Our Technicians are Highly Trained

We work with the best flood damage and restoration experts in the North Park area. Our team is trained to handle minimal flood damage as well as devastating flood damage. We’ve seen it all. No job is too big or too small for our flood damage and restoration team. We know that dealing with property damage can be overwhelming, and we work with compassion and respect for your property and belongings to restore it to its normal state.

Contact Us Today

If you have experienced flood or water damage in your home or commercial property, contact us immediately to begin the cleaning and restoration process. We’ll send a technician out to your property right away to assess the damage. Don’t wait to call. Leaving water to sit for even a short period can increase the risk of bacteria, mold, and other contaminants developing in your home or commercial space. 773-878-5200

Odor Removal and Deodorizer Chicago

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

Whether you just moved into a home with smelly carpets or discovered a sewer backup in your basement in Chicago our highly skilled SERVPRO of Ravenswood odor removal and deodorizer team can quickly turn an unpleasant smell into a fresh scent. We can quickly and easily neutralize smells inside and outside of your home, corporate building and office space. While some odor neutralizing solutions provide temporary relief, our proven odor removal system gets the smell out for good.

What Causes Odors in Homes?

Various factors cause a foul odor to develop in your residence or business. Many people have moved away from installing carpeting in high traffic areas to avoid buildup of dirt and smells. Sometimes it can be difficult to get rid of odors that develop over time, especially in high traffic areas. Not to mention when storms occur and cause the sewers to back up into your home or office. Other odors might be caused by stains or pet accidents that weren't properly cleaned up.  Cat urine is notorious for being difficult to remove from carpets and even concrete. Food or other household products left unattended can develop smells over time as well. Smoking can also cause a home or office to have a foul odor over time. Many people don't realize how offensive odors develop suddenly in their homes, but the truth is that some of these smells evolve and go undetected for a long time, especially where smoking is concerned.

How Can We Help?

The SERVPRO of Ravenswood professionals in your Chicago area can neutralize and get rid of any foul odors you may be experiencing in your home or office. We’ll inspect the premises to identify the source of the smell, and propose a plan for deodorizing and eliminating the unwanted odors. We use environmentally safe products, and ensure that your home or office is left in better shape than we found it. You’ll be glad you called us to eliminate foul odors in your home. We’ll be able to provide you with some feedback about conditions that could be causing the offensive odors, and if necessary, we can facilitate the removal of surfaces, such as countertops, carpets, and flooring that might be holding the scent. If left untreated, the cause of the odor could lead to mold, health concerns and more.

Contact Us Today

If you are living with a foul smell in your home or office, don’t delay in calling us at 773-878-5200 to inspect your premises right away. There could be a problem that is bigger than just a bad smell. For example, you could have damaged sewer lines, water lines, and even eroded structures from issues caused by sewer and water. We’ll conduct a thorough inspection and provide you with solutions that resolve the odor and leave your home or office feeling and smelling clean. If you are tired of living with foul smells that could be making you sick or destroying your home or office, call us today for a free consultation; 773-878-5200.

Yes - We Can Restore Documents

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

Water damaged documents can be salvaged.

In the aftermath of disaster, some of your most valued contents - documents, photographs and books - could be lost forever. As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Ravenswood knows that timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged possessions. With state-of-the-art technology SERVPRO's professionals will help recover your important paper goods before it is too late! Call us for a no-cost estimate, 773-878-5200. 

• Innovative: we use the latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing
• Secure: managed by HIPPA Master-certified technicians, under 24/7 surveillance
• Digital: we use a computerized inventory system for digitizing your documents
• Flexible capacity: we can accommodate large commercial losses or small residential jobs
• Full Service: we offer a range of services including drying, cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing, and deodorization

• paper documents
• books and magazines
• manuscripts and files
• photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
• x-rays
• blueprints and maps
• parchment, and more...

Commercial Air Duct Cleaning in Edgewater

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

Call Today For A Free Estimate

It’s important to keep your heating, ventilation, and air condition (HVAC) units working correctly to prevent the spread of unwanted dust and contaminants at your business. When the ductwork of your HVAC unit becomes clogged or backed up, you might start to notice foul odors coming you can’t get rid of, or find the source of in your home. When it comes to commercial cleaning, our professional technicians can inspect, repair, restore, and replace your HVAC unit so that you can breathe clean, fresh air in your home or office all day long.

Why Should You Have Your HVAC Serviced?

Depending on the age of your HVAC unit, and the quality of the installation related to the ductwork, you might not have to have your air ducts cleaned when we inspect your ductwork. Sometimes, a filter change or tune-up of the unit is all that is necessary. Regardless of the required work, regular inspections should be carried out. In addition to reducing the risk of odors and increasing air quality, having your HVAC unit serviced means that it is likely to last longer, and function appropriately for many years to come. Also, some insurance policies require regular inspection of HVAC units to reduce the risk of fire, damage, or other emergency situations related to the HVAC system itself. We can save you time, money, and help you avoid disaster when it comes to the air quality in your home or office.

Benefits of HVAC

HVAC units are very beneficial for homes and office space. Because they are 3-in-1 systems consisting of heating elements, ventilation systems, and air conditioning units, there is no need to have more than one piece of equipment on your property. While some units are separate, the majority of them are combined. Combined units mean easy cleaning and maintenance as well. HVAC units improve air quality in your home or office and provide a high return on your investment because they provide you with cleaner air to breathe. They'll keep you warm during the colder months, and cool during the heat of summer. Ventilation systems will ensure moisture leaves your home, and that humidity is controlled as well. With equipment that does so much, it's important to make sure it's functioning correctly.

Contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood Today

If you are an Edgewater business owner and you are having trouble with your HVAC unit, contact our offices today to schedule you no-cost consultation; 773-878-5200. We’ll send a qualified and knowledgeable air duct technician to inspect your HVAC unit, and to determine the source of any problems you might be having related to air quality, air exchange, ventilation, heating or cooling. Our commercial cleaning services can help restore function to your HVAC unit, help eliminate foul odors in the air and throughout your home or office, and help reduce the risk of contaminants, such as mold or bacteria in your home or office. Avoid unsightly mold and smells by calling us today to schedule a thorough inspection of your HVAC unit.

Trauma/ Crime Scene Cleanup Chicago

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Before picture of a vandalism at a residential home.

When it's time to clean and restore a home, property, office or other structure after a crime or accident has taken place, our professional trauma and crime scene cleanup team is ready to serve. When police have completed their investigation and have processed the scene of an accident or crime, the area should be cleaned quickly and professionally. Removing hazardous materials and other contaminants that could create a health risk or safety issue need to be removed as soon as possible. For trauma and crime scene cleanup in Chicago, call SERVPRO of Ravenswood today; 773-878-5200.

How Can We Help You?

At SERVPRO of Ravenswood our highly trained technicians adhere to the OSHA and EPA protocols to ensure a crime scene or accident scene has returned to a safe environment. Ensuring their safety, and the safety of those around them, we work to remove bloodborne pathogens, chemicals, bodily fluids, tissue remnants, blood, gas and extinguisher residue, and much more. When restoring a private residence, our team will ensure the utmost compassion and concern for your belongings and property. In the event of illegal drug or substance presence, our cleanup crew will ensure chemicals have not transmitted throughout the structure and onto other surfaces. We'll also remove crime scene residue that has been left behind by the crime labs, including fingerprint dust.

Skilled and Professional Technicians

When you call SERVPRO of Ravenswood, your expert trauma and crime scene cleanup crew in Chicago, you’ll be relying on the best in the business. We ensure all of our technicians are trained to federal level standards and are routinely upgrading their restoration and cleanup skills to meet the demands of the market. We maintain excellent working relationships with fire officials, police, and other city workers who strive to keep the city safe. Working to restore a residence or office after a crime or accident is no easy task, but our highly skilled cleanup technicians are up to the challenge.

Helping You Get on With Life

Whether you've been in an accident, or have been involved in a crime, restoring your home, office, or property to its original state is an essential part of the recovery process for many people. While we cannot replace the memories, the damage to your property will pass removal. We take great pride in restoring homes, offices, and property after a crime or accident has occurred. We know it's essential for everyone involved, and for the safety of those around the crime or accident, to rectify the scene as soon as possible.

Work With SERVPRO of Ravenswood

If you require the services of a professional and discreet trauma and crime scene cleanup team, contact our Chicago office today at 773-878-5200. We'll ensure that the scene returns to its natural order, and take great care in cleaning and repairing the damage done as a result of the crime or accident. Don't hesitate to contact us to talk about how we can help your family, organization, or public service organization clean and restore a building, street, or home after a trauma or accident.

Frozen Pipes (Water Damage) Ravenswood

11/16/2017 (Permalink)

Nothing can ruin your day faster than finding out that frozen pipes have burst and caused water damage to your home or business. Many people travel during the winter and return home to find that their pipes have frozen, and let go during the thawing process. With extreme weather conditions, it is not uncommon to hear of pipes freezing and thawing in short order. Pipes freeze when they run along the exterior of homes - often older homes - and become exposed to ongoing cold weather. The temperature starts to affect your water pipes around 20 degrees below Fahrenheit. If left untreated, damaged water pipes can flood bathrooms, basements, kitchens, and even entire homes. As winter clean up experts in Ravenswood, we can help you repair or replace broken pipes and the mess created by those pipes.

How to Avoid Frozen Pipes

If you have an older home, it is important to check for exposed pipes along the exterior or your home, and along the interior walls of your home. If they are left exposed, they are likely to become frozen during colder weather. With constant freezing and thawing, pipes can become weak, so that even when a pipe thaws, it could still break and cause flooding. Contact our office to have your water pipes inspected and adequately insulated to avoid any flooding in the future.

What Kind of Pipes Freeze?

Homeowners may not be aware of all of the pipes hidden in their walls, behind panels, or even outside. Bathroom and kitchen water pipes are usually top of mind because you see those water fixtures every day. Swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and even outdoor hoses are often forgotten about during the cold weather because those items are not in use. Unless they are properly drained and stored, they can freeze and thaw creating damage, and they could even lead to flooding. Indoors, homeowners often forget about hot water tank links, garage water supplies, and pipes that might be running through crawl spaces or in dark areas of their basement. While water lines are not supposed to run through attics, some homeowners install air conditioning units in attics, which could also freeze if installed incorrectly. We'll inspect your home to make sure your pipes are properly insulated and stored so that they last for years to come.

Cold Weather Clean Up in Ravenswood

We specialize in winter storm and weather clean up. If you have water pipes that have become frozen, we can thaw them correctly so that you can have your water up and running again in no time. We can also provide proper insulation for your exposed water pipes so that they don’t freeze again in the future. We’d be happy to inspect your home’s water supply lines, both indoors and outdoors, to make sure you don’t run into trouble in the future. Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to frozen pipes, but if you find yourself the victim of water damage due to frozen pipes, call us right away. Don’t let cold weather stop you from having access to your water supply, and don’t leave your home exposed to possible risks.

Water Damage Restoration Lincoln Park

11/2/2017 (Permalink)

What Is Under The Carpet?

It is critical to deal with water damage as soon as it occurs, to prevent long-term issues. Waiting to deal with water damage could mean that the damage is irreversible. When objects become waterlogged and are left to sit, they can develop foul smells, and even become infested with mold. Working with our professional team, SERVPRO of Ravenswood, Lincoln Park residents and business owners will be assured that your property is cleaned and restored quickly. The sooner you call us (773-878-5200), the sooner we can begin cleaning up the water damage.

Types of Water Damage SERVPRO of Ravenswood Treats

There are several types of watering and water damage that we can remove and restore; these include:

• Water damage from storms or weather
• Water damage from water pipes bursting
• Sewer line backup and water getting into homes or commercial properties
• Appliance leaks and malfunctions
• Water damage from firefighting efforts
• Toilet leaks, bathtubs, and more.

We specialize in cleaning up homes and commercial spaces that have experienced water damage. Regardless of the kind of water damage your home or business space has undergone, contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood (773-878-5200) to discuss how we can help you restore your property quickly and safely.

Our Clean-up Process

Lincoln Park, call our water damage and restoration team today, and we’ll send a highly trained restoration technician to your home or commercial property to assess the damage and provide a plan for clean up and restoration. Our technicians and professional team will:

• Remove the water from the property or damaged areas of your property.
• Begin the drying and dehumidification process. We use state-of-the-art industrial drying machines that enable us to quickly and easily clear your home or office of unwanted and potentially dangerous water.
• Work to save as much of the original materials and surfaces as possible. Sometimes, though, it is essential to remove severely damaged surfaces, such as drywall, and flooring to reduce the risk of mold and odor developing.
• Clean and sanitize your property and begin restoring your home or office space so that you can't even tell there was water.

Our Water Damage Restoration Technicians are Highly Trained

We are the best water damage and restoration experts in the Lincoln Park area. We'll send a highly skilled and professional trained water damage restoration expert to your home or commercial property within hours of your call. Upon inspection and assessment, our experts will be able to provide you with real solutions to restore your property to its pre-flood state. We know dealing with water damage can be difficult, and our technicians will make the process easier and get you back to functioning order as soon as possible.

Contact Us Today

If you have experienced flooding or water damage in your home or commercial property in Lincoln Park, contact us immediately to begin the cleaning and restoration process; 773-878-5200. Leaving water to sit for even a short period can increase the risk of bacteria, mold, and other contaminants developing in your home or commercial space. We’ll send a technician out to your property right away to assess the damage. Don’t wait to call.

Fire Damage Restoration Andersonville

10/27/2017 (Permalink)

This picture is of a fire sourced from a bathroom, that spread throughout the 1st and 2nd floors.

Fires can be extremely destructive. When out of control, they can completely destroy everything in their path, including things that are important to you. They can leave behind negative effects not only on buildings but your emotions as well. In the Andersonville area, many homes and businesses have become victims to fire and smoke damage. These events can be catastrophic and can cause you to feel as if there is no bringing your life back to normal. However, with SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s 24-emergency service, you can be certain that fire damage restoration is easily attainable. SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s professionals specialize in Andersonville neighborhoods if damages occur from fire, water and smoke.

Do not attempt to clean up from disasters on your own. Rather refer to these tips until help arrives. Our professionals possess the expertise and resources to strategically restore your building or structure to its original condition, if not better. Let a professional service take away your stress and confusion. We empathize with you as we are skilled in this arena. We also possess the proper certification and equipment to effectively and thoroughly conduct a full restoration of the property. We carefully treat your space with attention and professionalism. Neighbors of Andersonville, know that our technicians will provide you with helpful tips on protecting and preventing you from future incidents.

Fires can spread rapidly so it is essential to enlist with using a professional restoration service immediately. We can respond quickly and greatly reduce more damage and costs you may have to pay for continued structural damages. Fire damage can also induce other damages such as water, odor and smoke. A skilled technician can help you with restoring damages associated with:

• Offensive Odors
• Fire
• Smoke
• Water
• Upholstery and Fabrics

These situations can accrue even more damage to your building costing you more time and money over time. You have the ability to remedy these issues by contacting a professional disaster recovery team near you; SERVPRO of Ravenswood, 773-878-5200. When you hire a professional company who services the Andersonville area, you can rest easy knowing that you are utilizing an experienced and reputable fire damage restoration business. SERVPRO of Ravenswood helps cleanup and restore spaces to help you get back to “Like it never even happened.” We work to restore, not replace your environment. We want you to return to the space you have always known so you can begin rebuilding at a mental capacity. Do not let disasters such as fires take control of your life. They can be extremely devastating, but it does not mean that you cannot recover from them. Utilize a professional service who specializes in Andersonville.

Don't Let Mold Creep Into Your Surroundings Edgewater

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Mold is not only something that is unsightly, it can lead to potential health risks if left unattended. With just a small water leak or excessive humidity, it can cause mold to form rapidly in any Edgewater home or business. In fact, mold can spread as fast as a 48-hour time span. Health risks mold can evoke are allergies, air irritants or potentially, viral infections. A mold problem can negatively affect your home or business. Without proper remediation, you can potentially lose the structure altogether. Mold infestation should not be taken lightly. This is why at the moment you suspect present mold, enlist in using a professional mold removal service provider such as SERVPRO of Ravenswood. They can effectively inspect your property and assess the proper remedy for your issue.

Mold can easily produce anywhere, inside or outside. Sometimes, it can spread so rapidly, it may seem hopeless to completely remove it. Mold removal requires the use of skilled professionals and equipment, especially in the Edgewater area. They can respond to your property immediately as there are 24-emergency services available. They understand the promptness needed to remedy the rapid growth of mold in the home or business.

Professionals come out to your home or business immediately and begin the removal process of mold before it can continue to spread throughout the building. This immediate response can reduce your risk for increased spreads, damage and costs that can accrue with more restoration processes. In Edgewater, there are multiple locations available to ensure they can serve you in a timely fashion, greatly reducing the spreading of the mold when it is first discovered.

Mold removal is no easy feat. It requires strategic and specific methods and chemicals to effectively remove it and keep it from reforming. Professionals use microbial remediation processes as well as water damage restoration strategies. Then, they finish the process with a specific drying technique to keep the mold from reproducing throughout the area. They complete this process because it helps to prevent water from feeding off the mold, which can lead to more spreads. As they isolate the area, they can help fight the problem at the root of the cause, preventing damaging spreads. Contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood, a professional in Edgewater, today.

The presence of mold should not be taken lightly. Edgewater homes and businesses should take extreme caution when they feel that mold may be present in their structures. The sooner you contact a professional mold removal service, the sooner you will be able to save your building and reduce your health risks. There are many misconceptions when it comes to mold and how damaging it can be. Be sure that you do not try to remedy the situation on your own. Use the services and expertise of a professional to ensure you take care of it as soon as possible and be able to return to your normal life afterward. Edgewater, SERVPRO of Ravenswood professionals will work to restore your space as much and soon as possible. Call 773-878-5200 for your free assessment.

Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup Uptown

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

Don't Do It Yourself - Call the Pros!

Crime scenes can be complex and messy. The proper way to process a crime scene must be done strategically in order to preserve evidence. Once police officials have completely processed a crime scene, the need to hire a professional trauma and crime scene cleanup team would be recommended to properly ensure cleaning and restoring of the area. With health risks associated with blood or toxic particles, Uptown area SERVPRO professionals can effectively remove these elements efficiently.

Uptown business owners and residents, SERVPRO of Ravenswood teams have the expertise, resources and training to safely cleanup crime scenes. Crime scenes can completely alter your space, which may leave you feeling hopeless. Plus, those related to trauma can leave behind many dangerous particles and chemicals that you will want to cleanup in the fastest and best way possible. Our cleanup teams are certified and knowledgeable in OSHA and EPA guidelines. This means they have the ability to restore an unsafe and contaminated environment, allowing you to return home or to your business.

Some common dangers of crime scenes related to trauma include the exposure to:

• Bloodborne pathogens
• Toxic chemicals
• Residues as a result of crime scene chemicals

Leaving these elements behind can greatly increase the chance for more contamination as well as negatively impact your well-being. SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s cleanup services, especially those in the Uptown area, work in the way to ensure that your space is returned to normal following any type of crime scene. Some of the following are typical services that an Uptown crime scene cleanup team may provide: 

• Blood, fluids and other tissue remnants
• Tear gas
• Pepper spray
• Fingerprint powder
• Fire or water damage

Residues left behind by a team of investigators can be toxic if not cleaned up properly. Police officers may dust areas for fingerprints to thoroughly conduct an investigation of the area. Remnants of fingerprint powder and other evidence-gathering chemicals can be harmful to you and your surroundings. If there were injuries or casualties, there may have been blood or fluid spillage. Exposure to blood and bodily fluids can increase your chances of contracting viruses and disease. Say that police seized a lab that was known for producing illegal drugs such as methamphetamine aka meth. These labs are saturated in harmful chemicals whether through touch or inhalation. All of these different scenarios are ones that the professionals at SERVPRO can provide to Uptown residents and businesses, when searching for cleanup service who carry the experience in handling such cases. We will work to sanitize and deodorize the environment, returning it to normal as much as possible.

Crime scenes, especially those involving trauma, can leave behind negative experiences. However, it does not mean that there is no hope in restoring the space back to its original standing. If you are in need of cleanup from a team that experienced and knowledgeable, you should contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood who services the Uptown area; 773-878-5200.  

Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning Roscoe Village

9/14/2017 (Permalink)

Squeezing in to locate the issue Is our business.

Do you feel like the air in your home or business is less than high quality? Air ducts and a lack of HVAC cleaning can be to blame for this. In fact, a non-maintained ventilation system is usually the culprit behind getting good, quality air circulation in any building. This is why you should make it a priority to get your air duct systems maintenance by professionals who serve the Roscoe Village area. Technicians within the Roscoe Village area have the expertise to service your system effectively and efficiently.

Have you had your system for quite some time now? Whether your building is new or old, you should be mindful of your running systems as you would maintain any other appliance in your establishment. Many of the SERVPRO of Ravenswood professionals in the Roscoe Village area highly recommend that you evaluate your air and system to see if you need servicing. If your system has been around for a long time and you have not conducted a thorough HVAC cleaning, there is a chance that your air ducts have begun to accumulate a lot of the following:

• Pollen
• Odors
• Dust
• Contaminants
• Dirt
• Debris

These particles can cause allergies and illness for everyone who breathes the air. Not sure how you can get more quality air? When you hire a professional HVAC cleaning service in Roscoe Village, you can be sure that they will help clear out your air ducts to help circulate more quality air. Plus, this will keep your system running better, longer. Not only does this help you with breathing in better air, but it will save you money over time. Instead of spending money on air purifier systems, take a look at your existing system to see if you need HVAC cleaning for your air ducts. Call us for a free estimate, (773) 878-5200.

It is also important to note that you don’t always necessarily need to clean out your air ducts. A local franchise near Roscoe Village can help to service your system without necessarily needing to conduct a full HVAC cleaning. You can be sure of the following benefits if you regularly service your system:

• Increase your peak energy efficiency
• Remove foul, room odors
• Prevent the growth of mold

The air we breathe in every day is important to our mental and physical well-being. If we allow poor quality air to circulate through our ventilation systems, we place ourselves at a health risk. The maintenance of your air ducts and having regular HVAC cleaning can extend the life of your system and produce better air for inhalation. If you are looking for a provider in the Roscoe Village call SERVPRO of Ravenswood, (773) 878-5200. The sooner you call, the sooner your system will receive the attention it needs.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood Recognizes National Preparedness Month with a Reminder to Home and Business Owners

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

Creating a custom emergency plan that suits your facility needs.

“Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead. You Can.”

Local disaster restoration specialist offers no-cost tools to help property owners prepare a comprehensive emergency readiness plan

September is National Preparedness Month (http://www.ready.gov/September), an annual event sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to raise awareness about the importance of preparing—in advance—for the unexpected. In support of this initiative, Tom Williams, owner of SERVPRO^® of Ravenswood, encourages Chicago property owners to take the following two steps now to protect their family, home, and business in the aftermath of a disaster.

1. Review and update your emergency preparedness plan, including business and life continuity plans. If you don’t yet have a plan, use the tools provided by FEMA to get started.
2. Collect and store time-critical information, like the location of shutoff valves, fire suppression system controls, and emergency contact numbers electronically, where it is immediately available to assist first responders.

Because SERVPRO knows the time to create a disaster readiness plan is before you need it, they have developed the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program to help business owners create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for their facility, at no charge.

“Evacuation plans and emergency supply kits help you survive a disaster, but a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan helps you recover from a disaster,” said Williams. “The most effective response to any emergency is a fast response. That’s why having critical system and contact information at your fingertips is so important. A quick and effective response helps minimize repairs and downtime, helping both businesses and families get back on track in less time, with less stress.”

SERVPRO offers tools for both commercial and residential property owners to help them minimize damage and recover quickly from emergencies. The SERVPRO READY app stores essential contact and property information electronically where it can be accessed with a mobile device in seconds if disaster strikes. Both home and business owners can download the free app at https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp. Local business owners can take an additional preparedness step by designating SERVPRO of Ravenswood as their disaster mitigation and restoration provider. SERVPRO professionals will conduct a no-cost assessment of the facility and assist the owner in completing a comprehensive Emergency READY Profile^® (ERP) and storing that profile in the READY app.

“Rapid response from a disaster cleanup and restoration specialist can help the property owner evaluate options, start the insurance process, and take the right steps from the beginning to bring their property back to normal,” said Williams. “Even in the confusion and panic that often surround a disaster, a property owner or manager using the SERVPRO READY app can reach out for expert help right from the scene, using a cell phone.”

SERVPRO^® of Ravenswood specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO^® of Ravenswood, please contact Tom Williams at (773) 878-5200 or SERVPRO9758@hotmail.com. For more information on SERVPRO^® and the SERVPRO^® Emergency READY Program, please contact Marketing Manager, Donna Bugosh, donna@SERVPROravenswood.com.

About SERVPRO^®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO^® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO^® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Roscoe Village Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration

9/1/2017 (Permalink)

Step 3: Water removal and extraction process

When water wreaks havoc to your home, you need to call someone for water damage cleanup with the expertise and equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-water damage condition. In Roscoe Village, our SERVPRO team will use scientific approaches to water removal and water cleanup that puts an emphasis on monitoring and documenting the drying process from start to finish.

When you call, our representative will lead you through a series of questions that will assist us in responding to your water emergency as quickly and efficiently as possible. Knowing about our process will help you feel confident that your property is in good hands.

Inspection and Water Damage Assessment 

An initial inspection will take place to determine what areas have been affected and the type of water damage your property has sustained. This is a crucial step in the creation of the most efficient plan of action. Each plan of action has the same goal, a successful restoration.

Removal of Water from the Area

Whether it’s hundreds or thousands of gallons of water that need to be removed, our powerful vacuums and pump systems can handle whatever is thrown at them. The pros at SERVPRO in Roscoe Village will begin this process as soon as possible to minimalize additional damage and assist in the prevention of mold growth.

Drying and Dehumidifying 

After the majority of the water has been eliminated, we’ll use specialized equipment to seek out the water that’s harder to remove. SERVPRO uses less intrusive, scientific drying methods in the way of air movers and dehumidifiers to draw the remaining water and moisture from your property.

Cleaning and Sanitizing

Water damage will also harm your other possessions, like clothing, furniture, and other personal items. Your SERVPRO technicians of Roscoe Village are available to clean restorable items using a variety of specialized cleaning techniques. They can also sanitize with antimicrobial treatments and use industrial air scrubbers and fogging tools to remove odors.

Restoration

This is the final step to restore your home or business back to its pre-damage state. The restoration step can include anything from replacing a few drywall panels up to major reconstruction, like rebuilding entire rooms of a home or office. 

Even though every water damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, the general process will stay the same. No matter how large or small the disaster, your SERVPRO professionals in Roscoe Village are ready to handle your water damage cleanup.

Your First Choice for Mold Removal in North Park

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

Don't try this yourself - call the professionals!

When it comes to mold, all homes and businesses are susceptible. Typically, it colonizes when an unsuspecting water source forms, often in the way of a leaky roof, burst plumbing, or other. Since it can take as little as 48 hours to spread and create allergens and other harmful agents that can cause health problems, you want the problem handled fast and efficiently. 

Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and may be accompanied by a variety of poor health symptoms. If you are noticing signs that your home or business has a mold issue, call the professions in North Park to inspect and assess your property. If mold is found, they have the training, equipment, and expertise to handle the situation.

Understanding Mold

The microscopic spores that mold is made up of can be found almost everywhere indoors and outdoors. Despite what some companies advertise, it is impossible to remove all mold completely from a home or business. To understand this better, take into consideration the following facts about mold: 

• Mold is made up of microscopic spores that float in the air. This allows them to enter your home via windows, doors, AC/heating systems, or on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

What is Black Mold?

Stachybotrys chart arum is the type of mold most often referred to as black, or toxic, mold. There has been a lot in the news recently warning about the dangers of black mold that have been alarming and confusing.

Since many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should contact a qualified mold remediation company regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold can exist in the same house or structure.

Why Choose the SERVPRO Professionals of North Park? 

Our professionals are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact them. A fast response lessens the damage and consequently reduces the overall costs of mold removal.

We specialize in water and mold damage restoration. It is the cornerstone of our business. Our team has the training and expertise to safely handle any mold situation, using advanced Mold Remediation Techniques and equipment for successful mold removal.

Commercial Cleaning Services in Rogers Park

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

You have enough to do to keep your business running. You shouldn’t have to find room in your day to deal with the inevitable wear and tear that gradually builds in your office over time. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, call in your SERVPRO professionals in Rogers Park for commercial cleaning. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.

When you call in SERVPRO you’ll be bringing in a quality service that includes these benefits:

• Award-winning training
• Over 40 years’ experience in the industry
• More than 100 exclusive cleaning products

Specialty Commercial Cleaning Services 

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals offer cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. They have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Their cleaning services include the following:

Air Ducts and HVAC: If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating odors, dust, and other contaminants. We routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can, in turn, save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.

Biohazard: Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. We are trained to safely clean and remove biohazardous substances and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

Carpet and Upholstery: Even the highest-quality items can show soiling over time. Protect your investment with cleaning and maintenance of your carpet and upholstery.

Ceilings, Floors, and Walls: Ceiling and wall cleaning should be part of the cleaning maintenance of your business. You should also clean walls before painting so that the primer and paint can adhere properly. Whether you are preparing to paint or just looking for professional cleaning, we can help.

Document Restoration: In the aftermath of a disaster, some of your most valued contents could be lost forever. As a leader in the restoration industry, we know that timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged possessions. With years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, our restoration professionals will help you recover your paper goods before it’s too late.

Drapes and Blinds: SERVPRO excels at cleaning fine fabrics and intricate pieces. Fabrics are carefully inspected and tested to determine which of the System’s five cleaning methods is most appropriate.

Odor Removal: As experts in deodorization, our professionals are trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. These odors can come from a number of sources both inside and outside a structure.

Sewage: Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. Our team has specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.

Trauma and Crime Scene: After the police have finished processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin. Many times, crime and accident scenes have biohazard contaminants that pose a serious health risk. We will respond immediately with protective equipment and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.

Vandalism: Vandalism and graffiti can be very upsetting. It can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed in a timely manner.

No matter what your needs may be, we have a commercial cleaning solution for you. Call us today for more information or to set up an appointment – 773-878-5200.

Flood Damage Restoration in Horner Park

8/7/2017 (Permalink)

Nobody wants to come home to this.

Cleanup emergencies usually don’t occur during regular business hours. In fact, it often happens when you are away from home, welcoming you back to a giant soggy mess.

In Horner Park, knowing who to call for flood damage restoration is just as important as knowing how to dial 911. From standing water in the basement to burst pipes, flood damage can result in tearing out carpeting and hardwood flooring, as well as removing baseboards, drywall, or even demolishing entire kitchens and bathrooms. Having SERVPRO of Ravenswood as your local resource is a luxury you cannot afford to regard. Flood damage can occur from a variety of sources.

Basement Flood Damage 

Though you may think that it can only happen during a bad rain storm, your basement is actually susceptible to flooding at any time from a number of scenarios, here are just a few to be aware of:

• Blocked or failed sewer pipes
• 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

Time is of the essence when dealing with damage that could affect your home’s structure and the health and safety of your family.

 Frozen Pipes Flood Damage 

We all know that water expands as it freezes. In plumbing and radiator systems, this expansion puts tremendous pressure on the metal or plastic pipes.

• Pipes that freeze most frequently are:
• Outdoor hose bibs
• Swimming pool supply lines
• Water sprinkler lines
• Water supply pipes in unheated interior areas
• Pipes that run against exterior walls with little or no insulation

Hidden Damage and Minor Leaks Can Lead to Major Problems

Water damage can also be hidden from view. A little water stain can lead to larger issues. A small spot on the wall can be the tip of the iceberg. Water from leaky plumbing can swiftly spread throughout your floors and walls, causing the formation of mold and mildew if not addressed.

Radiator leaks might sound minor but they can actually cause a lot of damage. If wood flooring or carpet under the radiator is consistently moist, they can rot over time. On a second floor, small radiator leaks can damage the ceiling below them which can also result in a mold issue in the space between the floor and ceiling.

Know Who to Call

A flooded home is unsafe for your family. Without proper remediation, your environment can become unhealthy. Our crews are professional and trained in how to best remedy any flood damage situation. They are always courteous and understanding of homeowner’s feelings. We as a company have earned trust from homeowners, business owners, and property managers.

Residents of Ravenswood, Horner Park, the Manor, it is important to know how to react and who to call for help. SERVPRO of Ravenswood is your neighbor and we are here to help 24-hours a day – 7 days per week. Providing proper guidance and immediate service for flood damage restoration is the nature of our business.

SERVPRO of Ravenswood is a preferred vendor to many National Insurance Companies. We are held to strict rules by our industry following closely the s500 IICRC Restoration Standards.

For more information about our flood damage restoration services in the Horner Park area or to set up an appointment for a free estimate, please contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood at 773-878-5200

Looking for Water Damage Repair North Center Clues When Shopping For Your New Home

7/28/2017 (Permalink)

Coordinate an inspection with a certified professional

Are you thinking about buying a new home?  After various conversations with realtors in our area, who are super stoked about mortgage rates being at an all-time low, it appears now is a very good time to buy.  It’s exciting to shop around and look for that perfect home fit.  However, it is also good practice to look for unexpected “baggage” that may come along with the deal. I am referring to water damage repair North Center.  Many homes in Chicago are over 50 years old and damage from previous occupants may be undetected at first glance.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood has a few helpful hints to follow when shopping for your perfect dream home.

1. Look for brownish stains or spots in the ceilings and walls of each room.  These spots may lead to rot or mold behind the surfaces.
2. If there is an out-of-the-ordinary odor in the air, ask what that is.
3. Consider bringing in a certified environmentalist to test for any pre-existing mold damage.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask about previous water losses, basement floods, or if it is a multi-unit occupied building inquire about surrounding units who have experience water, fire and mold damage.
5. Call SERVPRO of Ravenswood to provide you with a free estimate for any remediation or cleanup needs.

Working collectively with your realtor, insurance agents, previous home owners and your trusted SERVPRO franchise you can rest easier knowing that you everyone is working diligently to help repair or prevent any future (and costly) surprises.  

Hoarder Cleanup Chicago

7/21/2017 (Permalink)

The kitchen and living space

We’ve watched the reality shows, we’ve heard stories or we’ve seen it firsthand. Hoarding has a strong presence in our society. Hoarding begins with small cluttering, which can eventually lead to an overwhelming abundance of clothes, knickknacks, trinkets, books, hygiene products, boxes, well the list is quite endless. The problem with hoarding is what happens on the floor, wall and ceiling surfaces. SERVPRO of Ravenswood recently finished a hoarder cleanup Chicago job. This was a case where there was an unexpected water damage incident at a condominium that was abandoned. The building board was not aware that the unit abandoned, nor were they aware that the condo was FILLED with hoarder-type content until an odor was detected by neighboring units. Once the building maintenance personnel was cleared to enter the unit, it was discovered that the tenants were no longer living there and had left all content behind. The water damage that affected this hoarder home did reveal mold – secondary damage caused by moisture that was not treated (aka, dried) in time.

Hoarder cleanup Chicago is a non-emergency service that SERVPRO of Ravenswood can provide. We can handle any size cleanup. Our services will include separation of items to either be donated, trashed or relocated. We hold trusting relationships with several non-profit organization accepting donations, as well as have the knowledge to properly dispose of items such as electronics, hazardous materials or recycling. All work is coordinated on our behalf, and is maintained safely and securely.

For more information or to set up an appointment for a free estimate, please contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood at 773-878-5200

Water Damage Restoration Edgewater

7/17/2017 (Permalink)

Soaked wood flooring

Many of the calls our franchise receives stem from accidents.  We have seen instances where water damage jobs are provoked by scenarios as innocent as a person hanging up a garment on a sprinkler head, to as devastating as not knowing the location of the water shut-off valve to turn off water.  This blog talks about a toilet overflow. 

Water damage restoration Edgewater can not only result in tearing out carpeting and beautiful hardwood flooring, but also removing baseboards, drywall, and demolishing entire kitchens and bathrooms.  One early morning last week a young lady was employed to clean an empty condominium in preparation for a home purchase closing approaching in the upcoming days.  As this young lady was cleaning the bathroom, she was using paper towels to wipe around the toilet.  Unbeknown to her she erroneously flushed the paper towels the toilet.  Flushing paper products that are not as dissolvable as toilet paper can be problematic, as it may be too thick for the water flow to process down through the pipes.  In this case, the toilet began to overflow.  In a panic, this individual left the building and did not notify the home owner of the overflow.  Consequently resulting in a major flood that damaged the condominium, the unit below, and the finished basement further below.

This loss was classified as a large loss, and could have been fully prevented if the water was turned off immediately.  Water damage restoration Edgewater can be controlled.  You just need to know where to turn off the water and who to call for help; 773-878-5200! 

Contact donna@SERVPROravenswood.com for your free water and electric shut off tags!

Water Damage Repair Andersonville

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

This room was affected by water finding its way downstream.

Water disasters are never an anticipated incident, nor are the costly detriments resulting in the aftershock. For business owners keeping doors open and operations running smoothly are imperative to the livelihood of their profession. If you are not prepared to react to a water damage repair Andersonville, then doors may remain closed for quite some time.

Taking into a case that happened last month to a fabric shop who overcame a burst pipe water loss. Early morning at approximately 5:30 a.m., the owner of the small business was alerted that his store was flooded. Remarkably by 9:30 a.m., that same morning, he was able to open his business and continue without interruption. The local SERVPRO franchise near the area was called and green trucks were quickly in route to facilitate. The water extraction process began and the fabric store able to get back to work. Fortunately, this story resulted more positively since the owner knew who to contact for help. This may not be the case for someone who does not know what to do.

As many know water travels downward. Water damage repair Andersonville has to be addressed throughout a building. SERVPRO’s certified technicians know when, where and how to investigate and clean. Here are some quick tips on what NOT to do when water damage occurs. It is always recommended to contact the professionals who can act quickly and save a business or home from any secondary damage.

• Don’t enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Don’t use household vacuum cleaners to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceiling are sagging from retained water.
• Don’t use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
• DO call SERVPRO of Ravenswood at 773-878-5200 for immediate support!

Source: http://arlington.wickedlocal.com/news/20170706/fabric-corner-overcomes-flooding-from-burst-pipe

Chicago Water Damage Cleanup SERVPRO Ravenswood

7/3/2017 (Permalink)

Chicago Water Damage Cleanup SERVPRO Ravenswood

“A broken water pipe sounds like a minor home repair problem, but you’ll never know how bad it can be until it happens to you."

Water damage cleanup emergencies don’t typically occur during regular business hours, nor does it usually happen while you’re standing next to your water shut off valve readily prepared to turn it off just at that precise moment. Rather it happens when you are away from home, only to be greeted by a wet mess upon your return. Residents of Ravenswood, Horner Park, the Manor, it is important to know what to do, how to react and who to call for help. SERVPRO of Ravenswood is your neighbor and we are here to help 24-hours a day – 7 days per week. Providing proper guidance and immediate service is the nature of our business.

Water damage can also be hidden from view. A little water stain can lead to larger issues. We'd like to take this opportunity to share with you a noteworthy story on the detriments on what a small spot on the wall unveiled. Because water can swiftly spread throughout your floors and walls, immediate response is vital. Knowing who to call is most important. Email donna@SERVPROravenswood.com for a free refrigerator magnet so that you are prepared. She will be happy to send you one today!

Follow These Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold Damage Lincoln Square

6/27/2017 (Permalink)

Attention Lincoln Square residents! If you notice mold in your walls and ceilings, do your best not to disturb it or attempt to clean it yourself. Reason being is that mold infestation can be inadvertently spread throughout your home. When dry mold is asleep. No harm can come of it. However, when wet or moistened it comes to life and carries more active contaminants. Contamination, or mold damage Lincoln Square, needs to be contained as close to the original source as possible. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home. Let the experts, SERVPRO of Ravenswood, do their job. It is a process, so why not do it right! In the interim here are a few tips:

• Don’t touch the affected areas.

• Turn off the HVAC system and fans; do not attempt to dry the area yourself.

• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.

• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.
• Contact SERVPRO of Ravenswood for a free assessment.

If You See Mold Damage Lincoln Square, Call Us Today – 773-878-5200

Fire Damage Ravenswood

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke damage traveling upstairs

When we mention fire damage Ravenswood we are referring to soot and smoke; the byproduct of a fire incident. Soot and smoke is very aggressive and can infiltrate various openings, crevices or cracks within the walls and floors of your place of residence or business. Fire damage Ravenswood is also known to cause hidden odor or damages. SERVPRO of Ravenswood’s smoke damage knowledge and understanding allows us to inspect and precisely assess the extent of the fire damage Ravenswood in to develop a thorough cleanup action plan.  

Fire Damage Ravenswood byproduct facts:

• Scorching smoke travels to cool areas and climbs to up to additional levels of the building.
• Smoke makes its way around plumbing systems, moving through the holes used by pipes hitting every floor to floor.
• There are variations of smoke which greatly affect the process for cleanup and restoration.

Fire Damage Ravenswood Smoke Types

There are 3 types of smoke; 1. wet, 2. dry and 3. protein. Wet smoke is considered as fire produced by rubber or plastic. This nasty stuff will web, making the cleaning process extremely difficult. It is sticky and pungent in odor. Dry smoke however is something that burns fast, like wood or paper. In this circumstance the temperature is high, thus causing heat to rise and smoke as well. The last type is protein fire residue which is the vapor from burnt materials such as paint, varnishes, etc.  

Consequently, the type of smoke makes for 2 types of soot residue after a fire damage Ravenswood as well. SERVPRO of Ravenswood must test the soot in order to accurately determine if the smoke is wet or dry before starting restoration. Based on these pretest procedures, only then can we determine a plan. All components of information is then communicated with the insurance adjuster making sure all parties are aligned.

Fire Damage Ravenswood Restoration Services

Every fire loss scenario is different, therefore each are treated with unique solution tailored to that scenario.  Luckily, SERVPRO of Ravenswood has all the equipment, trained technicians, and knowledge to restore your home or business.  We treat your family or employees with the respect and empathy they deserve. Call us to schedule a free assessment for any fire, water, mold cleanup needs.

Fire Damage Restoration Sauganash

6/5/2017 (Permalink)

Fireman fighting a fire at a furniture store in Chicago.

Many of you may read, heard or even saw the great blaze last week when an extra-alarm fire demolished a furniture store, while crippling several businesses and residents in the vicinity.  Fortunately, no one was harmed during the fire.  However, the aftermath is something worth writing about; fire damage restoration. 

Regardless of where you live or work a fire WILL shut you down immediately.  That is why Sauganash business owners and home owners alike should hold a contingency plan of action, as well as hold insurance coverages to help you pick up the pieces after a fire.  Fire damage restoration Sauganash takes place after first responders have completed their duty and cleared re-entry.  Fire damage restoration Sauganash also consists of water damage cleanup Sauganash.  Think about it, water is the #1 remedy for fire fighters to take back control of an emergency situation.  For that matter knowing what takes place after a fire is simply good knowledge.

Step 1:  Emergency Contact;

1. 911,
2. Insurance Agent,
3. SERVPRO of Ravenswood

Step 2:  Inspections and Fire Damage Assessment

Step 3:  Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Step 4:  Water Removal and Drying (call SERVPRO of Ravenswood at 773-878-5200)

Step 5:  Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces (call SERVPRO of Ravenswood at 773-878-5200)

Step 6:  Cleaning and Sanitizing (call SERVPRO of Ravenswood at 773-878-5200)

Step 7:  Restoration (call SERVPRO of Ravenswood at 773-878-5200)

Sources:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-extra-alarm-fire-at-furniture-store-on-north-side-20170601-story.html

http://www.SERVPROravenswood.com/fire-repair-process

Albany Park water damage restoration

5/26/2017 (Permalink)

This Albany Park home’s basement has water damage due to heavy rains.

Albany Park water damage restoration could be in your life sooner than you might think.  Your basement is susceptible to flooding at any time, even thought you might think that it only happens during a storm event.  Since your basement is the lowest level of your home and lower than the sidewalk anytime the city sewers burp you can have water damage in your home.  Listed below are the reasons for Albany Park water damage restoration needs for your home:

• 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

You have to be quick in reaction towards Albany Park water damage and it has to be done properly.  Time is of the essence otherwise you could be damaging your home’s structure and also the health and safety of your family. 

Here are the things you need to understand when water damage occurs: a flooded home is unsafe for your family, will eventually become an unhealthy environment and the home/foundation can sustain lifelong damages.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood prides itself in a crew that is professional and trained in how to best remedy the situation.  They are always courteous and understanding of homeowner’s feelings.  We as a company have earned trust from homeowners, business owners and property managers.

When in need of Albany Park water damage restoration we are here for you 24 hours 7 days a week.  SERVPRO of Ravenswood is a preferred vendor to many National Insurance Companies.  We are held to strict rules by our industry following closely the s500 IICRC Restoration Standards.

AIR QUALITY WEEK IS MAY 1-5

5/1/2017 (Permalink)

Before and after photos of the inside of the ducts.

Be Air Aware

When addressing air quality, inspecting the ductwork is your SERVPRO of Ravenswood Franchise Professional's first order of business. Dirty ducts can work to circulate odors and contaminants like mold and irritating dust throughout the building.

The SERVPRO® Difference

• Reduce potential for mold growth


• Remediate bacteria, fungi and mold


• Restore peak energy efficiency


• Eliminate offensive odors


• Free written inspections and estimates

How can the air inside our homes be so bad for us?

      Over the years, buildings have been made more airtight to conserve energy. A variety of methods have been employed to keep the hot or cool air from escaping from our homes: installing storm windows and insulation; applying caulk and weather-stripping to seal cracks and other openings; and heating our homes with kerosene, wood, coal, and natural gas. Unfortunately, when we trap in hot or cool air, we also trap in pollutants and sometimes generate more.

Why is this an issue?

       On average, people spend about 90 percent of their time indoors. Sixty-five percent of that is spent at home. To make matters worse, those who are most susceptible to indoor air pollution are the ones who are home the most: children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses. Children breathe in 50 percent more air per pound of body weight than adults do. EPA studies have found that pollutant levels inside can be two to five times higher than outdoors. After some activities, indoor air pollution levels can be 100 times higher than outdoors.

To find out more go here:

http://files.constantcontact.com/074ea2a5601/f35c263a-ce1b-46a6-af5f-b8aec774bb67.pdf

 National Safety Council: http://www.nsc.org/pages/home.aspx

Leaky Radiators

2/3/2017 (Permalink)

Examples of damaged floors over time caused by leaky radiators.

      Radiator leaks sound minor but they can actually cause a lot of damage to a home.  If your wood flooring becomes wet continuously it will rot over time.  A small radiator leak can also cause unforeseen damages to the ceiling below, which later can result in a mold issue inside the space between floor and ceiling.

In this video: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-repair-whistling-and-leaky-steam-radiator , This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey silences a leaky, squeaky steam radiator.

Steps:

1. Turn down thermostat to shut off steam-heat system.

2. Wrap Teflon tape around the threads on new air vent.

3. Twist off old air vent by hand; cover vent with cloth to protect hand.

4. Thread new air vent into radiator. Hand tighten vent to vertical position.

5. Unscrew handle from top of the radiator valve.

6. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the packing nut that holds the stem to the valve.

7. Wrap graphite packing around threaded portion of the valve stem.

8. Thread the packing nut back onto the valve and tighten with a wrench. 9. Replace the valve handle.

10. Turn up thermostat to start the steam-heat system. Check for leaks or high-pitched whistling.

Mold

1/26/2017 (Permalink)

Clockwise from top left: ceiling trusses, drywall and trusses from a tub drain, drywall from drain pipe cover, shower ceiling from tub drain above.

     Molds are part of the natural environment, and can be found everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Mold is not usually a problem, unless it begins growing indoors. The best way to control mold growth is to control moisture. The EPA website provides guidance about mold and moisture for homes, schools, multifamily and commercial buildings. Molds can have a big impact on indoor air quality.

Ten Things You Should Know about Mold

1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints.
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
• Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
• Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
• Increasing ventilation
• Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

Mold Cleanup

      If you already have a mold problem - ACT QUICKLY. Mold damages what it grows on. The longer it grows, the more damage it can cause.  Who should do the cleanup depends on a number of factors. One consideration is the size of the mold problem. If the moldy area is less than about 10 square feet (less than roughly a 3 ft. by 3 ft. patch), in most cases, you can handle the job yourself.  However:

• If there has been a lot of water damage, and/or mold growth covers more than 10 square feet, consult EPA guide Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings. Although focused on schools and commercial buildings, this document is applicable to other building types. 

• If you choose to hire a contractor (or other professional service provider) to do the cleanup, make sure the contractor has experience cleaning up mold. Check references and ask the contractor to follow the recommendations in EPA guide Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings, the guidelines of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygenists (ACGIH), or other guidelines from professional or government organizations. 

• If you suspect that the heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system may be contaminated with mold (it is part of an identified moisture problem, for instance, or there is mold near the intake to the system), consult EPA guide Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned? before taking further action. Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it is contaminated with mold - it could spread mold throughout the building. 

• If the water and/or mold damage was caused by sewage or other contaminated water, then call in a professional who has experience cleaning and fixing buildings damaged by contaminated water.

•  If you have health concerns, consult a health professional before starting cleanup.

Floods and Flooding

       During a flood cleanup, the indoor air quality in your home or office may appear to be the least of your problems. However, failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity can present serious long-term health risks. Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and mold. They can cause disease, trigger allergic reactions, and continue to damage materials long after the flood.

EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency):  https://www.epa.gov/mold

Frozen Pipes: Preventing and Thawing Frozen Pipes

1/5/2017 (Permalink)

Home owners were out of state for the winter which resulted in massive damage when a pipe burst in the house and spilled out and refroze outside.

Have a safe 4th of July weekend!

7/1/2016 (Permalink)

Hopefully everyong is ready for a long 4th of July weekend! 

But first here are some tios to help keep everyone safe.

http://www.redcross.org/news/article/Red-Cross-Issues-Safety-Tips-For-4th-of-July-Holiday

Storm and Flood Damage

6/23/2016 (Permalink)

Summer is officially here, and that means so are summer storms! If you find yourself dealing with Storm or Flood Damage we at SERVPRO of Ravenswood are here to help. 

SERVPRO of Ravenswood Protects Clients' Belongings

2/4/2015 (Permalink)

After a fire damage, SERVPRO of Ravenswood immediately secures and covers all unaffected belongings.

At SERVPRO of Ravenswood, we understand how important and valuable your possessions are. Especially after damage occurs, we take pride in immediately, delicately and confidently securing all belongings. We document and inventory all possessions as well, as covering them in painter's wrap to ensure dust and other particulates will not settle on and compromise your belongings. Our customers' peace of mind is our utmost priority. We know how traumatic a water or fire loss can be and we do everything in our powers to help you throughout the process.   

Mold Spreads Rapidly Throughout Garage

1/29/2015 (Permalink)

Mold has serious health implications if not handled quickly and properly.

A pipe leak that went unnoticed for a period of time between a garage wall and the adjacent laundry room wall led to rapid mold growth. The multi-colored mold spores affected a Ravenswood area home. In a warm and humid environment, mold can multiply at a tremendous rate and can cause allergic reactions. Understanding the serious nature of mold in one's home, SERVPRO of Ravenswood immediately responded to the homeowner's call.  

Pipe Burst Floods Entire 3-Story Building In Lincoln Park

1/19/2015 (Permalink)

Icicles hanging from the third floor all the way to the ground

During the recent artic freeze we faced, a third floor pipe burst caused an entire building to flood and the water almost instantly froze. The homeowner was out of town and arrived to see icicles hanging all over his home. The worried homeowner immediately called SERVPRO of Ravenswood to mitigate the water damage. 

SERVPRO of Ravenswood Responds to Water Damage Emergency

12/15/2014 (Permalink)

On Friday afternoon, SERVPRO of Ravenswood immediately responded to a lakefront, high-rise building in the Uptown neighborhood. A pipe burst caused water damage to five floors and several units in the building. Upon arrivial, the Tom and his crew began to stabilize the water damage. Within hours, SERVPRO of Ravenswood had the situation under control. 

Fire Started by Cigarette Damages All 8 Units in Building

11/20/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ravenswood begins the restoration process immediately after Engine 78 & 83 of the Chicago Fire Dept. bravely put the fire out.

Around 10:00 PM Sunday Night, Engines 78 & 83 responded to a call of a burning 4-story apartment building in Uptown. The Chicago Fire Department quickly evacuated the tenants and put the fire out. The cause of the fire is believed to be a cigarette that was left unattended. Immediately after the fire was extinguished, SERVPRO of Ravenswood arrived on the scene to assess the aftermath. 

More Top of the Line Equipment has Arrived!

8/20/2014 (Permalink)

We just recieved a huge shipment here at SERVPRO of Ravenswood. More equipment means we can help more places at once, allowing us to make sure everyone who needs our assistance can get it ASAP!