Remedy Sprinkler Water Damage from Commercial Business Fire

2/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Remedies Sprinkler Water Damage from Commercial Business Fires

A fire in a commercial business is devastating. Not only is the structural integrity of your building potentially compromised, but employees are out of work and your customers are not being served. 

And when you add additional damages from the sprinkler systems kicking on, the fire and water commercial damages compound quickly. A lot of companies cannot afford to close for a day, and SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando understands this.

That is why we offer 24/7 commercial damage services to get commercial businesses back on their feet in as little time as possible.

What happens if a fire activates the sprinkler system?

If a fire burns through a building and activates the sprinkler system, there is now both fire and water damage. This is often the case with fires since flames are smothered with water—and that water can be just as damaging or more damaging than the fire. 

We are a one-stop-shop.

Since SERVPRO has the knowledge, equipment, and staff to treat fire and water damages simultaneously, our commercial services reduce the cost that businesses pay because they don't need to look for multiple companies to take care of the different types of damages. SERVPRO even acts as a liaison between insurance companies and clients which makes working with us that much easier.

Unfortunately, disasters are not preventable, but companies like SERVPRO are there to make fire and water disasters “Like it never even happened,” with residential and commercial services. For questions regarding SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando commercial services, contact us at (407) 698-5155.

The Importance of Fast Water Cleanup

2/13/2022 (Permalink)

For fast water cleanup at your commercial business, call a professional in the restoration industry like SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando.

How Fast Should Water Damage be Cleaned Up?

You depend on your business to keep money flowing in, and you rely on the building where location keeps business going. However, when a pipe or supply line springs a leak, it throws a kink in your week. The time it takes for you to arrange pipe burst cleanup can make the difference between a simple and fast water cleanup or extensive and expensive water damage.

The First Few Minutes

Water damage begins with a variety of events, including:

• Pipe break
• Supply line leak
• Toilet overflow
• Adverse weather
• Foundation crack

If all you need is pipe burst cleanup or supply line repair, the first few minutes of water cleanup are crucial. If possible, turn off the source of water as quickly as possible.

The First Few Hours

The longer water sits, the more potential havoc it wreaks. Once exposed to humidity, walls can start to disintegrate, and items made of pressed wood—which often includes cheap flooring—can swell and warp. Water from burst pipes and supply lines can also damage furniture and other supplies in your workplace. 

The First Few Days

Damage that is not mitigated quickly will also become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria growth. Prolonged damage can interrupt your business’s daily operations, possibly harming your bottom line. To limit the extent of water damage to your business, call a professional in the restoration industry like SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando. SERVPRO’s highly trained professionals are equipped with knowledge, experience and all tools capable to restore your business to its preloss condition. We know the disruption that results from supply line leaks, overflowing toilets, adverse weather, foundation cracks, pipe breaks and other catastrophes. By calling our emergency team, available 24 hours per day, you may be able to turn a potentially massive setback into an easy and fast fix. For additional information regarding commercial restoration, call us at (407) 698-5155.

Emergency READY Profile: How to Prepare Your Business for a Disaster

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

For additional information regarding SERVPRO's Emergency READY Profile (ERP), visit http://ready.SERVPRO.com or call SERVPRO Northwest Orlando.

Download SERVPRO's ERP app today at https://ready.SERVPRO.com/Home/MobileApp.

Being a property manager or landlord isn't a 9 to 5 job. Mishaps don't care if you're on vacation or out of the office. Problems can arise 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Be prepared before disaster strikes. Deal with unforeseen circumstances by implementing our Emergency READY Profile (ERP), as many as 50% of businesses have to shut down after a disaster.

Being Prepared is FREE

Your company's ERP profile is FREE and can help you in the event of a disaster. We simply take down a few basic pieces of contact information and we are at your door in case of an emergency.

What Does an Emergency Ready Profile Look Like?

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
  This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
   
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
   
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
   
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
   
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
   
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
  Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Businesses that survive a disaster had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. ERP helps your business have a plan in place and helps keep you and your staff members informed on handling fire and water damage.

For additional information regarding SERVPRO's Emergency READY Profile (ERP), visit http://ready.SERVPRO.com or call SERVPRO Northwest Orlando at (407) 698-5155.

4 Easy Tips to Prevent Water Damage

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

We’re ready 24/7 – including holidays to help your commercial business recover from sprinkler water damages. Call us: (407) 698-5155.

Water damage is one of the most costly disasters your home or business can experience. The Insurance Information Institute estimates that billions are spent on water damage each year. View these suggestions from SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando for preventing water damage. 

Be careful where you plant.

Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.

Clean out roof gutters.

On a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some severe water damage So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. If your gutters are too high, be safe, and get a professional to check them.

Use a drain snake instead of unclogging chemicals.

Most folks don’t realize these chemicals are eating away at their pipes (and they might not be too good for you either). If you rely on them a lot, you could be setting yourself up for leaks. That’s why owning a drain snake is an excellent solution to clear away clogs. They’re pretty inexpensive, you can get them at your local hardware store, and they can cut through most any clog you’ll have without damaging pipes or making your eyes red and teary.

Never pour grease down your sink.

It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water; grease can still cling to your pipes and could even cause some severe damage and blockage. The safest thing to do is pour your grease into an empty can and either let it sit or put it in the refrigerator. Once it hardens, you can toss it in the trash and get rid of it. Done and done. However, we know that water and flooding emergencies can happen any time, so we’re ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – including holidays. Contact us at (407) 698-5155.

10 Things to Know About Mold

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

We received a call to inspect a newly purchased old restaurant, bought with the purpose to give it new life. The inspection eventually led to an extensive commercial mold job for SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando. Upon entering this abandoned space, it became clear immediately this was a mold remediation job for the experts! With mold covering the walls, the bar area, baseboards, and crown "molding” (pun intended), our crew had to suit up with PPE, including respirators and Tyvek suits, to ensure protection!

All items with mold exposure were removed. When the demo was completed, industrial hygienists came in to ensure that the commercial property was good to go! Mold remediation in a commercial property is a tedious, yet rewarding, job. We get to see a building brought back to life!

What else should I know about mold?

1. Mold exposures may include health effects.
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate moisture sources.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth.
6. Clean and dry any damp building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. You should clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent and dry thoroughly. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles that are moldy may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. Some molds can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

Make Sure Your Northwest Orlando Commercial Property Has the Right Insurance

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Fires are devastating to small businesses in Northwest Orlando, Florida, because they cause extensive damage to equipment and property, and disrupt daily operations, leading to heavy financial losses. Fortunately, fire insurance policies are available, offering financial benefits like:

• Coverage for physical damages
• Replacement or repair of office fixtures
• Protection against lost business income
• Compensation for costs of doing business in a temporary location

In some situations, this type of policy covers lost data, the interruption of digital operations, and other computer-related business dealings. Ask your insurance provider for specific information. 

Identify and Reduce Fire Risks 

If you own the property or building where your business operates, you may work closely with your insurance company or a fire restoration professional to identify the most common risks and take steps to protect your premises. Even if you don't own the building, you can look for problem spots such as overloaded power strips and extension cords, stacks of flammable materials near heat sources, aging appliances, and indoor smoking areas. You may be eligible for fire insurance that covers your business contents.

Look Outside of Your Business Walls

Fires are generally unexpected and very destructive. In fact, many businesses did have appropriate preventative measures in place before suffering damage. Fires aren't always the result of something that occurs within the workplace.

Sometimes, the emergency is caused by the activities of neighboring businesses, extreme weather, rioting, or vandalism. You may require coverage for the costs of smoke cleanup even if flames never reach your building. 

Understand Your Coverage Needs

As you consider your business needs and discuss coverage options with your insurance provider, be realistic about your needs. Too many business owners purchase minimum coverage and then don't have the necessary funding for complete fire restoration services. Ask your insurance representative about replacement cost versus cash value terms and eligibility requirements. Make sure you have enough coverage to get you through the entire restoration process. 

Small businesses may be particularly susceptible to damages, but the right fire insurance coverage offers important protection. Make sure your business has the coverage it needs before you need it. 

Common Water Issues For Business

2/17/2021 (Permalink)

For a commercial property owner in Tampa, unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, water damage professionals can help you assess, clean, and repair damages from any flooding or leaks you may have. Here are a few of the most common water problems a business may face, from leaking pipes to foundation cracks.

1. Pipe Breaks

A pipe break can occur in several ways. Over time, the pipe can age and loosen in its fittings, or extensive use can lead to pinhole leaks. Extreme heat or cold can affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and burst.

2. Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. Water in blocked pipes can take the shortest path regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages occur, including the buildup of water minerals over time inside a pipe or someone pouring a solidifying material, such as plaster or grease, down a drain.

3. Weather

Extreme weather conditions can lead to leaking pipes. Cold temperatures can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand. The expansion puts pressure on the pipe and can create a crack or cause it to burst. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional what preventive measures to take.

4. Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to issues such as mold. Any cracks should be assessed quickly to determine the best course of action.

Water damage can happen to a commercial property. Fortunately, a professional can fix the damage caused by leaking pipes, foundation cracks, backed up toilet, or weather, and help you repair your property.

Is Your Small Business Ready for Whatever Happens?

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Does Your Business Have a Plan When a Disaster Strikes? 

Preparedness for an emergency is an essential part of a business operation plan because when business slows, it can cause loss of revenue and additional unforeseen expenses. Among many disasters, many businesses have a hard time recovering from the loss of income.

According to the Red Cross, 40 percent of small businesses suffer so greatly after a disaster that they shut down and never reopen. SERVPRO offers an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) free of charge to local businesses in the Florida area. SERVPRO ERPs offer several advantages to your business, including:

• A concise profile document of your business.
• This contains the critical information needed in an emergency & saves time and money if ever needed.
• It only takes a little time to complete and doesn’t interfere with your business’s current projects.
• It describes your facility’s details (i.e., shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and vital contact information).
• It provides a comprehensive guide to getting you back into your building ASAP following a disaster.
• This minimizes the amount of time your business is inactive since you’ll have an immediate plan of action.
• It provides an established relationship with SERVPRO as your damage mitigation and restoration provider.
• We’re close by, ready to respond, and available 24/7.
• Identification of chain of command for work authorization within your company.
• This expedites the process of beginning damage mitigation and restoration for your company, reducing downtime and costs.

SERVPRO ERPs allow your business to have a quick reference of what to do when an emergency happens and how to do it. Be assured that you’ve got a professional industry leader right nearby who’s “Ready for whatever happens.”

Water Damage and Importance of Timely Water Mitigation

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Have water damage? Contact SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando today!

You depend on your business to keep money flowing in, and you rely on the building where location keeps business going. However, when a pipe or supply line springs a leak, it can throw a kink into your week. The time it takes for you to arrange pipe burst cleanup can make the difference between a simple cleanup or extensive water damage.

The First Few Minutes

A variety of events can cause water damage:

• Pipes breaking

• Supply line leaking

• Toilet overflowing

• Adverse weather flooding

• Foundation cracking

If all you need is pipe burst cleanup or supply line repair, the first few minutes of water cleanup are crucial. Turning off the source stops water from making the problem worse.

The First Few Hours

The longer water sits, the potential havoc it wreaks. Walls can start to disintegrate, and pressed wood items can swell and warp if exposed to humidity. Water from burst pipes and supply lines can still damage the furniture, floors, and supplies in your workplace. Call SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando (407) 698-5155.

The First Few Days

Water damage that persists can interrupt your business, harming you bottom line. It can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria growth.

To limit the extent of water damage to your business, SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando needs to begin pipe burst cleanup as soon as possible. By acting quickly, you may be able to turn a potentially massive setback into an easy fix. For additional information regarding commercial restoration, call (407) 698-5155.