Steps to Safely Secure Your Roof Following a Fire

10/16/2024 (Permalink)

Roof tarp services after fire damage in Tulsa, OK

Steps To Cover Your Roof With A Tarp

One of the first things fire mitigation experts will do after a fire is to perform emergency services to keep the building from becoming more damaged than it already is. Part of the emergency protocol is often securing the building from trespassers and the elements. If the roof of your commercial building in Tulsa, OK, was damaged by a fire, the roof must be secured before the fire cleanup process can begin. Here are the steps you can expect the professionals to take to cover your roof with a tarp.

1. Measurement

The first step of tarp services is determining how big an area the tarp needs to cover. If damage only occurred on a small portion of the building, there is no need to cover the entire roof. The tarp should extend several inches past the perimeter of the roof damage.

2. Placement

The tarp is placed over the damaged area of the roof. At this point, mitigation technicians verify that the tarp is sufficient to provide shelter from the elements, as it does no good to start fire cleanup inside when an afternoon rain can undo all the work they have done. Once the experts are confident that the tarp provides the right coverage, they can start to secure it to the roof.

3. Attachment

The tarp is pulled taut. If it is blocking any vent or drainage apparatus, the service personnel can adjust the covering so that it is not encumbering the building's established defense against flooding. Once the tarp is in place, it is secured by strapping, and deck screws are placed every 8-12 inches around the perimeter of the tarp.

Before any fire cleanup process or roof repair can begin, what's left of the roof on your commercial building must be protected from further damage. A tarp provides a temporary fix that helps your building withstand additional problems.

Rely on SERVPRO® of South Tulsa County to Mitigate Water Damages to Your Business

4/19/2024 (Permalink)

Water supply line break flooded this Tulsa commercial building. SERVPRO of South Tulsa County was called in to clean up the water

Damage to your business doesn't require hundreds of gallons of water rushing in all at once. Many problems can result from just an inch or two that soaks into carpets, walls, and furniture. Even this small amount of water can cost a huge amount loss regarding cleaning and replacing property.

Handling commercial water damage in Tulsa is more time consuming and difficult than just removing water from a private home. Commercial buildings are much larger and use a wider number of different building materials. Fortunately, SERVPRO® has the training, equipment, and experience to handle these structures as well.

Take a showroom floor in a furniture store for example. Hundreds of square feet of floor space that needs to be pumped out if there is standing water. This task would take an hour or two in most homes, but it's an all-day job in this situation.

When most of the water has been removed, technicians need to draw out excess moisture from the surrounding air. In a home, this task can be accomplished with a few exhaust fans. For a large structure, commercial air movers must be put in place throughout the area to maintain a steady airflow with fans set up to blow the moist air out of the facility. In large commercial loss jobs SERVPRO of South Tulsa County can bring in desiccant and refrigerated dehumidifiers. If the air is exceptionally humid, then they will also deploy large dehumidifiers capable of drawing out over 30 gallons of water daily to assist.

As this happens, other technicians examine the carpets and other flooring for remaining water. In a home, a single wet vacuum can draw out the water from most carpets and the pad underneath in an afternoon if they haven't been overly saturated. Large, commercial, water extractors are needed for rooms with extensive square feet. This process can take all day and require several SERVPRO team members working in tandem to complete the job.

The size of most commercial structures means that a rapid response is needed even more than with a private home. This is why SERVPRO of South Tulsa County maintains a 24-hour response team trained to help you get your doors opened and taking care of your customers as fast as we can. To get everything started, call us at (918) 437-2095.

Mold Growth in Your Commercial Storage Facility

4/19/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technician with protective equipment is cleaning and removing the mold in this commercial building

Businesses utilize self-storage facilities to secure inventory till it is ready to be sold.  This plan is a great business opportunity for the owner of the storage company until mildew or mold infiltrates one or more units. SERVPRO of South Tulsa County has the experience to respond when microbial growth gets out of control and threatens your business.
 
Problems arise when water leaks inside or moisture raises the humidity level high enough to support microbial growth in your Fayetteville self-storage business. Your tenants often put their stored property out of their mind and rarely visit to inspect their inventory. Mold needs no light to grow, so hidden pockets proliferate. Your offer to protect customers’ belongings is at risk if microbes grow unabated. When you discover mold in the storage common areas or rented rooms, your first step must include lining up a reliable remediation company.
 
SERVPRO of South Tulsa County trains its staff to follow proper protocols when molds are an issue. When an inspection of your facility reveals mold contamination, quick but sure action is the only answer. Our qualified restoration staff contain and remove mold, and then sanitize the area where mold grew. The interconnected storage units pose a challenge if a common HVAC system heats, cools, and circulates the air. Our trained technicians choose to use air scrubbers with negative air pressure to keep the mold outbreak confined.
 
Mold remediation is incomplete if the source of water is ignored. Mold spores are always present in our environment. They mature into mold colonies when moisture feeds them. The mold experts from SERVPRO of South Tulsa County take advanced classes to help find the water causing the problem. Flat roofs with clogged drains, cracked cinder block walls, high humidity, and flooding are just some of the things leading to mold growth. 

SERVPRO of South Tulsa County should be your first choice for any residential or commercial water damage.  Our team of professionals is trained to assess the damage, identify potential threats, and respond quickly to restore your property to preloss condition.  SERVPRO of South Tulsa County is available 24/7 by calling 918-437-2095.

3 Steps for a Pipe Break Cleanup

10/6/2023 (Permalink)

A first aid kit is an essential item for your commercial property in Tulsa, OK

A first aid kit is an essential item for your commercial property in Tulsa, OK. Sadly, it's all too common for an emergency kit to be missing from offices and supply closets. If you haven't put together a safety kit or if you haven't made sure an existing kit is up to date, now is the time to make sure you're fully prepared for an emergency.

OSHA's First Aid List

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has a complete list of items you need to create a basic kit as well as a complete kit. For example, a very basic first aid kit should contain

• Adhesive bandages
• Gauze pads multiple shapes and sizes
• Gauze rolls in various widths
• Triangular bandages
• Supplies for cleaning wounds, such as disinfectants and swabs
• Scissors
• Tweezers
• Medical tape
• Medical gloves
• Resuscitation equipment
• Splints
• Blanket
• Directions for contacting emergency personnel
  
  
  

Remember that these are the very minimum of a complete kit. If you work with chemicals or specialized equipment, you may need to have other items to address the potential for risks associated with those.

Kit Installation and Training

If your property consists of multiple buildings or a lot of renters, clients, and staff, you need to install additional safety kits, so anyone exposed to danger can quickly access the supplies. You may also find that you're responsible for training employees in the use of kits. Check with OSHA for more details regarding your business responsibilities.

Protection for the Safety of Employees, Clients, and Renters

When disaster strikes Tulsa, OK, property damage remediation professionals can put your buildings back into working condition. Inventory can be replaced, and landscaping can be renewed. When it comes to the people living and working on your property, however, access to a first aid kit may be the most important way to stay safe. When is the last time you checked your kits?

Common Water Issues for Businesses

8/18/2023 (Permalink)

Commercial water loss in Tulsa, OK

Common Water Issues for Businesses

For a commercial property owner in Tulsa, OK, unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, a water damage professional can help you assess, clean, and repair damages from any flooding or leaks you may have. Here are a few of the most common water problems a business may face from leaking pipes to foundation cracks.

1. Pipe Breaks

A pipe break can occur in a number of ways. Over time, the pipe can age and loosen in its fittings, or extensive use can lead to pinhole leaks. Extreme heat or cold can also affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and eventually burst.

2. Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can even lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. When a pipe is blocked, water can take the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages can occur from a number of things, including the buildup of water minerals over time inside a pipe or someone pouring a solidifying material, such as plaster or grease, down a drain.

3. Weather

Extreme weather conditions can also lead to leaking pipes. Cold temperatures can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand. The expansion puts pressure on the pipe and can create a crack or even cause it to burst altogether. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional about what preventive measures to take.

4. Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can also become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues such as mold. Any cracks should be investigated and assessed as soon as possible to determine the best course of action.

Water damage can happen to a commercial property. Fortunately, a professional can fix the damage caused by leaking pipes, foundation cracks, backed up toilet, or weather, and help you repair your property.

Mole Inspection for Commercial Properties

4/4/2023 (Permalink)

Exposure to damp and moldy environments may cause a variety of health effects, or none at all.

Buying a building is a significant investment for any businessperson, and there are a lot of moving parts to this type of transaction. Though it can be an expensive undertaking, hiring a professional to perform a mold inspection before the sale can head off major problems and remediation costs in the long term. 

Performing a Mold Inspection Before Buying a Building

Where Mold Growth Can Be Problematic

To live in this world is to live with mold. At its best, it makes life better by contributing to the creation of bread, wine, cheese and some medicines, like penicillin. It does, of course, have serious drawbacks as well, though. 

Prime spots in a building for a mold problem are well-known:

• Bathrooms are a place where mold can grow in grout, between wall tiles, and in the tub or shower.
• Windows that have been improperly sealed can allow moisture into walls or ceilings and facilitate mold growth. A mold inspection can reveal this to a potential buyer.
• Exterior doors without effective seals can allow moisture to collect and harbor mold.

Even slightly high humidity can facilitate the growth of mold. Experts recommend the prudent move of keeping indoor humidity levels below 45 percent. 

Why Mold Growth Can Be Problematic

It isn’t only visible mold that can be troublesome to a property owner. Left unchecked, mold can destroy wood because it is an organism that feeds on surface nutrients. Mold that infiltrates drywall cannot be removed, and the affected area must be cut away. Carpets and insulation are also moisture-holding materials that mold can compromise to the point that they must be replaced. 

Buying real estate can be a complicated process, and it is impossible to know everything there is to know about a building’s history or future. However, a mold inspection can remove at least one of the unknowns before a business adds a building to its property portfolio.

Category 2 Water Facts

4/4/2023 (Permalink)

Damage was the result of a failed sprinkler system during a winter freeze.

While category 1 water from a broken pipe or such is sanitary water, category 2 water is more dangerous. Water pipe repair won’t be the only aspect you have to deal with if your property in City, State, becomes the victim of category 2 water damage. A restoration company can clean up your flooded building and restore it. Here’s what you need to know about category 2 damage.

What Is Category 2 Water?

Category 2 water is often referred to as “grey water.” This water is contaminated and can cause illness and discomfort. While category 2 water may be clean water that sits too long, other common sources of category 2 water are the following:

• Washing machines
• Dishwashers
• Sinks
• Toilets

However, if feces are present, it’s category 3 water. Be advised that category 2 water can quickly turn into category 3 water, which is the most dangerous type. Temperature, time and cleanliness of the building are often responsible for upgrading category 2 water to category 3 water.

How Do I Prepare My Company For a Fire?

10/8/2022 (Permalink)

A well-rehearsed evacuation plan will help guide employees through an emergency and keep them safe

How Can I Get My Business Ready for a Fire?

The best way to prepare your company for a fire is to make sure that you have an evacuation plan and a contingency plan. You should also test these plans regularly so that everyone knows what they are supposed to do in an emergency.

How do I prepare my company for a fire?

Here are some tips to keep in mind when it comes to fire safety:

• Fire extinguisher. You should have at least one fire extinguisher on your premises, preferably stored in a visible location. Also make sure that everyone knows how to use this device (and not just the staff).
• Fire alarm. In case of emergency, you also need an alarm system and/or smoke detectors that can alert everyone within the building about a possible fire. Make sure these devices are working properly and easily accessible - you don't want them hidden away somewhere where no one can get access!
• Exit signs and emergency exits. It's also important for employees to know where all the exits in your office building are located so they can quickly evacuate if there is ever an unsafe situation.

Evacuation plan

When you have a fire in your building, it's important to know what to do. A well-rehearsed evacuation plan will help guide employees through an emergency and keep them safe.

• An employee must be able to quickly identify the closest exit route from his or her current location, as well as whether any hazardous materials are present in the area (e.g., chemical fumes, combustible liquids).
• Employees should be trained on how to use emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers and smoke detectors so that they can respond appropriately if a fire breaks out.
• You'll want everyone who works in your office space practicing an evacuation drill at least once per quarter so they know exactly where they're supposed to go when there's an emergency — and how quickly they can get out of there!

Test your evacuation plan.

Once you have a plan, practice it. The most important part of the process is to test your evacuation plan until everyone knows what to do and where to go in an emergency. Make sure each employee is aware of:

• Where their designated meeting point is located
• How to get there from wherever they are located at the time of evacuation (e.g., if you’re on the second floor and need to exit through the east door, make sure everyone knows where that door is)
• What items they should bring with them (this varies depending on whether it’s a fire drill or an actual emergency)

Contingency plans

Contingency plans are a series of actions that you should take if something goes wrong. They can help you to avoid or reduce the impact of problems on your business and recover from problems quickly.

It is important to identify what you would do if there were an emergency in your business, how this would affect customers and staff and how it will be communicated to them.You need an evacuation plan and a contingency plan, and you should test them regularly.

• Have an evacuation plan: All companies should have an evacuation plan in place. This should include information about where to go if there is a fire, what to take with you, as well as how you will get out of the building safely and where you will meet up with your colleagues afterward.
• Have a contingency plan: It's important that everyone knows what they're supposed to do if their part of the building catches fire or if there's smoke present that threatens their health or safety more generally.
• Test your plans regularly: Companies must test their plans both annually and whenever anything changes (e.g., new employees join or leave). A good way of doing this is by using tabletop exercises - these are simulations which allow everyone involved in any given situation (e.g. responding appropriately in case of a fire) practice how best to react without having real-world consequences for failure.

We hope this article has helped you better understand the importance of having an evacuation plan, a contingency plan and testing them regularly. This will help ensure that your company is prepared for any emergency that may arise.

What Personal Protective Equipment Is Necessary To Remove Mold?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial mold clean up in Liberty, OK.

Personal Protective Equipment You Will See While Removing Mold

Discovering mold growth in your commercial building in Liberty, OK can cause a bit of panic. Mold is a hardy little organism that's excellent at covertly taking over large spaces. Mold remediation must begin immediately to stop further progression. It's also essential for workers to wear special gear to protect themselves.
Here's the personal protective equipment you'll typically see:

1. Hair Covering
The team will wear disposable hair coverings in the affected area. These coverings keep mold spores and other debris from getting trapped in their hair. Hair coverings will be removed and discarded every time workers leave the area to prevent cross-contamination into other parts of the building. A fresh hair covering will be used upon the worker's return to the affected area.

2. Goggles
Workers typically wear fully-enclosed goggles. These eye coverings help ensure that no spores, debris or chemicals can get in their eyes during the mold cleanup process.

3. Face Mask
A specific type of respirator is worn covering the nose and mouth to avoid inhaling contaminates. These respirators can be disposable or reusable.

4. Gloves
Disposable gloves are worn to protect the mold remediation specialists' hands from contaminates and cleaning chemicals. The gloves are removed and disposed of every time the worker exits the contaminated area, and then a new pair is put on when they return.

5. Coveralls
Coveralls cover and shut out all spores from getting on the workers' clothes. These coveralls can be purchased in disposable or reusable varieties. Like the other PPE, they must be removed before leaving the area and put on again before returning to work.

6. Shoe Coverings
Coveralls sometimes include built-in shoe coverings. Disposable coverings are also available. Removing and discarding them when leaving the affected area will prevent tracking contaminates into other areas. Upon return, they're replaced with new ones.
During mold cleanup, PPE must be worn to protect the workers and prevent cross-contamination into unaffected areas. By hiring professionals, your building will be returned to its preloss condition as soon as possible.

3 Locations Mold Might Hide in Your Commercial Building

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Leaks from a roof can cause mold growth in your ceiling.

Mold Could Hide in Three Places in Your Commercial Building

When you own a Bixby, OK, commercial property, there are many actions you can take to protect it. However, one factor you might not consider is the presence of damaging mold. Many types of fungi, including black mold, can cause serious damage to your building, even in dry climates, and there are three locations where it might hide.

1. On the Roof
Roof leaks can occur without warning and you may not notice the problem until water damage becomes plainly visible. These leaks can cause mold growth in your building’s attic, which may spread to stored items, such as valuable invoice documents. Having your roof checked annually and remaining aware of any moisture can prevent these issues.

2. In Restrooms
If your business is located in an arid state, this does not mean you need not worry about needing professional mold cleanup services. Some rooms are naturally humid and may be vulnerable to leaks, such as your employee restroom. Leaking toilets, overflowing sinks and dripping pipes can all cause mold growth, so monitoring the area carefully for black mold and other types of fungi, especially if you discover a leak, can help you pinpoint and manage problems before they begin.

3. HVAC Systems
Because your building’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning ducts are hidden from sight, they may develop mold due to condensation within the system. This may happen if the unit is the wrong size for the building or due to age and wear. A musty odor that occurs when you turn the system on can tip you off to the presence of mold. Calling in a mold remediation and restoration company can resolve this problem, as can scheduling future inspections and cleanings.
Black mold and other types of damaging fungi can have a serious impact on your Bixby, OK, commercial building. Remaining vigilant and monitoring places where it hides can help you to better protect your investment.

How Do Fire Sprinklers Work?

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Fire sprinkler systems are a proven method to minimize fire damage.

What Are the Functions of Fire Sprinklers?

While you know your business in Liberty, OK, is better protected with a fire sprinkler system, it’s also important to understand how it works.  

Three Simple Steps

Surprisingly, fire suppression systems are activated by heat and not smoke. As heat rises, this simple system is activated quickly with three steps.

The head has a plug that includes a triggering device. This is often a glass tube, called an ampule, filled with glycerin-based liquid, which quickly expands as it gets hot.
As it expands, the tube is designed to break once a specific temperature is reached, typically around 155 degrees. The thinner the ampule, the faster the system will respond.
After the mechanism is tripped, the pressurized water forces out the plug and begins to spray water. There is a deflector plate included that ensures water sprays evenly.

In most systems, only the sprinkler heads that reach the heat mark will go off and not the entire system. Once activated, the system will continue to spray until the water is shut off at the main valve. This makes it extra important to keep sprinkler heads cleaned and maintained so they aren’t accidentally set off.

Fire Sprinkler Cleanup

While a fire suppression system is designed to minimize the amount of water required to put out the flames, it still means excess water entering your property. No matter how many sprinklers go off, the end results will likely require a professional water and fire damage company to provide proper cleanup. To avoid a false alarm, it’s important to regularly maintain the system and get an annual inspection done by a professional.
Fire sprinkler systems have been around a long time and are a proven method to minimize fire damage. Understanding how they work helps you have a better understanding of what to expect if it is set off.

Surprising Ways Mold Growth Can Water Down Your Business

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial mold issues in Broken Arrow, OK.

Mold Can Ruin Your Business in Surprising Ways

Commercial businesses in Broken Arrow, OK, have a plethora of daily tasks to worry about, but mold growth is often not at the top of business owners' minds. However, it's a crucial threat to consider. You may have a mold problem on the rise if there are any areas of excess water present in your building. Here are some issues to watch out for, as well as reasons why you should mitigate these problems as soon as you notice them.

Possible Signs and Causes of Mold Overgrowth

High-moisture environments are a recipe for mold disaster. Keep on the lookout for potential indicators of excess mold:

• Musty odors
  
• Roof leaks
  
• Humidity levels exceeding 45%
  
• Excess condensation on windows
  
• Unvented water heaters
  
• Gutters funneling water toward the building
  
• Wet walls or ceilings with paint buckling
  
  

If you notice any water damage on materials, smell mold, or detect high humidity levels, it's a good idea to reach out to a local mold remediation expert. Sometimes, mold growth issues can go undetected. Be vigilant to reduce the possibility of structural and property damage.

Mold Damage to Commercial Buildings

The integrity and aesthetics of your commercial structure may be at risk if you have undetected mold. A number of issues may arise for your business if you aren't swift with mold cleanup:

• Peeling paint
  
• Damaged goods and products
  
• Unsightly spots and stains
  
• Structural damage
  
• Heating and vent damage
  
  

Too much mold can lead to unnecessary costs to repair fixtures, appliances, and property. The mold can eat away at carpets, wood, and more. Often, the infestation of mold can be hard to reach, even by professionals. This could warrant a complete replacement of appliances, such as water heaters and ventilation systems. It's even possible that indoor mold issues can remain unseen.
As a business owner, you need to be cautious of damage to your property. Mold growth does not have to be a source of a financial burden if you catch it quickly. Routine maintenance and an eye for the signs of overgrowth are key to safeguarding your building.

How To Mitigate the Partial Loss of Hidden Fire Damage

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Fire in Jenks, OK.

How to Minimize the Loss of Parts Due to Hidden Fire Damage

Fire has ravaged businesses in Jenks, OK, but your commercial property looks unscathed. If it appears unharmed, do you still need to call a professional? Do not assume that the building structure and contents are undamaged. Some fire loss is not visible to the untrained eye.

What Causes Hidden Damage?

When flames are in close proximity to your business, destruction can occur without direct contact with the blaze. Here are the most common causes of damage due to a nearby inferno:

• Smoke damage
  
• Extreme heat
  
• Water from firefighting efforts
  
• Mold growth if water damage is left undetected
  
  

What Structures Can Be Impacted?

Many building structures and systems can be compromised when smoke, heat or water find their way into the building. Areas that may be affected by fire loss include the following:

• HVAC, electrical and other indoor systems
  
• Pipes and plumbing
  
• Roofing, siding, windows, walls and other building structures
  
• Furnishings and inventory
  
  

How Is Damage Detected and Mitigated?

Hidden fire damage is considered a partial loss. The loss is partial because the building structures or contents are damaged but not destroyed. As a business owner, take these ` occurs:

• Contact your commercial insurance agent to verify coverage.

• Schedule a fire restoration specialist to thoroughly inspect your property for both visible and hidden damage. After the assessment, professionals create a remediation plan.

• During the restoration process, the building and contents are returned to preloss condition. When items are only partially damaged, the goal is to achieve a consistent, uniform outcome. If a match cannot be found, the complete item is replaced.

Smoke, high temperatures and water from an adjacent fire in Jenks, OK, can cause fire loss to your commercial property. The damage, however, may be hidden from the naked eye. To prevent secondary damage and reduce business interruption, contact your insurance agent and restoration professional as soon as possible.

4 Tips for Preparing Your Building for Spring

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

Roof inspection

Preparing Your Building for Spring

Many commercial building owners think that just because temperatures outside get warmer, the potential hazards of winter pass. A spring thaw can easily cause flooding in your building in Burning Tree, OK, however, if you are not prepared. Make sure your building is ready from the bottom to the top for those April showers.

1. Basement Preparation

The basement or lowest floor of your building is susceptible to a spring flood as soon as winter snow and ice start melting. In addition to taking the appropriate measures to keep water out, such as having your foundation inspected, you should also complete and check the following items off your list:

• Purchase an automatic sump pump
• Install flood sensors
• Elevate sensitive machinery off the floor
  
  

2. Plumbing Protection

A frozen pipe can burst even when it starts warming back up. If the temperature change is too sudden, the pipes may not be able to withstand the contrast. Keep the thermostat in your building set to at least 55 degrees all the time so that your pipes are still kept safe overnight.

3. Roof Inspection

The beginning of spring is a great time to have your roof professionally inspected. Contractors can identify damage and other weak spots, and water restoration specialists can remediate any flooding that occurred during the winter.

4. Drainage Clearing

Falling leaves and twigs that get blown into gutter and downspouts during the winter need to be cleared out before spring rains begin. When a spout is clogged, rain must find another path off the building, and it is usually not the path you would prefer. Clean your drainage system completely so that rainwater has somewhere to go.

When you see ice and snow melting, you know it’s time to prepare your building for warmer weather. Following these tips can help ensure a smooth transition from winter to spring and keep your building from flooding.

Prepare Your Business for Emergencies Now

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Keep emergency exits well-labeled and free of obstructions.

Steps To Take Before a Fire Strikes

You hope to never have a fire in your Jenks, OK, business, but if one were to occur, you don’t want to be without a contingency plan. The best way to prepare for an emergency is to create an action plan before the actual emergency. Here are four steps to take before a fire strikes.

1. Create a Thorough Plan

Discuss with your employees or managers how to make the most effective emergency strategies possible. In the written plan, include methods for reporting safety concerns, emergency contact information, the evacuation plan, emergency shut-down procedures, and individual safety policies.

2. Distribute the Contingency Plan

Your employees should be able to respond quickly to emergencies if they already know what to do. Include emergency plans in all your new employee training and hold regular meetings to make sure everyone is up-to-date on current procedures. Make it clear who is responsible for reporting emergencies and whose responsibility it is to make use of fire extinguishers or other emergency equipment.

3. Maintain Clear Evacuation Routes

Keep emergency exits clearly labeled and clear of obstacles. Keep pathways clear of loose cords or spare objects, such as garbage cans or unused furniture that sometimes gets set in back hallways and might become hazards when people try to evacuate.

4. Monitor Emergency Equipment

You have smoke alarms and fire extinguishers in your building, but are they in good working order? Take time to check smoke alarms at least once a month to make sure the batteries are still good and there are enough alarms for the whole building. Check the expiration date on all fire extinguishers. If you have other emergency equipment such as sprinklers or defibrillators, you can include these in your regular emergency equipment checkups.

While no one ever expects a fire, taking the time to create and maintain a contingency plan can keep your employees safe and save time and money when it is time to restore your business after a fire.

3 Reasons Not To Use Bleach To Get Rid of Mold

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

It is not a good idea to use bleach to try to clean up the mold.

Never Use Bleach To Clean Up Mold

When you think of do-it-yourself methods for fungus cleanup, bleach is probably one of the first methods that come to mind. After all, the bottle says it can kill almost anything, and most people assume that includes mold. Unfortunately, this popular substance often does more harm than good when it comes to mold removal. Here are three reasons why you should never use bleach to clean up mold.

1. It is corrosive. Chlorine bleach contains harsh chemicals that damage almost any surface with which it comes into contact. It breaks down the fibers in wood, rendering it weaker and prone to warping. It begins to corrode metal the moment it touches it. When you use bleach for fungus cleanup in your commercial property in Leonard, OK, it is likely to cause more harm than good.

2. It doesn't work. Bleach is not an effective mold cleaner. It only cleans the surface where the mold can be seen. The chlorine doesn't reach down below the surface where the roots of the fungus are growing. If you can't eliminate the roots, you cannot resolve the problem. It is even possible that using bleach on mold can make it worse by increasing the area's moisture level, given the high percentage of water in the solution.

3. It isn't thorough. Because it only cleans or masks the mold on the surface, bleach does not do a thorough job of remediation. To be absolutely sure the mold problem in your commercial building is taken care of, you need to consult a mold remediation specialist. Specialists don't just wipe the surface down. They contain the problem, clean it, dry it and replace any damaged parts of the building.

As tempting as it may be, it is not a good idea to use bleach to try to clean up the mold. Skip the bottle and go straight to the phone to call professional experts who can help you get rid of your mold problem.

3 Facts About Black Flood Water

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can include warped flooring and moldy drywall.

Black Flood Water

Your Tulsa, OK, commercial building can be affected by flooding from several sources. Water damage can include warped flooring and moldy drywall, but one of the more immediate issues caused by flooding is the influx of contaminated water. If your business has recently been damaged by flooding, it can be helpful to understand how this type of water can cause long-term damage and what you can do to mitigate it.

1. It Can Contain Dangerous Chemicals

Environmental experts often call contaminated water that stems from flooding Category 3, or “black water.” This means the water did not come from a sterile source and may contain a variety of hazardous components, including harsh sewer and lawn chemicals that entered the water during flooding. These chemicals can make the water dangerous to touch, so calling in flood damage and cleanup service is the safest way to have it removed.

2. It May Make You Sick

Category 3 water damage can be dangerous in more than one way. For example, standing black water can grow microbes that may cause a variety of illnesses. Urine and feces may also be present, even if they are not immediately visible, so it is wise to avoid this type of water completely and wait for professional cleanup services to arrive.

3. Acting Quickly Can Be Essential

Because contaminated water can become more dangerous the longer it sits, it is a good idea to call in a cleanup crew right away. This can be important even if you believe the worst of the damage has already been done. Having the water removed may reduce the chances of long-term issues with your building’s affected floors and walls and prevent mold growth, which can be difficult to treat once it takes hold.

Black water damage can harm your Tulsa, OK, commercial building in several ways. However, when you know its dangers and how to combat it, you may be able to prevent the worst of the destruction. 

4 Things To Look For in a Fire Damage Estimate

4/24/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage on Leonard, OK buildings

4 Things To Look For in a Fire Damage Estimate

If your company in Leonard, OK, has experienced a fire, you will likely have several questions about the fire recovery process. Once you find a trusted fire remediation franchise to do the work, you should receive an estimate that details many aspects of the restoration process. At this point, you are looking for some clarity, so it is helpful to have all or most of your questions answered. A quality report should provide you with several key pieces of information.

1. The Level of Fire Damage. Even a small fire can look overwhelming, so it is nice to get some confirmation on how things stand. Trained workers will do a quick inspection and assessment of the property. Once this is completed the project manager can give you a pretty good idea of how much damage has occurred.

2. The Cost. No doubt you are eager to know the expenses to your company. A solid estimate should give you some realistic numbers. This is easier if you are dealing with a company that will do most or all of the restoration process. This way you won't have to chase down different contractors to figure out the total cost of the job.

3. The Time Frame. After the technicians look things over, you should get a good idea of how long the restoration will take. In small fires, this could be in a matter of days, while a more catastrophic commercial fire could take several weeks.

4. The Insurance. Working with one company will also make the insurance process run more smoothly. It makes the claims process much faster and more efficient. In most cases, dealing with just one contractor will result in lower overall costs.
A good damage estimate should provide your company with a lot of clarity at a confusing time. It is the beginning of the recovery process after a catastrophe.

5 Advantages and Disadvantages of Security Fences

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

A security fence is a great way to mark property lines

5 Advantages and Disadvantages of Security Fences

Many people try to protect their vacant businesses from intruders by installing a security fence until a qualified restoration company can help with restorations. While there are several advantages to this method, there are also several disadvantages.

1. Property Markers
A security fence is a great way to mark property lines. Since vandals tend to target abandoned buildings, reminding them that someone owns the property is a great way to discourage unwelcome visits.

2. Natural Surveillance
If a fence is built for maximum security, the only way in or out of your business will be the gate. This means that you can strategically place a guard or camera around the gate and immediately know when someone is trying to access your building. Additionally, a see-through fence can slow down potential intruders and warn you if someone is trying to enter your property.

3. Access Control
This is directly linked to the principles of property marking and natural surveillance. By controlling where people can access the property, you establish that it is your territory and forcing people to fall under your surveillance.

4. Visibility Issues
Solid walls can be impenetrable and hard to climb. However, they are impossible to see through. This can create issues in the surveillance of your Bixby, OK building. This is because you cannot see vandals hiding on the other side of the fence and open yourself up to looting and graffiti issues.

5. Safety Hazards
Tall continuous fencing can cause a safety problem when you reopen by forcing your customers to be exposed to criminals and traffic for longer periods of time. Adding more gates can help with this, but it will limit your ability to control access to your property.
Adding a security fence can go a long way in boosting the security of your vacant buildings. If placed right, they can offer several key advantages. However, you must know the disadvantages of having one as well.

How To Handle Frozen Pipes in Your Building

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Frozen pipe

Steps To Take If You Suffer From Frozen Pipes

As a property owner in Tulsa, OK, you know that winter can be hard on commercial buildings. You might even expect some water damage, but do you know what steps to take if you suffer from frozen pipes?

1. Shut Off the Water
The first step to dealing with any water problem is to stop the flow. Locate the valve that disconnects the broken pipes from the rest of your plumbing system and close it. If you cannot locate it, turn off the main valve and cut your water off completely.

2. Call Your Insurance Agent
Contact your insurance company to make sure you are covered. It is important to notify your agent as soon as possible so that they can assess the situation and let you know what steps you should take when filing a claim. 

3. Document and Start Cleanup
Take high-resolution photos and notes of all of the water damage your property suffered as a result of the incident. This will help you with insurance claims and any restoration. Once you have evidence of the damages, you can start water cleanup. Remove any excess water by mopping or using a wet/dry vacuum. If there is a large amount of water, consider hiring someone to pump it out. Remove all objects and let the area dry.

4. Bring in Experts
Hire a plumber to inspect your pipes for any other damage due to freezing. It is easy to see a burst pipe, but frozen pipes also weaken and warp leading to problems later. You should also call a commercial restoration expert. They will assess your situation and help you create a plan to tackle any property repairs that need to be done.
Frozen pipes and water damage are always on your mind during colder months but being ready to handle them can help ease your thoughts when it comes to keeping your business operating all winter.

5 Ways to Get Ready for the Spring Thaw

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Hire a professional to inspect your building's roof

Prepare Your Property To Face The Spring Thaw

Spring weather can be quite unpredictable. Seasonal rain storms, rapidly melting snow and countless other conditions can all drastically increase the chances of your commercial building in Broken Arrow, OK, succumbing to flooding. Luckily, there are several steps you can take to help prepare your property to face the spring thaw.

1. Remove Any Snow Around the Building.
Rapidly thawing snow is one of the greatest contributors to the spring flood. Removing this snow can help the melted water drain away from your property, thus reducing your flood risk.

2. Check the Drainage Systems.
Outdoor flood drains should not be obstructed. You also need to make sure to clear any debris from the gutters on your building's roof. Lastly, double-check any flood drains your building might have to ensure that they're unobstructed.

3. Test Your Sump Pump.
Ideally, you have been managing and maintaining your sump pump all winter. If you haven't, then testing the device is especially important. Check for a frozen pipe, and make sure to clear any debris out from the machine that could obstruct drainage.

4. Hire a Professional to Inspect Your Building's Roof.
If your building's roof has been buried underneath a layer of snow all winter, then it could have potentially sustained damage that you haven't noticed yet. It's a good idea to have your roof professionally inspected to make sure that it's ready to withstand storm and flood damage.

5. Elevate and Waterproof Important Items.
Any important documents or other items that you store in the lower levels of your building need to be moved to higher floors and sealed in waterproof containers. Preventing water damage is significantly easier than attempting to salvage wet documents after flooding.
The spring thaw can bring about drastic floods that can cause massive amounts of water damage to your commercial building. Taking the proper precautionary measures can certainly help reduce the amount of damage your building suffers, but complete protection is never a guarantee. Contact flood remediation experts if your property has sustained damage from flooding.

3 Tips to Minimize Damage While Waiting for Help

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

While unwanted water has the potential to cause downtime, taking quick action with the above damage tips may minimize the damage.

The moment water floods your Broken Arrow, OK, business, you know there will be a lot of work to clean up the mess. After ensuring the property is safe, calling your insurance company, and contacting a water damage and restoration company, there is often a wait time before the real cleanup can begin. Although the true cleanup needs to wait, below are three damage tips to help speed up the process once help arrives.

1. Document the Damage
It can be easy to want to start sorting through the mess and researching cleaning tips. To ensure you get the most out of the water loss, documenting all the damage needs to happen. Take videos or photographs of every affected area, as well as all the items in it. Once everything is documented, saturated furniture or textiles, such as rugs and draperies, can be removed outdoors to dry out.

2. Extract the Water
A pipe burst is a common source of water infiltration. If that happens, it can mean 100s of gallons of unwanted water. Once it is deemed safe to enter and the water is turned off, getting rid of as much water as possible as soon as possible increases the chances of salvaging more items and reducing the chances of mold growth. If there is significant standing water, use a bucket to bail out the water. Once the levels lower, use a wet/dry vacuum.

3. Dry Out
One of the top damage tips from experts is drying everything out. Even if the water is visibly gone, it could have wicked up walls and into carpeting and other items. That excess water also increases humidity levels in a structure, potentially resulting in mold growth. Turn on any fan you can to get the best airflow possible. Be sure to regularly move fans so that all areas get dried out. If possible, use a dehumidifier to bring humidity levels closer to normal.

While unwanted water has the potential to cause downtime, taking quick action with the above damage tips may minimize the damage.

Is Security Fencing Necessary After a Commercial Fire?

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Putting up fencing is an important part of responding to a fire at a commercial property in Tulsa, OK.

Three Reasons Why Security Fencing Is Necessary

After firefighters left the scene, the security of a commercial property that has experienced a fire becomes the responsibility of the owner. In addition to boarding up open windows or holes in the roof or walls, owners should also control access to the property by putting up a security fence. Here are three reasons why security fencing is necessary in the wake of a fire.

1. Insurers expect owners to secure commercial properties. If you leave a commercial property that has been damaged by fire open and unfenced, you may have a difficult time filing claims for fire damage. Insurance companies expect you to do everything within your power to limit the extent of damage and loss to the best of your ability. This includes putting up a security fence for the duration of the restoration period.

2. Security fencing limits further loss from theft or vandalism. A property that has suffered fire damage can attract looters and vandals. Additional types of damage may occur if you do not fence off a property that is awaiting remediation. This damage is not directly caused by a fire and may not be covered by commercial property insurance policies.

3. Security fencing restricts access to prevent additional damage from occurring. A fire-damaged property is a liability. Even if a passerby is just curious to see the extent of the damage, they may cause further damage by walking on the carpet, compound other aspects of fire damage, or injure themselves on the site.

Putting up fencing is an important part of responding to a fire at commercial property in Tulsa, OK. If you are unable to put up a security fence that will keep intruders out, contact a fire damage remediation company that provides board-up and fencing services. This additional step can end up saving you time and money during the restoration process.

How To Secure Your Roof After a Fire

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Roof tarp services after fire damage in Tulsa, OK

Steps To Cover Your Roof With A Tarp

One of the first things fire mitigation experts will do after a fire is to perform emergency services to keep the building from becoming more damaged than it already is. Part of the emergency protocol is often securing the building from trespassers and the elements. If the roof of your commercial building in Tulsa, OK, was damaged by a fire, the roof must be secured before the fire cleanup process can begin. Here are the steps you can expect the professionals to take to cover your roof with a tarp.

1. Measurement

The first step of tarp services is determining how big an area the tarp needs to cover. If damage only occurred on a small portion of the building, there is no need to cover the entire roof. The tarp should extend several inches past the perimeter of the roof damage.

2. Placement

The tarp is placed over the damaged area of the roof. At this point, mitigation technicians verify that the tarp is sufficient to provide shelter from the elements, as it does no good to start fire cleanup inside when an afternoon rain can undo all the work they have done. Once the experts are confident that the tarp provides the right coverage, they can start to secure it to the roof.

3. Attachment

The tarp is pulled taut. If it is blocking any vent or drainage apparatus, the service personnel can adjust the covering so that it is not encumbering the building's established defense against flooding. Once the tarp is in place, it is secured by strapping, and deck screws are placed every 8-12 inches around the perimeter of the tarp.

Before any fire cleanup process or roof repair can begin, what's left of the roof on your commercial building must be protected from further damage. A tarp provides a temporary fix that helps your building withstand additional problems.

Cleaning Up After a Furnace Puffback Requires Professional Equipment

4/19/2020 (Permalink)

Puffback damage in a Burning Tree, OK property

Cleaning Up After a Furnace Puffback Requires Professional Equipment

While heating oil is an excellent fuel, using it does require annual furnace or boiler maintenance in Burning Tree, OK, to function properly and efficiently. The nozzle through which oil is sprayed must be replaced and components inspected to locate damaged parts and ensure correct timing. Failure to do so can lead to serious consequences, including

• Voiding the warranty
  
• A drastic drop in efficiency
  
• Puffback damage
  
  

A Furnace Puffback Is a Serious Event
There are a few different potential causes of a puffback event. Typically, it’s far more common in an oil furnace, but may also rarely happen in a gas furnace, where it can very severely damage the burner.
Probably the most common cause is where the spark electrodes fail to ignite the oil. This, combined with poor maintenance, may cause the oil to pool at the bottom, and an intermittently functioning electrode may suddenly ignite this excess fuel. With an oil furnace, usually, the worst puffback damage is the expulsion of soot through the vents, especially with forced air systems.

Soot Isn’t Like Smoke or Dust
Smoke damage is bad enough, but soot is a special kind of substance. When different hydrocarbons, such as heating oil, gasoline or natural gas, fail to fully combust, they create a sticky, carbon-rich residue. It’s highly toxic and is a known carcinogen, which is one reason annual maintenance on a furnace is so important. During a puffback, soot blows throughout the house, coating everything it touches with a nasty layer of black debris.

Soot Can’t Be Cleaned With Ordinary Equipment
Trying to remove soot with ordinary household cleaners is worse than pointless – it usually causes even more damage. Instead of removing soot, wiping it just smears the oil, pushing it into any porous surface.
Fabrics, such as carpet and clothing, usually require chemical cleaning. The house can be so contaminated from puffback damage that it has to be evacuated until cleaned. In all cases, soot will require a professional cleaning company to bring in special equipment that will strip the soot away from surfaces, furniture, and fabrics.

What To Include in a Building's First Aid Kit

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

A first aid kit is an essential item for your commercial property in Tulsa, OK

A first aid kit is an essential item for your commercial property in Tulsa, OK. Sadly, it's all too common for an emergency kit to be missing from offices and supply closets. If you haven't put together a safety kit or if you haven't made sure an existing kit is up to date, now is the time to make sure you're fully prepared for an emergency.

OSHA's First Aid List

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has a complete list of items you need to create a basic kit as well as a complete kit. For example, a very basic first aid kit should contain

• Adhesive bandages
  
• Gauze pads multiple shapes and sizes
  
• Gauze rolls in various widths
  
• Triangular bandages
  
• Supplies for cleaning wounds, such as disinfectants and swabs
  
• Scissors
  
• Tweezers
  
• Medical tape
  
• Medical gloves
  
• Resuscitation equipment
  
• Splints
  
• Blanket
  
• Directions for contacting emergency personnel
  
  
  

Remember that these are the very minimum of a complete kit. If you work with chemicals or specialized equipment, you may need to have other items to address the potential for risks associated with those.

Kit Installation and Training

If your property consists of multiple buildings or a lot of renters, clients, and staff, you need to install additional safety kits, so anyone exposed to danger can quickly access the supplies. You may also find that you're responsible for training employees in the use of kits. Check with OSHA for more details regarding your business responsibilities.

Protection for the Safety of Employees, Clients, and Renters

When disaster strikes Tulsa, OK, property damage remediation professionals can put your buildings back into working condition. Inventory can be replaced, and landscaping can be renewed. When it comes to the people living and working on your property, however, access to a first aid kit may be the most important way to stay safe. When is the last time you checked your kits?

What You Need To Know About Mold in Your Commercial Building

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Black mold damage in Broken Arrow, OK

If you have a business in Broken Arrow, OK, then one of your main concerns is likely the state of the building. It is important to maintain a clean, safe and comfortable environment. One problem that you may find yourself dealing with at some point is black mold. This is a common issue in many buildings and may become reoccurring if you do not take action quickly.

What Is Mold?

Mold is a fungus that grows in moist environments. While you may be most familiar with black mold, there are actually many varieties. Some differences that you may find between types of mold are:

• Texture
  
• Color
  
• Odor
  
  

It may be slimy or fuzzy and can come in a range of colors, from green to black to white. Different varieties may also have unique scents, though many of them will cause a musty or earthy odor.

Where Can You Find Mold?

Mold is spread via spores which are so small that they cannot be seen by the naked eye, making it easy for the fungus to grow without being noticed. Because of their size, spores can be found in nearly any location. However, they are most likely to form colonies in areas with a moisture problem. This can include inside of plumbing systems, walls or carpeting.

How Do You Remove Mold?

Depending on where it is growing, mold cleanup can be a difficult process. For example, it will be much harder to remove from porous materials than hard surfaces. If you do discover a mold growth, the best thing to do is to hire a professional mold remediation company to remove the fungus from the building. Trying to do so on your own could result in unintentionally spreading the spores to other areas.
Because large infestations of black mold can be difficult to get rid of, it is important to have cleanup done as soon as you notice any signs of growth. Once the mold has been removed, reducing excessive moisture is perhaps the best way to keep it from returning. Repair leaks right away and perform regular maintenance to keep mold from growing again.

Tips for Preventing Mold Damage After a Flood

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Massive storm damage in a Woodland Hills, OK building

Tips for Preventing Mold Damage After a Flood

When a flood impacts your commercial property in Woodland Hills, OK, it’s crucial to do what you can to mitigate as much damage as possible. Whether the flooding resulted from a storm or burst pipe, taking immediate action is essential to helping your business recover from the incident. Failing to take proper care of the issue can result in bacteria and mold growth. Be sure to take the following steps while you wait for help to arrive in order to keep your business protected.

Dry the Area

The most effective way to prevent mold from growing on your property is to air out the affected area completely. This involves doing the following:

• Opening up your building during the day
  
• Turning on fans to facilitate evaporation and air circulation
  
• Running dehumidifiers to dry contents more quickly
  
• Disposing of debris and saturated items
  
  

Taking these steps can help to remove as much moisture as possible from your building and deter mold growth.

Remove Damaged Materials

Once you’ve sufficiently dried out the flooded area, you can begin to remove damaged materials from your property. If any furniture or carpeting has been severely damaged by floodwater, be sure to dispose of it right away. This also applies to any insulation, ceiling tiles or drywall that can no longer be recovered. If it isn’t possible for you to remove damaged carpeting, you can attempt to dry it using a dehumidifier or a wet/dry vacuum. Any materials that are submerged in standing water can become severely damaged, so be sure to remove them as soon as you can.
While these guidelines can help to minimize the amount of flood damage your business experiences, calling emergency restoration services immediately is the safest way to allow your commercial property to make a full recovery. A professional can take the appropriate action to deter mold growth and keep your business safe.

3 Steps for a Pipe Break Cleanup

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded office in Tulsa, OK

If you've experienced bursting pipes in your Tulsa, OK, business it's important to take the steps necessary for a proper clean up as soon as possible. Doing so can not only help you get back to working order quickly, but may help prevent future problems as well.

Here Are Three Things You May Want To Consider

1. Talk To a Professional

If you need to perform a clean up after you fix broken pipe flooding, then one of the first steps is to contact a local water damage restoration service. These professionals have the variety of tools and equipment that may be needed to deal with any flooding issues. This means repairing additional water damage problems such as structural damage to any flooring, as well as preventing the growth of mold.

2. Thoroughly Dry the Area

One of the most important steps to consider after flooding caused by bursting pipes is to thoroughly dry the area. In order to conduct repairs and prevent any future problems the water must be removed as quickly as possible. This may mean that they use a special pumps or water rated vacuums, as well as bailing the water by hand. Once as much water as possible has been pumped out of the flooded area, a dehumidifier can be used to pull remaining moisture from the air.

3. Sanitize the Area

A service trained to repair water damage Tulsa, OK may also be able to sanitize the area after the water has been removed. This step is important to help prevent the spread of bacteria, as well as make the space inhospitable to mold spores which can be potentially problematic. The sensitization process often involves the use of special cleaners designed specifically for this purpose.
Cleaning up after bursting pipes have caused flooding in your business can involve several steps. It's important to dry the area as thoroughly as possible as quickly as you can to help avoid further water damage, and potential mold problems. You may also want to sanitize the area after the water has been removed. If you have any questions a professional can help.

Inspecting a Commercial Property for Mold

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

A mold inspection can remove at least one of the unknowns before a business adds a building to its property portfolio.

Buying a building is a significant investment for any businessperson, and there are a lot of moving parts to this type of transaction in Tulsa, OK. Though it can be an expensive undertaking, hiring a professional to perform a mold inspection before the sale can head off major problems and remediation costs in the long term. 

Performing a Mold Inspection Before Buying a Building

Where Mold Growth Can Be Problematic

To live in this world is to live with mold. At its best, it makes life better by contributing to the creation of bread, wine, cheese and some medicines, like penicillin. It does, of course, have serious drawbacks as well, though. 

Prime spots in a building for a mold problem are well-known:

• Bathrooms are a place where mold can grow in grout, between wall tiles, and in the tub or shower.
• Windows that have been improperly sealed can allow moisture into walls or ceilings and facilitate mold growth. A mold inspection can reveal this to a potential buyer.
• Exterior doors without effective seals can allow moisture to collect and harbor mold.

Even slightly high humidity can facilitate the growth of mold. Experts recommend the prudent move of keeping indoor humidity levels below 45 percent. 

Why Mold Growth Can Be Problematic

It isn’t only visible mold that can be troublesome to a property owner. Left unchecked, mold can destroy wood because it is an organism that feeds on surface nutrients. Mold that infiltrates drywall cannot be removed, and the affected area must be cut away. Carpets and insulation are also moisture-holding materials that mold can compromise to the point that they must be replaced. 

Buying real estate can be a complicated process, and it is impossible to know everything there is to know about a building’s history or future. However, a mold inspection can remove at least one of the unknowns before a business adds a building to its property portfolio.

Certified Restoration Companies Do the Job Right

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

It is easy to find IICRC restoration specialists in the Woodland Hills, OK, area

Certified Restoration Companies Do the Job Right

One of the key characteristics of business owners and executives is self-reliance. Small business owners want to handle problems alone. Larger businesses have in-house maintenance crews to handle repairs and cleanups. This need to be self-reliant is ill-advised when dealing with a pipe burst cleanup. This is especially true when:

• You are a small business owner.
  
• You manage a larger privately-held or publicly-held company.
  
• You expect your commercial insurer to pay for the cleanup.
  
  

Water Damage Cleanup Is Not for Amateurs

The problem with a broken pipe is not the water. In the case of a sewer line break, it’s not the sewage. It’s the mold that will establish a foothold in your building if given the opportunity. An out-of-control mold problem can:

• Financially ruin a small business owner.
  
• Harm employees and stockholders of larger companies.
  
• Eliminate any possibility of insurance coverage.
  
  

IICRC-Certified Restoration Companies Eliminate the Risk of Mold

The most important task in a pipe burst cleanup is to remove the moisture. This doesn’t mean just mopping the puddles. This doesn’t mean just drying the easy-to-reach areas. It means eliminating all moisture from the entire damaged area. Most people do not have the skills and equipment to accomplish this task. Properly certified and equipped technicians do.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration provides both training and certification services. Insurers depend on IICRC-certified technicians to:

• Evaluate situations that call for restoration.
  
• Recommend courses of action.
  
• Follow those courses of action in restorations.
  
  

Certification is especially important when looking for a sewer cleanup company. With a sewer break, sanitization of the affected area is an important task. Properly certified technicians have the skills, equipment and experience to restore a healthy environment.
Fortunately, it is easy to find IICRC restoration specialists in the Woodland Hills, OK, area. If you need a pipe burst cleanup and restoration, they are only a phone call away.

How To Prevent Mold in Commercial Properties

4/14/2019 (Permalink)

All commercial properties have areas that don't get much attention.

You know that black mold can wreak havoc in your commercial buildings, but what can you do when it gets into the air ducts? Molds are a natural part of the environment and have developed the ability to thrive in just about any setting with a bit of humidity. The first step to preventing spores from setting up colonies in any out-of-the-way places on your properties is to control moisture.

• Run dehumidifiers in your buildings.
• Install fans in attics and basements.
• Consistently repair damaged roofing and foundations.
  

If you've recently noticed a mildew-y smell or become worried about contamination for other reasons, start by contacting a mold removal professional to conduct inspections and correct growth in problem areas.

Locate Sources of Trouble

Once inspections are complete and remediation technicians have left you with clean ducts, it's time to take serious action to prevent new growth of black mold. As the professionals finish up their work, ask where your problem spots are. You may learn that an HVAC unit has been leaking near the ducts or that you have high levels of humidity near a furnace. Target those areas first; conduct repairs and take steps to control moisture levels.

Control Unwanted Moisture

Next, implement a consistent pattern of maintenance. Work through HVAC systems, cleaning coils and drip pans. Consider installing gadgets to measure moisture levels around your properties. Review housekeeping routines to be sure that standing water from mops and buckets isn't a problem. Conduct routine inspections for mold growth or signs of increased humidity. The primary goal of your preventative efforts is to keep humidity levels low and immediately correct leaks and other problematic sources of water.

Make Mold Prevention a Priority

All commercial properties have areas that don't get much attention. It's easy to overlook those spots during routine maintenance and cleanup. When you put black mold prevention at the top of your list, it's easier to keep it at bay. Mold remediation specialists in Tulsa, OK can be a valuable resource in your efforts.

Common Water Issues for Businesses

12/30/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial water loss in Tulsa, OK

Common Water Issues for Businesses

For a commercial property owner in Tulsa, OK, unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, a water damage professional can help you assess, clean, and repair damages from any flooding or leaks you may have. Here are a few of the most common water problems a business may face from leaking pipes to foundation cracks.

1. Pipe Breaks

A pipe break can occur in a number of ways. Over time, the pipe can age and loosen in its fittings, or extensive use can lead to pinhole leaks. Extreme heat or cold can also affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and eventually burst.

2. Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can even lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. When a pipe is blocked, water can take the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages can occur from a number of things, including the buildup of water minerals over time inside a pipe or someone pouring a solidifying material, such as plaster or grease, down a drain.

3. Weather

Extreme weather conditions can also lead to leaking pipes. Cold temperatures can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand. The expansion puts pressure on the pipe and can create a crack or even cause it to burst altogether. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional about what preventive measures to take.

4. Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can also become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues such as mold. Any cracks should be investigated and assessed as soon as possible to determine the best course of action.

Water damage can happen to a commercial property. Fortunately, a professional can fix the damage caused by leaking pipes, foundation cracks, backed up toilet, or weather, and help you repair your property.

3 Tips for Roof Preservation

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Perform regular maintenance on your roof to avoid severe damages after storms

When your business is located in Liberty, OK, you probably know that a roof leak is no laughing matter. A roof is designed to protect your company from numerous types of inclement weather, including snow, ice and the blazing hot sun. However, a roof can do its job only if it’s kept in good repair. Here are a few tips you can use to help preserve your roof’s integrity.

1. Perform Regular Maintenance Checks

Many professionals recommend doing a roof maintenance check twice a year. However, if your business has an older roof or is located in an area where you experience frequent bad weather, you may desire to have a check performed more often. A maintenance check can allow you to find and repair any damage early before larger damage occurs.

2. Look for Signs of a Roof Problem

Maintenance should include looking for signs of rain, snow or wind damage, as well as cleaning out gutters and drains. You may also want to ensure that vents and other equipment are properly sealed and that previous repairs are still intact. If anything is amiss, then it's best to call a professional to conduct repairs before a major problem occurs. If you do experience a roof leak, then a water damage professional can advise you on the proper repair and cleanup procedures.

3. Do Repairs When Damage Occurs

Even wind damage can lead to leaks and other issues with your roof. It's a good idea to have any repairs made as soon as possible after a problem is detected. Having repairs made in a timely manner may save your business from a more costly roof replacement.

When you live and work in Liberty, OK, you know roof preservation is important. Performing regular maintenance checks and knowing what signs can indicate a problem may allow you to catch a roof leak before major damage occurs. If you do find a problem with your business's roof, it's a good idea to promptly contact a professional to perform any needed repairs.

5 Steps To Handle a Pipe Break

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

Follow these steps to deal with bursting pipes and water damage in Tulsa, OK.

Bursting pipes can cause extensive damage in a commercial property. There are several steps you can take to limit the extent of the damage.

1. Call a Plumber

Contact a plumber with an emergency work order to fix a broken pipe. If more than one person is on site, one person should make the call while the other shuts off or collects water.

2. Shut Off the Water

Shutting off the flow of water to your building can limit the amount of water that can cause damage. Notify all occupants that the water is turned off.

2. Collect Water in Containers

Collect as much water from bursting pipes as possible in any containers you have on hand. Once again, if more than one person is present, you should cycle out containers as each becomes full. These containers will be heavy, and a sturdy cart may help prevent strain or injury.

3. Fix Broken Pipes

A plumber should resolve the source of the leak before you can start removing water and restoring the area. Continue to try to mitigate the damage until help arrives.

4. Eliminate All Standing Water

Use any method available such as buckets, mops, towels, or a wet vacuum to start getting rid of standing water. You may want to call commercial damage restoration professionals with specialized equipment to pump out water. Water from a burst pipe is clean Category One water. If water leaks through building materials to another floor, it becomes contaminated Category Two water.

5. Dry the Affected Area

Prevent mold or other secondary damage by completely drying the area affected by the leak. Use a dehumidifier to draw moisture out of porous or semi-porous building materials and contents.

Follow these steps to deal with bursting pipes and water damage in Tulsa, OK. A plumber can help stop the leak, and restoration experts can help prevent further damage. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com/.

What To Do When the Pipes Freeze at Your Commercial Property

4/22/2018 (Permalink)

The most important thing to be aware of is that you need to act quickly. The longer pipes are frozen, the higher the possibility is that you will have

Winter comes with tons of challenges for a business in Tulsa, OK, especially if the season is particularly harsh. It can be difficult to bring in customers, and when you do, you should ensure the property is safe for them to shop. Plowing snow and putting down salt on any ice are some of the unique requirements during this chilly season. Another major obstacle common in winter is broken pipes because of the cold temperatures.

Signs Your Pipes Are Frozen

The good news is that there are clues that your pipes may be frozen and water damage is incoming. This can go a long way toward resolving the situation quickly with the help of expert technicians.

• Lack of water coming from the pipes may be a sign that your pipes are frozen. This can also manifest as a slow-moving trickle of water rather than the normal stream.
• If the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, pipes can burst if proper precautions are not taken. This can lead to water damage in the building and a need for cleanup.
• Frost can sometimes be seen on visible pipes if they have frozen. This can also be a warning sign that the pipes are going to freeze soon.
• A strange smell coming from a pipe may mean it is blocked by ice. The smell will often emit into the building as it has nowhere else to go.

How To Handle the Situation

The most important thing to be aware of is that you need to act quickly. The longer pipes are frozen, the higher the possibility is that you will have damage that requires water cleanup. In order to ensure thawing is done properly, it is usually best to contact an expert in Tulsa, OK. This can ensure you have help who can handle any water damage and take care of the emergency. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com/. 

How To Remove Odors After a Flood

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Even after the flood water has receded in Tulsa, OK it can leave its legacy behind. One of these legacies is a litany of foul odors, which can indicate anything from mold growth to sewage loss left behind in the building. When cleaning and restoring after flood damage, odor elimination is one of your top priorities.

1. Dry Everything Thoroughly

Your first step in preventing odors is to dry everything as thoroughly as possible, as quickly as possible, before standing water has time to set and seep into any porous surfaces. Drain standing water as best you can by using vacuum suction if you need to. Mop and blot every surface. Open all windows and doors to let air in to further dry out, and use fans to hasten the process. Water left behind can lead rapidly to mold growth and should be addressed quickly.

2. Remove Anything That Might Hold Odors

Unfortunately, some of your possessions and inventory will have to go. Fabric, carpets, and other items may hold odors that are impossible to get out of porous surfaces without particular types of deep chemical or steam cleaning. Even if you intend to have them cleaned, remove them from the premises during initial cleanup before the odors start to set.

3. Make Use of Disinfectant and Odor Absorbers

Disinfectant is your friend in preventing mold growth. Every surface you mop dry should also be thoroughly disinfected. Odors can hang in the air, however, and can cling to surfaces. Believe it or not, kitty litter is a great odor absorber to spread over surfaces. You can also buy chemical odor absorbers and special steam cleaning and humidifier devices specially intended to remove odors from the air and open surfaces.

4. Hire Professionals

If those pesky odors still won’t abate, you may have to bring in professionals. Professional storm restoration and flood water damage cleaners often have commercial equipment not readily available to most homeowners and business owners, and they are licensed to handle more hazardous but effective chemical cleaners. Visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com for more information on commercial storm damage. 

What’s Involved on a Commercial Fire

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

When fire damage happens, any business owner must be prepared to get it cleaned up.

The process of fire restoration after can take a period of time. Smoke damage and soot damage must be removed. Many business owners face commercial fire damage are not sure how long the process will take after the fire hose is gone along with the firefighter and the fire truck.

When it comes to examining commercial fire damage, it may take some time to survey the damage from an electrical fire or a utility room fire. It may also take some time to explore the area as the fire sprinkler system may still be operating.

Fire suppression methods such as a fire sprinkler system may not only have failed to prevent an electrical fire or a utility room fire but also created even more problems that a fire truck and fire hose are not able to prevent.

SERVPRO of South Tulsa County has experienced Fire Restoration technicians. Visit our website for more information about our services.

The First Stages of Commercial Restoration

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

Fighting a fire typically begins with a firefighter with a fire truck and a fire hose.

During this time, the firefighter with the fire truck and fire hose will help fight the fire and help prevent any further smoke damage, soot damage and fire damage. A firefighter may also work with a fire sprinkler system to make sure any electrical fire or utility room fire is no longer burning. After this process is completed, the process of cleaning up and fire restoration can start.

The process of fire restoration may begin with a thorough look at all areas of the company. The aim is to look for areas that have smoke damage, fire damage and soot damage. Once such areas of commercial fire damage have been noted, it's possible to consider what needs to be done to start the important process of fire restoration.

It also allows any company owner to help figure out what they need to do to get their business up and running so that all the smoke and soot damage can be completely removed.

For more information visit  www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com.

What Is Category 2 Damage?

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

This question is tricky, as category 2 water can potentially cause class 1, 2, 3 and 4 water damage.

In general, for this category of damage, a fast evaporation rate is present and an entire room and walls are affected. Water has wicked up walls less than 24 inches, and moisture remains in structural materials. Materials with medium to high porosity are soaked. Moisture is your enemy, and you have to be aware of mold growth, which is why it is crucial that you contact a cleanup company. Bear in mind that mold grows within 24 to 48 hours. Water pipe repair or fixing whatever caused the issue and ridding your building of water are your concerns with class 2 damage. 

Class 3 damage has the fastest evaporation rate, with ceilings, walls and insulation being saturated. Class 4 damage refers to specialty drying situations, meaning that even materials with low porosity are affected. 

Water pipe repair alone won’t solve the issue. A flooded building from a broken pipe or such requires the attention of a cleanup company no matter what type of water or class of damage is present. 

Visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com for more information on commercial water damage.

How to Eliminate the Burned Popcorn Smell From the Office Microwave

2/14/2018 (Permalink)

Tired of smelling the awful burned popcorn odor coming from your office break room in Tulsa, OK? You’re not alone. The office microwave sees more than its fair share of use, and the blend of smells can quickly pile up. Building deodorization is the key, and adhering to smoke cleanup in the break room is sure to help everyone start to breathe cleaner air. Here are a few ideas for eliminating the smell of overcooked popcorn in the office microwave.

1. Try using a vinegar-soaked sponge. Start by soaking a sponge in vinegar, lay some baking soda along the top of the sponge and microwave it for 25 seconds. Once it’s done, wipe down the inside walls, the glass tray and even the inner door with the sponge. This helps deodorize the interior and erase any hints of smoke that can stick stubbornly to the walls.

2. Utilize the scent of citrus fruit. Peel some oranges or cut a few slices of lemon and drop the peels or slices in a bowl of 1-2 cups of water. Microwave the contents for up to four minutes, keeping a close eye on it so the water doesn’t boil over. Leave the bowl in the microwave overnight, if possible. Any bad smells should be eradicated from the microwave.

3. Microwave a bowl of water and vinegar. Use one tablespoon of white vinegar and one half a cup of water, cooking the blend for 4-5 minutes and leaving it inside without opening the door for 10-12 minutes. The vinegar helps dispose of the burned popcorn odor while the steam from the hot water breaks down any smoke deposits or food particles stuck to the interior walls. The debris can then easily (hopefully) be wiped away with a paper towel or napkin.

When it comes to building deodorization and smoke cleanup in Tulsa, OK, any of these simple tricks for getting rid of the burned popcorn smell in the break room can work wonders. Furthermore, ensuring all appliances in the office are clean and odor-free is best for preventing any potential fire hazards down the road.

For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com.

RECOVERING LIFE | Local disaster recovery company announces plans to donate life saving devices to our public schools

2/13/2018 (Permalink)

In the coming weeks SERVPRO of South Tulsa County, Edmond, and Stillwater/Guthrie will begin donating and installing AED devices in local schools.

February 13, 2018 

SERVPRO of South Tulsa County, Edmond, and Stillwater/Guthrie is pleased to announce that they will soon be helping to supply Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to local schools in need. 

“We want to help make sure that they are ready for any situation that could come up” says Lacey Davis, SERVPRO of South Tulsa County Emergency Preparedness Specialist. 

An AED is a portable electronic device that automatically diagnoses the life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias which lead to sudden cardiac arrest. Often confused with a heart attack, sudden cardiac arrest is a serious condition that in some cases may be fatal. 

“Emergency preparedness is really the very core of our particular franchises. Through educating clients and the public about catastrophic disaster readiness to active shooter preparedness to emergency medical response, we feel that we are at least taking positive steps in the right direction regarding topics that are important to our core values as a company” said Dave Jones, President of SERVPRO of South Tulsa County, Edmond and Stillwater/Guthrie.

“Children’s safety and well being is paramount to those values in every single situation.  Anything we can do to assist with those issues is vital” says Dave Jones, SERVPRO of South Tulsa County, Edmond and Stillwater/Guthrie President. 

The AED devices treat the conditions through defibrillation, which allows the heart to re-establish an effective rhythm. More importantly AEDs are designed to be used by a layperson through simple audio and visual commands and is taught in many first aid, certified first responder, and basic life support level cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes.  

SERVPRO has franchises in South Tulsa, Stillwater/Guthrie, and Edmond, and surrounding communities. “Our mission within our three franchises is to constantly strive to educate our clients on the importance of preparedness in all situations.” 

“We continue to spend countless hours assisting our clients with individualized Emergency Ready Plans (ERP) all over the state of Oklahoma.  These Plans are tailor fit for each client per their priorities and business models” Jones said. “For instance, your local school system will have much different priorities than your local car dealership.  We can assist with any type and size of commercial business, not for profit, municipality, school system, agricultural, industrial, and residential needs to become more prepared in the case of a disaster situation.”

Schools interested in being considered for a donation or interested in an Emergency Ready Plan should contact Lacey Davis at lacey@SERVPROsouthtulsa.com or by calling (918) 437-2095. 

# # #

For further information or to request interviews:

Lacey Davis: lacey@SERVPROsouthtulsa.com

Phone: 918-437-2095 Cell: 918-515-0334

Website: SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com

Important Facts About Category 2 Water Damage

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

While category 1 water from a broken pipe or such is sanitary water, category 2 water is more dangerous. Water pipe repair won’t be the only aspect you have to deal with if your property in City, State, becomes the victim of category 2 water damage. A restoration company can clean up your flooded building and restore it. Here’s what you need to know about category 2 damage.

What Is Category 2 Water?

Category 2 water is often referred to as “grey water.” This water is contaminated and can cause illness and discomfort. While category 2 water may be clean water that sits too long, other common sources of category 2 water are the following:

• Washing machines
• Dishwashers
• Sinks
• Toilets

However, if feces are present, it’s category 3 water. Be advised that category 2 water can quickly turn into category 3 water, which is the most dangerous type. Temperature, time and cleanliness of the building are often responsible for upgrading category 2 water to category 3 water.

Visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com for more information on commercial water damage.