Common Signs of Mold Growth

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley is ready 24 hours a day to help you fight mold.

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

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

The Common Indicators That a Building Could Have Mold Growth

Persistent, Dank Odors

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

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

Water Damage That Was Improperly Treated

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

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

Black Spots on Clothing or Fabrics

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

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

Fire Safety Tips for the Whole Family

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley is ready 24/7 to help you recover from fire damage.

Fire safety is such an important thing for any household. House fires can be dangerous and traumatic, causing significant household damage and putting anyone in the vicinity directly in

harm’s way. Fortunately, fire safety is also a goal that the entire family can get involved with, keeping everyone more invested in safety and more prepared, just in case.

Many fire safety tips are things the entire family can participate in, which makes it a great family activity. Depending on who is in your household, it may be necessary to adjust some of these tips accordingly—for example, toddlers may have a great time drawing escape plans, while older kids may be more suited to smoke detector test duty.

However, we hope these general guidelines are helpful in getting everyone on the same page

for your home’s fire safety.

Fire Safety Tasks for Young Children

**Drawing an escape route.** Escaping quickly is key when it comes to a house fire, so an escape plan is a must. Young children can often be helpful here, drawing lines from each room

to indicate every exit.

**Being accountable for hazards.** Unattended candles, space heaters and cooking food can all be major fire hazards. Oftentimes, young children can make great safety accountability buddies,

calling out these hazards when they notice them.

Fire Safety Tasks for Older Children

**Checking smoke detectors.** Smoke detectors should be tested monthly, which can often be a great chore for preteens and teens in the home.

**Managing fire escape drills.** It is important to have a fire escape plan, and just as important to practice it regularly. Older children can be great at managing these drills, from planning them

out to debriefing as a family in order to see where there may be room for improvement.

**Cleaning out the dryer lint trap.** If your older children do their own laundry, it is important that they understand the importance of cleaning out the dryer lint trap. This is a commonly overlooked fire hazard, but the lint can heat up while the dryer is running and lead to a fire.

*If you have household damage due to a fire, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our fire restoration options or get in touch 24/7 for a rapid response.

Our Commercial Fire Large Loss Restoration Services

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley to restore your commercial property after a fire has caused a large loss.

As a business owner, there are a lot of things to be concerned about when it comes to keeping the doors open. One important element of running a business is having a plan when disaster strikes and strikes hard.

Disasters can come in many sizes, but one that is perhaps one of the most concerning is what is called a “large loss” to your commercial property. A “large loss” is defined as a large scale loss that has a considerable financial impact to your business.

What can SERVPRO do about a large loss for your business?

Emergency Response. We have emergency services on deck 24⁄7 to answer the call for whenever you might need us. We will act immediately to contain the damage and start the repair procedure. We’ve worked with commercial organizations of all kinds for more than 50 years, and we are the experts in cleaning up after large-scale damage and getting businesses just like yours back up and running as fast as possible.

Treating the Damage. Our pros in green consist of licensed experts who have been educated in specialized procedures for removing water and treating smoke damage in your commercial property after a fire. Even if the bulk of your building has been affected, we work diligently to rescue what can be restored and detect issues that may be invisible to the untrained eye. Getting your business back up and running is critical, and we do our best to ensure the work is done correctly and thoroughly while working as quickly as possible. With our knowledge and industry-leading equipment, we’re able to do the most comprehensive job in the shortest amount of time.

When you call on SERVPRO for large-loss restoration services, you can count on consistent communication throughout the duration of the job, the highest-quality products and unmatched customer service. We understand the worry that commercial property damage may cause.

The subsequent difficulties caused by smoke, water from firefighting efforts and structural damage might make your business seem irreparable. You can put your confidence in our technicians, who will work hard to treat the damage, identify any objects that need restoration or replacement, and even coordinate with your insurance provider.

Allow SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley to restore your commercial property after a fire has caused a large loss and interruptions to business. We are on hand 24⁄7, ready to take your call right now.

Storm Preparation Can Save Your Life

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

Storm preparation can save your life, let SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley help you get ready.

When a severe storm warning is issued, you race to prepare, unsure of what to do first to keep you and your family safe. Preparing for storms ahead of time can keep you from having to rush to make a plan.

But with that in mind, 42% of Americans say they do not have an evacuation plan in place. A lack of preparation for an impending storm puts you at risk of the storm’s fatal effects.

Here are a few steps you should take ahead of time to prepare:

Develop a safety plan. The first step in storm preparation is to create a safety plan. Make a household meeting place and, in the event of an evacuation, know where you need to go. Make sure that everyone in your household is aware of any impending weather events and what they can do to stay safe.

Pack an emergency kit. Having an emergency kit on hand ensures that all of the essential items you may need in the event of an emergency or evacuation are all in one place. Items such as emergency food and water, medical supplies, flashlights, and a first-aid kit should be included. Keep your kit in a location where everyone in the house can access it when needed.

Prepare valuable possessions. Flood water can enter your home during severe storms, and if your belongings aren’t in a safe area, they might be ruined by water damage. Passports, birth certificates, family photos and any other items that are too important to lose should be stored in a plastic bag or a waterproof container.

Stay informed. Keep an eye out for local weather alerts to get ahead of any approaching storms. You can stay up to date on current weather events by listening to local radio and television stations. Make sure you understand the difference between a storm warning and a storm watch, as they require distinct preparation measures.

Find a safe place to stay. If you need to shelter in place, stay in your basement or an interior room with no windows. If you feel you need to find a safer place to shelter, you can search for a local mass care shelter to evacuate to. Wherever you find yourself during a storm, be sure to always bring your emergency kit.

When severe storms damage your property, quick action can prevent further damage. SERVPRO is available 24/7 to repair storm damage of any size ASAP.

SERVPRO's Process for Fire Restoration

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

When your home or business endures fire damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley from start to finish.

After a fire strikes your home or business, you’re left with damage from the fire as well as water saturating everything from the firefighting efforts. None of that would be a surprise to our experts here at SERVPRO, as we have the specialized fire restoration expertise to return your house to its pre-fire state.

Every fire damage situation is unique and necessitates a unique remedy, but the overall procedure remains the same. The following is how we will handle a “normal” fire damage situation.

Initial contact. We are on call 24 hours a day and seven days a week, including all holidays. Disaster doesn’t wait for office hours to strike, and we don’t wait to respond. When you contact us, the restoration procedure starts. Our experts will ask a number of questions about the fire damage so that we can get started immediately with the necessary equipment and resources.

Inspection. To establish the degree of the fire, water, smoke and soot damage, we will thoroughly check and test every room. By doing this, we are able to formulate the proper strategy. Fires can cause the air quality to be unsafe, so it’s important not to re-enter the property until experts have determined it is safe to do so.

Water removal. If there is water damage present as a result of firefighting efforts or sprinkler systems, we will begin the water removal procedure immediately to ensure the bulk of the water is removed. If there is any remaining water, it will be removed using dehumidifiers and fans, and the drying process will begin from there.

Cleaning. SERVPRO removes smoke and soot from ceilings, walls and other surfaces using highly specialized state-of-the-art equipment and processes. We’ll clean up all of the fire-damaged items and areas that can be cleaned and repaired. We will also work to return your possessions to their pre-fire state by applying a number of cleaning processes. We can clean and restore electronics, documents, upholstery and more. We also specialize in industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment to eliminate odors.

Restoration. If during the cleaning process we determine that certain areas of your property cannot be cleaned, we also provide comprehensive restoration and rebuilding services. Restoration and rebuilding efforts include everything from modest repairs like drywall replacement, painting or carpet installation to substantial repairs like the complete rebuilding of different areas or rooms in your home or property.

When your home or business endures fire damage, you can trust that SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley will be ready to be a helping hand and will get your home restored quickly and thoroughly to its pre-fire condition.

The 411 on Commercial Water Damage Prevention

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

If your business is affected by water damage, reach out to your local restoration expert SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley.

Water damage is often unanticipated and comes in all shapes and sizes, whether it is caused by a flash flood, a burst pipe or a leaky roof. No matter if it is pooling water in your ceiling that can go unnoticed or you’re standing in water up to your knees, water damage can cause significant untimely and costly interruptions to your operations.

In many circumstances, however, preventive measures can be taken to avert severe delays or property damage. The following are a few recommendations to inspect and prepare you in protecting your facility from water damage:

Check for plumbing issues. One indicator of plumping issues could be if you’ve observed a substantial increase in your water bill, a pipe or plumbing equipment is almost certainly to fault. You can check your walls, floors and ceilings for indications of leaks. Discoloration or mildew development is also a reliable indicator that a pipe is damaged or leaking. Whatever you discover, be certain to get it repaired as quickly as possible.

Install a water-sensing device. You can find water sensors available at practically any home improvement store. The devices provide alerts or alarms in the case of a water leak, allowing you to contain the damage and respond quickly. The majority of sensors may be connected to your smartphone or integrated with your facility’s security system, enabling you to get alerts even while you’re not on-site.

Look at the windows and doors. Water making its way indoors from outside during storms or rain is another frequent cause of water damage. Examine the area surrounding your windows, doors and any other exposed locations. Be sure to reseal any gaps or cracks using caulking that is waterproof. Additionally, refinish window or door trim to provide additional protection against decaying seals and trimming.

Regularly inspect the roof. Have an expert inspect your roof to discover places that might leak. Different types of roofing may need different treatments such as sealing on a regular basis to provide an additional layer of protection. Additionally, remember to clean the gutters to ensure that rainfall flows easily away from the roof. Take note of locations that are prone to drainage problems. Along the outside your building, be sure to look for spots that may be prone to water accumulation if the ground gets too wet. Consider getting the help of a landscaper or drainage specialist to do an inspection of the area and provide proper draining.

If your business is affected by water damage, enlist the help your local experts at SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley. We are here to help 24⁄7 whenever disaster might strike.

How Thorough Should My Business' Severe Weather Plan Be?

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

If you need assistance creating a Safety Plan for your business, give SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley a call.

If you have not yet done so, adding “create a severe weather plan” to your to-do list is a must as a business owner. Not only is an emergency action plan required by OSHA for all employers, but it is also a good idea for everyone involved.

Being prepared can keep you and your staff safer in the event of a severe weather incident, and can encourage everyone to stay calm in what can quickly turn into a chaotic scenario. However, if you are new to emergency action planning, you may be wondering how thorough your severe weather plan should actually be. While it is important to make sure all of your bases are covered, it is also important to remember that weather is unpredictable by nature and your plan should ultimately reflect that.

The Basic Outline of Your Severe Weather Action Plan

**Determine where everyone will go.** In the event of severe weather that strikes while staff is on-site, it is important that everyone stays put until the threat has passed. You will want to determine in advance what the safest area of your building is, as that is where everyone should go when the weather turns sour. Ideally, this will be a room at or below the ground floor of the building that is free from any windows or external-facing walls.

**Determine what everyone will need.** In the event of severe weather, a power outage is extremely likely. That is why it is important to create an emergency kit for your staff, stored in the area you will seek shelter. This kit should include flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies and anything else to keep everyone comfortable during a power outage. It is also a good idea to include food and water so no one will need to leave the area prematurely.

**Determine your communication plan.** Trying to communicate with employees during a chaotic scenario is less than ideal, so think in advance about how you will keep them updated. Communicate the severe weather protocol in advance, and ensure that everyone knows exactly what to do if there is an imminent threat.

*If your building is damaged by severe weather, you can count on us. Get in touch today to learn more about our restoration process.*

Your Partners in Business

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is your local commercial restoration expert. Contact us today should you experience any damage.

When running a business, to say that it can be stressful at times is quite an understatement. As a business owner, you know how difficult it can be to have things always run smoothly. Major damages or accidents can cause major losses to a company, and that’s something we want to help you avoid.

That’s why you can count on SERVPRO to become your partner in the business world. We are locally owned and operated, and we will help you work through or recover from anything that can possibly take away from your business. Our goal is to help you and your business continue down the road to success.

Large loss recovery. The top cause of financial loss for businesses across the United States are fires, storms and flooding. These things can and likely will cause large amounts of damage, especially if you wait before dealing with the problem. That’s where SERVPRO can come in with our highly trained professionals to help get you on the road to recovery.

Emergency Ready Plan. Preparation is key, which is why you need to prepare your business before disaster strikes. We will help you create and put the perfect plan into place, so that when disaster comes, you know exactly what to do. There are specific things you should consider when planning, like having an emergency chain of command, alternate meeting or work sites, and how to handle restoration needs.

Cleaning of All Kinds. We can help you with any specialty cleaning needs you have, like biohazard removal,, as well as routine cleaning needs like carpet cleaning or upholstery restoration. No matter what the messy issue is, we will come up with a solution to get it cleaned.

Restoration Services. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage or a small kitchen fire got out of hand, these things require cleanup and restoration services. SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley has all the bases covered, offering comprehensive restoration services for water damage, fire damage and storm damage, among other emergencies.

Industry Specialization. We have spent years learning about commercial enterprises, so we know that we can help anyone. We know the ins and outs of a variety of industries and stand prepared to handle those needs. Because we understand how important your business is, we will often enclose a work area during restoration so that your business operations aren’t disrupted. Whatever your recovery need may be, and whatever your commercial property may require, trust SERVPRO to get the job done. Contact us today to get started on an Emergency Ready Plan or find out how we can serve your business.

SERPVRO assists with large commercial loss

4/23/2022 (Permalink)

If your company encounters any damage to your property, call the experts at SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley.

Floods, fires, blizzards and other extreme weather disasters or workplace incidents may cause enormous damage to warehouses, offices, retail shops and other commercial structures.

Flooding and fire disasters are two of the most common causes of severe economic losses.

COMMERCIAL WATER DAMAGE. Commercial water damage from flooding or other events can be devastating and costly. According to the U.S. government, the average commercial flood claim in the past five years has been around $89,000. Flooding may cause major damage to flooring, building material and drywall, putting the structure at danger. Furthermore, valuable and essential machinery and electronics may be damaged.

When you call SERVPRO, we will arrive as soon as possible to begin removing flood water and prevent it from spreading and creating further damage and difficulties.

SERVPRO professionals are highly trained and prepared to remove huge amounts of standing water and excess moisture from commercial buildings. We can also dry and repair construction materials, documents and electronics that have been damaged.

Our skilled water removal equipment can remove large amounts of standing water, while our cutting-edge drying equipment can remove excess moisture from any afflicted areas of the property. We can restore any of your essential devices (computers, TVs, monitors and so on) and assist in the recovery of lost data if they are damaged. We may also provide comprehensive restoration services if any structural aspects of your building are affected.

COMMERCIAL FIRE DAMAGE. Another disastrous catastrophe that might happen in a business environment is a fire. When they occur, they usually spread swiftly and do significant damage to the property and its contents.

Because damages are caused not only by the fire itself, but also by soot, smoke, firefighting attempts and other byproducts, there is more to clean and restore than the building itself.

We clean up and repair all affected areas after a fire through highly specialized solutions. As well as repairing any structural damage caused by the fire, we can also repair items that have been harmed by soot, smoke or water damage from firefighting efforts as much as possible.

While fires and floods are two of the most prevalent calamities that companies and organizations encounter on their property, there are still a plethora of other large loss events that we can handle. If you are a company owner who has encountered a damaging incident on your property, call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley and we’ll respond to your emergency immediately.

Why You Should Trust SERVPRO with Your Fire Damage Recovery

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley is your local fire restoration expert. No job is too big for our team of experts.

Dealing with a fire is one of the most taxing things a homeowner could possibly imagine.

Fire causes all kinds of damage in your home, and recovering from a home fire encompasses dealing with physical, financial, emotional and mental recovery.

While SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley can’t help with all these areas, we can be your main source of property recovery and restoration. And we can get your home taken care of quickly, which can in turn aid in your emotional recovery as well.

Here’s why you know you can feel good about entrusting your fire recovery to us.

We’re Established.

We’ve been doing this a very long time. SERVPRO was established the same year Thurgood Marshall was appointed to the Supreme Court, if that gives you any idea.

That means we’ve got over 50 years’ experience helping families and homeowners deal with the effects of fire, and we’ll use all those years of innovation and experience to give you the most complete recovery possible.

We’re Skilled.

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley employs a team of experts, trained and equipped to handle anything fire may have done to your home. From reversing the effects of smoke damage to full-blown rebuilding efforts, we have the tools and work ethic to get it done.

We’re always up to date on the latest technologies, innovations and certifications, which multiplies our capacity for tackling even the toughest recovery projects.

We’re Very Fast.

When you click this link or call (478) 956-1214, you’re getting connected with a local team who can be onsite right away to get started.

You don’t have to wait for a team from somewhere else to show up—no, we’re right here in Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley which means when you need us, we’re the quickest option for your recovery. And we’re on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your emergency call.

When fire strikes at home, the choice is clear: SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley is the name you can trust with your recovery and restoration.

If fire or other disasters do damage to your home, we’re here to make things right again. Contact us today to get fast, local recovery started on your property right away.

Tips For Recovering After a House Fire

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

House fires trend to peak during the winter. SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley is available 24/7 in the event of an emergency.

No one likes to think about suffering a loss like a house fire, but it’s a reality for millions of American families every year. House fires aren’t a seasonal risk to your home, but they do happen more frequently during the winter months.

If your family suffers a house fire, even one that does extensive damage, you can take steps to recover what you can from your home and recover emotionally, too. These tips can help you start the restoration process and help you deal with the aftermath of a house fire.

Taking the First Steps

The American Red Cross offers the following tips to help you in the immediate aftermath of a house fire.

After you’ve gotten everyone out of the house and treatment for any injured people or pets, then these are your next steps:

Let your loved ones know you’re safe. This is an important step, especially when news of a fire or issue can spread quickly.

Don’t go back into your home until it’s secured. The authorities will let you know when it’s safe to go back to your house. Please don’t go in there before because it can be unsafe.

Get in touch with your insurance company. You’ll want to let them know what happens to get the restoration process started.

Tips for Dealing With Emotions

It’s normal to feel a wide range of emotions after your home suffers a fire. They can range from grief to anger to depression. The American Psychological Association offers this advice to help you begin the process of recovering emotionally.

Find ways to reduce your stress. That can include exercise, meditation and deep breathing.

Don’t make major life decisions. It’s smart to avoid switching jobs or making other major choices while dealing with these complicated emotions.

Talk about your feelings. Whether you choose a therapist, family members or a close friend, it’s smart to talk to someone about what’s going on.

Don’t set expectations. There is no way you “should” be dealing with these issues. Instead, do what you can and be kind to yourself.

Take good care of yourself. Eat balanced meals and get plenty of sleep. It will help you better deal with a stressful situation.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have crews who are available 24⁄7 in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help.

Fire Safety & HVAC Maintenance

4/10/2022 (Permalink)

If fire should become a problem, contact the pros in green, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley.

Being a responsible homeowner means taking care of the things that take care of you. Your HVAC system is always there, and there are few (if any) days per year in our area where you aren’t relying on it to keep your home comfortable. It often goes unappreciated—that is, until something goes south or stops working.

There are also some important fire safety concerns of which you need to remain aware, particularly as winter comes in and your HVAC switches to heating mode. Don’t let your source of comfort turn into a source of disaster.

Here’s what you need to do to make sure your HVAC system and furnace are running safely this fall and winter.

Routine Maintenance

Ideally, your HVAC system should be checked twice a year for any present or upcoming issues. A professional can see problems coming and head them off before any danger is presented.

Things like aging or fraying wiring can become fire hazards that are exacerbated by the extended use of HVAC systems during less pleasant times of the year.

Duct System Circulation

Overworked heating systems are dangerous heating systems, and one thing that can quickly cause your system to work too hard is allowing your ductwork to become or remain clogged. Poor circulation or ventilation can cause your furnace to overheat.

It’s recommended that you have your duct work cleaned every three to five years, and we can help with that.

Declutter Your Furnace Area

If your furnace is located in a designated area, or it’s in the corner of a basement or garage, make sure the two-foot radius around it is clear of clutter. Radiating heat (and certainly direct contact) from the furnace can cause flammable materials to ignite. Resist the urge to use your furnace area for storage.

Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

If your furnace is gas-powered, carbon monoxide detectors can be as important for you as smoke alarms. The gas in your furnace is odorless, and you may not notice a leak until it’s too late. A detector can give you the assurance that things are running smoothly.

In addition to your regular fall maintenance, make sure to have your heating unit examined to give yourself a comfortable, fire-safe fall and winter season.

If fire should become a problem at home, we can help you with restoration and recovery. Contact SERVPRO to get the pros in green working for you right away.

Do You Have a Plan for Staff Safety in Severe Weather?

4/9/2022 (Permalink)

Do you have a Plan for Severe Weather? Reach out to SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley today for help.

Severe weather can be an extremely dangerous thing. Not only is it often unpredictable, but it is also quick-moving—meaning waiting to prepare when it becomes imminent can put you in harm’s way.

If you are a business owner, preparing in advance is even more important, as it will help you keep both yourself and your staff safer in the event of weather concerns.

If you have not yet put together a plan for severe weather, now would be the time to do so. Not only is it a requirement from OSHA that you have an emergency action plan in place, but it is also a smart way to keep everyone calm and comfortable even when the weather goes south. There are a lot of key elements in emergency planning, but below, we will focus specifically on some things to consider to keep your staff safe.

How to Keep Your Staff Safe During Severe Weather

**Make planning a collaborative process.** Having an emergency action plan is great, but it does not do much good for your organization if no one is aware of what the plan is. Make sure you include your staff in the planning process and keep them aware of what protocols to follow should severe weather become imminent.

**Make sure everyone’s needs are accounted for.** It is a good idea to pack a general emergency kit for your workplace to cover things like flashlights, first-aid supplies and general items to keep everyone comfortable in the event of a power outage. However, you should also encourage staff to have their own personal emergency kits that meet their needs—that way, if there is an emergency scenario, they will have access to necessities such as medication and personal items.

**Make it clear where everyone should go.** In the event of a severe weather event, you and your staff will need to seek shelter on-site until the threat passes. Be sure you have a safe area clearly identified so staff know exactly where to go. This area should not have any windows or external-facing walls, and ideally will be at or below the building’s ground floor.

*If your building has damage due to severe weather, we are the team to call! Contact us today to learn more about our storm restoration practices.*

Potential Spring Weather Hazards Across The Country and Close to Home

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to the possibility of severe weather. SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is a just a click away.

The United States is the third largest nation in the world, coming in behind Russia and Canada based on land mass.

When you have such a large geographical area encompassed in one country, “spring weather” season can have a much different meaning depending on where you are. There are all types of different weather events, which means there will also be different weather threats.

With spring right around the corner, read on for a look at what different parts of the country can expect, weather-wise.

First, let’s take a look at the Pacific Northwest region. The residents here experience heavy rainfalls during the spring months, causing flooding and water damage. There are areas with high elevations that may be dealing with a different type of wet weather—remnants of snow or ice melting, which cause problems of their own.

Now looking at the Upper Midwest and Northeast regions, these regions basically don’t know the difference between winter and spring! This region experiences winter weather to the fullest, dealing with snowstorms and blizzards all the way until early summer at times.

Then you have people living on the West Coast who don’t even know what winter weather is, as it’s almost non-existent in this area. Rather than blizzards or snow, they are dealing with excessive heat waves. These heat waves can endanger the lives of those living in the area, and they also contribute to wildfire conditions.

When you get to the middle part of the United States, you will notice that from Iowa to Texas they are dealing with dry, windy weather! Things like wildfires, windstorms and derechos are just a few of the weather hazards this area faces during spring. Not to mention an area that is named “Tornado Alley” is in this region as well.

Then you have the Southeast region, where we are located. We see spring as a wonderful time of the year; however, we do experience our fair share of weather hazards. Intense thunderstorms and even tornadoes are common this time of year. And states that border the ocean also have to look out for rip currents and early-season hurricanes.

So, what’s the point here? No matter what “spring weather” looks like in your neck of the woods, there are always weather hazards! That’s why despite of where you live, you will need to be prepared for any kind of weather event.

If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.

Tornadoes 101

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

Spring storms can cause major damage to your property. If you experience any damage reach out to SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley.

Georgia is prone to severe weather of all types but is particularly prone to thunderstorms and tornadoes. All of Georgia is prone to tornadoes throughout the whole year, but they are most likely to occur from March through May and peaking in April.

When there is severe weather, be sure to keep a close eye on how the weather changes and know how to identify tornadoes. Tornadoes are often accompanied by thunderstorms and can develop quickly, so it’s important to have dependable ways to get updates about storms by turning on your radio or TV, or by having notifications on your phone for weather alerts.

A tornado watch means that there hasn’t been a tornado sighting yet, but the weather is favorable for them to happen.

Once a tornado watch is issued, it’s important to stay notified through the tornado warning system in your area, stay tuned to local radio stations or an NOAA radio or have notifications on your mobile device for weather updates.

Most tornado-prone areas have an outdoor siren system. Know how to distinguish between the siren’s warnings for a tornado watch and a tornado warning.

A tornado warning is sent out as soon as a tornado has been spotted or shown on the weather radar. You should seek shelter as soon as a tornado is on the way.

Some tornadoes come quickly and without warning, so it is important to know what to look for. Signs that a tornado may be approaching include:

• A rotating funnel-shaped cloud
• Dark or green-colored sky
• Large, dark, low-lying cloud
• Hail
• Loud roar that can be compared to a train

If a tornado is heading your direction, it’s important to take shelter immediately in the lowest indoor area of whatever building you are in, away from windows. The best places to go are basements and cellars, but hallways or other windowless, centrally located areas are good, too.

If you are outdoors, find a place to take shelter, but if that is not possible, find a ditch and lay face down, covering the back of your head and neck with your hands.

Tornadoes and other severe storms can cause serious damage to your property. If your property is damaged by a storm in any way, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley has you covered. We are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week so we can begin the restoration process immediately.

Understanding Fire Sprinkler System Requirements for Commercial Spaces

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

If your business is damaged from a fire, trust the experts at SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley to make it "Like it never even happened."

If you own a business or other type of commercial space, fire safety is extremely important. Not only is adhering to fire codes a must to allow for your continued operation, but it is also key that you do everything you can to protect your staff and your customers who are working and doing business inside the space.

Preparations can also reduce the impact of a fire, and given that over half of businesses are not able to recover after a fire emergency, doing what you can to reduce a fire’s impact is a prudent move.

One vital element of safety and harm reduction is a fire sprinkler system. While fire sprinklers are not *always* required in commercial buildings, they are more often than they are not—and even if they are not required in your specific situation, it is likely worth having them installed given that sprinklers are effective in stopping 88% of commercial fires when they are installed.

How Do I Know if I Need Fire Sprinklers in My Commercial Space?

While every area will have local fire codes for businesses that may vary, some of the national guidelines are included below:

* Fire sprinklers must be installed in any new commercial building exceeding 5,000 square feet, or any building that is renovated to contain 5,000 square feet after construction.

* Buildings more than 55 feet in height must have fire sprinklers on every floor.

* Self storage buildings must have fire sprinklers installed, except in single story facilities with no indoor corridors.

* If the municipal water pressure to the building is not adequate to pressurize the sprinkler systems, a fire pump should also be installed.

If you are unsure about whether you need a sprinkler system in your commercial space, or you have questions about the system you have, your local fire department will likely be able to connect you with the right person to make an assessment. In addition to installing fire sprinklers, they can help you determine if your fire escape routes, fire exits and fire extinguishers are up to code as well.

If your business is damaged from a fire, we can help. Contact us today to learn more about our commercial restoration services for businesses impacted by fires, floods and more.

Keeping Track of Fire Safety at Your Business

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

If you are dealing with the aftermath of a fire at your business, you can depend on SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley.

For business owners, there are few things more important for the safety of you and your staff than ensuring you have the right fire protections in place. Fires can be absolutely devastating for businesses, with over half never being able to recover after the damage—but fortunately, there are plenty of ways to decrease the likelihood that you will ever experience a fire at all.

All businesses are subjected to certain fire codes set forth by the National Fire Protection Association, which provide a great guideline for making sure you are being as safe as possible. In addition to adhering to fire codes when you are first starting out, it is also important to make sure you are regularly auditing your fire safety efforts to be sure nothing slips through the cracks. Below, we have listed out some helpful tips for doing just that.

Keeping Track of Your Fire Prevention Efforts in the Workplace

Make sure you have enough (working) fire extinguishers. It is required that all commercial spaces have fire extinguishers on the premises, though how many and where they are located will vary depending on your specific situation. That being said, it is important to check your fire extinguishers regularly—while they do have a long shelf life, there will be an indicator on each one that will let you know if it is time to be replaced.

Check or install commercial sprinkler systems. While not every business is required to have a sprinkler system, they can be a great investment for any commercial space. Sprinkler systems are extremely effective at stopping fires quickly, so even if your business is not technically required by codes to have them, it might be worth considering having a sprinkler of some sort put into place.

Be sure you are reviewing fire safety with your staff. Fire safety efforts are great, but if your staff is ill-prepared for a fire, they can be all for naught. Make sure you are regularly going over fire routes, fire exits, evacuation protocols and fire extinguisher use with your staff. That way, everyone will know exactly how to take action in the event that a fire begins, which can eliminate confusion in a panicking situation.

If you are dealing with the aftermath of a fire at your business, you can depend on us. Contact us today to learn more about our fire restoration services.

A Guide to Fire Code Considerations for Your Commercial Space

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

??If your business needs help with fire damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley Counties 24/7/365.

If you own or operate a business or other commercial space, understanding how to protect your investment and your employees from harm related to fire damage is a must. Not only are fires extremely dangerous for anyone who is in the area, but they can also be devastating to businesses—it is estimated that over half of businesses are unable to recover from a fire.

Fortunately, businesses are able to take many precautions when it comes to fire prevention, and national commercial fire codes are a great place to start. While each area will have their own local codes that should also be followed, below, we will examine some of the national codes that can help you keep your business safe and operational.

Fire Codes Pertaining to Commercial Sprinkler Systems

While they are not required in all types of commercial buildings, a commercial fire sprinkler system can be a fantastic way to reduce the risk of a fire severely impacting your business. Typically, the rules for fire sprinkler systems are that they must be installed in any commercial building over 5,000 square feet and any building that is taller than 55 feet in height.

Fire Codes Pertaining to Fire Alarms

While smaller commercial spaces are not always required to have a fire alarm system, installing them is a simple enough process that it is always a good idea. By alerting people to the fire quickly, your employees and customers will have more time to escape, which could potentially save a life. If possible, it is best to invest in interconnected fire alarms, so that when one is triggered, they will all sound to alert everyone in the area.

Fire Codes Pertaining to Fire Extinguishers

All businesses are required to have fire extinguishers on the premises, but how many and where they should be located varies based on the size and nature of the commercial space in question. Additionally, business owners are required to have fire extinguisher training with all employees at least once per year to be certain that everyone is aware of how to use a fire extinguisher and comfortable with the best practices.

If your business needs help with fire damage, you can count on us. We are here 24 hours a day to help you recover in the aftermath of a commercial fire. Contact us today to learn more.

Areas we Inspect After Storm Damage

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley will help you with the whole restoration process after a storm. Call us today

You never know when you might suffer property damage due to bad rain, storm damage, wind or debris. In the wake of severe weather, you’ll want to contact SERVPRO to inspect, document and restore any damages to your business for you.

There is a lot you can do to mitigate storm damage, but it’s never completely preventable. Storms can be extremely costly to businesses.

In fact, experts predict that storm and flood damage could cost businesses over $13 billion in 2022.

It’s not always easy for the untrained eye to spot damage after a storm, and damage that goes unnoticed can grow and become even more costly and destructive. When you call SERVPRO to inspect the damage, here are just a few of the main areas we would look for when inspecting your property:

The Roof

Roof damage is one of the most often-occurring kinds of storm-related property damage. We will inspect the roof for loose, curled, missing or cracked shingles.

Additionally, dark patches on asphalt shingles may indicate water damage. Dents or weakened areas on the shingles are indicators of hail storm damage.

We will check for water damage indoors that has sneaked through a damaged roof. Water stains or leaks running down the wall, through a skylight or pooling in the center of the ceiling are further indications that the roof has a leak.

However, not all indications of water damage are obvious. The wisest course of action is to hire an expert to evaluate your house and search for indicators of a leaking roof.

The Exterior

Following a severe storm, you’re likely to find debris scattered around the exterior of your property. These pieces of debris may strike your property, cars or other structures, such as barns or machinery.

We will inspect the whole exterior of your property for loose or broken siding, doors, windows and gutters, among other things. Oftentimes, the exterior can be a significant source of unwanted water leakage that can cause interior water damage and flooding during a storm.

Dents or bends in gutters are often the result of hail, wind and/or debris damage. It is critical to employ an expert to evaluate, record and repair any possible damages precisely and safely.

Windows and Doors

Windows may potentially sustain damage during a severe storm, especially one with heavy winds. Our technicians will inspect the glass for broken panes, shattered glass, chips, scratches and fractures. Additionally, we will search for indicators of damaged seals that allow water to enter through windows and doors.

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley will help you with the whole restoration process after a disaster, from damage assessment through restoration and rebuilding. Do not hesitate to contact our professionals to get your storm damage emergency repaired immediately and properly.

The 2 Things Your Business Needs in a Disaster

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

??Let SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley guide you toward preparedness, and get the best cleanup and recovery team in the industry.

You spend a lot of time getting your business ready—ready for launch, ready for your customers, ready for holiday shopping, for the new product unveiling, the list goes on. But how much thought have you put into getting your business ready to deal with a disaster?

All too often business are completely taken aback and derailed after a major disaster event disrupts their routine. In fact, 40–50% of small businesses never reopen after being disrupted by a natural disaster. For businesses whose margins can be razor-thin, it’s devastating to have to close for days, even weeks at a time.

When disaster strikes, you need two things in place.

A Business Interruption Plan

You need to know if, how and where you can continue doing business if your main location is temporarily disabled or unavailable.

Take time to develop a communications plan to reroute phone calls, update your website and share messaging in other ways. Establish backup vendor relationships and alternate-site workspaces, and practice the plan in case the day you need it should ever arrive.

A SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile

A disaster you’re prepared for has less of a chance of impacting you to a crippling degree. That’s why it’s so important to have a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile.

When we help you assess your risk and create a no-cost plan, you can have the peace of mind knowing a set of procedures can automatically spring to action should a disaster come.

Your SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile will include risk assessment, a compilation of critical emergency information, protocols and chain-of-command communications for emergency services, and crucial information for you and your teams. It will also enable SERVPRO get to work immediately on recovering your business and restoring your facilities so you can get back to work in your home base.

You can’t prevent natural disasters, but you can prepare for them. With a little planning, you can keep your business on track even in an evacuation or crisis.

Let your local SERVPRO guide you toward preparedness, and get the best cleanup and recovery team in the industry on your side when you need us most. Contact us today to get your READY Profile started.

Reduce the Chance of Commercial Storm Damage

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

If storm damage ever causes a mess at your business, call the pros at SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley.

Without warning, high-velocity winds from severe weather can damage your business. No storm’s timing or severity can be fully predicted.

Tornadoes are a common occurrence here in Georgia. Tornado winds can reach up to 300 mph in the most powerful tornadoes. Wind speeds of this magnitude can lift vehicles into the air, tear houses and businesses apart and turn shattered glass and other debris into dangerous projectiles.

It might feel like there’s nothing that can be done to prevent the full severity of storm damage, but a few simple precautions can be taken to help reduce the chance of property damage and save you money on repairs and missed productivity.

The Roof

It is critical to ensure your roof can hold up against storm damage. Storms may cause shingles to fly off or be broken by hail and debris.

To ensure that your business’ roof is protected against wind damage, get it assessed for a variety of factors, including the following:

• Shingles have a high wind and impact resistance rating
• Shingles are snugly secured and fitted together
• The roof sheathing is set firmly in place
• The connection between the roof and the walls is sufficiently secure to prevent the roof from being lifted off by high winds and updrafts
• HVAC equipment, skylight and pipelines are securely fastened and will not blow away

Exterior Walls and Doors

Different types of exteriors are more or less prone to damage from storms than others. In fact, steel siding is known as one of the most durable siding options available, as it can withstand harsh storms and damaging winds.

Some commercial spaces can be primarily glass, brick or concrete exteriors, which all have different levels of tolerance to storm damage. To make sure your building’s exterior is protected from wind damage, check the following:

• The structure is well-sealed to prevent wind from entering gaps and crevices and damaging the interior of your business
• Siding and windows are attached securely
• All entry doors are triple-hinged and protected with a deadbolt lock
• Overhead doors are well-reinforced and capable of withstanding heavy winds

Outdoor Areas

Many commercial properties have exterior spaces, from walkways to playgrounds. Perhaps you have outdoor benches, tables and chairs or potted plants.

Check the following to ensure that the areas around your property are protected against damaging winds and storms:

• Storage sheds and structures are securely anchored
• Everything you keep outdoors (equipment, inventory and supplies) is either secured or readily moved inside
• Dumpsters, outdoor lighting fixtures and fences are secured
• Large bushes and trees in close proximity to your structure are healthy and pruned
• Outdoor advertising or signage are secured

You’ve worked hard to get your business to where it is today. If storm damage ever causes a mess at your business, call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley to handle any and all storm disaster cleanup and restoration.

Can Lightning Cause Serious Property Damage

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Lightning can cause serious property damage. If you need help repairing your home after lightning damage, contact SERVPRO today.

Though most rain fronts that pass through our area are no major event, severe weather is something that is entirely different. Severe weather can strike nearly any time of year if conditions are right, and with it, bring heavy rains, high winds, lightning strikes, hail and more—all of which can be rather dangerous.

Many of us are cognizant of the injuries and fatalities that lightning strikes in particular can cause. Around the world, they are responsible for 2,000 deaths each year and many more injuries. However, did you know that lightning can cause serious property damage, too? Below, we will be taking a look at why lightning strikes where it does and the types of damage to be aware of.

Why Does Lightning Strike Where it Does?

The majority of lightning strikes that occur during any given thunderstorm will be from one cloud to another as the electrical charge is transferred from area to area in a storm. However, with all this electricity in the air, lightning can also begin to target the ground, as objects such as buildings, trees and bushes send up sparks to meet it. While it is true that taller objects are more likely to be struck by lightning, it is not a guarantee—lightning will strike anywhere there is a charge, whether it be the ground, a tree or a home.

How Does Lightning Cause Damage?

When lightning strikes a building, it can cause serious property damage as a result. The main ways this can happen are:

* Damage due to fire where lightning strikes. When lightning strikes, it is incredibly hot—and therefore, this heat will be transferred to the impacted target. In many cases, this will cause immediate combustion at the site of the strike.

* Damage due to electrical fires. In addition to the threat that lightning can cause an initial fire where it strikes, it can also cause damage due to electrical fires. Because lightning carries an electric charge, it will travel through a building’s wires once it makes contact—this can cause damage to those wires and lead to an electrical fire, either immediately or later on.

* Water damage due to impact. Even if it does not start a fire, lightning will leave a hole where it strikes a home, which can lead to water damage if it is raining.

*If you have damage to your home, due to lightning or other storm-related causes, we are the team to call. We are here 24/7 to help—get in touch today.*

How Does Water Damage Lead to Mold?

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

If mold invades your home, call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley today!

Water damage is something that no homeowner ever wants to experience, but unfortunately, it is a rather common occurrence. Between hidden leaks that can pop up in your plumbing system, water seepage in crawl spaces or surprise roofing issues, there are lots of ways that water damage can pop up in a home.

While water damage is an inconvenience, it can lead to an even more pressing concern: mold growth. Mold growth thrives in damp places, so any time water works its way into an area it should not be in, there is a high chance that mold will find its way there as well. Below, we will look at why mold and water damage are so closely related so you can be on the lookout for any signs of growth.

Why Water Damage Often Leads to Mold

**Mold loves humidity.** The nature of water damage can vary, but in incidents where there is flooding or general dampness in an affected area, the humidity levels can get rather high. Basements, laundry rooms and bathrooms can all turn into very humid areas, which can create the ideal environment for mold to take hold. Ideally, the humidity in an area should stay below

50% at all times in order to discourage mold growth.

**Mold spores need moisture to grow.** Many people are surprised to learn that mold spores are everywhere—in nature, mold aids with the decomposition of organic material, and its spores spread via the air. Therefore, mold spores are always floating around looking for an ideal place to land, which is how they wind up in homes (often after hitching a ride on clothes, shoes or pets). However, mold spores require moisture to grow, so while they may work their way into homes, if they cannot find an area with moisture that they can grow, they will not be able to

reproduce.

**Mold grows well in contaminated waters.** Oftentimes, water damage is caused by water that is not necessarily clean, such as rainwater or floodwater. Mold can grow especially well in these types of waters because of all the bacteria that is already present, making water damage of this type especially susceptible to mold growth.

*If you are curious about how mold remediation works, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our remediation services or to report mold damages.*

Let's Prepare Your Emergency Ready Plan Together

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

If the day comes where your business is hit with disaster or emergency, you can rest assured SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley will be there

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Can High Winds Cause Damage During a Storm

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

If your home has been damaged due to high winds, call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley 24 hours a day. ??

When it comes to severe weather, there are a lot of ways it can cause harm to an impacted area. More than 75% of deaths pertaining to natural hazards are a result of severe weather, and the property damages caused by storms can be far-reaching and severe. When most people consider severe weather hazards, heavy rains and lightning strikes are probably the first things that come to mind—but unfortunately, straight-line winds can also be significantly damaging to property and people.

Damaging straight-line winds are anything over 50–60 miles per hour, but gusts can reach up to 100 miles per hour if conditions are favorable. When thunderstorms are over an area, they will often cause downdrafts of wind that impact the ground below in several unfavorable ways, which we will look at below.

How Do High Winds Lead to Storm Damage?

**They can rip limbs from trees.** While trees grow to have a certain amount of flex to them in order to withstand the threat of high winds, occasionally, branches will still be ripped from the tree. This is especially true of branches that grow at an odd angle or are less than healthy, which is why trimming trees regularly is so important. When limbs are ripped from trees, they can become high-speed projectiles, crashing into any object or home that ends up in their path.

**They can topple mobile homes.** Because straight-line winds can reach up to 100 miles per hour, they can easily generate an extremely strong force—and in many cases, this can be enough to topple mobile homes or trailers. Even anchored mobile homes can be at risk if winds are strong enough, which puts the people who seek shelter in these homes at serious risk.

**They can make homes more susceptible to water damage.** High winds and water damage often go hand in hand, because winds can cause damage to homes that make them more susceptible to water damage. Projectiles carried on the wind can shatter windows, which will then let in rain. Additionally, high winds can damage roofing shingles, flashing and other exterior elements of the home designed to keep moisture out, resulting in hidden leaks that can be costly.

*If you have storm damage to your home, you can count on our team to help. Get in touch today to learn more about our restoration processes—we’re here 24/7 to help.*

What Conditions Are Right for Mold to Grow?

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can cause health effects. Call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley if you have mold in your home.

Mold growth is a complicated issue for homeowners to have to face. While mold can only grow if the conditions are right, there are many instances where this is the case—and once mold establishes itself, it is extremely difficult to fully get rid of it without professional help with the remediation process.

Fortunately, the conditions where mold is likely to grow can be abated in most instances. Because prevention is so important when it comes to mold management, today we will be looking at the conditions that are ideal for mold to grow and how they can be prevented.

The Conditions That Mold is Likely to Grow In

**Warm, humid conditions.** Mold requires moisture to grow, but it does not always have to be standing moisture that allows it to start its process. Humid areas, such as bathrooms, basements and laundry rooms, are prime candidates for mold growth in the home. When the air in an area becomes saturated with humidity, it can lead to high moisture throughout the room which can allow mold to become established.

**Poorly ventilated areas.** Mold spores are spread via the air, so when areas are poorly ventilated, it is much easier for mold to settle in one spot and begin to reproduce. This is doubly concerning as areas with poor air circulation are also typically areas with high humidity, which can create an even more ideal environment for mold spores to land in. Installing fans or other types of air flow system in areas without much ventilation is a great way to prevent mold.

**Any area with untreated moisture damage.** Mold will often establish itself around water damage, as it thrives on moisture. Any area that has a buildup of moisture is ripe for mold growth, which means hidden leaks are often first identified by the signs of mold around the area. This is why it is so important to have water damage abated quickly and professionally when it occurs, because the longer it is left untreated (or if it is untreated properly), the worse a mold problem is able to become.

*If you are in need of mold remediation or would like to learn more, we would love to help. Contact us today to learn more about our mold remediation services!*

Reduce the Chance of Commercial Storm Damage

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

If storm damage ever causes a mess at your business, call the pros at SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley.

Without warning, high-velocity winds from severe weather can damage your business. No storm’s timing or severity can be fully predicted.

Tornadoes are a common occurrence here in Georgia. Tornado winds can reach up to 300 mph in the most powerful tornadoes. Wind speeds of this magnitude can lift vehicles into the air, tear houses and businesses apart and turn shattered glass and other debris into dangerous projectiles.

It might feel like there’s nothing that can be done to prevent the full severity of storm damage, but a few simple precautions can be taken to help reduce the chance of property damage and save you money on repairs and missed productivity.

The Roof

It is critical to ensure your roof can hold up against storm damage. Storms may cause shingles to fly off or be broken by hail and debris.

To ensure that your business’ roof is protected against wind damage, get it assessed for a variety of factors, including the following:

• Shingles have a high wind and impact resistance rating
• Shingles are snugly secured and fitted together
• The roof sheathing is set firmly in place
• The connection between the roof and the walls is sufficiently secure to prevent the roof from being lifted off by high winds and updrafts
• HVAC equipment, skylight and pipelines are securely fastened and will not blow away

Exterior Walls and Doors

Different types of exteriors are more or less prone to damage from storms than others. In fact, steel siding is known as one of the most durable siding options available, as it can withstand harsh storms and damaging winds.

Some commercial spaces can be primarily glass, brick or concrete exteriors, which all have different levels of tolerance to storm damage. To make sure your building’s exterior is protected from wind damage, check the following:

• The structure is well-sealed to prevent wind from entering gaps and crevices and damaging the interior of your business
• Siding and windows are attached securely
• All entry doors are triple-hinged and protected with a deadbolt lock
• Overhead doors are well-reinforced and capable of withstanding heavy winds

Outdoor Areas

Many commercial properties have exterior spaces, from walkways to playgrounds. Perhaps you have outdoor benches, tables and chairs or potted plants.

Check the following to ensure that the areas around your property are protected against damaging winds and storms:

• Storage sheds and structures are securely anchored
• Everything you keep outdoors (equipment, inventory and supplies) is either secured or readily moved inside
• Dumpsters, outdoor lighting fixtures and fences are secured
• Large bushes and trees in close proximity to your structure are healthy and pruned
• Outdoor advertising or signage are secured

You’ve worked hard to get your business to where it is today. If storm damage ever causes a mess at your business, call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley to handle any and all storm disaster cleanup and restoration.

What Types of Places Are Likely to Attract Mold Growth?

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

If mold invades your home, call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley to evict it!

Mold growth can be a frightening thing for homeowners to deal with. It is an insidious and stubborn problem that can cause significant damages if not treated quickly and professionally by mold remediation experts—but how do you know if you are at risk of experiencing mold growth?

One of the only positives about mold is the extremely specific conditions that it needs to grow. Mold is only likely to be found in a few places where the environment is right for it to be able to take hold.

Below, we will be taking a look at what these places are so homeowners know exactly where to keep their eye out for these harmful spores. Preventing mold and treating it quickly when it does arise is the best way to stop the issue from getting out of hand.
The Places Where Mold Is Likely to Grow

**In bathrooms and laundry rooms.** Mold thrives in areas with high moisture content, so anywhere that experiences regular and high humidity—such as bathrooms and laundry rooms—is likely to be a haven for mold. Establishing consistent airflow and mitigating the humidity in these areas can go a long way in preventing mold from ever growing in these places.

**In basements and crawl spaces.** Basements and crawl spaces are often popular spots for mold to be discovered because of how ideal their conditions are. Not only is humidity typically high in these areas, but they are also often dark and may even experience water damage from ground seepage if they are not properly weatherproofed. Dank odors and condensation in these areas are often a sure sign that mold is likely to take hold.

**In areas that have experienced water damage.** Water damage is a serious issue for several reasons, including the fact that it is likely to give rise to mold growth if it is not treated properly. Whether the water damage is from a hidden leak in the plumbing system or a flooding issue, it is important that it be addressed quickly by water restoration professionals to completely remove the moisture and ensure that mold is not likely to become a lurking threat.

*If you are in need of mold remediation, water damage restoration or would simply like to learn more, we are here 24/7 to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services.*

Whatever the Disaster, We're Here to Help Your Business

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what causes the damage, we can handle it. SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley are your local restoration experts.

Even on a normal day, it’s difficult to operate a business. With so many competing demands for your time and attention, it’s easy to see why managing or owning a business might be a little stressful.

Consequently, if something were to interrupt business like damage from a natural disaster, you might need some experts to step in and lend a hand.

SERVPRO is the industry leader when it comes to commercial disaster cleaning, recovery and restoration. Our goal is to help you get back on your feet after a crisis by handling the cleanup and restoration process so you can continue to focus on what you need to do to keep your business going.

No matter what causes the damage, we can handle it:

Smoke and fire damage. The NFPA estimates that U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 3,340 fires in office properties per year that cost an annual average of over $110 million in property damage. We can take care of everything from the demolition and reconstruction of your building to the elimination of smoke odors.

Water damage. Damage caused by water seeping inside the building from any number of things, such as a storm, leaky roof, broken pipes, an overflowing water heater and other unanticipated problems, can cause issues from carpets getting saturated to drywall getting destroyed and even structural integrity potentially becoming compromised. No matter what happens, we’ll get you back up and running quickly and thoroughly.

Weather-related disaster damage. Natural disasters affect one out of every three businesses, and many of them are not prepared. One way to be prepared is to know what to do between disaster and the completion of your restoration. We can set your business up with a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan, which will help you know exactly what to do if disaster should strike.

Regardless of the nature or severity of your needs, we can assist you in getting back to business as quickly as possible.

Contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley when you’re ready to have the best in disaster cleaning and recovery on your side. We’re here to assist you in preparing for or recovering from a catastrophe.

The Dangers That Occur When Severe Weather Strikes

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged from flash floods, lightning, or hail call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley 24 hours a day!

More than simply being an inconvenience, severe weather can cause serious damage in a variety of ways. In addition to being dangerous enough to cause personal injury to anyone who has not sought out adequate shelter, severe weather can also cause property damage to any homes or businesses in the line of the storm.

While severe weather can often move through an area without causing much damage, any time it is a possibility, it is wise to be vigilant so you know when to seek safe shelter to protect your family. Below, we will be taking a look at the types of hazards that happen during severe weather so you can be better prepared for their occurrence.

The Types of Hazards That Occur During Severe Weather

**Flash flooding threats.** Flash flooding is a serious problem, in part because it is quite unpredictable—hence the term “flash.” Flash flooding is more common in low-lying areas, but it can happen anywhere that receives a heavy amount of rainfall in a short period of time. Rapidly rising creeks and ponds are often sources of flash flooding, but even overwhelmed storm drains can become backed-up and impact an area.

**Fire hazards from lightning strikes.** Lightning strikes can occur any time there is a thunderstorm, and they are responsible for around 2,000 deaths per year throughout the world. In addition to being dangerous for anyone caught outside, lightning strikes can also introduce serious fire risks when they strike homes. Lightning can start a fire when it hits a home, due to the intense amount of heat it transfers, but it can also cause electrical fires as it travels through (and damages) a home’s wires on its way to seeking grounding.

**Damage due to high winds and hail.** Severe weather is often accompanied by high, straight-line winds up to 100 miles per hour—which as you can imagine, can cause serious damage. High winds can break off tree branches and turn them into projectiles, which can shatter windows, damage roofs and make homes susceptible to water damage as a result of being vulnerable to heavy rains.

*If severe weather strikes your home, you can depend on us to help. We have a team of storm restoration experts on hand 24/7—contact us today to learn more.*

Have a Strong Commercial Fire Safety System

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

A fire can happen to any business. If your workplace experiences any damage from fire, contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, and Fort Valley.

Fires can cause serious damage and inconvenience to businesses. Ensuring that you are prepared for a fire before it happens will protect your employees and your facility.

With these four critical components, you can construct a solid fire safety system that will help curb a fire if one happens to spark up at your workplace.

Smoke and Fire Alarms

When it comes to fire safety in the workplace, the first and most important line of defense is a working fire and smoke alarm system. Everyone is alerted when the fire alarm goes off, indicating that there is a possible threat and that an emergency evacuation is required.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are really only helpful for small fires, but knowing how to use one could prevent extreme damage to your facility. When using fire extinguishers, you and your employees should use OSHA’s “PASS” system:

P—Pull the pin on the extinguisher

A—Aim at the base of the fire

S—Squeeze the handle

S—Sweep at the fire, and move side to side

Sprinkler System

The usage of a sprinkler system is important as well. Sprinkler systems can be programmed to activate when the temperature reaches a specific level and can douse even very large flames.

You’ll likely need a professional inspector to provide regular inspections to ensure sprinkler and standpipe systems are properly maintained and running. As with any emergency equipment that is not used every day, ensuring it is in working condition regularly is essential.

Emergency Lighting and Signage

Conditions may be hectic and confusing during a fire. The building’s electrical power also often goes out. It might be difficult to see or navigate the building due to power outage, sprinklers going off, as well as smoke in the air.

People are more likely to be able to see well enough to leave the building and find safety if the facility is equipped with backup emergency lights that turn on automatically, along with lighted exit signs.

A fire can happen to any business. If your workplace happens to be affected, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, and Fort Valley has expert fire restoration professionals who can assist you immediately.

The 2 Most Common Causes of Commercial Water Damage

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage doesn’t wait for a convenient time to cause problems. SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley is ready 24 hours a day.

When you’re running a business, it’s easy to let a few things slip your mind. Perhaps checking your facility for water damage is one of those tasks. Water damage can sneak in quietly, but can pack a big punch if it isn’t found and treated quickly.

Water damage can cause expensive losses for business. Thankfully, it’s not impossible to find and address water damage early on, before it gets to be a major issue.

There are a lot of ways water can creep into your facility, but these two are the most common:

Leaks in the plumbing system. A pipe breaks, an appliance hose ruptures or if your facility has a fire, the suppression sprinkler system turns on and drenches your facility in water.

Pipes may also unexpectedly leak during freezing conditions due to frozen water. Burst pipes are sometimes difficult to detect since they are not as visible from the surface and may not always result in obvious puddles of standing water.

Water stains near piping areas or the development of musty odors are evidence of plumbing leaks. You might notice the stains on the ceiling, running down the walls or on your floors.

Roof leaks. Leaky roofs are often the result of severe rainfall combined with insufficient or incorrect roof drainage. Excessive rainfall, such as that seen during natural disasters, may often result in widespread damage when it leaks inside.

This sort of damage has the potential to develop further if it goes unnoticed with fewer people in the facility, like overnight or on a weekend. Roof damage may also result in secondary damage such as unsightly mold development, if left unattended for an extended period of time.

Commercial property insurance typically provides coverage for unforeseen pipe bursts, malfunctioning appliances and sprinkler system water damage caused by a property fire. Insurance also often includes coverage for damage to major equipment, which is crucial in the event of roof water leaks.

Water damage doesn’t wait for convenient times to cause problems, and we don’t wait for convenient times to respond. If water damage creeps up at your commercial property, SERVPRO is ready 24 hours a day and seven days a week to help.

SERVPRO Gives You a Seamless Recovery Process

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

We’ve got the tools and technology to handle any job. Contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley to learn more.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SERVPRO Has the Expertise to Handle Your Cleanup and Recovery

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley has your back.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trust SERVPRO for Your Remodel

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

When you call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley, rest assured you’re getting in touch with the best restoration team in the business.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Whatever Your Restoration Need, We’ve Got You Covered

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley to get the job done.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Fire Safety Checklist for Your Household

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley is on standby to help you create your Emergency Ready Plan.

It is important for any household to practice fire safety as a regular part of their routine. House fires can be both devastating and dangerous, and on average, those in the household will have less than three minutes to escape should a fire begin.

Fortunately, by being vigilant about the prevention of house fires, you can reduce the likelihood of you ever having to experience one. While there is no way to completely eradicate your risk, there are plenty of steps you can take to make your home less susceptible to accidental fires breaking out.

A Checklist for Household Fire Safety

Practicing fire safety is a great way to reduce your risk of experiencing a fire at your home. By referencing this simple checklist, you can be sure you are taking necessary precautions to keep your household safe.

**Smoke Alarms**

* Ensure that you have smoke alarms on each level of the home and in every sleeping area.

* Test smoke alarms each month and replace batteries as needed.

* Note the install date for all alarms and replace after 10 years, even if they are still operational.

**Cooking Safety**

* Be sure to never leave the stove or oven on unattended.

* Keep flammable items, such as towels and wooden utensils, three feet from the stove.

* Store a fire extinguisher prominently in the kitchen.

* Understand the difference between grease fires and other types of fires, and know the methods for extinguishing each.

**General Safety**

* Be sure your household has a fire escape plan that you practice at least twice per year.

* Ensure that every area of your home has at least two exits.

* Store any flammable chemicals in accordance with their label recommendations.

* Keep matches, lighters and other flammable objects away from young children.

* Do not leave candles lit if they are unattended.

* Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from candles, space heaters or other sources of heat.

**Electrical Safety**

* Never overload electrical outlets or extension cords.

* Replace any frayed cords or wires immediately.

* Plug appliances and any heat-generating items directly into the wall, not into extension cords.

* If wall outlets ever feel warm to the touch, stop using them immediately and call an electrician.

*If you have damage from a fire, you can count on us to help. We are here 24/7 for restoration—contact us today to learn more about our processes.*

Creating Your Home’s Fire Safety Blueprint

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley is ready 24/7 to respond to your emergency needs.

Increasing the fire safety of your home is a great goal. House fires can be traumatic and dangerous events, causing extensive property damage as well as injury or loss of life. However, if you have not previously considered your options for fire safety, getting into the habit of fire prevention around the house may seem like a daunting task.

The good news is that improving your home’s fire safety is ultimately quite a simple task. Once you assess where your gaps in fire prevention efforts are, you can implement simple new habits to better protect your home. Below, we will help you identify where you could improve fire safety so you can figure out exactly what you can do to help keep your household safer from fires.

Determining Where to Improve Your Fire Safety at Home

**Consider personal safety first.** While fire prevention is quite important, the first thing you should do from a safety perspective is to consider how to protect your family if a fire does start. One of the best things you can do is install smoke alarms throughout the home and test them monthly to ensure they are operational. That way, anyone in the home will be alerted right away if a fire starts and can quickly get to safety. Additionally, you should draft a fire evacuation plan for your household and practice it regularly, so everyone is aware of what to do if the alarms do sound.

**Next, consider your daily habits.** Because many fires are started due to seemingly innocuous errors around the home, it is important to consider how your daily habits could have a role in your fire safety efforts. On average, how careful are you when cooking, lighting candles and utilizing flammable objects? Being aware of little things, like keeping flammable objects away from heat sources, can go a long way toward safety.

**Know the fire risks to watch for.** In addition to building good habits, knowing when to identify a fire risk is an important part of the puzzle. Things such as overloaded extension cords, frayed wires or space heaters being used improperly are red flags regarding fire safety—and quickly addressing them can go a long way towards prevention.

*If you have damage due to a fire in your home, you can count on us for restoration. Get in touch today to learn more about how we can help.*

So You’ve Got a Sewage Backup

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage backup can be a serious problem, reach out SERVPRO of Thomaston/Forsyth/Fort Valley to learn more.

Water damage can be rough stuff in any form. Burst pipes, flooding and appliance issues all create difficult situations in their own right. But a sewage backup can be an entirely other level of both nastiness and danger.

Sewer problems can be the result of civil sewer systems that have aged past their primes, tree roots growing into sewer lines or blockages of a sanitary sewer main. Regardless of the cause, however, one thing is clear (or literally probably not clear at all)—sewer backups introduce toxins into your home, and they leave a difficult cleanup job in their wake.

When you find yourself faced with sewer damage, here are some things you should do immediately upon discovering the damage to ensure your safety and get things under control until your local SERVPRO team arrives.

Evacuate anyone vulnerable from the area. This includes seniors, children, even pets—anyone who may suffer more readily from the toxins sewage can introduce into your home’s atmosphere. Keep them safely away from the backup area until restoration is complete.

Shut off your main water supply and electricity if it’s safe to do so. If you can get to your power panel and water main safely, use them to stop the flow of water and decrease the odds of your water backup causing an electrical fire. Don’t do this if your electrical panel is under water, or if you would have to stand in water to turn it off. If you can’t safely shut off your own power and water, call your utility companies and have them do it.

Open windows in the affected area to encourage ventilation and get some fresh air flowing in.

Document your situation and take lots of photos for your insurance company. Be sure to include any items that have sustained damage, as these will be important for your insurance claim process.

Add a little bleach to standing water, if you can do so safely, so that the chlorine in it can do some disinfecting work and prevent the spread of bacteria. Don’t touch stained or affected areas, and don’t come in contact with what could be very dangerous water.

Don’t forget to call SERVPRO. We’ll be there quickly, get things cleaned and managed thoroughly, and we can work with your insurance company on your behalf.

Regardless of the cause of your sewage problem, SERVPRO has the tools and techniques to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Sewage backup is a serious problem, but we can take care of it and restore your home after the damage. Contact SERVPRO anytime to get the pros on your side.

Why SERVPRO Should Be Your Top Choice for Water Damage Restoration

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage is always unexpected, but SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, and Fort Valley is ready to jump into action. Give us a call today!

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

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

Why to Choose SERVPRO for Water Restoration at Your Home

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

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

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

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

Fires on Construction and Renovation Sites

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

If your construction project should be hindered by an unfortunate fire, contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley.

A 2020 report by the National Fire Protection Association gives us insight into the most common fire dangers of unfinished properties. Some of these properties are in the construction phase, and some are undergoing major renovations. The published results are the culmination of a five-year study, looking at fires of this nature from 2013–2017.

These details serve to encourage adoption and adherence to NFPA standards and codes while building and renovating, in order to avoid the added cost and time of dealing with fires as a result of code violations.

The top three causes of construction and renovation fires are in a virtual tie for occurrence percentage, though their resulting damage varies. Electrical failure or malfunction causes 15% of construction fires, while another 14% each come from abandoned or discarded materials and heat sources too close to combustible materials.

Electrical malfunction also causes 16% of civilian injuries in these types of fires, while discarded material and combustion from heat sources cause 6% and 19%, respectively. Also of note is that fires caused by heat sources being too near to combustibles causes almost one fifth of all direct property damage from construction fires.

There are a few other causes of significance, though none with quite the impact of the top three. These include welding and cutting in close proximity to flammable materials or objects, unattended equipment, failure to properly clean work areas and various misuses of materials. The combination of these add up to 26% of construction fires and 27% of civilian injuries, but only 11% of property damage from fires on construction sites.

Adherence to fire codes and proper methodologies could prevent most of these unfortunate fires, and while it’s not always the most convenient way to do this, following these well-researched, thoughtfully crafted prevention codes is the safest way to manage any construction or renovation project.

Considering fire agencies respond to more than 6,000 construction fires alone each year, this report shows us that we’ve still got some ground to make up when it comes to proper fire safety methods.

If your construction project should be hindered by an unfortunate fire, we’re here to help, regardless of the cause. Contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley to find out how we can help you get back on track.

The So-Called 100-Year Flood

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

If flooding or other water damage cause trouble for your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley.

Flood probability is based on a number of factors, and scientists and engineers use a specific set of criteria to determine the likelihood that rivers may flood in heavy storms. Flooding can happen wherever it rains, and it can cause troubles like 2019’s sudden troubles in Conyers; but there’s a certain term on which much of our flood conversation hinges: the “100-year flood.”

It’s a rather foreboding term, one that definitely makes the listener aware that it’s something to be concerned about. But what exactly is it? Is it a general term, or are there actually 100-year floods we can measure and predict?

First, a 100-year flood is a very real, scientific measurement, as opposed to a general declaration like, say, a gullywasher or deluge. Without getting overly technical, a 100-year flood is, in theory anyway, a flood that statistically should only occur about once every 100 years.

In other words, based on data from nearby rivers, bodies of water, elevation levels and other factors, a 100-year flood is a flood that has a 1% chance of occurring in any given year.

This kind of flood is also known as a 1% Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP) flood.

So, does a 100-year flood only occur every hundred years? Well, yes and no. While the average space between them typically does meet that criteria, that doesn’t preclude the possibility of two 1% floods happening in back-to-back decades, years, or even months.

Flooding is unpredictable, but statistically speaking, the 100-year or 1% designation gives us a baseline for estimating the frequency and severity of a certain kind of flood.

Why does all this matter? Well, for one thing, aside from giving us a sense of how bad a flood was or could be, and how likely it may be to occur again, the 1% AEP flood is the basis for the National Flood Insurance Program, which, among other things, requires homeowners within high-risk flood zones to carry flood insurance.

So you can see why it’s important that we have both accurate flooding data and analysis as well as risk prediction. The accuracy of the portrait and prediction of 100-year floods could impact whether your home sits in a high-risk zone or not.

The 1% analysis also helps us plan things like infrastructure, drainage and building needs for flood plain areas.

The last 100-year flooding in our area came in the form of massive floods in September 2009, which resulted in half a billion dollars in damages, and actually reached the 500-year flood designation in some areas, meaning there was only a 0.2% chance of that flood occurring that year in this area.

Flooding isn’t inevitable, but it’s always a possibility when heavy storms overwhelm bodies of water or drainage systems. If flooding or other water damage cause trouble for your home or business, contact SERVPRO for fast, complete cleanup and recovery.

5 Places to Check After a Hard Rain

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can come from a number of places. If you find any signs of damage to your property, call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley.

We get plenty of rain in the Fayetteville area. The national average for a given city is 38 inches of rain per year, and we beat that average that by more than 10 inches.

Now some of that rain courtesy of your standard, near-daily summer shower. But some of it, as you well know, comes from storms that pack quite a bit more punch.

As a homeowner, it’s incumbent upon you to protect your home as much from water damage as much as possible, or at least to stop it once it’s discovered. So after a heavy rain, here are the places you should check to make sure all is well.

Check your basement. If there’s one solitary place you can anticipate water damage at home, it’s the basement. Homes with basement have a 98% chance of experiencing excess moisture or flooding at some point, so check here first. If you see water pooling, paint bubbling or you smell a damp odor, you may have an issue.

Crawlspaces and attics. Much like the basement, these areas can become inundated with moisture. If you have a crawlspace instead of a basement, it’s subject to the same kind of moisture issues, and attic moisture can reveal to you that there’s a leak somewhere in the roof.

Check on your sump pump. Your sump pump works hard to move water away from your house during a big storm. You should test your pump quarterly, or after any major rainfall.

Examine your gutters. Your gutters catch more than rain, and there are plenty of ways for them to get clogged or even damaged. In particularly heavy rains, gutters can be overwhelmed by water flow, and that becomes even more likely if they are obstructed due to built-up dirt, granules from roof shingles, twigs and leaves.

Inspect your roof. You don’t have to get up on a ladder every time it rains, but after a heavy storm, particularly if you have overhanging tree branches, take a good look at your roof from the ground. If you notice anything that looks off—broken or warped shingles, unfastened flashing or gutters that seem out of place—call a professional to conduct a full examination.

Water damage can come from a number of places at home. If you find a source of water leakage has done harm to your property, call your local SERVPRO for fast, expert help.

The Most Common Roof Problems You’re Likely to Encounter

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Roof care is home care. If you find any signs of damage to your property, call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley.

One of the sneakiest water damage sources in your home is actually on your home. Your roof regularly takes a beating from weather, sun, wind, rain and more, and it does a great job overall. If we were talking percentages, we’d be looking at Hank-Aaron-meets-Ted-Williams-type numbers.

But roofs are also one of the last places we tend to check for leaks, and thusly, one of the last places we catch leaks before they become a problem.

Make this your year to change all that. Keeping an eye on these problem areas can keep water from sneaking into your home through cracks and gaps in the roof.

Storm damage. Wind, hail and other environmental factors can damage your roof during a storm. No matter the season, your roof takes a pounding from storms, and you should always inspect your roof visually after a major storm, at the very least. If you suspect anything negative may have occurred, play it safe and let a pro examine it.

Falling branches and tree damage. Overhanging branches can crack and fall, but they can also rub away the top layer of your shingles over time as they sway with the wind. Trimming trees and being mindful of their proximity to your roof can help you avoid bad shingles and subsequent leaks.

Flashing. Your roof likely already has holes in it, but they’re the kind you have to have. Chimneys, vent pipes, skylights and even HVAC systems all come through your roof for ventilation. If the flashing is poorly installed, or if it simply wears down over time, it can cause seams in your roof and pull shingles and tiles off their proper alignment. Flashing may also need to be resealed from time to time.

Mold. Those dark streaks and patches on your roof are easy to ignore, but they’re really patches of mold—and that’s never good. There are many reasons to get rid of mold whenever and wherever you see it, but in the case of your roof, that mold can eventually eat away at your roofing material, which can let water in.

Gutters. While technically roof-adjacent, this one certainly needs attention as well. Keeping your gutters free of debris and buildup can stop water from damming up and flowing into your house by getting under your shingles.

Time. The truth is, your roof has a life expectancy, and even within that window it’s likely to develop needs that you can’t see from the ground or as an amateur. An annual roof checkup is recommended in order to keep your roof performing at its peak. A professional can identify problems that are, and some that have not yet come to pass.

Roof care is home care, and leak prevention is the name of the game. If water damage becomes an unexpected part of your home ownership experience, contact SERVPRO to get things cleaned up and restored.

Why SERVPRO Is Your Go-To for Any Restoration Needs

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, & Fort Valley is ready 24 hours a day to help with your restoration needs.

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

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

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

Why to Choose SERVPRO for Your Restoration Needs

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

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

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

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

The 3 Toxicity Levels of Water Damage

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

No matter the water damage, we can quickly set things right. Contact the SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, and Fort Valley team to learn more.

Water damage can happen all sorts of ways, and it can certain cause myriad problems, not the least of which is its potential for toxicity. But how do we determine which water sources are toxic and which aren’t? Why isn’t it safe to touch or swim in floodwater, but rain is fine—aren’t they the same?

These distinctions are very important, and there’s a governing body called the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification that helps us understand them.

Category 1: Clean Water Damage

Damage from so-called “clean” water is the least worrisome kind of damage, and assumes a certain level of cleanliness from its sources—typically things like refrigerators, water supply lines for appliances or even showers.

The nature of this type of damage means most of the damage mitigation involves simple drying, extracting and dehumidifying, and most instances of clean water damage don’t create health worries.

Category 2: Grey Water Damage

The next category is referred to as “grey” water. The sources of grey water include sources that aren’t inherently or necessarily toxic, but that could or may be—overflow from toilets, backups from an unfiltered sump pump, or even leaks from a washing machine which could have been holding toxic materials during the wash cycle.

Touching water from these sources may not cause immediate harm, but grey water is still to be avoided as it could cause potential danger all the same.

Category 3: Black Water Damage

“Black” water is the nasty stuff. It carries an immediate, inherent risk of toxicity, sickness or bodily harm, and it requires immediate action for removal to get these risks mitigated. Sewer backflows, broken toilet bowls containing fecal matter and other septic water fall into this category.

It may surprise you, but overflowing ground and river water fall into this category, as does flood water, because they may contain everything from waste to lawn-care chemicals and parasitic organisms. Black water can cause disease and immediate harm, and affected surfaces like carpet or sheetrock must be removed. This water is also the most difficult to deal with in the aftermath, because it requires such care in cleanup.

No matter the water damage or the level of toxicity or danger to your home or family, we can quickly set things right. Contact your local SERVPRO team today to find out how we can tackle water problems of any size or nature.

Where to Start on Fire Safety Efforts for the Home

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Having a Fire Safety Plan is essential to being prepared for an emergency. Let SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth, and Fort Valley help you create yours.

If you are hoping to improve your household fire safety, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. House fires are certainly dangerous, but given the multitude of ways they can start, understanding what fire prevention measures to take around the home can seem like it will be a daunting task.

Fortunately, fire safety is actually quite simple! By adding certain habits into your household routines, you can make major strides in reducing your likelihood of a fire and keeping your family safer.

Read on to learn more regarding where to start when improving fire safety in the home.

How to Begin Your Fire Safety Efforts at Home

**Start with your smoke alarms.** If you are new to fire safety efforts, starting with smoke alarms is really the best thing that you can do. Most people will have less than three minutes to escape when a fire begins in the home, but smoke alarms can ensure all members of your household are alerted quickly so they can begin evacuating. Make sure you have smoke alarms installed throughout each level of the home and in every sleeping area, and test them once per month to be sure they are operational and do not need a battery replacement.

**Create an escape plan.** As previously mentioned, being able to escape quickly is so important in the event of a house fire. It is wise to draft a fire escape plan for your home, and practice it with each member of your household at least every six months. Be sure that you are able to execute your plan in around two minutes, and that everyone knows where to meet up once they are safely outside.

**Consider your cooking habits.** Cooking is one of the most common causes of house fires, so evaluating your cooking habits can be a great way to prevent fires from starting. Be careful about flammable objects near the stove and leaving food unattended while cooking. Additionally, make sure that you have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen that is rated to handle cooking and grease-related fires.

*If you have damage to your home from a house fire, we are the team to call. We are here 24/7 to provide you with a rapid response. Get in touch today to learn more.https://www.SERVPROthomastonforsythfortvalley.com/

Breaking Down the Fire Tetrahedron

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business has any damage, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is ready around the clock to help you recover.

First things first, do you know the definition of a tetrahedron? To cut down on time, let us explain…it’s a three-dimensional, triangular shape with four equal sides.

Now that you know the basics of the geometric shape, let’s discuss what a fire tetrahedron is.

Basically, it’s a way of acknowledging that there are four components needed for fire to start—or four “sides” to the equation. If one of the sides is removed, the structure can’t stand and the fire can’t start.

The 4 Things a Fire Needs to Live

Fuel. Fire, like people, needs fuel to keep going. It can be organic or inorganic, but there has to be some source of fuel for a fire to start, such as wood or plastic.

Heat. The amount of heat needed to start a fire varies from substance to substance. But you must have enough heat to cause combustion. Every object has a set point at which it will combust, melting or igniting.

Oxygen. Fire reacts with oxygen to produce a series of chemical reactions. In short, oxygen feeds the fire so that it can keep growing and generates products of combustion in the process.

Chemical Chain Reaction. The cycle of heat, fuel and oxygen combine to produce a chain reaction. This will perpetuate a fire as long as the chain reaction is undisturbed.

The 4 Ways to Stop a Fire

Cool it. This is the most common method for extinguishing a fire, and the most common form of cooling is the application of water. Eventually, when dousing the flames with water, they reach a temperature below what’s needed to sustain a fire.

Smother it. If a fire doesn’t have access to oxygen, then it can’t live. To smother it, you must deprive it of oxygen. This can be a simple task like snuffing a candle, or it can be a little more difficult because it might need chemicals introduced.

Starve it. When a fire burns with no outside interference, it will likely burn until it runs out of adequate fuel. To be proactive, you should remove the fuel source while the fire is still trying to consume it.

Interrupt the chain reaction. Chemical agents can effectively disrupt a chain reaction and put a fire out. One chemical agent that is very effective is halon, but it has an elevated potential for ozone depletion, making it an environmental threat.

If the fire tetrahedron makes a wreck of your home or business, we’re ready around the clock to help you recover. Contact SERVPRO anytime for fast, thorough cleanup and recovery after a fire.

Anytime Disasters Need Anytime Service | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

If a fire issue pops up during the holidays, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley.

Certain things in polite society deserve advance notice. If you’re coming to visit family, for example, it’s reasonable for them to expect a phone call. In most business situations, a two-week notice is the norm if you’re changing jobs.

But fires, water incidents and natural disasters have absolutely no sense of politeness or courtesy, and they tend to show up whenever they darn well please, be it nights, weekends or holidays, with no warning.

Rude as that may be, it’s the reality with which homeowners are often faced. You don’t get an email to let you know, “Oh, hey, there’s going to be a burst pipe around midnight on Tuesday,” so you get stuck with dealing with these things whenever they happen to occur.

It’s a good thing, then, that you’re linked up with SERVPRO. We understand the need for anytime access to emergency help, which is why we keep the lights on at all hours. We’ll be here when you need emergency help—because waiting to start cleanup and recovery is only going to accelerate the damage.

After a fire. Fire and flames cut through your home, eating away walls, furniture and more, but they also leave behind soot and smoke to do even more damage. The thick, black sludge and arid stink set in mere moments after a fire, and they’re hard to get rid of from the very start.

Given a few hours to put down roots, so to speak, they become impossible to remove, which means your only option becomes the more costly route of replacement.

After water damage. There’s a two-day race to get your house completely dried out and dehumidified, because in 48 hours mold comes a-knocking.

Mold begins growing on all sorts of organic sources, including furniture, clothing and drywall, creating structural issues, that lovely gym sock smell and potential respiratory issues to boot.

Freak weather events, floods and natural disasters all also have a way of showing up unwanted, and when they do, you need to know that you’ve got immediate access to help. That’s why we’re here—to give you anytime service for your anytime disaster.

Rest easy—you’ve got SERVPRO on your side, 24 hours a day, every day.

When you need help after a home or business disaster, fast service is a priority, and there’s nobody faster or more prepared than SERVPRO. Call us anytime to take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service.

Tornado Safety and Preparations | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Prepare, Prevent, Protect

When you hear the word “tornado,” does the Wizard of Oz come to mind? The movie offered a representation of how intense and destructive tornadoes can be. They don’t have a specific season—and they often come without warning.

 We recently saw a slew of tornado damage ravage the South, which is even more evidence that knowing what to do in a storm is important. Take some time to review  the basics about tornado safety  so that your family knows what to do if a watch or warning is issued.

Start with the three components of any safety strategy:

The 3 P’s—Prepare, Prevent, Protect

**Prepare.**  Whether we’re preparing for an event or simply dinner, the more we prepare, the better we feel. The same can be said about preparing for a natural disaster. Anytime a disaster like a tornado strikes, chaos will ensue. Knowing your next steps can help you stay at least a little calmer when faced with an emergency. You can also take some steps to prepare your house and family, such as creating a [safety kit](https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/21-tips-to-prepare-your-home-for-a-natural-disaster/) and determining a meeting place in case your family is separated.

**Prevent.** While a natural disaster isn’t fully preventable, you can do your part in *preventing* the worst from happening to your home. You can often save yourself a good bit of time and money by taking simple actions, like scanning the roof to check for broken or missing shingles or ensuring your gutters are free of debris. If high winds or a tornado are possible, tie down outdoor décor and furniture, or move them indoors. This can help protect your home—and your family—from flying debris.

**Protect.** If a storm is imminent, this is the last stage of your safety protocol. You need to know the actions to take to protect your most valued possession—your family. Read up on the steps you need to take when a tornado watch is issued, and know exactly what to do when a watch progresses to a warning. Specifically, you need to know where you and your family will hunker down to stay clear of potential flying debris and safest in case the home’s structure were to collapse. If you live in a mobile home, have definitive plans about what actions you will take to get to a safe place.

If you have damage to your home or business, we are here 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help you.

Contact SERVPRO today(https://www.SERVPROthomastonforsythfortvalley.com/) to get started on your restoration.

A Winter Weather Checklist for Your Southern Home | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

If winter weather should bring damage to your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley for fast, restorative solutions.

Frosty the Snowman” won’t be found here. It might get cold in our area, but dealing with blizzards into the norm.

We definitely experience colder weather in the winter months and a stray chance here and there for some wintry precipitation, but it’s the exception, not the norm.

Still, though, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your family and house stay safe and secure as the seasons change. Start with these steps:

Service your HVAC. Even though we don’t experience blizzards, it can still get pretty cold. If it isn’t already turned on, odds are your heater will be engaged sometime soon. Have your HVAC unit or other heating implement checked to ensure it is running efficiently—and that it doesn’t present a fire hazard.

Make time for roof, gutter and chimney maintenance. The roof takes a beating from weather conditions throughout the year. Have it inspected as the weather begins to cool, looking specifically for loose shingles and damaged flashing. The gutters should also be cleaned out to make sure they can handle an influx of water from rain or the occasional bit of melting snow. If you use a fireplace, have the chimney inspected, too.

Insulate and seal. Keep your home dry and warm by insulating your attic and ensuring that your windows have a good seal on them. This can help prevent leaks, which in time will cause mold damage.

Maintain your vehicle. While we don’t usually have to worry with snowy roads, you do have to concern yourself with wet roads. That’s why you need to ensure that your vehicle is in good working condition during the winter. Take the car in for a maintenance check on the tires, the battery, and the windshield wipers, specifically.

If winter weather or unexpected flooding causes water to damage your home, we’re always here to help. Contact SERVPRO to see how quick and easy it is to let the pros handle your cleanup and recovery.

What Causes House Fires? | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is here for you if your home is affected by fire!

If you were to see your home on fire, it might feel like a swift punch in the gut! An unpredictable situation can happen in a matter of minutes and cause complete devastation.

That’s why it’s important to pay attention to fire safety basics, because even with all the awareness campaigns about fire hazards, more than a quarter of all reported fires still occur in homes.

As you snuggle in for the evening, take a quick look at the top causes of house fires. By bettering your knowledge, you can help prevent your own house fire.

Cooking. Kitchen fires are the most common cause of fire in the home, and the number 1 reason is unattended cooking. If you’re not paying attention, your home could catch on fire. Stay alert, aware and present while cooking.

Heating equipment. There’s a reason why house fires are more common during the colder months. When temperatures cool down, we want our heating systems to heat things up. But they also increase the risk of fire. Make sure your heating system or HVAC unit is inspected regularly, and if you use space heaters, be careful to place them away from anything flammable.

Electrical fires. Older homes aren’t equipped to handle the higher usage of electricity we often use every day. And even in new homes, faulty wiring or the overloading of circuits can contribute to fires. Make sure your electrical equipment doesn’t have any frayed wires or faulty outlets, and if you live in an older home, ensure you have the electrical system inspected regularly.

Intentional fires. More than 28,000 intentional home fires started every year. Rather than being a fire set for a legitimate purpose that got out of control, these fires were set with the intention of harming a home.

Smoking materials. While cigarettes and other smoking materials are only responsible for 5% of house fires, they are the leading cause of civilian fire deaths. People can fall asleep with a cigarette still lit, or ashes fall onto something flammable.

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO is here for you if your home is affected by fire. Contact your local team today to see how we can help.

Cleaning Businesses of All Sizes and Kinds | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Are you ready to have the cleanest business in town? Contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley for all your cleaning needs!

Most people recognize SERVPRO for the restoration work done for homeowners after accidents or disasters! But we want to remind you that we are every bit as passionate about business owners.

We provide home and business owners with the same exceptional services following any storm, water, fire or mold damage. But we also provide business owners with something that can help them keep their business space clean and sanitized.

Commercial Services for Businesses of Any Kind or Size

Business owners should focus on just that—business! Let us take on the duty of ensuring your commercial space is clean and sanitized. Our professionals use high-quality equipment to care for your business, and we help all kinds of businesses:

Retail facilities, like electronics stores, hardware stores or your local drug store. Regardless of the size of the store you have, cleanliness is a requirement, and that’s why we treat everyone equally.

Educational facilities, like institutes, schools or daycares. Children seem to be a magnet for germs, and with these types of facilities, regular cleaning is a must. But even with regular cleaning but teachers and students, you’re only removing half the bacteria from desks.

Health facilities, like hospice facilities, hospitals or doctors’ offices. Health is top priority at these facilities, so much that it’s a mandate! SERVPRO can help you exceed CDC requirements for cleanliness.

Foodservice facilities, like convenience stores, restaurants or manufacturing plants. If your place isn’t clean, you can kiss business goodbye. Let us help prepare the space, while you prepare the food.

Property management, like commercial businesses, apartment complexes or multi-level high rises. The lobby of these places can immediately make a customer’s mind up. That’s why we can ensure that yours will not only be beautiful but sanitized as well.

With illness infecting a workplace, the workforce can lose $260 billion per year in lost productivity. That’s why SERVPRO offers the services that we do—to help you stay ready.

When you’re ready to have the cleanest business in town, we’re ready to help. Contact your local SERVPRO to get the pros working on the cleaning so you can work on the work.

Trusting a Restoration Company With Your Home | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

You can rest easy knowing you’ve got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the line, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley.

Sometimes things pop up unexpectedly and bring about disaster in your home. It could be caused by a natural disaster or an accidental kitchen fire that will cause you to have to make a quick decision on who can help restore your home.

As you prepare to restore your home, there are a few questions that you need to be able to answer.

Are They Reputable?

If you have had a disaster strike your home or business before, you know to be aware of scammers. They tend to show up to your “rescue,” and promise you the world at the right price—when in reality, they take your money and leave.

With SERVPRO, you will never have to worry about that. We have been involved in the restoration industry for over 50 years.

We have worked hard to maintain a stellar reputation by putting in whatever work it takes to ensure that our customers are satisfied.

Can You Call on them?

Disasters strike, and when that happens, time is of the essence. You need to know that you have someone you can call on immediately to act fast.

Since we have done this for so long, we know that the longer water sits in your home, the more damage, and the more it will end up costing you. That’s why we have employees on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Is There a Support System?

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is locally owned and operated, and because of that some of our customers are our friends and family! Being local also ensures we can act fast.

But we are also backed by a national network. If disaster strikes the entire community, we can reach out to our corporate partners for additional support and resources, ensuring there are never any gaps in our coverage.

When you call SERVPRO, you can rest easy knowing you’ve got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line. When disaster hits home, contact us to get our local experts and nationwide network on your side.

Fall Fire Safety Season Is Here | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Be mindful about fall fire safety. Always remember that SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is the trusted leader in the restoration industry.

The fall officially begins on Sept. 22, and the promise of cooler weather is much-appreciated! Fall is a favorite season among many campers, trick-or-treaters and others who simply want to get outdoors.

But as with everything in life, fall comes with risk. So, it’s worth taking a few minutes now to brush up on common autumn fire safety hazards.

Campfire Safety

Going camping? Here are some basic safety tips that you need to keep in mind when you are ready to build a campfire.

Make sure that you build your campfire out and away from anything flammable, including trees with low-hanging limbs. As you are preparing to ignite the fire, never use an accelerant like kerosene or lighter fluid. It’s safer to stick with the basic match or lighter.

Before you go in for the evening, you must be sure your fire has been completely extinguished. You can do this by slowly pouring water on the fire, ensuring that you cover all the embers. This can help prevent it from reigniting.

Space Heaters

As temps start to drop a little, portable space heaters can come in handy. But remember that these little heaters are one of the most common causes of home fires during the fall and winter seasons.

Keep your heater away from anything flammable and always keep it on a level surface. While most heaters today come with an automatic shut-off, it’s essential to do your part and make sure it stays away from anything or anyone that can accidentally knock it over.

Halloween

Halloween isn’t that far away, and many people are putting their decor out!

While we will discuss this later in more detail, it’s important to remember that whatever décor you feel “possessed” to put out, it can all pose a potential fire risk. Stay alert and attentive as you celebrate each season.

If a fire hazard should turn from potential to reality in your home, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry and contact SERVPRO to get your property fully restored right down to the smell of smoke.

Common Sources of Water Damage in the Home | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley team if you are dealing with any water damage.

Water disasters are nothing that a homeowner looks forward to. Nobody wakes up and thinks, “Boy, I sure hope I get to deal with water damage today.” But water is always looking for a place to go, and any crack or crevice will do.

Educating yourself about the different places water can intrude into your home is smart! Let’s look at a few of the most common sources of home water damage:

Toilets. Toilet flappers can be leak-prone. The flapper is used every time the toilet is flushed. Many times, an audible sound of water running can be heard if the flapper is leaking.

Dishwasher supply line. Dishwasher have a supply line, tub and a drain system. All of these systems have the capability to leak. However, supply line leaks are particularly destructive because the water is under pressure. The supply line must be securely connected to the dishwasher and should be made of stainless steel.

Clogged gutters and ineffective slope. The water that falls on your roof drains into the gutter system. Debris-free and properly working gutters can carry the water into the downspouts and away from the home. Downspouts should be at least 24 inches away from your home, and the soil should be sloped away from your foundation. The final grade of a house should be sloped at least ¹⁄₂ inch per foot for 10 feet away from the house.

Separating shingles. Shingles can separate for any number of reasons. Storms, falling debris from trees, age and improper installation are a few. Shingles (and the roof in general) should be inspected quarterly and after a major storm.

Old clay piping. Clay piping has gone through some technological upgrades. However, many homes built before the 1980s may have clay piping that drains the household wastewater to the septic system or sewer. Clay pipes turn brittle with age and can fail. They are also susceptible to root intrusion.

Clogged disposal. Grease should be allowed to solidify and then tossed into the garbage. Grease down the drain is a recipe for a plumbing disaster and can be expensive to remedy. Degreasing a sewer line is best left to a professional.

It’s important to regularly inspect the systems that move water into—and out of—your home. Catching a problem before it turns into a disaster can save you time, money and stress.

If a water leak erupts into a big problem at home, you’ve got the best team in the business on your side. Contact SERVPRO today so we can get started.

The Risk of Summertime Storms | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is on the line, ready to make things right.

Summer months are in full effect, and while we love those long summer nights full of outside play with family, it’s important to remember that summer is time for rain as well.

In fact, it may seem that summer months are more rainy. That’s totally true. In most parts of the country, there are atmospheric conditions in the summer that create moisture and warm air, which helps create thunderstorms.

In our area, from May to August, there’s a 32% greater chance of rain.

Stay Smart

Even though wetter weather is common during the summer months, that doesn’t mean you can treat it lightly! You still need to stay on top of things by being prepared and making sure you are receiving storm alerts.

It’s important to keep up with weather updates, and if you have an NOAA Weather radio, you can still receive alerts even if there is no power.

Flooding is always a possibility and it’s rarely predictable, but if it seems likely, you need to plan to stay off the road. If you have extreme weather, there’s also a possibility of high winds or damaging hail.

Dozens of people die every year because of storm-related accidents. It’s imperative that you stay aware and prepared, because the weather is always unpredictable.

Ways to Stay Safe

If lightning is visible, then it’s best to get indoors. Even if you don’t see lightning, as long as there is thunder, lightning is around, too.

When you are indoors, it’s best to stay away from windows and to avoid bathing or showering.

When storms get out of hand, make sure that you have an emergency kit prepared and in safe reach. Know your evacuation route so that you don’t have to figure it out at the last minute.

Flooding can happen and typically before there’s much we can do about it. Never attempt to drive through flood waters because they can easily sweep your car away. It’s also not a great idea to walk through flood waters because you never know what is in it.

There are any number of dangers that can come into play in a thunderstorm, and it’s always best to be cautious and put things on hold until storms safely pass. If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO is on the line, ready to make things right again.

SERVPRO Is at Your Service | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with any damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is your local restoration expert.

As a homeowner or business owner, your main priority is to make sure that things are running smoothly for you and your family or employees.

While you strive for smooth, though, it isn’t always the reality. Disasters and accidents happen, and when they do, your daily duties take a back seat so that you can deal with the new issues that have popped up.

The pressure of getting life back to “normal” has now become your main focus and takes you away from more important items of your routine.

Our SERVPRO technicians are here to take that burden off of your plate. As professionals in disaster recovery, we make it our priority to get your home or business back to its main function.

At Your Service ²⁴⁄₇

We are standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week so that we are available for you. When disaster happens, we all want it fixed now.

That’s why we don’t have to get ready, we are always ready!

Faster Service

We know better that anyone that when disaster strikes every second counts.

When your home or business has standing water in it, every moment that passes contributes to more mold growth. When your house has experienced a fire, more smoke odor can permeate as the minutes tick by.

A fast response is crucial, and with a local office right here nearby, it means we can get to you faster.

All the Bases Are Covered

Whether it’s your home or business, disaster doesn’t discriminate.

With custom solutions for any situation we can get your home or business back to normal. We have highly trained technicians who stay up to date on certifications so that we can always provide you the best services.

"Like it never even happened."

We pride ourselves on our work and strive to keep our customers happy. As experts in recovery and restoration, we ensure that every last bit of damage or destruction has been taken care of.

Services to Meet Changing Needs

Disease prevention is more valued than ever before. Because of this, we now offer cleaning services that go well beyond the traditional janitorial services.

When you offer a safe working environment, it proves that you have concern for both your employees and customers. SERVPRO can offer you Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned and peace of mind at the same time.

Accidental or natural disasters are bound to happen to everyone at some point or another. When one occurs, know that we’re here to help.

Regardless of why you need cleanup or disaster recovery, SERVPRO has the tools, the technicians and the training to get your situation under control. When you’re ready to get help from the best, get in touch with SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley.

What Is Defensible Space? | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged by fire or any other reason, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is ready and able to repair any damage.

You may not think about wildfires often, but they’re becoming more common. They are a big cause of property damage, probably more so than most of us realize.

Wildfires can spread at alarming rates because of the combustible materials that we have in our world, and it’s amazing we can get them stopped at all.

Nothing is 100% preventable when it comes to Mother Nature, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to try. You can do that by simply being more careful, but you can also take other steps, such as adding defensible space.

How Do I Achieve Defensible Space?

“Defensible space” is a buffer you create between your home and the landscaping, grass or trees that surround it. You can carve out defensible space by removing anything that can add fuel to a wildfire, such as dead trees or leaves.

You can also use landscaping elements such as flame-resistant gravel to help lower your chances of being affected.

Defensible space is needed so that it can add a barrier of protection, which is designed to protect your home from wildfires by slowing them down or stopping them altogether. It also allows for firefighters to have their best chance of stopping a wildfire before it takes over your home.

Defensible space is now required of property owners in many places, and even when it’s not required, it’s still highly recommended.

The Number of Wildfires

When we think of wildfires, California often comes to mind, but in reality, wildfires occur everywhere. There were over 59,000 wildfires across the United States in 2020.

California did account for 10,000+ of those 59,000 wildfires; however, the average number of wildfires per state in 2020 was right under 1,000. In Georgia last year, we experienced 1,699 wildfires, burning 5,677 acres of land.

That’s a lot of damage! It’s important to take steps to protect your property and limit the spread of wildfires. Defensible space is one way to do that.

If your home is damaged by fire of any sort, wild or not, SERVPRO is ready and able to repair the damage caused. Get in touch today to get the pros on your team.

North American Winter Storm 2021

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

The year 2021 started out with a bang! Winter Storm Uri was an unforgettable and unimaginable event that impacted over 170 million Americans. Winter Storm Uri was an ice storm that came over from the Pacific Northwest and covered most of the southern United States and even dipped as far as Northern Mexico, from February 13, 2021 through February 17, 2021. However, the after affects of what was left behind lasted through the end of April 2021.

Temperatures plummeted to an all-time low of -20F in parts of the Arkansas and over 2 feet of snow in most places across the country. As a result of the powerful winter ice storm, power grids were unable to keep up and as a result, failed across the entire state of Texas. Over 4.2 million people across the state of Texas were left without power. People were not able to heat their homes nor were they able to heat water. Water was not available across most of the affected areas because power companies and water treatment plants had water line breaks. Busted pipes caused significant damage to homes and businesses across the country.

SERVPRO was contacted with over 41,000 leads and dispatched over 1250 crews from across the country to help assist residents of Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Missouri, Kansas and Arkansas. This event of this magnitude had not ever been seen in SERVPRO history! This was by far, the largest storm event in the history of SERVPRO! When SERVPRO arrived they quickly got to work! Crews went into homes and businesses and got any standing water up and placed our specialized drying equipment in to speed up the drying process. By getting there quickly, saved insurance companies thousands of dollars!

Ice Storm Preparedness

By being proactive, you can protect yourself, family, friends, neighbors and your employees.

• Stay weather-ready. Winter storm watches and warnings are given out in advance to give time to prepare.
• Protect your family, pets and animals. Provide a safe place so that everyone is protected from wind, snow, ice and rain.
• Learn how to protect pipes from freezing
• Make sure your home or business is will insulated that include, attics, crawlspaces and window seals.
• If you have a wood burning stove or fire place, keep an extra supply of firewood
• Keep supply of warming blankets, water resistant clothing, batteries, flashlights, nonperishables and weather radio for updates
• In case of an evacuation or emergency, keep vehicles full of fuel, tires inspected in good condition, and fluids are checked and in working order.
• Winter equipment such as shovels, blowers and kitty litter to make driveways or walk ways much easier to walk on.

Although this was by far, the largest storm event in SERVPRO’S history, our crews are ready and available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week. Should your home or business suffer from any storm event such as ice, snow, tornado, flood or hurricane, contact the pro’s at SERVPRO! We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

For more information on how to protect your loved ones, visit the American Red Cross, ready.gov and NOAA Weather Radio  

The Do's and Don'ts of heating your Middle Georgia Home

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley are available 24-hours. Contact us at 478-956-1214!

Even though Middle Georgia usually has mild winters, there is still a need for heating homes or businesses at some point during the winter months.  

Remember these tips when heating your Middle Georgia home or business:

• Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or a portable space heater.  Have a three foot "kid-free" zone around open fires and space heaters. 
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be completely cooled before putting them in a metal container.  Keep the container a safe distance away from the home.  
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed. It’s a good idea to unplug them when not in use.
• Always us the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters. 
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. 
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer's instructions. 
• Test smoke alarms monthly. 
• Make sure your home or business is fully insulated by checking attics, crawlspaces doorways and window seals.

Should you suffer fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley at (478) 956-1214!  Let us help you make it "Like it never even happened."

For safety home fire safety tips, visit Ready.gov  or the American Red Cross 

Having a career at SERVPRO!

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Join our team today!

Do you love helping people through difficult situations?

 Then don’t miss your chance to join our Franchise as a new Water and Fire Damage 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, enjoys supervising others, 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.

Job Description: 

Respond to service calls as needed. Perform services as assigned, following SERVPRO® production guidelines. Communicate with the crew chief to make sure all customer needs are met. Support crew chief and other production personnel, as needed. Clean and maintain vehicles, equipment, warehouse, and office areas, as needed.

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 job site 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 to leave job site with a clean and orderly appearance
• Understand and follow safety and risk management guidelines on the job site, in the office, and while traveling

Qualifications:

• Effective oral communication
• Experience in cleaning/restoration preferred
• High school diploma/GED
• IICRC certifications preferred
• Ability to travel locally and out of state as necessary
• Ability to successfully complete a background check subject to applicable law. 

Physical and Work Environment Requirements:

• Ability to regularly lift 50 pounds and ability to lift up to 100 pounds with assistance
• Exposure to chemicals
• Walking and standing for long periods of time, driving, sitting, climbing,
• Ability to climb ladders and work at ceiling heights
• Ability to work in tight spaces (e.g., crawls spaces under buildings)
• Repetitive pushing/pulling/lifting/carrying objects. 

All employees of a SERVPRO® Franchise are hired by, employed by, and under the sole supervision and control of an independently owned and operated SERVPRO® Franchise. SERVPRO® Franchise employees are not employed by, jointly employed by, agents of, or under the supervision or control of SERVPRO Industries, Inc., the Franchisor, in any manner whatsoever.

Click this link https://SERVPRO-macon-east-macon-west.careerplug.com/j/0l9db4 to apply!

The Costs of Severe Weather Are Steadily Rising | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

When storms do damage, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley to start the restoration process.

So much can be said for the year of 2020, but in terms of the weather, we can safely say, it was a record-setting year. Of all the years in history for which we have data, 2020 was the most financially destructive.

For the year 2020, we saw 22 official weather disasters (which are defined as events that cause at least a billion dollars in damages), along many other damaging storms that weren’t counted in that total. There were so many named hurricanes and tropical storms that the NWS had to refer to the Greek alphabet just to name them all.

How Costly Can Severe Storms Be?

We all know and have seen how disastrous hurricanes can be for families and businesses, and sadly we are starting to see other types of severe weather have the same effect. In fact, the most expensive disasters of 2020 in the contiguous United States were thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Out of the official 22 weather disasters, 14 of these were severe thunderstorms, some of which brought along tornadoes.

Just how quickly can they turn? In eastern Nebraska in August 2020, what seemed to be a typical line of thunderstorms exploded into something called a derecho (think of something like a tornado, but with straight-line winds instead of swirling ones, combined with a heavy thunderstorm), which destroyed more than 10 million acres of corn fields, almost half the state’s corn crop. That’s over 11% of the entire country’s corn fields.

Here in Georgia, we see more than our fair share of thunderstorms, most of which bring really strong winds and hail! In 2020 alone, we saw 12 severe thunderstorms and the effects of one tropical storm.

Costs Are Steadily Rising

Statistics are showing that the steady climb of storms is becoming normal for us. 2020 was the 10th consecutive year with at least eight billion-dollar disasters.

During 2018 and 2019, there was a combined total of $136 billion in damages, and 2017 saw damage of over $300 billion, the highest total on record.

When you own a home or business, it’s important that you take whatever precautions are possible to minimize any damage to your property.

While precautions don’t totally prevent damage, knowing your risk can help! If you still manage to get a stroke of bad luck, it’s important to know you have a friend in the restoration industry whose goal it is to recover your valued items and restore your property “Like it never even happened.”

When storms do damage, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO today to see how we can help.

Taking Commercial Cleaning to a New Level | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

If you’re business has sanitation and cleaning needs, reach out to the SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley team.

Hope is here! Even a month or two ago, many areas of the country had major COVID-19 outbreaks, with high numbers of cases and deaths. But now, thanks to increased vaccination, the country is experiencing a major turnaround.

As we return to a level of normalcy, more and more people are returning to in-person shopping and dining. As they do, they bring with them new expectations. With a new understanding of how fragile health can be, they now expect that businesses they patronize will prioritize their health and well-being.

You can do that with a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Experiencing the SERVPRO Difference

The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program takes care of sanitizing and cleaning your facility. Essentially, we are here to help you rest easy knowing you have gone to great measures to care for customers and employees alike.

Having and maintaining a clean business can make all the difference in the world, but double that feeling and add in our advanced biohazard techniques and technologies that go beyond the traditional cleaning and janitorial services.

Here’s how the program works:

1) Consult. Our first step is to sit down and discuss your business’ unique needs, including the size of your facility, the type of work you do there and the people who visit your space. We already have a leg up. Since our business is locally owned and operated, we are very aware of the intricacies and needs of the area.

2) Clean. Our specifically trained technicians show up armed with proprietary, hospital-grade cleaning solutions that you won’t find anywhere else. Using these types of cleaning products gives your building the clean of a lifetime, always adhering to CDC standards.

3) Certify. Once the job is finished, you get to proudly display the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield on your business window or door. This badge is a beacon to potential and current customers that you have gone to great lengths to ensure their well-being is your top priority. You’ll also have a digital emblem to place on your website and social media profiles.

If you’re ready to get serious about sanitation and have your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, get in touch today to get the best team in cleanup and restoration on your side.

Fire Safety Tips You Need as the Weather Warms Up | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley to learn more.

Most of us look forward to the warmer months! It’s a time where new life starts, life slows down and you get to enjoy more family and friend time.

Warmer months include fun activities like cookouts, family reunions and so much more. The downside of that is the warmer months also bring an increase in fire activity.

In fact, spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of the year.

The question to ask is what can you do to help prevent becoming a statistic?

Below are three main areas that you can pay attention to.

The grill. Barbecue is a summer staple! With that said, the grill gets a bad rap as being the biggest risk—because, well, it is! With a combination of flame, heat, grease and gas, it gives way to danger easily. Before grilling, do a quick little inspection, making sure it’s in good working order with no leaks, placed at least three feet away from anything flammable and is cleaned in between uses. While cleaning in between uses seems to be common sense, improper cleaning causes around 20% of grill fires.

The fire pit. Fire pits create the perfect ambiance for gatherings of friends and family, fun and memories. Safety is typically the farthest thing from your mind, but it’s a good idea to give yourself a quick refresher. Never leave kids unattended around a fire pit. Keep a bucket of water close to the pit. Don’t add leaves or pine needles to the fire, and when you’re ready to put it out, do it slowly to keep from scattering embers.

The chimney and dryer vent. The dryer vent can get trapped or clogged pretty easily, so make sure you clean these out at least once a year. This not only prevents fires, but it helps maintain your dryer in good working condition. It’s also a good idea to do some fireplace maintenance during the spring or summer, when it’s not In use. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned out, and avoid a dangerous ash buildup.

Your local SERVPRO technicians are on hand ²⁴⁄₇ for emergencies. If you encounter fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we will be there faster and have it cleaned up sooner. Call or click today and experience the SERVPRO difference.

Immediate Response 24/7

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being “faster to any-sized disaster” within our community. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained IICRC Restoration Technicians
• The #1Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated for over 40 Years
• Advanced, Industrial Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
• Ranked #10 overall in the franchise system in the nation by Entrepreneur Magazine

We also offer Commercial Services in Middle Georgia

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If and when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Construction and Building Services
• Commercial Cleaning
• Commercial Restoration
• Commercial Storm and Weather Events

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is the #1 trusted leader for Fire & Water Cleanup & Restoration. Call the professionals at 478-956-1214.

Odor Control and Removal

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Always wear personal protective equipment when dealing with biohazards and smells.

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley managers and technicians are trained for a variety of situations, including the control and removal of offensive odors.

By definition, an odor is a distinctive (and typically unpleasant) smell that can be picked up by people. SERVPRO technicians have a variety of methods to remove these odors, but they all typically begin with identifying the source of the odor. Some common examples of odor sources include:

• Property Damage (Fire or Water Damage, Mold Growth)
• Animals (Dander, Bodily Waste, Infestations)
• Trash and Waste (Rotting Food, Sewage)

Most people think there are special sprays that can help remove odors, but this is a myth. Sprays usually mask the odor temporarily, resulting in the unpleasant smell coming back after some time. This is why it’s important to identify the source of the odor and remove it before attempting deodorization with sprays or mists.

Once the source has been pinpointed and removed, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley technicians have a variety of ways to eliminate remaining odors. We can use two different types of fog, Thermal Fog or ULV Fog, depending on the source of the odor and its strength. We can also use specialty fans and filtration equipment to clean the air.

One of our stronger methods of deodorization is the use of ozone, which is particularly useful against odors from smoke, pet odors, mildew and organic pollutants. Ozone is also called “activated oxygen” because chemically it is an added oxygen molecule (03), which makes it highly reactive with particles it comes into contact with. The extra oxygen atom attaches itself to the other molecules to create a new molecule, one that isn’t smelly, in a process called oxidation. Once the ozone is ventilated and dissipates, most odors are gone and there is only a neutral smell.

A word of caution – Ozone, and ozone generators, should be used and handled by trusted professionals like the technicians at SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley because there are some risks with the use of these products. There are certain materials that don’t do well when exposed to ozone, such as certain textiles, leather, rubber and certain plastics. Ozone has also been known to bleach materials like carpets and upholstery if the materials are wet when exposed to the ozone gas. Ozone can also be harmful to the human body if it is inhaled, potentially causing lung irritation, breathing problems and headaches.

The bottom line is if you are dealing with unpleasant odors or smells that are really a bother, call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley and we can assess and handle the removal of those odors safely and efficiently.

Questions? Give us a call! (478) 956-1214

Preventing Basement Water Damage by Knowing the Signs | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is a full restoration company. Our team of experts are on call and ready to help you determine the best co

f you have a home with a basement or are considering buying one, you are likely quite familiar with just how beneficial they can be. Unfinished basements are fantastic storage areas and provide shelter from threats of severe weather, and if you are able to finish your basement, it adds quite a bit of living space onto the home.

While there are many beneficial elements to having a basement, it is important that homeowners are aware of their potential drawbacks, too. Water damage often has its way of working into basements and causing issues, and if left untreated, these can become serious problems.

Fortunately, by knowing the sign of basement water damage, homeowners can tackle the problem quickly and mitigate any issues that may arise.

What to Watch for in Your Basement That May Indicate Water Damage

Unpleasant, musky odors. The water that leaks into a basement is often clean water, but that does not mean that musky odors can’t still develop. Water leads to mold and mildew growth, and as the water evaporates and leaves the bacteria behind, a musty odor can develop. Oftentimes, this odor is the very first thing that homeowners notice when they have water damage on their hands.

Flaking paint on masonry or walls. We frequently see well-intentioned homeowners paint cinderblock walls or flooring in their basement as a tactic to prevent water damage, but unfortunately, this just serves to mask the issue temporarily. If there is an underlying issue causing water to seep in, paint will only temporarily provide a buffer. Eventually, it can begin to peel, crack and bubble due to the water damage working its way in underneath.

Foundational cracks. As a house shifts and settles over time, it is normal for some hairline cracks to develop throughout the basement. These cracks are tiny and of no concern, usually. However, if there are cracks running along the ceiling, the walls or the floor that are larger than a hairline, that may be an indicator that a serious water damage issue is lurking under the surface.

If you notice any of these signs in your basement, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more.

Commercial Services SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley Offer

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

This local business had minimal damage affected by a F-1 tornado. Contact us at 478-956-1214 should you experience a storm event!

When fires or water damages happen, they happen when you least expect it and may occur at your office or business. Who do you call? Knowing the right company to help in an emergency is important to get your Fort Valley business back up and running as quickly as possible. Trusting your local restoration company to handle your emergency will help put you, your employees and even your insurance company at ease. We work with hundreds of insurance companies and are a preferred vender for most!

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley are available 24/7 to help you restore your Middle Georgia commercial property and get you back to business! We have the education, experience, specialized equipment, and highly trained personnel to handle your commercial water, fire and even mold damage. We also have access to other resources of our national network of over 1,700 Franchises to handle large commercial projects and storm events.

Our Commercial Services Include:

• Commercial Restoration
• Commercial Water Restoration
• Commercial Fire Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm and Major Events
• Disaster Recovery Team
• Commercial Cleaning

• Building Services

As an emergency service, we’re available 24/7! 

Call Today @ 478-956-1214

Let’s get you set up for an ERP!

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Contact us anytime to schedule your appointment today!

Do you have an emergency ready plan in place? What about your employees? What if you were out of town on vacation or on a business trip 300 miles away and a disaster happens? What would you do? Who would you call? Are you ready for whatever happens?

Disasters and resulting business interruption can devastate companies. It is estimated that up to 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster never reopen! Of those that reopened, the majority had some type of contingency plan in place.  No one plans on a disaster but you can plan on it. By preparing now, you demonstrate excellence in readiness planning by compiling a comprehensive information resource to use in case of a disaster.

A timely response in a crisis can:

- Minimize business interruption

- Save thousands of dollars in reduced secondary damage

Why the SERVPRO ERP?

At no cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. The ERP was purposely designed to contain only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete, however, it will save you a lot of time if ever needed. This gives you a peace of mind that should you ever need disaster cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is your local provider that will be there for you 24/7.

 What does the ERP actually do?

The ERP identifies the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigation the damage faster, which can save you both time and money. It provides facility details, such as shut-off valve locations, important areas, and priority contact information. It also identifies local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts. And establishes main internal contacts for purposes of employee safety and emergency work authorization. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it, and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”

Once all the information is captured, SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley will provide you will a digital copy of your facilities information via our Mobile APP/Web Portal.

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is no stranger when disasters strike a home or business. Having the ERP App at your finger tips will save you hundreds of dollars and time! Are you ready?

Please visit SERVPRO.com/ready or contact our office to set up your appointment today!

478-956-1214

Fire Loss in Middle Georgia

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Fire originated from an attached patio that caught fire during a BBQ.

They say, “Hope for the best but expect the worst”. As a commercial business owner, you tell yourself this after a fire that started on the top floor of your business. The fire department is working tirelessly getting the fire out and a million things are running through your mind. The aftermath can be very overwhelming. But for the pro’s at SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley, we are the #1 choice for fire and water cleanup and restoration! We’re here to help you get through this difficult time from the beginning to the end. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

No matter the size of the fire damage the lingering affects can quickly become absorbed into the walls, floors, ceilings, furniture and the entire structure of the building. Contacting SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is the best choice to do an inspection and check all areas of the affected and nonaffected structure that could be easily overlooked. We’ll begin where the fire originated from and work our way up, then all the way down to ensure all areas have been covered.

In most commercial fire loss cases, the first thing we would do begin to board up the area to keep people, animals and potential bad weather out. Our trained professionals will begin to assess the fire, smoke, soot and water damage throughout the facility. Once the assessment has been complete, we’ll begin to bring in specialized industrial equipment to remove all smoke odors and begin the drying process. By performing emergency services, this helps reduce your insurance claims expense.

Emergency Services Include:

• Boarding up the structure to help prevent any intrusions
• Drying the affected areas by using specialized industrial equipment
• Deodorizing all rooms and affected areas
• Checking HVAC systems as soot can creep its way through the vents
• Cleaning affected areas by removing smoke or soot residues

After a fire loss, you should contact your insurance company for specific instructions regarding a filing a claim. SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley works with 100’s of insurance companies and are even a preferred vender for most. Every fire damage event can be a unique and differ from one to the other but the outcome is the same. Getting your business to its pre-fire loss condition is our #1 goal.

Contact us day or night at 478-956-1214!

What Makes It a Severe Thunderstorm? | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can pop up at any moment. Contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley if you experience any damage.

Around this time of year, we start to see more thunderstorm activity. While many of these storms may pass through without much damage, other, more serious storms can be catastrophic.

The nature of these severe thunderstorms means that they bring lots of rain, high winds, lightning, hail and flooding. But what makes these storms move from being a “thunderstorm” to a “severe thunderstorm”?

Let’s look below at some of the categorical differences between these types of storms.

A thunderstorm, by definition, is a storm that has both thunder and lightning. These kinds of storms can be dangerous even without additional threats.

But here are the key distinctions for a severe thunderstorm and the types of hazards they can create for your family.

3 Key Elements of What Makes a Thunderstorm Severe

Lightning strikes. Lightning is known to cause damage to houses by starting house fires and felling trees that can do significant damage to permanent structures and vehicles. But did you know that it is reported that [lightning causes around 300 injuries every year](https://www.treehugger.com/how-dangerous-are-thunderstorms-4863120)

High winds and hail. A severe thunderstorm is defined as a storm that has straight-line winds of at least 58 miles per hour and has hail that is at least one inch in diameter, or larger. The combination of of these two can do some serious damage to unsheltered cars, pets or livestock that are not adequately protected and roofs of homes. Hail is already capable of causing damage due to the speed at which it falls (up to 72 miles per hour), but add the high winds and it’s a recipe for damage.

Flash flooding. Flooding is possible for even those outside of a designated flood plain because they can be caused by drains that are not working properly, small roadside ditches that become filled with water and many other threats that can make flooded roadways become life-threatening situations quickly. In as little as 12 inches of water, it is possible for a car to be taken away with the tide.

Thunderstorms are part of the weather patterns for Georgia, so if a storm causes damage to your home or business, we are prepared to help at any time. Contact us to find out how we can get your property back to pre-storm condition.

Choosing an Expert Team for Your Home’s Restoration | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley today. We work with you and your insurance company to get things back to normal quickly.

There is never a good time to discover that your home has sustained damage due to a fire or natural disaster, but in case you do, it is important to have a plan. The restoration team you choose to handle the job will be the biggest factor in how smoothly the process goes, which is why understanding who you are working with is key.

Many people do not understand what a threat it is to have something happen to your home that causes damage. About one in every 350 homes will have to file a fire claim in the U.S. this year according to the Insurance Information Institute, and if you add fires into the statistics about water and storm damages, the likelihood becomes much higher at one out of every 20 homes.

Do not let these statistics scare you, but do use them as a catalyst for making a solid plan in case damage occurs to your home. A restoration company that has the right experience and training is key to being certain your home will be restored properly and in a timely manner—that is why we invest so heavily in our technicians’ education and training.

Choosing the Right Team for Home Restoration Work

When you put your faith in SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley for your home restorations, you will be assured that you are getting the best people possible for the job.

We train every one of our technicians extensively, not just with our own heavily researched materials, but also using certifications and guidance from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC is a nonprofit that sets the standard for the restoration industry, which is why we encourage all of our technicians to pursue the certifications that they offer.

Because training is such a major component of the work that we do, we feel confident in our ability to handle any type of restoration job that area homeowners need. From fire to storm to water damage, you can call us any time of the day or night and be certain you will get highly trained technicians to handle the job.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

How a Small Leak Can Become a Big Problem

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Putting on “band aids” to temporarily fix a leaking pipe under the bathroom sink or a towel under the refrigerator because the seal is bad will lead to a bigger problem in the long-run. Overtime that small leak can lead into one issue to another- like Mold or structural damage. Being proactive and regular checking, these potential threats could save you money or even an insurance claim!

Standing water and moisture will create an environment for bacteria and even mold growth. In some cases, it may appear on the outside the area is dry but underneath could be a perfect spot for mold or bacteria to grow. The experts at SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley uses specialized equipment to determine what porous materials may need to be removed or repaired. The level of restoration will depend on the category of water that occurred when the damage happened.

Steps from Beginning to End

• Inspection and Assess the affected area(s)
• Extract the Water and Mitigate to prevent further damage
• Drying and Dehumidifying
• Cleaning & Sanitizing
• Complete Restoration-Restore your home and begin repairs if needed

Call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

All of our  IICRC Technicians are certified and will follow the industry standards to ensure your home is clean, dry and safe! Water damages happen every day and can happen at any time. SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is an emergency service that’s available 24-hours, 7 days a week including holidays. Contact us anytime at 478-956-1214.

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley offers Sewage Clean-up

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Pictured are two technicians dressed in full PPE after a backed up commode at a local business.

Have you ever been sitting in your home or business and hear gurgling noises coming from a different part of the house? Or walked into the employee restroom and smell, see and hear sewage backing up into the commodes? More than likely a sewer line has backed up into your home or business. Backed up sewer lines can leave your home or business with several inches of bacteria. Not to mention, it can be EXTREMLY DANGEROUS to you, your family members and/or employees.

Common Sewage Issues

• Sewage line backup
• Overflowed commode or sink
• Leaking appliances
• Tree roots
• Grease

Who do I call?

Contact your local plumber to get to the root of the problem. Once that has been fixed-

You call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley right away! With over 40 years of experience, IICRC trained technicians and the latest equipment, we can get your property back “Like it never even happened.” Depending on the severity of the damage, sewage can destroy flooring, walls, furniture, clothing and priced possessions. Sewage carries all sorts of bacteria, diseases and toxins that can be very harmful. But don’t worry, we will take care of getting your home or business free, dry, clean and safe for your return.  

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is locally owned and operated and have been in the middle Georgia area for 40 years. We will arrive in full PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and move swiftly to remove all the contaminates safely and effectively, sanitize and deodorize the affected areas and restore your property.

Contact us day or night at 478-956-1214!

Do you need CE Credits?

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

For questions about our CE classes, contact us at 478-956-1214 or email afloyd@SERVPROofmacon.com

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley will be having our 1^st Virtual Continuing Education class on April 22, 2021!

“Water Damage/ Restorative Drying for Water Damage”

Attendees will receive (2) insurance credit hours

Location: Virtual Classroom with Secure Password

Date: April 22, 2021

Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Registration Time/Roll Call: 8:51am- 8:59am

Location: Virtual

Course #59575

*Please note, 100% attendance with photo ID is required to receive CE credit. Virtual classroom will open 1-hour prior to check photographic ID and confirm license number. *  *You must have a camera and audio connection

The 2-hour Water Damage / Restorative Drying for Water Damage CE Course is scheduled to start at 9:00 am, and the secure password to access our virtual classroom.

Please note that even though the class is being held in a “virtual classroom,” specific state guidelines must still be met in order for you receive Continuing Education credit.  On the day of the class we will need to confirm your identity, collect your Insurance License # / National Producer Number (NPN), and document your “time in” and “time out” of the classroom.  This REQUIRES that you have a Zoom account and are using a device that has a camera and a microphone. 

In order to do this securely, we will be opening our virtual classroom at 8:00 am, which is one hour before the class is scheduled to start.  When you log-in, you will be placed in the virtual lobby, which will allow us to bring you, and the other attendees, into the classroom individually so that we can securely view and document this required information. 

Should you have any questions, please reach out to me at 478-956-1214 or afloyd@SERVPROofmacon.com.

We look forward to seeing you in our class on April 22, 2021.

Have a Water Damage Emergency?

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

After the snow smelts, the sunshine is bright, the flowers are blooming and the birds are singing their glorious songs- it’s break time! Maybe take a day trip to a local beach or maybe a weekend get-a-way to enjoy the nice spring-like weather. As you’re walking up to your home you notice some moisture on the front windows. You silently panic and ask yourself, “Did I turn off the air conditioner”? Then the unthinkable is revealed. The air conditioner that’s installed in the attic has apparently stopped working! Maybe the pan overflowed or clogged drain lines? The ceiling appears to be wet and cracked. The temperature in the house is 85 degrees!

Call SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley at 478-956-1214

You never know when things like this will happen. No matter what may have caused your water damage, you need immediate attention to begin the water removal process and structural drying to get your home back “Like it never even happened.” We have the equipment, the man-power and the time to assess the damage, mitigate and restore your home.

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is a 24/7 emergency service for water damage. You can expect an immediate response day or night! We operate under the 1-4-8 rule for service response services. SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley will help provide guidance and assistance to ensure the best decisions are made.

• ONE – Within one hour from the first notice of your loss, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will contact you to arrange for service.
• FOUR – Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services.
• EIGHT – Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person.

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is your #1 Water Restoration Service provider for over 40 years! Contact us at 478-956-1214!

Simple Projects to Stop Home Rainwater Damage | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

If you need help dealing with any damage caused by water, contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley today.

You know that flash flooding, strong thunderstorms or interior accidents (like a burst pipe or malfunctioning washing machine) can produce enough water to damage your home.

These can happen frequently in homes, so most of us are prepared to deal with these types of problems. Or we at least have some idea about the things we can do to protect our homes from them.

Here’s another item to add to your list: heavy rains.

Rain can create a real problem for homeowners, especially if you aren’t doing regular home maintenance. Over time, that can lead to progressively more serious levels of water damage.

A Common Homeowner Headache

How likely is it that you’ll have to deal with home water damage this year? Our answer is simple: It’s more likely than you imagine.

It all comes down to doing the math. About one in every 50 Americans will need water damage restoration in 2021. Friends, family members and co-workers may be filing claims this year, too.

We hope you don’t have to file a claim, but we’re here to help you if you do!

Stop Rainwater Damage

Use these basic guidelines to help ensure your home is safer from long-term water damage due to rain:

Don’t overlook the value of native plants. If you do a little homework, the flowers and shrubs you use to help you landscape your home and add curb appeal can also become an added layer of protection. You may want to research native plants in our area.

Look for ways to make your roof safer. Experts estimate that almost 95% of damage is caused by water finding its way through gaps. Sealing your roof can help by keeping water out of gaps between your shingles.

Consider the way your yard drains. Knowing how your yard drains is key to protecting your home. If the water in your yard drains toward your home, then you may want to connect with a landscaping expert. They can help you find ways to protect your yard.

If you need help dealing with damage caused by water, fire or any other issue, we’re here to help you restore your home. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about us and how we can help you restore your home to its original state.

Water Removal from your Crawl Space or Basement

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

We only use Advanced Inspection Equipment to determine moisture content.

Do you know who to call or what to do if your hot water heater line rusted out and flooded your basement or crawl space? What if your sump pump failed during hurricane season and your entire basement has a foot of standing water? Water emergencies happen when you least expect it-therefore you’ll need to take immediate action to being the mitigation process. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley!

Getting To The Source

The main thing is to begin the water extraction process to be able to save the affected areas as much as possible and get the area dry before any possible mold can set in. Our certified technicians are trained to extract water and sewage damage by using specialized equipment quickly and efficiently. Our professionals will also begin to remove any germs, mold or odors the damage has left behind. You can always depend on SERVPRO of Macon to mitigate any water or sewage cleanup and deodorize your home “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley is a 24-hour emergency service that has been servicing Middle Georgia for over 40 years! We’ll work with you and your insurance company to make the process seamless as possible. Contact us anytime at 478-956-1214.

In case a fire breaks out at your workplace

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Be proactive! Schedule regular fire drills with your employees. It can save lives!

A fire is very terrifying and the marks it can leave are devastating. Fire can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. Workplace safety for all employees is your number one concern. What can you do to help keep your employees safe?

Have an effective workplace Fire Evacuation Plan is important and being proactive to fire safety will save lives. Know the location of each fire extinguisher in the building. Know where all and nearest emergency exits are. Once a fire is detected, alert all employees or people within the building by shouting and/or pulling reachable fire alarms. Find the closest exit to evacuate the facility promptly. Do not lock the doors behind you, just close them. Ensure all people are accounted for. Do not re-enter the building. Members of your Remember to stay calm and call the authorities.

Be proactive! On a regular basis, practice a fire drill. Having an effective plan will save lives. Every employee should know where all fire extinguishers are located and how to properly use them if in the event a fire does breaks out. Having the right emergency evacuation plan in place will better help the outcome. The last thing we think about is a fire destroying the place of business we go to every day.

How Can SERVPRO help?

SERVPRO offers highly trained and experienced Fire and Water Restoration Technicians to help you get through this difficult time. We offer a board-up service to help protect any structural damage or windows. Our technicians will carefully inspect all affected areas and will look for fire, smoke and soot damage. If there’s any water damage, we will begin the water removal process and begin the drying process by applying air movers, dehumidifiers in the appropriate areas. From there- Our certified technicians will use our specialized equipment to remove smoke and soot damage from walls, ceilings, doors, floors and other areas affected. We will pack up any restorable items and bring them back to our facility to clean and sanitize each item. We will do everything we can to get it back to its preloss condition. Finally, the restoration process can begin. SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley has a reconstruction department that will remove all necessary drywall, carpet or wood flooring. Our motto is to get it “Like it never even happened." And we live by that! While you’re here, check out some of our reviews! You’ll be glad you!

Should you or your commercial office experience a fire damage, contact us day or night at 478-956-1214.

Helping Forsyth Businesses Stay Strong During Uncertain Times | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. Contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley to learn more.

If you’re a business owner in Forsyth, we have a question for you to ponder. Does your business look different than it did last year?

Most business owners will answer “yes, absolutely.” And that’s to be expected, given everything that’s going on in the world today.

If you’re like most local members of the business community (and the community at-large), you would say that this process has been a stressful one. We’ve never been asked to rethink how we do live, interact and do business in such a short time before now.

But the good news is you have the support and help of your community. And that can make all the difference.

So, whether you’ve decided that home offices and digital services are the way to go or if you’ve opted to open the doors to your business again for in-person connections, we’re here to support you.

Support You Can Count On

You can access resources that will help you get business loans and tips, advice and more from sources you can trust.

Keeping your business clean and sanitary is important, too. That’s where we can play a big part in supporting your business.

We’ll get your business “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.” Here’s how that process works:

We’ll consult with you about your business and make an individualized plan.

Then, we’ll clean your space. Our technicians use a high-level system to ensure you’re ready for customers to come back. Our teams work with proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions. Plus, we use cleaning and decontamination standards directly from the CDC.

Finally, our team will certify your space.

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our cleaning services and how we can help you.

Tips to Help You Weather Spring Thunderstorms | SERVPRO® of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

If you experience any property damage from spring storms, contact SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley @ 478-956-1214!

Are you ready for spring’s warmer weather? If so, you definitely aren’t alone here in Thomaston.

Many people spend the days before the weather starts warming up trying to decide how they want to spend the Saturday and Sunday afternoons. DIY projects are a popular option.

While you’re considering new paint colors and planning your landscaping, think about adding a few of these projects to your list. They can help protect you from the dangers of thunderstorms.

These steps will help you be sure your home is as ready as it can be for the hazards of spring storms.

Preparing Your Home for a New Season

Why not add these items to your to-do list for the upcoming warmer season?

Check your gutters for debris. Clean gutters are vital. They allow water to move the right way around your house. If your gutters are clogged, they can cause water damage.

If you have a sump pump, check it sooner rather than later. If your home needs one of these to keep water out of your basement, then it’s a good idea to be sure it’s working before you need it.

Check your home for other common storm damage hazards. Check for overhanging tree limbs, unsecured grills, and furniture or gazebos. Cut tree limbs that hang over your roof or garage and secure anything you can.

Inspect your roof for issues. You want to be sure your roof is in good shape if a storm starts hitting. Check for things like missing shingles and signs of leaks. Repair them to keep your home safer.

If a fire, flood or any other cause damage to your home, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.