Worried About Odor In Your Home From Water Damage?

5/7/2022 (Permalink)

Flood damage hits homes hard in various ways. Through flash floods, microburst storms, and hydrostatic pressure all bring water into the house. When storm damage happens, it must be removed as fast as possible to avoid permanent damage, mold and foul odors.

Groundwater may contain contaminants, and before coming into contact with it during flood damage cleanup in Calumet City- Lansing properties, SERVPRO technicians test the water to determine what they are dealing with so they choose the best methods for mitigation.

Why SERVPRO?

When a severe water loss occurs in your home, it is crucial to utilize a professional restoration service with local, certified technicians. SERVPRO team members are residents of the local community, and they work hard using their extensive training and state-of-the-art equipment to assist our friends and neighbors in limiting loss from floodwater. 

Complete Drying Limits Odor

Controlled demolition is a standard action during cleanup of flood damage. This type of building materials removal is exacting and only takes out the damage and leaves sheetrock and flooring unaffected by water loss. The removal of buckled and warped sheetrock allows for more airflow during drying, which not only inhibits mold growth but also diminishes odors in the home.  

Musty Odors May Indicate Mold

Because it requires warmth over 70F-degrees and high humidity levels to flourish, mold also has a tell-tale musty odor that gives away its presence. Technicians monitor water loss areas during and after the drying process to ensure that the air quality is well below sustainable levels for mold. Areas where they find mold growing are abated and treated with antimicrobial sealants to inhibit any return. 

Removal of Residual Water Odors

After flooding in a home and complete drying, sometimes there are residual odors left behind. When antibacterial solutions do not eliminate it, SERVPRO technicians have a diverse array of odor neutralizing applications to use until they eradicate the scent from the property.

You do not have to live with continual reminders of the flood damage to your home. Contact SERVPRO of Calumet City- Lansing at 708-627-0077 and our team of certified professionals can make the water loss and odor in your home "Like it never even happened."

Environmentally Friendly Products Used By SERVPRO

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO wants you to know that we are doing our part to help our Planet.  That is why we want you to know about our Green Cleaning Products.

SERVPRO® Industries, Inc. is a member of the EPA’s Design for Environment (EPA/DFE) initiative. As a member company, SERVPRO® can access the listing known formally as Clean Gredients. The EPA/DFE has established a set of criteria for formulating environmentally friendly cleaning products. With the assistance of larger chemical companies the EPA/DFE has put together a listing of safe cleaning components that can be used in Green cleaning formulations. From the listing a formulation can be derived that incorporates “green” chemistry. The initiative is designed to allow chemical formulators a resource to formulate environmentally friendly cleaning products using environmentally friendly raw materials.

So, next time you see our Green Vehicles, you'll know we are doing our part to sustain our Environment

Your Home Is Your Biggest Investment - When Emergencies Happen, SERVPRO Is Ready!

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

One of the most considerable investments that an individual makes in their lifetime is their home. Caring for your Calumet City/Lansing property can sometimes feel easier said than done. Whether you have protected original construction materials like wood flooring to these options getting installed along with some aesthetic and functional upgrades to the home, water loss incidents, and other damaging emergencies can threaten the strength and integrity of these materials. As a premier restoration company in the area, we want to show our potential customers some of the approaches we take to protect their investments like flooring amid a crisis. 

While those with water and moisture resistant flooring homes have had more success avoiding substantial Calumet City/Lansing  from penetrative dampness and saturation, not all homes have these options installed. Natural hardwood has multiple layers of considerations for our SERVPRO team once affected by spreading water damage, beginning with the best approaches for drying out these materials. Also, our technicians must diligently remain aware of how this saturation might affect joists and supports beneath the main floor. 

Our professionals have multiple specialized tools to help with the moisture removal from the planks of your flooring. A standard application for hardwood options is the drying mats. This derivative of our Injecti-Dry System helps to control the draw of humidity and saturation from the flooring materials to control the degree of dryness ultimately achieved. Getting the floors too dry can be as damaging as allowing them to stay saturated. 

Drying is only part of the equation for water damage, however. Residues, dirt, and debris that can accompany spreading water throughout your property can come to rest on the surfaces of wood flooring options. We have a dedicated line of SERVPRO cleaning products that can help not only to remove this dirt and grime but restore a sheen and gleam to your hardwood flooring that you might not have seen in the past. We have cleaning products that also feature wood oil that improves the aesthetic appeal and the longevity of these materials. 

We are a team of professionals with a deep inventory of recovery tools and extensive experience and training in water restoration. No matter how severe loss incidents can be in your home, our SERVPRO of Calumet City/Lansing today team can help to make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at 708-627-0077

SERVPRO Can Remediate the Roof of Your Home After Storm Damage

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Sometimes the damage from a storm is relatively inconsequential, and sometimes it can cause critical issues for your home, such as tearing off a portion of your roof. When a storm brings significant issues to your home, you need to contact professional help immediately. Leaving a roof open to the elements is extremely unwise and invites a plethora of problems for your home to arise.

For example, one of the problems that could come about by neglecting the storm damage to your roof could be the growth of mold damage. Mold spores only need excess moisture to be present for seventy-two hours to begin forming an active colony. Not only does mold compromise organic materials, such as the wooden frame of your home, but it can also cause health effects. For the betterment of your home, it is always wise to get help right away.

The hole in your roof came about by a storm from Lake Michigan. The intense wind of the storm ripped a portion of wood sheathing and shingles off of your rood, leaving a hole behind. When SERVPRO gets to your home, our first task is to cover the hole in your roof with a large blue tarp. From here, our technicians can split in half, to address the damage inside and out.

 Half of our crew can go inside to preserve the interior contents and structural materials with standard cleanup and restoration services. Our technicians can use advanced technological devices, such as air movers, dehumidifiers, heaters, and flood drying mats to facilitate a drying process. The other half can remain behind outside and begin to fix your roof. SERVPRO can use 4 x 8 plywood panels to replace the sections that were ripped off your roof. From there, our technicians can reapply the waterproof underlay before re-shingling the area. Once we're finished, we can return your home to you, “Like it never even happened.” 

If your home experiences sudden and destructive storm damage, never wait. Reach out to SERVPRO of Calumet City/Lansing today at 708-627-0077. We are ready to help you

SERVPRO Answers Your Question - Can I Avoid Sewage Problems?

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Ask the Experts: How Can I Avoid Sewage Problems?

A sewage cleaning entails far more than wiping down items. It's a complex situation that involves blocking off rooms, tearing out contaminated materials, and sanitizing space. All of this can take time, leading business owners in to lose valuable sales; therefore, it's in your best interest to become proactive, understanding, and preventing sewage overflows and claims. Here are three things commercial owners can do.

1. Promote Proper Disposal
A toilet overflow occurs when something is blocking the lines. While this may seem simple to fix, it can become more serious. These blocks eventually inhibit water flow when someone runs something else in the building such as a shower or washing machine. The liquid can get blocked, exiting from the nearest source, often a commode; thus, to reduce the chances of this happening, pay attention to what goes down the line. Make sure all employees understand that only toilet paper should be flushed. Post notices for customers to understand this as well. In addition, grease and other congealing items should not be placed down sinks but disposed of within the trashcan.

2. Notice Foundation Changes
At times the sewage cleaning isn't necessitated from something inside. Overgrown tree roots can run into underground systems, creating cracks and obstructions. This small break can take in dirt and eventually stopping up. Eventually, it will bust and category 3 water moves into your establishment. To avoid this, walk the grounds, observing any unusual shifts in the soil, odd puddles developing, or cracks in the cement. If you're uncertain, a water restoration company such as SERVPRO could evaluate the problem, determining the source.

3. Snake the Lines
A clogged pipe can often be remedied by running a snake through the drains. While a plunger uses force to push something down, this tool provides more pressure and application. Should you hear gurgling noises or notice a slow flow, it may be a good time to pull it out and give it a go.
You may be able to avoid sewage cleaning by remaining vigilant. Be cognizant of changes, acting promptly to dodge major complications.

So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Has The Specific Knowledge & Experience To Help You!

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Mold damage to your home can cause serious problems. Mildew growth, on the other hand, is generally less severe. It can be tricky to tell the difference between them, but there are a few ways to distinguish the two categories of fungi.

Similarities

The words mold and mildew are often used interchangeably. This is likely due to the fact that both are fungi, and they share some similarities, including the following:

• Thrive in wet locations
• Spread quickly via spores
• Cause a musty odor
• Can be cleaned with fungicide
  
  

Because both mold and mildew need moisture to thrive, the same prevention techniques can be used for both fungi. Dry up water from leaks, spills, etc. as quickly as possible, and keep the humidity in your home lower than 50%. If you live in a particularly humid area, you may need to use a dehumidifier to keep the air sufficiently dry. Also, an air purification system can prevent both mildew and mold damage by capturing the spores before they have a chance to attach to a surface and colonize.

Differences

Although the two categories of fungi share a few characteristics, they have many differences. Mildew is generally lighter in color and has a fluffy, powdery or downy texture. Mold is typically darker and may appear slimy or fuzzy. Mildew grows only on surfaces, but mold can grow deeper within walls and beneath surfaces. Because of this, mold tends to be more difficult to eliminate. On the other hand, homeowners can usually remove mildew easily with a cleaner and a cloth or brush. Mold growth generally requires more intensive remediation methods and possibly professional intervention.
Whether you are dealing with mold or mildew, it is important to act quickly to minimize growth and mitigate the damage. If you are dealing with severe mold damage, an experienced restoration team can help you get your home back to normal quickly and safely.

So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Is Here For All Your Residential & Commercial Flooring Needs!

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

From Carpet to Tile, we have your floors covered!

SERVPRO of Kankakee County is well known for helping clients recover following fire, mold, and water damage in the Bradley Bourbonnais area. What many local people don't recognize is that our SERVPRO also provides professional flooring sales and installation.

Our Manteno facility is home to thousands of flooring samples including carpet, vinyl, wood, and ceramic tile to name just a few. In fact, with our preferred status with most flooring distributors, there's not much we can't get for a discounted price.

Why pay retail prices when SERVPRO of Kankakee County can get the same flooring for wholesale pricing? Our Flooring Sales Representatives are the same individuals that do your installation. That takes the guess work out of what product is best for you commercial or residential flooring needs.

We are certified distributors for Mohawk, Tarkett, and Dream Weavers. We also use our buying power with the big box stores to get our clients the best prices possible from retailers like Menards, Lowe's and Home Depot. Locally, you won't find a better flooring company to assist you.

Wood Flooring replacement and refinishing when needed is also a service SERVPRO can assist you with. Before replacing wood floors, our trained professionals will come out to determine if that's the most cost effective solution to your problem. Working with one of the best Floor Refinishers in Manteno Illinois, we are always watching out for our clients' bottom lines.

Call SERVPRO of Kankakee County for all you residential and commercial flooring needs. Appointments are by appointment only and we also can bring flooring samples to your home.

SERVPRO Can Help Protect Schools From Viruses And Mold

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Equipment set during school mold remediation project

SERVPRO of Calumet City-Lansing's Disaster Recovery Team is ready and equipped to help with many different disasters, including clean ups due to microbial growth or virus outbreaks in schools.

Microbial growth and viruses are a concern for all of us but select populations of people are more vulnerable to be affected. When children are concerned we do not feel there is a limit to precautions and safety measures to be taken. We are able to help your local school. 

For schools who have microbial growth in their buildings we can safely and correctly mediate the problem. We work after hours and over weekends to limit exposure to any dust or particulates as well as comply with third party testing to certify that work was done correctly and completely. If you suspect there is microbial growth present call us to speak about mold solutions.

For schools that are concerned with virus outbreaks we have many flexible plans to mitigate the spread.  Our technicians are highly trained cleaning and disinfecting services.  If your school is concerned with the spread of viruses please call our office today for more information on our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program.

Many School Districts, School Board members and Superintendents trust the SERVPRO brand to do the job right and on budget. 

Did You Know About Mold Clean Up and Remediation Basics?

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth in homes and businesses requires specialized techniques for remediation

Every mold infestation is different, from the amount of mold to the types of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for a “typical” mold remediation infestation:

1. Emergency Contact - (708)627-0077
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
7. Restoration

Common Mold Misconceptions

It’s easy to understand why many people struggle to grasp the facts and issues surrounding indoor mold because sensational news stories and advertising cloud and obscure the real issues. Educate yourself with the facts about mold and learn about the mold remediation process.

• What is “Black Mold”?
• “Mold Removal” versus Mold Remediation

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake is close by and ready to help with your mold-damaged property. We are proud to be an active member of the Fresno community and want to pitch in and help make our community the best it can be.

When a major storm or event occurs, we can call upon our national network of 1,800 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams if we need additional resources or personnel.

Job Opening- Production Technician

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

Become a HERO with our team today!

Production Technician 

SERVPRO^® of Matteson-Homewood / SERVPRO^® of Calumet City- Lansing is hiring a Production Technician

Do you love helping people through difficult situations?

Then, don’t miss your chance to join our Franchise as a new Production Technician. In this position, you will be making a difference each and every day. We have a sincere drive toward the goal of helping make fire and water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Our Franchise is seeking someone who is comfortable working hard in challenging situations, enjoys meeting new people, has excellent communication skills, and is a serious multi-tasker. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you’ll thrive in this work environment. Are you highly dependable and super-excited about routinely exceeding expectations? Then you may be our perfect hero!

As a valued SERVPRO^® Franchise employee, you will receive a competitive pay rate, with the opportunity to learn and grow.

Primary Responsibilities

• Inventory and load the work vehicle with equipment, products, and supplies needed for each project.

• Maintain a clean and organized vehicle and clean equipment appearance.

• Prepare rooms/areas for work activities. Set up staging area and equipment for each project.

• Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.

• Perform production processes following SERVPRO^® production guidelines per work order per crew chief directions.

• Ensure clear two-way communication with crew chief and other technicians (especially regarding customer needs and concerns).

• Perform end-of-day/end-of-job cleanup and breakdown. Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.

Position Requirements

• Effective oral communication

• Basic math skills

• Experience in cleaning/restoration preferred

• High school diploma/GED

• IICRC certifications preferred

• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds regularly, occasionally up to 100 pounds with assistance

• Ability to climb ladders, work at ceiling heights, work in tight spaces (e.g., crawls spaces, attics)

• Ability to sit/stand/walk for prolonged periods of time

• Ability to repetitively push/pull/lift/carry objects

• Ability to work with/around cleaning products/chemicals

• Ability to travel locally and out of state when necessary

• Ability to successfully complete a background check subject to applicable law

• Ability to work on call/ nights/ and weekends

• Preferred to live within service area

We Respond to Disasters

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricane Laura hits Louisiana Hard.

Locally, SERVPRO of Calumet City- Lansing is part of the SERVPRO Disaster Team Nichols. What exactly does that mean? Disaster Team Nichols is proud to be specially trained to respond to large disasters across the country when we are called on. When hurricane Laura hit in late August of 2020, our team was already on site ready and able to help. When a disaster strikes, our team begins the process of loading up vehicles to travel to the area that they are needed most bringing generators and specialized drying equipment to begin the process of restoring communities. Our crews can deploy to the hardest hit areas for weeks or even months, leaving their families and friends behind to help those who need us most.

Why do we do what we do? If you ask any of our technicians why they work for SERVPRO the answer is always the same, we love to help people. At SERVPRO of Calumet City-Lansing we are dedicated to serving communities, whether that is here in our home territory or across the country during a disaster