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Staying Dry During Flood Conditions | SERVPRO of Seattle Central & South Mercer Island
9/22/2024 (Permalink)
Flooding can be hazardous. Trust SERVPRO of Seattle Central & South Mercer Island for comprehensive recovery and peace of mind!
We are grateful to experience all kinds of weather here in the Seattle area, and we are often protected from strong storm systems like tornadoes and hurricanes. However, we do see our fair share of rain, which can sometimes pose issues for our community when it comes to water damage and flooding.
Experiencing a flood in your home is often an overwhelming experience, but knowing what to do before, during and after a flood can help you stay in control and avoid a serious or potentially dangerous situation.
Prioritizing Safety
Did you know that flash flood warnings can be issued even if it is not actively raining? You should heed all flood warnings no matter what the current conditions are and start preparing your home.
Start working on tidying up your yard, and remove any possessions that you don’t want to be carried away by the water. Tie down important things like grills and propane tanks and get your car into the garage.
Make sure your downspouts are on and pointed away from your house and then head indoors to get your lowest level ready for the possibility of moisture. Remove important possessions from the lowest level and the walls and consider turning off electricity to that area if your home is prone to flooding. Locate your emergency kit and then head to a higher location to wait out the weather.
What to Do During the Flooding
If your home does start to flood, do your best to stay calm and stay out of the water. There isn’t much you can do at the moment, and you want to avoid walking through the water, as floodwater can carry all kinds of dangerous chemicals, hazards and debris. Stay above the water line and wait until the water has stopped rushing in.
When the flash flood warning expires, you can move about your house and assess the damage. Take photos of each room that has been compromised and then get us on the phone to start discussing your recovery plan. Our team will start putting together a restoration plan that is tailored to your needs and then we will get going on our way to you.
How Our Flood Restoration Process Works
Our top priority whenever we are tackling water damage is to remove the standing water and residual moisture as quickly and as safely as possible. The longer the water sits on your floors, the worse the damage can become.
You could be looking at serious structural problems or mold infestations even after only a single day of inaction. We will work quickly to remove visible water as well as the hidden moisture behind your walls and under your floors.
Now that your space is dry, we can turn our attention to the repairs that need to take place. Floods are notorious for warping floorboards, soaking drywall and destroying carpet, but we can handle all of those repairs and more. Let us take care of your recovery the next time a flood infiltrates your Seattle-area home.
Flooding situations can be dangerous. Let SERVPRO of Seattle Central & South Mercer Island take care of your entire recovery!
Protecting Our Community, One Business at a Time | SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island
6/22/2024 (Permalink)
when a disaster hits your business, SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island is here to quickly restore. Call us today!
All of the businesses in our community make the Seattle area a wonderful place to live. It takes so much of your time and dedication as a business owner to run a successful venture in today’s day and age, and that is not lost on us.
Running a business is more of a lifestyle than a typical job, and we fully understand that! With all of the tasks and projects that are on your plate on a daily basis, it doesn’t take much to become overwhelmed.
On top of that, a single disaster like a fire or flood can throw your entire life into chaos as you grapple with your new reality and start the recovery process.
SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island proudly offers our restoration and cleaning services to the businesses in our community, and we will be there for you in the face of disaster.
Fire Damage Recovery
No matter what type of business you run, the threat of fire is always constant in some aspects. Massive chemical fires in warehouses, minor breakroom fires or an electrical fire caused by a lightning strike can all have a serious impact on your business.
Let our crew help you recover right away! We are trained in large-loss recovery and are dedicated to helping you rebuild the damage from start to finish. We will confidently remove debris, tackle the cleaning and sanitizing and even remove smoke odors from every affected space.
Handling Water Disasters
Water damage can happen because of a manmade accident or due to the powerful effects of Mother Nature. Either way, you could be dealing with a significant water leak that requires prompt attention. A quick recovery after a water disaster is crucial to avoiding further issues like mold or structural damage.
These types of situations can also create dangerous conditions for your staff and customers that forces you to close while the repairs are taking place. We work quickly to minimize downtime and to displace your staff for as little time as possible. We will control the leak, fix the damage and focus on removing all of the standing water and hidden moisture so you can open back up faster.
Additional Commercial Services
We don’t stop there! We offer all of our services to our local businesses, including mold mitigation, biohazard cleanup and commercial cleaning services. If a sewage line bursts unexpectedly or you walk into your storeroom to discover a large mold infestation, leave it to the professionals at SERVPRO® to have your back.
We are properly trained in the latest and most advanced safety techniques, and we will make sure to provide you with a thorough cleaning and recovery. In addition, we are also a full-service construction and remodeling company!
Did you just finalize the plans for your building expansion or have you always dreamed of a remodeled storefront? Our team can take your dream and turn it into a reality. Consider us partners in the success of your business. Let us help you with whatever restoration, cleaning or construction needs you may have.
We are Here to Help® your business succeed. Call SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island for assistance with restoration or anything else you may need.
The Realities of a Leaky Dishwasher | SERVPRO of Central Seattle and South & Mercer Island
3/22/2024 (Permalink)
Has your home recently been hit by disastrous water damage? SERVPRO of Central Seattle and South & Mercer Island can help. Call now!
Picture this—you finally get the kids out the door and on the bus, then you fill up your dishwasher, hit the start button and run out the door to work. While you are safely settled into work and are going about your day, your dishwasher slowly begins to leak due to a faulty seal.
Since no one is home to stop it from running, that leak could turn into a gush that continuously pumps water onto your floor throughout the entire cycle.
By the time you come home and discover the issue, your situation could have developed into a serious water disaster. If this ever happens to you, call SERVPRO of Central Seattle right away.
The Reality of Water Damage
Even though we rely on water to help us get through our days, it can cause some pretty widespread damage if it leaks to a place it shouldn’t. Water has the sneaky ability to leak through every crack and crevice in your home and can get into different levels of your house in just a few minutes.
Once it gets behind walls or under floors, it can be really difficult to dry out on your own without professional assistance. Even if you set out fans and open windows, that lingering moisture behind the protection of your walls can become stagnant and lead to mold, mildew and even rot. The best thing to do is to address the damage head-on by getting us on the phone.
Reacting to the Situation
The second you come home and walk right into your flooded kitchen will probably elicit some feelings of frustration and disgust. Do your best to stay out of the water while you navigate your way to the water valve under your sink. Shut off the valve to stop the problem from getting worse.
You should also turn off power to the appliance or shut off the breaker for your kitchen temporarily. This ensures that the dishwasher can’t start back up and dump the remaining water onto the floor, and it also protects you from the risks of electricity running near standing water.
The Benefits of a Professional Restoration
While it definitely won’t hurt to get a fan out yourself to start drying out the area, you most likely will not be able to get all of the moisture dried out yourself. Since water can quickly make its way behind your walls and under your floors, a simple household fan isn’t powerful enough to reach these areas.
However, our powerful drying equipment can! Our crew will be able to quickly assess the situation and get right to work on your repairs.
Our air movers and blowers will dry out the area, and we can use thermal imaging cameras to be sure that all of the hidden moisture is removed. From there, we can repair warped floors, replace trim and hang fresh drywall. Our crew will help you recover faster so you can get back to your regular life (and probably researching a new dishwasher) right away.
Tackle water damage fast! Contact SERVPRO of Central Seattle and South & Mercer Island for a quick recovery.
Our Approach to Fire Damage | SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island
12/22/2023 (Permalink)
Has your home been impacted by an unexpected house fire? SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island is here to restore the damage. Call now!
House fires are a scary concept for any homeowner. No one wants to think about the possibility of their home and possessions going up in flames, not to mention the sheer danger that accompanies an out-of-control blaze.
Fire can cause extensive damage in a really short amount of time, leaving you with a damaged home and a lot of questions. SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island is Here to Help® you recover more completely.
The Initial Contact
We are so grateful to have the brave men and women of the Seattle-area fire departments to help put out the flames! But once you have made it out of your home safely and the fire has been completely put out, the fire department will unfortunately not be able to stay to help you recover and rebuild.
That’s where a reliable restoration company comes into play! We are available 24/7 to respond to your fire emergency, and we will get started right away to identify the emergency contact and get working on your recovery plan.
We will ask many questions about how the fire started, where it spread and how long it burned. We don’t ask them because we are nosy! We want to know as much about your particular situation so we can pack the right equipment and gather the right team to help you.
Once we have the initial information, we will get going on our way to your door. Our team will do a visual evaluation of the space and then get right to work on your restoration.
Drying Out and Repairing
First, we get to work removing any damaged possessions and anything that we can salvage and restore in a safe location. Then we will get working on removing any standing water from your home.
Did you know that most homes that suffer from fire damage also suffer from water damage? Water is a great extinguisher, but it can quickly cause more damage in the process.
We will also get to work employing our deodorizers to remove smoke from every level of your home. When your space is ready, it will get a thorough cleaning and sanitization from top to bottom. Our team can handle every aspect of the cleaning from scrubbing down walls to delicate document repair.
The Rebuilding Process
House fires can fully engulf homes in just a few minutes, which means most homes suffer from at least some level of structural damage. Our crew will confidently tackle your structural repairs as soon as your home is ready to be rebuilt. We can tear down damaged walls and rebuild them, and we can even restore entire sections of your home.
Our goal is to work quickly enough to minimize the disruption to your life but we will also be efficient enough to make sure every step is done thoroughly. When we are through, you would never know you suffered a house fire in the first place.
House fires can cause serious damage all over your home. Contact SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island for a quick and reliable recovery.
How Seasonal Decorations Can Pose a Fire Hazard
10/18/2023 (Permalink)
Holiday lights can be a major fire hazard when they're old, damaged, or poorly maintained.
As the holiday season approaches, many of us are eager to decorate our homes with festive ornaments. Whether it's stringing up colorful lights for Christmas, lighting candles for Hanukkah, or using lanterns for Diwali, seasonal decorations add a touch of magic and warmth to our surroundings. However, what's often overlooked is that these decorations can become a source of fire hazard if not used with care and consideration. Let's explore how seasonal decorations can pose a fire risk and provide some crucial safety tips to ensure your celebrations remain joyful and safe.
1. Overloaded Electrical Circuits:
One of the most common causes of fires during the holiday season is overloaded electrical circuits. When we plug in multiple strings of lights, inflatable decorations, and other electrical ornaments into a single outlet, it can overwhelm the circuit and create a dangerous situation.
Safety Tip: Use power strips and extension cords rated for the intended load, and never daisy-chain multiple power strips together. Also, be sure to turn off decorations before going to bed or leaving your home.
2. Flammable Materials:
Many seasonal decorations are made from flammable materials, such as paper, fabric, or dried foliage. These materials can easily catch fire if they come into contact with open flames, sparks, or malfunctioning electrical components.
Safety Tip: Keep decorations made of flammable materials away from heat sources, open flames, and high-traffic areas. Opt for flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations whenever possible.
3. Candles and Open Flames:
Candles are a beautiful way to create a warm and inviting atmosphere during the holidays, but they can also be a significant fire hazard if not used responsibly. Accidental fires can result from unattended candles, candles placed too close to flammable objects, or gusts of wind that blow curtains or decorations into the flame.
Safety Tip: Always keep a close eye on lit candles and place them in sturdy, non-flammable candle holders. Make sure candles are positioned away from curtains, drapes, and decorations, and never leave them unattended.
4. Malfunctioning Lights:
Holiday lights can be a major fire hazard when they're old, damaged, or poorly maintained. Damaged wires, frayed cords, and malfunctioning bulbs can overheat, sparking fires or electrical shocks.
Safety Tip: Inspect your holiday lights for any signs of wear and tear, and replace damaged lights immediately. Use LED lights, which emit less heat and are generally safer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
5. Neglecting Outdoor Decorations:
Outdoor decorations can pose unique fire hazards. Inflatable decorations, for instance, can become dangerous if they deflate near open flames, and outdoor lights can be damaged by weather conditions, creating electrical hazards.
Safety Tip: Secure outdoor decorations firmly to prevent them from blowing into power lines, trees, or other flammable objects. Invest in outdoor-rated extension cords and lights designed to withstand the elements.
While seasonal decorations add joy and festivity to our homes, it's crucial to be aware of the potential fire hazards they can present. By following safety guidelines, you can enjoy your holiday decorations while minimizing the risk of fire accidents. Remember that safety should always be a top priority during the holiday season to ensure that your celebrations remain full of cheer and free from harm.
Apartment Living: Unraveling 3 Common Sources of Water Damage
9/29/2023 (Permalink)
Apartment living offers convenience, community, and comfort. However, it also comes with unique water damage related challenges.
Apartment living offers convenience, community, and comfort. However, it also comes with unique challenges, including the potential for water damage. Whether you're a renter, landlord, or property manager, understanding the common sources of water damage in apartments is essential for prevention and swift resolution. Let's look at three prevalent sources of water damage in apartment buildings and provide insights into how to mitigate these risks.
Plumbing Issues:
Plumbing problems are among the most common sources of water damage in apartments. Issues like leaking pipes, burst pipes, and malfunctioning fixtures can lead to significant water intrusion and damage. Here's what you can do to address and prevent plumbing-related water damage:
- Regularly inspect and maintain plumbing fixtures, including faucets, toilets, and showerheads.
- Keep an eye out for signs of leaks, such as damp spots, water stains, or unexplained water bills.
- Report any plumbing issues promptly to your landlord or property management to prevent minor problems from escalating.
Landlords should consider routine plumbing inspections and maintenance to catch potential issues early and ensure the longevity of the building's plumbing system.
Roof Leaks:
Roof leaks can be particularly frustrating in apartment buildings, as water damage often affects multiple units. These leaks can occur due to various factors, including damaged roofing materials, clogged gutters, or severe weather. To prevent and address roof leaks:
- Ensure that the building's roof is regularly inspected and maintained.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris to allow proper drainage.
- Report any signs of ceiling stains, water dripping, or unusual odors to your property management immediately.
Landlords should prioritize routine roof inspections and repairs as part of their property maintenance plan to safeguard against potential water damage.
Appliance Failures:
Appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters can malfunction and cause water damage in apartments. Common issues include hose leaks, faulty connections, or internal component failures. Here's how to mitigate the risk of appliance-related water damage:
- Inspect appliances regularly for signs of wear, rust, or visible damage.
- Replace hoses and connections as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Educate tenants on proper appliance use and maintenance to prevent misuse that can lead to damage.
Landlords should consider providing tenants with guidelines for appliance care and maintenance and promptly addressing appliance issues reported by tenants.
Understanding the common sources of water damage in apartments is crucial for tenants, landlords, and property managers. By being proactive and vigilant, you can minimize the risk of water damage and its associated costs and inconveniences. Tenants should promptly report any issues to property management, while landlords should prioritize regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the longevity of their properties. In the event of water damage, swift action and professional assistance are key to minimizing the impact and restoring the apartment to its pre-damage condition.
Halloween Activities in the Greater Seattle Area
9/18/2023 (Permalink)
Kerry Park is an iconic Seattle landmark.
With a beautiful fall in the Pacific Northwest well underway now in mid-September, many of us are ready for all the spooktacular festivities that come with Halloween. For those of us who enjoy a real fright, we’ve compiled a list of creepy-crawly activities, events, and places in and around Seattle. These activities may not be family friendly, or they may only be appropriate for specific age ranges. Make sure to read each website’s recommendations regarding who can participate.
- Georgetown Morgue Haunted House: The mysterious Georgetown Morgue made the Historic Morgue Society’s “most intriguing historic urban morgues” list back in 1999, and there is no mystery behind why it made the list. The morgue has a tragic and horrifying history, and to this day the horrific 1968 Seattle Crematorium Massacre that took place there is embroiled in speculation. Each year, the haunted house portion of the morgue sees a bit of remodeling so that even returning fright seekers don’t know what to expect.
- Stalker Farms: Located just outside of Seattle in the scenic city of Snohomish, Stalker Farms is a haunted attraction put on by Stocker Farms each year. Touting itself as “the original haunted corn trails in Washington State,” Stalker Farms creates an immersive eerie experience through unique storylines, detailed makeup, and talented actors.
- Maris Farms: Buckley is a beautiful small town with jutting alpine mountains surrounded by rolling hills. And in the center of it all is Maris Farms. During Spooky Season, Maris Farms hosts an event featuring haunted woods, a corn maze, pumpkins, photo-ops and good eats.
- Northern State Recreational Area: For those who enjoy hikes, making the drive to Sedro-Wooley is a great opportunity to see the historical remains of what was once the largest facility in the entire state for the mentally ill. The grounds were designed and landscaped by the Olmsted Brothers, who famously designed Central Park in New York City, along with 37 parks and playgrounds in Seattle. Northern State Mental Hospital included a mill, quarry, greenhouse, and several other facilities. In the 1950s, the hospital housed as many as 2,700 people. The plans included a cemetary, where more than 1,500 patients were laid to rest.
- Queen Anne True Crime Tour: For fans of chilling true crime stories, this may be the tour for you. The tour covers several famous Seattle cases, and takes you through Queen Anne Hill, Chinatown International District, and several neighborhoods in the downtown area.
Fire Damage Risks By Season in Seattle
9/11/2023 (Permalink)
Seattle is known for its temperate climate, but that doesn't eliminate the risk of fires.
Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is a city celebrated for its lush greenery, stunning landscapes, and temperate climate. However, despite its reputation for rain, Seattle is not immune to the risk of fire damage, and the severity of this risk varies throughout the year. Understanding these seasonal fluctuations is crucial for homeowners and residents to protect their properties and communities. In this blog, we'll delve into the risks of fire damage by season in Seattle and offer tips on how to safeguard your home year-round.
Spring: Unpredictable Weather Patterns
Spring in Seattle brings a mix of rain, sun, and fluctuating temperatures. While the region's vegetation is lush and green during this time, it's also highly susceptible to fires. As winter moisture begins to dry up, dead leaves, branches, and grasses become kindling for potential wildfires. Lightning strikes, which are not uncommon during spring thunderstorms, can also spark wildfires.
How to Prepare for Spring Fire Risks
Yard Maintenance: Regularly clear your property of dry leaves, debris, and dead vegetation. Trim branches away from your home and remove dead plants from your garden.
Roof and Gutter Cleaning: Ensure your roof and gutters are free from debris, as dry leaves and pine needles can serve as fuel for fires.
Fire-Resistant Landscaping: Consider planting fire-resistant vegetation and creating defensible spaces around your home by using stone walkways and retaining walls.
Summer: Peak Fire Season
Summer is the peak of fire season in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. With prolonged dry spells and increased temperatures, the risk of wildfires escalates significantly. Human activities, such as campfires, fireworks, and discarded cigarettes, can also contribute to fire outbreaks.
How to Prepare for Summer Fire Risks
Fire Bans and Restrictions: Stay informed about local fire bans and restrictions. Obey these regulations and avoid outdoor activities that could ignite a fire.
Firebreaks and Defensible Spaces: Create firebreaks by clearing vegetation around your property. Maintain a defensible space to protect your home in case a wildfire approaches.
Emergency Kits: Prepare emergency kits with essential supplies, including first aid, water, and important documents, in case of evacuation.
Fall: Wind and Dry Conditions
Fall in Seattle can bring strong winds and dry conditions, creating a perfect storm for fire risk. Leaves falling from trees can accumulate and become fuel for fires. Downed power lines during windstorms can also trigger fires.
How to Prepare for Fall Fire Risks
Leaf Removal: Regularly rake and remove dry leaves from your property. Dispose of them safely to prevent accidental fires.
Tree Maintenance: Trim branches near power lines and your home to reduce the risk of falling limbs causing fires.
Secure Outdoor Equipment: Store flammable materials like propane tanks, firewood, and gas cans away from your home.
Winter: Lower Fire Risk, but Not Negligible
While winter in Seattle typically brings rain and cooler temperatures, it's essential to remain vigilant as fire risk is still present. Holiday decorations, space heaters, and faulty electrical systems can pose fire hazards.
How to Prepare for Winter Fire Risks
Electrical Maintenance: Inspect your home's electrical systems regularly. Ensure all wiring and outlets are in good condition.
Holiday Safety: Use caution when decorating for the holidays. Keep flammable materials away from open flames and heat sources.
Heating Safety: If using space heaters, follow safety guidelines, keep them away from flammable materials, and never leave them unattended.
Seattle's climate may be mild, but the risk of fire damage is a year-round concern. By understanding the seasonal fluctuations in fire risk and taking appropriate precautions, you can protect your home and ensure the safety of your community. Stay informed, practice fire-safe habits, and be prepared for emergencies to minimize the impact of fire risk in Seattle, regardless of the season.
Happy Labor Day!
8/31/2023 (Permalink)
Thank you to our hard working, dedicated employees!
As Labor Day approaches, we are reminded of the immense value that hardworking employees bring to our lives and our communities. This year, SERVPRO of Central Seattle takes a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team of professionals who consistently go above and beyond to serve our community with unwavering commitment and determination. On this special occasion, we recognize the significance of their contributions, the challenges they face, and the collective spirit that binds us together.
A Culture of Dedication
At SERVPRO of Central Seattle, our success is built on a strong foundation of teamwork, expertise, and unparalleled dedication to customer service. Our employees embody these values and make a positive impact on the lives of our customers, neighbors, and colleagues daily. Whether they are responding to an emergency call in the middle of the night or working tirelessly to restore properties affected by fire, water, or mold damage, their dedication to excellence is evident in every task they undertake.
The Unsung Heroes
Behind the scenes of every successful mitigation project, there are numerous unsung heroes who work diligently to ensure the smooth operation of SERVPRO of Central Seattle. From the administrative staff managing logistics and customer inquiries to the technicians on the frontlines, each employee plays a vital role in the company's overall success. They often work long hours and face challenging situations, but their resilience and commitment never waver.
Navigating Challenges with Grace
The nature of our work at SERVPRO of Central Seattle demands a high level of adaptability and composure, particularly during times of crisis. Our employees have shown time and again that they can navigate challenging situations with grace and professionalism. They are the epitome of calm in the midst of chaos, providing a reassuring presence to our clients when they need it the most.
A Supportive Work Environment
At SERVPRO of Central Seattle, we believe in fostering a supportive work environment that encourages growth and values employee well-being. Our team is more than just a workforce; they are family. We celebrate their successes, provide encouragement during difficult times, and prioritize work-life balance to ensure they can continue to serve with enthusiasm and dedication.
Thank You To Our Employees
As Labor Day approaches, we want to take a moment to extend our deepest gratitude to all the employees of SERVPRO of Central Seattle. Your hard work, unwavering commitment, and dedication to excellence are what make this company truly exceptional. Each one of you brings a unique set of skills and talents that enrich our team and contribute to our collective success.
As we prepare to celebrate Labor Day, let us not forget the tireless efforts of our dedicated team at SERVPRO of Central Seattle. Their hard work and commitment to service go beyond the call of duty, making a positive impact on the lives of those they serve. This Labor Day, as we honor the contributions of workers everywhere, we want to express our deepest gratitude to our employees for their passion, resilience, and unwavering dedication. Together, we look forward to a future filled with continued growth, success, and the privilege of serving our community.
2023 Committees and Organizations
8/24/2023 (Permalink)
We are proud to be a part of so many wonderful organizations and committees.
At SERVPRO of Central Seattle, our commitment to community engagement goes beyond our exceptional restoration services. We believe that actively participating in various committees and organizations not only enriches our understanding of the industries we serve but also allows us to contribute to the growth and development of our region. Through our involvement with a multitude of associations, chambers, and institutes, we continually expand our knowledge, nurture valuable relationships, and give back to the communities we are proud to be a part of. We are involved in the following organizations and committees:
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