Think Before you Toss: The Do’s and Don’ts of Disaster Cleanup

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

The easy way isn't always the best way!

While it’s understandable to want to cleanse your space of debris/ damage after a disaster you might want to think twice before tossing that soggy document or dumping that couch! You would  think it’s in your best interest to quickly purge all things damaged but SERVPRO Team McCabe is here to say: resist the urge! Our team of highly trained professionals can help you restore the right and safe way.

DON'T Frantically toss important documents

DO Check to see if you have digital copies, take photos, and then if you do want to dispose of the documents shred them so no one can access any personal information

DON'T Try to restore severely damaged items on your own

DO Leave it to the professionals, as direct contact with certain types of damage such as mold and sewage can cause severe health issues

DON'T Panic

DO Remain calm, take it one step at a time

DON'T Stay if the condition of the house is negatively affecting you and or making you unwell

DO Prioritize your health and, if necessary, seek medical attention from your healthcare provider

DON'T Wait to call your insurance company and or SERVPRO because “it might get better on its own”

DO Make your calls ASAP, the sooner you make the call the sooner you can get help

DON'T Start clean up and repairs before notifying insurance

DO Allow insurer to inspect the property before any repairs take place

DON'T Have the “what I can’t see can’t hurt me” mentality

DO Bring in professionals whose expertise allows them (us!) to notice areas of damage you may not have been aware of, especially when it comes to water and mold damage.

Real Talk: What Determines the Cost of a Restoration Job?

2/10/2023 (Permalink)

You're in good hands with SERVPRO Team McCabe!

Real talk: what determines the cost of a restoration job?

Time is money when it comes to restoration services. The sooner you call SERVPRO the sooner we can assess the situation and prevent the occurrence of further damage. Whether you’re dealing with fire, mold, water, or any damage in between, we can help!

Along with a variety of factors, severity of damage determines the pricing. If you are an insured homeowner, talk with your insurance about your specific coverage to be sure that in an emergency they will cover most if not all of your restoration costs.

Insurance coverage, in times of disaster, is a real concern for homeowners. The last thing you need after a disaster is more uncertainty. Insurance agencies need evidence, depreciation of items, and estimates; all of which SERVPRO Team McCabe can assist with! We can advocate for you during the claims process to help you recover your property with as much of your insurance money as possible.

Conditioned upon what insurance plan you have, certain kinds of damage may or may not be covered. For instance, it’s common for damage from pipe bursts and sink overflows to be covered but less common for damage from groundwater to successfully receive a claim. 

SERVPRO Team McCabe can help you decide if you should move forward with submitting an insurance claim on the damaged property. While many claims are resolved within two to six weeks, It can sometimes take longer. To ensure a smooth and quick restoration process it’s a good idea to call SERVPRO right away so we can start helping you as soon as possible. 

After customers decide upon a payment method, it’s time to repair and rebuild. Depending on the type of damage to items and the property, SERVPRO Team McCabe can either repair on-site or take items back to our shop. Our team will keep records of each item for the insurance company and for your sake, in case you need them in the future. 

SERVPRO Team McCabe is here to support you throughout the entire restoration process.

How businesses can ensure a quick recovery after disaster strikes

1/23/2023 (Permalink)

We all hope that disaster never strikes, but if it does, it’s a good idea to have a plan in place so that life can get back to normal as quickly as possible.

Time is money. SERVPRO Team McCabe can help you and your business not only recover but recover quickly. Our services can be the key to getting your business back on track in a timely manner. Staying afloat after an emergency isn’t easy, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prepare for a smooth recovery after a loss:

• Carefully review insurance policies; see what your business’s damage coverage is, find out if you have flood insurance, and decide if it’s necessary to invest in additional coverage
• Secure important records and priority documents in a waterproof container and/or store copies at a safe off-site location. 
• Create a communication plan to easily stay in touch with customers, suppliers, and employees
• If it is safe to do so, document any visible damage to the facility for future reference 

By planning ahead, businesses can protect against and minimize the effects of an emergency. SERVPRO Team McCabe provides fire, water, storm, and mold damage relief services. In the event of an emergency, SERVPRO Team McCabe is just a phone call away. Our team is ready to make any disaster look "Like it never even happened." No matter the day or time, we have the trained professionals, materials, and equipment to respond to any size restoration emergency. 

Still not sure where to begin? Consider downloading our SERVPRO Ready Plan app https://ready.SERVPRO.com/ to keep all your emergency information and plans in one spot, and feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns! 

Preparing Your Home for Winter

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

In the event of any winter damage to your home this winter, do not hesitate to give us a call, we are here to help.

Whether this is your first winter in your new home or your fifteenth, there are some measures you should take to prepare your house for the next few months. While your personal plan may be to turn on the heat and hibernate through the winter, the snow, ice, and rain can still cause your home some serious issues inside and out. 

The outside of the house is the number one hassle we think of in the winter, there is shoveling, plowing, and clearing off the cars. Unfortunately, snow can accumulate and cause a lot of direct damage to the house. Snow buildup can cause strain on the roof and should be removed as soon as it is safe. Ice can also accumulate on your gutters causing ice dams that are not only dangerous to your home but can also cause injury if it falls or is removed unsafely. Your gutters should be cleaned by removing leaves and other debris before the first storm of the season and if you do see ice building up you can clear them using a de-icing agent or a heated gutter cable to remove them without causing injury. Frequent temperature changes can also put cracks in your chimney which should be monitored throughout the winter so that repairs can be made as soon as the weather improves. Another outdoor situation to monitor is the surrounding trees; as snow and ice gather no tree limbs they can become weighed down and snap causing damage to the home or other surrounding structures. Trees should be pruned in the fall and cleared as needed during the winter to prevent any potential damage. 

The cold can cause cracks in the caulk within the house causing drafts and affecting your heating bill. The wet conditions can also cause rotting along your door frames. This can lead to termites in the spring and even extensive damage that might result in you needing a new door frame. Be sure to check for any wood rot along the bottom of the door frame and fill in any damage with epoxy wood filler as needed. Frozen pipes are arguably the most prevalent issue with a few things that can be done to help prevent them. If you are looking for more specific prevention ideas for frozen pipes see our most recent blog here: https://loom.ly/uT2gKoA

The basement can also be a problem area and not just with your sump pump, though that is definitely a common element in basement focused water losses. When the heavy snow begins to melt it can seep into the basement or even cause the foundation to crack. With any signs of water in the basement be sure to check if your sump pump is working properly, and that the extension hose is draining. If the temps are below freezing remove the extension hose before a freeze causes a backup into your home. Ensure you have the proper yard drainage and repair any foundation cracks as needed throughout the winter. 

These are just a few areas to keep an eye on as the temperatures drop and we close out the year. Hopefully, these tips will help prevent some water losses however they may not be completely foolproof. If you do notice any damage to your property this winter do not hesitate to give us a call, we are here to help.

Frozen Pipe Prevention

11/2/2022 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes are something that every homeowner worries about as the winter season approaches. Each year SERVPRO Team McCabe provides water damage restoration services to many homeowners who experience this issue. There are several steps that can be taken to help prevent pipes from freezing and bursting in your home. 

Many people try to lower their heating bill while on vacation by turning the heat off while they are away. If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, and set it to a temperature no lower than 55° F. Your heating bill will still be lower than average, but it will also save you major cleanup costs after a pipe bursts in your home. 

With the heat above 55 you can also keep the open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. The heat from your home will make it nearly impossible for them to freeze. This doesn't mean you have to keep your cabinets open all winter, you can do so if you're on vacation, or even a few hours a day while home can help.  

You may also want to Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a pipe sleeve or installing UL-listed heat tape on exposed water pipes you can get from a local hardware store. Even a small amount of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that drop below freezing for a short period of time. It is also important to make sure that hose bibbs are turned off from the inside and opened on the outside to prevent damage to pipes.  

When the weather is very cold outside, you can let the cold water drip from the faucet connected to the exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe even at a trickle helps prevent pipes from freezing. The constant movement of water prevents the pipes from freezing. This is something that should be done especially if you are out of your home for a few days and expect the weather to drop below freezing. 

Keeping some of these tricks in mind can help prevent a major mess in your home during the winter season. Unfortunately, following these tactics does not guarantee you will not have an issue with your pipes. When disaster strikes, call SERVPRO Team McCabe.

Preparing Your Home for a Hurricane

10/12/2022 (Permalink)

We are currently nearing the end of another hurricane season. It is a very scary stressful time for people who live in high risk areas. 

There are several safety tips to keep in mind in order to reduce the damage done to your home. Taking simple steps can potentially save you a lot of damage and money after the storm. Not to mention they will help keep you safe.

According to the CDC, the first step you should take is to clear your yard. Make sure there’s nothing that could blow around during the storm and cause additional damage to your property or others. Move bikes, lawn furniture, grills, propane tanks, and building material inside or under shelter.  It is also a good idea to move your car into your garage if you have one. It clears the driveway for emergency crews if needed, making rescue efforts more quick. Doing so may also reduce any potential damage to your car.  

Another tip to keep in mind is to cover up your windows and doors. Use storm shutters or nail pieces of plywood to the outside window frames to protect your windows. This can help keep you safe from pieces of shattered glass. This is extremely important if you are going to be stuck in your home during the storm. Getting medical attention during a hurricane is nearly impossible. Taking the extra step of covering up windows and doors can prevent serious injury. 

The CDC also recommends that you turn your power off during a hurricane. If you see flooding, downed power lines, or you have to leave your home, switch your power off. This helps reduce the risk of having a power surge inside your home. It also makes the restoration process easier after the fact for the electric companies. Not to mention it reduces the risk of fires or electrical shock from downed power lines. Be sure to have properly charged flashlights for safety in the dark. Yet another suggestion is to fill water containers with potable water ahead of time. Taking these proactive steps in your home can help you recover much faster from a hurricane. It makes your home safer for you and your family and will lead to less damage from the storm.  

Finally, be sure to have an emergency kit that contains items such as: hand cranked radios for communication and cell phone charging, a supply of batteries for other useful devices such as flashlights and a properly supplied medical kit.

The CDC has many more tips to help you weather the storm. Please visit CDC.gov for more information.

Halloween Decoration Safety

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

Halloween season is rapidly approaching. Many people have already started decorating for Halloween. Dried flowers, crepe paper, cornstalks, and decorative scarecrows may  make your home look festive for fall, but these classic decorations can also pose a scary fire risk. As fun as it is to decorate your home it is important to keep in mind some safety tips to avoid a fire from starting in your home. The National Fire Protection Association says flammable decorations are the first things to ignite in 900 reported home fires each year; two of every five of these incidents start by a candle.

One of the most important things to consider is to keep your decorations away from open flames, lightbulbs, and heaters. This may seem simple but many people forget the risks of doing this and decorate in unsafe places. One of the most common is next to or above fireplaces. It is so easy for a stray ash to end up catching a decoration on fire. Even hanging your decorations near a lightbulb can be dangerous. 

Another way to prevent fire is to check the quality of each item before you plug them in. Examining each set of lights for broken sockets, frayed wires or loose connections, and discard any damaged sets is the first step to take. Many people often try at home fixes such as tape on frayed wires. Any decoration with a frayed wire should be discarded or have a new wire installed if possible. Be careful not to overload sockets when plugging in lights and other electronic decorations. It is such an easy thing to avoid by unplugging objects that you are not using at any given time. 

A big safety tip to keep in mind is to not use open flames such as candles inside your decorations. Consider glow sticks or battery-operated candles instead of real candles when lighting your jack-o’-lanterns or other luminaries. If you do choose to use real candles it is important to light it with a utility lighter. That way you can light it right over the wick and do not have a risk of hitting the side of the decoration with the flame. You also need to be mindful of where you are putting your decorations that have candles in them. Keep lit decorations off of doorsteps, yards, and sidewalks where excited trick-or-treaters may knock them over. Moving them off of your front door step or front walkway is an easy way to avoid injury. 

The last thing to keep in mind is to make sure you do not have any decorations blocking any exits out of your home. If there is an emergency it is important to keep a clear path out. Halloween is a fun time of the year and it is important to have fun while decorating your home. Just make sure you follow these tips to help keep your home safe.

Fall Fire Safety

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

At the end of summer most people are worried about getting ready for the back to school season. What people don't think about is that this is a great time to get your home ready for the cooler months. During the winter months there are a lot of fire hazards in your home. According to the American Red Cross, there is a drastic increase in the amount of U.S house fires during this time. There are several strategies to take during the early part of the fall season to help prevent fires.

The most important thing to do is replace your smoke alarms batteries throughout the house. This is something that is very easy, yet most people forget to do it. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the risk of dying in a structure fire is 55% lower in a home with working smoke alarms. While changing the batteries, it is also a good idea to make sure your family knows where your fire extinguishers are. Having fire extinguishers in the house that still work is extremely important. Especially  as you enter the cooler months where you heat up your house on a daily basis. 

Another thing to keep in mind, especially with kids in the house is to create a fire evacuation plan. Having a plan and knowing of all the possible exits and escape routes is very beneficial ahead of time. According to the NFPA, creating a place to meet outside at a neighbor's house is an essential part of the plan. They recommend that you try out your plan at least two times per year. The more steps you take ahead of time the better as you will be prepared to act in the event of an emergency. Spending time with your family and creating a plan will pay off in the event of an emergency. SERVPRO Team McCabe  offers an ERP plan which will help you plan ahead in the event of an emergency. 

 Getting your heating system serviced each year is also an essential fire safety step. This is especially important after the summer season. There is always extra debris left behind in the vents from all the hard work your unit does cooling the house over the summer. The most important step is replacing your furnace filter on a consistent basis. It is recommended to change it every three months. It is also important to reach out to a professional when your heating system is having issues. You should also be getting your unit serviced at least one time per year for general maintenance, according to the National Fire Protection Association. SERVPRO Team McCabe can help with this, we offer duct cleaning for commercial or residential properties. 

Fireplace safety is another extremely important topic during this time of the year. When using a fireplace indoors you should always have the screen or glass door closed. It is also important to keep in mind not to store extra wood right next to the door of the fireplace. It is an easy way to spark a fire outside of the fireplace. One rule that many people often forget is leaving a fire unattended. Many people fall asleep or get distracted and leave the room while they have a fire going. This is one of the biggest causes of household fires due to fireplaces. Keeping these safety points in mind will help transition your house from the summer into the fall season in a safe way. 

Dryer Vent Cleaning

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

If you were to ask most people what cleaning they should do to their dryer they would tell you, clean the lint trap. However, that is not enough what many people do not know is that you have to get your dryer vent cleaned as well. I'm sure you are asking, what's that? The dryer vent is the tube that runs from your dryer to outside and the vent part that it passes through. It helps you remove hot air and moisture from your laundry room. 

Why does it need to be cleaned? Over time it can get filled up with dust and other debris from your washing machine. Debris and highly flammable lint can build up in your dryer vent, reducing airflow and backing up exhaust gasses. That mixed with the heat from the washing machine is a very dangerous combination. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, fire departments respond to around 15,970 home structural fires each year  that involve clothes in dryers or washing machines. There is also a chance that gasses and carbon monoxide that should be released outside of the home through the dryer vent could get backed up into your home through a clogged vent. This is something that can be easily avoided by simply getting your vents cleaned. 

How can I tell when it's time to get the vent cleaned? According to an article on the NCADA (National Air Duct Cleaning Association) website these are some signs you are ready for a cleaning. 

1. Clothes take longer to dry than usual
2. The dryer is hot to the touch after a cycle
3. Your laundry room is hot after a cycle
4. The dryer emits a burning smell
5. There’s inconsistent airflow from the exhaust vent
6. Excess lint appears in the lint trap after each cycle
7. You find debris in your yard outside of the dryer vent or can see it trapped in the vent itself

Getting your vents serviced will help you reduce your energy costs over time. It will also help your clothes dry faster and improve the life of your dryer. Clearing events allows extra heat to come through that leads to shorter drying times which will save you money. The NCADA also lists some proactive steps to take in addition to getting your vent cleaned to help reduce fire risk. 

1. Empty lint trap after every load
2. Let your dryer cool off for 15-20 minutes between loads
3. Replace your flexible vent pipe with a solid metal one
4. Move the dryer close to an external wall
5. Use liquid fabric softener instead of dryer sheets
6. Regularly inspect the vent pipe from outside the house to see if there is debris 

Should I try to clean my dryer vent myself? No, many people who attempt to do it themselves often do not get them cleaned properly. Most people fail to remove all of the debris that is in the vent. The recommendation by the NFPA is to get your dryer vents professionally cleaned once per year. Doing so will make your home a much safer place for you and your family. Even though you will spend money to get them cleaned, it will save you big on your energy bill each month. It is definitely worth the investment, call SERVPRO Team McCabe to schedule your cleaning today 215-536-7989. 

Why Build Containment?

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Team McCabe understands how important it is to return your home or business to preloss condition as quickly and smoothly as we are able to.

Containment is generally used to prevent the occurrence of additional damage to contents in the home that have been unaffected or only lightly affected. Once our crew arrives on site we scope the job and then begin work to either place containment or completely remove any content on the job site. Most content is packed out and moved off of the job site if it was heavily affected and needs cleaning. Our dedicated Content Crew will lead this process and advise on what can stay onsite and be contained. Containment plastic can be used to wrap specific items or to section off an area of the house by sealing off the doorways and vents. Another great use for containment plastic is to help create negative pressure by sectioning off an area and placing equipment inside the containment to aid in drying.

SERVPRO Team McCabe understands how important it is to return your home or business to preloss condition as quickly and smoothly as we are able to. An important part of this is to prevent any secondary damage to your contents that can be caused by a continuing leak, microbial growth, or even dust and debris caused by the remediation efforts. 

Commercial Cleaning Services

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Getting Back to Business, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward to provide your employees and customers ongoing safety as you operate after the COVID-19 pandemic. As America’s #1 cleanup and restoration brand, we have developed a program that is grounded in our 3 C’s – Consult, Clean and Certify. Visit our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned page and let us show you how we can make your building safer and ready to get back to business.

Commercial Building Restoration Services

We are available 24 hours a day to get your business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold remediation. Learn more about our commercial restoration services.

SERVPRO Storm Response

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

A Fast Response Is Crucial

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency.

An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes:

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

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants can cause health effects.

SERVPRO Equipment and Technology

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

The past few decades has seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure, and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

• An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.

Water Extraction Equipment

Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water. 
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.

Drying Equipment

Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers causes moisture to evaporate at a faster pace.
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.

• Air scrubbers remove airborne particles and contaminants.
• Thermal foggers and deodorization agents control odors.

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Anti-Microbial Treatments

The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be needed to clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property.

• Cleaning agents help to stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

Space Heater Safety

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Every year, over 25,000 house fires can be attributed to the incorrect usage of space heaters, according to Consumer Reports.

Fighting the cold weather using these machines can be safe — referring to NFPA’s (National Fire Protection Association) “Heater Checklist” will guide you into making the correct decisions to ensure a safe home/environment for your space heater to do its work.

Some of these tips include, but are not limited to:

• When buying a space heater, make sure that the unit has a seal from a qualified testing laboratory on it.
• Keeping children away from these heaters will limit bodily injury and poor usage of the units.
• Make sure the unit is placed on a solid, flat surface.
• Allow at least 3 feet of space between the space heater and anything else, including humans. Items that tend to catch fire are: curtains, bedding or upholstered furniture.
• Turn off the units when you leave the room or before you go to bed.

If your property has been damaged due to a fire and you suspect that your space heater was the cause, call your local SERVPRO franchise for all of your restoration needs.

24/7/365

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Our staff is available 24/7/365, allowing us to be ready for any sized disaster at any time of the day, at any point during the year! 

We pride ourselves on the fact that we can quickly dispatch a crew of SERVPRO professionals soon after we receive a call to a job.

And not only that, we are available to you when others may not — yes, that means during the holidays and odd hours!

We want to make sure that we are able to assist you when you need us most, and our nonstop availability is just one of the many ways we strive to make that happen.

From fire and water restoration, to mold mitigation, to much more, we can tackle any sized disaster with the will to make your damages look "Like it never even happened."

If you are in need of any of those services, or want to learn more about SERVPRO, give your local franchise a call TODAY!

Summer Fire Safety

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Have fun and stay cool this summer but remember these tips to stay safe. If summer fun leads to any fire damage, know that Team McCabe is here to help

As we head into spring and summer I think we can say we are all excited to switch out the space heater for the air conditioner, and get the grill set up on the porch. However, the next few months bring their own set of hazards to be aware of. Fires can start for many reasons but the leading causes of fires in the summer are due to grills, air conditioners, fireworks and smoking.

According to the National Fire Incident Reporting System there are approximately 5,700 grill related fires each year. These fires cause just under $40 million in damages, 100 injuries and 10 deaths each year. Always check your grilling area to make sure it is safe before you ignite it. Be sure your grill is 10 feet from any home, shed or other structure. It should also be secure on a flat surface with nothing above you that could have the potential to ignite, and no trip hazards in the immediate area. Your grill should always be cleaned after use but before your first BBQ of the season make sure to give it a deep cleaning, checking for grease left behind from last season. Along with all these precautions it is always recommended to keep an extinguisher nearby in case of a fire.

Air conditioners also make up a large number of summer fires. This is typically caused by faulty wiring and over use. An air conditioner catching fire also has the potential of causing any contents in the surrounding area to catch fire so be aware of what you put near your windowsill. 2pm - 8pm is the most common time for an air conditioning fire due to the continuous use throughout the day. Be sure to use other methods to cool your house and rotate out the air conditioner with fans and by keeping windows open overnight. Air conditioners are only meant to keep your home 15 to 20 degrees cooler than the outside temperature so if you are attempting to run it at any lower temperature you run the risk of overuse. 

We all make our personal choice to smoke or not knowing the dangers that come along with it. However during the summer months smoking can also cause fire hazards. According to the NFIRS, smoking fires are the leading cause of fatal fires. Always make sure your cigarette is kept away from the ground while lit and properly extinguished before being disposed of.

Fireworks also lead to a number of fires in the summer causing about 50,000 fires annually. It is important to always light fireworks in a dry area away from buildings and other structures. They should always be lit one at a time and never relit. Be sure that no kids are in the area and a hose is kept nearby. If children are using sparklers, always be sure it is done under adult supervision.  Be sure before use that you review safety with them including no running and always holding the lit end away from themselves and others.

Have fun and stay cool this summer but remember these tips to stay safe. If summer fun leads to any fire damage, know that Team McCabe is here to help. 

Commercial Duct Cleaning

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

Air Duct Cleaning and HVAC Cleaning

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the air duct work of your home or business.

If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating odors, dust and other contaminates.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals 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.

However, air duct cleaning is not always necessary. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your system.

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
• May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

For more information on air duct cleaning contact your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional today. With over 1,700 Franchises nationwide, there’s a SERVPRO Professional nearby and ready to serve you.

Commercial Storm Damage Restoration

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Storm Damage Restoration

Storms and inclement weather can bring wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding that can devastate any business in a matter of minutes. There’s never a convenient time for flooding or water damage to strike, and storms don’t just strike during regular business hours; that’s why SERVPRO Franchise Professionals offer 24 hour emergency service 365 days per year.

Every hour that you spend cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give our Professionals a call and they’ll be there fast with the help you need.

•  24 Hour Emergency Service
•  Faster to Any Size Disaster
•  A Trusted Leader in the Storm and Water Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
•  Highly Trained Storm and Water Damage Restoration Specialists

We Do Board Ups!

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

After an emergency involving one's own property, whether it be a bad storm, fire or water damage, many properties need to be boarded up. Board ups are done to prevent the properties from incurring any further damage before the remediation process can begin. Board ups are one thing that should be left to the professionals. Most people are experiencing emotional trauma after an emergency involving their own property. By calling SERVPRO in for a board up, it relieves some of the stress and leaves our customers with time to deal with the accident on their own time.

Aside from the board up, we also can start the remediation and restoration process as soon as possible.  Our services are available 24/7 and we always have a crew on call ready to assist in emergency situations.

Gold Star Emergency Ready Program

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® Team McCabe understands how stressful these types of situations can be and we want to help you prepare to be ready for anything.

SERVPRO® offers an Emergency Ready Program (ERP) which was created to help businesses and communities be better prepared for disasters. In 2022,  SERVPRO® Disaster Recovery Team - Team McCabe is proud to announce our Gold Star Emergency Ready Program which encompasses the ERP, Trainings and Certifications, and informative Safety Events.

The ERP is a free app available in your app store and our trained disaster preparedness representatives can create your personal profile for your business or community. An ERP includes photos and locations of your gas and water shut off valves, sprinkler systems, electricity and other utilities. It's also a convenient, digital platform to store your insurance information, emergency contacts and numbers plus blueprints, evacuation plans, emergency protocols, and any additional information that you would need in case of an emergency. All of your information would be in the palm of your hand, and can be shared with your employees and residents with a simple email log on. This way no matter who is home or on site at any hour, they will have all the information they need to effectively handle any disaster.

The Gold Star Emergency Ready Program is available too Businesses, Community Associations, Real Estate Agents, Landlords, Rental Facilities, Schools, Healthcare and other large facilities. Our Gold Star ERP Clients are given this same ERP Portfolio, but also include OSHA Trainings and Certifications; Red Cross for Adult, Pediatric and Infant certification; Situational Awareness; and Stop the Bleed.   For community managers we also provide CAMICB Continuing Education Credits.

In addition to training and certifications, we will host informative and fun safety events for your residents or employees with safety demonstrations and disaster readiness information. These community events prepare your residents and employees for emergencies in a casual environment where we also provide catering with delicious Fire & Spice BBQ.  

SERVPRO® Team McCabe understands how stressful these types of situations can be and we want to help you prepare to be ready for anything. Become a Gold Star ERP Client with SERVPRO® Disaster Recovery Team - TEAM McCabe today! Email Robyn@SERVPROupperbucks.com

Washing Machine Safety

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Be sure to replace your washing machine hoses regularly. If there is a leak SERVPRO is here to help.

Millions of Americans depend on washing machines for quick, easy, and thorough cleaning, as opposed to some older methods that do not do nearly as good a job.

As a matter of fact, researchers estimate that the average family of four does about 8 to 10 loads of laundry every week! If you're wondering what the quick math correlates to over the course of the year it's over 500 loads of laundry!

With a demand like that, it is imperative that you take the necessary steps and precautions to make sure it runs properly and without error.

There is a lot of wear and tear that comes with this type of usage, so we wanted to run through some maintenance tips to make sure your machine remains in tip-top shape and in great working order.

- First and foremost, you are going to want to replace your washing machine lines at least every 3-5 years; each time the machine is turned on or off, the lines contract which could eventually lead to bursts.

- It is highly recommended that you switch from rubber hoses to stainless steel braided hoses.

- Before you replace these hoses, make sure your water is turned OFF!

- Finally, check your hoses for leaks at least once a year!

We hope you learned how to take better care of your washing machine, and remember: for all of your restoration needs, call SERVPRO!

Routine Appliance Checks

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

Appliances should be checked regularly to avoid any hidden water damage. If any damage occurs call SERVPRO we are here to help.

Typically water damage in a home or other property are due to common things like floods or burst pipes however, there are other causes that can sometimes go unseen. The most common cause of hidden water damage is household appliances which can pose a threat to your home of business when left unattended

Refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, air conditioners, and hot water heaters are the biggest culprits that are typically to blame for costly water damage repairs. 

Refrigerators and dishwashers can definitely cause damage in your kitchen and should be regularly pulled away from the wall to check your flooring for any leaking water. While pulled out you should also check the water lines and try to keep them from tangling which can increase your chances of an issue once the appliance is back in place. Dishwashers are sometimes not covered in your insurance policy so be sure to check up on your dishwasher regularly because it could be the source of a huge headache for you.

Washing Machines use a lot of water and are also used often so they can also be a common cause of water damage. Washing Machines need the same care as your other appliances so just be sure to pull them out regularly and check your floors and hoses for any water leakage. These hoses have a lifespan of about 5 years and should be replaced on a schedule to avoid any unnecessary damage.

Air conditioners do have implementations that remove moisture as the machine runs, but any issues with these designs could allow water damage to occur. Make sure to follow all of the company's guidelines and to check regularly for leaks.

Hot water heaters are something we sometimes forget about because they are often tucked away out of sight and they end up out of mind. They do have a life of about 8-12 years and are usually forgotten about until it’s time to get a new one or until the old one blows. Try to keep an eye on your hot water heater regularly checking on the external components, making sure the seals and pipes aren’t leaking anywhere. Because your hot water heater is typically hidden away it has the potential to cause a good amount of damage before being remediated especially if it’s in a place like a closet or basement where it can affect a lot of other content in your home or business. 

Please be sure to follow these routine checks so there are no surprises in your home but if you need us we are here to help! For all of your water restoration needs, call SERVPRO!

Water Damage Tips

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these tips if you experience any water damage while you wait for help to arrive.

What you can do until help arrives

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• 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.

Storm Safety Tips

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

One of the most simple ways to see if it is safe to go outside either before, during, or after a storm, is to just follow this rule: When thunder roars, go indoors!

While you should always exercise caution when attempting to be outside in a storm, it is highly suggested that you refrain from doing so until after it presides.

If you look outside and see that a storm is brewing, stay inside! Do not wait to go indoors until it rains because you could be asking for trouble — lightning may strike as far as 10 miles away from any potential rainfall.

You know could be in harm's way if you are outside and hear thunder. Naturally, it's not every day that you know of someone new who gets struck by lightning. But you should always take shelter in enclosed spaces to keep you safe from the elements.

While cars are considered safe, tractors, motorcycles, golf carts, and bicycles would typically not be considered shelter. Try and find a way to get indoors and stay there.

If you need storm cleanup restoration, give us a call!

1-4-8 Response

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is committed to a fast response for any size disaster.

We talk a lot about how SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster but, what exactly does that mean? Well when we get a call in for an emergency loss we work based off of a 148 Response. Within 1 hour of receiving notification we will have a call out to the customer to discuss the situation. Then within 4 hours of the initial call we will have at least a three man crew on site. There may be a need for extra Technicians depending on the severity and size of the loss. At times we will recall Techs from the field to come assist wherever necessary. This initial team includes a Crew Chief and at least two Techs who can begin to remedy the situation as soon as they arrive onsite. By 8 hours we will have provided a verbal briefing to the adjuster including all the information we have attained so far along with photo documentation. While all this is being done we are communicating with the customer every step of the way, we do our best to ease any concerns as we understand how stressful an emergency loss situation can be.

Commercial Cleaning Tips

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

As a business owner, it is imperative that you treat your property with the respect and dignity you show your own home. Since you are not the only one that must work in the environment you must take into consideration every employee when you decide your maintenance schedule and what services you will provide or contract out.

As an example, you should make sure your gutters are cleaned regularly just as you do with your home. Even if you do not own the building you should make sure they are being regularly cleaned out to prevent damage to the property.

Debris, leaves, and other object can become lodged in the gutters, which may also lead to ice dams in the winter. This is definitely a concern as it can lead into other problems.

Call SERVPRO today for more tips on how to keep your commercial property clean!

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today 

An Inside Look in to Our Sponsorships

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help with any event. We are proud to support our community in any way, including cooking and serving our Fire & Spice Catering.

Our owners, Sean McCabe and Mike McGrory, are the first people to lend a hand and help sponsor groups in our community. Although most sponsorships consist of money or a check, they believe there is a greater value to gain out of these experiences. That is why in place of a check, they supply lunch, volunteers, and/ or supplies. We offer our Fire & Spice catering service for any event, including community events, local associations, and our local firehouse events. Our owners Mike and Sean barbecue and cook everything from scratch with recipes they have perfected over the years! Our Marketing and Office staff set up and serve the food. This type of sponsorship allows us to make deeper connections with the event hosts and attendees so they know that we are truly here for them in any situation. We love showing the community how involved we really are and how we genuinely enjoy being a part of our community.

Ho! Ho! Puff?: A Cold Weather Dilemma Puff Back

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

Puff back can damage your walls, carpets, and electronics. Call SERVPRO if you need help after a Puff Back.

Crank up the heat! The colder weather is upon us and your heaters are soon going to be roaring back to life. For many of us, our heating systems will turn on flawlessly and get to work toasting our freezing feet. But for many others, the consequences of having left your heater sit unattended and inactive throughout the warm-weather months; can leave you with a costly and time-consuming mess.

Puff Backs are a result of a misfiring in your furnace. This misfire causes an explosion of soot and debris that shoot back into your home leaving your walls, furnishings, carpets and many other household items coated in a difficult-to-remove film. The explosion of soot brings to the forefront an underlying, usually simple, problem with the mechanics of your furnace such as a valve or filter in need of replacement.

However, even though the mechanical fix may be relatively simple, you won’t realize just how many things can be affected in your home by a puff back until you have one happen. The soot somehow finds a way into the smallest nooks and spaces of your home leaving you with a very difficult mess to clean up.

The best thing for you to do in this situation is to call in the professionals. The soot and debris are not only hard to clean up but may be dangerous without the proper knowledge due to the chemicals released during the explosion.

SERVPRO has a very unique, hands-on approach to dealing with puff backs which we tailor to every incident. If a puff back occurs on a porous material/surface, for example, then we are able to perform a more abrasive wet-cleaning process. However, if the soot has landed on a non-porous material/surface, then our highly-trained techs will spend the time strenuously cleaning your walls and surfaces with a dry sponge ensuring that everything in your home returns to its pre-damage condition.

Some things you may be able to do to prevent a puff back include;

Ensuring your oil-heating system is free of dust and debris

Inspect and provide service to your heating system before you need to use it

If you hear strange noises or begin to see any soot residue around your furnace, call your heating company immediately

If you are unable to perform those steps or if you find yourself standing in an inch-deep pile of soot and debris, call SERVPRO today and we’ll send our crews out to make it, “Like it never even happened.”

Cooking Safety

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure to always cook safely, accidents can happen at any time. If there's any mishap in the kitchen call SERVPRO to help.

“Cooking with Caution”

Be on Alert. Do not cook if you are sleepy or have consumed any alcohol. This can potentially create dangerous situations. Do not use the stovetop or stove if you are under the influence.

Be sure to stay in the kitchen while frying, boiling, grilling or broiling food. Always turn off the stove if you have to leave the kitchen, no matter how quick you may be.

If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in your home while it is cooking, or use a timer so you do not forget about it.

Be sure your kitchen is free of clutter and no loose items are near the stove. This reduces the chance of anything catching on fire.

If you have a small grease/ cooking fire and decide to fight the fire…

On the stovetop, smother the flames by sliding a lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Leave the pan to covered until it is completely cool.

If the fire is inside the oven, shut the oven off and keep the door closed.

If you have any doubt about fighting a small fire…

Just leave the house! When leaving be sure to close the door behind you to help contain the fire.

Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number from outside the house.

Content by: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Campaigns/Fire-Prevention-Week/Safety-Tip-Sheets

Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

Basement flooded? Call SERVPRO we are here to help.

There have been too many homeowners that have descended down their basement steps to find a pool of murky water greeting them. This instance is an all-too-familiar one, as many Americans claim to have dealt with a flood in their basement at least once.

Water follows the path of least resistance, finding cracks and holes through basement walls. Flooding can often be attributed to insufficient drainage around basement walls, heavy rains, a faulty sump pump, or a combination of these factors.

The water that goes unseen could wreck havoc in your foundation, causing further damage and could also welcome an infestation of mold. This is a scenario you should strive to avoid at all costs!

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are highly trained in water damage restoration including basement and crawlspace flooding. They have the experience, expertise, and equipment to remove the water and dry your basement properly. Their water removal and drying process emphasizes monitoring and documentation to validate your property is dry.

Basement flooded? Call SERVPRO we are here to help.

Dealing With Dishwasher Damage

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

Dishwasher causing water damage in your kitchen? Call SERVPRO

When we get a call from people who have been unfortunately faced with dishwasher-related water damage, we are quick to get on site to assess the situation. Hopefully, the owner of the property, or someone present at the loss, called us as soon as they noticed the damage; it is imperative that you call us quickly to avoid any further issues.

When we get on site, we work rapidly to extract water and set up drying equipment. Our response is swift and efficient, and our skilled technicians ensure they try to keep any unnecessary damage from occurring in any other areas.

We are committed to providing the best service we can to each and every person who asks for our help.

If your property is ever damaged by a faulty dishwasher, or any type of water damage, give your local SERVPRO a call today!

Severe Storms and Weather

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help with any storm damage your home may sustain. Please stay up to date with local storm warnings to keep you and your family safe

Did you know?

According to the Red Cross lightning strikes kill more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes? 

Severe weather is a serious matter and should not be taken lightly. Severe storms can wreak havoc on your home or business and can be accompanied by flash flooding, damaging winds, fallen trees and power outages.

One of the most common disasters SERVPRO remediates is roofs damaged, if not destroyed, by a fallen tree. In fact, as is common throughout the United States, winds may be strong enough to down tree limbs, knock out power, or may even be strong enough to down entire trees onto homes, parked cars, or whatever happens to cross their path, thus producing structural damage to homes and buildings (www.weather.com).

In a more severe circumstance, SERVPRO teams from the Pennsylvania and New Jersey area collectively responded to the victims of Hurricane Sandy back in 2012. Countless homes, stores, vacation retreats and hotels were severely impacted and many of them have required years of repairs and recovery.

Therefore, with the amount of damage that can be done, it is important for you to adhere to any known storm warning or threat of severe weather. Stay indoors, secure your immediate area and if possible, stay up-to-date.

Home Inspection Issues? SERVPRO Can Help!

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help with any issues that may appear during a home inspection.

Home inspections are an important step to ensure the buyer knows what they're investing in long term and are often a requirement for obtaining a loan. Sellers are also made aware at this stage of what issues may hold up their sale, or affect their asking price. According to economists at the National Association of Realtors, About 1 in every 4 real estate transactions are delayed because of something that came up during the home inspection. 

Even when homeowners complete routine maintenance and repairs, an official home inspection can turn up surprises.

SERVPRO is here to help with any large issues you may face during this process. If you had Puff Back that you didn’t want to get into cleaning up at the time that has worn away the walls and even your electronics we can clean and restore the home. Maybe the home inspector found mold that was growing in the basement from a flooding three years ago that you thought you had cleaned up enough to prevent any further damage. SERVPRO can come in and safely mitigate any mold found in the home. 

SERVPRO also can provide small services to help your home get market ready such as Air Duct Cleaning, Covid-19 Cleaning, and even General Cleaning for drapes, carpets, floors, ceilings, and walls. Give us a call if you need any of these services to get your home ready to sell.