Recent Why SERVPRO Posts

Why SERVPRO Is The Best Selection for Your Restoration Needs

7/26/2023 (Permalink)

a large downed tree near a small house and fence No matter what kind of damage you face, remember to call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties for all of your restoration needs.

Every restoration effort has at least one thing in common—time. The longer damage is allowed to fester in your property, the less likely you will get away with a quick and inexpensive restoration and cleanup.

So, what makes time so important when it comes to damage? It’s the things inside your home that aren’t designed to face extended exposure to the elements. Items like flooring, carpet, and any fabric or wooden furniture will suffer immediate damage when exposed to water, with more damage happening as time goes on.

To avoid costly cleanup and an extended restoration process, you can take action before damage arrives to mitigate the potential destruction. Take steps like clearing your property of dead trees before a storm to reduce impact damage or cleaning your kitchen thoroughly to reduce any fire hazards.

In addition, you should have an emergency plan that everyone in your household knows well. Thanks to the Georgia state government, we have Ready Georgia, which compiles some great information about how you can prepare for the disasters we face here.

Unfortunately, many people will suffer home or business damage during their lives, and it’s important for everyone to know why SERVPRO is the right choice for you.

You Can Rely on Us Anytime

Our team has years of experience working with both commercial and residential damage, which gives us great insight into how stressful these events can be. No kind of damage is ever expected or planned for, so it’s important for you to have someone that you can count on day or night.

This is why our experts stay ready 24⁄7. You can call at any time of the day, and we’ll provide a quick response to help you get started on the right path to restoration.

More Than Restoration

Our professionals provide more than just constant service, however; they also become an integral part of the communities we serve. Our location is locally owned and operated, which allows us to connect with the people in our region and be more than simply a restoration provider.

Aside from all this, our team is trained to handle every kind of disaster, using industry-leading technology to get your structure back in preloss condition. With years of experience, you can feel safe trusting us with your beloved property.

No matter what kind of damage you face, remember to call SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton Counties for all of your cleanup and restoration needs. Not only can you rely on us any time of the day, but you can also feel confident that we’ll have you back in your home before you know it.

When you suffer damage to your home or business, it’s important that you know who to call! Contact us today to get restoration started faster.

What Is Mold Remediation?

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

white wall with black and grey mold If you are trying to handle a mold infestation in your home, call SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton!

When you discover a mold infestation in your home, it can be a frightening and overwhelming event—and if you are like most people, your first thought will be, “How do I get this out of my home as soon as possible?”

For this reason, many people will find themselves searching for terms such as “get rid of mold” or “remove mold from home,” because this seems to be the main goal—but when we learn about mold, we will learn why these terms are a bit of a misnomer.

Below, we will look at the characteristics of mold and outline why “remediation” is the preferred term in the mold abatement industry.

The Nature of Mold Growth

Mold growth can be quite a tricky thing. In nature, mold’s function is to aid in the decay of organic material, which means it is always present and ready to do its job. Mold spores are

transmitted entirely through the air and are always present—it is helpful to think of them as agents that are always floating around and trying to do their job.

For this reason, when mold finds an area that is hospitable to growth, it will immediately invade the area and begin reproduction.

How Mold Gets Into Homes

Because mold is airborne, it can feel like a rather insidious spore. Mold can get into homes via open windows, by hitching a ride on shoes or clothing, by coming in through your HVAC system or by attaching itself to the fur of pets.

Essentially, there is no way to keep mold out…but it is possible to stop it from growing within the

home.

How Mold Remediation Addresses Mold Problems

Because mold is present nearly everywhere, it is impossible to fully remove mold from the home. However, mold remediation will address the underlying issues that are encouraging mold

growth and remove the mold-infested materials that are breeding the spores.

While simply removing the mold may take care of the issue temporarily, it is vital to address the reason that the mold has found a hospitable home within your structure so it does not return.

If you are trying to handle a mold infestation in your home, we are the team to call. We practice mold remediation to address the underlying issues—contact us today to learn more.

Common Signs of Mold Growth

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

Microscopic Mold Growth SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton is ready 24/7 to help you fight mold.

Dealing with mold growth is something that no home or business owner wants to deal with, but unfortunately, mold can be a persistent thing. Mold spores are always present in the air so there is the threat of them finding a nice spot to land. Thankfully, mold can only grow and expand in conditions that are favorable to its needs.

One of the conditions that mold likes best is areas that are dark without a lot of airflow—and because mold spores are airborne, they can quickly find places that fit the bill. This means that mold often grows in areas that are not readily apparent or accessible, meaning it is important to be aware of the signs of mold growth so you know what to look for.

The Common Indicators That a Building Could Have Mold Growth

Persistent, Dank Odors

One of the most evident (and frustrating) signs of mold is the persistent odor it produces.

Because mold’s main function in nature is to help organic matter decay, the smell it produces is dank and pungent. If you notice a persistent smell in an area that does not go away or worsens with time, it may be an indicator that mold is present somewhere in the area.

Water Damage That Was Improperly Treated

Mold loves areas that are moisture-heavy, which means water damage can often turn into a

mold problem if it is not treated properly. Water damage can soak into drywall, carpet pads and other hidden areas, and if it is not fully and properly addressed, it can lead to hidden mold growth in these unseen areas throughout the home.

Black Spots on Clothing or Fabrics

Mold can often make its home on fabrics, so if you begin noticing that clothes in your closet or upholstery on your furniture begins to attract spots of mold, that might be an indicator that there is a bigger issue elsewhere in the building. Because mold is airborne, it can travel from the main area it has set up for itself and attach to other objects as it tries to spread.

If you have questions about mold or are in need of mold remediation, we are here to help. Get in touch today to learn more about our services!

Let’s Prepare Your Emergency Ready Plan Together

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employee standing in office next to a person reviewing plans If the day comes where your business is hit with disaster or emergency, you can rest assured SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton will be there to help.

Being a business owner can seem easy—the idea of getting to pick your hours is ideal! But the reality is, you’re always on call, whether you are there or not, and you are responsible for things like employee relations, payables and safety!

Disasters or accidents can disrupt your business in only a matter of minutes. It’s actually scary to see that FEMA states 40% of small businesses will not reopen after a natural disaster, and a quarter of those that do reopen are forced to close their doors within a year.

That’s why it’s imperative to have a safety plan in place for your business. Three-quarters of all small businesses don’t have a plan in place, and now is the perfect time to make the change. We are here and ready to help you become better prepared.

We are always ready and proud to serve our local communities such as Roberta, Fort Valley, Byron and Zenith, along with so many others. Together we will work to get your Emergency Ready Plan started. Being locally owned and operated means we are all neighbors, and we will help our neighbors through the good and bad times.

When we work together, our goal is to help minimize downtime within your company, and help everyone understand what to do. We will carefully review and analyze your business needs to determine what you might need in the face of a disaster. From there, we’ll detail exactly what to do, including alternative locations to work from and data backup, so that you can react with confidence and not chaos.

Business owners have to worry about enough, and disaster planning is one thing that we can help take off your plate. Contact your local SERVPRO experts to help you prepare your Emergency Ready Plan. You can trust us to protect your business and employees!

When your business is ready to prioritize planning and safety to prevent extended downtime, contact SERVPRO to get the Emergency Ready Plan underway from the folks who know all there is to know about disaster and recovery.

SERVPRO Gives You a Seamless Recovery Process

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

a SERVPRO employee reviewing plans in front of a large SERVPRO trailer truck We’ve got the tools and technology to handle any job. Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton counties to learn more.

Doesn’t a cake sound delicious? If it didn’t before the beginning of that sentence, it probably does now.

So let’s bake one from scratch. Ready? First, we’ll go to the local poultry farmer to get some eggs, then the dairy farm for milk. Then we’ll head over to the mill for flour (unless you want to mill it at home for authenticity, and…sugar from the cane fields, maybe?

Yeah, you could go to those extreme lengths to get all your ingredients. But it’s the 21st century, and at this point most of us are looking to find one place we can go to get all the things we need for a cake, or whatever other confectionary delight you may have in mind.

Most of our shopping isn’t modular anymore, because part of what makes a great business great is that it offers a level of convenience that makes it easy to use and often decreases the buyer’s cost.

One of the many great things about being your local SERVPRO is that we can provide you with a single place to take care of every element of restoration after a disaster. Whether the nature of your damage is from water, fire, natural disaster or anything in between, we can get your home fully back to tip-top shape from beginning to end.

Need carpet dried and cleaned? We’ve got you. Drywall burned up in a fire? We can replace it, finish it, and even paint it. (You know we started as a painting business, right?)

Everything from reframing and construction to the tiniest finishing touches—we can make it happen, and you don’t have to worry about the process dragging on because multiple companies and sets of contractors have to wait on each other, communicate poorly, undo, redo and haggle with your insurance agent. From step one to done, SERVPRO has it under control.

We’ll even talk to your insurance company to simplify that process, too.

So when a heavy storm rips through the house, an unexpected flood fills your basement with water, or an electrical fire eats up your hallway, don’t call five companies—call one.

Did you hear the oven ding? Cake’s ready.

For an A to Z cleanup, recovery and restoration solution, you don’t have to worry. Your local SERVPRO has all the tools and teams necessary to finish your project, no matter how complex.

SERVPRO Has the Expertise to Handle Your Cleanup and Recovery

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

a SERVPRO employee looking for signs of damage under crawl space of home When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton has your back.

Have you heard of the 10,000 Hour Rule? It’s an idea popularized by author Malcom Gladwell that says, essentially, it takes 10,000 hours to master one’s craft and become an expert.

Noted achievers like Bill Gates in the tech world and Alex Rodriguez in sports and entrepreneurship subscribe to the idea that it takes concerted effort over a long period to be able to truly call yourself one of the best in a given field.

If the 10,000 hour rule holds true, then you can only imagine the level of expertise you can expect when you call your local SERVPRO to help you after a disaster in your home or business. Think about it—1,800 SERVPRO teams nationwide, doing business over the span of a half-century? We tried to do the actual math, but it just made us go cross-eyed.

The point is that when you call SERVPRO, you can be absolutely certain that you’re calling a reputable team of true experts, highly trained and heavily equipped for any home recovery need you may have.

Every SERVPRO franchise owner goes through complete training at the SERVPRO National Training Center, and every team member sits under them to extend that knowledge. We actually have a training house that we flood, set on fire and otherwise destroy, so that our teams can learn firsthand the latest techniques for restoring and repairing damaged homes, furnishings and more.

Expertise matters. And in an age where anyone can get on social media and crown themselves an expert, having a proven track record is what can set one service apart—and nobody has the track record of SERVPRO. For more than 50 years, we’ve satisfied literal millions of home and business owners with quality service and outstanding care.

When you call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties, you can rest assured you’re getting in touch with teams that know what they’re doing because they’ve been doing it for a lot of people, for a very long time. We’ve put in our 10,000 hours as a company many times over.

When you need thorough, expert home cleaning or restoration, you know who to trust. Contact SERVPRO when disaster strikes, and let the pros handle it.

Trust SERVPRO for Your Remodel

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

a small interior room with light brown wood floor being installed When you call SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton counties, rest assured you’re getting in touch with the best restoration team in the business.

We talk a lot around here about recovery, damage from storms and fires, that sort of thing—and we should. A great deal of what we do revolves around helping families and business owners who are struck by sudden situations and find themselves in need of a trustworthy service company to help them restore their damaged homes and business.

That’s a role we’re proud to fill for millions of customers nationwide, and it’s gained us the industry-leader reputation we’re honored to have earned.

But it doesn’t take a tornado for you to take advantage of SERVPRO’s expertise.

Our highly trained construction teams can help you beautify, add on or remodel your home for no other reason than it being something you want to do. No disaster required.

Recent studies show that as many as 90% of homeowners plan on remodeling their homes at some point, and almost four out of 10 plan on doing it in the next year. If you’re one of these millions of homeowners, call SERVPRO of Conyers/Covington when you’re ready to make it happen, and you can trust the same expert teams who rebuild countless homes after disasters to give your kitchen, basement or whole home the facelift you’ve always dreamed about.

We cover the whole process, top to bottom—from inspection and gathering estimates, to mitigating any hazards or other difficulties that may hinder or interrupt the process, to full-service rebuilding and construction.

We can even go the extra mile and help you with dust control, contaminant protection and more with our premium services and EPA-registered preventive healthcare solutions.

You’ll love your new remodel, and you’ll love how easy the process is when you can trust one team to get your work done, instead of a rotation of multiple repair crews slowing down the job and struggling to communicate with each other.

You don’t have to wait for a flood, fire or natural disaster to take care of the expert construction services SERVPRO offers. We can help you build, rebuild or remodel your home and get the dream look you’ve always wanted.

If a remodel is in your future, you owe it to yourself to check with SERVPRO and get a quote. Call us today and get a local team of experts invested in your project.

Whatever Your Restoration Need, We’ve Got You Covered

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

a green SERVPRO van parked in a warehouse full of equipment When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton counties to get the job done.

If you pass by a home or business that is up in flames, your heart truly goes out to those people. But when you see that green SERVPRO truck pull up, you know they are being well-taken care of.

At SERVPRO, we provide full-service cleaning, restoration and reconstruction services. So we will fix or clean things from top to bottom, and we will do it in a timely and efficient way.

Here’s a breakdown of SERVPRO services you can benefit from:

Water damage recovery. Whether you have encountered a flash flood that made its way into your home or you had a pipe that has busted, you can be certain that we will take care of you. When it comes to water, it doesn’t take much to do damage, and that’s why you should call us.

Fire damage recovery. A fire is reported every 23 seconds here in the United States. Fires, and the things used to put them out, can do a lot of damage, which requires lots of cleanup. That’s why we bring out all the help we can get.

Mold removal. Mold damage can creep up on you without you ever seeing it and can threaten the structure of your home. Once it’s established in your home or business, mold can spread quickly and easily, so call in the pros.

Storm recovery. Storms of any kind can cause damage, and no matter the size of damage it causes, you can count on us to help you restore your home or business.

Commercial needs. If you’re a business owner, have peace of mind in knowing we offer you all the same services we offer homeowners, plus a few extra!

General cleaning. Cleaning can be a headache for some, but for us here at SERVPRO, it’s pretty simple. We will provide your home or business cleaning services, including carpet or curtain cleaning and more.

Specialty cleaning. Sometimes you have cleaning needs that go beyond the basics. If you need specialized services such as document restoration or biohazard cleanup, we’re here to help.

Construction. Sometimes, damage can be severe and restoring your place is out of the question. The good news is you don’t have to find another company to help you—SERVPRO can reconstruct your home or business and get it looking “Like It Never Even Happened.”

Add 24-hour service and an easy insurance process to all this, and the picture becomes clear—when you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO to get the job done.

SERVPRO Gives You a Seamless Recovery Process

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

a SERVPRO employee reviewing plans in front of a large SERVPRO trailer truck We’ve got the tools and technology to handle any job. Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton counties to learn more.

Doesn’t a cake sound delicious? If it didn’t before the beginning of that sentence, it probably does now.

So let’s bake one from scratch. Ready? First, we’ll go to the local poultry farmer to get some eggs, then the dairy farm for milk. Then we’ll head over to the mill for flour (unless you want to mill it at home for authenticity, and…sugar from the cane fields, maybe?

Yeah, you could go to those extreme lengths to get all your ingredients. But it’s the 21st century, and at this point most of us are looking to find one place we can go to get all the things we need for a cake, or whatever other confectionary delight you may have in mind.

Most of our shopping isn’t modular anymore, because part of what makes a great business great is that it offers a level of convenience that makes it easy to use and often decreases the buyer’s cost.

One of the many great things about being your local SERVPRO is that we can provide you with a single place to take care of every element of restoration after a disaster. Whether the nature of your damage is from water, fire, natural disaster or anything in between, we can get your home fully back to tip-top shape from beginning to end.

Need carpet dried and cleaned? We’ve got you. Drywall burned up in a fire? We can replace it, finish it, and even paint it. (You know we started as a painting business, right?)

Everything from reframing and construction to the tiniest finishing touches—we can make it happen, and you don’t have to worry about the process dragging on because multiple companies and sets of contractors have to wait on each other, communicate poorly, undo, redo and haggle with your insurance agent. From step one to done, SERVPRO has it under control.

We’ll even talk to your insurance company to simplify that process, too.

So when a heavy storm rips through the house, an unexpected flood fills your basement with water, or an electrical fire eats up your hallway, don’t call five companies—call one.

Did you hear the oven ding? Cake’s ready.

For an A to Z cleanup, recovery and restoration solution, you don’t have to worry. Your local SERVPRO has all the tools and teams necessary to finish your project, no matter how complex.

Why SERVPRO Should Be Your Top Choice for Water Damage Restoration

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Woman Holding Pot Catching Dripping Water SERVPRO of Fayette/Fulton counties is ready 24 hours a day to respond to your emergency water damage.

Having water damage your home is something that can feel extremely overwhelming. Whether you have a leak, a flood or other type of water-related issue, water damage can be disruptive to your life and your routine. And if you are unsure of how to handle it, it can be more disruptive than you imagine.

No matter where you live, it is important to understand your risk for flooding and other types of water damage—especially because one in 10 properties in the United States are at risk for flooding—so you can plan ahead for it. Water damage can come about suddenly, but having a plan in place for who to call can help you handle it quickly and efficiently.

Why to Choose SERVPRO for Water Restoration at Your Home

**We respond quickly to your call.** Water damage is not something that you want to leave unattended for any length of time. Mold and mildew growth can start quite quickly after water damage, but the faster it is addressed, the less likely this is to be an issue. With our 24/7 emergency line, you can be confident that you can get in touch with us whenever you need us.

**We understand the intricacies of water damage.** Water damage is rarely a simple issue, and oftentimes, it is a rather complex one. Water can seep into many places that are not supposed to be wet, and when these areas are hidden, it is impossible to know the scope of the issue. Because we understand the intricacies of water damage, we monitor impacted areas to find any areas with hidden moisture to make sure any water damage is fully addressed.

**We have a national backup plan.** If there is a widespread issue that causes water damage, such as flooding, resources in the local area can be spread quite thin. We combat this issue by having the backing of our national brand—because there are SERVPRO locations across the nation, we can scale up resources, equipment and technicians as needed, so you can expect the same level of service even when there is an extreme need.

*If you need assistance with water damage in your household, you can count on us to be there for you. Get in touch with us at any time to learn more about our water restoration process.*

Why Choose SERVPRO for Your Fire Restoration Needs?

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Electrical outlet and cord on fire SERVPRO of Fayette/Fulton counties is ready 24 hours a day to respond to your emergency. Give us a call today.

A house fire is something no one would like to experience, but unfortunately, they are a more common occurrence than most people realize. Every year, around 358,000 structures will have a fire event in them, causing billions in property damage across the United States.

House fires can lead to significant property damage as well as pose risks for injuries and deaths, so preparing as much as possible is a must for mitigating their impact.

Focusing on fire prevention is the best thing to do to keep your household safe, but it is also important that you have a plan for the aftermath of a fire just in case. Because smoke and soot can permeate rooms in the home that were not even impacted by a fire, it can be quite disruptive to your daily life—which is why we are here to guarantee a rapid response when you call us.

Why to Choose SERVPRO When You Need Home Fire Restoration

**We will get to you quickly.** Experiencing a house fire is a frightening thing, and if you have damage to your home, it is understandable that you will want it taken care of as quickly as possible. That is why we are here for you 24/7, 365 days a year. We always provide a rapid response when you call us, no matter the hour.

**We understand fire damage.** Fire damage is a complex thing. Not only is there the damage from the actual flames, but there is also smoke, soot and often moisture damage to consider. We approach fire damage with this in mind, and have the knowledge to tackle the entire spectrum of fire damage so it is like it never even happened.

**We have expert fire restoration technicians.** Because we always want to provide you with the best restoration service possible, we take our training programs very seriously and ensure that our technicians are well-versed in the world of fire restoration. Between third-party certifications and our own SERVPRO training that our technicians complete, you can be confident that the technicians assigned to your job know exactly what to do.

*If you are in need of fire restoration, let us be the team you call. Get in touch with us at any hour to learn more or to report your fire damage.*

Why SERVPRO Is Your Go-To for Any Restoration Needs

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Man Talking on Phone SERVPRO of Fayette/ South Fulton counties is ready 24 hours a day to help with any restoration needs.

Needing restoration on your home is something that can feel rather overwhelming, but eventually, it is likely to happen. From damaging severe weather incidents to leaks or kitchen fires, there are many ways that a home can sustain damage, but fortunately, there are comprehensive solutions that can help ease the complications of restoration.

To better prepare your household to deal with damages that need restoration, it is best to think ahead regarding what company you would like to use. That way, when you discover damage, you can make the call immediately to begin the restoration process.

In most cases, it is vital that restoration happens quickly—so below, we have outlined a few reasons why we are here to be your go-to.

Why to Choose SERVPRO for Your Restoration Needs

**We understand that each scenario is different.** While incidents that require restoration are quite common, every scenario is still different. For example, in spite of the fact that house fires impact more than 350,000 families each year, every fire causes damage that varies in its scope. That is why we make sure that we have the expertise to deal with damages of any type, so you can always feel confident when you call on us.

**We provide a response 24 hours a day.** When it comes to damage restoration, it is important to act fast. This is vital not only for helping your household get back to its usual state, but it is also a must to prevent further issues from arising, such as mold and mildew growth after water damage. For this reason, we are here to respond to your call 24/7, 365 days a year.

**We do more than damage restoration.** In addition to simply restoring the damage an incident has caused in your home, we also help with every aspect of the process. From helping you pack things up to dealing with your insurance agent to get the most for your claim, we aim to provide assistance in any way we can throughout the process.

*If you are in need of a go-to partner for residential restoration, you can count on us. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our process or to receive a rapid response to your damage.

Dangers of Extreme Cold

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

thermometer covered in ice Stay warm and safe in extreme cold temperatures!

While your place of business can get damaged due to winter weather and extreme cold, your personal health & the health of your customers is also at risk.

Fifty-three people died and three were injured due to extreme cold in 2015.

It is important to be aware of the effect extremely cold temperatures can have on you. The two main conditions to be aware of are frostbite and hypothermia.

Frostbite is caused when your skin is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Physical symptoms are white or grayish-yellow skin, skin that feels unusually firm, or waxy numbness.

Hypothermia is when your body temperature falls to an abnormally low temperature, caused from long exposure to cold weather. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. If someone’s body temperature is below 95°F, seek medical attention immediately.

To avoid these conditions, stay indoors if possible. If not, dress warm in layers and try to keep dry.

Disaster Recovery You Can Count On

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

a group of three SERVPRO employees discussing the restoration details SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties is your local restoration expert. When disaster strikes north Georgia, we are ready to help.

Part of being a responsible homeowner is knowing the weather patterns of the region—it informs how you build, how you plan, even how you dress. If you live near the Atlantic coast, you know tropical storms are an issue. In the West, wildfires are particularly dangerous.

Living in north Georgia means being aware of the inherent risk of natural disasters for this area. There’s always a risk of flooding when you get the amount of rain we see here, and our risk of tornadoes in Fulton County is much higher than both the national average and the average across the rest of the state.

Knowing that risk means you should also know how you’re going to handle recovery efforts for your home or business, should they become damaged by a tornado or other disastrous event. You need to know that when something bigger than a DIY solution is needed, you’ve got someone you can reach out to. Here’s why that someone should be us.

We’re “Faster to Any Size Disaster.” Why? Because when it comes to recovery, speed matters. Homes that sit and soak in mold and smoke are never the same without extensive rebuilding. Around 90% of businesses that don’t recover quickly after a disaster fail to stay open at all. Contacting SERVPRO means you’ve got a team on the way, right away. And we’re available 247 for emergency assistance.

We’re the experts. Nobody does it like SERVPRO. When you’ve been around as long as we have, you learn to get right to the heart of disaster recovery. We’ve pioneered new techniques, innovated home and business solutions, and earned us the reputation of being the leading name in the restoration and recovery space. When you want your home restored to its full glory, you call the experts in green.

Help is on the way. Large-scale disasters bring a flurry of necessary recovery activity, but that shouldn’t mean you have to wait, or that your work gets pushed aside for bigger projects. That’s why when the area is hit with major storms or disaster events, we can call on the power of the national SERVPRO network, bringing extra teams and resources in to help. Your work never stops until the recovery is complete, because we’ll be on the scene in full force to get it done.

When disaster strikes north Georgia, we’re here to help. Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties to see how you can get the best team in the game on your side.

Prepare and Review for 2022!

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

calendar with sticky note Whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood, don’t wait until disaster strikes—resolve to be READY.

While we only hope to see good things come about in a new year, it is always a good idea to plan ahead for the not-so-good things—like fire or water damage—that are always an unexpected and unwelcome disaster. This year, take the time to be "Ready for whatever happens."  Preparation and review will help get you through anything in 2022!

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Plan (ERP) will help you ensure you and your facility are prepared. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.

Advantages of the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile®

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.

• A concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.

• A guide to help you get back into your  building following a disaster.

• Establishes SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.

• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood, having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster. Don’t wait until disaster strikes—resolve to be READY. 

Does Your Family Have a Fire Safety Plan in Place?

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

family sitting on the floor If you need assistance with damage due to a house fire, you can count on SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties.

While no one wants to experience a fire in their household, how many of us can say with certainty that we are doing all that we can to prevent one? Home fires occur with more frequency than many people realize, and they are often due to simple errors or oversights that could be prevented.

Additionally, many house fires are more catastrophic than they need to be due to not everyone having a plan in place for how to handle such an emergency.

Because prevention and safety are so important when it comes to house fires, having a fire safety plan in place is one of the best things you and your family can do to stay safe. Making sure you are practicing prevention and know how to  respond to a house fire can go a long way in protecting everyone that is living in your household.

What to Include in a Fire Safety Plan

Best practices for preventing fires. When it comes to house fires, prevention is the best and
first line of defense you should dedicate time to—the best case scenario is not having to deal with a house fire at all. Making sure everyone in the household is aware of how to prevent a house fire and why it is important to do so is a must. Habits such as leaving candles unattended or not staying near the stovetop when it is on can be costly and dangerous.

A roadmap for prevention tactics. In addition to getting into good daily habits to prevent fires,
it is also a good idea to make a plan for how you will do necessary maintenance items to reduce
your fire risk as well. Things such as testing your smoke alarms every month, checking the flammable items you may have stored in the garage or basement and ensuring that your fire
extinguishers are all in good working order are great maintenance tasks for a fire safety boost.

A detailed escape plan. When a house fire starts, you will generally only have about two
minutes to escape to safety, so having a plan together is a must. Make sure everyone in your
household is aware of how to evacuate from different areas of the home, that there are two exits from each room and that you have an external meeting place established where you will all convene while you wait on the fire department to arrive.

If you need assistance with damage due to a house fire, you can count on us. Get in touch at
any hour to learn more about our damage restoration process or to get a quick response to
damage of your own.

Conditions Might Be Right For Growth

8/29/2021 (Permalink)

mold on white wall If you suspect growth in your home, call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties to assess the situation.

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of growth exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mildew is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mildew will grow. Those conditions include:

  • Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
  • Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
  • Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mildew growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote growth activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mildew growth.

If you suspect growth in your home, call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

Call us today at 770-716-3595

What to Do:

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
  • Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties for mold remediation services.

Fire Sprinkler Myths Debunked

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

a silver water sprinkler hanging on ceiling If your home should sustain damage from a fire of any kind, SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties is here to help.

Most of the experience many of us have with fire is fiction—we have a mental image of what happens when a sprinkler system goes off because of what we’ve seen on TV shows or in movies, or even what we’ve read in books. But these portrayals are for story effect, and often don’t reflect reality.

In fact, much of what you may presume about the operation and impact may not be accurate. Let’s debunk some myths about sprinkler systems:

“I don’t need a sprinkler system.”

First: Your home smoke alarms are essential, but they can only alert you. They are powerless to stop a fire. Sprinklers both detect and act, saving lives and property quickly.

Second: Yes, the fire department will come, but in the nine to 12 minutes they need to get to your home, a sprinkler system may have already been able to do the necessary work to contain or put out the fire. Without a sprinkler, you’re looking at more damage from the fire, the smoke, and the water it takes to quench the spreading flames.

“They’re not worth the damage they cause.”

Many people assume (because of movie portrayals) that once a sprinkler system is activated, the entire system is triggered and water instantly sprays everywhere. In truth, the system operates in independent zones, and only the sprinkler closest to the detected fire will activate. And this is most often all that’s necessary: Multiple sprinkler heads are only needed 16% of the time in home fires in which sprinklers are triggered.

And sprinklers cause much less water damage than having the fire department hose your place down for an hour or more. Compare the 10–26 gallons per minute of a sprinkler system to up to a fire hydrant soaking your home with multiplied hundreds, even thousands of gallons per minute.

“They can’t be that effective.”

They really can. The risk of dying in a home fire is reduced by 80% when sprinklers are present, and the average property loss from a home fire with active sprinklers is cut by about 70%.

“Sprinklers are a disaster of their own waiting to happen.”

Sprinklers can occasionally leak, but that situation is less likely and less severe than a typical plumbing problem you’d encounter at home. And like any water pipes, sprinklers are susceptible to freezing temperatures, but installers are held to standards that mandate that sprinklers be safely and properly installed in regions where freezing is common.

Overall, the value and loss prevention of sprinkler systems make them an appealing and potentially lifesaving investment for your home.

If your home should sustain damage from a fire of any kind, we’re here to help. Get in touch today to get SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties on your side.

Is Your Traditional Water Heater in Danger of Rupturing?

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

a grey water heater showing signs of erosion SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton is your local water restoration experts. Our team is ready and on-call for any emergency.

As a homeowner, there’s a lot to think about. Aside from just keeping up with all the ins and outs of living life, you may have family to raise or care for and outside activities.

The last thing you want to have to think about is an appliance that should just work. It always works, there’s no reason for it to not work—why would it stop working?

One of the appliances that gets taken for granted most is your home’s water heater. It’s probably not something you see or think about very often.

It may be tucked away in the corner of the basement, or possibly even upstairs in an attic where it’s really out of sight. But out of all your home appliances, there is likely none with as much potential for causing disaster as the water heater.

Why a Water Heater Might Rupture

Traditional water heaters (the kinds with big tanks) have any number of components that could fail over time, and they may not last as long as you would expect. Around 15% of water heaters burst by the sixth year of ownership, and up to 40% burst in less than a decade.

Long-term mineral deposits, heating elements (a whole other danger that could lead to a fiery explosion if a tank bursts) and constant pressure applied to the weakest points in the system all add up to a recipe for eventual failure.

What You Can Do to Prolong the Life of Your Water Heater

Replace the Anode Rod. The Anode Rod is a metal-coated core that keeps the metal interior of your water heater from erosion, and it should be replaced roughly every two years depending on your water’s pH balance and softness.

Flush your water heater twice a year. Run out all the hot water (or just let your teenager take, like, one shower), turn off the power and attach a garden hose to the base of the tank, allowing the tank to flush and relieve the internal pressure.

Regular maintenance. Routine, annual maintenance by a trusted professional is always the best way to catch weaknesses before they become problems. Have your plumber check the tank, the valves and the pipes for signs of wear.

Shut it down. It’s also a good idea to turn off your water heater before you leave for vacation, so you don’t end up with any surprises when you get home. This may not prolong your heater’s life, but you don’t want a burst water heater left unattended for any period of time.

We hope these tips help you maintain and keep your traditional water heater running for a long time to come, but should it ever betray you and make a mess in your basement or attic, call us right away to get the damage minimized and your home restored.