Commercial HVAC Cleanings

12/21/2022 (Permalink)

One of the biggest culprits of poor indoor air quality? Ventilation systems!

It should be a priority to inspect the ductwork of your commercial property. In fact, the National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that commercial HVAC ducts are cleaned every three to five years to ensure optimal performance. Your HVAC could be circulating dust, odors, pollen, dirt and debris, and other contaminants if left unchecked for long periods of time. 

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa professionals can service your business or other commercial property with routine inspections. Not only will this make your air cleaner, but it also keeps the equipment working properly for longer.

Some of the benefits of HVAC cleanings are:

• Helps restore peak energy efficiency
• May eliminate offensive odors
• Reduces potential for mold growth

If duct cleaning is not necessary, we will make recommendations that save you money and stress. Call us today at 205-533-8377 for more information on HVAC cleaning services for your commercial property.

I Feel A Mold Coming On!

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

Do you know why mold is so common in apartment complexes? According to RTK Environmental Group, having a large number of residents increases the chance for accidents that lead to mold contamination. 

“The main issue in apartment buildings is that water travels downward,” says Robert Weitz, founder of RTK Environmental. “It will travel down through the floors to the ceilings and walls below. When that happens, you are at risk of developing a mold problem,” he explains.

Consider this scenario: A tenant on the top floor leaves for work, but their toilet overflows while they are gone. The water trickles down to apartments below, and causes water damage. If the property manager isn’t able to get SERVPRO out fast enough, the wet walls, ceilings and floors can attract mold. Mold then leads to structural and health issues.

It is important for property managers to act quickly when a tenant alerts them of a possible mold contamination, which means that tenants need to be aware of the signs and risks too. Commercial property owners should encourage residents to use their maintenance portal or follow the apartment’s guidelines for reporting any issues like mold instead of taking matters into their own hands.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is happy to serve commercial properties like apartments in the community. If a resident reports mold contamination, call us for professional advice and service!

Seasonal Storm Damage

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know Alabama had more tornado warnings than any other state in 2022? This past year, the severe weather in Alabama was very active. And unfortunately, where severe storms go, property damage follows.

Even though there is a low frequency of what some might consider typical winter storms in Alabama, there are still risks of property damage from storms in colder months. 

It is possible that Alabama residents see ice storms after prolonged periods of freezing rain, according to Alabama Power. During these storms, water pipes may freeze and burst. Burst water pipes can cause mold growth and structural damage.

The mitigation and reconstruction professionals at SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa are here to help restore your home after damage caused by a storm. Even though your home or business is a major concern during a storm, the top priority is to remain safe. Always follow local news, radio stations and social media accounts for weather updates and warnings.

Here to Help Commercial Properties

12/6/2022 (Permalink)

Running a business or apartment complex is already stressful, so water, fire or mold damages are the last things that owners and property managers want to have on their plates. However, emergencies happen, and you should have a plan for damage to your commercial property.

Property managers in Tuscaloosa are especially busy making sure that college students and their parents are satisfied with the property’s services and quality. Even if an apartment complex or property management company has an internal maintenance team, SERVPRO can still help with large or unique jobs!

For commercial businesses, SERVPRO can provide specialty or general cleaning services. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa helps hospitals, schools and other facilities with routine cleanings and emergency situations.

Commercial businesses in Tuscaloosa can trust SERVPRO professionals to get the job done, no matter the size. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa understands that the appearance and safety of commercial properties are extremely important, and we are here to help!

Winter Water Damage

12/5/2022 (Permalink)

Living in Alabama, Tuscaloosa residents don’t experience too harsh of a winter. Still, it is important to know what kinds of water damage Southern states could see during colder months. 

One of the most common issues for Tuscaloosa County residents during the winter months is damage from frozen water pipes. If outdoor pipes or pipes located in unheated areas of your home or business are not properly insulated or the temperatures get severely low, those pipes will unfortunately freeze and possibly burst.

SERVPRO says these outdoor pipes are the most likely to burst:

• Outdoor hose bibs
• Swimming pool supply lines
• Water sprinkler lines

Pipes in the following areas are at high risk to freeze and burst:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Garages

Cold weather and winter storms cause different damage in different areas. Regardless of your winter emergency, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa will respond quickly to any size disaster.

Holiday Travel Checklist

11/30/2022 (Permalink)

Your bags are packed, the vacation plans are made, and your furry friend is taken care of while you’re out of town. Just one more thing…have you prepared your home for possible water damage? 

Many people don’t consider home damage prevention when making holiday travel plans. However, nobody wants to come home to find water damage. Unfortunately, when you leave for long periods of time, your home is subject to damage from leaking or burst pipes.

You can feel relaxed about being away from home by following these steps:

• Have a friend or family member check on the house while you’re gone.
• Check for any leaks before leaving.
• Insulate any exposed pipes to prevent freezing.
• Turn off the main water valve if your home is going to be vacant.
• Clean debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent flooding.
• Inspect and test the sump pump if you have one to avoid returning to a flooded basement.

Don’t forget that holiday trip planning goes beyond your usual checklist. Stay prepared and create a plan anytime you are away from home. If your residential or commercial property suffers from water damage, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa to remediate the damage.

Why Most Home Fires Occur in the Winter

11/23/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know more home fires occur during the winter than any other season? The United States Fire Administration (USFA) says that winter home fires claim 905 lives per year and result in damages that cost upwards of $2 million.

Some of the most common causes of winter home fires are candles, holiday decorations, dry Christmas trees and fireplaces.

Keep these tips in mind when preparing your home for the holidays:

Follow safe heating practices.

• Make sure your space heater has an automatic shut-off.
• Use a screen for your fireplace and check your chimney regularly.
• Keep heating equipment away from flammable materials.

Follow safe cooking practices.

• Keep an eye on the stove and turn off hot burners or the oven if no one is home.
• Don't let too many cooks in the kitchen!
• Roll up your sleeves to avoid clothes catching on fire.

Practice winter fire safety during the holidays.

• Don't leave holiday lights leaving all day, and don't connect more than three strands of lights.
• Don't leave burning candles unattended, and make sure they are away from flammable materials.
• Have family emergency and communication plans ready in case of a fire.

Avoiding Holiday Kitchen Fires

11/21/2022 (Permalink)

With Thanksgiving around the corner, it is important to remember kitchen safety. For most, the kitchen is the heart of this holiday, but it can also be the most hectic room in the house before family time and celebrations begin. 

According to the National Fire Protection Association, Thanksgiving is the peak day for fires that start as a result of home cooking. There are more than three times the amount of kitchen fires on this holiday than any other day of the year.

Here are some safety tips from NFPA to prevent fires in your kitchen this holiday season:

• Stay in the kitchen if you are cooking on the stove top to keep an eye on the food.
• Stay at home while you are cooking the turkey to check on it frequently.
• Test your smoke alarms, and make sure they are working properly.

Having a plan in place before a fire emergency occurs can relieve the emotional distress in these situations. If you have damage from a kitchen fire in your Tuscaloosa home, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377.

Storm Team Travels to Florida

10/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa's storm crew works at a job in Florida.

The 2022 Atlantic hurricane season began on June 1 and ends on November 30. With a little over a month left of the official time frame, it is important to remain aware of possible storms and prepared for the outcomes.

When nearby states experience damage from natural disasters like hurricanes, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa bands together with an experienced storm team to help other communities. After Hurricane Ian struck Florida in late September, members of the crew from SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa traveled to Fort Myers, Florida to complete jobs in the affected area. Hurricane Ian is the deadliest hurricane to hit Florida since 1935, so the emotional and physical damage caused widespread pain across the state.

So far, our crew has been in the Fort Myers area for two weeks. Most of the jobs they are working on involve water damage to residential properties. 

Before Hurricane Ian, SERVPRO headquarters provided some tips to follow while waiting for professionals to arrive at the site of a disaster. Here are a few to keep in mind for the remainder of hurricane season:

1. Avoid contact with items contaminated by flood water. This is considered black water and can be harmful to your health.
2. Be extremely cautious when entering your home. If you must enter a flooded area, wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing.
3. Throw away any food (even canned goods) that were in contact with flood water.

Preventing Grease Fires

10/18/2022 (Permalink)

In a home emergencies survey, The Zebra found that homeowners are most concerned about fires. Other options included natural disaster, theft, carbon monoxide and gas leaks.

Did you know most home fires start in the kitchen? This is an especially dangerous statistic since grease fires are the most challenging to contain.

Here are some kitchen fire statistics from National Fire Protection Association:

• 51% of house fires are started by cooking.
• Kitchen fires peak around Thanksgiving and Christmas.

You can prevent kitchen fires by never leaving any food unattended, properly cleaning cookware to minimize grease build-up and unplugging all appliances to let them cool before placing them in any cabinet or drawer.

If you do experience a grease fire in your kitchen, don’t use water to attempt to stop the flames from spreading. Instead, SERVPRO recommends that you try to extinguish the fire by smothering or using baking soda.

Having a plan in place before a fire emergency occurs can relieve the emotional distress in these situations. If you have damage from a kitchen fire in your Tuscaloosa home, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377.

Do This if You Suffer from Water Damage

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage? Follow these tips for the best results:

Do:

• Shut off the source of water if possible, or contact a qualified plumbing technician to stop the water source.

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 

• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.

• Remove any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture to a safe, dry place.

• Pinup upholstered furniture skirting to keep off damp floors.

• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors. 

• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

Do Not:

• Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.

• Do not turn on the ceiling fixture if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items that may cause staining on wet carpet or floors.

• Do not use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.

• Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.

• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.

If you have water damage, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377. We are faster to any size disaster!

Choose Your Character: Your Roof or Heavy Rain

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Can your roof withstand harsh storms?  What about heavy winds? Extreme rains? We primarily get extreme heatwaves, but in recent years we've seen excessive rains that lead to some flash flooding. So... How can you tell if your roof is truly holding up? And how can you tell without hiring a contractor for a full inspection? 

We turned to Extreme Home Blog's guest post from a roofing company on some major signs like shingle curling, sagging roof, sunlight spotting, and more signs that your roof needs replacing. 

"If you noticed cracked shingles around the various parts of your roof, then that might be a hint that there’s something deeply wrong. Don’t neglect this problem, because cracked shingles increase your home’s vulnerability to water damage and mold growth from rain." (Webber. Extreme Home Makeover 2018)

If your Tuscaloosa or Northport home happens to suffer water damage from a roof leak, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is always Here to Help. Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377!

House Fire? Tips for After the Flame Dies

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to a Fire Damage, "devastating" is an understatement. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean-up can be, too. 

The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage. These can lead to corrosion, unpleasant odor, and discoloration. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem.   

Take immediate action by following these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire: 

1. Contact your insurance company.

2. Contact your local fire restoration company – SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa.

3. Take photographs of the damage.

4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company.

5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed.

6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property.

While a house fire is a difficult experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So remember these steps for the next time you or someone you know is handling the aftermath of a house fire, and call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377.

Endure the Storm, But First, Have a Plan!

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

There are several steps you can take to stay safe while expecting a tornado or other major storm. Below are a few tips listed to help protect you and your loved ones. After the tornado passes, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa can help you clean up storm damage and restore your home.

Stay Informed During a Storm

Local television and radio stations are your best source for updates on how the storm is developing. However, if you hear a tornado siren, you should immediately head to the nearest shelter.

Look for Storm Warning Signs

Tornadoes typically occur when there is a severe thunderstorm in the area. Rain, hailstorms, and lightning strikes are some of the signs of a possible tornado. Some other warning signs of an oncoming tornado include:

• Rumbling or Roaring Sounds in the Air 
• Orange or Green Skies
• Rotation of the Clouds
• Damaged Power Lines or Debris 
• Very Calm Conditions after a Storm

What is the difference between a Tornado Watch, Warning, and Emergency?

• A Tornado Watch- a storm could be coming into your area soon because of the current weather conditions.
• A Tornado Warning- a sign that one or more tornadoes are in the immediate area. Look for shelter as soon as you see this signal.
•  A Tornado Emergency- the final step in the warning process. A tornado has been spotted near a populated location. Move to the safest possible place if you cannot get to a real shelter in time.

Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is independently owned and operated and we are part of this community, too! When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Tuscaloosa community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be! Call us at 205-553-8377! 

Upcoming Tornado Season and What to Expect

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

In Tuscaloosa and Northport, we typically see a lot of severe rain, wind storms, and sometimes, even hail storms. Unfortunately, a homeowner or business owner may not see any immediate damage to their property... but that storm can cause small holes and create long-term leaks that the homeowner or business owner may not find until the damage has spread severely.

There are other times when storms cause massive damage to a roof and cause immediate flooding of the home. Neither damage is preferred, but the immediate can prevent secondary damages such as microbial growth! 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has had its own reconstruction division for almost three years. We are experienced and capable of large and small loss insurance claims and able to handle them from start to finish. This makes it easier for homeowners and speeds up the claim process, which also benefits your insurance company. Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa today for any storm, water, microbial growth, COVID-19 cleaning, reconstruction, or fire damage!

Call us today at 205-553-8377!

Debunking Pinholes

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

Pinhole Leaks - Explained 

According to Repairmyleak.com, there are a few forms of corrosion in copper pipes.

Did you know that pitting corrosion is most likely to culminate in pinhole leaks in plumbing systems made of copper?

"Pitting corrosion is the non-uniform localized attack of the wall of a copper tube, pipe, or fittings initiated on the inside surface of copper water pipes. Usually, only small areas of the metal surface are attacked.

Pitting corrosion can be classified into three types:

Type I 
Cause: Hard Water
Type I pitting is associated with hard or moderately hard waters with a pH between 7 and 7.8, and it is most likely to occur in cold water. The pitting is deep and narrow, and results in pipe failure.

Type II 
Cause: Soft Water
Type II pitting occurs only in certain soft waters, with a pH below 7.2 and occurs rarely in temperatures below 140° F. The pitting that occurs is narrower than in Type I, but still results in pipe failure.

Type III 
Cause: Cold, Soft Water High PH
Type III pitting occurs in cold soft waters having a pH above 8.0. It is a more generalized form of pitting, which tends to be wide and shallow and results in blue water, byproduct releases, or pipe blockage."

Commercial or residential building suffers a pinhole leak or any type of water damage?

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377! We will make it "Like it never even happened."

Where's My Water Coming From?

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

So, What Causes Indoor Flooding?

Water damage usually has one major leading cause: indoor flooding. Some of the most common causes of indoor flooding are: 

• Broken or Leaky Pipes: The most obvious cause of indoor flooding is leaky or broken water pipes. Pipes can burst from changes in water pressure or even a faulty setup, but regardless of the cause, pipe problems often cause a ton of damage. Leaky pipes are usually a warning sign of more problems to come. Hidden floods caused by broken pipes in your walls can even create the perfect environment for microbial growth. This is why it is so important to mitigate the water as soon as possible. 
• Clogged Sewer or Drain Lines: The flow of water to and from your house can be disrupted when you have clogged sewer or drain lines. Some clogs might be benign, allowing for a slow drain that is merely an inconvenience. But those clogs can get worse over time. The clog can cause your sinks, toilets, and showers to overflow with water, resulting in major damage. This can even include backed-up sewage, causing a hazardous environment for anyone or anything that comes in contact with the affected water. 
• Faulty Washing Machine Hose: The most common problem with watching machines are faulty hoses. A leak in your intake hose can worsen over time and can cause flooding in your home. 
• Water Heaters: Even a small leak in your water heater can cause major flooding due to its endless flow of water. Make sure to inspect your water heater on a regular basis, as keeping up with maintenance ensures it doesn’t spring a leak. 

If you find yourself in one of these situations, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa will make it "Like it never even happened."

Call us at 205-553-8377!

Why Did My House Catch on Fire?

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

What Caused My House Fire?

Between 2012 and 2016, the U.S. Fire departments responded to an average of 355,400 home structure fires per year. These fires caused 11,670 civilian injuries, 2,560 civilian deaths, and $6.5 billion in damage. Here are 10 of the most common (and some surprisingly easy) ways house fires get start and tips on how to prevent them: 

• Heating: Keep all portable heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can catch fire such as furniture, curtains, and laundry. If you have a furnace, be sure to get it inspected once a year to make sure it is up to safety standards.
• Cooking Equipment: Pots and pans can overheat and easily cause a fire if left unattended.
• Faulty Wiring: Homes with inadequate wiring can cause fires. Signs you have faulty wiring include: lights dim when using another appliance, having to unplug one appliance to get another to work, and frequently blowing fuses. Have a licensed electrician come and inspect your home.
• Candles: Candles smell and look pretty, but they can be hazardous if left unattended. They can easily burst into flames and need to be kept away from any obviously flammable items such as books and tissue boxes. If you are leaving the house, make sure to blow out any candles beforehand.
• Lighting: Lampshades and light fittings can build up heat over time. Lamp bases can become hazardous as they can be easily knocked over.
• Flammable Liquids: If you keep any flammable liquids in the house or garage such as petrol or kerosene, keep them away from heat sources. Always check the labels before storing them and use extreme caution when pouring. 
• Smoking in Bedrooms: A cigarette that is not put out properly can cause a flame because the butt may stay lit for a few hours. If it comes in contact with flammable materials, such as furniture, it could burst into flames.
• Electrical Equipment: An electrical appliance, such as a toaster, can start a fire if it has a faulty or frayed cord. Any power point that is overloaded can cause a fire from the overuse of electricity. Double check the appliances and power points in your home.
• Curious Children: Kids are known to do crazy things. They can cause a fire out of curiosity, just to see what would happen if they set fire to an object. Keep any matches or lighters out of reach of children. Installing a smoke detector in your children’s room will avoid curiosity turning into a disaster.
• Barbecues: Keep BBQs regularly maintained and cleaned, including checking the gas for leaks before using it each time. The grill or BBGS should be kept away from the home, tablecloths, and any plant to avoid a fire.

The tips above are a guide to avoiding fire damage in your home. If disaster strikes and you are in need of fire damage cleanup and restoration, call  SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377. 

When Lightning Strikes... Strike Back!

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

When Lightning Strikes... Strike Back! 

As StormHighway.com reports,

A cloud-to-ground lightning bolt's main objective is to find the path of least resistance from the cloud to deep into the ground. Most homes are filled with many potential routes for lightning to follow in their journey. This can include gas and water pipes, electric lines, phone lines, cable TV or internet lines, gutters, downspouts, metal window frames - anything conductive in a house is 'fair game' for the lightning to follow. This can be very dangerous!

Lightning passing through a house can 'branch' and utilize more than just one path to ground at a time. It can also jump through the air from one conductive path to another in what is called a side flash. For example, lightning may first connect to electric lines in the attic of a house, then jump to better-grounded water pipes on the first or second floor. Lightning can connect to gutters, then jump to a window frame as a 'stepping stone' to the electrical system or water pipes. All (or part) of bolts have even been seen jumping from wall outlets to sink faucets and even jumping across rooms!

What is the biggest danger that lightning poses to a house? It's Fire! Wood and other flammable building materials can easily be ignited anywhere an exposed lightning channel comes in contact with them. Most commonly, lightning starts a fire in the attic or roof of a house, as the channel usually has to pass through some of the structural material in the roof before it can reach a more conductive path such as wiring or pipes. When lightning current travels through wires, it will commonly burn them up - presenting a fire ignition hazard anywhere along the affected circuits.

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa helps with water and fire cleanup and restoration. Give us a call at 205-553-8377 - Faster to Any Size Disaster! 

Safety First!

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

Bodily fluids, blood, and other biohazards in Tuscaloosa and Northport can cause health effects. When your home or business has been contaminated, how do you make it safe again? It's simple: Just rely on the professionals at SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for top-notch biohazard cleanup and restoration services. 

Avoiding Health Risks 
Is it necessary to seek professional assistance in cleaning up a location impacted by trauma, crime, or death? With the risks posed by dangerous communicable diseases and blood-borne pathogens, cleaning a scene contaminated with biohazards like blood is a perilous undertaking for anyone who lacks the proper training and equipment. Although unpleasant to imagine, bodily fluids and blood are prone to splattering so that minute amounts can affect a wide area. The air at these scenes can be very hazardous because small particles can become airborne if dried material is disturbed. Anything removed from the scene must also be disposed of properly to avoid spreading the contamination. Ultimately, the best way to make sure that a place is once again safe is to use a professional organization like SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa that is experienced and highly-trained in biohazard restoration.

Preventing Legal Repercussions 
As if the health risks created by biohazards are not dire enough, failure to have a contaminated space properly cleaned can also have serious legal consequences. There are regulations and laws regarding how biohazards are handled that must be followed. These rules are designed to safeguard everyone, and ignorance is not considered an acceptable excuse for disregarding them. Individuals and businesses that do not follow these rules may find themselves facing hefty fines. They might even be held liable if someone else is injured by their actions. Using a professional team that understands what is required to comply with the various rules and regulations governing biohazards in your area can shield you from both health risks and legal issues.

Focusing on Your Safety
At SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa, we are committed to the well-being of our customers. We always offer emergency services, 24 hours a day, and we rapidly respond whenever you request our assistance. Our technicians follow the protocols established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, so you can have confidence in knowing they have the expertise and training to remove all biohazards and dispose of them properly! We use specialized equipment that allows us to detect even the smallest trace of a biohazard, and we do not stop until your scene is thoroughly sanitized. As biohazard restoration professionals, we often can salvage items that others might have to dispose of, and we ensure that any material that does need to be removed from your location is discarded properly.

Dealing with trauma, crime, or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can definitely depend on SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for empathy, courtesy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you deserve. Safety-minded, we are ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your commercial or residential property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact us now to discover more about our Tuscaloosa or Northport biohazard restoration services and secure our help. 

Is Your Roof Leaking?

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Don't worry, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has you covered! 

We have experience flash flooding from excessive rains this year in Northport and Tuscaloosa. Due to the flooding, there have been many Northport and Tuscaloosa homes experiencing basement flooding damage. With further inspection, some homeowners have found slab leaks (or roof leaks) that were not noticed before the heavy rains occurred. If you find any roof leaks, just call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa to help mitigate the water and treat your home to prevent conditions favorable to potential microbial growth.

We always respond to your call within one hour, we begin the water extraction process within four hours, and we notify the adjuster within eight hours from the time of your loss. 

Water damage must be handled properly and quickly to prevent severe damage to your home. Calling us as soon as you see the leaks will prevent the problems from worsening. SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has you covered! 

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377!

Let's Mitigate Your Flooded Basement!

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

Heavy rainfalls in the rainy season are most often the cause of flooding basements, but basements may also have water or flooding damage throughout the year. Unfortunately, basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building (or home) and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Northport or Tuscaloosa basement could flood, here are a few:

• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

• Sanitary sewage backup 

• Foundation drainage failure

• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home

• Storm sewer backup

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe 

• And many more

If you have any questions or need help, call us at 205-553-8377.

We always respond to your call within 1 hour, begin the water extraction process within 4 hours, and notify the adjuster no later than 8 hours from the time of your loss. If the water damage is not handled properly and quickly, it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure. It could have the potential for the health effects of mold. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

We are flooded basement specialists:

• We are available 24 hours/7 days a week

• We’re a preferred vendor to many national insurance companies

• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards

• We only use advanced inspection and extraction equipment

• We bill the insurance directly – one less thing for you to worry about

Flooded Basement? We are always Here to Help! 

Call us at 205-553-8377! 

Don't Let Your Place Suffer from Fire Damage

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

In Northport and Tuscaloosa, commercial fires are often the most devastating reality that a property owner will have to deal with. In addition to forcing you to relocate temporarily so you can maintain running your business while the restoration process is being completed, fires can wreak havoc on your property and emotional well-being. Fortunately, property owners who access and implement high-quality safety practices can often avoid the destruction and devastation that results from Northport and Tuscaloosa commercial fires.

Learn how you can protect your property with these tips: 

1. Install Automatic Fire Sprinklers.

As many authorities know, having an automatic fire sprinkler on your property can reduce the risk of fire by up to 71%. Additionally, sprinklers can decrease your insurance premium. To keep your sprinkler in excellent condition, be sure that it is not blocked by dirt or paint. Be sure to inspect regularly your main control valve so that it is not left off. Finally, be sure that you take the precautions necessary to prevent the pipe from freezing.  

2. Conduct Fire Emergency Training.

Each of your employees should undergo fire safety training. The training can help prevent your staff members from being victimized. Here are a few subjects that should be covered in emergency training: 

Prevention

Inspect your power sources regularly and don't overload your extension cords and outlets.

Hazard Recognition

Keep all combustible chemicals and materials away from heat-generating and electrical equipment. 

Response

Teach your employees how to respond when a fire breaks out. Some subjects that should be covered include how to perform an organized evacuation, properly operate the fire extinguisher, and set the fire alarm. 

Other issues that should be involved in the training include:

• Fire Extinguisher Training

• Breathing Apparatus Training

• Confined Space Entry Training

• Evacuation Exercise

• General Staff Emergency Awareness Training

• First Aid Training

Also, make sure that your employee team officials undergo the following fire emergency response training: 

• Fire Safety Officer Training

• Fire Safety Adviser Training

• Chief and Deputy Chief Warden Training

• Emergency Control Organization Warden Training

• Lay Flat Hose Training

• Spill Response Training

3. Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa immediately at 205-553-8377. 

Although accessing and utilizing fire prevention measures is advantageous and crucial, there is still a chance that a fire could break out on your commercial property. If this happens, you need to know who to call for efficient and fast restoration services. The company to trust is SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa. We have extensive industry experience and a passion for restoring offices to their original condition. 

Here to Help 24/7/365

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Always with our community in mind, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa provides emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We're here in your community and always Here to Help. SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is here for you, 24/7, 365 days a year. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs in a timely manner.

Extreme Alabama weather conditions can cause a heap of storm damage. If you are caught in an emergency situation caused by a storm, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa as soon as possible! 

We always respond to your call within 1 hour, begin the remediation process within 4 hours, and notify the adjuster no later than 8 hours from the time of your loss. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get. 

More reasons to choose SERVPRO:

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

Questions? Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377!

Storm Damage: Prevent It!

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Is it true? Do April showers really bring May flowers? The rainy season can lead to flooding conditions in Northport and Tuscaloosa. These tips will help reduce the impact that the spring floods have on you and your property! 

• Act Fast 

When a flood happens, you need to act fast to dry out any wet items, particularly structural materials like walls and flooring. Our franchise service professionals have the experience and training to make flood damage “Like it never even happened.” 

• Watch for Pooling Water 

Look for places around your property where water pools, and channel it away from buildings. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and they are directing water as intended.

• Cut Power if Necessary 

As rising water approaches the level of electrical outlets, you risk having a live current flow through all the water. Cut the power if you can safely do so without standing in water. Otherwise, evacuate as soon as you can and contact an electrician to cut the power before you go back in for recovery.

• Maintain Sump Pump 

If you have a sump pump, check to be sure it is operational before water starts rising. Consider a backup generator to ensure your pump works when you need it most. Contact your insurance agent to add coverage in case your sump pump fails. 

• Raise Storage Goods 

Use shelving and/or pallets to keep storage items off the floor to reduce the impact of small floods. In many situations, raising boxes just a few inches will be enough to keep storage goods above the waterline. 

• Keep Storm Drains Clear

If you see water pooling around a storm drain, the drain may be clogged with debris. Clearing the debris will help keep the water flowing away from your neighborhood. 

• Be Aware on the Road 

Be careful when driving during spring storms, especially when you hear flash flood warnings! Never drive into a fully submerged roadway. The water surface will be at the same level as the pavement you can see. This view can deceive you into thinking the water is shallow because you cannot see how the road dips under the surface. Beware of the water on the road! 

• Consider Flood Insurance 

Homeowner's insurance will not cover floods; you must purchase a separate policy for flood protection. When all else fails, flood insurance will provide you with the means to respond to an unfortunate catastrophic flooding event.

• Advance Preparation

Prepare in advance with a SERVPRO^® Emergency Ready Profile^® (ERP). Our convenient mobile app stores all your utility and emergency response information in one place, so you can access this information from your smartphone or computer.

Call SERVPRO^® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377!

Damage to Your High Rise Building?

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage to your office building.

Fire damage to your office building.

Storm damage to your office building.

It's something you never want to imagine.

When this unfortunate damage does happen, do not hesitate to hire a professional company that will not only remediate correctly but will take measures to do so in a way that will not disrupt your customers or employees.

At SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa, we have the expertise and training to get your business back to looking "Like it never even happened." In the event of an emergency, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is always "Here to Help." We quickly respond so that your commercial building can be back up and running like normal as soon as possible! This will help diminish the amount of restoration and cleaning that will be needed. Doing this minimizes the downtime it takes to finish and also reduces the cost. 

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377!

Chasing Water, Not Damage

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Many commercial properties in Northport and Downtown Tuscaloosa have several businesses in a single building structure. SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has seen the top floor business suffer from all types of (water, fire, storm) damage, causing at least one business below it to also suffer from a water or fire loss. SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa's team will "chase" or follow the water making sure we do not leave any part of the building untreated. This will help prevent the possibility of secondary damage in the building such as odors or potential microbial growth. Long-term, untreated water or fire damage can cause warping or de-lamination of flooring, the structure/strength of drywall or ceiling tile, or even discoloration.

If your business happens to suffer from a water damage, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377. We are always "Here to Help."

Best of Both Worlds: SERVPRO Edition

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Experience your property at its best! 

We appreciate that your business or home is more than just a property — it’s an investment. And we are honored to deliver services that are worthy of it. SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa proudly offers exterior property cleaning, fire and water damage restoration, wood and deck pressure washing, interior power washing, low-pressure roof cleaning, and water extraction for clients: both commercial and residential! 

Commercial

Commercial property owners are offered comprehensive power washing solutions. No two businesses are alike. That’s why we provide a tailored commercial service that will fulfill your needs. Banks, restaurants, shopping malls, and convenience stores typically require unique services at different times. We take pride in offering flexible service plans and scheduling to accommodate your business needs.

Keep your business looking picture-perfect with our services! We always ensure that our work is implemented at a time that will minimize interference with your business operations. What’s more, our team will always come to your property with the specialized commercial services equipment needed to complete the task and provide professional results. 

Residential

Residential services include driveways, exterior sidings, sidewalks and patios, roofs, and fences. Regular cleaning such as pressure washing, patio washing, and concrete or driveway washing can help to prevent premature aging which reduces maintenance costs and saves you money. When you compare the relatively low price of proper residential pressure wash cleaning to the high cost of home repairs or even replacement, it is easy to see why homeowners choose to have this type of work done on a regular basis. Not to mention, it just plain looks better when it’s clean. 

Apartment and Homeowners Association (HOA)

A potential resident will tour the neighborhood at some point. First impressions that are made during this tour can go a long way towards filling the unit or letting it sit empty. Are the common areas and parking lots of your apartment complex or HOA community clean and inviting? Do they reflect a clean and properly maintained community? What about the units themselves?  If you have been looking for a company to handle all of your properties' exterior cleaning and maintenance needs — look no further! 

Experience the best of both worlds: commercial and residential services with SERVPRO®  of Tuscaloosa! We have the expertise and the equipment to get the job done right! 

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa today at 205-553-8377!

Cleaning Services - What We Offer

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

We understand your situation

Here at SERVPRO®, we understand there are local businesses within our community – Northport and Tuscaloosa. We also fully understand that you need services for your home, too. Don't worry, we offer professional services for both types of properties. 

Residential Services

Whether your Northport or Tuscaloosa home needs emergency flood damage cleanup or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our restoration technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its finest!

Our residential services include:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation 
• Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

Honestly, there's never a convenient time for water or fire damage to strike your Northport or Tuscaloosa commercial property. Every minute spent cleaning up is a minute of lost productivity and revenue. So, when the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond quickly with our highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

Our commercial services include:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Cleaning Services
• Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program 

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for your commercial and residential cleanup service needs at 205-553-8377!

Let's Go to CE Class!

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

To register for CE Courses, email Liz Presley at liz.presley@SERVPROoftuscaloosa.com.

Welcome, Students!

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa offers both credit and non-credit Continuing Education Courses (CE) for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, and Real Estate professionals. The Continuing Education Courses provide students with updated information to better serve their customers!

Continuing Education Courses (CE) are available almost every month at locations throughout the Northport and Tuscaloosa area. These programs are designed to improve the knowledge of your staff regarding emergency mitigation. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have started offering virtual CE Courses via Zoom. 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa offers these CE Courses:

• Restorative Drying for Water Damage 
• Restoring Contaminated Buildings 
• Biohazard Cleanup 
• Deodorization of Malodors 
• Mitigation Awareness and Response Seminar (MARS) 
• Ethics 
• Understanding the Restoration Industry:  Property Fire Damage Restoration 
• Cleaning & Restoring Smoke-Damaged Contents 

Talk to your SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa representative to learn more about the Continuing Education Courses that SERVPRO® is teaching. Also, talk to your rep about when the next class will be offered and how to register. You can also call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa's office to find out when upcoming courses will be offered at 205-553-8377! 

ERP? What's That???

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Statistical Fact: One out of two businesses that close because of a disaster (like a fire or a flood) never reopen? 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has worked with many businesses in the Tuscaloosa and Northport area to ensure they are prepared for any emergency. 

Unfortunately, more than 60% of small businesses in the U.S. do not have formal emergency response plans and do not back up their data off-site.

You Are Less Likely to Recover Without a Plan

• 80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business. 
• 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster. 
• 70% of small businesses that experience major data loss go out of business within a year. 
• 51% of companies with data loss closed within 2 years. 
• 43% of companies that experience catastrophic data loss never reopen. 

Tips for Creating a Successful Emergency Ready Plan

• Let the professionals help. Work with an emergency restoration company (like SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa) for assistance in creating your emergency ready profile. 
• Identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts.
• Establish main internal contacts for purposes of employee safety and emergency work authorization. 
• Identify and label utility shut-off locations. 
• Identify local utility contact information. 

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has highly trained restoration technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. We'll make it "Like it never even happened." Contact us for more information.

The SERVPRO® Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency Ready Profile. Just call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa today to set up your FREE Emergency Ready Profile at 205-553-8377.

How to Clean Up a Biohazard (Hint: Call Us)

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Biohazard – a risk to human health or the environment arising from biological work, especially with microorganisms. 

Bodily fluids, blood, and other Northport and Tuscaloosa biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them! Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. Using the correct safety equipment to dispose of and clean up biohazards is necessary. Using the correct chemicals and procedures on a biohazard site in your home or business that has been contaminated is the SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa way. 

We have an awesome team of professional crew members that can handle the situation quickly, respectfully, and correctly to leave the affected area without a trace of contamination. This is very important for the health of anyone that may come in contact with the site where the biohazard happened.

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is always Here to Help during any disaster – whether it be water damage, fire damage, storm damage, or biohazard cleanup.

Dealing with crime, trauma, or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can count on SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for empathy, courtesy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. With safety at the forefront, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is ready to help in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your residential or commercial property and you require assistance with cleanup, contact SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for biohazard restoration services.

Call us at 205-553-8377 

Did You Know: SERVPRO Services

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa or Northport apartment or home needs emergency flood damage cleaned or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. We are always Here to Help! Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best! 

SERVPRO® Residential Services include:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services
• COVID-19 Disinfecting

Commercial Services

When is the best time for water or fire damage to strike your Tuscaloosa or Northport commercial property? Answer: NEVER! Every hour spent cleaning is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

SERVPRO® Commercial Services include:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration 
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration 
• Commercial Cleaning Services 
• Commercial COVID-19 Disinfecting 
• Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program 

We are Always...

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Here to Help!

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa provides 24-Hour emergency service and we are dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Tuscaloosa and Northport. We offer this 24-Hour emergency service seven days a week, 365 days a year. We can and will respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise and experience to handle your cleaning or restoration needs. Here are just a few reasons to call us in your time of need: 

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

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us! Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and will make your property look its best. Learn more about the residential services we offer:

• Fire Damage Restoration
• Water Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Cleaning Services
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Building/Reconstruction Services
• Residential COVID-19 Disinfecting 

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Tuscaloosa commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Whenever the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with our highly trained technicians and we will get your property back to business!

Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial COVID-19 Disinfecting
• Certified: SERVPRO Clean Program 

SERVPRO + YOU

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa's mission is to develop a team of quality people who focus on excellent service, fairness and mutual respect.

If you are looking to join a team like that, we're always accepting applications for potential employees. Please email your resume/CV to SERVPRO8822@SERVPROoftuscaloosa.com. 

A little about us... 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa provides 24-hour emergency services and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Northport or Tuscaloosa, AL. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services
• Residential COVID-19 Disinfecting 

Commercial Services

Never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Tuscaloosa commercial property! Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost productivity and revenue. So when the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration 
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration 
• Commercial COVID-19 Disinfecting 
• Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned 

Have Questions? Call Us Today – 205-553-8377!

Eww! Soot!

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Let's talk about soot... 

After a building fire, you might see some blatantly visible damage or even some that look like a lack of maintenance. This picture shows cobwebs on the ceiling. However, it's actually soot from a protein fire that traveled from one room to another and then attached itself to a surface. While this is a small area that is visibly covered in soot, this sign leads us to believe that the dirt level is more than just what meets the eye. This is the case for many house fires. 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa will not only wipe ceilings, walls, and flooring; but also move out the contents for cleaning in all affected rooms. We include services that will clean individual items that are affected by the fire. Even though it was not close to the fire and items are not as damaged as other rooms adjacent to the cause of loss, the damage spread through the entire downstairs of the home. 

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377 for your fire cleaning and restoration needs! 

Fear Not! Storm Team Tuscaloosa is Prepared!

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

We are fully prepared for storm and rain damage in this upcoming storm season and we can help you make it "Like it never even happened." Should you have storm or water damage to your commercial or residential property, just call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for Cleanup and Restoration! 

Too much rain can cause the ground to reach its precipitation threshold. This may cause many Tuscaloosa and Northport homes to experience basement flooding, and discover slab leaks or roof leaks that they had not noticed before. If you discover these leaks, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa to help extract and treat your home to prevent the conditions for potential microbial growth. While SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa offers reconstruction services, it is best to consult a professional when it comes to fixing potential foundation issues. We will be there to dry the water damage and get your home back together "Like it never even happened®". 

Simply call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377!

That Grew in My Office?

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Microbial growth in your business can be very alarming, especially when you find it. Getting it removed as soon as possible will prevent any more growth. What's the safest and best way to do that? Just call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa! We can safely and quickly remediate microbial growth in your office or commercial space. 

Microbial growth of any type can spread very quickly. Visible mold on a wall or floor most likely has a source where even more mold can be found in a place that is not visible. Professionally removing the mold ensures prevention from spreading any further and doing any more damage to your workplace.

Removing microbial growth is time-consuming and must be performed by a professional remediation company to prevent any cross-contamination. Doing it yourself is difficult and can put your safety at risk. Having the microbial growth professionally removed ensures that the job is done right and that your safety and health are protected. Call us today! 

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377!

Got Bubbly Carpet?

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Have you ever been walking through an apartment complex or office building, and you stepped on something that felt like a "bubble" in the flooring?

This is called Carpet Delamination. This condition is where the secondary backing of the carpet is detached from the primary backing. Or where the glue loses its stick to the sub-flooring. If this were to happen to your carpets during water damage, we would be required to remove any carpet that was affected by the water, as the carpet has become irreparable. Once we have removed the damaged carpet, we would place the appropriate drying equipment down to remove any remaining moisture in the area.

With SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa being a preferred vendor of multiple insurance agencies and many local property management companies, you can feel confident in knowing we are always "Here to Help."

Call us at 205-553-8377!

Wait, LINT Cause My House Fire?!

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa offers commercial duct cleaning and dryer vent cleaning? We have a great team of qualified individuals that focus on quality and customer relationships. We pride ourselves in our ever-growing team and community we are building here!  

We currently serve a few commercial customers daily, weekly, monthly, or quarterly and have maintained their continued business for 5 years or more. 

Regular maintenance cleaning of your dryer vents and duct system improves the air quality and lowers the risk of fire caused by lint buildup. Duct cleaning will also assist in the efficiency of your system and potentially prolong the life of the system itself!  

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa today to schedule your commercial dryer vent or duct cleaning! 

205-553-8377  

Fire: Statistics You Need to Know

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Statistics from Data...

• 51.6 % of residential building fires are caused by cooking, as of 2017.
• A fire department responds to a call every 23 seconds. In fact, in 2017, there were approximately 357,000 home fires in the United States.
• Home fires were responsible for 11,200 civilian injuries, or 74% of all civilian injuries, in 2018
• 74% of all fire deaths occur in the home.
• An estimated $25.6 billion in property damage occurred as a result of a fire in 2018. (This number includes a $12 billion loss due to wildfires in Northern California in 2018).

Fire damage can be a difficult time in the lives of our customers, which is why we wanted to make these statistics known. Our goal is to mediate the process as much as possible. “Like it never even happened,” is our motto and that is how we would like every customer to feel when the job is complete. 

If you find yourself, a family member, or a friend in need of fire restoration, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377! 

What You Need to Know for the Upcoming Storm Season

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

In Tuscaloosa and Northport, we typically have a lot of severe rain, wind storms, and sometimes, even hail storms. Unfortunately, a homeowner or business owner may not see immediate damage to their property, but that storm can cause small holes and create long-term leaks that the homeowner or business owner may not find until the damage has spread severely.

There are other times where storms cause massive damage to a roof and cause immediate flooding of the home. Neither damage is preferred, but the immediate can prevent secondary damages such as microbial growth! 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has had its own reconstruction division for almost three years. We are experienced and capable of large and small loss insurance claims and able to handle them from start to finish. This makes it easier for homeowners and speeds up the claim process, which also benefits your insurance company. Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa today for any storm, water, microbial growth, COVID-19 cleaning, reconstruction, or fire damage!

Call us today at 205-553-8377!

The Difference IICRC Makes

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in Tuscaloosa or Northport impacts your property? Immediate action is absolutely necessary! Many business leaders and homeowners know that contacting a professional water damage restoration company is typically the first step to restoring your property. However, many individuals do not know how to select the most ethical, exceptional company. If this is the case for you, it's important to know that hiring an IICRC-certified company will prove advantageous. Learn more about why this is the case by reviewing this short outline:  

What Is The IICRC?

As many water damage restoration experts know, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a professional certification organization within the restoration, cleaning, and inspection industries. 

How Do Companies Obtain Certification?

To obtain IICRC certification, water remediation companies have to conform to specific criteria. Some of the criteria include:

1. Provide consumers with accurate data
2. Conduct business processes with integrity and honesty
3. Ensure that a trained technician is present for all work assignments
4. Ensure that a continuing education program is in place
5. Maintain policies for written complaints
6. Hold liability insurance

Why Choose an IICRC-Certified Company?

There is a wide variety of forms of water damage can take. Some of them include a burst pipe, flooding, sump pump overflow, and sewage backup. Irrespective of the cause, however, the end result is substantive damage. In fact, the standing liquid can lead to severe property damage as well as mold infestation. For this reason, it is essential that you attain water damage restoration services from a qualified team of professionals! 

The process of selecting the right Tuscaloosa or Northport water damage restoration company can be challenging. This is the case for several reasons, including the fact that doing a Google search for the key phrase "water damage restoration" will produce over 500,000 results. To narrow your selection, it's a good idea to limit your search to companies that have obtained their certification from the IICRC. Because the IICRC is efficient in establishing reference guides and industry standards regarding water damage restoration and mold removal, companies that have been certified by the organization will likely offer you the excellent, effective services you want. 

About SERVPRO

When you begin your selection for an IICRC-certified company, be sure to consider SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa. In addition to offering all of our customers 24/7 emergency services, we employ a team of trained professionals with extensive industry experience. Our technicians possess advanced skills in monitoring and documenting drying processes. We're ready to offer you the exceptionally efficient services you need and deserve!

Call us immediately at 205-553-8377! We're Here to Help 24/7! 

Water Damage? Do This, Not That!

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Got a Water Damage? Follow these Tips for best results:

Do:

• Shut off the source of water if possible, or contact a qualified plumbing technician to stop the water source.

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 

• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.

• Remove any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture to a safe, dry place.

• Pinup upholstered furniture skirting to keep off damp floors.

• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors. 

• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

Do Not:

• Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.

• Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.

• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.

• Do not use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.

• Do not turn on the ceiling fixture if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items that may cause staining on wet carpet or floors.

If you have water damage, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377. We are faster to any size disaster!

Which is Stronger: Your Roof or Heavy Rains?

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Think your roof can withstand harsh weather and storms? We primarily get extreme heatwaves, but in recent years we've seen excessive rains that lead to some flash flooding. So... How can you tell if your roof is truly holding up? And how can you tell without hiring a contractor for a full inspection? 

We turned to Extreme Home Blog's guest post from a roofing company on some major signs like shingle curling, sagging roof, sunlight spotting, and more signs that your roof needs replacing. 

"If you noticed cracked shingles around the various parts of your roof, then that might be a hint that there’s something deeply wrong. Don’t neglect this problem, because cracked shingles increase your home’s vulnerability to water damage and mold growth from rain." (Webber. Extreme Home Makeover 2018)

If your Tuscaloosa or Northport home happens to suffer water damage from a roof leak, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is always Here to Help. Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377!

6 Tips for After a House Fire

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

"Devastating" is an understatement when experiencing the chaos of a fire in your Tuscaloosa or Northport home. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean-up can be, too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority! 

The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage. These can lead to corrosion, unpleasant odor, and discoloration. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem.   

Take immediate action by following these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire: 

1. Contact your insurance company.

2. Contact your local fire restoration company – SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa.

3. Take photographs of the damage.

4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company.

5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed.

6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property.

While a house fire is a difficult experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So remember these steps for the next time you or someone you know is handling the aftermath of a house fire, and call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377.

Severe Storms: Be Ready

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Expecting a tornado or other major storm? There are several steps you can take to stay safe. Below a few are listed to help protect you and your loved ones. After the tornado passes, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa can help you clean up storm damage and restore your home.

Stay Informed During a Storm

Local television and radio stations are your best source for updates on how the storm is developing. However, if you hear a tornado siren, you should immediately head to the nearest shelter.

Look for Storm Warning Signs

Tornadoes typically occur when there is a severe thunderstorm in the area. Rain, hailstorms, and lightning strikes are some of the signs of a possible tornado. Some other warning signs of an oncoming tornado include:

• Rumbling or Roaring Sounds in the Air 
• Orange or Green Skies
• Rotation of the Clouds
• Damaged Power Lines or Debris 
• Very Calm Conditions after a Storm

What is the difference between a Tornado Watch, Warning, and Emergency?

• A Tornado Watch means that a storm could be coming into your area soon because of the current weather conditions.
• A Tornado Warning is a sign that one or more tornadoes are in the immediate area. Look for shelter as soon as you see this signal.
•  A Tornado Emergency is the final step in the warning process. A tornado has been spotted near a populated location. Move to the safest possible place if you cannot get to a real shelter in time.

Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is independently owned and operated and we are part of this community, too! When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Tuscaloosa community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be! Call us at 205-553-8377! 

Alabama and Tornado Facts

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa offers packing and inventory of belongings after storm damages such as tornadoes. Peak tornado season is March through May, but Tuscaloosa has a second tornado season from November to early December. Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. however, they can occur at any time. 

Facts on Tornadoes in Alabama

• Alabama resides in the United States’ most deadly tornado area—the Dixie Alley.
• Alabama’s annual number of tornadoes is 44.
• Huntsville, Alabama was been rated the top tornado city in 2013.
• Birmingham, Alabama was been rated the third top tornado city in 2013.
• Tuscaloosa, Alabama was been rated the fourth tornado city in 2013. 
• The University of Alabama created a tornado factsheet that cited Tuscaloosa as having a second tornado season from November to early December.
• Researchers are becoming increasingly aware of how dangerous and deadly tornadoes in the Deep South/Gulf Coast states can be.
• Tornadoes usually happen during the late afternoon into the late evening, but can happen anytime.
• The average tornado usually lasts less than 10 minutes but the repercussions may last much longer. 
• Suffering from Lilapsophobia? You do if you’re afraid of tornadoes!

If you yourself dealing with storm damage from tornadoes or any other severe storm, just call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377.

So, What Causes Indoor Flooding?

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

So, What Causes Indoor Flooding?

Water damage usually has one major leading cause: indoor flooding. Some of the most common causes of indoor flooding are: 

• Leaky or Broken Pipes: The most obvious cause of indoor flooding is leaky or broken water pipes. Pipes can burst from changes in water pressure or even a faulty setup, but regardless of the cause, pipe problems often cause a ton of damage. Leaky pipes are usually a warning sign of more problems to come. Hidden floods caused by broken pipes in your walls can even create the perfect environment for microbial growth.
• Faulty Washing Machine Hose: The most common problem with watching machines are faulty hoses. A leak in your intake hose can worsen over time and can cause flooding in your home. 
• Water Heaters: Even a small leak in your water heater can cause major flooding due to its endless flow of water. Make sure to inspect your water heater on a regular basis, keeping up with maintenance to ensure it doesn’t spring a leak.
• Clogged Sewer or Drain Lines: The flow of water to and from your house can be disrupted when you have clogged sewer or drain lines. Some clogs might be benign, allowing for a slow drain that is merely an inconvenience. But those clogs can get worse over time. The clog can cause your sinks, toilets, and showers to overflow with water, resulting in major damage. This can even include backed-up sewage, causing a hazardous environment for anyone or anything that comes in contact with the affected water. 

If you find yourself in one of these situations, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377!

"Like it never even happened." 

Faster to any disaster! 

Pinhole Leaks - Explained

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

Pinhole Leaks - Explained 

Repairmyleak.com says that there are a few forms of corrosion in copper pipes, however, pitting corrosion is most likely to culminate in pinhole leaks in plumbing systems made of copper. 

"Pitting corrosion is the non-uniform localized attack of the wall of a copper tube, pipe, or fittings initiated on the inside surface of copper water pipes. Usually, only small areas of the metal surface are attacked.

Pitting corrosion can be classified into three types:

Type I 
Cause: Hard Water
Type I pitting is associated with hard or moderately hard waters with a pH between 7 and 7.8, and it is most likely to occur in cold water. The pitting is deep and narrow, and results in pipe failure.

Type II 
Cause: Soft Water
Type II pitting occurs only in certain soft waters, with a pH below 7.2 and occurs rarely in temperatures below 140° F. The pitting that occurs is narrower than in Type I, but still results in pipe failure.

Type III 
Cause: Cold, Soft Water High PH
Type III pitting occurs in cold soft waters having a pH above 8.0. It is a more generalized form of pitting, which tends to be wide and shallow and results in blue water, byproduct releases, or pipe blockage."

If your commercial or residential building suffers a pinhole leak, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377! We will make it "Like it never even happened." 

What Caused This House Fire?

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

What Caused This House Fire?

Between 2012 and 2016, the U.S. Fire departments responded to an average of 355,400 home structure fires per year. These fires caused 11,670 civilian injuries, 2,560 civilian deaths, and $6.5 billion in damage. Here are 10 of the most common ways house fires get started and tips on how to prevent them: 

• Heating: Keep all portable heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can catch fire such as furniture, curtains, and laundry. If you have a furnace, be sure to get it inspected once a year to make sure it is up to safety standards.
• Lighting: Lampshades and light fittings can build up heat over time. Lamp bases can become hazardous as they can be easily knocked over.
• Candles: Candles smell and look pretty, but they can be hazardous if left unattended. They can easily burst into flames and need to be kept away from any obviously flammable items such as books and tissue boxes. If you are leaving the house, make sure to blow out any candles beforehand.
• Flammable Liquids: If you keep any flammable liquids in the house or garage such as petrol or kerosene, keep them away from heat sources. Always check the labels before storing them and use extreme caution when pouring. 
• Cooking Equipment: Pots and pans can overheat and easily cause a fire if left unattended.
• Smoking in Bedrooms: A cigarette that is not put out properly can cause a flame because the butt may stay lit for a few hours. If it comes in contact with flammable materials, such as furniture, it could burst into flames.
• Electrical Equipment: An electrical appliance, such as a toaster, can start a fire if it has a faulty or frayed cord. Any power point that is overloaded can cause a fire from the overuse of electricity. Double check the appliances and power points in your home.
• Curious Children: Kids are known to do crazy things. They can cause a fire out of curiosity, just to see what would happen if they set fire to an object. Keep any matches or lighters out of reach of children. Installing a smoke detector in your children’s room will avoid curiosity turning into a disaster.
• Faulty Wiring: Homes with inadequate wiring can cause fires. Signs you have faulty wiring include: lights dim when using another appliance, having to unplug one appliance to get another to work, and frequently blowing fuses. Have a licensed electrician come and inspect your home.
• Barbecues: Keep BBQs regularly maintained and cleaned, including checking the gas for leaks before using it each time. The grill or BBGS should be kept away from the home, tablecloths, and any plant to avoid a fire.

The tips above are a guide to avoiding fire damage in your home. If disaster strikes and you are in need of fire damage cleanup and restoration, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377.

"Like it never even happened."

Here Comes the Lightning

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

Here Comes the Lightning

As found on StormHighway.com,

A cloud-to-ground lightning bolt's main objective is to find the path of least resistance from the cloud to deep into the ground. Most homes are filled with many potential routes for lightning to follow in their journey. This can include gas and water pipes, electric lines, phone lines, cable TV or internet lines, gutters, downspouts, metal window frames - anything conductive in a house is 'fair game' for the lightning to follow. This can be very dangerous!

Lightning passing through a house can 'branch' and utilize more than just one path to ground at a time. It can also jump through the air from one conductive path to another in what is called a side flash. For example, lightning may first connect to electric lines in the attic of a house, then jump to better-grounded water pipes on the first or second floor. Lightning can connect to gutters, then jump to a window frame as a 'stepping stone' to the electrical system or water pipes. All (or part) of bolts have even been seen jumping from wall outlets to sink faucets and even jumping across rooms!

What is the biggest danger lightning poses to a house? Fire! Wood and other flammable building materials can easily be ignited anywhere an exposed lightning channel comes in contact with them. Most commonly, lightning starts a fire in the attic or roof of a house, as the channel usually has to pass through some of the structural material in the roof before it can reach a more conductive path such as wiring or pipes. When lightning current travels through wires, it will commonly burn them up - presenting a fire ignition hazard anywhere along the affected circuits.

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa helps with water and fire cleanup and restoration. Give us a call at 205-553-8377 today! 

Your Safety = Our Focus

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Blood, bodily fluids and other biohazards in Tuscaloosa and Northport can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. When your business or home has been contaminated, how do you make it safe again? It's simple: Just rely on the professionals at SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for top-notch biohazard cleanup and restoration services. 

Avoiding Health Risks 
Is it necessary to seek professional assistance in cleaning up a location impacted by crime, trauma or death? With the risks posed by blood-borne pathogens and dangerous communicable diseases, cleaning a scene contaminated with biohazards like blood is a perilous undertaking for anyone who lacks the proper training and equipment. It is unpleasant to imagine, but blood and bodily fluids are prone to splattering so that minute amounts can affect a wide area. The air at these scenes can be hazardous since small particles can become airborne if dried material is disturbed. Anything removed from the scene must also be disposed of properly to avoid spreading the contamination. Ultimately, the best way to make sure that a place is once again safe is to use a professional organization like SERVPRO® that is experienced and highly-trained in biohazard restoration.

Preventing Legal Repercussions 
As if the health risks created by biohazards are not dire enough, failure to have a contaminated space properly cleaned can also have serious legal consequences. There are regulations and laws regarding how biohazards are handled that must be followed. These rules are designed to safeguard everyone, and ignorance is not considered an acceptable excuse for disregarding them. Individuals and businesses that do not follow these rules may find themselves facing hefty fines. They might even be held liable if someone else is injured by their actions. Using a professional team that understands what is required to comply with the various rules and regulations governing biohazards in your area can shield you from both health risks and legal issues.

Focusing on Your Safety
At SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa, we are committed to the well-being of our customers. Offering emergency services 24 hours a day, we rapidly respond whenever you request our assistance. Our technicians follow the protocols established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, so you can have confidence in knowing they have the expertise and training to remove all biohazards and dispose of them properly. We use specialized equipment that allows us to detect the smallest trace of a biohazard, and we do not stop until your scene is thoroughly sanitized. As biohazard restoration professionals, we can often salvage items that others might have to discard, and we ensure that any material that does need to be removed from your location is disposed of appropriately.

Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you deserve. Safety-minded, we are ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your commercial or residential property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact us now to discover more about our Tuscaloosa or Northport biohazard restoration services and secure our help. 

Call us at 205-553-8377!

What Actually is a Biohazard?

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

What does a Biohazard entail?

Biohazard is a risk to human health or the environment arising from biological work, especially with microorganisms.

Blood, bodily fluids, and other Tuscaloosa and Northport biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them! Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. Using the correct safety equipment to clean and dispose of biohazards is necessary. Using the correct chemicals and procedures on a biohazard site in your home or business that has been contaminated is the SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa way. 

We have a wonderful team of professional crew members that can handle the situation quickly, respectfully, and correctly to leave the affected area without a trace of contamination. This is very important for the health of anyone that may come in contact with the site where the biohazard happened.

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is always Here to Help during any disaster, whether it be water damage, fire damage, storm damage or biohazard.

Dealing with trauma, crime or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact the professional biohazard cleaning service to discover more about our Tuscaloosa biohazard restoration services and secure our help.

Call us at 205-553-8377 

What Can SERVPRO Offer Me?

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa or Northport apartment or home needs emergency flood damage cleaned or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. We are always Here to Help! Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best! 

SERVPRO® Residential Services include:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services
• Residential COVID-19 Disinfecting

Commercial Services

There is never a convenient time for water or fire damage to strike your Tuscaloosa or Northport commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

SERVPRO® Commercial Services include:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial COVID-19 Disinfecting

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for your Commercial and Residential cleanup service needs at 205-553-8377!

Here to Help

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa provides 24-Hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Northport and Tuscaloosa, AL. We can and will respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your cleaning or restoration needs. Here are just a few reasons to call us in your time of need: 

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

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Fire Damage Restoration
• Water Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services
• Residential COVID-19 Disinfecting 

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Tuscaloosa commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Whenever the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians and we will get your property back to business.

Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial COVID-19 Disinfecting 

Questions? Call Us Today – (205) 553-8377

SERVPRO is Here for YOU!

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa provides 24-hour emergency services and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Northport or Tuscaloosa, AL. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services
• Residential COVID-19 Disinfecting 

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Tuscaloosa commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial COVID-19 Disinfecting

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (205) 553-8377

Prevent Fire Damage Before it Happens!

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

In Tuscaloosa and Northport, commercial fires are often the most devastating reality that a property owner will have to deal with. In addition to wreaking havoc on your property, fires can force you to relocate temporarily so you can maintain running your business while the restoration process is being completed. Fortunately, property owners who access and implement high-quality safety practices can often avoid the devastation and destruction that results from Tuscaloosa and Northport commercial fires. Here's a brief outline to learn how you can protect your property: 

1. Install Automatic Fire Sprinklers.

As many authorities know, having an automatic fire sprinkler on your property can reduce the risk of fire by up to 71%. Additionally, sprinklers can decrease your insurance premium. To keep your sprinkler in excellent condition, be sure that it is not blocked by dirt or paint. Also, be sure to inspect regularly your main control valve so that it is not left off. Finally, be sure that you take the precautions necessary to prevent the pipe from freezing.  

2. Conduct Fire Emergency Training.

Each of your employees should undergo fire safety training. The training can help prevent your staff members from being victimized. Here are a few subjects that should be covered in emergency training: 

Hazard Recognition

Keep all combustible chemicals and materials away from heat-generating and electrical equipment. 

Prevention

Inspect your power sources regularly and don't overload your extension cords and outlets.  

Response

Teach your employees how to respond when a fire breaks out. Some subjects that should be covered include how to perform an organized evacuation, operate the fire extinguisher, and set the fire alarm. 

Other issues that should be involved in the training include:

• Breathing Apparatus Training

• Fire Extinguisher Training

• Confined Space Entry Training

• First Aid Training

• General Staff Emergency Awareness Training

• Evacuation Exercise  

Also, make sure that your employee team officials undergo the following fire emergency response training: 

• Fire Safety Officer Training

• Fire Safety Adviser Training

• Chief and Deputy Chief Warden Training

• Emergency Control Organization Warden Training

• Spill Response Training

• Lay Flat Hose Training 

3. Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa immediately at 205-553-8377 

Although accessing and utilizing fire prevention measures is crucial and advantageous, there is still a chance that a fire could break out on your commercial property. If this happens, you need to know who to call for fast, efficient restoration services. The company to trust is SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa. We have extensive industry experience and a passion for restoring offices to their original condition. 

We're Here to Help You, 24/7

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Always with our community in mind, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa provides emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is here for you, 24/7. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Extreme Alabama weather conditions can cause a heap of storm damage. If you are caught in an emergency situation caused by a storm, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa! 

We always respond to your call within 1 hour, begin the remediation process within 4 hours, and notify the adjuster no later than 8 hours from the time of your loss. Keep in mind, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

More reasons to choose SERVPRO:

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

Questions? Call Us at (205) 553-8377

Storm Damage Prevention

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Do April showers bring May flowers? The rainy season can lead to flooding conditions in Northport and Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The following tips will help reduce the impact spring floods have on you and your property! 

• Advance Preparation

Prepare in advance with a SERVPRO^® Emergency Ready Profile^® (ERP). Our convenient mobile app stores all your utility and emergency response information in one place, so you can access this information from your smartphone or computer.

• Watch for Pooling Water 

Look for places around your property where water pools, and channel it away from buildings. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and they are directing water as intended.

• Maintain Sump Pump 

If you have a sump pump, check to be sure it is operational before water starts rising. Consider a back-up generator to ensure your pump works when you need it most. Contact your insurance agent to add coverage in case your sump pump fails. 

• Raise Storage Goods 

Use shelving and/or pallets to keep storage items off the floor to reduce the impact of small floods. In many situations, raising boxes just a few inches will be enough to keep storage goods above the waterline. 

• Cut Power if Necessary 

As rising water approaches the level of electrical outlets, you risk having a live current flow through all the water. Cut the power if you can safely do so without standing in water. Otherwise, evacuate as soon as you can and contact an electrician to cut the power before you go back in for recovery.

• Keep Storm Drains Clear

If you see water pooling around a storm drain, the drain may be clogged with debris. Clearing the debris will help keep the water flowing away from your neighborhood. 

• Consider Flood Insurance 

Homeowner's insurance will not cover floods; you must purchase a separate policy for flood protection. When all else fails, flood insurance will provide you the means to respond to an unfortunate catastrophic flooding event.

• Be Aware on the Road 

Be careful when driving during spring storms, especially when you hear flash flood warnings! Never drive into a fully submerged roadway. The water surface will be at the same level as the pavement you can see. This view can deceive you into thinking the water is shallow because you cannot see how the road dips under the surface. Beware of the water on the road! 

• Act Fast 

When a flood happens, you need to act fast to dry out any wet items, particularly structural materials like walls and flooring. Call SERVPRO^® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377 to extract the water. Our franchise service professionals have the training and experience to make flood damage “Like it never even happened.” 

Commercial & Residential Services

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Experience your property at its finest! 

We appreciate that your home or business is more than property — it’s an investment. And we’re proud to deliver services that are worthy of it. SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa proudly offers exterior property cleaning, fire and water damage restoration, low-pressure roof cleaning, wood and deck pressure washing, interior power washing, and water extraction for commercial and residential clients! 

Residential

Residential services include exterior sidings, driveways, sidewalks and patios, fences, and roofs. Regular cleaning such as pressure washing, patio washing, and concrete or driveway washing can help to prevent premature aging which reduces maintenance costs and saves you money. When you compare the relatively low price of proper residential pressure wash cleaning to the high cost of home repairs or even replacement, it is easy to see why homeowners choose to have this type of work done on a regular basis. Not to mention, it just plain looks better when it’s clean. 

Commercial

We offer our commercial property owners comprehensive power washing solutions. No two businesses are alike. That’s why we provide tailored commercial services that will fulfill your needs. Shopping malls, banks, restaurants, and convenience stores typically require unique services at different times. We take pride in offering flexible service plans and scheduling to accommodate your needs.

Let us keep your business looking picture-perfect. We always ensure that our work is implemented at a time that will minimize interference with your business operations. What’s more, our team will always come to your property with the specialized commercial services equipment needed to complete the task and provide professional results. 

Apartment and Homeowners Association (HOA)

At some point during every interview, a potential resident will tour the neighborhood. The first impressions that are made during this tour can go a long way towards filling the unit or letting it sit empty. Are the common areas and parking lots of your apartment complex or HOA community clean and inviting? What about the units themselves? Do they reflect a clean and properly maintained community?  If you have been looking for a company to handle all of your properties' exterior cleaning and maintenance needs look no further!

We have the experience and the equipment to get the job done right! 

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa today at 205-553-8377! 

Cleaning Experts in Commercial & Residential Properties

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

We understand your situation

At SERVPRO®, we understand that there are local businesses within our community. We also understand that you need services for your home, too. Luckily, we've got you covered for both types of properties. 

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best!

Our residential services include:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There is never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Northport or Tuscaloosa commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

Our commercial services include:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for your commercial and residential cleanup service needs! 205-553-8377

Continuing Your Education

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® offers both credit and non-credit Continuing Education Courses (CE) for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, and Real Estate professionals. The Continuing Education Courses provide students with updated information to better serve their customers!

Continuing Education Courses (CE) are available almost every month at locations throughout the Tuscaloosa area. These programs are designed to improve the knowledge of your staff regarding emergency mitigation. Since the Coronavirus pandemic, we have started offering virtual CE Courses via Zoom. All you have to do is register for the course beforehand and login to Zoom on the day of class 30 minutes before the course begins.

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa offers these CE courses:

• Biohazard Cleanup
• Cleaning & Restoring Smoke-Damaged Contents
• Ethics
• Deodorization of Malodors 
• Mitigation Awareness and Response Seminar (MARS)
• Understanding the Restoration Industry: Property Fire Damage Restoration
• Restorative Drying for Water Damage 
• Restoring Contaminated Buildings

Talk to your SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa representative to learn more about the Continuing Education courses that SERVPRO® is teaching. Also, talk to your rep about when the next class will be offered and how to register. You can also call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa's office to find out when the next course will be offered at 205-553-8377.

Is Your Business Emergency Ready?

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that one out of two of businesses that close because of a disaster, like a fire or a flood, never reopen? 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has worked with many businesses in the Northport and Tuscaloosa area to ensure they are prepared for any emergency. 

More than 60% of small businesses in the U.S., unfortunately, do not have formal emergency response plans and do not back-up their data off-site.

No Plan Means You Are Less Likely to Recover

• 80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business.
• 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.
• 70% of small businesses that experience major data loss go out of business within a year.
• 80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business.
• 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.
• 43% of companies that experience catastrophic data loss never reopen.
• 51% of companies with data loss closed within 2 years.

Tips for Creating a Successful Emergency Ready Plan

1. Let the professionals help you. Work with an emergency restoration company (like SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa) for assistance in creating your emergency ready profile.
2. Identify and label utility shut-off locations.
3. Identify local utility contact information.
4. Identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts.
5. Establish main internal contacts for purposes of employee safety and emergency work authorization.

The SERVPRO® Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both commercial and residential. It allows for the creation of an Emergency Ready Profile. Please contact SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa today to set up your FREE Emergency Ready Profile 205-553-8377.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. We'll make it "Like it never even happened." Contact us for more information.

Leaky Roof?

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has you covered! 

We have experience flash flooding from excessive rains this year all over Tuscaloosa and Northport. Due to the flooding, there have been many Northport and Tuscaloosa homes to experience basement flooding damage. With further inspection, some homeowners have found slab leaks (roof leaks) that were not noticed before the heavy rains. If you find any roof leaks, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa to help extract the water and treat your home to prevent conditions favorable to microbial growth.

We always respond to your call within one hour, begin the water extraction process within four hours, and notify the adjuster within eight hours from the time of your loss. 

Water damage must be handled quickly and properly to prevent severe damage to your home. Calling us as soon as you see the leaks will prevent the problems from worsening. SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has you covered! 

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377

Flooded Basements Got Nothin' on Us!

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

Heavy rainfalls in the rainy season are most often the cause of flooding basements, but basements can also have flooding or water damage throughout the year. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Tuscaloosa or Northport basement could flood, here are a few:

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe

• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home

• Foundation drainage failure

• Sanitary sewer backup

• Storm sewer backup

• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

• And many more

If you have any questions or need help, call us at 205-553-8377.

We always respond to your call within 1 hour, begin the water extraction process within 4 hours, and notify the adjuster no later than 8 hours from the time of your loss. If the water damage is not handled quickly and properly, it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure. It also has the potential for the health effects of mold. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

We are flooded basement specialists:

• We are available 24 hours/7 days a week

• We’re a preferred vendor to many national insurance companies

• We bill the insurance directly – one less thing for you to worry about

•  We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards

• We only use advanced inspection and extraction equipment

Basement flooded? Call us at 205-553-8377

We are always Here to Help! 

High Rise Buildings + Damage = Call SERVPRO!

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

It's something you never want to imagine. Water damage to your office building. Fire damage to your office building. Storm damage to your office building. 

When this unfortunate damage does happen, do not hesitate to hire a professional company that will not only remediate correctly but will take measures to do so in a way that will not disrupt your customers or employees.

At SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa, we have the expertise and training to get your business back to looking "Like it never even happened." In the event of an emergency, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is always "Here to Help." We are quick to respond so that your commercial building can be back up and running as soon as possible! This will help minimize the amount of cleaning and restoration that will be needed. Doing this not only cuts down the downtime it takes to finish, but also minimizes cost. 

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377!

Chasing the Water

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Tons of commercial properties in Downtown Tuscaloosa that have multiple businesses in a single building structure. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has seen the top floor business suffer from all types of damage, causing at least one business below to also suffer from a water or fire loss. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa's team will "chase" or follow the water making sure we do not leave any part of the building untreated. This will help prevent the possibility of secondary damage in the building such as odors or microbial growth. Long term, untreated water or fire damage can cause discoloration; as well as warping or de-lamination of flooring, the structure/strength of drywall or ceiling tile.

If your business suffers from water damage, please call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377. We are always "Here to Help."

What's Growing in My Office?!

12/30/2020 (Permalink)

This vent shows just a fraction of the mold present.

Finding microbial growth in your business can be very alarming. Get it removed as soon as possible to prevent any more growth. The safest and best way to do that? Simply call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa! We can quickly and safely remediate your microbial growth. 

Microbial growth of any type can spread quickly. Visible mold on a wall or floor likely has a source where more mold can be found in a place that is not visible. Professionally removing the mold ensures that you prevent it from spreading any further and doing any more damage to your workplace.

Removing microbial growth is time-consuming and must be performed by a professional remediation company to prevent cross-contamination. Trying to do it yourself can be very difficult and also can put your safety at risk. Having the microbial growth professionally removed ensures that the job is done right and that your safety and health are protected.

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377! 

What Caused That Little Bubble Under My Office Carpet?

12/30/2020 (Permalink)

Carpet delamination from water damage, causing a ripple.

Have you ever been walking through your office building or the apartment complex, and you stepped on something that felt like a "bubble" in the flooring? This is called Carpet delamination. This is a condition where the secondary backing of the carpet is detached from the primary backing or where the glue loses it's stick to your sub-flooring. If this were to happen to your carpets during a water damage situation, we would be required to remove any carpet affected by the water as the carpet has become irreparable and once we have removed the damaged carpet we would place the appropriate drying equipment down to remove any remaining moisture in the area.

With SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa being a preferred vendor of multiple insurance agencies and many local property management companies, feel confident in knowing we are always "Here to Help." Call us at 205-553-8377

Soot: What is It?

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

Soot webbing from a protein fire.

Soot... 

After a building fire, you might see some damage that is blatantly visible or even some that look like a lack of maintenance. This picture depicts cobwebs on the ceiling. However, it is actually soot from a protein fire that has traveled from one room to another and has attached itself to a surface. While this is a small area that is visibly covered in the soot, the sign leads us to believe that the dirt level is more than meets the eye. This is the case for many house fires. 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa will not only wipe ceilings, flooring, and walls; but also move out the contents for cleaning, in all affected rooms. Even though it was not close to the fire and items are not as damaged as other rooms adjacent to the cause of loss, the damage spread through the entire downstairs of the home. 

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377 for all your fire restoration needs! 

Storm Team Tuscaloosa: North & South

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

The rain has made it nearly impossible for this truck to make it home safely.

We are fully prepared for rain and storm damage this upcoming storm season and can help you make it Like it Never Even Happened®. Should you have water or storm damage to your commercial or residential property, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for Cleanup and Restoration! 

A lot of rain can cause the ground to reach its precipitation threshold. This may cause many Tuscaloosa and Northport homes to experience basement flooding, and discover slab leaks or roof leaks that they had not noticed before. If you do discover these leaks, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa to help extract and treat your home to prevent the conditions for potential microbial growth. While SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa offers reconstruction services, it is best to consult a professional when it comes to fixing foundation issues. We will be there to dry the water damage and get your home back together “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377

Did You Know? Lint Can Cause Fire?!

9/29/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa offers commercial dryer vent cleaning and duct cleaning? We have a team of qualified individuals that focus on quality and customer relationships. We pride ourselves in our ever-growing team and community we are building here!  

We currently serve a few commercial customers daily, weekly, monthly, or quarterly and have maintained their continued business for 4 years or more. 

The routine maintenance cleaning of your duct system and dryer vents improves the air quality and lowers the risk of fire caused by lint build up. Duct cleaning will also assist in the efficiency of your system and potentially prolong the life of the system itself!  

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa today to schedule your commercial duct or dryer vent cleaning! 

205-553-8377  

Statistics on Fire

9/29/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know...

• An estimated $25.6 billion in property damage occurred as a result of a fire in 2018. (This number includes a $12 billion loss due to wildfires in Northern California in 2018)
• 74% of all fire deaths occur in the home.
• A fire department responds to a call every 23 seconds. In 2017, there were approximately 357,000 home fires in the United States.
• 51.6 % of residential building fires are caused by cooking, as of 2017.
• Home fires were responsible for 11,200 civilian injuries, or 74% of all civilian injuries, in 2018.

We explain these statistics because fire damage can be a difficult time in the lives of our customers. Our goal is to mediate the process as much as possible. “Like it never even happened,” is our motto and that is how we would like every customer to feel when the job is complete. If you find yourself, a family member, or friends in need of fire restoration, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377! 

Can Your Roof Handle Heavy Rains?

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Think your roof can withstand harsh weather and storms? We usually get extreme heatwaves, but this year we've seen excessive rains that lead to some flash flooding. So... How can you tell if your roof is truly holding up? And how can you tell without hiring a contractor for a full inspection? 

We turned to Extreme Home Blog's guest post from a roofing company on some major signs your roof needs replacing. 

"If you noticed cracked shingles around the various parts of your roof, then that might be a hint that there’s something deeply wrong. Don’t neglect this problem, because cracked shingles increase your home’s vulnerability to water damage and mold growth from rain." (Webber. Extreme Home Makeover 2018)

If your Tuscaloosa or Northport home happens to suffer water damage from a roof leak, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is Always Here to Help. Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377

6 Rules to Follow After a House Fire

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Devastating is an understatement when experiencing the chaos of a fire in your Tuscaloosa or Northport home. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean up too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority.

The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage. These can lead to corrosion, discoloration, and unpleasant odor. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem!  

Take immediate action and follow these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire: 

1. Contact your insurance company.

2. Contact your local fire restoration company – SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa.

3. Take photographs of the damage.

4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company.

5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed.

6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property.

While a house fire is a troubling experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So remember these steps for the next time you or someone you know is handling the aftermath of a house fire and call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa 205-553-8377.

Storm Damage of Any Size, We've Got Your Back!

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

There are many occasions when Tuscaloosa and Northport have severe rain, wind storms, and sometimes even hail. A homeowner may not see immediate damage to their property, but that storm can cause small holes and create long-term leaks that the homeowner may not find until the damage has spread severely.

There are other times where storms cause massive damage to a roof and cause immediate flooding of the home. Neither damage is preferred, but the immediate can prevent secondary damages such as microbial growth.

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has had its own reconstruction division for almost two years. We are experienced and capable of large and small loss insurance claims and able to handle them from start to finish. This makes it easier for homeowners and speeds up the claim process, which also benefits your insurance company. Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa today for any storm, water, microbial growth, or fire damage! 205-553-8377. 

Important Tornado Facts that Prepare You for the Second Tornado Season

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa offers packing and inventory of belongings after storm damages such as tornadoes. Peak tornado season is March through May; but Tuscaloosa has a second tornado season from November to early December. Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. however, they can occur at any time.

Facts on Tornadoes in Alabama

• Alabama resides in the United States’ most deadly tornado area—the Dixie Alley.
• Alabama’s annual number of tornadoes is 44.
• Huntsville, Alabama was been rated the top tornado city in 2013.
• Birmingham, Alabama was been rated the third top tornado city in 2013.
• Tuscaloosa, Alabama was been rated the fourth tornado city in 2013.
• Researchers are becoming increasingly aware of how dangerous and deadly tornadoes in the Deep South/Gulf Coast states can be.
• Tornadoes usually happen during the late afternoon into the late evening, but can happen anytime.
• The average tornado usually is less than ten minutes but the repercussions may last much longer. 
• Suffering from Lilapsophobia? You do if you’re afraid of tornadoes!

Find yourself dealing with storm damage from tornadoes or any other severe storm? Just call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377.

Water Damage: What to Do and Not Do

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Do:

• Shut off the source of water if possible, or contact a qualified plumbing technician to stop the water source.

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 

• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.

• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.

• Pinup upholstered furniture skirting to keep off damp floors.

• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors. 

• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

Do Not:

• Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.

• Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.

• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items that may cause staining on wet carpet or floors.

• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.

• Do not use TV's or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.

• Do not turn on ceiling fixture if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

If you have water damage, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377. We are faster to any size disaster!

IICRC... It Matters!

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage in Tuscaloosa or Northport impacts your property, you must take action immediately! Many homeowners and business leaders know that contacting a professional water damage restoration company is typically the first step to restoring your property. However, many individuals do not know how to select the most exceptional, ethical company. If this is the case for you, it's important to know that hiring an IICRC-certified company will prove advantageous. Learn more about why this is the case by reviewing this short outline:  

What Is The IICRC?

As many water damage restoration experts know, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a professional certification organization within the restoration, cleaning, and inspection industries. 

How Do Companies Obtain Certification?

To obtain IICRC certification, water remediation companies have to conform to specific criteria. Some of the criteria include:

1. Provide consumers with accurate data
2. Conduct business processes with integrity and honesty
3. Ensure that a trained technician is present for all work assignments
4. Ensure that a continuing education program is in place
5. Maintain policies for written complaints
6. Hold liability insurance

Why Choose an IICRC-Certified Company?

There is a wide variety of forms of water damage can take. Some of them include a burst pipe, flooding, sump pump overflow, and sewage backup. Irrespective of the cause, however, the end result is substantive damage. In fact, the standing liquid can lead to severe property damage as well as mold infestation. For this reason, it's essential that you attain water damage restoration services from a qualified team of professionals. 

The process of selecting the right Tuscaloosa water damage restoration company can be challenging. This is the case for several reasons, including the fact that doing a Google search for the key phrase "water damage restoration" will produce over 500,000 results. To narrow your selection, it's a good idea to limit your search to companies that have obtained their certification from the IICRC. Because the IICRC is efficient in establishing reference guides and industry standards regarding water damage restoration and mold removal, companies that have been certified by the organization will likely offer you the excellent, effective services you want. 

About SERVPRO

When you begin your selection for an IICRC-certified company, be sure to consider SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa. In addition to offering all of our customers 24/7 emergency services, we employ a team of trained professionals with extensive industry experience. Our technicians possess advanced skills in monitoring and documenting drying processes. We're ready to offer you the exceptionally efficient services you need and deserve! Call us immediately at 205-553-8377. 

The Impact of Severe Storms

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Expecting a tornado or other major storm? There are several steps you can take to stay safe. After the tornado passes, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa can help you clean up storm damage and restore your home.

Look for Storm Warning Signs

Tornadoes typically occur when there is a severe thunderstorm in the area. Rain, hailstorms, and lightning strikes are some of the signs of a possible tornado. Some other warning signs of an oncoming tornado include:

• Rumbling or Roaring Sounds in the Air 
• Orange or Green Skies
• Rotation of the Clouds
• Very Calm Conditions after a Storm
• Damaged Power Lines or Debris

Staying Informed During a Storm

Local television and radio stations are your best source for updates on how the storm is developing. However, if you hear a tornado siren, you should immediately head to the nearest shelter.

What is the difference between a Tornado Watch, Warning, and Emergency?

• A Tornado Watch means that a storm could be coming in your area soon because of the current weather conditions.
• A Tornado Warning is a sign that one or more tornadoes are in the immediate area. Look for shelter as soon as you see this signal.
•  A Tornado Emergency is the final step in the warning process. A tornado has been spotted near a populated location. Move to the safest possible place if you cannot get to a real shelter in time.

Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is independently owned and operated and we are part of this community, too! When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Tuscaloosa community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be! 

Indoor Flooding and Their Common Causes

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Indoor Flooding and Their Common Causes

Indoor flooding is one of the leading causes of water damage! Here are some of the most common causes of indoor flooding: 

• Faulty Washing Machine Hose: The most common problem with watching machines are faulty hoses. A leak in your intake hose can worsen over time and can cause flooding in your home. 
• Water Heaters: Even a small leak in your water heater can cause major flooding due to its endless flow of water. Make sure to inspect your water heater on a regular basis, keeping up with maintenance to ensure to doesn’t spring a leak.
• Leaky or Broken Pipes: The most obvious cause of indoor flooding is leaky or broken water pipes. Pipes can burst from changes in water pressure or even a faulty setup, but regardless of the cause, pipe problems often cause a ton of damage. Leaky pipes are usually a warning sign of more problems to come. Hidden floods caused by broken pipes in your walls can even create the perfect environment for microbial growth.
• Clogged Sewer or Drain Lines: The flow of water to and from your house can be disrupted when you have clogged sewer or drain lines. Some clogs might be benign, allowing for a slow drain that is merely an inconvenience. But those clogs can get worse over time. The clog can cause your sinks, toilets, and showers to overflow with water, resulting in major damage. 

If you find yourself in one of these situations, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377.

Like it never even happened! Faster to any disaster! 

10 Common Causes of House Fires

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Between 2012 and 2016, the U.S. Fire departments responded to an average of 355,400 home structure fires per year. These fires caused 11,670 civilian injuries, 2,560 civilian deaths, and $6.5 billion in damage. Here are 10 of the most common ways house fires get started and tips on how to prevent them: 

• Cooking equipment: Pots and pans can overheat and easily cause a fire if left unattended.
• Heating: Keep all portable heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can catch fire such as furniture, curtains, and laundry. If you have a furnace, be sure to get it inspected once a year to make sure it is up to safety standards.
• Smoking in Bedrooms: A cigarette that is not put out properly can cause a flame because the butt may stay lit for a few hours. If it comes in contact with flammable materials, such as furniture, it could burst into flames.
• Electrical Equipment: An electrical appliance, such as a toaster, can start a fire if it has a faulty or frayed cord. Any power point that is overloaded can cause a fire from the overuse of electricity. Double check the appliances and power points in your home.
• Candles: Candles smell and look pretty, but they can be hazardous if left unattended. They can easily burst into flames and need to be kept away from any obviously flammable items such as books and tissue boxes. If you are leaving the house, make sure to blow out any candles beforehand.
• Curious Children: Kids are known to do crazy things. They can cause a fire out of curiosity, just to see what would happen if they set fire to an object. Keep any matches or lighters out of reach of children. Installing a smoke detector in your children’s room will avoid curiosity turning into a disaster.
• Faulty wiring: Homes with inadequate wiring can cause fires. Signs you have faulty wiring include: lights dim when using another appliance, having to unplug one appliance to get another to work, and frequently blowing fuses. Have a licensed electrician come and inspect your home.
• Barbecues: Keep BBQs regularly maintained and cleaned, including checking the gas for leaks before using it each time. The grill or BBGS should be kept away from the home, tablecloths, and any plant to avoid a fire.
• Flammable Liquids: If you keep any flammable liquids in the house or garage such as petrol or kerosene, keep them away from heat sources. Always check the labels before storing them and use extreme caution when pouring.
• Lighting: Lampshades and light fittings can build up heat over time. Lamp bases can become hazardous as they can be easily knocked over.

The tips above are a guide to avoiding fire damage in your home. If disaster strikes and you are in need of fire damage restoration and clean up, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377.

Like it never even happened!

Pinhole Leaks: Explained

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

What are Pinhole Leaks? Do you have them? 

According to repairmyleak.com, there are a few forms of corrosion in copper pipes, but pitting corrosion is most likely to culminate in pinhole leaks in plumbing systems made of copper. 

"Pitting corrosion is the non-uniform localized attack of the wall of a copper tube, pipe, or fittings initiated on the inside surface of copper water pipes. Usually, only small areas of the metal surface are attacked.

Pitting corrosion can be classified into three types:

Type I 
Cause: Hard Water
Type I pitting is associated with hard or moderately hard waters with a pH between 7 and 7.8, and it is most likely to occur in cold water. The pitting is deep and narrow, and results in pipe failure.

Type II 
Cause: Soft Water
Type II pitting occurs only in certain soft waters, with a pH below 7.2 and occurs rarely in temperatures below 140° F. The pitting that occurs is narrower than in Type I, but still results in pipe failure.

Type III 
cause: Cold, Soft Water High PH
Type III pitting occurs in cold soft waters having a pH above 8.0. It is a more generalized form of pitting, which tends to be wide and shallow and results in blue water, byproduct releases, or pipe blockage."

If your commercial building suffers from a pinhole leak, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377. 

Storms? Lightning? House Fires? Oh My!

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

According to StormHighway.com,

A cloud-to-ground lightning bolt's main objective is to find the path of least resistance from the cloud to deep into the ground. Most houses are filled with many potential routes for lightning to follow in their journey. This can include gas and water pipes, electric lines, phone lines, cable TV/internet lines, gutters, downspouts, metal window frames - anything conductive in a house is 'fair game' for the lightning to follow. This can be very dangerous!

Lightning passing through a house can 'branch' and utilize more than just one path to ground at a time. It can also jump through the air from one conductive path to another in what is called a side flash. For example, lightning may first connect to electric lines in the attic of a house, then jump to better-grounded water pipes on the first or second floor. Lightning can connect to gutters, then jump to a window frame as a 'stepping stone' to the electrical system or water pipes. All or part of bolts have been seen jumping from wall outlets to sink faucets and even jumping across rooms!

What is the biggest danger lightning poses to a house? Fire! Wood and other flammable building materials can easily be ignited anywhere an exposed lightning channel comes in contact with. Most commonly, lightning starts a fire in the attic or roof of a house, as the channel usually has to pass through some of the structural material in the roof before it can reach a more conductive path such as wiring or pipes. When lightning current travels through wires, it will commonly burn them up - presenting a fire ignition hazard anywhere along the affected circuits.

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa helps with water and fire remediation. Give us a call at 205-553-8377 today! 

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - a defensive cleaning program

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

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

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

Extensive training and specialized products

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

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

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

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

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa today at  [205-553-8377] for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

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

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

Your Safety is SERVPRO's Focus

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

Blood, bodily fluids, and other biohazards in Tuscaloosa and Northport can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. When your home or business has been contaminated, how do you make it safe again? It's simple: Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for top-notch biohazard cleanup and restoration services. 

Avoiding Health Risks
Is it necessary to seek professional assistance in cleaning up a location impacted by crime, trauma or death? With the risks posed by blood-borne pathogens and dangerous communicable diseases, cleaning a scene contaminated with biohazards like blood is a perilous undertaking for anyone who lacks the proper training and equipment. It is unpleasant to imagine, but blood and bodily fluids are prone to splattering so that minute amounts can affect a wide area. The air at these scenes can be hazardous since small particles can become airborne if dried material is disturbed. Anything removed from the scene must also be disposed of properly to avoid spreading the contamination. Ultimately, the best way to make sure that a place is once again safe is to use a professional organization like SERVPRO® that is experienced in biohazard restoration.

Preventing Legal Repercussions
As if the health risks created by biohazards are not dire enough, failure to have a contaminated space properly cleaned can also have serious legal consequences. There are regulations and laws regarding how biohazards are handled that must be followed. These rules are designed to safeguard everyone, and ignorance is not considered an acceptable excuse for disregarding them. Individuals and businesses that do not follow these rules may find themselves facing hefty fines. They might even be held liable if someone else is injured by their actions. Using a professional team that understands what is required to comply with the various rules and regulations governing biohazards in your area can shield you from both health risks and legal issues.

Focusing on Your Safety
At SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa, we are committed to the well-being of our customers. Offering emergency services 24 hours a day, we rapidly respond whenever you request our assistance. Our technicians follow the protocols established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, so you can have confidence in knowing they have the expertise and training to remove all biohazards and dispose of them properly. We use specialized equipment that allows us to detect the smallest trace of a biohazard, and we do not stop until your scene is thoroughly sanitized. As biohazard restoration professionals, we can often salvage items that others might have to discard, and we ensure that any material that does need to be removed from your location is disposed of appropriately.

Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, we are ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact us now to discover more about our Tuscaloosa biohazard restoration services and secure our help. 

Call us at 205-553-8377.

Choose Us Because We Choose You

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Tuscaloosa, AL. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (205) 553-8377

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Tuscaloosa commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa: Here to Help YOU!

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa provides 24-Hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Tuscaloosa, AL. We can and will respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your cleaning or restoration needs. Here are just a few reasons you should call us in your time of need: 

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

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (205) 553-8377

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Fire Damage Restoration
• Water Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Tuscaloosa commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Whenever the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians and we will get your property back to business.

Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Why You Should Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa or Northport home or apartment needs emergency flood damage cleaned or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. We are always Here to Help! Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best.

SERVPRO® Residential Services include:

Water Damage Restoration

Fire Damage Restoration

Mold Remediation

Storm Damage Restoration

Cleaning Services

Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There is never a convenient time for water or fire damage to strike your Tuscaloosa or Northport commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

SERVPRO® Commercial Services include:

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for your Commercial and Residential cleanup service needs at 205-553-8377!

We are Cleaning Experts

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® is Here to Help during this time of need.

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa, 205-553-8377

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

3 Tips to Protect Your Property From Fires

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial fires in Tuscaloosa and Northport are often the most devastating reality that a property owner will have to deal with. In addition to wreaking havoc on your property, fires can force you to relocate temporarily so you can maintain running your business while the restoration process is completed. However, property owners who access and implement high-quality safety practices can often avoid the devastation and destruction that results from Tuscaloosa and Northport commercial fires. Read the brief outline provided below to learn how you can protect your property: 

1. Install Automatic Fire Sprinklers.

As many authorities know, having an automatic fire sprinkler on your property can reduce the risk of fire by up to 71%. Additionally, sprinklers can decrease your insurance premium. To keep your sprinkler in excellent condition, be sure that it is not blocked by dirt or paint. Also, be sure to inspect regularly your main control valve so that it is not left off. Finally, be sure that you take the precautions necessary to prevent the pipe from freezing.  

2. Conduct Fire Emergency Training.

Each of your employees should undergo fire safety training. The training can help prevent your staff members from being victimized. Here are a few subjects that should be covered in emergency training: 

Hazard Recognition

Keep all combustible chemicals and materials away from heat-generating and electrical equipment. 

Prevention

Inspect your power sources regularly and don't overload your extension cords and outlets.  

Response

Teach your employees how to respond when a fire breaks out. Some subjects that should be covered include how to perform an organized evacuation, operate the fire extinguisher, and set the fire alarm. 

Other issues that should be involved in the training include:

• Breathing Apparatus Training

• Fire Extinguisher Training

• Confined Space Entry Training

• First Aid Training

• General Staff Emergency Awareness Training

• Evacuation Exercise  

Also, be sure that your employee team officials undergo the following fire emergency response training:

• Fire Safety Officer Training

• Fire Safety Adviser Training

• Chief and Deputy Chief Warden Training

• Emergency Control Organization Warden Training

• Spill Response Training

• Lay Flat Hose Training 

3. Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa immediately at 205-553-8377 

Although accessing and utilizing fire prevention measures is crucial and advantageous, there is still a chance that a fire could break out on your commercial property. If this happens, you need to know who to call for fast, efficient restoration services. The company to trust is SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa. We have extensive industry experience and a passion for restoring offices to their original condition. 

Biohazard: What is It?

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

Biohazard - a risk to human health or the environment arising from biological work, especially with microorganisms.

Blood, bodily fluids, and other Tuscaloosa and Northport biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. Using the correct safety equipment to clean biohazards and the correct chemicals and procedures when a site in your home or business has been contaminated is the SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa way.

We have a team of professional crew members that can handle the situation quickly, respectfully, and correctly to leave the affected area without a trace of contamination. 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is always here to help during any disaster, whether it be water damage, fire damage, storm damage or biohazard.

Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact the professional biohazard cleaning service to discover more about our Tuscaloosa biohazard restoration services and secure our help.

5 Steps for Creating a Successful Emergency Ready Plan

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that 50% of businesses that close because of a disaster, like a fire or a flood, never reopen? 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has worked with many businesses in the area to ensure they are prepared for any emergency. 

More than 60% of small businesses in the U.S., unfortunately, do not have formal emergency response plans & do not back-up their data off-site.

No Plan Means You Are Less Likely to Recover

• 80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business.
• 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.
• 70% of small businesses that experience major data loss go out of business within a year.
• 43% of companies that experience catastrophic data loss never reopen.
• 51% of companies with data loss closed within 2 years.
• 80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business.
• 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.

Tips for Creating a Successful Emergency Ready Plan

1. Let the professionals help you. Work with an emergency restoration company for assistance in creating your emergency ready profile.
2. Identify and label utility shut-off locations.
3. Identify local utility contact information.
4. Identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts.
5. Establish main internal contacts for purposes of employee safety and emergency work authorization.

The SERVPRO® Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency Ready Profile. Please contact SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa today to set up your FREE Emergency Ready Profile 205.553.8377.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. "Like it never even happened." Contact us for more information.

Continuing Education Courses

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers both credit and non-credit Continuing Education Courses (CE) for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, and Real Estate professionals. The Continuing Education Courses provide the student with updated information to better serve their customers.

Continuing Education Courses (CE) are available almost every month at locations throughout the Tuscaloosa area. These programs are designed to improve the knowledge of your staff regarding emergency mitigation. 

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa offers these CE courses:

• Biohazard Cleanup
• Cleaning & Restoring Smoke-Damaged Contents
• Ethics
• Deodorization of Malodors 
• Mitigation Awareness and Response Seminar (MARS)
• Understanding the Restoration Industry: Property Fire Damage Restoration
• Restorative Drying for Water Damage 
• Restoring Contaminated Buildings

Talk to your SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa representative to learn more about the Continuing Education courses that SERVPRO is teaching. Also, talk to your rep about when the next class will be offered and how to register. You can also call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa's office to find out when the next course will be offered at 205-553-877. 

We Can Fix Your Flooded Basement

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration

Basement flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfalls, but basements can also have flooding or water damage throughout the year. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Tuscaloosa or Northport basement could flood, including:

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe

• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home

• Storm sewer backup

• Sanitary sewer backup

• Foundation drainage failure

• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

• And many more

If you have any questions or need help, call us at 205-553-8377.

We always respond to your call within 1 hour, begin the water extraction process within 4 hours, and notify the adjuster no later than 8 hours from the time of your loss. If the water damage is not handled quickly and properly, it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure. It also has the potential for the health effects of mold. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

We are flooded basement specialists:

• We are available 24 hours/7 days per week

• We’re a preferred vendor to many national insurance companies

• We bill the insurance directly – one less thing for you to worry about

•  We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards

• We only use advanced inspection and extraction equipment

Basement flooded? Call us today –

We are here to help! 205-553-8377

9 Helpful Tips to Prevent Storm Damage

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

Spring showers can lead to flooding conditions in Northport and Tuscaloosa, Alabama. These tips will help reduce the impact spring floods have on you and your property!

Advance Preparation

Prepare in advance with a SERVPRO^® Emergency Ready Profile^® (ERP). Our convenient mobile app stores all your utility and emergency response information in one place, so you can access this information from your smartphone or computer.

Watch for Pooling Water 

Look for places around your property where water pools, and channel it away from buildings. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and they are directing water as intended.

Maintain Sump Pump 

If you have a sump pump, check to be sure it is operational before water starts rising. Consider a back-up generator to ensure your pump works when you need it most. Contact your insurance agent to add coverage in case your sump pump fails. 

Raise Storage Goods 

Use shelving and/or pallets to keep storage items off the floor to reduce the impact of small floods. In many situations, raising boxes just a few inches will be enough to keep storage goods above the waterline. 

Cut Power if Necessary 

As rising water approaches the level of electrical outlets, you risk having a live current flow through all the water. Cut the power if you can safely do so without standing in water. Otherwise, evacuate and contact an electrician to cut the power before you go back in for recovery.

Keep Storm Drains Clear

If you see water pooling around a storm drain, the drain may be clogged with debris. Clearing the debris will help keep the water flowing away from your neighborhood.

Consider Flood Insurance 

Homeowner's insurance will not cover floods; you must purchase a separate policy for flood protection. When all else fails, flood insurance will provide you the means to respond to a catastrophic flooding event.

Be Aware on the Road 

Be careful when driving during spring storms, especially when you hear flash flood warnings. Never drive into a fully submerged roadway. The water surface will be at the same level as the pavement you can see. This view can deceive you into thinking the water is shallow because you cannot see how the road dips under the surface. 

Act Fast 

When a flood happens, you need to act fast to dry out any wet items, particularly structural materials like walls and flooring. Call SERVPRO^® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377 to extract water. Our franchise professionals have the training and experience to make flood damage “Like it never even happened.” 

Cleanings: Commercial AND Residential!

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

Experience your property at its finest! 

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa proudly offers exterior property cleaning, fire and water damage restoration, low-pressure roof cleaning, wood and deck pressure washing, and interior power washing and water extraction for commercial and residential clients. We appreciate that your home or business is more than property — it’s an investment. And we’re proud to deliver services that are worthy of it. 

Residential

Residential services include exterior sidings, driveways, sidewalks and patios, fences, and roofs. Regular cleaning such as pressure washing, patio washing, and concrete or driveway washing can help to prevent premature aging which reduces maintenance costs and saves you money. When you compare the relatively low price of proper residential pressure wash cleaning to the high cost of home repairs or even replacement, it is easy to see why homeowners choose to have this type of work done on a regular basis. Not to mention, it just plain looks better when it’s clean. 

Commercial

We offer our commercial property owners comprehensive power washing solutions. No two businesses are alike. That’s why we provide tailored commercial services that will fulfill your needs. Shopping malls, banks, restaurants, and convenience stores typically require unique services at different times. We take pride in offering flexible service plans and scheduling to accommodate your needs.

Let us keep your business looking picture perfect. We always ensure that our work is implemented at a time that will minimize interference with your business operations. What’s more, our team will always come to your property with the specialized commercial services equipment needed to complete the task and provide professional results. 

Apartment and Homeowners Association (HOA)

At some point during every interview, a potential resident will tour the neighborhood. The first impressions that are made during this tour can go a long way towards filling the unit or letting it sit empty. Are the common areas and parking lots of your apartment complex or HOA community clean and inviting? What about the units themselves? Do they reflect a clean and properly maintained community?  If you have been looking for a company to handle all of your properties exterior cleaning and maintenance needs look no further!

We have the experience and the equipment to get the job done right! 

Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa today! 205-553-8377

Do You Have a Roof Leak?

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has you covered 

This year we have seen flash flooding throughout Tuscaloosa from excessive rains. Due to this flooding, there have been many Northport and Tuscaloosa homes to experience basement flooding damage. With further inspection, homeowners have found slab leaks (roof leaks) that were not noticed before the heavy rains. If you find roof leaks, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa to help extract and treat your home to prevent conditions favorable to microbial growth.

We always respond to your call within one hour, begin the water extraction process within four hours, and notify the adjuster within eight hours from the time of your loss. 

Water damage must be handled quickly and properly to prevent severe damage to your home. Calling us as soon as you see the leaks will prevent the problems from worsening. 

Saving Lives: One Smoke Detector at a Time

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

One small device can save lives? YES!

Make sure you replace the batteries in your smoke detector regularly to ensure it works because it could save your life!

According to The American Red Cross:

• 7 people die daily in a house fire
• Every 40 minutes a fire injury is reported
• $7 billion in property damage every year

The National Fire Protection Association strongly suggests installing a smoke alarm in every bedroom of your home. They also highly recommend installing a smoke detector outside every sleeping area and on every level of your home. If your Northport or Tuscaloosa home is larger, you may need more smoke alarms to ensure you will be alerted when the smoke hits the detector. 

Today, many home security systems offer a smoke detector option that will contact your local fire department in the event of smoke detection. This is a wonderful safety tool, especially if you aren't home or are sleeping heavily at the time of a fire occurrence. 

In the event of a house fire big or small, make sure you call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for your clean up needs.

Also, you can contact your local Red Cross Chapter to help assist with adjusting if you have been temporarily put out. 

SERVPRO: Here for You 24/7

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

With our community in mind, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa provides emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is here for you, 24/7. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

The extreme Alabama weather conditions can cause a mountain of storm damage. If you are caught in an emergency situation caused by a storm, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa. 

We always respond to your call within 1 hour, begin the remediation process within 4 hours, and notify the adjuster no later than 8 hours from the time of your loss. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

More reasons to choose SERVPRO:

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

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (205) 553-8377

Commercial & Residential Services

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO, we understand that there are local businesses within our community. We also understand that you need services for your home, too. Luckily, we've got you covered for both types of properties. 

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best!

Our residential services include:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Tuscaloosa commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

Our commercial services include:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for your commercial and residential cleanup service needs! 

Storm Team Tuscaloosa

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

A truck floods in Northport, AL.

What do you do when the rain won’t stop? We are barely in 2020 and we have experienced more rain and less sun. All this rain had caused the ground to reach its precipitation threshold. This has caused many Tuscaloosa and Northport homes to experience basement flooding; as well as, discover slab leaks or roof leaks that they had not noticed before. If you do discover these leaks, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa to help extract and treat your home to prevent the conditions for microbial growth to occur. While SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa offers reconstruction services, it is best to consult a professional when it comes to fixing foundation issues. We will be there to dry and get your home back together “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205.553.8377

Microbial Growth? Not Anymore!

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Ceiling mold to be cut out and removed.

Do you have a finished or unfinished basement that you tend to avoid?

Checking areas of your house such as basements or attics periodically will help you catch small leaks before they become long term damage. Busy schedules or maybe even problems with getting into these areas can cause homeowners to practice “out of sight out of mind.”

If you have a leak, even a small one, that goes unnoticed for any period of time, you could potentially have a big problem with the optimal conditions. Basements and attics are usually uncontrolled atmospheres which can leave conditions optimal for microbial growth. If you use these areas for storage, it is not just the structure of your home that is potentially a food source for spores, but your belongings could suffer damage. Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205.553.8377 to help clean any microbial growth safely and thoroughly.

Microbial Growth Inside Your Home

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Carpet fungi growing from a slow water leak, over time.

Most organic life naturally grows outdoors. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has come across fungi growth indoors when a water leak has gone unnoticed. The most common we have seen at SERVPRO Tuscaloosa is a slow leak in the walls. It may be behind furniture or not affected the drywall and only soaked into the carpet and padding. Depending on the portion of the carpet and the access for cleaning, the water saturation could go unnoticed. Fungi will not always grow out of saturated carpeting, but if the conditions are right it can be a possibility.  This is much easier to remediate the fungi, but you must remove all your carpeting and find that leak! Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205.553.8377 to start your remediation process. We are faster to any kind of disaster.

Return of the Crawlspace Mold

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

When you find mold in your home crawlspace, the first thing you should do is figure out where the water source is coming from. Mold/Microbial Growth will grow in an uncontrolled environment that has extra moisture levels. If the source is not stopped, then the removal of the mold will be futile. The microbial growth will likely return. 

If the damage is less than 100 sq ft, it might be something that a homeowner could handle. However, if anything is over that or the loss is a particularly "hairy" case, hire a professional mold/ microbial growth remediation company to get your crawlspace back in shape. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has tackled many crawlspaces that have suffered from microbial growth both commercially and residentially. Call us today to assist with the proper cleaning and drying method of your crawlspace. 205-553-8377

Follow the Water!

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO technician using a Moisture Meter.

Downtown Tuscaloosa has commercial properties that house multiple businesses within a single building. At SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North, we have seen the top floor business suffer from damage, causing at least one business below to also suffer from a water or fire loss. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa 's team will "chase" or follow the water making sure we do not leave any part of the building untreated. This will help prevent the possibility of secondary damage in the building such as odors or microbial growth. Long term, untreated water or fire damage can cause discoloration; as well as warping or de-lamination of flooring, the structure/strength of drywall or ceiling tile. If your business suffers from water damage, please call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205.553.8377. We are always "Here to Help."

Carpet De-Lamination and How We Can Help

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

Carpet delamination from water damage, causing a ripple.

Have you ever been walking through your office building or the apartment complex you managed to feel a "bubble" in the flooring? Carpet delamination is a condition where the secondary backing of the carpet is detached from the primary backing or where the glue loses it's stick to your sub-flooring. If this were to happen to your carpets during a water damage situation, we are required to remove any carpet affected by the water as the carpet has become irreparable and once we have removed the damaged carpet we would place the appropriate drying equipment down to remove any remaining moisture in the area.

With SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa being a preferred vendor of multiple insurance agencies and many local property management companies, know we are always "Here to Help." Give us a call at 205.553.8377

Office Growth

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

Air vent with microbial growth, in an office building.

When you find microbial growth in your business, it is important to have it removed as soon as possible. The best and safest way to do that is to use SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa to remediate your microbial growth needs. 

Any type of microbial growth can spread quickly. If you have mold you can see on a wall or floor, there likely is more mold in places that you can't see. Getting the mold professionally removed ensures that you prevent it from spreading any further and doing any more damage to your workplace.

Removing microbial growth is time-consuming and must be performed by a professional remediation company to prevent cross-contamination. Trying to do it yourself can be difficult and also can put your safety at risk. Having the microbial growth professionally removed ensures that the job is done right and that your safety and health are protected.

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205.553.8377

Commercial Properties... We Can Help With That

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

When a problem arises at a commercial building do not hesitate to hire a professional company that will not only remediate correctly but will take measures to do so in a way that will not disrupt your customers and employees. At SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa, we have the training and expertise to get your business back to looking "Like it never even happened." In the event of an emergency, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is always "Here to Help." We are quick to respond so that your commercial building can be back up and running as soon as possible. This will help minimize the amount of cleaning and restoration that will be needed. Doing this not only cuts down the downtime it takes to finish, but also minimizes cost. 

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205.553.8377

Soot

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

Soot webbing from a protein fire, located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

In a building fire, you will find that some damage is blatantly visible and some will only look like lack of maintenance. In this picture, there seem to be cobwebs on the ceiling. What you are actually seeing is soot from a protein fire that has traveled to another room and attached itself to a surface. While this is a small area that is visibly covered in the soot, the sign leads us to believe that the dirt level is more than meets the eye. This is the case for many house fires. 

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa will not only wipe ceilings, walls, and flooring; but also move out the contents for cleaning, in all affected rooms. Even though it was not close to the fire and items are not as damaged as other rooms adjacent to the cause of loss, the damage spread through the entire downstairs of the home. 

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at (205) 553-8377 for all your fire restoration needs! 

Fire Statistics

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

Scorched home in Tuscaloosa

A fire department responds to a call every 23 seconds. In 2017, there was approximately 357,000 home fires in the United States.

51.6 % of residential building fires are caused from cooking, as of 2017.

An estimated $25.6 billion in property damage occurred as a result of fire in 2018. (This number includes a $12 billion loss due to wildfires in Northern California in 2018)

74% of all fire deaths occur in the home.

Home fires were responsible fore 11,200 civilian injuries, or 74% of all civilian injuries, in 2018.

We explain these statistics because a fire damage can be a very trying time in the lives of our customers. Our goal is to mediate the process as much as possible. “Like it never even happened” is our motto and that is how we would like very customer to feel when the job is complete. If you find yourself, a family member, or friends in need of fire restoration, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205.553.8377!

Lint Build Up Can Cause Fire

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Air vent build up that could cause a fire damage.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa offers commercial duct cleaning and dryer vent cleaning.  We have a team of qualified individuals that focus on quality and customer relationships. We pride ourselves in our ever growing team and community we are building here.  

We currently serve a few commercial customers daily/weekly/monthly or quarterly and have maintained their continued business for 3 years or more. 

Like a residential home, routine maintenance cleaning of your duct system and dryer vents improves the air quality and lowers the risk of fire caused by lint build up. Duct cleaning will also assist in the efficiency of your system and potentially prolong the life of the system itself. 

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa today to schedule your commercial duct or dryer vent cleaning. 

Is It Time to Replace Your Roof?

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Roof leak causing water damage inside the home.

How long can your roof really weather the storms? We have had extreme heatwaves this year; as well as, excessive rains that have caused flash flooding throughout Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas. So, how can you tell if your roof is truly holding up without hiring a contractor for a full inspection? We turned to Extreme Home Blog's guest post from a roofing company on some major signs your roof needs replacing 

"If you noticed cracked shingles around the various parts of your roof, then that might be a hint that there’s something deeply wrong. Don’t neglect this problem, because cracked shingles increase your home’s vulnerability to water damage and mold growth from rain." (Webber. Extreme Home Makeover 2018)

If your Tuscaloosa home does suffer water damage from a roof leak, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is Always Here to Help. Our goal is to make it Like It Never Even Happened.

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205.553.8377

Tuscaloosa's Second Tornado Season Approaches

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Frequency map of tornadoes in Dixie Valley

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa offers packing and inventory of belongings after storm damages such as tornadoes. Peak tornado season is March through May but Tuscaloosa has a second tornado season from November to early December. Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. but can occur at any time.

Facts on Tornadoes in Alabama

• Alabama resides in the United States’ most deadly tornado area—the Dixie Alley.
• Researchers are becoming increasingly aware of how dangerous and deadly tornadoes in the Deep South/ Gulf Coast states can be.
• Huntsville, Alabama was been rated the top tornado city in 2013.
• Birmingham, Alabama was been rated the third top tornado city in 2013.
• Tuscaloosa, Alabama was been rated the fourth tornado city in 2013.
• Suffering from Lilapsophobia? You do if you’re afraid of tornadoes!
• Alabama’s annual number of tornadoes is 44 tornadoes.
• Tornadoes usually happen during the late afternoon into the late evening, but can happen anytime.
• The average tornado lasts less than ten minutes but the repercussions can last far longer. 

If you find yourself in dealing with storm damage from tornadoes or any other severe storm, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205.553.8377

Fire Damage & the Importance of Immediate Action

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a piece of artwork

It is devastating to experience the chaos of a fire in your Tuscaloosa home. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean up too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority.

The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage that occurred. These can lead to corrosion, discoloration and unpleasant odor. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem. 

Take action and follow these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire. 

1. Contact your insurance company.

2. Contact your local fire restoration company – SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa

3. Take photographs of the damage.

4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company.

5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed.

6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property.

While a house fire is a trying experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So remember these steps for the next time you or a loved one is handling the aftermath of a house fire and call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa 205-553-8377.

Storm Damage Large or Small

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

Heavy rainfall causes this Tuscaloosa home's ceiling to fall inside the house.

There are many cases where Tuscaloosa will have wind storms, severe rain, and sometimes even hail. A homeowner may not see immediate damage to their property, but that storm can cause small holes and create long-term leaks that the homeowner may not find until the damage has spread severely.

There are other times where storms cause massive damage to a roof and cause immediate flooding of the home. Neither damage is preferred, but the immediate can prevent secondary damages such as microbial growth.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has had their own reconstruction division for a little over a year. We are experienced and capable of large and small loss insurance claims and able to handle them from start to finish. This makes it easier for homeowners and speeds up the claim process, which also benefits your insurance company. Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa today for any storm, water, microbial growth, and fire damage! 205-339-5022

Why is being IICRC important?

8/28/2019 (Permalink)

When Tuscaloosa water damage impacts your property, you must take action immediately. As many homeowners and business leaders know, contacting a professional water damage restoration company is typically the first step to restoring your property. However, many individuals do not know how to select the most exceptional, ethical company. If this is the case for you, it's important to know that hiring an IICRC-certified company will prove advantageous. Learn more about why this is the case by reviewing this short outline:  

What Is The IICRC?

As many Tuscaloosa water damage restoration experts know, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a professional certification organization within the restoration, cleaning, and inspection industries. 

How Do Companies Obtain Certification?
To obtain IICRC certification, water remediation companies have to conform to specific criteria. Some of the criteria include:

1. Provide consumers with accurate data
2. Conduct business processes with integrity and honesty
3. Ensure that a trained technician is present for all work assignments
4. Ensure that a continuing education program is in place
5. Maintain policies for written complaints
6. Hold liability insurance

Why Choose an IICRC-Certified Company?

There is a wide variety of forms of water damage can take. Some of them include flooding, a burst pipe, sump pump overflow, and sewage backup. Irrespective of the cause, however, the end result is substantive damage. In fact, the standing liquid can lead to severe property damage as well as mold infestation. For this reason, it's essential that you attain water damage restoration services from a qualified team of professionals. 

The process of selecting the right Tuscaloosa water damage restoration company can be challenging. This is the case for several reasons, including the fact that doing a Google search for the key phrase "water damage restoration" will produce over 500,000 results. To narrow your selection, it's a good idea to limit your search to companies that have obtained their certification from the IICRC. Because the IICRC is efficient in establishing reference guides and industry standards regarding water damage restoration and mold removal, companies that have been certified by the organization will likely offer you the excellent, effective services you want. 

About SERVPRO

When you begin your selection for an IICRC-certified company, be sure to consider SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa. In addition to offering all of our customers 24/7 emergency services, we employ a team of trained professionals with extensive industry experience. In fact, our technicians possess advanced skills in monitoring and documenting drying processes. We're ready to offer you the exceptionally efficient services you need and deserve, so contact us immediately at (205) 553-8377

Severe Storm Damage

8/28/2019 (Permalink)

If your area is expecting a tornado or other major storm, there are several steps you can take to stay safe. After the tornado passes, SERVPRO can help you clean up any storm damage and restore your home.

Look for Storm Warning Signs

Tornadoes typically occur when there is a severe thunderstorm in the area. Rain, hailstorms and lightning strikes are some of the signs of a possible tornado. Some other warning signs of an oncoming tornado include:

* Orange or Green Skies
* Rumbling or Roaring Sounds in the Air
* Very Calm Conditions after a Storm
* Damaged Power Lines or Debris
* Rotation of the Clouds

Staying Informed During a Storm

Local television and radio stations are your best source for updates on how the storm is developing. However, if you hear a tornado siren, you should immediately head to the nearest shelter.

What is the difference between a Tornado Watch, Warning and Emergency?

* A Tornado Watch means that a storm could be coming in your area soon because of the current weather conditions.
* A Tornado Warning is a sign that one or more tornadoes are in the immediate area. Look for shelter as soon as you see this signal.
• A Tornado Emergency is the final step in the warning process. A tornado has been spotted near a populated location. Move to the safest possible place if you cannot get to a real shelter in time.

Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Tuscaloosa community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

Do's and Don'ts of Water Damages

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Do:

• Shut off the source of water if possible, or contact a qualified plumbing technician to stop the water source.

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 

• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.

• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.

• Pin up upholstered furniture skirting to keep off damp floors.

• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors. 

• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

Don'ts:

• Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.

• Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.

• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items that may cause staining on wet carpet or floors.

• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.

• Do not use TV's or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.

• Do not turn on ceiling fixture if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

If you have water damage call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205.553.8377. We are faster to any disaster!

Lightning Causing House Fires

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

According to StormHighway.com:

A cloud-to-ground lightning bolt's main objective is to find the path of least resistance from the cloud to deep into the ground. Most houses are filled with many potential routes for lightning to follow in their journey. This can include gas and water pipes, electric lines, phone lines, cable TV/internet lines, gutters, downspouts, metal window frames - anything conductive in a house is 'fair game' for the lightning to follow. 

Lightning passing through a house will often 'branch' and utilize more than one path to ground at a time. It can also jump through the air from one conductive path to another in what is called a side flash. For example, lightning may first connect to electric lines in the attic of a house, then jump to better-grounded water pipes on the first or second floor. Lightning can connect to gutters, then jump to a window frame as a 'stepping stone' to the electrical system or water pipes. All or part of bolts have been seen jumping from wall outlets to sink faucets and even across rooms!

The biggest danger lightning poses to a house is fire. Wood and other flammable building materials can easily be ignited anywhere an exposed lightning channel comes in contact with. It is most common for lightning to start a fire in the attic or roof of a house, as the channel usually has to pass through some of the structural material in the roof before it can reach a more conductive path such as wiring or pipes. When lightning current travels through wires, it will commonly burn them up - presenting a fire ignition hazard anywhere along the affected circuits.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa helps with water and fire remediation. Give us a call at 205.553.8377 

Suffering from Pinhole Leaks

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

According to repairmyleak.com, there are a couple of forms of corrosion in copper pipes, but pitting corrosion is most likely to culminate in pinhole leaks in plumbing systems made of copper. 

"Pitting corrosion is the non-uniform localized attack of the wall of a copper tube, pipe, or fittings initiated on the inside surface of copper water pipes. Usually, only small areas of the metal surface are attacked.

Pitting corrosion can be classified into three types:

Type I 
cause: Hard Water
Type I pitting is associated with hard or moderately hard waters with a pH between 7 and 7.8, and it is most likely to occur in cold water. The pitting is deep and narrow, and results in pipe failure.

Type II 
cause: Soft Water
Type II pitting occurs only in certain soft waters, with a pH below 7.2 and occurs rarely in temperatures below 140° F. The pitting that occurs is narrower than in Type I, but still results in pipe failure.

Type III 
cause: Cold, Soft Water High PH
Type III pitting occurs in cold soft waters having a pH above 8.0. It is a more generalized form of pitting, which tends to be wide and shallow and results in blue water, byproduct releases, or pipe blockage."

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa if your commercial building suffers from a pinhole leak. 

Common Causes of Indoor House Floods

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

Common Causes of Indoor Flooding

1. Leaky of Broken Pipes: The most obvious cause of indoor flooding is leaky or broken water pipes. Pipes cam burst from changes in water pressure or even a faulty setup, but regardless of the cause, pipe problems often cause a ton of damage. Leaky pipes are usually a warning sign of more problems to come. Hidden floods caused by broken pipes in your walls can even create the perfect environment for microbial growth.
2. Water Heaters: Even a small leak in your water heater can cause major flooding due to its endless flow of water. Make sure to inspect your water heater on a regular basis, keeping up with maintenance to insure to doesn’t spring a leak.
3. Clogged Sewer or Drain Lines: The flow of water to and from your house can be disrupted when you have clogged sewer or drain lines. Some clogs might be benign, allowing for a slow drain that is merely an inconvenience. But those clogs can get worse over time. The clog can cause your sinks, toilets, and showers to overflow with water, resulting in major damage. 
4. Faulty Washing Machine Hose: The most common problem with watching machines are faulty hoses. A leak in your intake hose can worsen over tine and can cause flooding in y our home. 

Common Causes of House Fires

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

Between 2012 and 2016, the U.S. Fire departments responded to an average of 355,400home structure fires per year. These fires caused 11,670 civilian injuries, 2,560 civilian deaths, and $6.5 billion in direct damage. Listed below are a few of the most common ways house fires get started and tips to prevent them. 

• Cooking equipment: Pots and pans can overheat and easily cause a fire if left unattended.
• Heating: Keep all portable heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can catch fire such as furniture, curtains, and laundry. If you have a furnace, be sure to get it inspected once a year to make sure it is up to safety standards.
• Smoking in Bedrooms: A cigarette that is not put out properly can cause a flame because the butt may stay lit for a few hours. If it comes in contact with flammable materials, such as furniture, it could burst into flames.
• Electrical Equipment: An electrical appliance, such as a toaster, can start a fire if it has a faulty or frayed cord. Any power point that is overloaded can cause a fire from overuse of electricity. Double check the appliances and power points in your home.
• Candles: Candles smell and look pretty, but they can be hazardous if left unattended. They can easily burst into flames and need to be kept away from any obviously flammable items such as books and tissue boxes. If you are leaving the house, make sure to blow out any candles beforehand.
• Curious Children: Kids are known to do crazy things. They can cause a fire out of curiosity, just to see what would happen if they set fire to an object. Keep any matches or lighters out of reach of children. Installing a smoke detector in your children’s room will avoid curiosity turning into a disaster.
• Faulty wiring: Homes with inadequate wiring can cause fires. Signs you have faulty wiring include: lights dim when using another appliance, having to unplug one appliance to get another to work, and frequently blowing fuses. Have a licensed electrician come and inspect your home.
• Barbecues: Keep BBQs regularly maintained and cleaned, including checking the gas for leaks before using it each time. The grill or BBGS should be kept away from the home, tablecloths, and any plant to avoid a fire.
• Flammable Liquids: If you keep any flammable liquids in the house or garage such as petrol or kerosene, keep them away from heat sources. Always check the labels before storing and use extreme caution when pouring.
• Lighting: Lampshades and light fittings can build up heat over time. Lamp bases can become hazardous they are easily knocked over.

The tips above are a guide to avoiding fire damage in your home. If you disaster strikes and you find yourself in need of fire damage restoration and clean up, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205.553.8377

Like it never even happened!

SERVPRO Focuses on Your Safety

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

Blood, bodily fluids, and other Tuscaloosa biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. When a site in your home or business has been contaminated, how do you make it safe again? Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for top-notch biohazard cleanup and restoration services.

Avoiding Health Risks
Is it necessary to seek professional assistance in cleaning up a location impacted by crime, trauma or death? With the risks posed by blood-borne pathogens and dangerous communicable diseases, cleaning a scene contaminated with biohazards like blood is a perilous undertaking for anyone who lacks the proper training and equipment. It is unpleasant to think about, but blood and bodily fluids are prone to splattering so that minute amounts can affect a wide area. The air at these scenes can be hazardous since small particles can become airborne if dried material is disturbed. Anything removed from the scene must also be disposed of properly to avoid spreading the contamination. Ultimately, the best way to make sure that a place is once again safe is to use a professional organization like SERVPRO that is experienced in biohazard restoration.

Preventing Legal Repercussions
As if the health risks created by biohazards are not dire enough, failure to have a contaminated space properly cleaned can also have serious legal consequences. There are regulations and laws regarding how biohazards are handled that must be followed. These rules are designed to safeguard everyone, and ignorance is not considered an acceptable excuse for disregarding them. Individuals and businesses that do not follow these rules may find themselves facing hefty fines. They might even be held liable if someone else is injured by their actions. Using a professional team that understands what is required to comply with the various rules and regulations governing biohazards in your area can shield you from both health risks and legal issues.

Focusing on Your Safety
At SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa, we are committed to the well-being of our customers. Offering emergency services 24 hours a day, we will rapidly respond whenever you request our assistance. Our technicians follow the protocols established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, so you can be confident that they have the expertise and training to remove all biohazards and dispose of them properly. We use specialized equipment that allows us to detect the smallest trace of a biohazard, and we do not stop until your scene is thoroughly sanitized. As biohazard restoration professionals, we can often salvage items that others might have to discard, and we ensure that any material that does need to be removed from your location is disposed of appropriately.

Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, we are ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact us now to discover more about our Tuscaloosa biohazard restoration services and secure our help. (205)553-8377.

Flooded Basement? No Problem.

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Tuscaloosa basement could flood, including:

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe

• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home

• Storm sewer backup

• Sanitary sewer backup

• Foundation drainage failure

• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

• And many more

If you have any questions or need help, call us at 205-553-8377.

We always respond to your call within 1 hour, begin the water extraction process within 4 hours, and notify the adjuster no later than 8 hours from the time of your loss. If the water damage is not handled quickly and properly it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure, not to mention the potentially harmful health effect of mold. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

We are flooded basement specialists:

• We are available 24 hours/7 days per week

• We’re a preferred vendor to many national insurance companies

• We bill the insurance directly – one less thing for you to worry about

•  We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards

• We only use advanced inspection and extraction equipment

Basement flooded? Call us today –

We are here to help! 205-553-8377

Spring Storm Tips

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Spring showers can often lead to flooding conditions in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. These tips will help reduce the impact spring floods have on you and your property.

Advance Preparation

Prepare in advance with a SERVPRO^® Emergency Ready Profile^® (ERP). Our convenient mobile app stores all your utility and emergency response information in one place, so you can access this information from your smartphone or computer.

Watch for Pooling Water 

Look for places around your property where water pools, and channel it away from buildings. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and they are directing water as intended.

Maintain Sump Pump 

If you have a sump pump, check to be sure it is operational before water starts rising. Consider a back-up generator to ensure your pump works when you need it most. Contact your insurance agent to add coverage in case your sump pump fails. 

Raise Storage Goods 

Use shelving and/or pallets to keep storage items off the floor to reduce the impact of small floods. In many situations, raising boxes just a few inches will be enough to keep storage goods above the water line. 

Cut Power if Necessary 

As rising water approaches the level of electrical outlets, you risk having a live current flow through all the water. Cut the power if you can safely do so without standing in water. Otherwise, evacuate and contact an electrician to cut the power before you go back in for recovery.

Keep Storm Drains Clear

If you see water pooling around a storm drain, the drain may be clogged with debris. Clearing the debris will help keep the water flowing away from your neighborhood.

Consider Flood Insurance 

Homeowners insurance will not cover floods; you must purchase a separate policy for flood protection. When all else fails, flood insurance will provide you the means to respond to a catastrophic flooding event.

Be Aware on the Road 

Be careful when driving during spring storms, especially when you hear flash flood warnings. Never drive into a fully submerged roadway. The water surface will be at the same level as the pavement you can see. This view can deceive you into thinking the water is shallow because you cannot see how the road dips under the surface. 

Act Fast 

When a flood happens, you need to act fast to dry out any wet items, particularly structural materials like walls and flooring. Call SERVPRO^® of Tuscaloosa at 205-553-8377 to extract water. Our franchise professionals have the training and experience to make flood damage “Like it never even happened.” 

Commercial & Residential Cleanings

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Experience your property at its finest! SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa proudly offers exterior property cleaning, fire and water damage restoration, low-pressure roof cleaning, wood and deck pressure washing, and interior power washing and water extraction for commercial and residential clients. We appreciate that your home or business is more than property — it’s an investment. And we’re proud to deliver services that are worthy of it. 

Residential

Residential services include exterior sidings, driveways, sidewalks and patios, fences, and roofs. Regular cleaning such as pressure washing, patio washing and concrete or driveway washing can help to prevent premature aging which reduces maintenance cost and saves you money. When you compare the relatively low price of proper residential pressure wash cleaning to the high cost of home repairs or even replacement, it is easy to see why homeowners choose to have this type of work done on a regular basis. Not to mention the fact, it just plain looks better when it’s clean. 

Commercial

We offer our commercial property owners comprehensive power washing solutions. No two businesses are alike. That’s why we provide tailored commercial services that will fulfill your needs. Shopping malls, banks, restaurants, and convenience stores typically require unique services at different times. We take pride in offering flexible service plans and scheduling to accommodate your needs.

Let us keep your business looking picture perfect. We always ensure that our work is implemented at a time that will minimize interference with your business operations. What’s more, our team will always come to your property with the specialized commercial services equipment needed to complete the task and provide professional results. 

Apartment and Homeowners Association (HOA)

At some point during every interview, a potential resident will tour the neighborhood. The first impressions that are made during this tour can go a long way towards filling the unit or letting it sit empty. Are the common areas and parking lots of your apartment complex or HOA community clean and inviting? What about the units themselves? Do they reflect a clean and properly maintained community?  If you have been looking for a company to handle all of your properties exterior cleaning and maintenance needs look no further! We have the experience and the equipment to get the job done right! Call us SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa today! 205-553-8377

Does Your Business Have a Ready Plan?

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

An estimated 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster, such as fire and flood never reopen.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has worked with many businesses in the area to ensure they are prepared for any emergency. 

More than 60% of small businesses in the U.S. do not have formal emergency response plans & do not back-up their data off-site.

No Plan Means You Are Less Likely to Recover

• 80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business.
• 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.
• 70% of small business that experience major data loss go out of business within a year.
• 43% of companies that experience catastrophic data loss never reopen.
• 51% of companies with data loss closed within 2 years.
• 80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business.
• 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.

Tips for Creating a Successful Emergency Ready Plan

1. Let the professionals help you. Work with an emergency restoration company for assistance in creating your emergency ready profile.
2. Identify and label utility shut-off locations.
3. Identify local utility contact information.
4. Identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts.
5. Establish main internal contacts for purposes of employee safety and emergency work authorization.

The SERVPRO® Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency Ready Profile. Please contact SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa today to set up your FREE Emergency Ready Profile 205.553.8377.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. "Like it never even happened." contact us for more information.

Protection from Property Fires

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial fires in Tuscaloosa are often the most devastating reality that a property owner will have to oversee. In addition to wreaking havoc on your property, fires can force you to relocate temporarily so you can maintain running your business while the restoration process is completed. However, property owners who access and implement high-quality safety practices can often avoid the devastation and destruction that results from Tuscaloosa commercial fires. Read the brief outline provided below to learn how you can protect your property: 

1. Install Automatic Fire Sprinklers.

As many authorities know, having an automatic fire sprinkler on your property can reduce the risk of fire by up to 71%. Additionally, sprinklers can decrease your insurance premium. To keep your sprinkler in excellent condition, be sure that it is not blocked by dirt or paint. Also, be sure to inspect regularly your main control valve so that it is not left off. Finally, be sure that you take the precautions necessary to prevent the pipe from freezing.  

2. Conduct Fire Emergency Training.

Each of your employees should undergo fire safety training. The training can help prevent your staff members from being victimized. Here are a few subjects that should be covered in emergency training: 

Hazard Recognition

Keep all combustible chemicals and materials away from heat-generating and electrical equipment. 

Prevention

Inspect your power sources regularly and don't overload your extension cords and outlets.  

Response

Teach your employees how to respond when a fire breaks out. Some subjects that should be covered include how to perform an organized evacuation, operate the fire extinguisher, and set the fire alarm. 

Other issues that should be involved in the training include:

• Breathing Apparatus Training

• Fire Extinguisher Training

• Confined Space Entry Training

• First Aid Training

• General Staff Emergency Awareness Training

• Evacuation Exercise  

Also, be sure that your employee team officials undergo the following fire emergency response training:

• Fire Safety Officer Training

• Fire Safety Adviser Training

• Chief and Deputy Chief Warden Training

• Emergency Control Organization Warden Training

• Spill Response Training

• Lay Flat Hose Training 

Call SERVPRO Immediately 205.553.8377

Although accessing and utilizing fire prevention measures is crucial and advantageous, there is still a chance that a fire could break out on your commercial property. If this happens, you need to know who to call for fast, efficient restoration services. The company to trust is SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa. We have extensive industry experience and a passion for restoring offices to their original condition. 

Biohazard

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Biohazard - a risk to human health or the environment arising from biological work, especially with microorganisms.

Blood, bodily fluids, and other Tuscaloosa biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. Using the correct safety equipment to clean biohazards, as well as, the correct chemicals and procedures when a site in your home or business has been contaminated is the SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa way.

We have a team of professional crew members that can handle the situation quickly, respectfully, and correctly to leave the affected area without a trace of contamination. We talk more about the health risks and possible legal repercussions in a previous blog here.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is always here to help during any disaster, whether it be water damage, fire damage, storm damage or biohazard.

Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact the professional biohazard cleaning service to discover more about our Tuscaloosa biohazard restoration services and secure our help.

Biohazard

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Biohazard - a risk to human health or the environment arising from biological work, especially with microorganisms.

Blood, bodily fluids, and other Tuscaloosa biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. Using the correct safety equipment to clean biohazards, as well as, the correct chemicals and procedures when a site in your home or business has been contaminated is the SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa way.

We have a team of professional crew members that can handle the situation quickly, respectfully, and correctly to leave the affected area without a trace of contamination. We talk more about the health risks and possible legal repercussions in a previous blog here.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is always here to help during any disaster, whether it be water damage, fire damage, storm damage or biohazard.

Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact the professional biohazard cleaning service to discover more about our Tuscaloosa biohazard restoration services and secure our help.

Continuing Education

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers both credit and non-credit Continuing Education courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, and Real Estate professionals. The Continuing Education courses provide the student with information to better serve their customers.

Continuing Education Courses (CE) are available nearly every month at locations throughout the Tuscaloosa area. These programs are designed to improve the knowledge of your staff regarding emergency mitigation. 

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa offers these CE courses:

• Understanding the Restoration Industry: Property Fire Damage restoration

• Restoring Contaminated Buildings

• Restorative Drying for water Damage

• Cleaning & Restoring Smoke-Damaged Contents
• Deodorization of Malodors
• Mitigation Awareness and Response Seminar (MARS)
• Ethics
• Biohazard Cleanup

Talk to your SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa rep to learn more about the Continuing Education courses that SERVPRO is teaching. Also, talk to your rep about when the next class will be offered and how to register. You can also call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa's office to find out when the next course will be offered.

Discovering Roof Leaks

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

We have had excessive rains that have caused flash flooding throughout Tuscaloosa this year. This has caused many Tuscaloosa and Northport homes to experience basement flooding. During further inspection homeowners have discovered slab leaks or roof leaks that they had not noticed before. If you do discover these leaks, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa to help extract and treat your home to prevent the conditions for microbial growth to occur. 

We always respond to your call within 1 hour, begin the water extraction process within 4 hours, and notify the adjuster no later than 8 hours from the time of your loss. If the water damage is not handled quickly and properly it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

Fire Detectors: Life Savers

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke Detectors in your Tuscaloosa home could save your life and your family's! 

According to The American Red Cross

• 7 people die daily in a house fire
• Every 40 minutes a fire injury is reported
• $7 billion in property damage every year

The National Fire Protection Association strongly suggest that a smoke alarm is installed in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on every level of the home. If your Tuscaloosa home is larger, you may need more smoke alarms to ensure you will be alarmed when smoke hits the detector. 

Many home security systems now offer a smoke detector option that will contact your local fire department in the event of smoke detection. This is a great safety tool for when you are out of town or possibly a really heavy sleeper!

In the event of a house fire big or small, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for your clean up needs.

Call your local Red Cross Chapter to help assist with adjusting if you have been temporarily put out.

SERVPRO 24/7

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Tuscaloosa, AL. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

The crazy weather in Alabama can cause a mountain of storm damage. If you find yourself in an emergency situation caused by a storm, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa.

We always respond to your call within 1 hour, begin the remediation process within 4 hours, and notify the adjuster no later than 8 hours from the time of your loss. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

More reasons to choose SERVPRO:

24-Hour Emergency Service

Faster to Any-Sized Disaster

Highly Trained Restoration Technicians

A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

Locally Owned and Operated

Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (205) 553-8377

Residential and Commercial Properties

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Our residential services include:

Water Damage Restoration

Fire Damage Restoration

Mold Remediation

Storm Damage Restoration

Cleaning Services

Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Tuscaloosa commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Our commercial services include:

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for your commercial and residential cleanup service needs!

When the Rain Won't Stop

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

What do you do when the rain won’t stop? We are barely in 2019 and we have experienced more rain and less sun. All this rain had caused the ground to reach its precipitation threshold. This has caused many Tuscaloosa and Northport homes to experience basement flooding; as well as, discover slab leaks or roof leaks that they had not noticed before. If you do discover these leaks, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North to help extract and treat your home to prevent the conditions for microbial growth to occur. While SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North offers reconstruction services, it is best to consult a professional when it comes to fixing foundation issues. We will be there to dry and get your home back together “Like it never even happened.”

A Remedy for Microbial Growth

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

Do you have a finished or unfinished basement that you avoid? Checking areas of your house such as basements or attics periodically will help you catch small leaks before they become long term damage. Busy schedules or maybe even problems with getting into these areas can cause homeowners to practice “out of sight out of mind.”If you have a leak, even a small one, that goes unnoticed for any period of time, you could potentially have a big problem with the optimal conditions. Basements and attics are usually uncontrolled atmospheres which can leave conditions optimal for microbial growth. If you use these areas for storage, it is not just the structure of your home that is potentially a food source for spores, but your belongings could suffer damage. Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North to help clean any microbial growth safely and thoroughly.

When Mushrooms Grow Indoors

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

Most organic life naturally grows outdoors. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has come across fungi growth indoors when a water leak has gone unnoticed. The most common we have seen at SERVPRO Tuscaloosa North is a slow leak in the walls. It may be behind furniture or not affected the drywall and only soaked into the carpet and padding. Depending on the portion of carpet and the access for cleaning, the water saturation could go unnoticed. Fungi will not always grow out of saturated carpeting, but if the conditions are right it can be a possibility.  This is much easier to remediate the fungi, but you must remove all your carpeting and find that leak! Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North to start your remediation process. We are faster to any kind of disaster.

When Problems Arise in Your High Rise Building

1/24/2019 (Permalink)

When a problem arises at a commercial building do not hesitate to hire a professional company that will not only remediate correctly, but will take measures to do so in a way that will not disrupts your customers and employees. At SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North we have the training and expertise to get your business back to looking "Like it never even happened." In the event of an emergency, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North  is always "Here to Help." We are quick to respond so that your commercial building can be back up and running as soon as possible. This will help minimize the amount of cleaning and restoration that will be needed. Doing this not only cuts the down time it takes to finish, but also minimizes cost. 

Growth in the Office

1/24/2019 (Permalink)

When you find mold in your business, it is important to have it removed as soon as possible. The best and safest way to do that is to use SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North to remediate your microbial growth needs. 

Any type of Mold can spread quickly. If you have mold you can see on a wall or floor, there likely is more mold in places that you can't see. Getting the mold professionally removed ensures that you prevent it from spreading any further and doing any more damage to your work place.

Removing microbial growth is time consuming and must be performed by a professional remediation company to prevent cross contamination. Trying to do it yourself can be difficult and also can put your safety at risk. Having the mold professionally removed ensures that the job is done right and that your safety and health are protected.

When Those Carpet Squares Just Won't Stick

1/24/2019 (Permalink)

Have you ever been walking through your office building or the apartment complex you manage and felt a "bubble" in the flooring? Carpet de-lamination is a condition where the secondary backing of the carpet is detached from the primary backing or where the glue loses its stick to your sub-flooring. If this were to happen to your carpets during a water loss situation, we are required to remove any carpet affected by the water as the carpet has become irreparable and once we have removed the damaged carpet we would place the appropriate drying equipment down to remove any remaining moisture in the area.

With SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North being a preferred vendor of multiple insurance agencies and many local property management companies, know we are always "Here to Help."

When the Ceiling Rains

1/24/2019 (Permalink)

Downtown Tuscaloosa has commercial properties that house many businesses within a single building. At SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North, we have seen the top floor business suffer from a damage causing at least one business below to also suffer from a water or fire loss. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa First Responders will "chase: or follow the water making sure we do not leave any part of the business untreated. This will help prevent the possibility of secondary damage in the building such as odors or microbial growth. Long term, untreated water or fire damage can cause discoloration; as well as warping or de-lamination of flooring, the structure/strength of drywall or ceiling tile. If your business suffers from a water damage, please call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North. We are always "Here to Help."

Small Kitchen Fire

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

We are all multitaskers. When you have a family or are a working student, you tend to stretch your multitasking skills to the limits. Small protein fires or even just heavy smoke from trying to cook and tackle chores at the same time can still cause damage in your home or apartment. Ever wonder why the scent just seems to stay and you can't get it out even after cleaning and taking out the trash? Smoke damage isn't just confined to the surfaces. Airing out your kitchen won't get the smell out. Smoke can travel through your HVAC system and soot can settle in your ducts. As you can see from this image, the soot damage can be severe enough to cause damages in other areas of your home or apartment. Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa North for your thorough fire damage cleaning. 

When Your Kitchen Catches Fire

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

Don't let this picture be your kitchen! Please always take care of any food left in the oven or on the stove top. Never stay to far from your work area and take care in preventing flammable objects from being near the hot surfaces. Remember not to place trivets or candles on top of a hot stove eye. This can be cause of a fire loss. In this kitchen, a teenager was left to attend items cooking. The food caught fire and the you person did not know what to do. Thankfully, all were safe. Teach your children how to be around appliances especially ones that can potentially cause fires. Have a preparedness plan for if they walk into a protein fire in the kitchen. Water is not the key in these situations! Make sure you have an up to date kitchen fire extinguisher and that everyone in your house knows how to you it! In any case, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North to help clean up the smoke damage and odors if your home does suffer from any size fire loss.

Replacing Your Roof, When is it Time?

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

How long can your roof really weather the storms? We have had extreme heat waves this year; as well as, excessive rains that have caused flash flooding throughout Tuscaloosa. So, how can you tell if your roof is truly holding up without hiring a contractor for a full inspection? We turned to Extreme Home Blog's guest post from a roofing company on some major signs your roof needs replacing 

"If you noticed cracked shingles around the various parts of your roof, then that might be a hint that there’s something deeply wrong. Don’t neglect this problem, because cracked shingles increase your home’s vulnerability to water damage and mold growth from rain." (Webber. Extreme Home Makeover 2018)

If your Tuscaloosa home does suffer water damage from a roof leak, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North is Always Here to Help.

Commercial Dryer Vent Cleaning

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North offers commercial duct cleaning and dryer vent cleaning.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North builds a team of qualified individuals that focus on quality and customer relationships. We pride ourselves in our ever growing team and community we are building here.  

We currently serve a few commercial customers daily/weekly/monthly or quarterly and have maintained their continued business for 3 years or more. 

Like a residential home, routine maintenance cleaning of your duct system and dryer vents improves the air quality and lowers the risk of fire caused by lint build up. Duct cleaning will also assist in the efficiency of your system and potentially prolong the life of the system itself. 

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North today to schedule your commercial duct or dryer vent cleaning. 

When Flash Flooding Affects Your Car

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know. . . that during a flash flood, like we have had in Tuscaloosa frequently this year, your home is at risk of being a victim of flood damage but so is your car! 

Do you know what to do if your car suffers from flood damage? Do you know the difference in water coming in from rain through your sunroof and ground water? Our site has several blogs talking about the category of a water damage. here 

If your car suffers damage from flood water, our # 1 professional suggestion is to talk to your local agent before filing a claim to find out if you are covered! Then depending on the severity of the damage and the category of the water call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North to clean and treat the vehicle's surface 

Crawlspace Mold

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

When you find mold in your Northport home crawlspace, the first thing you should do is figure out where the water source is coming from. Mold will grow in an uncontrolled environment that has extra moisture levels. If the source is not stopped, then removal of the mold will be futile. The mold will likely return. 

If the damage is less than 100 sq ft, it might be something that a homeowner could handle. However, if anything is over that or the loss is a particularly "hairy" case, hire a professional mold remediation company to get your crawlspace back in shape. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North has tackled many crawlspaces that have suffered from mold both commercially and residentially. Call us today to assist with the proper cleaning and drying method of your crawlspace. 205-339-5022

Commercial Sewage Back Up

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings tend to have multiple restrooms and with that comes an infinite opportunity for plumbing issues. 

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North has responded many times throughout town on issues with plumbing. Whether it be the indefinite construction work on our roads or tenants that forget what is considered biodegradable and allowed to go in the plumbing system. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North was there and cleaning up the mess. We are here to make sure your business is not stopped longer than it needs to be. Getting you back up and running faster. We use a combination of cleaning, deodorizing and antimicrobial chemicals so that your hallways look Like it Never Even Happened®

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North 24/7 for your commercial emergency service needs. 205-553-8377

Water Damage from Roof Leaks

8/15/2018 (Permalink)

During heavy rains and winds, shingles can lift and be damaged in the storm. If the storm is not big enough to cause a leak at the time of damaging shingles, your Northport home could be subject to slow leaks every time it rains. As a homeowner, you may not know of the leak if your attic is not a room you visit often.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North sees it all to often when a roof was damaged a few months back and the next heavy rain causes it to rain right in the living room of the home. 

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North can offer assistance in roof tarping, water remediation and reconstruction services for your homeowner's claims. Call our office 205-553-8377 for our 24/7 emergency service assistance.  

Long Term Leaks

8/8/2018 (Permalink)

There are times your Northport home can be "sick" and as a homeowner, not know until it has caused significant internal damage. 

A slow leak in a pipe behind cabinets can stay hidden for months or longer depending on how your home is set up. This leak behind the cabinets will slowly affect materials in the walls. Causing the perfect environment and food source for microbial growth within the walls and on the backs of cabinets. 

As a homeowner or homebuyer, this can be missed even in a home inspection. Until the cabinets are being redone or the water source causes so much water that the flooring begins to be affected by the slow saturation of materials from the water source. 

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North can clean for immediate water damages and the secondary damages caused by slow leaks. 

Car Crash in Northport Home

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

We have seen it a couple times in Northport where a car will lose control and drive through the side of a house or building. It does not happen often, but this loss usually bursts pipes within the building causing massive damage.

It not only causes structural damage resulting in emergency service board up and some extensive reconstruction, but it will often break and burst pipes within the house. These broken pipes will often run for some time releasing large amounts of water into the home. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North is available to be a one-stop shop offering emergency services from board-up, debris removal, water remediation, and reconstruction services. Once the first responders have been notified, be sure to call the green team to make sure your home is taken care of. 

Deodorization from House or Building Fires

7/25/2018 (Permalink)

Ozone vs Hydroxyl Deodorization:

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North carries both deodorization machines in our warehouse. Both machines are used for our heaviest deodorization processes. However, Hydroxyl is the only on that can be used without all the WARNING signs and the fear of someone entering the property before it has been cleared. The longer each machine runs, the better the deodorization process in the end. 

An ozone machine will remove odors faster but will slow down the process as the machine cannot be running while crews are working or any living thing is in the home or building. Hydroxyls will require a longer run time, however, the cleaning process on a fire can begin faster as the crews can also work in the building while the machine also works. 

Lasting smells are scars from damages, which is why SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa South recommends removing the odors verses masking them. 

Lightning Causes House Fire

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

In an article posted by Insurance Information Institute , they shared some shocking information on lightning-related incidents.SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North has already dealt with lightning related house fires in 2018. 

"From 2007 to 2011 (latest data available) local U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 22,600 fires per year that were started by lighting, according to an analysis by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). These fires caused an average of nine civilian deaths and $451 million in direct property damage per year, according to the NFPA. Home fires accounted for 19 percent of the lightning fires, fires in non-residential structures, including businesses and other non-residential properties, accounted for 7 percent; vehicle fires accounted for 1 percent. The remaining 73 percent were in outdoor and unclassified properties."

Hoarding and Mold

7/11/2018 (Permalink)

While hoarding or "abnormal collecting of items and trash" is more common than any of us know, abandoned rentals and homes we come across often in Tuscaloosa. These forgotten residences tend to have abnormal amounts of debris and personal items left behind. 

"Hoarding is a behavior where people or animals accumulate food or other items." Wikipedia

In the collection of these items (paper wrappings from food, shopping etc) the build-up can attract "friends" such as bugs, rodents, and other vermin. In return, their food and wastes are also collected in the process. This collection of items will provide a food source for mold growth as well. A building's environment is not controlled, the perfect conditions can be generated to allow excessive mold spores in the air and create growth on one of the many surfaces in these homes. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North has the experience in both dealing with the sensitivities of a hoarding family member and mold remediation. Call us for all your remediation needs. 

Water Damage from Vandalism

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

Many towns, especially college towns, vandalism can be a common occurrence. 

You will see victories for sports events turn into borderline street raids and some businesses and homes can fall victim to these out of control instances. Many vandals will merely cause surface damages with wall art or a few broken windows. 

Some instances, the damage goes deeper and can cause water damages from broken piping or even small fires.

If your Tuscaloosa home suffers a loss from a vandal, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North for all your restoration needs. From board up, cleaning and most importantly water damage restoration, SERVPRO can become your one stop shop for your remediation needs. Our crews are IICRC trained and can handle sensitive situations.

Wood Fungus vs Wood Mold in a Crawlspace

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North comes across instances where a substance is found in the crawlspace and the big question is always is it a fungus or is it mold.

"Fungus is the cause of dry rot, which is one of the most serious defects that wood can develop. The fungus grows by consuming wood fiber, and the wood becomes soft and punky. " Homeguide Source

"Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more. Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. Mold spores can survive harsh environmental conditions, such as dry conditions, that do not support normal mold growth." CDC Source

Fires from Cooking

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

1. Protein fires generally leave little to no visible residue which can be confusing to homeowners
2. Protein fires create a significantly more repugnant smell than most other fires
3. The nature of the burn causes the odor to permeate structure and furniture even more than other fires and hold on to porous materials with a stronger bond
4. Therefore, protein fires require extremely thorough cleaning to remove the odor
5. Sometimes a protein fire will require a sealing agent or even repainting to completely eradicate the odor
6. A protein fire may require multiple attempts and different methods to achieve customer satisfaction from the homeowner

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North is your local Fire Restoration team. Call for a complete soot test or deodorization quote if your cooking fire gets a little out of hand.

Common Homeowner's Claims

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

Per the Insurance Journal (2016) the 5 most common homeowner claims:

• Exterior wind damage – 25 percent of all losses.
• Non-weather-related water damage (e.g., plumbing or appliance issues) – 19 percent.
• Hail – 15 percent.
• Weather-related water damage (e.g., rain, melting ice, snow) – 11 percent.
• Theft – 6 percent.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North sees damages from HVAC and overflowing toilets quiet often within our community. 

About one in fifty insured homes have a property damage claim caused by water damage or freezing each year. (Insurance Information Institute, 2012-2016)

Our First Responders are trained and use a program that aligns with insurance adjusters that can guide on the cost of a claim. Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North before filing your claim so that we can determine if the loss is worth filing a claim against your insurance. 

Tornado Storm Damage

6/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa north offers packing and inventory of belongings after damages such as Tornadoes. Our crews have participated in the April 27th tornado in Tuscaloosa County and in other small storm events.

Facts on Tornadoes in Alabama

• Alabama resides in the United States’ most deadly tornado area—the Dixie Alley.
• Researchers are becoming increasingly aware of how dangerous and deadly tornadoes in the Deep South/ Gulf Coast states can be.
• Huntsville, Alabama was been rated the top tornado city in 2013.
• Birmingham, Alabama was been rated the third top tornado city in 2013.
• Tuscaloosa, Alabama was been rated the fourth tornado city in 2013.
• Suffering from Lilapsophobia? You do if you’re afraid of tornadoes!
• Alabama’s annual number of tornadoes is 44 tornadoes.
• The University of Alabama created a tornado factsheet that cited Tuscaloosa as having a second tornado season from November to early December.
• Tornadoes usually happen during the late afternoon into late evening, but can happen anytime.
• The average tornado lasts less than ten minutes.

Fourth of July Fire Facts

6/5/2018 (Permalink)

How often do you think about Fourth of July Celebrations causing fires in Tuscaloosa? See a report from National Fire Protection Association in 2016 below:

• In 2013, fireworks caused an estimated 15,600 reported fires in the U.S., including 1,400 structure fires, 200 vehicle fires, and 14,000 outside and other fires.
• More than one-quarter (28%) of fires started by fireworks in 2009-2013 were reported on Independence Day. Almost half (47%) of the reported fires on the Fourth of July were started by fireworks.
• According to the CPSC, more than one-third (35%) of the people seen in emergency rooms for fireworks injuries from June 20-July 20, 2014 were under 15; nine percent were under five. 
• CPSC data show that sparklers alone accounted for more than one one-quarter (28%) of the emergency room fireworks injuries seen from June 20-July 20, 2014.  

Remember use safety precautions when playing with fireworks and if something does happen to your home Fire or Water related this Fourth of July, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North to help get your home back in order. 

Pin Hole Leaks

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

According to repairmyleak.com, there are a couple forms of corrosion in copper pipes, but pitting corrosion is most likely to culminate in pinhole leaks in plumbing systems made of copper. 

"Pitting corrosion is the non-uniform localized attack of the wall of a copper tube, pipe, or fittings initiated on the inside surface of copper water pipes. Usually, only small areas of the metal surface are attacked.

Pitting corrosion can be classified into three types:

Type I 
cause: Hard Water
Type I pitting is associated with hard or moderately hard waters with a pH between 7 and 7.8, and it is most likely to occur in cold water. The pitting is deep and narrow, and results in pipe failure.

Type II 
cause: Soft Water
Type II pitting occurs only in certain soft waters, with a pH below 7.2 and occurs rarely in temperatures below 140° F. The pitting that occurs is narrower than in Type I, but still results in pipe failure.

Type III 
cause: Cold, Soft Water High PH
Type III pitting occurs in cold soft waters having a pH above 8.0. It is a more generalized form of pitting, which tends to be wide and shallow and results in blue water, byproduct releases, or pipe blockage."

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North if your commercial building suffers from a pinhole leak. 

Roof Damages

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

There are many cases where Tuscaloosa will have wind storms, severe rainstorms and sometimes hail storms. A homeowner may not see immediate damage to their property, but that storm can cause small holes and create long-term leaks that the homeowner does not find until the damage has spread severely. There are other times where storms cause massive damage to a roof and cause immediate flooding of the home. Neither damage is preferred, but the immediate can prevent secondary damages such as microbial growth. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North has had their own reconstruction division for a little over a year. We are experienced and capable of large and small loss insurance claims and being able to handle them from start to finish. This makes it easier for homeowners and speeds up the claim process which also benefits your insurance company. Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North today for any storm, fire, water or mold damages! 205-339-5022

Preparing Your Staff for Fire Prevention

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial fires in Tuscaloosa are often the most devastating reality that a property owner will have to oversee. Fires are not limited to burn damage and smoke invasion on your property. Fires can force you to relocate temporarily so you can maintain running your business while the restoration process is completed. However, property owners who access and implement high-quality safety practices can often avoid the devastation and destruction that results from Tuscaloosa commercial fires. Read the brief outline provided below to learn how you can protect your property: 

1. Install Automatic Fire Sprinklers.

As many authorities know, having an automatic fire sprinkler on your property can reduce the risk of fire by up to 71%. Additionally, sprinklers can decrease your insurance premium. To keep your sprinkler in excellent condition, be sure that it is not blocked by dirt or paint. Also, be sure to inspect regularly your main control valve so that it is not left off. 

2. Conduct Fire Emergency Training.

The training can help prevent your staff members from being victimized. Here are a few subjects that should be covered in the emergency training: 

Hazard Recognition

Keep all combustible chemicals and materials away from heat-generating and electrical equipment. 

Prevention

Inspect your power sources regularly and don't overload your extension cords and outlets.  

Response

Teach your employees how to respond when a fire breaks out. Some subjects that should be covered include how to perform an organized evacuation, operate the fire extinguisher, and set the fire alarm. 

Other issues that should be involved in the training include:

• Breathing Apparatus Training

• Fire Extinguisher Training

• Confined Space Entry Training

• First Aid Training

• General Staff Emergency Awareness Training

• Evacuation Exercise  

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North Immediately

Although accessing and utilizing fire prevention measures is crucial and advantageous, there is still a chance that a fire could break out on your commercial property. If this happens, you need to know who to call for fast, efficient restoration services. The company to trust is SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North. We have extensive industry experience and a passion for restoring offices to their original condition. We're ready to assist you immediately, so contact us now at 205-339-5022

What to Do When Your Carpet Gets Wet

4/16/2018 (Permalink)

Saturated Carpet

Sometimes, we as homeowners do not realize that carpeting usually has multiple layers underneath. There is a pad below the carpet fibers that tend to hold any liquid, dirt and odor that it comes into contact with. This is why carpet cleaning will sometimes take two cleans before you are satisfied with the end result. Once a carpet pad has been saturated, whatever the pad underneath is holding on to will soak into the fibers of the carpet causing odor and sometimes more visible stains. Likewise, when that pad is overly saturated, extracting the excess water is vital to the drying process. Many instances it is best to remove the pad completely to save the carpeting since it is fairly inexpensive to replace. Remember, never use a standard vacuum to attempt to extract excess water yourself and call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North to assist in all water damage needs. 

Water Damage from Toilet

4/10/2018 (Permalink)

Your toilet can cause more damage than just an overflow because your toddler sent their aquaman action figure for a swim. There are times when the connection on the back to the toilet may become loose and a slow leak will happen. Sometimes that slow leak can be found quickly or over the course of a few days. This bathroom had one of the pipes in the walls that caused a slow leak saturating the sheet rock. It takes more than just a fan when sheet rock is saturated, a dehumidifier in combination with fans is the optimal situation. There are times, however, when that is not enough and the sheet rock will have to be removed. In this particular situation, a small area was removed in order to dry the wall cavity and get the bathroom back in order. No flooring removal was needed. Luckily this was a small damage!

Ceiling Mold

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

Sometimes a roof leak can be small and cause damage over time. Others can cause such a downpour that the ceiling falls in. In this picture, you can see where water damage caused the ceiling to cave and wet insulation to fall through. This also caused microbial growth to begin on the beams in the attic. You can see where the crew treated and sealed the spot where the growth was heaviest. It was left unattended too long by the homeowner thinking that it was superficial damages.  Since the damage came through the attic, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North crews contained the area to prevent heating and cooling escaping into the attic. In the end, the secondary damage due to microbial growth was minimal and contained to just one small room. 

Gutter Cleaning

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

Just a friendly reminder that spring rains are in a heavy swing in Alabama. It may still be chilly one day and humid the next, but the heavy raining at least once or twice a week is constant. With that being said, be sure to check your gutters and clean those out. This includes any piling leaves on your roof or in your yard that you might have ignored this winter. Leaves that stand for too long are breeding grounds for microbial growth to happen. You especially do not want this to occur on your roof or in your gutters because it could possibly spread to the structure of the house and keep going. With all the raining, a full gutter can overflow and push rainwater under your shingles and into the roof and walls of your home causing damage. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North just wants to remind Tuscaloosa to be proactive in protecting their home from preventable water damages. 

Mold from Appliance Leaks

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

Mold once baseboard was removed behind a fridge.

Behind your washer, dryer or refrigerator can lurk many things, in particular, is microbial growth. Behind this fridge, there was a small unknown leak. The growth took over behind the baseboards for quite some time. It was finally noticed after they homeowner noticed the baseboards started warping that were not behind the fridge. In the above image, you can see the damage looks scary but was very minimal in the long run. The affected sheetrock and the baseboards were cut out once the fridge had been removed. The exposed studs and flooring were cleaned and treated with an anti microbial chemical before the everything was replaced. If you find heavy growth in your home, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North. We are always "Here to Help".

Heating Unit Caused House Fire

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke damage from fire in Northport Home.

One of the leading causes of house fires is food related fires, however, close behind will be heating accessory fires. This home had several family members and the more people in your home, the more belongings accumulate. During the colder weeks, a space heater was left running to close to some of these contents causing a small fire. Because it was left unattended, the small fire took over the entire home. The home and many of the contents are beyond salvageable. The damage is so bad, that the tub clogged and filled with water from the Northport Fire Department putting out the fire to save the structure of the home. You can also see how heavy the soot damage is from the fire on the shower walls.

Freezing Pipes

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

Frozen Pipe Burst in Ceiling

Following a rare freeze event in Tuscaloosa, Alabama removing standing water is the first and one of the most important processes that you will need to have done. In the event that you don't complete the water removal process as quickly as possible, your home or property can be subjected to unwanted secondary damage and unnecessary complications such as mold growth, loss of possessions, and structural damage. If you find yourself in need of water damage services, it's important to find a skilled team of restoration experts like SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North. We can expedite the water extraction, cleaning, repair, and restoration components of the process.
To assist in speeding up the drying process, make sure there is heat and power in the room once the safety risks are stabilized. SERPVRO of Tuscaloosa North uses commercial grade dehumidifiers and carefully placed air movers to create the ideal environment for the structure to dry.

Laundry Room Mold

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growth near the dryer vent

Behind appliances can lurk many things, one in particular is microbial growth. Behind washer and dryer, there was a small unknown leak. Until the homeowners decided to replace the old appliances, they had no idea that there was anything wrong in the laundry closet. The growth took over behind the baseboards for quite some time. When the washer and dryer were removed, there was standing water in the floor, but the baseboards were obviously damaged long term.  Above you can see the damage looks scary, but was very minimal in the long run. The affected sheetrock and the baseboards were cut out standing water was removed and the entire area was given a good cleaning with an antimicrobial. Then the homeowners had the small tear out and everything replaced. If you find heavy growth in your home, from an unknown leak or a hidden area call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North. 

Continuing Education Courses

1/31/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North can offer your business continuing education credits. We can teach everything from Molde Remediation, Water Restoration, Decontamination and more to ensure that your agents get the education they need to assist clients. 

We are working towards a facility to host open classes, but currently offer in office  courses. With the in office courses, we are able to work around your busy schedule and set a course or a marathon based on when your office has the least traffic. 

We enjoy being able to do these one on one courses with the local insurance agents and adjusters and would be happy to schedule a course or two. Please give us a call at 205-339-5022 and a representative will call and assist with scheduling. 

Mold in Storage

1/25/2018 (Permalink)

Tuscaloosa can experience microbial growth, or mold, year round with Alabama's unpredictable weather and rather warm winters. 

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North has seen many different growth situations. If your health is a concern with this invasive growth, we always advise you speak with an Environmental Hygienist who will usually do a clearance test after mold remediation. Common factors that are found to create the optimal environment for growth is a food source such as paint, glue, paper etc, moisture, warm and dark areas. It is common to find growth in your ductwork or corners of your basement. If your home has not properly been remediated following water invasion, the risk of growth is more likely. If you are a property owner and see microbial growth in your home, call 205-339-5022 to find out how SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North can help you. 

Fire Damage to Your Belongings

1/24/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage to artificial plants and hanging wall art

The importance of contents coverage whether you are renting or you own your property is so important. Making sure your coverage is enough to cover even the little items is just as important. These things add up when you are having to replace your entire home.

We may protect our homes as best as we can from a fire, but surrounding homes or apartments can also be the cause. A small fire turned into a huge fire very quickly in this property because it could not be contained in time. 

Some contents can be saved by a textiles company or by SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa with soot cleaning or refinishing. There are some items, however, that go beyond the ability of even experienced restoration companies. To have a professional look at your soot damaged property and find out if it can be saved, call 205-339-5022.

When a Commercial Sprinkler System Goes Off

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Fire Sprinkler Damage

A commercial sprinkler system is a great way to put a small or large fire out very quickly. In condos or apartments, when you get cooks that are not Michelin star chefs, these sprinkler systems can protect your building from major fire damage. 

These sprinklers, however, have the power to release 250 gallons of water per minute. Which can cause a major water damage. Especially if you have multiple heads start going off at one time. 

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has responded to several local commercial businesses that have experienced sprinkler heads going off. In this picture, you will see some of the damage a large amount of water can do to ceilings and walls. While this is inconvenient for the business and for a tenant, the safety it provides versus the damage a fire can cause is well worth the inconvenience. 

If your commercial business suffers a fire or water loss such as this, please give us a call. We can help from start to finish with mitigation and reconstruction! 205-229-5022

Winter Storm Grayson

1/3/2018 (Permalink)

We rarely see cold winters in Tuscaloosa Alabama. When we do, there is a good chance we as homeowners have a brief panic and do not know what to do. Hence the bread and milk shortage at your closest grocer. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North cannot fix your frozen or busted pipe, BUT we can clear up your standing water and start the dry out process in your home as quickly as we possibly can. We turned to some of our Northern Franchises that deal with freezing climates frequently to provide our county with some advice and knowledge during Winter Storm Grayson.

Owner Patrick Lavigne of SERVPRO of Havernhill/Newburyport explains that a burst pipe is commonly a result from a frozen pipe thawing to quickly. As daylight brings warmer temperatures, the pipe’s atmosphere potentially changes to quickly causing the burst. Advice? Leave your cabinet doors open and do not worry about cranking the heat up. Leaving a faucet or two in different parts of your home will keep the water moving through pipes and make it more difficult to freeze. Some advice from a northern plumber Karl Sirois
"Now is not the time for conserving energy. If you have a basement that you don't really use but there is a thermostat down there, you gotta turn that up. You don't want any of your zones lower than 68 degrees on days like today."
Financially, the higher heating charges will be less expensive than a water damage. Use a hair dryer on an exposed pipe that may potentially be frozen, using slow, low heat will unfreeze the pipe at a slow pace.

If your home or commercial business does suffer an emergency pipe burst, call 205-553-8377 SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is always “Here to Help” in any way that we can and as quickly as we can.

Original Article: here

Flooding in Tuscaloosa

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding from heavy rains

We do not see a lot of flooding in Tuscaloosa during the rain seasons, but in some areas we will see storm drains back up into yards. Occasionally, your pond in your backyard will overflow in to your home. This is never a fun thing to come home to or to wake up to. Flood water is very contaminated. As you can see in the picture, the Alabama "dirt" aka red mud went in to this Tuscaloosa home. At the time the rain was happening it was well over ankle height throughout the ground level of the home. The sheet rock, flooring and all porous contents touched by the contaminated water had to be disposed of. Thankfully flood insurance was available to help this homeowner. If your home suffers flooding call 205-339-5022 for emergency service. 

Commercial Vehicle Water Damage

12/6/2017 (Permalink)

Staining from liquids in a vehicle.

Occasionally, you may leave your sun roof open after to much fun at a University of Alabama sports game! We have seen it happen a time or two. Maybe three... Depending on your environment and how much water invaded your car, you may actually have a water damage that you should handle with care. Mildew or soured smells happen often in the south when it is hot and muggy outdoors and your car upholstery is wet. SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has handled many water damage claims in vehicles for some of our commercial clients. Ensuring proper deodorization and getting rid of major staining within the vehicle. If your commercial business vehicles suffered and need some major deodorization, do not hesitate to call us at 205-339-5022. 

Tuscaloosa Basement Mold

12/6/2017 (Permalink)

North Tuscaloosa Basement Mold 2017

In those hidden spaces of your home, you will sometimes find things you do not want to see. This home had a slow  leak that they were unaware of. This slow leak did turn in to a big water damage over time; however, in that time prior, the slow leak created the perfect environment for some unwanted house guests. Microbial growth is common in the south with the combination of high humidity levels and warm damp nooks and crannies of homes. These are not the house guests you want for Christmas! The past two years, Alabama has had some unseasonably warm "winter" weather. Take time to walk through and look in those areas you are not in daily to make sure that you are not suffering from a slow leak. Where there is water, there is the potential for a way! Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North today to get started on your mold remediation. 205-339-5022

Fire Place and Space Heater Safety

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

According to the NFPA( National Fire Protection Association) heating equipment used in cold winter months are the leading cause of home fire deaths. Heating equipment estimates about $1 billion in property damages annually. 

If you choose to use heating equipment in your Tuscaloosa home, please use some of these safety tips provided by NFPA:

• anything potentially flammable should be a minimum of 3 ft away
• practicing a "no kid zone" in the 3 foot surrounding area of a heater or fireplace
• sturdy screen in front of your fire place to catch wayward sparks
• store ashes once they have cooled completely in  a metal container and place the container away from your house
• turn off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to bed
• test your smoke alarms monthly. Replace all batteries at least once a year. Don't need batteries? Replace those smoke alarms every 10 years
• clean and inspect the fireplace every year before winter season when you need it!

In the event of a Fire in your Tuscaloosa County home, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa to help you with the clean up and restoration of your property!

Washing Machine Overflow

11/22/2017 (Permalink)

Washing machine overflow

Washing your game day wear may not always be a win like The University of Alabama brings to Tuscaloosa. A washing machine can potentially cause some major damage in your home if it malfunctions. A clogged drain pipe can push grey water back into your home leaving you with dirty game day gear, no towels and wet walls and floors. While continuous flooring throughout your Tuscaloosa home may be the design style, that water damage may seem contained, as far as moisture, but will cause your continuous flooring to need removal and replacement if the damage cannot be dried. Don't DIY your water restoration or hesitate to Calle SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa for all your water restoration needs. We have emergency ready crews 24/7 365 days a year and can handle the task. Even on game days.

Home Flood

11/22/2017 (Permalink)

This bathroom flooded causing damage to almost the entire home!

Flooding means something different to each home. Most would think that a home flood comes from rain damage. Some homes experience flooding internally from a toilet or sink. If you are not home to stop the source quickly or you do not know how to shut your water off, your home can potentially flood! In the picture, you can see the water line on the sheetrock where the water flooding reached. This specific damage was caused by a toilet overflowing in the back hallway and caused damage through 4 plus rooms and the hallway! A overflowing toilet can do major damage to a property, one that sits for 12 plus hours can do even more damage and much more costly. SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa is always "here to help"

Kitchen Sink Pipe Burst

11/6/2017 (Permalink)

Moisture Meter Wet Hardwood floors.

When you come home from vacation or an event, you sometimes find a surprise that is not a favorite. Many homeowners come home to find their Tuscaloosa home has suffered a water loss. When you are not home and damage occurs, the damage can be much larger than it appears on the surface. In the picture, you will see our moisture meter reading that the hardwoods are 100% wet  and they will likely not dry in time before the wood is 100% damaged and needs to be replaced. SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa does have hardwood drying mats which create a "tent" to suck out moisture in a controlled environment. This will help the hardwood flooring dry as quickly as possible and hopefully, not need to be replaced. Restoration versus replacement is our main focus at SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa.

Hurricane Harvey 2017

10/23/2017 (Permalink)

A picture of the streets from SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa Storm crew as they headed to their first household to work.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is proud to be a part of a storm team that bands together when a natural disaster becomes to much for the local communities to handle alone. With that comes some devastating sights and hardships on the crews as well as the communities that have been ravished by the storms. In 2017, Hurricane Harvey wreaked havoc on Texas and many counties in Louisiana as well. It is noted to be a storm worse than Katrina in 2005. On August 28th, the San Diego Union Tribune reported "three days after what is now a tropical storm made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane, has been felt in as many as 50 counties and forced more than 30,000 people from their homes" More updates from FEMA and Red Cross on the financial assistance programs paid out updates daily. Our crews spent just over 4 weeks out in Houston helping house holds strip down to studs and dry so that contractors could begin rebuilding and the community could begin again. 

Signs of Roof Damage

10/9/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO car in front of a Tuscaloosa County Home.

Here are 5 signs that you have or be at risk of a roof leak

1. Discoloration spots in your ceiling
2. Water spots on your exterior home/ office walls
3. Your gutters are full of deteriorated pieces of shingle
4. Cupping or Cracking shingles
5. Missing or dark patches in the shingles

In the event of heavy raining, your Tuscaloosa home could be at risk of suffering a water damage that could cost you more than just a new roof. In this Alabama heat, an un cared for water damage could provide the proper conditions for microbial growth in the home. In small amounts microbial growth can be remediated with minimal destruction to the home, but if unseen for time can cause homeowners to be put out of home for the duration of remediation and reconstruction. To learn more about the damages microbial growth can do and about remediation with SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa, click HERE to read more blogs on the subject.

Soot Webs

10/9/2017 (Permalink)

Soot webbing from a protein fire in Tuscaloosa County. Also known as a kitchen fire or fire caused during cooking.

In a building fire, you will find that some damage is blatantly visible and some will look like lack of maintenance. In this picture, you will see that there is what appears to be cob webs on the ceiling. What you are actually seeing is a stick soot from a protein fire that has traveled to another room and attached itself to a surface. While this is a small area that is visibly covered in the soot, the sign leads us to believe that the dirt level is more than meets the eye. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa will wipe ceilings, walls, flooring and move out the contents for cleaning as well in this particular room. Even though it was not close to the fire and is not as damaged as other rooms adjacent to the cause of loss, the damage spread through the entire downstairs of the home.

Smoke Detectors Save Lives

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke Detectors in your Tuscaloosa home could save your life and your family's! 

According to The American Red Cross

• 7 people die daily in a house fire


• 36 people suffer injuries daily due to house fires


• $7 billion in property damage every year

The National Fire Protection Association strongly suggest that a smoke alarm be installed in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on every level of the home. If your Tuscaloosa home is larger, you may need more smoke alarms to insure you will be alarmed when smoke hits the detector. 

Many home security systems now offer a smoke detector option that will contact your local fire department in the event of smoke detection. This is a great safety tool for when you are out of town or possibly a really heavy sleeper!

In the event of a house fire big or small, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for your clean up needs.

             205-339-5022

Call your local Red Cross Chapter to help assist with adjusting if you have been temporarily put out.

Mold Inspection vs. Mold Remediation

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

Visible growth in a Tuscaloosa home/building

A mold inspection for testing is performed by a licensed and insured state qualified personnel that is trained and qualified to perform the proper air and surface testing for microbial growth (or mold.)

A remediation company performs the removal of the damaged areas and uses the proper chemicals to prevent further growth and disinfect cleanable surfaces.

SERVPRO ® of Tuscaloosa is a Mold Remediation company. Our field team representatives are trained in finding the sources of the moisture and remediating the issue. We are not licensed to perform mold testing, inspection or written protocols.

-Mold inspections look for evidence of past and or current growth that may indicate a problem.

-Mold inspections look for visible, inside walls, crawlspaces and are able to get surface lab testing.

-Mold inspections will be able to lab test for the type of growth is in the home/building.

-Mold inspections are a subset of Indoor Air Quality investigations. They can do air quality tests to determine what irritants are present in the air.

-Mold inspections will generate a protocol report which you can present to a remediation company to follow in your home/building.

If microbial growth becomes to much for you to deal with in your home/ office, call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa to help with the remediation process.

205-339-5022

Refinishing Furniture

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

A wooden table damaged from a Tuscaloosa Fire

Refinishing Furniture after a Fire

When a fire wreaks havoc on your Tuscaloosa home, sometimes it takes a professional restoration company to work with your insurance adjusters and determine what items can be saved from the fire and what is beyond repairable.

Wooden furniture can suffer damage from acidic soot or suffer charing from direct heat. When your home suffers, your contents suffer as well. The extreme heat causes the materials to swell absorbing soot and smells within their pores. Then the contents cool quickly trapping those smells into the piece and causing your tragedy to linger longer. SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa can help you and your insurance company determine what items in your home can be saved and what the insurance may need to replace, all depending on your policy.

Tuscaloosa Apartments

8/8/2017 (Permalink)

Our Veteran Carpet Cleaner with 25 years experience 2017 Turn Season.

With over 25 years experience, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has a strong team of individuals ready to handle your commercial carpet cleaning. Each year, the last few weeks of July and first of August, students begin moving out. As a property manager, you know how busy this gets with paperwork, keys, deposits, etc. It tears on your staff physically and mentally. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is prepared to help your apartments be prepared for the new round of students!

Be sure to call and get your rep to get you on the carpet cleaning schedule before we reach capacity. In 2017, we have started early on some smaller complexes and will be doing multiple buildings for a few of the larger Tuscaloosa apartment complexes. 

Call us at 205-339-5022

Cleaning Smoke or Soot

6/6/2017 (Permalink)

It's devastating to experience the chaos of a fire in your Tuscaloosa house. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean up too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority.

The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage that occurred. These can lead to corrosion, discoloration and unpleasant odor. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem. 

Take action and follow these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire. 

1. Contact your insurance company.

2. Contact your local fire restoration company – SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa

3. Take photographs of the damage.

4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company.

5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed.

6. We can help guide you to someone to find a place for you and your family to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property.

 So remember these steps for the next time you or a loved one is handling the aftermath of a house fire. 

Allergy Season in Your Ductwork?

5/29/2017 (Permalink)

Dirty Ducts in Northport Alabama

Air Duct Cleaning

We all have tasks around the house that don’t make it to the top of our priority list. Properly maintaining your home’s air ducts should not be one of them. Regular duct cleaning can increase your home’s heating and cooling efficiency and improve the quality of the air you and your family breathe.

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

If your HVAC 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

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa Professionals routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC).  Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can in turn save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.

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

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.


• May help to eliminate offensive odors.


• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa to clean your HVAC system!

           205-339-5022

Dirty Odor. . . Clear it Up

5/22/2017 (Permalink)

Hack for Stinky Garbage Disposals

Odor Removal

Your basic cleaning service is not going to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors.

We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor and determining the conditions in which it contacts surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call, and leave the restoration to us.

Life happens.

Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents and homes get dirty. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service.

We want to make things easier on you this year. Put your feet up and give us a call.

Need Commercial Cleaning Services?

                       205-339-5022

Combating Indoor Allergens in Tuscaloosa

5/15/2017 (Permalink)

Follow us on Instagram for more pictures! @SERVPROttown

COMBATING SPRING ALLERGIES INDOORS

1. Use the air conditioner – Your cooling unit actually helps reduce the indoor pollen count. Before the Alabama heat and pollen count get intense, have you’re A.C. unit checked by a licensed professional. Yearly maintenance checks are the best way to insure that your system is working efficiently.
2. Maintain the indoor temperature – an indoor temperature around 70 degrees. An unusually warm home provides the proper conditions for mold growth and according to heating and cooling specialists, attracts dust mites.
3. Replace air filters – Changing air filters regularly is a quick way to contribute to improving your indoor air quality. Professionals suggest changing your filters once a month during high pollen seasons or if you have indoor pets. Change every two to three months for homes without pets or when Alabama is not fighting high outdoor allergens.
4. Wipe Surfaces Weekly – One way to limit the allergens in your home is by damp wiping the hard surfaces such as shelving, tables, counters and floors.
5. Indoor greenery –According to a 1980s study from NASA and the Associated Contractors of America, indoor plants were the most effective in improving indoor air quality. Some of the air-cleaning plants include Aloe plants, Spider plants, and Gerber daisies. Ficus, Azaleas and English Ivy were also found to increase air quality.

Spring Showers Bring Flooding in Your Tuscaloosa County Home

5/8/2017 (Permalink)

Water Flooding from Rains

Spring showers bring spring flooding in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. These tips will help reduce the impact spring floods have on you and your property.

1. Prepare in Advance

Prepare in advance with a SERVPRO^® Emergency Ready Profile^® (ERP). Our convenient mobile app stores all your utility and emergency response information in one place, so you can access this information from your smartphone or computer. In the event of a flood, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa can be here to extract water and begin drying your home or business quickly. When a flood happens, you need to act fast to dry out any wet items, particularly structural materials like walls and flooring.

2. Watch for Pooling Water 

Look for places around your property where water pools, and channel it away from buildings. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and they are directing water as intended.

3. Sump Pump Maintenance

If you have a sump pump, check to be sure it is operational before water starts rising. Consider a back-up generator to ensure your pump works when you need it most. Contact your insurance agent to add coverage in case your sump pump malfunctions.

4. Storing Goods

Use shelving and plastic storage tubs to keep storage items off the floor to reduce the impact of small floods. In many situations, raising boxes just a few inches will be enough to keep storage goods above the water line. 

5. Cut Power if Necessary 

As rising water approaches the level of electrical outlets, you risk having a live current flow through all the water. Cut the power if you can safely do so without standing in water. Otherwise, evacuate and contact an electrician to cut the power before you go back in for recovery.

6. Consider Flood Insurance 

When all else fails, flood insurance will provide you the means to respond to a catastrophic flooding event. Homeowners insurance will not cover floods; you must purchase a separate policy for flood protection.

Call SERVPRO^® of Tuscaloosa at 205-339-5022

  Our franchise professionals have the training and experience to make flood damage “Like it never even happened.” 

Water Damage Timeline

5/1/2017 (Permalink)

Hardwood drying tent

From the moment you realize you have experienced a water damage, the steps you as a Tuscaloosa homeowner take can whether or not there is secondary damage in your home. Timely mitigation is critical to ensure that secondary damage is minimal. Turn off the water source and call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa

          205-553-8377

A SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa rep will be able to look at the damage and let you and your insurance agent know, if the damage is worth a claim. Extracting the water and placing drying equipment as quickly as possible will be the difference in restoring your home and potentially replacing the affected area completely. Protecting the surrounding furniture by raising it off of the saturated carpet will prevent any secondary damage caused by the water disaster. Moving quickly and getting a professional restoration company on site will be the difference between drying your home and uprooting your daily routine for extended periods!

Conditions for Household Mold

4/24/2017 (Permalink)

Mold growing on ceiling and walls

Mold begins as an airborne spore mass. Mold is microscopic with many smaller spores, so when something causes these spores to stir up, these thousands of smaller spores are set free. The spores will remain airborne until they settle onto a surface. These spores need an organic material, or food source, water, as little as two days time, and temperatures between 32 and 122 degrees Fahrenheit to grow.

Organic matter can be, paint, paper, insulation, natural fibers, plants, potting soil, caulk and many more items. Controlling the humidity in your home, will help with mold growth prevention. This is why SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa sends its employee's to WRT training for water damage restoration. The SERVPRO crew team will make sure the conditions in your home are correct to dry out the area after the damage and prevent mold from the beginning.

For all your Mold Remediation needs

Call

              205-339-5022

Pipe Bursts in Tuscaloosa

4/17/2017 (Permalink)

Pipe bursts in Tuscaloosa Home

A pipe bursting in your wall can cause severe damage quick throughout your Tuscaloosa home. If you are "fortunate" enough to be home, you can quickly shut of the water to prevent the water damage from worsening. Unfortunately, many homeowners are not home when a disaster like this strikes and the water affects several rooms of wall, flooring and even ceilings, depending on pipe location. The first person you should call is your Tuscaloosa SERVPRO to get that water extracted quickly and start damage control. If you know your deductible, our SERVPRO reps will be able to tell you if your water damage is worth a claim. Your insurance claim service is your next call while SERVPRO is on their way! We are faster to any size disaster! Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa

             205-339-5022

We are here for all your water, fire and mold needs!

3 Categories of Water

4/10/2017 (Permalink)

Dirty Gutters can cause nasty water to leak into your roof!

You have suffered a water damage in your Tuscaloosa home. Knowing where the water is flowing from will help you with safety precautions. Each category is a reflection of how "difficult" the mitigation and restoration process will be, but will also be how your Water Mitigation Specialists will know how to treat your home.

 IICRC S500 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration - 2015 defines 3 Categories.

Cat. 1- water originates from a sanitary source and does not pose substantial risk from dermal, ingestion or inhalation exposure.

Cat.2- significant contamination and has potential to cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed. i.e Water coming from dishwasher or washing machine overflow

Cat. 3- DON'T TOUCH IT! Commonly referred to a "black water" this water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogens or toxic agents. i.e. sewage backup or flooding from rivers

Read our "Do's and Don'ts of Water Damage" to learn how to handle a water damage before SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa arrives on scene! 

            205-339-5022

Visible Mold Tuscaloosa

4/3/2017 (Permalink)

Mold in the Water Heater closet Tuscaloosa Alabama

What you can do until help arrives:

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

Have a Mold Problem? Call Today 205-339-5022

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

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

What to Do:

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

What NOT to Do:

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

Fire Chief Conference 2017

3/27/2017 (Permalink)

Booth at the Fire Chief Executive Conference 2017

We were happy to participate for the third year in a row with the annual Fire Chief Executive Conference. This past year there were more vendors and more fire chiefs coming to fellowship and learn and grow. There were some great speakers over the course of three days and some awesome door prizes! 

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa works closely with our local Red Cross Chapter. The Red Cross works some with the fire departments and during their Home Fire Prevention Campaign, as well as works with the home owners that have been effected due to fire disasters. 

Please scroll through out community page to learn more about the community events SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is a part of in Tuscaloosa County. 

Thank you to all those men and women work so hard and put their safety at risk for our communities!

Vandalism Cleaning in Tuscaloosa

3/20/2017 (Permalink)

Stormy and Blaze training on graffiti and vandalism clean-up in the Tuscaloosa county SERVPRO

There are times when pranks can go to far. There are times when bored or angry people create destruction within the community. Unfortunately, sometimes that can leave your Tuscaloosa home or business at risk for damage. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is here 24/7 365 days a year for calls such as these. We will help you by cleaning up the malicious graffiti or property damage as quickly as possible leaving your home back in its original state. 

• General cleaning and graffiti removal


• Brick, stone, and concrete cleaning


• Odor removal and deodorization


• Debris removal


• Water damage restoration


• Fire damage restoration


• Mold damage restoration


• Contents cleaning

Call us at SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa to help get your home or business boarded and cleaned up faster! 

               205-339-5022

Red Cross and Home Fire Campaign

3/13/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms. Most of us forget we have them in our homes until the battery gets low or we burn a brownie in a mug recipe we saw on Pinterest. 

According to statistics provided by Red Cross, seven people die every day from home fires. Many people do not even realize their homes do not have smoke alarms installed, or worse they do not have enough installed to reach critical points in the home. We recently had a very large home fire hit the new in Tuscaloosa Alabama. This fire started downstairs and the homeowners had smoke alarms, but they could not hear them upstairs. None were installed upstairs to notify them. Thankfully, the homeowners were able to escape through the second floor windows, but this is not always the semi-happy ending. 

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has partnered with our local Red Cross chapter and is a part of their Disaster Recovery and Home Fire Campaign Crew. We host a golf tournament every October to raise money for the campaign and on March 25th 2017 we are sending volunteers to help install smoke detectors FREE into Tuscaloosa area homes. Check out our community page to see pictures and learn more about the Fire Campaign after the 25th!

How many smoke detectors does your home have? Will your household take the Red Cross Pledge?Pledge to Prepare

More Than a Cleaning Service

3/6/2017 (Permalink)

Post Water Damage New Kitchen

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has always been here to help Tuscaloosa, Northport and surrounding areas in Tuscaloosa County. Now, we are set up to do even more than cleaning, drying, and tearing out affected areas from your water, fire, or mold remediation. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa now offers some building and flooring services. We now make it even easier for your insurance company to have a one stop shop for your claim services. This goes hand in hand with damages you are paying for yourselves. We now make it easy for you to deal with one vendor for all you water, fire, mold, and cleaning needs!

Let us be the first restoration company you call when your Tuscaloosa County home experiences and unexpected disaster.

                205-339-5022

Disaster Response

3/1/2017 (Permalink)

Crews loading the Tuscaloosa Disaster Response trailer

Here at SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa, we are thankful to be a part of the SERVPRO Wilson Storm Team. When the tornadoes passed through Hattiesburg Mississippi in January 2017, our crews were ready and waiting to get the call for help. Tuscaloosa sent two teams to Hattiesburg to help. Our teams are there to help Mississippians that were affected by the tornadoes dry out their homes, pack and store their belongings, and try to get a jump start to getting their daily lives back in order. 

We still work hard here at home. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is always here to help.

If you have Water, Fire, Storm, or Mold Damage call

205-339-5022

for your restoration and remediation needs.

Our crew here at SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is always Here to Help.

Microbial Growth in Your Tuscaloosa Home

2/20/2017 (Permalink)

Mold or Microbial Growth in walls

Microbial growth in your Tuscaloosa home is nothing fun to deal with. You may have had a toilet overflow and thought you cleaned all the water up quickly, but without SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa to check the moisture levels in walls, flooring, and cabinetry you may have missed moisture. These conditions create a feeding ground for microbial growth or mold. You may not see it visible at first, but notice an odd odor. By the time you notice the growth, many things may no longer be able to be restored, but must be replaced. Causing more headache and more money! SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa takes the precautions of testing surrounding areas for moisture in any water damage. Even before equipment is removed, your Tuscaloosa crew member will measure the levels of moisture to make sure the drying goal has been met. He/ She will even pretreat the area to prevent possible microbial growth! SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa wants to ensure that your home is taken care of during any size disaster. Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa today for a mold estimate or to help remove mold from your Tuscaloosa County home!

205-339-5022

Winter Freeze

2/7/2017 (Permalink)

Stormy and Blaze play with the winter freeze in Tuscaloosa

Here in Tuscaloosa and Northport, Alabama, we get excited when we have even the slightest "threat" of snow. What we usually experience is some flurries, then heavy freezing. So many homeowners are unaware how to handle a situation in which their pipes freeze in these winter storms. 

A heavy winter freeze when your home is unprepared can lead to pipes freezing, cracking and then severe water damage in your home. As bipolar as mother nature is in Alabama, within a few days of this water damage to your home, microbial growth can begin if the right conditions are in place. 

Homeowners also sometimes forget safety precautions when it comes to indoor wood fires, space heaters, and gas logs. One in six home fires during the winter months (December, January, February) are caused by home heating elements. Be sure to check your smoke alarms regularly. Be sure to treat space heaters and fires with EXTRA caution. 

Know that SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is always here to help. 

Call us for water and fire damages at

          205-339-5022

List of Foods in Your Emergency Kit

1/16/2017 (Permalink)

Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.

• Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.


• Choose foods your family will eat.


• Remember any special dietary needs.


• Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.


• Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.


• Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener


• Protein or fruit bars


• Dry cereal or granola


• Peanut butter


• Dried fruit


• Nuts


• Crackers


• Canned juices


• Non-perishable pasteurized milk


• High energy foods


• Vitamins


• Food for infants


• Comfort/stress foods

These and many other helpful tips are available at ready.gov Here is the link to winter tips for before during and after a winter storm http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather. When winter weather strikes the greater Tuscaloosa area knowing what to do until SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa arrives will make a difference.

Call us directly at

           205-339-5022

Flooding from Heavy Rains

1/4/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Flooding in Tuscaloosa County

There's never a convenient time for water damage to strike your Tuscaloosa commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When Alabama has suffered a severe drought in 2016 and 2017 has decided to bring heavy rainfall, many businesses and homes were not prepared. When the need for professional emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Our company is IICRC in Water Restoration and can help get your Tuscaloosa County business back up and running quickly, saving you time and from losing more revenue.

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for all your commercial water emergencies today!

        205-339-5022

We are always "here to help" our Tuscaloosa community.

Tuscaloosa Winter Emergency Kit

1/2/2017 (Permalink)

Here in Tuscaloosa, we do not get dangerous snow storms like the Northeast experiences quite often. I think the last “major” ice/snow storm we had in Tuscaloosa was January 2014. Tuscaloosa was put under a state of emergency in attempt to get people safe in their homes and off roads before the freeze.

Many people were stuck in their offices, cars, and even their own homes without power for several hours until we could get help from surrounding cities in clearing roads. Drives that normally took 15 minutes were taking 4 hours with all the unsafe travel conditions and everyone trying to get safely home at one time. Can you safely say that you have an emergency kit in your car, office, or home in case you lost power in a winter storm?

In an emergency situation, you should have an emergency kit prepared to last you at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days. Depending on the nature of the disaster road conditions may prevent help from arriving in a timely manner. 

Additionally, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and landlines may be cut off for days or even a week, or longer. Be sure to use your cell phone sparingly in case you need to call for help. Investing in a solar powered recharging battery may be beneficial as well.  Your supplies kit should contain items to help you manage during these outages. If the power goes out keep your pipes from freezing by shutting off the valve that allows water to come into your home. Then, open any drain valves and all faucets and let them run until the pipes are empty (it's helpful to identify these valves in advance). Next, flush all toilets and pour denatured alcohol into toilets and sinks to prevent water in the traps from freezing. Do NOT use automotive antifreeze in case there's trouble with your water system; you don't want the antifreeze to contaminate your drinking water. You may, however, use nontoxic antifreeze that's made for winterizing motor homes.

Keep your kit in your car, or a central location in your home/office.

The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:

1. Flashlights for each family member


2. Battery-operated radio and clock


3. Extra batteries


4. Containers of bottled water


5. Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants


6. Non-electric can opener


7. List of important phone numbers


8. First-aid kit 

SERVPRO Deals with Biohazard Materials

1/2/2017 (Permalink)

Stormy and Blaze teaching the Biohazard Cleanup Continuing Education Course

Biohazard - a risk to human health or the environment arising from biological work, especially with microorganisms.

Blood, bodily fluids, and other Tuscaloosa biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. Using the correct safety equipment to clean biohazards, as well as, the correct chemicals and procedures when a site in your home or business has been contaminated is the SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa way.

We have a team of professional crew members that can handle the situation quickly, respectfully, and correctly to leave the affected area without a trace of contamination. We talk more about the health risks and possible legal repercussions in a previous blog here.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is always here to help during any disaster, whether it be water damage, fire damage, storm damage or biohazard.

Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact the professional biohazard cleaning service to discover more about our Tuscaloosa biohazard restoration services and secure our help.

         (205) 339-5022

Is your business ready?

12/20/2016 (Permalink)

Over 50% of businesses never reopen once a disaster has struck. The thought process is “what is the likelihood it would happen to me.” We get busy in our work life and home life and just expect everyone to know how to handle an emergency situation.

1. Implement an ERP (emergency ready program {plan}
   
   
   
   1. Show your employees emergency exits
   
   
   2. Fire extinguishers
   
   
   3. First aid
   
   
   4. Water shut-off valve
   
   
   5. Fire alarms
   
   
   
   

If you do not know where these are in your building, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa can do a free ERP program that links to your phone. Instantly giving you access to information you need in the event of a fire or water emergency.

2. Designate one or two people to make sure emergency necessities are in date.

Did you know items expire? Fire extinguishers, first aid kits, smoke alarms all of these things can go out of date. Make sure to set a schedule to monitor these things. A great tip is when your filters get changed check the dates or batteries in the smoke alarms. Don’t rely on the alarms to notify you when the batteries are low!

3. Know who to call in emergencies. There are changes that your employees may be in office and you be out of office. Make sure they know who to call in the event of a fire or water damage. That is another great asset of SERVPRO’s ERP app. You can list the names and numbers off all important contacts during and after emergencies. Even you SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa rep!!

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa 205-339-5022 for a commercial ERP appointment for free or talk to your rep the next time they are in!

Why your business wants an IICRC restoration company.

12/20/2016 (Permalink)

 When Tuscaloosa water damage impacts your commercial property, you want professionals to help get you back in business. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa works closely with insurance companies to get you back up and running in a quick manner.  As business leaders know, contacting a professional water damage restoration company is typically the first step to restoring your property. However, many individuals do not know how to select the most exceptional, ethical company. If this is the case for you, it's important to know that hiring an IICRC-certified company will prove advantageous. Learn more about why this is the case by reviewing this short outline: 

 What Is The IICRC?

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a professional certification organization within the restoration, cleaning, and inspection industries.

 How Do Companies Obtain Certification?

To obtain IICRC certification, water remediation companies have to conform to specific criteria. Some of the criteria include:

1. Provide consumers with accurate data


2. Conduct business processes with integrity and honesty


3. Ensure that a trained technician is present for all work assignments


4. Ensure that a continuing education program is in place


5. Maintain policies for written complaints


6. Hold liability insurance

Why Choose an IICRC-Certified Company?

There is a wide variety of forms water damage can take. Some of them include flooding, a burst pipe, sump pump overflow, and sewage backup. Irrespective of the cause, however, the end result is substantive damage. In fact, standing liquid can lead to severe property damage as well as mold infestation. For this reason, it's essential that you attain water damage restoration services from a qualified team of professionals.

 Doing a Google search for the key phrase "water damage restoration" will produce over 500,000 results. To narrow your selection, it's a good idea to limit your search to companies that have obtained their certification from the IICRC. Because the IICRC is efficient in establishing reference guides and industry standards regarding water damage restoration and mold removal, companies that have been certified by the organization will likely offer you the excellent, effective services you want.

 SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa also offers a 24/7 365 service for their customers. You can call 205-339-5022 for your commercial emergency.

Tuscaloosa Toy Drive

12/14/2016 (Permalink)

A tiny Stormy and Blaze high-five for the toy drive success!

This year, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa partnered with Tuscaloosa's One Place to put on a toy drive for local children within our community. The TOP organization has been around for years and has left a footprint in the Tuscaloosa community. Their Holiday Heart Campaign helps Tuscaloosa's children in need have a Christmas. With the help of some of the SERVPRO team, Northport Auto Supply and the Michael Mcguire State Farm Office, we were able to get most of the items on one child's needs list and additional toys and wrapping paper for other children. We look forward to making this an annual partnership and supporting our community with local Non-Profits! As you can see in the picture, our mascots Stormy and Blaze are high-fiving for the SERVPRO and Tuscaloosa's teamwork! 

Mold in Tuscaloosa

12/9/2016 (Permalink)

Tuscaloosa black mold

Once you become aware that mold is growing in your Tuscaloosa home, removing the microbial growth should be your biggest priority. Extensive mold removal is not a DIY project. Rule of thumb is if there is about 10 square feet or more of mold growth, don't attempt mold remediation on your own. Play it safe and hire a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa.

Mold is a fast growing fungi that feeds off moisture and in the humid south, it can spread rapidly. In the event of an appliance flood or mass amounts of moisture in your home, the proper mitigation of that excessive moisture is necessary or conditions will be in place for microbial creation. The airborne spores can develop into strings of colonies that bloom into large areas of mold patches. Mold can show up in the form of black spots, blue, green, white or even red staining on porous surfaces. Discoloration on your walls and ceilings will also present other problems.

Mold can leave an unpleasant odor as it permeates through walls, flooring and HVAC ductwork throughout your home. This musty odor may start out very faint and can become more apparent as the growth intensifies. Attempting to mask the odor does not solve the underlying problem.

The Importance of Hiring a Professional like SERVPRO

Sometimes as homeowners, we are inclined to attempt the mold removal process ourselves, this strategy is not always advisable. SERVPRO's cleaning crew goes through an extensive amount of training and professional licensing to learn how to properly clean, remove, and if possible restore your home. Once you go beyond fungi on the bathroom tiles or a small patch under the kitchen sink, it is time to consider seriously professional assistance. SERVPRO mold remediation experts will use specialized equipment that demands expert handling for mold containment, air filtration, and cleaning. They will also identify and eliminate most present mold to ensure that your home is restored to its original condition. 

Call 205-339-5022 We are always here to help.

Dos and Don'ts of Mold

12/7/2016 (Permalink)

Surface Mold in Tuscaloosa AL

What to Do:

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

What NOT to Do:

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

Surface mold can seem like an easy cleanup, but there is more to neutralizing microbial growth than just wiping down surfaces or spraying it with bleach! In this Tuscaloosa humidity microbial growth can happen in as little as 24 hours. Be sure to contact SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa if you find surface mold in your home or your office. We will be there quickly with the proper equipment and materials to make sure that we get your surfaces free of mold and any unhealthy levels of airborne spores.

Tornadoes in Tuscaloosa

12/7/2016 (Permalink)

35405, 35401 Tornado safety in Tuscaloosa

Your safety during a storm is the number one priority for you, your family, and your employees.

Being prepared for a storm and having an emergency plan in place is necessary.

Look for Storm Warning Signs

Tornadoes typically occur when there is a severe thunderstorm in the area. Rain, hailstorms and lightning strikes are some of the signs of a possible tornado. Some other warning signs of an oncoming tornado include:

* Orange or Green Skies
* Rumbling or Roaring Sounds in the Air
* Very Calm Conditions after a Storm
* Damaged Power Lines or Debris
* Rotation of the Clouds

Staying Informed during a Storm

Local television and radio stations are your best source for updates on how the storm is developing. However, if you hear a tornado siren, you should immediately head to the nearest shelter. Some more modern forms of staying informed is live streaming from your local emergency broadcasters such as James Spann and following your local weather news casters on twitter. DO NOT REPLY on solely this as your means of monitoring a storms progression, but these will help in case you do not have access to television or radio.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has been here to help many victims from severe storms such as the April 27^th 2011 tornado to sporadic severe thunderstorms that have caused damage to roofing and even water damage to the interior of the home. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Tuscaloosa community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be. Call us in your time of need 205-339-5022. We are #heretohelp.

ERP and Why Your Business Needs One

12/7/2016 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Plan and why you need one:

1. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa will do one for your business for F-R-E-E


2. It can provide those in your office with the knowledge at their fingertips to get a handle on the disaster.


3. Your supervisor will have a list of emergency contacts at their fingertips.


4. Your staff will be prepared on what to do to get your doors reopened faster keeping YOU from losing clients and money.

More than 60% of small businesses in the U.S. do not have formal emergency response plans & do not back-up their data off site.

No Plan Means You Are Less Likely to Recover

• 80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business.


• 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.


• 70% of small business that experience major data loss go out of business within a year.


• 43% of companies that experience catastrophic data loss never reopen.


• 51% of companies with data loss closed within 2 years.


• 80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business.


• 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.

The SERVPRO® Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency Ready Profile. Please contact SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa today to setup your FREE Emergency Ready Profile 205-339-5022.

House Fires in Tuscaloosa

12/2/2016 (Permalink)

Electrical fire in Tuscaloosa 35405

Most of us have never experienced a home fire, small or large. It is an out of sight out of mind thought process that many of us are guilty of not thinking about until it’s too late. To give you some insight on residential fires:

 In 2015 there were 501,500 structure fires. 2,685 lost their lives and 13,000 people were injured because of the fire. In 2015 there was $10.3 billion in property damage (www.nfpa.org)

 A fire department responded every 23 seconds.

We just witnessed a major tourist town quickly go from a controlled wildfire to an uncontrollable one in November 2016.

 Fire is something we all should be prepared for and it is violent. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has partnered with the Red Cross in making sure that we can help you get your home and life back in order after an unexpected fire has happened. The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference in restoration versus replacing everything in your home. Red Cross’s Home Fire Campaign is all about making sure your family knows how to escape your home in less than 2 minutes. Those two minutes can change everything.

 The Red Cross Home Fire Campaign has tips and emergency ready plans for all family members from kids to pets and even an essentials check list for that unexpected house fire.

The Tuscaloosa County local Red Cross organizations is:

 West Alabama Red Cross

 Address: 1622 Lurleen B Wallace Blvd, Northport, AL 35476   Phone:(205) 758-3608

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is always here to help when a disaster does happen, but our concern is that you are prepared to minimize the risk of a disaster escalading into a tragedy.

Stay prepared. Stay Safe. Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for your fire damage cleanup and restoration.

           205-339-5022

2016 Golf Tournament

11/17/2016 (Permalink)

Check Presentation from Golf Tournament 2016

In October of 2016, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa hosted a golf tournament for local insurance agents and business people benefiting the West Alabama Chapter of The American Red Cross.  This year with the help of our amazing sponsors and the golfers joining in on some crazy games at the holes, we were able to raise $1600.00 for the fire prevention campaign.

September in National Preparndess Month for any type of disaster and October is National Fire Prevention month! During these months of planning and preparing for the tournament, we also released tips and information in preparing your home and business on what to do in the event of a disaster. We also talked about measures you can take to hopefully prevent a house fire from devastating your family.

We had so much fun partnering with the Red Cross on this event. We look forward to next year being even bigger and better! 

November Newsline- Storm Damage

11/4/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa was recognized this month in the SERVPRO Newsline for their involvement with the Storm Team by Assistant Storm Manager, Brian Petraitis.

 “Their job file quality while travelling is superb and their customer service is exceptional.”

With all of our involvement in the community with out local Red Cross Chapter and DCH Foundation, as well as, with the Storm Damage Teams, we can always say #SERVPROttown is #heretohelp

Our team has spent over 3 weeks in Florida now after #hurricanematthew trying to help dry out people's homes and get them ready for contractors to come in and rebuild what we cannot restore.

We cannot show state enough thanks to our team members that so willingly travel out of town for weeks at a time to help those in need. They are amazing withing their community and the SERVPRO team! 

Professional Cleaning to get your Holiday Season Started

11/4/2016 (Permalink)

One of the Great tips from the article "10 Essential November Projects"

"Get the Carpet Cleaned

Spot cleaning only goes so far. You gotta get professionally cleaned up at least once a year. It makes life so much sweeter. The house smells fresher, the kids don’t get sick from allergens stuck in the rug fibers, and the carpet won’t embarrass you when guests come over. "

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa offers a variety of deep cleaning services for both residential and commercial buildings. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa offers professional cleaning services for carpets, upholstery, floors, drapes, HVAC, deodorization you name it! 

Get your Tuscaloosa home ready for the cold weather that forces your family indoors. Let SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa's professional cleaning crew come clean your residential home to remove all the dust and allergens collected from bringing the outdoors in. 

Call us today to schedule your deep clean!

             205-339-5022

Did you Know? Faster to any Disaster

11/3/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Van Fleet

Did you know?!

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Tuscaloosa, AL. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

 SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa offers both residential emergency service and commercial emergency services!  SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa also offers the Emergency Ready Program to assist you in a water emergency. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is here for you 24 hours a day with our after hours answering service to get a First Responder in touch with you as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa works weekends for emergencies. We are here for you 24/7 365 days a year! 

24-Hour Emergency Service

Faster to Any-Sized Disaster

Highly Trained Restoration Technicians

A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

Locally Owned and Operated

Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (205) 339-5022

What Do I Do if My Basement Floods?

11/2/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding Water Damage in Tuscaloosa Alabama

Tuscaloosa and the entire state of Alabama has suffered a severe drought this last month and half. While heavy rainfall is a very common cause for flooding basements, there are several other causes of basement flooding. Some of these major causes are:

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe


• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home


• Storm sewer backup


• Sanitary sewer backup


• Foundation drainage failure


• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

Because basements are the lowest part of a home and generally built underground, the basement is prone to suffering from flooding and high moisture levels. High moisture levels are worrisome as well due to the risk of microbial growth.

If you have any questions or need help, call us at 205-339-5022.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa will always respond to your call within 1 hour, begin the water extraction process within 4 hours, and notify the adjuster no later than 8 hours from the time of your loss. If the water damage is not handled quickly and properly it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is “here to help.”

How much will this cost?

11/1/2016 (Permalink)

Payment after a Fire or Water Damage

It is the question everyone asks “How much is this going to cost?”

 SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa does it’s best to give their customers and exact quote for the restoration services we provide. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa utilizes Xactware to determine restoration pricing. Xactwares is an independent, third-party company that researches and reports on industry pricing. As stated on the Xactware website, “22 of the top 25 22 of the top 25 property insurance companies in the U.S. and 10 of the top 10 Canadian insurers use Xactware property insurance claims tools.”

 The Xactware software is set-up to determine the costs for every phase of the home from a simple remodel or rebuild of a structure to preserving and repairing a home. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa uses Xactware as does many insurance adjusters to ensure that the quote we give you is as accurate as can be to the industry standards. Xactware uses pricing information from general contractors, subcontractors, insurance carriers, insurance adjusters, and a host of other industry professionals as we research and report on the average market price for each price-list item. Xactware goes to great lengths to ensure that no one party or industry segment has any undue influence on the pricing data that we research and report on.

Help the Efficiency of your HVAC

10/19/2016 (Permalink)

Dirty Duct in Tuscaloosa AL

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality.

If your HVAC 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

Cleaning your duct system does more for your air quality and energy efficiency than just changing out your air filter. Which according to serviceexperts.com can depend on more factors than just what the back of your filter states. Here is the suggested timeline for changing out that air filter:

• Typical suburban home without pets: Change every 90 days


• Add a dog or cat: Change every 60 days


• Multiple pets or have allergies: Change every 30-45 days


• Seldom used home or single occupant homes without pets or allergies: Change 6-12 months

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa North Professionals routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment as well as you’re your air quality better. Fall is the best time to get this done, right before we are all forced indoors due to the biting cold outside.

Duct cleaning is not always necessary. Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa and we will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your system.

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.


• May help to eliminate offensive odors.


• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

Make it a priority in your Tuscaloosa home or business to set a filter change and HVAC routine check-up this fall. Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205-339-5022 to check to see if your HVAC duct need a clean before the winter season.

Fire Prevention Month in Tuscaloosa

10/3/2016 (Permalink)

Fall Bonfires in Tuscaloosa

OCTOBER IS NATIONAL FIRE PREVENTION MONTH

While many of us celebrate the cool weather, pumpkin spiced everything and the upcoming candy and costumes for Halloween here in Tuscaloosa, many organizations are making an effort to bring to light that October is National Fire Prevention month.  According to FEMA, one in three house fires start in the kitchen.

When I was a kid, my grandmother set her kitchen on fire by accident sitting a burning candle on an eye that was still warm from dinner. Thankfully, all she needed was a kitchen refresh because we caught it in time. A fire in your Tuscaloosa home could happen and it will always be unexpected.

As we are gearing up for the holidays, testing Pinterest recipes and holiday themed goodies, let’s take a few minutes to educate our families on safe practices, make sure our homes are prepared and take the measures to prevent household fires this holiday season.

The American Red Cross has set up a Fire Prevention campaign to educate homes in safety tips to prevent serious injuries and fatal losses. According to their campaign page,

“Each year, the Red Cross responds to nearly 66,000 disasters, the vast majority of which are home fires. So we set a goal to reduce fire-related deaths and injuries in the US by 25% by 2020.

On average:

• 7 people die every day from a home fire


• 36 people suffer injuries as a result of home fires every day


• Over $7 billion in property damage occurs every year”

There are 5 ways you can help this month during the fire prevention campaign:

1. Be prepared at home


2. Educate your business and your classrooms


3. Volunteer with your local American Red Cross Chapter and help other households with smoke alarms installation etc


4. Donate to the cause if you are able


5. Spread the word!!

Steps to Take When Your Tuscaloosa Home Floods

9/23/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa drying water damage

Have a water damage emergency? Call:

           205-339-5022

Every water disaster is different, from the amount of water to the level of contamination of the water. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa has 6 steps we follow for any “typical” water damage call. You can check out SERVPRO’s 6 step process here.

If you notice water pooling near your appliance take the time to do these four things:

1. Inspect the device (valves, tank, pipes etc.) to visually locate the leak. Dry any damp spots thoroughly and check back in a few hours to see if they are damp again.


2. Once it is obvious that the device has a leak, turn off the power source to avoid accidents.


3. Call a professional plumbing service fix the leak.


4. Call SERVPRO® of Tuscaloosa to help you with experienced drying and clean-up from the leak.

When water damage happens in your Tuscaloosa home, cleaning and drying should be one of your first priorities. Using a professional cleaning and restoration company, such as SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa, you can rest assured the company IIRC-certified and trained in water damage repair and restoration. Restoring your home to its original condition as quickly as possible is our first priority.  IIRC is the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration. An IIRC- certified company is trained in the proper steps to dry your home completely which is a preventative step to more damage that can potentially be caused by excessive moisture in your home. If you would like to learn more about microbial growth in your home click here.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has a 24/7 365 Water and Fire damage emergency crews. Call us any day, any time at 205-339-5022. We are faster to any size disaster. If you are still contemplating on whether or not the to have SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa to come check out you house after finding what you thing was a small flood in your dishwasher, take a look at the  water damage timeline.  SERVPRO's main goal is to restore not replace to make your home look "Like it never even happened."

Vacation Planning? Prepare Your Home!

6/23/2016 (Permalink)

Going on vacation should be relaxing and worry-free which is why it is important to make sure your house is secure before you leave for your trip. Be SERVPRO ready so you don’t come back to damages in your home. Here are some tips for preparing your home provided by SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa:

Make Arrangements with an Emergency Contact

• Choose a close friend or neighbor you trust as your emergency contact and provide them with all of your itinerary information in case they need to contact you.


• A timer on lights will give the impression someone is home. 


• Leave written directions for alarm codes, doors, or other information needed to properly care for your home.


• Make sure your mail is collected; burglars often look for homes with overflowing mail. 


• The Post office can suspend your mail and deliver the day you get back. Here is a link to the US Post Office
  

Take plumbing and electric precautions

• Prevent leaks and floods from damaging your home by shutting off gas and water at the meter, supply tank or appliances.


• Turn off the water valves to washing machines, sinks, and the dishwasher.


• Unplug electronics to cut down on any possible shortages which could potentially cause a disastrous fire.


• Check your smoke detectors to ensure they are working properly.


• Adjust your thermostat for the season in the winter 55-60 in the summer 75-80 should help control usage. 

 Right before you leave

• Notify your security company that you are leaving town.


• Take out the kitchen trash and other trash that could get smelly.


• Go on one last walk through of your home to secure windows, blinds, fences, doors, and plugs. This will ensure all entries are safe from hazardous obstructions.

If you come back from vacation and encounter damage within your home, call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa 205-339-5022. We clean up mold, fire or water damage to your home or business in the Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas.

Professional Damage Restoration

5/4/2016 (Permalink)

According to the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) there are a couple of reasons to choose a professional over doing it yourself. Below are a few reasons:

1. The process of fire and water restoration is very involved when it is performed properly.
2. With quick reaction time and the appropriate skill set, a technician can help to prevent further damage and repair that which has already been done
3. The process and equipment used during fire and water restoration will vary from case to case, since different materials require their own unique care. 
4. For fire damage, general cleaning is done to remove ash and soot from ceiling to floor. 
5. The quick remediation of the problem is important for more than repairs, it is also a health consideration
6. Choose a company for fire and water restoration with the appropriate licenses and proof that they have the proper insurance.
7. Whether the work to be done is in a commercial or residential location, technicians with experience and certification should perform the damage recovery.

Tornado & Storm Safety Tips

4/20/2016 (Permalink)

If your area is expecting a tornado or other major storm, there are several steps you can take to stay safe.

If your area is expecting a tornado or other major storm, there are several steps you can take to stay safe. After the tornado passes, SERVPRO can help you clean up any storm damage and restore your home.

Look for Storm Warning Signs

Tornadoes typically occur when there is a severe thunderstorm in the area. Rain, hailstorms and lightning strikes are some of the signs of a possible tornado. Some other warning signs of an oncoming tornado include:

* Orange or Green Skies
* Rumbling or Roaring Sounds in the Air
* Very Calm Conditions after a Storm
* Damaged Power Lines or Debris
* Rotation of the Clouds

Staying Informed during a Storm

Local television and radio stations are your best source for updates on how the storm is developing. However, if you hear a tornado siren, you should immediately head to the nearest shelter.

What is the Difference between a Tornado Watch, Warning and Emergency?

* A Tornado Watch means that a storm could be coming in your area soon because of the current weather conditions.
* A Tornado Warning is a sign that one or more tornadoes are in the immediate area. Look for shelter as soon as you see this signal.
• A Tornado Emergency is the final step in the warning process. A tornado has been spotted near a populated location. Move to the safest possible place if you cannot get to a real shelter in time.

How to Find Safe Shelter

Head for a sturdy building before the storm approaches. Look for a home or office with a basement whenever possible. If a basement is not available, move to the center of the building. Stay away from windows and debris. Try to place as many solid walls as you can between the coming storm and your family. Avoid mobile homes and trailers during strong winds or heavy rains.

Cars also do not provide much shelter, but you can drive to a Tuscaloosa storm shelter or nearby building. If the storm is too severe for driving, secure your seat belt, get as low in the seat as possible and place a blanket over yourself.

Stay close to the ground if you are caught in an open field. Cover your head and keep an eye out for debris flying through the air. Avoid hiding under overpasses or bridges.

Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Tuscaloosa community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

Tips to Keeping Your Floor Clean

4/13/2016 (Permalink)

Is your home collecting dirt and germs every time you walk through the door? The answer is yes. Shoes collect bacteria on the soles and can track it straight into your home, but there are a few ways to prevent this. More importantly, there are ways to treat your floor and home if it hasn't been done recently.  

Problem:
Some of the bacteria that lands on our shoes can cause a decline in our health if not cleaned. In fact, an EPA study shows that unhealthy herbicides can also be tracked in on our shoes. Don't let this scare you because it can be prevented. 

Tip:
Try setting a shoe rack in your garage or right when you walk into your home for shoes to be placed. This limits the exposure of these unwanted germs. It is also not a bad idea to clean your shoes once a month. Not only will this help eliminate bacteria, but will also make your shoes look better, longer.

Problem:
If you think that your carpet or flooring already has unhealthy herbicides in it, then it may be time for a deep cleaning. Of course this will help kill germs and bacteria, but also get rid of dirt. This is where SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa comes in! How often you’ll need professional cleaning depends on soil build-up, traffic, type and color of carpeting.

Tip:
If you have a steam cleaner, use it to clean your floor. The heat of the water that cleans your carpet will help kill bacteria. If your home is mostly hardwood or tile, grab your mop and the appropriate cleanser to rid your floor of unwanted germs.

If you are still unsatisfied, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa can do the job. The SERVPRO System offers a number of cleaning options to match any type of upholstery or carpet. Call us today 205-339-5022!

The Importance of Immediate Fire Damage Clean Up

4/7/2016 (Permalink)

It's devastating to experience the chaos of a fire in your Tuscaloosa house. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean up too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority.

The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage that occurred. These can lead to corrosion, discoloration and unpleasant odor. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem. 

Take action and follow these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire. 

1. Contact your insurance company.

2. Contact your local fire restoration company – SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa

3. Take photographs of the damage.

4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company.

5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed.

6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property.

While a house fire is a trying experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So remember these steps for the next time you or a loved one is handling the aftermath of a house fire and call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa 205-339-5022.

Restore vs. Replace

3/29/2016 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO we are in the business of restoration rather than replacement - this provides the benefits of not only lower costs but also a smaller ecological footprint. On a more personal level, restoration vs. replacement provides home owners peace of mind, in the event of a loss, that they will be able to make the most of any insurance payments they receive. 

Why do we focus on restoration?

In addition to preserving original structures and items, a drive towards restoration can better satisfy a complete return to normalcy when catastrophe occurs. Insurance policies often have limits that cap the amount of a claim - restoration allows for minimizing the costs of returning a structure to its pre-loss condition.

SERVPRO works seamlessly with insurance companies nationwide, providing them with restoration budgets that not only meet their stringent guidelines, but provide the homeowner with the best possible outcome.

You have a choice when it comes to who to trust with your home after a fire or flood. Choose SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa and let us help you make it… “Like it never even happened.”

We can be reached 24/7 at (205) 339-5022.    

Preventing Grease Fires in Your Tuscaloosa Kitchen

3/23/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Offers Tips for Preventing Fire Damage to Your Tuscaloosa Kitchen

The kitchen is the number one "hot spot" for fires leading to fire damage in your home. Cooking with grease and oil can be hazardous to your health for reasons other than nutrition and diet. One of the most dangerous incidents that can happen in your home is a grease fire. There are several preventative measures that you can implement to decrease the likelihood of a grease fire in your kitchen. Access the information below, provided by SERVPRO, to minimize an accidental kitchen fire.

Keep It Clean. Because most of us have numerous domestic and professional responsibilities, there is often little time to clean everything as thoroughly as we'd like to. Nevertheless, it's important to know that cleaning up all drips and spills from the stove area each day is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent fire damage in your kitchen from a grease fire. Large spills are easy to spot and can be cleaned up quickly. As you cook, remember to wipe away substances that spill over the side of the pan. Also, keep the area around a burner or flame free of spills and grease all the time.

Be Safe With Cooking Oils And Fats. When you cook with oil, be sure that you know what your temperature rating is. Not all oils and fats are alike. Refined fats can be safely heated to higher temperatures because there are few impurities. However, allowing your cooking oil to become too hot can cause it to ignite. If you note that oil is starting to smoke, be sure to take it away from the source of heat immediately. If a fire ignites within the frying pan, never throw water on top of it.

Know Your Fire Extinguisher. Type ABC or B extinguishers contain proper chemicals and propellants to put out grease fires. Your kitchen extinguisher should be a C02 or a dry chemical extinguisher. Each year check for the expiration date of use for the fire extinguisher. Keep one close at hand, perhaps under the kitchen sink base cabinet. However, you should never utilize a water-based extinguisher for this type of fire. Water will not blanket the flames causing oxygen deprivation and will splash and spread the flames to other areas. Minimize smoke and fire damage by quickly extinguishing the flame.

Call SERVPRO for Fast, Friendly Fire Damage Restoration Services

Awareness of the above tips will make your kitchen and household a safer place. However, happenstance can still allow a fire to occur in your Tuscaloosa home. If this should happen, make the call to a company you can trust – SERVPRO. Our IICRC-certified technicians are skilled in restoring your property quickly and safely. Moreover, we offer the friendly, detailed customer service necessary to keep you calm and confident throughout the fire damage restoration process. Our aim is to return your home to its pre-loss condition ASAP.

Locally Owned, with National Resources

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is locally owned and operated. When you have a fire or smoke emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We’re also part of a network of over 1,650 Franchises, including special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large-scale fire, water, and storm disasters. Call for help. (205)-339-5022

Spring Cleaning

3/21/2016 (Permalink)

It's that time again.

Yes, it's spring-cleaning time. To make things a little easier this year, consider hiring SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa to help ease the burden.

How can SERVPRO help?

You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, but our professional residential cleaning services can also make a dirty carpet "Like it never even happened."

Residential Cleaning Services include:

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

The SERVPRO carpet and upholstery cleaning service will not only get out the dirt you see, but will also remove the unwanted dust you don’t. A professionally cleaned carpet and furniture may make all the difference in brightening up a room and freshening up your home.

Our professional cleaning can address moderate and heavy soil conditions in your carpets. How often you’ll need professional cleaning depends on soil build-up, traffic, type and color of carpeting. A good rule of thumb would be to professionally clean your carpet every 12 months. The best advice is to clean carpets before they become totally saturated with soil. If you wait until carpets look really dirty, the carpets may never be restored to their former appearance. Dirt builds up in layers, and when a carpet looks dirty you are only seeing the dirt at the tips of the fibers. More dirt is hiding below the surface down near the base of the pile, causing damage to the carpet. When a carpet is saturated with dirt, the soil has penetrated crevices and has become firmly lodged.

Air Duct Cleaning

We all have tasks around the house that don’t make it to the top of our priority list. Properly maintaining your home’s air ducts should not be one of them. Regular duct cleaning can increase your home’s heating and cooling efficiency and improve the quality of the air you and your family breathe.

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

If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa Professionals routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC).  Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can in turn save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.

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

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

Odor Removal

Your basic cleaning service is not going to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors.

We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor and determining the conditions in which it contacts surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call, and leave the restoration to us.

Life happens.

Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents and homes get dirty. SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service.

We want to make things easier on you this year. Put your feet up and give us a call.

Need Cleaning Services?

Call Us Today – (205) 399-5022

Prevent Commercial Electrical Fires

3/10/2016 (Permalink)

Preventing Electrical Fires in Commercial Buildings 

As industry experts know, commercial electrical fires can be very dangerous and costly. When a commercial fire occurs, it can lead to the injury or death of the employees or customers present. Electrical fires can result in major property loss. SERVPRO, a premier fire damage restoration company, will respond immediately to get you back in business. Luckily, most of these fires are preventable and can also be contained through maintenance of fixtures, employee training, and the facilitation of greater awareness regarding work hazards. Learn more about how to identify electrical hazards and reduce the incidence of a commercial fire by reading the following information: 

Recognizing the Warning Signs 

Electrical distribution systems contain several complex elements. These elements are capable of exposing commercial buildings to fire risks. Some of the areas of concern are:

• Corroded Wiring: Wiring that is old or defective can cause electrical fires. Although all wiring can start to break down at some point, the wiring exposed to corrosive substances or the outdoor environment is subject to faster degradation. Industrial facilities, multi-tenant warehouses, and farms should be attentive to their wiring given that it can be subject to extreme exposure to the elements.

• Circuits and Fuses: Tripped circuits and blown fuses are signs of overloaded outlets or circuits. These circuits and outlets can generate overheating and result in combustion leading to commercial electrical fires. 

• Hot Spots: Overloaded circuits, corroded wires or connectors, loose connections, faulty fuses, imbalanced electrical loading, short circuits, switches, and breakers can generate "hot spots". This is the result of the excessive heat that builds up within the electrical panels. If there is any sense that these "hot spots" could cause a commercial flare-up, here is an option. Infrared thermal imaging can be operated to locate these hot spots, repairs can then be done preventing electrical shortages or breakdowns that lead to fires. Small business owners can hire licensed electricians to complete the inspection. 

Electrical Distribution Equipment

Periodically, electrical distribution equipment needs to be physically inspected and tested. The equipment should also periodically undergo thermal imaging. This work should be completed by a licensed professional. Some of the equipment requiring inspection includes:

•electrical panels, switchboards, and switchgear    

• fuses

• circuit breakers

• relays and contactors

• disconnect switches

• motors

• motor controls

• transformers

The Fire Marshall periodically visits commercial buildings checking the fire extinguishers' expiration dates. The overhead sprinkler system, fire exit lighted signs and safe egress from the commercial building are all inspected. Prevention is the key.

Conclusion

Fire damage can be especially devastating for a business or commercial property. Significant water damage can be an unintended result of extinguishing a commercial fire. The fire suppression system of a commercial building (overhead fire sprinkler system) can also cause a large amount of water damage. Commercial business owners know that electrical fires negatively affect their property, the operation of the business, and the loss of revenue. However, the information above can help you take strides towards preventing these fires from happening. In the event that you find your commercial space affected by a fire, electrical or otherwise, you should know who to call to help facilitate the remediation process. As a company with extensive experience in restoring property affected by electrical fires, the professionals of SERVPRO can provide you with the detailed assistance necessary to get your business space in working order. Contact us today for professional, personalized service. 

Commercial Building Restoration Services

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa responds quickly to your Tuscaloosa water, fire or mold damage emergency, 24 hours a day. Whether the damage occurs in a small business building or a big box store, we have the training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation. Our national network of 1,650 Franchises gives us access to personnel and resources to respond to any size restoration emergency. Learn more about our commercial restoration services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm Damage Cleanup
• Disaster Recovery Team

 SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.” (205)-553-8377

Why SERVPRO Can Quickly Protect Your Home in Tuscaloosa, Alabama after a Storm

2/25/2016 (Permalink)

Following a storm flood or fire, water cleanup in Tuscaloosa, Alabama is the first and one of the most important processes that you will need to have done. In the event that you don't complete the water removal process immediately, your property can be subjected to a plethora of unwanted, unnecessary complications such as mold growth, loss of possessions, and structural damage. If you find yourself in need of water damage services, it's important to find a skilled team of restoration experts like SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa. We can expedite the water extraction, cleaning, repair, and restoration components of the process. Learn more about the importance of water damage cleanup by reviewing this short reference guide:

Water Cleanup Prevents Mold and Mildew Growth

One of the reasons for securing the services of an experienced water damage cleanup company is inhibiting the growth of mold and mildew in your home. Unfortunately, these fungi can begin thriving and expanding on your property 48-72 hours after the initial water intrusion. Moreover, the moist, warm conditions created by water damage make your residential property a prime location in which mold can develop and proliferate. 

Prevent or Diminish Secondary Water Damage to the Structure of Your Home

Another great benefit of rapid water removal is that it prevents structural damage from adversely impacting your property. When left unaddressed for an extended time, the water can wick into walls, and studs, rust appliances, and damage the electrical system. If a natural flooding disaster occurred, then the foundation could also have been compromised. 

Why You Should Secure Professional Assistance 

Although some people attempt to complete the water cleanup process on their own, this approach is not advisable if it means more than using a mop and a bucket. For volumes of unwanted standing water, our water removal process is expedited and optimized through the use of specialized equipment. Truck-mounted water pumps and portable vacuums are the means of rapid water extraction. The quicker the removal, the less the water damage to furniture, walls, flooring, electronics, and personal possessions. This helps to remove water and treat damage that you can’t see.

Let SERVPRO Assist You Now

Each of our IICRC-certified professionals utilizes advanced skills while offering excellent customer service to expedite and optimize the water damage restoration process for your home in Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas. We work well with insurance companies by offering professional communication, official documentation of our findings and procedures, and follow-up inspections.

Call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa at 205-339-5022!

Professional Pressure Washing

2/24/2016 (Permalink)

Pressure washing by SERVPRO

Experience your property at its finest! SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa proudly offers exterior property cleaning, fire and water damage restoration, low pressure roof cleaning, wood and deck pressure washing, and interior power washing and water extraction for commercial and residential clients. We appreciate that your home or business is more than a property — it’s an investment. And we’re proud to deliver services that are worthy of it. 

Residential

Residential services include exterior sidings, driveways, sidewalks and patios, fences, and roofs. It is very important to keep the exterior of your home clean and free from environmental hazards such as soot, mold, algae and oxidation. Regular cleaning such as pressure washing, patio washing and concrete or driveway washing can help to prevent premature aging which reduces maintenance cost and saves you money. When you compare the relatively low price of proper residential pressure wash cleaning to the high cost of home repairs or even replacement, it is easy to see why home owners choose to have this type of work done on a regular basis. Not to mention the fact, it just plain looks better when it’s clean. 

Commercial

We offer our commercial property owners comprehensive power washing solutions. No two businesses are alike. That’s why we provide the tailored commercial services that will fulfill your needs. Shopping malls, banks, restaurants and convenience stores typically require unique services at different times. We take pride in offering flexible service plans and scheduling to accommodate your needs.

Let us keep your business looking picture perfect. We always ensure that our work is implemented at a time that will minimize interference with your business operations. What’s more, our team will always come to your property with the specialized commercial services equipment needed to complete the task and provide professional results. 

Apartment and Homeowners Association (HOA)

At some point during every interview, a potential resident will tour the neighborhood. The first impressions that are made during this tour can go a long way towards filling the unit or letting it sit empty. Are the common areas and parking lots of your apartment complex or HOA community clean and inviting? What about the units themselves? Do they reflect a clean and properly maintained community?  If you have been looking for a company to handle all of your properties exterior cleaning and maintenance needs look no further! We have the experience and the equipment to get the job done right! Call us SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa today! 205-339-5022

Spring Flood Tips

2/16/2016 (Permalink)

Act fast to mitigate your flood loss.

Spring showers can often lead to flooding conditions in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. These tips will help reduce the impact spring floods have on you and your property.

Advance Preparation

Prepare in advance with a SERVPRO^® Emergency Ready Profile^® (ERP). Our convenient mobile app stores all your utility and emergency response information in one place, so you can access this information from your smartphone or computer.

Watch for Pooling Water 

Look for places around your property where water pools, and channel it away from buildings. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and they are directing water as intended.

Maintain Sump Pump 

If you have a sump pump, check to be sure it is operational before water starts rising. Consider a back-up generator to ensure your pump works when you need it most. Contact your insurance agent to add coverage in case your sump pump fails. 

Raise Storage Goods 

Use shelving and/or pallets to keep storage items off the floor to reduce the impact of small floods. In many situations, raising boxes just a few inches will be enough to keep storage goods above the water line. 

Cut Power if Necessary 

As rising water approaches the level of electrical outlets, you risk having a live current flow through all the water. Cut the power if you can safely do so without standing in water. Otherwise, evacuate and contact an electrician to cut the power before you go back in for recovery.

Keep Storm Drains Clear

If you see water pooling around a storm drain, the drain may be clogged with debris. Clearing the debris will help keep the water flowing away from your neighborhood.

Consider Flood Insurance 

Homeowners insurance will not cover floods; you must purchase a separate policy for flood protection. When all else fails, flood insurance will provide you the means to respond to a catastrophic flooding event.

Be Aware on the Road 

Be careful when driving during spring storms, especially when you hear flash flood warnings. Never drive into fully submerged roadway. The water surface will be at the same level as the pavement you can see. This view can deceive you into thinking the water is shallow because you cannot see how the road dips under the surface. 

Act Fast 

When a flood happens, you need to act fast to dry out any wet items, particularly structural materials like walls and flooring. Call SERVPRO^® of Tuscaloosa at 205-339-5022 to extract water and mitigate any mold growth. Our franchise professionals have the training and experience to make flood damage “Like it never even happened.” 

What IICRC-Certified Means to You

2/9/2016 (Permalink)

When water damage impacts your residential property, you must take action immediately.

When Tuscaloosa water damage impacts your residential property, you must take action immediately. As many homeowners and business leaders know, contacting a professional water damage restoration company is typically the first step to restoring your property. However, many individuals do not know how to select the most exceptional, ethical company. If this is the case for you, it's important to know that hiring an IICRC-certified company will prove advantageous. Learn more about why this is the case by reviewing this short outline:  

What Is The IICRC?

As many Tuscaloosa water damage restoration experts know, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a professional certification organization within the restoration, cleaning, and inspection industries. 

How Do Companies Obtain Certification?
To obtain IICRC certification, water remediation companies have to conform to specific criteria. Some of the criteria include:

1. Provide consumers with accurate data
2. Conduct business processes with integrity and honesty
3. Ensure that a trained technician is present for all work assignments
4. Ensure that a continuing education program is in place
5. Maintain policies for written complaints
6. Hold liability insurance

Why Choose an IICRC-Certified Company?

There is a wide variety of forms water damage can take. Some of them include flooding, a burst pipe, sump pump overflow, and sewage backup. Irrespective of the cause, however, the end result is substantive damage. In fact, standing liquid can lead to severe property damage as well as mold infestation. For this reason, it's essential that you attain water damage restoration services from a qualified team of professionals. 

The process of selecting the right Tuscaloosa water damage restoration company can be challenging. This is the case for several reasons, including the fact that doing a Google search for the key phrase "water damage restoration" will produce over 500,000 results. To narrow your selection, it's a good idea to limit your search to companies that have obtained their certification from the IICRC. Because the IICRC is efficient in establishing reference guides and industry standards regarding water damage restoration and mold removal, companies that have been certified by the organization will likely offer you the excellent, effective services you want. 

About SERVPRO

When you begin your selection for an IICRC-certified company, be sure to consider SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa. In addition to offering all of our customers 24/7 emergency services, we employ a team of trained professionals with extensive industry experience. In fact, our technicians possess advanced skills in monitoring and documenting drying processes. Because of our commitment to working with extraordinary competence and speed, we have become industry leaders with more than 1,650 franchises. We're ready to offer you the exceptionally efficient services you need and deserve, so contact us immediately at (205) 339-5022.  

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is strategically located to respond quickly to your water emergency event. When water damage occurs, we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today!     

          (205) 339-5022

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

2/5/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors save lives, don't get caught without one.

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. For more on emergency preparedness, contact your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals.

1. Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.
2. Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
3. Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
4. Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm “chirps,” the battery is low and should be replaced right away.
5. Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Just the Facts: Smoke Alarms

Dos and Dont's for Water Damage

1/21/2016 (Permalink)

Do's & Don'ts

Do:

• Shut off the source of water if possible, or contact a qualified plumbing technician to stop the water source.


• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.


• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.


• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 


• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.


• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.


• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.


• Pin up upholstered furniture skirting to keep off damp floors.


• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors. 


• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

Don'ts:

• Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.


• Do not enter effected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.


• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items that may cause staining on wet carpet or floors.


• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.


• Do not use TV's or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.


• Do not turn on ceiling fixture if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

Keeping the Air in Your Tuscaloosa Home Clean this Winter

1/20/2016 (Permalink)

Now that the weather is getting colder and we’re nestled away inside our homes, it’s a good time to check your home for certain things that may need to be replaced or cleaned. Take your air ducts for example. Many times, these go unnoticed, but can’t be forgotten. According to Houselogic, the air in your home circulates through the air ducts about five to seven times a day, carrying all of the dust and particles through the air. This is where your HVAC filter comes into play, but this filter can only handle so much.

Reasons for cleaning your air ducts

• Keeping the air clean – This can be important especially for people with allergies. Getting rid of the dust will ensure that it does not get fed back into your home.
• Ease of airflow – Making sure that your air ducts are clean makes it easier for air to flow smoothly and circulate throughout the house. This also reduces the amount of energy that needs to be used in order to circulate the air.  

Methods of cleaning air ducts

Fire and Smoke Damage Emergency Tips

1/19/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke damage after kitchen fire.

Do's & Don'ts 

Do: 

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas. 
• Empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odors if the electricity is off. 
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances; then, protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• Pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures if heat is off during winter.
• Wash off both sides of leaves on house plants.
• Change HVAC filters, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape a double layer of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the  HVAC system.

Don'ts:

• Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa Professionals. 
• Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting with a SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa Professional.
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances, TV sets, radios, etc., that have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service person.
• Do not consume canned or packaged food, beverages, or medications that may have been stored close to fire or heat. (They may be contaminated)
• Do not turn on any ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock.
• Do not send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 

Water Damage Restoration: Mastering the Basics

1/8/2016 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, most homeowners are not prepared to grapple with the reality of a flood or disaster. As a result, many homeowners find themselves dealing with extensive water damage to their property. Rather than dealing with the aftermath of a natural disaster alone, it's important that you attain professional assistance from a water damage restoration company, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa. To learn more about water damage and why attaining professional assistance is a must, refer to the short outline that appears below:

Types of Water Damage

There are two basic types of water damage. The first is internal flood damage. Internal flood damage transpires when damage is caused to property as a result of washroom malfunctions, broken water pipes, or leakage. The second type of water damage is external flood damage. External flood damage results from storms or floods. Both internal and external flood damage are best handled by a professional restoration company.

The Importance of Attaining Professional Water Damage Restoration Services

In many cases, individuals who encounter water damage attempt to complete the restoration process themselves. This is not a prudent course of action. Attaining professional help is better because SERVPRO experts possess the equipment and knowledge necessary to optimize and expedite the water damage restoration process. Our SERVPRO team prides themselves in a great reputation, excellent customer service, and extensive industry experience.

Why You Should Attain Professional Assistance Immediately

Often, homeowners and business owners put off the water damage restoration process. This is a serious mistake. As water damage specialists know, failure to address the issue can increase damage and subject your loved ones to health complications. For example, water damage increases your susceptibility to unwanted mold. Once your property has been subjected to a mold infestation, you can suffer structural damage while also elevating risks for lung problems and respiratory issues.

Let SERVPRO Assist You 

When you find that water damage has impacted your property, there's no time to waste. You need to attain precise, professional services from a water damage remediation team that can expedite the restoration process. The team to trust is SERVPRO. We employ a staff of thoroughly trained technicians who are happy to provide you with 24/7 emergency assistance and cutting edge customer service. Additionally, our company is a trusted industry leader with more than 1,650 franchises and a passion for excellence and ethical operations. We're ready to help you right now, so call us today at 205.339.5022.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa is strategically located to respond quickly to your water or flood damage event. When a major flooding event occurs, we can call upon our national network of 1,650 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams if we need additional resources or personnel.

We are here in Tuscaloosa and are ready to help you. Just call us. 205.339.5022

Protecting Your Commercial Property From a Fire

1/6/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial fires in Tuscaloosa are often the most devastating reality that a property owner will have to oversee. In addition to wreaking havoc on your property, fires can force you to relocate temporarily so you can maintain running your business while the restoration process is completed. However, property owners who access and implement high-quality safety practices can often avoid the devastation and destruction that results from Tuscaloosa commercial fires. Read the brief outline provided below to learn how you can protect your property: 

1. Install Automatic Fire Sprinklers.

As many authorities know, having an automatic fire sprinkler on your property can reduce the risk of fire by up to 71%. Additionally, sprinklers can decrease your insurance premium. To keep your sprinkler in excellent condition, be sure that it is not blocked by dirt or paint. Also, be sure to inspect regularly your main control valve so that it is not left off. Finally, be sure that you take the precautions necessary to prevent the pipe from freezing.  

2. Conduct Fire Emergency Training.

Each of your employees should undergo fire safety training. The training can help prevent your staff members from being victimized. Here are a few subjects that should be covered in the emergency training: 

Hazard Recognition

Keep all combustible chemicals and materials away from heat-generating and electrical equipment. 

Prevention

Inspect your power sources regularly and don't overload your extension cords and outlets.  

Response

Teach your employees how to respond when a fire breaks out. Some subjects that should be covered include how to perform an organized evacuation, operate the fire extinguisher, and set the fire alarm. 

Other issues that should be involved in the training include:

• Breathing Apparatus Training

• Fire Extinguisher Training

• Confined Space Entry Training

• First Aid Training

• General Staff Emergency Awareness Training

• Evacuation Exercise  

Also, be sure that your employee team officials undergo the following fire emergency response training:

• Fire Safety Officer Training

• Fire Safety Adviser Training

• Chief and Deputy Chief Warden Training

• Emergency Control Organization Warden Training

• Spill Response Training

• Lay Flat Hose Training 

Call SERVPRO Immediately

Although accessing and utilizing fire prevention measures is crucial and advantageous, there is still a chance that a fire could break out on your commercial property. If this happens, you need to know who to call for fast, efficient restoration services. The company to trust is SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa. We have extensive industry experience and a passion for restoring offices to their original condition. We're ready to assist you immediately, so contact us now at 

            205-339-5022

Rely on SERVPRO for Safe Biohazard Removal

1/4/2016 (Permalink)

Blood, bodily fluids, and other Tuscaloosa biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. When a site in your home or business has been contaminated, how do you make it safe again? Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for top-notch biohazard cleanup and restoration services.

Avoiding Health Risks
Is it necessary to seek professional assistance in cleaning up a location impacted by crime, trauma or death? With the risks posed by blood-borne pathogens and dangerous communicable diseases, cleaning a scene contaminated with biohazards like blood is a perilous undertaking for anyone who lacks the proper training and equipment. It is unpleasant to think about, but blood and bodily fluids are prone to splattering so that minute amounts can affect a wide area. The air at these scenes can be hazardous since small particles can become airborne if dried material is disturbed. Anything removed from the scene must also be disposed of properly to avoid spreading the contamination. Ultimately, the best way to make sure that a place is once again safe is to use a professional organization like SERVPRO that is experienced in biohazard restoration.

Preventing Legal Repercussions
As if the health risks created by biohazards are not dire enough, failure to have a contaminated space properly cleaned can also have serious legal consequences. There are regulations and laws regarding how biohazards are handled that must be followed. These rules are designed to safeguard everyone, and ignorance is not considered an acceptable excuse for disregarding them. Individuals and businesses that do not follow these rules may find themselves facing hefty fines. They might even be held liable if someone else is injured by their actions. Using a professional team that understands what is required to comply with the various rules and regulations governing biohazards in your area can shield you from both health risks and legal issues.

Focusing on Your Safety
At SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa, we are committed to the well-being of our customers. Offering emergency services 24 hours a day, we will rapidly respond whenever you request our assistance. Our technicians follow the protocols established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, so you can be confident that they have the expertise and training to remove all biohazards and dispose of them properly. We use specialized equipment that allows us to detect the smallest trace of a biohazard, and we do not stop until your scene is thoroughly sanitized. As biohazard restoration professionals, we can often salvage items that others might have to discard, and we ensure that any material that does need to be removed from your location is disposed of appropriately.

Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, we are ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact us now to discover more about our Tuscaloosa biohazard restoration services and secure our help. (205) 339-5022.

Why Your Business Needs an Emergency Ready Plan

12/30/2015 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Profile in the palm of your hands.

An estimated 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster, such as fire and flood never reopen.

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has worked with many businesses in the area to ensure they are prepared for any emergency. 

Between 2004 – 2008, 16,360 fires happened in retail stores and other mercantile properties such as grocery stores beauty and barber shops.

Those fires caused $648 million in property damage. Fire damage is worse after normal business hours. Fires that started between 9PM - 5AM caused $75,000 dollars in damage, while fires that started between 5AM - 9AM caused $24,000 dollars in fire damage.

More than 60% of small businesses in the U.S. do not have formal emergency response plans & do not back-up their data off site.

No Plan Means You Are Less Likely to Recover

• 80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business.
• 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.
• 70% of small business that experience major data loss go out of business within a year.
• 43% of companies that experience catastrophic data loss never reopen.
• 51% of companies with data loss closed within 2 years.
• 80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business.
• 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.

Tips for Creating a Successful Emergency Ready Plan

1. Let the professionals help you. Work with an emergency restoration company for assistance in creating your emergency ready profile.
2. Identify and label utility shut-off locations.
3. Identify local utility contact information.
4. Identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts.
5. Establish main internal contacts for purposes of employee safety and emergency work authorization.

The SERVPRO® Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency Ready Profile. Please contact SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa today to setup your FREE Emergency Ready Profile 205.339.5022.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. "Like it never happened," contact us for more information.

Are you Prepared for a Power Outage?

12/21/2015 (Permalink)

Ready Kit

You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days. Depending on the nature of the disaster road conditions may prevent help from arriving in a timely manner. 

Additionally, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cut off for days or even a week, or longer. Your supplies kit should contain items to help you manage during these outages. If the power goes out keep your pipes from freezing by shutting off the valve that allows water to come into your home. Then, open any drain valves and all faucets and let them run until the pipes are empty (it's helpful to identify these valves in advance). Next, flush all toilets and pour denatured alcohol into toilets and sinks to prevent water in the traps from freezing. Do NOT use automotive antifreeze in case there's trouble with your water system; you don't want the antifreeze to contaminate your drinking water. You may, however, use nontoxic antifreeze that's made for winterizing motor homes.

Be prepared for a power outage by keeping necessary items centrally located in your home. Take the time to ensure that everyone in your family is aware of the "kit." Periodically check your kit to see that batteries operate properly. The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:

1.     Flashlights for each family member

2.     Battery-operated radio and clock

3.     Extra batteries

4.     Containers of bottled water

5.     Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants

6.     Non-electric can opener

7.     List of important phone numbers

8.     First-aid kit 

Following a disaster, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.

•Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

•Choose foods your family will eat.

•Remember any special dietary needs.

•Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.

•Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.

•Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener

•Protein or fruit bars

•Dry cereal or granola

•Peanut butter

•Dried fruit

•Nuts

•Crackers

•Canned juices

•Non-perishable pasteurized milk

•High energy foods

•Vitamins

•Food for infants

•Comfort/stress foods

These and many other helpful tips are available at ready.gov Here is the link to winter tips for before during and after a winter storm http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather. When winter weather strikes the greater Tuscaloosa area knowing what to do until SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa arrives will make a difference. Call us directly at 205-339-5022.

Continuing Education

12/17/2015 (Permalink)

Call us today to find out when you can attend one of our CE classes in the greater Tuscaloosa area.

SERVPRO offers both credit and non-credit continuing education courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters and Real Estate professionals. The Continuing Education courses provide the student with information to better service their customers.

Continuing Education Courses (CE) are available nearly every month at locations throughout the greater Tuscaloosa area. These programs are designed to improve the knowledge of your staff regarding emergency mitigation. 

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa and the SERVPRO brand can offer these  CE course classes:

• Fire Damage Restoration

• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry

• Restorative Drying for Water Damage

• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar

• Biohazard Cleanup

Talk to your SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa rep to learn more about the Continuing Education courses that SERVPRO is teaching. Also talk to your rep about when the next class will be offered and to register. You can also call SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa's office to find out when the next course will be offered.

Welcome!

12/17/2015 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team is here to help.

Hello!

We are so excited you are here! Welcome to our SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa blog! We hope you'll find this to be a valuable resource on all things fire damage, water damage, and mold alongside more general emergency preparedness.

In the coming months, we'll be posting not only about the topics above, but also property care tips and tricks for homeowners, local storm news, and we'll even begin to introduce you to some members of our staff and crew.

We can't wait to get to know you better and for you to get an inside look at what makes this place tick - our professional drive to be the best in the business, our heart to provide excellent customer service and take care of you in the moments you need it most, and our desire to create excellence in all that we do.

Thanks for stopping by and we can't wait to see you back here soon. 

And with that, from our SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas! 

For Immediate Service, Call SERVPRO in Tuscaloosa, AL

12/15/2015 (Permalink)

Tuscaloosa Residents: We provide fast service day or night!

SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Tuscaloosa, AL. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (205) 339-5022

Residential Services

Whether your Tuscaloosa home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Tuscaloosa commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services arises, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

Flooded Basement Specialists

12/15/2015 (Permalink)

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Tuscaloosa basement could flood, including:

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe


• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home


• Storm sewer backup


• Sanitary sewer backup


• Foundation drainage failure


• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure


• And many more

If you have any questions or need help, call us at 205-339-5022.

We always respond to your call within 1 hour, begin the water extraction process within 4 hours, and notify the adjuster no later than 8 hours from the time of your loss. If the water damage is not handled quickly and properly it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure, not to mention the potential harmful health effect of mold. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

We are flooded basement specialists:

• We are available 24 hours/7 days per week


• We’re a preferred vendor to many national insurance companies


• We bill the insurance directly – one less thing for you to worry about


•  We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards


• We only use advanced inspection and extraction equipment

Basement flooded? Call us today –

We are here to help! 205.339.5022

Our Pricing vs Insurance Pricing

2/11/2015 (Permalink)

When providing estimates - people often want to know how we come-up with the price for the restoration services we provide.  We utilize Xactware to determine our pricing for the restoration services we provide. Xactware is an independent, third-party company that researches and reports on industry pricing. Currently, 21 of the top 25 property insurance companies in the U.S. and 10 of the top 10 Canadian insurers use Xactware property insurance claims tools

Xactware uses pricing information from general contractors, subcontractors, insurance carriers, insurance adjusters, and a host of other industry professionals as we research and report on the average market price for each price-list item. Xactware goes to great lengths to ensure that no one party or industry segment has any undue influence on the pricing data that we research and report on.

In order to provide the most accurate and defensible pricing information available, Xactware takes a unique, scientific approach to researching and reporting on market pricing for the insurance repair industry. This approach is based on a proven five-phased, iterative process.

• Phase 1: Conduct market pricing research.
• Xactware currently researches and analyzes millions of market price points each year from multiple, third-party sources. These include:
• Thousands of in-field estimates that are submitted to Xactware every day (i.e. estimates actually used to settle claims)
• Market surveys of industry professionals
• Retail pricing research
• Unit-price research based on surveys with over 100,000 contractors, insurance carriers, and independent adjusters
• Pricing feedback from in-field users
• Independent pricing verification requests
• Customer-specific cost data
• Catastrophe-specific pricing research
• Additional research surveys
• Multiple third-party sources for data such as worker’s comp, federal taxes, state taxes, local taxes, and so on
• Many other research initiatives
• Phase 2: Review and verify all the market research gathered; conduct data integrity checks.
• Phase 3: Analyze all the pricing research and perform a proprietary cluster analysis on various subsets of that research to identify the mid-range market price points. This proprietary process was designed by Brigham Young University Ph.D.’s and is monitored by an econometrician. (An econometrician holds a master’s degree in statistics and a doctorate in economics.)
• Phase 4: Report on and publish market pricing research results.
• Phase 5: Evaluate and refine our pricing research and reporting methodology.

For example, the building cost data used in Xactware’s products comes from:

• Time and materials costs
• Over 40,000 providers of materials, equipment and labor
• Over 84,000 surveys each year*
• Analysis of actual damage repair estimates (transaction-based research)
• Over 3 million estimates each year*
• Over 6 million data points each month*
• Direct surveys of construction market costs
• New construction/remodeling
• General contracts and sub-contractors
• Approximately 2,000 surveys each month*

For more details - visit http://www.xactware.com/en-us/resources/pricing-data-services/methodology/