Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts
Mold Defense
8/22/2023 (Permalink)
Defending against mold growth can feel like such a major feat to take on, but have no fear, your local mold specialists are on the case! However, just because we are on hand to help whenever mold should occur, we think you should be prepared to prevent mold on your own. Use these following tips to amp up your mold defense:
- Keep the humidity in your home or business between 30-60%
- Make sure your property has property drainage to keep water away from your building's foundation
- Regularly inspect your plumbing and other appliances for any leaks. Water left to sit is mold's favorite food!
- Keep your gutters and drains clear and free of any debris
- Inspect your roofs, windows, and any other potential entryways for water. Perform maintenance ASAP when necessary
- Immediately deal with water intrusions in your home
- Never try DIY mold removal!
- If your home experiences water damage, call SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor for immediate assistance, as improper mitigation of water damage can lead to secondary damages such as mold
Dealing with any damage to your home or business can feel so daunting, but that is what SERVPRO of BIH is here for. Other mold cleaning services might not take the time to educate you and answer any questions you might have, but we know how important it is to make sure you understand the process your home is undergoing in such stressful times. We're the number one name in the disaster mitigation industry and we're here to help!
Taking Care of your Sump Pump
4/4/2022 (Permalink)
Most sump pumps are equipped with water level or flood alarms, usually battery powered, that alert you if the pump isn't working properly and water is backing up. More sophisticated systems can notify your alarm company or call your cell phone if the water starts to rise. Fortunately, this shouldn't happen often! Sump pumps on the whole are quite reliable. But as with any other important piece of equipment, regular maintenance is always a good idea. Spend a few minutes every few months, when heavy rains are forecast and in early spring to ensure reliable sump pump operation. Basic sump pump maintenance is usually as simple as doing these few jobs.
Make sure the pump is plugged in to a working ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet and the cord is in good shape. In damp areas, GFCI breakers may trip, effectively shutting off the sump pump. Check in on your sump pump periodically so you can reset the GFCI if necessary.
Ensure the pump itself is standing upright. Vibrations during operation can cause it to fall or tilt onto one side. This can jam the float arm so it won’t be able to activate the pump.
Periodically dump a bucket of water into the pit to make sure the pump starts automatically and the water drains quickly once the pump is on. If the pump doesn't start, have it serviced.
Physically remove a submersible pump from the pit and clean the grate on the bottom. The sucking action of the pump can pull small stones into the grate, blocking the inlet or damaging the pump over time.
Ensure the outlet pipes are tightly joined together and draining out at least 20 feet (6 meters) away from your foundation.
Make sure the vent hole in the discharge pipe is clear.
Duct Cleaning
4/4/2022 (Permalink)
In addition to normal accumulations of dust and dirt found in all homes with air ducts, there are several other factors that can increase the need for regular HVAC system cleaning:
- occupants with allergies or asthma
- cigarette or cigar smoke
- water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system
- home renovation or remodeling projects
- Some occupants are more sensitive to these contaminants than others. Allergy and asthma sufferers, as well as young children and the elderly tend to be more susceptible to the types of poor indoor air quality that air duct cleaning can help address.
Indoor air quality is one concern that homeowners have when they decide to investigate air duct cleaning. Your heating and cooling system is the lungs of your home. The system takes air in and breathes air out. Through normal occupation in a home, we generate a great deal of contaminants and air pollutants, such as dander, dust, and chemicals. These contaminants are pulled into the HVAC system and re-circulated 5 to 7 times per day, on average. Over time, this re-circulation causes a build-up of contaminants in the duct work. While dirty ducts don’t necessarily mean unhealthy air in your home, school or workplace, they may be contributing to larger health issues or harboring contaminants that could cause serious problems for people with respiratory health conditions, autoimmune disorders or some environmental allergies.
SERVPRO ERP
4/4/2022 (Permalink)
Most people don’t plan for a disaster, but you can always be ready for it. Did you know 50% of businesses never recover following a disaster? Preparation is very important to making it through any size disaster whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is down and get you back in the building following a disaster.
Advantages of the SERVPRO emergency Ready Profile
A no cost assessment of your facility
A concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information
This App is of no cost to you. It is a complimentary service that SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor will provide to you. We hope that you use us in the event of a disaster, but in the end that choice will always be yours!
Cleaning Anything and Everything!
4/4/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor 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 Baltimore's Inner Harbor - (410) 637-3433.
Why You Should get your Carpets Cleaned
4/4/2022 (Permalink)
Top ten reasons why you should get your carpets cleaned:
- Prolongs the life of carpeting. Regular carpet cleaning using the extraction method can increase the life of carpets significantly, protecting your floor-covering investment.
- Protects indoor air quality. Carpets trap airborne pollutants; however, eventually those pollutants must be removed in order to protect the carpet and maintain indoor air quality.
- Makes carpets easier to maintain. Most carpet soiling is made up of dry soils; when carpets are kept thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis, most dry soils can be removed with regular vacuuming.
- Removes spots and stains. As with other soils, spots and stains can attract more soiling. Removing them promptly protects carpeting from damage.
- Prevents buildup of allergens and bacteria. Moist soiling of carpets can result in the buildup of several unhealthy contaminants.
- Enhances the appearance of any room. Clean, well-maintained carpets speak volumes about the overall cleanliness of a home or facility.
- Improves worker morale. Workers feel better about their work environment when it is clean. This includes the carpeting.
- Makes carpeting look and feel clean and fresh.
- Removes dust mites and bedbugs that may have found a home in carpets.
- Maintains the carpet’s warranty. Most carpet warranties require that carpets be cleaned using the extraction method within a specific amount of time, usually every 12 to 18 months.
What Exactly is Mold?
4/4/2022 (Permalink)
So, what exactly is mold? Mold is a natural part of the environment and can be found almost anywhere that moisture and oxygen are present. They belong to the kingdom Fungi and live in moist places such as soil, plants, and dead or decaying matter. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves, dead trees and other debris; however, indoors mold growth is dangerous and should be avoided.
The spores are like seeds, but invisible to the naked eye, that float through the air and deposit on surfaces. When the temperature, moisture, and available nutrient conditions are correct, the spores can form into new mold colonies where they are deposited. There are many types of mold, but all require moisture and a food source for growth. If you see mold growing in your home be sure to call SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor for an estimate, we're always here to help!
Need for Speed!
4/5/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor will arrive at your home or business quickly with teams trained and equipped to help others regain control of their lives!
Naturally, people become distressed when they experience a loss. One of the most common fears a person can have is the loss of control. Our quick response teams can help ease that fear.
Within 4 hours is the guideline to be on site. Depending on the distance of the disaster location, SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is more than likely going to be there sooner than that to help. Within 8 business hours of the on-site arrival, a briefing of the scope will be communicated to the adjuster. Here at SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor, we're always exceeding expectations.
SERVPRO works directly with the insured's adjuster to make the process of the claim easier for all parties involved. We're here to help with the whole process, form start to finish.
Let SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor be there to help you get your life under control if a loss occurs in your home or business. (410) 637-3433
Opening Now
4/5/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is dedicated to getting your business back up and running as quickly as possible and lays out a detailed plan of how we will get you there.
We will work when you need us to, to keep business interruption at a minimal.
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor works for your company and works with commercial structures all the time. We know every business is unique and work with you for the best outcomes in the most timely matter. SERVPRO always has your best interest in mind. We will keep your updated daily throughout the process.
You can rest assured knowing our staff is awaiting your call and is happy to help you. (410) 637-3433 SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is always Ready for Whatever Happens.
- Small Office Buildings
- Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
- Apartment Buildings
- Restaurants
- Hotel/Motels
- Small Retail Stores
- Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
- High-Rise Residential
- Manufacturing & Industrial
- Government/Military
Protect Yourself with the SERVPRO ERP
4/5/2021 (Permalink)
It's never a bad time to get your things organized and protected. Every day is a good day to plan ahead for the not-so-good things, fire damage, water damage, storm damage, etc.
Make sure you always have your building or business protected. Call SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor to lean more about our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) that will help ensure your facility is ready for whatever happens at any given moment.
There are so many advantages of the SERVPRO ERP, here are a few:
- No-cost assessment of your facility
- A concise profile document containing on the most critical information needed about your business and building structure in the event of an emergency.
- Provides facility details, such as shutoff valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
- Accessible electrical
- Establishes SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor as your franchise professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
SERVPRO of Howard County is here to help get you prepared. Call us at (410) 637-3433.
Whose got the Mop?
4/2/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is ready when one thing leads to another.
The situation might look like this: You had a water loss and did not discover it for a few days. You might just call a team in that does water extraction. Only when they do the extraction, you notice there is not mold. They might have the certification to remove mold. Then you call someone that does mold remediation but they have to demo the area. Well of course now you need a company to do the rebuild from that demo. I think you're getting the idea how one thing can lead to another.
Here's the good thing. If SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor was called we could have help with all aspects of the loss. No need for other companies. We have the teams that can do the work and take care of anything that is discoed along the way.
We can do all those things mentioned as well as many other. We even do pack outs and storage for clients.
Call SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor (410) 637-3433 and know that we can be there for you no matter what happens and if one thing leads to another.
What Other Choice is There?
4/2/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO has been around since 1967. Wow, right? That's 54 whole years of operation!
We all know those companies that come and go. They get a truck and put their name on the side and seem like a reliable enough company. Just because they have a name and a truck doesn't mean they have the background and expertise you want working on your home or business.
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is proud to be one of over 1,700 SERVPRO franchises Nationwide. SERVPRO has won more awards than we can even begin to list in this blog post, but please feel free to go to the company website and check it out.
SERVPRO has the trust of all the top Insurance Companies and is a trusted name all across the nation. We can help with your claim to make your situation as seamless as possible.
The real question should be "Why NOT use SERVPRO?" We're confident it won't be easy to add a reason to that list!
Caring About the Products we Use
4/2/2021 (Permalink)
We all know somebody who is affected by allergies, whether seasonal or something living in our home. Because of this, many of us are always searching to find ways to clean our homes naturally.
What happens though when we really have to disinfect, battle mold, or water damage, etc. We don't want to have to choose from using the right chemical to do the job and the safe chemical for our immune systems.
SERVPRO is so aware of the sensitivity of our clients and want to do our best with using chemicals that won't hurt or leave long lasting affects on our environment.
Benefect is the world's first government-registered hospital disinfectant using essential oils from plants.
This technology is used to kill germs without having any health impact on pets or humans.
This products is essential in our process at SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Please contact us with any questions about this product or any that we use.
Why SERVPRO?
4/8/2020 (Permalink)
When your looking for a mitigation company you ask yourself so many questions when choosing a company. The problem is that when an emergency comes up we don't have time to interview companies.
Good thing is that SERVPRO can be all of what you need. Just look to our website for any information you need. Just knowing our name is top in the industry might be all you need.
Most people want a professional team. We know that there are people who can show up in a van and tell you they can help you, but can they back it up with over 50 years of industry know-how? Do they have certifications to make sure the job is done right? SERVPRO even has warranties and all our crews are trained and background checked. You can rest easy knowing that we are The Professionals. SERVPRO works will all the top insurance agencies. We will work with your adjusters to make sure your are taken care of.
SERVPRO has been around since 1967. As most people can tell you, longevity most often means stability.
You want a company that sets the standards and continues to learn the best practices. When you stop learning, your business will whither away and die. SERVPRO isn't going anywhere and won't stop learning the newest techniques.
With over 1700 franchies, there is always someone to help your hometown. SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is proud to be here to help.
24/7/365 . Just call 410-637-3433
Getting your business back in action.
4/8/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is dedicated to getting your business back up and running as quickly as possible and lays out a detailed plan of how we will get you there.
We will work when you need us to, to keep business interruption at a minimal.
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor works for your company and works with commercial structures all the time. We know every business is uniques and work with you for the best outcomes in the most timely matter. SERVPRO always has your best interest in mind. We will keep your updated daily throughout the process.
You can rest assured knowing our staff is awaiting your call and is happy to help you. 410-637-3433 SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is always Ready for Whatever Happens.
- Small Office Buildings
- Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
- Apartment Buildings
- Restaurants
- Hotel/Motels
- Small Retail Stores
- Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
- High-Rise Residential
- Manufacturing & Industrial
- Government/Military
We must be proactive.
4/7/2020 (Permalink)
As we have seen the possibilty becoming a reality. You can lean on on us at SERVPRO, even more. Our message of "We are here to help" has never been more true.
SERVPRO is helping to contain this new pandemic and mitigate the impact on our neighbors.
One of the widely known and one of the hardest hit facilities is in Kirkland, Washington. The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team has been on site to control the situation. https://bit.ly/3aQh04K
It is important to note that the cleaning methods need to be more sophisticated and effective with this level of Bioremediation than just wiping hard surfaces with disinfectant. Health comes first and with the use of PPE and protective masks, our teams adhere to OSHA and CDC guidelines.
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor will use the fogging methods to more deeply disinfect. SERVPROxide, the hospital-grade disinfectant, is released from the fogger, and its particles adhere strongly to surfaces and objects. The procedure must ensure that all surfaces including walls, doors, floors, and ceilings are uniformly coated. Instead, we follow our initial fogging with a wiping of all surfaces followed by a further fogging round. It is an extreme and comprehensive disinfection process, which should be the norm when dealing with this magnitude of a virus hazard.
Our team is ready to assist with preventive or post-contamination.
In describing "Proactive," we would say that means as cleaning when no person is suspected of being exposed to COVID-19. It would be a smaller area of study since no verified case has been identified.
If there was exposure to anyone suspected of either testing positively for COVID-19 or being subjected to someone displaying symptoms in your facility, we call this "post-contamination" cleaning. In this situation, the scope of work and the required safety measures will increase.
Call SERVPR of Baltimore's Inner Harbor with any questions. 410-637-3433
Call us when you need more than a bucket and a mop :)
4/7/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is ready when one thing leads to another.
The situation might look like this: You had a water loss and did not discover it for a few days. You might just call a team in that does water extraction. Only when they do the extraction, you notice there is not mold. They might have the certification to remove mold. Then you call someone that does mold remediation but they have to demo the area. Well of course now you need a company to do the rebuild from that demo. I think you're getting the idea how one thing can lead to another.
Here's the good thing. If SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor was called we could have help with all aspects of the loss. No need for other companies. We have the teams that can do the work and take care of anything that is discoed along the way.
We can do all those things mentioned as well as many other. We even do pack outs and storage for clients.
Call SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor 410-6373433 and know that we can be there for you no matter what happens and if one thing leads to another.
Mitigation requires quick action.
4/7/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor will arrive to your home or business quickly, trained and equipped to help people regain control of their lives.
Naturally people become distressed when they experience a loss. One of the most common fear is the loss of control. Our quick response can help ease this fear.
SERVPRO's guideline is to respond to the insured to arrange service within an hour. SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is always exceeding that guideline of an hour. Call directly to our office. 410-637-3433 and speak to a live person.
Within 4 hours is the guideline to be on site. Again depending on location SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is more than likely going to be there sooner than that to help.
Within 8 business hours of on-site arrival, a verback briefing of the scope will be communicated to the adjuster.
SERVPRO works direcly with the insured's adjuster and make the process of the claim work easy on the assured. SERVPRO can help with the whole process.
Let SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor be there to help you get your life under control if a loss occurs with you.
SERVPRO of Howard County 410-637-3433
You always, always need the right equipment.
4/7/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor knows that using the proper equipment makes a difference. When time matters and it does when reducing claim loss expense, you can count on us to have the right technology and equipment to get the job done.
For example, one of the most common losses is a water loss. Here is some information on the drying process.
Psychrometrics is the study of the air and its properties. The properties of temperature, humidity and vapor pressure. Dew points are measured to evaluate air conditions in the structure. These measurements allow for SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor to create the proper stmosphere for the most effective drying.
There is a science to drying everything properly.
The detection equipment used is always the most current in the industry.
Moisture Sensors, Moisture Meters, Thermo-hygrometers, Infrared Cameras, and Manometers are some the detection equipment.
Estraction Equipment, Air Moving Equipment, Dehumdification Equipment, Deodorization Equipment are all used in the drying process.
When it comes to drying we take it seriously.
Call SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor. We are here to help. 410-637-3433
Because we care about the chemicals we use.
4/2/2019 (Permalink)
I feel like we all know so many more people who are affected by allergies, if not ourselves. With that being said, most of us are always searching to figure out how to clean our homes naturally.
What happens though when we really have to disinfect, battle mold, or water damage, etc. We don't want to have to choose from using the right chemical to do the job and the safe chemical for our immune systems.
SERVPRO is so aware of the sensitivity of our clients and want to do our best with using chemicals that won't hurt or leave long lasting affects on our environment.
Benefect is the world's first government-registered hospital disinfectant using essential oils from plants.
This technology is used to kill germs without having any health impact on pets or humans.
This products is essential in our process at SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Please contact us with any questions about this product or any that we use.
One thing can lead to another.
4/2/2019 (Permalink)
Roof leaks happen all the time . Most of the time home owners get the roof leak repaired and think that everything will then dry out and be fine.
This usually isn't the case. You really need to have SERVPRO come out and read the moisture levels with state of the art equipment. If left unchecked many times moisture will cause mold to grow on the insulation and walls. This was the case with the picture your seeing. The owners had their roof leak repaired 3 weeks prior and then as time went by they saw mold growing. By the time it can be seen on the ceiling it may have been spreading and growing for weeks.
You want piece of mind that you are living in a safe environment.
Give SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor call 410-637-3433. We can give you that piece of mind that everything is okay or we can mitigate and get you back to breathing easy.
Why use SERVPRO?
4/2/2019 (Permalink)
This is a tough one to answer but not because we aren't the best; it's just that the reasons are many.
But to name a few; here you go.
Things don't always happen between 9 to 5 . You are going to want to call and be heard by a real person. SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is open 27/7/365 days a year. We have a state of the art answering service so that someone can talk to you direct and then get you to the right person to help get this problem on the way to being solved.
All crew members receive the best training in the industry via IICRC. ( Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification).
Restore vs Replace Philosophy
The drying and cleaning method allows us to save a lot more than replace. The benefits are cost effective, time saving and it helps to give the customer piece of mind.
To hear even more reasons just give SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor a call and we can answer any of your questions.
Believe it or not broken pipes don't take a vacation in the summer and neither does SERVPRO
4/2/2019 (Permalink)
Many people think they don't have to worry about broken pipes in the summer but that really isn't the case. Before leaving for that vacation you might want to turn off your water and drain the pipes just like you would in the winter.
There are many reasons for a broken pipe in the summer. Here are a few:
Invasive tree roots.(check out the picture)
Extended wet/dry spells ( this can make the ground shift and the extra pressure of this movement can cause problems with buried pipes).
Rust in Metal Pipes.
Wear and old age.
Hard Water.
Clogs.
Substandard repairs.
When a pipe burst; if you can, turn off the water supply at the main cut off valve when a pipe breaks.
Drain the water by running cold water in the sink and flushing the toilets.
Of course call SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor 410 637 3433 to help get your property dried out.
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is there for you year round.
Because we are more than a pretty truck.
4/2/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO has been around since 1967. Wow, right?!
We all know those companies that come and go. They get a truck and put their name on the side and you think they must be good . Just because they have a name and a truck doesn't mean they have the background and expertise you want working on your home.
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is proud to be one of 1700 franchises Nationwide. Did I mention that SERVPRO has won numerous awards? Too many to list here but feel free to go to the company website and check it out.
SERVPRO has the trust of all the top Insurance Companies. SERVPRO can help with your claim to make your situation as seamless as possible.
I think the question should be "Why Not" use SERVPRO. I'm sure it will be hard to add a reason to that list.
Keep Learning, Keep Growing.
4/2/2019 (Permalink)
"The best advice I ever got was that knowledge is power"...( David Bailey)
It always makes sense to be a lifetime learner. SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor couldn't agree more.
Our crews are always learning. Learning new equipment, new techniques etc. Our crew members have to always keep their credentials up to date every year and have to keep adding to their expertise.
SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is so proud of the men and women that are called in to help people on some of their worst days. We are able to keep them informed ever step of the way. Our crews are able to help them understand the methods they are using, the chemicals they are using and why. The more they know the more "super" powers they have ;). Next time you see one of our crew members don't be afraid to ask them about their credentials etc.
We are here to help.
24/7 Emergency Service
