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.

Does Your Greene County Business Need Fire Legal Liability Insurance?

3/6/2022 (Permalink)

When fires occur in Springfield or Greene County rental units, whether commercial or residential, major disputes can arise between tenants and landlords. Fire legal liability refers to those responsible for paying for the damage those fires cause.

The cost of fire damage to a property can run into the thousands. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in 2020 there were 1,338,500 fires. These resulted in 21.9 billion dollars worth of damage!

The International Risk Management Institute (IRMI) defines fire damage legal liability coverage as “coverage of a tenant’s liability for damage by fire to the rented premises (including garages) the tenant occupies”. For Springfield and Greene County business owners, this coverage is included under their commercial general liability policy. But, for that policy to pay for fire-related damages, there must be proof the insured party was at fault.

For instance, say that you’re renting a warehouse in Springfield. One night before leaving, an employee accidentally leaves a space heater running next to some boxes. Later that evening, that box catches fire and the entire building goes up in smoke. By the time the fire was over, the building had suffered over $100,000 worth of fire damage. The owner of the building insists you pay for all damages since the fire damage was the cause of your business’s negligence. In this scenario, your fire legal liability would pay for these losses.

Fire Legal Liability Limitations

There are times when a tenant is guilty of starting a fire, but their general liability insurance won’t cover the loss. This happens when the lease the business signs states that it accepts full responsibility for any fire damage that occurs while they’re under that lease, no matter how the fire started. (Some businesses may sign such a lease to get a lower lease rate, gambling that a disaster will never happen.) The business will have to pay for fire damage restoration because they signed such a contract. In this situation, liability insurance will only pay for fire restoration if the renter directly causes the fire.

Additionally, these other limitations may exist:

• A coverage limit of $50,000 to $100,000
• It only covers fire damage, not water damage or other related losses
• Only the structure is covered, not the contents

Fires are sometimes caused by natural disasters that are no one’s fault, so it’s vital to take additional precautions. Explore your options and ask your insurance agent for a legal liability coverage form that will give you extra coverage for all types of damage such as flooding and tornadoes that could occur to a commercial property while you’re a tenant. This is the best way to protect your financial future if a major disaster befalls the property you’re leasing.

If you’re looking for expert restoration services, contact SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County today. Our commercial restoration service is reliable and available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We have years of disaster restoration experience that you can trust to repair and restore fire, water, and any other damage done to your property efficiently, no matter how large or small.

Employee Appreciation Day 2022

3/6/2022 (Permalink)

Employee Appreciation Day. If you are interested in a career at SERVPRO please sent your resume to the SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County.

On Friday March 4^th SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County held our Employee Appreciation Day in conjunction with our First Friday Breakfast.   It was a great time to show our employees how much we appreciate them, breakfast was served, and gifts were passed out. We wanted to take the time to tangibly show appreciation to our team that works hard day in and out 365 days a year at all times of the day and night.  SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County production team is on an on-call rotation many times working long hours through the night after working a full day, especially during severe weather events that we have so often in Southwest Missouri.  These events not only affect our Production Team, but our Marketing, Office and Executive teams are always willing to step up, put some work boots on and get to work to help our customers anytime there is a need!  We are so blessed to have the team we do that make disasters, “Like it never even happened."

If you are interested in a career at SERVPRO please sent your resume to the SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County first C.E. Class in New Office Expansion

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is offering virtual and in-person options CE classes for 2022. Contact us today for more information.

Wednesday, March 2 was a special day for SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County, we held our first Continuing Education class for Insurance Professionals in our new Office Expansion and Conference Room in Springfield, Missouri.  The three-hour class on Ethics was held for Insurance Professionals.  Instructor and owner David Bryngelson instructed the class, lunch and snacks were served.  After the class the attendees were taken on a tour of our facilities to explain what services we offer our customers.  SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County has other classes scheduled this year. 

April 6 – Restorative Drying for Water Damage

October 5 – Restoring and Cleaning Smoke Damage

December 7 – Understanding Mold

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is offering virtual and in-person options for these classes, in-person seating is very limited so contact our marketing department today if you are interested in signing up or need more information.   

What Happens When Lightning Strikes a House

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

If your home has been damaged by storms it is crucial to act quickly as this will lessen damage, limit further damage, Call Us Today (417) 865-7711

Lightning is the occurrence of a natural electrical discharge of very short duration and of very short duration and high voltage between a cloud and the ground or within a cloud.  This violent and sudden electrostatic discharge generates a bright flash and sometimes thunder.  There are about 25 million lightning strikes a year in the United States. A cloud to ground lightning bold will find the path of least resistance.  Most houses have a path that the lightning can follow, causing damage in its wake.   Gas lines, water pipes, electrical lines, phone, and cables lines, to gutters and downspouts and metal window frames. 

 It is important to understand some of the damages that can occur when lightning strikes. Shock wave damage, the lightning can crack and bust masonry bricks, concrete stone, and cinder blocks.   It can damage your homes chimney, shatter glass and plaster walls and crack foundations. Power surges can damage the electrical system of a house. When lightning strikes a nearby power line it can travel from the power line to the meter and then into the homes electrical panel.  This can be a potential fire hazard as lightning travels through a house it can ignite a fire.  The attic or the roof is the most common area that lightning fires start.

 There are some preventative measures you can take.  Having a professional install a lightning protection system can prevent a direct lightning strike.  Trimming trees, tall objects attract lightning. Unplug computers and other appliances. During a storm avoid direct contact with potential lightning routes. The best way to protect yourself and your family from the dangers of lighting and thunderstorms is to be prepared.  Purchase a portable NOAA Weather Radio.  Seek shelter in the event of a thunderstorm.

 If your home has been damaged by storms it is crucial to act quickly as this will lessen damage, limit further damage, and reduce restoration costs. Our highly trained crews have the specialized equipment and resources to handle the job, large or small, residential, and commercial.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (417) 865-7711

Missouri Association of Manufacturers 2022 Conference and Tradeshow

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County Marketing team attends the 2022 Missouri Association of Manufacturers Conference and Trade Show

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County recently partnered with 4 other franchises in the state to sponsor the 1^st Annual Missouri Association of Manufacturers Conference and Trade Show at the Oasis Convention Center in Springfield, MO.  The Missouri Association of Manufacturers is a non-profit, non-partisan organization comprised solely of Missouri Manufacturers. The keynote speaker for the convention this year was Missouri Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe.

Our SERVPRO team had a great time meeting manufacturers from all over the state and the Ken Lutgen, Marketing Director and Commercial Account Manager for SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown represented us and spoke about preparedness and how SERVPRO can help them with their buildings if they should ever have a disaster hit their facility.  Breakout sessions included topics such as Operations, Logistics, Company Culture & Employee Motivation Strategies, Workforce Challenges and Solutions and Environment & Safety.  It was a great conference, and we look forward to partnering with the Missouri Association of Manufacturers again in the future.

Is your home ready for spring?

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County 24/7/365 days a year if you have a water damage - 417-865-7711

An Ozarks Winter can be hard on your home; those long cold days can give away to a long list of repairs. Now is a good time to make a list of prioritized repairs before things get worse.

 Winter storms can leave your yard full of broken limbs and branches.  Some trees and bushes will need to be trimmed.

 Winter can also take a toll on gutters, it’s a good idea to repair any defects in your gutters, avoiding these repairs can cause other problems such as water damages from leaky roofs.

 Leveling the grade of your yard is important an uneven grade can me a yard and crawlspace full of puddles and even worse a wet swampy basement.   Speaking of basements, before April showers come to visit it’s a good idea to make sure your sump pump is in good working order.  Making sure you have good drainage in your yard will help keep mosquitoes away this summer. This is also a good time to make sure your downspouts are all connected and in good working order, making sure to move water away from the house at least 3 feet from the foundation.

 As the temperatures get warmer it’s a good idea to inspect your window screens, cleaning and repairing and holes.  You can purchase a DIY kit at your local hardware store to repair screens.

These spring cleaning repairs will help keep your home in good shape and hopefully avoid further more costly repairs such as water damages caused by faulty downspouts and gutters, prevent ice dams and basement flooding in your Springfield home.

What to do when your home basement floods?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

1. Shut off electricity and gas to the area.
2. Try to determine the source of the water. Excessive rainfall or a burst pipe are two top reasons why your basement may flood.
3. If safe to proceed and only when electricity is shut off, while wearing protective gear like boots, gloves, and a mask, enter the water to investigate the source further. If your basement has a drain and you can safely navigate to it, check to see if it is clogged.
4. Time to get that water out of there. Depending on the amount of water, this may be as simple as using towels, a mop, or a wet vacuum. If the flooding is more extensive, a sump pump is necessary. Once the bulk of the water has been removed, soak up all remaining moisture with towels.
5. Assess damage. Remove any items, like furniture, that appear damaged by the water and move them to a space where they can dry. If the drying process on items is taking longer than a couple days, unfortunately, they may not be able to be salvaged. Any items that were within boxes should be removed to air out, and all items should be monitored for mildew growth.
6. Get the air moving in the basement to dry it out. Open windows and doors, and use fans placed around the space to inspire quick drying of the flooded area. If you have a dehumidifier, move it to the basement to aid the drying process.

Sometimes it is apparent that you need a professional’s help.  Calling a professional for help with a flooded basement is always a good idea, especially if the amount of water is more than a foot deep, many items have become wet, or mildew is beginning to take hold. Quickly removing the water and beginning the drying process is essential to lessen the possibility for mold to form, which can greatly increase the damage and cost involved.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County has the experience, qualifications and knowledge needed to help you quickly deal with a flooded basement cleanup, because we handle these types of jobs all the time. Let us deal with the stress and get your basement back in working order.

Is your Springfield business ready for a disaster?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

According to the latest industry research as many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster. Of the businesses that do survive, the majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.  When disaster strikes your business, having a plan in place ahead of time for what you will do can make all the difference in whether your business survives.

 You can stay a step ahead of unexpected events by having a plan of action in place before you need it with SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan. 

 This is where SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) can help give you, your employees, and customers peace of mind.  The ERP provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation recovery services.  It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information.  We have seen this program help many of our commercial customers, save them money and reduce interruption to their daily business.  Our ERP customers know what to do and what to expect if disaster strikes.  This is important to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile Advantages:

• A no cost assessment to your facility.
• A concise profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. This takes minimal time and not take you away from your current projects.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing worked to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency.

 Call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County today to get started on an Emergency Ready Profile for your business. 417-865-7711.

Why Choose SERVPRO for your home restoration project?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County today to get started, 417-865-7711.

Every construction project is unique, we would like to give you a more in depth look at the processes used at SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County to give you the best experience. 

Pre-Construction Phase:

• Approvals and Estimates: Before your project can begin, you will need to make sure you have secured all the required approvals. SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County may be able to assist you with some of these approvals. We use the Xactimate estimating software for all construction projects and will provide a copy of your estimate as an attachment to your Construction Work Authorization.

Construction Phase:

• During this phase we will Schedule tradesmen, arranging access to your home and communication scheduling constraints, this is critical to an efficiently run project. At a minimum you will receive weekly communication from SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County. We will provide information on the status of your project, discuss recently completed work and address any questions you may have. At each phase our Construction Project Manager will inspect work in progress to make sure the work is completed correctly and that any work that is incomplete is addressed quickly.

Post Construction Phase:

• All workmanship and materials for work performed will conform to industry standards defined in the Residential Construction Performance Guidelines for Professional Builders and Remodelers, Fifth Addition. Once all work has been completed you will be asked to sign a Certification of Completion.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County will be there to guide you through the process and work with your insurance company to make sure this process is as seamless as possible. If you have damage to your home, we have everything you need to complete your home construction project. Let us be your one-stop shop for your home construction project. With one phone call, our highly trained professionals will oversee your home construction project from start to finish.  Call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County today to get started, 417-865-7711.

What to do when a storm affects your Springfield business?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County today for more information or services for your business. 417-865-7711.

Business owners in Missouri know that without warning nature can take a turn: flooding, tornadoes and polar vortex type freezing events caused from ice storms.  All these weather events can have a devastating effect on the business that you have worked so hard to build.  At SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County we are here, we are local, and we are Faster to any size disaster.  We can handle any size job, big or small.  Mitigating your damages is important to get your business up and running quickly, that is why response time is critical.  SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County can respond quickly.  Whether the damage occurs in a small business building, manufacturing facility or a big box store, we have the training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation.  We are a locally owned franchise, but we are part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large scale events and disasters.  We are proud to be a part of our community and strive to provide residents and business owners in the greater Springfield metro area the fastest response times and our best work each and every day.

Call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County today for more information or services for your business. 417-865-7711. 

Preventing Pet Fires in your Springfield Home

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your pet by preventing home fires in your Springfield home.

For many homeowners their pets are considered part of the family. You might be surprised at how much damage your beloved pet can cause to your home and property.

According to the National Fire Protection Association nearly 1,000 home fires are started each year by the homeowner’s pets, this affects over 500,000 pets.  The AKC and ADT Security offer some tips we thought they would be good to share:

• Extinguish Open Flames- Pets are generally curious and will investigate cooking appliances, candles, or even a fire in your fireplace. Ensure your pet is not left unattended around an open flame and make sure to thoroughly extinguish any open flame before leaving your home.
• Remove Stove Knobs- Be sure to remove stove knobs or protect them with covers before leaving the house - a stove or cook top is the number one piece of equipment involved in your pet starting a fire.
• Invest in Flameless Candles- These candles contain a light bulb rather than an open flame, and take the danger out of your pet knocking over a candle. Cats are notorious for starting fires when their tails turn over lit candles.
• Secure Young Pets - keep them confined away from potential fire-starting hazards when you are away from home such as in crates or behind baby gates in secure areas.

There are other ways to help prepare for such disasters, it’s a good idea to include your pets in your family emergency plan.  Discuss your plan with your family members and determine who is responsible for grabbing your pets during an emergency. Always keep collars on your pets in case firefighter need to rescue your pet.  When leaving your pet home alone, keep them in areas near the entrances of your home.  A pet alert window cling is a good idea, you can identify the number of pets in your home. Sometimes even with all the preparation and planning in place mishaps happen.

At SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County each year we see many home disasters caused from these cute little furry family members that we all love. From cats turning on water faucets to dogs jumping up and turning on the stove burners, if this happens to your family rest assured the professionals at SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County know what to do, call us 24/7/365 days a year at 417-865-7711.  

Preparing for Spring Storms

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

Preparing for Springs Storms in Southwest Missouri

Being prepared for severe weather can help minimize damage to your home and property.

 Knowing your risk is important.  Understanding what types of weather affect you are important, do you live, tornadoes, lightning, thunder, and flash floods all present different issues for homeowners.  As we all know in Springfield severe weather can happen any time of the year, but our risk for storms is even greater in the spring. Ways to be prepared, you can sign up for the Emergency Alert System (EAS). You can purchase a NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Weather Alert Radio.

Create a plan for your family so you know what and where to go during severe weather. Identify a safe sturdy shelter for your family.  Prepare your home in advance for severe weather by cutting down limbs that might fall on your home. Consider buying surge protectors, lightning rods or a lightning system to protect your home, appliances and electronic devices.

SERVPRO Gives Back

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

Our Marketing Team Visiting one of the local fire stations in January of 2022.

In January of 22 the SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County marketing team consisting of our Marketing Manager Katie and our Account Managers, Anna and Amberlyn visited over 25 different Fire Stations in Springfield and Branson area to hand out over 50 goodie bags and cases of bottled water to the stations. We hope that they feel the love and appreciation we have for their public service.  Our community is very important to us.  For that reason, we take every opportunity we can to give back to our southwest Missouri community.  It’s our way of letting our neighbors know that we’re HERE TO HELP no matter what happens. Follow along with us on our social media channels for more stories of giving back to our community.  

Water Damage Attracts Termites

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

You probably already know that water damage is more than a nuisance. It can also cause severe damage to your Missouri home or business. But there’s another side effect of water damage you may be unaware of. It also attracts bugs – those that may cause disease and those that can further destroy your home.

The kinds of bugs that are attracted to water damage include carpenter ants, termites, silverfish, beetles, roaches, etc. They enter a structure when its walls and foundation are weakened by water damage, using electrical wires as their highways throughout a building. The insects that can do the most damage are termites. But what attracts them to a water-damaged structure?

Termites need to be surrounded by moisture. Normally they live underground in a cool, damp environment, so water-soaked wood makes a great replacement home for them while supplying them with an almost endless buffet. This is why water damage that’s ignored can encourage termite infestation in any home.

Termite infestations are very damaging to property and expensive to treat. Usually, it calls for a whole-house treatment. It can start inconspicuously and often an owner won’t even be aware of the damage until he hires a professional restoration service like SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County to do a damage inspection.

The University of Kentucky’s College of Food and Agriculture wrote a highly informative Q&A article on termite infestations. In it they talk about what termites can do to a home, what a homeowner can do if there’s an infestation, and how tough it can be for homeowners to ascertain if termites have infested their home or business at the early stage of infestation:

“Oftentimes, there will be no clear indication of infestation. Termites are cryptic creatures and infestations can go undetected for years, hidden behind walls, floor coverings, insulation, and other obstructions. Termite feeding and damage can even progress undetected in exposed wood because the outer surface usually remains intact. Confirmation of termites often requires the keen eye of a professional — however, even the most experienced inspector can overlook signs that are hidden.”

As we’ve mentioned, termites love moisture and humidity. In a Missouri home or business that’s not sufficiently ventilated or has unrepaired leaks, a termite infestation can take place. For this reason, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns against not fixing leaks and water damage sources right away. On their official website, they discuss how to prevent these pests from invading your home.

The National Pest Management Association also highlights the termite’s love for wet weather, moisture, and humidity. It mentioned that pests, including termites, could swarm during wet and warm weather. Pestworld.org published this NPMA warning:

“Residual winter moisture will create ideal conditions for mosquito larval habitats to form in standing water and will allow termite populations to flourish. With a rainy summer also predicted, expect increased cockroach and ant pressure as they move indoors for shelter.”

The bottom line to all this information is simple; never, ever, allow water damage that’s occurred to your Missouri home or business to go unrepaired. It needs to be addressed immediately to avoid an infestation of termites and other damage from wreaking havoc on property. Call the water damage cleanup professionals at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County immediately whenever water damage occurs. Whether the damage is big or small, we can take care of it.

What you Need to know about Water Damages in Springfield

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

There are 3 Categories of Water Damages, the type of water makes a huge difference in how you handle the cleaning of that water.   

Let's start out with the worst first, Category 3.  

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could 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

Next is Category2, while not as bad as Category 3 it can still be dangerous. 

This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category 2 water may 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

Lastly is Category 1, and of course is the least dangerous type of water damage but can still cause significant damage to your home or business. 

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet. If left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3 water depending upon such factors as time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

If your property has been damaged by water caused by flooding or water leaks, we have the experience, expertise, and equipment to restore your property properly. We specialize in water damage restoration and have extensive water damage restoration training. Our process emphasizes regular monitoring and documentation of the drying process from beginning to end and ensure your property is back to normal. 

Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today 417-865-7711

Looking for an Experienced Home Construction & Restoration Professional?

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is your one-stop shop for residential construction.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is your one-stop shop for residential construction. The very last thing you want to worry about when you need home restoration is contacting and managing multiple repair crews in your home, which can be time consuming, disorganized, and expensive. With one phone call, our highly skilled and trained professionals will oversee your project from start to finish. SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County offers all services needed to get your home constructed. Our Construction Project Managers have over a 100 years of combined construction experience.  Our services include inspection, estimating, mitigation, restoration and reconstruction. Our team of experts are competent and experienced and believe in delivering quality workmanship. We’ll work with your insurance company to restore your home to help make it “Like it never even happened.” If you are in need of reconstruction services please call us at 417-865-7711 to schedule an appointment.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Restoration Company for your Springfield Business

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

A Springfield Missouri Event center suffered a recent water damage.

When a disaster hits your Springfield business, you want the right restoration company in your corner, one that has the experience and resources it takes to get the job done in an efficient manner but also has the knowledge to get the job done right the first time.  

We recently completed mitigation services on a large 22 story commercial structure, several floors were affected.  This loss was due to a condensation drain being improperly installed. Our team’s main concern was to get the main floor dry as quickly as possible, save the wood floors in the large event space and mitigate further damage to the floors below.  The main floor that had most of the damage required heavy demolition, drying including tenting of the wood floor.  The floor below required light demo, drying and some light reconstruction.

At SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County we understand that there is never a convenient time for a water damage to strike your business.  Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Whether the damage occurs in a small business or a large box store, we have the experience, equipment, and training to handle any restoration emergency, give us a call 24/7, 365 days a year at 417-865-7711.

2021 SERVPRO Regional Marketing Symposium

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

The 2021 SERVPRO Missouri Marketing Symposium at Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri.

In November of 2021 our Sales and Marketing Manager, Katie Jackson, was one of five Missouri SERVPRO franchise marketing managers to host the first annual Missouri Marketing Symposium in Lake of the Ozarks. This event was just a dream we often joked about over our Zoom calls for other events we have worked on together.  We all felt like maybe other franchises might be able to benefit by collaborating with us as a group, so there the idea was born! We put our heads together to come up with our agenda and the planning began.

To start, we knew we wanted this event to be all about marketing and how to get the next job but also networking – growing your SERVPRO network is something all five of us believe in very strongly so we wanted that to be a focus as well. Once planning was done our one-and-a-half-day event turned into three days! We had over 65 marketing representatives, managers, and owners in attendance from all over the U.S., our furthest attendee came all the way from Southern California. All three days were packed with learning, open forums and discussions, socials, networking, and fun, so much fun! Before the symposium was even over, we were already talking about how to better our event for 2022.  So, stay tuned for 2022!! 

How Infrared Cameras Can Help Save Your Missouri Business

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

In the disaster restoration industry, change is continual and technology keeps evolving. Due to this, water disaster restoration professionals have greatly improved their drying efforts. One of the most useful pieces of equipment to have found a place in the disaster restoration industry are thermal, or infrared cameras. But what exactly are they and how do they work?

The first infrared camera was built in 1929. They have since been used in all sorts of applications, ranging from:

• targeting systems in military planes
• search and rescue operations
• building inspections
• medical diagnostics
• security purposes

But they’ve also become increasingly prevalent for use in finding moisture.

Understanding the Technology

The first thing to realize concerning thermal cameras is they’re not x-ray machines and can’t see through people or objects. But they also don’t operate like regular cameras. Regular cameras and the human eye both work on the same basic principle: visible light energy hits an object, bounces off it, a sensor receives the reflected light, which then turns it into an image.

Thermal imagers make pictures from heat, not visible light. Heat (also called infrared or thermal energy) and light are both parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, but a camera that can detect visible light won’t see thermal energy, and vice versa. Thermal cameras capture infrared energy and use the data to create images through digital or analog video outputs.

Because humans can’t see heat energy, infrared imaging equipment converts the picture into a false-color image, where different temperature ranges are represented by certain colors. Typically, dark colors such as black and blue represent cool surfaces, and bright colors like yellow, red and white signify warm and hot areas.

How Infrared Can Rescue Your Business From Disaster

How does that help water damage restoration professionals save your Missouri home or business? The variations in temperatures detected by Infrared cameras may signal moisture problems. For instance, when wallboard or other structural elements of a building are wet, evaporative cooling occurs. As a result, those areas appear cooler than dry components of the same material and produce telltale cool areas on thermal images. That moisture can be hard to impossible to perceive with the naked eye, but thermal cameras can easily find them.

So, thermal cameras are beneficial in water damage restoration because they:

• Locate hidden moisture and leaks in your business’s walls or structure
• Determine whether building materials are dry after a water or mold* remediation project
• Determine the extent of water damage from flooding or plumbing accidents

One thing these cameras aren’t able to do is reveal percentages or points of moisture levels – in other words, they can’t tell you how wet something is. That’s information restoration professionals also need to know in their drying processes. So along with the thermal camera, they likewise use moisture meters to acquire that vital data.

When it comes to water damage, a quick and accurate diagnosis is essential to successful remediation. To kick-start the process, SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County includes thermal imaging as part of our comprehensive emergency response and remediation services to help ensure your property is dried thoroughly.

*While infrared cameras don’t specifically detect the presence of mold, they do provide mold inspectors the opportunity to find wet areas that are prime spots for mold infestation.

Continuing Education Classes for 2022

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

The 2022 CE Class Schedule for SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County

We are excited to announce that C.E. Classes are back for 2022!  This year we are featuring a Hybrid class and will offer online classes and a small amount of in person seating in our new conference room facility located at 764 N Miller Road in Springfield, Missouri.  Our facility will be sanitized and ready for our C.E. Students.  The classes offered this year are Ethics, Restorative Drying for Water Damage, Cleaning & Restoring Smoke Damage, Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry for a total of 9 C.E. Credits.  If you are an insurance professional and you are interested in attending these classes please contact us today at 417-865-7711 to reserve your spot, you can also visit our website for more information. 

5 Helpful Tips When Choosing A Commercial Restoration Contractor

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Picking the right commercial reconstruction contractor for your Greene County business is a serious decision. Each contractor has its strong points, specialisms, and strategies for handling a project. It’s vital to do your research, ask the right questions, and know what to watch for when choosing a commercial restoration contractor.

Over the years, SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County has witnessed (and helped mop up) the tragic consequences of hiring unsuitable restoration contractors. To help you avoid the most common (and easily preventable) mistakes businesses make when hiring a contractor, here are some helpful tips:

1. Interview all referrals and check their licenses

Call other business owners who’ve recently worked with the contractor to hear what their experiences were. Ask these questions:

• Was the contractor easily available during the project? After a text, voicemail or email, what was their response time?
• Did you feel that you were always in the loop? Did the contractor clearly present your options and assist you in choosing the right one?
• Was the project completed in a timely matter and on budget? If not, did they communicate why?
• What did you like about working with the contractor? Would you recommend their services?

It’s also crucial that you ask the contractor to offer adequate documentation for their current licenses, insurance, references and safety record. A dependable contractor will provide these things quickly upon request.

2. Don’t hire a contractor without restoration experience

A general contractor isn’t necessarily a restoration contractor, but most restoration contractors are first-rate general contractors. Experience is critical with regard to complex mitigation, restoration, and rebuilding projects.

It’s one thing to build something from the ground up, but it’s a completely different issue when you need to assess the damage, clean, and restore a property damaged by fire, water, or other disasters. And if you can, choose a restoration contractor that already has experience working with your insurance company as it can save you time, money, and anxiety!

3. Ignore those who want a large upfront payment or offers a cash discount

Alarms should sound if you hear either of these terms. It usually means that company has some serious issues. But do ask the contractor about their payment expectations, especially if an insurance company is covering restoration costs.

Your contractor will need a reasonable amount of money to get the project started, but most states don’t allow contractors to ask for more than 33% of the total estimated cost upfront. Additional payments should be tied to important project targets.

4. Don’t accept over the phone quotes

A common mistake some make is accepting quotes for restoration projects over the phone before any kind of on-site inspection. Every building and situation is different, so there’s no way a contractor could give an accurate assessment and cost before eyeballing the job.

5. Don’t hire a contractor that doesn’t offer a plan

The restoration contractor you choose should deliver a detailed plan (that you can clearly understand) that shows the exact steps that will be necessary to restore your commercial property quickly. They should be able to present all your options and help you choose one that fits your budget and specific needs.

Following these five tips will assist you in choosing a trustworthy, dependable, and experienced restoration contractor. A great contractor will eliminate needless stress and anxiety and help you get your business back up and running as soon as possible.

Contact SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County today to acquaint yourself with our services. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your commercial restoration, mitigation, and repair needs.

Gutter Damage After A Storm Can be Costly

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Most homeowners in Greene County make the common mistake of not checking out their home’s or businesses' roofs after a severe weather event. That’s an omission that could cost you dearly in the future.

Rain, snow, hail, sleet, and high winds can cause gutter damage. Some of that damage is easy to spot, like downspouts that have detached and tumbled over. But sometimes storm gutter damage is difficult to observe as it can be hidden entirely from ground level. If it goes unnoticed, it can cause problems later to your home's interior.

What is Gutter Damage? 

A storm, wind or heavy rain can loosen and bend gutters and downspouts. Here at SERVPRO, we have seen countless damaged gutters, especially if they’re old, in bad condition, and not securely attached. Heavy rains can also wash leaves and dirt into your gutters, causing a potential clog. Once clogged, they no longer carry water away from the roof. When the gutters stop doing the job that they are designed to do, there is a potential for backup and water damage to the roof or interior of your Greene County home. So after a storm passes, it is vital that you have your gutters and roof inspected.

What Can Happen if Gutters Aren’t Repaired

1. Weakened foundation: Depending on the size of your home, every inch of rainfall can translate to over 1000 gallons of water pouring down your roof! When gutters function properly, that water will flow through a downspout and away from your home. But when clogged or damaged or the downspout is detached, water will pour down your walls. Pooling water around your foundation can cause erosion, leading to foundation cracks and settling which can weaken the structure of your home.
2. Additional gutter damage: When your gutters are clogged and the water has no place to go, they can become very heavy. A gallon of water weighs over 8 pounds and just one foot of gutter can hold up to 2 gallons. Add that to the mass of dead leaves and other gunk and you can see how all that extra weight can bend your gutters or tear them away from the roof.
3. Wall and ceiling damage: Trapped water from damaged or clogged gutters can rot the wooden fascia boards your gutters are mounted to, allowing moisture to enter your home. And during our Missouri winters, clogged gutters can help create ice dams which can drive snow melt underneath your shingles.
4. Wet basement: If your basement hasn’t been waterproofed, the water pouring down your foundation due to damaged gutters can seep through your basement’s porous walls and floor, leading to a damp basement. And where it’s damp and dark, mold can easily begin to grow, quickly becoming a problem.
5. Insect invasions: Nobody wants mosquitoes buzzing around in their backyard. But pooling water in broken or clogged gutters is a perfect breeding ground for them. Mud and damp leaves can also be a welcoming spot for bees and wasps to build their nests.

As you’ve probably noticed, severe weather events in Greene County are more than a rare occurrence. Since having secure gutters is essential to protect your home and your valuable assets inside, it’s a good idea to get your gutter system inspected to catch potential issues. When problems are found by a SERVPRO professional, they’ll offer you a detailed plan of action to repair the damage early on to save you money down the road. 

It is always a good time to get your roof inspected even if you do not think there’s an issue. SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County can provide an inexpensive, professional assessment of your roof, rain gutters, attic, and all other related parts that make up the home's protective shield.

Debunking 4 Fire Sprinkler Myths

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

There’s no denying a fire could cause devastating damage to your Greene County commercial property. And without a way to extinguish the flames quickly, some of your workers and customers could be severely injured or killed. That's why having a commercial fire sprinkler system is vital.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), when sprinklers are installed, the chances of dying in a fire are diminished by 80 percent and the average property loss due to fire is cut by 50 to 66 percent, compared to fires where there are no sprinklers.

While it’s unquestionable that sprinklers are crucial tools for defense against fires, there are still many misconceptions about how sprinklers truly work. So, let’s talk about 4 common myths concerning commercial fire sprinkler systems and why they’re wrong.

Myth 1: Water Damage Produced by Sprinklers Cost More Than Fire Damage

FACT:  Sprinkler systems are more cost-effective when compared to the damage caused by other firefighting efforts. Since sprinklers can keep a fire contained within one room rather than allowing flames and smoke to spread through a building, most fire damage cleaning is reduced to one area. Additionally, water damage as a result of fire hoses regularly costs more to restore. Sprinklers discharge only 8-24 gallons of water per minute, while fire hoses gush 50-125 gallons per minute.

MYTH 2: All Sprinkler Heads Discharge During a Fire

FACT: Sprinkler heads are designed to only respond to fire temperatures above 155 °F. A temperature-sensitive glass bulb filled with a liquid or metal alloy hold fire sprinkler heads in place. The glass applies pressure to a pipe cap, stopping water from streaming through the system. So, only sprinkler heads close to a fire will be set off, leaving unaffected areas dry.

MYTH 3: Sprinklers are Too Sensitive

FACT: Although you want your sprinkler system to be sensitive to fires, that doesn’t mean they will be set off by somebody burning their lunch or lighting a cigarette. Only 1 in 16 million sprinkler heads trigger by accident, so their benefits far overshadow any risks.

Myth 4: Smoke Alarms Activate Sprinkler Systems

FACT: Fire sprinkler systems and smoke alarms function separately. Smoke alarms detect smoke particles which causes them to alarm. This is very important, because you want a warning before a fire has extended too far. But sprinkler system heads are only heat activated. The one will not set off the other.

As a business owner, you’re aware that safety is needed to keep your operations running smoothly. To help ensure your Greene County company will be safer from fire damage, it’s a good idea to install commercial sprinklers and mount fire extinguishers throughout your facility.

But if the unexpected does occur, help is nearby. At SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County, we’re both fire damage and water damage clean up professionals. We offers 24-Hour Emergency Recovery Services and are committed to getting your business back on its feet as quickly as possible.

Even Tobacco Smoke Odor is Hazardous

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

Have you ever bought or rented a home in southwest Missouri that had been completely restored yet sometimes you could still smell cigarette smoke?  That’s because after years of smoking, even the bones of a house can be infused with tobacco odor, leaving unpleasant smells in all rooms, not just  where someone has smoked. SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County knows how strong these odors can get. We have to work just as hard to eliminate smoke odor as we do house fire malodors.

Why tobacco smoke is such a big problem

Cigarette smoke leaves a yellowish-brown, gluey residue that sticks to all surfaces of a home, making it difficult and time-consuming to remove. If you have ever cleaned walls or windows that have been exposed to cigarette smoke, then you’ve likely seen this residue.

According to the American Lung Association, cigarettes contain over 7,000 chemicals (40 of which are associated with cancer) that not even the strongest air purifier can eliminate from your home. But it’s not just an odor problem.

How tobacco smoke affects your home

Studies conducted by the San Diego State University indicate that third-hand smoke from walls, carpets and curtains can have a significant impact on a person’s health. Toxic and volatile compounds from cigarettes build up in drywall and in soft furnishings. Children, in particular, are at risk of disease caused by exposure to the toxins from third-hand smoke.

“There’s a big illusion that when tobacco smoke disappears, we’re safe,” said SDSU psychology professor Georg Matt, director of the resource center. “Unfortunately, some of the most toxic compounds clinch to surfaces. They get embedded in carpets, they coat walls, they penetrate into walls. They become part of the indoor environment.”

Smoking not only affects the people exposed to smoke, but it also produces odorous substances that stick to every surface of the area where smoking has taken place. The yellowish-brown substance eliminated through smoking bonds to walls, furniture, and plastics, and can permanently change their appearance. Cigarette smoke also penetrates more odor-absorbing objects, such as insulation, carpets, upholstery, bedding, clothes, and many more.

Additionally, a buildings HVAC system carries smoke odor and chemicals throughout the structure. That means that the buildup of dust and debris inside the ducting that absorbed those odors needs to be removed and the entire ducting system will need to be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.

How professionals remove tobacco smoke odor

There is no magic formula that removes these residues and malodors.

Masking odors with air fresheners only works temporarily and may pose health risks. Moreover, covering up tobacco smell with a fresh coat of paint without cleaning or using a primer first won’t effectively eliminate the odor. Within a short period of time, smoke residue will begin leaking through the paint and spread offensive odors through the room, just like before.

The only effective way to remove tobacco residue and odor is with a very thorough cleaning then sealing of all structural surfaces. SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County, your southwest Missouri restoration specialists, begin tobacco smoke removal by cleaning all surfaces, using deodorizers to eliminate every tiny particle of tobacco smoke. Once we’ve cleaned all visible surfaces, we use specific equipment (such as hydroxyl generators and/or ozone generators) that abolish the odor molecules that are inaccessible, such as inside walls and ducting.

We next use a sealant that locks in stains and odors. After that, surfaces will be made ready to refinish, paint, or apply new coverings. Finally, our team confirms that all surfaces have been sanitized and treated to ensure odors stay away from you and your property.

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County are professionals at removing smoke residue and odors, no matter their source. So don’t continue to suffer from unwelcome odors and stains. Let us provide your home with a breath of fresh air!

Biohazard Cleanup – What, When and Why?

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

When you hear the word “Biohazard”, what comes to mind? You may think of situations such as the current COVID-19 pandemic. But biohazards also stem from traumatic events where blood, human or animal residues, chemical spills, and more are involved. They include these scenarios:

• Crime or homicide scenes
• Suicide or death
• Sewage backups
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste or remains
• Chemical/drug hazards
• Virus contamination
• Accident cleanup

Biohazard cleanup involves cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing areas where such traumatic events have occurred. Cleanup after these events is a serious business that not just anyone can handle. The threats involved caused by bacteria, viruses, and infectious diseases can put your health and safety at risk. Frequently, these pathogens are invisible, making cleanup an even more problematic task for the inexperienced.

You may think that if the police are involved, someone else will clean up the aftereffects. But the state of Missouri isn’t responsible for cleaning up crime scenes. After police investigators collect evidence from a scene, it’s up to the property owner to hire a biohazard remediation company like SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County. But we can arrive onsite only after the police have gathered enough evidence related to the crime.

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is trained in the cleanup and remediation of all types of trauma situations. We have a team of highly professional experts who have experience in these matters who follow proper training and safety procedures. We specialize in fast and thorough cleanup work to ensure the safety and security of everyone involved.

Does Biohazard Cleanup Require Certification?

To become a biohazard technician, obtaining certification is not required. However, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) does require biohazard technicians to properly wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when dealing with bloodborne pathogens, because every time technicians handle potentially hazardous materials they’re put at significant risk.

The SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County team employs state-of-the-art protective equipment and cleanup processes that follow strict safety protocols outlined by OSHA and EPA. Furthermore, we provide up-to-date bioremediation training for technicians that includes best practices, proprietary methods, and safety compliance.

The SERVPRO Biohazard Cleanup Process

• We start cleanup efforts as quickly as possible.
• We remove all potentially infectious materials from the site.
• Hazardous medical waste is handled in compliance with OSHA regulations. It’s then processed and sent to a licensed hazardous medical waste incinerator.
• Technicians remove porous materials like fabric and carpeting following industry standards and Missouri state regulations.
• Non-hazardous materials are either removed or decontaminated and sanitized if they are considered salvageable.
• After cleanup and sanitization, affected areas are deodorized, and walls and flooring may be sealed to cover any remaining stains from the incident.

SERVPRO strives to be exceptionally sensitive to these situations by showing extra care and compassion and we do our best to understand that those involved may be emotionally vulnerable.

As with any type of property damage, SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County restoration professionals ensure that their actions don’t worsen the sense of loss of the property owners. Before we’re able to arrive on the scene, follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

How Not to Return Home to Water Damage

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

After what has seemed an eternity, many will finally be able to enjoy a vacation away from home this year. While these are usually enjoyable, happy, calming, and battery charging events, all that good may come crashing down the minute you return home if when you open the door you step into standing water. Discovering water damage in your Springfield or Greene County home is a nightmare you’ll never want to experience.

To avoid this kind of situation, homeowners must be aware of and put into place the following defenses to prevent flooding emergencies and water damage while they are away. The preparation and extra efforts can pay off in the form of thousands of dollars saved and your peace of mind. 

4 Steps to Take Before Leaving Home

1. Shut Off the Main Water Valve - Before leaving town, shut off the main water line to avoid any chance of water damage while you’re away. Some water meter setups have two valves, one on the street side of the meter and another on the house side. In colder climates, you’ll characteristically find the main shutoff in the basement near the front of the house. In warmer areas, it’ll be outside the home fastened to an exterior wall or in an underground box with a removable cover.
2. Shut Off Water Supply Valves - If you can’t shut off the main water supply due to having an automatic sprinkler system or somebody is watering the plants while you’re away, shut off the valves to the most common sources of water damage such as washing machines, dishwashers, and ice makers, in case a hose blows or detaches. Supply stops usually have a little round or oval knob you turn clockwise to shut off the flow of water.
3. Replace Water Supply Lines - To avoid water damage, especially when you’re not home, be sure to install stainless steel braided water supply lines on all your appliances, faucets and toilets. They last far longer than rubber or plastic hoses and are unlikely to leak. They also stop mice from gnawing into the lines. A pair of washing machine hoses will usually cost less than $20. Shorter kinds for faucets or toilets are also available.
4. Check Your Gutters - A 1,000 sq. ft. roof will shed about 620 gallons of water during a 1 inch rainfall. That’s a ton of water dumped next to your basement. Therefore, before going away on a vacation, check your gutters. Make sure leaves, sticks or other debris are not obstructing the inlet of the downspout and stopping water from flowing down the spout. Also double-check that all downspout extensions are discharging the water far away from the foundation.

Water Damage is More Than a Nuisance

The reasons to take the preceding precautions before leaving on vacation are numerous. Besides the headaches and costs, you may also experience these other problems triggered by water damage:

• Structural Damage
• Mold
• Health Problems
• Bad Odors
• Stains
• Electrical Damage

We’ve all been through a lot recently, so we hope that you will never have to experience water damage, especially after a relaxing vacation. But if the unforeseen arises, let SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County ease your mind by eliminating all traces of such a terrible event. We’ll do all the work so that you can sit back and enjoy your pictures, videos and memories.

Powerful Storms are Here to Stay

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

A tree has fallen on a home after a strong spring storm came through the Springfield area.

Does it seem to you that Missouri storms are becoming both more frequent and more violent? Well, they are. Actually, there has been a staggering rise in the number of extreme weather events globally over the past 20 years, driven largely by rising global temperatures and other climatic changes.

The UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) has published a report showing that from 2000 to 2019, there were 7,348 major natural disasters around the world, killing 1.23 million people and resulting in $2.97 trillion in global economic losses. By comparison, the previous 20-year period, 1980-1999, had 4,212 natural disasters, claiming 1.19 million lives and causing $1.63 trillion in economic losses.

A recent U.S. government report shows the devastating effects of climate change. The U.S. Global Change Research Program, a team of 13 federal agencies, was put together with the help of 300 leading scientists. It found that if greenhouse emissions aren’t reduced, the annual average global temperature could increase 9 degrees Fahrenheit or more by the end of this century. This will cause more occurrences of fires and flooding.

In areas with forests, the report anticipates that wildfire seasons could burn up to six times more land annually by 2050, damaging buildings in those regions. On the coasts, facilities and infrastructure are threatened by rising sea levels, flooding, and storm surges, which will affect $1 trillion of real estate. Sea levels have already gone up 7 to 8 inches since 1900, with almost half that rise occurring since 1993.

On top of that, a recent study published in the journal Science made known that the frequency of large-scale tornado outbreaks (events lasting one to three days, featuring several thunderstorms along with six or more tornadoes in close succession) have been increasing in the U.S., almost doubling in the last half century.

Why You Should Plan a Course of Action

"These are all things we should expect to see more and more of as climate change takes a deeper hold on our climate and on the extremities that it creates in our weather," Jeff Schlegelmilch, director of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University, told weather.com in a recent interview.

We don’t provide this information to scare you. These are realities of the times we live in. They’re also an important part of the challenges that many in Missouri will face in coming years as we’re forced to prepare for more instances of fires, flooding and wind damage.

What Can Homeowners Do?

Acting swiftly is crucial as this will lessen damage, limit further loss and reduce restoration costs. Know ahead of time who to call for help if storm damage occurs. As a locally owned and operated business SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is nearby and ready to respond 24/7 to your flooding or storm damage emergency. We specialize in flooding and storm damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained crews have the specialized equipment and resources to handle the job and get your home back to normal quickly.

What Can Businesses Owners Do?

To eliminate as much down time as possible, it’s important to plan now for disasters. Preparedness planning tools like the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program can help business owners know who to call and what to do when disaster strikes. Under this program, a business owner works with a SERVPRO disaster recovery specialist to create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for their facility, at no charge. This comprehensive document contains critical information about the business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations and priority areas.

Having this information in hand helps business owners and SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County react to an unexpected event quickly and effectively to help minimize business interruption. And, because disasters are unexpected, there’s a Smartphone app and web version of the Program available to provide business owners with access to their ERP 24/7.

So, whether you’re a homeowner or business owner, small or large, and you’ve experienced storm damage, give SERVPRO a call. Besides having a national network of over 1,700 franchises, we also have access to special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to catastrophic storms and events day or night.

Frozen Pipes in your Southwest Missouri Hotel

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

Hotel flooded during recent Polar Vortex due to burst pipes

During a recent Polar Vortex, a Springfield area hotel suffered burst shower line on the 3^rd floor causing damage to 6 guest rooms, extending down into all three levels including the main level of the hotel’s common areas, hallways, laundry room, gym and the lobby.

As you can imagine this caused the hotel staff a headache in having to relocate guests to other rooms in unaffected areas of the hotel, this can be a significant concern for hotel staff as this can lead to lost revenue and safety hazards. To compound the issue our area was facing terrible road conditions due to ice and record cold temperatures. SERVPRO teams gathered their tools and safety mad the trek to begin mitigation efforts. Our teams safely completed the demolition that was needed in many of the spaces, including the removal of ceilings, sheetrock and insulation we did minimize demolition as much as possible while still removing what is absolutely needed in order to get the structure safe and try. After 6 days the structure was completely dry and ready to make any repairs that were necessary. A quick demolition, drying response helps minimize damage in the long run and ensure repairs can be made in a timely manner, so your business is not disrupted any further. While we hope this never happens to you, if you ever find yourself in this situation, please call SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County at 417-865-7711, we will act quickly to make sure and take care of your water damaged hotel.

What to do when your Library is facing a Water Damage

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County recently packed out hundreds of books in a local library that was damaged by water during a Polar Vortex

When water damage happens, you must react quickly to protect the structural integrity plus the contents of the building.  In the case of a library the sheer number of contents that have been damaged can be stressful and overwhelming to the library staff.  To compound that stress, the longer the water is present the more hazardous conditions can become for the staff and the more damage can be spread destroying the many books, magazines, electronics and many other resources.  This is why choosing the right restoration professionals for a water damage this size is so important. SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County has the expertise and tools to get the job done.  Our team has dried out and restored several libraries in the southwest Missouri area and most recently during the polar vortex helped a local library quickly pack out, and remove hundreds of books, magazines amongst many other paper materials, and also get the job drying to mitigate further damage to their library itself. We were able to save hundreds of books by our quick action. 

It is vital for your southwest Missouri library to have a plan in place to be prepared for a water damage emergency.  By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY  Profile for your library or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. Contact Us today to set up your Emergency Ready Profile Plan.  

A Spring Cleaning Checklist for Missouri Property Managers

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

Winter is over. (Yay!) But with warmer weather comes a whole new set of concerns and projects for property managers. It’s spring cleaning time! Since there’s so much to do, this time of year can feel daunting. But by creating a thorough plan of action, you’ll have a better handle on what needs to be done.

The following checklist* will help you strategize what needs to be taken care of in, on, and around your properties each spring. While some of these tips are not strictly seasonal, they are good reminders of the maintenance you should be doing on a regular schedule.

• Reconnect with Your Tenants

If you don’t already publish one, now is a great time to start an email newsletter for your tenants that describes all of the things you’ll be doing for them as well as the actions they can take to make their spring and summer as cool and uneventful as possible.

When giving your tenants maintenance tips, do so in a helpful and considerate way. Don’t tell them what to do, rather, offer helpful spring cleaning tips, such as cleaning their windows and doors to remove soil buildup from over the winter.

A newsletter is also a great way to remind tenants about the things they’re responsible for maintaining. For instance, if you’re renting out a house and the tenant is responsible for cutting the grass, a gentle reminder can be included. It’s also a great place to remind your tenants that they can, and should, let you know about any issues that need to be taken care of.

• General Maintenance - Outside

For properties where you’re responsible for maintaining the common areas, be sure to keep up with general maintenance tasks, such as cleaning up the landscaping as the effects of winter melt away. Those things should be done as quickly as possible. General maintenance jobs such as the following are especially important in springtime:

• Maintaining landscaping
• Cleaning and repairing drainage systems
• Checking the roof for leaks or problems
• Ensuring all doors lock properly
• Checking for cracks in the caulk
• Checking the fire system

These things should be done throughout the year, but it’s helpful to add them to your spring checklist.

• General Maintenance - Inside

Now’s a good time to replace the batteries in smoke detectors as well as carbon monoxide sensors (if needed). These tasks should be done twice a year, so schedule them for the first day of spring and the first day of fall. You can also add to your list a reminder to change HVAC filters in your property HVAC systems. By doing so now you can verify that the air conditioning is working in every one of your rental units. But as a general rule, you'll want to replace pleated air filters every 90 days. The longer the filter is in place, the more dirt, dust and allergens are trapped, clogging the filter and decreasing their efficiency and the life of the unit.

While doing those things, why not check that all included appliances at the property are being properly maintained and in working order. They need regular maintenance and cleaning to last as long as possible. Be sure you arrange all maintenance work according to what’s outlined in your lease agreement to prevent any problems or miscommunications.

• Stock Up on Supplies

Many items turn up missing or damaged when you turn over a property. Others are often requested by tenants. So, stock up on critical supplies such as A/C filters, light bulbs of several wattages, various screws and fasteners, faucet aerators, water filters, shower heads, and water heater heating elements.

This is a great time of year to stockpile these as there are often sales on home improvement items during spring months when so many are concentrating on spring cleaning.

• Revise Your Budget

People move most frequently during spring and early summer months, so set your budget and calendar for additional carpet cleaning appointments, painters, paint and supplies, as well as general maintenance on move-outs. Cleaning or replacing everything that needs to be turned over in your Missouri property can add up. Furthermore, the costs of supplies and services change each year. So, update your budget and operating costs appropriately. This should be done every year, so why not now?

• Plan for the Future

You always want to provide for your tenants the safest possible environment. Part of ensuring their security is having a solid Emergency Ready Plan in place. As a property owner or manager, it’s one of your biggest responsibilities.

Now is the time to contact SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County who will help you set one up. They are your Greene County area go-to contact whether your property suffers water or fire damage, storm damage, sewage backup, mold infestation and more. Additionally, they have the tools and experience to clean and sanitize any property that needs disinfection due to COVID-19.

*While this list covers many aspects of your job, it’s important to personalize the checklists you use. Only you know exactly how your business works and what needs to be dealt with at any particular time. Make sure you adjust this checklist to include anything that’s unique or required for your properties.

Polar Vortex affects Area Churches

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

You can prepare your church for potential water damages or other disasters by getting a contingency plan in place call us today at 417-865-7711

The Polar Vortex event of February 2021 greatly affected many Southwest Missouri area churches causing pipes to burst.  SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County was privileged to be able to assist many of them in mitigating their water damage.    When water freezes it expands, this expansion puts pressure on water pipes and they burst.  Our goal at SERVPRO is to get these buildings dried out as quickly as possible to prohibit fungal growth and to allow the churches to be able to continue to hold worship services for their parishioners.

In this particular church building multiple pipes burst flooding and causing damage to around 16,000 square feet of their building including the sanctuary, hallways, classrooms and cafe.   Our crews performed a 2 foot flood cut to all the affected dry wall and removed any wet insulation, set air movers and dehumidifiers and air scrubbers. 

You can prepare your church for potential water damages or other disasters by getting a contingency plan in place.  SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County has an Emergency Ready Profile that is a free assessment of your church or business, when a disaster strikes the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile or ERP identifies prioritized points of contact for authorizing the cleanup and restoration to begin.  We have helped many churches with their disaster and getting a back up plan in place to be able to hold worship services.  The ERP provides detailed information like gas and water shut off valve locations and other information that is nice to have at your fingertips such as utility company information and facility management personnel name and contact information.  You can protect your church or business by setting up an Emergency Ready Profile today.  Contact us at 417-865-7711.

SERVPRO Office Expansion Update

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County has begun the remodeling process of our current Water Damage Warehouse building in northwest Springfield.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County has begun the remodeling process of our current Water Damage Warehouse building in northwest Springfield, our plan is to add more administrative office space for our ever growing office and marketing departments and remodel our current offices.  This warehouse is positioned across the street from our Contents and Cleaning Warehouse in Springfield and was purchased in 2018 to accommodate our operations as we had outgrown our current warehouse space.

This remodeling project will provide adequate space for our office and marketing operations staff.  Plans include a state of the art conference room, kitchen area, offices and work stations for our sales and marketing staff.  We are very excited about this remodeling addition and we know it will help us continue to better serve our customers.  

The Dos and Don’ts of Fire Damage Cleanup

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Experiencing a fire in your Missouri home or business can be overwhelming, to say the least. But it’s vital that fire damage cleanup and the restoration process is begun as quickly as possible in order to get your life back to normal.

But do not attempt to do this on your own! You’ll need to rely on experts to handle the situation. There are specific steps the professionals know and will follow to restore your property and contents to their preloss condition.

Because of the seriousness of these situations, here is a list of dos and don’ts when it comes to fire damage restoration and smoke cleanup:

The Dos

· Make safety the priority. Even if the situation looks safe and clear to you, don’t enter a burned structure until a professional has informed you it’s safe to do so. Not only may the building be unstable, but fires can start again — even after they seem to be extinguished.

· Document, document, document. Take photos of the fire damage, save receipts, take notes of conversations and keep all email correspondence. These actions help when dealing with your insurance company.

· Call your insurance agent to initiate a fire damage assessment.

· Call your local restoration company, SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County, to help with fire damage cleanup and repair.

· Limit movements inside the structure to keep soot particles from spreading.

· Change furnace filters.

· Cover dry furniture and upholstery with sheets.

· Weather permitting, open windows and doors for ventilation.

· Remove clothing and soft contents from the property and have it cleaned by SERVPRO professional fire damage restoration cleaners, not just a dry cleaner.

· Throw away all food and drink left after the fire.

The Don’ts

· Enter a building before the fire department gives you the green light, even if it looks safe.

· Start cleaning residue from walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. Everything has to be assessed by your insurer first.

· Walk on carpets or touch furnishings impacted by smoke residues or debris until they’re professionally cleaned.

· Eat food, including canned goods, that were exposed to heat or fire.

· Turn on utilities until professionally checked.

· Turn on, clean, or use any electronic equipment until professionally checked.

Smoke and soot residue left behind after fire damage can cause severe health effects if not handled correctly. Only trained experts with professional equipment that understand the complicated chemical interactions involved with soot and fire can ensure your fire damage restoration is done safely and thoroughly.

The best thing to do is get in touch with SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County as soon as possible. We will assess your property and come up with a fire damage cleanup plan that includes:

· Securing your property to prevent further damage

· Removing damaged and unsalvageable items

· Cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing of your property and belongings

· Repairing or replacing all fire and smoke damaged areas of the structure

Our main goal at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is to restore your property and make it “Like it never even happened.” As a locally owned and operated company, providing the best possible customer service is our business

What Do Our Core Values Mean for You?

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

It’s a term that’s been bandied about, but what exactly are “core values”?

Core values are the cornerstone beliefs of a person or organization. They represent a company’s heart. These guiding principles dictate behavior and can help people understand the difference between right and wrong. Core values also help companies to assess whether they’re on the right path, meeting their customers needs, and fulfilling their goals.

Here at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County we pride ourselves on living up to our core values as a locally owned company and as a team. We believe in the following 6 key values that characterize our company and help us to stand out in the community:

We recognize that our customers are the reason for our success and we’re committed to listen and respond positively to their needs. In fact, all our decisions are based on what’s best for our customer. By adhering to the above values, SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County strives to create a company that is not only a great one to work for, but also one that will tirelessly work for you.

Water Damage…What Can I Do Until Help Arrives?

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County we are available 24/7/365 days a year for your water damaged home or business.  When it comes to water damage quick action is crucial and a delay, even a small one can cause more serious damage to your property. 

We understand that during this stressful time you need someone to walk you through this process.  SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County has the specific water damage training to walk you through the difficult and often times confusing moments following a disaster in your home or business.  If you need emergency services, we recommend calling our team immediately to get this process under way 417-865-771.

Here are a few tips of what you can do before help arrives.

• Ask yourself, is it safe to stay in this home or property?
• If it is safe to stay remove any slip and fall hazards.
• 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 floor; wet materials may be heavy, be careful!

When you call our SERVPRO Representative will ask you some quick questions, these questions will help us know what equipment and tools to bring with us. Here is an example of what they will ask:

• Name & Contact Information.
• Street Address of the affected home or business.
• Insurance Information if applicable.
• Cause of water damage.
• Approximate time water damage occurred.
• Is there electricity available on site?

Once our SERVPRO Priority Responder is on-site they will walk you through the entire process of restoring your property while our highly trained technicians get to work quickly working on mitigating damage and restoring your home or business.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County welcomes new Operations Manager

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is excited to introduce our new Operations Manager, Travis Auvil.

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is excited to introduce our new Operations Manager, Travis Auvil. Travis is no stranger around here; he has had many different hats and is an integral part of our SERVPRO Team. 

Travis joined our team in 2011 and will be celebrating 10 years of employment with us this year.  He holds a bachelor’s degree in Applied Science from Missouri State University and the following Certifications from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC): Water Damage Restoration, Applied Microbial Remediation and Applied Structural Drying; he is Osha 10 Certified.  He also holds Continuing Education Instructor credentials for the State of Missouri and is part of our C.E. teaching team. 

Travis is a member of our Storm Team and has traveled extensively to hurricane and flood disasters across the country and has been a Large Loss Project Manager for many large commercial losses we have produced here locally and across the country.

When Travis is not at work, he is cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs, playing golf or riding his side by side.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Have you ever found yourself in the midst of a disaster in your business or home, whether it be fire, flood, plumbing or appliance malfunction or reconstruction you might wonder what to do, who do you call? There are many restoration companies you could call we are here to tell you SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is one of the best in southwest Missouri.  We have been serving the Springfield area since 1985, we are locally owned, family owned business.   We have over 36 years of experience, highly trained certified technicians that are available 24 hours a day, we are a trusted leader in the restoration industry. If you don’t believe SERVPRO is the best check it out these testimonials left by some of our very own customers!

The 5 women that came to clean our house after a propane fireplace malfunction left the inside of our home covered in soot were quick, efficient and hardworking. This is truly a group of professionals and I would recommend them to anyone needing a service like theirs! They showed up when they said they would, and quickly cleaned, paying very close attention to detail. They left no crack or crevice untouched!

— Artie S. in Springfield, MO

Following a fire at our church facility, we lost our entire kid's wing. SERVPRO was there before the fire was put out. They assessed the damage and went right to work. They worked alongside our insurance, guided us in inventory, and even pulled a few strings with their contacts to get us a secondary location for our programs before Sunday. We always felt in the loop and are grateful for their service. Not sure how we could of done it without them.

— Daine in Springfield, MO

SERVPRO responded quickly to my call and came to inspect our facility. A plan of action was developed in conjunction with an air quality specialist. They worked around my schedule for repairs and there was always someone available to answer the phone or questions. The employees were polite and did an excellent job of explaining the steps they were taking. I would highly recommend SERVPRO to anyone out there. DAN - you were GREAT to work with!

— Allison P in Hurley, MO

I want to thank all of you for the excellent work you did at my home after the flooding we had here! John was very professional, prompt and helpful through the whole process, and I felt in good hands as soon as he walked through my door! Everyone I had dealings with through this mess was understanding and efficient also! Now that it is all over, it really is "Like it never even happened." So your team has really lived up to your company standards.

— Clint in Springfield, MO

I'm writing this very deserving review for SERVPRO  and crew of contractors used in rebuilding our basement. We had recently had a sewer line backup into our basement and pretty much destroyed half of it.

In addition, I had just broken by leg and was in no shape to do anything but try to work with a contractor over the phone to coordinate the remodeling process. Darrel came by the house and worked up the remodel estimate and initiated the next steps, by working directly for me and with one of the insurance adjuster. The timing of this event could not have happened at a worse time. I had company flying in from CA and they were planning to stay at our home for a week. They were scheduled to arrive in 3 weeks. Darrel said he could get the work done in 2 weeks, subject to the insurance company’s approval. Fast forward to insurance approval, Darrel’s team started and finished the project in 8 days. The performance by the entire team coordinated by Darrel was outstanding in every regard.

I appreciated their professionalism, sensitivity to our needs, and their desire to achieve completion the project on time and within budget!

Lonnie S – Springfield

If you find your business or home is in need of a restoration and clean-up company do yourself a favor and call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County today!

A Look Back at 2020 Hurricane Season

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane Laura and Sally 2020

Although 2020 is now in the record books and we're not sorry to see it go, we can't help but look back at the record breaking hurricane season we experience this year.  There were 30 named storms and 12 landfalling storms in the continental United States, 6 of those were major hurricanes.  This is the most storms on record in one year surpassing the 2005 record of 28 storms. 

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County was honored to be a small part of the recovery efforts from these storms.  Our teams traveled in September to Lake Charles, Louisiana and also to Gulf Shores, Alabama to assist in the restoration efforts of back to back Hurricanes Laura and Sally.  We are privileged to be a part of the SERVPRO nationwide traveling storm team, helping other communities across the nation build back from these catastrophic storms that destroy their homes and businesses. In like when catastrophic storms and flooding hit our southwest Missouri community  storm teams from across the nation partner with us and are available to assist the needs of our community if needed. It is a wonderful partnership. 

As shown in the photo here a few large projects we worked on during this storm season, we also were able to assist local home owners as well. While in the Lake Charles area we were able to help a local Parks and Recreation restore 7 buildings at 5 different locations across the city.  These buildings suffered wind and water damage and had no power for weeks.  Our team was able to successfully bring in power needed via large generators and desiccants to clean and dry their buildings to prevent further damage. 

In Gulf Shores, Alabama in the aftermath of Hurricane Sally our team was responsible for restoring 385 units in two large condominium buildings.   

We are very proud of the work we were able to accomplish in these communities but we know that it would not be possible without the dedication and sacrifice of our outstanding team.  Those that travel and those that stay back home in the Springfield area to serve our local customers and keep operations running smoothly on the home front.  

Large Loss Disaster Recovery Team Ready for Action

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is ready and available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. Call us at 417-865-7711 for more information.

We are excited to announce that our recent addition is now equipped and ready to serve our customers. SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is part of SERVPRO’s nation-wide Commercial Large Loss Division’s Disaster Recovery Team. Our experienced Disaster Recovery Team members are large loss specialists. We are highly trained, with 35+ years of experience; we are prequalified and positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is able to dispatch trained production professionals and cut cost through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor.

We are excited about our recent addition of a 53-foot Disaster Recovery Team Trailer to our fleet.  Our trailer is now equipped and ready to roll out and handle your commercial large loss.  It is now equipped with 300 air movers, 30 Dehumidifiers, 10 Air Scrubbers, 2 Portable extraction units, cleaning supplies, tools for demolition, power distribution and containment along with a portable office. 

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is ready and available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year to help with your commercial water damage or major event strikes. Please call us at 417-865-7711 for more information. 

How to Keep Your Southwest Missouri Workspace Clean and COVID-19 Free

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

To many, their Greene County area workplace becomes a second home. Since so much time is spent there, most try to make it comfortable. Perhaps a bit too comfortable. Many have never developed good cleaning and decluttering habits at home and so transfer those behaviors to their work area. These habits can be very unhealthy in a number of ways.

For one thing, researchers at Florida State University conducted a study of over 4,900 adults across the U.S. to try and understand how their work environment affected them long-term. A major finding is that those working in dirty surroundingshad a steeper cognitive decline than their tidier counterparts. And according to a study by Brother, 40% of survey participants said a messy workspace actually causes them to be less productive. Besides clutter promoting procrastination, having to clean it up later takes time away from important work.

But today, there’s an even more serious reason why your Greene County workplace should be kept clean. A dirty desk could result in serious health issues.

According to research by the University of Arizona, desks aresome of the dirtiest and most germ-ridden surfaces we come into contact with. The average office keyboard and mouse can contain as much as 400 times more germs and bacteria than a toilet seat! And those germs could now contain the COVID-19  virus. So, for as long as the COVID-19 pandemic lasts, keeping a clean and tidy workstation has taken on elevated importance. New and enhanced sanitization measures will be needed to help prevent the spread of the disease in the workplace. 

Best Practices to Keep Your Work Area Clean

First, unplug everything. Don’t just switch things off. Powered-down electronics usually carry a small standby current that could be dangerous or damaging if circuitry comes into contact with cleaning fluids. It’s also easier to move stuff around if it’s not plugged in.

Next, clean with antibacterial disinfectant wipes the items you touch the most, such as your phone, pens, staplers, scissors, calculators, and tape dispensers, then remove them off your workspace. Afterwards, use disinfectant wipes to clean the entiredesk surface, making sure to pay particular attention to the areasthat you touch most often, such as edges and the areas surrounding the keyboard. For effective disinfecting, let surfaces dry out for around five minutes.

Computer screens bear the brunt of coughs, sneezes and just plain being breathed on, so they need to be cleaned but will require a little more care and attention than other items on your desk. As a rule, don’t apply cleaning products directly to the display as they can cause damage, clouding, and discoloration. To clean and kill the COVID-19 virus, wipe it down with a damp (not dripping wet) microfiber cloth with a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution. Avoid using paper towels or rougher types of cleaning cloths as they may scratch or dull the screen.

If you’re using your workspace every day, try to thoroughly clean and disinfect it once every two weeks. Between these deeper cleanings, focus on sanitizing high-touch points such as desk phones, keyboards, and mice once a day.

If you’re an employer, encourage employees and housekeeping staff to regularly clean all frequently touched surfaces in the workplace, such as keyboards, desks, countertops, light switchesand doorknobs. Provide disposable wipes so that workers can easily wipe down those commonly used surfaces.

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County provides cleaning and decontamination services to commercial and residential properties throughout Southwest Missouri. If you believe your facility has been exposed to COVID-19, call us immediately for a thorough cleaning and disinfection to protect you and your employees and so that the disruption to your business is as minimal as possible.

The Very Real Dangers of Smoke and Soot

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

If you’ve experienced a fire in your Southwest Missouri home or business, you may be tempted to rush back into the building once the flames are extinguished to check on the damage and your belongings. But the experts know from personal experience that this could be harmful to your health.

A study conducted by the National Institutes of Health has found that firefighters have higher rates of cancer than the general population due to exposure to smoke and toxic soot because many did not wear the proper gear. In fact, The International Association of Firefighters says cancer is now the leading cause of death among firefighters.

 “It was never really something we thought about when I first started 32 years ago. It was a badge of honor to come out with all your gear dirty,” said Peter Silva Jr., a former firefighter. “If you didn’t wear your mask in there you were a strong, aggressive firefighter, and if you went in with your mask on, you were kind of ridiculed at times.” 

So, having a cavalier attitude about wearing PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) has resulted in the illness of many firefighters. Since it’s doubtful that you own any specialized PPE, you too could be in danger from the aftereffects of a fire.

But why is exposure to smoke and soot dangerous? Because the following are toxic substances that can be produced when certain materials burn. These can remain within soot after a fire:

• Mesothelioma (cancer) causing asbestos fibers from building materials
• Carbon materials can produce carbon monoxide, ammonia, and nitrogen oxides
• PVC can create hydrogen chloride, phosgene (used as a chemical weapon during World War I), dioxin, Refrigerant-40, bromomethane (a pesticide), etc.
• Hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide (poisonous gasses)
• Petroleum based items can produce formaldehyde, acrolein, furfural, cresols, and other harmful chemicals
• Even wood smoke releases more than 100 chemicals also found in cigarette smoke.

Because of these dangers, incident commanders are now ordering firefighters to keep their masks on until they’re away from the smoke and soot and washed down by decontamination teams on the scene. Once back at the station, they’re being told to change into a second set of turnout gear while industrial washing machines clean the dirty outfits.

If fire professionals take this issue seriously, shouldn’t you? The advice of Boston Fire Commissioner Joseph Finn is priceless. He says, “I’ve buried way too many friends over my 33 years. Too many friends ... so I tell them, ‘Think about your wife, your husband, your boyfriend, your girlfriend before you take that mask off your face.”

Because of these dangers, only fire remediation experts like those at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County should be in charge of cleaning up after a fire. We have the experience, knowledge, equipment and PPE needed to safely and thoroughly clean and repair your home or business. We also make sure there are no lingering odors. And since smoke and soot affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings, we will ensure that those items that are salvageable will be returned only after being meticulously cleaned and sanitized.

Fire Extinguisher Safety Tips

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

There are many preventative measures you can take to reduce the risk of fire damage in your home, such as smoke detectors, an evacuation plan, and a fire safety kit. If a large fire breaks out, you’ll need to call the fire department and wait for help. But certain small fires may not require outside assistance and can be put out with a fire extinguisher. But before you do, the following is information that you need to know.

Find Your Fire Extinguisher

It’s smart to know the location of your fire extinguisher before a fire breaks out and you’re stuck without it. Everyone who resides in your home, whether family members or roommates, also need to know where it is. Your fire extinguisher(s) should be hanging on the wall in plain sight so that no one has to go searching for it in an emergency. Kitchens, laundry rooms, and garages are the best places to store them because heat sources and flammable chemicals are most present in those rooms.

If you don’t own a fire extinguisher, buy one immediately. They come in a variety of sizes and prices and should be affordable by all. If your rent, some states and towns, including Springfield, state that landlords must provide a portable fire extinguisher and that they properly maintain it.

Inspect Your Fire Extinguisher

It is important to regularly inspect your fire extinguisher to make sure it’s in working order because the worst time to discover it isn’t is during a fire. Check the inspection tag for the date your fire extinguisher was last inspected to judge if it needs another one. To work correctly, the gauge’s needle should only point to the green “charged” zone. Otherwise, it needs to be recharged

If you find cracks in the hose, or if it’s too brittle to bend easily, get it replaced. Be sure the pin is securely tied to the extinguisher with a safety tether. Other damages, such as corrosion, dents, and leaking, will require replacement of the unit.

Use Your Fire Extinguisher

Everyone in your home or business needs to know how to use a fire extinguisher before an emergency. Go to a safe, isolated, outside area to practice. It is highly recommended that you use the P.A.S.S. technique to operate your fire extinguisher:

• PULL
• AIM
• SQUEEZE
• SWEEP

First, pull the pin and break the tamper seal on the fire extinguisher. Second, aim the extinguisher nozzle low at the base of the fire. Third, squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent. Finally, sweep back and forth until the fire is completely out.

(If you have any doubts in your ability to operate a fire extinguisher during a fire, evacuate the premises instead.)

Cleanup and Recharge Your Fire Extinguisher

Since the extinguishing material in most fire extinguishers is a dry chemical, you can use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining residue once the fire is out. The extinguishant is similar in texture to sand, so you should be able to remove most of it. Once the loose residue is picked up, use a damp rag to scrub up whatever is left. Be sure to keep your hands protected because the chemical can potentially damage your skin.

Even if you only discharged a little of the fire extinguisher, the cylinder still needs to be replaced or refilled. If you don’t, it won’t be able to help protect you if another fire breaks out. Call your landlord or a local, licensed fire protection company to recharge it.

Contact Us

If your Missouri home or building has sustained fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County immediately. Our trained fire damage restoration professionals use advanced equipment and cleaning products to clean and restore your property, ensuring that your home or business is returned to its original condition or better.

No Job is Too Large

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is pleased to announce the addition of a new 53 foot semi trailer to our fleet.

You may not know but SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is part of  SERVPRO’s nation wide Commercial Large Loss Division’s Disaster Recovery Team. Our experienced Disaster Recovery Team members are large loss specialists. We are highly trained, with 35+ years of experience; we are prequalified and positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

I’m addition to this SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is excited to announce the expansion of our fleet of disaster recovery vehicles by adding a 53 foot semi trailer. This semi trailer will be ready and equipped to roll out to your commercial large loss or storm event. It will be equipped with approximately 200 air movers, 20 dehumidifiers and 2 extraction units as well as consumables and other equipment that is needed.

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is ready and available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year to help with your commercial water damage or major event strikes. Please call us at 417-865-7711 for more information. 

No Job is Too Large

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is pleased to announce the addition of a new 53 foot semi trailer to our fleet.

You may not know but SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is part of  SERVPRO’s nation wide Commercial Large Loss Division’s Disaster Recovery Team. Our experienced Disaster Recovery Team members are large loss specialists. We are highly trained, with 35+ years of experience; we are prequalified and positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

I’m addition to this SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is excited to announce the expansion of our fleet of disaster recovery vehicles by adding a 53 foot semi trailer. This semi trailer will be ready and equipped to roll out to your commercial large loss or storm event. It will be equipped with approximately 200 air movers, 20 dehumidifiers and 2 extraction units as well as consumables and other equipment that is needed.

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is ready and available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year to help with your commercial water damage or major event strikes. Please call us at 417-865-7711 for more information.

How to Tell Whether it’s COVID-19 or Flu

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

Remember when a cough was just a cough? Most of the time it still is. After all, a cough is just your body's way of responding when something irritates your throat or airways. Thus, an occasional cough is normal and healthy.

But what if your cough persists? Then it could be from one of the seasonal allergies we suffer from in Missouri like ragweed. But if you’re also suffering from a stuffy nose, achiness, maybe a sore throat and the beginning of a fever, then they could be signs of flu. But they’re also indicators of a COVID-19 infection. So how can you tell the difference?

First of all, don’t panic. COVID-19 and influenza have many overlapping signs and ailments, ranging from no symptoms (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms. Some of the common conditions that COVID-19 and flu share include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle pain or body aches
• Headache

Flu viruses can cause mild to severe illnesses, including those listed above. If you don't have a fever and your eyes aren't itchy, it's probably the common cold, not COVID-19. Flu symptoms usually appear from one to four days after exposure.

COVID-19 appears to be more contagious and to spread more quickly than the flu. With it you may experience loss of taste or smell and its symptoms usually appear two to 14 days after exposure. Be alert for emergency warning signs* for COVID-19. If someone shows any of these indicators, seek emergency medical care immediately:

• Trouble breathing
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• Confusion
• Inability to wake or stay awake
• Bluish lips or face

The only positive way to know whether you have COVID-19 or flu is to be tested by a healthcare provider. You can discuss your symptoms with them to determine if you meet the criteria for testing.

Getting a yearly flu vaccine is the best way to prevent infection with influenza. They’re usually available each year in the fall. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s even more important to be vaccinated against the flu to avoid a mistaken diagnosis of COVID-19 and preserve healthcare resources. And there is no evidence that getting a flu vaccine increases the risk of getting COVID-19.

Your best protections against COVID-19 and influenza are to follow the guidelines provided by the CDC – wash your hands, wear a mask, and stay at least six feet apart. Keeping your Missouri home and work areas clean and regularly disinfected are also a huge step in staying healthy. SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County can assist you with that with our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning that helps ensure the cleanliness of the restaurants, businesses, public spaces and homes in the communities we serve. Call us today at (417) 865-7711 for any questions you may have.

*This list does not include all potential symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other conditions that are severe or are troubling you.

What to Do If Caught in a House Fire

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Raging flames rip through your home – a terrifying sight we at SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County hope you never have to experience. But the reality is that thousands of residential fires occur in the U.S. every year, over 326,000 last year alone! The causes vary from cooking accidents (#1) to heaters, cigarettes, washers and dryers, BBQ grills, candles and more. Here are tips to escape a fire if one ever occurs in your home:

• Use a fire extinguisher – but only if it’s safe. Try to extinguish only small fires in their early stages. DO NOT attempt to put out any fire if it threatens your safety. Fires can increase in size and intensity in seconds, blocking exit routes and creating a toxic atmosphere.
• Scream to alert others in the house. Don’t rely on smoke alarms alone to warn others. They can malfunction or have low batteries. Get yourself and your family members out as quickly as possible.
• Follow your fire escape plan and fire drills you’ve practiced. Take the safest escape route and stay as low as possible to avoid inhaling smoke and deadly fumes. Cover your nose with a shirt or damp towel.
• Don’t waste time picking up valuables. It usually takes less than 30 seconds for a fire to get out of control. A few seconds can be the difference between life and death. Most valuables are replaceable. You’re not.
• If smoke is coming through cracks or under a door, don’t open it. Touch the door and doorknob with the back of your hand to check if it’s hot. If so, find another way out (door or window) to avoid flames and smoke on the other side. Never sleep in a room without more than one means of escape.
• If you’re able to open a door but heat and smoke pours into the room, stay in the room and close the door. If you can open it safely, stay low and follow your escape route. Close doors behind you to prevent the fire from spreading.
• If there’s no safe exit (for example, from an upper story), stay in the room and seal the door and air vents with sheets or duct tape to prevent smoke from entering. Then call 911, open a window and yell for help. Wave a bright piece of cloth or use a light so that the firefighters notice you. Children should never hide under a bed or in a closet as that makes it harder for firefighters to find them.
• If your clothes catch fire, remember to “stop, drop, and roll” to put out the flames. Cover your face with your hands while doing so.
• Do not use elevators. If the power goes out, you could end up trapped inside the elevator, which in a fire could turn into an oven you can’t escape. Always use the stairs.
• Once you’re out, go to the assigned meeting place and stay there! Never reenter a burning building under any circumstances. Let firefighters, who have the necessary training and equipment, save others and as much of your property as possible.

If you’re having to cope with fire, smoke or water damage from a recent fire, the experienced team at SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is ready to respond. We’re prepared for all the challenges a fire brings, and since we’re your neighbors we can act quickly.

8 Fire Safety Tips for People with Disabilities

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

More than 43 million Americans have a disability, and unfortunately, they also have a greater risk of starting a fire or getting hurt in one due to:

• Decreased mobility, health, sight, and hearing that may limit a person's ability to take the quick actions necessary to escape during a fire.
• Physical limitations. Many actions individuals can take to protect themselves from the dangers of fire may require help from a caretaker, neighbor or outside source.

To overcome their unique challenges in emergency situations, disabled ones, along with their caregivers, need to create a safety plan specific to their needs. Here are eight fire safety tips for people of any disability (physical, auditory, visual, and mental):

1. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping area and every level of the home. Test the alarms monthly by pressing the test button and replace batteries each year. If you can’t reach the test button, ask someone to test it for you.
2. For the hearing impaired, install smoke alarms and alert devices made specifically for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. They detect the sound of smoke alarms and flash strobe lights to alert you. Those hard of hearing can also opt for smoke alarms that emit a loud, low-pitched sound alert. Additionally, use vibrating pillows and a bed shaker that wake you up when a fire alarm sounds. Also, keep a telecommunication device for the deaf (TTD) phone in your bedroom close to your bed.
3. Always be vigilant when cooking. The kitchen is where most fires caused by people with disabilities start. Always supervise the oven or stove when cooking and use a timer. Have a fire extinguisher nearby and be trained on how to use it.
4. Live on the ground floor. Whether you live in an apartment building or a multistory home, you should arrange to live on the first floor. By doing so, you’ll be able to escape quickly and more easily in case of a fire.
5. Discuss and practice your fire safety plan with your family, friends, building managers and/or neighbors. Practice your fire escape plan with your service animal if you have one.
6. Let your local fire department know about your condition and explain your needs. They can perform a home fire safety inspection and suggest escape plan ideas at your request.
7. If you use a walker or wheelchair, make sure you can easily get through your doorways. If possible, design your home around your disability. Widen the doorways and install exit ramps to make an emergency escape easier.
8. Always keep a cell phone on or near you to call 911 if a fire or other emergency occurs.

Your home is where you should feel safe and secure. But often, danger occurs when we forget to pay attention to the simple things that could easily prevent a disaster. These risks are much more dangerous for people with disabilities, who have special needs and unique challenges in emergency situations. However, with the right planning and preparation, you’ll help keep yourself and loved ones safe when a crisis occurs. And if you do experience fire damage, call SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County immediately to repair your home and make it "Like it never even happened."

What to do About Warehouse Water Damages

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

Unchecked water can wreak havoc on any structure, it goes without saying the larger the structure the larger the problem could potentially be.  In many cases water is the single largest cause of property damage for commercial structures. The staggering size of the building alone can work against you, sometimes standing water can stay hidden for much longer causing possible mold contamination and more severe damage to contents and merchandise.   

As with any disaster, prevention is crucial.  The best way to prevent water damages is to have a plan.  SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County can develop a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) specifically for your business.  We have seen proven results of this minimizing damage and business interruption.  It gives our customer peace of mind of having a plan in place and of knowing what to do and what to expect.   This is a no cost assessment of your facility that offers the business owner or facility manager a concise profile document that contains all the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.  It takes very little time and will not take you away from any of your current projects, but will save much time if ever needed. This profile provides facility details such as shut off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.  Having a quick reference of what to do and how to do it.  We know that as many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.  Contact SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County today at 417-865-7711 to schedule a time to develop your free SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile.

How to Shield Your Home from Moisture and Humidity

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

This time of year, many in the Springfield area are affected by the high humidity – the mugginess and discomfort. But no matter what the season, protecting your home from moisture and humidity is the key to living comfortably and preventing substantial damage.

By maintaining the indoor humidity level of your home between 30 and 50 percent, you can experience significant benefits. Along with enjoying a preferred comfort level, a lower indoor humidity setting prevents excess moisture which has the destructive tendency to rot a home’s wood furniture, drywall and window frames. Other household items, like musical instruments, react adversely to dampness. Maintaining low humidity also reduces the chances of mold getting a foothold and uncontrollably spreading throughout your home. Additionally, dust mites, some allergens and pest infestations have less of a chance to thrive in a properly humidified environment.

Each home handles humidity differently. Factors that influence how a house responds to humidity include the home’s construction and design, the airtightness of the home and if the builder installed vapor barriers. The following are some ways you can help reduce moisture and high humidity levels to protect your home:

• Insulate Crawl Spaces - Crawl spaces are notorious for containing excess moisture and high humidity levels. These damp environments are a breeding ground for mold colonies. Rotted joists and damage to the home’s structure can result. But before installing insulation in crawl spaces, any standing water will need to be removed and the ground dried before laying down a vapor barrier.

• Insulate the Basement - Many basements have problems with condensation which forms when moist air hits cold pipes, walls, and exposed duct work. Adding insulation to these problem areas prevents the humid air from reacting to cooler surfaces.

• Run the Air Conditioner - Did you know that air conditioning units help to dehumidify because the refrigeration process naturally gets rid of some of the moisture in the air? That’s why you see them dripping when running. If you don’t have an AC unit, then run a fan. It won’t directly remove moisture, but a few hours a day of steady air flow will help lessen minor dampness.

• Run a Dehumidifier - Installing a dehumidifier will efficiently reduce humidity in high-moisture spaces like the basement. Mold grows in environments with humidity levels above 60 percent, so it should be set significantly lower than that. Monitor the dehumidifier; if the unit never shuts off, it is a sign of an air leak.

Possible Underlying Problems

Possible factors contributing to moisture and high humidity in your home may be:

• a leak in your plumbing system
• water entering your home due to clogged gutters
• cracked sealants around windows and drains
• landscaping or pavement sloping toward the house

So, the most important thing that needs to be done is to identify and stop the water source before water damage can spread. This may be difficult for you to do, so call in the professionals from SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County to take care of it. Our skilled technicians have the tools needed to find water damage and its source. They’ll remove all excess moisture with advanced water extraction equipment and techniques, dry your property, and repair the source of the damage. This will give you peace of mind so that you can enjoy your home again.

12 Common Disaster Restoration Terms

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

Every industry seems to have their own jargon - specialized or technical language that’s only understood by members of a group or who perform a specific trade. The disaster restoration field is no different. But if you find you’re in need of the services SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County provides, then it’s best that you understand what we’re talking about. So as a public service, the following are twelve of the most common disaster restoration terms:

1. Assessment: Usually this is the first step upon arrival of a restoration team. It begins with an evaluation of a request for assistance and is followed by an estimate of the resources (equipment, labor, etc.) needed. Any safety concerns are outlined and a written scope of work is produced outlining details of the project along with an estimated time of completion.
2. Air Mover:  An industrial strength fan that blows air at an extreme velocity to increase the rate of moisture evaporation from wet surfaces and materials when there is water damage.
3. Air Scrubber:  A high-volume air mover connected to a HEPA or carbon filter that removes particulate materials, contaminants, and odors from the air. A way of cleaning the air within a building.

4. Dehumidifier: Used in water damage and flood events, this machine removes excess moisture from the air, returning the property’s interior air levels back to a dry condition.

1. Extraction: Refers to the first step of water damage restoration during which excess water is removed using pumping equipment. Physical extraction is the fastest way to remove water.
2. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): Refers to the air quality within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants. Understanding and controlling common pollutants indoors can help reduce your risk of indoor health concerns.
3. Demolition: During this step of the restoration process all damaged materials (carpet, drywall, wood and building materials) are removed and safely discarded to ready the property for reconstruction. SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County does its best to keep any demolition to a minimum.
4. Containment Area: An isolated area of contamination within a building to prevent the spread of contaminated materials (mold, lead, asbestos). This is done by erecting a barrier of plastic sheeting or a similar material.
5. Pre and Post Testing: This testing process collects air and surface samples and sends them to a lab for analysis. The lab determines types of species of molds and fungal growth. This process is also used to identify bacteria, asbestos fibers and other possible harmful contaminates.
6. Biohazard: This term is used when there is the presence of biological waste at a disaster site. This waste may be trauma related, or arise from sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding or other biohazards that present a potential health concern. Biohazards require professional handling by trained, certified experts.
7. Pack-Out: During the restoration process, a pack-out refers to the moving of contents out of the damaged property and to an off-site facility for contents cleaning and storage.
8. Remediation: The reversing and stopping of environmental damage usually associated with water damage, lead, mold and asbestos.

Facing a disaster can be intimidating, even when you’re familiar with the terms. And dealing with the language of insurance companies can add to the stress of the situation. At SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County, we’re experts at guiding you through the most complicated disaster recovery projects. We speak the language of insurance adjusters and can assure that your project will meet all required steps, regulations, and guidelines.

How to Check for “Black Mold”

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth in a Springfield Missouri kitchen cabinet was caused by an ongoing undetected leak.

There are many different types of mold, but none are actually called "black mold", because many molds have a black color. When people use the term, they may be referring to a type called Stachybotrys chartarum (S. chartarum), also known as Stachybotrys atra. But whichever type may be growing, it’s important to note that some people may be more sensitive to mold spores than others, and they may develop respiratory symptoms after inhaling even a small number of spores. In large quantities, mold spores can cause health effects in almost anyone.

That’s why it’s important to have SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County professionally remove mold growth from your Southwest Missouri home or business and take steps to prevent it from growing back.

Mold requires moisture to grow, so it’s naturally found in areas that are damp and humid, such as bathrooms and basements.  Plumbing leaks can also trigger mold growth and should be repaired ASAP. But, what about mold growth that you can’t see? If you’re experiencing a musty smell, it’s likely that you’ve got mold growing in a hidden spot.

The following are some of the most common areas for mold to grow undetected and should be periodically checked:

• Behind your refrigerator
• Beneath stacks of magazines, papers or cardboard
• Behind the drywall in spaces with plumbing lines
• Under sinks
• Behind wallboard near leaking windows
• In ventilation ducts
• Under carpeting that was once wet
• Backside of acoustic ceiling tiles

It can get downright humid in Greene County, which is a perfect environment for mold growth. Here are some ways to control the moisture in your home:

• Install air conditioning. These units not only cool the house, they also remove moisture from the air.
• Install dehumidifiers in areas that suffer from moisture.
• Increase air circulation by installing ceiling fans and more air vents.
• Insulate water pipes. Cold pipes can “sweat” and drip.

When it comes to mold, one of the worst things you can do is to do nothing. Mold is a living organism that grows and will continue to grow under the right conditions. It may also adversely affect your health and will damage the structure of your home or business until it’s been stopped in its tracks. By the time you notice it, it’s already been around for a while. So, whether you can see it or not, call SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County to safely remediate any mold problems you’re facing.

Don’t Confuse Cleaning with Disinfecting

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

If you need help with any deep cleaning and disinfecting needs, contact us at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County.

Our homes are supposed to be a haven where we can relax and recuperate from the pressures of the world. Unfortunately, we wind up bringing home some of the world and its germs through dirty hands, shoes, clothing, and phones.

Even if your Southwest Missouri home looks clean, it could still be hiding contaminants that could affect your health. Dr. Michael Schmidt, professor of microbiology at the Medical University of South Carolina and chair of the American Society of Microbiology's Council on Microbial Sciences, says that the best way to protect your family is to quite simply to clean your house.

Dr. Schmidt points out that after washing our hands, the best way to protect your family is to wipe down countertops, doorknobs, light switches, and common surfaces with a microfiber cloth dampened in a solution of hot water and an all-purpose cleaner twice a day. "The slight abrasion of the microfiber cloth and the cleaning solution will lift and dilute any microbes that have settled on the surfaces," says Dr. Schmidt. "Since electronics don't hold up well to soap and water, use an alcohol wipe with at least 70% isopropyl alcohol to clean cell phones, remotes, and keyboards."

But cleaning shouldn't be confused with disinfecting. Cleaning means you're removing germs, but not killing, while disinfecting means you're actually killing them. This difference is important because you might clean surfaces well but you might not be disinfecting, leaving germs and bacteria to grow.

However, "Disinfecting cleaners can give a false sense of security if they are not used properly and are only necessary if someone in the household is ill," says Dr. Schmidt. The crucial areas to address are surfaces shared by family members and those that come in close contact with bodily fluids. If you have dirty windows, they aren't a big health concern, but a doorknob touched after a sneeze can be.

It’s important to read labels and follow the directions on products. Products labeled as disinfectants will adequately kill viruses and bacteria if used correctly. But if the label promises to just "sanitize" a surface, the fine print might say it’ll kill 99.9% of the bacteria, but not mention if it's effective against viruses or fungi. You want to look for disinfectants because they can kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi when used properly.

Before disinfecting anything in your house, decide whether you'll wear gloves and what kind. Rubber gloves are more durable and reusable, but disposable latex ones also work. Just remember to always wash your hands with soap and warm water after using any cleaning products.

If you need help with any deep cleaning and disinfecting needs, contact us at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County. Not only do we use the proper disinfectants, but our professionals receive the necessary training and field experience to service your home or workplace to achieve the highest standards of cleanliness and customer satisfaction.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County, 417-865-7711

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Practice Fire Prevention in Your Business

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

Fire is unpredictable. It can happen anytime, anywhere, to any business. But almost a third of office fires happen between 7pm and 7am, the hours workers aren’t present. Those fires also cause about 67% of property damage because they went undetected for a longer time. Fortunately, there are preventative measures you can take to minimize the chances of a fire happening in your Southwest Missouri business or commercial building.

According to OSHA, employers are required to perform a full maintenance check on their workplace’s fire extinguishers at least once per year. “Maintenance” means a thorough examination and repair, as needed, of all your businesses portable fire extinguishers, as covered in NFPA Sec. 4.

Besides checking that your fire extinguishers are regularly inspected and maintained according to local fire codes, each month you should take these actions:

1. Look for signs of damage, including dents, corrosion, and leakage.
2. Check the pressure gauge to make sure that the indicator is in the operating (green) range.
3. Make sure the pull-pin isn’t missing and that the pull-pin seal is unbroken.
4. Verify the date of the last professional maintenance inspection.
5. Date and initial the tag to log the visual inspection.

Your company should have a fire prevention plan in writing that’s kept in the workplace and is available to all employees for examination. Even if you have only a few employees, having it written down instead of communicating it verbally is better as that it can be reviewed at any time. Your plan should include:

1. Pertinent information about the building’s layout
2. The building’s fire protection systems and equipment
3. Emergency evacuation procedures

Space heaters are notorious for starting fires, so if you can get by without them, do so. But if you must have them, follow these safety tips:

• Require employees to get approval before using a heater in their workspace.
• Instruct that space heaters and cords be placed in out-of-the-way areas.
• Stress the necessity to turn off space heaters at the end of the workday.
• Establish minimum standards for heaters, including safety features and independent testing certifications.

Keep other appliances such as coffeemakers and toasters away from paper and other flammables. You should also reduce the amount of clutter in your building. Items like boxes, piles of paper, and other flammable materials can provide fuel for a fire, especially if left near a heat source. Before plugging anything in, make sure the cord hasn’t been damaged or frayed. If it has, replace it immediately. Wires should not run under rugs or between furniture and walls; they tend to heat up, so they need to be clear of any flammable objects.

We understand how devastating and confusing a fire to your home or business can be. Don’t hesitate to contact the experts here at SERVPRO®? of Springfield Greene County to help guide you through the restoration process.

7 Reasons Not to Ignore Water Damage

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience water damage in Southwest Missouri don't delay, call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County at 417-865-7711

If you experience water damage in Southwest Missouri, it’s no big deal. Right? Afterall, it’s only water. But water is known as the universal solvent for a good reason - because it dissolves more substances than any other liquid. That includes major structural parts of your home or business. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Here’s are seven negative impacts of leaving water damage untreated:

1. Devalued Property

The signs of water damage are difficult to hide. They’ll usually reveal themselves to any appraiser even if you attempt to paint over the stains. Also, when water’s left untreated, a repellent smell can linger which will probably turn buyers away.

2. Structural Damage

Structural damage occurs depending on the amount of water surrounding the affected area. Drywall begins to deteriorate and the subfloor can easily warp or even split, meaning you’ll end up replacing and restoring the affected areas. Even solid materials that foundations are made of, whether masonry, concrete or stone, can soak up small amounts of water through their cracks and pores. Unless these pockets of water are removed, they can create defects in the building foundation that eventually weaken the entire structure.

3. Mold

Any presence of water can cause mold to begin growing in as quickly as 48 hours. Once mold is present, it can be very difficult and expensive to treat and remove. Also, if mold is left untreated it can spread and can cause health effects.

4. Electrical Damage

Once electrical systems are damaged by moisture, wiring, outlets, and electric boxes become unsafe to use until they’re professionally inspected. Electrical water damage usually occurs to kitchen appliances, washing machines, dryers, hot water tanks, furnaces, and low mounted electrical outlets.

5. Health Hazards

A home or business exposed to floodwaters are susceptible to harmful bacteria and other microbes. If not treated correctly, toxins will linger on your affected furniture, carpets, and inside your HVAC system long after the water has dried. Those bacteria and microbes can cause serious respiratory issues and other health issues. (For other flood dangers, read, “A Flood of Concerns for Greene County”)

6. Lost Personal Items

The same water that causes structural damage can destroy many personal items including, photographs, books, electronics, and personal documents, among other items. However, if you act quickly and call SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County, we can help save and restore many of your personal items.

7. And…Bugs!

Bugs love moisture and water damage creates the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes, beetles, fleas, ticks, spiders, and more. And the hatching eggs and dying bugs will attract even more insects to the area as well as spread bacteria.

As you can see, when water damage occurs, immediate action is needed as it helps to minimize the damage and cleaning and restoration costs. SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. Be sure to give us a call so you never have to experience the seven dangerous impacts of water damage yourself.

CE Classes Offerings 2020

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County recent Continuing Education Class

Are you in the insurance industry and need continuing education credit hours?  SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is offering credited course hours for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, and staff.  These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation. 

We are excited to be offering 23 credit hours this year at no cost to the attendee. This years course topics include; Biohazard, Restoring Contaminated Buildings, Property Fire Damage Restoration, Ethics, Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry and a new class this year Restorative Drying for Water Damage.

Each class is designed to provide you with information to better service your customer, we provide lunch for free and informational folders with class outlines.  Class times range from 2 hours to 4 hours, with breaks built in and question and answer time.  Anyone is welcomed to attend our classes.  Our classes are taught by our very own SERVPRO CE Instructors David Bryngelson and Travis Auvil.    See our class list below and if you have any questions please feel free to contact your SERVPRO Marketing Representative at 417-865-7711.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County Continuing Education Classes for 2020

• February 25, 2020

Biohazard – 9:00AM – 11:00 AM

Restoring Contaminated Buildings – 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM

• April 7, 2020

Property Fire Damage Restoration 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM

• June 2, 2020

Restorative Drying for Water Damage 8:30 AM– 12:30 PM

• August 4, 2020

Ethics 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• October 6, 2020

Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM

• December 1, 2020

Property Fire Damage Restoration 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Water Damage? Know When to Call and Who to Call

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a water damage in your home or office an immediate response is crucial and will help limit the damage to your home or property.

According to the American Insurance Association water damage claims have been steadily growing faster than other home owners insurance claims. In fact 37% of U.S. Homeowners claim to have suffered losses from water damage. 

Most Common Causes of Water Damage Are:

• Busted or Leaking Pipes
• Faulty Plumbing
• Buildup in areas prone to collecting water, such as crawl space, basements, etc. 
• Defective household appliances
• Malfunctioning HVAC systems
• Natural Disasters or other weather related events. 

If you have a water damage in your home or office an immediate response is crucial and will help limit the damage to your home or property.

Three of the Best Reasons to Use SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County

1. Training – We never stop learning and honing our skills. We’re trained to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) high standards in fire and water cleanup and restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses. 
2. Equipment – We use the professional equipment needed to completely clean and remove the effects of water, 
3. Experience – SERVPRO is not some fly-by-night type of company. They started over 50 years ago and currently have over 1,700 franchises nationwide. Your very own SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is proud to have been in business itself for 35 years! The extensive knowledge we’ve gained during that time makes us the go-to disaster restoration company to call. Our experience will enhance your experience with us!

We sincerely hope that you’ll never be in a situation where you need to call a disaster restoration company. But if you do, give us a shout and we’ll make the event as painless as possible.

6 Important Tips to Remember When you have a Water Damage

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

Water spots caused from a recent storm.

1. Act quickly The severity of damage escalates the longer water sits and building components and contents stay wet, so time is of the essence in the aftermath of a flood. In fact, mold will grow within 48-72 hours, so aim to start removing water and drying the environment within 48 hours. 

2. Ventilate affected areas to prevent mold growth Mold loves moisture and organic materials such as paper or particleboard. 

3. Assess damage to items and materials.   The type of water absorbed by items, such as rainwater, water from broken pipes, contaminated river water or bacteria-filled sewage. 

4. Expose pockets of saturation hidden and concealed pockets of saturation need to be opened for cleaning and drying. Layers between building materials hold water that must be discovered and removed or dried.  Wet carpets can usually be dried by professionals with the right equipment, but carpet padding, which is like a big sponge, should be discarded.

5. Clean Conduct a thorough cleaning. After a thorough cleaning of salvageable materials, a disinfectant solution may need to be applied in case of harmful bacteria from sewage, river water debris or even standing water that has gone bad.

6. Confirm drying before reconstruction In order to prevent dry rot and structural damage, it’s important not to reconstruct or cover wood and other wet materials until the moisture content has been adequately reduced.

When severe storms and flooding hit your Springfield home, SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is here to help.  Our highly trained staff is available and ready to answer your call and respond immediately 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  If your property has been damaged by water caused by flooding or water leaks, we have the experience, expertise, and equipment to restore your property properly. We specialize in water damage restoration and have extensive water damage restoration training. Our process emphasizes regular monitoring and documentation of the drying process from beginning to end and ensure your property is back to normal. 

Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today – (417) 865-7711

After a Fire: The Importance of Contents Management

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County contents management team. Front to Back, Clara, Leah and Emily (missing Lynsey)

Have you ever wondered what happens to the contents of a property after a devastating fire loss? Some items are damaged beyond help but what about those items that are not?   It can be a very overwhelming and emotional time.  There are several phases of restoring a fire damaged property, these include: Mitigation, Contents Management, cleaning, deodorizing and reconstruction.  In this blog we will focus on Contents Management.  The SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County Contents Manager will come to your property and help you walk through this process, you might be surprised what items can be restored through the cleaning and deodorization process.

 Our team starts by assessing the scope of the work needed, prioritize items that need immediate restorative action.  Items like clothing, sentimental objects, valuables, etc. are usually addressed quickly to prevent further damage.  Once those items are removed our team gets to work on other items.    Our contents management team brings all the supplies needed to your property such as boxes, tape and bubble wrap and then carefully packs away your items safe and ready for transport.   They will also utilize our Content Management packout software which prints individual QR Codes that have an itemized list of the contents in each box and also our customers name and information to keep things organized.  Once the boxes are transported back to our cleaning facility they are carefully unloaded one box at a time and the cleaning and deodorizing process begins.  Some items go into our ozone chamber room white other items are restored with our cutting edge Fireline system which uses ultrasonic submersion tanks and dryers.

 Once the contents are cleaned and deodorized they are packed again in clean packing materials and stored in vaults in our warehouse until needed. 

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County has the knowledge and experience to help you through this process, we would be happy to answer any questions you have regarding this process, you can contact us at 417-865-7711, we are Here to Help.

4 Actions to Take After a Storm

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

This storm damaged home was the result of a recent tornado that struck southwest Missouri.

Most storms do little to no harm to your property. BUT, every once and a while the other shoe drops and a powerfully destructive storm rages through the Ozarks and damage is inevitable. If your residential or commercial property suffers damage, then it should be addressed and repaired by storm damage restoration professionals. But before a professional can get to you, you may need to take your own course of action.

1. Think Safety

Following a severe storm, you’ll reasonably be concerned about the status of your home or business. However, your main priority should be safety; yours, your family’s, and/or your employees.

While inspecting your property, look out for hazardous debris, such as nails and sharp, broken edges that may cause you injury. If there’s water damage or standing water present, DO NOT turn on the power or using any appliances.

If a tree has fallen into your building, then it’s advisable not to not enter the property. Tree limbs can be a hazard as they’re extremely heavy and may have left the building structurally unsound.

In general, if you feel unsafe, then trust your intuition and stay out of any damaged structures until the professionals at SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County make it safe to enter again.

2. Assess the Damage

IF it is safe to do so, carefully go through your property to see what damage has occurred. Start by inspecting the outside of the structure. To ensure your safety, evaluate the roof for any damage from the ground where you should be able to spot obvious damage, such as holes or missing shingles.

While inside, check for damaged building materials, leaks, and other signs of structural and/or water damage. Water stains on ceilings and walls can indicate a leaking roof, which will require repair or replacement.

As you inspect your property, take plenty of photos, videos and written documentation of the damage. This will be necessary evidence your insurance company will want when you’re filing claims for the damage.

3. Tarp the Roof

We strongly suggest that you wait for professionals to handle this as it can be dangerous. But if the storm has created a hole in your roof and it continues to rain or snow while waiting for help to arrive, then here’s what needs to be done if you have the ability and equipment:

• Clear any leaves, branches, and other debris off the roof first.
• Get a thick, high quality tarp. You’ll want to make sure it’s large enough to cover the damaged section and allow for a four-foot overhang.
• Nail the tarp to a 2×4, wrap it around the board, and then screw the board to the roof. This board serves as the anchor board.
• Then take more 2×4 boards and attach them to the roof perpendicular to the anchor board. When you screw the boards in, they should first go through the board, tarp, then roof.
• Finish by attaching the overhanging tarp to the roof eave, making sure it’s secure.

If you have broken windows or holes elsewhere, then use plywood to cover up those openings.

4. Get Storm Damage Restoration Help

If your property has been damaged in a storm, it’s important to get help immediately! Prompt action will prevent the damage from worsening and allow your property to be restored to its previous condition faster. SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is nearby and ready to respond 24/7 to any storm damage emergency. Our highly trained crews have the specialized equipment and resources to handle the job, large or small, residential or commercial.

When Storms Hit Do you Have a Plan?

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

This home was affected by recent storms in southwest Missouri.

On May 22, 2019 the Storm Prediction Center issued a moderate risk for severe weather in the Southwest Missouri area including Springfield and surrounding communities. During that weather event there were 48 strong tornadoes and 2 violent tornadoes that hit the Missouri/Arkansas Ozarks. 

The SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene county team responded quickly to numerous residential and commercial structures that sustained storm damage from tornadoes, high winds and flooding from the heavy rains that accompanied this storm system. 

Immediate action, such as roof tarping and sometimes tree limb removal to prevent further damage  and lessen the cost of repair and restoration to your home or business.  SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County has the resources to make this happen during storm events such as this one.  

Our highly trained crews have the specialized equipment and resources to handle the job, large or small, residential and commercial.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (417) 865-7711

3 Signs of a Broken Pipe

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

This office was flooded by a broken pipe.

Sometimes a plumbing problem is obvious; like when it’s raining from the ceiling - and you’re on the bottom floor. Or when a small river begins to seep under your bathroom door. But at other times, broken or damaged pipes aren’t quite so obvious. But they can still let you know they exist if you pay attention to the warning signs. By doing so, you can address the problem more quickly and avoid the damage and expensive repairs that come along with water damage. So, here’s what to watch out for:

Weird Sounds

Do you ever hear whistling in your home? You’re not doing it, nobody else in the house is doing it and strange dogs are showing up at your door? Well, whistling or whining also occurs when pipes get dented. It’s caused when water is no longer able to flow freely through a pipe. This increases water pressure and may cause a pipe to burst.

The sound can also be the sign of a worn out pressure-reducing valve. Without being replaced, it could lead to burst pipes, overflow, and other issues over time.

Bad Smells

Another indication of a broken pipe are unusual or unpleasant odors. A common issue is with the p-trap. The p-trap is the U-shaped pipe that holds a small amount of water that forms a preventative seal against sewer gases coming up from your toilet or sink and into your home. If a crack causes that water to leak out of the p-trap, then you’ll have the odor of sewage in your home.

Also, when pipes become broken or backed up, sewage can’t exit the plumbing system properly. It’s important to deal with these problems quickly as sewage poses a significant health risk to your family and pets.

Unusual Sights

Are you blaming little puddles in your home on your kids or pets? That could be one answer. But if they continue to show up, especially in the same place, then that could be an indication of broken or damaged plumbing.

Another unusual (and scary) sight that may indicate a broken pipe is a curiously high water bill. High usage could be caused by leaky toilets or faucets. Another cause may be that one of the underground pipes feeding water from your meter to your home may have a crack or loose joint. This can be caused by pipe age, seismic activity, tree roots, or animal activity.

Broken pipes aren’t uncommon and can usually be quickly and easily handled by a professional. But don’t put if off. The longer you wait, the more damage will be done and the more expensive it’ll be to fix. If you suspect you have broken pipes in your home, contact the experts at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County. Not only will we have your plumbing repaired, we’ll also fix any damage that was caused, making it “Like it never even happened."

How Storms Affect You

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

This home was damaged from a severe storm. SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County was able to quickly board up and secure the home.

Severe weather isn’t something that only happens in other areas. Even in Greene County, inclement weather can affect you and result in costly storm damage repairs. ?Here are some of the events you and your property may experience: ??

Power Outage?

A major storm can leave you without power for several days. ?In the summertime, that means you’ll not only be uncomfortable, but refrigerated food may be ruined. During winter, you may have to leave your home until the power returns, and you may experience water damage caused by pipes that have frozen and burst. So, having a generator available may be worth the cost.

Wind Damage?

When tornadoes or even strong thunderstorms sweep through, they often come with strong wind speeds and gusts that can easily pick up outside objects and fling them into your home. Those wind gusts can also knock over trees and break off branches that, if close to your home, can cause massive destruction to the roof and structure.

Lightning ?

Lightning is one of the leading weather-related causes of death and injury in the United States. Most people don’t realize that they can be struck by lightning even when the center of a thunderstorm is 10 miles away and above are blue skies. It’s estimated that our planet is struck by an average of more than a hundred lightning bolts every second and that 1 out of 200 houses are struck per year.

Hail ?

When hail strikes during a severe thunderstorm, it can cause enormous damage to your home depending on how large the hail was and for how long it fell. If hail damage is ignored, you may see your roof structure weaken over time, especially if damaged or removed shingles aren't repaired in a timely manner.

Flooding?

Floods are the most common natural disaster according to  Ready.gov. Heavy rain from severe storms or melting snow can cause flooding in Greene County. ? Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.

Let the Pros Handle It

One mistake many homeowners make is trying to repair storm damage themselves. To the untrained eye, damage may not appear severe. However, there could be further damage lurking underneath that can’t be easily seen. If that damage goes unattended, you could be looking at repairs that will take much longer to fix such as mold remediation. So, trust SERVPRO to handle it.

Here are just some of the services you’ll receive from SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County:

• Roof tarping and Board Up Services
• Category 1, 2 and 3 Water Extraction & Cleanup
• Drying of affected areas, including walls, carpets and furniture
• Cleaning and Restoration of affected possessions
• Remediating mold and mildew
• Reconstruction and Repairs

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County has been helping our local communities for over 30 years. We’re prepared with expert training and quality equipment to mitigate and restore your commercial or residential property. Our technicians are available 24-7 with our Emergency Service Team to help cleanup and repair your property damage from water, sewage, smoke or fire. Our priority is providing quick and effective service and solutions to restore your property and belongings, making it, “Like it never even happened.”

Create a Disaster Plan for Your Greene County Business

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

This fire damaged hotel was the result of a lightning strike.

Disasters can occur without warning to a commercial building. Flooding, fires or storm damage could potentially close a business for good. Here are some sobering statistics according to the Association of Small Business Development Centers:

• More than one in four businesses will experience a significant crisis in a given year.
• Of those businesses that experience a disaster and have no emergency plan, 43% NEVER reopen.
• Of those that do reopen, only 29% are still operating two years later.

A business closing affects not just the owner and their customers, but also their employees who may not be able to afford to wait until it reopens, especially if it’s closed for days, weeks, or even months. So, it’s vital to get your business open again ASAP.

What Can Go Wrong

Some of the most common causes of commercial building damage are:

• Storm damage
• Kitchen (break room) fire or smoke damage
• Fire sprinkler water damage
• Leaky or broken pipe
• Sewage backup

Some of these problems can be avoided by implementing a preventative maintenance plan and conducting regular employee safety training classes.

Don’t Pretend it Didn’t Happen

If you own a business in Greene County that must temporarily close, let your client base know what's occurred on your website, through emails and/or a customer newsletter. It may humanize the experience and encourage your customers to return once you reopen. Is there a similar company that you can refer them to? While you may lose some of your patrons, you’ll be spreading goodwill among customers and competitors. You may even be able to work out a deal with a trusted competitor that suits you both, such as a finder’s fee or commission on your customers, money that can be put aside for marketing when you’re ready to reopen.

Create a Plan

Although disasters don’t plan, you can. Create a detailed disaster plan that includes:

• Locations appropriate for employee evacuation
• Emergency contact information for each employee
• Plans to protect and access vital business records
• If there will be an off-site location that employees can work from in the interim
• The business’ insurance company contact info
• SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County’s contact info

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County can help you create and set in place a preloss plan for your business before a disaster strikes, which can mean the difference between re-opening or closing the doors forever.

An important part of that plan is the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program. Under this program, a business owner works with a SERVPRO disaster recovery specialist to create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for their facility, at no charge. This comprehensive document contains critical information about the business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. Having this information in hand helps business owners and SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County react to an unexpected event quickly and effectively to help minimize business interruption.

Our team of trained professionals are equipped with the proper tools to handle a disaster of any size, from one floor to an entire industrial warehouse. So, don’t hesitate, don’t wait, but call SERVPRO before it’s too late.

Furnace Fire Facts & Maintenance

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Keeping your HVAC units clean and well maintained can decrease the odds of your unit experiencing a fire.

The first time you turned on your HVAC in Springfield or Greene County this season, you may have anticipated two things; the warmth that would stop your feet from freezing, and the assurance that the unit would work for another season. But to guarantee that those two things would happen, your unit should be regularly maintained. Doing so not only confirms you’ll be warm this winter but can also keep you safe from dangerous and destructive fires.

Fire Hazards Near Your Furnace

A furnace is usually installed in a utility closest, garage, or basement, places that are also often used as storage areas. Because of that, many items may end up too close to the heating equipment, causing a fire hazard. To keep this from happening, there should be a 6’ radius clear zone around your HVAC unit. This is especially important for flammable items such as:

• Rags
• Clothing
• Paper
• Cleaning chemicals
• Gasoline
• Paint
• Kerosene

Fire Hazards in Your Furnace

Don’t panic! Your heating unit is safe, if it’s well maintained. But according to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment fires are the second leading cause of home fires, and nearly half of the fires in Springfield and Greene County that occur in December, January, and February.

Here are ways to decrease the odds that your HVAC unit will experience a fire:

• Change the air filter every three months. When it gets too dirty, air flow is restricted, causing your furnace to not only work less efficiently, but may eventually cause the motor to overheat.
• Have professional maintenance done on your HVAC unit yearly. They’ll check for and fix items such as faulty parts or bad wiring, which can cause the voltage to go too high. They’ll also check the bearings. When they’re tight, worn or dry, motor bearings can catch heat and eventually catch fire.

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County professionals routinely inspect heating, ventilation and air conditioning units. Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment.

Fire Hazards Due to Gas Leaks

If you use gas to heat your home, a gas leak could occur. This might happen if gas lines or certain furnace components are damaged or faulty. Gas line safety is critical to fire safety, as gas leaks cause natural gas to build up in the home, and could cause a fire or explosion. Throughout the cold season, be aware of the signs of a gas leak and call for furnace repair immediately if you experience:

• The smell of sulfur or rotten eggs
• High gas bills with no other explanation
• Difficulty breathing
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Nose bleeds
• Dizziness

There’s an old saying that you should hope for the best but plan for the worst. So, keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and near any heating equipment, and make sure each room has a working smoke detector. And by having SERVPRO regularly maintain your HVAC unit, it’ll not only save you money, but may also save your life by preventing furnace fires.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County Annual Golf Tournament

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

Golfers ready to go at the SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County Customer Appreciation Tournament

We enjoyed a beautiful day at Millwood Golf & Racquet Club on September 9, 2019 for our Annual Customer Appreciation Tournament, benefiting 100 Fold.   We had 104 golfers join us for a 4 man scramble.  Over $2900 was raised for 100 Fold,  these funds will be used to help around 30 - 50  families in our Ozarks community. We would like to thank our sponsors, Colton's Steakhouse, Chick-fil-A on South Glenstone Avenue, Dominos Pizza, Sports Clips,  Golden Corral and Wireless Trendz and around 26 area Golf and Country Clubs that donated rounds of golf to each player that participated.  We would like to thank Eldon Combs from the Eldon Combs Trivia Show for helping us host our tournament and also a big thank you to Millwood Golf & Racquet Club for taking great care of our golfers. Also last but certainly not least a big thank you to our marketing staff who worked hard to help make our tournament a huge success.  

After the Fire: What to Save, What to Toss

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

A local home damaged by fire and restored by SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County.

One of the hardest tasks to deal with after a fire is deciding what you can keep and what to toss. Many objects are obvious losses, but others may leave you unsure whether they’re salvageable or not. You want to save money, yet you also need to stay safe. So, here are some tips on how to handle some of the more questionable items that have been exposed to fire and smoke:

Food

Throw out all food that’s been in contact with smoke and/or firefighting chemicals, including fresh produce, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, opened containers and packages, food packaged in cardboard, foil, paper, plastic, cloth, screw-topped jars and canisters, and any foods stored outside the refrigerator that were exposed to smoke or fumes.

Some canned goods may still look good on the outside, but heat damage can re-cook the ingredients in the can. This activates bacteria that causes food spoilage, making them unhealthy to eat.

But aren’t foods that were in a refrigerator or freezer be safe?

Sometimes seals on those appliances aren’t air-tight and smoke can leak inside to damage food. If the electricity went out during the fire for more than 2 hours, then it’s likely spoilage occurred so all items should be discarded.

Medicines & Cosmetics                   

The Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) says the effectiveness of drugs can be destroyed by high temperatures from a fire. If you think your medicines have been exposed to excessive heat, consider replacing them. The same is true if they’ve come into contact with firefighting chemicals.

As to cosmetics, high heat can change their composition without showing any visible signs. They could end up damaging hair and skin. Plus, they can absorb the toxic fumes that go along with all fires, which is not anything you want to put on your skin.

Clothing

Clothes, bedding, and other fabrics can often be salvaged after a fire with proper cleaning and disinfecting. However, if anything is burned, throw it away. Use even stricter judgment when considering your child’s or baby’s clothing as they’re more susceptible to any leftover toxic residue.

But what about clothes that were packed in plastic bags and stored inside of drawers and closed closets? Aren’t they safe from smoke residue and odor?

No. Rapidly expanding air during a fire easily penetrates clothing even when plastic covers are used to protect them. As the air inside cools down and fresh air begins to circulate, garments covered by plastic with the odor inside are not subject to the normal airing-out process. This allows the malodors to thoroughly penetrate the garment.

To add to the problem, the plastic itself will attract and retain odor to a considerable degree and so must be removed and disposed of ASAP.

Never try to salvage any possessions that could put your health at risk. When in doubt, throw it out! If you have any other questions or concerns about what can be salvaged after a fire, or if you need to schedule fire restoration services, please contact SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County today.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County Fire Damage Restoration Services

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

A Smoke and Water Damaged Kitchen

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Springfield/Greene County Home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 417-865-7711

Don’t Let a Disaster Take Down Your Business

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

A recent commercial fire and water damage

Having a disaster such as a flood or a fire befall your business is more than an inconvenience. It’s your livelihood. Disasters also adversely affect all your employees because of loss wages due to downtime. Whether you’re a property manager or owner, you must not only consider what steps you need to take to clean up and repair the structure, but you’re also concerned with the health and safety of any staff and/or occupants. And time is of the essence. Your main concern will probably be: Can I run my business while the damage restoration process is happening?

You’re Not Alone

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County has been able to work with many different businesses and property owners over the years and have almost always found ways to keep businesses and commercial properties operating as efficiently as possible, while the restoration process is happening.

We do this by keeping a clear channel of communication open with owners or managers to figure out what your requirements are and how we can operate around you.  In this way, we find the best possible way to move forward with the damage cleanup while working around your business needs.

We can also help you take on the headaches of working with your insurance company. Our expert team will create an estimate, document your claim, and submit it directly to your insurance company. We’ll help you understand what your insurance will cover and won’t cover, and the budget you’ll receive to make these critically needed repairs.

Eliminating Down Time

The team at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County understands what it means to handle commercial disaster restorations. We’ll send out a large crew that will get the work done quickly. We can schedule around your business hours so the dirtiest parts of the work can be done when your personnel and customers aren’t present. And we can cordon off the affected areas as we continue our work, so as not to endanger your staff or slow down your business. In short, we work hard to make sure your business, as much as possible, doesn’t miss a beat.

To help eliminate as much down time as possible, it’s important to plan now for disasters. Preparedness planning tools like the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program can help business owners know exactly who to call and what to do when disaster strikes. Under this Program, a business owner works with a SERVPRO disaster recovery specialist to create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for their facility, at no charge. This comprehensive document contains critical information about the business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. Having this information in hand helps business owners and SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County react to an unexpected event quickly and effectively to help minimize business interruption. And, because disasters are unexpected, there’s a Smartphone app and web version of the Program available to provide business owners with access to their ERP 24/7.

If you do experience a disaster, call the dedicated recovery team that’s able to respond faster, get to work faster, and get you back to doing what you do best…faster! SERVPRO will help make it “Like it never even happened."

Fire: Dangers in the Aftermath

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damaged Garage from a recent residential fire SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County completed

There’s been a fire at your home or business. Once the firemen leave, your first inclination may be to go inside the structure to see what you can salvage and start the cleaning process. But cleaning up after a fire is much more complicated than regular cleaning. It’s also very dangerous. Because once the last flame has been snuffed out, the dangers from a fire continue. 

Soot Hazards

Since fire destroys all materials, the soot that covers everything you touch and that you kick up in the air is full of toxic substances. That’s why the highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County wear heavy duty personal protection equipment (PPE) on fire mitigation jobs until all the soot is removed. Here are some of the poisons found in the soot and ashes of a building fire:

• Mesothelioma (cancer) causing asbestos fibers from building materials
• Carbon materials can produce carbon monoxide, ammonia, and nitrogen oxides
• PVC can create hydrogen chloride, phosgene (used as a chemical weapon during World War I), dioxin, Refrigerant-40, bromomethane (a pesticide), etc.
• Hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide (poisonous gasses)
• Petroleum based items can produce formaldehyde, acrolein, furfural, cresols, and other harmful chemicals
• Even wood smoke releases more than 100 chemicals also found in cigarette smoke

Removing the Odors

One of the main aftereffects of a fire are odors. These can be difficult to remove without professional know-how and equipment. For instance, did you know that several factors can impact the strength of fire odors? Some of these are:

• Size - The bigger the fire, the more objects have burned, and thus there’s been more smoke.
• Length -The longer a structure has been exposed to smoke, the more deeply odor has seeped into porous materials.
• Space - When a fire occurs in a smaller room, the smoke odor becomes more intense and concentrated.
• Stuff - Not all odors are equal. For instance, burning wood, plastic and protein, all emit different smells with varied consistency.

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County has the knowledge and equipment to eliminate the diverse and pungent odors that occur after a fire. Besides the easily accessible areas, we also examine wall cavities, duct work, crawl spaces and plumbing chases to establish whether they also suffered any smoke or fire damage. We’ll ensure that they’re cleaned, repaired and that all traces of odor are removed.

So as tempting as it may be to rush back into your fire damaged home or business once the fire is out, play it safe and call SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County first so that we can safely make it “Like it never even happened."

Commercial Water Damage in Springfield Hotel

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

This hotel was flooded from a burst pipe during recent freezing temperatures

Due to recent freezing a pipe burst in an attic of a local hotel damaging the two levels below.  We removed all the affected wet ceiling tiles, dried the ceiling and walls and were able to save the carpet in the large conference room of the hotel.  

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is ready to respond immediately and work quickly to clean or restore your business. We understand that your property’s appearance is important and that every hour spent restoring is an hour of lost productivity. When you need a restoration or cleaning professional, SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you have a commercial water damage or would like to get a free Emergency Response Plan into place for your business call us at 417-865-7711.

Frozen Pipe Causes Water Damage in Springfield Church

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

Air Movers drying the walls after removing base trim in Springfield church

During a recent cold snap a frozen pipe caused this Springfield church to flood.  This picture shows a portion of the building during the drying process. The cove trim was removed to allow us to access the area behind the walls.   We utilized a large desiccant dehumidifier to dry the entire building.  The desiccant recycles the air inside, bringing warm dry air inside while sucking moist air outside.  SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County's efforts resulted in having 90% of the building dry within 3 days.

Water damage can strike your commercial property at any time. Water damage can sideline your business, regardless if the damage occurs from a major storm event or a broken water line. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If you have a commercial water damage or would like to get a free Emergency Response Plan into place for your business call us at 417-865-7711.

Two Story Water Damage in Springfield Home

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

During a recent cold snap a cold water supply line under a kitchen sink caused this Southwest Missouri basement home to have a major flood.   This before picture shows the mess that was left behind in the basement as the water spread throughout the entire home and even into the garage. SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County was called to clean up the water damaged home. Our crews immediately began working to extract the water and removed the affected drywall and flooring and cabinets to get this home completely dry.  Construction repairs are under way to get this house back in order like it was pre water damage. If you have a water damage do not hesitate to contact us anytime day or night at 417-865-7711.

A Flood of Concerns for Greene County

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County for your storm and flooding damage

Spring will soon be upon us, along with spring rains. As needed as they are, sometimes those rains don’t let up for a while and Springfield ends up flooded. When that happens, we may see images of people walking through flood waters. Many times, they have no choice as they’re trying to escape to higher ground. But sometimes we see pictures of kids, even adults, playing in floodwaters. There is something tempting about playing in water when it’s in places it’s usually never seen. But here are some serious reasons why you never want to walk (or play) in floodwaters:

• Creature features – some of your playmates may include poisonous snakes, bugs, leeches, disease-carrying rodents and decaying animal carcasses.  
• Shock value – a live power line could give way (which is not unusual in disaster areas) and land in the water you’re standing in. No description necessary.
• Junk in the funk – flood waters can carry and/or hide all sorts of debris that can harm you – broken glass, torn metal, splintered wood, etc.
• The force is not with you – it only takes 6 inches of rapidly moving floodwaters to knock you off your feet and carry you to an uncertain fate.
• Contamination abounds – many floods cause sewer overflows, releasing dangerous chemical waste and harmful microbes. These can make you very ill, especially if you swallow any or it comes in contact with your eyes, nose or open sores.
• They suck – when flood waters cover storm drains or sink holes, powerful whirlpools can form that may not be visible from above. They can pull you under and won't let you go.

If you must walk in flood water (standing only – never go into moving water unless you’ve got a rope attached and you’re with a fireman/EMT/etc.), then take all precautions. Wear protective clothing and where your skin or clothing comes in contact with the water, wash as soon as possible. Also make sure you keep up with all vaccinations. 

The dangers listed above can also enter your home during flooding. And even if the flooding comes from an inside source, some of these hazards still exist. So instead of trying to handle such a catastrophe yourself, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County who are trained for such emergencies. We use powerful pumps and truck-mounted vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from your property. Then we’ll dry, dehumidify, clean, repair and return your property to normal.

How to Prevent Mold in your Greene County Home

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

Example of Mold in Crawlspace. If you think you might have a mold problem call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County today at (417) 865-7711.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County professionals handle water damages every day and know that prompt action is required to prevent mold growth.  Mold is more likely to spread when the environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time.  If your property has seen a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry structure promptly.  If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for: 

• The presence of visible mold.
• Strong musty odor which may indicate mold is present.
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that have caused undetected mold growth.
• Excessive humidity. 

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the property for mold growth and water damage problems.  If you think you might have a mold problem call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County today at (417) 865-7711.  

Don’t Reach for the Bleach!

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

Ten Reasons not to use bleach for mold cleaning

Chlorine-based bleach has been around for a long, long, time. It was invented in Europe in the late 18th century, and many consider it the be-all and end-all solution to their cleaning needs. But in reality, it can do great harm.

Here are the Top Ten reasons why you don’t want to use bleach to clean:

1. Chlorine lacks detergency – in other words, it contains no wetting agents that allow it to penetrate soils, so surfaces must be pre-cleaned before chlorine will effectively kill germs. This is a 2-step process that requires more time.

2. Chlorine is very caustic to human tissue. It can produce irritation and burning on your skin and could cause blindness.

3. Chlorine reacts with other chemicals to create toxic byproducts and gases. For instance, when bleach comes in contact with ammonia, it can form chlorine gas, causing cellular damage in nasal passageways and lungs. The accidental mixture of these two products in homes has resulted in death. It’s also incompatible with products that contain hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid and acetic acid (vinegar).

4. It may harm your children. After using, bleach remains on surfaces and continues to emit fumes. Recent studies show that children who been exposed to bleach in their homes are more likely to suffer from respiratory illness. In addition, various studies have linked the use of bleach in a household to a higher prevalence of asthma and allergies.

5. Using bleach can hurt your pets. Your cleaning products can stay on a pet’s paws or fur. Since cats and dogs often lick themselves, they may ingest harmful chemicals. Due to their tiny size, birds can become sick upon inhaling only a small amount of the fumes. Bleach poisoning in pets can result in vomiting, convulsions, and sometimes death.

6. Bleach can kill mold, BUT it depends on the surface the mold is on. Mold grows on both porous and non-porous materials. When dealing with mold on non-porous materials such as shower tiles, tubs, vinyl window trims, counter tops, etc. you can use bleach to kill the mold and disinfect. But using bleach to remove mold from porous materials like drywall and wood can actually accelerate mold growth rather than killing it!                                                            When bleach is used on porous materials, the chlorine is left on the surface and only the water component of the bleach is absorbed into the material, aggravating the situation as this provides more moisture for the mold to feed on, where it may then produce allergens and irritants. If you have a mold infestation, call SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County to professionally remove it.

7. Chlorine is extremely corrosive to metal surfaces and can permanently discolor countertops. It can also damage floor finishes, requiring them to be stripped and recoated, which is an expensive process.

8. Chlorine discolors fibers and colored surfaces. Carpets, upholstery and clothing are just a few of the materials that may be damaged.

9. Chlorine bleach’s disinfectant power is rapidly inactivated by contact with organic matter, such as blood, saliva, tissue, urine, feces, dirt, etc. Chlorine is also weakened by sunlight.

10. Diluted chlorine bleach quickly loses its effectiveness, is unstable and can lose its disinfectant qualities very rapidly compared to other, more stable disinfectants.

Some safer and effective alternatives to bleach are:

• Baking soda and white vinegar – they’re non-toxic and non-corrosive. Use them to freshen fabrics, eliminate grease, and clean glass.
• Rubbing alcohol – effectively cleans plastic surfaces of electronics
• Hydrogen peroxide – it’s nontoxic and can be used to disinfect household surfaces. Unlike bleach, hydrogen peroxide is safe to use around food products.
• Soap and warm water – the basics! It’ll clean just about anything in your home and won’t present any health risks. Scrubbing with antibacterial soap will kill bacteria just like harsher chemicals.

Although bleach products may be a bargain, you owe it to yourself, your family or coworkers to use a product that truly cleans, thoroughly disinfects and is safe to use.

Financing to Fit Your Needs

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is excited to announce that we are now offering financial solutions for our customers through GreenSky Financing

Help Is Here with Mold, Fire, or Water Damaging Restorations Costs Green Sky Financing is Here

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is excited to announce that we are now offering financial solutions for our customers through our new partner Green Sky Financing.

If you have ever suffered through a flood, fire, or mold infestation, we understand that the only thing worrying you as much as restoring your home is how you are going to pay for it. At SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County we do everything possible to keep costs at a minimum but costs can run into thousands very quickly.  We sought out this solution after assisting customers who tried to save money by doing the demolition, cleaning, and restoration themselves. In every case, the homeowners or residents simply added to the problem and found themselves with a larger bill; sometimes much larger.

Our office has been trained and approved by Green Sky financial program to help our customers finance their restoration projects. We can assist an individual in getting loans with competitive rates and regular monthly payments, compared to the exorbitant rates and payments from a large credit card transaction.

We have the options to assist by filling out an online application at our office or over the phone.  Other than the speedy approval process, this is not a rush loan in any other sense. GreenSky understands that the restoration process can take weeks or months depending on the level of the damage. Recipients have up to four months to exhaust the amount of their loan with our office. It is not a short-term loan with a limited 18-month payment structure. Qualified customers can spread their payments up to as long as 84 months (7 years) or 96 months (8 years) at a payment that can be as low as $79 a month.  Financing terms are available for a variety of services- from deductibles, non-coverage on insurance claims, or even just a home remodel.  

For more information on what we can do for your home and how GreenSky can help, call us at (417) 865-7711 or visit us at SERVPROspringfieldgreenecounty.com

Why Pipes Freeze and How to Stop it From Happening to You

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Freezing water from broken pipes

About the only time you want to hear the sounds of snap, crackle and pop is from a fireplace or your breakfast cereal, but never from the water pipes in your home or business. And once one ruptures, it can release hundreds of gallons per hour, causing extensive water damage to your property. Unfortunately, SERVPRO of Nixa/Branson sees this happen all the time during the winter when pipes are allowed to freeze. But why do they break?

Water’s Weird Quality

Water reacts very differently from most other elements. When water cools, it contracts until it reaches approximately 40°F. After that, it expands slightly until it reaches the freezing point, when it then swells by about 9%. Since this is enough pressure to split open boulders, your pipes don’t stand a chance!

Recognize the Problem Areas

The pipes that are more likely to freeze are:

• Those exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose spigots, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines.

• Water pipes in unheated interior areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets, especially those that aren’t insulated.

• Pipes that run along outside walls that have little or no insulation.

Nip It in the Bud                  

Before cold weather sets in, follow these suggestions to protect your pipes from freezing:

• Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines.

• Close inside valves that supply outdoor spigots, then open the spigots to let any remaining water drain out. Keep outside valves open so that any water left in the pipe can expand without breaking it.

• Add high R-value insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces.

• Install "pipe sleeves" or wrap UL-listed "heat tape," "heat cable," or similar materials onto exposed water pipes.

• Keep garage doors closed if there’s a water supply line inside.

• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to let warmer air circulate around the plumbing.

• Once the temperature reaches 28°F outside, let water drip from both the cold and hot water faucets. This not only keeps water moving through the pipes but relieves built-up water pressure should they freeze.

• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature day and night. A slightly higher electric bill costs less than a repair job on a broken pipe and subsequent water damage.

• If you’re a snowbird and will be gone for a while, leave the heat in your home set to no lower than 55°F.

Many times, a frozen pipe will burst in the middle of the night when it’s coldest. Unfortunately, that’s also the time you’re asleep and so you may not be aware of the problem until hours later, compounding the water damage and the cost to repair it. So do all you can to ensure that it doesn’t happen to you. But if it does, call SERVPRO of Nixa/Branson any time of the day or night and we’ll make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Our Story

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

The Bryngelson family officially opened SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County in the spring of 1985.

In March of 1985 Harlin and LaJune Bryngelson relocated their family to Springfield, Missouri after the company Harlin worked for began restructuring.  Harlin and June had friends that had purchased a SERVPRO franchise in Northern Missouri and they quickly saw that this could be a good fit for them as well. The Bryngelsons officially opened their own SERVPRO franchise in Springfield in the spring of 1985.  Building a business from the ground up took sacrifice and hard work; working alongside of them were their children Donnae, Debbie, Daniel, David and son in law Brian Grimm.  Harlin and LaJune retired from SERVPRO in 1994 and Daniel, David and Brian took over ownership and operations and have since continued the legacy set forth by their parents. They also expanded their territory and added an additional franchise in Nixa/Branson in 2001 and additional office space in Branson in 2018. 

Since 1985 SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County has been locally owned and operated and specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property across Southwest Missouri.  We strive to continue those traditions of excellence and to bring honesty and integrity and the values of our Christian faith into every aspect of our business.  We understand that fire and water damage can be disruptive and stressful, our goal is to minimize the stress and disruption these events may bring to your life.   We know the decision to bring someone into your home or business during and already stressful time can be a difficult one to make. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. 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.

Meet our Employees

If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call today!

2 Critical Reasons Not to Delay Drying

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

This Springfield home experienced a roof leak that caused extensive mold damage throughout two levels of the home.

When flood damage strikes a property in Greene County, the results are usually far too serious for property owners to handle on their own. Professional restoration services like those provided by SERVPRO help to return a home back to the way it was before a flood. But many fear the costs and responsibilities associated with a full-scale restoration project. Unfortunately, few if any of the unpleasant consequences inherent in flood damage disappear without appropriate care and attention. To prevent long-term adverse effects from developing in your home or business, call for help immediately.

Here are two of the most serious problems that can develop when professional drying is delayed:

1. Weakened Foundations

Long-term exposure to standing water and the additional moisture that’s produced during flood damage events in Greene County can cause permanent and expensive damage to the very foundation of your home. Even the solid materials that foundations are made of, whether masonry, concrete or stone, can soak up small amounts of water through the cracks and pores in their material. Unless these pockets of water are removed, they can create defects in the building foundation that eventually weaken the entire structure. In the winter, water trapped inside those cracks will expand as it freezes, resulting in very serious structural issues that will be incredibly expensive to fix.

Fast and thorough drying processes are the only way to protect your home against these threats. SERVPRO of Greene County has the specialty equipment that’s designed to remove all unwanted moisture.

2. Mold Growth

Mold grows wherever there’s a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, around windows, or pipes, or where there’s been flooding. It can grow most anywhere, but especially where it finds food, such as on porous surfaces like paper, cardboard, wallboard and wood. Mold can also grow on many nonporous materials such as concrete and brick. And with the right temperature, moisture and food, mold will grow most anywhere. A rolling stone may gather no moss, but one sitting still sure can. Preventative treatments can help, but the only reliable solution to developing mold problems is rapid drying and dehumidification that SERVPRO offers.

Add to those two problems the fact that water, often called the universal solvent, can slowly dissolve, break apart and destroy most of the materials in your home or business and you can see why you need to call SERVPRO immediately should you experience a flood or water damage of any type.

Preventing Frozen Pipes in your Springfield Home

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

If you find yourself with a broken pipe and the mess that sometimes comes with it do not hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County at 4

If you are like most of us, right now you are busy making preparations for the upcoming holidays.  With the hustle and bustle of the season it is easy to forget the extreme weather we are surely to experience soon.  Please remember to adequately prepare your home and property for the harsh winter months ahead, especially your pipes and water systems.

With these huge temperature drops water will freeze, when water freezes, it expands, this can mean trouble for your pipes. If the temperature of your pipes drops below 32 degrees, even for a very short amount of time, it can result in a broken pipe, this can cause water damage to your home. Take the following precautions now to avoid a major catastrophe in your home or property.

• If your home has a crawlspace close the vents and secure the crawlspace door. For extra precaution stuff insulation around all the openings.
• Make sure your pipes are well-insulated.
• Keep your garage door closed, especially if you have bathrooms, kitchens or laundry rooms in or around the garage walls.
• If your bathroom pipes run along an outside wall, keep the cabinet doors open to allow heat inside especially during particularly cold spells.
• Never turn off the heat when you leave home during the winter. Instead, set the temperature to at least 55 degrees F.

Outside Your Home

• Disconnect and store garden hoses. If your home has a separate shut-off for external faucets, turn it off and drain the water from those faucets.
• Know where your main waterline shut-off is before a problem arises.

 Here are some signs you have frozen pipes.

• You turn on the faucet but nothing comes out.
• You turn on the faucet and just a slight trickle comes out.
• Frost is visible on the pipe.
• The water is turned off but you hear rushing water. This could be a sign that you have a leak somewhere. You should turn off the main waterline immediately and investigate.

Hopefully these tips will help you prepare your home for the extreme temperature drops we see in the Springfield area.  If you find yourself with a broken pipe and the mess that sometimes comes with it do not hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County at 417-865-7711.  When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial.  A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.  We are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week for water emergencies, large or small.   Our fully trained staff has extensive cleaning and restoration experience to get your property back “like it never even happened”.

Had a Disaster? How to Choose the Right Restoration Company

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County, we are here to make your disaster "Like it never even happened."

Disasters are devastating. Whether caused by water, fire, or storms, they can turn your world upside down in a matter of moments. Even the strongest of us can feel helpless, not knowing where to turn after a catastrophe. But fortunately for you, SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is nearby and stands ready to help you.

But why SERVPRO? After all, there are other companies who make the same claims. Why not just pick one out of a hat? Consider this: if you have to undergo surgery due to a dangerous and life-threatening condition, wouldn’t you insist on having a surgeon with extensive training, years of experience, and a sterling reputation to get you back to good health? Well, your property is probably the biggest investment you’ll make in your lifetime, so it’s also very important to have a company with the knowledge, experience and reputation you can trust to return your property to its preloss condition or better and so make your disaster "Like it never even happened."

Three of the Best Reasons to Use SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County

1. Training – We never stop learning and honing our skills. We’re trained to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) high standards in fire and water cleanup and restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses. Additionally, our industry professionals regularly attend SERVPRO continuing education classes.
2. Equipment – We use the professional equipment needed to completely clean and remove the effects of water, mold, soot, smoke, odor and more. During the past few years, there’s been a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County to restore your property quickly, reliably, and more effectively.
3. Experience – SERVPRO is not some fly-by-night type of company. They started over 50 years ago and currently have over 1,700 franchises nationwide. Your very own SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is proud to have been in business itself for 33 years! The extensive knowledge we’ve gained during that time makes us the go-to disaster restoration company to call. Our experience will enhance your experience with us!

We sincerely hope that you’ll never be in a situation where you need to call a disaster restoration company. But if you do, give us a shout and we’ll make the event as painless as possible.

Had a Disaster? How to Choose the Right Restoration Company

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Nixa / Branson, we are here to make your disaster "Like it never even happened."

Disasters are devastating. Whether caused by water, fire, or storms, they can turn your world upside down in a matter of moments. Even the strongest of us can feel helpless, not knowing where to turn after a catastrophe. But fortunately for you, SERVPRO of Nixa / Branson  is nearby and stands ready to help you.

But why SERVPRO? After all, there are other companies who make the same claims. Why not just pick one out of a hat? Consider this: if you have to undergo surgery due to a dangerous and life-threatening condition, wouldn’t you insist on having a surgeon with extensive training, years of experience, and a sterling reputation to get you back to good health? Well, your property is probably the biggest investment you’ll make in your lifetime, so it’s also very important to have a company with the knowledge, experience and reputation you can trust to return your property to its preloss condition or better and so make your disaster "Like it never even happened."

Three of the Best Reasons to Use SERVPRO of Nixa / Branson

1. Training – We never stop learning and honing our skills. We’re trained to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) high standards in fire and water cleanup and restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses. Additionally, our industry professionals regularly attend SERVPRO continuing education classes.
2. Equipment – We use the professional equipment needed to completely clean and remove the effects of water, mold, soot, smoke, odor and more. During the past few years, there’s been a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of Nixa / Branson to restore your property quickly, reliably, and more effectively.
3. Experience – SERVPRO is not some fly-by-night type of company. They started over 50 years ago and currently have over 1,700 franchises nationwide. Your very own SERVPRO of Nixa / Branson is proud to have been in business itself for 33 years! The extensive knowledge we’ve gained during that time makes us the go-to disaster restoration company to call. Our experience will enhance your experience with us!

We sincerely hope that you’ll never be in a situation where you need to call a disaster restoration company. But if you do, give us a shout and we’ll make the event as painless as possible.

Restoring your Springfield Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

Restoration of a Commercial Property After a Flooding Event

Flooding and water damage events at Springfield commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. 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.

Meet Our Crew

Fire Damage Do's and Don'ts

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

Fire in Crawl Space Causes Smoke Damage in Springfield home.

Emergency Fire Damage Tips

DO

• Keep hands clean
• Limit movement in the home to prevent further damage.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on carpeted traffic areas to prevent more soiling.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Wipe soot from chrome on faucets and appliances then protect with a light coating of lubricant.

DON'T

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

After any fire 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!

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County at 417-865-7711 we can help assess your situation!

Do You Have Storm “Four” Knowledge?

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

Storm Damage Preparation in Springfield

Throughout life, there are many things you plan for. You try to structure your education so you’ll have a fulfilling and well-paying job. You may plan for a vacation weeks or even months ahead. Maybe you planned for the type of home you wanted, gathering blueprints, getting contractors lined up, choosing color swatches, etc.

But unfortunately, many of us don’t plan for disasters, natural or man-made. When they happen, people may say things like, “But I never saw it coming,” and “We didn’t have time to react.” Well, the time for action is long before a tragedy befalls you or your property!

According to FEMA, there are four main ways to prepare for storms you can and should do NOW:

1. Get informed
2. Make a plan
3. Assemble a kit
4. Maintain your plan and kit

1. Get Informed - Many areas have local emergency management offices and/or a Red Cross Chapter. These organizations can provide you vital information concerning local emergency response arrangements, evacuation plans and emergency shelters. It’s also a good idea to invest in a NOAA Weather Radio that will alert you during any time of the day or night for when possible destructive conditions materialize.
2. Make a Plan

• Conduct a family meeting that will inform everyone what your emergency plans are.
• Have an out-of-town contact that each one knows the number to. This is who you’ll call to inform where you are after a disaster strikes.
• Teach your children how and when to call emergency numbers.
• Have a prearranged location picked out as the place your family will meet in case you get separated from one another. Make sure everyone knows not only the best escape routes but the safe places to go inside your home if a tornado approaches.
• Know how and when to turn off water, gas and electricity at the main switches or valves.
• Have fire extinguishers ready and show everyone where they’re located and how to use them.
• Inventory your possessions and keep that list along with important documents in a safe deposit box.
• Keep your homeowners or renter’s insurance company’s telephone numbers readily available. (Also, be sure to keep SERVPRO® of Springfield/Greene County’s phone number close at hand!)

3. Assemble a Kit – this is a collection of basic family needs you’ll need after a disaster. These should be stored in a portable container and enough to last you three days. It should include food, water, a battery powered radio, a flashlight, etc. You can find a full list of items for your survival kit at redcross.org.
4. Maintain Your Plan – every six months, review your plans with your family, conduct evacuation drills and restock expiring food and perishables in your kit. Also, confirm your fire extinguisher is recharged and smoke alarm batteries are replaced.

Alan Lakein, an author on personal time management, once wrote, “Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now.” That’s very empowering when you think about it. It’s almost like time traveling without a DeLorean or having to mess with all that space-time continuum stuff. Planning ahead for emergencies can also bring you great peace of mind. Think of it as an insurance policy against future disasters without the pesky premiums.

My House is Flooded, Now What?

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

A Flooded Basement After Recent Storms

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

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 (417) 865-7711

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.

What To Do After a Storm Hits Your Home or Business

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

Recent Storm leaves Flooded Basement

What you can do until help arrives

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!

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.

Have A  Storm or Water Damage Emergency? Call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County at (417) 865-7711

Be Prepared for Winter Weather in Springfield Missouri 

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

Be Prepared for Winter Weather in Springfield Missouri 

What you should know about Winter Weather in Springfield, Missouri 

• Know what to do before, during, and after a winter storm.

• Listen to local officials.

• Have emergency supplies in place at home, at work, and in the car.

• Stay off the road during and after a winter storm.

• Have a carbon monoxide alarm in place, especially if using alternative heating devices.

• Use safe heating devices.

• Have an Emergency plan in place with phone numbers to call in case of disaster such as Fire or Water Damages.  Call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County 24 hours a day at 417-865-7711.

Emergency Kit

• Include enough food, water, meds & anything used daily in your emergency kit to last for at least 72 hrs 
• Before a Winter Storm: Have emergency supplies ready in your home; when the storm hits, stay put and off the roads. WinterSafety
• Get ahead of winter storms by making sure your emergency kit for your car is fully stocked
• Keep water, non-perishable food, and an extra set of warm clothes in the car in case you get stranded during winter weather. 
• Prepare for winter by keeping an emergency supply kit in your car with these extras:
  • Jumper cables
  • Flares or reflective triangle
  • Ice scraper
  • Car cell phone charger
  • Cat litter or sand for better tire traction

Pet Safety

• WinterSafety Tip: Bring your furry friends inside when temperatures take a dip! 
• Tip: Wipe dog’s paws after each trip outside. Ice-melting chemicals or rock salt can cause irritation, sickness or be fatal #WinterSafety
• WinterSafety Tip: Bring your furry friends inside when temperatures take a dip! 
• Your pet may think antifreeze is sweet, but it can be deadly. 

Heating Safety

• Space heaters cause 1/3 of home heating fires and 4/5 home heating fires deaths. 
• Heating is the 2nd leading cause of home fires after cooking. 

• Winter fires can be deadly. When using your fireplace always keep a metal or heat tempered screen around it to stay safe. 

• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from a fireplace, wood stove, or space heater.

• If you’re running a portable generator, you need to have a working Carbon Monoxide alarm in your home. 

• Winter Safety Tip: NEVER use a generator, camp stove, charcoal grill, gasoline or propane heater indoors.
• NEVER heat a home by using the stovetop or oven. 
• Keep generators outside at least 20 feet away from doors, windows, and vents to avoid accidental CO poisoning.
• Wear layered clothing and use blankets to stay warm during a Winter Storm.

For more tips visit https://www.ready.gov

If your home is damaged by a winter weather storm call SERVPRO Springfield/Greene County at 417-865-7711.

For Immediate Service in Springfield/Greene County

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County provides 24-hour emergency service.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in the greater Springfield and Greene County area. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Whether your Springfield home needs emergency flood damage or your crawlspace has mold, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best.

So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians 

24-Hour Emergency Service
Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
Locally Owned and Operated
Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 
Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 417-865-7711

Faster to your Springfield/Greene County Water Damage Event

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is Faster to Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 417-865-7711

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County 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. 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.

Meet Our Crew

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in the greater Springfield area.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 417-865-7711

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County 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. 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.

Meet Our Crew

Why SERVPRO

The Top 10 Ways to Avoid Fires

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

A recent garage fire that caused significant damage to a Springfield home.

Fires will always happen, but we prefer that you personally never have to experience one! If you do, click here for some after the fire do’s and don’ts while waiting for help to arrive.

Fires devastate homes and businesses and cause damage in numerous ways. Not only is fire destructive, but it also leaves behind lingering and pervasive odors, not to mention extensive water damage that results from the firefighter’s efforts to extinguish the flames. The professionals at SERVPRO® of Springfield/Greene County have the specialized training, equipment and experience that will restore your home or place of work to preloss conditions.

To increase the odds that you’ll stay safe, consider these Top 10 causes of fire. Use this information to plan how to make your home or business a safer place:

1. Cooking: Avoid splattering grease, never leave kitchens unattended and keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
2. Heating Equipment: Have your furnace checked regularly and keep portable heaters away from combustibles.
3. Smoking: If you smoke in or near the house, always make sure the cigarette butt is fully put out and make the bedroom off-limits to smoking.
4. Electricity: Look out for frayed cords, the overuse of extension cords and overloaded outlets, and don’t run electrical wires under rugs or heavy furniture.
5. Candles: Never leave them unattended and keep them out of the reach of children or pets.
6. Children: Keep them away from matches and lighters to suppress any curiosity they may have about what happens when different items burn.
7. Inadequate wiring: It’s often found in older homes and apartments. Have a professional electrician check yours.
8. Flammable Liquids: Keep fuels, solvents, cleaning agents, thinners, adhesives, and paints away from heat sources.
9. Holiday Decor: Keep your Christmas tree well-watered and away from heat sources. Check decorative lights for damage and never place candles on or near Christmas trees.
10. Grills: Keep them away from your home, deck rails, tablecloths and tree limbs. And never use them indoors, including your garage.

SERVPRO® of Springfield/Greene County has the knowledge, professional equipment and ability to eliminate all traces of a fire. Besides the easily accessible areas, we also examine wall cavities, duct work, crawl spaces and plumbing chases to establish whether they also suffered any smoke or fire damage. We ensure that all fire damage is cleaned, repaired, or removed and leave your home or business as if it never even happened.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County IICRC Certified Firm

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County Certified IICRC Firm

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County has been an IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified firm since 2015. The IICRC sets the gold standards for the Cleaning and Remediation industry, of which SERVPRO is an industry leader. The following is from the IICRC official website (http://www.IICRC.org).

IICRC Certified Firms have earned the right to display the cleantrust logo as a symbol of quality. In order to achieve IICRC-certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise.

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 actively pursues relationships with fiber producers, carpet and fabric mills, furnishing manufacturers and retailers, and others affiliated with the industry. The use of IICRC-certified service professionals is specified in leading manufacturers’ maintenance brochures and warranties.”

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is honored to be among the select organizations to receive this certification. 

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is Hiring a Production Technician!

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County is hiring!

Do you love helping people through difficult situations?

Then, don’t miss your chance to join SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County as a new Production Technician. In this position, you will be making a difference each and every day. We have a sincere drive toward the goal of helping make fire and water damage “Like it never even happened”!

 Our Franchise is seeking someone who is comfortable working hard in challenging situations, enjoys meeting new people, has excellent communication skills, and is a serious multi-tasker. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you’ll thrive in this work environment. Are you highly dependable and super-excited about routinely exceeding expectations? Then you may be our perfect hero!

As a valued SERVPRO^® Franchise employee, you will receive a competitive pay rate, with opportunity to learn and grow.

Primary Responsibilities

• Inventory and load the work vehicle with equipment, products, and supplies needed for each project.
• Maintain a clean and organized vehicle and clean equipment appearance.
• Prepare rooms/areas for work activities. Set up staging area and equipment for each project.
• Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.
• Perform production processes following SERVPRO^® production guidelines per work order per crew chief directions.
• Ensure clear two-way communication with crew chief and other technicians (especially regarding customer needs and concerns).
• Perform end-of-day/end-of-job cleanup and breakdown. Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.

Position Requirements

• Effective oral communication
• Basic math skills
• Experience in cleaning/restoration preferred
• High school diploma/GED
• IICRC certifications preferred
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds regularly, occasionally up to 100 pounds with assistance
• Ability to climb ladders, work at ceiling heights, work in tight spaces (e.g., crawls spaces, attics)
• Ability to sit/stand/walk for prolonged periods of time
• Ability to repetitively push/pull/lift/carry objects
• Ability to work with/around cleaning products/chemicals
• Ability to travel locally and out of state when necessary
• Ability to successfully complete a background check subject to applicable law

To apply please click the Contact Us portion of our website and send us your resume. 

SERVPRO^® of Springfield/Greene County is an EOE M/F/D/V employer

When DIY is Not a Good Idea

9/20/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Springfield Missouri

Many people attempt to save money on the expense of water or mold damage restoration by skipping the process of hiring restoration professionals. Instead, they try to handle the tear-out and dry-out processes themselves. For many “minor” spills (those only involving a few gallons of water at most), this can be fine as long as the spill is cleaned up quickly and occurs well away from walls or other places where the moisture from the spill can reach a gap and seep into the subfloor.

But that kind of DIY is usually NAGI (not a good idea). Whenever there's a major amount of moisture damage, it's very important for a professional restoration service like SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County to be brought in to manage the dry-out process. Without the help of a trained and experienced expert, someone who attempts DIY moisture removal may miss pockets of moisture in the building, leading to:

• Damaged building infrastructure - moisture can seep into the structural materials behind the walls and under the floor, causing damage. But with proper dry-out and moisture remediation, much of the damage can be mitigated or even avoided.

• Warped flooring - when moisture seeps into subfloor materials, it can cause wooden boards to shift, bend, and cup. This creates an uneven floor and poses a safety risk to the building’s occupants.

• Mold growth - left unchecked, moisture trapped in a building can promote the growth of mold, particularly in cool, dark places such as basements and in-between walls. As any IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) Specialist can tell you, mold spores in the air pose a serious respiratory risk to children and people with respiratory conditions such as asthma.

As a general rule of thumb, if the water or mold damage to your home or business is severe enough to warrant an insurance claim, then you shouldn't try to handle the restoration process on your own. Damage that occurs as a result of DIY restoration efforts is typically not covered by insurance, and restoration work can be hazardous for those who haven't been trained for the risks associated with working with dirty water, mold, and water-damaged structures.

As a character of Clint Eastwood once said, “A man’s got to know his limitations.” So, if you don’t have experience making water or mold damage “Like it Never Even Happened”, then give SERVPRO of Springfield Greene County a call immediately!

Our Fleet is Growing Again

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County newest fleet addition, a New Promaster Cargo Van.

SERVPRO Of Springfield/Greene County recently added additional new equipment to better serve our residential and commercial customers in Southwest Missouri.   We have added a Dodge Promaster commercial cargo van to our fleet complete with a  HydraMaster Dual capacity vacuum and water outlet for steam cleaning and extraction. 

We have added a new mold and duct cleaning trailer with state of the art cleaning tools and industrial air compressor, a cutting edge Invisitag tracking system with GPS tracking and numerous low velocity air moving fans.  The additional equipment better positions us to handle our increasing growth as well as very large commercial building water and fire disasters that require large amounts of equipment and expertise. 

We also have regional large loss connections with other SERVPRO operations in the area to team up with additional large loss equipment and labor so we can handle the largest jobs that happen in Southwest Missouri.

Commercial Fire Damage Southwest Missouri

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

This is a recent Fire and Water Damage in a Commercial building in Southwest Missouri.

This is a recent Fire and Water Damage in a Commercial building in Southwest Missouri. This building was adjacent to a warehouse that was completely demolished by fire.  SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County was called and we completed emergency services by extracting and cleaning the flooded floors left behind from the Fire Department when putting out the fire. Our employees worked diligently through the night to extract the water left over from the Fire Department.  The floors were also covered in soot as you can see in the photos,  so we steam cleaned the floors, to keep the rest of the plant from getting cross contaminated with soot.

Fire and smoke damage is especially destructive. Like this situation, in many instances your Southwest Missouri property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. We specialize in fire and water damage restoration; it’s the cornerstone of our business. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us restore your home or business to pre-fire condition.

Recent Flooding Causes Damage Downtown Springfield Missouri

5/28/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water damage that happened during recent flooding in downtown Springfield, Missouri.

Water Damage Springfield, Missouri

This is a Commercial Water damage that happened during recent flooding in downtown Springfield, Missouri.  Crews from SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County worked through the night to get the water extracted and the business operational the next day.  As many as 50% of businesses close after a major disaster.   Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.  Does your business have a plan for a disaster emergency? If not you may contact us today to get started on your Emergency Ready Plan at (417) 865-7711

 Tips for Water Damages

When it comes to commercial and residential restoration services, SERVPRO is a leader in the industry. Available 24 hours a day and seven days a week, SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County responds quickly to your Springfield business’s fire, water, and mold damage emergencies. No commercial project is too big, because we have access to the resources of a nationwide network of 1,650 Franchises.

Commercial Building Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County offers professional cleaning and preventative maintenance for your carpet and upholstery that keeps your property looking its best. Our cleaning system offers a number of specialized cleaning options to match your needs. Whether your business needs a deep cleaning or a persistent odor removed, you can trust SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County. Learn more about our commercial cleaning services

SERVPRO of Springfield recognizes Fire Prevention Week

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield recognizes Fire Prevention Week

This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” represents the final year of our three-year effort to educate the public about basic but essential elements of smoke alarm safety.

Why focus on smoke alarms three years in a row? Because NFPA’s survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which may put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire. For example, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced.

As a result of those and related findings, we’re addressing smoke alarm replacement this year with a focus on these key messages:

• Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
• Make sure you know how old all the smoke alarms are in your home.
• To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm; the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date.

http://www.fpw.org/

Commercial Water Damage in Springfield

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage in Springfield office

Commercial Water Damage After Major Flooding in Springfield / Greene County

After a recent flooding event this Springfield Commercial building had a sump pump failure in the basement portion of their building resulting in over two inches of water throughout the entire basement level.  Within an hour the SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County crew was on the scene and removed hundreds of gallons of water.  Our crew pumped the water out then extracted the flooring using a truck mounted machine that has 100 pounds per square inch vacuum force.  The baseboards were also removed and the surfaces were prepped to set the drying equipment and dehumidifiers. The structure was dry after about 4 days, our crews reattached the baseboards the carpets were steamed and furniture cleaned and replaced. 

If your Springfield area home or business has a water damage, call SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County at 417-865-7711  

Springfield and Greene County Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Springfield Mold Remediation

f you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene C ounty specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 417-865-7711

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists Can Restore Your Springfield Area Home

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

We Are an IICRC Firm

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County 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.

About SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County 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.

Click here to Meet Our Crew

IICRC Certifications

• Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT)

This four-day course covers mold and sewage remediation techniques and how to perform these procedures in the field while protecting the health and safety of workers and occupants on your property.

• Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD)

Technicians learn to dry water-damaged structures efficiently and effectively using monitoring devices, extraction systems, and drying equipment. This three-day course includes comprehensive classroom and hands-on training to develop technical and practical drying expertise.

• Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT)

This two-day course covers pre-inspection, fabric identification, cleaning chemicals and equipment, and proper cleaning techniques for residential and commercial applications.

• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT)

Technicians will learn about types of smoke and fire damage, job planning, equipment, and practical cleaning procedures in fire and smoke settings. This two-day course also includes instruction on odor and deodorization concepts.

• Odor Control Technician (OCT)

Technicians learn to address odors and deodorization techniques. This one-day course covers odor control caused by biological sources such as decomposition, urine contamination, mold, and other sources.

• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician (UFT)

Technicians learn fiber identification and upholstery cleaning methods. This two-day course also covers identifying upholstery cleaning problems before fabrics shrink, bleed, crown, or distort.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT)

This three-day course covers the concepts of water damage and its effects in residential and commercial settings. Technicians learn techniques and procedures to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination such as mold.

SERVPRO of Springfield recognizes Fire Prevention Week

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield recognizes Fire Prevention Week

This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” represents the final year of our three-year effort to educate the public about basic but essential elements of smoke alarm safety.

Why focus on smoke alarms three years in a row? Because NFPA’s survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which may put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire. For example, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced.

As a result of those and related findings, we’re addressing smoke alarm replacement this year with a focus on these key messages:

• Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
• Make sure you know how old all the smoke alarms are in your home.
• To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm; the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date.

http://www.fpw.org/

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County Referral Program

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Our Referral Bonus Program is a great opportunity to partner with other businesses in our Southwest Missouri community.

Are you a plumber? HVAC technician? Exterminator? Contact us to find out more about SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County, Nixa & Branson's referral bonus program. We offer referral bonuses simply for referring a potential customer to us. Our friends at Kimberling City Plumbing recently referred a customer to us and received their bonus.  We enjoy working with other local businesses and will take care of your customer.   For more information please contact us at 417-865-7711 and ask for our sales team.

See what our past customers have to say about us here - Customer Testimonials 

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. 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. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County.

When Storms or Floods Hit Springfield, SERVPRO is ready!

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Springfield/Greene County.

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County 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

At SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County  we are local family owned and operated business with 30 plus years of experience, 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 Springfield/Greene County area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams http://www.SERVPROspringfieldgreenecounty.com/storm-flooding-restoration that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 417-865-7711

Does Your Springfield Home Have A Mold Problem?

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

In Springfield mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 417-865-7711

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County Host CE Class

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County May 9, 2018 CE Class

May 19, 2018 Continuing Education Class Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry

On May 9, 2018, SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County was privileged to host a 4 Hour Continuing Education Class, "Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry" at Pasta Express in Springfield, Missouri.  Richard Hastings, Missouri State Director for SERVPRO instructed the class.

We had a great turnout and learned much about Mold in the Restoration Industry. Attendees also learned about our equipment and how it is used to aid and assist mold remediation.    

We are very grateful to all of those that were able to attend our class. Please Keep an eye on our webpage for future Continuing Education Class dates.

Click on the Community Events Link Below for future CE Class dates.

Community Events

Mold in Southwest Missouri Kitchen

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in Springfield/Greene County kitchen caused by leaky faucet.

We recently completed an extensive mold remediation in a kitchen in a Southwest Missouri home.  The mold was caused simply by a leaky faucet.  The photo shown is during the cleaning process.   SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County's professionally certified crews use containment while cleaning to keep the mold spores from spreading through out the home.  This is done by using air scrubbers to capture the spores in the work area and pulling the air outside while work is being performed.  Due to the amount of mold the kitchen had to be completely demoed down to the stud framing.  This allows us to dry the structure and remove, clean and disinfect the mold. This demonstrates how something as simple as a leaky faucet can cause damage to your home.

Commercial Water Damage in Southwest Missouri

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

This hotel was flooded from a burst pipe during recent freezing temperatures.

Due to recent freezing a pipe burst in an attic of a local hotel damaging the two levels below.  We removed all the affected wet ceiling tiles, dried the ceiling and walls and were able to save the carpet in the large conference room of the hotel.  

SERVPRO of Springfield / Greene County is ready to respond immediately and work quickly to clean or restore your business. We understand that your property’s appearance is important and that every hour spent restoring is an hour of lost productivity. When you need a restoration or cleaning professional, SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you have a commercial water damage or would like to get a free Emergency Response Plan into place for your business call us at 417-865-7711.

Frozen Pipe causes water damage in Springfield Church

3/9/2018 (Permalink)

Air movers drying the walls after removing base trim in Springfield church.

During a recent cold snap a frozen pipe caused this Springfield church to flood.  This picture shows a portion of the building during the drying process. The cove trim was removed to allow us to access the area behind the walls.   We utilized a large desiccant dehumidifier to dry the entire building.  The desiccant recycles the air inside, bringing warm dry air inside while sucking moist air outside.  SERVPRO of Springfield/Greene County's efforts resulted in having 90% of the building dry within 3 days.

Water damage can strike your commercial property at any time. Water damage can sideline your business, regardless if the damage occurs from a major storm event or a broken water line. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If you have a commercial water damage or would like to get a free Emergency Response Plan into place for your business call us at 417-865-7711.