Recent Commercial Posts
Commercial Kitchen Water Damage: Top 5 Damaging Causes
5/29/2023 (Permalink)
The professionals at SERVPRO are one call away to help you combat commercial kitchen water damage!
Navigating commercial kitchen water damage can be a nightmare without the right team in your corner.
Commercial kitchens are a hub of activity, with various appliances and equipment working in tandem to produce delicious meals for customers. However, this bustling environment can come grinding to a halt whenever commercial kitchen water damage occurs.
The damage caused by water can range from minor property damage to a complete shutdown of operations. In this blog post, we will delve into the top five causes of commercial kitchen water damage and how our team can help prevent and restore any damage caused by these issues. From grease buildup to faulty plumbing, we will cover all the basics so you can be informed and prepared.
SERVPRO of Barrow County is a trusted water damage restoration company with a team of experts who understands the importance of keeping your business running smoothly and safely. Because any downtime can result in lost revenue and a tarnished reputation, we are committed to providing fast and efficient services to get your kitchen back up and running as soon as possible.
What is commercial kitchen water damage?
Commercial kitchen water damage refers to any damage caused by water infiltration in a kitchen setting within a commercial environment like a restaurant. Water damage can occur in various ways, including leaky pipes, clogged drains, malfunctioning equipment, or natural disasters. The damage can be widespread and range from minor property damage to a complete shutdown of operations. If left untreated, water damage can lead to mold growth, electrical hazards, and other hazardous risks. Therefore, it is crucial to address water damage in commercial kitchens quickly and efficiently to prevent further damage and ensure a safe and healthy environment.
5 causes of commercial kitchen water damage
The team of professionals at SERVPRO has seen it all regarding commercial kitchen water damage. Over the years, we have responded to countless water damage emergencies caused by various issues. From burst pipes to grease fires, we have the expertise and equipment to tackle any challenge.
Our experience has taught us that time is of the essence when it comes to water damage, and our quick response time can make all the difference in preventing further damage and minimizing downtime.
Here are the top five causes of commercial kitchen water damage we have seen:
- Grease Buildup
- Faulty Plumbing
- Improperly Installed Equipment
- Sprinkler System Malfunction
- Natural Disasters
Grease buildup
Commercial kitchens are notorious for grease buildup from oil and fats. Over time, this buildup can cause blockages in drainage systems, leading to water damage. In addition, when grease accumulates in pipes and drains, it can restrict water flow, leading to backups and leaks, and in turn, can cause water to overflow onto the floors, walls, and countertops.
Faulty plumbing
Another common cause of commercial kitchen water damage is faulty plumbing. For example, a leaky faucet or a broken pipe can cause water to seep into walls and floors, damaging your property. Over time, this can cause mold and mildew growth, which can be a potential hazard.
Improperly installed equipment
Commercial kitchens use various equipment, including dishwashers, ovens, and refrigerators. However, if this equipment is not installed correctly, it can lead to water damage. For example, a poorly installed dishwasher can leak water onto the floor, causing slip-and-fall hazards.
Sprinkler system malfunction
Commercial kitchens must have a sprinkler system installed to protect against fires. However, these systems can malfunction, causing water to spray onto floors and equipment, leading to significant property damage and a shutdown of operations.
Natural disasters
Natural disasters like floods and storms can cause significant commercial kitchen water damage. Water can seep into walls, floors, and equipment, causing property damage and mold growth.
Let the professionals at SERVPRO combat your commercial kitchen water damage loss.
Commercial kitchen water damage can be a significant setback for any business, leading to property damage, lost revenue, and potential health hazards. At SERVPRO, we understand the importance of keeping your business running smoothly and safely, so we offer fast and efficient water damage restoration services.
Our team of experts has the experience, equipment, and knowledge to handle any commercial kitchen water damage emergency, from minor leaks to major floods. Let us take care of your water damage loss so you can focus on what matters most—your business. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you return to business.
After Commercial Fire Damage: Take These 5 Effective Steps!
12/26/2022 (Permalink)
The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 to help combat commercial fire damage!
The moments after a commercial fire will dictate how quickly and effectively your business can recover.
The professionals at SERVPRO of Barrow County know how devastating commercial fire damage can be when it occurs on your property. No matter the size of the fire, commercial properties are commonly left with the following after a fire:
- Soot damage
- Smoke damage
- Water damage
Although any fire will leave a property in disarray, recovery will be much quicker if a business takes the proper steps after the event.
The following blog post will include five things businesses should do in response to a commercial fire. We have put this list together to help commercial businesses get their operations up and running again more quickly.
If your property is currently suffering from commercial fire damage, contact the experts at SERVPRO of Barrow County as soon as possible for immediate assistance.
What are the top causes of commercial fire damage?
Commercial fires can be caused by various things, from faulty wiring to kitchen accidents. Some of the most common causes of commercial fires are:
- Electrical faults
- Cooking equipment
- Arson
- Cigarette butts
As a business owner, be aware of these common causes of commercial fires and take steps to prevent them.
You should also have a fire evacuation plan and ensure all your employees are familiar with it. Lastly, if you experience commercial fire damage, follow the guidelines below to help mitigate the loss.
Steps to take after commercial fire damage
Now that you know the common causes of commercial fire damage, here are five steps you should take after a commercial fire to aid in effective recovery:
Step 1) Secure the property:
Business owners must secure their property after a fire. Commercial fire damage will open buildings to further destruction and liability risks such as theft or vandalism. In addition, businesses should contact their insurance company and local law enforcement to protect against further damage.
Step 2) Contact a fire damage restoration professional:
Contact an experienced commercial fire restoration professional as soon as possible. They will assess the damage, provide temporary repairs, and restore your property.
Step 3) Document the damage:
Once commercial fire professionals are on-site, business owners must take pictures and videos of the damaged property to file an insurance claim.
Step 4) Salvage valuables:
After a commercial fire, business owners should try to salvage valuable items from commercial fire damage, such as important documents and electronics.
Step 5) Monitor the air quality:
Commercial fires can leave behind hazardous materials that can contaminate the air quality on-site. Therefore, business owners need to monitor their property's air quality after a commercial fire to ensure the safety of their employees and customers.
By following these five steps, commercial businesses can help mitigate commercial fire damage and get their business up and running again.
Let SERVPRO help you recover from commercial fire damage
Commercial fire damage can have several consequences for business owners, including:
- Damage to the property
- Damage to the inventory
- Damage to the equipment
- Businesses may not be able to reopen after a fire
- Hazardous materials left behind by the fire can contaminate the air quality
- Lost revenues
- Liability risks from theft or vandalism
Business owners should be aware of the common causes of commercial fires to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Then, with proper preparation and mitigation steps, businesses can recover from commercial fire damage and return to business as usual.
After experiencing commercial fire damage, hire experienced commercial fire restoration professionals who can quickly assess the damage and begin restoring your property. The professionals at SERVPRO of Barrow County can help provide temporary repairs, salvage valuable items, monitor the air quality, and document commercial fire damage for an insurance claim.
By taking steps to prepare for and mitigate commercial fire damage, business owners can minimize the impact of commercial fires on their businesses.
If your commercial property has experienced commercial fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Barrow County today to learn how we can help restore your commercial property. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to assist you in an emergency. Contact us today for more information.
Restaurant Water Damage: The #1 Guide to Cleanup
9/12/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO heroes are always available to help combat commercial water damage!
The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for any restaurant water damage mess!
If you're a restaurant owner, then you know that water damage can be an absolute nightmare. The restaurant can be closed for an extended time, and the cleanup process can be costly and time-consuming.
The professionals at SERVPRO of Barrow county want to help alleviate some of the stress that water damage can bring by providing this quick guide to restaurant water damage cleanup. We understand that the number one best way to avoid severe restaurant water damage is to be on the lookout for signs of water damage and take action as soon as possible to minimize the damage.
It is known in the restoration industry that mold begins to grow within 48 hours of a water loss. Therefore, if you see any water damage in your restaurant, you should first call a professional water restoration company. The sooner you act, the less damage there will be, and the quicker the cleanup process can begin.
How to identify restaurant water damage?
Restaurant water damage can come from various sources, including burst pipes, overflowing dishwashers and sinks, and rainwater.
Some common ways to identify restaurant water damage include:
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Buckling or warping of floors or walls
- Damp carpeting
- Water leaks from pipes or appliances
If you notice any of these signs, you must take action immediately because the most common consequence of restaurant water damage is business closure due to the extensive damage it can cause.
Three steps to take to mitigate restaurant water damage
Step 1: The first step is to identify the source of the water and try to stop it if possible.
Step 2: Once the source is stopped, you can begin the cleanup process. The cleanup process will vary depending on the extent of the damage. Still, some common steps include removing wet and damaged items, drying out the area, and sanitizing to prevent mold growth.
Step 3: You can begin repairs once the area is dry and clean. Repairs may involve replacing drywall, flooring, or other structural elements damaged by the water.
Preventing restaurant water damage
Now that we have covered the damages restaurant water damage can cause and the steps you should take to mitigate it, let's talk about how you can prevent restaurant water damage in the first place.
Here are some tips to help prevent restaurant water damage:
- Check your restaurant regularly for leaks from pipes or appliances
- Inspect ceilings, walls, and floors for any signs of water damage
- Ensure that your restaurant has proper drainage to prevent flooding
- Make sure that any outdoor areas are graded to avoid pooling.
Following these tips can help prevent restaurant water damage and keep your business up and running.
Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Barrow County combat your restaurant water damage.
When restaurant water damage strikes, you need to hire a company you can trust, and you can trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Barrow County to handle your restaurant water damage quickly and efficiently.
Our water damage services include:
- Water Extraction
- Mold Remediation
- Structural Drying
- Carpet Cleaning
- Contents Cleaning
- Rebuild
Our crews have undergone extensive training from the IICRC in water damage restoration and know the importance of quickly performing water damage cleanup. Restaurant water damage can range from a small pipe leak to a catastrophic flood, and we have the experience and training to handle any size loss.
When it comes to restaurant water damage, time is of the essence. The sooner you call SERVPRO of Barrow County, the sooner we can get to work and help minimize the damages. Contact us at any time. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, to help you recover your business.
Hotel Mold: 5 Easy Prevention Tips
8/7/2022 (Permalink)
The professionals at SERVPRO have the training to safely remove hotel mold!
The professionals at SERVPRO of Barrow County are always available to help combat hotel mold!
When people think of a hotel, it is normal to think of a place where they will spend the night while on vacation or for business. However, people do not often think about what happens behind the scenes to ensure that the hotel is clean and comfortable for all guests.
One of the hidden dangers that hotel owners and managers need to be aware of is hotel mold. Like in any other type of building, hotel mold can form and cause severe problems if the right conditions are present.
Fortunately, there are five easy things that hotel owners and managers can do to help prevent hotel mold:
- Keep humidity levels low
- Professionally restore water damages
- Airing out rooms regularly
- Cleaning hotel rooms and common areas thoroughly
- Inspecting the hotel regularly for signs of mold
The following blog post will explain each of these hotel mold prevention tips in more detail and why you should contact SERVPRO of Barrow County for commercial mold removal.
What is hotel mold?
Hotel mold is a type of mold that forms in hotel buildings. As hotel guests come and go, they can track mold spores from the outdoors on their clothing, shoes, and luggage. These mold spores can then settle in the hotel and start to grow if the conditions are right.
Mold needs three things to grow:
- Moisture
- A food source
- Warmth
A hotel building provides the perfect environment for mold to grow as they are often humid places with plenty of food sources (carpet, wallpaper, and furniture).
What are the consequences of hotel mold?
When a hospitality building is present with mold, it can have several negative consequences. For example, hotel mold can:
- Damage hotel property
- Cause a loss of revenue for the hotel
- Spoil hotel guests' vacations or business trips
- Create a negative reputation for the hotel
The five hotel mold prevention tips
Now that we have looked at what hotel mold is and the consequences of it let's take a look at the hotel mold prevention tips in further detail.
Keep humidity levels low.
Mold loves moisture, and it needs it to grow. Therefore, one of the best ways to prevent hotel mold is to keep the humidity levels in the hotel low. The ideal relative humidity (RH) level for hotel rooms is 30-50%. You can measure the RH levels in your hotel with a hygrometer. If the RH level in your hotel is higher than 50%, you will need to take action to lower it.
One way to lower the RH level in your hotel is to use a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers work by removing moisture from the air, which can help to reduce the RH level in a hotel building.
Professionally restore water damages.
One of the most common causes of hotel mold is water damage. Water damage can occur for several reasons, such as leaks in the roof or pipes, flooding, and storms. Improperly restored water damage can lead to mold growth. For this reason, it is essential to have any water damage in your hotel professionally restored as soon as possible.
Airing out rooms regularly
Another effective hotel mold prevention tip is regularly airing out the hotel rooms. Airflow can help to remove any musty odors that may be present in the room, and it can also help to reduce the RH level. When opening the windows, open them for at least 30 minutes to get a good airflow going.
Clean hotel rooms and common areas thoroughly.
It is also essential to clean hotel rooms and common areas thoroughly regularly. A deep clean can help remove any mold spores that may be present in the hotel. When cleaning, pay special attention to areas prone to moisture, such as the bathrooms.
Inspecting the hotel regularly for signs of mold
Lastly, inspecting the hotel regularly for signs of mold is essential. Some of the signs that hotel mold may be present include:
- Peeling paint
- Stains on walls or ceilings
- Musty odors
How the professionals at SERVPRO of Barrow County can help
We hope you enjoyed learning about mold prevention and plan on following the tips provided in this blog post. Please remember not to try to fix any water damage yourself; leave it to the water damage professionals. Also, if you do see hotel mold or think you may have hotel mold growing, don't hesitate to get in touch with the professionals at SERVPRO of Barrow County.
We are experts in commercial mold removal and will be able to quickly and effectively remove the mold from your hotel. When you choose to work with SERVPRO of Barrow County, you can rest assured that we will:
- Inspect the affected areas to determine the extent of the mold damage
- Contain the mold to prevent it from spreading to other parts of the hotel building
- Remove the mold
- Repair any damage that the mold has caused
If you are concerned about hotel mold in your building, contact SERVPRO of Barrow County today. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we promise to respond quickly to your call.
5 Warehouse Mold Prevention Tips From The Professionals At SERVPRO
7/4/2022 (Permalink)
The professionals at SERVPRO are on standby to combat your mold issue!
Warehouse mold can damage property and impact business operations.
The professionals at SERVPRO of Barrow County know the effects that extensive mold damage can cause. For example, last week, we helped a local business owner whose warehouse was impacted by a severe mold issue. What had happened was the property had a water leak in their office that went undetected for several days. By the time they realized the problem, the mold had already spread throughout the warehouse and spoiled thousands of dollars worth of products.
The good news is that with some quick thinking and action, the spread of mold can be prevented or minimized. Our professionals have put this blog post together so that you will be prepared when facing a water leak or other potential mold issue in your warehouse.
What is warehouse mold?
Warehouse mold is a type of fungal growth that can occur when there is excessive moisture in the air. Mold spores are present everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. When these spores come into contact with water or dampness, they can begin to grow and multiply. Warehouse mold can cause a variety of problems, including:
1) Property damage - Mold can cause severe damage to your warehouse and the contents inside.
2) Business interruption - If your warehouse has a mold issue, it may need to be closed for repairs, which can disrupt your business operations.
3) Loss of customers - If customers see mold in your warehouse, they may be less likely to do business with you.
4) Reputational damage - Mold can damage your company's reputation if not dealt with quickly and effectively.
Five tips to prevent warehouse mold
The professionals at SERVPRO of Barrow County want to ensure your business reputation stays positive. Therefore, here are five tips to help prevent warehouse mold:
1) Keep your warehouse clean and free of clutter - A cluttered warehouse is the perfect breeding ground for mold spores. So make sure to keep your warehouse clean and tidy and dispose of any waste properly.
2) Fix any water leaks immediately - Even a small water leak can cause mold to grow. Therefore, fixing any leaks as soon as possible is essential to prevent mold growth.
3) Dry wet areas immediately - If there are any damp areas in your warehouse, dry them out immediately. You can dry damp areas with a dehumidifier or open windows and doors to let the air circulate.
4) Use fans and air conditioners - running a fan or air conditioner can help circulate the air and keep the humidity level low. Circulating the air makes it less likely for mold spores to grow.
5) Schedule regular maintenance checks - It is essential to have your warehouse checked for potential problems regularly. This way, any issues can be found and fixed before they have a chance to cause mold growth.
Trust the professionals a SERVPRO of Barrow County to combat warehouse mold.
When it comes to warehouse mold, you want to ensure the job is done correctly. The professionals at SERVPRO of Barrow County have the experience and knowledge necessary to handle any mold damage job, big or small.
When you choose us to combat your warehouse mold issue, we will:
- Inspect the affected areas to determine the extent of the damage
- Contain the mold to prevent it from spreading
- Clean the affected areas using specialized equipment and techniques
- Dry the affected areas to prevent mold from returning
- Repair any damage caused by the mold
SERVPRO of Barrow County is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We understand how mold damage can disrupt your business, and we will work quickly and efficiently to get your property back to its pre-mold condition. Contact us today for more information about our commercial mold remediation services.
The Top 5 Reasons Why Elevator Water Damage Occurs
5/23/2022 (Permalink)
Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for any size water damage disaster!
Elevator water damage is one of commercial property owners' most common problems.
It's no secret that water in an elevator shaft can cause a lot of damage. In fact, just one inch of water can result in thousands of dollars in losses. Likewise, standing water in an elevator can damage the elevator equipment and lead to a loss of revenue.
In many cases, it can be challenging to determine the source of the elevator water damage. Therefore, the professionals at SERVPRO of Barrow County put together this blog post to discuss the top 5 reasons why elevator water damage occurs. We will also provide tips on preventing this type of damage from happening in the future!
What is elevator water damage?
Elevator water damage is when water enters an elevator shaft and causes damage. Water damage can cause extensive damage to elevator equipment and even lead to a complete shutdown. That's why it's essential to be aware of the top 5 reasons elevator water damage occurs.
The top 5 reasons why elevator water damage occurs
Here are the top 5 reasons why elevator water damage occurs:
- Pipe bursts
- Foundation leaks
- Flooding
- Improper drainage
- Malfunctioning sump pumps
Pipe bursts
One of the most common causes of elevator water damage is a pipe burst. A pipe burst can occur for various reasons, such as freezing temperatures, high water pressure, or even corrosion. When a pipe bursts, it can release hundreds of gallons of water into the elevator shaft, causing extensive damage.
Foundation leaks
Another common cause of elevator water damage is a foundation leak. Foundation leaks can occur when there is a crack in the foundation or if the sealant around the elevator shaft is not properly maintained. Foundation leaks can be challenging to detect, but they can cause severe damage when not fixed promptly.
Flooding
Flooding is another common cause of elevator water damage. Flooding can occur when heavy rains enter an elevator shaft and cause extensive damage.
Improper drainage
Improper drainage is another common cause of elevator water damage. Improper drainage can occur when the drains around the elevator shaft are not adequately maintained. When the drains are not properly maintained, they can become clogged and cause water to back up into the elevator shaft.
Malfunctioning sump pumps
Malfunctioning sump pumps are another common cause of elevator water damage. Sump pumps pump water out of an elevator shaft, but they can malfunction when not adequately maintained. When a sump pump malfunctions, it can cause water to back up into the elevator shaft and cause extensive damage.
Preventing elevator water damage
Now that you know the top 5 reasons why elevator water damage occurs, you can be proactive in preventing it. Here are some tips to help you avoid elevator water damage:
- Inspect your elevator regularly for leaks or cracks.
- Make sure the sealant around your elevator shaft is in good condition.
- Check your sump pump regularly to make sure it is working correctly.
- Inspect the drains around your elevator shaft to ensure they are not clogged.
- Be prepared for heavy rains by having a plan to protect your elevator shaft from flooding.
By following these tips, you can help prevent elevator water damage and keep your elevator in good working condition.
What to do if elevator water damage occurs?
When elevator water damage occurs, it is essential to act quickly to minimize the damage. Here are some steps to take if elevator water damage occurs:
- Shut off the water source if possible.
- Remove any standing water with a wet/dry vac.
- Remove any damaged materials.
- Place fans and dehumidifiers in the elevator shaft to help dry the area.
- Call a professional to inspect the elevator for any damage.
If elevator water damage occurs, it is essential to act quickly to minimize the damage. By following these steps, you can help prevent further damage and get your elevator back up and running as soon as possible.
Why Choose SERVPRO
It is best to choose a professional company, like SERVPRO, with experience in elevator water damage. SERVPRO has the training and experience to get the job done right and will work quickly to minimize the damage and get your elevator back up and running as soon as possible.
SERVPRO of Barrow County is a leading provider of commercial water damage restoration services.
When you choose SERVPRO of Barrow County, you can be sure that you are choosing a company that:
- Is experienced in elevator water damage restoration
- Has the training and experience to get the job done right
- Works quickly to minimize the damage
- Gets your business back up and running as soon as possible
If you have any questions about our elevator water damage services or if you need to schedule an inspection, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We are available 24 hours a day for any size commercial water damage emergency!
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