Recent Posts

Antimicrobial: The #1 Secret Weapon of Effective Restoration

3/27/2023 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO of South Cobb professional applying an antimicrobial solution The professionals at SERVPRO only apply the highest quality antimicrobial solutions!

In every SERVPRO truck, you will find an antimicrobial solution ready to combat unwanted microbes!

When you look at a SERVPRO insurance repair estimate, you will most likely see a line item mentioning an antimicrobial solution's application. This service is included because antimicrobial solutions are essential to the professional cleaning and restoration services offered by SERVPRO of South Cobb. 

Antimicrobial products have been proven to be highly effective at killing germs, bacteria, and other pathogens that may be present on surfaces after water and mold damage disasters in residential and commercial properties.

An antimicrobial solution has also proven to keep people safe while preventing further damage from occurring due to microbial growth. This article will explore the benefits of using antimicrobials for cleanup and restoration services and how they can help kill off unwanted microbes!

The benefits of antimicrobial solutions in the cleaning and restoration industry

The use of antimicrobial products in the cleaning and restoration industry is widespread due to their effectiveness in killing off germs, bacteria, and other pathogens. In addition, antimicrobial solutions are proven to be highly efficient at removing mold and mildew from surfaces and preventing further damage from occurring due to microbial growth.

Antimicrobials are typically applied in areas affected by water or mold damage, as these types of damage are most vulnerable to microbial growth. An antimicrobial solution can help prevent further contamination and reduce the risk of spreading disease-causing germs. Antimicrobials are also highly effective at killing unwanted microbes that may remain present after a water or mold disaster.

In addition to eliminating mold, bacteria, and other pathogens, antimicrobials can provide an extra layer of protection against future microbial growth. Antimicrobial solutions are specially formulated to resist and reject any foreign microbe. With that extra layer of protection, your surfaces will remain clean, safe, and free from potential health hazards for extended periods.

How do antimicrobials kill microbes?

Antimicrobials break down the cell walls of microbes, preventing them from reproducing and leading to their eventual death. We use antimicrobial solutions on various surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, and hardwood floors.

For example, we can apply an antimicrobial solution to the affected area during a mold damage restoration job. The antimicrobial will break down the cell walls of any potential mold spores, reducing their ability to reproduce and spread further.

Additionally, if you are dealing with a water damage incident, you may use an antimicrobial solution to reduce the risk of contamination from bacteria and other pathogens commonly in water. An antimicrobial solution can help keep your property safe and free from the potential health hazards associated with microbial growth.

Antimicrobials can kill off many unwanted microbes in just one application when applied correctly! As a result, antimicrobials are an excellent choice for those looking to keep their homes and businesses safe from microbial growth.

What antimicrobial solution do the professionals at SERVPRO use?

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb use Benefect, a high-performance antimicrobial solution that protects against germs, bacteria, and other pathogens. Benefect is designed to be used on both hard and soft surfaces and has proven to be an effective tool in the fight against microbial growth.

Many other antimicrobial solutions are on the market, but Benefect is a favorite among SERVPRO professionals due to its effectiveness and long-lasting protection.

Wrapping up

We hope you enjoyed learning about antimicrobial products and why SERVPRO professionals use them in cleaning and restoration services. Antimicrobial solutions have been proven to be highly effective at killing germs, bacteria, and other pathogens that may be present on surfaces. They can also help reduce the spread of harmful bacteria, which helps protect those nearby.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb take pride in providing our customers with the highest quality cleaning and restoration services. Antimicrobial solutions are essential to these services and can help ensure your home or business is free from unwanted microbial growth!

If you have any questions about antimicrobial solutions, please don't hesitate to contact us! We look forward to hearing from you.

Sump Pump Leak: Identifying the 5 Signs of a Serious Problem

2/27/2023 (Permalink)

A leaking sump pump in a Smyrna home. The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 to help mitigate your sump pump leak!

A sump pump leak can be a significant problem for homeowners, leading to costly repairs if not identified and addressed quickly.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb want to ensure that you combat water damage at all times of the year. Therefore, property owners must recognize signs of sump pump leakage to take proactive steps to identify sump pump problems before they worsen. 

In this article, we will discuss five signs that indicate a sump pump leak at your property. These signs include soggy spots in the yard, water seeping into foundation walls, musty odors coming from inside the home, a sump pump constantly running or not working correctly, flooding in the basement or crawlspace, as well as water stains on walls and floors. So without further ado, let's dive into everything you need about sump pump leaks!

What is a sump pump, and why do they leak?

Sump pumps are designed to remove water collected in a sump basin, typically found in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace. The sump pump then pumps the water out of the sump basin and away from the home's foundation through a discharge pipe. Sump pumps are essential for keeping basements and crawlspaces dry and can prevent flooding.

However, sump pumps can fail for various reasons, including age, improper installation, power outages, clogs or debris in the sump basin, and even freezing temperatures. These issues can lead to sump pump leakage that can cause costly damage to your home.

Five signs that indicate a sump pump leak

  1. Soggy spots in the yard: if you notice wet spots on your lawn that weren't there before, it could be a sign of sump pump leakage. You will want to pay attention to saturated areas near the sump basin. 
  2. Water seeping into foundation walls: water may seep into your home's foundation walls if the sump pump leaks. Water in the foundation walls can cause various problems, including structural damage, foundation settlement, and mold growth.
  3. Musty odors: if a sump pump leakage has occurred, a musty smell will likely come from inside your home. A musty odor usually indicates mold and mildew growth due to soggy conditions. 
  4. Sump pump running constantly: if your sump pump is continuously running or not working correctly, this may mean sump pump leakage. It could also signify that the sump pump is clogged with debris. 
  5. Flooding in the basement or crawl space - If a sump pump leakage has occurred, there will likely be some flooding in the basement or crawl space. Flooding can cause costly problems, including mold growth, wet floors and walls, and even structural damage.

How the professionals at SERVPRO can help

When your property suffers from sump pump leakage, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb can help. We have the knowledge and experience to identify sump pump problems and take proactive steps to repair them before they become costly repairs. We can help even if there is severe water damage! We have the tools and equipment to mitigate sump pump leakage and other water damage. 

We understand how stressful sump pump issues can be, and we're here to help every step of the way. When we arrive at a sump pump leak, we will: 

  • Inspect the sump pump and sump basin to assess the situation and identify any sump pump problems. 
  • Repair the sump pump, sump basin, or discharge pipe if necessary. 
  • Extract any standing water from your basement or crawl space. 
  • Remove wet materials, including carpets and drywall. 
  • Use specialized equipment to dry the area and prevent mold growth. 
  • Replace any damaged materials.

Wrapping up

Today we reviewed sump pump leaks and the signs indicating a pump leak at your property. Signs of sump pump leakage include soggy spots in the yard, water seeping into foundation walls, musty odors coming from inside the home, sump pumps constantly running or not working correctly, flooding in the basement or crawl space, and water stains on walls or floors. Homeowners must take proactive steps to identify sump pump problems before they become costly. 

When sump pump leakage occurs, the SERVPRO of South Cobb professionals can help, even if there is severe water damage. We have the tools and equipment to mitigate sump pump leakage and other water damage. So if you are experiencing sump pump problems, don't hesitate to contact us! We're here to help you every step of the way.

After Disastrous Candle Fires: Your #1 Recovery Guide

1/30/2023 (Permalink)

A set of candles on a kitchen table in Smyrna. The professionals at SERVPRO are here to help you combat any amount of fire damage caused by candles.

Candle fires are devastating and potentially dangerous events that can cause extensive damage.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb understand the complexities of fire damage and are equipped to restore your home or business to its preloss condition. However, most people don't realize that candle fires produce fumes and smoke beyond the visible destruction, leading to severe risks and significant property losses. 

While candle fires are not every day, they often occur enough that everyone needs to be aware of the dangers they present and the ways to prevent them. In the following blog post, we will discuss candle fires, the potential damage they can cause, and how SERVPRO of South Cobb can help you recover from a candle fire disaster. Candle fires can cause a wide variety of damage, from structural damage and loss of possessions to smoke and soot damage. 

The longer the candle fire burns unchecked, the more extensive the destruction will be. SERVPRO of South Cobb has the expertise and tools to assess the damage caused by candle fires and begin the restoration process.

Types of damage candle fires can cause

Candle fires can cause a wide range of damage to structures, furniture, and personal possessions. Structural damage can include burned walls, floors, ceilings, and roofs. Furniture and personal possessions can be damaged by the fire and by the resulting smoke, soot, water, or fire-extinguishing chemicals. In addition, candle fires can create toxic fumes like carbon monoxide, posing potential risks.

How to prevent candle fires in your home or business

Although candle fire damage is not always preventable, there are candle fire safety tips and specific steps you can take to reduce the risk of candle fires occurring in your home or business.

  • Always use candle holders that are appropriate for the candle size and type.
  • Keep candles away from flammable objects such as curtains, bedding, clothing, furniture, and paper products.
  • Constantly monitor candle flames and do not leave them unattended.
  • Do not burn candles near open windows or air vents, as drafts can cause the candle to flare up.
  • Never move a burning candle – always blow it out before relocating it!
  • Keep combustible materials away from candle flames.
  • Ensure candle wicks are trimmed and not burning too close to the candle holder.
  • Consider using battery-powered flameless candles, which have become increasingly popular and realistic in recent years.

What to do if a candle fire occurs in your home or business?

When a candle fire occurs in your home or business, the most important thing is to get everyone out safely and call 911. Once the fire department has extinguished the fire, contact a fire damage restoration company to assess and restore any damage caused by the candle fire. The team of professionals should be available 24/7 and respond quickly to help you recover and restore your property.

SERVPRO's candle fire restoration process

We know that candle fires can be a devastating experience. That's why SERVPRO of South Cobb is here to help. Our process for helping your property recover from fire damage includes the following:

  • Assessment and documentation of candle fire damage
  • Removal of furniture, fixtures, and other items to prevent further damage
  • Cleaning and deodorizing surfaces affected by candle fires
  • Structural repairs as needed

We hope you've found this article helpful in understanding candle fire damage and how SERVPRO of South Cobb can help restore your home or business after a candle fire disaster. Our team of professionals will work quickly to assess the damage and begin the restoration process. We have extensive cleaning products and tools to remove soot, smoke, and other debris. 

Contact us today for more information on candle fire restoration services.

Backup Generator: The #1 Investment To Enhance Your Winter

12/26/2022 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO Backup Generator SERVPRO has a backup generator ready to help bring power back to your property!

A backup generator can save homeowners from the harsh realities of winter weather.

The residents of Georgia are well aware that the winter season brings challenges. Ice storms and heavy snowfall can knock out power for days, leaving families in the cold and dark. Fortunately, backup generators can provide backup power during a power outage and protect homeowners from frigid temperatures.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb want you to keep your home and family safe during an outage, ensuring that the lights stay on and electronics don’t fail when temperatures drop. Unfortunately, power outages are a fact of life during winter storms, but with a backup generator, you can prepare for whatever Old Man Winter throws your way.

In the following blog post, we will discuss the top five benefits of backup generators and why they are a must-have investment for this winter season.

What is a backup generator?

A backup generator is a secondary power source used during a power outage. It typically runs on either natural gas, propane, or diesel. Backup generators are designed to turn on automatically when a power outage occurs, providing your home with an uninterrupted stream of electricity so that you don’t have to worry about being left in the dark.

What are the benefits of a backup generator?

  1. Keeps your home warm: In a power outage, backup generators can keep your home heated and provide enough power to keep your furnace running. You and your family will be protected from freezing temperatures during the winter months.
  2. Helps you save money: Backup generators turn on independently when a power outage occurs, reducing your energy costs by not relying on other costly sources of electricity.
  3. Protects appliances and electronics: A backup generator can provide enough power to keep your refrigerator running, ensuring food doesn’t spoil during an outage. It can also protect your other electronics, such as computers and TVs.
  4. Keeps your lights on: Backup generators provide enough power to keep your lights on during an outage, so you don’t have to go without light while waiting for the power to come back on.
  5. Increases home value: Installing a backup generator can increase the value of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

Choosing the right backup generator for your home

Buying a backup generator is an investment that can pay off in the long run. Because backup generators are becoming increasingly popular, and their sales are expected to increase this year, now is the time to buy one and be prepared for whatever winter throws your way. With all of the different makes in models, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the best backup generator for your home.

Here’s what to look for when choosing a backup generator:

  1. Size: Size matters, and the size of the backup generator you need depends on the power requirements of your home. Measure how much power your home requires before purchasing a backup generator by investigating your energy bill.
  2. Fuel type: Backup generators come in three different fuel types – natural gas, propane, or diesel. Consider which type would be most convenient for you.
  3. Cost: the cost of backup generators can vary depending on the size and features you need. Make sure to do your research and compare prices before making a purchase.

Final thoughts

Today, we discussed the importance of backup generators and why they are a must-have for this winter season. Storms and outages can occur unexpectedly, but with a backup generator, you can ensure that your home is fully protected from power outages.

Make sure to research and choose the right backup generator for your home’s needs; it could save you money in the long run. But don’t wait until the last minute— get your backup generator today! 

SERVPRO of South Cobb can help you choose the right backup generator for your home, ensuring that your family is warm, safe, and well-prepared for this winter season. Contact us today for any questions on preparing your home for the winter weather.

Laundromat Fire: Our Expert 5-Step Process For Recovery

11/28/2022 (Permalink)

A laundromat after rebuilt after fire damage occurred. The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for fire restoration services!

A laundromat fire can leave your business with extensive damage, but we can help!

Laundromat owners know there’s an inherent risk in owning a business with many heat-producing machines in one place. Although, laundromat fires are not as common as other commercial fires, they can cause significant damage to your building and its contents. 

While a laundromat fire can be devastating, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have put together a 5-step process to help alleviate some of the stress you might endure during a laundromat fire disaster. As a trustworthy fire damage restoration company in the greater Atlanta area, we understand how to get your laundromat back up and running in the fastest way possible. 

What can cause a laundromat fire?

Laundromat fires can be caused by various things, including faulty wiring, malfunctioning machines, or even arson. However, the most common cause of laundromat fires is lint buildup in the dryer’s exhaust ducts. Like residential dryer fires, lint can ignite, easily causing fire. In addition, it can spread quickly throughout the building through your property’s ductwork.

Our five laundromat fire recovery steps

Now that you know the causes of laundromat fires let's look at our five-step process for recovery. Before we go through these steps, we assume you have contacted your insurance carrier and filed a claim. 

Step 1) Assess the damage

The first step is to assess the damage and develop a plan of action. Then, our team of certified professionals will come in and do a thorough inspection of your laundromat to determine the extent of the damage and develop a recovery plan. The recovery plan will be based on the results of our initial assessment. 

Step 2) Boarding up and securing the building

The next step is to board up and secure the building. Securing the property is essential for two reasons: first, it will help prevent further damage to your laundromat; second, it will help keep people and critters from entering the building. 

Step 3) Cleaning and restoring all salvageable items and surface

Once the building is secure, we will start the process of cleaning and restoring all salvageable items and surfaces. We use state-of-the-art fire restoration equipment and techniques to restore your laundromat to its original condition. Cleaning and restoring all salvageable items and surfaces includes shampooing carpets, cleaning walls, and sanitizing any surfaces affected by smoke or soot.

Step 4) Deodorization

The next step is deodorization. Even if an item or surface looks clean, it can still hold odors from the fire. Our certified professionals will use industrial-strength deodorizers to eliminate all odors from the laundromat. 

Step 5) Reconstruction

The final step is reconstruction. Reconstruction includes anything from minor repairs to major renovations. Our team of certified professionals has the experience and knowledge to rebuild your laundromat back to its original condition. 

What can you do to prevent a laundromat fire?

The best way to prevent a laundromat fire is to ensure that your machines are properly maintained and that the exhaust ducts are cleaned regularly. You should also have a working fire suppression system and ensure your employees are trained in its use.

Wrapping up

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb hope you enjoyed learning about laundromat fires and our five-step process for recovery. Of course, we also hope that you never have to experience a laundromat fire. However, if you do, we want you to know that we are here for you.

We understand that a laundromat fire can be a very stressful and overwhelming experience. But with SERVPRO of South Cobb by your side, you can rest assured that your business is in good hands. We have the experience, knowledge, and resources to get your laundromat running again and are always available for questions so that you can stay updated throughout the entire process. 

Feel free to contact us today regarding any questions or to get started on your laundromat fire recovery. We are always here to help!

Thermal Fogging: The #1 Best Way to Neutralize Smoke Odors

10/24/2022 (Permalink)

Fogging services being performed by a SERVPRO professional in Cobb county. SERVPRO offers quality and effective thermal fogging services!

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb use thermal fogging to remove smoke odors from homes and businesses after a fire. 

After a fire breaks out in a home or business, there are often lingering smoke odors that can be tough to remove. That's where thermal fogging comes in. 

Thermal fogging is a process that uses thermal energy to produce a fog or mist. The fog or mist penetrates and treats an area with a thermal disinfectant, chemicals that kill microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores. The professionals at SERVPRO use state-of-the-art disinfectants to ensure that unwanted organisms are removed and do not come back. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb uses thermal foggers to create a thermal fog that will neutralize the smoke odors in your home or business. We are dedicated to helping our customers through the entire fire restoration process, from start to finish. 

The following blog post will go over when you should use thermal fog, the benefits of thermal fogging, and how SERVPRO of South Cobb uses thermal foggers to remove smoke odors from your home or business. Then, keep reading to find out why SERVPRO is many property owners' go-to company for fire restoration! 

When to use thermal fogging?

Thermal fogging is usually used in one of two scenarios: 

  • When traditional cleaning methods aren't enough to remove the smoke odor
  • When the smoke odor is widespread and permeates throughout the entire property

If you've tried cleaning the affected areas with traditional methods, such as airing out the property or using air fresheners, and the smoke odor is still present, thermal fogging may be your best option. 

Thermal fogging offers many benefits, including: 

  • Effective at removing tough smoke odors
  • Fast and convenient
  • Safe to use in occupied spaces
  • Leaves your home or business smelling fresh and clean

How does thermal fogging work?

Thermal fogging is a process that uses thermal energy to produce a fog or mist. The fog or mist penetrates and treats an area with a thermal disinfectant. Thermal disinfectants are chemicals that kill microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores.

SERVPRO of South Cobb uses thermal foggers to create a thermal fog that will neutralize the smoke odors in your home or business. The thermal fogging process works by heating the thermal disinfectant until it becomes a vapor. This vapor is then released into the area needing treatment, where it will penetrate and kill any microorganisms.

Our thermal fogging process

When a customer contacts us for help with smoke odors, our first step is to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. Once we've decided that thermal fogging is the best option, we will begin the process by setting up our equipment. 

We will then heat the thermal disinfectant until it becomes a vapor. Afterward, we release this vapor into the area needing treatment, where it will penetrate and kill any microorganisms. The thermal fogging process is effective against many microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. 

After the thermal fogging process, we will conduct a final assessment to ensure that the smoke odors have been completely neutralized. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb fire restoration services

If you're dealing with smoke odors after a fire, SERVPRO of South Cobb can help. We are dedicated to helping our customers through the entire fire restoration process, from start to finish. Our fire restoration services include:

  • Assessing the damage
  • Cleaning and repairing damaged items
  • Pack-out and storage services
  • Smoke and odor removal
  • Reconstruction

We understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with the aftermath of a fire. Our goal is to make the fire restoration process as stress-free as possible for our customers. Our professionals have undergone extensive training and are certified by the IICRC, and we have a wide range of state-of-the-art equipment to provide our customers with the best possible service. 

Contact us today for more information about our thermal fogging services.

Water Damaged Ceiling: 4 Actionable Steps To Prevent Further Damage

9/28/2022 (Permalink)

A water damaged ceiling in a Smyrna property The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 to help combat water damage.

After discovering a water damaged ceiling in your home, it's essential to take action immediately to prevent further damage like mold growth.

No one ever said that being a homeowner was easy. In fact, it can be downright challenging at times. One of the most common problems homeowners face is water damage. Whether it's a leaky roof, a flooded basement, or water seeping in through windows and doors, water can cause severe damage to your home if not addressed promptly.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have mitigated and restored water damaged ceilings for many homeowners in the area. Therefore, we know how important it is to take action quickly to prevent further damage like mold growth.

In this article, we'll look at four actionable steps you can take to prevent further water damage in your home after discovering a water damaged ceiling. So, if you're dealing with water damage, read on for some helpful tips.

Signs of a water damaged ceiling

Water damaged ceilings can exhibit various signs, depending on the extent and severity of the damage. Some common signs of water damage to a ceiling include:

  • Stains or watermarks on the ceiling
  • Peeling or bubbling paint
  • A sagging or drooping ceiling
  • Wet spots on the ceiling
  • Mold or mildew growth

Steps to take after discovering a water damaged ceiling

If you've recently discovered water damage to your ceiling, it's essential to take action immediately to prevent further damage. Here are four steps you can take:

  1. Assess the damage and determine the source of the leak.
  2. Dry out the area and repair the damage.
  3. Monitor the area for any further signs of water damage or mold growth.
  4. Take steps to prevent future water damage.

Assessing the damage

The first step in dealing with a water damaged ceiling is assessing it; you want to determine its extensiveness and what caused it. Once you know the source of the leak, you can start taking steps to address it and prevent further water damage from occurring.

Drying out the area and repairing the damage

Once you've assessed the damage, it's time to start drying out the area and repairing the damage. Common repairs include:

  • Repairing water-logged ceilings.
  • Replacing water-damaged insulation.
  • Fixing broken pipes
  • Fixing leaks in roofs or walls.

It is best to call in a professional water restoration company to help get the job done right the first time.

Monitoring for water damage and mold growth

Once you've addressed the water damaged ceiling, monitoring the area for any signs of further water damage or mold growth is essential. Therefore, you will want to check for wet spots on the ceiling, watermarks or stains, peeling or bubbling paint, or sagging or drooping ceilings. Let your restoration contractor know if you notice any signs of further damage.

Preventing future water damage

In addition to monitoring for water damage and mold growth, it's essential to take steps to prevent future water damage in your home. Preventing future water damages may include:

  • Installing gutter guards.
  • Trimming trees and branches around your property
  • Installing a sump pump if you have a basement.

Let SERVPRO of South Cobb repair your water damaged ceiling.

As we mentioned earlier, finding a reliable restoration contractor who can quickly and accurately repair your water damaged ceiling is essential. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb are experienced in water damage restoration and can help get your ceiling back to its original condition. In addition, our professionals have undergone IICRC water restoration training and have the necessary equipment to properly dry out your water damaged ceiling and repair any damage.

When you choose to hire us, we will:

  • Assess the water damage and create a mitigation and restoration plan.
  • Use industrial-strength fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the area.
  • Repair or replace any water damaged ceilings, insulation, or other water-logged materials.
  • Monitor the area for mold growth.
  • Take steps to prevent future water damage in your home.

Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or would like to schedule a time for us to come out and assess your water damaged ceiling. We are available 24/7 and will be there when you need us most.

Winter Storm Damage: 5 Tips to Prepare For a Winter Storm

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

Snow on the ground with tire tracks The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for storm restoration services!

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb can help you recover your property after winter storm damages occur. 

As the fall season nears and winter quickly approaches, many homeowners begin preparing their homes for the cold weather. However, don't feel left out if you are unsure how to prepare your home for the winter. 

Every winter, many homeowners in Atlanta deal with winter storm damage, and there are always a few things they could have done to prevent the winter storm damage or minimize the amount of damage that the winter storm caused.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have put together this post today because we want to help you prepare your home for winter weather. We understand that winter storms can cause much damage, and we want to help keep your property safe. This blog post will discuss five ways to prepare for winter storm damage. So, without further ado, let's get started! 

What causes winter storm damage?

Winter storm damage can occur by several things, such as high winds, snow, ice, and sleet. All of these weather conditions can cause severe damage to your home or property.

The wind is often one of the biggest culprits of winter storm damage. High wind speeds can easily knock down trees or power lines and cause a lot of damage to your roof. Snow and ice can also cause much damage, especially if a lot is sitting on the roof. The weight of the snow or ice can cause roofs to collapse, and the ice can block your drain lines.

Five tips to prepare for winter storm damage

Preparing your property is the best way to avoid winter storm damage. Here are five tips to help you prepare for winter storm damage:

Tip 1. Make sure your roof is in good condition and repaired adequately if necessary. Before winter arrives, have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof and make any necessary repairs.

Tip 2. Trim trees around your home. Trimming trees will help to prevent branches from falling on your house or property during a winter storm.

Tip 3. Clear snow and ice off your roof regularly. The weight of the snow and ice can cause damage to your roof, so it is essential to clear it off regularly.

Tip 4. Install gutters and downspouts. Gutters and downspouts will help to prevent water damage to your home by directing the water away from your house.

Tip 5. Seal any cracks or gaps in your home. Sealing cracks will help to prevent cold air from coming into your home, and it will also help to prevent water damage.

What to do after your property is damaged during a winter storm?

Even the most prepared property owners can still experience winter storm damage. If your home or property has been damaged during a winter storm, the first thing you should do is contact a professional restoration company and your insurance company. After you contact these two entities, you should: 

  • Take pictures of the damage for insurance purposes
  • Ensure you are getting an accurate insurance estimate
  • Remove any debris left behind
  • Start drying out any wet areas to prevent mold growth

By following these steps, you can help to ensure that your winter storm damage is minimized and that your home or property is repaired as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of South Cobb can help you recover from winter storm damage!

We hope you enjoyed learning about the tips we recommend to help prepare for winter storm damage and now know what to do if winter storm damage does occur. If your home or property has been damaged during a winter storm, don't hesitate to contact the experts at SERVPRO of South Cobb. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb has handled hundreds of winter storm damage cases and can ensure you get the fairest and most accurate insurance estimate possible. Our expert technicians are also trained in the latest water damage mitigation techniques and can help you prevent further damage to your home.

We are available 24/7/365, so contact us when winter storm damage affects your home or property!

Restoration Estimate 101: Find The Best Help After Disaster!

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

A restoration estimate performed by a SERVPRO of South Cobb professional. The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 to perform a restoration estimate!

Getting an accurate restoration estimate helps when you deal with your insurance company.

When disaster strikes, it's essential to have a plan to get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible. That's where restoration comes in—returning a structure to its pre-disaster condition.

But before you can even begin to think about restoration, you need to have a firm understanding of the cost. In this article, we'll discuss how to get a restoration estimate so that you can be prepared in the event of an emergency.

The process of getting a restoration estimate

The first step in getting an estimate for restoration work is to contact a professional restoration company. Many companies offer free estimates, so be sure to ask around before making your final decision. Once you've found a company that you feel comfortable with, the next step is to schedule an appointment for them to come out and take a look at the damage.

During the initial consultation, the restoration company will assess the extent of the damage and estimate the cost of repairs using specialized restoration estimate software. Be honest with the company about the scope of the damage so they can give you an accurate estimate.

Restoration estimates and insurance

Once you have an estimate, you can begin to work with your insurance company to see if they will cover any of the cost. If you're not sure whether or not your insurance will cover the restoration cost, you can always ask the company for a list of preferred vendors. These companies typically work with insurance companies and can help you get the best possible rate. Be sure to get several quotes before making your final decision to be sure you're getting the best deal.

SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many local and national insurance companies. So you can rest assured that you're in good hands when choosing SERVPRO of South Cobb for your restoration estimate and work. We'll make your property "Like it never even happened" after disaster strikes!

Talking with the professional providing your restoration estimate

When it comes time to start the restoration process, it's crucial to understand what you want to accomplish. Be sure to discuss this with the company so that they can give you an accurate estimate of the time and cost involved. In most cases, it's best to start with a small area and work your way up from there.

Once you've selected a company and scheduled an appointment, ask about their payment options. Find out what the company's policy is on payments so that you can be ready.

What to expect after your restoration estimate

When it's time to start the restoration process, be patient and realistic about the results. It may take longer than initially expected, but it will be worth it when you see the final results. Be sure to ask the company for updates along the way so that you can track their progress.

If you have any questions about the restoration process, ask the company for more information. They should be able to answer any questions you have to be as informed as possible.

Call SERVPRO of South Cobb for your restoration estimate!

If you follow these tips, you should have no problem getting an accurate estimate for restoration work. Be sure to contact a professional company as soon as possible so that you can get started on the road to recovery.

Getting a restoration estimate is an essential first step in restoration. However, you can't just contact anyone for your restoration estimate and expect to get a good result. It's best to find someone who has experience doing restoration work; these professionals understand what it will take to restore your property to normal after disaster strikes.

Contact SERVPRO of South Cobb today for your accurate restoration estimate and effective restoration services! We'll make your property "Like it never even happened."

Summer Fire Damage: The 3 Main Fire Risks

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

Summer fire damage to a home in Smyrna. The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for fire restoration services!

SERVPRO of South Cobb is here to help you avoid summer fire damage to your home.

Summertime always brings a sense of relaxation and fun. But sometimes, this fun can be ruined by fire damage that can occur as a result of careless behavior. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have seen it all when it comes to summer fire damage, and we're here to help you avoid becoming a statistic. Here are the three risks that can lead to fire damage during the summer months:

  1. Fire pits and patio heaters
  2. Fireworks
  3. Grilling

The following blog post will go over each of these summer fire risks in more detail and what you can do to avoid them.

What is summer fire damage?

Summer fire damage is any fire that occurs during the summer months. Summer fire damage can cause anywhere from minor damage to a lot of damage to your home and belongings. But, no matter the size of summer fire damage your property has sustained, SERVPRO of South Cobb can help.

How to avoid summer fire damage?

There are several ways you can avoid summer fire damage. The most important thing is to be aware of the risks and take precautions to prevent them. As we mentioned earlier, there are three primary risks of fire damage during the summer months:

  1. Fire pits and patio heaters
  2. Fireworks
  3. Grilling

Let's take a closer look at each of these summer fire risks.

Fire pits and patio heaters

Fire pits and patio heaters are an everyday summertime staple. They provide warmth and ambiance for outdoor gatherings. However, if not used properly, they can be a fire hazard. To avoid summer fire damage from fire pits and patio heaters:

  • Ensure the area around the fire pit or patio heater is clear of flammable materials.
  • Keep the fire pit or patio heater at least 10 feet away from buildings or structures.
  • Never leave a fire unattended.
  • Make sure the fire is fully extinguished before leaving the area.

Fireworks

Fireworks are a summertime tradition for many people. However, they can also be very dangerous. Each year, thousands of people have property damage caused by fireworks. To avoid summer fire damage from fireworks:

  • Follow the fireworks safety tips
  • Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
  • Older children should only use fireworks under close adult supervision.
  • Always have a bucket of water or a hose handy in case of an emergency.
  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
  • Only use fireworks outdoors.
  • Never try to relight or pick up fireworks that have not fully functioned.

Grilling

Grilling is a summertime favorite for many people. It's a great way to enjoy the summer weather and make delicious food. However, grilling can also be very dangerous. Each year, there are thousands of fires caused by grilling. To avoid summer fire damage from grilling:

  • Only use grills outdoors.
  • Make sure the grill is on a level surface to prevent tipping.
  • Keep the grill away from flammable materials such as trees, bushes, or deck railings.
  • Never leave the grill unattended while it's in use.
  • Always make sure the grill is fully extinguished before leaving the area.

SERVPRO of South Cobb: summer fire damage experts

We hope you found this blog post helpful. Remember, the best way to avoid summer fire damage is to be aware of the risks and take precautions to prevent them. If you experience summer fire damage, the experts SERVPRO of South Cobb are here to help. When you choose to work with us for fire restoration services, we guarantee that we will:

  • Work quickly and efficiently to minimize the damage.
  • Communicate with you throughout the entire process.
  • Work with your insurance company to make sure all claims are filed correctly.

For more information on our fire damage restoration services, contact a professional at SERVPRO of South Cobb today!