Storm Damage: Prompt Restoration for Parma and Seven Hills Properties

4/11/2024 (Permalink)

Severe weather events can wreak havoc on homes and businesses, causing extensive damage and disruption to daily life. At SERVPRO of Parma / Seven Hills, we specialize in storm damage restoration, providing prompt and reliable services to help our community recover from the aftermath of storms.

Here's how we assist property owners in Parma and Seven Hills affected by storm damage:

1. Rapid Emergency Response: Our team understands the urgency of storm damage restoration. We offer 24/7 emergency response to assess the damage and implement immediate measures to prevent further loss.

2. Comprehensive Assessment: Every storm damage situation is unique. Our experts conduct a thorough assessment of your property to identify all areas affected by the storm, including structural damage, water intrusion, and debris.

3. Water Extraction and Drying: Flooding and water intrusion are common consequences of severe storms. We utilize advanced water extraction equipment and drying techniques to remove water from your property and restore it to a dry and safe condition.

4. Structural Repairs: High winds, hail, and falling debris can cause structural damage to roofs, windows, siding, and more. Our team is trained and equipped to handle structural repairs, ensuring the integrity and safety of your property.

5. Debris Cleanup: Storms often leave behind debris such as fallen trees, branches, and other materials. We provide debris cleanup services to remove hazardous debris and restore safety to your property.

6. Insurance Assistance: Navigating the insurance claims process can be overwhelming, especially during times of crisis. Our team works closely with insurance companies to ensure a smooth and efficient claims process, relieving stress for our customers.

At SERVPRO of Parma / Seven Hills, we're committed to helping our community recover from storm damage quickly and efficiently. Contact us today for prompt and reliable storm damage restoration services.

Commercial Job Sites: Minimizing Downtime and Restoring Business Operations

4/11/2024 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes a commercial property, whether it's a fire, water damage, or storm damage, the consequences can be severe, affecting operations, revenue, and reputation. At SERVPRO of Parma / Seven Hills, we specialize in commercial restoration services aimed at minimizing downtime and restoring business operations swiftly.

Here's how we help commercial clients get back on track after a disaster:

1. Rapid Response: Time is of the essence in commercial restoration. Our team offers 24/7 emergency response to assess the damage and implement immediate measures to prevent further loss and minimize downtime.

2. Comprehensive Services: From water damage restoration and fire damage cleanup to mold remediation and storm damage restoration, we offer a full range of commercial restoration services to address any disaster scenario.

3. Project Management: Our experienced project managers oversee every aspect of the restoration process, coordinating with insurance adjusters, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth and efficient workflow.

4. Minimizing Disruption: We understand that every hour of downtime means lost revenue for your business. That's why we work diligently to minimize disruption to your operations, implementing strategies to allow for continued business activities whenever possible.

5. Quality Assurance: We adhere to industry-leading standards and protocols to deliver high-quality restoration services that meet or exceed your expectations. Our goal is to restore your commercial property to its preloss condition safely and efficiently.

6. Communication: We believe that open and transparent communication is key to a successful restoration project. Our team keeps you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates on the progress of the restoration and addressing any concerns or questions you may have.

When disaster strikes your commercial property, trust SERVPRO of Parma / Seven Hills to provide fast, reliable, and professional restoration services. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get your business back on track.

General Mitigation: Proactive Measures for Property Protection

4/11/2024 (Permalink)

Mitigation is key to minimizing the impact of disasters on your property and ensuring a swift recovery process. At SERVPRO of Parma / Seven Hills, we specialize in general mitigation services aimed at reducing risks and preserving the integrity of your home or business.

Here are some proactive measures we recommend for property protection:

1. Property Assessment: Conduct regular inspections of your property to identify potential hazards and vulnerabilities. Addressing issues such as structural weaknesses, faulty wiring, and inadequate drainage can help mitigate risks.

2. Emergency Preparedness Plan: Develop an emergency preparedness plan that outlines procedures for various disaster scenarios, including evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and essential supplies. Regularly review and update the plan as needed.

3. Hazard Mitigation: Take steps to mitigate common hazards such as fire, water leaks, and storms. Install smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and sump pumps, and reinforce vulnerable areas of your property to reduce the likelihood of damage.

4. Building Envelope Protection: Ensure that your building envelope, including roofs, windows, and doors, is properly sealed and fortified to prevent water intrusion, air leakage, and pest infestation. Consider installing impact-resistant windows and hurricane shutters in areas prone to severe weather.

5. Backup Systems: Install backup systems for critical utilities such as power and water to ensure continued operation during emergencies. Backup generators, battery-powered sump pumps, and water storage tanks can help mitigate disruptions caused by power outages or water main breaks.

6. Education and Training: Educate yourself, your family, and your employees about disaster preparedness and response protocols. Conduct training drills to practice emergency procedures and ensure everyone knows what to do in the event of a disaster.

By taking proactive mitigation measures, you can reduce the likelihood of property damage and loss, as well as minimize the impact of disasters on your daily life and operations.

At SERVPRO of Parma / Seven Hills, we understand the importance of mitigation in safeguarding your property and ensuring a swift recovery process. Contact us today to learn more about our general mitigation services and how we can help you protect your home or business.

US & Ohio Fire Facts

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

We are "here to help" handle your home or business's fire damage restoration needs!

The unpredictable nature of fires can lead to so much devastation and loss for your home or business.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are around 346,800 house fires per year causing on average 2,620 fatalities.

Understanding the facts when it comes to fires can help you to better prepare your family and employees in case of disaster.

General Fire Facts & Stats

- Cooking is the leading cause of house fires, followed by:

• Heating
• Electrical Systems & Equipment
• Candles
• Smoking

- In 2020, fire and lightning insurance claims had the highest average payout of $77,340.

- On average, across the US, a fire department responded to a fire every 23 seconds in 2021.

- In 2021, there were 1,353,500 fires reported, including residential and non-residential structures.

- In 2020, per 1,000 fires, the national average was 2 deaths and 8 injuries.

Ohio Fire Facts & Stats

- Ohio has the 7th most fatal home fires per capita in relation to the other 50 states, with Texas being the first.

- Smoking is the top cause of fire deaths in the state of Ohio, making up 20% of fatalities.

It's difficult and scary to imagine your home or business experiencing a fire. It can be hard to determine where to start when a disaster like this occurs.

If your home or business falls victim to a fire, SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills is "here to help." Our experienced technicians handle the care and restoration of your property and its contents. We handle the cleanup and the reconstruction, so you don't have to worry about juggling multiple companies.

If you find yourself in need of fire damage restoration, give us a call today!

US & Ohio Water Damage Facts

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

We are "here to help" handle your home or business's water damage restoration needs!

It's no secret that April showers are the start of Ohio's rainy season. Despite the name, April is only the 4th rainiest month in Ohio, with May, June, and the rainiest, July rounding out the top three.

As we work our way through the wet season, it's important to understand the facts of water and storm damage.

National Water Damage Facts & Stats

- 14,000 people in the US are affected by water damage every day.

- The average insurance claim to repair a water damaged home is $11,605.

- 99% of US counties experienced a flood from 1996-2019.

- 98% of US homes will experience water damage in their basements at least once.

- Even the smallest leak can increase the average water bill by 10%.

- In 2020, almost 20% of home insurance claims were due to water damage and freezing.

Ohio Water Damage Facts & Stats

- In Ohio, 540,863 properties have more than a 26% chance of being affected by severe flooding in the next 30 years.

- In 2021, at least 142 people died in flooding incidents, 64 of which were driving.

Water damage, whether it be from flooding or a storm, can be a difficult process to deal with. Luckily, SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills is equipped to handle all of your water damage restoration needs! From the drying process to reconstruction, we work with all insurances to get your home or business looking "like it never even happened."

Preparation is Key: Get Ready for Spring Storms

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

Storm Prep is Worth the Time

Each year, thunderstorms alone cause approximately $27 million in property damage. Summer and spring seasons are the most vulnerable to these destructive and frightening storms.

There are several ways to prepare your property for the summer.

1. Always have an emergency kit with these items that you probably already have in your house: flashlight, battery powered weather radio, extra batteries to fit each electronic, non-perishable foods, lots of bottled water, can opener, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, blankets, extra clothes, sturdy shoes or boots, clock or watch, whistle to signal for help, and any important personal items and documents.
2. Know the safest structure of your home to go to during a severe storm such as a basement, underground cellar, or even the most inner part of your home away from windows.
3. Get routine maintenance on your roof and the foundation. Cracks in the roof are the number one leading cause to flooding damage.
4. Cut down any unwanted trees or limbs and get your trees trimmed before summer storm season. Trees and branches can fall on your property and damage the siding, windows, and roof.
5. Contact your insurance company to be more familiar with your policy. Most home insurers do not cover flooding damage.
6. Keep all expensive and favored possessions off the floor and away from low ground in case of flooding.
7. Keep all patio furniture, grills, etc. in doors before a summer storm hits. Do not forget to part your vehicles in the garage.
8. Finally, take those summer storm warnings and alerts seriously, especially tornado warnings. Tornadoes can lead to total property loss and even death.

Stay Safe During a Storm

We have experienced quite the rainy and stormy summer so far, and with these storms comes a risk of personal and property damage. Keeping yourself and your loved ones safe during a storm is the top priority, so here are a few tips to help you for the rest of the summer:  

• Remain indoors. This can be inside your home or the home of a neighbor if need be. If you are outdoors, seek shelter at a local business, or a public restroom. Public restrooms in parks are typically built to be storm proof. Should there be no other options, sheltering in your car should keep you safe and dry as you wait out the storm.  
• Stay away from windows. The safest place to be during a storm is a basement. If your house doesn’t have a basement, bathrooms are a good choice as well. 
• Try to stay away from appliances. Avoid showering or talking on a wired phone during a storm. Lightening can travel through plumbing fixtures or home wiring, so avoid using your washer and dryer during a storm. Lightning strikes can cause those appliances to short and catch fire.  
• Once the storm has passed, be cautious when walking around, especially outside. Be alert for down powerlines and tree branches. If you smell gas, be sure to contact authorities immediately.

Storms can be scary to witness, but following these steps can help to put your mind at ease during the next one. If you find that a storm has caused damage, feel free to call SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills today and let the experts take care of it! 

SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills is Ready for All of Your Storm Needs

If you have experienced any type of storm damage, whether it be from flooding or water damage, the experienced Storm Team at SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills will be there for you. Although we are an Ohio based franchise, we prepare in advance for expected damage from any storm anywhere in the United States! We respond quickly, too, because we know that immediate action and a fast response lessens damage, limits further damage, and reduces restoration costs. Our professionally trained crews have the specialized equipment and resources needed to handle the job, large or small, residential and commercial. Our teams strategically prepare ahead of the storm and place equipment at the best locations in case of flood or storm emergency. With several certifications and over 50 years of experience, you can rest assured that we are perfectly equipped to deal with any storm job no matter the size. Choose SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills a company that specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. We are Here to Help® and are ready to respond when Mother Nature strikes.

Step by Step: What We Do to Remove Water From Your Business

12/11/2022 (Permalink)

We have the crew and the equipment to handle your commercial loss, no matter the size!

The SERVPRO Way Makes it "Like it Never Even Happened"

Are you dealing with water damage in your business? SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills has a crew of certified water damage technicians ready to help 24/7. Here is how we can help you in times of disaster:

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources.

If your business takes the time to develop an Emergency Ready Profile with us before disaster, we'll be able to get in and get to work with a plan much faster when you call.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

We determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are adept at cleaning contents using a number of techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration is the process of restoring your business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms.

If your business is damaged due to water, call SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills.

SERVPRO is "Here to Help" Every Step of the Way

12/6/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills handles your disasters, no matter the size!

When disaster strikes, it can be hard to process how your home or business will recover, let alone what steps you need to take to begin that process. That why SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills is “Here to Help” no matter the type of disaster, and no matter the size.

Our certified pros take care of you every step of the way. And, we work with all insurance companies, so we can help relieve some of your stress that comes with working with insurance.

In the Event of Water Damage

If your Parma/Seven Hills home or business is affected by water damage, we’re there every step of the way to handle that disaster for you. Our crew has years of experience to take care of your property from the beginning evaluation all the way through the reconstruction if need be.

Per your water damage event, our pros will:

• Assess damage for restorability and safety.
• Determine the extent of the moisture content in affected areas.
• Move and prop up furniture on blocks if necessary.
• Extract the water.
• Remove carpets and carpet pads if necessary.
• Spray to treat germs and bacteria in contaminated areas.
• Start the drying process with air movers and dehumidification equipment.
• Ensure rooms are completely dry and conduct a walk through with homeowners to guarantee customer satisfaction.

Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding a possible water, mold, of fire damage loss. If you or someone you know succumbs to any type of water damage, give us a call to make your home look “Like it never even happened.”

Mold can begin to grow in as little as 24-48 hours. It's important when you have water damage to call us right away to begin the water removal and cleanup process.

Once the water has been properly removed and the area is dry, our team can begin working on reconstructing any materials or areas that needed to be removed due to the damage.

In the Event of a Fire

Not only is our crew qualified to handle your home or business’s water damage restoration, we are also certified in fire damage restoration. We have the ability to work with your insurance to cleanup and reconstruct your property from start to finish.

We provide board-up services in order to protect your home from further damage immediately after the fire has been put out.

Following this board-up, a trained and certified fire damage restoration professional will first identify all affected materials and the source of odors, if possible. They will be extremely thorough. They will identify what can be salvaged and cleaned and what cannot be and must be completely replaced. They will then begin the clean-up process by removing built-up ash residue. Once the ash is cleaned, they can better identify the sources of odors, which they will treat with special detergents made to neutralize the odors. Once fire damaged materials are treated, they will be sealed to prevent future odors from emitting into your home.

Once the cleanup has been properly handled, your property is then put in the hands of our reconstruction team, who are focused on rebuilding your home or business to get it back and better than its pre-fire state.

SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills is not limited to just handling water or fire damage restoration, but these services are the backbone of our company. We make sure that we are able to help at any stage of your damage restoration because we know how stressful disasters can be. If you want a restoration company that handles your stress and helps you every step of the way, be sure to call SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills when disaster strikes.

Why You Should Call the Pros to Handle Your Fire Damage Restoration

12/6/2022 (Permalink)

Our pros are there to handle your first damage restoration every step of the way.

When the firefighters leave, it may seem like the danger has passed and the home is safe from further destruction, but without professionals to help clean the smoke damage, the building will never return to normal. While the principles behind fire restoration are fairly simple, the process requires a lot of experience and manpower to perform adequately, and this means that it shouldn’t be attempted by a homeowner on his or her own.

While fire is always the immediate danger, once it is gone, what it leaves behind will continue to affect the house. Ash and smoke, if left untreated, will cause extensive corrosion, etching and discoloration, not to mention lingering powerful odors. Professionals that clean fire and smoke damage can stop this before it becomes a major problem, assuming they are contacted soon enough. There are many companies out there that advertise their ability to restore areas affected by fire, but only those with proper training and certification should be considered. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the main oversight agency in this industry. The IICRC requires its registrants to take extensive coursework before earning their certification. SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills is IICRC certified, with our technicians constantly earning new certifications.

These professionals can clean smoke damage and restore items affected by a fire, but they must be brought to the site as soon as possible to halt the ongoing issues that ash residue can cause. The first thing that ash does to the home is discolor most surfaces. Anything that is made of plastic or was close to the fire will start discoloring within minutes, and within several hours, fiberglass and finishes on appliances will begin to yellow. Metals may also tarnish. After a few days pass, the ash will cause walls to discolor permanently, along with clothing and upholstery. Wood and vinyl will need to be refinished or replaced, and metal will start corroding.

If a professional isn’t hired to clean smoke and fire damage, the costs for restoration will skyrocket after a few weeks. Metals may need to be replaced, carpet will permanently discolor and glass may be severely etched, which will necessitate replacement. It will also become apparent that the odors caused by the disaster may still be present and intense enough to be distracting. Because ash is acidic, the longer it takes to hire experts, the more destruction it will cause.

The first thing a trained, certified, professional company will do when on site is to identify all affected materials and the source of any odors. The only way to properly clean smoke and fire damage is to be extremely thorough. Ash residue is easily disturbed and can spread through the building with ease, causing nearly everything to need restoration. The experts will identify what can and cannot be salvaged, and will remove any built-up ash residue that is coating surfaces. Over time, ash builds up in layers, and may eventually form into a lacquer-like consistency. Once this is done, the restorers will locate the source of the odor, and treat it with specialized detergents that are formulated for neutralizing this kind of odor. Once materials are treated, they may be sealed off to prevent any further odor from permeating the air in the future.

This entire process is very detailed, and hiring a professional that can be trusted to do the job right is imperative. That's why you should call SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills to handle your fire damage restoration needs! We have the equipment and experience to help quickly and efficiently clean and restore your home. We do what we do best, so you can get back to doing what you do best!

Understanding Hurricanes

11/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills helping to restore a flooded building following Hurricane Ian in Florida.

You might be thinking, "I live in the Parma/Seven Hills area of Ohio, why do I need to know anything about hurricanes?" We completely understand this question. Hurricanes may not be an immediate threat to our homes and businesses in Ohio, but it is a good idea to stay informed on them as they may cause heavy rainfall in our area, they may affect you on a vacation, or your friends or family along the cost may be affected. Gaining knowledge on hurricanes can help keep you informed for the future.

At SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills, we have the opportunity to help when hurricanes hit anywhere along the coast. As a Disaster Recovery Team, we are able to mobilize our crews and equipment to help those affected by hurricanes, while still managing a crew at home to handle any water damage you may suffer locally.

Understanding Hurricanes

The strongest winds in a hurricane are generally found in the right side of the hurricane’s eye wall, the area closest to the center.

Once a hurricane makes landfall, wind speed will begin to decrease, and within 12 hours will have slowed significantly. However, winds can remain at hurricane strength well inland.

Hurricanes can also spawn tornadoes, which can increase destruction. These tornadoes generally occur in the right front quadrant of the storm, and in thunderstorms embedded in the hurricane, but not immediately near the center.

Not all hurricanes produce tornadoes, while some develop multiple tornadoes. According to the National Hurricane Center, “studies have shown that more than half of the land-falling hurricanes produce at least one tornado."

How Are Hurricanes Named? One reason hurricanes are named is because more than one may exist at the same time. Names make it easier to keep track of and talk about storms.

A storm is given a name if it reaches tropical storm strength. That name stays with the storm if it goes on to become a hurricane.

Each year, tropical storms are named in alphabetical order as they occur. The names come from lists of names that are maintained and updated by the World Meteorological Organization.

There are six lists of names. Each year starts with the next list. The same lists are reused every six years. Names of storms that are very deadly or costly are removed from the lists and replaced with new names.

What Are the Parts of a Hurricane?

• Eye: The eye is the "hole" at the center of the storm. Winds are light and skies are only partly cloudy, sometimes even clear, in this area.
• Eye wall: The eye wall is a ring of thunderstorms swirling around the eye. The wall is where winds are strongest and rain is heaviest.
• Rain bands: Spiral bands of clouds, rain and thunderstorms extend out from a hurricane's eye wall. These bands stretch for hundreds of miles and sometimes contain tornadoes.

Preparing Your Home

• Hurricane winds can cause trees and branches to fall, so before hurricane season trim or remove damaged trees and limbs to keep you and your property safe.
• Secure loose rain gutters and downspouts and clear any clogged areas or debris to prevent water damage to your property.
• Reduce property damage by retrofitting to secure and reinforce the roof, windows and doors, including the garage doors.
• Purchase a portable generator or install a generator for use during power outages. Remember to keep generators and other alternate power/heat sources outside, at least 20 feet away from windows and doors and protected from moisture; and NEVER try to power the house wiring by plugging a generator into a wall outlet.

• Consider building a FEMA safe room or ICC 500 storm shelter designed for protection from high-winds and in locations above flooding levels.

After a Hurricane

• Listen to local officials for updates and instructions.
• Check-in with family and friends by texting or using social media.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
• Watch out for debris and downed power lines.
• Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of fast-moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Avoid flood water as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines and may hide dangerous debris or places where the ground is washed away.
• Photograph the damage to your property in order to assist in filing an insurance claim.
• Do what you can to prevent further damage to your property, (e.g., putting a tarp on a damaged roof), as insurance may not cover additional damage that occurs after the storm.

Although you may not be directly affected by the next hurricane, this information can help you better understand the storm, and prepare you for the future.

If you experience local water damage from heavy rainfall, be sure to call the pros at SERVPRO of Parma/Seven Hills.