Commercial Cleaning for All Your Needs

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO^® is uniquely prepared during this time of uncertainty to clean and disinfect your commercial business location or office according to the protocols set forth by the CDC and local authorities. With years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants and multiple Hospital-Grade, EPA-Registered Disinfectants that meet the standards set by the CDC, we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial and cleanup staff would perform.

SERVPRO^® employs protocols applicable to the category of exposure (CAT 1, 2, and 3).

CAT1 – Proactive and Preemptive Cleanup: This involves proactive cleaning and disinfection where there is NO active known threat of COVID-19 contamination or exposure. This procedure generally includes cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of waste.  

CAT2 – High-Touch Cleanup: This involves a suspected case of COVID-19 exposure and requires additional cleaning and disinfecting of all high-touch nonporous and porous surfaces. High-touch includes regularly utilized surfaces, including counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, carpets, chairs, etc.

CAT3 – Enhanced Cleanup: This is employed for areas with confirmed COVID-19 exposure and requires enhanced cleaning that includes walls up to 8 feet but excludes ceilings.

If you are interested in our services, we are here to help. We remain an essential business and are operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Call Today for Scheduling! 847-593-3055

Ensure Your Business Is Ready When A Storm Hits!

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

According to research, as many as 50% of businesses do not recover after experiencing a disaster. To ensure your business is not part of that statistic, we at SERVPRO can work with you to establish an emergency plan of action, free of charge.

The Emergency READY Profile (ERP) is a comprehensive assessment of your facility that also establishes a direct line of contact between the decision-maker of your business and SERVPRO. When disaster strikes, the ERP can streamline the restoration process to ensure your business experiences minimal interruption.

• 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."

Call 847-593-3055 to learn more about the Emergency READY Profile!

SERVPRO Has Your Back for Flood Damage and Storms!

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage to your Elk Grove home is a terrible inconvenience. Any leak or flood from a faucet, tub or pipes in your home carries with it the risk of flood damage throughout your house. Water might also enter your home from a storm or flood outside. Once water enters, it can migrate to any room in the house and damage the structure of the room such as the floors and ceilings and can also cause harm to your furniture and belongings. 

Flood damage to your property is a frustrating situation, and of course, you want to get it remedied as soon as possible. Luckily, SERVPRO technicians are experts for mitigating water damage. Our teams are trained to assess and deal with any water problem no matter how big or how small it is.

Our professional assessment of the situation begins when you contact our 24-hour help center. We understand that swift action reduces the risk of even more damage which is why we are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our professional office staff understands that this is a frightening and confusing time. We will ask you a series of questions about the flood to better understand your needs.

As soon as our technicians arrive to your home, they begin with a thorough assessment of the flood damage. We start with a visual inspection that includes looking at your walls, ceilings and carpets, as well as the floor under the carpets. We examine furniture and soft furnishings so we know what can and cannot be saved.

SERVPRO understands that even the most thorough visual inspection does not give a true picture of flood damage. That is why we train our technicians in the use of various detection devices to seek out all types of water damage. Moisture sensors are useful for examining soft materials such as carpet to determine the presence of water and the extent of the flood damage. Moisture meters show the amount of damp that is present and can be used to examine inside wall cavities and under wooden flooring so that our technicians know where water has migrated to and how deeply it has penetrated the materials.

Using professional equipment to examine your bedroom means not a single damaged patch goes untreated. We will ensure that there are no hidden issues that would potentially cause further problems down the road.

Do not panic about water damage to your home. Let SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows assess and remedy the situation. Call us at (847) 593-3055 for help.

Commercial Disinfecting in Your Area!

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO^® is uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home according to the protocols set forth by the CDC and local authorities. With years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants and multiple Hospital-Grade, EPA-Registered Disinfectants that meet the standards set by the CDC, we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial and cleanup staff would perform.

SERVPRO^® employs protocols applicable to the category of exposure (CAT 1, 2, and 3).

CAT1 – Proactive and Preemptive Cleanup: This involves proactive cleaning and disinfection where there is NO active known threat of COVID-19 contamination or exposure. This procedure generally includes cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of waste.  

CAT2 – High-Touch Cleanup: This involves a suspected case of COVID-19 exposure and requires additional cleaning and disinfecting of all high-touch nonporous and porous surfaces. High-touch includes regularly utilized surfaces, including counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, carpets, chairs, etc.

CAT3 – Enhanced Cleanup: This is employed for areas with confirmed COVID-19 exposure and requires enhanced cleaning that includes walls up to 8 feet but excludes ceilings.

If you are interested in our services, we are here to help. We remain an essential business and are operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Ready to Partner with SERVPRO? Businesses Receive the Quickest Response Times to Water Damages When Partnered with SERVPRO!

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Large loss jobs require the best of the best for equipment!

When weather damage strikes your commercial property, it can be a difficult process to deal with. Business is interrupted, resulting in potential loss of revenue and customers. We at SERVPRO understand the urgency to get your business back up and running. As soon as we receive your call, making sure you and your property are taken care of is our priority.

Our highly trained crew chiefs and technicians are experienced and qualified to handle any size disaster. From large commercial lots to small mom and pop shops, no job is too big or too small for our team. In addition to our expertise, we at SERVPRO also value our customer relationships. From start to finish, we will make sure to stay in constant communication so we are on the same page. We aim to give you peace of mind in the midst of a stressful time. Check out testimonials from previous customers regarding our commercial work.

To further offer you peace and security, we offer a free consultation and emergency plan called the Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). This profile compiles all necessary building information needed in the event of an emergency, such as water and gas shutoff valve locations, emergency contact information, etc. In addition, through a mobile app, you will always have a direct line to our office, streamlining the restoration process even further. The ERP ensures that when disaster strikes, you are ready and prepared to tackle it head-on.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows service these cities, as well as Medinah, Wood Dale, Inverness, and elsewhere around the Chicago suburbs. In the unfortunate event your business or commercial property is struck by disaster, call us any time 24/7 to begin the restoration process to get you back up and running! (847) 593-3055

Are You Ready For Summer Yet?

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

During the hottest months of the year, your home or property will be needing a little extra attention and inspection to help lower the cost of energy bills, operate safely, and overall function at a more efficient dynamic.

Here are just a few ways to ensure your home is ready for the summertime:

• Seal any leaks around windows and door frames by applying caulking to seal in any missing spots to prevent cold air from escaping and to stop the hot air from entering your home. This simply task can improve efficiency and make your home more comfortable.

• Check for leaking pipes for damage that occurred during the cold months of the year. Always begin by examining the pipes and removing any vegetation surrounding them. If a pipe has a leak the easy fix is to apply a foam covering, known as lagging, to the outside of the pipe to seal any cracks and leaks.

• Inspect and clean your chimney. Typically, during the winter months your chimney tends to fill up. By hiring a professional to come out, inspect, and clean it out has a significant impact on decreasing the probability of a chimney fire.

• Sufficient insulation in your attic can heavily reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the roof of your house. By doing this, you can also bring down energy costs, therefore reducing your mothy bill.

• Another good tip is to locate if you have any water left over from draining your gutters or cleaning your drains. That water may be getting into your lead pipes, draining at the edge of your house, and flowing into your basement. To fix this, ensure you have trenches dug and underground pipes installed to keep roof water off and away from your property. Additionally, make sure all landscaping is slanting away from your property.

Call today at 847-593-3055!

What Sets Us Apart for Mitigation?

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

If you are experiencing water damage of any type in your home, contact our emergency service line 24/7, 365-days a year. We are here to quickly take care of water damage situations for you. Water leakage can cause significant damage to your home and belongings, which is why it is vital to respond to this situation immediately. Our highly trained staff makes your restoration process as stress-free as possible by keeping you informed and communicating with your insurance company to get the most out of your claim.

SERVPRO has IICRC-certified professionals who follow strict safety and health guidelines throughout the restoration process. Rest assured, our team has the equipment, resources, and expertise to perform any repairs, replacements, or reconstruction projects necessary for the restoration.

SERVPRO always strives to be Faster To Any Disaster. With an entire Green Fleet of vehicles, stocked and ready to deploy, our technicians are ready to provide you with professional restoration done right. Contact SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle for full-service solutions throughout the Chicago suburbs. (847) 593-3055

Handling Commercial Flooding

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

The disruption that flooding and water damage can bring to a commercial property in Palatine can be costly. Insurance companies may help to pay for the actual damages, but they rarely cover lost revenue. SERVPRO emphasizes speed and timeliness in our commercial restoration projects to help get businesses back up and running.

Response Time

We are on hand 24/7 and our crews are able to arrive on-site with the proper equipment within four hours of your first call. By responding quickly, we help to prevent further damage and materials soaking, saving days or even weeks of restoration time.

Fast And Heavy Equipment

We equip our crews with industrial-grade drying and restoration equipment to ensure they perform as quickly and effectively as possible. Our water extractors pump out standing water at high speeds, and our air movers remove any extra moisture from surfaces. For water removal, when speed and thoroughness are key, our tools and machinery pack a solid punch.

Trained, Certified, And Helpful Staff

Be it our technicians, inspectors, or office representatives, SERVPRO is renowned for our friendly and helpful staff. Technicians are happy to explain what they're doing to you, and our representatives can help communicate on your behalf with insurance companies and other relevant parties. Our staff will work with you to get the job done as smoothly and quickly as possible, and we are open and welcome to any questions or requests.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is ready around the clock to respond to commercial flood damage to get you back in business. Call us at (847) 593-3055.

Why You Should Choose SERVPRO for Your Home!

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Elk Grove, we make it a priority to ensure  our customers are taken care of from the first call to our office until the final walkthrough of the mitigation project. We are consistently taking the extra steps to let our customer know we are with them through every step. Our crew chiefs and technicians are exceptionally trained in water mitigation, mold removal, fire restoration, cleaning of structures and contents as well as carpet cleanings. No matter what your need is- our team can handle it.

We love to work alongside your insurance company and adjusters to make sure you are up to speed on every aspect during the project. From our initial inspection at the property, we will be communicating with your adjuster to let them know our plan and course of action to get your home back to the way it was. Additionally, our highly trained crews will be letting you know how we plan to restore the damaged areas before the work has been started so that you can prepare to help move your personal contents from affected areas.

Not only does SERVPRO of Elk Grove have a knowledgeable staff, they also will come equipped with the most efficient drying equipment there is on the market. From air movers to large dehumidifiers and HEPA air scrubbers- this equipment matched with the training of our crew chiefs will be the most effective way to dry the affected materials in the shortest time frame possible. Thus, resulting in getting your home back to the way it was sooner.

For more information be sure to check out our SERVPRO of Elk Grove website for more insight on how we take care of water, mold, fire, cleaning, and contents!

How We Handle Damaged Hardwood Floors

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

A strong storm can push large amounts of water through an Elk Grove home in just a few hours. Once the water is removed, you may find your hardwood flooring buckled, cupped, or warped, which is common after a flood disaster. SERVPRO will work to not only dry your property, but to also restore your damaged hardwood flooring.

Although the effects are quick to start, we can often prevent them from being permanent. Buckling is evident by the boards swelling higher than the ones next to them. With cupping and warping, floorboards twist in place, and if enough water has gotten into the boards, they pop up from the sub-floor.

Before we start any work, we first have to test and lower the moisture content to twelve percent or lower if possible. If the wood is too damp, any efforts to remove damage will only cause more. Depending on how high the number is, it could take as long as four or five weeks to bring it down to a safe level.

We begin with dehumidifiers to lower the humidity of the affected rooms to under forty-five percent. At that point, SERVPRO technicians set up air movers to blow warm air over and under the floorboards. This increased airflow and the higher temperature slowly draws out the moisture from the wood where the dehumidifiers absorb it.

When the humidity gets down to sixteen percent, we can safely install space heaters to quickly raise the temperature without causing secondary damage to the wood. It also increases evaporation which increases the effectiveness of the dehumidifiers.

With the moisture content now at a safe level, we can safely sand off any bulges and twists. Not only can we eliminate most of the visual loss, but our team members also disguise any repair efforts through carefully refinishing the repaired wood. In cases where the damage is too severe, we can sand down replacement boards to fit precisely.

If you find your hardwood flooring damaged by a flood, SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle will make every effort to provide you with a floor indistinguishable from the original. It is not a quick or straightforward task, but it is one we have provided our neighbors for almost twenty years. Call us at (847) 593-3055 today to get started.

SERVPRO Restoration Service for the Insurance Industry

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

As a leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle offers your insurance company an array of competitive advantages. Our goal is to restore both your customer’s property and their peace of mind through timely mitigation and adherence to IICRC standards. The result? Lower claims costs and satisfied customers – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

SERVPRO understand your situation. As an agent or adjuster, you have a responsibility to keep claims costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers. SERVPRO professionals are uniquely qualified to help. Our results create a measurable difference, giving you many competitive advantages.

For more information- feel free to call the office or find additional information on our website! 

(847) 593-3055

The Plan for Any Disaster Using Our Emergency Ready Profiles!

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

According to industry research, as many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster. Of those that do survive, it's likely because there was a preparedness plan in place.

With SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile (ERP), you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action at no cost. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

With the ERP, you can have the critical information needed, such as emergency and primary contact information, gas and water shutoff locations, and priority areas in the building, to begin mitigation and recovery services immediately when you need it. Everything will be compiled into a concise Profile Document as well as a mobile app called Ready Plan for quick and easy accessibility. 

By working with SERVPRO to develop your ERP, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

Categories and Classes of Water

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Category refers to the type of water affecting the structure.

Cat 1 (Clean): Water originates from a sanitary water source and does not pose substantial risk from dermal, ingestion, or inhalation exposure. Examples include: broken water supply lines; melting ice or snow; falling rainwater; or broken toilet tanks.

Cat 2 (Gray): Water contains significant contamination and can potentially cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed by humans. Examples include: discharge from dishwashers or washing machines; overflows from washing machines; or toilet overflows with some contaminants.

Cat 3 (Black): Water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents and can cause significant adverse reactions to humans if contacted or consumed. Examples include: sewage; rising water from rivers and streams; waste line backflow; or water with traces of regulated or hazardous materials such as pesticides or toxic organic substances.

Classes

Class refers to how much water and how the water has affected the structure.

 Class 1 – least moisture absorption (less than ~5% of combined floor, wall and ceiling surface area)

Class 2 – significant moisture absorption (~5% to ~40% of combined surface area)

Class 3 – greatest moisture absorption (more than ~40% of combined surface area)

Class 4 – deeply held or bound water into low evaporation materials (e.g. plaster, wood, concrete, masonry) or assemblies (e.g. multilayer wallboard, subfloors)

We at SERVPRO service the Chicagoland area, including Elk Grove, Schaumburg, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, and the surrounding area. For a fast 24/7 emergency response, call (847) 593-3055!

Flooded Basement? That's Our Specialty!

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Our team selected equipment that would quickly and efficiently dry out areas that have been affected by water damage.

It happens to everyone. Sump pumps fail, pipes burst, sewer lines back up. There is a myriad of reasons basements may flood, and we at SERVPRO have seen it all. Luckily, we are IICRC certified professionals, meaning we utilize industry-standard practices and procedures to make sure your flooded basement is properly taken care of.

After the initial assessment, a crew chief will discuss with you and (if going through insurance) your adjuster regarding the work to be performed, ensuring everything we do is pre-approved and signed off on. When done properly, your basement can be dried out within three days by following standard procedures and utilizing the most effective drying equipment available. 

24/7 Response

At SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows, we understand time is of the essence when it comes to saving your flooded basement. That is why we make ourselves available 24/7, with an on call crew ready to respond to your emergency situation and be Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call us today at (847) 593-3055 to begin the restoration process!

Our Method to Tackle Mold Remediation

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Whether it is visible staining or a musty smell, mold growth can be a bothersome issue to deal with for home and business owners. If you suspect mold growth in your property, there are several options to consider. 

1. Pre-testing: To determine the extent of mold damage in your home or business, SERVPRO partners with trusted indoor environmental consultants to perform a thorough inspection of your property. A complete report on mold growth and air quality, as well as a scope of work for remediation, is provided in order to ensure proper remediation.
2. Mold Remediation:Because our crew chiefs are Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) certified, we are thoroughly equipped and experienced to handle mold damage of all shapes and sizes. From attics to basements to full scale cleanings, we aim to make the mold growth in your property "Like it never even happened." 
3. Post-testing: To provide further peace-of-mind, post-testing assessments can be conducted to ensure proper remediation has been performed. 

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready and available to address your mold damage needs. To begin the mold remediation process for your property, call us at (847) 593-3055!

Preventing Fires This Holiday Season

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

The holiday season is a time of good cheer and an opportunity to catch up with loved ones near and far. However, it is also a time of potential fire hazards. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), between 2016-2019, fire departments responded to an average 190 home fires started by Christmas tree lights, and 870 home fires started by other decorations. 

In order to prevent potential fires caused by Christmas decorations, here are a few safety tips to follow:

1. Replace old or damaged Christmas lights. If you see light strands with frayed or pinched wires, it is best to throw them away.
2. If you have a natural Christmas tree, be sure to water it every day. Dry wood catches fire more easily.
3. Be sure any lit candles are secured in stable holders and located in areas where they cannot be easily knocked over.
4. Consider LED lights - they stay cool, use less electricity, and are less likely to overheat compared to traditional Christmas lights.
5. If you are decorating the outside of your house with Christmas lights, be sure the lights you use are graded to be used outside. Some Christmas lights are to be used indoors only, and these are not insulated and could potentially pose a fire risk if they become wet.
6. Do not leave tree lights running overnight. Make sure to switch them off before leaving the house or going to bed or purchase a light timer to set your mind at ease. 

In the unfortunate event your home or business suffers fire damage caused by holiday decorations, please give us a call. We at SERVPRO are available 24/7, even during the holidays! We service Elk Grove, Schaumburg, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, and beyond! (847) 593-3055

We Can Handle Your Water Loss Damage

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Having an accident or flood can be a devastating experience. Even a little water can lead to significant damage if given enough time. It can affect your belongings, furniture, and even the structural stability of your home. 

When facing water removal issues in your Elk Grove area home, it is important to have a trained professional on your side. You want to locate the source of the problem, get excess water out of your home, and have someone available to deal with unsuspected damages. 
  
SERVPRO has 24-hour emergency service, IICRC certified technicians, industrial-grade equipment, and years of experience providing extraction, drying, cleaning, and repair services for customers just like you. We understand how water works, making its way into cracks and crevices, leading to expensive damages. 
  
Our technicians use infrared moisture detectors to locate even the smallest amounts of water, water extractors of all shapes and sizes, along with drying and dehumidification equipment to get water out of your home in a quick, efficient manner that limits any losses you may experience.  
  
We can perform wet carpet removals, content, and structural decontamination, humid or flooded basement cleanup services, as well as complete structural drying. We even make sure that the inside of your walls remains entirely moisture-free and perform mold remediation services when necessary to help you maintain a clean, healthy home.  
  
Attempting to perform your water removal services alone leaves you with hidden pockets of water throughout your home that can cause excessive damages in the future. Without the right tools and experience, everything can get out of hand quite fast, leaving you with a huge mess and significant problems that you simply do not understand. 
  
We can provide you and your family with the services you deserve. By assigning qualified technicians, we help return everything to normal in a quick, efficient manner, after an emergency occurs.  
  
Get the help you need by calling SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle, today! (847) 593-3055

Preventing Frozen Pipes

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Knowing we are approaching the coldest months of winter, now is the time to take extra precautions and know what to do when frozen pipes occur. Frozen pipes can be caused by a number of things, but most of them are preventable and by taking precaution now you can end up saving money on your home. 

If you suspect your property may have frozen pipes, it is best to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and potentially repair and help prevent any damages. If you would like to try to take matters into your own hands, here are some helpful tips:

• Avoid using open flames, heat guns, etc. to thaw your pipes. 
• Pipe bursts occur not just because of frozen water, but from increasing water pressure as ice builds up. Relieve water pressure on your lines. Ways you can do this are turning off your water supply or trickling your faucets. Water may still freeze, but allowing pressure to escape can help prevent pipes from bursting.
• If you are able to visually access pipes along your walls, look for swollen areas or frost. If you see any, turn up the heat throughout the building.
• Use space heaters to provide extra heat in particular areas (though do not leave such appliances unattended).
• If you need to target specific areas, a hairdryer, heating pad, or simply a cloth wet with hot water can be applied.

In the unfortunate event your home or business experiences water damage caused by a frozen pipe, please give us a call! SERVPRO operates 24/7 and offers quick emergency response time to effectively mitigate any further damage. (847) 593-3055

Fire Safety In Your Living Room This Winter

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Electricity is one of the best conveniences of modern life. It allows us to recharge our phones, power the television/radio/microwave, and generate heat in our homes. However, overloaded power sockets can start an electrical fire in the living room and cause considerable fire and smoke damage.

When this occurs, it is important to have a restoration company within reach to reverse the damage. As an experienced fire damage restoration company, SERVPRO can arrive promptly to begin restoring your property. Following IICRC recommendations, our technicians can treat the smoke damaged contents and restore your living room, “Like it never even happened.”

Soot is one of the most stubborn effects of fire damage and smoke damage. It is oily and easily stains draperies, carpets, and other living room textiles. As such, we have to remove it before we attempt to clean up or deodorize any item.

The cleaning process is designed to extract soils, soot, and debris from various surfaces. During this process, our technicians use four primary cleaning actions. These are chemical action, mechanical action, lubrication, and suspension & dispersion.

In most cases, SERVPRO experts have to neutralize smoke odor that comes with smoke and fire damage. This smell can stick to your clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and draperies, and become a nuisance in the living room. We have various chemicals that can break up smoke molecules to get rid of these odors.

The choice of counteractant depends on the type of material that sustained smoke damage. Some situations may call for an ozone treatment in the deodorization process. If this is done in the house, we have to put the items under a tent while our experts operate an ozone generator (as a general rule of thumb).

If the fire damage extended to the walls, we have special cleanup procedures to restore them to their normal conditions. However, the exact approach depends on the nature of the wall: whether it is paneling or wood, painted, finished or unfinished, etc. The most effective cleaning method considers the type of surface, type of smoke, and whether the surface is dry cleanable or wet cleanable.

If your living room sustains fire damage, you need a reliable, responsible, and experienced restoration company to remediate your property. SERVPRO is a trusted, locally based restoration company that can reverse the fire damage on your living room items quickly and efficiently. Call us today at (847) 593-3055.

Preparing Before the Storm Arrives

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Have you ever thought about what steps need to be taken when you know there is a heavy storm on the way? Storms can cause many different forms of damage to your home, cars, and personal belongings. Storm winds can reach up to 95 mph and knowing how to help protect and secure your home can minimize the damages. Here are some tips to help prepare yourself, your family, and your property when a storm is on its way:

• Designate a safe room for shelter that is always from windows or outside doors like patios. Make sure you have some food and water and emergency supplies in your safe room in case of an emergency.
• Get organized. Prepare your garage by organizing supplies so that your cars will be protected from any severe winds or debris that may be caught in the wind outdoors.
• Close and reinforce your garage door. Making sure you garage door is closed and reinforced with support beams can help in case of extremely strong winds or debris that could come towards the garage door.
• Anticipate a power outage. Having all your devices fully charged in case you need to contact someone in an emergency will be very helpful. Additionally, having battery powered radios and flashlights will also come in handy during the night.
• Collect and store all yard items and equipment. Any outdoor items that could get swept away in the heavy winds are best kept in the garage.
• Stay informed. Keeping the radio or news report on hand so you can be prepared for what may be heading your way.

SERVPRO Offers Expert Water Damage Restoration Services

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

If you are experiencing water damage of any type in your home, contact our emergency service line 24/7, 365-days a year. We are here to quickly take care of water damage situations for you. Water leakage can cause significant damage to your home and belongings, which is why it is vital to respond to this situation immediately. Our highly trained staff makes your restoration process as stress-free as possible by keeping you informed and communicating with your insurance company to get the most out of your claim.

SERVPRO has IICRC-certified professionals who follow strict safety and health guidelines throughout the restoration process. Rest assured, our team has the equipment, resources, and expertise to perform any repairs, replacements, or reconstruction projects necessary for the restoration.

SERVPRO always strives to be Faster To Any Disaster. With an entire Green Fleet of vehicles, stocked and ready to deploy, our technicians are ready to provide you with professional restoration done right. Contact SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle for full-service solutions throughout the Chicago suburbs. (847) 593-3055

What Does It Mean To Be An IICRC Certified Firm?

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are IICRC firms. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must:

 Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up to date on the latest changes in the industry.

Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops the Standards for The Restoration Industry

 The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

 Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration, and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Commercial Flooding? No Probelm!

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

The disruption that flooding and water damage can bring to a commercial property in Schaumburg can be costly. Insurance companies may help to pay for the actual damages, but they rarely cover lost revenue. SERVPRO emphasizes speed and timeliness in our commercial restoration projects to help get businesses back up and running.

Response Time

We are on hand 24/7 and our crews are able to arrive on-site with the proper equipment within four hours of your first call. By responding quickly, we help to prevent further damage and materials soaking, saving days or even weeks of restoration time.

Fast And Heavy Equipment

We equip our crews with industrial grade drying and restoration equipment to ensure they perform as quickly and effectively as possible. Our water extractors pump out standing water at high speeds, and our air movers remove any extra moisture from surfaces. For water removal, when speed and thoroughness are key, our tools and machinery pack a solid punch.

Trained, Certified, And Helpful Staff

Be it our technicians, inspectors, or office representatives, SERVPRO is renowned for our friendly and helpful staff. Technicians are happy to explain what they're doing to you, and our representatives can help communicate on your behalf with insurance companies and other relevant parties. Our staff will work with you to get the job done as smoothly and quickly as possible, and we are open and welcome to any questions or requests.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is ready around the clock to respond to commercial flood damage to get you back in business. Call us at (847) 593-3055.

No Matter the Damage- SERVPRO is Here to Help!

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be a devastating experience for any homeowner. After the firefighters leave, you're left to deal with structural damage, as well as damaged personal belongings. We understand how trying this time can be, and we at SERVPRO are ready to help you.

Insurance

SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many insurance companies. We make sure to stay in contact with your adjuster to ensure you are covered for the work we do. Anything we can do to make this situation less stressful for you, we are willing to do so!

Hidden Soot Odor

The problem with fire damage is, even after the most obvious visual damage is removed or cleaned, there can still be a lingering smoke odor. Heavily sooted areas can be easy to spot, but there can still be hidden soot in your walls, ceilings, carpet, contents, etc. that emits an odor. Our staff is properly trained to take care of fire damage that covers every nook and cranny of your property. Every surface is tested and wiped with a chem sponge that helps draw out any hidden soot, followed by wet wiping with powerful cleaning and deodorizing chemicals. Finally, if there is still a lingering smell, an ozone chamber can be set up to further neutralize any odors left behind.

Contents

Have a large number of contents? No need to worry; SERVPRO also provides pack-out services for temporary storage at our warehouse. In addition, we can also clean salvageable contents from soot and smoke damage, keeping detailed inventory for insurance purposes. We can even help with hard-to-clean items such as clothing, electronics, paintings, documents, etc. 

24/7 Disaster Recovery Services

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready to respond 24/7 for any size disaster. Call us today at (847) 593-3055!

What Is the Protocol After a Fire Damages My Home?

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Having a fire cause damage to your home or property is devastating, and often times some things get lost in the shuffle as homeowners become overwhelmed with the aftermath. Here is short list of important things to get done immediately after a fire:

1. Find a safe place to stay. Living inside a home with soot and fire damage can cause prolonged damage and including poor air quality that you and your family could be breathing in.
2. Contact your insurance. Immediately filing a claim with your insurance carrier can help move the process along and make sure you have somewhere to live while your home is being assessed and remediated from the fire damage.
3. Protect your home from other weather conditions. Make sure your home has been boarded up or tarped to prevent any rain or wind damage that can be caused by openings in the structure.
4. Get your pets inspected by a veterinarian immediately. Smoke inhalation can damage small animals’ lungs and burns can hide under their fur.
5. Make sure to get a copy of the fire report. You can usually get fire reports from your local fire department. The report may be helpful in providing information for your insurance agency.
6. Continue and budget your finances. You will still be responsible to make your mortgage payments even if your home is destroyed. You'll also need to continue any car payments and replace any credit or debit cards that may have been destroyed in the house fire.
7. Take care of your family and yourself. Having a disaster strike can cause concerns with young children. Taking the time you need to recover and make sure everyone is well taken care of will help ease the process of getting your home back to normal.

After you and your family are taken care of, be sure to call SERVPRO to handle to fire damage and take care of your contents. We are already ready to take your call! (847) 593-3055

Can a Water Loss Occur at my Business?

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

For a commercial property owner in Illinois,  unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, a water damage professional 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 a number of 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 also affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and eventually burst.

2. Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can even lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. When a pipe is blocked, water can take the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages can occur from a number of things, 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 also 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 even cause it to burst altogether. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional about what preventive measures to take.

4. Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can also become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues such as mold. Any cracks should be investigated and assessed as soon as possible 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.

When your business is affected by water damage, SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready and available 24/7 to begin emergency services. Call us at (847) 593-3055!

What Is Our Mold Remediation Process?

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

Whether it is visible staining or a musty smell, mold growth can be a bothersome issue to deal with for home and business owners. If you suspect mold growth in your property, there are several options to consider. 

1. Pre-testing: To determine the extent of mold damage in your home or business, SERVPRO partners with trusted indoor environmental consultants to perform a thorough inspection of your property. A complete report on mold growth and air quality, as well as a scope of work for remediation, is provided in order to ensure proper remediation.
2. Mold Remediation: Because our crew chiefs are Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) certified, we are thoroughly equipped and experienced to handle mold damage of all shapes and sizes. From attics to basements to full scale cleanings, we aim to make the mold growth in your property "Like it never even happened." 
3. Post-testing: To provide further peace-of-mind, post-testing assessments can be conducted to ensure proper remediation has been performed. 

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready and available to address your mold damage needs. To begin the mold remediation process for your property, call us at (847) 593-3055!

How To Navigate After A Fire

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Whether at your home or place of business, fire damage is stressful and taxing to deal with. Once the fire is out and the fire department has left, it may be confusing to figure out what to do next.

After any fire damage situation, your first priority is your safety. Is it safe to stay inside your house? If so, make note of the dos and don'ts of this list below to ensure your safety and prevent further damage.

Do:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If the electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If the heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in the sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Wash both sides of leaves on houseplants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloths over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in and out of the HVAC system.

Don’t:

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your local SERVPRO Professionals.
• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your local SERVPRO Professionals.
• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don’t consumer any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. They have be contaminated.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

When fire damage strikes and you need assistance, SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are only a phone call away. Give us a call to begin the fire damage restoration process and make it "Like it never even happened."

Our Full Service Fire and Cleanup Program!

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage can be very invasive and hard to get rid of. While initial fire damage cleanup may make things appear clean, any and every nook and cranny of your property and belongings could be affected, causing hidden odor and damage. Fortunately, our IICRC-certified technicians have the expertise and experience necessary to inspect and accurately assess the situation to develop an effective plan of action.

Every fire damage situation looks different; in fact, there are two different types of smoke: wet and dry. As a result, there are also different types of soot residue. Before we begin our work, we can test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. From there, we will put a proper plan into place to make sure your fire-damaged property is taken care of thoroughly, efficiently, and safely.

Our equipment and specialized cleaning chemicals ensure quality results. For any kind of surface or material, including metal, stone, brick, clothing, curtains, carpets, painted surfaces, etc., we have what is needed to properly take care of your smoke and soot-affect property and belongings.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is available 24/7 to take care of you. Call us today at (847)593-3055 for your fire damage needs!

Our Precise Water Removal Process for Residential Property

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO locations around the country have had decades of experience and millions of unique cases to develop cost-effective and time-optimized mitigation and restoration strategies for residential water removal. We pride ourselves on bringing that same thoroughly-planned treatment to our local clients no matter how large or small the issue. Our technology is specifically engineered to allow machines, sensory equipment, and our trained personnel to work in perfect sync. As an example of our specialization and efficiency, take a look at our standard water removal procedure.

Mitigation

First and foremost in any water removal job is to identify and neutralize the source of damage. If the damage has been caused by a storm or other natural causes, the issue most likely solves itself by the time our technicians arrive. Otherwise, our personnel helps to identify the source of the issue and shut it down. Once the environment is safe to work in, we immediately begin pumping out water and performing preliminary mitigation efforts aimed at preventing further damage.

Air Movers

Once we have pumped out all water possible, we still must take care of the thin layers of water that stick to surface and subsurface layers around your home. For this task, we use air movers - powerful machines designed to create directed air currents in a specific region or pattern. These effectively pick up water droplets from any surface in their path, putting them into the air for dehumidifiers to handle.

Dehumidifiers

Once the water is airborne, we cannot simply leave it to settle once more in your home. Our IICRC-certified technicians use thermal and chemical dehumidifiers to suck the water into manageable, movable containers, the final step in our water removal process. After this process, we can begin work on deodorization and restorations. At SERVPRO, our ultimate goal is complete livability in the home, not just a quick water removal job!

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is there when you need us most to help you mitigate and recover from water damage of any variety. Just give us a call at (847) 593-3055.

National Preparedness Month-September 2021

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month is observed every September to promote disaster and emergency planning to help ensure the safety of your family and community. Now is a great time to plan ahead and prepare for the unexpected. 

Each week of September focuses on different themes of preparedness. This week's theme is financial preparedness: "Save Early for Disaster Costs." Here are just a few quick tips to financially prepare for disasters.

• Check your insurance coverage and make sure you have flood insurance. Many homeowners' and renters' insurance do not cover for flood damage. (Note: many flood insurance policies do not take effect until after 30 days. Don't wait until it's too late!)
• Make sure you have important documentation on hand, such as insurance, household identification, legal, and medical. 
• Begin saving now and make wise financial choices to prepare for the unexpected.
• Check out the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit developed by FEMA to help plan ahead.
• Snap photos of important documents and personal belongings to expedite insurance claim filing. 

Ready.gov is chock full of helpful resources to prepare for disaster. Be sure to check out their website, as well as the links above, for more information!

In the event of a disaster, SERVPRO is equipped and ready to respond 24/7. Give us a call (847) 593-3055 for service that is "Faster to any size disaster."

Are You Ready and Prepared For a Storm?

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Knowing a storm is on its way can cause panic and anxiety thinking about potential damaged to your home as well as ensuring you and your family stay safe during the severe weather. Here are a few things to make your home ready and assist in preventing further damage from high winds and rain:

1. Secure fences and outside furniture: Heavy winds can easily pull unsecured fencing and loose patio furniture off the ground, which could cause exterior damage to your house. Make sure your fence is properly secured, and anchor outdoor furniture or bring it inside. 
2. Check gutters: Make sure your gutters are clear of debris and downspouts drain away from your house to help prevent interior water damage.
3. Trim trees: Dead tree limbs near your windows could potentially get loose from heavy winds and puncture through.
4. Protect your valuables: If you store valuables in your basement, make sure they are off the ground or secured in boxes.
5. Review your policy: Lots of homeowners often find out too late that their insurance policy does not cover certain types of flood damages!
6. Create an emergency kit: Make sure your emergency kit has everything you need just in case! 

In addition to these steps, make sure you are packed with emergency food and water, clothes, blankets, flashlights, chargers, cell phones and enough gas in your vehicle in case of an emergency evacuation!

Once the storm has passed, be sure to call SERVPRO for any clean up, water damage, or restoration needs. (847) 593-3055

Always Ready To Take Your Call!

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage to your home is a terrible circumstance. Any leak or flood from a faucet, tub or pipes in your home carries with it the risk of flood damage throughout your house. Water might also enter your home from a storm or flood outside. Once water enters, it can migrate to any room in the house and damage the structure of the room such as the floors and ceilings and can also cause harm to your furniture and belongings. 

Flood damage to your property is a frustrating situation, and of course, you want to get it remedied as soon as possible. Luckily, SERVPRO technicians are experts for mitigating water damage. Our teams are trained to assess and deal with any water problem no matter how big or how small it is.

Our professional assessment of the situation begins when you contact our 24-hour help center. We understand that quick actions reduce the risk of even more damage which is why we are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our professional office staff understands that this is a frightening and confusing time. We will ask you a series of questions about the flood to better understand your needs.

As soon as our technicians arrive to your home, they begin with a thorough assessment of the flood damage. We start with a visual inspection that includes looking at your walls, ceilings, and carpets, as well as the floor under the carpets. We examine furniture and soft furnishings so we know what can and cannot be saved.

SERVPRO understands that even the most thorough visual inspection does not give a true picture of flood damage. That is why we train our technicians in the use of various detection devices to seek out all types of water damage. Moisture sensors are useful for examining soft materials such as carpet to determine the presence of water and the extent of the flood damage. Moisture meters show the amount of damp that is present and can be used to examine inside wall cavities and under wooden flooring so that our technicians know where water has migrated to and how deeply it has penetrated the materials.

Using professional equipment to examine your bedroom means not a single damaged patch goes untreated. We will ensure that there are no hidden issues that would potentially cause further problems down the road.

Do not panic about water damage to your home. Let SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows assess and remedy the situation. Call us at (847) 593-3055 for help.

Water Damage to Your Warehouse and Inventory Supplies

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

When plumbing connections fail in your warehouse, not only is your property from water damage, but your inventory may be affected as well. Our team of water removal specialists can be at your site quickly to remove the water and begin the drying process to save your property.

SERVPRO has submersible pumps and heavy-duty water extractors to drain and suck the standing water out of every square inch of your property. Afterwards, our trained technicians will search for any pockets of hidden water to ensure a thorough dry out. We also measure the moisture content of any affected materials and the structure of the affected areas in order to set an appropriate drying plan.

We arrange your inventory strategically, off the warehouse floor, if possible, to maximize air flow. Our industrial air movers and dehumidifiers are then set in place to begin the drying process. Time is of the essence as mold growth can begin within just 24 to 48 hours of the water loss occurrence if not abated. Once the drying cycle is set in motion, our technicians will track the process daily to make sure proper drying is occurring.

SERVPRO also works with your insurance throughout, limiting your out-of-pocket expenses if your losses are included under your coverage. We also problem solve with you to avoid a repeat occurrence in the future. We highly encourage you to look into our Emergency Ready Profile to plan ahead with us.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle has the training, tools, and technicians to handle your commercial water damage challenges. Call us at (847) 593-3055 to set up an evaluation.

Damage Cause By a Water Main Break?

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

A copper water main has a life expectancy of 60-years, making it highly unlikely for you to experience a water main break during your lifetime, especially if you purchased your home new. For older homes, the age, corrosion, temperature fluctuation, and electrolysis may affect the durability of your piping.

It is still possible, however, for flood damage to occur in your home because of a broken water main. Therefore, it is important to understand what to look for if this becomes a problem for you.

• Water pressure loss
• Standing water
• Sinkholes in your yard
• Stream of water from your house to the roadway
• If there is no water running in your house, but you hear a gurgling or hissing noise where the pipe enters your house

Never attempt to repair a broken main on your own. Without the proper experience and resources, you are likely to cause more damage as well as jeopardize your safety. You can locate your main water shutoff and learn how to operate it successfully during an emergency. Otherwise, rely on SERVPRO to take care of the rest.

SERVPRO has access to the equipment and training necessary to locate and repair damaged piping, fix the grading in your yard after repairs have been made, and install additional drainage, sump pumps, or backflow valves where appropriate. Our IICRC-certified technicians will help you keep a close eye on these issues and get the help you need during an emergency. We have many services designed to address both exterior and interior issues caused by plumbing problems that occur in your home.

Give SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle a call today at (847) 593-3055 for assistance with your water main, or any issues concerning fire, water, mold, or storm damage that develop on your property. We are here to help!

What Will Happen to My Belongings After A Fire?

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

As if the stress of dealing with fire damage to your property wasn’t enough, there is also the question of what happens to your belongings. You may lose hope and believe that everything needs to be tossed and replaced. Well, not necessarily. SERVPRO’s mitigation and restoration services also extend to your belongings. Our extensive and thorough content cleaning process will ensure that your belongings are treated with the utmost care.

• We will complete an accurate room-by-room inventory and ensure everything is property accounted for. This includes photo documentation and bar coding items, suitable for filing insurance claims forms, alleviating you of this often stressful and time consuming process.
• If needed, your contents can be relocated for cleaning, deodorization, and storage while structural repairs are being completed. A supervised moving crew will carefully pack and move the entire contents of your home or office.
• Any contents which are deemed restorable will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, area rugs, draperies, upholstery, and more. For any fabric material, our professionals will carefully inspect and test all fabrics to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate.

If your property has been devastated by fire damage, rely on SERVPRO to properly take care of your needs. Call today!

Can SERVPRO Help With Furniture Damaged By A Storm?

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

If the water rises high enough, flooding inside a home can quickly affect not just floors, but furniture as well. Standing water from a failing dishwasher or a backed-up toilet can rapidly soften varnish and other finishes, stain fabrics, and warp the wood on sofas, chairs, and tables.

Repairing and restoring the effects of flood damage requires a professional service. SERVPRO understands the consequences that water has on your furniture and how to stop them without causing more damage. We immediately raise furniture off a wet surface or remove it from the affected home if needed. One of our inspectors examines everything for these problems:

• Mildew Growth – If we do not remove standing water quickly, a thin, whitish coating of fungus can begin to grow on exposed wood. We use dehumidifiers and air movers to stop the growth and an anti-fungal cleaner to remove mildew already present.
• Swelling – Water causes wood to swell and crack. Sofas are very vulnerable since the frame is not normally treated to resist water. The framing joints weaken, and the glue which holds it together breaks down. To reduce the moisture content, technicians set dehumidifiers to draw moisture out of the frame and the surrounding air. Carefully lowering the moisture content also helps keep the glue together.
• Color Bleeding – Dust covers bleed when they absorb too much water and one that sags until it touches the floor or carpet can leave a stain. We set up dehumidifiers to draw out the moisture, but also use air movers to force warm, dry air over the surface to speed up the drying process.
• Water Spotting – Water often spots upholstery fabrics that require dry cleaning (sofa and chair skirts for example) or leave a water level mark. Our technicians can carefully wet the entire piece of fabric and then dry it to avoid permanent spotting.

Returning furniture to a usable state is not a simple process, but a professional restoration service can deal with most damage successfully. If you need us, SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is here to help. Call today at (847) 593-3055 to get started.

Plan Ahead When A Storm Is On Its Way!

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

During this time of year in Elk Grove, we can experience a lot of rain which can lead to thunderstorms. It is important to be prepared and have a plan in place. Talk with your family and create an emergency plan for thunderstorms, floods, and tornadoes. Think about an emergency shelter and evacuation plan. Below we have a few suggestions to make sure you and your family are ready for whatever happens. 

Seek shelter

There are many different natural elements which can occur and be harmful when outside during a disaster. Therefore, during a storm, it is important to seek shelter and be safe. If your inside, a good place to be is at the lowest level of your home. If you have a basement or storm cellar you can hang out in until the storm passes. 

Keep an emergency kit ready

Consider putting together a kit of things you may want to have on hand during a storm. Items you may want to include would be water, non-perishable food, flashlights, blankets extra batteries, a radio, and a first aid kit. 

Protect your electronics

Your electronics can get fried if they are not properly protected. Plug electronics into a surge protector to avoid damage during a storm. 

Go inside when you hear thunder

If you hear thunder, it is likely that lightning is also occurring. Lightning can be dangerous, therefore, make sure to go inside when thunder occurs. 

Prepare for power outages

Have battery-operated flashlights and lanterns in easy to get to places. Check on these items from time to time to make sure the batteries still work, replace them if necessary. Also, think about keeping the refrigerator and freezer doors shut to keep food from spoiling. If these food items rise above 40 degrees for 2 hours or more, they should be disregarded. Call your local power company to inform them of the outage and to get information regarding when the power should be restored. 

Stay away from power lines

Do not go near power lines should they fall to the ground, they can be very hazardous. Call 911 if you see downed power lines. 

If you have an emergency does strike your home during a thunderstorm, SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready to help get your life back to normal. Call us any time day or night, we are always ready to help. (847) 593-3055

Can Your Home Withstand the High Winds of a Storm?

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

Storms and severe weather can come on quickly and suddenly, and we want to make sure your home is prepared in case damage is done to your property or personal belongings. Severe winds blowing at 55 mph can tear down tree branches and winds up to 110-130 mph can blow over trees and damage roof shingles.

Here are some things you can do when an upcoming storm is on its way to prepare for future damages and help with the restoration process:

• Unplug any electronics, even if they have a surge protector.
• Gather supplies such as flashlights, blankets, a fully charger phone, and a list of phone numbers to call if you lose power, have damaged caused to your home, and any insurance companies that can help you file a claim.
• Check windows and doors to ensure they are sealed to prevent any water from leaking.
• Clear any clutter near doorways for a safe and quick exit if necessary.
• Have an action plan in place in case of an evacuation.

SERVPRO is a phone call away, no matter the damage we are here to help! (847) 593-3055

After the storm passes and you have been cleared to leave your home, you should begin to examine and assess if there is any damage left from the storm. You can start by checking to see if there are any fallen trees or tree limbs that may have affected the exterior of the house.

Examining the ceiling and attic for leaks can give you an idea if there are is any damage caused to the roof or shingles. Look at all the windows and doors to check for leaks that can allow for incoming water and inspect your basement to check that your sump pump is working properly to keep water from flooding your basement.

Our team will be standing by ready to take your call, assess the damage, and dispatch the team equipped with the necessary equipment to get the job done. Call us anytime!

Flood Damaged Handled Quickly and Effectively

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage to your commercial business can result in damage to the structure, lost revenue, and lost time. Luckily here at SERVPRO our response time begins as soon as you make the call, and our team will dispatch with equipment and hands on skills to begin work as soon as possible.

SERVPRO holds to the standard that a quick dispatch time can aid in limiting the damage caused by flood waters. By getting to the source quickly and efficiently, our team can intervene and prevent further damage by removing the water and begin the drying process.

Our SERVPRO team will come equipped with the correct air movers, dehumidifiers and water extractor pumps needed for each job. Our water extractors pump out standing water at high speeds, and our air movers remove any extra moisture from surfaces. For water removal, when speed and thoroughness are key, our tools and machinery help us get each job done quickly and efficiently.

With every job performed here with SERVPRO, we are dedicated to helping the customer through the entire process of getting their home or business back to normal. On each job site our technicians are always ready to explain the procedures and give updates throughout the day so you can understand every step of the way. In addition to the technicians, our office staff is available to answer any questions about the job to give you confidence and assurance that you are in good hands.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is ready around the clock to respond to commercial flood damage to get you back in business. Call us at (847) 593-3055.

How To Spot Water Damage To Floors And Other Areas

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen from any number of situations: pipe leaks, storm damage, blocked drains, HVAC units, and many others. Here are some of the initial signs that water damage has occurred in your home or business:

• An increase in your utility bills can mean there is a leak somewhere in your pipes or fixtures.
• A moldy or damp smell in the air can be a result of sitting water in the walls, ceiling, or floors.
• Dark or noticeable wet spots on carpets or ceilings causing discoloration from water damage.
• Sounds of running water, dripping, or leaking from pipes.
• Cracking, flaking, or bubbling of paint on walls or ceilings.

If you have wood floors or laminate, you could begin to see it warp and buckle as a result from water damage. If there is a stain, that is the result of slow and consistent leak, whereas mold development is a sign of spots that have been consistently damp for a period of time. Be sure to get a professional’s opinion to accurately gauge the amount of damage because if considerable amount of damage has occurred to the subfloors they will need to be removed and replaced.

If you suspect water damage on the subfloors or floors, look for:

• Sunken and uneven floors
• Shifting or bouncing when walking across the floors
• If you notice a musty smell in certain rooms or areas
• Squeaking noises

Our team here at SERVPRO have the right equipment and are trained to recognize these signs of water damage and will help you to restore your home or business back to the way it was.

Give us a call today! (847) 593-3055!

Let’s Get Ready For Summer!

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

During the hottest months of the year, your home or property will be needing a little extra attention and inspection to help lower the cost of energy bills, operate safely, and overall function at a more efficient dynamic.

Here are just a few ways to ensure your home is ready for the summertime:

• Seal any leaks around windows and door frames by applying caulking to seal in any missing spots to prevent cold air from escaping and to stop the hot air from entering your home. This simply task can improve efficiency and make your home more comfortable.

• Check for leaking pipes for damage that occurred during the cold months of the year. Always begin by examining the pipes and removing any vegetation surrounding them. If a pipe has a leak the easy fix is to apply a foam covering, known as lagging, to the outside of the pipe to seal any cracks and leaks.

• Inspect and clean your chimney. Typically, during the winter months your chimney tends to fill up. By hiring a professional to come out, inspect, and clean it out has a significant impact on decreasing the probability of a chimney fire.

• Sufficient insulation in your attic can heavily reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the roof of your house. By doing this, you can also bring down energy costs, therefore reducing your mothy bill.

• Another good tip is to locate if you have any water left over from draining your gutters or cleaning your drains. That water may be getting into your lead pipes, draining at the edge of your house, and flowing into your basement. To fix this, ensure you have trenches dug and underground pipes installed to keep roof water off and away from your property. Additionally, make sure all landscaping is slanting away from your property.

Call today at 847-593-3055!

Restoring Your Business- "Like it never even happened."

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

In addition to restoration services for homeowners, we at SERVPRO also specialize in emergency cleaning and restoration for commercial businesses.

Damage always comes at an inconvenient time, and it is always best to be prepared. Weather it is fire, water, or mold damage, every hour passed before you call us is lost time and productivity for your business. We are available 24/7 to take your call and send a team of experts to your need. Because our SERVPRO team is operating out of Elk Grove– we will get there fast and start helping you immediately.

Our Team Has What It Take To Restore Your Commercial Property

From retail stores to large offices and hotel, SERVPRO is ready and prepared to handle any size disaster that needs attention. Our team has been trained and equipped with daily hands-on training and professional equipment to get each job done efficiently and in a timely manner-to get your business back up and running as soon as possible.

Our most popular restoration services for commercial businesses:

• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• High-Rise Residential
• Hotels & Motels
• Restaurants
• Small Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Small Retail Stores

Call Us for Emergencies With Your Business – (847) 593-3055

Why You Should Choose SERVPRO For Your Water Damage Emergencies

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO, we take care of water damage to property and personal belongings with respect and care to ensure that everything is accounted for and taken care of. Although the stress of damage to structures can be repaired, we understand there are personal belongings that can be irreplaceable. When it comes to personal belongings, we will work efficiently with your insurance to make sure everything is accounted for and determine if those damaged items are salvageable.

Our SERVPRO team will never discard something without approval; in addition to that, our team can strategically place the drying equipment in areas that will not only completely dry the structures in place, but also any wet personal items. Rest assured, no matter the scope of the damage, our team is ready to help with your restoration services.

SERVPRO is ready and available 24/7 to provide you with the restoration services your property need.

Do not hesitate to give us a call! (847) 593-3055

Call the Experts to Take Care of Your Mold Damage

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is certified to take care of mold safely and effectively.

Mold contamination is not something you can ignore and hope it goes away. Mold growth will continue to spread and cause damage to building materials. Remediating mold properly requires certifications and expertise to not only clean visible mold growth, but also to clean and scrub the air of excess mold spores to pass inspection. This is especially crucial in commercial buildings and businesses to protect employees and customers.

At SERVPRO, we take mold remediation seriously, and our crew chiefs are certified as Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians by the IICRC. Once we assess the extent of the damages, we can create a comprehensive remediation plan in order to restore your property quickly and safely. We can also coordinate mold testing for further peace of mind and documentation. These tests can show microbial and spore levels throughout the property and will determine whether our work was successful in reducing these levels and restoring air quality.

Call us at 847-593-3055 for further information!

24/7/365 Emergency Services

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

Faster to Any Size Disaster - Call SERVPRO now!

At SERVPRO, we pride ourselves on fast emergency response to any size disaster. When your home or business suffers water damage, time is of the essence to stabilize the situation to avoid further damages that can prove costly. That is why we take calls 24/7/365 and have an on-call crew on standby to respond to your emergency.

Upon arriving, our crews can quickly scope out the damage to assess what can be done. Throughout the process, they will keep you and your insurance in the loop to ensure everyone is on the same page. This seamless claims process is why SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many insurance companies. 

SERVPRO can also coordinate reconstruction efforts to repair your home after mitigation services are finished. From the first call to the final rebuild, we can make your water damage disaster "Like it never even happened."

Call us at 847-593-3055!

SERVPRO Storm Travel - Kansas City

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

No disaster is too big for SERVPRO.

February saw unprecedented freezing temperatures and ice storms throughout the South. This resulted in thousands of homes being impacted by water damage, with almost 35,000 leads hitting the SERVPRO main line. Luckily, SERVPRO is well-prepared for such large-scale situations. 

Our franchise answered the call for help and sent one of our crews to assist local franchises in Kansas City. In just a week-and-a-half, our crew was able to help over a dozen homeowners whose properties were damaged by pipe bursts, flooded basements, ice damming, etc. Without SERVPRO’s help, these homeowners could have waited weeks before another restoration company was able to reach them, resulting in further damage and higher costs to repair.

SERVPRO's nationwide system has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, we are prepared for the unpredictable. With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 1,700 Franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big.

For fast emergency response, call 847-593-3055!

Water Damage Does Not Wait - And Neither Do We

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

This weekend, the Chicagoland area will be seeing a severe drop in temperatures. Knowing what winter weather can do to homes and businesses, it is best to prepare well in advance to help mitigate potential damages.

In the unfortunate event your home or business suffers water damage caused by winter weather, SERVPRO is ready to respond at a moment's notice. With on-call emergency crews on standby, we can provide fast water damage restoration services 24/7/365. Our professionals recognize that time is of the essence when it comes to water damage, and they are IICRC-certified and experienced in mitigating further damages when disaster strikes. We are also a preferred vendor with many insurance companies, ensuring a seamless process when filing claims.

Stay safe this weekend and take every precaution necessary to prepare your home or business for the unexpected. Whatever happens, you can have peace of mind knowing SERVPRO is ready to respond!

Call us at 847-593-3055!

"Experts In Clean" - SERVPRO is at the Forefront of Cleaning and Disinfecting Efforts

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO was featured on ABC News. Check out the link in the blog!

SERVPRO CMO Mike Stahl was recently interviewed by ABC News regarding what it would take to clean and disinfect the White House.

These cleaning and disinfecting strategies are the same ones we offer to your business. Our crews are highly trained and experienced in handling biohazardous cleanup, which lends itself well to effective strategies to combat against COVID-19. Our techniques are effective enough to rapidly disinfect your property while keeping your personal belongings safe and unharmed.

SERVPRO has serviced almost 30,000 businesses, homes, and communities nationwide. Our franchise is strategically located in Elk Grove Village, enabling us to provide services to many local businesses and properties throughout the Chicagoland area. Let SERVPRO provide you peace of mind knowing you have qualified "experts in clean" taking care of your property. 

Call us 24/7/365 at 847-593-3055!

Weatherproof Your Home Against Winter Water Damage

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Prepare your home against oncoming winter weather!

As you may have heard on the news, the Polar Vortex has split, and there may be a bigger split that may bring about some real winter weather to the Chicagoland area. If you remember two years ago (who can forget?), the Polar Vortex brought heavy snow and extreme freezing temperatures that left many homeowners with burst pipes and severe water damage in their properties. 

While we await the arrival of severe winter weather, it would be wise to prepare your home in advance to help protect yourselves from any potential damages. Here are some budget-friendly ways to weatherproof your home:

1. Look for any pipes running along the exterior walls and insulate them using foam pipe insulation you can easily find at home improvement retailers.
2. Look for leaks around windows and door frames; a crafty way to do this is to move a lighter along the frame. If the light flickers, there is likely a draft. Use a caulking gun to seal any potential gaps.
3. Draft snakes/stoppers are a cost-effective way to keep warm air from escaping underneath your doors. 
4. Older windows may be costly to repair or replace, but bubble wrap can provide a temporary solution to prevent cold air from leaking through.
5. Add some extra insulation in your attic or basement. Insulating your attic can also prevent ice dams from forming, which we have covered in our previous blog post.

In the event of water damage in your house, SERVPRO is ready and prepared 24/7/365 to address your emergency. We understand the stress and anxiety a flooded basement can cause, and we will be with you every step of the way to ensure your property is dried and repaired. Time is of the essence when it comes to dealing with water damage, and we at SERVPRO pride ourselves at being "Faster to Any Size Disaster."

Call us at 847-593-3055!

Ice Dams - What are they and how do you prevent them?

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Icicles can be a pretty sight, but can also be a source of water damage!

Winter water damage can take form in many different ways. One of the most neglected areas of water damage occurs right above you in the form of ice dams. These occur when warm air in the attic heats the roof, which melts the snow. The melted snow then freezes on the unheated eaves, which can look like icicles hanging above. While this can be a pretty image, it can cause damage if it is not dealt with. 

Prevention Tips

1. Have your gutters and downspouts regularly checked for any obstructions that may cause water backup. 
2. If enough heat is escaping into your attic to melt the snow above, you should check to ensure the attic is insulated properly. Check for any openings in the floor and seal them to ensure an airtight surface.
3. In addition to insulation, ensure there is enough ventilation to allow warm air to escape. 
4. Use a roof rake or a long-handled brush to remove excess snow from your roof. 
5. Installing a water membrane or snow shield underneath the roof shingles can help to prevent water from seeping in. 
6. Gutter screens can help keep debris out that can cause build-up and damage. 

Call SERVPRO for 24/7/365 emergency services related to water damage! 847-593-3055

Fire Damage Restoration, the SERVPRO Way

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

It takes an experienced restoration company with the proper training and resources to truly make fire damage "Like it never even happened."

After a house fire, any restoration company can clean up the visible damage. It takes an experienced restoration company with the proper training and resources to truly make it "Like it never even happened."

Smoke odor is extremely difficult to fully remove as it can seep deep into interior walls, linens, carpets, etc. Any remaining soot can also be hard to spot. Luckily, SERVPRO's technicians take every extra step necessary to thoroughly clean your property to leave virtually no trace of odor or soot.

For any personal belongings such as clothing, toys, and furniture, SERVPRO can safely pack and store your items for deep-cleaning. As for your property, we have what is needed to properly treat every square inch of affected area. With the use of safe cleaning chemicals, air scrubbers, and ozone machines, SERVPRO will ensure the air throughout your property is thoroughly cleaned and freshened, restoring the safety of your living conditions.

Check out testimonials from our customers and examples of previous fire jobs we've done. You can rely on SERVPRO to give your fire-damaged property the extensive treatment it needs!

Call us at 847-593-3055 for 24/7/365 emergency response!

Protect Your Business Against COVID-19 With Our Preparedness and Response Plan

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

Download our preparedness and response template and help protect the health and safety of your employees!

No matter the industry, every business needs to have a plan of action to address the many concerns of COVID-19. Unfortunately, many are still caught off-guard when an exposure occurs in their property, resulting in lost time and lost revenue. 

In developing a preparedness and response plan, we recognize it can be overwhelming with all of the different variables to consider. Who will be your point person when dealing with COVID-19? What safety measures will be put in place? What protocols will your employees follow in the event of an outbreak? 

This free template plan can help guide the conversation between you and your employees to ensure your business is well-prepared in not only dealing with an outbreak, but helping to prevent outbreaks from ever occurring. Download it today and help protect the health and safety of your employees! 

We at SERVPRO can provide consultation on best practices regarding COVID-19. Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program can also provide further peace of mind through consistent disinfecting and cleaning services at a frequency of your choosing. Having our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned emblem on your window shows you are prioritizing the health and well-being of those who enter your property.  

Give us a call at 847-593-3055 for further consultation and more information about Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned!

Click here to download our COVID-19 preparedness and response template plan!

Don't Wait to Take Care of Water Damage and Prevent Mold Growth!

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

Time is of the essence when it comes to preventing mold growth.

When water damage strikes due to flooding, sewage back-up, plumbing leaks, overflowing sinks/toilets, etc., it is important to take action to dry out the affected areas as soon as possible. If you wait too long, you may be left with secondary damage that will be more expensive to deal with, such as mold growth.

Mold and mildew can grow on wood, drywall, carpet, insulation, and other damp building materials within 24-48 hours. This can spread rapidly and cause further damage to your home. While we at SERVPRO are AMRT certified and can help remediate mold growth, this can be more costly and not guaranteed to be covered by insurance.

To prevent further damages, it is important to call a water damage restoration provider such as SERVPRO immediately after you discover water damage in your property. We are strategically located in Elk Grove Village, which gives us the ability to provide fast emergency response time to surrounding areas such as Palatine, Rolling Meadows, Schaumburg, Itasca, and beyond. We also operate 24/7/365, because we understand time is of the essence. 

As soon as our crews arrive, we can thoroughly inspect your property to identify any and all materials that have been affected by water damage. Based on this assessment, we can immediately enact a plan to dry all affected areas through the use of water extractors and industrial-grade fans and dehumidifiers. Our IICRC-standard water restoration skills and techniques can ensure all affected materials are dry and your property's moisture and humidity levels are regulated. All of these factors combined can help to mitigate further damages and prevent mold growth. Throughout the process, we stay in close communicate with you and your insurance provider to ensure we are on the same page regarding work to be done.

Call us 24/7/365 for fast response to your water damage emergency! 847-593-3055

Prepare Your Home Against Frozen Pipe Burst This Winter

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Knowing what winter is capable of causing in Chicago, now is the time to take extra precautions and know what to do when frozen pipes occur.

Wintertime is fast approaching, and we are already seeing snowfall and drops in temperature. Knowing what winter is capable of causing in Chicago, now is the time to take extra precautions and know what to do when frozen pipes occur. It is best to prepare before you end up standing knee-deep in a flooded basement! 

If you think your home may have frozen pipes, call a plumber to evaluate the situation, which can help prevent any costly damages. If you would like to try to take matters into your own hands, here are some helpful tips:

• Avoid using open flames, heat guns, etc. to thaw your pipes. You would not want fire damages on top of a water loss!
• Increasing water pressure as ice builds up may cause older pipes to burst. Relieve water pressure on your lines by turning off your water supply or trickling your faucets. Water may still freeze within your pipes, but releasing pressure can help prevent them from bursting.
• Look for any swollen areas or frost along your pipes. Turn up the heat throughout the building if you see any.
• Use space heaters to provide some extra heat - though do not leave them unattended!
• If you need to target specific areas on your pipes, a hairdryer, heating pad, or simply a cloth wet with hot water can be applied.

In the unfortunate event your home or business experiences water damage caused by a frozen pipe, please give us a call! SERVPRO operates 24/7 and offers quick emergency response time to effectively mitigate any further damage.

847-593-3055

Faster To Any Size Disaster

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage doesn't wait, and neither do we! We are available 24/7/365!

Illinois weather can be wildly unpredictable, which could cause a myriad of issues for property owners if one isn't careful. Especially in our local territory (which extends from Palatine and Rolling Meadows down to Roselle and Itasca), we work with many older houses that were ill-equipped to handle storm-related issues such as excessive rainfall, flooding, and freezing temperatures. From aging sump pumps to poor insulation leading to frozen pipe bursts, we have seen it all. 

When it comes to dealing with water damage from a storm, immediate action is needed to restore your property and prevent further damages. Click here to learn more about the water damage timeline and what could happen if water is left sitting too long!

SERVPRO prides itself on its fast emergency response time, and we are available 24/7/365 - including holidays - to address your needs and begin the restoration process. We are also a preferred vendor with many national and local insurance companies, which further expedites the claims process. 

Water damage doesn't wait, and neither do we! Call us now at 847-593-3055

Fire Safety Tips During the Holiday Season

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

The holiday season can be stressful and chaotic. Don't make it worse with fire damage in the kitchen!

The holiday season brings family together for good times and good cheer, but it can also be stressful and chaotic. On top of that, did you know the risk of home cooking fires is much higher during the holiday season?

In 2016, around 1,570 home cooking fires were reported on Thanksgiving day alone; many of these incidents were caused by unattended cooking involving stoves and/or ovens.

Keep your home and your family safe this holiday season by following these safety tips:

• Keep an eye on your food! Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop, and do NOT leave your home with anything cooking in your oven.
• Clear your stovetop to ensure it is free of any flammable objects (towels, paper, cardboard, etc.).
• Keep children under age 5 away from the stove.
• Manage electric cords from kitchen appliances (such as coffee makers, plate warmers, mixers, etc.) so they are not dangling off the counter for children to reach.
• Keep matches and utility lighters in a cabinet up above, out of reach of children.
• Do regular checks on your smoke alarms to ensure they are working by pressing the test button.
• When in doubt, just get out! Do not try to fight any fires that may grow out of control. Leave the house and call 911 as soon as you are a safe distance away from the fire.

We at SERVPRO are ready 24/7/365, including holidays, to respond to any emergency disaster. If your home has suffered from fire damage, call us! 

847-593-3055

The Leader in Disaster & Recovery

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team is ready to respond 24/7/365!

In the event of disasters such as hurricanes and flooding, SERVPRO is on the frontlines, ready to respond. While we are a locally owned and operated franchise in Elk Grove Village, SERVPRO is a nationwide restoration provider equipped with the resources and experience to handle any size disaster. With over 1,700 franchises located across the United States, SERVPRO is well equipped to lend a helping hand anywhere in the country, 24/7/365.

In addition to our franchise system, there are dedicated storm teams strategically positioned across on the country on standby, ready and prepared for the unpredictable. The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help and coordinate efforts anywhere in the United States, with the ability to mobilize local command centers and utilize the efforts and resources of local franchises. No matter how catastrophic or large the disaster is, SERVPRO has got it covered!

Call us 24/7/365 for fast emergency response! 847-593-3055

Water Damage Restoration - Making it "Like it never even happened."

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we make water damage "Like it never even happened."

At any given moment, water damage can strike in your home or business. Whether it is from leaking kitchen appliances, pipe bursts, or failing sump pumps, you may find yourself knee-deep in water and not knowing what to do next.

SERVPRO is well-equipped to handle any size disaster. We are your local neighbors in Elk Grove Village, and we know there are many older residential properties in the surrounding area that are susceptible to failed plumbing and pipe bursts, especially in the winter season. Luckily, we have had enough experience in these properties that we can not only help mitigate the damage, but we can restore your property to its preloss condition, "Like it never even happened."

Mitigation & Restoration

When water damage occurs, surface level damage is obvious - moisture wicking up drywall, saturated carpet, buckling hardwood floors, etc. However, it is the damage that lies underneath that we are concerned about. Even if you dry the outer layers of your walls and floors, there will most likely still be moisture found in the underlying structure, such as your subfloors or framing studs. Leaving this unattended increases the risk of microbial growth and mold, which will lead to further damage and expenses down the road. Because of this, depending on the extent of the water damage, our technicians may be required to perform a certain level of demolition to your property.

While in some cases we can thoroughly dry the structure without removing materials, there are times we will need to completely remove sections of drywall and flooring in order to dry and disinfect the underlying structure. There may also be times we would need to remove items such as vanities and cabinets, either because we need to access the walls and floors beneath or these items are damaged beyond repair. This will help protect the integrity of your structure and prevent further damage, but it will also leave the framing of your property temporarily exposed.

We know it can be a harrowing experience to see your home in this state, and that's why we will also work quickly to restore everything back to the way it was, perhaps in an even better state. Working alongside you and your insurance company, SERVPRO can coordinate reconstruction efforts to make sure all new materials match with what was there before to ensure a seamless repair. We can also assist you in selecting any cabinets/vanities/etc. that need to be replaced. 

Click here to see an example of one of our previous reconstruction jobs!

SERVPRO is ready to respond to any size disaster, 24/7/365. Call us now, 847-593-3055!

Combat Against the Flu and COVID-19 With Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

As the flu emerges once again, it is more important than ever to maintain proper hygienic practices to combat against the flu and COVID-19.

Fall has officially arrived, bringing many seasonal changes. The temperature is dropping, people are spending more time indoors, and seasonal influenza is upon us once again. With the risk of COVID-19 still looming large, we are heading into uncharted territory as we try to deal with the presence of two highly contagious viruses. As the flu emerges once again, it is more important than ever to maintain proper hygienic practices to combat against the flu and COVID-19. Because of increased risk with the more time we spend indoors, continuing to practice social distancing, wearing masks and frequent handwashing will help to mitigate the spread of both viruses. In addition to practicing good hygiene, it is time to get vaccinated. As we still wait for a COVID-19 vaccine, the flu vaccine is readily available and will help reduce illnesses and hospitalizations related to the flu. As we prepare for a unique flu season, we will need to take every preventative measure we can for the sake of protecting the health and safety of ourselves and those around us.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

We at SERVPRO continue to be at the forefront of cleaning and disinfecting efforts for many local businesses and commercial properties. To provide peace of mind and protect the health and safety of your customers and employees, consider signing up for our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program. We will work with your schedule to provide you thorough cleaning and disinfecting services at a recurring frequency of your choosing. To fight against COVID-19 and the flu, it is more critical than ever to maintain the cleanliness of your property and keep your business open and operational!

Call us now for a free quote! 847-593-3055

Trust Quality Professionals to Take Care of Your Property

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

In this day and age, trust and integrity is of utmost importance when looking for water damage restoration services. When you hire SERVPRO to take care of your property damage needs, you can expect quality professionals to handle things safely and properly, and make it "Like it never even happened." Here's what you can expect from our employees:

• 24/7 Emergency Response Team
• Background-checked, highly experienced professionals
• IICRC-certified and OSHA-compliant
• 50+ years of combined experience
• Certified in water damage restoration, fire & smoke damage restoration, carpet cleaning, applied microbial remediation, biohazard & trauma/crime scene cleanup

With over 1,800 franchises across the country, SERVPRO is the nationwide leader in cleanup and restoration. From our “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned” program to our industry-leading fire & water damage restoration work, you can trust SERVPROto handle any size job whenever you need us, 24/7/365.

Click here to learn more about our team! 

Call us now at 847-593-3055

National Preparedness Month 2020: Learn What to Do in the Aftermath of Disasters

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

While there is much to do in the aftermath of a disaster, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start.

When your home suffers damage from fire or water, it can be a devastating experience, especially if the damage is particularly severe. While there is much to do in the aftermath, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. This blog aims to guide you in the right direction in the aftermath of a disaster.

Take Care of Yourself and Family

Your local disaster relief service, such as the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army, can help you find temporary shelter, as well as food, clothing, and medicine. Also, make sure to take care of yourself. Get plenty of rest and do not be afraid to ask for help; you do not need to do this alone!

Help Your Pets

Do not bring your pets into your home if cleanup and repairs are still occurring. If possible, try to leave pets with a family member, friend or veterinarian if you are visiting or cleaning your property. 

Security and Safety

Do NOT enter a damaged property unless the fire department says it is safe; roofs and floors may be damaged and could collapse at any time. The fire department will also need to make sure utility services (water, electricity, and gas) are safe to use. If they are not safe, your utilities will be left turned off or disconnected; DO NOT try to turn them back on yourself. 

Contact Your Insurance Company

To ensure your damages are covered, it is important to contact your insurance and schedule an inspection. In addition, your property may have immediate needs such as boarding up windows and doors, extracting flooding, etc.; your insurance company can help to coordinate this with vendors who offer emergency services 24/7/365, such as SERVPRO.

If you do not have insurance, there are organizations that can help, such as:

• American Red Cross
• Religious organizations
• Public agencies, such as the public health department
• State or municipal emergency services office

Finances

Get in touch with your landlord or mortgage lender ASAP. Contact your credit card company to report credit cards that were lost in the incident and request replacement. Save all of your receipts for any money you spend; these may be needed later by the insurance company to prove any losses claimed on your tax return.

Handling the Damage

Call a company that specializes in cleaning and/or restoring personal items, such as SERVPRO. Whether you or your insurer buys this type of service, be clear on who will pay for it. Be sure to ask for an estimate of cost for the work and agree to it in writing. 

SERVPRO can:

• Secure your home against more damage
• Estimate and repair damage to your property and renew items of personal property
• Store repaired household items until needed

24/7/365 Services

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready to respond 24/7/365 to your emergency.

Contact (847) 593-3055 for service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster!

National Preparedness Month 2020: Prepare for Disasters

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Take steps now to limit the impacts fire disasters can have on you and your family.

September is National Preparedness Month, which promotes family and community disaster planning now and throughout the year. Take steps now to limit the impacts disasters can have on you and your family. This blog focuses on just one of the many hazards you will need to prepare for: 

Home Fires

In a matter of minutes, a home fire can turn life-threatening. A small flame can quickly grow into a major fire, engulfing your home in flames or filling it with black smoke and poisonous gases. Be proactive in ensuring the safety of you and your family in the event of a fire disaster.

1. Check your smoke alarms: Test your batteries monthly, and replace batteries at least once a year. 
2. Create a fire escape plan: Every second counts when a fire occurs. Plan out every possible route outside of your home and practice it with your family.
3. Check fire sprinkler system: If your home has a fire sprinkler system, have it inspected regularly to ensure it will function properly when it matters most!
4. Copy important documents: Make digital copies of documents and records such as birth certificates.

Check out Ready.gov for further tips and information on fire safety. This website also provides valuable safety tips on other disasters such as floods, hurricanes and tornadoes, as well as the current pandemic.

In the event of a fire disaster, SERVPRO is here for you 24/7/365. Call us today at 847-593-3055!

National Preparedness Month 2020: Disasters Don't Wait. Make Your Plan Today.

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month (NPM) is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster planning now and throughout the year.

We at SERVPRO are proud to be a member of the National Preparedness Month Coalition and are committed to helping the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in their efforts to promote the importance of preparedness planning. National Preparedness Month (NPM) is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster planning now and throughout the year. As our nation continues to respond to COVID-19, there is no better time to be involved this September.

Each week of September has a different theme revolved around different aspects of being prepared. This week's theme is "Make A Plan." One way to do this for businesses is through SERVPRO's free Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). This valuable tool can help minimize business disruption from disasters through establishing an immediate plan of action and streamlining the decision-making process. To learn more about the ERP, check out our blog. 

Another way SERVPRO can assist you is through our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned (CSC) program targeted toward protecting the health and safety of you and your employees. We can work with you to establish a plan of action in the event your property is exposed to COVID-19, and we also offer preemptive cleaning services to proactively treat your property. To learn more about CSC, click here.

For more information on NPM and how to plan ahead for you and your loved ones, check out the official Ready.gov website.

Disasters don't wait, and neither does SERVPRO. Call us 24/7/365 for fast emergency response! 847-593-3055

What are Chem Sponges, and How Are They Helpful in Fire Damages?

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Chem sponges can pick up deeply embedded dust, soot, and smoke residue from within the surface.

In the aftermath of a fire, it can be overwhelming to figure out what to do next regarding all the resulting damages. At SERVPRO, we are highly experienced and certified in fire and smoke mitigation, and we can assist you through the process of getting your house back to preloss condition.

With working with fire damage losses, one of the most important tools in our inventory is the chem sponge. These are unlike any other sponge in that they are used completely dry. Their unique cell structure is made of vulcanized latex rubber, which enables them to pick up deeply embedded dust, soot, and smoke residue from within the surface. 

While chem sponges are powerful cleaning tools, they are also safe to use on basically any surface, including fabrics. They are also gentle enough to use on painted drywall surfaces, ensuring your walls will be cleaned without causing further damage.

Not only will we use chem sponges on soot-damaged surfaces, but we can also use them throughout the structure to check other surfaces outside of the visually stained ones, as soot can travel far and wide. One swipe of a chem sponge can reveal hidden soot that had been embedded deep within a wall surface that otherwise looks completely clean! We want to ensure your property is thoroughly treated, and chem sponges are incredibly useful to help us achieve this goal. 

SERVPRO is ready and prepared 24/7/365 to provide fire and smoke mitigation to your home and help make it "Like it never even happened." Call 847-593-3055!

SERVPROXIDE - Our Proprietary Disinfectant for Residential and Commercial Properties

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPROXIDE can be used to combat against numerous viruses and contaminants.

SERVPRO is on the forefront of cleaning and disinfecting services, and we pride ourselves on our methods, equipment, expertise, and cleaning products. Our franchise possesses a number of EPA registered disinfectants and sanitizers, one of which is SERVPROXIDE. It is a hospital-grade stabilized chlorine dioxide-based disinfectant and sanitizer that is designed to kill harmful bacteria, viruses and mold on hard surfaces and is an effective sanitizer for soft surfaces. It also carries the EPA's lowest toxicity rating, making it safe for everyday use.

Per the CDC, this product is recommended to be used against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). The product can be applied via electric/pump/trigger spraying or ULV misting. Depending on your needs, either of these methods can be utilized to thoroughly disinfect and sanitize your property. This product can be safely used in many environments, including homes, daycares, hospitals and nursing homes, restaurants, etc. It is also NSF rated (D2), meaning it can be safely applied on food contact surfaces with no rinsing required. 

For more information about SERVPROXIDE and our disinfecting and sanitizing services to combat against COVID-19 (such as our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program), give us a call! 

847-593-3055

What Makes SERVPRO Different From Other Restoration Companies?

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

As businesses begin to reopen, every business owner needs to consider what their next step will be to prioritize the health and safety of their employees and customers. While many regular cleaning and janitorial companies are offering services targeted toward COVID-19, there are various factors you need to consider to ensure the job is done safely and properly. Before choosing a cleaning company, ask yourself:

• Do they hire quality professionals who are background-checked, certified, and experienced in cleaning up biohazardous situations and environments?
• Do they use the proper PPE to perform jobs safely?
• Do they use EPA-approved hospital-grade disinfecting products, and can they provide safety data sheets upon request?
• Do they adhere to IICRC standards and are they OSHA-compliant?
• Are they willing to go above and beyond the scope of CDC cleaning protocols?

When you choose SERVPRO^®, the answer to all these questions is “Yes.” With over 1,800 franchises across the country, SERVPRO^® is the nationwide leader in cleanup and restoration. From our “Certified: SERVPRO^® Cleaned” program to our industry-leading fire & water damage restoration work, you can trust SERVPRO^® to handle any size job whenever you need us, 24/7/365.

Give us a call at 847-593-3055!

Air Movers Get the Job Done

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

High volume air movers can direct clean, dry air at a high velocity in order to increase the rate of evaporation throughout each affected room.

Water damage can happen at any time, and it can be a stressful experience. Pipes can burst, sump pumps can fail, etc. Whatever it is, the good news is that SERVPRO is prepared. With industrial-grade drying equipment, such as our air movers, we can get your property dry before any further damage can occur. 

High volume air movers can direct clean, dry air at a high velocity in order to increase the rate of evaporation throughout each affected room. These come in handy for ventilating entire rooms and drying items such as carpet, pads, drywall, and wooden studs. 

Paired with a dehumidifier, which removes moisture from the air, air movers prove to be invaluable in high-humidity environments. The dry air pumped through our air movers will help move moisture-soaked air toward our dehumidifiers, which promotes a faster drying time.

At SERVPRO, we provide water damage restoration services to Elk Grove Village, Schaumburg, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, and all throughout the Chicagoland area. Water damage repairs are carried out with the utmost care by our qualified professionals. We understand that your property and possessions are precious, and we will be sure to do our job safely and quickly. Large or small, we can make it "Like it never even happened." 

Call us 24/7/365 at 847-593-3055 today!

Make Soot & Smoke Odors "Like it never even happened."

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

Have you ever walked into an apartment room and could immediately smell a scent of smoke in the air? That's because while many restoration companies can get rid of visual damage, only the most qualified can actually get rid of any lingering scent. We do not solely focus on making things look pretty; we want to make the fire damage "Like it never even happened."

Before any chemicals are even used, our qualified professionals painstakingly dry-wipe every affected surface - and beyond - with chem sponges that lift hidden, deeply embedded soot from within the surface, even if it looks visibly untouched. These surfaces are then wiped and cleaned with degreasing and deodorizing chemicals powerful enough to neutralize odor and clean the toughest stains, yet safe enough that it will not cause further damage to the surface, including painted walls and ceilings. 

We pride ourselves on our restoration abilities, and many of our previous clients are blown away by our ability to eradicate smoke and soot odors. In the unfortunate event your home or business suffers fire damage, call SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO at 847-593-3055 to take care of your fire damage disaster. We are available 24/7/365!

How SERVPRO Handles Fire-Damage Disasters

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

It is an overwhelming experience to deal with fire damage in your property. Trust SERVPRO to lift some of the burden off your shoulders to get you back to the way it was before the disaster occurred. 

1. Surveying and Pretesting: Before work is started, SERVPRO professionals will survey the site to determine every area that has been affected. This involves visual inspection, as well as the use of chem sponges to spot check areas that may look clean but contain hidden soot. From this inspection, we can draft a full cleaning procedure to address every affected area; however, it is up to you and your adjuster on what we will clean.
2. Clean/Prep-for-Paint: All surfaces will be dry scrubbed with chem sponges to lift soot from the surfaces, followed by wiping down with degreasing and deodorizing chemicals. Any walls that cannot be cleaned completely can be prepped for paint.
3. Clothing: Your insurance company might encourage you to clean any affected clothing in your home. If the damage is too heavy or if facilities are not available, we may recommend a local professional laundry and dry cleaners we use to do the work. You may use any laundry or dry cleaner that you wish. It is important, however, that they be familiar with smoke damage.
4. Personal items: We will separate and save any items which do not clean completely. Our crews will never throw anything out unless you request it. If necessary, we can pack and move items to our facilities for more thorough cleaning.

Call us at 847-593-3055 for 24/7/365 emergency response to make your fire damage "Like it never even happened."

What To Do After a Storm Hits

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

No matter how prepared you may be for the forecast, storm damage to your property can happen at any time. Knowing what to do when the unexpected happens can help save time and money for you, as well as keep you and your loved ones safe.

1. Take Safety Precautions: Be aware of any potential physical hazards to your property. Is there standing water? Are there collapsed walls or ceilings? Any broken glass or exposed nails? Be careful when traversing through your property. If necessary, arrange an alternative place to live in. 
2. Document the Damage: If it's safe to do so, take photos of whatever damage has occurred to show to your insurance company. SERVPRO can also do this for you and keep documentation to submit with your claim. 
3. Contact Insurance: Notify your agent about damage to your home immediately. An adjuster can determine the extent of the damage so payment can be made for the repairs. We at SERVPRO work with many insurance companies to ensure a seamless claims process. 

We at SERVPRO have many years of experience dealing with any size disasters. Our water mitigation services are available 24/7/365 when emergencies strike, and you can count on us to take care of your property and give you peace of mind.

Call us at 847-593-3055 for 24/7/365 emergency service!

Is Your Business Prepared for Disaster?

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

According to research, as many as 50% of businesses do not recover after experiencing a disaster. To ensure your business is not part of that statistic, we at SERVPRO can work with you to establish an emergency plan of action, free of charge.

The Emergency READY Profile (ERP) is a comprehensive assessment of your facility that also establishes a direct line of contact between the decision-maker of your business and SERVPRO. When disaster strikes, the ERP can streamline the restoration process to ensure your business experiences minimal interruption.

• 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."

Call 847-593-3055 to learn more about the Emergency READY Profile!

SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team is Faster to Any Size Disaster

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the resources to handle any size disaster.

While we are locally owned and operated, SERVPRO has been the leader in disaster cleanup and restoration nationwide since 1967. With over 1,700 franchises located nationwide and a network of strategically placed storm teams on standby, SERVPRO is uniquely positioned to handle any size disaster. From severe flooding to catastrophic fires, SERVPRO has seen it all and our technicians are trained and experienced to handle whatever is thrown our way. They are elite large-loss specialists who are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States.

When a large-scale disaster occurs, such as a hurricane, the Disaster Recovery Team can mobilize local command centers, and SERVPRO franchises from all over the nation are called upon to lend a helping hand. No matter what the disaster is, rest assured you will be getting the best of the best in the restoration industry.

Call SERVPRO 24/7/365 at 847-593-3055 for fast emergency response to any size disaster!

Prepare Your Home for the Unexpected!

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms in the summer can cause numerous unexpected damages to your property. Whether it is flooding in your basement, damage to your roof, or trees puncturing through your windows, storm damage can happen at any time. When the forecast looks grim, it is wise to prepare in advance to ensure you and your loved ones are kept safe.

1. Secure fences and outside furniture: Heavy winds can easily pull unsecured fencing and loose patio furniture off the ground, which could cause exterior damage to your house. Make sure your fence is properly secured, and anchor outdoor furniture or bring it inside. 
2. Check gutters: Make sure your gutters are clear of debris and downspouts drain away from your house to help prevent interior water damage.
3. Trim trees: Dead tree limbs near your windows could potentially get loose from heavy winds and puncture through.
4. Protect your valuables: If you store valuables in your basement, make sure they are off the ground or secured in boxes.
5. Review your policy: Lots of homeowners often find out too late that their insurance policy does not cover certain types of flood damages!
6. Create an emergency kit: Make sure your emergency kit has everything you need just in case! 

When storms come your way, SERVPRO is ready and prepared to handle any size disaster!

Call us 24/7/365 at 847-593-3055!

Consumer Confidence About Business Cleaning Procedures

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

According to the latest research*, consumers have varying perspectives regarding the cleanliness of different businesses in the era of COVID-19. That means just the type of business you run may impact your customers’ level of confidence in your cleaning procedures. The following list of businesses is ranked based on percentage of consumers who are extremely or very confident in the cleanliness of their facilities.

1. High-end grocery store (Whole Foods, Fresh Market, etc.): 52%
2. National grocery store (Kroger, Publix, Safeway, etc.): 47%
3. National big box retailer (Wal-Mart, Target): 38%
4. National electronics/technology store (Best Buy, Fry’s, etc.): 37%
5. Fast casual chain restaurant (Chili’s, Applebees, etc.): 37%
6. Fast food chain restaurant (McDonalds, Taco Bell, etc.): 35%
7. Small retailer in a local outdoor/strip mall (boutique clothing store, etc.): 35%
8. Department store (Macy’s, Sears, etc.): 34%
9. Clothing Store in a local indoor mall (Gap, American Eagle, H&M, etc.): 33%
10. Neighborhood bar/pub: 25%

Regardless of your business, your consumers’ expectations of cleanliness have likely increased, and you will need to prove you are doing all you can to prioritize their health and safety. Our Certified: SERVPRO^®Cleaned program can help you by providing high-level disinfecting services, as well as a window decal letting your customers know your facility was cleaned by the nationwide leader in cleanup and restoration.

Call SERVPRO^® today and ask about our Certified: SERVPRO^® Cleaned program!

847-593-3055

*Research conducted by Message Factors, Inc.

Consumer Attitudes Toward COVID-19 and Cleanliness

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

Do you wonder about your customers’ perceptions toward COVID-19 and how your business is addressing it? Research shows most consumers still worry about risk of exposure, and the cleanliness of your business may impact their willingness to enter your facilities.*

Consumers perceive COVID-19 as a significant risk.

• 68% are constantly thinking about avoiding COVID exposure when out in public.
• 59% are worried about COVID exposure from touching surfaces that have not been sufficiently cleaned.

Consumers have heightened expectations of businesses when it comes to providing a clean and safe environment.

• 81% say businesses need to be more aggressive now than before COVID when it comes to cleaning.
• 71% have higher cleanliness expectations for businesses than for their own homes.
• 73% expect to stay more attuned to cleanliness even after COVID passes.
• 67% say feeling comfortable entering a store hinges on employees wearing masks, and 63% want to see employees cleaning high-touch areas.

Professional cleaning is a potential differentiator for businesses.

• 58% feel professionally cleaned businesses are likely to be much/somewhat cleaner than other businesses.
• All else being equal (product, price, service, convenience), 64% of respondents are more likely to shop at a business with a decal indicating professional cleaning, than at a store without such a decal.

Now is the time to act and show your customers how you prioritize their health and safety. Call SERVPRO^® today and ask about our Certified: SERVPRO^® Cleaned program!

847-593-3055

*Research conducted by Message Factors, Inc.

Business Re-Opening Preparation in Schaumburg

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

As we adjust to a new normal, so should your business.

Re-opening businesses right now is hard, and "Business as usual" has a new meaning. As we adjust to a new normal, so should your business. Here are tips to consider for a new way of operating.

1. Identify a workplace coordinator to handle COVID-19 issues that impact the workplace. Designating this responsibility can help take some of the workload off your plate.
2. Examine policies for leave, telework, and employee compensation. Making sure your employees are taken care of and safe should be a top priority!
3. Identify essential employees, business functions, and other critical inputs. It is important to find a balance between keeping your business running while minimizing foot traffic within your facilities.
4. Prepare business continuity plans. This will be a transition for everyone involved, so it is important to begin planning now.
5. Establish an emergency communications plan. It is vital to prepare for the future should the unforeseen take place.
6. Share response plans with employees and communicate expectations. Making sure your team is on the same page regarding operations moving forward helps make for a smoother transition.
7. Register for Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned service. To further give peace of mind for you, your employees, and your customers, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned service can be scheduled at a time and frequency of your choosing (weekly, biweekly, monthly, etc.). These services in addition to your regular janitorial cleaning will help to maintain the highest level of disinfection and cleanliness, with a window decal on display to show you are taking the steps necessary to protect everyone's health and safety! Click here to learn more about the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program!

Call today at 847-593-3055!

For more info on business re-opening in Illinois, click here.

Seal the Deal with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

You can have peace of mind and confidence in the cleanliness of your property knowing SERVPRO handled the job.

In this new era of COVID-19, the standard of clean has been changed. As businesses are reopening, and with 40% of customers citing store cleanliness as a top concern, we at SERVPRO want to help. 

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that goes beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning that helps ensure the cleanliness of the restaurants, businesses and public spaces in the communities we all call home. With over 50 years of expertise, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills - always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities.

After your facility is thoroughly cleaned, we leave behind a window seal to proudly display that you are taking every precaution to protect the safety and health of your customers and employees. You can have peace of mind and confidence in the cleanliness of your property knowing SERVPRO handled the job. 

Call 847-593-3055 to learn more about Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned and ask for a free quote!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - a defensive cleaning program

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

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

Let us help you get back to business

As businesses in Elk Grove, Palatine, Schaumburg, and all around the Chicagoland area are preparing to open back up, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who enter our establishments have changed, and staying safe and healthy is a top priority. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help you and your business meet the higher standard of clean that is now expected.

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

Extensive training and specialized products

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

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

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

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

Call SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle/Palatine/Rolling Meadows today at 847-593-3055 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

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

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

ULV Fogging Against COVID-19 in Elk Grove Village

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

Now, more than ever, SERVPRO is Here to Help!

Our technicians at SERVPRO are highly trained and experienced in dealing with biological hazards, pathogens, disinfection, and sanitization. Our equipment and cleaning techniques ensure that you, your employees, and your customers are given peace of mind knowing your facilities have been professionally cleaned. One of the techniques we use is ULV fogging.

What Is ULV Fogging?

Ultra Low Volume (ULV) fogging involves densely distributing a chemical in aerosol form. This results in a mist that distributes through a room up to 8 ft. and disinfects surfaces throughout the room without the need for wiping. Using a hospital-grade disinfectant approved by the CDC, this form of antimicrobial application can help control the spread of COVID-19 and preemptively treat areas at risk of exposure. 

Now, More Than Ever, SERVPRO is Here to Help!

Please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO for any needs related to coronavirus. We remain an essential business and are actively on the front lines responding to the essential services needs of our customers. We understand our customer's concerns and have standard operating procedures in place to protect both our customers and our employees, strictly adhering to CDC and EPA guidelines. 

Call Today! 847-593-3055

Free COVID-19 Consultation for Any Essential Business Still in Operation!

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

We are in this together as a community.

SERVPRO stands with all of our local business partners still in operation. To aid in these challenging times, we are offering free consultation to share the best practices we have learned from the numerous COVID-19 remediation projects we have recently completed in order to help you manage the risk of exposure, reduce your operational downtime and minimize the cost of remediation should your business become at risk of exposure to COVID-19.

If you are a business that is continuing to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic, give us a call so we can help support your contingency planning. SERVPRO has been on the leading edge of helping businesses across the United States disinfect their facilities to keep employees healthy and minimize business disruption.

We are in this together as a community. Whether you want to take proactive measures to protect your business or need help on handling confirmed exposures, we are Here to Help!

Call Today!

COVID-19 Disinfecting Services for Real Estate in Roselle

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help for real estate agents!

Challenging times lie ahead in the midst of the ever-changing coronavirus situation, not just in our own personal lives but in many markets and industries, including real estate. Sellers may be rethinking listing their homes, while buyers may be hesitant to purchase homes. As a real estate agent, you may be wondering if there is anything that can be done to help alleviate the fear in this situation.

SERVPRO professionals are trained and qualified in bioremediation cleaning and disinfecting. We adhere to CDC protocols and use multiple hospital-grade EPA-approved disinfectants recommended by the CDC for coronavirus cleanup. From top to bottom, we will ensure your properties are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Whether it’s performing proactive cleaning before showings or simply giving you and your clients peace of mind when moving in, we are Here to Help.

Please do not hesitate to give us a call. We remain operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Call today for scheduling! 847-593-3055

COVID-19 Residential Disinfecting Services in Palatine

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® is uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home according to the protocols set forth by the CDC.

SERVPRO^® is uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home according to the protocols set forth by the CDC and local authorities. With years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants and multiple Hospital-Grade, EPA-Registered Disinfectants that meet the standards set by the CDC, we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial and cleanup staff would perform.

SERVPRO^® employs protocols applicable to the category of exposure (CAT 1, 2, and 3).

CAT1 – Proactive and Preemptive Cleanup: This involves proactive cleaning and disinfection where there is NO active known threat of COVID-19 contamination or exposure. This procedure generally includes cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of waste.  

CAT2 – High-Touch Cleanup: This involves a suspected case of COVID-19 exposure and requires additional cleaning and disinfecting of all high-touch nonporous and porous surfaces. High-touch includes regularly utilized surfaces, including counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, carpets, chairs, etc.

CAT3 – Enhanced Cleanup: This is employed for areas with confirmed COVID-19 exposure and requires enhanced cleaning that includes walls up to 8 feet but excludes ceilings.

If you are interested in our services, we are here to help. We remain an essential business and are operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Call Today for Scheduling! 847-593-3055

Commercial Disinfecting Services in Elk Grove Village

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

Whether you are being proactive or dealing with an actual exposure, you can rely on us to thoroughly clean and disinfect your property the right way.

In this unique and unprecedented time, SERVPRO is being called by numerous business owners and community leaders to perform necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect, and sanitize their facilities. We have years of experience and training in dealing with biological contaminants and we possess multiple Hospital-Grade, EPA-Registered Disinfectants that meet the standards set by the CDC for coronavirus disinfection.

Regular janitorial and cleanup services may not be properly trained or follow CDC recommended protocols when dealing with coronavirus situations. In fact, with improper cleaning procedures, they may be further spreading contaminants throughout, imposing danger onto themselves and to you. With high-risk situations involving the coronavirus, you need professionals who are equipped and qualified to safely handle it the right way.

Whether you are being proactive or dealing with an actual exposure, you can rely on SERVPRO to thoroughly clean and disinfect your property the right way.

Call today to schedule! 847-593-3055

Hoarding Cleanup & Restoration Services in Palatine

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

If left unaddressed for too long, hoarding can lead to serious safety hazards.

Hoarding can be a distressing situation for a homeowner and their family, and it can be difficult to know where to start with cleanup and restoration. In addition, if left unaddressed for too long, hoarding can lead to serious safety hazards, including, but not limited to: cramped living spaces; fire hazards; unsanitary conditions; exposure to insect infestation and hazardous wastes; and risk of injury or entrapment from falling or shifting items.

24/7/365 Emergency Cleanup & Restoration

847-593-3055

At SERVPRO, we are a full-service cleanup and restoration company trained and experienced in dealing with hoarding situations. From start to finish, we handle the full scope of the job, including pack-out and inventory, a deep clean of the entire premise, and even larger scale mitigation that may involve biohazard cleanup or demolition. No matter the size, we are dedicated to see each project through and make it “Like it never even happened.”

In addition, we treat each of our customers with compassion and respect, and we understand the sensitive nature of dealing with one’s property and personal belongings. Throughout the project, we keep our customers informed of our process and collaborate to ensure no items of value are lost or disposed and your home is treated with utmost respect.

Scope of Services

• Inventory & Packing Out Items of Value
• Content Storage
• Content Restoration
• Disposal of Unsalvageable Items
• Cleanup of Hazardous Contaminants
• Deep Clean & Sanitization of Entire House
• Water Removal & Structural Drying
• Mold Inspection & Remediation
• Reconstruction

SERVPRO is ready to respond to your emergency situation whenever you need it. Give us a call!

Proactive Cleaning to Minimize the Transmission of Emerging Viral Pathogens (including Coronavirus)

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO franchise professionals have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business.

About Coronavirus

The CDC is responding to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (“SARS-CoV-2”)  that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and which has now (as of this publication) been detected in 60 locations internationally, including cases in the United States. The virus known as “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”) is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person or through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Scope of Cleanup

SERVPRO professionals can perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection where the customer states that there is ­no active known threat of COVID-19 contamination or exposure. The customer will be required to acknowledge that cleaning and disinfecting will only apply to the current state of the structure and contents. The structure would not be protected from future COVID-19 contamination if an infected person was the enter and occupy the building.

Cleanup Scope of Work and Planning

The CDC encourages cleaning of high touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum. These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces as well. 

Cleaning Procedures

Cleanup procedures may vary depending on the environment, but the general guideline includes:

1. Cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces
2. Disinfecting of non-porous surfaces
3. Cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process
4. Disposal of waste

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled Hospital Grade disinfectant with claims against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 (again, this is not the COVID-19 strain but a similar strain). SERVPROXIDE™ (SERVPRO’s proprietary disinfectant, is a hospital-grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 on hard, non-porous surfaces. In addition, SERVPROXIDE™ currently has EPA-approved claims for Feline coronavirus (Strain WSU 79-1683, ATCC VR 989) and Canine coronavirus (Strain 1-71, ATCC VR-809).

Porous surfaces that are not water-sensitive, such as carpet and other fabric material, cannot be disinfected but can be sanitized using SERVPROXIDE™.

Call us at 847-593-3055 to schedule your proactive cleaning for your home or business!

Attic Mold Remediation in Schaumburg

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

An attic mold job before and after shot.

With spring weather on the horizon and winter thawing away in Schaumburg, humidity and moisture levels tend to rise, which can create the perfect breeding ground for mold growth in your home. The attic is one of the most common areas of mold growth due to the hotter temperature, higher humidity, and the wood sheathing providing the perfect food source. 

Oftentimes, attic mold can be left unnoticed until the home is put up for sale, which could create an "attic-panic" for both the buyer and seller. 

Causes of Attic Mold Growth

1. Bathroom fans and dryer vents: These systems are meant to pump moisture out of the house. If they are somehow venting into the attic, this can cause a moisture problem, which leads to mold growth.
2. Inadequate ventilation: When an attic does not allow for sufficient airflow, the air can become warm and humid, which will then condensate along the cold sheathing in the winter. The wet wood allows for mold spores to feed and grow. 
3. Roof leaks: Spring and summer rains can seriously damage your attic if you have any leaks in your roof. The amount of moisture caused by rain leakage provides the perfect environment for mold to grow.

Why Call A Professional?

Attic mold remediation jobs are tricky and complex to handle, but we at SERVPRO are trained and experienced in this type of work. We follow industry standards to make sure the mold and mold staining are properly cleaned. The most common method we utilize is chemical-based, using a powerful mold stain remover to eradicate any darkened spots and leave virtually no trace of mold staining. In addition, we set up containment around the point of access to ensure the chemical is contained and mold spores are not released into the rest of the property, and we create a negative airflow system to bring air from the living space into the attic area, exhausting humid air outside. 

We Are Qualified Mold Remediation Technicians

We at SERVPRO are AMRT (Applied Microbial Remediation Technician) certified, and we have the proper training and equipment to make sure any attic mold remediation work is performed thoroughly and correctly. Call us today at (847) 593-3055 to make attic mold "Like it never even happened."

Let SERVPRO Handle Your Sewage Backup Emergency

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding from sewage and toilets can be dangerous. Call the professionals!

Flooding from a sewage backup is not only stressful to deal with, it is also dangerous. The water found in these types of water losses is what we call CAT 3. This means the water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents and can cause significant adverse reactions to humans if contacted or consumed. It is not worth the health risks to deal with sewage backups on your own.

If you find flooding from a sewage backup, toilet overflow, etc. in your bathroom, basement, or anywhere else in your home, it is wise and safer to call the professionals. We at SERVPRO have the means to safely extract and cleanup any water and sewage, as well as decontaminate the premises and dry out the structure. We can remove any building materials damaged by the sewage, including drywall and flooring; after demolition and drying is completed, we can even assist you in the rebuild process to ensure your property is restored "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO is available 24/7/365 to take care of you! We operate locally in Elk Grove Village and we work all around the suburbs, including Palatine, Rolling Meadows, Schaumburg, Itasca, and Roselle. Call us at (847) 593-3055!

Best of Elk Grove Village Award

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

2020 Best of Elk Grove Village Awards in the category of Fire & Water Damage Restoration

We have recently been awarded for the 2020 Best of Elk Grove Village Awards in the category of Fire & Water Damage Restoration. We are honored and humbled to be recognized as a local business in Elk Grove Village!

How We Were Selected, Per Elk Grove Village Award Program:

"Each year, the Elk Grove Village Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Elk Grove Village area a great place to live, work and play.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2020 Elk Grove Village Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Elk Grove Village Award Program and data provided by third parties."

About Elk Grove Village Award Program

"The Elk Grove Village Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Elk Grove Village area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.

The Elk Grove Village Award Program was established to recognize the best of local businesses in our community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to recognize the small business community's contributions to the U.S. economy."

Check out the full press release here.

Elliott and Davis Guest on AM 560 The Answer

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

Elliott and Davis at AM 560 The Answer

Elliott and Davis had the opportunity to guest on AM 560 The Answer with other members of GOA Regional Business Association to talk about the benefits of being part of a business alliance network, as well as share insights into running a small business!

Click here to listen!

SERVPRO Specializes in Disaster Recovery for Homes and Businesses

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Disaster waits for nobody. SERVPRO is ready 24/7 to respond and get your business back up and running!

SERVPRO provides excellent cleaning and restoration services for any size disaster. This extends not only to your home, but also your business. All our services, including fire & water damage cleanup, mold remediation, biohazard & sewage cleanup, etc. are available to your commercial property, large or small.

According to industry studies, up to 50% of all business might not ever recover from a disaster. We want to work to ensure your business is not part of that statistic.

We understand that lost time equals lost revenue, and time is of the essence when dealing with any damages to your business. That is why we make it our priority to ensure your business is back up and running as soon as possible. Even if that means coming in after regular business hours, we can accommodate your schedule.

We value the many relationships we have established with businesses throughout the Elk Grove and Palatine area. One of the ways businesses can keep a direct line to us always is through the Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). This helpful tool is offered to your business completely for free, and it can help you minimize interruption to your business through establishing an immediate plan of action. Knowing what immediate steps to take and what to expect in advance can help with timely mitigation of further damages caused by water or fire. You can learn more about the ERP here.

Disaster can strike at any time; that’s why we at SERVPRO are available 24/7! Call us at (847) 593-3055 for quick emergency response to your disaster!

Quick Emergency Response to Flooding in Palatine

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO is ready to help 24/7!

Floods can happen at the most unexpected times. Whether it's due to a sump pump failure, a burst frozen pipe, a water main break, or heavy rain, anyone's basement can be at risk of flooding. When this happens, you need qualified water damage restoration experts who are available even when it's most inconvenient. 

We at SERVPRO pride ourselves on our 20+ years of experience dealing with all types of water damages. From small residential properties to large commercial properties, we’ve seen it all. We understand how time is of the essence when dealing with water damage. When left unaddressed, the damages water can cause to your property can become a major issue. However, if dealt with in a timely manner, the potential damages can be minimized, which can make the restoration process much easier.

That’s why we at SERVPRO make ourselves available 24/7 for any potential emergency. No matter the time of day, our on-call crew will be there to assess your situation and even begin work. Our quick emergency response to your flooding situation ensures potential damages will be minimized, reducing the cost of your claim.

Our franchise is locally owned and operated, and we service all around Elk Grove Village, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, Schaumburg, and beyond. Call us at (847) 593-3055 to begin restoring your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Calm Before The Storm

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready to respond 24/7 during this weekend's Winter Weather Watch!

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch throughout the Chicagoland area that will be in effect through the weekend. The area will be expecting a mix of heavy rain, followed by freezing temperatures and potentially more than half a foot of snowfall.

We urge everyone to stay safe! In the event of water damage caused by the weather, SERVPRO is available 24/7 to take care of your emergency! We are highly trained and experienced in dealing with a variety of water damages, from pipe bursts to water main breaks to sump pump failures, and we can also work with your insurance companies to ensure your claims are filed quickly and properly. 

We are an independently owned and operated franchise, and we service the areas of Elk Grove Village, Schaumburg, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, and the surrounding areas. No job is too big or too small, and we are available 24/7 to provide emergency services. Call us at (847) 593-3055!

Categories and Classes of Water Damage

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

The cleanliness of water (category) and the scale of damage (class) determines what procedures will be followed for mitigation.

At SERVPRO, we have been working with various degrees of water damage for almost twenty years. Our experiences range from small leaks to total property losses. 

When dealing with water damage, we follow IICRC standards and guidelines to ensure proper mitigation. Part of determining what the procedures will be depends upon what type of water has affected the property, as well the extent of the damage.

Categories

Category refers to the type of water affecting the structure.

• Cat 1 (Clean): Water originates from a sanitary water source and does not pose substantial risk from dermal, ingestion, or inhalation exposure. Examples include: broken water supply lines; melting ice or snow; falling rainwater; or broken toilet tanks.
• Cat 2 (Gray): Water contains significant contamination and can potentially cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed by humans. Examples include: discharge from dishwashers or washing machines; overflows from washing machines; or toilet overflows with some contaminants.
• Cat 3 (Black): Water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents and can cause significant adverse reactions to humans if contacted or consumed. Examples include: sewage; rising water from rivers and streams; wasteline backflow; or water with traces of regulated or hazardous materials such as pesticides or toxic organic substances.

Classes

Class refers to how much water and how the water has affected the structure.

• Class 1 – least moisture absorption (less than ~5% of combined floor, wall and ceiling surface area)
• Class 2 – significant moisture absorption (~5% to ~40% of combined surface area)
• Class 3 – greatest moisture absorption (more than ~40% of combined surface area)
• Class 4 – deeply held or bound water into low evaporation materials (e.g. plaster, wood, concrete, masonry) or assemblies (e.g. multilayer wallboard, subfloors)

We at SERVPRO service the Chicagoland area, including Elk Grove, Schaumburg, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, and the surrounding area. For a fast 24/7 emergency response, call (847) 593-3055!

Safety Tips While Decorating for the Holiday Season

12/13/2019 (Permalink)

The holiday season can pose multiple fire risks from decorations.

The holiday season is a time of good cheer and an opportunity to catch up with loved ones near and far. However, it is also a time of potential fire hazards. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), between 2013-2017, fire departments responded to an average 160 home fires started by Christmas tree lights, and 780 home fires started by other decorations. 

In order to prevent potential fires caused by Christmas decorations, here are a few safety tips to follow:

1. Replace old or damaged Christmas lights. If you see light strands with frayed or pinched wires, it is best to throw them away.
2. If you have a natural Christmas tree, be sure to water it every day. Dry wood catches fire more easily.
3. Be sure any lit candles are secured in stable holders and located in areas where they cannot be easily knocked over.
4. Consider LED lights - they stay cool, use less electricity, and are less likely to overheat compared to traditional Christmas lights.
5. If you are decorating the outside of your house with Christmas lights, be sure the lights you use are graded to be used outside. Some Christmas lights are to be used indoors only, and these are not insulated and could potentially pose a fire risk if they become wet.
6. Do not leave tree lights running overnight. Make sure to switch them off before leaving the house or going to bed, or purchase a light timer to set your mind at ease. 

In the unfortunate event your home or business suffers fire damage caused by holiday decorations, please give us a call. We at SERVPRO are available 24/7, even during the holidays! We service Elk Grove, Schaumburg, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, and beyond! (847) 593-3055

Like it never even happened.

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

The photo shown is a bathroom previously damaged by a flood, which now cannot be detected.

Over the years, we at SERVPRO have seen many types of residential losses in the Palatine and Rolling Meadows area, and we understand how stressful it can be, whether from water damage, fire damage, or mold growth. That's why we take the phrase, "Like it never even happened," seriously. When we work on restoring your loss, we want to ensure your property is left not only in the same spot as it was before, but perhaps even better. 

We specialize in mitigation, but we also can help coordinate reconstruction efforts to put your home back together. We are experienced in working with subcontractors and insurance adjusters to make sure every party is doing their part to restore normalcy to your lives. 

The photo shown is a bathroom previously damaged by a flood, necessitating damaged drywall to be removed to dry the structure. After drying was completed, new drywall was installed and matching paint was applied to create a seamless repair. Click here to see a photo of the bathroom before repairs were made.

SERVPRO is ready and available to respond to your emergency of any size 24/7! Call us now at (847) 593-3055 to make it "Like it never even happened."

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Palatine

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

Knowing what winter is capable of causing in Chicago, now is the time to take extra precautions and know what to do when frozen pipes occur.

2019 is almost over, and it is always wise to look back on lessons learned the past year. In January, when the Polar Vortex hit, many houses in Elk Grove, Schaumburg, Palatine, etc. experienced large-scale water losses caused by burst frozen pipes. Knowing what winter is capable of causing in Chicago, now is the time to take extra precautions and know what to do when frozen pipes occur.

If you suspect your property may have frozen pipes, it is best to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and potentially repair and help prevent any damages. If you would like to try to take matters into your own hands, here are some helpful tips:

• Avoid using open flames, heat guns, etc. to thaw your pipes. 
• Pipe bursts occur not just because of frozen water, but from increasing water pressure as ice builds up. Relieve water pressure on your lines. Ways you can do this are turning off your water supply or trickling your faucets. Water may still freeze, but allowing pressure to escape can help prevent pipes from bursting.
• If you are able to visually access pipes along your walls, look for swollen areas or frost. If you see any, turn up the heat throughout the building.
• Use space heaters to provide extra heat in particular areas (though do not leave such appliances unattended).
• If you need to target specific areas, a hairdryer, heating pad, or simply a cloth wet with hot water can be applied.

In the unfortunate event your home or business experiences water damage caused by a frozen pipe, please give us a call! SERVPRO operates 24/7 and offers quick emergency response time to effectively mitigate any further damage. (847) 593-3055

Trained, Experienced, and Compassionate Staff

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

From our technicians to our office staff, each one of our team members aims to provide the restoration services you need with a compassionate smile.

At SERVPRO, it is one thing to have staff who are highly qualified and experienced in restoration. We are IICRC-certified, and our work is based on standardized restoration techniques used across the industry. However, it is important that we not only offer quality work, but also quality care. 

We understand the difficulties a water or fire loss can bring to you and your loved ones, and we aim to work alongside you and help you navigate through these stressful times. From our technicians to our office staff, each one of our team members aims to provide the restoration services you need with a compassionate smile. 

SERVPRO is ready and available 24/7 to provide you with the restoration services your property needs. Do not hesitate to give us a call! (847) 593-3055

Holiday Fire Safety Cooking

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know that Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are peak days for home cooking fires?

The holiday season brings family together for good times and good cheer, but it could also be a hectic time. Did you know it also brings a higher risk of home cooking fires?

In 2016, there were around 1,570 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving day alone, with unintended cooking being the leading cause of incidents. In almost half of all reported home fires and injuries, cooking equipment was involved.

Keep your home and your family safe this holiday season by following these safety tips:

• Check to see if your smoke alarms are working by pressing the test button.
• Keep an eye on your food! Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop. Do not leave home with a turkey cooking in your oven.
• Make sure your stovetop is free of any potentially flammable objects (towels, paper, cardboard, etc.).
• Keep children under age 5 away from the stove.
• Be sure electric cords from kitchen appliances (such as coffee makers, plate warmers, mixers, etc.) are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of children.
• Keep matches and utility lighters in a cabinet up above, out of reach of children.
• When in doubt, just get out! Do not try to fight any fires that may grow out of control. Ensure your safety by leaving the house, and call 911 as soon as you are a safe distance away from the fire.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle / Palatine / Rolling Meadows is ready 24/7, even on holidays, to respond to any emergency disaster. If your home has suffered from fire damage, call us! (847) 593-3055

Snowvembruary: Winter Weather Records in Chicagoland

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

In the unfortunate event your property experiences a winter weather-related disaster, SERVPRO is ready and available 24/7 to take care of you!

We are more than a month away from the "official" start of winter, yet the weather in the Chicagoland area is already proving this year's winter season will be one for the books. Yesterday was the snowiest November 11th on record in Chicago, and today is the coldest November 12th on record. After this, the temperatures will slowly climb back up, which could potentially cause the snow to melt at a rapid pace. If you are a homeowner, make sure you are ready for any potential water damage or floods, including checking to make sure your sump pump is in working order, any foundation cracks or window cracks are sealed, gutters are cleaned out, etc.

In the unfortunate event your home or business property experiences a winter weather-related disaster, SERVPRO is ready and available 24/7 to take care of your needs! Do not hesitate, give us a call at (847) 593-3055!

Call SERVPRO for Fast Response Time to Storm Emergencies

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

Our storm team beginning to mobilize and place drying equipment throughout an 80,000 sq. ft. commercial property.

While we are a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO is a nationwide service provider with the resources and expertise necessary to tackle any size disaster. With over 1,700 franchises across the United States and a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby, SERVPRO is ready 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to respond to emergencies. From severe flooding to catastrophic fires, SERVPRO has seen it all and our technicians are trained and experienced to handle whatever is thrown our way. 

Pictured is one such instance of a large loss emergency in Schaumburg that SERVPRO responded to. After an 80,000 sq. ft. commercial property flooded out, we immediately mobilized a storm team consisting of 50 workers to extract standing water, remove any wet, salvageable materials, and place over 600 pieces of drying equipment to ensure no further damage occurred. Because of our quick response time, the entire structure was dried within a week. To see more from this job, check out our video highlighting the job process. 

SERVPRO is ready to respond to any size disaster, large or small. In the unfortunate event you experience home or business damage related to a storm, do not hesitate to call us! (847) 593-3055

Schaumburg Water Damage Emergencies are SERVPRO's Speciality!

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

One of our air movers drying underneath a wet staircase.

Flooded basements can be a stressful time for a homeowner. Whether flooding occurs from sump pump failures, water main backups, burst pipes, etc., it can be difficult to know what to do next in these situations. 

Calling your insurance company is key to understanding whether you are covered for the damages. After determining coverage, your insurance company would likely recommend you a restoration company such as SERVPRO to come inspect the damages. SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many insurance companies, and we are relied upon to get to your flooded basement emergency as quickly as possible. When it comes to water damages, fast emergency response time is vital to ensure further damages can be prevented, thus keeping claims costs down. That is why SERVPRO keeps a crew on-call 24/7; no matter when an emergency happens, we are ready to help.

SERVPRO is locally owned and operated, and we provide services all throughout the Elk Grove and Palatine area, and beyond. Do not hesitate to call us when disaster strikes! (847) 593-3055

Your Feedback is Greatly Appreciated!

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we take our customers' satisfaction with our work seriously. If there is anything about our work that a customer deems unsatisfactory, we want to make things right in whatever way we can, and we use those opportunities to grow and improve as a business.

Of course, we also very much appreciate it when customers leave us great feedback! From the quality of our work to the professionalism of our crew, we take pride in everything we do. Here are just a few words from our many happy customers:

"Great communication, great explanations, knowledgeable staff and thorough work!"

"You guys were amazing! You came immediately and cleaned everything up before any further problems could occur. As a result, the repair of the damage done by the water was much easier to repair! Thank you!"

"I highly recommend SERVPRO and their Business Development Manager, Tom Von Schaumburg and his assistant, Andres."

"Thank you to the Dove Crew and to Elliott for continuing to recruit and employ possibly the best group of young men I have ever met! They are respectful, knowledgeable and hard working, and have a way of putting the homeowner at ease during a very difficult time."

Check out some more past testimonials from our clients by clicking here!

If you would like to leave feedback regarding our work, good or bad, please leave us a review!

National Preparedness Month 2019: Community Preparedness

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

The last week of National Preparedness month, we at SERVPRO would like to encourage you to get involved with your local community's emergency preparation efforts. When disaster strikes, your whole community may be affected, and we can really make a difference when we all band together and help one another out.

• Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) train volunteers to prepare for different disasters their community may face. You can find local CERTs by clicking this link and entering your ZIP code. 
• Every community has voluntary organizations that work during disasters. Visit https://www.nvoad.org to see what organizations are active in your community.
• Take classes in lifesaving skills such as CPR, first aid, etc. You could become a valuable asset in your community with these skills under your belt.
• Take note of potential hazards your community is most likely to face, and find ways you could potentially help your neighbors and friends.

We at SERVPRO are your neighbors and we are locally available 24/7 to help our community out! When disaster strikes, do not hesitate to give us a call at (847) 593-3055.

Making Fire and Smoke Damage in Rolling Meadows "Like it never even happened."

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

This customer's garage was heavily stained with soot. After SERVPRO finished its fire cleanup process, the garage was left looking good as new.

In the aftermath of fire damages, the cleanup process can be a tricky one to tackle. Not only do you have to deal with the obvious damages to your property and personal belongings, but you also need to consider any hidden damages as well. Soot can be hard to spot and could have spread throughout your house without you noticing, which creates a deep-seated smoke odor that can be difficult to get rid of. Even if heavily damaged materials are removed or cleaned, your house may still have a lingering odor if the cleanup was hastily or improperly done.

At SERVPRO, we have many years of experience and training dealing with fires, and we understand what it takes to properly clean and neutralize fire and smoke staining and odors. We take the time to inspect every area that could have potential hidden soot utilizing chem sponges, which you can read about here. After we determine each area that needs cleaning, we clean and wipe every affected surface with chem sponges, followed by wiping with de-greasing chemicals and deodorizing agents. This process can be time-consuming, but if done properly, your house may be left with virtually no trace of the fire damage, truly "Like it never even happened."

Check out testimonials from clients we have performed fire cleanup services for in the past.

If you experience a fire damage, do not hesitate to call us for fast 24/7 service! We are located in Elk Grove Village and we service Schaumburg, Itasca, Roselle, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, and surrounding cities through the Chicago Suburbs! (847) 593-3055

National Preparedness Month 2019: Youth Preparedness

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month continues, and this week focuses on youth preparedness. Not only is it important for you to prepare for disasters, but it is also important for your children. Now would be a great time to have discussions with your kids about how to prepare and be ready for the unexpected.

• Teach children what to do in emergencies at home and away from home. Check out ready.gov for guidance on how to do so.
• Make sure your kids have the right emergency contacts on their phones. Your numbers, 911, and other close family members and friends are priority numbers they should have.
• Add your kids' school's social media for an easy way to keep up-to-date.
• Practice your emergency plans with your kids.
• Make sure your children's medication and supplies are in your emergency kits.
• Include items such as your children's toys, games, books, etc. in your emergency kits for comfort during disasters.
• Check out online games on ready.gov for fun ways to educate your children on emergency preparedness.
• If you are a teacher, take a look at resources from ready.gov on how to make sure your classrooms are prepared for emergencies.

For more information, be sure to check out ready.gov and fema.gov for many valuable resources to help your entire family prepare for emergencies.

If your home or business suffers emergency weather damage, SERVPRO is ready to respond 24/7. Give us a call at (847) 593-3055 for service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster.

National Preparedness Month 2019: Make a Plan

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month continues, and this week, the theme is "Make a Plan." Here are just a few helpful tips and steps to take to ensure you and your loved ones are ready and prepared for the unexpected. 

• Make an emergency plan for your house and practice it. This would be especially helpful for children. 
• Have emergency contact numbers ready for your family. 
• Create a group texting chain for your family so you can keep in touch easily.
• Learn how to turn off utilities, mainly your water and gas.
• Create a basic disaster supply kit. This includes food, water, and meds to last for at least 72 hours.
• Download the FEMA mobile app to get weather alerts for up to 5 locations, disaster resources, and safety tips.

For more information, ready.gov has a wealth of resources to help you and your family plan ahead. 

In the unfortunate event of a disaster, SERVPRO is ready to respond 24/7 to your emergency. Call (847) 593-3055 for service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster!

National Preparedness Month 2019: Be Prepared with SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

The Emergency Ready Profile is a no-cost readiness plan to prepare your business for any size disaster.

September is observed annually as National Preparedness Month, sponsored by FEMA. This is a great time to ensure your commercial property or business is prepared for the unexpected. Whether natural or man-made, disasters can occur at any time, and there is no telling what damages could be caused.

According to industry studies, up to 50% of all businesses may never recover after a disaster. Of those that do make it through, it's likely because preparedness plan was set in place.

SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) can help you minimize business interruption by setting up an immediate plan of action at no cost. Knowing what steps to take and what to expect in advance can help ensure timely mitigation and minimize the effects of water and fire damage to your business.

The ERP compiles critical information to begin mitigation and recovery services immediately when you need it into a physical Profile Document, as well as a mobile app called Ready Plan for quick and easy accessibility. This information includes emergency and primary contact information, gas and water shutoff locations, and priority areas in the building.

By working with SERVPRO to develop your ERP, your business receives the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

For more information on the Emergency Ready Profile, click here.

Also be sure to check out ready.gov for more great resources on how to prepare for the unexpected.

If you would be interested in setting up an ERP for your commercial/business property, call SERVPRO at (847) 593-3055 to begin your free assessment.

National Preparedness Month 2019: Prepared, Not Scared

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month is observed every September to promote disaster and emergency planning to help ensure the safety of your family and community. Now is a great time to plan ahead and prepare for the unexpected. 

Each week of September focuses on different themes of preparedness. This week's theme is financial preparedness: "Save Early for Disaster Costs." Here are just a few quick tips to financially prepare for disasters.

• Check your insurance coverage and make sure you have flood insurance. Many homeowners' and renters' insurance do not cover for flood damage. (Note: many flood insurance policies do not take effect until after 30 days. Don't wait until it's too late!)
• Make sure you have important documentation on hand, such as insurance, household identification, legal, and medical. 
• Begin saving now and make wise financial choices to prepare for the unexpected.
• Check out the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit developed by FEMA to help plan ahead.
• Snap photos of important documents and personal belongings to expedite insurance claim filing. 

Ready.gov is chock full of helpful resources to prepare for disaster. Be sure to check out their website, as well as the links above, for more information!

In the event of a disaster, SERVPRO is equipped and ready to respond 24/7. Give us a call (847) 593-3055 for service that is "Faster to any size disaster."

Chem Sponges - What Are They and How Do They Work?

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

After the fire has subsided, your property can be left with a myriad of damages to deal with, and it can be overwhelming to figure out what to do next. At SERVPRO, we are highly experienced in fire and smoke mitigation, and we can help you through the process of getting your house back into shape.

One of the most important tools at our disposal in fire and smoke mitigation is the chem sponge. These are unlike any other sponge in that they are used completely dry, and their unique cell structure made of vulcanized latex rubber enables them to pick up deeply embedded dust, soot, and smoke residue from within the surface. 

While they are powerful cleaning tools, chem sponges are also safe to use on virtually any surface, even fabric. They are also gentle enough to use on painted drywall surfaces, ensuring your walls will be cleaned without causing further damage.

Not only will we use chem sponges on soot-damaged surfaces, but we also use these to check other surfaces within the structure outside of the obviously stained ones, as soot can travel far and wide. A wall may look clean, but one swipe of a chem sponge can reveal hidden soot that had been embedded deep within the surface! We want to ensure your property is thoroughly treated, and chem sponges are incredibly useful to help us achieve this goal. 

SERVPRO is ready and prepared to provide fire and smoke mitigation to your home and help make it "Like it never even happened." Call (847) 593-3055; we are available 24/7 to address your needs!

Nominate a Local First Responder for a Chance to be Recognized at the First Responder Bowl!

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Who do you know who has gone above and beyond the call of duty in 2019?

SERVPRO® is proud to be the sponsor of the first-ever First Responder focused bowl game and we extend a heartfelt thank you to all the brave men and women on the frontlines. Their courage and compassion are inspiring to all. We are grateful to live in a country where individuals dedicate themselves to protecting and serving their fellow citizens. We are humbled by their bravery and thank them for putting their lives on the line for those around them. We thank them for their service and sacrifice.

We want to honor local First Responders who are exceptional at performing their duties and have been recognized by their peers and the public they serve. To do so, we ask: Who do you know who has gone above and beyond the call of duty in 2019? They will have the chance to be recognized on a local and national level.

We are gathering candidates from fire stations, police departments, hospitals and elsewhere within the community. After the list is finalized, each nominee will receive the total list of candidates to vote on. In addition, a recognition event will take place to honor the local nominees (TBD).

The Local Winner will be announced and recognized locally November 1^st, and they will also be entered as nominees in the National Selection. From those nominations, selected individuals will be honored at the annual SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl in Dallas, Texas, on December 30, 2019. This trip includes all tickets, transportation, and lodging for two. The selected First Responders will be honored and recognized at the bowl game for their outstanding representation of First Responders everywhere.

If you have a friend, family member, co-worker, etc. you would like to nominate, please send us their name and contact info, their department, service history, and what makes them stand out to earvin@SERVPROofelkgrove.com. Potential candidates will be accepted until October 1^st.

Rebuilding After a Sewage Loss in a Schaumburg Commercial Building

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

Emergency water mitigation services are especially important if your commercial property suffers a sewage backup. Because of the dirt and contaminants present in the water, your property may suffer extensive damage that may be hard to recover from. SERVPRO can help you not only dry and decontaminate your property after a sewage water loss, but also help put your property back together.

This particular property in Schaumburg had various rooms throughout flooded by sewage water. SERVPRO was called in after hours to remove damaged materials such as flooring and drywall, followed by cleaning and disinfecting using a power anti-microbial agent. Finally, drying equipment was placed for three days to dry out the premises.

After the mitigation work was completed, a plan was enacted to put everything back together. This gave the building owners a chance to upgrade a few things, including the flooring in the bathroom pictured here. These before & after shots showcase the results of the mitigation work, as well as the results of the rebuild afterwards.

Like it never even happened.

We at SERVPRO treat every job with the same level of quality and care, no matter how large or small. Call us 24/7 at (847) 593-3055 to begin the process today!

SERVPRO Takes Special Care of Your Contents After Water Damage Disasters

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

It is a stressful time when your basement floods. Not only may you worry about damage to your carpet and walls, but you may also worry about damage to your personal belongings. Property damage can be repaired, but some of these valuable items may be irreplaceable. 

We at SERVPRO understand your concern, and that is why we take extra care to ensure your personal belongings are well taken care of. We will work closely with you and your insurance to go through each item you have concerns about to determine whether they are salvageable. We will never throw anything away without express permission from you. Our drying equipment can be strategically placed to not only dry out your property, but also wet items. We also provide pack out services to move unaffected items from the premises to ensure no further damage is caused in the mitigation process.

Photos, documents and other paper goods are especially susceptible to water damage. Before you write these off as a loss, SERVPRO also offers state-of-the-art document restoration services. Utilizing vacuum freeze drying technology, SERVPRO's patented document drying chambers can rescue these valuable documents and restore them to "like new" condition. Ask your crew chief about document drying services, and we can have a conversation with your adjuster about coverage under your policy. 

Faster to Any Size Disaster

Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage, not just for your property, but also your personal belongings. SERVPRO is ready and available 24/7 to provide faster water damage restoration services, preventing any further damage. Call us at (847) 593-3055 to begin the mitigation process right away!

2019 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl to be Played December 30

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is set for Monday, Dec. 30.

DryMax Dehumidifier: Performance and Efficiency All In One Small Package

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

The DryMax by Phoenix is a portable and convenient piece of equipment that does not sacrifice performance, and we're excited to put it to good use!

We at SERVPRO have recently acquired some new equipment, including the DryMax from Phoenix, which packs a lot of performance into a small package. Weighing a mere 63 lbs, this tiny little guy can remove 80 PPD (pints per day) and uses only 5.7 amps, making for an extremely effective and efficient drying machine. In addition to its drying power, its small size also makes it incredibly versatile, from the largest rooms to the tiniest crawlspaces.

The DryMax by Phoenix is a portable and convenient piece of equipment that does not sacrifice performance, and we're excited to put it to good use!

For more info, check out Phoenix's website.

Flooded Basements are SERVPRO's Speciality

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

It happens to everyone. Sump pumps fail, pipes burst, sewer lines back up. There are a myriad of reasons basements may flood, and we at SERVPRO have seen it all. Luckily, we are IICRC certified professionals, meaning we utilize industry-standard practices and procedures to make sure your flooded basement is properly taken care of.

After the initial assessment, a crew chief will discuss with you and (if going through insurance) your adjuster regarding the work to be performed, ensuring everything we do is pre-approved and signed off on. When done properly, your basement can be dried out within three days by following standard procedures and utilizing the most effective drying equipment available. 

24/7 Response

At SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows, we understand time is of the essence when it comes to saving your flooded basement. That is why we make ourselves available 24/7, with an on call crew ready to respond to your emergency situation and be Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call us today at (847) 593-3055 to begin the restoration process!

What Now? How to Navigate the Aftermath of a Disaster

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

It can be a stressful and disorienting time after your home suffers fire or water damage, especially if the damage is particularly devastating. There are many steps to take to move on from this incident, and it can be overwhelming to figure out what to do next. This blog aims to give some guidance to help move you in the right direction in the aftermath of a disaster.

Take Care of Yourself and Family

Contact your local disaster relief service, such as the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army. They can help you find a place to stay, as well as food, clothing, and medicine. Make sure that you have a safe place to live temporarily. Get plenty of rest and ask for help; do not try to do it all alone.

Help Your Pets

Try to leave pets with a family member, friend or veterinarian if you are visiting or cleaning your property. Keep your pets out of the house until the cleanup is complete to keep them safe.

Security and Safety

Do NOT enter a damaged property unless the fire department says it is safe. Watch for damage caused by the incident; roofs and floors may be damaged and could fall. The fire department will make sure the utility services (water, electricity, and gas) are safe to use. If they are not safe, firefighters will have your utilities turned off or disconnected before they leave. DO NOT try to turn them back on yourself. Contact your police department to let them know that you will be away from your property.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company right away. Your property will have immediate needs such as covering windows, doors and more.

If you do not have insurance, there are organizations that can help, such as:

• American Red Cross
• Religious organizations
• Public agencies, such as the public health department
• State or municipal emergency services office

Finances

Get in touch with your landlord or mortgage lender ASAP. Contact your credit card company to report credit cards that were lost in the incident and request replacement. Save all of your receipts for any money you spend; these may be needed later by the insurance company to prove any losses claimed on your tax return.

Handling the Damage

Call a company that specializes in cleaning and/or restoring personal items, such as SERVPRO. Whether you or your insurer buys this type of service, be clear on who will pay for it. Be sure to ask for an estimate of cost for the work and agree to it in writing. 

SERVPRO can:

• Secure your home against more damage
• Estimate and repair damage to your property and renew items of personal property
• Store repaired household items until needed

24/7 Services

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready to respond 24/7 to your emergency. Contact (847) 593-3055 for service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster!

SERVPRO Takes Care of Any Size Fire Damage Disaster In Your Roselle Home

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be a devastating experience for any homeowner. After the firefighters leave, you're left to deal with structural damage, as well as damaged personal belongings. We understand how trying this time can be, and we at SERVPRO are ready to help you.

Insurance

SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many insurance companies. We make sure to stay in contact with your adjuster to ensure you are covered for the work we do. Anything we can do to make this situation less stressful for you, we are willing to do so!

Hidden Soot Odor

The problem with fire damage is, even after the most obvious visual damage is removed or cleaned, there can still be a lingering smoke odor. Heavily sooted areas can be easy to spot, but there can still be hidden soot in your walls, ceilings, carpet, contents, etc. that emits an odor. Our staff is properly trained to take care of fire damage that covers every nook and cranny of your property. Every surface is tested and wiped with a chem sponge that helps draw out any hidden soot, followed by wet wiping with powerful cleaning and deodorizing chemicals. Finally, if there is still a lingering smell, an ozone chamber can be set up to further neutralize any odors left behind.

Contents

Have a large number of contents? No need to worry; SERVPRO also provides pack-out services for temporary storage at our warehouse. In addition, we can also clean salvageable contents from soot and smoke damage, keeping detailed inventory for insurance purposes. We can even help with hard-to-clean items such as clothing, electronics, paintings, documents, etc. 

24/7 Disaster Recovery Services

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready to respond 24/7 for any size disaster. Call us today at (847) 593-3055!

Common Water Issues for Businesses

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

For a commercial property owner in Schaumburg, IL, unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, a water damage professional 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 a number of 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 also affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and eventually burst.

2. Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can even lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. When a pipe is blocked, water can take the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages can occur from a number of things, 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 also 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 even cause it to burst altogether. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional about what preventive measures to take.

4. Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can also become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues such as mold. Any cracks should be investigated and assessed as soon as possible 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.

When your business is affected by water damage, SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready and available 24/7 to begin emergency services. Call us at (847) 593-3055!

Are You Prepared for a Thunderstorm?

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

During this time of year in Elk Grove, we can experience a lot of rain which can lead to thunderstorms. It’s important to be prepared and have a plan in place. Talk with your family and create an emergency plan for thunderstorms, floods, and tornadoes. Think about an emergency shelter and evacuation plan. Below we have a few suggestions to make sure you and your family are ready for whatever happens. 

Protect your electronics

Your electronics can get fried if they are not properly protected. Plug electronics into a surge protector to avoid damage during a storm. 

Prepare for power outages

Have battery-operated flashlights and lanterns in easy to get to places. Check on these items from time to time to make sure the batteries still work, replace them if necessary. Also, think about keeping the refrigerator and freezer doors shut to keep food from spoiling. If these food items rise above 40 degrees for 2 hours or more, they should be disregarded. Call your local power company to inform them of the outage and to get information regarding when the power should be restored. 

Stay away from power lines

Do not go near power lines should they fall to the ground, they can be very hazardous. Call 911 if you see downed power lines. 

Go inside when you hear thunder

If you hear thunder, it is likely that lightning is also occurring. Lightning can be dangerous, therefore, make sure to go inside when thunder occurs. 

Seek shelter

There are many different natural elements which can occur and be harmful when outside during a disaster. Therefore, during a storm, it is important to seek shelter and be safe. If your inside, a good place to be is at the lowest level of your home. If you have a basement or storm cellar you can hang out in until the storm passes. 

Keep an emergency kit ready

Consider putting together a kit of things you may want to have on hand during a storm. Items you may want to include would be water, non-perishable food, flashlights, blankets extra batteries, a radio, and a first aid kit. 

If you have an emergency does strike your home during a thunderstorm, SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready to help get your life back to normal. Call us any time day or night, we are always ready to help. (847) 593-3055

Fast Extraction Techniques For Water Damaged Roselle Apartments

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

Fast Extraction Techniques For Damaged Roselle Apartments

Apartment buildings in Roselle dealing with the devastating effects of any loss incident can see these symptoms penetrate wall cavities and permeate shared construction elements to affect multiple units simultaneously. This situation is true when it comes to water loss incidents, as substantial events can allow for heavy pooling and standing water to remain in the apartment, which can move between units to cause more damage. We have experienced and dedicated professionals who can help.

When these damages occur, water removal is a vital service that your Roselle apartment needs right away. The worse the conditions are in your property, the more that one can assume the incident and its symptoms have spread to the other residences that share walls and floors. Our SERVPRO professionals arrive with the full measure of our cleaning, drying, and extraction equipment, helping our entire roster on-site to begin vital mitigation and recovery work right away.

The objective of our professionals when we first reach a damaged apartment is to work to keep the situation from getting worse. Often mitigation can address the spread of effects, but our specialists do not fully understand the extent of the damage until we employ our advanced hygrometers, moisture content readers, and thermal imagery devices to note specifically the path that the water damage has taken throughout the building.

Standing water presents threats to not only the flooring and the structural integrity of specific areas of your apartment, but penetration of this flooring can lead to water damage in the level below you as well. We have an array of extraction tools capable of reaching inaccessible areas and powerful enough to remove standing water at a rate of 300 psi. We always have the right tool for the job.

Extraction is a vital component of recovery when water loss incidents affect apartment buildings. Our team can respond quickly to these emergencies with the experience and tools to help. Give our technicians a call anytime that you need us at (847) 593-3055.

Will You Be Ready When Disaster Strikes?

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

It is important to prepare before a disaster occurs. Consider the following steps to help you better prepare for an emergency situation.

• Sign up for local alerts and warnings, download apps and/or check access for wireless emergency alerts (see below for suggestions).
• Develop and test emergency communication plans.
• Assemble or update emergency supplies.
• Learn about local hazards and conduct a drill to practice emergency response actions.
• Participate in a preparedness discussion, training or class.
• Collect and safeguard critical documents.
• Plan with neighbors to help each other and share resources.
• Document property and obtain appropriate insurance for relevant hazards.
• Make property improvements to reduce potential injury and property damage.

Wireless Emergency Alerts

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are free notifications delivered to your mobile device as part of a public safety system provided by authorized government-alerting authorities. The alerts are designed to inform you of imminent threats to safety or missing persons alerts in your area (e.g., AMBER Alerts). Government partners include local and state public safety agencies, FEMA, the FCC, the Department of Homeland Security, and the National Weather Service. A WEA can be sent to your mobile device when you may be in harm’s way, without downloading an app or subscribing to a service. WEAs may be used to share extreme weather warnings, local emergencies requiring evacuation or immediate action, AMBER Alerts, and Presidential Alerts during a national emergency.

A WEA will look like a text message. The WEA message will typically show the type and time of the alert, any action you should take, and the agency issuing the alert. The message will be no more than 90 characters.

The FEMA App

This app allows you to get National Weather Service alerts for up to five locations to keep you informed on-the-go. It also has information on what to do before, during, and after different disasters. In the midst of an emergency, the app can give you directions to open shelters nearby, help you locate someone to talk to at a Disaster Recovery Center, and let you share images of damage and recovery efforts to help first responders and emergency managers.

This app is available to download for free for iOS and Android at the Apple Store and on Google Play.

Emergencies can happen anytime to anyone. Make sure to take action now to protect yourself, your family and your property. If disaster does strike your property, make sure to give SERVPRO a call at (847) 593-3055. We can help make the damage "Like it never even happened." 

What To Do About Water Main Issues

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

A copper water main has a life expectancy of 60-years, making it highly unlikely for you to experience a water main break during your lifetime, especially if you purchased your home new. For older homes, the age, corrosion, temperature fluctuation, and electrolysis may affect the durability of your piping.

It is still possible, however, for flood damage to occur in your home because of a broken water main. Therefore, it is important to understand what to look for if this becomes a problem for you.

• Water pressure loss
• Standing water
• Sinkholes in your yard
• Stream of water from your house to the roadway
• If there is no water running in your house but you hear a gurgling or hissing noise where the pipe enters your house

Never attempt to repair a broken main on your own. Without the proper experience and resources, you are likely to cause more damage as well as jeopardize your safety. You can locate your main water shutoff and learn how to operate it successfully during an emergency. Otherwise, rely on SERVPRO to take care of the rest.

SERVPRO has access to the equipment and training necessary to locate and repair damaged piping, fix the grading in your yard after repairs have been made, and install additional drainage, sump pumps, or backflow valves where appropriate. Our IICRC-certified technicians will help you keep a close eye on these issues and get the help you need during an emergency. We have many services designed to address both exterior and interior issues caused by plumbing problems that occur in your home.

Give SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows a call today at (847) 593-3055 for assistance with your water main, or any issues concerning fire, water, mold, or storm damage that develop on your property. We are here to help!

Mold Remediation Services For Your Residential or Commercial Property

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

A Before and After shot of an attic mold remediation job we performed.

Whether it is visible staining or a musty smell, mold growth can be a bothersome issue to deal with for home and business owners. If you suspect mold growth in your property, there are several options to consider. 

1. Pre-testing: To determine the extent of mold damage in your home or business, SERVPRO partners with trusted indoor environmental consultants to perform a thorough inspection of your property. A complete report on mold growth and air quality, as well as a scope of work for remediation, is provided in order to ensure proper remediation.
2. Mold Remediation: Because our crew chiefs are Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) certified, we are thoroughly equipped and experienced to handle mold damage of all shapes and sizes. From attics to basements to full scale cleanings, we aim to make the mold growth in your property "Like it never even happened." 
3. Post-testing: To provide further peace-of-mind, post-testing assessments can be conducted to ensure proper remediation has been performed. 

Click here to see examples of our mold remediation work.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready and available to address your mold damage needs. To begin the mold remediation process for your property, call us at (847) 593-3055!

Commercial Flood Damage Services in Schaumburg

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

The disruption that flooding and water damage can bring to a commercial property in Schaumburg can be costly. Insurance companies may help to pay for the actual damages, but they rarely cover lost revenue. SERVPRO emphasizes speed and timeliness in our commercial restoration projects to help get businesses back up and running.

Response Time

We are on hand 24/7 and our crews are able to arrive on-site with the proper equipment within four hours of your first call. By responding quickly, we help to prevent further damage and materials soaking, saving days or even weeks of restoration time.

Fast And Heavy Equipment

We equip our crews with industrial-grade drying and restoration equipment to ensure they perform as quickly and effectively as possible. Our water extractors pump out standing water at high speeds, and our air movers remove any extra moisture from surfaces. For water removal, when speed and thoroughness are key, our tools and machinery pack a solid punch.

Trained, Certified, And Helpful Staff

Be it our technicians, inspectors, or office representatives, SERVPRO is renowned for our friendly and helpful staff. Technicians are happy to explain what they're doing to you, and our representatives can help communicate on your behalf with insurance companies and other relevant parties. Our staff will work with you to get the job done as smoothly and quickly as possible, and we are open and welcome to any questions or requests.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready around the clock to respond to commercial flood damage to get you back in business. Call us at (847) 593-3055 for fast and reliable service you can count on!

From Retail Stores to Hotels, SERVPRO Handles Any Size Disaster!

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

In addition to restoration services for homeowners, we at SERVPRO also specialize in emergency cleaning and restoration for commercial businesses.

There's never a convenient time for damage to strike your business. Whether it’s fire, water, or mold damage, every hour you spend cleaning up yourself is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Call the experts – we’re available 24/7 and because we are locally owned and operate in Elk Grove – we’ll get there fast and start helping you immediately.

Call Us for Emergencies With Your Business – (847) 593-3055

We specialize in the following types of emergency services:

• Commercial Water Damage Mitigation & Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm Events

We Have What It Takes To Restore Your Commercial Property

At SERVPRO, we know that cleaning and restoring commercial properties requires a unique blend of the right training, hands-on experience, and specialized equipment. We have the resources and expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients and your business.

We service the following types of commercial businesses:

• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• High-Rise Residential
• Hotels & Motels
• Restaurants
• Small Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Small Retail Stores

Our Specialty Commercial Cleaning Services

Whether you need to remove a pesky odor problem or you need to deep-clean flooring or carpets, you can depend on SERVPRO to get the job done right – the first time. We’ll respond to your call quickly and get to work immediately – making your business look its very best.

We offer a wide range of commercial cleaning services. From removing biohazard contaminants to removing lingering odors like cigarette smoke, SERVPRO has the specialized training and products to get your property back to business as soon as possible. We will help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Some of our commercial cleaning services include:

• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Vandalism

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (847) 593-3055

Flood and Storm Damage: SERVPRO Has Your Back

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage to your Elk Grove home is a terrible inconvenience. Any leak or flood from a faucet, tub or pipes in your home carries with it the risk of flood damage throughout your house. Water might also enter your home from a storm or flood outside. Once water enters, it can migrate to any room in the house and damage the structure of the room such as the floors and ceilings and can also cause harm to your furniture and belongings. 

Flood damage to your property is a frustrating situation, and of course, you want to get it remedied as soon as possible. Luckily, SERVPRO technicians are experts for mitigating water damage. Our teams are trained to assess and deal with any water problem no matter how big or how small it is.

Our professional assessment of the situation begins when you contact our 24-hour help center. We understand that swift action reduces the risk of even more damage which is why we are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our professional office staff understands that this is a frightening and confusing time. We will ask you a series of questions about the flood to better understand your needs.

As soon as our technicians arrive to your home, they begin with a thorough assessment of the flood damage. We start with a visual inspection that includes looking at your walls, ceilings and carpets, as well as the floor under the carpets. We examine furniture and soft furnishings so we know what can and cannot be saved.

SERVPRO understands that even the most thorough visual inspection does not give a true picture of flood damage. That is why we train our technicians in the use of various detection devices to seek out all types of water damage. Moisture sensors are useful for examining soft materials such as carpet to determine the presence of water and the extent of the flood damage. Moisture meters show the amount of damp that is present and can be used to examine inside wall cavities and under wooden flooring so that our technicians know where water has migrated to and how deeply it has penetrated the materials.

Using professional equipment to examine your bedroom means not a single damaged patch goes untreated. We will ensure that there are no hidden issues that would potentially cause further problems down the road.

Do not panic about water damage to your home. Let SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows assess and remedy the situation. Call us at (847) 593-3055 for help.

Business and Property Owners in Elk Grove - Partner with SERVPRO for Fast Response to Your Weather Damage Emergency

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO understand the urgency to get your business back up and running.

When weather damage strikes your commercial property, it can be a difficult process to deal with. Business is interrupted, resulting in potential loss of revenue and customers. We at SERVPRO understand the urgency to get your business back up and running. As soon as we receive your call, making sure you and your property are taken care of is our priority.

Our highly trained crew chiefs and technicians are experienced and qualified to handle any size disaster. From large commercial lots to small mom and pop shops, no job is too big or too small for our team. In addition to our expertise, we at SERVPRO also value our customer relationships. From start to finish, we will make sure to stay in constant communication so we are on the same page. We aim to give you peace of mind in the midst of a stressful time. Check out testimonials from previous customers regarding our commercial work.

To further offer you peace and security, we offer a free consultation and emergency plan called the Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). This profile compiles all necessary building information needed in the event of an emergency, such as water and gas shutoff valve locations, emergency contact information, etc. In addition, through a mobile app, you will always have a direct line to our office, streamlining the restoration process even further. The ERP ensures that when disaster strikes, you are ready and prepared to tackle it head-on.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows service these cities, as well as Medinah, Wood Dale, Inverness, and elsewhere around the Chicago suburbs. In the unfortunate event your business or commercial property is struck by disaster, call us any time 24/7 to begin the restoration process to get you back up and running! (847) 593-3055

The Dos and Don'ts of Fire Damage

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Whether at your home or place of business, fire damage is stressful and taxing to deal with. Once the fire is out and the fire department has left, it may be confusing to figure out what to do next.

After any fire damage situation, your first priority is your safety. Is it safe to stay inside your house? If so, make note of the dos and don'ts of this list below to ensure your safety and prevent further damage.

Do:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If the electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If the heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in the sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Wash both sides of leaves on houseplants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloths over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in and out of the HVAC system.

Don’t:

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your local SERVPRO Professionals.
• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your local SERVPRO Professionals.
• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don’t consumer any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. They have be contaminated.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

When fire damage strikes and you need assistance, SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are only a phone call away. Give us a call to begin the fire damage restoration process and make it "Like it never even happened."

6 Steps to Avoid a Flooded Basement

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

When the weather warms up, your basement may be at risk for severe flooding and water damage.

After the deep freeze of "Chiberia," the weather is going to see a massive spike in temperature. This means there is potential for excessive snowmelt, which can cause floods in your Itasca property. On top of frozen pipes bursting, your basement may be at risk for severe flooding and water damage.

To Avoid Flood Damage to Your Basement:

1. Confirm your sump pump is in working order. Also consider buying a generator in case of power failure, as well as having a backup battery sump pump installed.
2. Once the weather warms up and the snow begins to melt, check for any cracks in the exterior of your foundation and basement floors and walls, and use epoxy for a quick repair.
3. Clean any debris from gutters to ensure proper waterflow, and check to make sure your downspouts are properly positioned away from your house.
4. Remove any valuable and/or fragile items away from potential flood sources. 
5. Ensure window well covers for below grade basement windows are properly installed and in good condition. 
6. Have your sewer wells inspected and your septic tanks cleaned. A clogged sewer or septic tank could further increase the risk of flooding.

In the unfortunate event a flood in your basement occurs, call SERVPRO to begin the restoration process. Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage, so don't wait! Call us anytime, 24/7 at (847) 593-3055!

Chicago Prepares for Brutal Cold

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

With temperatures dropping to dangerous levels, it is important to take every precaution we can for our own safety and health.

The Chicagoland area will be seeing a deep freeze tonight and tomorrow, the likes of which we have not seen since the 1980's. With temperatures dropping to dangerous levels, it is important to take every precaution we can for our own safety and health.

Here are some tips to stay safe and warm the next few days:

1. STAY INDOORS. Avoid the outdoors if possible. With a potential windchill of -55 F tomorrow, frostbite can occur within a matter of minutes, and hypothermia is a major risk.
2. If you absolutely need to drive, make sure your vehicle is up for it. Replace your battery if it is old, and keep your fuel tank and tires filled. Also, keep your cell phone charged and have emergency contacts on hand.
3. Clear out snow from your roof to prevent ice damming and shovel driveways and sidewalks before it gets too cold.
4. Prevent your pipes from freezing. Check out our previous blog for more info.

We at SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows will still be keeping an eye and ear out for any emergency restoration situations, and we are available 24/7 to address your needs. Call us at (847) 593-3055 to begin the restoration process. 

Our Water Damage Restoration Process - From the First Call to the Final Rebuild

1/25/2019 (Permalink)

From the first call to the final rebuild, we will see the project through in order to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Repairing water damage in your Medinah home is a more intensive and involved process than simply removing standing water and letting the room dry on its own. There may be hidden moisture within the walls and flooring that standard dehumidifiers and fans will not be able to remove, and complete drying may require tearing out wet materials. It is vital to have a professional team that is trained and equipped to ensure every step of the storm damage restoration process is carried out precisely.

1. Water Extraction

Before doing anything else, all standing water needs to be removed. This involves the use of industrial-grade extractors to thoroughly vacuum any standing water. Our technicians can also relocate and pack away any furniture or other items so that the proper equipment can be moved in. 

2. Removal of Wet Materials

Once all standing water is gone, our technicians will determine what is salvageable. We follow the mentality of “restore vs replace”; we will save whatever we can to help save money for you and your insurance. If the material is not salvageable, we will tear out and dispose of it for you. Materials that are typically unsalvageable are drywall, insulation, and carpet pad.

3. Drying

We utilize industrial-grade fans and dehumidifiers to ensure quick drying. Our technicians will create a drying plan and a layout of equipment in order to maximize efficiency in drying and reduce risk of further damage. We will also look at all items affected by the flood to see what can be salvaged, documenting any damage with photos to include with your claim.

4. Restoration

SERVPRO not only oversees the drying process, but we also oversee reconstruction to put your home back together. From the first call to the final rebuild, we will see the project through in order to make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Don’t wait to address water damage to your property! SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are ready and available 24/7 to respond to your needs. Call us today!

Frozen Pipes: What To Do and How To Prevent Them

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Now is the time to learn more about how to avoid frozen pipes and water damage that can occur if those pipes expand and burst.

Sub-zero temperatures are hitting the Chicagoland area hard and early this year. Now is the time to learn more about how to avoid frozen pipes and water damage that can occur if those pipes expand and burst. While a common occurrence, frozen pipes are highly preventable.  

SERVPRO offers the following tips for preventing frozen pipes and mitigating potential damage that they can cause.  

To prevent frozen pipes and avoid any potential damage:

• Insulate all exposed pipes in your property. Pay close attention to where pipes may be unheated, such as the basement, attic, garage, crawl space, and under cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom.
• Maintain a consistent temperature through your house day and night.
• Close any valves located inside that supply water outdoors and open outside valves to properly drain any excess water remaining in the pipes.
• Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors.
• In especially freezing temperatures, let your faucet trickle; running water is less likely to freeze.
• If you will be leaving your home unoccupied for an extended period of time, leave the heat on and set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

Thawing Out a Frozen Pipe: 

• If you turn on a faucet and only a few drips come out, you may have a frozen pipe. Typically, frozen pipes are found along exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation. 
• Leave the faucet on while treating any frozen pipes, as flowing water will help melt the ice.
• Apply heat to the frozen section of the pipe by using an electric heating pad, an electric hair dryer, or wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, or other open flame device.
• Check all other faucets in your home to see if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze too.  

In the unfortunate event you experience any sort of water damage loss, caused by frozen pipes or otherwise, call SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows We are available 24/7 to address your needs. The longer you wait to call, the greater the chance of mold growth and unrecoverable property. SERVPRO professionals have the training and expertise to prevent or mitigate the devastating effects that water damage can have. 

What To Do When Winter Weather Water Damage in Elk Grove Occurs

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

With winter weather rearing its ugly head in the Chicagoland area, it is vital to make sure your home or property is protected from the elements, whether that be ice, snow, or wind. SERVPRO provides services in Elk Grove, E. Schaumburg, Itasca, Roselle, Wood Dale, Medinah and beyond to remediate water damage from frozen pipes, ice dams, roof damage, etc.

Frozen Pipes

Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. In general, pipes are more likely to freeze when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The resulting water damage can be extensive. Outdoor pipes and pipes in unheated areas of the home can freeze if they are not properly insulated or if temperatures are severely cold. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can quickly and safely repair water damage caused by frozen pipes.

Outdoor pipes most likely to freeze include:

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

Pipes in unheated or partially heated areas are also at risk of freezing, including:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Garages

Ice Dams

An ice dam is formed when snow melts unevenly on a roof and refreezes into a dam at the edge of the roof, near the eaves. This dam prevents any further snowmelt from draining off of the roof. This standing water can back up under shingles, leak into a home, and cause significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and other areas. Ice dams can also tear off gutters and loosen shingles.

Roof Damage

Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your gutters and roof. The additional weight of snow and ice can even cause a roof to collapse. When there’s a cold snap, water can get into cracks and small spaces and expand when it freezes, causing larger cracks and more damage. The repetition of freezing and thawing cycles can cause small cracks to get larger.

What to Do

In the unfortunate event you experience a water damage event, SERVPRO is ready 24/7 to take care of your needs.  Until we arrive, here are some steps you can take:

1. If there is water over the electrical sockets on the floor or walls, stay clear of the area!
2. Identify the source of water: sanitary water (i.e. broken pipe) / contaminated water (i.e. washing machine overflow) / grossly contaminated water (i.e. sewage damage).
3. Stop the source of the water and secure any broken or loose pieces (i.e. broken pipe, valve, etc).
4. If you are filing a claim, take photos of each affected area (especially damaged contents like computers or electronics). SERVPRO technicians will also take additional photos of affected areas and items.
5. Watch for any slippery floor conditions.

SERVPRO is Faster to Any Size Disaster

For your winter weather water damage needs, SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is ready and available 24/7 to provide you with quality restoration services. Call us at (847) 593-3055 for immediate assistance!

We Are An IICRC Certified Firm

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO are proud to be an IICRC Certified Firm!

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows are IICRC firms. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops the Standards for The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO

SERVPRO of Elk Grove/E. Schaumburg/Itasca/Roselle and SERVPRO of Palatine/Rolling Meadows specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Emergency Response Restoration Services in Itasca for Any Size Flood Disaster

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Warmer winter temperatures may cause flood damage to your home from melting snow.

With changing weather patterns, we often experience warmer days during the winter. These warmer temperatures can lead to significant amounts of melting snow. Unable to seep into the still-frozen ground, this water can only flow horizontally, at times entering homes.

SERVPRO's professional team has extensive experience in all sizes and types of flood mitigation. No damage is too small nor too large for us to handle. Because water damage worsens as time goes on, we are always Faster To Any Size Disaster to reduce the risk of further damage.

Certified in Water Damage Restoration (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying (ASD), our technicians know which steps to take and when. Using the latest technology and equipment, we can thoroughly dry a saturated home in a strategic and timely manner to save your property and personal belongings. We will also check for potential microbial growth and contamination to ensure proper remediation is taking place.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle can help your family recover quickly from any amount of flood damage that your home experiences, making everything clean and safe again, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (847) 593-3055 to contact our 24-hour service. We never close and are always ready to help you, no matter what emergency your home endures.

SERVPRO is a BBB Accredited Business

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is proud to be a BBB Accredited Business.

Consumers turn to the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to look for businesses that operate with honesty and integrity. BBB Accreditation is built on these eight standards:

1. Build Trust
2. Advertise Honestly
3. Tell the Truth
4. Be Transparent
5. Honor Promises
6. Be Responsive
7. Safeguard Privacy
8. Embody Integrity

A business is accredited by the BBB when they demonstrate these traits, and SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is proud to be a BBB Accredited Business.  When you choose SERVPRO, you can be confident you are choosing a company you can trust in and that will look out for your best interests.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is available 24/7 to respond to your emergency. Call us at (847) 593-3055!

Learn more about the Better Business Bureau by clicking here.

SERVPRO First Responder Bowl 2018 at Cotton Bowl Stadium

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

Tune into the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl on December 26 at 12:30 p.m. CT (1:30 p.m. ET) televised on ESPN.

In a joint effort to honor the service and sacrifice of America’s First Responders, the annual college football bowl game played at Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, Texas has been renamed the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl. Kickoff for the newly christened SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is set for December 26 at 12:30 p.m. CT (1:30 p.m. ET) and will be televised by ESPN. The agreement between ESPN Events and SERVPRO was brokered by Denver-based Impression Sports & Entertainment.

"We are truly grateful for all first responders’ sacrifice and service,” said Brant Ringler, Executive Director of the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl. “It is a tremendous privilege to honor these brave men and women who protect our communities 24/7/365. As this game continues to grow, so do our ties with first responders. Additionally, having a sponsor like SERVPRO who works along-side and supports these community heroes reinforces our goals of recognizing our first responders.”

"We are proud to present the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl dedicated to honoring some of the hardest working men and women in our country" said Sue Steen, CEO of SERVPRO Industries, Inc. "We recognize the dedication and selfless acts of our First Responders and are honored to help highlight and celebrate the commitment of these everyday heroes."

The 2018 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is the ninth edition of the bowl game, formerly known as the Heart of Dallas Bowl, and part of the 89-year history of games being played at Cotton Bowl Stadium on the grounds of Dallas’ Fair Park, which features 227 acres of museums, attractions, history, art and performances located in the heart of the ninth largest city in the United States.

First responders to be honored include police officers, firefighters, EMS workers, correctional officers, search and rescue, dispatchers, security guards, federal agents, border patrol agents and military personnel who have specialized training and are the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency.

“This is an exciting change, and we are humbled by the fact that an actual bowl game has been named exclusively for the first responders of this country,” Dallas Fire-Rescue Fire Chief David Coatney said.

“We are truly honored to have a bowl game here in Dallas named after the hard working men and women serving and protecting communities across this country. It always feels great to be recognized, and I know our officers and firefighters are touched by this overwhelming show of support,” said Dallas Police Chief U. Renee Hall.

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl tickets started selling in September. Tickets for First Responders will continue to be underwritten by our corporate sponsors. Anyone wanting more information on the bowl game can visit www.firstresponderbowl.com. 

Restoration Services for the Insurance Industry

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle to help with your customer's restoration needs.

As a leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle offers your insurance company an array of competitive advantages. Our goal is to restore both your customer’s property and their peace of mind through timely mitigation and adherence to IICRC standards. The result? Lower claims costs and satisfied customers – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

SERVPRO understand your situation. As an agent or adjuster, you have a responsibility to keep claims costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers. SERVPRO professionals are uniquely qualified to help. Our results create a measurable difference, giving you many competitive advantages.

Emergency Response to Claims

Restoring property is the SERVPRO's first priority. Your customer will appreciate the immediate response and you will know everything is being done to limit the damage.

Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense

Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. Claims Professionals know the rule is, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary." SERVPRO professionals make sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability.

Claims Inventory Service

SERVPRO can provide an itemized loss inventory, with a full report and pictures of important items.

Electronic Claims Information

Our Claims Information Center provides fast, accurate information you need to make sound decisions, including:

• A Complete Electronic Job File.
  • First Notice of Loss.
  • Detailed Estimate.
  • Digital Loss Photos.
  • Scanned Forms and Paperwork.
  • All delivered by email or hard copy.
• On-line Access to All Files.
  • New Assignments.
  • Pending Jobs.
  • Completed Jobs.
• Informative Reports to Improve Results
  • Job Cost Data.

• Performance Comparison to Industry Standard.

Superior, Time-Tested Training

Effective training is the best way to help ensure your customers receive the service they deserve. We are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. In addition, continuing education classes are available to our technicians and insurance clients at our state of the art IICRC Approved Training Facility. 

Vendor Qualification Compliance and Professionalism

If you call SERVPRO, we will use only qualified vendors to service your customer. That commitment resulted in:

• A National Call Center to achieve prompt handling of the claim.
• Implementation of best practices and job process programs.
• National Accounts qualification criteria and annual compliance checks.
• Crew and vehicle standards.
• Insurance requirements.
• File documentation requirements.
• Quality assurance program.

Serving Adjusters and Their Clients

A SERVPRO professional's job is to reassure the customer, perform quality service and to report to you quickly. We know your job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim, not to deal with problems from vendors. Working together, we strive to save you time so you can focus on priority files while having complete control of every loss you are assigned. 24-hour emergency response, damage mitigation, loss assessment, and an electronic file are available to you within hours. SERVPRO’s documented, measured performance increases value to you and your shareholders, managers and customers.

Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle leaders in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. The SERVPRO System is geared to achieve customer satisfaction and mitigation results, adding to your company’s competitive advantage.

Call SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle today at (847) 593-3055!

Quality Mold Remediation Services For Your Home in Medinah

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

If you find yourself facing mold problems, give us a call.

Finding mold damage in your home can be stressful, though it is a common occurrence. Mold only needs three ingredients to flourish: moisture, food to feed off of, and the right temperature. It is typical for mold spores to catch a ride on household pets, your shoes, or fly into your home through a window. Under the right circumstances, you'd be shocked how easy it is for mold growth to begin.

If you find yourself facing mold problems, give us a call. SERVPRO mold remediation specialists are AMRT-certified and available 24/7, including holidays. We take pride in providing quality mitigation services you can count on and help limit any losses you might experience resulting from mold contamination found in your home.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle provides quality mold remediation services throughout the area. We have an entire staff of highly-trained professionals ready and willing to assist you with returning your home to a clean, safe, and secure place for you and your family to enjoy for years to come. (847) 593-3055

Holiday Cooking Fire Safety

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are peak days for home cooking fires?

The holiday season brings family together for good times and good cheer. But did you know it also brings a higher risk of home cooking fires?

In 2015, there were around 1,760 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving alone, with unattended cooking being the leading cause. In addition, 55% of people injured were attempting to put the fire out themselves. 

Keep your home and your family safe this holiday season by following these safety tips:

• Check to see if your smoke alarms are working by pressing the test button.
• Keep an eye on your food! Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop. Do not leave home with a turkey cooking in your oven.
• Make sure your stovetop is free of any potentially flammable objects (towels, paper, cardboard, etc.).
• Keep children under age 5 away from the stove.
• Be sure electric cords from kitchen appliances (such as coffee makers, plate warmers, mixers, etc.) are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of children.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is ready 24/7, even on holidays, to respond to any emergency disaster. If your home has suffered from fire damage, call us! (847) 593-3055

Water Damage Restoration Services Available For Your Firm in Schaumburg

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

You can rest assured having qualified professionals addressing the water damage to your property.

There are a variety of water issues that can affect how your firm in Schaumburg operates, some of which may leave you wondering whether you can recover at all. Plumbing problems, fire suppression system malfunctions, or faulty equipment can all take their toll, causing water damage where you would least expect. If you are currently experiencing water damage in your firm, call our office for professional assistance today. Our IICRC-certified technicians can provide you with a variety of services to help restore damage to your property while also assisting with the recovery of many business assets.

As a law or accounting firm, you likely have a variety of electronic equipment, printers, photocopiers, computers, phones or even advanced technology, such as tablets, projectors, and more, all of which respond poorly to water intrusions. SERVPRO takes all of this into account, spending the time needed to retrieve and address these items carefully.

By paying close attention to each workstation affected by the event, we can save many items you may consider lost. SERVPRO technicians do a lot more than remove water and repair damage to your walls. We perform precision work that ensures your firm recovers as quickly and efficiently as possible while limiting any losses your company might experience.

SERVPRO technicians perform restoration services on your property as safely as possible, cordoning off damaged areas, eliminating possible hazards that could affect your employees. We make it entirely possible to maintain operations while your restoration is still underway.

With expertly trained technicians available anytime, day or night, we help limit any interruptions to the productivity of your staff and keep you moving forward after an emergency occurs. You can rest assured having qualified professionals addressing the water damage to your property.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle assists with water emergencies of all shapes and sizes, ensuring you have the help you need available when it is needed the most. Call for fast, efficient restoration services, today (847) 593-3055.

How SERVPRO Handles Hardwood Flooring Damaged By Flooding

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the expertise and experience to dry out and repair your hardwood floors after a flood "Like it never even happened."

A strong storm can push large amounts of water through a Wood Dale home in just a few hours. Once the water is removed, you may find your hardwood flooring buckled, cupped, or warped, which is common after a flood disaster. SERVPRO will work to not only dry your property, but to also restore your damaged hardwood flooring.

Although the effects are quick to start, we can often prevent them from being permanent. Buckling is evident by the boards swelling higher than the ones next to them. With cupping and warping, floorboards twist in place, and if enough water has gotten into the boards, they pop up from the sub-floor.

Before we start any work, we first have to test and lower the moisture content to twelve percent or lower if possible. If the wood is too damp, any efforts to remove damage will only cause more. Depending on how high the number is, it could take as long as four or five weeks to bring it down to a safe level.

We begin with dehumidifiers to lower the humidity of the affected rooms to under forty-five percent. At that point, SERVPRO technicians set up air movers to blow warm air over and under the floorboards. This increased airflow and the higher temperature slowly draws out the moisture from the wood where the dehumidifiers absorb it.

When the humidity gets down to sixteen percent, we can safely install space heaters to quickly raise the temperature without causing secondary damage to the wood. It also increases evaporation which increases the effectiveness of the dehumidifiers.

With the moisture content now at a safe level, we can safely sand off any bulges and twists. Not only can we eliminate most of the visual loss, but our team members also disguise any repair efforts through carefully refinishing the repaired wood. In cases where the damage is too severe, we can sand down replacement boards to fit precisely.

If you find your hardwood flooring damaged by a flood, SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle will make every effort to provide you with a floor indistinguishable from the original. It is not a quick or straightforward task, but it is one we have provided our neighbors for almost twenty years. Call us at (847) 593-3055 today to get started.

Expert Water Damage Restoration Services Available Through SERVPRO

10/12/2018 (Permalink)

If you are experiencing water damage of any type in your home, contact our emergency service line 24/7, 365-days a year. We are here to quickly take care of water damage situations for you. Water leakage can cause significant damage to your home and belongings, which is why it is vital to respond to this situation immediately. Our highly trained staff makes your restoration process as stress-free as possible by keeping you informed and communicating with your insurance company to get the most out of your claim.

SERVPRO has IICRC-certified professionals who follow strict safety and health guidelines throughout the restoration process. Rest assured, our team has the equipment, resources, and expertise to perform any repairs, replacements, or reconstruction projects necessary for the restoration.

SERVPRO always strives to be Faster To Any Disaster. With an entire Green Fleet of vehicles, stocked and ready to deploy, our technicians are ready to provide you with professional restoration done right. Contact SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle for full-service solutions throughout the Chicago suburbs. (847) 593-3055

Hidden Mold in Low Traffic Areas of Your Home in Roselle

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Condensation in your basement may cause mold growth.

In the Chicago suburbs, the winter months are full of temperature fluctuations. In areas with little or no insulation, such as your basement, these drastic temperatures changes can cause condensation to form on walls and other hard surfaces. This increase in moisture is the perfect environment for mold growth.

Because these areas are usually not frequently occupied, mold growth in these areas can be hard to spot. Luckily, experienced SERVPRO professionals work in every part of the home, from general living areas to hard-to-reach places such as attics, basements and crawlspaces. After testing is performed to determine the presence of mold, our technicians work quickly to begin remediation.

If spotted early enough, demo and removal of damaged materials may not be required. With proper cleaning and preventative treatment, our technicians may be able to thoroughly kill mold growth while saving affected materials. In basements, preventative measures may also include the installation of dehumidifiers and sump pumps. After the damage is cleaned, we spray all affected areas with with a fast-drying and safe anti-microbial agent to ensure further prevention of mold growth.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is ready and available to help you protect your home from mold. Mold damage can create a multitude of problems if not remediated quickly. Do not hesitate to call us 24/7, (847)593-3055!  

Plan For Any Size Disaster Now with SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profiles (ERP)

9/28/2018 (Permalink)

The Emergency Ready Profile is a no-cost readiness plan to prepare your business for any size disaster.

According to industry research, as many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster. Of those that do survive, it's likely because there was a preparedness plan in place.

With SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile (ERP), you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action at no cost. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

With the ERP, you can have the critical information needed, such as emergency and primary contact information, gas and water shutoff locations, and priority areas in the building, to begin mitigation and recovery services immediately when you need it. Everything will be compiled into a concise Profile Document as well as a mobile app called Ready Plan for quick and easy accessibility. 

By working with SERVPRO to develop your ERP, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

Deep-seated Smoke Odor and Soot Are No Match For SERVPRO

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

After a fire, any restoration company can clean up the visible damage. It takes an experienced and properly resourced restoration company to truly make it "Like it never even happened."

Smoke odor is difficult to remove and will seep deep into interior walls, linens, carpets, etc. In addition, any remaining soot can be hard to spot. SERVPRO's technicians will take every extra step necessary to thoroughly deep clean your property and leave no trace of odor or soot.

For any personal items such as clothing, toys, and furniture, SERVPRO will safely pack away and store your items to be deep-cleaned. As for your property, we have the equipment, resources, and training needed to properly treat every square inch of affected area. With the use of safe cleaning chemicals, air scrubbers, and ozone machines, SERVPRO will ensure the air in your property is thoroughly cleaned and freshened.

Check out testimonials from our customers and examples of previous fire jobs we've done. You can rely on SERVPRO to give your fire-damaged property the proper treatment it needs!

Warehouse and Inventory Water Damage Restoration

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

When plumbing connections fail in your warehouse, not only is your property from water damage, but your inventory may be affected as well. Our team of water removal specialists can be at your site quickly to remove the water and begin the drying process to save your property.

SERVPRO has submersible pumps and heavy-duty water extractors to drain and suck the standing water out of every square inch of your property. Afterwards, our trained technicians will search for any pockets of hidden water to ensure a thorough dry out. We also measure the moisture content of any affected materials and the structure of the affected areas in order to set an appropriate drying plan.

We arrange your inventory strategically, off the warehouse floor if possible, to maximize air flow. Our industrial air movers and dehumidifiers are then set in place to begin the drying process. Time is of the essence as mold growth can begin within just 24 to 48 hours of the water loss occurrence if not abated. Once the drying cycle is set in motion, our technicians will track the process daily to make sure proper drying is occurring.

SERVPRO also works with your insurance throughout, limiting your out-of-pocket expenses if your losses are included under your coverage. We also problem solve with you to avoid a repeat occurrence in the future. We highly encourage you to look into our Emergency Ready Profile to plan ahead with us.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle has the training, tools, and technicians to handle your commercial water damage challenges. Call us at (847) 593-3055 to set up an evaluation.

Our Extensive Residential Water Removal Process

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

No matter what has caused water damage in your home, you can trust SERVPRO to leave your home "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO locations around the country have had decades of experience and millions of unique cases to develop cost-effective and time-optimized mitigation and restoration strategies for residential water removal. We pride ourselves on bringing that same thoroughly-planned treatment to our local clients no matter how large or small the issue. Our technology is specifically engineered to allow machines, sensory equipment, and our trained personnel to work in perfect sync. As an example of our specialization and efficiency, take a look at our standard water removal procedure.

Mitigation

First and foremost in any water removal job is to identify and neutralize the source of damage. If the damage has been caused by a storm or other natural causes, the issue most likely solves itself by the time our technicians arrive. Otherwise, our personnel helps to identify the source of the issue and shut it down. Once the environment is safe to work in, we immediately begin pumping out water and performing preliminary mitigation efforts aimed at preventing further damage.

Air Movers

Once we have pumped out all water possible, we still must take care of the thin layers of water that stick to surface and subsurface layers around your home. For this task, we use air movers - powerful machines designed to create directed air currents in a specific region or pattern. These effectively pick up water droplets from any surface in their path, putting them into the air for dehumidifiers to handle.

Dehumidifiers

Once the water is airborne, we cannot simply leave it to settle once more in your home. Our IICRC-certified technicians use thermal and chemical dehumidifiers to suck the water into manageable, movable containers, the final step in our water removal process. After this process, we can begin work on deodorization and restorations. At SERVPRO, our ultimate goal is complete livability in the home, not just a quick water removal job!

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is there when you need us most to help you mitigate and recover from water damage of any variety. Just give us a call at (847) 593-3055.

Make the Most of SERVPRO's Fire Damage Restoration Services

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

Our technicians create an action plan to tackle your fire damage disaster. Contact us right away to start the process.

Experiencing fire damage in your property can be devastating, leaving you displaced and wondering what to do next. Regardless of the type of fire you experience in your home, it often accompanies water, carpet, upholstery, and content damages that make it impossible to tackle repairs on your own. However, with qualified professionals on your side, things become much easier. 

SERVPRO is a preferred restoration provider for most major insurance companies. We have several years of experience returning hundreds of homes to a quality preloss condition and providing customers with stress-free disaster recovery services. It is our job to provide you with fast, efficient restoration services that exceed your expectations.  

After you have a fire in your home, you will certainly want to recover as quickly as possible. That is why we respond to your call immediately and begin providing you with the restoration services required to make your house livable again. All of SERVPRO’s technicians are IICRC-certified, taking advanced in-house training and following specific guidelines set by the EPA to ensure proper cleaning and restoration.  

SERVPRO also specializes in a wide variety of restoration services, making it possible for us to tackle any situation that may occur. We have restoration methods designed to address smoke damage and odor removal after a fire, as well as services that target specific areas of your property, including structural, content, and personal belongings. All of our services provide you with fast, effective results, working towards reducing your losses and returning your home’s atmosphere to normal ASAP. 

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle has an entire Green Fleet stocked and ready to deploy. Our qualified professionals stand ready 24/7 to address emergency situations effectively. Call today at (847) 593-3055.

SERVPRO's Thorough Action Against Mold Odors in Elk Grove

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

Once mold is visible, or many times before, there is a smell associated with its presence. Contact SERVPRO at first sight or smell of mold.

One of the most troubling and most noticeable aspects of mold damage is the smell. Foul odors are, more often than not, the first thing homeowners notice before discovering mold growing in their home. Cleaning up these odors is no easy task, as the chemical compounds mix evenly through the air and often settle into materials and surfaces across the home. Without full industrial treatments, these odors can persist for months or even years after the mold has been dealt with. While less well-equipped companies often forget or forgo treatments for these odors, SERVPRO is careful always to bring the right equipment and the right plan to clean up odors. Our deodorizing foggers help to eliminate odors in their entirety, and when coupled with our advanced sanitization gear, no trace of mold damage should be left after we have come through.
 
We remove odors from mold damage homes by bringing in two different types of fogging machines - ultra low volume (ULV) foggers, and thermal foggers. ULV foggers are used for tight spaces such as the areas beneath floorboards or behind walls and specialize in reaching into the deepest and hardest-to-reach corners and cracks. Thermal foggers are our primary weapons for larger spaces, often employed in living spaces of the home such as entire rooms or hallways. Typically, both machines are used to some extent in a home, as they target different areas and are both required to eradicate odors fully.
 
Common household cleaning products and deodorants fail to eliminate odors since they are designed to simply mask odors. Even higher-quality deodorants are difficult to apply to the dark, out-of-reach places that mold colonies tend to inhabit. The advanced equipment used by SERVPRO is specifically designed for mold and fungal odors, so these problems are easily worked around by our technicians.
 
SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is a local franchise with national resources. We have crew chiefs who are AMRT-certified and ready to help eliminate mold and all of its odors from your home. Call us day or night at (847) 593-3055.
 
For more information regarding Elk Grove, click here

The Official SERVPRO Instagram

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

Follow Us On Instagram!

As a local business, we love being able to use social media to engage with our local community and our peers in ways we couldn't in the past. Instagram is a great platform for us to share updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses of jobs and office life, and other aspects of the #SERVPROlife!

Click here to see our profile and follow us!

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is a local, independently owned franchise that strives to serve our neighbors. Give us a call anytime 24/7 for any of your emergency damage restoration needs. (847) 593-3055

Living Room Fire and Smoke Damage Cleanup

7/26/2018 (Permalink)

Overloaded power sockets can start an electrical fire in the living room and cause considerable fire and smoke damage.

Electricity is one of the best conveniences of modern life. It allows us to recharge our phones, power the television/radio/microwave, and generate heat in our homes. However, overloaded power sockets can start an electrical fire in the living room and cause considerable fire and smoke damage.

When this occurs, it is important to have a restoration company within reach to reverse the damage. As an experienced fire damage restoration company, SERVPRO can arrive promptly to begin restoring your property. Following IICRC recommendations, our technicians can treat the smoke damaged contents and restore your living room, “Like it never even happened.”

Soot is one of the most stubborn effects of fire damage and smoke damage. It is oily and easily stains draperies, carpets, and other living room textiles. As such, we have to remove it before we attempt to clean up or deodorize any item.

The cleaning process is designed to extract soils, soot, and debris from various surfaces. During this process, our technicians use four primary cleaning actions. These are chemical action, mechanical action, lubrication, and suspension & dispersion.

In most cases, SERVPRO experts have to neutralize smoke odor that comes with smoke and fire damage. This smell can stick to your clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and draperies, and become a nuisance in the living room. We have various chemicals that can break up smoke molecules to get rid of these odors.

The choice of counteractant depends on the type of material that sustained smoke damage. Some situations may call for an ozone treatment in the deodorization process. If this is done in the house, we have to put the items under a tent while our experts operate an ozone generator (as a general rule of thumb).

If the fire damage extended to the walls, we have special cleanup procedures to restore them to their normal conditions. However, the exact approach depends on the nature of the wall: whether it is paneling or wood, painted, finished or unfinished, etc. The most effective cleaning method considers the type of surface, type of smoke, and whether the surface is dry cleanable or wet cleanable.

If your living room sustains fire damage, you need a reliable, responsible, and experienced restoration company to remediate your property. SERVPRO is a trusted, locally based restoration company that can reverse the fire damage on your living room items quickly and efficiently. Call us today at (847) 593-3055.

Developing a Plan of Action for Fire Restoration

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

Restoring homes after fire damage is a SERVPRO specialty.

While most fires are far less damaging than many people believe, the first sight of a fire-damaged home can still be overwhelming for most residents. A professional restoration service can clean the majority of the damage and keep the costs of replacement to a minimum. 

Restoring homes after fire damage is a SERVPRO specialty. We have decades of experience in Illinois and a highly trained response team that can analyze surface types and work with the fire department to determine other factors after a fire that help us determine a cleanup plan specific for each customer. 

• Surface Type – Non-porous surfaces (vinyl wall coverings and glossy, enamel paint for example) are much simpler to clean than porous surfaces (i.e. wallpaper and flat, latex paint). Porous surfaces are penetrated much easier by smoke odors and particulate residue, so they require more intensive cleaning products and devices to agitate them and release the particles.
• Natural fibers (cotton and wool clothing) attract less residue than synthetic fibers (carpets) but are harder to clean than synthetics.
• Surface Age – Over time, paint deteriorates and becomes more porous. It is also true for carpets and clothing, regardless of the fiber content. 
• Heat Level – The higher the temperature, the faster paint breaks down and furniture finishes melt and ‘bubble.' Surfaces warp and expand more the hotter a fire burn which allows particulates and odors to penetrate deeper. 
• Moisture Level – A high moisture level combined with high temperatures cause tile and vinyl to yellow and create permanent stains in other structural and personal property. The most common sources of moisture in this situation comes from home sprinklers and water used by firefighters. 
• Type of Material – Burnt natural materials (wood, paper, and cotton fabric) leave a dry, powdery residue which is easier to remove than the wet, smeary residue left behind by burnt synthetic materials. 
• Temperature Changes – Some residues increasingly damage surfaces as they cool. They form a film which is harder to remove and may even cause enough permanent damage to warrant disposal of the building material or personal property item. 
   

Restoring your home after a fire can be expensive and time-consuming. The agency you hire must have the experience and patience to walk you through the process. SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is here to help. Call us today at (847) 593-3055.    

How We Isolate the Cause of Mold Before Remediation Process

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

The health of your HVAC system is critical because it has a direct impact on the quality of the air that you breathe. So what happens if the components get compromised and your system starts to circulate mold? It only takes a small amount of moisture to generate spores and mold damage in HVAC systems. SERVPRO deals with hundreds of these cases every year, so we know how tricky it is to maintain them.

When called out to a mold remediation case, we always check the condition of the HVAC ducts. Even if the main bulk of the growth is on the walls or the floor, it is important to inspect the airways for spores.

Coils and Drain Pans

Cooling coils cause the temperature of water vapor to drop, and a draining pan and a deep seal trap catch any dripping water and directs it safely away. However, if it does not get cleaned on a regular basis, organic dirt and grime create a microbial habitat. We will check and, if necessary, empty and clean it with fungistatics.

Duct Walls

If the inner walls of the HVAC unit are wet, there is clearly an underlying problem with water damage. We will identify the cause and perform repairs to prevent further moisture after remediation. Once repaired, compact dehumidifiers are set up to draw moisture out of the ducts and prevent microbial growth. We can also remove and replace any fiberglass linings that contain mold.

Air Filters

When there is evidence of mold growth and circulation, we will remove and clean/replace the air filters. We use biocides and other powerful disinfecting agents to neutralize all spores. We recommend the installation of high-efficiency filters as an affordable way to enhance IAQ and optimize energy consumption.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is a local mold remediation service. If you work with us, we guarantee fast, effective results every time. No matter where the mold growth is in your home, our technicians can find and neutralize it. Call us 24/7 at (847) 593-3055!

Thorough Water Removal and Drying Techniques to Prevent Problems in the Future

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

Having an accident or flood can be a devastating experience. Even a little water can lead to significant damage if given enough time. It can affect your belongings, furniture, and even the structural stability of your home. 

When facing water removal issues in your Elk Grove area home, it is important to have a trained professional on your side. You want to locate the source of the problem, get excess water out of your home, and have someone available to deal with unsuspected damages. 
  
SERVPRO has 24-hour emergency service, IICRC certified technicians, industrial-grade equipment, and years of experience providing extraction, drying, cleaning, and repair services for customers just like you. We understand how water works, making its way into cracks and crevices, leading to expensive damages. 
  
Our technicians use infrared moisture detectors to locate even the smallest amounts of water, water extractors of all shapes and sizes, along with drying and dehumidification equipment to get water out of your home in a quick, efficient manner that limits any losses you may experience.  
  
We can perform wet carpet removals, content and structural decontamination, humid or flooded basement cleanup services, as well as complete structural drying. We even make sure that the inside of your walls remain entirely moisture-free and perform mold remediation services when necessary to help you maintain a clean, healthy home.  
  
Attempting to perform your water removal services alone leaves you with hidden pockets of water throughout your home that can cause excessive damages in the future. Without the right tools and experience, everything can get out of hand quite fast, leaving you with a huge mess and significant problems that you simply do not understand. 
  
We can provide you and your family with the services you deserve. By assigning qualified technicians, we help return everything to normal in a quick, efficient manner, after an emergency occurs.  
  
Get the help you need by calling SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle, today! (847) 593-3055 

The Most Comprehensive Smoke & Soot Cleanup Service Available

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Our IICRC-certified technicians are thoroughly equipped and trained to effectively clean your property from smoke and soot.

Smoke and soot damage can be very invasive and hard to get rid of. While initial fire damage cleanup may make things appear clean, any and every nook and cranny of your property and belongings could be affected, causing hidden odor and damage. Fortunately, our IICRC-certified technicians have the expertise and experience necessary to inspect and accurately assess the situation to develop an effective plan of action.

Every fire damage situation looks different; in fact, there are two different types of smoke: wet and dry. As a result, there are also different types of soot residue. Before we begin our work, we can test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. From there, we will put a proper plan into place to make sure your fire-damaged property is taken care of thoroughly, efficiently, and safely.

Our equipment and specialized cleaning chemicals ensure quality results. For any kind of surface or material, including metal, stone, brick, clothing, curtains, carpets, painted surfaces, etc., we have what is needed to properly take care of your smoke and soot-affect property and belongings.

Don't just take our word for it; check out testimonials from these satisfied clients!

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is available 24/7 to take care of you. Call us today at (847)593-3055 for your fire damage needs!

Protect Your Home From Water Damage By Calling SERVPRO

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help prevent excessive water in basements, where groundwater makes its way into your home through cracks in the floor.

Water is smart, giving way to paths that provide resistance to locate more intrusive ways to enter your home. Seeking these paths of least resistance means that as water finds its way into your home, there are often multiple areas to focus on that may contain water.

There are a variety of ways that water can enter your home, making professional water removal services your best option for preventing damages that can develop over time. Having a pre-existing relationship with a local restoration company gives an expertly trained technician the opportunity to inspect your property and eliminate problems that already exist.

SERVPRO can help prevent excessive water in basements. Pressure buildup beneath your basement floor creates cracks that allow groundwater to break through, causing mold damage and corrosion over time. Untreated materials found in your basement also cause severe problems with structural stabilization if left untreated for too long.

Even if you take all of the necessary precautions to avoid damage during a flood, common construction methods tend to leave small spaces between the footer and your basement floor. SERVPRO technicians have experienced jobs where window wells hold excessive moisture and allow it to seep into your basement, walls, or flooring, while other types of walls sweat, causing water to pool inside.

SERVPRO’s expertly trained water removal technicians have an answer to all of these problems and more. Our IICRC-certified technicians use industrial-grade water removal equipment, including infrared moisture detection devices to locate and remove pockets of moisture hidden throughout your home.

Whether water gains access to your home through cracks in your floor, under the footer, from bleeding or sweating through walls, natural disasters, or plumbing accidents, one thing is certain. You want to get the water out of your home as soon as possible to prevent additional damages or health problems that could affect your family.

Contact SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle for all of your water removal needs. We are available throughout the area 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, providing quality solutions that our customers can trust. (847) 593-3055

How SERVPRO Deals with Flood and Storm Damage

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage to your bedroom is a terrible inconvenience. Any leak or flood from a faucet, tub or pipes in your home carries with it the risk of flood damage throughout your house. Water might also enter your home from a storm or flood outside. Water can migrate to your bedroom and damage the structure of the room such as the floors and ceilings and can also cause harm to your furniture and belongings. A flood can happen to anyone, and if you happen to have an en suite bathroom, it is even more of a worry.

Flood damage to your property is a frustrating situation, and of course, you want to get it remedied as soon as possible. Luckily, SERVPRO technicians are experts for mitigating water damage. Our teams are trained to assess and deal with any water problem no matter how big or how small it is.

Our professional assessment of the situation begins when you contact our 24-hour help center. We understand that swift action reduces the risk of even more damage which is why we are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our professional office staff understands that this is a frightening and confusing time. We will ask you a series of questions about the flood to better understand your needs.

As soon as our technicians arrive to your home, they begin with a thorough assessment of the flood damage. We start with a visual inspection that includes looking at your bedroom walls, ceilings and carpets, as well as the floor under the carpets. We examine furniture and soft furnishings so we know what can and cannot be saved.

SERVPRO understands that even the most thorough visual inspection does not give a true picture of flood damage. That is why we train our technicians in the use of various detection devices to seek out all types of water damage. Moisture sensors are useful for examining soft materials such as carpet to determine the presence of water and the extent of the flood damage. Moisture meters show the amount of damp that is present and can be used to examine inside wall cavities and under wooden flooring so that our technicians know where water has migrated to and how deeply it has penetrated the materials.

Using professional equipment to examine your bedroom means not a single damaged patch goes untreated. We will ensure that there are no hidden issues that would potentially cause further problems down the road.

Do not panic about water damage to your home. Let SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle assess and remedy the situation. Call us at (847) 593-3055 for help.

When Mold Spreads in Your Home, SERVPRO Helps to Remove It

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Our technicians check all of your windows and make recommendations about repairs, maintenance, and installations that help you avoid future problems.

Mold damage can happen anywhere in your home. This includes any wall that has a plumbing or drain line or anywhere that you have a plumbing fixture or an appliance that requires a constant water source, such as your laundry room, bathroom, kitchen, or the closet where you keep your water heater. In addition, any wall in your home that has a window, door, or outdoor access is susceptible to mold damage. You could have a wall cooler that supplies a room with air conditioning during warmer months that drains improperly, causes condensation buildup around windows, or allows moisture to enter your walls that can give mold what it needs to spread.

If you suspect mold growth anywhere, take the time to contact your insurance company and find a local mold remediation specialist you can trust, like SERVPRO. Avoid falling for self-help or DIY sites that instruct you on how to handle the problem yourself. It is far harder than you think and may lead to you cutting corners, after which you would need to call for help anyway when it comes back again. Let us do it the right way, the first time!

As a variety of professional remediation companies do, SERVPRO offers to fully inspect your property to determine if their services are necessary. However, we like to perform a full-service inspection, leaving little to the imagination when we are done. We check for telltale signs of mold contamination, visibly inspect all common areas where mold often grows, including your basement, crawl spaces, utility rooms, or any small enclosed spaces found on your property.

SERVPRO technicians check all of your windows and make recommendations about repairs, maintenance, and installations that might help you avoid future problems from occurring. We check your bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room and anywhere else in your home that has experienced recent repairs or maintains a constant water source. We even check your ventilation system registers, duct work, and filter for contamination.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle can perform full mold damage remediation services anywhere on your property. Contact us today to receive the services you deserve. (847) 593-3055

How Does SERVPRO Help With My Flood-Damaged Furniture?

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Repairing and restoring the effects of flood damage on your furniture requires a professional service.

If the water rises high enough, flooding inside a home can quickly affect not just floors, but furniture as well. Standing water from a failing dishwasher or a backed-up toilet can rapidly soften varnish and other finishes, stain fabrics, and warp the wood on sofas, chairs, and tables.

Repairing and restoring the effects of flood damage requires a professional service. SERVPRO understands the consequences that water has on your furniture and how to stop them without causing more damage. We immediately raise furniture off a wet surface or remove it from the affected home if needed. One of our inspectors examines everything for these problems:

• Swelling – Water causes wood to swell and crack. Sofas are very vulnerable since the frame is not normally treated to resist water. The framing joints weaken, and the glue which holds it together breaks down. To reduce the moisture content, technicians set dehumidifiers to draw moisture out of the frame and the surrounding air. Carefully lowering the moisture content also helps keep the glue together.
• Water Spotting – Water often spots upholstery fabrics that require dry cleaning (sofa and chair skirts for example) or leave a water level mark. Our technicians can carefully wet the entire piece of fabric and then dry it to avoid permanent spotting.
• Color Bleeding – Dust covers bleed when they absorb too much water and one that sags until it touches the floor or carpet can leave a stain. We set up dehumidifiers to draw out the moisture, but also use air movers to force warm, dry air over the surface to speed up the drying process.
• Mildew Growth – If we do not remove standing water quickly, a thin, whitish coating of fungus can begin to grow on exposed wood. We use dehumidifiers and air movers to stop the growth and an anti-fungal cleaner to remove mildew already present.

Returning furniture to a usable state is not a simple process, but a professional restoration service can deal with most damage successfully. If you need us, SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is here to help. Call today at (847) 593-3055 to get started.

Our Brand New ProMaster Vans

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

One of our crew chiefs, Ben, taking the new van out for a spin

You may notice that our iconic green SERVPRO vans look a little different. Perhaps they look a little bigger, maybe even a little more stylish? With the arrival of our brand new RAM ProMaster Cargo vans, our vehicle department has certainly seen some significant upgrades.

With up to 460 cubic feet of storage space and a towing capacity of 5,100 lbs, these vans are more than capable of storing our heavy duty equipment. The height makes it so our technicians can easily stand upright once inside, and the interior walls are nearly vertical, ensuring no wasted space.

In addition, the handling features of these vans, including a 36ft turning diameter, a light and nimble front wheel drive system, 6-speed automatic transmission, and a 280 horsepower Pentastar V6 engine, ensures that our crews will enjoy a safe and speedy travel to any job site.

With these features and more, it was a no-brainer for us to make the upgrade!

Fire Damage Restoration Services Available For Your Hotel

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

With hotels needing a constant flow of guests to remain profitable, the last thing any hotel owner needs is fire damage disrupting their business.  

When your property suffers fire damage, you want access to qualified professionals that can get the job done right. Luckily there is a locally owned and operated company you can trust to provide the services necessary to mitigate damages and get you back on your feet after disaster strikes.  

SERVPRO has technicians available 24/7, 365 days a year, including holidays. We are willing to work during off-peak hours to help limit disruptions to your guests and restore your fire damaged property as quickly as possible. Our IICRC-certified technicians have many years of experience with fire damage restoration. Regardless of how the fire started, SERVPRO technicians can help mitigate damages, prevent loss, and help restore your property to a quality pre-damage condition in the most effective and efficient manner possible.  

SERVPRO can even assist you before an emergency situation occurs. We can send a professional restoration technician out to pre-inspect your property, look for common issues and make quality recommendations based on the results. Each service we offer is designed to adjust to your unique situation, ensuring quality results and limiting loss.

We understand how important running a safe business environment is to you and we will make every effort to prevent hazards and protect your business, employees, and guests throughout the restoration process. Use our professional experience to help prevent future events and maintain a safe and healthy working environment for everyone involved. Ask us about our Emergency READY Profile (ERP) to expedite emergency assistance.

Contact SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle today for additional information on available services and find out what we can do for you during an emergency on your property. We are here to make your restoration process as stress-free as possible. Call today, (847) 593-3055!

Water Main Issues? SERVPRO Has Your Back!

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

A copper water main has a life expectancy of 60-years, making it highly unlikely for you to experience a water main break during your lifetime, especially if you purchased your home new. For older homes, the age, corrosion, temperature fluctuation, and electrolysis may affect the durability of your piping.

It is still possible, however, for flood damage to occur in your home because of a broken water main. Therefore, it is important to understand what to look for if this becomes a problem for you.

• Water pressure loss
• Standing water
• Sinkholes in your yard
• Stream of water from your house to the roadway
• If there is no water running in your house but you hear a gurgling or hissing noise where the pipe enters your house

Never attempt to repair a broken main on your own. Without the proper experience and resources, you are likely to cause more damage as well as jeopardize your safety. You can locate your main water shutoff and learn how to operate it successfully during an emergency. Otherwise, rely on SERVPRO to take care of the rest.

SERVPRO has access to the equipment and training necessary to locate and repair damaged piping, fix the grading in your yard after repairs have been made, and install additional drainage, sump pumps, or backflow valves where appropriate. Our IICRC-certified technicians will help you keep a close eye on these issues and get the help you need during an emergency. We have many services designed to address both exterior and interior issues caused by plumbing problems that occur in your home.

Give SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg /  Itasca / Roselle a call today at (847) 593-3055 for assistance with your water main, or any issues concerning fire, water, mold, or storm damage that develop on your property. We are here to help!

Is Your Business Prepared for Disaster?

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

According to industry research, as many as 50% of businesses may never recover after a disaster. Of the ones that do survive, the majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. Wondering how you can develop a preparedness plan? SERVPRO can help you with a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile. With this plan in place, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan in place.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (or ERP) is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s ERP, your business with receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster.

SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order. Call us today to prepare for tomorrow.

Are All Your Ducts In A Row?

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

If your business property is experiencing poor indoor air quality, the ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit. SERVPRO is equipped to clean your HVAC system to not only improve air quality, but also help your business save money on energy.

If your HVAC has been operating without attention for sometime, it could be circulating odors, dust, and other contaminates. To remove these, it is vital to have the ducts thoroughly cleaned.

In addition, a clean HVAC will improve airflow, thereby allowing it to run more efficiently and reduce the risk of fire, which is especially important when combustable dust is present. Potential mold growth can also be reduced when your HVAC is properly taken care of.

Our professionals are available to make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. Our goal is to provide peace of mind on the health of your system while also saving you money.

For more information on duct cleaning, contact us at (847)593-3055!

We Can Deodorize Your Apartment "Like It Never Even Happened"

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

After the devastation of fire damage, SERVPRO aims to make it “Like it never even happened.” This involves demolition and reconstruction, as well as water damage mitigation from fire fighting efforts. However, we specifically pride ourselves on our deodorization process.

Our clients are often surprised and delighted by our ability to completely remove any trace of smell. Property managers who have dealt with multiple fires in the past will tell us that we are the only ones who can actually make the property completely odor-free.

The trick is that we do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; we seek out the sources of the odor and remove them completely. In addition to our quick response time and state-of-the-art equipment and resources, our thoroughness and willingness to go the extra mile truly sets us apart from the rest.

The aftermath of a fire can be overwhelming and stressful, but SERVPRO is always available to help you in your time of need. Call today!

What Happens to Your Belongings after a Fire?

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

As if the stress of dealing with fire damage to your property wasn’t enough, there is also the question of what happens to your belongings. You may lose hope and believe that everything needs to be tossed and replaced. Well, not necessarily. SERVPRO’s mitigation and restoration services also extend to your belongings. Our extensive and thorough content cleaning process will ensure that your belongings are treated with the utmost care.

• We will complete an accurate room-by-room inventory and ensure everything is property accounted for. This includes photo documentation and bar coding items, suitable for filing insurance claims forms, alleviating you of this often stressful and time consuming process.
• If needed, your contents can be relocated for cleaning, deodorization, and storage while structural repairs are being completed. A supervised moving crew will carefully pack and move the entire contents of your home or office.
• Any contents which are deemed restorable will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, area rugs, draperies, upholstery, and more. For any fabric material, our professionals will carefully inspect and test all fabrics to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate.

If your property has been devastated by fire damage, rely on SERVPRO to properly take care of your needs. Call today!

Can My Water Damaged Documents Be Saved?

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Vacuum Freeze Drying Chamber

Dealing with the aftermath of water damage in your property can be a stressful process, all the more exacerbated if any documents and records were affected. Water-damaged paper can deteriorate rapidly, and without proper handling, valuable files and irreplaceable documents could be lost forever.

SERVPRO is well-equipped to handle any damaged paper goods.

• Vacuum Freeze Drying - The item containing moisture is frozen and dried using various vacuums and pressures to achieve sublimation (direct conversion of a solid into a gas, skipping the liquid state).
• Digitizing - In the digital age, digitizing records and documents has become a standard practice in most industries. If your file room was damaged by water and needs to be cleaned, dried, or decontaminated, this may be a good choice to eliminate the need to have hundreds or even thousands of documents and records in storage.
• Gamma Irradiation - When dealing with water damage from a storm situation, flooding or sewage, most of the affected documents will be contaminated. Gamma irradiation will clean/disinfect and decontaminate paper goods by emitting high-energy photos from an isotope scope (cobalt 60) producing ionization (electron disruptions) throughout the items. This will leave the paper clean and decontaminated without leaving behind any residual radiation.
• Certified destruction - If, for any reason, materials need to be disposed of, we will certify with all entities that their products and materials are destroyed. We aim to protect one’s liabilities, brand image, or proprietary information, and to give you peace of mind that your documents are disposed of properly.

You can trust SERVPRO to take care of all your water damage needs. Call us today!

Faster to Any Size Disaster

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Aftermath of Hurricane Irma

We take that phrase seriously, and not just with local jobs. With a network of 1,700 franchises nationwide, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team is ready to respond to any large scale disasters that come our way in any part of the country.

2017 saw a myriad of large storms in various states. From microbursts to tornadoes to hurricanes, there was extensive property damage across the country, with local restoration companies scrambling to help out. With SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team, there are more than 1,000 crews ready to mobilize at any given time. This past year, some of our technicians had the opportunities to travel to Kansas, Michigan, and Georgia for Hurricane Irma. We are happy to be available to those who are in need.

No matter where you are, SERVPRO is nationwide and ready to be faster to any size disaster.

Our New AMRT-Certified Technicians

4/18/2018 (Permalink)

Alex and Campbell, newly AMRT certified

With mold season fast approaching, it is imperative our technicians possess the skills and training necessary to properly take care of any mold job that comes our way. Two of our technicians, Alex and Campbell, recently took a week-long trip to SERVPRO headquarters in Tennessee to take classes and go through hands-on training. After passing their exams, they are now officially certified as Anti Microbial Remediation Technicians (AMRT).

As an approved IICRC Training School, SERVPRO offers extensive programs for franchise employees at its state-of-the-art facilities. With year-around class offerings, SERVPRO employees are given access to a wealth of education and resources to ensure they are thoroughly equipped and well-prepared in the field.

With Alex and Campbell’s new up-to-date AMRT certifications, you can trust our team to take care of your mold issues properly and efficiently.

Click to see more information about SERVPRO's training programs.

Rainy Season Means Mold Season

4/10/2018 (Permalink)

“April showers bring May flowers…” as well as a variety of issues for homeowners. Most of these problems can be easily prevented or immediately taken care of. However, mold growth is often overlooked or forgotten about until it is too late. Here are a few things to keep in mind when trying to prevent or look out for potential mold growth.

There are always mold spores floating through the air, which in small amounts are usually harmless. However, once these spores find a moist, damp spot to land on, they begin to multiply over time to potentially harmful levels. After several days of rain and/or humidity, your property may be a prime target for mold growth.

Mold often grows on walls due to wet air sticking to the surface or hidden leaky pipes located behind. The attic and the ceiling below it would also be prime spots for mold growth, especially after a heavy rainstorm. Dark places such as crawlspaces, closets, inside ceilings, etc. are easy spots for mold to grow because of a lack of both ventilation and sunlight keeping in humid air. Be sure to keep these areas in mind when looking out for mold.

The basement is an especially perfect spot for mold to grow. It is dark, usually not well-ventilated, and any water leakage from above will travel down into or around the basement. In addition, any cold surfaces within the basement such as metal pipes or concrete floors are susceptible to condensation, again creating more spots for mold to grow. If nothing else, keep an especially close eye on your basement.

If your property is suffering from mold or water damage, don’t wait to address it! SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is available 24/7 and has the equipment and training to take care of your mold issues. Call us at (847)593-3055 right away!

What Are Air Movers?

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

Our air movers, ready to service you at any time.

Domestic plumbing is not invulnerable. Pipes can crack, gutters can clog, and toilets can overflow. Even with careful maintenance, all it takes is a torrential rainfall or malfunctioning water equipment to cause significant water damage to your property.

The good news is that SERVPRO is prepared. With industry-approved equipment and tools, such as our air movers, the effects of water damage can be mitigated properly.

High volume air movers can direct clean, dry air at a high velocity through water damaged spaces in order to increase the rate of evaporation. These come in handy for ventilating entire rooms and drying items such as carpet, pads, walls, and furniture. Air movers can even help to rapidly remove gases and fumes.

Paired with a dehumidifier, which removes moisture from air, air movers prove to be invaluable in high-humidity environments. The dry air pumped through our air movers will help move moisture-soaked air toward our dehumidifiers, which promotes faster drying time.

At SERVPRO of Elk Grove /E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle, water damage repairs are carried out with the utmost care. We understand that your property and possessions are precious, and we will be sure to do our job safely and quickly and make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us 24/7 at (847) 593-3055 today to arrange a home visit.

SERVPRO Offers Commercial Flood Damage Restoration in Schaumburg

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Flood Damage

The disruption that flooding and water damage can bring to a commercial property in Schaumburg can be costly. Insurance companies may help to pay for the actual damages, but they rarely cover lost revenue. SERVPRO emphasizes speed and timeliness in our commercial restoration projects to help get businesses back up and running.

Response Time

We are on hand 24/7 and our crews are able to arrive on-site with the proper equipment within four hours of your first call. By responding quickly, we help to prevent further damage and materials soaking, saving days or even weeks of restoration time.

Fast And Heavy Equipment

We equip our crews with industrial-grade drying and restoration equipment to ensure they perform as quickly and effectively as possible. Our water extractors pump out standing water at high speeds, and our air movers remove any extra moisture from surfaces. For water removal, when speed and thoroughness are key, our tools and machinery pack a solid punch.

Trained, Certified, And Helpful Staff

Be it our technicians, inspectors, or office representatives, SERVPRO is renowned for our friendly and helpful staff. Technicians are happy to explain what they're doing to you, and our representatives can help communicate on your behalf with insurance companies and other relevant parties. Our staff will work with you to get the job done as smoothly and quickly as possible, and we are open and welcome to any questions or requests.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle is ready around the clock to respond to commercial flood damage to get you back in business. Call us at (847) 593-3055.

Our Mold Remediation Process

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

Once mold growth is found, it is vital to have it taken care of as soon as possible. Our mold remediation process will remove harmful mold from your property and help prevent further growth. Typically, the process involves the following:

• Inspection: Our trained technicians use specialized equipment to locate and identify any mold growth in your property. In many cases, mold will thrive in inaccessible or unseen areas as it feeds on moisture and cellulose materials. The source of the moisture must be eliminated to cut off any further fungal growth.
• Containment: Because any released spores contain mycotoxins that may be hazardous to your health, it is important to set up a containment area. Any fans and HVAC units are shut down to prevent spore circulation through the ductwork. Poly plastic barriers and negative air chambers are then set up to isolate the spores in one area. Air scrubbers and HEPA filtered vacuums are also used to further aid in the containment process.
• Treating Infected Items: Removal of any mold-infested furniture, upholstery and building materials for discarding or cleaning is another important element to the mold remediation process. Restoration or replacement of affected materials will depend on the level of infestation and mold damage. Our aim at SERVPRO is to save and restore as much of your personal possessions as possible.
• Air Safety: Our IICRC-trained technicians will use EPA-approved antimicrobial and antifungal disinfectants to kill any active mold. Specialized foggers and cleaning agents are then used to deodorize your house. This will ensure air quality is safe and breathable.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle provides quality mold remediation services throughout the area. We have an entire staff of highly-trained professionals ready and willing to assist you with returning your home to a clean, safe, and secure place for you and your family to enjoy for years to come. Call us today at (847) 593-3055.

Responding Rapidly Minimizes Flood Damage in Schaumburg

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

Warmer winter temperatures can result in snow melting and unable to seep into the ground, enter into homes causing damage.

SERVPRO Provides Flood Damage Restoration Services for Any Size Damage

Living in Schaumburg gives us a full four seasons yearly, but with changing weather patterns, we now often experience warmer days during the winter. These warmer temperatures can lead to significant amounts of snow turning into water, resulting in substantial amounts covering the still-frozen ground. Unable to seep into the ground, this water can only flow horizontally, at times entering homes.

If melted snow travels where your Schaumburg residence is situated, your home's chances of flood damage considerably increase. Before a flood, sandbagging around your home helps minimize the amount of water that enters. However, smaller, slower amounts of water rarely provide forewarning, allowing them to creep up on homeowners. As flooding enters a home, it spreads out across the first floor and can also travel downstairs to the basement.

SERVPRO's professional team has gained extensive experience in all sizes and types of flood mitigation. No damage is too small nor too large for us to handle. Because water continually damages as long as it is present, we are Always Faster To Any Size Disaster, reducing the amount of time your home stays submerged before we finish restoring your home.

Certified in Water Damage Restoration (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying (ASD), our technicians know which steps to take and when. Using the latest in technology and equipment, we can take a saturated home and dry it out at the pace needed to gain the results your family deserves.

The rate at which we dry out your home can affect the final results both personal belongings and materials inside your home experience. If drying progresses too slowly, microbial growth can begin. If it progresses too rapidly, uneven results can skew electronic readings, allowing some areas to remain damp. Another aspect of flooding inside a home deals with the level of contamination. Cleaning a home post-flood needs to include steps that ensure achievement of sanitary levels. We understand how contamination acts inside a home, and how to counteract it wherever it might exist.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / E. Schaumburg / Itasca / Roselle can help your family recover quickly from any amount of flood damage that your home experiences, making everything clean and safe again, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (847) 593-3055 to contact our 24-hour service. We never close and are always ready to help you, no matter what emergency your home endures.

Click here for more information on Schaumburg.