How and When to Use a Plumbing Snake

7/18/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with a clogged drain can be a frustrating and inconvenient experience. While simple clogs can often be cleared with a plunger or drain cleaner, there are times when a more powerful tool is required. In such cases, a plumbing snake, also known as a drain auger, can come to the rescue. In this blog, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to use a plumbing snake effectively and when it's necessary to employ this handy tool.

Understanding the Plumbing Snake

A plumbing snake is a flexible, coiled cable that helps dislodge and remove stubborn clogs from drains and pipes. It typically consists of a long, metal cable with a handle on one end and a corkscrew-like auger on the other.

When to Use a Plumbing Snake

A plumbing snake is especially useful in the following scenarios:

• Persistent or recurring clogs that cannot be cleared with a plunger or drain cleaner.
• Clogs are located deeper within the plumbing system, beyond the reach of a plunger.
• Clogs are caused by solid objects or debris, such as hair, grease, or tree roots.

Preparing for the Job

Before using a plumbing snake, it's important to gather the necessary tools and take the following precautions:

• Wear protective gloves and eye goggles to safeguard yourself from debris and splashes.
• Familiarize yourself with the plumbing snake's instructions and safety guidelines.
• Remove any excess water from the area to prevent splashing or flooding.

Using the Plumbing Snake

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a plumbing snake effectively:

1. Extend the cable: Insert the auger end of the plumbing snake into the drain and slowly extend the cable by turning the handle clockwise.
2. Apply gentle pressure: Once the cable is extended, apply gentle pressure while rotating the handle. This helps the auger grab onto the clog and break it apart.
3. Maneuver the snake: Gradually feed the cable further into the drain while maintaining a steady rotation. If you encounter resistance, pause and reverse the rotation to dislodge the clog.
4. Remove the snake: Once the clog is broken up, retract the cable by turning the handle counterclockwise. Be cautious not to yank the snake forcefully to prevent damage to the pipes.

Post-Snaking Cleanup

After successfully using a plumbing snake, it's essential to clean up the area and restore normal flow:

• Run hot water through the drain to flush out any remaining debris.
• Use a plunger or drain cleaner to clear any loose particles.
• If necessary, repeat the snaking process or consider seeking professional assistance.

When to Call a Professional

While using a plumbing snake can be effective for minor to moderate clogs, certain situations may require the expertise of a professional plumber. It's advisable to seek professional assistance in the following cases:

• Severe clogs that persist after multiple attempts.
• Clogs in main sewer lines or complicated plumbing systems.
• Lack of experience or uncertainty in handling the plumbing snake.

Using a plumbing snake can be a practical and cost-effective solution for clearing stubborn clogs in your drains. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking the necessary precautions, you can effectively tackle common plumbing issues. However, it's important to know your limits and seek professional help when faced with complex or persistent clogs. Remember, a well-maintained plumbing system promotes a clean and functional home environment

Water Damage Restoration-Call-Now

5/6/2023 (Permalink)

We are here to help

Need Water Damage Restoration?
We can help you.

We can help you with:

• more resources,
• better technology,
• deep experiance and
• current certificatons
  --> because we are a local company with national resources.

We will mitigate and can repair the damage caused by water in your home or business.

If you have experienced a flood, burst pipe, or other water-related emergency, and you're looking for immediate assistance fast... Thats us.

Our goal is to solve your problem and make your experience stress free

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU
We can be at your location to prevent further damage and help mitagate and restore your property to its preloss condition.

IMMEDIATE DISPATCH TO YOU
Out techs will be dispatched in minutes after your call.

WE CLEAN IT ALL
We are full spectrum cleaning.
We offer a wide range of restoration and cleaning services for residential and commercial properties that have been affected by water, fire, smoke, mold, and other types of damage.

LIST OF SERVICES

• Water damage restoration
• Fire damage restoration
• Mold remediation
• Storm damage restoration
• Cleaning services
  (including carpet cleaning, air duct cleaning, and biohazard cleanup)
• Building services
  (including reconstruction and remodeling)
• Commercial cleaning services
  (including COVID-19 disinfection)
• Document restoration and recovery

24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICES
We also provided emergency services and 24/7 support to help customers deal with unexpected disasters and minimize damage to their property.

INSURANCE SUPPORT
Their team of trained and certified technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to restore properties quickly and efficiently, and we work with customers and insurance companies to help with a seamless and stress-free restoration process.

Call us now -> (720) 408-9313

Choose SERVPRO For Mold Clean Up - Here's Why

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

We are your local mold professionals.

Mold can affect a number of surfaces, including drywall and ceiling tiles and once it appears it can begin spreading within 24-48 hours.

With this in mind, the EPA suggests that certain actions, including removing and replacing damaged ceiling tiles, should take place within that period. 

First Call The Pros

Since mold growth can be a severe health hazard, it is important that any water damage is addressed by a professional remediation company that is equipped to handle the job thoroughly.

Companies like SERVPRO have the training and expertise necessary to identify potential problems and take the proper steps to make sure that they are adequately addressed.

Using specialized equipment such as moisture meters, infrared imaging devices, heavy-duty dehumidifiers and fans, the professionals at SERVPRO can detect water issues, stop them at the source and thoroughly dry out all surfaces.

They’ll also perform complete mold remediation to ensure that all traces of mold and fungus are removed from your home before they can spread and affect your family’s health.

Don’t Get In Over Your Head

While it can seem overwhelming, when there’s water damage ceiling who to call can be an important factor because having the right response can keep you from ending up in over your head. The important thing is to take the damage seriously even if it seems minor.

While some damage may only require a quick DIY project, more often it is just a signal of more extensive issues beneath the surface and you need to treat the whole thing to keep the damage from building.

When water damage occurs to your ceiling, don’t hesitate to call in the pros. A professional water mitigation company like SERVPRO can keep your water emergency from getting out of hand and help return your home to its original condition so you can breathe easier.

With their extensive knowledge of the industry, they may even be able to help you file your insurance claim to improve your chances of getting positive results.

An established local business with a national reputation

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

Things happen, we are here to help clean it up

As lovely as the area is, emergencies can still happen here.

With SERVPRO local business in the community has a name they can turn to at times like these.

SERVPRO is a proud member of the community and we take pride in providing professional quality service with the caring approach you expect.

We’re ready to respond faster to any disaster with trained technicians and industrial strength equipment that can handle any size job.

Because we’re also your neighbors, we’ll go the extra mile to treat every property as if it were our own.

That’s what we’d expect in our time of need and we believe that you deserve the same. Our end goal is always to make your property look “Like it never even happened” so that you can put the stress behind you and focus on living again.

For SERVPRO local business begins with restoring your property and ends with restoring your peace of mind.

That’s what community is all about and caring for the community is our business.

When disaster strikes and you need a helping hand, call the local business with the name you can trust and let SERVPRO do the rest.

Experience That Makes A Difference

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

We are always here to help

When disaster strikes, you need to have experts you can turn to for all of your restoration needs.

From addressing fire or water damage to cleaning up in the aftermath of a storm, it can be a traumatic and stressful time.

You shouldn’t have to face the process by yourself and that’s where SERVPRO can make a difference.

SERVPRO has been providing water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, and other repair and restoration services for over 50 years.

We pride ourselves on responding faster to any disaster and providing the best quality service for both residential and commercial properties.

The North Thorton/Brighton franchise continues this tradition of speed, quality, and expertise for all residents in the Brighton area.

Our franchise owners are members of the North Thorton community themselves and we’re proud to provide quality restoration service for our neighbors.

As local business owners, we are invested in providing the best possible service

We’ll treat your property as if it’s our own and put our years of experience to work to help make it “Like it never even happened”. That’s our promise to you and we stand by it.

Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a flood or a fire, digging out after a snowstorm or facing biohazard cleanup in your workplace, you need a name you can trust.

SERVPRO has the years of experience that make us the standard in the restoration industry and the one company you can count on when it matters most.

Holiday Fire Safety Tips for Thornton?

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire restoration services in Adams County.

SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton’s technicians respond to more fire damage emergencies during the winter months than at any other time of the year. Here are some decorating and entertaining tips from the National Fire Protection Association to keep you safe this holiday season:

Holiday Decorating

• Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights, so the cords do not get damaged
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors

Holiday Entertaining

• Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about your home fire escape plan
• Keep children and pets away from lit candles
• Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop
• Ask smokers to smoke outside. Remind smokers to keep their smoking materials with them so young children do not touch them.
• Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding.

Call Us Today!

When your Thornton home or commercial business has fire damage, SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 720-223-8888.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Duct Cleaning Services for Brighton?

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

We provide air duct cleaning services in Adams County.

Do you know that SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton cleans air ducts and ventilation systems? If your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and debris
• Other contaminants

Here is a testimonial from our website from a happy customer:

“We recently had our ducts cleaned by SERVPRO of North Thornton and Brighton. They provided such wonderful service that I felt compelled to share the experience. I was skeptical of the value of cleaning your ducts, however, my wife was insistent, so like any smart husband, I caved. When I called SERVPRO to ask about their service, they were professional, knowledgeable, and helpful. I was able to speak directly to the owner, Brian Harvey, who sealed the deal with his enthusiasm and confidence in his team’s work. True enough, his team showed up on time, and they were courteous and professional. I was able to see the amount of dirt they were able to pull out of our ductwork, so we’re very happy to have had the work done and done by Brian and his SERVPRO of North Thornton and Brighton team.” Kurt B in Brighton, CO

Call Us Today!

When you need air duct cleaning services for your Brighton home or business, SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is Here to Help. ® We’ll clean your air ducts, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 720-223-8888.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Hoarding Cleanup Services in Brighton?

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

We provide biohazard cleanup and removal in Adams County.

I had no idea things had gotten so bad until it was too late. When the first responders arrived, they could barely get in the front door because there was so much stuff in the house. SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton has been helping families in Brighton restore hoarding scenes for many years. Here is some helpful information about hoarding from the National Fire Protection Association:

Why Hoarding Increases Fire Risks

• Cooking is unsafe if flammable items are close to the stove or oven
• Heating units may be too close to things that can burn. They might also be placed on unstable surfaces. If a heater tips over into a pile, it can cause a fire.
• Electrical wiring may be old or worn from the weight of piles. Pests could chew on wires. Damaged wires can start fires.
• Open flames from smoking materials or candles in a home with excess clutter are very dangerous
• Blocked pathways and exits may hinder escape from a fire

Call Us Today!

When you or a loved one needs help with hoarding scene cleanup, SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 720-223-8888. We’ll clean and restore any hoarding scene in Brighton, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

House Party Fiasco in Henderson?

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

When I came back early from vacation, I found a party in full swing at my Henderson home - not of my making. My teenagers thought it would be a great idea to send out an invitation to everyone via social media to come to their party. When I arrived, there were hundreds of people there, the party was already out of control, and I had to call the police to break it up. My teenagers learned a hard lesson that night.

I called SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton right away and they came out and immediately began the cleanup and restoration process. There was garbage and broken glass all over the front yard and in the street. Lawn chairs and other patio furnishings had been tossed into the pool. The inside of the house was a disaster, too. Every room had to be cleaned and sanitized. The SERVPRO team worked quickly and went systematically through the whole house. They removed all of the party detritus and cleaned the home from top to bottom. In a few hours, my home was restored to pre-damage condition.

Call Us!

When your Henderson home or commercial business needs deep cleaning services, SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 720-223-8888.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Sewage Spill in Brighton?

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

Bathroom Disaster in Brighton

My toilet overflowed in the wee hours of the morning. (No pun intended!) The entire bathroom floor and my closet and hallway carpeting were also contaminated. My neighbor told me to call SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton, and I’m glad I did. Even though it was early morning, the SERVPRO team arrived quickly and immediately began the cleanup and restoration process.

They inspected the toilet and overflow area and immediately cleaned up the mess and extracted the sewer water. They cleaned, decontaminated, and deodorized the bathroom, my closet, and hallway. They documented the drying process to ensure that the area was returned to normal moisture levels. Fortunately, they were able to clear the sewage backup problem and clean and sanitize my carpets, so there is no odor and no worries about the area not being sanitary.

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 “Black Water” is highly unsanitary and can cause severe illness or death if ingested. All contact should be avoided. Sources for black water include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business has a sewer backup problem, SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 720-223-8888. We’ll restore your sewer backup in Brighton, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Five-Star Customer Reviews in Brighton?

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

Brighton Realtors Love Us!

SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton strives for complete customer satisfaction in all that we do. Here are some recent Google Reviews:

“I'm a realtor and often have clients who need disaster mitigation services. Any time I work with Brian and his team at SERVPRO, they are accountable, priced competitively, and reliable. If you are in the Denver Area and need water, fire, pet, mold, or any other damage mitigated and repaired, look no further.” Bert Gillette

“I was very impressed with the professionalism and the manner in which Brian and his team conduct business. They really took care of my client and went above and beyond with his new home. We needed a lot of work done immediately after closing and prior to my client moving in, and they did an amazing job; plus, Brian really put me at ease that he would take care of our client on top of giving us a great price. I wouldn't use any other company!! Thanks so much!” Jenny Penman

Call Us Today!

When you need property damage restoration services, SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 720-223-8888. We’ll restore your property damage in Brighton, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Mold Mitigation and Remediation Services in Thornton?

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Mold Outbreak in Thornton?

SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton has been mitigating mold infestations for Thornton residents and businesses for years. In the right conditions, mold can spread quickly and can become visible in as little as forty-eight hours, so it is imperative that mold is addressed as soon as possible to avoid it from spreading to other areas of the structure. Here are some facts from our website about mold:

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

Call Us!

When you need help with a mold problem, SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 720-223-8888. We’ll mitigate and remediate your mold damage in Thornton, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is Independently Owned and Operated.

Highly Trained Restoration Team in Thornton?

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton technicians are trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the nonprofit certifying body for the restoration industry. Additionally, our technicians are required to undergo continuous education and training to stay up to speed with new best practices and industry standards. Here are some of the training tools we provide our employees:

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Initial Franchise Training

A fifteen-day hands-on course at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. This course is primarily for new Franchise owners and covers many restoration topics:

• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
• Mold Mitigation

e-Learnings

All of our staff have access to web-based training. This voluntary program is designed to be an ongoing, self-paced coaching series for a Franchise's employees. Video presentations and support materials are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. This keeps our technicians and office staff up to speed on industry standards and the professional quality you expect.

Call Us!

When you need help with a fire or water damage emergency, SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 720-223-8888. We’ll restore your property damage in Thornton, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is Independently Owned and Operated.

Happy Families in Brighton?

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

We Value Your Opinion

SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton goes to great lengths to ensure our customers are given the best service and support possible. We know how stressful a fire, water, storm, or mold emergency can be, so we make sure to educate our customers about all of the options available so they can make an informed decision. Our best advertising comes from past customers. Here are some customer testimonials from our website:

“Can't say enough good things about Brian and his team. We had a burst pipe that we didn't realize that flooded our kitchen. Brian came over immediately after we mopped up the floors and put in de-humidifiers and fans to contain the damage. We crossed our fingers we didn't damage any drywall or cabinets. Thankfully his dryers worked, and he was honest with us and we didn't have to replace anything! Highly recommend these guys!” Alisa M in Brighton

“I had a great experience working with SERVPRO and will definitely recommend them to friends and family. They responded to my job right away and everything was handled quickly. Brian and his team were on time, friendly, and listened to my concerns.” Jennifer in Brighton

“They came out quickly and were efficient in diagnosing our problem. We highly recommend SERVPRO Thornton/ Brighton!” Tony G in Thornton

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is on-call and ready to respond to property damage emergencies in Brighton 24-hours a day. Call us today at 720-223-8888.

SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is Independently Owned and Operated.

Advanced Technology in Lochbuie?

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

State-of-the-art equipment

In this picture, an infrared camera is being used to measure the heat signature inside of the building.  Technology is also used in the restoration industry to identify the location and the extent of fire, water, and mold intrusions in homes and commercial properties. SERVPRO® of North Thornton/Brighton is committed to investing in technological advancements and specialized training for our restoration technicians, and we use a variety of advanced technologies and techniques, including:

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

We use scientific drying principles and specialized equipment to detect, measure, and monitor moisture levels in walls, ceilings and floors.

• 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

• 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 cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of North Thornton/Brighton is on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day to property damage emergencies in Lochbuie. Call us today at 720-223-8888.

SERVPRO^® of North Thornton/Brighton is Independently Owned and Operated.

Top 5 Places to Find Residential Mold

9/30/2020 (Permalink)

Common Locations You Can Find Mold In Your Home

Indoor mold is an extremely common issue that the majority of homeowners must face at some point. Performing regular mold inspections is one of the best ways to keep your residential property in Henderson, CO, safe from mold damage. Make sure you're carefully checking these common locations in your home during your next inspection.

1. Your Bathroom
Mold thrives in dark, moist environments, making your bathroom the ideal fungal breeding ground. You're most likely to find mildew growth in your shower, especially if you don't take the time to properly dry the bathroom tiles and ventilate the room while you use it.

2. Your Kitchen
There are several places in your kitchen that you can find mold. Thoroughly check underneath your kitchen sink, especially near the pipes. You also have to make sure that you regularly clean out your refrigerator to prevent mold from growing on any not-so-fresh food items.

3. Your Living Room
Many cases of living room mold are found underneath the carpet. Neglecting to properly dry any liquid spills just invites mold to take up residence underneath the carpet and in the floorboards. You can also find mold growing in your household plants, especially if you tend to overwater them.

4. Your Basement
You absolutely need to perform regular and thorough mold inspections in your basement, especially if the room is unfinished. Check near and around any exposed water pipes and near the water heater.

5. Your Laundry Room
Your washing machine is very susceptible to mold growth, especially if you don't take the time to allow the drum to dry completely after each cycle. You can help prevent mold damage by running white vinegar through the machine once a month.
Don't let mold damage wreck havoc on your residential property. Performing regular mold inspections can help you identify the problem earlier so you can stop it before it gets out of hand. Contact mold remediation experts for assistance if you do discover any mold growth.

Common Questions About Mold-Related Smells in Your Building

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

There are times where you or other people might find a musty mold smell inside your Lochbuie, CO, commercial building. However, the mold it originates from can be outright impossible to find. You should not dismiss this situation, as mold can spread and further damage your building. Ask the necessary questions about this situation to find a strong solution.

What Causes the Smell?

The irritating fungus smell that signals the presence of mold is created by the organism's metabolism. It depends on a food source and the right climate to grow and reproduce. The digestive process releases gases known as microbial volatile organic compounds, which cause the distinctive odor. The intensity of the MVOC depends on numerous factors, such as the environment's humidity and the type of material the mold is feeding on.

Where Does Mold Hide?
Because mold requires a combination of small, dark habitats, humidity, and a food source to survive, it is not always in obvious places. The mold smell may originate from the following locations:

• Behind walls
  
• Inside ventilation, heating and cooling units
  
• Near plumbing systems
  
• Over expired food
  
• Areas affected by untreated water damage
  
  

The scent created by this organism provides a strong clue towards the location, but it is not always reliable. A commercial mold remediation specialist can detect the mold accurately.

How Is This Problem Resolved?
Once you call the professionals to your commercial building, they will use techniques such as thermal imaging cameras to find the source of the mold or mildew smell. These devices detect areas that are cooler in comparison to the rest of the building, which usually indicates high humidity. This is not a certainty, so the technicians will use tools such as a moisture meter to confirm whether the area has water damage or not.
A powerful mold smell can drive away people from your location and endanger your business. Ask the right questions and bring the right people to effectively eliminate the odor's source.

What Should You Do With Moldy Bread?

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

If bread sits out for more than a couple days, it gets stale. Once that happens, bread mold isn’t far behind. Putting bread in the fridge can slow the growth of mold, but eventually, it will invade your food there as well. Let’s look at why mold grows on bread and other foods and examine what you can do about it.

Why Does Mold Grow on Bread?

Believe it or not, mold spores are everywhere. They don't pose a problem in your home in Todd Creek, CO unless the spores begin to grow into larger mold clusters. Mold is a member of the family of fungi, which also includes mushrooms. Since fungi’s energy source is from plants and animals, it thrives in the kitchen. Mold loves many foods, especially those found in warm, moist areas.
Bread mold is quite common because of bread’s ingredients. Yeast, sugar, and flour are all elements that attract mold. Soft fruits, such as berries and peaches, also attract fungus growth because of their sugar content and their soft, fleshy surface.

What Should You Do With Moldy Bread?
To discourage mold from growing, keep bread on the counter for a day or two. It can be kept in the fridge for about another week. To prevent fridge mold, if you don’t plan to eat the full loaf within a week, store it in the freezer.
If the bread is already moldy, do the following:

• Place the entire loaf of bread in a paper or plastic bag, and throw it in a trash can that is securely covered.
  
• Spray the entire area with disinfectant and wipe dry with a discardable rag or paper towel.
  
• Inspect any other food nearby and discard it if you see any mold.
  
  

Don’t hesitate to call a mold remediation specialist if you suspect that mold has grown on other surfaces.
By staying vigilant, you can keep bread mold away from your kitchen.

What To Look for in a Restoration Service

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

Our Team Can Handle Anything

Four Key Things To Keep In Mind When Looking For A Restoration Service

Storm restoration in Brighton, CO, can be a major hassle. Choosing the right restoration company can help make the process easier. The following are four key things to keep in mind when choosing a restoration service:

1. Certification
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification is an organization that has been certifying restoration companies all over the world for more than 45 years. Being IICRC certified indicates that a company is providing quality restoration services and adhering to the industry's current best practices. SERVPRO is IICRC-certified and also provides continuing education courses to its franchise owners and employees.

2. Equipment
A company needs to have the right materials for the job at hand. For instance, flood damage can require a variety of items, including wet/dry vacuums, pumps, and dehumidifiers as well as tools to tear out damaged drywall and insulation. A company with corporate support will have the equipment to handle everything from a small kitchen fire to a large-scale storm response. All SERVPRO franchises use carefully-selected equipment to ensure every job is done right.

3. Quick Response Time
Regardless of the nature of the disaster, a speedy response can help prevent further damage. For example, water damage cleanup and storm restoration should begin quickly to prevent mold growth. Fire damage should also be addressed as soon as possible to secure the property and to remove soot before further corrosion occurs.

4. Communication
Easy communication among the property owner, restoration professionals, and the insurance company is key to a smooth restoration process. SERVPRO's claims services help keep all parties in the loop. Necessary paperwork, photographs of the damage, a loss inventory, and other essential information is available electronically.
A certified restoration service with over 50 years of experience can help get your commercial property back to normal after a disaster. SERVPRO provides quality service in everything from mold mitigation and storm restoration to claims service.

How Extensive Is a Mold Infestation?

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

How Extensive Is a Mold Infestation?

The number of square feet in a structure infested with mold will determine the extent of an infestation. A toxigenic species such as stachybotrys chartarum or black mold can increase the severity of a mold problem. Here are several factors a commercial building owner should consider when planning mold remediation.

Visible Mold
Visible mold is a clear indication of contamination. If water damage is not properly mitigated, mold may grow in clear view on any of the following surfaces:

• Ceiling tiles
• Damp carpet
• Painted surfaces
• Upholstery
• Wallpaper
• Wood surfaces
  

Mold cleanup may be easier when the majority of an infestation is readily visible. In many cases, visible growth is only part of a larger problem. A plumbing or roof leak can also lead to mold growth behind walls, under flooring, or on the upper side of ceiling tiles.

Hidden Mold
An infestation involving mold that is obscured from sight may be more extensive than a building owner realizes. Expert inspection and testing are helpful for locating hidden mold without spreading contamination or risking further exposure to spores and mycotoxin. Specialists may use infrared cameras to detect moisture and a borescope or other specialized detection tools to check behind walls with minimal disruption.

Mold Testing
Mold testing is helpful for monitoring levels of microbial volatile organic compounds or spores in a structure. Air, batch, or surface sampling and lab analysis may be recommended for an infestation that could be toxigenic, such as some varieties of black mold. Testing can also take place after remediation as a verification measure.
A mold remediation service can accurately identify the extent of a mold infestation and provide an estimate and schedule for cleaning and restoring a commercial building in Northglenn, CO. Building owners and managers should rely on trained professionals to minimize the risks associated with exposure to black mold and other types of fungi.

Mold Damage Emergency Tips

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Emergency Steps You Can take

The idea of having black mold concerns many homeowners because it has the potential to cause adverse health effects. In addition, if mold is left to sit long enough, it can cause property damage by eating away at the material it is on. If you have experienced a flood or water damage in Lochbuie, CO, there are a few emergency steps you can take.

1. Act Quickly

In wet or moist conditions, some species of mold can begin forming in as little as 24-48 hours. The quicker you can dry out the area, the less chance mold has to form. If water has soaked carpets, drywall, or other porous materials, you may need to use industrialized blowers.

2. Determine Whether You Have Mold

You can perform a visual search to check for mold. It can lurk in places that are not obvious, such as underneath carpets or inside of vents. A musky odor is an indication that it present, even if you cannot see it.

3. Vacate the Area

Areas with black mold may be unsafe to enter because you could disturb the spores, causing them to become airborne. It is best to close the door and not disturb the space until proper mold cleanup can begin.

4. Stop Air Flow

Fans and HVAC systems should be turned off and windows closed. If air blows on the mold, it may spread spores to other areas or cause them to get into the ventilation system.

5. Perform Mold Remediation

Mold must be properly cleaned and disinfected so that the roots of the spores are destroyed during the process. Otherwise, it may start to grow back if the moisture problem returns.
If you have experienced water damage in your home, you could have black mold. Your best course of action is to contact a mold remediation specialist to assess the extent of the damage. Professionals can use specialized equipment and products to safely return your residence to its previous condition.

Should You Consider Professional Carpet Cleaning? | SERVPRO® of North Thornton and Brighton

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Let us give your carpets a deep clean

If you ask most homeowners, they’ll probably tell you that carpet cleaning isn’t on their list of regular chores. Many assume that vacuuming will suffice—however, there are a lot of messes that vacuuming can’t tackle.

Not only do carpet companies typically require regular cleaning to maintain the manufacturer’s warranty, but there are several other reasons why carpet cleaning is a wise choice. By improving air quality, helping banish bugs and mites and even making your personal cleaning routine easier, carpet cleaning is a smart choice for any homeowners looking to extend the longevity of their floors.

Still not convinced? Here are some reasons that carpet cleaning is a smart choice:

Improve indoor air. We all know that carpet contains dirt, but there are also more dangerous pollutants and bacteria lurking within the fibers. Every time outside air is let into the home, contaminants come right along with it. Since vacuuming only handles surface-level debris, the chances are good that there are deeper factors hurting indoor air quality.

Extend your carpet’s life. Many homeowners rip out carpet that looks “tired,” but sometimes that just means they’ve been too dirty for too long. Dirt acts like sandpaper to the delicate carpet fibers, becoming more deeply embedded and shortening the lifespan every time dirty carpet is walked on.

Remove mites and bugs. Just as with other soft surfaces in the home, plush carpet fibers are the perfect place for mites and bugs to live. A thorough cleaning will make the carpet an inhospitable living environment for the critters, and maintaining a regular schedule will keep them from coming back.

Have easier floor maintenance. While vacuuming serves as a surface-level solution to a deeper carpet problem, the two can be quite complementary! Carpets that are cleaned regularly by a professional will be easier for a homeowner to vacuum because the heavy-duty dirt and debris have already been eradicated.

Still not sure if carpet cleaning is for you? Our team of carpet cleaning professionals is happy to discuss how it can benefit your home!

Why Preferred Vendors of Insurance Companies Have Qualifications

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Why Preferred Vendors of Insurance Companies Have Qualifications

If your Todd Creek, CO, business has suffered fire, water or mold damage you may need to talk to your insurance agent about a local damage restoration service, such as SERVPRO, to help with repairs. Many insurance companies keep a list of preferred vendors to contact for various needs for several reasons. These include

1. Set Guidelines

There are 21 guidelines an insurance vendor must agree to in order to become a preferred vendor. This includes the IICRC standards among others. Following these guidelines ensures that clients can expect a high quality job completion from any vendor recommended by their insurance provider, as well as the ability to know what to expect in the restoration ahead of time.

2. Complete Record Keeping

Another reason your insurance agent may recommend a preferred vendor for your business's restoration needs is that fact that in many cases these vendors have the ability to help the agent with the documentation needed to file a claim. For example, SERVPRO offers an electronic claims inventory system that can be used to keep track of photographs, item inventory lists, and track restoration progress. These types of systems help ensure that everything is properly documented which can be very useful to your insurance company.

3. Safety Standards

Another reason your insurance may recommend working with a member of their vendor program, is the fact that they know their preferred vendors will follow proper safety standards. In addition to correct use of equipment this may also include how to properly quarantine an area for mold removal, use of personal protection equipment, and material handling.
If your business has suffered damage it’s a good idea to consult your insurance agent about working with a preferred vendor. These professionals have been trained to follow national standards in order to ensure quality service, and can help document the damage and repairs for your agent. Preferred vendors also follow safety standards to help ensure that the job is completed correctly with everyone's health and safety in mind.

Types of Damage Related to Fire

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

Types of Damage Related to Fire

A fire at your Brighton, CO, commercial property can be a huge hassle. In addition to restoring damage caused by the fire itself, you will often have to do water cleanup as well. Understanding the different types of damage can help you prepare for a business fire.

Water Damage

The fire department will likely use a large amount of water to extinguish the fire. If you have a sprinkler system, the fire is usually contained more quickly so that less water can be used. In either case, though, you will need to work quickly to prevent mold growth. The following are some tools you may find helpful in drying out your property:

• Wet/dry vacuum
  
• Submersible pump
  
• Dehumidifier
  
• Fan
  
  

If you do not have the above items, you may be able to rent them from a hardware store before beginning water cleanup.

Smoke and Soot Damage

After the property is fully dry, you will need to tend to the smoke and soot. Because the residue can be corrosive, it is important to act quickly. The type of fire determines the type of residue you are left with. There are a variety of types of smoke and soot and different cleaners and techniques for each. Using the wrong approach can compound damage, so you may decide to seek professional help in determining the best soot and smoke cleanup method for your business.

Fire Damage

When picturing a building after a fire, the fire damage may be what pops into your mind most quickly. This type of damage includes burned and charred objects, ashes, etc. Severely charred items should be thrown away, but less damaged objects may be salvageable. Cleaning up ashes can be particularly tricky because you do not want them to end up in the atmosphere. You may be able to sweep them up and dispose of them in a trash bag. However, more severe fire damage may require professional fire cleanup.
The damage resulting from a business fire may seem overwhelming. Fortunately, there are experienced restoration professionals that can help you with fire, smoke and water cleanup and get your business back to normal quickly and safely.

Do I Really Need Mold Remediation?

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can be present in your home for many reasons, and even if you think you can perform the mold cleaning on your own, it is often much tougher than it appears. If you believe that your home in Thornton, CO may have mold damage, it is important to consider mold remediation. Here are a few easy ways to help you decide if you need mold cleanup in your home.

1. There's a Musty Odor in Your Home

If you can't see any signs of mold but there is a musty odor, it may be time for someone to perform professional mold cleaning. Only an environmental hygienist is certified to check for mold, so ensure that the mold remediation specialists you hire are able to perform the job.

2. You've Had Recent Water Intrusion

If you've had any type of flooding in your home, it's a good idea to have someone with experience take a look. Mold can grow within 72 hours of a flooding event, and is especially common in dark areas that stay damp, such as basements or attics. Carpets, drywall and even some upholstered furniture take time to dry, and can all be breeding grounds for mold.

3. Stained or Discolored Ceilings or Walls

Sometimes, ceilings will show water marks or brownish-orange stains, indicating that there may have been a leak and some water damage. Showers or bathtubs can also become discolored, and even if they do not look moldy, they may still require professional black mold cleanup.

If you recognize any of the above signs of mold growth, the best solution is to call a mold remediation specialist to help with mold cleaning and to get your home back to normal as soon as possible.

Which Air Purifiers Are Most Effective at Removing Mold Spores?

12/8/2019 (Permalink)

Surprisingly, outdoor air is often cleaner and healthier than indoor air in Brighton, CO. A lot of man-made pollutants eventually leech into the air from virtually everything indoors, and mold spores can actually be more numerous inside – even in a thoroughly clean house. One way to combat this problem is with the right air filtration system.

What Kind of Purifier Works Best to Remove Mold?

The simplest answer is to always choose one with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. These create air channels smaller than the size of mold spores that traps them. Other considerations would include


What size purifier will you need to adequately filter air for the space?
What special features will you need?
How often do you need to maintain the system?


It may sound terrifying, but you are literally surrounded by millions of mold spores. The fight against indoor mold is a battle of numbers, and reducing the count to safe levels is a complete victory.

Which Air Filtration Systems Are Best

While this answer depends on the factors above, there are a few standouts that most experts seem to like. The Oransi Max HEPA Air Purifier removes over 99% of airborne particles, are lightweight and include an activated charcoal filter to eliminate odors. Their EJ120 Air Purifier does the same, but is more expensive and designed for tobacco smokers. The Austin Air Healthmate Air Purifier filters viruses and bacteria and includes a 4-stage medical-grade HEPA filter. The Alen BreatheSmart 75i Purifier uses a HEPA-Pure filter and customizable designer panels to match your décor as it may change.

With the right HEPA air filtration system, you’re well on your way to helping prevent mold damage to your home. However, incidents, such as storm damage or a burst pipe, can cause a massive mold flare-up that no purifier can fix. Once you’ve gotten to that point in Brighton, CO you need a top-notch mold cleanup company to identify the source, eliminate it and repair the damage. 

The Cost of Mold Damage in Homes

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation Process

Finding mold in your home in Henderson, CO, can be incredibly stressful, and not knowing the cost of mold removal can add to your stress. There are various steps in the mold remediation process and knowing an approximate cost of each step can be useful to homeowners.

1. Assessments

Assessments are often one of the least expensive parts of the mold remediation process. During an assessment, an inspector will thoroughly assess your home and will search for signs of damage. When mold is identified, an inspector will take a sample to send to a lab in order to determine the type of mold in your home. Generally, the overall cost of an assessment is less than one thousand dollars.

2. Structural Damage and Loss of Items

The cost of restoring the structure of your home can be a costly expense. Mold removal may be possible for some personal belongings that have been damaged in your home, and the cost of restoration is generally less than the cost of replacing items. Although the restoration process of your home and the costs of restoring or replacing your belongings can be expensive, some insurance policies may cover part of the damage depending on the cause.

3. Remediation

Removing the mold in your home can be a time-consuming process depending on the extent of the damage that has occurred. For example, black mold removal can be a lengthy process due to the hazardous nature of the mold. During the process, mold remediation specialists will contain the mold to one area in order to mitigate the damage and prevent the spores from spreading to other locations in your home. Then, specialists will sanitize and clean the area until the level of mold spores present is safe.

The cost of mold removal can vary depending on the type of mold present and the amount of damage. However, having an estimate of how much an assessment, replacement, restoration and remediation will cost can help you feel more prepared for the process of mold remediation.

Water Never Sleeps

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial office clean up after water damage

Ask anyone whose business has experienced flood, fire or storm damage. They will tell you how much they hate water. Struggling with water damage is a 24 hour per day job. You can turn off the water, but it will continue causing trouble by:

• Spreading beneath floors, behind walls and into other hidden areas
  
• Damaging furniture, woodwork and walls
  
• Rusting and corroding machinery and other metal items
  
• Damaging electronics
  
• Setting the stage for mold

Your Water Problem Needs Immediate Attention

If your water problem starts at 10 a.m. on a Wednesday, at least it happened during business hours. People are at on the job, and there is at least a chance that someone can begin dealing with it.

If the problem starts at 2 a.m. on a Sunday over a long holiday weekend, you have a huge problem. With most businesses, the best you could expect is to leave a voice mail and hope that someone calls you back.

When you have a water problem, you need a fast response. You need a company that treats water damage remediation as a 24 hour per day job.

The Solution to Your Water Problem Is Closer Than You Think

A company in the Brighton,CO, area comes with a built-in commitment to solving your water problem. Call them at any time of day or night, and you can expect:

• A response within one hour
  
• An on-site evaluation within four hours
  
• A verbal briefing within eight hours
  
  

While the rest of the world is still sleeping, a plan to solve your water problem is already in motion. The fast response results in less damage and less downtime for your business. An event that could have been a catastrophe may only end up being an inconvenience.

This Damage Restoration Company Is Always Open for Business

There are nearby water damage remediation specialists ready to solve your water problem. Their business operates on a 24 hour day basis, and they are waiting for a phone call from you.

Controlling Potential Mold Problems in Your Home

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can grow in many places, all it needs is a little moisture

Controlling Potential Mold Problems in Your Home

A common component of mold development is water damage. While some instances of moisture damage are obvious, there are possible minor leaks that go unnoticed, leading to mold infestations in your home’s ceiling, walls, and crawlspaces. These types of leaks may make it difficult to combat mold growth, but not impossible. The fact is, potential mold problems can be averted, and while some of this prevention may cost, it is likely far less than having to renovate your home due to a large infestation.

1. Home Inspections

While much mold growth occurs in dark, damp spaces, a home inspection is an excellent way to find problems before they evolve. However, the key here is routine inspections. This means scheduling for annual inspections at a minimum. These inspections should cover your roof, foundation, and plumbing ensuring that every inch of your home is looked after.

2. Ventilation

While water damage may be the number one contributor to mold development, ventilation is a close second. While bathroom, laundry room and kitchen fans may seem like extra bonuses, these tools are essential to reducing the concentration of moisture in specific areas. Therefore, ensuring that all tools for ventilation are working properly minimizes the threat of mold.

3. Moisture Control

Moisture control is in line with ventilation. Venting rooms prone to higher than average moisture levels mean keeping interior spaces dry and mold free. However, some areas are more easily vented than others. Basements and crawlspaces are two places notorious with mold. For these spaces, you may require dehumidifiers to help combat excessive moisture and humidity levels.

4. Professional Assessment

Beyond inspections and moisture control, mold prevention may depend on the assessments of a disaster restoration specialist in the Thorncreek, CO, area. Sometimes mold may already exist, and other times you may need assistance in coming up with a preventative plan. In each of these instances, a professional can help.

Water damage is unquestionably the leading cause of mold infestations. However, it is not the only contributing factor. Homes with inadequate ventilation or less than optimum moisture levels are prone to mold infestations and can benefit from assessments from remediation experts.

SERVPRO Storm Restoration Services: 3 Benefits They Offer During an Insurance Claim Filing

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO North Thornton/ Brighton team is always ready to respond!

SERVPRO Storm Restoration Services

When storm damage and flooding affect your Lochbuie,CO, home, it can be difficult to know where to begin with cleanup efforts. Filing an insurance claim can be an effective first step, but even this can be difficult if you are not sure how to describe or evaluate the problems. Working with a storm damage restoration company like SERVPRO can help you communicate more effectively with your claim services and get the process started quickly.

1. Experienced Technicians Will Inspect and Catalog Damage

When multiple rooms in your home are damaged by a major storm, gauging to the extent of the damage may be a challenge due to the presence of flood water and other debris. Experienced flood technicians can survey each room and begin the remediation process, and what they report to you may help you file an insurance claim with more confidence and speed.

2. They Respond Quickly

Once your home is damaged by a storm, getting in touch with claim services right away can help expedite the filing process, and they can send an emergency response restoration team out to help kick start the cleanup process. The faster the techs reach you, the sooner you can receive detailed information about the likely total amount of your claim.

3. The Cost of Restoration for Some Items Will Be Clearer To You

After a storm damages your home, you will probably have questions about the cost of restoring valuables and keepsakes and how you might file a claim to cover this service. Restoration experts from SERVPRO can discuss your options with you and help you understand what services your items require, as well as the cost of each, so you can file a claim right away.

When storms and flooding damage your Lochbuie,CO, home, starting the cleanup process can be a daunting task. Calling your insurance claim services and a restoration company before you try to salvage your belongings can make the filing process simpler and give you peace of mind during restoration.