Commercial Water Damage- No Job Too Large!

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage

When dealing with commercial water damage, bigger is almost always worse. The more water that is flowing through a space, the worse the damage will usually be. Water damage in commercial buildings has the potential to be far more disastrous than a residential home, because of how many more pipes there are in a commercial building. More bathrooms, appliances, and sprinkler systems mean there are a greater number of chances for water loss. 

With commercial loss, it also means more equipment will need to be used to dry out the area. More equipment means more manpower needed to move the equipment. This trend can keep compounding out to show how commercial job can have costs add up quickly.

It is also the cost of not doing business that makes a large water loss so damaging. Not being able to have a store/location open for days, weeks, or months at a time can mean a devastating loss of profit which will just make a water loss worse. This is why SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest uses every method to expedite the restoration process, such as working directly with insurance providers, offering construction services, and using state of the art equipment to get the restoration process completed fast!

Large commercial water losses can be scary. When you call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest, rely on our experience to get the damage under control and back to normal. 

How to Efficiently Clean Up Water Damage

11/9/2023 (Permalink)

Active Water Damage in Home.

Water damage can be a frustrating and costly event for homeowners. Whether it is caused by a leaky pipe, a flood or a burst water heater, it is important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage and growth. In this blog post, we will outline a step-by-step guide to efficiently clean up water damage and restore your home back to its original state.

1. Ensure Safety:
Before starting the cleaning process, it is crucial to ensure your safety. Turn off the power supply to the areas to avoid the risk of electrocution. Additionally, wearing protective gear such as gloves, boots, and masks is essential to protect yourself from contamination.

2. Remove Excess Water:
Using an extraction machine, tool or a water pump, to remove as much excess water as possible from the area. Start by extracting the water from the floor, carpets, and furniture. Make sure all water is extracted before going into any drying processes.

3. Drying Dehumidification:
Once the excess water is removed, the next step is to dry out thoroughly. Set up air movers and use dehumidifiers to promote air circulation and speed up the drying process. Make sure to dry not only the visible surfaces but also hidden areas such as behind walls and under flooring to prevent mold growth.

4. Salvage:
Evaluate the affected items and determine which can be salvaged and which need to be discarded. Porous materials such as carpets, upholstery, and drywall should be removed and replaced if they are heavily soaked or contaminated. Non-porous items can be cleaned and disinfected using a mixture of water and bleach or a commercial disinfectant.

5. Prevent Mold Growth:
After the water damage cleanup, it is crucial to prevent mold growth. Use mold-inhibiting spray apply antimicrobial treatments to the affected surfaces. Monitor the humidity levels in your home and a hygrometer to ensure they remain below 50%. Consider installing a dehumidifier or using moisture absorbers to maintain a dry environment.

6. Professional Restoration:
In severe cases of damage, such as extensive flooding or damage to the structure of the house, it is advisable to seek SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest. Experienced professionals such as us have the expertise and equipment to handle complex situations and ensure thorough restoration of your home.

Conclusion:
Water damage can be a challenging situation to deal with, but following the steps outlined above, you can efficiently clean up the damage and restore your home to pre loss condition. Remember to prioritize safety, remove excess water, thoroughly dry the affected areas, salvage and disinfect items, and take preventive measures to avoid mold growth. If in doubt, do not hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest's professional restoration services to ensure a successful cleanup process.

Is SERVPRO near me?

10/31/2023 (Permalink)

Be sure you have us in your phone, we are ready 24/7 to serve your emergency needs!

I have water damage in my home. Is SERVPRO® near me? Yes! Does SERVPRO service Jacksonville? Of course!  And we can also do the reconstruction! 

At SERVPRO, we are proud to offer our customers an industry-leading level of service. Each of our over 2180 franchises offers a broad variety of opportunities to help, to serve, and to repair, and restore people’s homes and businesses. 
If you water damage or fire damage restoration in Northeast Florida, we are here for you 24 hours a day, every day.  We are the water damage restoration experts.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors Save Lives

9/26/2023 (Permalink)

Install and maintain carbon monoxide detectors

Carbon monoxide is known as the 'silent killer”. It puts your health at risk and can also pose a fire risk causing significant damage to your home.
 SERVPRO® Provides fire damage cleaning services and reconstruction that can remove soot, and smoke odors from your property. Our highly trained technicians respond to an emergency within a few hours.
Carbon monoxide is a type of gas produced when fuel such as wood, gas, oil, kerosene, and charcoal burns. If you don't have the appropriate ventilation or correct fuel, the carbon monoxide can get trapped in your home and build up overtime.
There are several sources of carbon monoxide you need to be aware of to help you avoid any health or fire hazards: fireplaces, chimneys, grills etc.
Because it is an invisible, odorless gas, it is undetectable without a carbon monoxide detector. Here are the signs of carbon monoxide present in your home:
Soot stains on or around gas appliances
Pilot lights that go out often
Increased condensation
Rust or soot staining in a chimney
What are the risks of carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is seriously harmful to your health, and can lead to death if not addressed quickly.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:

headache
dizziness, feeling or
being sick
feeling weak
confusion
chest and muscle pain
shortness of breath
Install and maintain carbon monoxide detectors. Should a fire affect your home or business, call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest for your restoration and reconstruction needs.

SERVPRO is a Member of the Nassau County Chamber.

9/21/2023 (Permalink)

Jonathan Harris and Pamela Reilly attend Lunchmob with the Chamber of Commerce.

The Nassau County Chamber hosted a networking event at Juniors Seafood Restaurant and Grill in Callahan. Jonathan Harris and Pamela Reilly of SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast and SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest attended and met a great group of business owners to network together. Thank you to the Chamber and Juniors for such a great event!

SERVPRO Repair and Reconstruction

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

Reconstruction Services

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest outside of being the premiere Water Restoration, Mold Restoration, and Fire Restoration company in your area; we also provide in-house Reconstruction Services of all kinds varying from putting back materials involved in our restoration/demolition process to boarding up damaged houses for protection against the elements. SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest takes pride in being a Water Damage Repair Service along with handling the Water Removal side of it all too.

Examples Of Our Services

• Drywall Hanging
• Drywall Finishing
• Priming and Painting
• Carpenter Work
• Woodwork
• Remodeling
• Flooring Repair
• Carpet Repair
• Water Damage Repair
• Drywall Repair
• Wallpaper 
• Board-Up

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest is always available for your Restoration and Reconstruction needs, 365/24/7. Our Reconstruction department specializes in all of your needs after a tragic accident that may occur in your household. Feel free to call us at 904-256-4894 for consultations, inspections and our services. We represent your town to make it like it never even happened!

IICRC Certified Firm

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest is an IICRC firm. 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.

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest specializes 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.

NEW Tropical Storm Dan

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

Trajectory of Tropical Storm Dan as of 7/20/23, since has moved away from Florida.

NEW Tropical Storm Dan was once en route towards the beaches of Florida encompassing Jacksonville and Fernandina Beach, seems to have drifted away towards Northern America and is no longer a threat to Florida. In the case of a potential Tropical Storm, what should you do? Well you might be experiencing up to 30-70mph winds which can eliminate traveling from your house and probably will knock all power out. You need to be prepared with this checklist.

Checklist to prepare for Tropical Storms:
1. Emergency Food and Drinks(No access to Grocery Stores)
2. Emergency Power Source(Generator, Batteries, Chargers, ETC)
3. Emergency Medicine Supply(For diabetic, ill, ETC)
4. Sanitization and Hygiene Supplies(Toilet Paper, Hand Sanitizer, ETC)
5. Tools(Wrench, Radio, Duct Tape)

With these precautions set in place you're sure to be safe and sound during times of Tropical Storm crisis. Stay Safe and stay alert for potential Tropical Storms that could come in your area. Remember, SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest is here to help any Water Restoration or other disastrous events that might occur due to Tropical Storms. Call for consultations about our services!

Fallen Ceiling in Jacksonville Northwest

7/20/2023 (Permalink)

Fallen plaster ceiling and blown in insulation after AC Leak water damage.

A local unsuspecting home in Jacksonville Northwest experienced a traumatic experience in their ceiling falling after they've returned home. In secret, their AC unit has been leaking for a great amount of time and eventually the plaster ceiling fell through due to the water intrusion and erosion of material. When is the last time you've checked your AC Unit warranty or Emergency water pan? AC Unit's malfunctioning and leaking are very common in water damages. Check your AC Units to ensure they're properly functioning and don't harm your homes. SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest specializes in AC Leaks and the water damage related to such leaks that may come from it. Call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest for any types of consultations about water damage or our services.

When Storms or Floods hit Jacksonville Northwest, SERVPRO is ready!

6/9/2023 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Jacksonville Northwest.

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Jacksonville Northwest, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 2,000 franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 904-256-4894

Locating Water Shut Off Valves in an Emergency

2/1/2023 (Permalink)

No one expects pipes to burst, water heaters to break, or toilets and washers to overflow.  If this happens, your quick response along with the highly trained specialists of SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast will limit your damages and potentially save you thousands of dollars! Here are some tips for locating water shut-off valves on your property.

How to Find the Water Shut-Off Valves

If you have a water emergency, knowing the location of the shut-off valve could save you thousands in water damage repairs. Home water systems contain two types of shut-off valves: main or master shut- off valves for stopping the flow of water to the entire house. These can be tricky and might involve the help of a professional—like a plumber or SERVPRO.  An alternative is finding individual or supply shut-off valves for specific appliances and fixtures. Try these first.

Try to Cut Off Water Close to Source

If you have a leak at your toilet, sink, clothes washer, or ice maker, shut off water close to the source:

• Toilet:  Look under the toilet, against the wall for the flexible metal tubing.  Turn the handle clockwise until it stops.  Do not force.
• Sink:  Look under the sink cabinet.  There will be two sets of flexible metal or plastic tubing.  Turn handles clockwise.
• Clothes Washer:  Some houses have the valves clearly exposed above and behind the washer.  Turn both valves clockwise.  If you do not see these valves, slide the washer outward and you will likely see them.
• Dishwashers: The water supply tube running to the dishwasher often has a fixture shut-off valve controlling it. In many cases, this is also located under the kitchen sink base cabinet, and it may be close proximity to the sink faucet shut-off valves. 
• Refrigerator ice makers/water dispensers: The small copper or mesh supply tube running to the refrigerator usually has a small saddle valve or other devices that can be shut off to close down the water supply. 

Locate Water Main Shut-Off Valve Within the House

This is the best way to shut off water in your house, but locating water shut-off valves indoors can prove to be a tricky task.  It will, however, cut off your home's entire water supply, allowing you to open up any pipe within the house.

 Hopefully your water shut-off falls can be easily found--either the knob or lever on a border wall. However, if it’s not so easy to locate, your valve is likely in one of these following places:

• On a perimeter wall of your house
• At ground level, so you’ll be looking for it lower on the wall if you’re on the ground level floor
• In a straight line from your outdoor water meter
• Noted on your property inspection report from when you purchased the house
• Behind an access panel
• NOT under a sink or next to the water heater

If you don’t want to play plumbing detective, or if you need help locating your main water shut-off valves, you can schedule a service call for SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast.

Winter Storms in Florida? YES

2/1/2023 (Permalink)

This year has started us off turning on our heaters, and grabbing thr heavier clothing, but for some the storms that crippled the US have also frozen pipes even here in Florida.  While we have a few recovery days, best to check your home.

Weatherproof your home.

• Insulate any water lines that run along exterior walls so your water supply will be less likely to freeze.
• Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows.
• Insulate walls and attic.
• Install storm or thermal-pane windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside.
• Repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on your home or other structure during a storm.

Have your chimney or flue inspected each year.

If you plan to use a fireplace or wood stove for emergency heating, have your chimney or flue inspected each year. Ask your local fire department to recommend an inspector or find one online.

Check out our infographic, Be Ready! Winter Weather for tips on getting your family, home, and car ready for a winter storm.

Install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector.

• If you’ll be using a fireplace, wood stove, or kerosene heater, install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector near the area to be heated. Test them monthly and replace batteries twice a year.
• Keep a multipurpose, dry-chemical fire extinguisher nearby.
• All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside.
• Each winter season have your furnace system and vent checked by a qualified technician to ensure they are functioning properly.

For older adults, keep an easy-to-read thermometer inside your home.

If you or a loved one are over 65 years old, place an easy-to-read thermometer in an indoor location where you will see it frequently. Our ability to feel a change in temperature decreases with age. Older adults are more susceptible to health problems caused by cold. Check the temperature of your home often during the winter months.

If a problem such as a frozen pipe that has busted affects your home or office, call SERVPRO for all your restoration needs! 

Did You Know: A Water Damaged Wall Can Be Dried & Restored, Rather Than Replaced?

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Drilling small holes along the bottom of the wall and ventilating the wall cavity can greatly reduce drying time.

So a plumbing leak or other water intrusion leaves you with wet walls. Here’s the question we at SERVPRO often get: Do the walls have to be removed and replaced? Well, it depends.

In the past, restoration practices called for the replacement of wet drywall from walls. Today there is technology that allows SERVPRO to save walls by drying them, which significantly reduces restoration costs.

It’s part of SERVPRO’s restore vs. replace philosophy, and it can save homeowners (or businesses) a bundle.

Factors to Consider & Steps Involved

When floodwaters or sewage have entered the home—or when structural integrity has been compromised--industry standards require the removal of porous building materials. In most other cases, saving a wall is possible when a skilled restorer such as SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest uses the appropriate techniques.

A common impediment to effectively drying walls is a vapor barrier, which is a material that impedes the evaporation of moisture from walls or other materials. Removing the outer vapor barrier or perforating gloss paint expedites the drying process.

Another consideration is insulation. A wall may contain fiberglass, spray foam, or blown-in insulation. Blown-in fiberglass can compact and move down the wall cavity when it becomes wet. When this happens, the insulating properties of the materials cannot be restored. The insulation will need to be removed and replaced. Fiberglass insulation with paper backing can usually be successfully dried using air injection or similar methods. Sprayed-in insulation usually needs to be removed.

Drying can be accelerated by drilling small holes along the bottom of the wall and ventilating the wall cavity, greatly reducing drying time. When drying is complete, these holes are patched or, ideally, covered by baseboard. The process described above is faster and less expensive than removing and replacing walls.

SERVPRO’s IICRC-certified technicians employ a specific set of standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity, and special equipment to measure and remove moisture and to dry a property quickly and effectively.

Severe Weather Forecast for Jacksonville and Surrounding Areas

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Be prepared for severe weather in our area over the next few days.

The National Weather Service is predicting severe weather for Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia over the next couple of days. Here’s a summary of their weather briefing.

Weather Impact Overview Southeast Georgia & Northeast Florida

• Severe Thunderstorm Potential by Afternoon
• Main Areas: SE Georgia & Suwannee River Valley
• Main hazards: Isolated tornado (SE GA), damaging winds, small hail
• Thunderstorms & Waves of Heavy Rain through Saturday
• Potential for a few strong to severe thunderstorms Thursday & Friday
• Severe storms possible with squall line passage Friday Night
• Periods of Heavy rainfall, especially Thursday Night through Friday night
• Small Craft Advisory Outer Waters Today
• Small Craft Conditions Friday Night through Sunday
• Frequent Gusts to Gale Force Friday Night
• Saturday Inland Freeze Saturday Night & Inland Frost Sunday Night 

Be safe and be sure to listen out for weather alerts as conditions can change quickly. If you suffer storm damage, we can help! Call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest at 904.256.4894.

Flooding at Jacksonville Commercial Warehouse Due to Broken Water Main

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

It is very common for broken or cracked pipes to occur in commercial buildings.

This large one-story commercial warehouse just outside of Jacksonville flooded 15,000-16,000 sq. ft. Some 6000 gallons of water were released from the broken water main to the air conditioner chiller unit. Cleanup required extraction of water and oil. Water was then pumped to 500 gallon waste containers to be hauled off by a hazardous waste company.

Notice in the accompanying photo the extent of the water damage. Flooding in commercial buildings can happen very quickly, especially if there is no one on site to identify the problem. What starts out as a small water leak can turn into something larger, and cause significantly more damage than expected. If your commercial property has old pipes, there is a higher chance of water damage occurring. Broken pipes are a common cause of water damage in commercial facilities. It is very common for broken or cracked pipes to occur in commercial buildings, especially when they age. When a pipe bursts, water rushes out of them, spraying throughout the whole building. A busted pipe can cause damage to the walls, ceilings, flooring, and any other contents you have filling that space.

Our customer was very pleased with our quick response and fast turnaround time. No job is too big or too small for this SERVPRO team!

If you have water damage or flooding at your commercial facility, call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest at 904.256.4894.

Flood Tips: What you can do until help arrives

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

If you have storm damage or flooding, call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest at 904.256.4894.

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Have A Water Damage Emergency? Call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest at 904.256.4894.

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest Can Help With Commercial Property Damages and Maintenance  

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

 SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest can help with water, fire or mold damages to commercial properties as well as maintenance and general cleaning.

Preventative maintenance is one of the most important steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of structural damage at your commercial property.  Whether lessening the risk of water, fire, or mold damages, there are strategies that can be employed:

Water

• Periodically check plumbing and fixtures for broken or cracked gaskets or seals and/or small leaks. The sooner you catch an issue and repair it, the less likely your small leak will become a catastrophe.
• Maintain landscaping around your property. Debris in drainage ditches, overgrown weeds, or clogged storm drains can result it rainwater backing up and flooding your property.  Maintaining the exterior of the property reduces this risk, especially if heavy rains are in the forecast.
• Roof Maintenance! Damaged roofs provide not only the perfect entry point for storm water to flow into your building but can also allow moisture to become trapped in ceilings and attics, increasing the likelihood of mold growth.

Fire

• Have a licensed electrician check wiring in the building. Especially in older properties, faulty wiring is a common source of commercial fire damage.
• If your building is equipped with a fire suppression system, make sure it is in working order. If not, be sure to have plenty of in-date fire extinguishers located throughout the property, so that in case of fire, a small issue has less opportunity to become a large disaster.
• Properly store and label any combustible or hazardous materials, such as gasoline, diesel, or chemicals. Improperly stored hazardous materials can provide an ignition source and make putting out the fire more dangerous and difficult.

Mold

• Reduce moisture within the building by running a dehumidifier. Especially in the more humid climate of Northern Florida, eliminating as much moisture as possible within the business can reduce the potential for mold growth.
• If you see signs of water intrusion, such as staining or puddling, identify the source, fix it, and dry the area as soon as possible! With porous materials, such as drywall, it only takes a minimal amount of moisture to create the conditions for microbial growth, and growth can begin in as little as 24-48 hours.
• Have your HVAC/Duct Work cleaned regularly. This provides better air quality for the property and reduces the circulation of contaminants.  If you have confirmed a mold issue at your business, do NOT run the HVAC system, as this could circulate the mold spores and widen the spread.

When it comes to maintaining your commercial property, know that SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest is Here to Help.  Our team of professionals is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for emergency damages.  Serving Jacksonville, Callahan, Yulee, and surrounding communities, we have the equipment, expertise, and experience to handle damages of all sizes!

It's the Water that You Can't See

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

When you have a leak, many areas of your home that you can't see can be affected.

When your home or business experiences a major flood, there’s no chance you won’t see it.

A few inches of water in your basement, an overflowing toilet or a broken sprinkler are tough to overlook and so is the damage they cause.

However, there is a culprit that might not make a big splash, but can cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues: the water you don’t see.

Sometimes you might have hidden leaks or humidity issues that can start small and grow large in their destruction over time. The little leaks might turn into large deluges or wear away at structures, the humidity could make conditions right for mold growth and bad odors.

As a home or business owner, you want to be on the lookout for these sneaky sources of water loss. You also want to make sure that, if you do experience a large flood, to get it cleaned up properly. Improper water cleanup can leave those hidden problems behind.

As the diagram shows, when you have a leak, many areas can be affected. Water can make its way into sheathing, studs, insulation, drywall, baseboards, carpet and padding, wall plate, sub-floor, sill plate, and your basement and foundation.

This is where SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest comes in. We have the knowledge and experience clean up water damage of any size and get it done right the first time. We also have the proper equipment to find any moisture lurking out of sight and do away with it.

For example, we have moisture sensors, which are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls. We have moisture meters that we use to test the actual moisture content of materials. The meters allow our technicians to accurately monitor the drying process.

And if hidden water leads to bad odors in your business, we have the tools necessary to take care of those as well. Some examples are ultra low-volume foggers and thermal foggers.

The lesson here is to be aware that water losses can be hiding in your home or business and if you find them, you can count on us to fix them.

Call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest at 904.256.4894.

Flooding Strikes Three Units in Jacksonville Condo

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

If you have water damage or flooding, call us at 904.256.4894.

Flooding from a toilet supply line damaged three units in a Jacksonville condo. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest arrived on the scene quickly to extract water and began the drying process in order to minimize damages.

The first 24 hours following a water loss are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage. Here are some steps you can take while waiting for the professionals of SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest to arrive.

Emergency Water Damage Tips

• Shut-off the water source, if possible or contact a professional such as SERVPRO, a plumber, or maintenance personnel to stop the water source.
• Turn-off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other sensitive valuables to a dry place.
• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water! This could cause electrical shock or damage to the device.

For more information on recovering from water damage, contact SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest at 904.256.4894.

Betty White Challenge – Accepted! 

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest supports the Humane Society and the Betty White Challenge.

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest accepted the Betty White Challenge and were happy to be at the Jacksonville Humane Society where a big puppy at heart named Thunder, greeted us with a big smile and lots of love. JHS staff members, Hudson Melvin, Olivia Spiecker and Shaina Corday gladly tagged along to receive our food donation from Jonathan Harris and Shane Adams.  SERVPRO knows that when we are called, your pets are a part of your family and we want every pet to find a loving home.  Thunder is up for adoption and you may want to move quickly, before someone beats you to him. #bettywhitebirthdaychallenge, #SERVPRO, #JacksonvilleHumaneSociety, #PetFriendly, #heretohelp 

SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast and sister franchise SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest regularly contribute to local causes, not limited to humane shelters and food drives, but also to Barnabas in Fernandina Beach and Yulee, various boy’s and girl’s sporting organizations, as well as the Council for Aging and The Caden Project.

Why SERVPRO? We Were Named #8 on Franchise 500 List!

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

We are proud to be chosen as a top 10 franchise organization by Entrepreneur magazine!

SERVPRO is proud to announce it has been recognized again as one of the best overall franchise opportunities by Entrepreneur magazine’s 2022 Franchise 500, the industry’s most comprehensive franchise ranking. Evaluated on categories such as growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power, SERVPRO was named the #8 overall franchise system, and #1 in the cleaning and restoration industry for the 19^th consecutive year.

To best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace, Entrepreneur’s editorial team researches and assesses several factors that go into the evaluation, including costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500 in ranking order.  

“The past year has been one of the most challenging for businesses in recent memory, which made putting together our 43^rd annual Franchise 500 list more enlightening than ever,” said Entrepreneur Editor in Chief Jason Feifer. “The companies named to this year’s list showed us how being resilient, supportive and nimble can help navigate extraordinary challenges and also underscore the grit and innovation that define entrepreneurship.”

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest is proud to share in this honor. Please call us at 904.256.4894 if you have water, fire or mold damage.

How to Prevent Mold Problems in North Florida and Jacksonville  

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

If you have mold issues call, us at 904.256.4894. We’ll make it "Like it never even happened.”

When you live in a subtropical area, like Florida, the high humidity can cause mold damage, even without leaky pipes or a damaged roof. And even in the wintertime. Here are some tips to follow to control humidity to prevent mold problems:

The level suggested for the interior relative humidity of your home is 60 percent or less to discourage mold growth. Do not guess to maintain this level. Invest in a good quality hygrometer to be certain your humidity levels are within the parameters that will discourage mold growth. 

To reduce the moisture content of the air within your home, make sure all exhaust fans are working properly in high moisture generating rooms like the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry areas. Be sure all family members are using them regularly when cooking, showering, and washing clothes.

Dryers should vent to the outdoors. Remember to run air conditioners regularly as they remove moisture from the air. Do not use vaporizers or humidifiers in the house. If all of these measures do not reduce the humidity to proper levels, invest a dehumidifier to reach and then maintain that 60 percent standard. Be sure all equipment used to reduce humidity is checked for proper drainage of the water removed from the air. Empty the water condensed as needed or set up the machine to discharge into a sink or drain.

Following these steps will help to prevent mold issues.

If you do experience mold problems, SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest is a Florida-Licensed Mold Remediator. Our license number is MRSR450. A licensed contractor has the training, expertise and experience required to do the job well, safely and to code.

Practice Firework Safety in Jacksonville this New Year

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Source: Consumer Product Safety Commission

Ring in the New Year safely this year. Remember, fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burn and eye injuries. Follow these safety tips when using fireworks: 

• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.

We at SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest wish you a safe and Happy New Year! 

Cooking Safety Over the Holidays

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest wish you safe and happy holidays!

Source: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

The holidays are a peak time for home cooking fires. Observing the following tips will help make sure you stay safe from fires over the holidays.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Nor’easters & Tornadoes in North Florida Post Hurricane Season

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Though Hurricane Season is over, North Florida can still get some significant storms during the off months.

So now that Hurricane Season is over, we don’t have to worry about storms, right?

Not so fast. Nor’easters and tornadoes are prone to hit Florida over the fall, winter and spring months.

What About Nor’easters?

Like the one we had last weekend. A major storm system moved through Florida bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and high tides that created persistent flooding. While impacts from nor’easter can be very similar to that of a tropical storm or hurricane they are very different storms. These beasts get their energy from temperature differences in the atmosphere rather than the warm waters of the ocean. The East Coast of the U.S. in the fall and winter offer the perfect recipe for these storms to develop.

What You Need To Know About Florida Tornadoes:

1. Tornadoes can happen anytime of the year.
2. Most tornadoes are EF-0, waterspouts that move onshore.
3. Stronger tornadoes are most likely between February – April, usually within a squall line and can strike at night.
4. Most tornadoes occur in June but are generally weak.
5. Florida has the greatest frequency of tornadoes per 10,000 square miles than any other state.

It’s always a good idea to sign up for weather alerts and have a plan in place should a tornado or nor’easter occur. Here are some tips from the Department of Homeland security for making your plan.

Remember, if your home of business suffers flooding or water damage as the result of a storm or tornado, call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest at 904.256.4894.

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest Offers Business a Free Preparedness Service

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

The ERP program offers a downloadable app that allows you to easily share the Profile Document with others on your team.

We at SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest offer local businesses a FREE service that can be invaluable in the event of a storm or other disaster.

Did you know that 50% of businesses close down following a disaster? Of the businesses that do survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.

No one plans for a disaster but you can be ready if one strikes.

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest offers a complimentary assessment of your facility that can minimize business interruption in the event of a disaster. This assessment provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services and serves as a quick reference for important building and contact information. We would like to offer you this FREE service at your place of business. It's called SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile™ (ERP), and here are some advantages of the program:

• Includes a concise Profile Document that contains the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• Offers a guide to help you get back into your building safely following a disaster.
• Provides facility details such a shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information
• Offers a Profile Document with others on your team.
• Identifies the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider

Please call us at 904-256-4894 to schedule your ERP.

Precautions for Fire Safety

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

Most home fires are caused by unattended cooking.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, in the U.S., we have an average of 353,100 house fires a year. A house fire can be one of the most damaging, and difficult situations to recover from. It not only carries the physical implications of a damaged building structure but also the emotional strain of losing cherished belongings. For us at SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest, restoring hope is just as important as restoring your property. If we can help it, we would rather that you don’t experience these losses altogether. Here are some tips to prevent the top causes of a house fire.

Smoking

Smoking is the number one cause of home fire deaths in the U.S. If you smoke, it is best to do so outside. A cigarette should be completely put out before going to bed, and never smoke in bed. And always keep smoking materials away from kids.

Electrical fire

The leading causes of electrical fires in a home are old appliances and faulty electrical outlets. Regularly inspect the electrical cords from your appliances, and never alter the prongs on a plug. Avoid having electrical cords ran underneath a carpet and when you are unplugging a cord, be sure to hold the plug securely and not the cord. Unplugging a cord from a wall by pulling the cord can cause it to fray and possibly lead to a fire.

Cooking

Cooking fires are the leading types of home fires in the U.S.. Most often these fires are caused by unattended cooking. Be sure to never leave food while the source of heat is still active. Be aware of combustible material, and keep it away from anything cooking. Double-check ovens and stovetops once cooking is done to ensure they are turned off.

If you have experienced fire damage, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 904.256.4894. We have the experience and expertise to fully restore your property and belongings.

The SERVPRO 1-4-8 Rule & What It Means to You…

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Timely mitigation is the key to minimizing damages and our 1-4-8 guidelines ensure we get the job done fast!

The longer it sits, the worse it gets.

Timely mitigation is key to controlling damage, downtime, and recovery costs. You will appreciate the rapid response and training of SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest to help limit damage and get your home or facility back to normal quickly. You can count on SERVPRO’s 1-4-8 service guidelines to ensure that timely mitigation happens.

Service Response Guidelines

1 Hour – Within one hour of notice of loss, SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest will contact you to arrange for service

4 Hours – Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest will be on-site to start mitigation services (if necessary). 

8 Hours – Within eight business hours, we will initiate a verbal briefing of the scope of damage and needed mitigation efforts.

These guidelines are a corporate-wide standard that all SERVPRO franchisees are expected to meet. Call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest at 904-256-4894 if you have water or fire damage at your home or place of business.

Three Types of Contaminated Water and Restoration Steps

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

The category of water damage impacts what types of mitigation and restoration steps are needed.

When evaluating the types of water damage and how they affect an emergency water removal situation on a property, it helps to know that water losses fall into three categories:

Category 1: Clean Water

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

Category 2: Gray Water

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: Black Water

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Sewage cleanup must not be taken lightly. Serious long term health issues to adults, children and pets may occur due to bacteria, viruses and even parasites.

Restoration Procedures

Evaluation

Water damage restoration is often prefaced by a loss assessment and evaluation of affected materials into the categories described above. The damaged area is inspected with water sensing equipment such as moisture meters and other infrared tools in order to determine the source of the damage and the possible extent of areas affected.

Mitigation, Restoration & Drying

Emergency mitigation services are the first order of business. Controlling the source of water, removal of non-salvageable materials, water extraction and pre-cleaning of impacted materials are all part of the mitigation process. Restoration services would then be rendered to the property in order to dry the structure, stabilize building materials, sanitize any affected or cross-contaminated areas, and deodorize all affected areas and materials. After the labor is completed, water damage equipment including air movers, air scrubbers, dehumidifiers, wood floor drying systems, and sub-floor drying equipment is left in the residence. The goal of the drying process is to stabilize the moisture content of impacted materials below 15%. We at SERVPRO return at regular time intervals, preferably every twenty-four hours, to monitor the equipment, temperature, humidity, and moisture content of the affected walls and contents. 

Reconstruction Services

Once dried we can commence to perform any reconstruction or remodeling services desired by the property owner. These services may be limited to replacing drywall, baseboards, and trim boards, or may entail a complete renovation if desired--including floors, cabinetry, appliances, countertops, painting, and a host of related services,

If you have water damage, don't delay. Take immediate action. Call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest at 904.256.4894.

Fire Facts for Jacksonville Residents

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Most home fire deaths are in homes with no working smoke alarms.

October is Fire Prevention month and it’s a perfect time talk with your whole family about fire safety – including testing alarms, changing the batteries or upgrading to 10-year sealed battery alarms, how to use a fire extinguisher, and escape route planning.

Did You Know?

• 3 of every 5 home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no working smoke alarms
• Less than 50% of homeowners have an escape plan
• Carbon monoxide (CO) is the #1 cause of accidental death
• 60% of consumers do not test their smoke and CO alarms monthly
• Only 47% of people report having CO alarms in their home
• Just 43% of homeowners have an escape plan
• Unattended cooking is the #1 cause of home fires

Are You Ready at Home?

Take time this month to address these topics with your family and make the needed safety plans.

If you do suffer fire-related damage, please call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest at 904.256.4894. We’ll get there fast and restore your home back to normal.

Common Causes of Water Damage in Jacksonville Commercial Properties

9/23/2021 (Permalink)

Malfunctioning sprinkler systems are a common cause of water damage in commercial buildings.

A malfunction of the sprinkler system in a hotel resulted in water damage throughout a hallway and several resident rooms of the facility. SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest was called in to extract the water and mitigate the associated water damage.

This is one example of a common incident that can necessitate water repair and cleanup in commercial facilities.

Following are some tips for preventing or reducing the severity of water damage events in commercial facilities in the North Jacksonville area.

Maintain the Plumbing

Regular plumbing maintenance can alert building owners to corroded or damaged pipes and partial sewer line blockages. A building owner or manager should be aware of the age, condition, and materials used in the plumbing system. Regular inspections can help to minimize the occurrence of a broken or blocked pipe and inform you of measures you can take to prevent backups, bursts or leaks.

Repair Roof Damage

Roofing can sustain damage from high winds or storm conditions. Damaged materials can result in leaks. Building owners or managers are well advised to inspect the condition of the roof after weather events and arrange for professional repair and maintenance if there are signs of roof damage. SERVPRO can assist by installing a tarp on the roof to limit water damage until repairs are possible.

Inspect Sprinkler Systems

Fire suppression systems play an important role in maintaining the overall safety of commercial structures. However, as was the case at the hotel, these systems can malfunction and cause water damage when no fire risk is present. Building owners and managers should schedule regular inspections of fire sprinklers to reduce the risk of water or fire damage.

Property owners who take these measures may be able to lessen the severity or even prevent some incidence of water damage. Prevention is generally more cost effective than emergency water damage repair.

If a malfunctioning sprinkler system or other incident results in a leak or flooding of your commercial building, call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest at 904.256.4894.

Why SERVPRO? We Offer Reconstruction Services

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Our reconstruction services is how SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest makes it "Like it never even happened." Or perfect for remodels too.

Did you know that in addition to water mitigation, fire cleanup, and mold remediation, SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest also offers reconstruction services? After our pros are done with drying out a home or removing smoke-damaged materials, we can put homes back together just like they were before the damage occurred.

Here are just some of the reconstruction services SERVPRO offers:

• Drywall repair and installation
• Baseboards
• Floor repair and replacement
• Kitchen and bath installation and remodeling
• Cabinet and trim replacement
• Insulation installation
• Ceiling repair
• Fixture replacement
• Painting

The convenience and savings of working with one company to assist with mitigation and repairs can be significant. In addition to reconstruction after damage, we also do general home remodeling. Have you been considering remodeling your kitchen? We can help. Does your bathroom need an update? We do that too. From drywall to painting to framing and much more, we can assist with your reconstruction/remodeling project!

If you would like more information on hiring a restoration/reconstruction team, call SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest today at 904.256.4894.

September is National Preparedness Month. Are You Ready?

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

September is the most active month in the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Follow these tips to prepare.

This week we are sharing some very helpful information on National Preparedness Month from FEMA. National Preparedness Month is an observance every September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. The 2021 theme is: “Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love.”

Each week in September, the NPM campaign focuses on a different aspect of preparedness for individuals, families, and communities. Follow the links below for detailed information on each week’s topic. 

WEEK ONE (September 1-4): Make A Plan. Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster. Make sure to update your plan based on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations due to COVID and the Delta variant

WEEK TWO (September 5-11): Build An Emergency  Kit. Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. Update your kits and supplies based on recommendations by the CDC.

WEEK THREE (September 12-18): Low-Cost, No-Cost Preparedness. Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your family. Know the risk of disasters in your area. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards. Check your insurance coverage to make sure it is active and updated.

WEEK FOUR {September 19-25}: Teach Kids About Preparedness. Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.

Stay safe this hurricane season, and remember that SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest is Here to Help if you have storm damage. Call us at 904.256.4894.

How to Shut Off Your Water in Case of Emergency

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

At this home, the water shut-off valve is located inside the garage.

No one expects pipes to burst, water heaters to break, or toilets and washers to overflow.  If this happens, your quick response along with the highly trained specialists of SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest will limit your damages and potentially save you thousands of dollars! Here are some tips for locating water shut-off valves on your property.

Source: The Spruce…

How to Find the Water Shut-Off Valves

If you have a water emergency, knowing the location of the shut-off valve could save you thousands in water damage repairs. Home water systems contain two types of shut-off valves: main or master shut- off valves for stopping the flow of water to the entire house. These can be tricky and might involve the help of a professional—like a plumber or SERVPRO.  An alternative is finding individual or supply shut-off valves for specific appliances and fixtures. Try these first. 

Try to Cut Off Water Close to Source

If you have a leak at your toilet, sink, clothes washer, or ice maker, shut off water close to the source:

• Toilet:  Look under the toilet, against the wall for the flexible metal tubing.  Turn the handle clockwise until it stops.  Do not force.
• Sink:  Look under the sink cabinet.  There will be two sets of flexible metal or plastic tubing.  Turn handles clockwise.
• Clothes Washer:  Some houses have the valves clearly exposed above and behind the washer.  Turn both valves clockwise.  If you do not see these valves, slide the washer outward and you will likely see them.
• Dishwashers: The water supply tube running to the dishwasher often has a fixture shut-off valve controlling it. In many cases, this is also located under the kitchen sink base cabinet, and it may be close proximity to the sink faucet shut-off valves. 
• Refrigerator ice makers/water dispensers: The small copper or mesh supply tube running to the refrigerator usually has a small saddle valve or other devices that can be shut off to close down the water supply. 

Locate Water Main Shut-Off Valve Within the House

This is the best way to shut off water in your house, but locating water shut-off valves indoors can prove to be a tricky task.  It will, however, cut off your home's entire water supply, allowing you to open up any pipe within the house. 

Hopefully your water shut-off falls can be easily found--either the knob or lever on a border wall. However, if it’s not so easy to locate, Lee Wallender of The Spruce suggests that your valve is likely in one of these following places:

• On a perimeter wall of your house
• At ground level, so you’ll be looking for it lower on the wall if you’re on the ground level floor
• In a straight line from your outdoor water meter
• Noted on your property inspection report from when you purchased the house (most likely in section 6.1)
• Behind an access panel
• NOT under a sink or next to the water heater

If you don’t want to play plumbing detective, or if you need help locating your main water shut-off valves, you can schedule a service call for SERVPRO of Jacksonville Northwest to come out and assist you. Call us at 904-256-4894 if you are interested. It would be money well spent to protect your home investment.