Recent Why SERVPRO Posts

Say Goodbye to Mildew in 3 Easy Steps

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

Preventing Bathroom Mold 

Given a choice, would your tenants prefer restrooms with mildew or clean conditions? Answering the question is simple, but preventing bathroom mold at your property may not be as easy. Here are three easy steps to keep your washrooms sanitary, sparkling and mildew-free.

1. Prevent

Once mold takes hold, it spreads swiftly, especially in humid environments. Take precautions in bathrooms to stop it before it starts:

  • Use mildew-resistant shower curtain liners.
  • Encourage occupants to wipe down the interior of showers after use.
  • Install an exhaust fan to increase ventilation.
  • Mount an air conditioning or dehumidifying unit.
  • Paint with a brand that contains mildewcide.

2. Replace

Sometimes bathroom mold is not entirely preventable. If renters report a musty smell or unsightly black spots, do not ignore the problem. Transform unpleasant mildew to clean surroundings by replacing the following:

  • Shower curtains, especially when not washable
  • Black, peeling or rotting caulk around the tub
  • Grout between tiles in shower walls or floors

3. Repair

Mold loves standing water. A leaking toilet, overflowing tub or breaking pipe all have the potential to cause water damage. After the primary water source is fixed, work with a mold remediation specialist to identify and remediate secondary visible and hidden mold. Act fast because mold growth starts in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Common hiding places include:

  • In or behind drywall
  • On top of and under flooring, including floorboards
  • On ceilings, especially above showers and under leaky areas
  • Behind wallpaper
  • On wood or particle board vanities

Unfortunately, it is possible to grow mildew in clean conditions, especially in rooms with high levels of humidity. Bathroom mold is fairly common, but fortunately, there are steps you can take to avert it. When prevention at your commercial property in Monticello, MN, is not enough, say goodbye to mildew by replacing impacted areas or working with professionals to repair the damage.

Give us a call today (763)498-6500

After a Commercial Fire- The Road to Recovery

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

Feeling overwhelmed is an understatement in the aftermath of a commercial property fire in Maple Grove, Corcoran, Brooklyn Park, or Champlin. As you walk through your building, you see fire, water and smoke damage. Decrease your anxiety by understanding the process of returning your property to pre-fire condition.

Before Cleanup Begins

There are several steps that take place before the restoration process starts. As a business owner, remember to keep documentation and remain in the loop. If you do not understand something, ask questions and seek clarification.

  • Typically, a fire restoration company first inspects your property to understand the magnitude of the fire, water and soot damage.
  • To prevent secondary damage and theft, professionals may board up windows or tarp the roof.
  • Check with your commercial property insurance agent to verify coverage. Oftentimes, insurance companies partner directly with restoration professionals.

The Cleanup Process

There are a multitude of steps when mitigating a fire disaster. Depending on the damage, this may include drying, cleaning, disinfecting, repairing or replacing materials.

  • Often, the first area targeted is water damage left from firefighting efforts or sprinkler systems. This type of damage spreads fast and can result in mold growth in as little as 24-48 hours. Water removal and drying is completed with professional-grade equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers.
  • Smoke cleaning is a crucial component after a fire, as smoke damage and soot damage are usually present on most exposed surfaces. There are different techniques to clean and disinfect walls, ceilings, furniture and the air itself.
  • Once structures and contents are dry and clean, technicians use a variety of specialized methods to restore the building and your inventory to preloss condition.

A fire at your commercial property in Buffalo, MN, is very stressful. Fire, water and smoke damage likely permeate your every thought. Understand the restoration process ahead of you to reduce the fear of the unknown and put yourself on the road to recovery.

Give us a call today (763)498-6500

Roof Readiness: Protecting Your Roof Against Impending Winter Storms

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

Steps To Help Ensure Maintain Your Roof

While the inclement and frigid weather of Minnesota is unpredictable and leads many homeowners to have emergency restoration services on speed dial, a home doesn’t have to be a victim to any looming winter storm. There are at least four practical steps homeowners can take to help ensure they quite literally maintain the roof over their heads.

1. Clear and Maintain Your Gutters

Cleaning out your gutters is not just a springtime gig. Maintaining clean gutters year-round helps to ensure that your roof remains structurally sound. In the winter, clogged gutters can lead to ice buildup, which eventually accumulates under your shingles and can lead to roof rot.

2. Trim Your Trees

The last thing you want to experience during a winter storm is the thunderous boom of a maple plummeting through your living room ceiling. Maintaining and trimming your trees at the change of every season can help you avoid the chaos and property loss from loose branches or rotted out trunks.

3. Replace Missing or Damaged Flashing

An essential aspect of roof health is to keep water out. Missing or damaged flashing can allow the ice and snow of a blizzard to seep into your attic space. Once moisture enters in, it can lead to the development and spread of mold, mildew and rot. Before the winter settles in, you may want to perform a visual inspection of your roofline to ensure everything is hunky-dory.

4. Repair and Inspect Your Chimney

In addition to inspecting your roof for cosmetic damage, like missing shingles, you should also examine your chimney. A leaning chimney or a chimney with old and cracking mortar can cause significant roof damage if not dealt with before the cold sets in. Frigid temperatures and exposure to ice can cause old or already cracking mortar to separate and fail. Additionally, if your chimney is already leaning, then the added weight of snow and ice can cause it to collapse.

Before any winter storm has time to pummel your roof, take the time to inspect it and the surrounding area. Stay safe and keep your roof over your head.

Give us a call today (763)498-6500

Why Your Household Mold Keeps Coming Back

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can damage surfaces in your home and require costly cleanup. When you suspect mold in your home, your instinct is to eliminate it quickly.  It is wise to act as soon as you see signs of mold or smell a musty odor.
If you suspect your home is infested with mold, it is not recommended you attempt the mold remediation yourself. The safest strategy is to consult a mold specialist who can test your home for mold, evaluate the severity of your infestation and recommend a cleanup and removal protocol. If an expert determines your problem does not involve a toxic variety, such as black mold, you can move forward with addressing the problem.

Mold-Removal Mis-Steps

In an effort to remove mold, well-meaning homeowners often contribute to the problem of returning or spreading.

Removing mold-infested materials is not effective unless the surrounding humidity level is reduced.
Using bleach products does not generally eliminate mold and can make it worse by masking the visible signs of a problem.
Using mold-resistant paint over existing paint can trap spores between paint layers where they continue to grow.
Holding on to items once infested with mold creates a high likelihood of a recurrence.
Attempting to self-clean mold, such as black mold, is strongly discouraged.

If you’ve made any of these mistakes, be reassured that there are effective ways to eradicate mold from your home.

Getting Rid of Mold For Good

The key to controlling mold is eliminating the root of the problem. A plumbing or roof leak can create a favorable environment for mold. Once you permanently address these issues, you decrease the chances of post-cleanup mold recurrence. It’s essential you discard all property in your home that was once affected by mold.
If mold found its way into your Maple Grove, MN home, avoid mold cleanup until toxicity is ruled out. Once you remedy any moisture problems, your cleanup efforts will be more successful. As difficult as it is, let go of that mold-damaged first-edition book. You may be rewarded by a mold-free home.

Give us a call today (763)498-6500

We Are Cleaning Experts

5/11/2022 (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 Maple Grove

(763)498-6500

3 Things to Understand About an Electronic Claims Service

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Reasons You May Find The Electronic Claim Service Interesting

After a storm or fire at your Minnesota business, contacting your local SERVPRO may be one of the best decisions you can make for your restoration needs. This restoration service even has tools that can help make filing an insurance claim easier. One of these you may find particularly interesting for several reasons is the electronic claims service.

1. All Your Claim Information in One Place

The electronic claims system is a great way to help keep the information necessary for your claim in one location. This can include lists of damaged items, photographs of the damage, and progress tracking. Keeping this information together can make it easier for your agent to find what the need when working on the claim.

2. Up to Date Progress Tracking

When it comes to keeping track of your Insurance claim, it may help to be able to access an up to date progress report on the restoration. That is one of the features of the electronic system. As each step of the process is completed your SERVPRO team can update the tracking progress so that you and your insurance agent can stay abreast of the status of any repairs.

3. Electronic Access for You and Your Agent

This system also allows your and your insurance agent to access this information electronically. Doing so can save valuable time when it means you don’t have to play phone tag, or interrupt repair work in order to request information. Easy access can also be useful if you need to check something quickly in order to complete any paperwork.
This service can help streamline keeping track of your insurance claim. Not only does it keep an itemized list, but the system can also store the photographs you may need of the space. It also allows you and your agent to access the information electronically and keep track of the restoration progress.

Give us a call today (763)498-6500

Fire Restoration Often Includes Water Damage Cleanup

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Restoration Often Includes Water Damage Cleanup

Being prepared in case of a fire in your Minnesota, business is key for the safety of everyone onsite as well as keeping damage to a minimum. After following proper fire protocols, the next step is fire cleanup. Along with that, water cleanup will likely be part of the process.

Extinguishing the Flames Leaves Water Behind

Although smoke cleanup and rummaging through burnt items is to be expected after a fire, many may forget the massive amounts of water required to extinguish the flames. Depending on the extent of the fire, it could result in more water cleanup than expected. The main water damage concerns include:

Wood Damage – Floors, furniture and other items made from wood quickly soak up water. As it retains the water, buckling and other damage can take root. Items severely damaged will likely need to be replaced.

Ceilings – Along with inspecting for any fire damage to the structure of the building, ceilings with water damage will need to be repaired immediately.

Drywall – The walls of a building often take the brunt of both fire and water issues. If they made it unscathed from the flames, there could still be hidden water issues. Any areas affected will need to be replaced to avoid further deterioration and mold growth.

Electrical – Water can find its way into electrical equipment and outlets without being detected. A close inspection of all electrical components should be conducted.

Count On Professional Help

Lingering water left unattended can cause big problems long after the fire has taken place. A water damage specialist has the expertise to properly dry, clean and restore your business back to new. Along with repairing physical issues, they can also help with the restoration of items such as documents, furniture, paintings and more.
While you might not be expecting water cleanup after a fire, it’s important to make sure water damage doesn’t go unchecked. Getting the right help can help get your business back to normal.

Give us a call today (763)498-6500

Reasons Mold Might Keep Coming Back

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Why Is Mold Coming Back?

You have already dealt with the green and black mold monster that lurked in your basement, but for some reason, it has returned with a vengeance. What should you do? Why is it back? Despite what some removal services will have you believe, mold is never truly gone. The tiny microscopic spores can never be entirely eliminated. However, with proper removal and maintenance, you should not have to deal with a full infestation again. Although, if that happens, then there are several reasons why.

Failed Remediation
Unresolved Issue
Poor Ventilation
High Humidity

Failed Remediation

Mold remediation is a skill, and any companies offering this service should hold the appropriate licensing and certifications required by your state. Unfortunately, there are many duplicitous operations out there, and it is possible that they failed to clean your home appropriately. Therefore, if you need further mold removal, call a reputable home restoration service in Maple Grove, MN

Unresolved Issue

If you did not hire a professional for your mold cleanup, then it is possible that you did not remedy the situation. Sure, you might have removed every visible speck of mold, but if you didn't find or fix the water leak or humidity problem, then mold will probably reappear in the same area as before.

Poor Ventilation

Perhaps you did hire a reputable company, and you did resolve the root cause of the original black mold infestation. The new mold growth may be just that, new. If your home is not adequately ventilated, then areas like the bathroom, kitchen and laundry room can become humid and filled with excess moisture, providing a habitat for mold.

High Humidity

Also, regardless of ventilation, if your home has a humidity problem, then it is conducive to mold growth. Therefore, invest in several dehumidifiers to try and control the moisture levels in your home.
Common and black mold thrives in moist, humid and dark environments. The best way to eliminate perpetual mold growth is to reduce and control the elements that make your home habitable to spores.

Give us a call today (763)498-6500

3 Reasons Insurers Trust Preferred Vendors

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Insurers Trust Preferred Vendors

Insurance companies tend to work with mitigation and restoration services that have a track record of successfully completing jobs. An insurance agent will be more likely to approve a claim supported by an accurate estimate and easy access to important information. Here are three reasons why insurers trust Preferred Vendors.

1. Rigorous Operational Standards

In order to obtain referrals for insurance claims, a SERVPRO franchise must meet internal corporate standards. The Participation Agreement sets forth 21 guidelines for franchises. Locations in the vendor program must perform background checks, maintain insurance and meet other requirements necessary for achieving the highest service standards.

2. Accurate and Reasonable Estimates

Preferred Vendors also tend to provide more accurate estimates. Increased accuracy may be possible through pretesting or a careful on-site inspection. A franchise uploads information to an internal database. An insurance agent or adjuster can then sign onto an electronic claims service to access estimates and other information at any time. The accuracy and availability of this information sets the best mitigation and restoration firms apart.

3. Ability To Meet or Exceed Expectations

Leading vendors tend to have a history of successful jobs. Even if a franchise location is new, the owner and employees should have IICRC certification and training that enables them to effectively perform mitigation and restoration procedures. Agents and adjusters can assess the performance of any location with information available on the Claims Information Center. In addition to estimates and details on individual claims, this service also makes it easy to compare factors such as job file costs and response times.

All of these factors distinguish Preferred Vendors from other options in Maple Grove, MN An insurance agent or client should make sure that a local SERVPRO franchise participates in the vendor program. These credentials make it more likely than an insurance claim will be processed and settled in a timely manner.

IICRC Sets A High Standard For Inspection, Cleaning And Restoration

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

IICRC Sets A High Standard For Inspection, Cleaning And Restoration

Nearly everyone respects certification. It gives businesses and trained professionals credibility in the marketplace. It gives customers confidence in the qualifications of those holding the certification. IICRC is the gold standard for certification in the inspection, cleaning and restoration industry. The Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification is more than just another credential. People and businesses earn and keep this certification through:

  • Education
  • Initial certification
  • Continuing education
  • Membership

Comprehensive Certification Offers Clients Peace of Mind

Comprehensive certification is not a single certificate. There are at least thirty different categories of inspection, cleaning and restoration certificates available. The institute provides training and testing for each one. It awards students a mitigation certificate upon successful completion of each category.

An IICRC certified provider employs professionals with one or more mitigation certificate. Each inspection, cleaning or restoration job requires a combination of certified skills. The business assembles a team with the appropriate skills and dispatches them to the job. The mix of professionals on the job changes as the list of required skills changes.

Happy Clients Are the Foundation of a Certified Provider

A provider may survive with an occasional unhappy customer. A provider cannot survive without its certification. A certified provider holds itself and its employees to a high standard. This high standard is what certification is all about. Failing to meet this standard jeopardizes the value of the certification for others. This failure can lead to discipline and, eventually, revocation of the certificate. Without that, the provider is out of business.

The same level of standards applies to individuals and their certifications. Revocation is a real possibility if there are problems. It makes attaining employment in the inspection, cleaning and restoration industry difficult.

Certification Is a Key to Provider Selection

Find an inspection, cleaning and restoration provider with an IICRC, and you are off to a good start. Next, you want one located nearby in the Maple Grove, MN area. Confidence in the provider will give you confidence in the quality of the job once it is complete.

Give us a call today (763)498-6500

One Stop Shop

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Can One Company Address All Wright County's Storm Aftermath Needs?

The last thing a reputable water damage restorer wants to do is abandon customers in the middle of a storm damage project. This concern is why SERVPRO combines our water damage and flood restoration expertise supported by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training with our ability to arrange rebuilding services. Our approach invites you to depend on our skilled and experienced crews to streamline the journey from the severe exterior and interior damage to our goal of making it "Like it never even happened." We provide:

  • Dynamic safety hazard assessment throughout the project
  • Emergency services halting water damage
  • Ceiling repairs from water damages
  • Management of leaking roofs from storm damage
  • Basement flooding cleanup
  • Cleaning up after a sewer backup (standard when municipal sanitary systems are overburdened after torrential rains

Call today and let us take the stress out of your mess!
763-295-1161

Trained Restoration Professionals

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Our staff here at SERVPRO of Maple Grove is highly trained in property damage restoration, mold remediation, and biohazard cleanup.

We offer all our employees extensive continued training and education in the restoration fields to ensure you have the best customer experience possible in your time of need. 

We use the IICRC practice guidelines for fire damage, water damage restoration, and mold remediation.

It is a certification and standard-setting organization. IICRC standards are developed to provide the highest quality concepts, terminology and procedures recognized in the cleaning and restoration industry.

There are many certifications that our team members earn. SERVPRO of Maple Grove makes sure to keep up with the certifications as technology and material are continually changing.

Our goal is to be well prepared and ready for any size disaster that comes our way.

Let us at SERVPRO of Maple Grove take the stress our of your mess.

Call today- 763-498-6500

Your Cleaning Experts

5/10/2022 (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 (CDC). 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 Maple Grove at 763-498-6500

Faster to Any Disaster

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

24 Hour Emergency Service

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals provide emergency water restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

Need Emergency Service?
Call Now 763-498-6500

A Fast Response Is Crucial

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency.

An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately.

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.

CALL TODAY- 763-498-6500

How Does SERVPRO's Electronic Claims Service Help?

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

How Does SERVPRO's Electronic Claims Service Help?

When your Maple Grove, MN client files an insurance claim on their damaged property, it's critical to get the process underway as quickly as possible. Over the years, SERVPRO has become a trusted leader in the damage mitigation and restoration industry.
SERVPRO's electronic claims service provides several benefits:

1. Easier Collaboration
When information passes through the hands of insurance agents, adjusters and damage restoration professionals, it helps to have all the data in one location. Unlike paper documents, electronic files provide everyone access, allowing for collaboration without the risk of data loss. An insurance agent can prepare a claim by reviewing the electronic claims system. Damage information and photos are just a couple of parts of the electronic claims service, along with access to nationwide comparisons.

2. More Security
SERVPRO's electronic claims service offers more security than paper records stored in an office filing cabinet. Security teams back up and monitor the digital files. Not only is the information protected from being physically destroyed (e.g., by fire), but its confidentiality is also more secure.

3. More Accessibility
Data related to the insurance claim can be easily viewed and inputted from the office or in the field by everyone involved. The insurance agent, adjuster and remediation specialists can access it via smartphone, tablet, or computer.

4. Less Risk of Errors
Everyone engaged in the claims process sees updates online through the electronic claims service. This ensures that all remain on the same page, reducing the chance of mistakes. Fewer mistakes mean a more accurate compensation value so the restoration can be completed as quickly as possible.

5. Quicker Resolution
When restoration professionals submit detailed data regarding damage and the cost estimates, the agent and adjuster can also view it. This real-time exchange makes for a much faster resolution than the traditional claims process, in which information is typically distributed through the mail.
The longer the insurance claim process, the more damage can affect the property. The SERVPRO electronic claims service ensures that it's handled quickly and efficiently. Call us today at (763)498-6500

Common Questions About Black Mold

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Read On To Have Your Most Common Questions Answered

If your home in Minnesota is experiencing unwanted fungal growth, black mold is most likely the culprit. If you're unsure which type of mold you're dealing with, then it's a good idea to have a professional mold inspection conducted, even if it only serves to confirm your suspicions.

1. What Does Black Mold Look Like?
Much like the name implies, this fungus appears black or dark green in color. When you find it, it looks like a dark stain spreading across the surface of the affected area. In some cases, it may even have a fuzzy or a slimy texture.

2. Where Does it Typically Grow?
This specific variety of mold needs water in order to thrive. As such, you can typically find it growing in areas of your home that come into contact with a lot of water, such as your kitchen, bathroom, basement, laundry room and garage. It's not uncommon to discover it growing in areas that have recently suffered from water damage as well.

3. How Do You Get Mold?
House mold is a result of excessive moisture. This can come in the form of especially high indoor humidity levels, excessive amounts of condensation or simply neglecting to clean spills and puddles for too long. Mold growth is also a form of secondary damage after a flood. If your home has recently suffered any type of water damage, then you should have a professional mold inspection conducted.

4. How Can You Get Rid of Mold?
The good news is that you should be able to solve the majority of mold problems by yourself, provided they haven't gone unnoticed for too long. You can use commercial mold cleaners to do the job, or create your own non-toxic cleaner using equal parts white vinegar and water.
Always make sure to call for a professional mold inspection if you're unsure of the situation. Likewise, you should contact mold remediation experts if you find that your home's mold issue is too large for you to handle by yourself.

Give us a call today (763)498-6500

How to Identify Mold

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Homes around the globe, even those in Minnesota are susceptible to mold. Spores can be dangerously destructive, so periodically conduct a comprehensive mold inspection throughout your residence and proactively seek out these nefarious threats.

What to Look for When Checking for Mold

Detecting mold is easy, but understanding the below facts about mold will help speed up the discovery process.

Not all molds look the same. They come in many colors, ranging from green to yellow or even blue and orange, as well as different shapes. Keep an eye out for these variations.
Mold requires moisture in order to survive, so pay close attention to heavily damp areas featuring faucets, leaky pipes or steam.
Mold has a distinct, musty smell so let your nose guide you in the right direction.
Check out places mold commonly accumulates, such as inside HVAC ducts, covering the interiors of old, unpacked boxes or within long-neglected car trunks. Washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerators have all been known to suffer from mold.

By conducting a surface mold inspection using only your eyes and nose, you can usually identify whether or not a problem lurks nearby. Keep in mind that while black mold (scientifically known as stachybotrys chartarum) is non-toxic, many other types of mold may not be. Remember, wearing protective equipment before crawling into areas you suspect might be infected is always a wise precaution.

What to Do if You Find Mold
If you believe mold has grown in or around any section of your home, call a mold removal specialist urgently. The consequences of waiting to remove house mold can be disastrous. Never compound mold damage by allowing it to worsen over time.
Finding mold isn’t difficult, but no matter where you discover mold hiding it must be taken care of promptly. Periodically conducting a complete mold inspection throughout your home means early diagnosis, an easy step towards minimizing mold cleanup.

Give us a call today (763)498-6500

Use the Claims Information Center for an Easier Claims Process

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Use the Claims Information Center for an Easier Claims Process

As an insurance agent, haven't you ever wished the insurance claim process was more organized and approachable? The need for data analysis and evidence collection makes the process a nightmare for many people involved, especially without the help of digital tools. SERVPRO, a disaster restoration specialist in Minnesota, understands the challenges of the insurance adjuster, which is why they developed the Claims Information Center. This tool helps agents throughout the claims process in three significant ways.
1. Tracking 2. Troubleshooting 3. Research

Tracking
Tracking an insurance claim is the key to the entire claims process. You need to know how a project is progressing and how funds are being used. The dashboard of the Claims Information Center allows agents to track everything from their home screen.

Troubleshooting
In massive projects, hiccups can occur, and most of the time, these issues require the agents to revisit a site in-person, which is often time-consuming and wholly unnecessary. The Claims Information Center allows an agent to access and correct minor problems without the need to contact contractors or visit job sites.

Research
The claims Information Center is more than an organization tool; it is also a research powerhouse. SERVPRO has been in business for a while now and has compiled pertinent data to several types of claims. Not only does the company have a collection of standard claims, but they also have it organized by county, city, and state. Beyond the numbers, insurers can also find information on standard response times for specific types of claims.
The Claims Information Center is beneficial for insurance adjusters during and throughout the insurance claim process. Next time you are dealing with a client disaster, consider working through SERVPRO, one of the top-tier cleaning companies in the country. They are Faster to Any Size Disaster, and they understand that an insurance agent's ability to do their job well depends on the tools they have.

Give us a call today (763)498-6500

Helping in your Community.

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

During uncertain times, SERVPRO of Wright County is prepared to help you when it matters the most.

Responding during difficult times is what we do, it’s who we are and what we know. Right now, during the most unprecedented moment we share with you, we continue to answer the calls of our neighbors who need us most.  

SERVPRO of Wright County remains open to you as our employees and services are here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If your home or business is in need of cleaning and sanitizing, or any of our core water and fire services, call SERVPRO of Wright County at (763) 295-1161. We are here and ready to serve our community 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.