Choosing SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County for Your Restoration Needs in Southwest Missouri

8/24/2023 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, whether it's a flood, fire, mold infestation, or any other unexpected event that damages your property, you need a reliable and efficient restoration service to help you get your life back on track. In Southwest Missouri, one name stands out in the restoration industry: SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County. With their unparalleled expertise, prompt response, and commitment to customer satisfaction, choosing SERVPRO is a decision you won't regret.

1. Local Expertise Matters

One of the key reasons to choose SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County for your restoration needs is their deep-rooted local expertise. Being based in the area, they have an intimate understanding of the unique challenges that properties in Southwest Missouri face. Whether it's dealing with the humid climate that can contribute to mold growth or addressing issues related to severe storms that are not uncommon in the region, their local knowledge ensures that your restoration needs will be handled with precision.

2. Rapid Response Time

Time is of the essence when it comes to property damage restoration. Delaying the restoration process can lead to further complications and increased costs. SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County is known for its rapid response time. Their 24/7 emergency services mean that you can count on them to be there whenever disaster strikes. Their quick arrival on the scene helps mitigate the damage and prevents it from worsening, ultimately saving you both time and money.

3. Comprehensive Restoration Services

From water damage restoration to fire damage cleanup, mold remediation, and more, SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County offers a wide range of comprehensive restoration services. Dealing with a single company that can handle various restoration needs simplifies the process and ensures that all aspects of the restoration are coordinated efficiently. This comprehensive approach guarantees that your property will be fully restored to its pre-damage condition.

4. Cutting-Edge Technology

In today's world, technology plays a crucial role in effective property damage restoration. SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County stays ahead of the curve by utilizing cutting-edge equipment and techniques in their restoration processes. This not only enhances the quality and speed of their work but also demonstrates their commitment to providing the best possible solutions for their clients.

5. Trained and Certified Professionals

Restoration requires specialized skills and knowledge. The team at SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County consists of trained and certified professionals who understand the intricacies of property damage restoration. Their expertise ensures that each restoration project is handled with precision, professionalism, and attention to detail.

6. Compassionate Customer Service

Experiencing property damage can be emotionally overwhelming. SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County not only restores properties but also provides compassionate customer service. They understand the stress that comes with such situations, and their friendly and empathetic approach helps ease your worries throughout the restoration process.

7. Community Engagement

SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County isn't just a restoration company; they're an active part of the community. Their commitment to Southwest Missouri goes beyond their services. Their involvement in local events and initiatives showcases their dedication to giving back to the community they serve.

In conclusion, when facing property damage restoration in Southwest Missouri, SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County is the clear choice. Their local expertise, rapid response, comprehensive services, advanced technology, skilled professionals, compassionate approach, and community engagement set them apart in the industry. With SERVPRO, you're not just hiring a restoration company – you're gaining a partner that will stand by you in times of crisis and help you rebuild your life and property with care and efficiency.

Dealing with Water Damage: Tips and How SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County Can Help

8/24/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a homeowner's nightmare, causing not only physical destruction but also emotional stress. Whether it's due to a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or a natural disaster, water damage requires immediate attention and action to prevent further harm. In times like these, having a reliable and professional restoration service like SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County can make all the difference. In this blog, we'll explore essential tips for dealing with water damage and discuss how SERVPRO can come to the rescue.

Tips for Dealing with Water Damage

1. Safety First: Before anything else, ensure your safety and that of your family members. Turn off electrical power to affected areas to prevent potential electrocution and avoid standing water if you suspect it could be contaminated.

2. Act Quickly: Time is of the essence when dealing with water damage. The longer water sits, the more damage it can cause. Mold growth can begin within 24 to 48 hours, so swift action is crucial.

3. Document the Damage: Take photos or videos of the affected areas before beginning the cleanup process. This documentation will be useful for insurance claims.

4. Remove Standing Water: If it's safe to do so, start by removing standing water using buckets, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum. The faster you remove excess water, the less damage will occur.

5. Promote Air Circulation: Open windows and doors to let fresh air circulate through the affected areas. If weather permits, using fans and dehumidifiers can help speed up the drying process.

6. Remove Wet Items: Move wet furniture, belongings, and carpets to a dry area. Items that can't be salvaged should be discarded promptly.

7. Disinfect and Prevent Mold: Thoroughly clean and disinfect surfaces that have come into contact with water. Consider using a mixture of water and a mild detergent. To prevent mold growth, use commercial disinfectants or a mixture of water and white vinegar.

8. Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company about the water damage as soon as possible. They can guide you through the claims process and provide assistance for repairs.

How SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County Can Help

When water damage strikes and the situation seems overwhelming, SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is here to provide expert assistance. Here's how they can help:

1. 24/7 Emergency Response: Water damage doesn't follow a schedule, and that's why SERVPRO offers round-the-clock emergency services. Our team is ready to respond to your call at any time.

2. Highly Trained Professionals: Our technicians are trained in water damage restoration, mold remediation, and more. They have the knowledge and equipment to handle water damage of any scale.

3. Advanced Equipment: We use state-of-the-art equipment to remove excess water, dry out affected areas, and restore your property to pre-damage conditions.

4. Comprehensive Services: From initial assessment and water extraction to thorough drying and sanitization, our team offers a complete range of services to ensure your property is restored properly.

5. Insurance Coordination: SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County works closely with insurance companies to streamline the claims process, reducing your stress and ensuring you receive the coverage you deserve.

Water damage is a distressing experience, but with the right knowledge and professional help, you can minimize its impact and restore your property. Remember the essential tips for addressing water damage promptly and efficiently. And when the situation becomes overwhelming, SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County stands ready to provide the expertise and support needed to get your life back to normal as soon as possible. Don't let water damage control your life – take control of the situation and let the experts handle the restoration process.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County Annual Golf Tournament at Big Shots Golf

7/7/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County hosted their annual Customer Appreciation Golf Tournament, Thursday, June 29 at Big Shots Golf in Springfield.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County hosted their annual Customer Appreciation Golf Tournament, Thursday, June 29 at Big Shots Golf in Springfield, Missouri.  It turned out to be the hottest day of the summer so far but that didn’t stop our teams from having a blast and playing some great golf! This year we had 12 teams compete for prizes. Levi Skinner won the prize for the longest drive.  And the team for Alpha Realty won the prize for the 18-hole course scramble.

Our tournament is always a great time of food and fun with our customers and the entire marketing team looks forward to it all year. We would like to extend a big thank you to the staff at Big Shots Golf and also a thank you to the SERVPRO marketing team staff for organizing and hosting a successful event.   

Vacation Tips to prepare your Springfield Home

7/7/2023 (Permalink)

With summer in full swing many residents of southwest Missouri are taking vacation trips away from home with their families.  There is nothing like some rest and relaxation time with family and friends, unfortunately for some of our customers there is also nothing like coming home to a disaster in your home or business.  Here are some preventative tips that will save you a little money and hopefully help you avoid a disaster.

• Before leaving home shut off your gas and water supply at the meter.
• Unplug any non-essential electronics to cut down on possible electrical shortages.
• Check Smoke Detectors to insure they are working properly.
• Adjust thermostat to 75-80 degrees to help control usage.
• Put water heater on vacation mode.
• Turn on porch lights.
• Have a trusted person check on your home in your absence.

We hope these tips are helpful but sometimes even with the best plans water and fire damages can still happen if for some reason you come home to a disaster call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County, we are open 24/7 365 Days a year.

The Importance of Locating Your Water Shut-Off Valves

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

Most of us are probably glad to get home after a long day of stress at work, fighting traffic, and running errands. Because home is where our heart is. It’s our shelter from the everyday craziness and we have confidence that everything will work as it should – until it doesn’t.

A breakdown in your Greene County home could be as simple as a burned-out bulb, something a little more serious like a broken appliance, or a disastrous event, such as when your plumbing breaks or fails or a water-fed appliance like your dishwasher, washing machine, or water heater springs a leak. Then you may be facing severe water damage.

It’s amazing how much water damage can be caused by a broken water pipe and how quickly it happens. And that’s if you’re home at the time. Now imagine you’re away when the break occurs. Until the water source is cut off, it will spread throughout your home, damaging floors, walls, and most of your property.

This is why if a pipe or water-fed appliance breaks in your home or business, the first step that must be taken is turning off the water source! It could be a water feed to an appliance or toilet. But if you can’t find one or you have busted plumbing, you’ll need to shut off the main water valve for your home or business.

If you’ll be away for a while, take the initiative and turn off the main water valve before leaving. This small but crucial action can save thousands of dollars you’d have to pay to fix water damage in your home or business.

But regrettably, few Greene County property owners try to find out where their emergency shut-off valves are located. But knowing this basic piece of information may save your property from being destroyed and save you thousands in water damage restoration costs.

3 Ways to Find Your Water Shut-off Valve

1. Look for it on the inside perimeter of your home since water first enters your house there. It’s likely on the side of the house facing the street as that’s where the water main is located. (Note: This is standard when connected to a municipal water supply, but well water can enter the house from any side.)

2. Find the valve in your property inspection report. Look in the plumbing section to locate the shut-off valve and see a picture of the valve.

3. Find the streetside shut-off valve. Look for a valve inside your water main that should be located at your property line near the street called a curb stop valve. It’ll be at ground level. If you can’t shut it off, call your water company and they may be able to tell you how to do it or send a technician out to help you.

Give a friend or trustworthy neighbor a key to your home. If a water emergency happens when you’re away, they’ll be able to cut the water supply off.

If a water damage disaster does strike, leaving your Greene County property soaked, FIRST SHUT OFF YOUR WATER VALVE, then call on the water damage professionals at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County to mitigate, cleanup, and restore your home or business.

SERVPRO Adopts Local School Teachers

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is adopting a teacher for the Holister R-V School District for the 2022-2023 school year.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County has the unique privilege of adopting a classroom teacher for the Holister R-V School District for the 2022-2023 school district.   SERVPRO along with other local area businesses and organizations recognize the extraordinary efforts our teachers make and this is just a small way we can give back to our local community.  We are so excited about giving back to our community in this way.

Each month we have the privilege of showing our appreciation through a kind note or email, volunteering in the classroom, providing snacks or supplies and gift certificates.  We will kick off the school year with these awesome baskets of school supplies for our classrooms and our marketing staff will be attending the progressive dinner at the Titanic Museum on August 15, which will be catered by Char Restaurant in Springfield, MO.  If you would like to sign up to adopt a teacher you may do so at  https://forms.gle/79FERcue7zCZCbfX8. For more information contact Dr. Brian Wilson at bwilson@hollisterschools.com or 417-243-4000.

How to Reduce Water Damage from Summer Storms

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Summer in Missouri is in full swing, which means high temperatures along with higher humidity. Summer also means strong storms in our area which can cause flooding and other water damage on your property and/or in your basement. But if you take the time to prepare for storms, you can protect your home against Mother Nature. Here are some summer weather storm-proofing tips from SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County to protect your home from water damage and keep it dry when summer storms hit.

Inspect Your Gutters

Inspect your gutters and downspouts for clogs, structural failure, leaks, and sagging. They’re designed to capture and direct runoff, but if clogged or damaged they won’t move water away from your home effectively and can lead to standing water in your yard and even structural damage.

A 1,000 sq. ft. roof will shed about 620 gallons of water during a 1-inch rainfall. If this water swamps a clogged or damaged gutter system, all that water could end up next to your foundation, eroding it over time. Make sure leaves, sticks or other debris aren’t blocking the inlets of the downspouts and preventing water from flowing down them. Also, make certain your downspout extensions are discharging the water far from the foundation. If you don’t care to see downspout extensions laying across your yard, install underground downspout drainage lines with pop-up drainage emitters to keep water from gutters far from your home.

Protect Your Basement from Flooding

Did you know that Greene County homes with basements have a higher probability of experiencing water damage? Some 98% of all homes with a basement will file at least one claim for water damage.

Basement water damage occurs during spring storms for several reasons:

• water flows towards your house and not away
• poor weatherproofing
• improper drainage system
• clogged gutters
• broken sump pump

For example, a year’s worth of debris and fallen leaves can clog window wells and below-grade drainage systems, so summertime is a perfect time to clean them out. Additionally, check that below-grade drains near stairs and doors are operating properly. Domed covers for drains will provide added protection against clogs by not letting trash cover them up.

A sump pump is a draining device that keeps your basement dry from groundwater. It collects excess water from the foundation or rainfall and drains it outside of your home. If you have a sump pump, now is a good time to perform a maintenance check:

·       Unplug the pump and examine it for rust or corrosion.

·       Clean the pump inlet screen.

·       Remove any debris.

·       Reinstall the pump, plug it in, and pour five gallons of water into the sump to confirm that the float switch turns the pump on and off properly.

·       Outside, check that the pump discharge pipe is not blocked by dirt or vegetation. Clear all debris so that it can function correctly.

Consider adding a sump pump failure and water backup rider to your insurance coverage. You’ll pay a little more but you’ll have better protection which can bring real peace of mind when heavy rain starts to fall.

If Disaster Strikes, Call the Experts

Sometimes no matter how hard we try to keep it from happening, we will still experience water damage of some sort. Whether it’s from summer storms or another source, it can be overwhelming. So call your neighborhood water damage experts at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County. Insurance agents and plumbers recommend us because we remove all traces of water and storm damage from homes and businesses.

Highly Trained Restoration Specialists

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County staff completing hands on training in our Water Damage Simulator House

A Fire Extinguisher Buying Guide for Greene County Businesses

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Every business in Greene County should have fire extinguishers to suppress minor fires. This buying guide identifies the main classes of fire extinguishers and explains why a multi-class may be ideal for commercial use.

Extinguisher classes

Extinguishers are classified by standard NFPA 10 set by the National Fire Protection Agency. Suppressants are selected for effectiveness and safety:

• Class A extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate and work on ordinary combustibles such as wood and paper
• Class B extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate and work on flammable liquids and gasses, but not grease and cooking oil
• Class C extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate and work on appliances or powered electrical equipment
• Class D extinguishers contain sodium chloride or copper powder and work on combustible metals such as magnesium
• Class K extinguishers contain potassium compounds and work on fats, cooking oils, and grease

These classes form the backbone of fire extinguisher classifications and the distinctions have important implications for firefighting. For example, using a CO2 or water extinguisher on burning metal can have disastrous consequences.

The letters on a fire extinguisher’s label indicate which classes of fire it can effectively fight. For example, an extinguisher marked “1A:1B:C” could extinguish Class A, Class B, and Class C fires—if it’s big enough to tackle the blaze.

That’s where numbers come in. The numbers preceding the letters on the label indicate just how much fire the extinguishing agent—the powder, gas, or other fire-fighting material–can put out. As part of a fire extinguisher’s classification, the numbers on the label can mean either:

• How much water would be required to match the agent’s power against Class A fires
• The square footage of Class B fires the agent can extinguish

For each A, the extinguisher contains the equivalent of 1.25 gallons of water. Thus, an “8A” extinguisher fights Class A fires as well as 10 gallons of water (8 x 1.25 = 10), and a 40A extinguisher offers 50 gallons’ worth of firefighting power. For each B, the extinguisher can stop one square foot of Class B fires. A 10B extinguisher can stop 10 square feet of Class B fire, a 20B extinguisher can stop 20 square feet, and so on.

What the letters and numbers for Class C, D, and K fire extinguishers mean

Class C fire extinguishers: electrical fires

Extinguishers with the power to fight electrical fires do have a “C”—but it’s never preceded by a number. All class C fires are just Class A or Class B fires with electricity added into the mix. The letter “C” indicates only that the fire extinguisher uses an agent that doesn’t conduct electricity. Water-based and some foam extinguishers can’t fight Class A or Class B fires involving electrical equipment (thus, no “C” on the label). But extinguishers that use inert gases and various powder mixtures can, meaning they have an “A:B:C” rating.

Class K fire extinguishers: oils, fats, and greases

These labels treat Class K fires (kitchen oils, fats, and greases) in much the same way. Extinguishers that can fight Class K fires may have the letter “K” on the label, but they won’t have a number. That’s because Class K hazards vary enormously. The same volume of solid fuel (say, charcoal) may require significantly more extinguishing power than liquid fuels (like deep fryer fat).

Rather than trying to give Class K extinguishers a uniform rating, the International Fire Code and other fire safety standards recommend sizes based on a kitchen’s specific hazards. And in some cases—such as when deep fryers with an especially large surface area are used—it’s up to the manufacturer to provide guidelines.

Class D fire extinguishers: metal fires

While they’re required to be listed and labeled, purchasers can’t simply rely on the letter “D” to indicate an extinguisher’s suitability against metal fires. Like Class K hazards, one Class D hazard differs from another. The subject is so complex that the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has a whole standard just for combustible metals. Some Class D agents stop one type of metal fire, while others can take on several. And even agents suited to multiple fire types will perform better on some types of metals than others.

Which should you choose?

Many cities and states require fire extinguishers with a minimum UL rating of 2-A:10-B:C in buildings. Check with the Greene County fire authorities for the commercial building code requirements in your area. When it comes to size, your primary considerations should be size and heft. Units that are too bulky and heavy are useless. Choose fire extinguishers that any employee could handle with ease.

If your Greene County or Springfield business suffers a significant fire, contact the fire restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County immediately! We’ll restore your commercial property quickly to reduce any loss of income and productivity.

How to Find Out if Your Greene County Business in on a Floodplain

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

The topic of floodplains leads to many questions. Although one study estimates that up to 41 million Americans live in flood zones, many of those homeowners are unaware of it until they experience significant water damage. But what about your Greene County business? How can you tell if it’s situated on a floodplain? This article will outline how to ascertain that and the dangers of flood zones.  

What Is a Floodplain?

Floodplains are areas of low-lying ground close to natural water sources like rivers that often flood when water levels are high due to storms and heavy snowmelt. Since they’re often situated level with or below a body of water, even a little water can cause flooding.  

Natural floodplains offer flood risk reduction assistance by slowing runoff and storing floodwater. Floodplains frequently include wetlands and other vital ecological areas which directly influence the quality of the local environment.

How Do I Know If My Business is in a Flood Zone?

If your Greene County property sits near a body of water, you may live in a floodplain. While most problems occur around rivers and streams, lakes and ponds can also cause flooding. If you’re not sure whether or not your business is in a floodplain, use the FEMA Flood Map Service Center to find out if you’re at risk for flooding.

What Are the Common Signs of Living in a Floodplain?

Numerous signs indicate your property is on a floodplain:

• It’s within five hundred feet of a body of water
• Your land is below the banks or slopes down towards your building
• You often experience puddles on your property after even a little rain
• Your property is usually soggy or water-logged even days after it rains
• Your building floods frequently

What are the Dangers of Being in a Flood Zone?

There are several hazards when a building is situated on a floodplain. Even if your Greene County property has never flooded, it likely will. Here are the foremost flood risks you should be aware of:

• Loss of Life – While property damage is the main concern, floods cause more deaths than any other natural disaster. This is due to people underestimating the risk of floodwaters.
• Property Destruction – Floodwaters cause an extreme amount of water damage, destroying inventory as well as flooring, walls, and other parts of your business.
• Structural Damage – If the water sits for more than a few hours, it can damage the studs that support your building, affecting its structural integrity.
• Health Effects – Floodwaters can carry mold and bacteria. Even if they don’t, mold and bacteria can start growing in as little as 24 hours.

Additionally, since floodplains are usually low-lying areas, it can take days for floodwaters to finally subside. This increases the risk of water damage as well as the cost of flood cleanup.

Who to Call for Flood Damage Cleanup?

If your commercial property is situated on a floodplain and experiences water damage, we are here to help. SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. We will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage your restoration project through to its completion.