Spring Storm Season Is Fast-Approaching | SERVPRO of Bartow County

3/30/2023 (Permalink)

If you've experienced flood or storm damage call SERVPRO 24/7 for immediate help.

We are finally starting to see the first signs of spring now, and we are especially grateful! This tumultuous winter weather has definitely kept us on our toes, and we are looking forward to the return of spring and summer. However, that means spring weather will be ramping up soon as well.

The return of severe weather season and tornado season is on the way, so it is important to prepare your home for the upcoming weather. We lay out some important places around your home to get ready below, so read on to learn more.

Get Ready for the Weather

The winter season brought us through heavy rain, severe storms and even some damaging tornadoes in northern Georgia. Because of this, it is important to check on your gutters to make sure they are working properly. Address any damage that debris caused, and make sure that they are not clogged or blocked by leaf buildup.

It is also a good time to check on your vents around your home. A blocked or damaged furnace or dryer vent can be dangerous to your family and can cause malfunctions or fires.

We are also entering into the season of temperature swings, so if we ever dip below freezing, it is important to check your outdoor faucets and water lines for cracks or leaks and address those issues right away.

Preparing Your Roof

Our roofs do a lot of heavy lifting for us, but they are often overlooked when it comes to home maintenance projects. Any sort of damage to your roof or shingles can introduce water into your attic and the rest of your home almost immediately.

On the next warmer day, spend some time inspecting your roof and fix any damage that you find as quickly as you can. The first spring storm may be right around the corner.

Your Emergency Plans

Once the outside of your home is ready to go, it’s time to focus on the inside! If you have a sump pump, give it a thorough inspection and make sure it is ready to work for you. A broken sump pump can lead to a flooded basement in a really short amount of time.

Now is also the time to make sure your emergency plans are ready to implement! Your emergency kit should be restocked at this time and you should clear out any boxes or storage items out of your safe shelter location. Finally, update your family’s contact information and ensure that your weather alert systems are in place and ready to work.

Spring weather can take on many forms, and if you suffer home damage during a storm or major weather event, our SERVPRO of Bartow County team is here for you! Call us at any time of the day, and we will be there to help you fully recover as quickly and as efficiently as we can.

Got water damage? We are here to help ²⁴⁄₇ and can restore your home quickly.

Keep Your Business on Track by Avoiding Water Damage | SERVPRO of Bartow County

3/17/2023 (Permalink)

Experienced water damage in your commercial building? SERVPRO of Bartow County can help you get dried out quickly.

Water damage is a threat to every property owner in the area. In addition to the water damage caused by natural disasters or severe storms, it can even occur from a slow drip of a faucet or a leaky pipe.

If you are a business owner or run a commercial property, putting a stop to any water issues will save you critical time and money! The more you can do to stop water damage from occurring in the first place, the easier your recovery process will be.

Places to Watch Out For

While water damage can occur anywhere, there are areas around your building that are more vulnerable to this type of damage. By checking up on these locations, you can save yourself from a costly repair bill and lost revenue:

1. The Roof: Your roof is a vital part of your building’s structure! It is important to routinely get up on your roof to check for damage or potential issues, but especially after a strong wind event or severe storm. Even something as simple as a missing shingle can invite water in your attic, which can leak down your walls.
2. Bathrooms: Bathrooms are also a common space where water damage occurs! Pipe fittings, faucets and even the tanks on the backs of your toilets could all malfunction and cause water damage. Have someone on your maintenance team check these areas often and take care of any issues quickly.
3. Water Heaters/HVAC/Boilers: We heavily rely on the appliances in our utility rooms every day. This means that their risk of a malfunction is increased, so don’t ignore any warning signs like a clogged drain or a mysterious puddle. A small water leak could lead to a full system failure and a huge issue.

Create Your Response Plans

Now that you know where water issues commonly start, you can create your plans to both prevent issues from occurring, and your response to them for when they do.

Having a routine maintenance plan is a great way to stay on top of inspections and routine cleaning. This plan can allow you to address any issues quickly and efficiently.

It is also important to set up an Emergency Ready Plan with us! Our SERVPRO of Bartow County team can help you create a plan of action that will guide you through an emergency situation.

In addition, it is important to show your management team how to shut off all water valves and power to your business just in case and to have our number on hand at all times! Our team will be there right away to help you recover from disaster so you can open your doors and get back to business.

Experienced water damage in your commercial building? Contact us to get dried out quickly.

Time Is of the Essence When It Comes to Residential Flames | SERVPRO of Bartow County

3/14/2023 (Permalink)

When a crisis occurs in your home, quick action is critical, and the faster you act, the safer you can be. Residential fires are an emergency that especially requires a rapid reaction considering
it only takes about two minutes for flames to spread!

The clock is ticking when there are flames in the picture, from making a quick evacuation to being on time with your fire prevention methods. Being alert and responding quickly is exactly what you need to stay two steps ahead of a fire in your Acworth home.

We’ve put together some helpful information to help you and your loved ones add timeliness to your fire safety strategy:

A Timely Response

When a fire breaks out in your home, you only have a few minutes to put it out before it spreads. Thankfully, there are many tools and methods you can utilize to ensure every single spark of a fire emergency is handled with swiftness.

Working smoke alarms are the most helpful tool you’ll need to keep your fire prevention efforts on track. As long as you maintain your alarms, you will be instantly alerted of any threat as soon as it arises, giving you ample time to react.

Knowing where your home’s fire extinguishers are located is another way to put out flames before they cause too much damage. Keep your extinguishers in an easily accessible location, preferably in the areas of your home where your family spends the most time.

A Swift Evacuation

Fire has many characteristics, and speed is among its most destructive ones. While you may not have time to prevent damage in the midst of a residential fire, you will have time to evacuate if you have a plan in place.

Your evacuation plan must include a few key components to ensure that your entire family can safely exit your home.

Start by highlighting two exit points that every member in your family can get to when flames break out. That means having two ways to exit any room in the house.

Make an effort to ensure your home’s exit route is clear of clothes, trash and any other items that could slow you down during an emergency. The last thing you want is a pile of clothes
blocking your route to safety!

Finally, find a meetup spot outside of your Acworth home that everyone can report to once you’ve made your fast exit. This is the finish line of your evacuation strategy and a safe location
to call for assistance to ensure the flames are extinguished as soon as possible.

Are you facing the aftermath of a fire emergency? SERVPRO of Bartow County can be at the scene rapidly to restore your losses and bring you back home.

SERVPRO Can Restore Your Fire-Damaged Home | SERVPRO of Bartow County

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

For quick repairs following a fire, get in touch with our team at SERVPRO of Bartow County.

No one ever wants to suffer home damage, especially due to a house fire. House fires in particular can be disastrous and cause widespread damage to your home and property. Because fire can spread quickly, it can get out of control before you even know you have an issue.

Standing in the aftermath of a house fire can cause a lot of emotions for your entire family. Thankfully, our SERVPRO of Bartow County team is here to help you fully recover. Our team of professionals fully understands fire damage restoration and we will be there for you in your time of need.

Check out our restoration process below to learn how we can help you recover faster and more thoroughly than our competition.

Let Us Take Over

Your first priority should always be your family’s safety during, and immediately after, a house fire. Make contact with those you love, and make sure everyone is accounted for and safe. After you have done that, it’s time to get us on the phone.

Our first conversation will include a lot of questions! We want to make sure we fully understand your unique fire situation so we can pack up our trucks with the right tools and equipment.

Now that we are all packed up and have a team assembled, we are ready to roll! We get right to work doing a walkthrough of your home to assess the damage and adjust our plan if needed.

Getting Your Home Clean

Our first step is to secure your home to make sure the damage doesn’t spread or get worse due to the elements. This includes addressing any broken windows, boarding up walls or laying down tarps to protect your home.

Now we can focus on cleaning! We bring in our industry-leading cleaning equipment to help remove the soot and smoke, and we pull out fire-damaged debris at this time as well. We follow that up with a thorough sanitization and odor removal.

Reconstructing Your Home

Seeing your home damaged can be overwhelming, so we particularly enjoy this step in our process! We can fully rebuild any part of your home that was damaged by the fire. This includes laying new carpet, building walls, hanging new drywall or even rolling on fresh paint.

We are even skilled enough to rebuild entire sections or rooms of your home. Our goal is to always ensure a full recovery for our customers.

For rapid repairs following a fire, get in touch with our team at SERVPRO of Bartow County! We will work as quickly as possible to return you to a safe and fully restored property.

Is Your Workplace Ready to Weather the Storm? | SERVPRO of Bartow County

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help Cartersville and Acworth based business recover after storm damage 24/7!

Workplace disasters can take various shapes, and while you can train for incidents like fires, extreme weather is a different beast. Acworth weather such as rain, tornadoes and hail can catch you off-guard, and even if you assume your team will know what to do when the first warning is issued, you may be startled to learn the opposite.

Building a stellar plan the whole workplace can follow will take the chaos out of a sudden commercial weather emergency. Here are a few things to know as you create a strategy for your Acworth business:

How Can Severe Weather Put a Pause on Business?

Every year, disaster leaves its mark on the country, and businesses are particularly vulnerable to this threat. Some businesses are left with expensive damage that must be repaired, while others are forced to shut down for good.

Here in Acworth, tornadoes tend to be one of the most disastrous weather risks businesses are up against. Severe winds can wreak havoc on your commercial property and put your whole team in danger.

Hazards like this can occur at any time, and if one occurs during working hours, your crew will need to know how to stay safe. Numerous weather emergencies are possible but all you need is one well-planned strategy to keep you and your commercial team secure.

How Can I Prepare My Team?

The perfect commercial disaster plan includes two components: awareness and preparedness. Make sure your crew is aware of all available exits and temporary shelters within the building. Create a written strategy for your team that lists all potential crisis scenarios and how to appropriately handle them.

Assign a few trusted team members to emergency response positions, such as someone who can shut down machinery or gather other members for a safe and organized evacuation. Establishing roles will help save time when calamity strikes, so your team can get to safety quickly after essential tasks are completed.

Another way to ensure your workplace has the tools needed to endure calamity is by stocking up on emergency equipment. Have multiple emergency kits available throughout your commercial building. If your team is confined by a disaster for an extended period of time, items such as first-aid kits, flashlights, radios, and food and water will be critical.

Once you’ve developed a strategy relevant to the needs of your team and the weather hazards in Acworth, discuss it with them and make sure they understand exactly how to respond when disaster is on the way. Make sure to rehearse necessary exit drills throughout the year to ensure new members know where to go and to give your current team a refresher.

SERVPRO is the business partner you’ll want on your side when severe weather strikes. We can restore your property ASAP, so you can get back to work!

Fast Action Is the Key to Overcoming a Water Emergency | SERVPRO of Bartow County

2/20/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County if your home or business suffers water damage as soon as possible. We make water damage "Like it never even happened."

When water enters your home, stress and frustration are bound to overwhelm your rational thinking abilities. A disorderly and jumbled reaction to discovering a water leak in your home is
completely understandable, but there are ways to keep your cool and deal with a water emergency quickly!

Water emergencies can vary in severity, and even a small amount of unexpected water should be taken seriously and approached with caution. While it can be beneficial to manage the areas most vulnerable to water damage, a quick response is essential when the time comes to deal with a situation like this.

Use these tips to speed up your response when water invades to keep the situation under control and save yourself from an expensive mess:

Scope Out the Source

If your water emergency hasn’t escalated into a full-blown flood yet, you still have time to locate the source before shutting off all water sources completely. If water is sourcing from a
household appliance or a bathroom fixture, you should be able to quickly turn them off.

When everything has been turned off, check your water meter to see if your leak indicator is still moving; if it is, you still have a leak!

An even easier method to stop water dead in its tracks is by finding your water shutoff valve. This method of mitigation is vital in more intense water emergencies where water just won’t stop flowing into your home.

Begin the Mitigation Process Early

To keep damage to a minimum, it’s important to clean and dry up the affected area before help arrives. This will enable you to minimize damage and can hasten the repair procedure if
restoration is required.

Opening up any windows and doors to let air in or running a fan could help speed up the drying process. Try to act fast by mopping up as much water as possible to keep water from making anymore of a mess. After these precautions, contact SERVPRO of Bartow County and we’ll finish the job!

Call in the Professionals

Since a mop and a bucket won’t exactly do all the restoration work for you, you’ll need a licensed professional team on the scene. A quick response from our expert SERVPRO team will
ensure that the problem that popped up quickly is resolved even faster.

We are experts in dealing with water damage and can immediately begin drying out and restoring your property to its pre-water glory. Using cutting-edge water removal and drying
technology, our team can handle your water emergency with the swiftness it deserves to get back on track.

When a water emergency arises, our speedy specialists will act quickly! Contact SERVPRO of Bartow County for a rapid restoration when you’re faced with water damage.

Check on Your Roof After Severe Storms Strike | SERVPRO of Bartow County

2/20/2023 (Permalink)

If your home has suffered storm or flood damage call SERVPRO as soon as it is safe to do so. We make storm damage "Like it never even happened".

Intense winds are one of the most common weather risks Bartow County encounters. Tornadoes are a prevalent issue in our area, and the damage they do can be devastating to homes and businesses.

Rooftops being ripped away by tornadoes isn’t just a movie cliché. Your roof could be easily damaged by strong winds, or it may even be completely torn off. This might expose your home to water damage, mold and other devastation.

Having your roof pulled off clearly will not go undetected, but roof damage can go undiscovered and increase if proper inspections are not performed. Here’s how you can give your roof a much-needed checkup after severe weather strikes:

Search for wear and tear...You should make it a routine to inspect your roof for damage following each significant weather event, especially if strong winds were present. Having damage repaired could save you money on future repairs and mold or water damage worries.

• Look for any gaps in the pattern of your roof, since these may point to missing shingles that require replacement. Damaged shingles that are cracked will also need to be repaired.

Keep everything flowing smoothly... Your gutters and downspouts may have also suffered damage during the storm. Because these tools are critical to protecting your roof and your home, you should inspect them as well.

• Examine your gutters and downspouts for damage, and make sure they aren’t loose or disconnected from your roof. While you’re up there, go ahead and clear them of leaves, twigs and other debris. The last thing you want is water flowing through your property as a result of clogged gutters and downspouts!

Keep an eye out for leaks...Roof damage can be simple to diagnose, but signs of water damage can be much harder to identify. If your roof has a leak as a result of severe weather, it may not be obvious right away.

• Knowing the signs of a leak will allow you to address the problem before it begins weakening your roof or growing mold where you can’t see it. Dark stains, warping or wetness on your interior ceilings are all signs of a roof leak.

Water damage can be a real challenge after a severe storm, but by doing these routine inspections, you can identify leaks early on. When you work to keep your roof sturdy and secure, you will not only keep it in good repair, but your entire home will be protected from the elements.

If you’re faced with any form of storm damage following a severe weather event, contact SERVPRO. We can restore your losses and get you back home in no time.

The Repercussions of Allowing Water Damage to Get Worse | SERVPRO of Bartow County

1/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help when water damage happens to your home or business. We offer 24hr emergency water extraction, drying and restoration services.

Water damage is awful enough on its own, but when you consider the ramifications of leaving the problem untreated, the threat becomes even more frightening. Water damage only becomes more of a headache as time goes on for both you and your home.

When you discover a small leak or notice your water bill soaring, you may assume it’s safe to set aside maintenance, but this might lead to a much bigger problem than you started with.

When it comes to water damage, time is of the essence and you should act fast when you notice any issues! Discover the impact water damage has on your home and what you can do to prevent it.

The Devastation That Just Keeps Coming

Water damage has the power to compromise the structural integrity of your home. As soon as water comes in contact with your home’s flooring, foundation, walls or ceiling, the clock starts ticking. As time passes, warping, discoloration, cracks and rotting can result in areas where water is present.

As if the weakening of your home isn’t scary enough, mold is another threat that can quickly pop up after seepage occurs. Mold begins to grow and, in conjunction with water damage, eats away at your home.

Just like water damage, mold only worsens as time goes on. When you leave these threats to do their worst, repairs become pricier, the destruction intensifies and more efforts will be needed to restore your home.

The Solution

Keeping an eye out for leaks and resolving any issues as soon as possible are two crucial factors in protecting your property from water damage. Spotting leakage before it has the chance to wreak havoc could save you a ton of time and money. And if you were a little too late to prevent disaster, it’s safest to get the problem under control sooner than later.

Regular maintenance of the areas of your home that are most likely to experience water damage can also save you some trouble. Climbing up on your roof to check for damage, checking under your sink for leaks and inspecting your water-using appliances before usage can help you stop water threats dead in their tracks!

Another way to keep water at bay inside your home is by having a team like SERVPRO on speed-dial. Having a professional crew to turn to when you’re dealing with water damage could save you from prolonged repairs and further damage. And you’ll feel secure knowing that your water problem was addressed fast!

SERVPRO can save the day when water makes its way into your home or business. When water damage threatens your property, contact our experts for rapid restorations.

Winter Is on the Horizon | SERVPRO of Bartow County

1/16/2023 (Permalink)

When winter storms strike...Call SERVPRO for immediate storm restoration and mitigation services 24/7!

We are ready to enjoy all there is to experience during the winter season! The dip in temperature and the arrival of the holidays is enticing after a hot and muggy summer.

But the winter season also means the arrival of potentially damaging winter weather.

Winter Predictions Across the Nation

The winter season looks drastically different across the United States for this coming year! It looks like we may be experiencing a colder and wetter season than in years’ past.

However, we all know that Mother Nature can be unpredictable. We need to be prepared for every seasonal possibility as we could be surprised with a snowstorm or ice storm at any time.

Winter in Bartow County

Winter weather is all about dressing in layers in Bartow County. We can experience mild temperatures during the day, but then they can plummet to below freezing at night!

That means we can be surprised by some snow at any point during the season.

Now is the perfect time to start preparing your home for the arrival of the winter season. Preventing ice and water damage can help you avoid costly repairs in the long run.

Addressing Any Home issues

We are vulnerable to sleet, ice and the occasional snowstorm in northern Georgia. That is why it is crucial to have a fully stocked emergency kit and easy access to a weather radio to quickly learn of any developing conditions.

You should also walk around your home and address any moisture problems or drafty windows and doors. Weatherproofing these areas can help prevent water damage and mold growth.

You also need to spend some time preparing your yard for the change in season. Cleaning out your gutters and removing debris from your roof can help prevent water backup and eventual water issues inside your home.

Even with your best efforts, you can still suffer from water or storm damage during the winter season. Remember that your SERVPRO of Bartow County team is here for you day or night. Call us anytime!

If you experience damage in a winter storm, call or contact us. We have the experience and equipment to get your home back to normal.

How to Decorate Safely this Season | SERVPRO of Bartow County

12/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help 24/7 even during the holidays. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, call us today!

The most wonderful time of the year is upon us! We will soon be surrounded by twinkly lights, delicious food and great family traditions. While this season is one to look forward to every year, though, it is also the peak time for house fires.

There are steps you can take to reduce your risk of suffering a house fire during the holidays. Even just some simple preventive measures can help you safely enjoy your cozy home this season.

Common Fire Hazards

• Decorating your home can be a wonderful way to ring in the holiday season, but they can be the cause of a massive house fire! In fact, fire departments in the United States are called to 790 structural fires a year due to decorations catching fire.
• Be careful not to place or hang any decorations that are too low above a fireplace or near a heat source. Even just a simple spark or an overheated element is all it takes to start a dangerous blaze.
• If you choose to cut down a fresh tree or choose one from the lot, keep it watered daily and sweep up any fallen needles immediately. If you are an artificial tree family, make sure that your tree is fire-resistant. All decorations and lights need to be unplugged or turned off before going to bed as well.

Additional Fire Hazards in the Home

• Candle use is also at an all-time high during this time of year. Whether you are using them for the ambiance or they are a part of your family traditions, they can pose a fire threat if you aren’t careful.
• Candle safety can be as simple as only lighting them when you are present and never leaving them unattended. Pets and small children should also not be able to access them either.
• Do you go all out in your yard during the holiday season with lights and outdoor décor? We love these types of houses! Just make sure that the decorations you use are tagged for outdoor use and can withstand the elements.
• It is also important to never pierce the cords or wiring with something while hanging them on your house or in your trees. Opt for fire safe hooks or other approved materials.
• Lastly, do a full check of the smoke detectors in your home to make sure they are ready to work for you if a disaster does occur.

You deserve to enjoy all that there is to see and do in our area this year! Whether you are planning to attend the Cartersville Christmas Village or are whipping up your famous buttermilk pie, know that your your team at SERVPRO of Bartow County is here for you! We will answer your call right away and get started to restore your home so you can get back to enjoying the holidays.

Have smoke or fire damage in your house? Contact us today to get cleaned up fast.

SERVPRO Can Be at Your Side This Holiday Season | SERVPRO of Bartow County

12/21/2022 (Permalink)

If freezing temperatures cause water damage this holiday season, call SERVPRO of Bartow County so we can make it "Like it never even happened".

Life can become quite hectic during the winter season since there are so many holiday happenings to look forward to. Accidents are a possibility when celebrating this special time of year, and calamity might break loose and dampen your festive spirit. Having a team like SERVPRO at your side will allow you to bounce back fast after a holiday emergency so you can get back to your holiday happenings! When holiday plans go haywire in your house and cause unexpected damages, we can devise a plan to recover what has been lost so you can maintain that festive mood.

Keep SERVPRO’s number handy this season so you can enjoy the holidays as you intended. Here are just a few ways our expert team can come to your rescue this winter.

After Unexpected Flames Ignite…

According to the NFPA, house fires spark more in the winter than at any other time of the year. Space heaters, candles and holiday decorations are to blame for many of these fires. Holiday cooking can lead to flames as well and result in significant damage.

If a fire breaks out in your home, our team can be at the scene fast to repair and clean up the aftermath. We will work as fast as possible to eliminate traces of smoke, soot and flames so you can get back to your holiday cooking.

When Winter Weather Strikes…

Our community never knows what’s in store for us when winter arrives! Winter weather gives us a break sometimes with the biggest concern being freezing temperatures, but occasionally disaster can strike out of nowhere.

When Acworth is struck by threats like a snowstorm or frozen rainfall, your home could be affected in a number of ways.

Since we are located right here in your community, we anticipate and prepare for the possibility of a destructive winter. You can relax knowing that our team has the equipment and resources necessary to restore your house to its pre-damage state, regardless of how badly our region is impacted this season.

Returning You to Your Home in No Time

We understand how important this time of year is, and if a calamity disrupts your holiday plans, you’ll want to return home with your loved ones as soon as possible. That is why our team makes timeliness a top priority.

Not only can you reach us 24/7, but we also work rapidly to repair your home. Your restoration journey begins with that very first emergency call. After that, our crew puts in every effort to repair the damage you’re faced with so you can get those holiday plans back on track!

If your disaster strikes this holiday season, SERVPRO is the team to turn to. We can get back to a safe and cozy home in no time.

Do You Have These Basic Tools in Your Acworth Home? | SERVPRO of Bartow County

11/2/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or other property has suffered fire damage call SERVPRO today so we can make your fire disaster "Like it never even happened."

Winter is right around the corner, and although it is the coldest season of the year, this time is the most common for creating household flames. And while taking measures to prepare your home for a fire emergency is helpful, having the tools to control and prevent flames is even more beneficial.

When it comes to being fire-ready, you can never be too prepared. So, why not pack your home full of tools that will guarantee your safety if a fire breaks out? 

The best way to protect your home and everyone inside from fires is to safeguard your home before they ignite. Consider investing in a few of these fire-fighting essentials to keep flames at bay.

Smoke Alarms are a Must

• When it comes to fire safety, smoke alarms are one of the most beneficial tools to have in your home. In fact, a working smoke alarm cuts your risk of harm or injury in half!
• You can stay one step ahead of flames by installing an alarm on every floor or bedroom of your home. Unless your alarm’s instructions say otherwise, make sure to switch out the batteries at least once a year.
• A smoke alarm is only able to do its job when you make an effort to keep it in good shape, so don’t forget to test each alarm in your home monthly. Additionally, your smoke alarms should be replaced once every 10 years.

Utilize a Fire Extinguisher

• You never know what could happen when you are cooking with your family during the holidays, so tools like fire extinguishers are a big help. You shouldn’t limit this tool to your kitchen, though; make sure to keep a fire extinguisher on every floor and in multiple rooms.
• A fire extinguisher is most effective when you understand how to safely utilize it. Before storing yours in a safe location, make sure you and everyone else in your home understand how to operate this helpful tool.

Consider Sprinklers in Your Home

• Home fire sprinklers are an efficient safety measure and can douse flames quickly as soon as they spark. This can prevent flames from spreading throughout your home and creating even more damage.
• Home sprinklers and a smoke alarm can be an effective fire-fighting combination. Once flames are detected in your home, you won’t just be notified by your alarm, your sprinklers will instantly go to work to extinguish any active flames.

Another approach to preparing for the devastation caused by flames is to keep SERVPRO’s phone number handy. We can be on the scene ASAP to restore anything you’ve lost.

Is Your Business Ready to Handle Water Damage? | SERVPRO of Bartow County

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help mitigate water damage and restore your commercial property to preloss condition.

The threat of water damage can keep any busy business owner up at night. No one wants to think about what a water disaster would cost to recover from! In addition, closing your business during the repairs might be disastrous to your business plan.

Water is all around us, so that means the potential for water damage is always a constant in our lives. All it would take is a burst pipe, faulty appliance or sprinkler system malfunction and your inventory could be ruined or your building’s structure compromised.

There is also the threat of water from a thunderstorm or flood! For example, Tanyard Creek Road is especially prone to flooding when the water levels rise in Lake Allatoona. Any time there is flooding in the area, your business could be at risk.

Locate Your Water Valves

If you are a business owner, you probably know a lot about your building or storefront, but do you know where your water valves are? Knowing how to shut off your water is an important aspect of minimizing water damage.

It is also important to share this knowledge with your leadership team so that there is always someone ready and able to take action when needed.

Different Water Types

Water serves many purposes in our daily lives, and sometimes that water is dangerous. This is why it is important to know where the water is coming from so you know your risk level.

White water: The pipes within your building are typically carrying white water. If you have a simple pipe leak, it is not considered dangerous to handle.

Gray water: When the water comes out of your toilet tanks or sink drains, it is called gray water. This type of water is contaminated, but isn’t considered dangerous to handle in small amounts.

Black water: Whenever black water is concerned, it should only be cleaned up by a professional. This type of water comes out of your sewers and storm drains and can be toxic.

Don’t Wait!

Right after you discover your water issue, you should shut off the source of the water and the appropriate water valve. This stops the flow immediately and can give you a better idea of the extent of the damage. You should also close this area off to your customers and staff.

Afterward, get pictures! Taking pictures right away helps your insurance agent determine the extent of the damage.

We Are Here for You

While water can usually be dried out relatively quickly, it is always important to get a professional out to inspect your property for hidden water damage. This could be in the form of mold growth, warped wall studs or compromised walls.

Regardless of the water problem you face, you are not alone! Our team at SERVPRO of Bartow County will be there for you to help with the cleanup and restoration process.

When disaster strikes your commercial property, we’ll be there to help clean up and get you back in business quickly. Reach out ²⁴⁄₇ to get started!

Protecting Your Home Inside and Out From Flooding | SERVPRO of Bartow County

10/10/2022 (Permalink)

Experienced water damage in your home? Call SERVPRO of Bartow County to get the restoration process started right away.

Whenever water is involved in a storm, there is a chance of experiencing flooding in your home. Even if it is only an inch of water on your floors or in your basement, it can cause widespread damage and can be really expensive to repair.

You may not even be covered by flood insurance or qualify for government assistance either for various reasons, so it is important to have a plan in place to prepare on your own in advance of any incoming weather.

You have to pay special attention to the inside of your home as well as the outside when beginning your preparation work. While we are in a lower-risk area of flooding, it still is important to prepare for flooding in any part of our county.

Any sort of particularly strong thunderstorm or tornado event can cause widespread water issues, and you should always be ready to take action.

Start With the Outside of Your Home

If you have a gutter system in your home, it is important to make sure that it is functioning properly and is not blocked by any leaves or debris. Blocked gutters lead to pooling on your roof, which can slowly leak down your walls and into your home.

You can also prevent water from entering your home by adjusting how you landscape your property! If you like the look of mulch, try adding some to the landscaping around the walls of your home to help absorb some of that extra water.

You can also use a garden to your advantage. If you dig a garden, angle it away from your house so the water will flow to your growing plants instead of backward toward your house.

If your home runs on propane or utilizes a fuel tank, make sure any tanks are anchored to the ground. If you are able, moving any outlets off of the floor can reduce your risk of having an electrical issue as well if the water is high enough.

Addressing the Inside of Your Home

Your foundation helps support and stabilize your home, but if there is a crack in it, it cannot function properly and you will find a mess on your hands during the next storm. Seal up any cracks you find right away.

If your basement supports a sump pump, consider installing a battery-operated one to make sure that it will always work, even if the power goes out.

Addressing any flooding issues quickly can go a long way toward preventing long-term damage and eventual mold growth.

Floods don’t just come from weather events! Appliances and old pipes can be a source of an unwanted water problem as well. If your laundry machine or dishwasher has been acting oddly lately, it is best to investigate it right away to avoid coming home to a flooded kitchen one day. You can also purchase a leak sensor to set under any appliances that will sound an alarm if it senses water.

Our homes contain the things that are important to us, so it is crucial to make sure our keepsakes are protected as well. Store your pictures, scrapbooks or anything of sentimental value to you up off of the ground, and make copies of any important documents.

Having a copy or two of your emergency plan stored away safely is also a good idea so that you are always ready to tackle whatever sort of situation comes your way.

Experienced water damage in your home? Call SERVPRO of Bartow County today to get your restoration completed faster.

Cleaning Up Biohazardous Material | SERVPRO of Bartow County

9/3/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the type of biohazardous material present, SERVPRO of Bartow County can help.

Exposure to chemical and biological biohazardous material can negatively affect your health and even be life-threatening. When biohazardous material is present in your home or business, it is important to act quickly to get it removed right away. 

Prompt removal of these substances is key—and it needs to be performed by a team of experts with specialty training in best practices for safe removal. You can turn to SERVPRO. Our technicians are trained to remove waste, then clean, disinfect and deodorize the affected structure. 

Sewage Backup 

Sewage backup is not only a big inconvenience and an aesthetic nightmare, but also a health concern. The biohazardous material found in the sewage contains bacteria that will spread if left untreated. 

The tell-tale signs of sewage backup include a foul smell coming from drains or toilets, a gurgling sound and water backing up. When any of these signs are noticed, it is important to call a professional right away to mitigate the problem. 

Bloodborne Pathogens 

Pathogenic substances are a type of biohazardous waste that includes bodily fluids or body tissue. While these substances can be left behind from something as inconsequential as a minor cut, they can also result from trauma, crime or death. 

If you know there are pathogens present, it is important to steer clear and let the professionals do the work. SERVPRO technicians utilize known best practices for handling these materials and are aided by industry-leading equipment and technology to maintain safety. 

Illegal Drug Manufacturing Labs 

Chemical reactions can be harmful if left alone. At SERVPRO of Bartow County, we understand the urgency of removing volatile substances from a structure. We follow all state and federal guidelines to adequately clean all surfaces potentially affected by illegal drug manufacturing. 

The moment you realize biohazardous material is present in any structure, contact us to begin the removal process. The quicker we can get in and get the hazardous material out, the safer the environment and everyone exposed will be. 

Regardless of the type of biohazardous material present, SERVPRO of Bartow County has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover. Contact us when you need a dependable team to clean up the mess.

Why You Should Choose SERVPRO for Your Restoration | SERVPRO of Bartow County

8/29/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what type of disaster you face, SERVPRO of Bartow County is only a phone call away.

Running a business can be exciting and overwhelming, all at the same time! Tackling the daily ins and outs along with preparing for the possibility of any sort of natural disasters keeps all business owners incredibly busy.

We are an independently owned and operated SERVPRO location, so we have a unique understanding of this. We all know that we can’t predict or prevent natural disasters, but we can do our best to be ready for them when they occur.

In addition to suffering damage to your business, if you live in Bartow County as well as have your business here, you could likely suffer damages to both locations if the weather system or disaster is widespread enough.

It is time to prepare your household for dealing with this type of destruction! Creating an emergency plan is the best way to start preparing. In order to do so, it is necessary to know what kinds of things could affect us here.

The internet is a great resource to start gathering information. The American Red Cross has created an amazing website that compiles data from around the country to help you understand what disasters are common here. Our county also has a great website that has a place to sign up for weather alerts and other good preparation information.

When you discover damages, it is imperative that you take action quickly and call us right away. Starting the process early can prevent long-term damages down the road.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bartow County?

We understand that each restoration is unique. While severe weather and other disasters are common in the United States, each scenario and house will experience the damage differently.

For instance, more than 14 million homes are located in zones that are at risk of flooding each year. However, not every house will suffer large damages or require the same cleanup. We adjust our scale and scope so that you can feel better choosing us for your restoration.

We are available anytime, day or night. When it comes to damages, our No. 1 priority is reaching you as quickly as we can. This is crucial for reducing the risk of suffering lasting damages.

All disasters require a quick response, but when it comes to water and mold, it is even more important to act quickly. Mold can take hold and grow out of control within 48 hours. That is why we are ready to answer your call 24⁄7.

Damage restoration is just one piece of what we do. Of course, restoration projects are what we are known for! But did you know that we also offer assistance for anything else you might need related to your restoration?

We will help you pack up your things into boxes and suitcases while your home is being worked on, and we would be happy to discuss your claim with your insurance agency. We aim to provide assistance with whatever you need if it will make your experience even a little bit easier.

No matter what kind of disaster you are facing, your local team at SERVPRO of Bartow County is ready for you. Our restoration team is highly knowledgeable and passionate about what we do, and we will do our best to get your property back to normal in no time.

When you suffer damage to your home or business, it’s important that you know who to call! Contact us today to get restoration started faster.

Flames and Fun: Staying Safe | SERVPRO of Bartow County

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Bartow County.

Making family memories is a cornerstone of the summer season. Grilling, s’mores and bonfires are all fun activities that can be enjoyed in our backyards.

In order to have these fun times and make memories, fire is used frequently! We use it for bonfires, meals, pest control or as a way to stay warm when the sun goes down.

Even when we practice safe fire practices, lighting a fire always carries some element of risk. The National Park Service states that nearly 85% of wildfires are started by humans.

Understanding fire risk doesn’t mean you can’t still have bonfires, enjoy grilled corn or burn your yard debris. With some simple measures taken to ensure you are burning responsibly every time, you can continue to safely enjoy your backyard fires.

Recreational Fire Risks

Any time an open flame is used, it carries a risk, but grills, campfires, fireworks and portable fire pits carry the largest risk for starting unwanted outdoor fires. On average, grills start 8,800 home fires each year. These fires are mostly started due to user error, so being very careful and checking on gas lines and propane tanks before lighting anything is a great first step.

If you are enjoying a campfire, build it with approved wood only and choose a safe location away from any buildings or wood piles. Keep it simple with matches or lighters, and put down that tempting gas can.

Portable fire pits have increased in popularity over the years, so if you are an owner of one of these convenient pits, it should never be placed on a wooden surface or below an overhang.

You should only be burning approved firewood, even though it can be an easy way to get rid of debris or paper waste as well.

Even though the 4th of July holiday has already passed for the year, if you are using fireworks for any upcoming celebration, practice proper firework safety. Georgia law allows firework use any day of the year, with certain limitations.

Other Fire Risks

If you live on a property that has a lot of trees and leaf drop in the fall, it can be necessary to burn off this debris in order to stay on top of the yard work.

Before starting any fires, make sure you are checking the local burn bans and avoiding the summer months when most of the counties in Georgia are in a burn ban.

Keeping a clear yard and cleaning out dead grass and foliage is an essential part of protecting your home from unwanted flames. Understanding what to burn and following basic fire safety regulations can lower your risk.

Gasoline in your garage can also be a source of a fire. Only use approved containers to store and dispense it, and you should always make sure it is out of reach of your children. Gasoline should never be used for anything other than fuel for your cars or lawn equipment.

Lastly, make sure you are checking weather conditions and avoiding burning on a very windy day or when it is particularly dry. Skip the project and wait for better conditions.

If you do experience a house or garage fire, give SERVPRO of Bartow County a call. Our trained crews know how to properly tackle any fire damages and we will get you back into your home as quickly as we can.

Burn safely outdoors. And save some chocolate for us! If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact us today to get restoration started faster.

Common Mold Hazards & Where It Could Pop up | SERVPRO of Bartow County

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

Don’t let mold growth get any worse! Contact our experts at SERVPRO of Bartow County.

Mold is one of the most annoying issues homeowners can come across. As soon as you spot this irritating issue, you are left to find a solution quickly before the growth worsens. 

Spotting mold before it gets out of hand or even preventing growth before it begins is the best way to avoid a terrible problem from growing on your property. 

Mold can begin to grow after events like a busted pipe or a flash flood. Sometimes, after these devastating events take place, mold growth might be the last thing on your mind. But you should always consider mold growth after water emergencies such as this. 

Here are some of the threats mold poses to your home and where you might find it lurking: 

What Can Mold Do? 

Mold is capable of creating huge infrastructure issues when left untreated. Once mold grows, it begins to eat away at your home’s floors, ceilings and walls. It breaks down the materials it grows on and eventually begins to crumble away. 

In some severe cases of mold growth, mold can weaken your home’s support system so badly that your ceiling or roof can collapse. Damage this extreme can be a nightmare for homeowners, so it’s important to know where you can look for mold. 

Spotting mold growth before it gets out of hand is the first step to remediating your home from this irritating fungus! 

Where Does Mold Reside? 

Mold thrives in any area that is dark, moist and humid. Certain areas of your home create the perfect conditions for mold to form. 

Some rooms are more susceptible to mold than others, but as long as conditions are right, mold can pop up on just about any surface, including: 

Your basement. The basement is one of mold’s favorite places to settle in. The dark corners of your basement, combined with limited ventilation and the moisture from your home’s foundation, allow mold to grow in a place you may never be able to spot without doing some investigating. 

Your attic. Your attic is an area you should also regularly check for signs of mold. Moisture can accumulate through your roof and create condensation, and since attics typically don’t have proper ventilation, it can get pretty hot. Problems like a leaky roof that goes unnoticed can quickly allow mold to grow, so inspecting your roof for leaks is another helpful way to prevent mold.

Your bathroom. It’s no surprise that you might find mold lingering in your home’s bathroom. Since almost every appliance in your bathroom utilizes water, moisture can present itself. Be sure to keep your bathroom well-ventilated by using a bathroom fan and keeping your bathroom door open when you can. 

Don’t let mold growth get any worse! Contact our experts at SERVPRO to make your property mold-free. We can quickly locate your mold problem and remediate the issue. Contact us today. 

Interpreting Different Weather Alerts and Advisories | SERVPRO of Bartow County

8/3/2022 (Permalink)

If you suspect any damage to your home from a recent storm, call SERVPRO of Bartow County.

There are many different forms of severe weather across the United States. In fact, there are so many potential scenarios that there are at least 42 different kinds of weather alerts that could be issued at any given time!

When those warnings and alerts are issued in our area, you should understand what they mean and how to react to each scenario. While it could be useful to understand all of the commonly issued alerts, it is most important to understand the ones that directly affect us in Bartow County.

Forecasting and Alerts

Have you ever wondered how weather alerts are issued to begin with? Forecasts are simply a prediction, after all. Forecasters have several factors that come into play when determining the severity, location and length of a given weather situation.

The National Weather Service is the major organization responsible for creating weather forecasts and implementing all of the corresponding alerts for each area of the country. To help keep it more localized, there are six offices around the country responsible for specific areas. The Southern Region located in Fort Worth, Texas is the office responsible for our forecasting here in Bartow County.

The staff at the NWS rely on satellite radar, sensors and seismic activity meters to research and create each forecast. With the understanding that weather can vary and sometimes Mother Nature is unpredictable, they attempt to be as precise and accurate as possible.

The Importance of Watches and Warnings

Everyone in our area should understand the distinction between a watch and a warning. These two terms are pretty universal across all weather alerts.

A watch should prompt you to begin preparing for a severe storm because the incoming storm has the potential to produce dangerous elements.

When a warning is issued, on the other hand, you should seek immediate shelter because the incoming storm has proven to be dangerous. Warnings usually issued for a much smaller area than watches are.

Safeguard Your Home From the Storm

The No. 1 goal during weather watches and warnings is to keep yourself and your family safe. However, if you have advanced notice of any incoming weather, you can take a couple of additional steps to help protect your home from lasting damage as well.

Clearing your gutters and securing your outdoor furniture are two tasks you can do quickly that will help minimize water or structural damage to your home. You should also take the time to review your emergency plan and add any necessities to your emergency kit.

When the storm passes, take photos of any damage you may find and then give us a call at SERVPRO of Bartow County. We will answer your call 24⁄7, and we will jump right in to help you develop your full restoration plan.

The more you know about northern Georgia’s weather, the safer you can be. Take the time to understand the local weather risks and the alerts associated with them, and you will be ready to tackle any storm that comes our way.

Experienced storm damage to your home or property? Contact us today for a quick response!

Safeguard Your Home While on Vacation | SERVPRO of Bartow County

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged while you are on vacation, SERVPRO of Bartow County can reverse the damage!

Your vacation is supposed to be a soothing escape from the stresses of everyday life, but a problem at home, such as inclement weather or water damage, can prevent you from fully enjoying your trip. The best way to make your retreat stress-free is to prepare your home beforehand for any hazards that could affect your property. 

Find out how your home could be damaged while on vacation and what you can do to prevent any accidents. 

What Could Happen While You’re Away? 

Many homeowners leave their homes for vacation despite the fact that there is a leak developing in the house. This seemingly minor leak can cause extensive water damage, and the worst part is that you'd be unaware of it because you'd be out of town! 

This is why it’s best to take precautions and take care of any hazards before leaving to enjoy your well-deserved vacation. 

Shut off your water. There is usually no reason to keep your water running while you’re away for vacation, so turning it off can keep water damage from occurring. Shutting off your main water valve can keep pipes from bursting or leaking and keep you from returning to a home doused in the water! 

Check the weather before leaving. Severe weather doesn’t wait for you to get back from your vacation! Conditions like heavy rain, strong winds and floods can sweep through while you’re away and ruin your unprepared property. Before leaving for your vacation, double-check your local weather forecasts to ensure no adverse weather is expected to strike your community. 

Clear your gutters and drains. Cleaning your gutters and downspouts is a good habit to have even when you don’t plan on going out of town. Clear your gutters of leaves and any other outdoor debris to ensure water can flow properly if it were to rain while you’re gone. 

Prevent accidental flames. The last thing you’d want to happen while you are relaxing out of town is an unexpected fire breaking out at home! Ensure smoke alarms are in good working order before leaving by checking that the batteries are still good. And unplugging as many electronics you don’t plan on using can not only prevent flames from breaking out but also save you some money on your electric bill. 

If your home is damaged while you are on vacation, SERVPRO of Bartow County can reverse the damage! We can inspect the damage and return your home to its pre-disaster condition. Contact Us for more information. 

Is Your Business Ready for a Fire Emergency? | SERVPRO of Bartow County

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

If a fire starts on your commercial property and leaves you with infrastructure damage, get in touch with our team at SERVPRO of Bartow County.

Businesses experience many highs and lows throughout the day, and with so much going on at work, problems might arise before you have time to prepare. Commercial fires are amongst the many emergencies that could break out unexpectedly in the workplace. 

Fires pose a serious threat to both business owners and their staff. It is critical to prepare everyone in the workplace for these catastrophes in order to not only keep your business functioning but also to protect yourself and your employees’ lives. 

The best way to protect your workplace from the dangers of fire is to prepare for them ahead of time. Start here: 

Fire prevention tools. Fire prevention equipment is one way to fight fires once they ignite. Sprinklers, for example, are an excellent tool to limit the impact of fires, with an 88% success rate in controlling flames. You should have sprinklers installed all throughout your commercial property to reduce the spread of flames, even when they aren’t required by law. 

Smoke alarms are another effective tool that allow everyone in a business to be aware of the presence of flames. Smoke alarms should be installed throughout your business and tested on a regular basis to ensure they are operational. 

Fire extinguishers are beneficial as well, as personnel can access them as a way to control small flames. In the event of a fire, make sure your employees are trained on how to utilize extinguishers safely and effectively. 

Evacuation plan. There are several areas to train and prepare for when developing an escape plan for your team to execute. First, go over all the possible fire scenarios your team could run into. How could fires ignite in your building and what steps should your team take first? 

Next, inspect your building for fire exit routes and be sure all team members are aware of their location. Have fire exit signs placed over all escape routes and keep these exits clear of appliances, furniture and any other items. 

Finally, be sure to routinely practice fire drills and go over your evacuation plan to ensure all employees are on the same page. 

Removal of workplace fire hazards. Depending on what type of business you run, there are many different unique hazards that contribute to the spread of flames. 

Because they work with open flames and combustible materials, businesses that utilize cooking and kitchen facilities are prone to fires. In fact, around 29% of workplace fires were caused by

cooking equipment. (This isn’t exclusive to businesses that revolve around cooking, though, since even the breakroom microwave can cause flames.) 

Other types of fire threats exist in every type of business, such as overheated machinery and appliances, malfunctioning electrical equipment, and procedures involving combustion gasses. 

Large machinery and dangerous flammable materials aren’t the only sources of commercial fires, though. Careless use of cigarettes and candles can lead to dangerous flames as well! 

If a fire starts on your commercial property and leaves you with infrastructure damage, get in touch with our team at SERVPRO of Bartow County. We can assist you in repairing as much damage as possible.

Home Fire Prevention Tips | SERVPRO of Bartow County

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration needs.

2022 is already off to a busy start in terms of house fires reported by the American Red Cross. They have responded to more than 20,000 house fires so far, and that number is not even the total number of fires that have happened so far this year.

While having a fully functioning smoke detector in your home is still the best way to prevent death and extensive damage from a house fire, there are other small things you can do in your daily life to help minimize your risk.

Clearing Clutter

Clutter can easily become an issue in our homes if we allow it to build up over time. Are your hallways, stairwells or entryways magnets for excess things like shoes or toys? These things create tripping hazards if a hasty exit is needed in an emergency.

Extra clothing or blankets left out can also be additional fuel to a home fire or can even spark a fire if left too close to water heaters or other heating units. Allowing your spaces to stay as open as possible can help slow the progression of a fire if one starts in your home.

Do you make a habit of utilizing every outlet in your home and use power cords frequently? Overloaded extension cords are a very common catalyst for house fires. Try not to leave things plugged in when they are not in use, and take care to not load up an extension cord simply because there is space to do so.

Leave plenty of space between furniture and wall outlets to allow for proper air flow and prevent overheating.

Your Yard as a First Defense

Your yard can actually be your first line of defense if a fire starts outside. Intentional landscaping can create a fire barrier around your home and slow a fire down while giving your fire department valuable time to get to you.

Some states like California have imposed defensible zone regulations due to their proven ability to slow home destruction. Even though we live in Georgia, we can still benefit from implementing this idea in our own yards.

To do so, consider how you space your plants and make sure to keep the flowerbeds and other landscaping clear of debris.

Clean It Up

Doing a good spring-cleaning can also help minimize your risk of house fires. Simple dusting or kitchen cleaning projects can greatly reduce any potential house fires. Dusting around outlets and appliances and taking special consideration of your stove are great places to start.

Our homes serve us in so many ways these days—we work, play and relax in them more than ever. Do your part in protecting your home by implementing some of these strategies.

If you have experienced fire damage or want to learn more about SERVPRO of Bartow County’s fire damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, 24⁄7.

The Many Sources of Residential Water Damage | SERVPRO of Bartow County

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

If you water damage in your home, do not wait. Call the pros at SERVPRO of Bartow County, today!

Every day, more than 14,000 people are impacted by a water damage emergency at home or at work. With so many different forms of water damage, it’s no surprise that this figure is so high! 

Some water damage might go undetected, so being aware of any areas where a leak can occur will help you stop it before it develops. Being aware of all the areas a leak can form in your Acworth home can save you from the costly effects of water damage: 

Clogged drains. Clogged drains can be found in rooms such as your kitchen or bathroom. Water gets backed up in pipes, causing them to overflow, which results in water bursting through and slowly moving into your home. If you notice moisture appearing in your bathroom or kitchen around your sink, toilet or tub, it could be a clogged drain. 

Appliances. Many household appliances like your fridge, dishwasher and washing machine can all cause water damage in the home. These leaks send water down to leaking down, leaving a puddle of water on your floor. Dishwasher leaks are typically caused by equipment malfunction or misuse. The condenser coil warms up and produces moisture causing refrigerator leaks. Leaks in washing machines can occur from the hose, seal or pumps, resulting in extensive water damage. 

Septic Backup. Septic tanks can leak when the tank becomes too full of water. Slow drainage, a foul odor and standing water are all indications of a septic tank backup. Water damage becomes an urgent issue once sewage pipes back up via your drains into your property. To maintain the efficiency of your septic tank, have it inspected at least every three years by a professional. 

Leaky pipes. Leaking pipes are a real inconvenience. Because your pipes travel through your ceilings, walls and floors, leaks can be difficult to detect. Clogging, corrosion and high water pressure can all produce leaks that can damage your home's infrastructure. 

How Might Water Damage Affect Your Home? 

Water damage in the home can generate a wide range of problems. 

Leaks can damage your home’s infrastructure, causing foundation damage and in some cases a collapsed ceiling. Water can leak into light fixtures, outlets and electrical wiring, causing power shortages and, in extreme circumstances, fires. 

Mold is another big issue that can arise from water damage. Water can seep into your walls and flooring, causing mold to develop quickly. When mold is left untreated, it can lead to floorboards caving in or deterioration of your walls.

SERVPRO of Bartow County can handle any amount of water damage, no matter where it occurs in the home. We have the tools to reverse the damage. Call or Contact us, we’re here for you 24/7!

Creating Your Storm Safety Plan This Season | SERVPRO of Bartow County

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, reach out to SERVPRO of Bartow County right away.

Severe weather seasons can be both exciting and frightening at times. Living in the South, thunderstorms can bring strong winds, tornadoes, hail and torrential rain. Sometimes it seems like it can all come at once!

In fact, there are around 100,000 thunderstorms throughout the United States every year, so the chances that severe weather develops multiple times over the course of the season is high.

Did you know that Bartow County has a site that will show you where all of our active severe weather sirens are? By using this tool, you can check to see if you are located near a siren or if you should have another way to learn about severe weather alerts.

Even though we wish we could control the weather, we know that we are at the mercy of Mother Nature. Thankfully, the best way to combat unexpected weather is to be prepared for all scenarios at all times.

Be prepared by building an emergency kit, creating a reliable way to contact family and having a process and a company in mind (like us) to help deal with any potential damages following a storm. By using these tools, you and your family will be ready for any severe storms that come through our county.

Your Communication Strategy During Severe Weather

When you hear that severe weather is forecasted, the first thing you should do is make sure you have communicated with your household and you all understand how to get in touch with one another. You also need to be able to receive alerts and updates from your local weather authorities, whether it be a cell phone alert system or an NOAA weather radio.

Do you know the important difference between watches and warnings? If you understand the difference, you are prepared to act quickly and move inside when you need to.

Discuss your communication strategy with your household and decide on a common safe shelter area in your home that everyone can access quickly when the weather rolls in.

If some of your family is not home when the storm begins, it is important to be able to connect with them after the weather has passed.

The Essentials in a Good Emergency Kit

You should aim to have the essentials for your family to last at least 72 hours. Your emergency kit should be stocked with food that is not perishable, water for everyone and basic things like a first-aid kit and a flashlight. Don’t forget the extra batteries!

After The Storm

When the storm is over and it is safe to leave your shelter location, take inventory of any damage and review the outcome of your safety plan.

Take care to inspect your roof, doors and window seals first, as these spaces are more likely to suffer damage in your home.

If you do find damage, that’s where we come in. We can handle small repairs to large structure rebuilds. Our crew at SERVPRO of Bartow County will be there to help. We respond quickly, assess fairly and get you back into your home in no time.

All you have to do is call us, review your safety plan and then restock your emergency kit and you are ready for when the next storm comes through Bartow County.

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO to handle the restoration. We’re here 24⁄7 to spring into action—call (470) 384-9016 to get in touch with us today.

How Water Damage Progresses Within a Week | SERVPRO of Bartow County

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is your 24/7 water restoration expert. Call us right away if you need immediate service.

Life gets busy, so sometimes a leaky faucet or small water spot continually gets ignored or pushed off, but even the smallest of water issues can have destructive effects on your home. An average household leak can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water in a year.

Water damage can progress rapidly if left untreated. It can leak into floors, walls and the soft materials of your home. It’s crucial to address the issue right away to produce the best outcome. Here’s what you need to know about the timeline of water damage:

In the First 24 Hours

If you live in a house, there is a one in four chance of a flood damaging your home within a 30-year period in a high-risk area. Living in the South, we are susceptible to flash flooding from storms, so it is crucial to know what to do in those early hours after the event.

Your actions during the first 24 to 48 hours following the flooding or water damage determine the extent of the damage. Certain items will immediately fall victim to water’s disastrous effects if not addressed right away.

Items like soft furnishings, upholstery, books or photographs can be especially vulnerable to the damaging effects of water and moisture. They can take a long time to dry out and sometimes are just ruined beyond repair. In addition, these items are susceptible to mold and it can grow quickly in soft environments.

SERVPRO’s expertise and “restore vs. replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We treat your belongings with utmost care, but if anything cannot be successfully restored, this will be communicated to you. However, these things are typically removed as soon as possible to expedite the drying of all restorable materials.

Within the First Week

After the first 24 hours, water damage will progress quickly if it is not taken care of in a timely manner. Mold can spread like wildfire with excessive moisture. If mold sets in, it can be incredibly hard on your home’s internal structure and wood supports.

After One Week

A week after the event has passed, the costs and efforts to restore your home will increase significantly if not treated. The very structure of your home could be damaged beyond repair as well.

How SERVPRO Will Help

SERVPRO’s restoration process begins with the first call, preferably within the first 24 hours. We begin by thoroughly extracting the water to prevent further spread and to speed up drying time.

If needed, your floors, furniture and other possessions will be cleaned, sanitized and deodorized as well. Once the majority of the standing water is removed, we use our industry-leading drying equipment to remove the water that is hard to see.

After these initial steps, your home may need construction work to get your property back to its preloss condition. That will be assessed and may require just a minor repair or an extensive rebuild. Regardless of the situation, we can help with the damage mitigation and rebuilding process. SERVPRO of Bartow County will take you along with us at every step and have you back in your home or business as soon as possible

Regardless of the type of water damage sustained, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover.

Contact us 24⁄7 when you need a dependable team to help you recover . 

Why It Is Important to Always Take Severe Weather Seriously | SERVPRO of Bartow County

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

If you have storm damage at your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO of Bartow County to help.

During the summer months, severe thunderstorms can almost feel like a routine occurrence. When conditions are right for bad weather, it can pop up suddenly and come about frequently, which can lead to a sense of complacency about the events. 

It can be easy to reason that storm damage has not happened yet, so it will not happen—but this could not be farther from the truth. 

Every severe weather event is different, and all of them have the potential to turn into extremely damaging events. It is important that you always take severe weather seriously and understand the dangers that a thunderstorm can bring. 

Why Taking Severe Weather Threats Seriously Is Important 

Severe weather conditions can change suddenly

 If severe weather begins to threaten your area, it is important to always stay tuned to local weather officials’ updates so you know what conditions are in real-time. Heeding both watches and warnings is vital, as conditions can change rapidly and be vastly different even across a small region. It is important to be aware in case conditions suddenly change or worsen around you. 

Severe weather can pop up anywhere

 Severe weather can occur at any time of year and in any part of the country, but it is especially likely to occur when the weather is warm and humid, as this is what storms need to gather up fuel to become severe. During the summer, it is not uncommon for severe weather to pop up suddenly and with little warning. While you may know about storm fronts in advance, it is just as likely that they will come as a surprise when conditions are ideal. 

Severe weather is always different

While the trademarks of a severe storm—heavy rains, high winds and lightning—are typically the same, every storm front is different. Winds will blow in different ways, rain will impact some areas more than others, and hail and lightning are always unpredictable. Just because a previous storm was not cause for concern does not mean the next one will be as calm, so it is vital to always stay vigilant. 

If you have storm damage at your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO of Bartow County  to help. Call (470) 384-9016 or  Get in touch today to learn more about our storm restoration services, or call us 24/7 to report your damage.

SERVPRO Has the Restoration Experts You Can Trust | SERVPRO of Bartow County

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

No matter the damage sustained, SERVPRO Bartow County has the tools and team to help your home return to a normal state quickly.

Have you recently gone through a natural disaster or some sort of unexpected water or fire damage? Life happens, and we want to be there for you when it does.

Here at SERVPRO of Bartow County, we specialize not only in cleanup and restoration services, but we also offer disaster relief cleanup and it would be our pleasure to help you in the event of a natural or manmade disaster.

Water Damage

Flash flooding happens often without much warning, especially if it follows a drought period or a hurricane. Whether it’s an inch or a foot of water, any water damage at all can produce a serious impact. In fact, floods cause more than $10 billion in damages nationwide every year.

If you own your own home or are a business owner here in Georgia, unexpected flooding from hurricane season or unexpected water issues can cause major headaches to your family and your business. Thankfully, SERVPRO of Bartow County has the tools you need to tackle the damages and help you get back on track! In addition to other services, we specialize in hurricane relief cleanup services.

We have access to special Disaster Relief Teams that are on standby to help in the event of hurricane damage. We will help you understand the extent of the damage in the aftermath so we can create a plan to start the restoration process as quickly as possible.

We have the skills and ability to act quickly by drying up standing water, detecting hidden moisture and returning your home to its preloss condition.

Fire Damage

A fire department in the United States responds to a fire every 23 seconds, and there was roughly $8.1 billion in direct property damage and losses nationwide in 2020.

If your home or business has sustained fire damage, we’ll jump right into action with our seven-step restoration process.

This process is a very thorough, step-by-step procedure to make sure we assess and understand the extent of the damage to help ensure that your space is returned to the way it was before the damage occurred.

Storm Damage

Storms can develop in an instant and wreak immediate havoc on our homes, especially when you aren’t expecting the severity or location of the damage. Our goal is to always be there for you and to help you make a plan and bring your home back to its pre-storm condition.

If a major storm hits us here in Bartow County and overwhelms local resources, we have access to equipment and other materials from our other 1,950 locations to ensure a quick and reliable response to your needs. We are always prepared for any sized disaster.

In addition to storms damaging the structure of your home, they can also damage your personal belongings and important possessions. SERVPRO of Bartow County also specializes in content restoration, with the intention of restoring your items rather than replacing them. Your possessions are as important to us as they are to you.

What Sets SERVPRO Apart?

We are here and ready to help when you need us. Our SERVPRO experts will answer your call 24⁄7. We know that disasters and accidents don’t happen only during the day time, so we work around the clock to be prepared. Reach out to our Emergency Line and receive immediate assistance, day or night.

With more than 50 years of restoration experience, our experts in green are the reason we are the No. 1 cleanup and restoration team in the nation. We’re locally owned and operated, but we’re also backed by a network of more than 1,900 locations around the United States, so we have large business resources with the touch of hometown passion.

You can count on SERVPRO of Bartow County if your home or business experiences water or fire damage. We make water and fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Regardless of the type of damage sustained, SERVPRO of Bartow County has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when you need a dependable team to help you rebuild your life.

Common Household Leaks to Watch Out for After Heavy Rain | SERVPRO of Bartow County

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

If you discover water damage at your home, SEVERPRO of Bartow County is the team to trust.

So many things can cause water damage, many of which are surprises (floods, burst pipes or drain clogs, for example). However, there are other types of water damage to be aware of, especially at this time of year, when heavy rains move through Bartow County with regularity.

It is important that homeowners are on their guard for these types of water damage, as they can often be sneaky and result in hidden leaks that are not readily apparent. After periods of heavy rain, it is a good idea for homeowners to check for these common types of leaks around their home so they can address any water damage issues quickly and effectively.

Where to Check for Leaks After Heavy Rainfall

In the attic or eaves of the home

The roof is the most important part of your home when it comes to repelling water damage, but even with roofs that are meant to last for decades, it is possible for leaks to arise. Loose shingles or flashing can often let water in gradually during heavy rainfall, so be sure to check for damaged insulation, roof joists or other signs of water damage after a big storm.

Around your home’s foundation

Under normal conditions, the ground is typically able to absorb water at an adequate rate to keep it from pooling in unwanted places. However, during periods of heavy rain (especially if your yard is not properly graded), water can begin to pool around the base of your home and cause issues. Standing water can eventually soak into your home’s foundation, leading to issues in your basement or crawl space area if left unaddressed.

Near any exterior openings

Any exterior opening to your home, such as windows or doors, can provide an opportunity for water damage to occur. Heavy rain can work its way into miniscule cracks, causing leaks around these openings that will only show up when you look closely around the gaps. This can also be the case for any venting around the sides of your home, so view these areas closely as well.

“If you discover water damage at your home, SEVERPRO of Bartow County is the team to trust. Call(470) 384-9016orContact us here to learn more about SERVPRO of Bartow County and our water damage restoration services or to get a quick response to your damage.”

The 4 Things That Often Cause the 3 Main Types of Flooding | SERVPRO of Bartow County

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO of Bartow County has the team to help you recover from any disastrous event.

Natural disasters occur in many different ways. Severe storms, hurricanes and tornadoes are what most people think of, but many are surprised to learn that flooding is actually the most common and the most fatal type of natural disaster. Floods can impact small areas, but they can also lead to major swaths of destruction in an area.

Flooding can vary in its nature, but there are some commonalities in the types and the causes, which is what we are going to look into today.

3 Types of Flooding

Flash floods can come about rather quickly, as evidenced by the name. Flash flooding is typically caused by heavy rainfall, either in a short amount of time or in a rapid period, that accumulates too quickly to be efficiently drained away. Flash floods are extremely dangerous due to their rapid nature, and have been known to carry away vehicles or people caught in their path.

River floods are a concern whenever a river becomes too full of water, causing its banks to overflow. This can lead to flooding in the immediate vicinity until water levels are able to recede.

Coastal floods happen when coastal bodies of water become overfilled, typically due to storm surges or other severe weather activity. This can negatively impact large parts of coastal areas due to the high volume of water in question.

The 4 Frequent Causes of Natural Flooding

Heavy rainfall. When a storm contains a large amount of moisture, floods become very likely. This can be the case anywhere, but especially within urban areas, due to the large amounts of pavement and asphalt they contain. Additionally, many floods can be exacerbated by overwhelmed storm drainage systems.

Oceanic activity. Tides can often rise rapidly, typically due to serious storms or hurricanes. This can lead to a coastal flood impacting an area.

Dams and levees failing. As many will recall from the 2005 disaster of Hurricane Katrina, the failure of dams and levees can be extremely concerning. This is especially a concern when there are cracks in the structure and a high volume of water is present.

Snowmelts and ice dams. When there is snow and ice that accumulates through the winter season, the first bout of warm weather can lead to quite a lot of melting—and this can cause a high volume of water to overwhelm an area. This is often made worse by ice dams or ice jams in areas with rivers, which cause a blockage in the current that can lead to flooding.

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO of Bartow County  has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when flooding or water damage makes a mess in your life. Calls us at (470) 384-9016 or check us out online at www.SERVPRO.com

Does My Commercial Space Need Fire Sprinklers? | SERVPRO of Bartow County

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

If you have employees working on-site, protecting them by installing fire sprinklers is a great way to prevent fire-related injuries from occurring.

Keeping your business safe is an important goal of your day-to-day operations, and fitting fire safety into those efforts is so important. As many as 60% of businesses are unable to recover from a fire, due in part to the sheer amount of damage a fire can cause. 

Fires can spread through a building in as little as two minutes, leaving a significant amount of destruction in their wake. 

One way for businesses to mitigate the amount of damage a commercial fire is able to do is by installing a fire sprinkler system. Many areas require sprinkler systems in commercial spaces by law, but even if that does not apply to your business, it may be worth considering to mitigate the potential for commercial fire damages. 

How Do I Know If I Should Install Fire Sprinklers at My Business? 

Check Your Local Fire Codes 

Depending on where you are located within Bartow County, you may have varying fire codes to consider for your commercial space. Checking your local fire codes is the best place to start when determining if you need to install fire sprinklers at your business, as you absolutely should if it is required to get things up to code. 

Consider the Damage That a Fire Could Do 

Recovering from a fire as a business owner is no easy feat. Not only does the fire itself cause significant damage to your commercial space, but you will also likely have to close down your operations for an extended period of time while the damage is handled—and this is something 

that many businesses simply are not in a position to recover from. By contrast, cleaning up the damage associated with fire sprinklers is a fairly simple process. 

Think Through the Safety Implications 

In addition to the physical property you have in your commercial space, you likely also have your personal safety and the safety of your staff to consider as well. If you have employees working on-site, protecting them by installing fire sprinklers is a great way to prevent fire-related injuries from occurring. 

If you have a fire at your commercial space, you can count on us to help at SERVPRO.com

We are the go-to in Bartow County for commercial fire restoration—contact us any time or call (470) 384-9016 to learn more about how SERVPRO of Bartow County can help you with fire restoration to your business.

Partnering Together for Restoration Services | SERVPRO of Bartow County

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is your local commercial restoration expert that can help 24-hours a day. Contact us today should you experience any damage.

Do you run your own Bartow County business? If so, you understand the responsibilities can be as overwhelming as the benefits! Running a business requires you to devote many hours of your time and energy to ensure that it runs smoothly. So, if your business is struck by disaster, you know that it can cause devastating issues.

Thankfully, with SERVPRO of Bartow County here in your backyard, you can count on us as a partner to help you with any recovery or cleanup needs you may have.

Large Loss Recovery

The three top causes of financial loss for businesses across the United States are from fires, storms and flooding. These things can cause severe damage, especially if you put off restoration for any length of time. We have been in the restoration industry for many years, and we understand that disasters or accidents can’t wait, which is why we are available 24 hours a day.

Emergency Ready Plan

You can become prepared for disasters with our help! We will help you create an emergency plan that meets your company’s unique needs. This may include everything from determining a chain of command to choosing temporary work sites, as well as much more.

Cleaning of All Kinds

SERVPRO of Bartow County can handle all types of cleaning services! This includes everything from specialty needs like biohazard removal, to general cleaning like carpet cleaning in high-traffic areas. We have been doing this for a long time, which means we can create the perfect solution to clean up any mess.

Restoration Services

Whether your business has been struck by storm damage, an employee overcooked something in the microwave or you had a water leak, you’ll require restoration and cleanup, and we will get it done quickly and professionally.

Industry Specialization

We have spent years learning the ins and outs of commercial properties, so there is no business that we can’t help. Whatever special needs you may have, we can handle it.

*Whatever your recovery needs may be, and whatever your commercial property may require, trust SERVPRO of Bartow County to get the job done. Contact us today click www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com  or call (770) 387-7455 to get started on an Emergency Ready Plan or find out how we can serve your business.

Is Your Home Prepared for Spring Rains? | SERVPRO of Bartow County

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

If you home suffers water or flood damage after a storm call SERVPRO of Bartow County. We make flood and storm damage "Like it never even happened."

After the long winter, the rain of spring can be a welcomed change, especially because it means flower blooms are sure to follow! However, one detrimental aspect of spring rain is that we often get a *lot* of it here in Bartow County and when there is a high volume of water hitting your home, it can be persistent as it tries to find its way inside.

One thing Cartersville and other Bartow County homeowners can do to reduce the likelihood of sustaining rain-related water damage is to rain-proof their home. These simple home maintenance tasks can go a long way in keeping rainwater out of your home so you do not have to deal with the detrimental effects of water damage down the road.

How to Rainproof Your Home for Spring

- Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts - 

At minimum, gutters and downspouts should be cleaned twice per year, but depending on your tree coverage, you may find you have to do it more often. Your gutters are designed to route water away from your home, so if they are clogged, they will not be able to do this effectively. This can lead to water soaking into your roofline or your home’s foundation, which can cause concerning amounts of damage.

- Check Your Roof for Signs of Wear - 

Your home’s roof is your first line of defense against any weather, but if it starts to falter, water damage can quickly begin to seep in. While roofs as a whole typically last between 20 and 30 years, it is not abnormal to have to do minor maintenance and repairs within that time. Keep an eye out for missing shingles, flashing or other signs of wear that might indicate water could begin to work its way in.

- Reinforce Your Weatherstripping - 

Weatherstripping around any exterior doors and windows is a great, inexpensive way to ensure that rain stays out of your home. Weatherstripping surrounds the edge of window and door frames in order to form a watertight seal with the home. With time, weatherstripping may need to be replaced, so while it is inexpensive, it is also something that you will want to check on regularly.

*If you discover water damage in your Bartow County home or business, you can count on SERVPRO of Bartow County. Get in touch today at (770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com to learn more about our water restoration services.

The Eclectic Weather of Spring in the United States | SERVPRO of Bartow County

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to the possibility of severe weather. SERVPRO of Bartow County is a click away if you experience any damage.

As one of the largest nations in the world, second to Canada and Russia in total size, we see a lot of variety. “Seasonal weather” can mean a multitude of things when you have such a large territory. Different parts of the nation will experience different weather patterns, causing different weather threats.

During the spring months, warm and cold air masses collide with each other, causing crazy types of weather events all over the nation.

The Pacific Northwest is susceptible to heavy rain, which causes flooding and water damage issues. Higher elevations are still dealing with snow and melting ice or snow, which causes problems of its own.

Then Upper Midwest and Northeast regions have the longest “winter” chill and can have cold weather throughout much of the spring season. Whether you live in Maine or the Dakotas, you can expect extreme cold and may even face snow storms or blizzards during this time.

The West Coast doesn’t have to deal with snow and blizzards, but they do have to deal with excessive heat waves. The South Pacific, including Hawaii, also has to keep an eye out for tsunamis.

The middle of the country must prepare for windstorms, derechos and the risk of wildfires. Because of the atmosphere during this season, wildfires can be easily spread and cause severe damage. And as if that’s not enough, this region contains what is known as “Tornado Alley,” which is where tornadoes occur frequently.

Finally, here in the Southeast, we will experience a wide range of severe weather. Our weather can include things like tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, while those along the coast have the threat of early-season hurricanes.

No matter where you live, you must consider the threat of extreme weather in your area. Our weather here in Bartow County is going to be much different than that of someone on the West Coast. That’s why you must always stay prepared.

*If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO of Bartow County at (770) 387-7455 for fast, expert recovery or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com for more information on storm restoration and cleanup services.

What Is the Timeline of a House Fire? | SERVPRO of Bartow County

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what type of smoke or fire damage your home might suffers...SERVPRO of Bartow County can help restore your property to preloss condition.

It is a certainty that house fires are a traumatic event, but many people do not realize exactly how scary they can be. House fires happen extremely quickly, often taking mere minutes from spark to full engulfment, and for those caught nearby, escaping quickly is of the utmost Importance. 

Understanding how fires start and spread is scary, but it is wise so that you can heed their danger and understand the importance of prioritizing safety. Below, we have detailed the typical timeline of a house fire to illustrate just how quickly flames can spread.

The Typical Timeline of a House Fire

| The First 30 Seconds |

• The first 30 seconds of a house fire are critical to extinguishing it. If it is safe to do so, quickly extinguishing a fire is the best thing you can do to mitigate damages. In the first 30 seconds, fire will be looking for anything nearby that it can devour.

| 30 Seconds to 1 Minute |

• As more things begin to burn, the room will fill with hot, smoky air that includes carbon monoxide, which is quite dangerous to inhale. Just two full breaths of this smoke can cause someone to lose consciousness, which is why escaping quickly is so important.

| 1 to 2 Minutes |

• After the one-minute mark, the fire will be intense, and the smoke will be, too. Fires typically reach around 190 degrees Fahrenheit at this stage, and smoke becomes thick enough to obscure sight.

| 2 to 3 Minutes |

• At this point, the fire can reach around 400 degrees Fahrenheit and will be devouring nearly anything in its path. Because the fire is so hot, nearby items may start to catch fire even if they do not have direct contact with the flames.

| 3 Minutes Plus |

• At around the three-minute mark, the fire will reach over 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough for every object in the room to burst into flames. The oxygen will be sucked out of a room by the fire using it for fuel, and windows will typically shatter.

*If your household has experienced damage due to a house fire, SERVPRO of Bartow County is the team to call at 770-387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com for more information on our fire and smoke restoration services. Our fire restoration experts are here 24/7—contact us today to learn more.

Emergency Plans Are Easier With SERVPRO | SERVPRO of Bartow County

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

If the day comes where your business is hit with disaster or emergency, you can rest assured SERVPRO of Bartow County will be there to help.

When you own a business, you not only work full-time, but you usually also work overtime—and LOTS of it! Whether you are trying to make payroll deadlines, or marketing your company, the reality is you are constantly wearing many hats.

Because you work so hard, we never want to see a company lose what they have worked so hard for. According to FEMA, 40% of small businesses don’t reopen after a natural disaster stops business, and sadly, a quarter of those that do reopen are forced to shut down completely within a year.

Now thanks to the pandemic shutdowns, we must concern ourselves with the future and how this along with any other type of disaster will affect our businesses. That’s why it’s important to have an effective plan in place. Three-quarters of all small businesses don’t have a plan in place—and we can keep you from being a part of that statistic.

When you get in touch with our team, we will work to help you prepare an Emergency Ready Plan. Since we are part of the community, we understand what it’s like to be a business owner in this area, and we want to see you succeed.

When we set up an Emergency Ready Plan, we will carefully analyze your needs and what you might require in an emergency, covering everything, including document recovery and backup. That way if a disaster does strike, you’ll know exactly what to do! Our job is to help you know the chain of command and what to do if something happens.

Poor disaster planning can be easily fixed, and we’re here to get that done. An Emergency Ready Plan not only protects your business, but it can be the difference for your employees and their well-being, too!

*When your business is ready to prioritize planning and safety to prevent extended downtime, contact SERVPRO of Bartow County at (770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com to get the Emergency Ready Plan underway from the folks who know all there is to know about disaster and recovery.

Common Causes of Commercial Water Damage | SERVPRO of Bartow County

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what type of water damage you experience, you can call SERVPRO of Bartow County 24/7 for water damage restoration and cleanup.

There are many things that can cause water damage in the home, but when you think about it, there are nearly as many that can cause water damage in a commercial space. While commercial areas may not have laundry facilities or appliances that utilize water, they often have their own considerations that could lead to leakages.

Whether you rent or own your commercial area, it is important to be on the lookout for water damage on a regular basis. While many incidents of water damage are covered on a commercial insurance policy, it can still be quite the headache—fortunately, knowing what to look for and handling it quickly can significantly expedite the restoration process.

Common Causes of Water Damage in Commercial Spaces

| Leaking sprinkler systems | Many commercial spaces are required to have sprinkler systems in place because of their proven ability to halt fires quickly—but because sprinkler systems are responsible for retaining a large amount of water, they can be prone to leaks. These leaks can manifest in the ceiling, around individual sprinkler heads or in the piping layout of the system, so having the system checked regularly is a must.

| Damage to the Roof | Depending on the structure of a commercial space and how much of it is shared, regular maintenance may fall to the owner or a building superintendent...which may mean that things do not get done as often as they should. Doing maintenance to a roof is very important, especially for commercial buildings with flat roofing systems, and damage to this system can easily lead to leaks during heavy periods of rain.

| Issues with Plumbing | Even if your commercial space does not have a lot of plumbing, it is likely that it has some running through the ceilings, walls or floors. Damaged pipes can lead to serious hidden leaks in these areas, which may take a careful eye to detect. Be sure to have an idea where your pipes are and watch out for discoloration, musty odors, and the swelling or peeling of paint in these areas in order to catch any hidden leaks quickly.

*If your commercial space has experienced water damage, SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help! We help commercial facilities, apartment complexes and office buildings recover after water damage every day and are available for commercial restoration services 24/7. Contact us today at (770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com to learn more.

What Does “Full Service” Really Mean? | SERVPRO of Bartow County

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Bartow County to get the job done.

If you see SERVPRO and our massive green trucks headed through your town, you can probably guess that someone, somewhere, has run into an issue!

While we are best known for being a cleaning company of some kind, we also want people to understand what we mean when we say “full service.” That means we are a stern-to-stern cleaning, restoration and reconstruction company that will also help you out with the dreaded insurance companies.

Here’s a look at what SERVPRO of Bartow County can provide for our customers:

• Water Damage Recovery | Water damage can be something as small as a leaky hose or something larger like a busted pipe that has gone unnoticed for an hour or so. Regardless of how big or small the issue is, we will have you back on your feet.
• Fire Damage Recovery | Fires happen every 23 seconds in the United States, and that’s part of a 40-year downward trend! While fires do a lot of damage, you can rest easy knowing that we bring a lot of help.
• Mold Removal | Mold damage can come out of the blue, and sometimes not even be seen by the naked eye, but you can be assured that it does threaten the structure of your home. Not only will it cause damage to your home, but it can easily spread. That’s why when it comes to mold, it’s best and safest to leave it to the professionals.
• Storm Recovery | Inclement weather can cause large-scale damage to a home or business. Since we are a trusted leader in the restoration industry, you can count on us to stick by your side from the beginning to the very end of the restoration project.
• Commercial Needs | As business owners ourselves, we understand what it means to have a business that you can be proud of. We not only offer our business owners the same services we do our homeowners, but we also offer a few more, like specialized cleaning so that you can project confidence to your employees and customers.
• General Cleaning | Life is busy, and homeowners and businesses sometimes need help in keeping their spaces clean. While you are focused on important day-to-day living, we can give you a heavy-duty clean that you have been dreaming of.
• Specialty Cleaning | Whether your HVAC system needs cleaning or you need biohazard cleanup, you can sleep soundly knowing that we can help take care of it all.
• Construction | Sometimes the worst can happen and your home or business can’t be restored, but rather it needs to be reconstructed. You can count on us here at SERVPRO to rebuild your place to make it seem “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 of Bartow County to get the job done. Contact us at(770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com for more information on our Commercial Services for Fire, Water or Mold Restoration.

Preparing a Storm Readiness Plan to Keep Your Household Safer | SERVPRO of Bartow County

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business has suffered storm damage call SERVPRO of Bartow County. We make storm damage "Like it never even happened."

When was the last time you considered your preparedness for severe weather? While it may not be the most enjoyable thing to think about, severe weather is something that can happen at all times of the year if conditions are right—and because it can often come about suddenly, it is important to have a preparation plan in place for how you will react.

Fortunately, boosting your storm preparedness is not a difficult task, and it is one that can seriously pay off for your family’s safety. Below, we have included our favorite tips for becoming more prepared for a storm in your area. Read on to learn more about what projects you can tackle.

How to Make Your Household More Resilient for Severe Weather

Understand the Watches and Warnings in Your Area | Being able to stay informed about weather conditions is so important, as is understanding the differences between watches and warnings. Make sure you know what types of weather events are likely to impact your area, such as tornadoes and flooding, and know what actions to take when watches and warnings are issued for each.

Understand How to Protect Your Home | While nature is somewhat unpredictable, there are ways you can decrease the likelihood that your home will sustain damage due to severe weather. Taking measures to protect your home, such as trimming tree branches, cleaning out gutters, and securing patio furniture and other potential projectiles can reduce the damage that can be caused due to high winds and heavy rains around your home.

Understand Your Insurance Policy | Preventing damage is a wise first step, but sometimes even preventive measures are not enough. Your homeowners insurance policy is in place to help you recover from damage, but every policy has differing levels of coverage for different events. Make sure you review your insurance policy and have a full understanding of what is and is not covered, and also make sure that you understand how to file a claim should you incur damages due to a storm.

*If your home sustains storm damage, you can count on SERVPRO of South Atlanta to help with all your restoration needs. Contact us today to learn more about our storm damage restoration process, and get in touch 24/7 for a quick response if you experience damage.

Breaking Down the Water Cleanup Process | SERVPRO of Bartow County

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, make the call to SERVPRO of Bartow County for A-to-Z cleanup and restoration.

Each day, around 14,000 Americans experience some type of water damage in their home. While this number can be overwhelming, you can rest assured that if it happens to you, your local SERVPRO team will be there to help you. We know what disasters can do to a home and the havoc it can create in your personal life! That’s why we are readily available at any time of the day and ready to help.

To help ease your mind, here’s a look at our patented water damage restoration process, compiled after decades of experience:

- Emergency Contact -

Once you call us in the wake of your emergency, we will ask important questions so that we can get a better understanding of your situation. Then we will set up a time to get to your home so that we can assess the damage and work out a plan for how to move forward.

- Water Damage Inspection & Assessment -

When our technicians arrive, they immediately get to work. They start by closing off the main water source. Then they’ll walk through your house and property, doing an assessment of the damage and identifying hazards. Once this assessment is complete, they’ll provide you with a defined plan for next steps.

- Water Removal -

The longer water sticks around, the more damage occurs. Step one is ridding your house of standing water. We do this by using powerful pumps and extraction tools to get rid of hundreds and even thousands of gallons of water. This speeds up the drying process and reduces the risk of mold growth.

- Damaged Material Removal -

While we always do our best to restore as much as possible, water damage will render some materials and possessions unusable. Those items will be removed from your house quickly to provide space for other items to dry out efficiently.

- Cleaning, Sanitizing & Deodorizing -

Water can cause a powerful odor, and one that will not go away on its own. We use machines that can remove contaminants from the air of your home, and this will help clean your home but also sanitize and deodorize it.

- Drying -

Once the standing water is gone, moisture often lingers. We use specialized equipment to restore normal moisture levels in your home. By doing this, we can help reduce the risk of mold growth in your home.

- Monitoring -

We will set up our equipment to help extract any remaining water or moisture that is still in the home. While we do that, we will stay in constant contact so that you don’t feel abandoned. We will make stops by your home to oversee the equipment and ensure that the project is moving at the rate we wish for.

- Repairs & Construction -

Just because your home is dry doesn’t mean the work is complete! In fact, the work is only beginning. At this final step, we will work to restore any issue your home is still having, whether it’s something minor or a major rebuild.

*If water damage impacts your property, call SERVPRO of Bartow County at (770) 387-7455 for immediate cleanup and restoration or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com for more information on our residential and commercial water mitigation and restoration services. We’ll make your water damage claim “Like it never even happened.”

Cómo un Incendio Puede Afectar su Negocio | SERVPRO del condado de Bartow

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

Un incendio es algo que ningún empresario del condado de Bartow quiere considerar la posibilidad de que ocurra, pero desafortunadamente, puede ser una amenaza grave para las empresas de cualquier tipo. Si bien ciertos negocios, como restaurantes o instalaciones de fabricación, pueden correr un mayor riesgo de que se inicie un incendio, incluso los propietarios de edificios de oficinas o tiendas minoristas deben ser conscientes de que es una posibilidad muy real. 

Más allá del daño general causado directamente por las llamas, hay muchas otras formas en que un incendio puede afectar su negocio que quizás no haya considerado. Lo mejor que pueden hacer los dueños de negocios para mitigar su riesgo es comprenderlos y planificar con anticipación una recuperación rápida para disminuir el impacto en su negocio en general. Llame a SERVPRO del Condado de Bartow para obtener un Plan de preparación para emergencias GRATIS que preparará mejor sus instalaciones en caso de que experimente daños por agua, fuego o humo. 

Cómo los Incendios Comerciales Pueden Afectar a Una Empresa 

Los Incendios Comerciales Pueden Causar Daños más Allá de las Llamas | Si bien lo más importante en lo que la gente piensa cuando considera el daño de un incendio comercial es la carbonización de las llamas, hay otros tipos de daños que también deberán abordarse. El fuego no solo produce hollín que puede adherirse a casi cualquier superficie, sino que también puede producir humo que genera olores persistentes incluso después de que se hayan solucionado los demás daños. Además, debido a que la mayoría de los espacios comerciales están equipados con sistemas de rociadores, a menudo también hay que lidiar con daños por agua.

Los Incendios Comerciales Requieren el Cierre de Negocios | Incluso en el caso de un incendio relativamente pequeño, la recuperación llevará tiempo para su negocio y, a menudo, requerirá el cierre de sus puertas a medida que se aborden los daños y se restaure su edificio. Para disminuir el tiempo que su negocio debe permanecer cerrado, es importante tener un plan de restauración ya implementado para que sepa exactamente qué hacer y a quién llamar de inmediato.

Los Incendios Comerciales Pueden Generar Problemas de Seguridad | Si un incendio impacta partes integrales de su edificio, como paredes, pisos o techos, puede presentar problemas estructurales que deben abordarse. Es importante que la empresa de restauración que elija comprenda cómo manejar este tipo de trabajos para mantener su edificio en buenas condiciones después de un incendio. 

*Si experimenta un incendio comercial en su negocio, puede contar con nosotros. Comuníquese con SERVPRO del condado de Bartow al (770) 387-7455 en cualquier momento para obtener más información sobre nuestros servicios de restauración comercial o para informar daños a su edificio.

How Untreated Water Damage Can Give Rise to Secondary Issues | SERVPRO of Bartow County

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business experiences water damage call SERVPRO of Bartow County. We make water damage "Like it never even happened".

Discovering water damage in your home is certainly not a welcomed experience. Whether it is caused by something such as a burst pipe or is the result of a slight leak, it is not something that anyone wants to deal with in their home.

In fact, if the damage appears minor enough, many homeowners may choose to put off dealing with it entirely—and while this may feel like a reasonable, temporary solution, it may be one that you come to regret.

When moisture works its way into places it should not be, serious issues can result. The longer that moisture is left untreated, the more these issues can balloon into something serious—even leading to mold growth and issues in the structure of your home. Below, we will take a look at why water damage can be so serious and why it is important to have it treated as soon as possible.

The Initial Problems With Water Damage

When it comes to a buildup of water damage, you will likely first notice signs such as discoloration, a darkening of the area, and swelling or warping of nearby structures. Depending on where the leak is, this itself can be extremely damaging—for example, if the leak ruins a bathroom cabinet or damages drywall in your home. However, there are other issues that can arise if the moisture is allowed to sit.

Mold Issues With Water Damage

Because mold spores are present in our air at all times, it can move in quickly once an environment turns damp. Mold and mildew can quickly latch on to areas that are favorable for them to grow in, where they will begin to rapidly reproduce. Untreated water damage is the perfect candidate for growing mold, and once mold takes hold, proper remediation of it is a must.

Structural Issues With Water Damage

Depending on the nature and scope of the moisture damage you incur, it can also cause serious problems for your home’s structure. If your water damage is near wall studs, floor joists or any other structural elements of your home, this wood can become oversaturated with water and weaken—leading to sagging roofs, unstable floors and more.

*If you discover water damage in your home, we are here to treat it as quickly as possible. You can call SERVPRO of Bartow County 24/7 to get the restoration process started—contact us today.

The 4 Stages of Fire and How to Put a Fire Out | SERVPRO of Bartow County

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business has any damage, SERVPRO of Bartow County is ready around the clock to help you recover.

Have you ever heard of the term tetrahedron? Don’t worry, there’s not going to be a quiz at the end of this blog. We want to discuss the fire tetrahedron and what that means. In short, a fire requires four components in order to burn, live or grow—hence, the tetrahedron.

The 4 Things a Fire Needs to Live

| Fuel | Just like people need fuel in order to live, a fire does, too! Simple everyday items like wood, paper, plastics and other organic materials are all that a fire needs to help it ignite.

| Heat | Different things require a different amount of heat to make a fire burn. Some things simply melt, whereas other items will combust, causing damages.

| Oxygen | What makes a fire so scary is one of the sources it needs is air! And obviously, air (or oxygen) is everywhere. Oxygen will feed a fire, helping it to grow and live on.

| Chemical Chain Reaction | This is the feedback of heat that fuels a fire and causes a chain reaction. This helps a fire provide the heat necessary to keep the fire going.

The 4 Ways to Stop a Fire

• Cool It | While this may be common knowledge, the easiest way to put a fire out is to cool it down. This is usually done by dousing it with water from a water hose or bucket, but it’s important to remember that it can take a lot of water to put out flames.
• Smother It | If the fire becomes too large or the cooling agent isn’t working, another way to help is to stop feeding the fire. A fire can’t live without oxygen, and if you deprive it of air, it will eventually succumb. That’s where “stop, drop and roll” comes from. When your clothing catches on fire, laying down on it will smother the flames by removing oxygen.
• Starve It | A fire will continually burn as long as it has something to feed off of. Removing fuel sources will help diminish the fire.
• Interrupt the Chain Reaction | This one’s a bit more complicated. In some cases, chemicals can be used to stop the fire. A chemical known as halon was previously used to break up the chain reaction, but since it has an elevated potential for ozone depletion, it is prohibited.

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

How to Discover Hidden Leaks in Your Home | SERVPRO of Bartow County

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

If you discover a water leak in your Bartow County home, call SERVPRO of Bartow County at 770-387-7455 for help cleaning up & restoring your property.

When it comes to a waste of resources, water leaks are a major culprit. Untreated leaks are responsible for nearly 1 trillion gallons of water wasted in homes throughout the United States, which is not only wasteful, but also rather costly.

Water leaks are often quite simple and inexpensive to fix, but finding them is typically the hard part. If you suspect a water leak in your home, a few minutes trying to find the leak will be time well spent. If you know where to look, you can often discover them quickly and have them fixed in a jiffy—meaning less wasted water and less wasted money, too!

How to Find Hidden Water Leaks in Your Home

• Check Your Water Bill Each Month | The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that an average family of four will use a maximum of 12,000 gallons of water per month. If you have a water leak, a higher than average water bill will often be the first indication, so it is wise to check it each month.
• Monitor Your Water Meter | Your water meter will likely be located on the exterior of your home or by the curb on your lot, and it can tell you important information about your water usage. Take a look at what the meter reads when there is no water being used in the home, and then take a look a few hours later—if you know that no water has been used and the numbers are different, that is a sure sign that a leak is lurking.
• Test Your Toilet with Food Coloring | Toilet leaks are a common culprit of water waste, but they are rather easy to test for. Start by dispensing a few drops of food coloring into the tank of your toilet, and then check in around 10 minutes later. If there is colored water in the toilet bowl, this is a sign that you have a leak.
• Use Your Nose | If a water leak is causing damage in your home, the first sign will often be a musty odor. Make sure you take note if you smell something like this in your home, as it is often a sign that water damage has given rise to mold, which is letting off a stench.

*If you suspect that your home has water damage, SERVPRO of Bartow County can help. We are here 24/7 with a team of water restoration professionals—contact us at (770) 387-7455 today for immediate service or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com to learn more.

By Your Side Any Day, Any Time | SERVPRO of Bartow County

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

If a fire issue pops up during the holidays, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry, SERVPRO of Bartow County.

Think back to the time when you would race during a commercial break of your favorite show to use the restroom, all to get the call from across the house “it’s on!” Not that long ago, that’s what we had to do when we watched TV, there was no such thing as pause or “on demand.”

These days, though, some people don’t even watch local television, it’s all about streaming your favorite shows. Essentially, when you really think about it, life has become so adaptable to what you want that you never really have to wait for much of anything. And while that is amazing, there really are certain things that just can’t be held off. For example, an emergency disaster or accident that has caused damage to your home or business.

We get it! Those things can’t be helped, but they also can’t be ignored, and the quicker you can react, the better off you’ll be. That’s why we have technicians on hand 24⁄7 because we know most disasters or accidents don’t happen at our convenience.

| After a Fire |  

Your home or business will likely have structural damage, but also damage to the possessions inside of the building. If the fire didn’t destroy your possessions, it’s likely that they will be covered in soot.

Most people believe soot to be a powdery film when in reality it’s a sticky powder that eventually embeds itself into carpets or certain materials causing corrosion.

Along with soot and fire, you have the smell of smoke in your building that will not go away on its own. Then firefighters use massive amounts of water to put out the fire, and you realize your home is now soaked through to the studs.

| After Water Damage | 

Your home is finally “fire-free,” and now you realize it’s been drenched and water is now a major issue for you. With water damage, you have 48 hours or less to get it cleaned up before you are greeted with yet another problem–mold.

Mold can grow in a matter of hours depending on the environment. And it not only can cause even more structural damage, but now it’s a concern for your health.

Even though you’ve been put through the wringer, the reality is: The longer your home or business is “destroyed,” the more damage that can occur through other things like storms. This is why a quick reaction time to any damage is crucial.

Because we are a restoration company, we have seen damage to all kinds of buildings, and we understand that quick response is imperative. That is why we have someone ready to take your call at any moment’s notice. Our priority is helping you get your home or business on the road to recovery.

When you need help after a home or business water, fire or storm disaster, fast service is a priority, and there’s nobody faster or more prepared than SERVPRO of Bartow County. Contact us at (770) 387-7455 at any time to take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com for more information on our mitigation, restoration and cleanup services.

When You Have Water Damage, We're Who to Call | SERVPRO of Bartow County

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

If you home experiences a water leak call SERVPRO of Bartow County so we can start the drying and restoration process quickly!

Experiencing water damage is a serious concern—whether you had a frozen pipe burst in your home, discovered a hidden leak behind an appliance or experienced a flood due to severe weather, discovering damage due to water will always be a distressing event. For most people, not knowing the next steps to take to handle the damage can be one of the most stressful parts.

Fortunately, if you do discover water damage, knowing who to call is key. Acting quickly is a must when it comes to any kind of moisture. Dampness can quickly lead to mold, and water damage that is left untreated will generally worsen and become more concerning with time.

Understanding who to call can help alleviate your headache after discovering water damage so you can be certain you are in good hands.

Why Call Us for Your Water Damage at Home

We Will Get to You Quickly | We pride ourselves on our rapid response to any kind of damage, which is why we will always get to you quickly when you call us. We understand how disheartening it can be to have water damage your property, so our quick response is key to helping you regain your peace of mind.

We Will Work with Your Insurance | Did you know that many types of water damage are covered by homeowners insurance? While this is great news, the process of dealing with the insurance company can be a serious hassle, especially as you are working to regain your sense of normalcy after damage. That is why we will work with your insurance company on your behalf to ease some of the stress.

We Will Handle Moisture Completely | When it comes to water damage, you will typically be dealing with moisture you can see as well as moisture you can’t—but we make sure we will handle both. We have advanced moisture detection technology that allows us to handle hidden damage fast, so you do not have to worry about water damage or mold becoming a recurring issue after not being handled properly the first time.

*If you have water damage occur in your home, SERVPRO of Bartow County is the team of restoration professionals to count on. Contact us today at (770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com to learn more about our restoration services.

Por qué considerar SERVPRO para sus necesidades de restauración comercial | SERVPRO del condado de Bartow

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Si es dueño de un negocio, es probable que no sea ajeno a todas las cosas que hay que planificar a lo largo de su carrera, pero ¿le ha dado la debida consideración a la planificación para emergencias? Desafortunadamente, muchas empresas se encuentran alarmantemente insuficientemente preparadas para un escenario de desastre, pero planificar con anticipación es una de las mejores cosas que pueden hacer los dueños de negocios para asegurarse de poder recuperarse de un escenario inesperado.

Una parte importante del proceso de planificación de emergencias implica saber a quién llamar para iniciar el proceso de recuperación de su empresa. Se recomienda que todas las empresas investiguen sus opciones para la restauración comercial con anticipación; de esa manera, si se produce un daño, sabrá a quién llamar para comenzar el proceso de recuperación de su negocio de inmediato.

Por qué elegir SERVPRO como socio de restauración comercial

| Estamos aquí las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana, los 365 días del año | Desafortunadamente, los desastres no se ajustan al horario comercial, pero, afortunadamente, nosotros tampoco. Si experimenta daños en su negocio, estamos aquí para usted las 24 horas del día, los siete días de la semana, los 365 días del año. ¡Sí, eso incluye vacaciones! Puede ponerse en contacto con nosotros en el momento en que descubra daños en su negocio para una respuesta rápida.

| Podemos ayudar con cualquier desastre | Cuando desarrolle un plan de desastre para su negocio, rápidamente descubrirá que es imposible saber exactamente qué daño podría surgir en su camino. Por eso es importante elegir un socio de restauración que pueda manejar una variedad de problemas. Tenemos experiencia en restauración de incendios, agua y tormentas y hemos ayudado a empresas de todos los tamaños.

| Entendemos los problemas que enfrentan las empresas | Todas las ubicaciones de SERVPRO son de propiedad y operación local, lo que significa que también somos propietarios de pequeñas empresas y, como tal, comprendemos las consideraciones únicas que conlleva la restauración de daños en sus instalaciones comerciales. Trabajaremos con usted de principio a fin para asegurarnos de que podamos restaurar su negocio de manera efectiva lo más rápido posible para que pueda volver a trabajar sin demora.

* Si su propiedad comercial necesita agua, fuego, moho o restauración de daños por tormentas, no dude en llamar a SERVPRO of Bartow County las 24 horas del día. Podemos explicarle nuestros servicios y responder rápidamente a los daños en cualquier momento del día o de la noche. Contáctenos hoy al (770) 387-7455 o visite www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com para obtener más información sobre nuestros servicios comerciales de mitigación, restauración y construcción.

A Detailed Look at Water Damage | SERVPRO of Bartow County

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

If water damage catches you off-guard and leaves you all wet, you’ve got help on your side. Contact SERVPRO of Bartow County.

When you were little, did you play house? When you played pretend, I’m sure your house never had water damage. When you dreamed about owning a home, seeing water flowing through a wall or splashing on your beautiful sofa certainly wasn’t part of that dream.

As we become adults, we realize life isn’t like it was when we played pretend! Accidents or disasters happen and sometimes cause damage to your home. As a homeowner at some point or another, it’s bound to happen to you.

While you always want your home to look good, it’s also important that you keep your pipes and appliances well-equipped and maintained. This will at the very least give you a chance to fight against the water damage statistics.

24%

This is the percentage of all home insurance claims that have regard to water damage. This means that one out of every 50 homeowners files a water claim with their insurance in any given year.

48 HR 

This is the number of hours you have to get the water cleaned up in your home before mold becomes a new problem. Sometimes, it doesn’t even take 48 hours, so the quicker you can get it cleaned up, the better!

98% 

Typically 98 may seem like a pretty good number, except in this case! If you have a basement in your home, you have a 98% chance of experiencing water damage. This is a large percentage, so you must stay aware of what is going on in your basement.

$10,234

That’s some serious cash! This is the amount that an average insurance claim for water damage costs. Water can do a lot of damage in a little amount of time. It can be destructive to the structure of your home, and it’s not always an easy fix.

14,000 

Would you be shocked if we said that this is the number of Americans who experience water damage to their home each day? That’s right—every six seconds, someone is having to deal with a newly busted pipe or leaky appliance.

13,000,000,000

You see anything with the word “billion” and you start thinking of lottery winnings! Unfortunately, that’s not the case for this number. The 13 billion we are talking about is the annual cost of water damage and removal only in the United States.

These are all large numbers when you take an in-depth look. And while they can be somewhat scary, the fact is, much of this water damage is preventable. As long as you stay on top of your home maintenance, and stay aware of your surroundings, you can reduce the risk of becoming part of these statistics.

If water damage catches you off-guard and leaves your home all wet, you’ve got help on your side…SERVPRO of Bartow County! Contact us at (770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com for more information on our water restoration and cleanup services. We’re available 24-hours a day for emergency water extraction and structural drying.

Why to Consider SERVPRO for Your Commercial Restoration Needs | SERVPRO of Bartow County

12/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help 24-hours a day...everyday! Just give us a call at 770-387-7455. We can help with your commercial emergency!

If you own a business, you are likely no stranger to all the things there are to plan for throughout your career—but have you given the proper amount of consideration to planning for emergencies? Unfortunately, many businesses find themselves alarmingly underprepared for a disaster scenario, but planning ahead is one of the best things business owners can do to ensure they are able to recover from an unexpected scenario.

An important part of the emergency planning process involves knowing who to call in order to start the recovery process for your business. It is recommended that all businesses research their options for commercial restoration in advance—that way, if damage occurs, you know who to call to begin the process of getting your business back right away.

Why to Choose SERVPRO as a Commercial Restoration Partner

| We Are Here 24/7, 365 |  Unfortunately, disasters do not conform to business hours—but fortunately, we do not, either. If you experience damage to your business, we are here for you 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Yes, that includes holidays! You can get in touch with us the moment you discover damage to your business for a rapid response.

| We Can Help With Any Disaster | When you are developing a disaster plan for your business, you will quickly find that it is impossible to know exactly what damage might come your way. That is why it is important to choose a restoration partner that can handle a range of issues. We have expertise in fire, water and storm restoration and have helped businesses of every size.

| We Understand Issues That Face Businesses | All SERVPRO locations are locally owned and operated, meaning that we are small business owners, too—and as such, we understand the unique considerations that come with restoring damage to your commercial facilities. We will work with you from start to finish to ensure that we are able to effectively restore your business as quickly as possible so you can get back to work without delay.

*If your commercial property is in need of water, fire, mold or storm damage restoration, do not hesitate to give SERVPRO  of Bartow County a call 24-hours a day. We can talk you through our services and respond quickly to damage at any time of the day or night. Contact us today at (770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com to learn more about our commercial mitigation, restoration and construction services.

Prepping Your Home for Winter in a Mild Climate | SERVPRO of Bartow County

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

If winter weather should bring damage to your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Bartow County for fast, restorative solutions.

Winter weather here simply doesn’t fit that idyllic holiday narrative of a Winter Wonderland. We don’t often worry about snow (unless you count the…ahem…blizzard of March 1942) or prolonged freezes. Frozen pipes aren’t a constant worry, and we don’t need snow tires or salt trucks.

But warmer-weather residents should still consider doing some routine and preventive maintenance during the winter. Here’s what we suggest.

Have a Professional Check Your HVAC Unit | Obviously, we will need some heat this winter, so have a professional come out and perform preventive maintenance on your HVAC unit, replacing any parts that might leave you in the cold.

| Maintain the Exterior of Your Home | We still average over four inches of rain per month over the winter, making it one of the rainier portions of the year. Take precautions accordingly. Have your roof inspected, and repair or replace broken shingles. While you’re up there, check and clean the gutters so rainwater doesn’t back up and risk entering your home. If you have a chimney, now would be a good time to clean it.

| Ensure Good Seals on Doors and Windows | Don’t let cool breezes make you uncomfortable; consider installing additional insulation in your attic and sealing your windows and doors. These areas have an impact on the comfort level in your home, not to mention the effect they can have on your utility bill.

| Prepare Your Vehicles for Winter | While Cartersville doesn’t receive a lot of snow, we need to make sure our vehicles are ready for the winter weather, should it arrive. New windshield wipers may be in order as well, since it’s a good idea to replace them every six months. You might not have to deal with driving on ice, but you’ll likely end up driving in the rain—and you want to be sure you can do it safely.

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

Practicing Cooking Safety Ahead of the Holiday Season | SERVPRO of Bartow County

11/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here even during the holiday season to help homes and businesses recover when fire damage happens. Give us a call 24/7!

We are all familiar with the core adages about teamwork, such as “teamwork makes the dream work” and “all for one and one for all,” but even those helpful sayings do not always get across how important having the right team for the job can be. When it comes to trials in life, having the right team on your side can make all the difference—and honestly, there are few things more trying than experiencing damages to your home or business.

If you have damage from water, fire, a storm or some other cause, it can be an extremely difficult thing to handle. From physically handling the damage to dealing with the aftermath (and the insurance claims payment process), there is a lot to consider. Fortunately, however, we are here to be your support team during every step of the way in order to make the process as easy on you as possible—see why below:

SERVPRO of Bartow County Responds Quickly

As you can see from all of our advertising materials, our quick response time in the Bartow County area is a major source of pride for us. Our customers can call us 24 hours a day and we will spring into action, assembling our technicians and our equipment to take care of the job quickly and effectively.

SERVPRO of Bartow County Understands the Restoration Process

When it comes to restoration, there is often more than meets the eye to deal with. For example, in a fire damage scenario, there will typically be water damage as well—and when there is water damage, there is often hidden moisture that can lead to mold or mildew. We have a solid understanding of the restoration process due to our extensive training process that adheres to the IICRC standards, so we can handle anything that damage sends our way.

SERVPRO of Bartow County Is Here to Support You

In addition to being an interruption in life, sustaining damage is something that is very emotionally taxing and stressful—which is something we completely understand. We are here to be a support system for you throughout the process, from helping your family pack the essentials while we handle the damage to helping you through the insurance claims process.

*If you have sustained damage to your home or business, we hope you agree that SERVPRO of Bartow County is the team to call. With the backing of over 1,700 locally owned and operated franchises nationwide, we can make just about any type of home or commercial property damage “Like it never even happened.” Contact us at any hour for emergency services at (770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com to learn more about our processes or get more information about how we can help.

The Main Causes of House Fires | SERVPRO of Bartow County

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO of Bartow County is here for you if your home is affected by fire.

A residential fire is a frightening experience, and one every homeowner wants to avoid. Fires are unpredictable and seem to start from nowhere, causing damage to the home. Homeowners go to great lengths to avoid fires, but despite years of ad campaigns and awareness advertisements, more than 25% of all fires still occur in the home.

What are the top causes of these house fires and what can we do to reduce that number? Let’s take a look at how we can prevent them.

| Cooking | Cooking leads the list as the top cause of home fires and injuries, although, interestingly enough, not casualties. Almost half of all home fires start in the kitchen, and the No. 1 reason is unattended cooking. Want to avoid a fire at home? Stay in the kitchen at the stove or grill while your food is being prepared.

|Heating Equipment | Heating equipment is responsible for 14% of all home fires nationally. A combination of mishaps, equipment malfunctions and flammable materials placed too close to heat sources lead to this scenario, and portable space heaters are the top culprit.

| Electrical Fires | Electrical safety has improved over the years as new technology is introduced and building codes are updated. While appliances and electrical devices in the home are generally more efficient and require less electricity, there are more of these devices in the home, driving up the usage of electricity. Faulty wiring and the overloading of circuits are factors that contribute to electrical fires at home. Other top causes are the use of frayed or faulty outlets and appliance cords or extension cords that are damaged.

| Intentional Fires | Unfortunately, over 28,000 intentional home fires are started every year. Intentional home fires, or arson, still happens at an alarming rate. Some of the reasons are pyromania, crime concealment and vandalism.

| Smoking Materials | According to the CDC, smoking has declined by two-thirds in the past 50 years after the Surgeon General warned of health consequences. But tragically, despite only being responsible for 5% of home fire occurrences, fires started by smoking materials are the leading cause of civilian fire deaths.

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO of Bartow County is here for you if your home is affected by fire or smoke damage. Contact your locally owned SERVPRO team, SERVPRO of Bartow County today at (770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com to see how we can help.

Why Choosing a Team that Cares is Vital for Restoration | SERVPRO of Bartow County

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help make fire damage "Like it never even happened." Give us a call 24-hours a day for emergency fire restoration.

A house fire is something that no one wants to experience, but like many other emergencies in life, they can’t always be avoided. Having a fire in your home is a traumatic experience—not only are there the physical considerations of getting to safety to consider, but there is also the damage to your home and belongings that can take a long-lasting emotional toll.

If you have experienced a house fire, recovery may feel like a daunting process, but it is possible. Working with the right team of fire restoration experts can make all the difference in the aftermath, which is why we are always here to help. Read on to learn more about our house fire restoration process.

Why You Should Choose a Team That Cares for House Fire Restoration

| We can get to you quickly when you call us | Fires can cause extensive damage to homes, but putting them out can as well. Often, firefighters may have to break windows, cut holes in roofs and fully saturate the home with water to fight back the flames—and seeing this kind of damage to your property can be jarring. That is why we prioritize having a quick response whenever you call us. We are here 24/7 and can get started on your restoration right away, so we can get the process moving forward quickly.

| We can work with your insurance company | Contacting your insurance company is one of the first things you should do after a fire so you can get the claims process underway—but for people who have just been through a traumatic event, sitting on the phone with an insurance company is the last thing they likely want to do. We can handle a major portion of the insurance communications on your behalf to streamline the process.

| We will help move you in and out | Experiencing a house fire can take a toll on everyone’s mental health, as can all of the tasks one must do afterward. Our team of restoration professionals can help you salvage belongings to move out while they work, and will help you get your things back once restoration is complete.

*If your Bartow County home or business experiences a fire, you can depend on SERVPRO of Bartow County to help you with the restoration process. We are here 24/7 to tell you more or to respond to damage—contact us today at (770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com to learn more.

Cleaning Solutions for Your Commercial Business | SERVPRO of Bartow County

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Are you ready to have one of the cleanest businesses in Bartow County? Contact SERVPRO of Bartow County for all your cleaning needs.

At SERVPRO of Bartow County, we’re available 24 hours a day to restore your home if a disaster occurs. It doesn’t make a difference if it was an accident, storm-related damage, water damage or fire, we’re here to take care of those in our community.

Yes, we provide restoration services for homeowners, but we also support the business community. That includes providing restoration services, as well as routine services specific to businesses. Take cleaning for example.

We understand that the condition of your facilities speaks volumes to your customers. Let us keep those facilities cleaned and sanitized so you can focus on your customers.

Businesses of All Sizes Use SERVPRO for Cleaning

Pleasing your customers is your mission. Let ours be making your business shine! We provide top-shelf cleaning and sanitization for all types of commercial spaces:

| Business Retail Locations | Such as local specialty retailers, national chain stores, malls and convenience stores. From local convenience stores to the mega-chains, we give all businesses facilities to be proud of.

| Universities to Preschools and Any Educational Facilities | Unfortunately, studies show that cleaning by students and teachers only clears half the bacteria from desks, and for items that aren’t cleaned daily, the numbers are worse.

| Healthcare Facilities | For example urgent care centers, doctors’ offices, hospitals and even hospice facilities. In facilities where cleanliness is not only the top priority but a mandate, we can ensure facilities are clean above and beyond CDC guidelines.

| Health and Fitness Facilities, Movie Theaters, and Convention Centers | Anywhere that people can congregate should be cleaned on a regular basis.

| Restaurants, Food Service Facilities, Distribution Centers and Warehouses | These places need to be cleaned frequently and thoroughly! Sanitation is a must for dining and distribution points. Let us take cleaning off your plate so you can focus on the food.

| Property Management | from multi-level high rises and commercial complexes to small office buildings. Environmental care and sanitation services are essential for commercial complexes and office buildings. Your tenants will be appreciative of your efforts to provide a clean working environment.

The average person misses between one and six work days per year and comes to work sick on other days, and that costs employers an outrageous $260 billion per year due to lost productivity. Let SERVPRO help you turn the tide of workplace germs and ensure a healthy, clean environment for your teams and customers.

*When you’re ready to have one of the cleanest businesses in Bartow County, SERVPRO of Bartow County is (770) 387-7455 ready to help. Contact us at  to get the pros working on the cleaning so you can work on the work.

When You Need Restoration, SERVPRO is the Team to Call | SERVPRO of Bartow County

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is away ready to help homeowners who have fire and water damage. We can dispatch help to start emergency services 24/7.

We are all familiar with the core adages about teamwork, such as “teamwork makes the dream work” and “all for one and one for all,” but even those helpful sayings do not always get across how important having the right team for the job can be. When it comes to trials in life, having the right team on your side can make all the difference—and honestly, there are few things more trying than experiencing damages to your home or business.

If you have damage from water, fire, a storm or some other cause, it can be an extremely difficult thing to handle. From physically handling the damage to dealing with the aftermath (and the insurance claims payment process), there is a lot to consider. Fortunately, however, we are here to be your support team during every step of the way in order to make the process as easy on you as possible—see why below:

SERVPRO Responds Quickly

As you can see from all of our advertising materials, our quick response time in the Bartow County area is a major source of pride for us. Our customers can call us 24 hours a day and we will spring into action, assembling our technicians and our equipment to take care of the job quickly and effectively.

H1>SERVPRO Understands the Restoration Process

When it comes to restoration, there is often more than meets the eye to deal with. For example, in a fire damage scenario, there will typically be water damage as well—and when there is water damage, there is often hidden moisture that can lead to mold or mildew. We have a solid understanding of the restoration process due to our extensive training process that adheres to the IICRC standards, so we can handle anything that damage sends our way.

SERVPRO Is Here to Support You

In addition to being an interruption in life, sustaining damage is something that is very emotionally taxing and stressful—which is something we completely understand. We are here to be a support system for you throughout the process, from helping your family pack the essentials while we handle the damage to helping you through the insurance claims process.

*If you have sustained damage to your home or business, we hope you agree that SERVPRO of Bartow County is the team to call. With the backing of over 1,700 locally owned and operated franchises nationwide, we can make just about any type of home or commercial property damage “Like it never even happened.” Contact us at any hour for emergency services at (770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com to learn more about our processes or get more information about how we can help.

This is How You Can Determine if You Can Trust Your Commercial Restoration Company | SERVPRO of Bartow County

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

You can rest easy knowing you’ve got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line, SERVPRO of Bartow County.

Disasters come in all shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common: They are unplanned and they cause a major disruption to life. Whether it’s an office fire or a tornado, odds are you may need the services of a restoration company. When that happens, you’re going to be in a tricky situation because you need to hire someone quickly to begin the restoration process.

Consider these criteria when hiring a restoration company:

Are They Legitimate?

It’s important to know that not everyone who shows up after an emergency is there to help. Unfortunately, disasters can bring out the worst of the “fly-by-night contractors.” All they want to do is make a quick buck and provide as little service as possible.

We are not newcomers, as we have been in business for over 50 years. We have earned a solid reputation in the restoration community as a quality provider of services and have millions of satisfied customers to prove it.

Plus, we are trusted by national brands like the PGA Tour. They work with only the highest quality companies, and we’re proud to maintain their affiliated facilities and tour stops.

How Fast Can Resources Be Deployed?

When disaster attacks your community, you need to know that someone locally can respond right away and begin working on your restoration.

You can’t squander time when a storm rips through town and unleashes its fury. That’s why we’re on call 24⁄7 for emergency situations.

Are They Locally Owned With National Resources?

SERVPRO of Bartow County is locally owned and operated, which means there’s always a team right here in Cartersville ready to act. But when major disasters come or there is a swell of demand, your local franchise is backed by the full, nationwide network of SERVPRO franchises.

This means when there’s a rush during a disaster, we’ll be sending in expertly trained people to assist and make sure every local and regional business owner or property manager in need gets the service they require.

*When you call SERVPRO of Bartow County, 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 your commercial property, contact us to get our local experts and nationwide network on your side.

What to Know About Fire Extinguishers in the Workplace | SERVPRO of Bartow County

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

If you business or commercial property has experienced fire damage SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help 24-hours a day...every day!

If you own a commercial space in Cartersville or the surrounding Bartow County area, it is important to do everything you can to ensure the fire safety of the area for yourself and your staff. Workplace fires are not only dangerous, but they can be quite costly, too. Businesses will often have to shut down for a period of time after a fire to properly have the area restored, which can lead to significant losses in revenue and expenses.

Just as it is with home fire safety, making sure you have an adequate number of fire extinguishers is a fantastic way to cut down on the risks for your commercial space. Below, we will go through some of the things that business owners need to know about fire extinguishers so they can be certain they are being as safe as possible.

What to Know About Fire Extinguishers as a Business Owner

| You Are Required to Train Employees on Their Use | 

Not only does OSHA require businesses to have an adequate number of fire extinguishers in the workplace, but they also require business owners to train employees how to use them. You should conduct fire extinguisher training with every member of your workforce at least every year to be certain that everyone knows how to take action should a fire start.

| You Need to Choose the Right Type of Fire Extinguisher for Your Needs | 

The chemical composition of fires can vary based on what causes them to start, and as such, the most efficient way to douse them can vary as well. Choosing the right class of fire extinguisher for your needs is a must to ensure that you have the right tool for the job should a fire start in your  commercial space.

| You Need to Check Your Fire Extinguishers Regularly | 

While fire extinguishers do have a long shelf life, hopefully they will not need to be used regularly, so it is important to check them at least every few months and make sure they are still in working order. Most modern fire extinguishers have a pressure nozzle that will indicate when the unit should be replaced, so be sure all of yours are within this threshold.

*If you’ve experienced fire or smoke damage to your commercial property, you can depend on SERVPRO of Bartow County to make the fire and smoke damage “Like it never even happened.” We are here 24/7 to help you sort through the red tape that comes along with restoring the aftermath. Contact us today at (770) 387-7455 for emergency service or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com to learn more about our commercial fire and smoke damage restoration services.

The Most Common Fire Safety Code Violations for Businesses to Watch For | SERVPRO of Bartow County

9/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help businesses recover after commercial fire damage. Call us 24-hour a day..we are alway here to help!

If you own a Bartow County business, you are likely juggling many things throughout your daily work routine, and it is not uncommon for a hectic schedule to allow for fire safety to slip through the cracks. While fire codes may seem like quite the nuisance, they are actually vital in keeping you and your staff safe when on the commercial premises. Though keeping up with them can be taxing, the safety they provide is extremely worth it.

Unfortunately, commercial fires are more common than most business owners realize, and it is estimated that over 100,000 businesses are impacted by fires every year. This can lead to costly damage to your commercial property as well as downtime while you have the damages restored—but by adhering to fire codes, you can reduce the chances that your business will experience a fire at all.

Below, we will take a look at the most common workplace related fire violations that have been reported in commercial spaces across the United States so you can be on the lookout for these issues at your own business.

Blocked Fire Exits

According to a 2019 report, blocked fire exits were the No.1 fire safety code violation among businesses. Leaving merchandise, stored items or other blockages in front of fire doors may seem harmless, but in the event that everyone needs to evacuate quickly, it could be a deadly oversight. All fire doors in a commercial space must be able to be opened quickly and easily, and must be self-closing to hinder the spread of fire.

Improper Use of Extension Cords

Many businesses that utilize a lot of technology, such as stores and office spaces, will make use of extension cords regularly. However, when used improperly, extension cords can cause a serious problem for fire safety. Plugging extension cords into one another and overextending them are both fire risks that are entirely avoidable.

Malfunctioning Exit Signs

Did you know that all commercial buildings are required to have illuminated, unblocked exit signs? While this may seem like a silly rule, if the lights go out during a fire, having a properly illuminated sign can be key for a safe escape for those left in the building.

*If you have experienced fire damage in your commercial space, you can count on SERVPRO of Bartow County for assistance getting your business back up and running. We are here 24/7 to provide a swift response to your business’ damage—Contact us today at (770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com for more information.

Autumn Weather Means Football...and an Increased Risk of Fire | SERVPRO of Bartow County

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Be mindful about fall fire safety. Always remember that SERVPRO of Bartow County is the trusted leader in the restoration industry.

Anybody else tired of the intense heat of summer? While it might not feel like it quite yet, fall is quickly approaching! It officially begins on Sept. 22 this year. 

As fall sets in, the evenings are starting to cool. The oppressive humidity is dropping as the seasons begin to change. Football is being played everywhere, and people are making plans to go camping. Fall is perfect for many fun activities. But as seasons change, so do the fire risks; each season brings its own potential fire hazards as outdoor activities begin. So grab a pumpkin spice latte, and let’s assess the fire risk for the season.

- Fire Pits, Grilling and Campfires -

• Fire pits see increased usage as we spend more fall evenings outdoors and grills are used at tailgates and at home.
• Make sure your grill is cleaned of excess grease before starting it this fall. Failing to clean the grill properly, removing grease specifically, is the No. 1 cause for grill fires.
• Building a campfire is almost as important as knowing how to properly extinguish it. Use a match or lighter to set fire to dry leaves or twigs, then add dry wood and bigger sticks.
• Never use an accelerant like kerosene or lighter fluid. Your fire should be built away from structures and out from under trees.
• Make sure to extinguish the fire completely with water and ensure no embers are left. Any embers you leave behind can start up again with the right breeze.

- Yard Cleanup and Pruning -

• Even though the best time to trim shrubs and trees is just prior to spring, many homeowners do this activity in the fall of the year. Your yard is almost certainly full of dry, brown leaves, and many people like to burn them as a disposal method.
• This is fine, provided it’s legal in your area, but only burn leaves in an area that can be controlled and have a water source that can reach the fire if needed.

- Precautions for Space Heaters -

• Make sure to take the proper precautions with portable space heaters. They are one of the most frequent causes of home fires in fall and winter.
• Keep your heater away from anything flammable on any side. Ensure it has the proper safety mechanisms such as an automatic shutoff should the heater be tipped over or overheat.

- Halloween -

We’ll share more on this later in an upcoming blog post, but candles, decorations and even costumes can be fire hazards. Be attentive and responsible as you celebrate Halloween.

*If your Cartersville or Acworth home should suffer fire or smoke damage, remember the trusted leader in the fire restoration and recovery industry...SERVPRO of Bartow County. You can contact SERVPRO of Bartow County at (770) 387-7455 to get your property fully restored, including odor removal that will make that annoying smoke smell “Like it never even happened.”

How to Avoid Water Damage in Your Bartow County Home | SERVPRO of Bartow County

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of Bartow County team if you are dealing with any water damage.

Water leaking into your home in places it shouldn’t be always creates stress and usually an expensive repair bill. Situations like this are faced by many Bartow County homeowners each year, and we rarely get notice of the impending disaster.

Water can enter your home any number of different ways. Knowing which areas of your property are most vulnerable or have the highest likelihood of experiencing a water damage event, is an important step in preventing water losses. Let’s take a look at some of the most common sources of water leaks and water damage:

• Supply Line Drips | Supply lines to toilets and faucets are a great place to look for drips. Pay special attention if your home was recently constructed, since these drips usually occur quickly after water pressure is put into the pipes.
• Refrigerator Drip Pan | Occasionally, refrigerator drip pans can overflow. The drip pan is used to catch water during the defrost cycle of most modern-day refrigerators. The defrosted water usually hits an evaporator coil and turns into a small amount of steam. If the evaporator coil isn’t working or the drips from defrost miss the coil, the water flows to the drip pan.
• Debris-filled and Clogged Gutters | Gutters are a leading culprit of water damage in homes. Clogged gutters are a serious problem, and one that can be prevented. If you have trees around your home, leaves and other tree debris can fall onto your roof and end up in the gutter system. Clogged gutters can create multiple problems from roof damage to foundation issues if the water is not properly directed away from the home.
• Roof Issues | The roof system is designed to move the water off of the roof and into the gutters. We’ve already addressed clogged gutters and roof issues that create similar situations to clogged gutters. Gutters usually cause issues on the outside walls. Roof issues can create leaks on any part of the home. Roof issues are challenging to diagnose as water takes the path of least resistance and is often far away from where the leak finally emerges.
• Drainage Pipes | Pipes draining water and waste from your home are common places for leaks to occur. In the past, exterior drain/piping systems were sometimes made of clay, and often tree roots would find the moisture and infiltrate the pipe, causing a clog or backup over time as more of the tree roots grew into the pipe. Clay pipes are still in use today as the technology has evolved so they seal better and are most resistant to root intrusion.
• Clogged Toilet | No one wants to deal with this! There are a number of tools available to handle this task. Plungers, drain snakes and chemical solutions are all available to assist with this chore.

Keeping your home properly maintained is the key to avoiding these leak disasters. Frequently inspect the systems that protect your home from water intrusion. It can save you time, money and the stress of dealing with a water disaster.

*If a water leak happens at your home and turns into a big (or small) problem, you’ve got the best team in the business on your side...SERVPRO of Bartow County!

You can contact SERVPRO of Bartow County 24-hours a day at (770) 387-7455. Call us today so we can get started ASAP or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com for more information.

How Cooking Fires Commonly Get Started | SERVPRO of Bartow County

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help make your home's fire damage "Like it never even happened." Give us a call 24/7...we're always here to help!

Cooking is something that most of us do in our homes every single day, but did you know that every time you cook, you are at risk for a fire starting? Cooking is the No. 1 cause of fires within the home, and there are a number of ways that these dangerous fires can begin. Because of how often most people use their kitchen, it can be easy to become lax about fire safety, which can quickly lead to an emergency scenario.

Practicing fire safety is important every single time you switch the stove on. Below, we will be looking at some of the main causes of kitchen fires so you can be certain you are practicing prevention each and every time you use your kitchen.

The Common Ways That Cooking Fires Start

• When Food is Left Unattended on the Stovetop | Leaving food unattended is one of the most dangerous things you can do while cooking, as it increases the likelihood that a minor issue will lead to a fire that goes unnoticed until it is too late. It is important to always stay in the room while you are cooking and to never use appliances if you are drowsy or have consumed alcohol.
• When Flammable Objects Are Too Close to the Stove | Putting flammable objects near the stove is something many people do not realize is dangerous until it is too late. Dish towels, pot holders and wooden cooking utensils are all fire hazards when they are near a hot stovetop eye, so be sure to keep the area directly around the stove clear for safety.
• When Grease is Allowed to Build Up | Grease fires are extremely dangerous because they only grow worse when doused with water, which is many people’s first instinct in a fire. Trapped grease can become highly flammable, whether it is built up on the cooktop or thrown away while still hot.
• When Items Are Stored in the Oven | If you store items in the oven, it can be very easy to forget about them until it is too late—as in, when the oven is turned on and the item inside catches fire. Whether it is food, cutting boards or something else altogether, avoid storing anything in your oven and always check inside before preheating.

*If you have fire damage in your home, you can count on SERVPRO of Bartow County for restoration assistance. Contact us at  any time to learn more about house fire damage and how we can help.

Be Mindful of Summer Storms | SERVPRO of Bartow County

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Bartow County is on the line, ready to make things right.

Summer is here, and with it comes many things that we love and one we don’t! Vacations, pool parties, days full of sunshine…and summer storms. If it feels like there are more storms in the summertime, you’re right! Conditions are perfect for afternoon thunderstorms since all you need are moisture and warm air. In Bartow County, we can expect high temperatures in August and precipitation a few inches above normal.

Be Storm-Aware

Now that we know storms are more prevalent in summer, it doesn’t mean you get to take them lightly. Always listen and heed storm warnings broadcast by local weather experts. If necessary, consider cancelling outdoor events. Consider getting an NOAA Weather radio that you can use in the event of a power outage.

The possibility of flooding exists with every storm, and many times it’s hard to predict the amount of rain a storm will generate. It’s best to stay off the roads during storms. High winds can break tree branches, so keep limbs trimmed and dead limbs removed before a storm hits. Move garbage cans indoors along with outside items like lawn furniture that could be turned into a projectile during high winds.

Too many people die every year in storm-related weather. Caution is the best policy, and taking storms for granted could be a serious mistake.

Understand Safety Precautions

It goes without saying, but let’s say it anyway: Don’t go outside when lightning is near. Wait at least 30 minutes from the last thunderclap to venture back outside. Lightning has been known to strike 10 miles away from a storm!

• Avoid bathing and showering, and stay away from windows during a storm.
• Make sure you have an emergency kit prepared, and know your evacuation routes in advance.
• If you’re caught in a flood, try to get to high ground. Avoid flood waters if possible and don’t drive through standing or rushing water.
• Fast-moving flood waters can easily knock a person off his or her feet, and in many instances, they can move vehicles! Flood waters conceal hidden road damage from view, increasing the risk and danger level.

*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, contact SERVPRO of Bartow County, ready to make things right again.

Why Thunderstorms Can Be So Dangerous (Part II) | SERVPRO of Bartow County

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County can make any storm damaged to your property "Like it never even happened."

Summer storms are a very common occurrence in Bartow County, but because of their frequency, it is easy to forget that they can pose serious threats to your safety. Not only can storms cause serious damage to homes and property, but they can also threaten lives and lead to serious catastrophes.

Any time there is thunder associated with rain, there is a serious threat of danger. If that thunderstorm is upgraded to a severe thunderstorm (which indicates that hail over an inch in diameter is present and winds are greater than 58 miles per hour), there are even more concerns to consider. It is important to understand why thunderstorms are dangerous so you can take proper precautions any time one is in the forecast.

Why Thunderstorms Are a Dangerous Weather Event 

| The Danger of Lightning Strikes | Lightning occurs during every thunderstorm, even if you do not see it—in fact, thunder is a result of lightning, not the other way around. While it is a common myth that lightning will only strike the highest object in an area, lightning can strike anywhere. If lightning strikes a person, it can cause serious injury or be fatal. If lightning strikes a house, it can cause a fire or an electrical short, which can be quite dangerous for anyone inside.

| The Danger of Flooding | Flooding is far more dangerous than people often give it credit for. Flash flooding causes more annual deaths than hurricanes, tornadoes or lightning, and it can happen extremely fast. Many people do not realize how dangerous flood waters can be, so the majority of deaths are due to people attempting to walk or drive through flooded areas and being swept away.

| The Danger of High Winds | While tornadoes are often the main thing people associate with thunderstorm danger, simple high winds can still cause major issues. Wind can lead to felled branches, household damages and injuries due to debris being dislodged and blowing around in storms. It is wise to secure any patio furniture or other loose objects if high winds are in the forecast to minimize risks.

*If you have damage due to storms, you can count on SERVPRO of Bartow County to help. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our restoration services or to report damage to your home or business.

What Sets SERVPRO Apart | SERVPRO of Bartow County

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with any damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Bartow County is your local restoration expert.

As a business or home owner in Bartow County, your responsibilities never stop. It’s up to you to have your operations, whether at home or in business, running smoothly. Add to that the need to be efficient with limited resources while keeping morale high. That all changes when disaster strikes. Those responsibilities are set aside, and your new focus is disaster recovery. Whether you’re prepared or not is irrelevant, you still feel the pressure to step into a role you neither wanted nor agreed too.

SERVPRO of Bartow County can help relieve the pressure! Why? Because it’s what we do. Disaster recovery is our job, not yours. When life throws you a curve, you can trust SERVPRO of Bartow County to get you back on track.

Ready, Set, Go...

We’re ready at a moment’s notice to help you recover from a disaster. After all, time is critical after a disaster. Who has time to wait when the house is full of water or there is a fire at the office? We don’t have to get ready. Since we’re already ready, we can be faster to your disaster!

Quick and Ready to Support You in a Time of Disaster

Minutes matter in a disaster situation, and we understand that…Each minute that passes allows for more mold growth, more smoke smell to permeate the building or more water damage. A quick response is imperative and with a local office right here in Bartow County, you’ll reap the benefit to quick response time.

Our Techs Are Specialty-Trained for Both Commercial and Residential Services

Since disasters target everyone equally, homes and businesses can be victims of damage. We have custom solutions for a number of disaster scenarios. We can get your home or business back to normal and get you back to your normal routine.

"Like it never even happened," Is Our Mantra

Our satisfaction comes from recovering and restoring your home or business after a disaster. We won’t stop until your property is restored to its original state.

A Changing World Requires Modified Services

Our world is changing. Today, disease prevention is at the forefront of our minds. That’s why we now provide cleaning services that go beyond what the normal janitorial staff provides. If you want to ensure your premises are sanitized and provide your employees and customers a safe working environment and shopping experience, we can provide that ultra-clean space you desire.

Natural disasters happen. Accidents happen. Pipes burst, storms erupt, fires blaze! When disaster strikes, your local SERVPRO is ready and waiting for your call so you can get back to your life.

*Regardless of why you need cleanup or disaster recovery, SERVPRO of Bartow County 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 Bartow County.

Preventing Grill Fires at Your Summer | SERVPRO of Bartow County

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

If your home experiences fire damage call SERVPRO of Bartow County 24-hours day. We are always here to help!

In our opinion, it is indisputable that grilling is one of the best parts of summer! Whether you prefer burgers, steaks or fresh vegetables, grilling is a great way to get outside, keep your kitchen from getting warm and enjoy a fresh-cooked meal with a taste that can’t be beat. 

While Atlantans are big fans of grilling, we are even bigger fans of grilling safely. Grill fires are far more common than you might think. Grills are the cause of more than 10,000 fires every year according to the National Fire Protection Agency, causing over $149 million in property damages.

Fortunately, grill fires are something that can typically be prevented with good maintenance and smart cooking habits. Be sure to stay safe as you grill out this summer!

| What Is a Grill Flare-up? |

• A flare-up on the grill is often confused with a grease fire, but they are not the same thing. A flare-up on the grill is the result of fat from food dripping down into the heating element of the grill. 
• While they are normal, if your grill is too close to a deck, structure or home, they can quickly spread and cause serious damage.

| How Can I Prevent a Grill Flare-up? |

• Clean Your Grill After Every Use - One of the most important things you can do to prevent flare-ups on your grill is getting into the habit of cleaning it regularly. The buildup of fat deposits on the grill can quickly lead to flare-ups if they are not addressed. 
• Trim Excess Fat - If you are cooking fatty meats such as steak, trim off as much fat as possible to avoid the likelihood of a flare-up occurring. If you are using a marinade, minimize the amount of oil you use to reduce the flammable material that is coming into contact with the grill.
• Use a Two-Zone Cooking Method - A two-zone grilling method refers to adding coals on one side of the grill, while leaving the other side empty so it remains cool. That way, if a flare-up occurs, you can quickly move the food to the cooler area of the grill while the flare-up dies out.

*If you have fire damage from grilling or anything else, you can count on SERVPRO of Bartow County to help. Contact us today at 770-387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com to learn more about our fire restoration services and how we can assist you.

The Risk of Wildfires and the Role of Defensible Space | SERVPRO of Bartow County

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged by fire or water loss event, SERVPRO of Bartow County is ready and able to restore your property to preloss condition.

There are many risks property owners have to deal with, and one that is happening with more frequency is wildfire. You might not think of wildfire as being a common source of house fires, but the risk is higher than you’d think. Each year, billions of acres of land burn across the country, and that land contains many houses. But you can take steps to protect your home and property. 

Simply being more careful with fire is a great first step. According to the National Park Service, 85% of fires are caused by humans. Beyond being more careful, creating a “defensible space” around your property is a great way to reduce the risk of damage from a wildfire.

What Is Defensible Space?

Defensible space is a technical term for a fire break. In order for wildfires to survive and thrive, they need fuel. The more fuel available, the hotter and faster the wildfire moves.

By removing the fuel around the outside of your property and creating a buffer zone, aka defensible space, a fire approaching your house will slow and firefighters will have a chance to control and eventually stop the wildfire. You create defensible space by removing combustible materials, such as debris, and incorporating fireproof elements in your landscaping.

Defensible space is required by law in California, but in Georgia, it’s simply a recommendation—a recommendation that can save you a lot of heartache in the long run.

Wildfires Are on the Rise

While we often think of wildfires occurring only on the West Coast, that’s simply not true. Every single state was affected by the destruction of wildfires in 2020. Of the 59,000 wildfires last year, over 10,000 occurred in California. Here in Georgia, we experienced 1,699 wildfires, burning 5,677 acres of land.

While the risk is lower in Georgia, lower is not the same as zero. It’s important to take steps to protect your home, and defensible space is one way to do so.

*If your home is damaged by fire of any sort, wild or not, SERVPRO of Bartow County is ready and able to repair the damage caused. Get in touch today at (770) 387-7455 to get the SERVPRO of Bartow County pros on your team.

A Look at how Business Interruption Insurance Can Help You in the Event of a Disaster | SERVPRO of Bartow County

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County 24-hours a day or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com for more information on commercial restoration services.

As a business owner, you hope that you can continue to work toward your future and invest in your business without interruption—but sometimes, Mother Nature has other plans. Events like natural disasters can come about suddenly and cause serious damage to commercial spaces, prompting serious repairs and even closures in certain scenarios.

While this is something that would be unfortunate in any circumstance, for the under-insured business owner, it could be downright devastating. Below, we will be taking a look at how business interruption insurance can help you through these types of pitfalls so you can reopen your doors quickly after an emergency situation.

What Is Business Interruption Insurance?

Business interruption insurance is designed to provide coverage to your business if it can't operate due to a covered event such as a natural disaster. It ensures you can still pay your overhead and static expenses, even when your business is unable to generate revenue during repairs.

What Is Covered by Business Interruption Insurance?

While all policies will vary, business interruption insurance will generally cover the following:

• Estimated profits the business would have accrued during the closure period, based on
• statements provided by the business owner
• Fixed costs, such as rent, licenses and taxes that are due regardless of the operating status
• Employee wages to retain your staff
• A temporary operating location in some cases so you can resume operations
• Extra expenses related to the closure

Do I Need Business Interruption Insurance?

While ultimately, the decision about your coverage is up to you, business interruption insurance is definitely something that every business owner is wise to consider. Making sure that you can

keep yourself afloat during times of closure can make all the difference in the future of your operations.

Often, for events like fire, flooding or storm damage, the process of repairs and reopening can take much longer than people anticipate—and if you do not have business interruption insurance, these closures can be extremely costly to pay out of pocket.

*If your business is damaged due to an emergency or disaster, SERVPRO of Bartow County can help you with your restoration quickly. Contact us 24/7 at(770) 387-7455 or visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com for more information.

Why Thunderstorms Can Be So Dangerous | SERVPRO of Bartow County

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County can restore your property to preloss condition when storm damage strikes. Call us 24-hours a day, we are alway here to help!

Thunderstorms are an extremely common weather occurrence, but they can also be a dangerous one. While many thunderstorms pass without incident, there are those that do not—and between high winds, lightning, hail, flooding and other issues that thunderstorms can cause, there are many ways that the weather can turn dangerous quickly.

A thunderstorm encompasses any storm that has thunder, which also means it has lightning. Severe thunderstorms are defined as storms that contain hail that is one inch or larger and straight-line winds of 58 miles per hour or more.

Below, we will look at some of the ways this weather can cause hazards so you can stay safe the next time one blows through your area.

The Dangers Associated With Thunderstorms

Damage and Injury from Lightning Strikes - Lightning strikes are one of the most dangerous elements of thunderstorms, and it is reported that they cause around 300 injuries every year. This does not include the damage that lightning can cause to homes, such as starting a house fire or felling trees that can then fall on structures. Every thunderstorm also produces lightning, so even if you do not see it, it is a possibility.

Property Damage Due to Hail - Hail is a frightening force, and it can cause serious damage to anything it impacts. In a severe storm, when the hail in question is an inch or larger, there can be damage to unsheltered cars, injuries to humans that are not adequately covered and significant damages to the roofs and siding of homes. Hail can fall at tremendous speeds, making it a painful and powerful force.

Harm from Flash Flooding - Flooding is a serious issue, and even for areas that are not in known flood plains, it can cause quite a few problems. Flash floods can occur any time there is heavy rain for a plethora of reasons—even if storm drains back up or small ditches become filled with water, heavy rain can quickly turn these things into a life-threatening flooding scenario. Flooded roadways are also quite dangerous, as people attempt to cross them and damage their cars or begin to get carried away by the tide.

*Thunderstorms are dangerous and can cause significant damage to Bartow County homes or commercial spaces. If you have damage due to a thunderstorm, you can count on SERVPRO of Marietta West to help. Contact us 24⁄7 for more information about our storm restoration practices or give us a call at (770) 387-7455 for immediate service.

What is the Financial Impact of the Weather? More Than You Think | SERVPRO of Bartow County

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

When storms damage your home or business, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO of Bartow County to start the restoration process.

What’s missing from last year’s news cycle that was dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic? Would you believe the ever-increasing cost of financial disasters caused by the weather?

2020 set financial loss records due to weather-related events. In 2020, we experienced the largest financial loss in recorded history due to adverse weather.

When a storm generates damage exceeding $1 billion in costs, it is classified as a disaster. The United States accumulated 22 of these last year!

And most storms didn’t generate the billion dollar damage limit to be counted in this number. Tropical storms were so plentiful last year the National Weather Service had to use the Greek alphabet to generate more storm names.

The Negative Financial Impact of Thunderstorms

It would be easy to think that hurricanes are responsible for more property damage and financial loss than other weather-related causes. However, the facts tell a different story.

Severe thunderstorms generate far more insurance claims and payouts than hurricanes. Severe thunderstorms, and the tornadoes generated by them, were responsible for more damage last year than hurricanes.

Derecho—that’s not a term you hear every day. A derecho is an exceedingly rare weather phenomena that can happen anywhere in the world, but is most likely to occur in the great plains of the United States.

Happening once or twice per year these storms are extremely dangerous. A derecho generates 60 mph straight-line winds along the entire weather front and often lasts six or more hours.

A derecho over Nebraska in August was responsible for damage to over 10 million acres of corn. That’s half of Nebraska’s entire corn crop.

Severe Storms Are on the Rise

Storms are becoming more frequent and more powerful. Last year marked the tenth consecutive year of having at least eight billion-dollar weather related events.

Taking proper precautions can go a long way to mitigating storm-related damages. We all benefit from taking steps to prepare for an on-coming storm.

Sometimes property damage happens, though, despite our best precautions. We’re here to help you get back to normal when you have storm related damage. To get your home restored “Like it never even happened,” call us.

Storm-related damage at your home or business? Call SERVPRO of Bartow County at (770) 387-7455 today and we can help get your property back to its original condition. Click here and one of our loss coordinators will contact you ASAP.

When You Discover Water Damage, SERVPRO Is Here to Help | SERVPRO of Bartow County

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County at 770-387-7455. We are open 24-hours a day for emergency water extraction and water restoration. We are here to help!

It goes without saying that no homeowner wants to have to deal with water damage, no matter how mild or severe. While it can be quite the headache, it is something that many people will find themselves faced with at some point in their life—and in those instances, knowing who to call is key.

Water damage is an issue that will only get worse with time. If left untreated, mold and mildew can begin to take hold and contaminants can begin to increase the damage severity, both of which will make the restoration process more involved. That is why SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to be your go-to restoration and water damage response team if you discover water damage so you can have peace of mind.

Why SERVPRO of Bartow County Should Be Your Top Choice for Water Damage Restoration

| SERVPRO of Bartow County Has the Expertise for the Job |

We have helped countless families in Bartow County with water damage restoration, but even with that much experience, every single job is still unique. Water damage can be caused by a variety of sources and can impact many different elements of a home, which is why SERVPRO of Bartow County makes sure we have the expertise to handle any restoration job. Regardless of the type or severity of water damage, our team has the know-how to handle any issue that arises.

| SERVPRO of Bartow County Has the Equipment for the Job |

Restoring damage caused by water is about more than simply removing puddles off the floor. With our high-tech, industrial grade equipment, SERVPRO of Bartow County can handle all the drying and water extraction your home needs to be completely free from hidden moisture. Water can seep into unseen areas and cause serious problems, which is why we employ moisture monitors, vacuums, fans and more to remove moisture from every nook and cranny.

| SERVPRO of Bartow County Has the Empathy for the Job |

Working in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Bartow County sees damages on a regular basis—but for our clients, damage can completely derail your plans. We understand that being faced with water damage is a devastating process, and between having your personal property damaged and dealing with the aftermath, it can be quite a headache, too. We are empathetic to these issues and are here to be a resource for our customers however we can. From helping you remove personal items to working with your insurance company, we are truly here to help you get things back on track after the damage.

*If you have damage to your home, you can count on SERVPRO of Bartow County. Contact us today at (770) 387-7455 to learn more about our processes or to report damage of your own.

Experiencing the SERVPRO Difference Starts With Being Certified SERVPRO Clean | SERVPRO of Bartow County

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

If your Cartersville or Bartow County business has sanitation and cleaning needs, get in touch with the SERVPRO of Bartow County Team.

Bartow County isn’t very different from other populations when it comes to experiencing COVID-19. All throughout the country, including in Georgia, areas are experiencing declining COVID-19 cases. With increased vaccination and a drop in cases, more consumers are returning to outdoor activities and shopping in person.

Rest assured, customers have choices when it comes to eating out and shopping! Consumers are smart and they are now watching businesses to see if their stores will be clean enough to enter.

SERVPRO can help you provide customers a sanitized shopping experience. Once customers and potential customers see that your business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, they will rest easy, knowing you have taken the extra steps to ensure their safety.

How Our Program Works

• For that extra level of clean, your business needs SERVPRO’s certified cleaning program. 
• Achieving this designation will give customers and employees peace of mind that they are entering a sanitized business.
• How do we do it? We use advanced biohazard cleaning products and processes to provide your business with a clean and safe environment. These technologies go well beyond the norm for commercial cleaning.

Here’s How It Works:

Consult | We’ll create a plan that meets your unique business requirements. Because SERVPRO of Bartow County is locally owned and operated, we are familiar with the distinct qualities of our local area. But we’ll also meet with your team to discuss what makes your business unique, including the size of your facility and the work you do.

Clean | The plan has been established, so let’s get down to cleaning. The proprietary, hospital-grade cleaning agents we use are unique to SERVPRO. Your business will receive a level of sanitation that is unparalleled in the cleaning and restoration business. We always follow or exceed CDC COVID-19 standards, which protect your employees and customers not only from COVID-19 but also from other illnesses such as the flu.

Certify | The plan was created and the cleaning is finished, now it’s time to let your customers and employees know that you are certified clean. You can do this by displaying the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield on your premises. In addition, we will provide a digital shield to be used online so when customers visit your digital sites, they know your business has been sanitized and professionally cleaned.

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

How to Find a Hidden Water Leak in Your Home | SERVPRO of Bartow County

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

If your home or business experiences water damage, call SERVPRO of Bartow County 24-hours a day at 770-387-7455.

If you suspect that your Bartow County home may have a hidden water leak, it is important to act quickly to discover it and fix the underlying issue. Water leaks are serious business—not only do they result in tens of thousands of gallons of wasted water each year, but they also lead to serious water damage and an increase in your monthly water bill expenses.

Fortunately, there are steps that Bartow County homeowners can take to discover a leak if they suspect that one is present somewhere in the home. Below, we will be looking at some of the top tips for discovering even the sneakiest of household leaks.

How to Detect Sneaky Household Water Leaks

Keep a Steady Eye on Your Water Bill

On a month-to-month basis, your water usage should generally fall within the same range. If you are using a sprinkler system or filling a pool, you would obviously see an increase, but if nothing in your household routine has changed, things should usually stay about the same. If you receive a bill that is suspiciously high one month, that may be a sign that you have a hidden leak somewhere.

Watch for an Extra Green Lawn

If you notice that there are areas of your lawn that seem to be growing exceptionally well, that may be an indicator that the water line that runs from the main supply to your home might be leaking. Every neighborhood is different, but generally, these lines are the homeowner’s responsibility—so be sure to pay attention if your lawn becomes extra luscious!

Monitor Your Water Meter

If you do suspect a leak but are not able to locate it, monitoring your water meter is the surest way to tell. Be sure all the faucets are off, that no appliances are running, and that everyone in your home knows to not use any water for a period of time. Then locate and check your home’s meter and take note of the numbers that you see. If you come back in an hour and the numbers have changed, that is a sure sign that something is leaking somewhere.

If you discover that a water leak has caused damage in your home, SERVPRO of Bartow County can help! You can get in touch with SERVPRO of Bartow County at any time at (770) 387-7455 to learn more about our water damage restoration services or to have our technicians dispatched to restore your property.

How a Fire Can Impact Your Business | SERVPRO of Bartow County

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help get your business back in operation quickly and safely following a water or fire loss.

A fire is something that no Bartow County business owner ever wants to consider the possibility of, but unfortunately, it can be a serious threat for businesses of any type. While certain businesses, like restaurants or manufacturing facilities, may be more at risk for a fire starting, even office building or retail store owners should be aware that it is a very real possibility.

Beyond general damage directly from the flames, there are many other ways that a fire can impact your business that you may not have considered. The best thing that business owners can do to mitigate their risk is to understand them and plan ahead for a quick recovery to lessen the impact on their business overall. Call SERVPRO of Bartow County for a FREE Emergency Ready Plan that will better prepare your facility in the event you experience water, fire or smoke damage. 

How Commercial Fires Can Impact a Business

Commercial Fires Can Cause Damage Beyond Flames

While the biggest thing that people think of when they consider damage from a commercial fire is the charring of the flames, there are other types of damage that will need to be dealt with as well. Not only does fire produce soot that can attach itself to nearly any surface, but it can also produce smoke that leads to lingering odors even after the other damages have been addressed. Additionally, because most commercial spaces are equipped with sprinkler systems, there is often water damage to contend with as well.

Commercial Fires Require Business Closures

Even in the event of a relatively small fire, recovery will take time for your business and will often necessitate the closing of your doors as the damage is addressed and your building is restored. To lessen the time your business must remain closed, it is important to have a restoration plan in place already so you know exactly what to do and who to call right away.

Commercial Fires Can Lead to Safety Concerns

If a fire impacts integral parts of your building, such as walls, floors or ceilings, it can introduce structural concerns that must be addressed. It is important that the restoration company you choose understands how to handle these types of jobs in order to keep your building in sound condition in the aftermath of a fire.

If you experience a commercial fire at your business, you can count on us. Contact SERVPRO of Bartow County at (770) 387-7455 any time to learn more about our commercial restoration services or to report damage to your building.

Fire Safety Checkup for the Warmer Months | SERVPRO of Bartow County

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of Bartow County to learn more.

Spring is a favorite time of year for many—maybe it’s because the weather is warming up and the outdoors begins to call. Maybe it’s a reminder that the cold of winter doesn’t last forever. Maybe it’s simply that you can use it as an impetus to restart some of those lapsed goals you set on January 1.

Regardless of the reason, something about the season just feels right.

There are also lots of social events around this time—family and high school reunions, outdoor parties, and really just any old excuse to cook food outdoors. This also means there’s a rise in fires and accidental combustion around the country.

In fact, spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year. But there are some easy cleanups and maintenance things you can do right now to prevent home fires this season.

Let’s look at the most common places to start:

The Grill 

Grills receive the most blame for springtime fires, but truly it’s because they’re the most likely culprit. Grills create easy opportunities for fires to start—the close proximity of flame, heat, gas and grease combine for a potentially combustible situation. Evaluate your grill’s stability and ensure it’s in working order, checking all connections and openings. Make sure it’s at a safe distance from anything flammable (including the house), and clean it thoroughly between uses. Almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.

The Fire Pit

Spring and summer is a great time to hang out in the backyard with friends, but keep safety first. Before you start your pit fire, fill a bucket with water and keep it beside the pit. It’s an emergency douser, and when the time comes to quell the fire, you can use it to slowly pour over the fire until the embers aren’t glowing. Keep kids away from the fire, for their safety and to prevent accidents. Don’t add leaves or pine needles to the fire, as they can create flying embers.

Chimneys & Dryer Vents

It’s recommended that you have your chimney cleaned out annually, so do that now to avoid caking and clogging. Also check the connections and hose of your dryer to make sure no flammable lint is collecting in the vent pipe.

SERVPRO of Bartow County 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.

When Water or Fire Damage Threatens Your Hospitality Business, Call SERVPRO of Bartow County

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

The hospitality industry answers to numbers and costs drive their bottom line. So does the one company it calls on when fire or water damage strikes...SERVPRO of Bartow County. The number 1 choice in Bartow County for commercial cleanup and restoration in Bartow County. 

At SERVPRO of Bartow County we understand that keeping your guest satisfied is your top priority, and you can rest assured that you are ours. When disaster strikes at a hospitality facility, the help of a specialized team is critical in assuring that normal operation resumes safely and quickly as possible. Whether the cause is a coat hanger on a sprinkler head or a natural disaster, we work to efficiently isolate the damaged area so that basic functions can continue normally, and guests can enjoy your services with minimal impact. Our professionals are trained to work with your management teams to prioritize spaces and make sure that all areas are restored to your complete satisfaction.

Our experience in the hospitality industry has given us that ability to provide a variety of detailed services for the following hospitality facilities:

• Hotels
• Convention Centers
• Casinos
• Resorts
• Entertainment Venues
• Banquet Halls

Commercial Emergency Ready Program

Many businesses have an emergency contingency plan in place, but few have a detailed understanding of how to get back into buildings following a disaster. To access all of the SERVPRO capabilities, services and additional benefits, visit www.SERVPRO.com/READY.

Commercial Cleaning Services - Helping to make fire and water damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Bartow County offers  cleaning services ranging from cleaning biohazard contaminants to cleaning restaurant hoods. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. SERVPRO of Bartow County offers the following commercial cleaning services and many more:

• Air Duct and HVAC
• Biohazard
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Ceilings, Floors, and Walls
• Drapes and Blinds
• Odor Removal
• Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Vandalism

SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division - No Job is Too Large!

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

The SERVPRO Advantage is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help property managers, hospitality, education, healthcare, rental and food service facilities. We have the resources to help you immediately and will perform the necessary work to reduce further damage. SERVPRO of Bartow County works with you and your carrier to develop and approve a recovery plan designed to reduce business interruption.

Do You Have a Plan in Place for Severe Weather? | SERVPRO of Bartow County

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help the people of Bartow County recover after storms damage their property. Give us a call 24-hours a day!

Cartersville and the surrounding Bartow County area sees it’s fair share of storms and extreme weather events. When severe weather strikes regularly, as it does during most spring and summer months, it can be easy to consider it an inconvenience and nothing more. However, when you are considering severe thunderstorms, heavy rain and potential flooding, any type of severe weather can become a serious threat. 

Though it is easy to disregard the threat of severe weather, it is important to always heed both watches and warnings that impact the Bartow County area. Between high winds, hail, lightning, heavy rain and flooding risks, there are many reasons why you should make sure you have a plan to follow in case severe weather becomes a possibility. 

What to Include in Your Severe Weather Plan A Place to Seek Shelter With Your Household  

If there are bad storms forecasted to impact your area, it is vital that you and every member of your household know exactly where to go to seek shelter. Ideally, your storm shelter would be a basement or cellar that had no windows or exterior doors. If you do not have this, designate a bathroom or a closet toward the center of your house to be the go-to spot when the weather turns bad. 

A Reliable Way to Get Weather Updates 

In the event of severe weather, it is not uncommon for power to be knocked out and cellphones to be unreceptive during the storm. For this reason, it is smart to get a weather radio that is battery powered or manually cranked so you can get updates independent of the news or your cell phone. That way you can monitor the developing conditions without depleting your phone battery or being left without information. 

A Plan in Case of a Power Outage 

As mentioned, power outages are extremely common during bad storms. A brief power outage is often just a minor inconvenience, but if the power is out for an extended period of time, it can be far more difficult to deal with. Consider purchasing a small generator for your home so you can have some access to electricity in the event of a multi-day outage, and be sure you have plenty of flashlights and batteries around the home. 

The SERVPRO of Bartow County Difference

SERVPRO of Bartow County is a trusted leader in the restoration industry and is just one of over 1,800 Franchises in the U.S. and Canada. Whether you need help with emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on SERVPRO of Bartow County. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential storm and flood restoration services here!

Find a SERVPRO Near You

When water damage occurs in your home or workplace, avoid the frustration and potential risk of handling the cleanup yourself. SERVPRO of Bartow County will respond quickly, with the right equipment to dry and protect your property. So, before you risk doing additional damage by attempting to clean up water damage yourself, call the water restoration and cleanup professionals at SERVPRO of Bartow County. We have serviced hundreds of homes and businesses that suffered water damage in the Bartow County area. Let us make your water damage “Like it never even happened.” 

If you have experienced storm or flood damage in your Bartow County home, you can count on SERVPRO of Bartow County for all your storm and water restoration needs. We professionally clean and mitigate damage from storms, tornadoes, floods and so much more. Contact us today at (770) 387-7455. To learn more or report non-emergency damages to SERVPRO of Bartow County click here for a customer contact request form, and one of our highly trained job file coordinators will contact you.

*Check out some of our Before and After Photos of recent Storm Restoration Projects: “Rain Water From Hole In Roof”; “Tree On Roof”; “Flooded Hallway”; “Flooded Entryway to Home”

What Are Some Signs That My Basement Has Water Damage?

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

If you need help dealing with any damage caused by water, contact SERVPRO of Bartow County today. We are open 24/7 and are always ready to help!

Having a basement in your home can be a fantastic resource. Not only is it great for extra storage, but it also provides a safe go-to spot in the event of storms and can be used as livable space if it is partially or fully finished. However, because basements are dug into the ground, they are often prone to experiencing water damage throughout the course of your home’s lifetime.

While this is not a certainty, if your home does have a basement, water damage is something you will want to be extra vigilant about just in case it does become a problem down the road. Below, we will look at some of the signs that water damage is present in your basement—and if you need someone to take a look, our water restoration technicians are always here to take your call.

The Top Signs of Water Damage in a Basement

Unpleasant or Musky Odors - The water that gets into the basement could very well be clean water, but after it marinates and then evaporates, the scent can turn pungent and unpleasant after time. Many people have the misconception that all basements smell musty, but this really should not be the case. This smell will only arise when mold and mildew are present in the environment, and while these are often hard to see, they are easy to smell.

Flaking Paint on Masonry or Walls - With the best intentions, people will often apply waterproof paint to the interior surfaces of a leaky basement. Unfortunately, this paint will simply mask the problem for a while and then lead to a compounding issue down the road. Water that seeps in will eventually work away at this paint, leading to peeling, cracking or bubbling on its surface.

Foundational Cracks - While homes do shift over time, cracks in the foundation are not normal and can be indicative of water damage. Cracks can show up in the floor, the ceiling or in your walls and are often a sign that there is water putting pressure on your structure in a way that is liable to cause cracking. Hairline cracks are no cause for alarm, but if they become any larger, they should be treated immediately.

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.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bartow County

A fast response is crucial to flooding and storm damage, because it reduces secondary damage and restoration costs. Storms don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. Our technicians will respond immediately, day or night, to help Acworth business owners and residents...We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster

As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Bartow County has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition. Our restoration process puts an emphasis on scientific drying techniques, progress monitoring and documentation...We’re Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialist

We can access the resources and personnel of 1,800 Franchises to handle major storms and disasters. We also have access to special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to catastrophic storms and events… We Have the Resources to Handle Storm and Disaster Events

Find a SERVPRO Near You

SERVPRO of Bartow County is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Acworth community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be. We are proud to serve Acworth, Cartersville, Cass, Euharlee, Kingston, Taylorsville, and Adairsville.

Water Damage in Bartow County - SERVPRO of Bartow County is Faster to Any Size Water Claim

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help 24-hours a day, every day. Give us a call today if your home or business has suffered water damage.

SERVPRO of Bartow County understands how events like water damage can affect your life. Concerns may range from the expense of replacing personal belongings to the emotions associated with losing and actual keepsake. Typically restoring an item will save you money versus replacing the item, relieving your concern of losing priceless treasures. SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals consist of a 24-hour emergency response team, trained in caring for both the home and the homeowner. Trained, uniformed technicians are on-site of water damage within four hours to begin emergency mitigation services (in most cases SERVPRO of Bartow County is on-site in less than two hours). By responding quickly with a full line of water extraction, cleanup, drying, and restoration services, SERVPRO of Bartow County water restoration specialist can help you regain control quickly and help protect your home and personal belongings.

When water damages occur, the wrong response can cost you plenty

When water damages occur in your home or workplace, avoid the frustration and potential risk or handling the cleanup yourself. SERVPRO of Bartow County will respond quickly, with the right equipment to dry and help protect your property. So, before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up water damage yourself, call the water restoration and cleanup professionals at SERVPRO of Bartow County. We have serviced thousands of homes and businesses that suffered water damage in the Bartow County area. Let us make your water damage “Like it never even happened.”  

Water Damage Response Tips for Property Owners

If you’ve experienced water damage and want to know what you can do until help arrives, take a moment to read the following Water Damage Response Tips for Property Owners. These tips will assist you in taking the proper action until SERVPRO of Bartow County arrives. The following tips will help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration:

*These tips are for clean water situations only.

• Shut-off the water source if possible, and if it can be done safely.
• Turn-off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting standing water from floors. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstered cushions for even drying. Do not put cushion covers in the washing machine.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature. Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors. Use clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
• Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpet.
• Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Do not use a house-hold vacuum to remove water.
• Do not use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpeting.

Water Damage From Contaminated Water

Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items. Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas. Make sure not to spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas. Turn off the HVAC system in effort to limit the possibility of spreading contaminated air to non-affected areas. Call SERVPRO of Bartow County if you have experienced water damage, so we can start the drying and mitigation process as soon as possible. A quick response can be the difference between a small manageable repair bill and a costly insurance claim. 

Components of Proper Water Damage Restoration

• Fast Action
• Thorough Drying

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. If you have any questions or need help to ensure your property is drying properly, contact SERVPRO of Bartow County at (770) 387-7455 or click here and one of our loss coordinators will contact you as soon as possible.

Why More State Farm Insurance Customers, Agents, and Adjuster Choose SERVPRO of Bartow County

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

As a preferred restoration service provider for State Farm water, fire and mold restoration claims, SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help 24/7!

SERVPRO of Bartow County is the premier water, fire and mold restoration company in the greater Bartow County area. We’ve provided industry leading service for nearly a decade, and have developed a great working relationship with all of our local insurance agents. SERVPRO and State Farm Insurance have developed a particularly close working relationship over the years through SERVPRO’s network of over 1,800 franchises, cleaning and restoring thousands of State Farm policy holder’s properties. 

State Farm Insurance, their customers and SERVPRO have a symbiotic relationship. When a State Farm Insurance customer experiences a water, fire, or mold loss and chooses SERVPRO of Bartow County to restore their property, they can rest easy knowing they have the industry leading mitigation and restoration company cleaning and restoring their property. State Farm Insurance knows that they are being treated fairly and that their customer is in good hands, because of State Farm and SERVPRO’s pre-negotiated pricing through Xactimate and standards of service set by the IICRC. SERVPRO benefits by having a reliable source of water, fire, and/or mold restoration customers.

State Farm Agent’s Benefits of Referring SERVPRO of Bartow County 

Customer Services: SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals will handle each job according to the highest professional standard, interacting with customers in a professional manner to provide excellent customer service. The science of restoration can be a complicated issue, but SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals have the equipment, technology, training, and customer diplomacy for any size disaster.

Customer Retention: Satisfied customers translate to a higher rate of policy retention and renewals. We thoroughly document and communicate each step of the restoration process, because an informed customer is often a happy customer. SERVPRO of Bartow County also produces the correct claim documentation for fast claim processing.

Additional Product Sales: Satisfied customers who are pleased with the claim handling process are more likely to provide new referrals and to be more receptive to allowing you to offer additional insurance and financial products. If a large-scale disaster or storm strikes, the SERVPRO System has the resources to get to customers quickly. When their needs are met quickly, your relationship has added value.

Limited Warranty - Two Years Labor / One Year Materials: Customers enjoy knowing we will meet expectations, or we will provide re-service at no additional cost for up to two years. We warrant for two years the workmanship of the emergency mitigation service or restoration work performed. We warrant for one year that all materials, furnished by us, are of good quality and free from defects.

SERVPRO of Bartow County's 1-4-8 Emergency Service Guarantee 

• ONE - Within one hour from notice of loss SERVPRO of Bartow County will contact the insured to arrange for service.
• FOUR - Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO of Bartow County will be on-site to start mitigation services (if necessary). In most cases we are on-site within two hours of notification of loss because we know a quick action is often key to a water and fire claims.
• EIGHT - Within eight business hours a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the adjuster by SERVPRO of Bartow County. 

*Agents can SERVPRO of Bartow County, without making an additional phone call at first notification of loss to State Farm.

Check-Out SERVPRO of Bartow County Great Customer Reviews

Thomas of Cartersville, GA - “My wife and I are completely satisfied with the results of both phases of our home water damage project. The two phases included water damage remediation and reconstruction. We felt completely certain that both phases were performed professionally to the highest standards. The management and administrative associates were conscientious in ensuring that our project was done timely and correctly. Each trade professional performed quality work. We will look to SERVPRO of Bartow County if ever we need services such as this in the future.”

Derrick in Cartersville, GA - "They cleaned and treated my contents with care. SERVPRO is the way to go.”

Phil of Taylorsville, GA - “Amazing!!!! Highly recommended to everyone! Can’t say enough positive things about our experience!"

Ilken of Atlanta, GA - “They were very meticulous and coherent as a team. They were also timely and quick, while using cutting edge products. Their manager is very professional and caring.”

Other Awesome SERVPRO of Bartow County Customer Reviews

• 40+ Positive 5-Star Google Reviews
• A+ Rated & Accredited Business with the BBB
• Positive Facebook Reviews 
• Additional Customer Testimonials

Storm Restoration Help After Recent Tornado Activity in Bartow County

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help home and business owners recover after storm & flood damage. We're here to help 24-hours a day!

With the recent tornadoes that came through the Bartow County area, SERVPRO of Bartow County wanted to let Cartersville, Euharlee, Kingston and Adairsville home and business owners know that we’re here to help! These recent storms caused flooding, severe hail damage, and downed trees damaging power lines throughout Northwest Georgia, causing water and storm damage to many structures. Homes and businesses located off of portions of Grassdale Road in Cartersville, GA experienced severe storm damage. The storm was a result of remnants of a much more severe system of EF-4 and EF-5 tornadoes that caused major destruction in Alabama. Thoughts and prayers from our SERVPRO family go out to those affected by the recent storms.

SERVPRO of Bartow County offers 24-hour emergency storm cleanup and mitigation services. That means no matter what time of day or night you experience a storm or flood event, SERVPRO of Bartow County is ready to respond at a moment's notice. We will extract standing water, remove water damaged materials, and start the drying process as soon as we step foot onsite. Our storm restoration specialist are certified by the IICRC and SERVPRO of Bartow County is a Certified IICRC Firm, so you know you are in good hands when you make that call to SERVPRO of Bartow County

What You Can Do Until Help Arrives…

What To Do After Flooding

• Mop or blot to remove excess water from floors, counters, and other surfaces.
• Remove tabletop items like lamps or magazines from wood furniture, then wipe excess water from furniture or other surfaces. 
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery and cushions to facilitate air flow and drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting to prevent staining, color bleeding, or other unnecessary additional damage.
• During warm dry weather or in the Summertime, turn air conditioning on for maximum drying and air circulation.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting to prevent color bleeding and to help dry both the rug and the carpeting.
• Remove art objects like paintings, sculptures or other works of art to a safe and dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors to help prevent additional damage to carpets, hardwoods or laminate floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods. Garments and fabrics can develop mold and musty odors if allowed to dry in place without proper treatment.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors. Paper or cardboard based materials can transfer color into rugs, carpeting, hardwoods, and even vinyl flooring (light colored flooring materials are particularly susceptible to color bleeding).
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water. Most household vacuums are not intended to come in contact with water much less extract even small amounts of water. Using a household vacuum to suck up water will most likely damage the vacuum and could result in electrocution. 
• Don't use television or other household appliances. Moisture and electronics typically do not mix. Do not use any household electrical devices that are affected by water damage or plugged into walls in water damage areas.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging. Sagging ceilings make for a very real fall hazard and should be treated seriously. 

Safety should be your primary focus when you experience storm or flood damage (or any type of water damage related event). Ask yourself, “Is it safe in the house?” Some of the most common and prevalent safety hazards related to water damage are electrical and “slip-and-fall” hazards. Wet materials like carpet and sheetrock can be very heavy, so be careful when cleaning in affected areas or moving water damaged materials. Only perform cleanup activities you feel safe performing. Storm and water damage is typically best left to the certified and insured restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Bartow County.  
*If you’re home or business was affected by the recent storms call SERVPRO of Bartow County at (770) 387-7455 or click here and one of our loss coordinators will contact you.

SERVPRO of Bartow County is Looking for Sales & Marketing Representatives

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Are you looking for a change? Do you have experience in restoration sales and marketing? Give SERVPRO of Bartow County a call at 770-387-7455 today!

Now Hiring! Do you love educating and working with people? If you want to be a leader in a great company, then don’t miss your chance to join our SERVPRO of Bartow County as a new Sales/Marketing Representative! In this position, you will be making a difference each and every day. We have a sincere drive toward the goal of helping make water, fire & mold damage “Like it never even happened.” We are looking for a candidate that is comfortable meeting new people, who has excellent communication skills, has follow-through, and who is a serious multi-tasker. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you will thrive in this work environment. Our idea of the ideal candidate is one who is proactive, is experienced, truly enjoys providing superior service, and loves taking ownership of a project. Are you highly dependable and excited about routinely exceeding expectations? Then, you may be our perfect SERVPRO Teammate! As a valued SERVPRO of Bartow County employee, you will receive a competitive pay rate, with lots of opportunity to learn and grow.

Did you know here at our SERVPRO locations that 72% of our employees have been here a year or longer? It is our ultimate goal to make this a great place to work and the better we are at helping our team achieve their goals the more successful we become! That being said we are hiring for a dynamic Marketing Representative, to help Matt and Marianne take it to the next level! If you are looking for some motivated teammates, don't be shy and go ahead and click here to apply!

Primary Responsibilities

• Meet or exceed assigned sales quota by executing the sales cycle, setting up closing appointments, maintaining assigned contact lists, participating in professional associations, hosting lunch-and-learns, and promoting continuing education (CE) courses

• Support online marketing departments through customer review procurement, contribute content on social media platforms, and assist in creation of blog materials related to the restoration industry.   

• Complete Emergency Ready Profiles (ERPs) and discuss benefits of emergency event preparation

• Conduct objective-to-objective daily marketing contacts, build customer relationships and rapport by educating them on the reasons SERVPRO® is the best cleaning and restoration company in the world, compile and maintain center of influence information., identify “Target 25” (Top 25 contacts to develop into clients)

• Provide owners and marketing managers with one-on-one meetings (closing appointments) with COIs to encourage SERVPRO® referrals

• Increase sales territory revenue by consistently achieving sales territory goals

Click Here to Apply 

Position Requirements

• A minimum two years of progressive and responsible business-to-business sales experience

• Experience with sales and marketing within the service territory 

• Superb sales, customer service, administrative, verbal, and written communication skills

• Strong business and financial background and process-and-results-driven attitude

• Experience in the commercial cleaning and restoration or insurance industry is desired

• Working knowledge of current business software technologies is required

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing or business or equivalent experience

• Ability to successfully complete a background check subject to applicable law

Pay Rate

Competitive base plus commission and increases based on merit.  

For more information on this opportunity and to Apply - CLICK HERE

SERVPRO of Bartow County - Water Restoration Process Explained

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

There is both a science and an art in the way that SERVPRO of Bartow County restores homes after water damage. No two water restoration projects are exactly the same, but in general the process stays the same. SERVPRO has developed a franchise system to assist franchise owners in processing restoration projects, so that every customer receives the respect and satisfaction they deserve with the industry leading customer service they have come to expect from SERVPRO.

What to Expect When You Call SERVPRO of Bartow County

STEP 1 - Emergency Contact

Our job file coordinator will ask you several questions about your water damage issue. This will better prepare the drying and restoration specialists that are dispatched to resolve your water loss. When it comes to water damage, a quick response can be the difference between minor repairs and major reconstruction. By providing our highly trained technicians with essential information about your unique water loss, they can quickly, efficiently, and safely begin the mitigation and restoration process. This initial contact is an important part of a fast and effective restoration and drying plan.

STEP 2 - Documentation & Inspection of Damaged Property

SERVPRO of Bartow County restoration specialist will inspect and document water damage affected areas and determine the type or classification of water damage. Using both SERVPRO’s proprietary claims software and cutting edge camera systems, like the Matterport PRO2 Camera, our project manager will document and photograph affected areas to assist and expedite the claims process. 

STEP 3 - Water Extraction & Removal

SERVPRO of Bartow County’s crew of highly trained water restoration technicians will start this process as soon as possible to minimize additional damage and to help prevent mold growth. Our crews are outfitted with powerful truck mounted vacuum extractors, portable extractors, pumps and many other water extraction and removal tools. Crews are capable of removing hundreds and even thousands of gallons of water quickly and safely with this equipment.

STEP 4 - Dehumidification & Drying

Once standing water has been removed and water has been extracted from porous building materials like carpets, SERVPRO of Bartow County’s restoration technicians will strategically place drying equipment throughout affected areas. Drying equipment includes air mover, dehumidifiers, desiccate dry machines, floor-mat drying systems, and many other types of professional drying equipment. Our drying specialist will utilize the least intrusive and most effective drying methods available while monitoring and documenting the progress of the drying process.

STEP 5 - Sanitizing & Cleaning

SERVPRO of Bartow County restoration professionals will clean, sanitize, and restore salvageable items using a wide array of specialized restoration techniques. Treating the structure, building materials and restorable items with professional antimicrobial cleaning and restoration products. Restorable items typically range from furniture, clothing and personal items to family heirlooms and electronic devices. 

STEP 6 - Restoration

The final step in the process is restoring your home back to its pre-water damage condition. Depending on the scope of your unique water restoration project this can be a relatively minor step like replacing ceiling tiles or drywall panels, or could be major reconstruction like remodeling an entire room(s). SERVPRO of Bartow County’s construction team has you covered whether it’s a simple repair or practically rebuilding your home. 

Have Water Damage? Call (770) 387-7455 or Click Here & SERVPRO of Bartow County will contact you!

SERVPRO of Bartow County Credentials, Reviews & Testimonials 

• 40+ Five-Star Google Reviews
• A+ Accredited Business with the BBB
• 5.0  Customer Satisfaction Rating on Facebook
• IICRC Certified Firm

Customer Testimonials

Mrs. Wilson of Cartersville, GA - “Carl was very pleasant and helpful. He stayed to do the job well into the morning on Thanksgiving morning!!! I really didn’t know what I was doing and he explained everything to my satisfaction. Very knowledgeable and courteous. Definitely went above and beyond! Definitely would use again, but honestly praying I don’t need to!!!”

Jeff T. of Canton, GA - “I had a water leak and SERVPRO jumped right on it. They were on site quickly to put fans and dehumidifiers to start the dry out process. They communicated with me every step of the way. Cannot say enough good things about a bad situation turning out to be good!”

Kathy of Cartersville, GA - “I have used them two times in 6 months. They are the best. This time it happened at 5:30 they came right out. No one does that any more. They stayed till they got done. This group of people are the best to work with.”

Norman of Adairsville, GA - “Jamie did a great job helping me with a sewage backup in my bathroom. He was exceptionally polite and understanding during a very trying situation.”

SERVPRO of Bartow County Sending Help to Texas

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help customers that have experience a pipe freeze and are in need of water mitigation and restoration.

Over the past couple of weeks you’ve most likely seen news coverage of the recent winter storm that has affected Texas and several other states throughout the south. In Texas alone there have been over 4 million people that experienced power outages, some of these Texans also experienced water shortages. That’s more people without power and water than when Hurricane Harvey hit the gulf of Texas several years ago. The Texas Department of Insurance is projecting that this winter storm could surpass Harvey’s $19 billion in property damage as well. Approximately 108 counties have been placed under a Federal Disaster Declaration due to extreme cold temperatures, snow/ice, and the loss of everyday utilities. 

Aside from the power outages and lack of potable running water, thousands of Texans are also seeing their homes destroyed from within by freezing water lines, ceilings collapsing from water damage, and floors ruined by standing and sometimes even frozen water. Many Texans left their homes seeking shelter from the cold. Without power to warm their houses many home’s plumbing systems froze and burst. Water from burst pipes could then flow freely until someone was able to close the emergency shutoff valve, causing what could be thousands of dollars of damage to each home. 

Tips on Filing Claims from the Texas Department of Insurance

• File claims as soon as possible - Insurance companies have been inundated with claims, so customers can expect extended wait times in processing. The earlier you file your claim the sooner your claim can be processed.
• Document and take pictures - By documenting and taking pictures of damaged property, it will allow your insurance provider to better understand the scope of your claim and will help them in the approval process.
• Don’t make permanent repairs without speaking with your insurance provider - Waiting to perform permanent repairs allows your insurance company to determine coverage and can prevent costly out of pocket expenses. Most insurance companies encourage their clients to have a reputable restoration company perform emergency services to mitigate damages and prevent additional damage to the insured’s property.

SERVPRO of Bartow County is Here to Help!

While of course SERVPRO of Bartow County is keeping all people affected by this winter storm in our hearts and wish them a speedy recovery...SERVPRO of Bartow County is doing more than sending the people of Texas well wishes. We are sending help. Boots on the ground to help our fellow man recover after mother nature threw us a curveball and put so many in such a perilous situation. SERVPRO of Bartow County is prepared to do our part to restore order and peace of mind for as many people that were affected by this winter storm as we can.

SERVPRO of Bartow County has sent two project managers and five storm restoration technicians to McKinney, TX to help local home and business owners recover after the winter storm that has crippled Texas. McKinney, TX is over 500 miles away from our Cartersville based facility which is approximately a fifteen hour drive. Our team of disaster recovery specialists drove six service vehicles and a trailer filled with over 300 air movers, 50 dehumidifiers, and all the supplies needed to help as many Texans as we can and to restore order due to this once in a lifetime winter weather event.

SERVPRO of Bartow County crews plan to mitigate and service between 12 and 15 properties each day, as part of SERVPRO Inc.’s Disaster Recovery Team. By working with our corporate office, SERVPRO of Bartow County and all other franchises contributing to this coordinated effort, are able to better help more Texans in their time of need. If you live in McKinney, TX and are in need of water mitigation and restoration services help is on the way!

*For more updates on our storm restoration relief efforts follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

SERVPRO of Bartow County’s Advanced Documentation System

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help home & business owners restore their property to preloss condition 24/7!

SERVPRO of Bartow County has been a pillar of the restoration industry in the Bartow County area for almost a decade. We have set a high bar for customer service and cater to insurance claims and helping our local insurance agents address their customer’s fire, water, and mold restoration needs. Our highly trained restoration technicians are IICRC certified and have the experience and know-how to make any restoration project run smoothly, efficiently, quickly, and safely. Call SERVPRO of Bartow County if your Cartersville, Acworth, or Adairsville home is in need of water, fire or mold restoration services.

At SERVPRO of Bartow County we eat, sleep, and breathe restoration. We are always paying attention to innovations and trends in the mitigation and restoration field. When performing restoration services for insurance claims, one of the most important parts of the job is documenting the claim for insurance adjuster and agents. One piece of technology we have taken note of is the Matterport PRO2 Camera. The Matterport camera system allows the user to take 360° photos and create an exact 3D model of the area photographed. This means that the adjusters and agents can be texted a link that contains a virtual tour of their clients property, and inspect the property as if they were actually on-site.

Check out one of our 3D Tours of a Cartersville fire claim here!

The Matterport PRO2 Camera contains an array of nine different camera sensors that are used to create a 360° picture. The camera sits on a tripod where it rotates in 360° while taking 134 megapixel pictures of the surrounding room. Using Matterport’s proprietary image software, multiple images taken from different locations within the room can be digitally stitched together to create a 4K 3D tour of the room(s).

Along with creating a 360° 3D tour of the property, the Matterport system can also create a sketch or floorplan of the property. Using infrared imaging while scanning a given room, the camera takes measurements in 360°. This allows us to import the Matterport file into Xactimate for a quick and easy claims process. 

What is Xactimate?

Xactimate is a computer software system for estimating construction costs that has become widely used by insurance companies in the past decade. Insurance company adjusters use it to calculate building damage, repair and rebuilding costs. Adjusters use Xactimate to generate loss estimates and claim settlement offers.

With the recent development of COVID-19 and social distancing policies, this camera system can be a literal life saver. By being able to document our customers water, fire, or mold claims in 360°, it gives insurance providers the option for a “contactless inspection” while maintaining their ability to thoroughly inspect the claim. By limiting the number of people that have to visit the customer’s property we limit the amount of physical contact between the customers, their insurance companies, and SERVPRO personnel.

SERVPRO of Bartow County's Fast Action Can Save You Time, Frustration & Money

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage happens, acting quickly is crucial to ensure that your property is not permanently damaged and will help prevent mold from developing. SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help 24-hours a day, every day! We are the restoration company that never sleeps. If you toilet overflows or you have a pipeburst, our highly trained water restoration specialists are never more than a phone call away. SERVPRO of Bartow County has several water restoration crews on call 24/7 that can be at your Bartow County home or business in a matter of a couple of hours in most cases.

Water Damage Timeline Series of Events

Within Minutes:

• Left unchecked, water can quickly spread throughout the property saturating and soaking everything it comes in contact with.
• Water can be absorbed by building materials like drywall, wood and flooring materials as well as the contents of your home or business like furniture and other upholstered items.
• Carpets can be permanently stained or damaged 
• The finish on furniture can be damaged and may even bleed, damaging other items.
• Photographs, books and other paper products will most likely swell and warp when they come in contact with moisture. 

The First 24-Hours:

• Drywall can begin to break down and swell.
• Metal surface exposed to moisture will begin to tarnish.
• Furniture can swell and even crack after exposure to water.
• Stains can develop from dyes and inks commonly used to paper products and cloth.
• Unpleasant moldy or musty odors can start to develop in less than 24-hours.

48-Hours to One Week:

• Leaving water damaged property unmitigated and untreated for over 48-hours can result in serious biohazard contamination.
• Mold and Mildew can grow and spread throughout the affected areas.
• Metallic materials and items can begin to corrode and even rust with prolonged exposure to moisture.
• Furniture can swell/warp and mold can start to grow on the surface of and within upholstered furniture.
• Paint can blister and begin to peel from painted surfaces
• Doors, windows, and studs can start to warp and swell.

*If a water damaged property is not properly mitigated and dried after one week restoration time and cost increases dramatically and can require replacement of contaminated materials and the rebuilding of the structure can be extensive. Structural safety can be compromised, mold growth and biohazardous contamination can pose serious risks to the occupants.

Don’t wait, contact SERVPRO of Bartow County at 770-387-7455 today! 

Residential Services

SERVPRO of Bartow County is a trusted leader in the restoration industry and is just one of over 1,700 Franchises in the U.S. and Canada. Whether you need help with emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on SERVPRO of Bartow County. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services water services here!

Commercial Services

There’s never a convenient time for your business to be sidelined with fire or water damage. We know that every hour your business is out of commission is an hour of lost productivity and revenue. When you need professional cleaning or restoration services, we have the training, expertise, and resources to handle any size disaster. Learn more about our commercial water damage restoration services here!

Our water restoration crews are outfitted with the latest water extraction and drying equipment. They are well trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC is the governing body that sets standards for the restoration and industry and is considered the gold standard when it comes to cleaning and restoration certifications. Our team of technicians and water restoration specialists are well versed and adhere to the standards and practices set by the IICRC. SERVPRO employees undergo rigorous background checks, training and complete courses coving water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, commercial restoration/mitigation, storm damage restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning and many other specialized cleaning and restoration courses

Customer Reviews & Testimonials 

• 40+ Five-Star Google Reviews
• A+ Accredited Business with the BBB
• 5.0  Customer Satisfaction Rating on Facebook
• IICRC Certified Firm

More Customer Reviews

Wilson of Cartersville, GA - “Carl was very pleasant and helpful. He stayed to do the job well into the morning on Thanksgiving morning!!! I really didn’t know what I was doing and he explained everything to my satisfaction. Very knowledgeable and courteous. Definitely went above and beyond! Definitely would use again, but honestly praying I don’t need to!!!!!”

Margret M. of Cartersville, GA - “SERVPRO came out the same day I had a problem. They set up and came back the next day to check on everything. I appreciate the fast service especially since I had water coming into my house.”

Darryl J. of Acworth, GA - “Prompt and efficient service even when we called late on a Sunday night! Thanks to SERVPRO they saved basement carpet and walls from the refrigerator leak.”

Jeff T. of Canton, GA - “I had a water leak and SERVPRO jumped right on it. They were on site quickly to put fans and dehumidifiers to start the dry out process. They communicated with me every step of the way. Cannot say enough good things about a bad situation turning out to be good!”

Checkout some of SERVPRO of Bartow Counties Before & After Photos and Videos from water restoration projects completed in Cartersville, Acworth, and Euharlee: “Bathroom Flooded by Water From Exterior of Home”; “Popcorn Ceiling with Water Damage”; “SERVPRO of Bartow County Can Help Your Business Safely Reopen”; “SERVPRO of Bartow County is Here to Support the Bartow County Community”

SERVPRO of Bartow County Fire Mitigates & Restoration Services

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here 24/7 to help put your home or business back together once the flames have been extinguished.

Rental properties are a great way to collect passive income. That’s why more and more Bartow County property owners are turning their residential and commercial properties into rental spaces. One important thing to look at when making the decision to rent out your property is to evaluate your insurance policy to insure you have coverage in the event that your tenants damage your property, especially when it comes to fire and water damage coverage. It is also a great idea to require or suggest that your tenants purchase rental insurance. Rental insurance tends to be quite affordable and can be a lifesaver in the event that a fire or water loss occurs. 

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help both tenants and property managers/owners when fire or water damage happens. For nearly a decade we’ve been the company you can turn to in your time of need and can make fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Offering 24-hour emergency service 7-days a week to Cartersville, GA and the surrounding North Georgia area, SERVPRO of Bartow County is the fire restoration company to call when your property is damaged by fire. We will arrive on site in as little as 2-hours in most cases and can secure your fire damaged property with our emergency boardup and tarping services. Our IICRC certified technicians will restore your property to preloss condition according to IICRC standards and restoration methods using our proprietary SERVPRO restoration products and equipment. 

Residential and Commercial Construction Services Provided:

• Demolition, Debris Removal, Board-ups & Site Security

• Appraisals, Estimates & Permit Acquisition

• Post-Mitigation Reconstruction Including All Aspects of New Construction & Remodels - Electrical, Painting, Plumbing, Flooring, Roofing, and Structural Framing

Emergency Fire Damage Process Overview

ONE HOUR

• Within one hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of Bartow County restoration professionals will contact you to arrange for service. You’ll know help is on the way! 

FOUR HOURS

• Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money and precious belongings is responding quickly to your damage. In most cases and when required our mitigation and restoration technicians can be on site with a couple of hours to secure your property and begin the mitigation process.

DETAILED EXPLANATION

• A highly trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO of Bartow County fire restoration professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, providing you with a detailed explanation of services. This will give you an anticipated outcome and let you know what to expect. 

PRETESTING

• A SERVPRO of Bartow County fire restoration specialist will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.

EIGHT HOURS

• Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster, property manager or owner.

CLEANING, RESTORATION & DEODORIZATION

• SERVPRO of Bartow County fire restoration professionals will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. We will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.

FINAL WALK-THROUGH

• After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

Restoration Construction & Remodeling Services

Let SERVPRO of Bartow County’s Construction team truly make it “Like it never even happened.” With almost a decade of experience serving Cartersville, GA home and business owners, we are recognized experts in the restoration industry. Each job is directed by a dedicated Project Manager to provide a high-quality experience built around a single goal: returning your home to its preloss condition!

The SERVPRO of Bartow County Construction & Remodeling Advantage:

• Single Contact - Having just one point of contact and an advocate for your repair ensures there is someone who is familiar with every detail of your project and is your direct line to a fully restored home or business.

• Expedited Restoration Process - Being a one-stop shop accelerates the repair process because our knowledge of your damage allows us to coordinate work simultaneous to the mitigation team, saving time.

• Design-Quality Workmanship - Attention to detail drives our passion to deliver quality workmanship that will make you proud of your remodeled space.

• The SERVPRO Construction Standard of Care - Our standard was designed to protect you and your home throughout the construction process. Ask us about our premium services for dust control and protection from COVID-19 or other bacterial or viral contaminants using our proprietary, EPA-registered products.

• On Time & Under Budget - Our professional construction service providers will work with your insurance company to restore you home to its pre-damaged condition. As a full-service provider we can streamline your repairs to begin soon after cleanup is finished to minimize downtime, using industry-leading technology to help ensure a timely and on-budget completion.

Are You In Our Service Area?

SERVPRO of Bartow County is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We’re also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which gives us access to more resources for larger cleaning or restoration projects or major storm scenarios. We are proud to serve the Bartow County community.

Learn More at www.SERVPRObartowcoutny.com or call (770) 387-7455

As part of a network of 1,800+ locally owned and operated restoration companies, SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help - 24 hours a day, seven days a week, we are Here to Help.

SERVPRO of Bartow County Fire Restoration Testimonials

Wilson of Cartersville, GA - “Carl was very pleasant and helpful. He stayed to do the job well into the morning on Thanksgiving morning!!! I really didn’t know what I was doing and he explained everything to my satisfaction. Very knowledgeable and courteous. Definitely went above and beyond! Definitely would use again, but honestly praying I don’t need to!!!”

Amanda H. of Adairsville, GA - “We had a great experience with SERVPRO! They were fast, hardworking, very polite and nice! Highly recommended!”

Rebecca B. of Marietta, GA - “They did a fantastic job. Leslie and Anastasia world fast and did everything. They turned my very stressful situation of packing from a fire into a non stressful pack up and move. They did everything so I could be with my kids.”

Matt of Cassville, GA - “Thanks for all of your hard work. I would recommend your company to all of my friends and family.”

More Customer Reviews

• 4.9 Overall Score for Customer Satisfaction on Google
• 5.0 Customer Satisfaction Score on Facebook
• A+ Accredited Business from the BBB

*If you enjoyed this blog check out SERVPRO of Bartow County’s related Fire Restoration Blogs: ”Cleaning Fire & Soot Damaged Brick & Masonry - PART 1”; “Cleaning Fire & Soot Damaged Brick & Masonry - PART 2’; “Fire Prevention in Bartow County, GA”; “Fire Cleanup in Cartersville GA Home”

SERVPRO of Bartow County is Your One-Stop Shop Restoration & Construction Company

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County offers both restoration and construction services! We are your one-stop shop when it comes to restoration!

When your Bartow County home or business has been damaged, the last thing you want to worry about is managing multiple repair crews. Make one call to SERVPRO of Bartow County and we will oversee your project from start to finish, including inspection and estimating, mitigation, restoration and reconstruction. SERVPRO of Bartow County’s Construction Services is your one source and point of contact to make it “Like it never even happened.”

All Your Repair Needs Under One Roof

With SERVPRO’s 7+ years of experience serving home and business owners in North Georgia and the greater Bartow County area. We are recognized experts in the restoration industry. Each job is directed by a dedicated Project Manager to provide a high-quality experience built around a single goal: return your home to its preloss condition, “Like it never even happened.”

Single Contact

Having just one point of contact and an advocate for your repair ensures there is someone who is familiar with every detail of your project and is your direct line to a fully restored home or business.

Expedited Restoration Process

Being a one-stop shop accelerates the repair process because our knowledge of your damage allows us to coordinate construction work simultaneous to the mitigation, saving time.

Design-Quality Workmanship

Attention to detail drives our passion to deliver quality workmanship that will make you proud of your remodeled space.

The SERVPRO Construction Standard of Care

Our standard was designed to protect you and your home throughout the construction process. Ask us about our premium services for dust control and protection from COVID-19 or other bacterial or viral contaminants using proprietary, EPA-registered products.

On Time & On Budget

Our professional construction service providers will work with your insurance company to restore your home or business to its pre-damaged condition. As a full-service provider we can streamline your repairs to begin soon after cleanup is finished to minimize downtime, using industry-leading technology to help ensure a timely and on-budget completion.

Are You in Our Service Area?

SERVPRO of Bartow County is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We’re also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which gives us access to more resources for larger cleaning or restoration projects or major storm scenarios. We are proud to serve Bartow County community.

Learn More at SERVPRObartowcoutny.com or call (770) 387-7455

As part of a network of 1,800+ locally owned and operated restoration companies, SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help - 24 hours a day, seven days a week, we are Here to Help.

SERVPRO of Bartow County Customer Testimonials 

Thomas of Cartersville, GA - "My wife and I are completely satisfied with the results of both phases of our home water damage project. The two phases include water damage remediation and reconstruction. We felt completely certain that both phases were performed professionally to the highest standards. The management and administrative associates were conscientious in ensuring that our project was done timely and correctly. Each trade professional performed quality work. We will look to SERVPRO of Bartow County if ever we need services such as this in the future."

Jamie w/ Title One Management of Cartersville, GA - "Very impressed with the response time SERVPRO of Bartow County offers. Great working with Rebecca who took good care of us. We look forward to working with you again!"

Keybea of Atlanta, GA - "SERVPRO must have sent me the best in my area. Dustin Williams and Austin Meadows were awesome! They came in and explained what they were looking for, after my bathroom water line leaked into my garage. They set my expectations as far as time was concerned then exceeded my expectations with their thoroughness and seamless completion of my mold cleanup and dry out of water in my garage. Thanks SERVPRO of Bartow County, job well done."

Phil of Taylorsville, GA - "Amazing!!! Highly recommend to everyone! Can't say enough positive things about our experience!"

More Customer Reviews

• 4.9 Overall Score for Customer Satisfaction on Google
• 5.0 Customer Satisfaction Score on Facebook
• A+ Accredited Business from the BBB

*If you enjoyed this blog check out SERVPRO of Bartow County’s related Restoration Blogs: “SERVPRO of Bartow County's Highly Trained Team of Restoration Specialist”; “Why More Insurance Agents Choose SERVPRO of Bartow County”; “SERVPRO of Bartow County is Here to Help During This Time of Need”; “A Clean House Can Be Your First Line of Defense Against Flu Viruses”; “Cold Weather Can Be A Silent Killer”

SERVPRO of Bartow County's Highly Trained Team of Restoration Specialist

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help 24/7 - No matter what time day or night we will answer your call and can have help on the way in a hurry!

Proper training and the appropriate equipment are integral to the success of any restoration project whether it be a fire claim, commercial large loss, or even a small residential water loss. It would be nearly impossible to restore any water damaged property to preloss condition without a solid working knowledge of the equipment required to extract water and dry the structure, building materials, and contents. Without extensive training in fire restoration the likelihood of successfully cleaning up a fire loss and removing smoke odors from a fire damaged building is next to zero. That is why SERVPRO of Bartow County has placed great emphasis on both training our restoration technicians and outfitting them with the best restoration tools on the market. As the nation's number one choice in restoration services and the support of over 1,700 franchises nationwide; not only do we have ready access to vast quantities and types of equipment, but we also have a network of experience and knowledge unrivaled in the water restoration industry. If your home or business suffers water, fire or mold damage call SERVPRO of Bartow County.  

IICRC Certificate Technicians

All SERVPRO of Bartow County’s technicians under-go a 15-day hands-on course in water restoration, fire restoration, mold mitigation, and carpet/upholstery cleaning. They also participate in ongoing training and continued education classes covering water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, understanding mold in the restoration industry, restorative drying for loss control, and mitigation awareness response seminars. These courses allow SERVPRO of Bartow County to standardize our high level of service and allows us to verify that each and every technician in the field is more than capable of handling every day restoration service calls. Technicians also hold certifications in Applied Structural Drying from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industry. SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet/upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning restoration courses.

Locally Owned Preferred Service Provider

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help you and your family recover after a water, mold, or fire loss. We are proud to have served the Bartow County community for over a decade and have helped hundreds of families and businesses recover after water, fire, and mold losses. We work with all insurance companies and are even listed as a preferred service provider by most major insurance companies like State Farm, Farmers, Auto Owners, American Family Insurance, Metlife, The Hartford and many more. SERVPRO Bartow County has a great working relationship with our local agents and can in some cases even help save home owners the hassle of filing a claim by providing accurate and detailed estimates before starting the claims process. 

Check us out on Facebook, Google My Business and the BBB!

Since each smoke and/or fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific situation. We will treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care. SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help. We have the expertise, equipment, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage home to preloss condition. If your home or business is affected by fire damage call SERVPRO of Bartow County and let us make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why More Insurance Agents Choose SERVPRO of Bartow County

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County can make any water, fire or mold restoration project "Like it never even happened."

1. Giving customers our direct phone number saves time and gets us on site faster, potentially reducing the size of the loss and creates a better customer experience.
   • Instead of routing the customer to the insurance office’s 800 number, where the customer will then be directed to SERVPRO 800, and then finally the customer is connected with our office. We can directly communicate with the customer and dispatch service technician more quickly.
   • This saves anywhere from several minutes to hours of time, and helps reduce frustration on the customers' part by allowing them to explain their issue one time instead of having to explain their claim to several different parties.
2. We are preferred vendors (or have preferred pricing) for most major insurance providers.
   • This means that SERVPRO corporate and the insurance company’s corporate office have pre-negotiated discounted pricing on services and fees like emergency service calls or after hours services calls. Reducing costs on claims which affects the agent’s bottom line. 
   • We will adhere to agreed upon standards and procedures when completing work. This ensures that the customers property is properly taken care of and is pleased with our services, which greatly helps the agent’s customer retention rate.
   • Our billing practices adhere to industry standards and we also use Xactimate to create estimates to insure fair pricing and services.

3. Our office staff and technicians are well trained and certified by the IICRC.

   • Our office staff is well trained and well versed in the restoration industry. They can help customers cope with the shock that comes along a loss and give them solid advice and directions on what to do when disasters happen.
   • Our technicians are well trained and participate in ongoing training programs set forth by SERVPRO’s corporate training program and hold certifications from the IICRC. Technicians only perform services that have been authorized by the adjuster or specifically signed off on by the client (who will accept full responsibility for additional services).
     

4. We are a one-stop-shop when it comes to restoration services.

   • We are a one-stop-shop that offers a turn-key solution for your customers mitigation and restoration needs. From mitigation to drying and then construction services, we offer your customers the convenience of working with one company. Instead of having to find, vet, and hire multiple contractors and save them the expense and markup that hiring a general contractor includes.
5. We stand behind our work.
   
   • The restoration industry is an unpredictable business and sometimes things go awry, the important thing is that we stand behind our work and will make things right for your customers when the unexpected happens.
     

SERVPRO of Bartow County - 2020 Thanksgiving Restoration Newsline Contest

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Read the following information, then hop on over to SERVPRO of Bartow Count's Facebook page for change to win a FREE Honey Baked Ham!

SERVPRO of Bartow County would like to announce our 2020 Thanksgiving Restoration Newsline Contest! This contest was created to help educate the Bartow County community on the perils of home fires, and what you can do to help prevent both residential and commercial structure fires. One lucky participant will win a FREE Honey Baked Ham courtesy of SERVPRO of Bartow County.

CONTEST RULES:

• Like and follow SERVPRO of Bartow County’s Facebook page.

• Comment on the SERVPRO of Bartow County 2020 Thanksgiving Restoration Newline Contest post with the answers to following questions (this post will be pinned to the top of our page for your convenience or you can click here for a direct link).
  • What is the leading cause of residential fires?
  • On average, how many structural home fires occur every year?
  • Who can restore your home or business to preloss condition once the fire has been extinguished and smoke has cleared?

• Tune in for our Facebook Live drawing to see if you’ve won!

2020 Thanksgiving Restoration Newsline

Did you know cooking equipment is the leading cause of residential fires? As the holiday season begins and you find yourself in the kitchen more often while friends and family, fire precautions should be top of mind.

A property owner experiences a flood of emotions when a fire ravages their business or home. Fear, uncertainty, stress, and doubt about the future of the property and their livelihood can be overwhelming to the property owner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared. After the first wave of heroes have rescued the property, Let SERVPRO of Bartow County help you restore it to its preloss condition. Combining rapid response, the utmost professionalism, and open communication throughout the entire job process, we strive to restore not only the home or business structure, but the customer’s peace of mind as well.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers the following eye-opening statistics on structure fires:

• Most home fires and fire casualties result from five causes:
• Cooking
• Heating
• Electrical distribution & lighting equipment
• Intentional fire setting
• Smoking materials
• More than one-quarter (27%) of reported fires occur in homes within the last year.
• Even worse, 79% of fire-related deaths were caused by home fires.
• On average, U.S. Fire departments respond to an estimated average of 354,400 home structure fires per year, resulting in $6.9 billion in direct property damage.

If the unthinkable happens and a fire strikes your home or business, give the experts at SERVPRO of Bartow County a call at (770) 387-7455 or visit SERVPRObartowcounty.com for more information. We will help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Using a Portable Fire Extinguisher

A portable fire extinguisher can be a life and property saving tool when used correctly. In order to operate a fire extinguisher, the NFPA suggests remembering the word PASS.

• Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low. Point the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. Encourage your family members and co-workers to do the same. Remember, Extinguishers do have their limitations! It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your home or facility. Refer to the next section of this blog to learn more about the different classes of fire extinguishers and the types of fire each are designed to extinguish.

Choosing the Appropriate Class of Fire Extinguisher

• Class A: This is the most common extinguisher and can be used to put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and many plastics.
• Class B: Used on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, and oil
• Class C: Designed for fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment electronically energized or plugged in.
• Class D: For use on flammable metals; often specific for the type of metal in question. These are typically found in factories and commercial applications.
• Class K: Intended for use on fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. Generally found in commercial kitchens.

*If you’ve enjoyed this blog feel free to check out some of SERVPRO of Bartow County’s Previous Restoration Blogs: “Smoke Alarms Save Bartow County Lives”; “Fire Prevention in Bartow County, GA”; “SERVPRO of Bartow County Fire Restoration Procedures”; “The SERVPRO Difference”; “SERVPRO of Bartow County: Carpets to Catastrophes”; “Fire Cleanup in Cartersville GA Home”

Get Your Commercial Facility Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

After your facility has been disinfected and sanitized, the Certified: SERVPRO cleaned door decal can be prominently displayed (as pictured above).

Getting back to business relies on getting your customers back through your doors. That only will only happen if they feel safe and secure in your space. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean with 40% of consumers citing cleanliness as a top concern*. Are you ready to not only help keep your customers and employees safe but to communicate that you've chosen a higher standard of clean for all Americans?

When our logo is on your door, your commitment is to clean is clear.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that goes way beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning services. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration**, we stand on over 50 years of experience and expertise so you can rest assured that you've selected a higher standard of clean for all Americans...you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry-leading and proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C's: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

1. Consult - A tailored cleaning program to meet your needs.
   
   • SERVPRO of Bartow County will assign you a Cleaning Protocol Specialist who understands your business.
   • Programs are based on a range of factors: type of industry, business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
2. Clean - Proactive and COVID-19 Emergency response cleaning program
   • Trained and experienced in biohazard cleaning and decontamination for porous and non-porous surfaces. Always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards for your facility set by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
   • EPA-approved products, including our proprietary cleaning agent SERVPROXIDE, a hospital-grade disinfectant that is NSF certified for direct food surface use.
3. Certify - A commitment to clean for your employees and consumers.
   • Leverage SERVPRO's trusted brand to reassure your customers and employees that you are taking the step needed to keep your space at a higher level of clean.
   • Communication touchpoints include a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned window emblem, signage, marks for your digital footprint and more.

Display Your Commitment to Clean with the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Logo

Customers and employees will know that SERVPRO, the nation's #1 choice in cleanup and restoration was there.

*The Harris Poll conducted online on behalf of fast, between April 28 and April 30, 2020. About 2,048 U.S. Adults aged 18 or older participated.

**#1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based commercial attitude & usage tracking study polling 816 commercial business decision-makers of first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

***Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA-approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO Certified Cleaning experience. Each SERVPRO of Bartow County is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO of Bartow County: Carpets to Catastrophes

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

If your business is facing a water, fire or mold catastrophe, call SERVPRO of Bartow County. We make catastrophes "Like it never even happened."

Time is a precious commodity. When you need it done right and done fast, call SERVPRO of Bartow County for all your commercial cleaning & restoration needs. Did you know when you hire SERVPRO of Bartow County for maintenance cleaning, you get around-the-clock restoration services built with you in mind? Quality cleaning and quick response times, that’s the SERVPRO of Bartow County way.
Can’t figure out how to get the job done? Dall SERVPRO of Bartow County for all your emergency restoration needs. Because when you experience a fire, water or mold damage in your facility, you need fast response and the expertise to get the job done right, ensuring your business can get back into operation as quickly as possible. Through it all, you expect the most reliable information and the very best service at a fair price.
SERVPRO of Bartow County is committed to providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce business interruptions and recovery costs. SERVPRO of Bartow County can provide:

• Water Removal, Extraction, & Dehumidification: SERVPRO professionals identify the source and type of water, which determines the proper course of action. Drying equipment controls temperature and humidity, minimizing secondary damage.
• Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup and Restoration: Pretesting help SERVPRO professionals determine what type of fire has taken place. Knowing the type of smoke and their behavior patterns are vital to proper restoration. 
• Mold Mitigation & Remediation: SERVPRO professionals work to control and remediate mold contaminants while protecting your health and safety.
• Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning & Care: SERVPRO professionals use the latest IICRC training as well as state-of-the-art equipment to remove entrapped soils from deep within your carpet’s pile and backings.
• Stain Removal & Stain Resistance Applications: Using IICRC standards for carpet as a guide, SERVPRO professionals will show you what cleaning options would be best for your carpet’s level of soiling and explain the benefits of soil protection.
• Odor Identification & Deodorization: SERVPRO professionals will find the source of the odor and determine the best methods to neutralize and eliminate it.
• Upholstery & Drapes - Wet or Dry Cleaning Methods: Fabrics are inspected and tested to determine the safest and most effective cleaning method.
• Contents Claim Inventory Service: Accurate inventory helps keep costs low and reduces job completion time. SERVPRO professionals can provide an itemized, area-by-area loss inventory.
• Air Duct & HVAC Cleaning: SERVPRO restoration professionals can inspect your HVAC system and ductwork. Cleaning services can be provided to help restore peak energy efficiency, eliminate offensive odors and improve indoor air quality.
• Crime Scene, Biohazard & Vandalism Cleanup: SERVPRO of Bartow County restoration professionals are trained to safely and effectively clean biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and Georgia’s state and local health regulations.
• Certified SERVPRO Cleaned: The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned (CSC) program is designed to provide our communities with a way to know that a structure has been cleaned, sanitized and disinfected to minimize harmful pathogens. If a structure is sanitized and disinfected as part of the CSC program, a window decal shield will be left at the structure as well as a separate window decal which should be dated by the franchise to let everyone know when it was last sanitized and disinfected. This can be scheduled as a one time or a recurring service. 

SERVPRO of Bartow County...For All Your Commercial Cleaning & Restoration Needs

Take a look at what some of our Bartow County customer have to say about their experience working with SERVPRO of Bartow County: Google Reviews, Facebook Reviews, & A+ BBB Accredited Business Reviews

*If you enjoyed this blog check out some of our previous Blogs on Commercial Restoration: “Get Your Commercial Facility Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned”; “How to Cleanup an Office Printer Accident”; “Bartow County Commercial Restoration and Cleaning Services”; “Frequently Asked Questions About the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program”; “Cartersville Commercial Duct Cleaning Service”; “Choosing an Acworth Commercial Restoration Company”

How to Cleanup an Office Printer Accident

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here 24/7 to help your business recover from any size disaster.

During the course of an average office day, there are many tasks that must take place to keep the office running. Ordering supplies, taking out the trash, cleaning the breakroom coffee pot, and changing the toner cartridge in the printer are just a few of the day to day tasks that help your business get work done. In this blog we are going to focus on the last task mentioned, changing the toner cartridge in the office printer. After all, who hasn't experienced some kind of issue or frustration with the office printer?

If you're lucky this will never happen to you or your place of business but accidents happen, and printer toner spills can be quite the mess to clean up. If you don't know what you are doing you can end up making a bigger mess and causing more harm than good. SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help Bartow County residents and business owners cleanup and restore just about any type of mess they find themselves in...no job is too big or too small. SERVPRO has a specific protocol for cleaning up printer toner accidents. They have been tested and proven to be highly successful in cleaning and restoring our customer’s property to preloss condition.

This type of cleanup and restoration project requires specific personal protective equipment (PPE) and extensive knowledge and experience working the professional grade cleaning products and tools utilized in the process. You should never put yourself or your property in harm's way by taking on a cleanup or restoration project, unless you are properly trained and experienced in handling the materials you are cleaning up and the tools required to complete the job. 

Required PPE: Goggles; Rubber Gloves; Respirator or Dust Mask

Professional Cleaning Products: SERVPRO Solvent Spotter

Required Equipment:

Vacuum with a HEPA Filter (Truck mounted vacuum system is the best option. A backpack vacuum will work but is efficient); Dry Clean Soot Sponge(s) 

SERVPRO Cleaning Protocol for Toner Spill 

Non-Porous Surfaces  

• Wipe off the non-porous surfaces with a dry clean soot sponge. Use the same wiping technique as you would if you were cleaning soot. These sponges are specially formulated to absorb very small particle sized debris like soot or smoke residue, but will also absorb toner dust. 
• The remaining residue may be wiped away using a clean disposable towel dampened with one of SERVPRO’s proprietary cleaning products like SERVPRO Solvent Spotter. 

Porous Surfaces 

DO NOT get the area wet!

• Vacuum the area thoroughly to remove as much material as possible.
• Use the hose cuff in an up and down fashion. Working in small areas at a time.
• You may need to beat the surface with a small handle to get the dust to the top of the surface.
• DO NOT work the vacuum back and forth across the area. This can push the dust further into the surface creating a more difficult cleanup.
• The remaining residue may be wiped away using a clean disposable towel dampened with one of SERVPRO’s proprietary cleaning products like SERVPRO Solvent Spotter.
• DO NOT wipe it into the surface or it will be harder to remove.
• Repeat as needed until surface is cleaned.
• After cleaning is complete use a hot water extract tool to give the area a final cleaning.

Have Another Type of Mess to Clean Up?

SERVPRO of Bartow County can clean and restore your home or business making it feel like the day you first move in. SERVPRO hasn’t perfected time travel but we have mastered the art of commercial cleaning and restoration services.

Related Cleaning Services:

• Overview of Residential Cleaning Services

• Air Ducts & HVAC

• Biohazard

• Carpet & Upholstery

• Ceiling, Floors & Walls

• Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

• Drapes & Blinds

• Odor Removal

• Sewage & Toilet Overflow

• Trauma & Crime Scene

• Vandalism & Graffiti

• Building Services

• Commercial Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Bartow County is Bartow County’s Preferred Fire Restoration Company... Don’t Take Our Word For It....

Take a look at what some of our Bartow County customer have to say about their experience working with SERVPRO of Bartow County: Google Reviews, Facebook Reviews, & A+ BBB Accredited Business Reviews

*If you enjoyed this blog check out some of our previous Restoration Blogs: ”Bartow County Commercial Restoration and Cleaning Services”; “SERVPRO of Bartow Count Can Help You Reopen Your Business Safely”; “Frequently Asked Questions About the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program”; “The SERVPRO Difference”; “Bartow County Commercial Restoration and Cleaning Services”

Cleaning Fire & Soot Damaged Brick & Masonry - PART 1

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is open 24/7 and can help you recover after a fire loss. If you have fire damaged brick or masonry give us a call today!

Oftentimes brick and masonry elements are damaged by smoke and fire during home fire. A blockage in the chimney could cause smoke to backflow out of the chimney, filling the room with smoke and staining the walls, brick fascia of the chimney, and the contents of the room. Smoke and soot can be very tricky to remove from just about any surface but can be particularly difficult to remove from brick or masonry work. 

Brick and other stone work tends to have porous uneven surfaces with very tiny nooks and crannies that can hold smoke and soot particles. The best way to remove both visible smoke damage and smoke smells is to remove the source of the damage or smell. This means removing every particle of soot and smoke residue. In the case of brick and masonry smoke and soot damage can be very difficult to remove without the proper tools, cleaning products, and training.

SERVPRO of Bartow County is a leader in the Bartow County fire restoration industry and has both the training and tools to mitigate and restore any size fire restoration project. We also have a Contents Department that can clean and restore fire damage belongings like electronics, textiles, artwork, keep-sakes, and heirlooms. The following is a step-by-step guide on one of two SERVPRO protocols for cleaning building materials and the structure of a fire damaged property. 

This protocol utilizes both acidic and neutralizing cleaning and restoring products to restore brick and masonry work to preloss condition. This method also requires specific personal protective equipment (PPE) and extensive knowledge and experience working the professional cleaning products utilized in the process. You should never put yourself in harm's way by taking on a restoration project, unless you are properly trained and experienced in the fire restoration field. 

Needed Equipment:

5 Gallon Buckets (3); Stiff Bristled Brushes (3); Protective Plastic Sheeting

SERVPRO’s Proprietary Cleaning & Restoration Products:

SERVPRO’s Stone and Porcelain Cleaner; SERVPRO’s Wall and All Surface Cleaner; SERVPRO’s Bridght-N-Neutral Cleaner

Required PPE:

Goggles; Safety Glasses; Chemical Resistant Gloves; Face Shield; Respirator 

Important Notes: 

Exterior Cleaning - Take caution with plants, shrubs etc...Collect run-off and be careful with overspray.

Interior Cleaning - Take caution with carpets, wood laminate, tile or other floor coverings. Cover these areas with plastic to protect from overspray.

Pretest an inconspicuous spot before proceeding with cleaning

DO NOT USE SERVPRO Stone and Porcelain Cleaner on polished marble, granite or other masonry surfaces. This will cause irreversible damage to the surface.

How to Remove Soot & Smoke from Brick & Masonry

Masonry Cleaning Technique #1

Professional Cleaning Product Preparation (label your buckets to avoid confusion of solutions)

• Bucket #1 - Acid Solution - Pour 2 cups of SERVPRO Stone and Porcelain Cleaner into one gallon of HOT water. Place 1 stiff bristled brush with this bucket and do not use this brush with any of the other solutions in any of the other buckets.
• Bucket #2 - Neutralizing Solution - Pour 2 cups of SERVPRO Wall and All Surface Cleaner into one gallon of HOT water. Place 1 stiff bristled brush with this bucket and do not use this brush with any of the other solutions in any of the other buckets.
• Bucket #3 - Clean Water Rinse - Fill bucket half way with HOT water. Place 1 stiff bristled brush with this bucket and do not use this brush with any of the other solutions in any of the other buckets.

Cleaning

Acid Clean

• Pre-spray or dip a stiff bristled brush into acid solution from Bucket #1 and scrub the solution into the affected brick or masonry area.
• Let the acid solution dwell for 15-30 minutes to allow the acid to break down the microscopic soot and smoke residue particles.
• Spray or dip a stiff bristled brush into clean clear water from Bucket #3 and use to rinse the surface free of the acid solution. When you rinse the acid solution from the affected area the broken down soot and smoke particles will also be rinsed away.
• Repeat previous 3 steps as needed until the surface is clean.

Neutralize 

• Pre-spray or dip a stiff bristled brush into neutralizing solution from Bucket #2 and scrub into the affected brick or masonry area.
• Let the neutralizing solution dwell for 15 minutes to stop the chemical reaction and fully neutralize any acid residue left behind in the acid solution cleaning steps.
• Rinse the surface thoroughly with clean clear water to remove any residual neutralizing agent residue.
• Interior - Dip stiff bristled brush into clean clear water from Bucket #3 and scrub into brick.
• Exterior - Pressure wash or rinse with water hose.

Repeat Acid Clean and Neutralize procedures as needed until the surface is clean.

SERVPRO of Bartow County is Bartow County’s Preferred Fire Restoration Company... Don’t Take Our Word For It....

Take a look at what some of our Bartow County customer have to say about their experience working with SERVPRO of Bartow County: Google Reviews, Facebook Reviews, & A+ BBB Accredited Business Reviews

*If you enjoyed this blog check out some of our previous Blogs on Fire Restoration: “SERVPRO of Bartow County Fire Restoration Procedures”; “The Different Types of Smoke”; “Fire Cleanup in Cartersville GA Home”; “Fire Prevention in Bartow County, GA”; “October is Fire Prevention Month in Bartow County, GA

Cleaning Fire & Soot Damaged Brick & Masonry - PART 2

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help 24/7. Let us make your brick or masonry fire damage "Like it never even happened."

This is a continuation from our previous blog. “Cleaning Fire & Soot Damaged Brick & Masonry - PART 1” that covered one of the other ways SERVPRO of Bartow County cleans and restores fire damaged brick and masonry. The previous method utilized several SERVPRO proprietary cleaning products by taking advantage of their acidic and neutralizing properties. The method we will discuss in this blog utilizes a single SERVPRO product, SERVPRO’s Waterless Masonry Cleaner. 

The Waterless Masonry Cleaner is sprayed, brushed or rolled onto the fire damage brick or masonry area. The application should be very thick. At least a 1/16 of an inch thick. After the Waterless Masonry Cleaner dries it will feel rubbery to the touch and will have bonded with the soot and smoke residue on the surface of the brick or masonry that would be otherwise nearly impossible to remove. Once completely dry the Waterless Masonry Cleaner can be peeled away from the brick and/or masonry work, removing the smoke and soot residue along with it. Warm wet towels can then be used to scrub the surface clean and remove any residual Waterless Masonry Cleaner. 

This method of removing fire and soot damage from brick and masonry requires specific personal protective equipment (PPE) and extensive knowledge and experience working the professional cleaning products and tools utilized in the process. You should never put yourself in harm's way by taking on a restoration project, unless you are properly trained and experienced in the fire restoration field. 

Needed Equipment:

SERVPRO’s Waterless Masonry Cleaner; Brushes; Rollers; for larger areas Airless Sprayer (Must be chemical resistant sprayer; Must be capable of delivering 0.9 gpm or higher; Minimum tip size 0.015 inches or 0.017 inches); towels

Required PPE:

Goggles; Safety Glasses; Chemical Resistant Gloves; Face Shield; Respirator 

How to Remove Soot & Smoke from Brick & Masonry

Masonry Cleaning Technique #2 using Waterless Masonry Cleaner

SURFACE PREPARATION

• MASKING (Use Plastic polyethylene sheets)
• Cover areas where cleaning is not desired, including adjoining surfaces where over spray may travel.
• Plants should be covered before and during application.

• MIXING
• If the product has separated mix with a drill. DO NOT SHAKE OR DILUTE. 

COVERAGE RATE

• Wet film thickness should be 14-28 mils.
• Test thickness with a painters thickness gauge.
• 50-100 ft2 per gallon depending upon application method and surface porosity. 

APPLICATION

• Apply a thick, even layer. Optimal wet film thickness should be 14-28 mils.
• Required thickness may vary.
• If the product is applied too thin, it will be more difficult to remove.
• Do not apply to exterior surfaces if temperature is above 90° F and in direct sunlight 

*Tips on Spray Application 

• Thoroughly vacuum the affected area to remove any dry loose soot first!
• Spray on surfaces that are at 50F or higher. Cold surfaces will prolong the drying out process and it could take much longer to completely dry out to be properly peeled off.
• Do not apply outdoors on surfaces at 90F or in direct sunlight as this will cause the product to over-cure and become very difficult to peel.
• The product will turn from white to a light amber color when it has dried and is ready for peeling. Test a few areas first to insure it is thoroughly dried out and ready to peel before proceeding.
• You can use a brush or roller on smaller surfaces such as fireplaces or statues but use an airless sprayer for optimum application on larger areas. The airless puts down such a nice uniform layer for better peeling.
• Spray at least 1/16" wet layer or you will have problems peeling it. It should peel off in sheets. If sprayed thin you will be picking at it and will need to spray again thicker to remove it better if you do not want to be picking at it. As a rule of thumb a penny is ~1/16th of an inch to the top of Lincoln's head. So insert a penny to insure you have sprayed enough by seeing if the coating is at the top or better of Lincoln' head. They also sell professional depth gauges at any paint or hardware store.
• Clean up is a breeze with water (warm water for faster results). Just run it through the sprayer and other areas.
• Remove over-spray before it dries out with a wet rag.
• Always start the airless sprayer pump at the lowest pressure setting and slowly build up the pressure until an adequate fan pattern has been generated. 
• Build a thick uniform layer to ensure even cleaning and ease of removal 

*Tip for Brush or Roller Application

• Build a thick uniform layer to ensure even cleaning and ease of removal 

DRY TIME

• Let SERVPRO’s Waterless Masonry Cleaner dry for a minimum of 24 hours and no more than 3 days.
• It will be completely dry when it is yellowish in appearance and rubbery to the touch. 

REMOVAL

• Peel the dried Waterless Masonry Cleaner away from the surface as if it were latex paint. It should come off in large pieces.
• Use a damp sponge to wipe the surface clean if necessary. 

CLEAN-UP

• Thoroughly clean sprayer before storage 
• Soak brushes/roller in water overnight 
• DO NOT use paint thinners or solvents

SERVPRO of Bartow County is Bartow County’s Preferred Fire Restoration Company... Don’t Take Our Word For It....

Take a look at what some of our Bartow County customer have to say about their experience working with SERVPRO of Bartow County: Google Reviews, Facebook Reviews, & A+ BBB Accredited Business Reviews

*If you enjoyed this blog check out some of our previous Blogs on Fire Restoration: “Fire Prevention: Not Every Hero Wears a Cape”;”Every Second Counts in a Cartersville House fire”;”Cleaning Smoke and Nicotine Smells From Your Acworth GA Home”; ”10 Helpful Tips for Cleaning Up After a Bartow County Fire”; “SERVPRO of Bartow County | Smoke and Soot Cleanup”; “American Red Cross Fire Fact Sheet”

The SERVPRO Difference

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help you recover after a water loss. Whether its your home or business SERVPRO of Bartow County is available 24/7!

Serving North American Since 1967 - SERVPRO call centers served over 300 insurance and property management companies and their clients nationwide in the last year alone. We have earned the trust of the insurance industry by serving thousands of their policyholders and clients with respect and integrity. The more we restore, the less that needs to be replaced. This helps our clients save millions of dollars each year. That helps lower your insurance rates too!

Over 1,700 Franchises in the SERVPRO System - More locations means faster response times. A SERVPRO team can usually be on-site within four hours to help protect the structure, business and personal property. SERVPRO of Bartow County holds an average response time for emergency service calls of less than two hours and in many cases can be on-site in less than one hour.

24-Hour Emergency Service - In our business, you need us fast! The sooner we arrive, the better the chance we can reduce damage and save money. SERVPRO of Bartow County is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Trained & Uniformed Restoration Professionals - A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO of Bartow County team member will walk you through the job process and then work quickly to restore your property to preloss condition. From large commercial environments to small residential losses, SERVPRO of Bartow County understands your loss is the job that matters most! We will be happy to provide so you can feel confident that SERVPRO of Bartow County is the best restoration provider to service your needs.

The People, Experience, Training and Equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.”

The People: With over 10,000 quality teammates, SERVPRO professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help you get your life back.

The Experience: SERVPRO is a franchise system with over 50 years of leadership in fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our track record has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, commercial property managers.

The Training: SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals undergo extensive water restoration training and certification from SERVPRO Industries. SERVPRO Industries, Inc is an IICRC-approved school to help ensure our training meets and exceeds accepted industry standards.

The Equipment: With over 5,000,000 square feet of building space, housing over 140,000 pieces of cleaning and restoration equipment, SERVPRO franchises nationwide have the backing and resources to help you take back control of your life and can clean, restore, and mitigate any size disaster.

Lower Recovery Cost - The SERVPRO System Helps Save Money

• Emergency mitigation services help minimize additional property damage.
• SERVPRO of Bartow County uses specialized test equipment to determine hidden water.
• Restoration versus replacement of contents saves heirlooms and money too.
• By using advanced drying techniques, SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals monitor and ensure your property is properly dried.

FACT: Restoration through mitigation is less expensive than replacing!

October is Fire Prevention Month in Bartow County, GA

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

October is fire prevention month in Bartow County, so let's all do our part in keeping this fall fire free!

October is Fire Prevention Month and an excellent time to examine the emergency preparedness plans for your home or business, including your fire escape plan. Do you have a fire escape Plan? Have you changed your smoke alarm batteries within the last year? Are you prepared for whatever happens?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets aside a designated week each October to focus on fire prevention. This year Fire Prevention Week is October 4th through the 10th. The 2020 theme is, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” This topic works to educate everyone about the simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves, and those around them, safe in the kitchen.

Did you know? 

Cooking is the number one cause of home fires and home fire injuries, according to NFPA. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of fires in the kitchen. NFPA notes that once a fire alarm goes off “you could have less than two minutes to get out safely,” yet only 8 percent of people surveyed said getting out was the first thought they had after hearing a fire alarm go off. Creating, implementing, and practicing a fire escape plan for your home or business may be the difference between safely and tragedy. Make a plan today!

As the number one choice in cleanup and restoration, we stand on over 50 years of experience and expertise to help ensure you stay safe, informed, and ready for any disaster that comes your way. The time to prepare is now. Call SERVPRO of Bartow County to make sure your home and business are “Ready for whatever happens.”

Keep Fall Fire Free

The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, and abundance of outdoor activities. Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe and fire-free.

• It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-powered candle in a jack-o-lantern. Extreme caution must be used if you choose to use a traditional candle.
• Fall decorations, like dried flowers and cornstalks, are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.
• Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume and consider avoiding billowing fabrics which may pose hazards.
• Keep emergency exits clear of decorations so that nothing blocks escape routes.
• Teach children to stay away from open flames, and be sure they know how to STOP, DROP, and ROLL in the event that their clothing catches fire.

Facts and information provided by the National Fire Protection Association, nfpa.org

The holiday season is a time for gathering with friends and family to enjoy fellowship and quality time. As the weather outside turns frightful, we rely on the warmth of our homes to host gatherings with loved ones. Of course, if disaster does strike during the holiday season, SERVPRO of Bartow County is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. SERVPRO of Bartow County cares about the Bartow County community and wants everyone to be prepared and well educated in fire safety. In the event of a home fire, everyone's number one goal should be escaping the fire safely. Belongings and personal items can be replaced, but lives can’t be replaced. SERVPRO of Bartow County can help you and your family recover after a fire by restoring your property and rebuilding your homes structure.

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Bartow County is close by and ready to respond to your smoke or fire damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the Cartersville community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Cartersville, GA
• Adairsville, GA
• Emerson, GA
• White, GA
• Kingston, GA
• Rydal, GA
• Euharlee, GA
• Acworth, GA

For more information on Fire Safety check out some of our previous blogs: “Smoke Alarms Save Bartow County Lives”; “Fire Prevention: Not Every Hero Wears a Cape”; “Every Second Counts in a Cartersville House fire”; “Celebrate Safely This Fourth Of July”; “How to Inspect a Fire Extinguisher”

Fire Prevention in Bartow County, GA

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

If your home or business suffers fire damage call SERVPRO of Bartow County today. We are here to help 24/7!

Do you know the most common source of home fires? Do you have measures in place to help prevent or lessen the severity of a house fire, should it happen to you? Let's take a look at the most common reasons house fires occur. 

• Kitchen Fires - Most kitchen fires start on the stove top. In fact, kitchen fires are the number one source for home fires according to the U.S. Fire Commision (USFA).
• Heating Equipment - Space Heaters, generators, and fireplaces are involved in 1 out of 6 house fires. 
• Appliances - Dryers are the cause of 9 out of 10 appliance fires. 
• Electronics & Outlets- overloaded and overheated power cords can quickly ignite a fire
• Overcluttered, Overpacked areas can cause the worst of fires. 

While we can’t always prevent fires from starting, we can be prepared to put fires out and have plans in place to insure you and your family’s safety. Now that we know the most common reasons a house fire can start in a home, let's take a look at how we can prevent these types of fires. 

• Keep textiles away from stovetops and always remember never throw water on a grease fire. To extinguish grease fires, you must suffocate by depriving them of oxygen. 
• Make sure heat sources are kept away from flammable materials. Remember to unplug space heaters and never leave burning candles unattended. Fireplaces should be inspected and maintained once a year to prevent chimney fires.
• Appliances should be maintained and kept in good working order. Lint screens should be cleaned after each cycle and vents should be cleaned and maintained periodically.  
• It is a best safety practice for each electronic device and appliance to have their own outlet. If this is not possible, be sure your outlets are not being overloaded. The most obvious way to know if your outlets are overloaded is a breaker tripping and power going off. If you notice your lights dimming or cords giving off heat, this is also a clue that something isn't quite right. 
• All homes should be equipped with working fire alarms and extinguishers. Both fire alarms and fire extinguishers need to be checked for proper functionality, maintained, and replaced periodically.
• A fire escape plan should be established and practiced with everyone living in the home. Escape routes should outline at least two ways to exit each room. For example, two escape routes for a bedroom might be the bedroom door and bedroom window. Escape routes must be kept tidy so it is easy to exit the room in case of an emergency.

*For more information on fire safety and US fire statistics visit www.usfa.fema.gov

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help you and your family recover after a fire loss. We are proud to have served the Bartow County community for over a decade and have helped hundreds of families recover after water and fire loss events. We work with all insurance companies and are even listed as preferred service providers for many of the major insurance providers like State Farm, Farmers, Auto Owners, American Family Insurance, Metlife, and The Hartford. SERVPRO of Marietta West has a great working relationship with our local agents. Choose the fire restoration company that more home and business owners trust with their most important assets...SERVPRO of Bartow County. 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County Today – (770) 387-7455

Since each smoke and/or fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific situation. We will treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care. SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help. We have the expertise, equipment, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage home to preloss condition. If your home or business is affected by fire damage call SERVPRO of Bartow County and let us make it “Like it never even happened.”

Three Good Reason to Call SERVPRO of Bartow County After Storm Damage

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged during a storm or flood event, call SERVPRO of Bartow County. We make storm and flood damage "Like it never even happened."

Storm and flood damage can happen without much warning and can cause major damage to your home or business. When storm damage happens it's important that you know that you have many options to choose from when it comes to who you invite into your home or business to start the restoration process. Choose the restoration company that more Bartow County homeowners and business owners have come to know and trust...SERVPRO of Bartow County. We are proud to serve Acworth, Cartersville, Allatoona, Adairsville, Emerson, Euharlee, Rydal, Atco, White, Kingston, and Taylorsville.

Faster to Any Size Disaster

SERVPRO of Bartow County prides ourselves on having an industry leading response time. When water damage occurs we understand that you may be feeling stressed, confused, and may be unsure of what to do. This is when you need guidance from the experts that have served the Bartow County community faithfully for nearly ten years. SERVPRO of Bartow County is Here to Help. From the first phone call, our knowledgeable customer service professionals will ask questions to best assess how much damage has occurred and determine what equipment and supplies will be needed. SERVPRO of Bartow County guarantees a 2 hour emergency response time, but in most cases we will arrive in less than 1 hour.

Highly Trained in Storm Damage Specialists

SERVPRO of Bartow County only fields highly trained restoration specialists that have been specifically trained in storm mitigation and restoration. Service technicians hold a host of certifications and participate in ongoing training programs covering topics like fire restoration, water restoration, carpet & upholstery cleaning, and proprietary SERVPRO Crew Training. From our Project Managers on down, all of SERVPRO of Bartow County’s restoration specialists have been trained in the art of drying and restoring property quickly, safely and in accordance with IICRC standards. SERVPRO of Bartow County as a company is classified as an IICRC Certified Firm by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).

*The IICRC is the institution that certifies and sets standards for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Resources to Handle Major Storm and Disaster Events

As a locally owned and operated SERVPRO restoration franchise, SERVPRO of Bartow County benefits from having both a personal connection to the Bartow County community as well as having the support of the nation's largest and most trusted incorporated restoration company. This means that when a major disaster strikes SERVPRO of Bartow County has the assets, equipment, and expertise needed to take on any size disaster. We can also call in SERVPRO corporate Disaster Recovery Teams which bring to bear an amazing level of man-power and logistical support that other locally owned restoration company’s simply do not have access to or means to replicate.

If your home or business suffers storm or flood damage, call the professional with the fastest emergency response time in Bartow County...SERVPRO of Bartow County. When it comes to storm and water damage time is of the essence and you need help fast. We will arrive onsite and start mitigating, documenting, extracting, and restoring your property immediately. Let SERVPRO of Bartow County make your storm and flood damage “Like it never even happened.”  

*For more information on SERVPRO of Bartow County Storm Restoration Services check out some our previous Storm Restoration Blogs and Storm Restoration Before & After Photos: ”Common Types of Storm Damage in Bartow County”; “Acworth, GA Home Damaged by Water During Rainstorm”; “SERVPRO of Bartow County: Cartersville's Premier Storm Restoration Company”; “Flooded Kitchen and Entryway”; “Flooded Entryway to Home”; “Flooded Hallway”

Bartow County Commercial Restoration and Cleaning Services

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help Bartow County businesses recover after major disasters like fire or water damage.

When it comes to cleaning commercial facilities there is one name that Bartow County business owners have come to rely on and trust...SERVPRO of Bartow County. SERVPRO of Bartow County has serviced our local community for almost a decade, exceeding industry standards and providing five star customer service. When your business is on the line, it's time to call in the professionals from SERVPRO of Bartow County.

Fifty Percent of all businesses that experience a major disaster never reopen. This is why helping businesses recover after a major water, fire, mold or storm damage, has become one of SERVPRO of Bartow County’s driving goals. We care about our community and the greater Bartow County area so we never enjoy hearing about companies experiencing water and/or fire losses, but we know we have the training, personal, and expertise to restore their business back to preloss condition. SERVPRO of Bartow Count is always on call and open 24-hours a day 365 days a year. We specialize in emergency services and can be on site within two hours in most cases, ready to start stabilizing your property and mitigating the damages. 

Commercial Restoration & Cleaning Services

Commercial Emergency Water Extraction and Drying - SERVPRO of Bartow County has highly trained water restoration technicians with experience mitigating major losses and all the equipment necessary to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or major manufacturing facility, SERVPRO of Bartow County will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion quickly and safely. Learn more about our training and certifications like applied structural drying, odor control, textile restoration, and upholstery/fabric restoration.

Commercial Storm Restoration - Storms and inclement weather in the Bartow County area can have major and devastating effects on business in Bartow County. Wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding can occur suddenly and cause substantial damage in a matter of minutes. There’s never a convenient time for flooding or storm damage to strike your business. So when situations like storm damage or major emergency events arise in your business, give SERVPRO of Bartow County a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need ready to make commercial storm damage “Like it never even happened.”

Commercial Fire Restoration & Cleanup - Fire damage can be especially devastating to a business or commercial property. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of productivity and possibly revenue, so SERVPRO of Bartow County knows that time is of the essence. If your business experiences a fire loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of Bartow County and we’ll respond immediately to get you back to business quickly and safely.

Commercial Mold Remediation - Discovering mold in your commercial facility can cause major disruption to your daily business and can cause the loss of revenue or your businesses ability to operate at full capacity. SERVPRO of Bartow county has trained professionals with extensive experience in mold remediation and the proper equipment to contain commercial mold infestations. This means that we can remediate your commercial mold issues and restore your property to preloss condition, getting your business back up and running quickly and safely. 

Bioremediation and Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program - SERVPRO of Bartow County offers a full host of bioremediation services including sewage cleanup, crime scene residues cleanup, suicide/death accidents cleaning, homicide cleanups, blood cleanup, accident cleanup, hoarding scenes management, animal waist/remains removal/cleaning, chemical spills cleanup, tear gas cleanup and even meth lab cleanup. With the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic, SERVPRO of Bartow County has also incorporated a robust and extensive cleaning and sanitizing program geared toward proactive cleanings called Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned (CSC) program.

*Check out some of our Commercial Restoration Projects: “Restoration of 20,000+ sq. Foot Warehouse”; “Before & After Images of Mitigation Process in Bartow County Office Space”; “Commercial Bathroom Sewage Cleanup”; “Mitigation of Office Space Hallway”; “Hallway Damaged by Pipe Leak in Commercial Facility”  

September is National Preparedness Month

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County to restore your home or business to preloss condition. We can make storm and flood damage "Like it never even happened."

This year for National Preparedness Month, join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading efforts to encourage the community as a whole to become more prepared. “Disasters happen” and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities. Learn how to be prepared.

Make & Practice Your Plan

Do you have an evacuation and shelter-in-place plan? Do you have a plan to communicate with your family before, during and after an incident? Do you have an emergency supply kit?

Make sure your family is informed and practiced in your emergency plan. Be sure to sign up for alerts and warnings for your area and download other necessary apps to stay informed, such as the FEMA app.

Learn Life Saving Skills

Do you or someone in your family know CPR? Could you turn off your natural gas if necessary? Do you know how to take cover in an earthquake? Knowing these life saving skills could mean life or death in an emergency situation for you, your family and/or your neighbors.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Have you reviewed your insurance coverage recently to see if you’re covered in a disaster? Evaluate which hazards are relevant to your area and obtain the appropriate insurance for your home, business, and/or other property and become familiar with your coverage.

Save for an Emergency

Are you prepared financially in case of a disaster? Does your family have an emergency fund for unexpected expenses after a flood or fire? Check our FEMA’s Emergency Financial First Aid Kit for an in-depth document to help you identify and compile important documents and account information all in one spot. Just search “EFFAK” on fema.gov to view and download the free PDF.

Whether its flood, wildfire or extreme winter weather, we must ensure our families, businesses, places of worship and neighborhoods are prepared. Contact SERVPRO of Bartow County to find out how we can help make it “Like it never even happened,” if disaster strikes in your life.

Storm Safety Tips for Extreme Weather

Tornado Safety Tips from the NOAA - GET IN - GET DOWN - COVER UP - If you are outside, get inside and if you are already inside you should try to get to the middle of the structure you are taking shelter in. Get underground if possible. It is not always possible to get underground but you should try to get to the lowest floor available. Use pillows, blankets, coats, helmets, etc to cover up and protect your head and body from flying debris. Flying and falling debris are one of the leading causes of death during storm events.

Floods can result from many different types of precipitation like rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflowing dams or other water systems. Flood warnings should be taken seriously and if you are in an area that is under a flood warning you should seek shelter right away.

What is the difference between a storm or weather watch, warning, and advisories?

Storm watches, warnings, and advisories can apply to many different types of weather events like tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, thunderstorms, tropical storms, blizzards, freezes, high winds, fog, smog, heat waves and even wildfire conditions. All weather warnings, watches and advisories should be taken seriously and proper precautions should be taken to protect yourself when they are issued.

Storm or Weather Event Watches are issued when there is the potential for significant and/or hazardous weather events within a given time frame, but does not mean the weather event will necessarily occur. The weather event is possible and people should be prepared for the weather event.

Storm or Weather Event Warnings are issued when the conditions of hazardous weather events are presently occurring or imminent. The weather even is either underway or will soon take place, so people should seek the appropriate type of shelter and/or safety precautions. 

Storm or Weather Event Advisories are issued when specific weather conditions are met and are closely akin to weather warnings. Advisories alert means that a weather event is occurring or imminent. 

*for a more in depth description of individual types of weather warnings, watches, and advisories visit weather.gov for additional information.

Tips for Floods & Flash Flooding Events:

• Stay informed by listening to local radio and television coverage of weather events, particularly the NOAA Weather Radio broadcast. The internet and social media platforms can be a great source for receiving updates on storm events, but please make sure the source is a reliable and reputable outlet that provides up to date information.
• Seek higher ground when available and safe to do so. Low-lying areas will most always be the first areas to be affected during flooding events. As such areas of low elevation should be avoided during flood events.
• Avoid flood waters by abstaining from walking through flood waters when at all possible. People have been known to be swept off their feet in as little as six inches of water and vehicles have been known to be swept away in as little as twelve inches of water. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest point available and call 911 if possible. Driving into flood water is ill-advised and you should not ignore closed roadways by driving around barricades. The NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) has coined the phrase “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” to encourage people to avoid flood waters.
• Electrical safety is paramount during flooding events. Water is a great conductor of electricity and a major contributor to injuries and even deaths during flooding events. Do not enter a flooded room if the electrical outlets or electrical cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises exit the structure immediately, electrical hazards could be present and could cause grave harm to you or your loved ones. 
• The NOAA strongly states, “During a flood, water levels and the rate the water is flowing can quickly change. Remain aware and monitor local radio and television outlets. Avoid flood waters at all costs and evacuate immediately when water starts to rise. Don’t wait until it is too late!”

When it is deemed safe by local authorities to return to your home, make sure to contact a trusted quality restoration company, like SERVPRO of Bartow County to provide you with the services you need to get things under control as quickly and efficiently as possible. SERVPRO of Bartow County offers a variety of services to remove flood waters quickly and help prevent mold growth that happens due to extensive exposure. Mold can cause severe health effects that you want to avoid. Get the help you need within 48-hours to prevent these problems and other issues in your home.  

SERVPRO technicians utilize a variety of techniques, including IICRC training and EPA guidelines to help return your indoor environment to a healthy, safe one that you and your family can enjoy. Take this opportunity to talk to professional technicians about possible improvements and address any concerns you may have for future events. 

*Check our some of our previous Storm Preparedness Blogs: “Do You Have a Plan?”; “FEMA Emergency Supply List”; “It Doesn’t Cost a Lot to be Prepared”; “Common Types of Storm Damage in Bartow County”; “SERVPRO of Bartow County: Cartersville’s Premier Storm Restoration Company”; “History of Bartow County’s Natural Disasters and Weather Extremes”; “Bartow County’s Epic Flood”

Common Types of Storm Damage in Bartow County

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County offers emergency storm restoration services along with related water restoration, drying and construction services.

Storm damage comes in many forms and at any time. When storm damage happens you want to choose a storm restoration company that is available day and night and has a proven track record of being able to make disasters “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO of Bartow County is your trusted neighborhood restoration business that has the backing of the largest restoration company in North America. 

Then a weather event affects your home or business you probably have many questions come to mind. Will my insurance company cover this? Who should I call to help me clean up this mess left by the storm? Give SERVPRO of Bartow County a call today or you can visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com/storm-flooding-restoration for more information on storm restoration. We can help you recover after storm damage and take the headache out of filing an insurance claim. SERVPRO of Bartow County will document the damage to your home or business and provide you and (when applicable) your insurance company with photographs and restoration estimates.

Different Types of Storm Related Water Damage

• Storm Related Water Damage -  This category of storm damage includes flooding events like tropical storms, flash floods, tornadoes, and hurricanes; Pretty much any storm related event that causes water to intrude into your home or business. This type of damage often happens as a result of or alongside several of the other common types of storm damage. 

SERVPRO of Bartow County is an IICRC certified firm and our service technicians are professionally trained and experienced in storm remediation, restoration, structural drying, and contents restoration. Along with their experience and training, SERVPRO of Bartow County service technicians utilize the latest in drying technology and restoration equipment. 

• Storm Related Wind Damage - According to the National Weather Service (NWS) on average Georgia experiences six tornadoes a year, but ask anyone who has lived here...North Georgia is no stranger to wind damage. Wind damage often happens outside of tornadic events but is almost always accompanied by rain; Compounding issues by causing water damage from rain intrusion made possible by the structure being compromised by wind damage. Common types of wind damage include shingles blown from your roof, damaged siding, windows, or awnings, and damaged caused by debris displaced by the wind. 

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here 24/7 to help homeowners and businesses recover after storm damage. When storm damage happens call the local professionals that are faster to any size disaster and have the logistical support and backing of over 1,700 franchises nationwide…SERVPRO of Bartow County.

• Storm Related Roof Damage -  As mentioned in the previous category, storm related roof damage is often caused by high winds storm events like tornadoes and hurricanes, but can also occur under many other situations. One of the more common calls SERVPRO of Bartow County receives involves weather related issues from trees falling on a homeowner’s roof, sometime after even minor rain storms. Another common example is hail damage, which can leave dents and dings in metal building materials like flashing and vents or bruising, cracking and/or dislodge granules from shingles themselves.  

SERVPRO of Bartow County offers 24-hour emergency boardup and tarping services, which can help mitigate storm damage by securing and stabilizing your property, preventing additional damage due to exposure to elements like wind and rain water. Our teams can perform the emergency water extraction and drying services once the property is secure.

• Storm Related Electrical Damage - Typically when a home or business’s electrical system and/or electronic devices are damaged during a storm event (and water is not involved) the cause is quite often a lightning strike. When lightning strikes your home or business any unprotected circuits connected to the building and the electrical system itself can be damaged sometimes causing some pretty unpleasant burnt plastic and smoke odors.

If your home suffers electrical storm damage, SERVPRO of Bartow County can document your loss, provide crucial information to your home insurance provider, and can even help you file a home insurance claim. SERVPRO of Bartow County is a preferred services provider for most major insurance companies like State Farm, Farmers, Auto Owners, The Hartford, and many others. We offer a full array of storm related cleaning services including odor removal, carpet & upholstery cleaning, ultrasonic cleaning services, even SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team.

When storm damage happens many home and business owners are not sure who to turn to. They’ve never experienced this type of disaster before and need someone to point them in the right direction. SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help and wants you to know that you don’t have to face this disaster on your own. We have serviced the greater Bartow County area for nearly a decade and are locally owned and operated. Our goal is to quickly and safely restore your storm damaged property to preloss condition and to help you regain a sense of control in a stressful situation.  

Take a look at what some of our Bartow County customer have to say about their experience working with SERVPRO of Bartow County: Google Reviews, Facebook Reviews, A+ BBB Accredited Business Reviews

Checkout some of our previous customers Before and After Storm Damage Pictures:”Rain Water From Hole In Roof”; “Tree On Roof”; “Flooded Hallway”; “Flooded Entryway to Home”; “Flooded Kitchen and Stairwell”; “Flooded Kitchen and Entryway”

Did you enjoyed this blog checkout some of our related Storm Restoration Blogs: “Acworth, GA Home Damaged by Water During Rainstorm”; “SERVPRO of Bartow County: Cartersville’s Premier Storm Restoration Company”; “History of Bartow County’s Natural Disasters and Weather Extremes”; “Bartow County’s Epic Flood”; “How to File a Flood Water Insurance Claim in Acworth, GA”; “Go Big or Go Green with SERVPRO of Bartow County”; “Different Types of Water Damage”

Acworth, GA Home Damaged by Water During Rainstorm

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is always ready to answer your call for help. Whether it's water, fire, or mold restoration call SERVPRO of Bartow County!

Severe storms happen nearly every single day here in the US, varying greatly in strength and magnitude. The NSSL (National Severe Storms Laboratory), part of the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), classifies a storm as “severe” when it contains one or more of the following: hail one inch or greater, winds gusting in excess of 57.5 mph (50 knots), or tornadic activity. They also estimate that about 10% of the 100,000+ storms that the US faces each year are categorized as severe weather. That means on average in the United States we face nearly 10,000 severe weather events each year.

Sometimes it seems like severe weather is becoming more and more common and touches our lives in many different ways. It could be a class three tornado with winds up to 165 miles per hour, other times it could be a pop-up rain storm that causes hail or isolated flash floods. No matter what type of disaster affects your Bartow County home, SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help pick up the pieces and make it "Like it never even happened." We are available 24-hours a day, seven days a week and are always ready to answer your emergency service call. 

SERVPRO of Bartow County is a preferred service provider for most major insurance providers like State Farm, American Family Insurance, Metlife, and The Hartford. We also have a great working relationship with our local insurance claims adjusters and insurance agents. Before you file an insurance claim on your home or business policy, call SERVPRO of Bartow County. We can provide you with the information you need, to make an educated decision, concerning the restoration of your property and will provide you with a scope of work and estimate, so that you can decide if filing a claim is your best plan of action.

*The following is a synopsis of the services SERVPRO of Bartow County performed for an Acworth, GA customer. SERVPRO believes strongly in our customers' rights to privacy and would never publish any materials related to the service we’ve performed for our customer, without their express written consent. This homeowner was gracious enough to authorize SERVPRO of Bartow County  to share their experience working with us, and for that we are very thankful.

Customer Initial Call/Notification of Loss: This Acworth, GA customer called SERVPRO of Bartow County at approximately 7:00 am, to request emergency water extraction services. Our highly trained and experienced loss coordinator, calmed down our frantic customer by assuring them that help was on the way. While dispatching a team of water restoration and drying specialists to the homeowner’s address, complete with commercial water extraction equipment, our loss coordinator gathered information concerning the water loss and status of the customers home. Asking questions like:

• Customers name and contact information
• The street address of the property where the damage is located
• Customers insurance information
• How recently did the damage occur?
• What caused the damage? 
• Have utilities (water, gas, or electricity) been turned off?

SERVPRO gathers this information to better inform our technicians and prepare them for the restoration project at hand, as well as insure that they have all the equipment necessary to start mitigating and restoring our customers property, as soon as they arrive on site. SERVPRO of Bartow County prides itself on being faster to any size disaster, and can be on-site within two hours of notification, for emergency service calls. In this instance, SERVPRO of Bartow County arrived at our customer’s home just after 8:00 am, ready to start the drying process. 

Cause of Loss: The cause of loss was due to a sump pump failure. The sump pump was installed in the customer’s crawl space when the home was built in 1998 and in retrospect was due for replacement or at minimum, maintenance based on its age and frequent use. During a heavy rain storm, water levels in our customer’s crawl space drainage system overwhelmed the sump pump and the motor eventually malfunctioned, allowing the water to collect in the crawl space. The storm water arose to affect several areas on the main level of the customer’s home, which would require professional restoration and mitigation.

Kitchen: The kitchen measured thirty feet by fifteen feet with nine foot ceilings. The flooring in the kitchen was sight finished hardwood floors which had been 100% affected by class-3 black water and would have to be removed, bagged and disposed of properly. Baseboards were also 100% affected by highly contaminated stormwater and were removed; All 85 linear feet of baseboards were removed, bagged, and disposed of properly. There was minimal water damage to the sheetrock walls, but due to the nature of the contaminated water, a two foot flood cut was made to remove any contaminated drywall (a two foot flood cut is performed by removing the bottom two feet of sheetrock in a given area due to flood water contamination). The entire affected area was cleaned using antimicrobial disinfectants like Sporiciden, SERVPROXIDE, and Benefect to prevent future mold growth. Five low profile air movers and a low grain refrigerant (LGR) dehumidifier were strategically placed throughout the affected area, to facilitate the drying process over the course of the next three days.

Dining Room: The dining room measured twenty feet by fifteen feet with nine foot ceilings. Again the site finished hardwood floors were highly affected by grossly contaminated rainwater, and would have to be completely removed, bagged and disposed of properly. Baseboards, totaling 29 linear feet, were also removed, bagged and disposed of properly, due to contact with storm water. A two foot flood cut was neatly made to the drywall in the dining room, to remove any affected sheetrock, then was bagged and disposed of properly. The entire affected area was cleaned using antimicrobial disinfectants to prevent future mold growth. Four centrifugal air movers and a single LGR dehumidifier were spaced and rotated throughout the affected area for three days, to dry the structure/building materials to preloss condition and in accordance with IICRC S500 Standards.

Hallway: The hallway measured eight feet by five feet with nine foot ceilings. The flooring in the hallway was carpet which was about 75% affected by grossly contaminated class-3 black water. Because the carpeting is a porous textile, both the carpet and underlying pad were removed, bagged and disposed of in accordance with IICRC guidelines. Around sixteen linear feet of baseboards were removed, bagged and disposed of properly. The entire affected area was cleaned using SERVPRO’s proprietary antimicrobial disinfectants and cleaning products to sanitize the area and to prevent future mold growth. Drying of the hallway was exhilarated with the use of a couple of axial air movers and took place over the next few days.

Crawl Space: The crawl space measured forty-five feet by thirty-five feet with a ceiling that started at about six feet high and decreased to only a few inches of clearance. When our technicians arrived on site, water had collected at the lowest point in the crawl space and was incontact with the insulation, floor joist, subfloor of the main level of the home. SERVPRO’s highly trained and well equipped team of drying specialists used a three inch high volume water pump to remove the majority of the standing water along with their truck mounted vacuum extractor. All damp insulation in the crawl space was removed, bagged and disposed of properly, totaling around 390 square feet of removed insulation. The floor joist and subfloor were cleaned using SERVPRO’s proprietary cleaning products and was treated with antimicrobial products to prevent future mold growth. One LGR dehumidifier and eight axial air movers were dirctionalized and vented to dry the above floor joist and subfloor to preloss condition.

Got water damage? Call SERVPRO of Bartow County today (770) 387-7455!

SERVPRO of Bartow County is a woman owned business and has been locally owned and operated for over seven years. We are proud to support and serve Acworth, GA, Cartersville, GA, Allatoona, GA, Adairsville, GA, Euharlee, GA, Rydal, GA, Emerson, GA, Atco, GA, White, GA, Cassville, GA, Kingston, GA and Taylorsville, GA.

If you enjoyed this blog or would like some additional information on storm restoration, check out some of our previous Storm Restoration Blog Posts: “How to File a Flood Water Insurance Claim in Acworth, GA”; “SERVPRO of Bartow County: Cartersville’s Premier Storm Restoration Company”; “History of Bartow County’s Natural Disaster and Weather Extremes”; “Bartow County’s Epic Flood”; “Hurricane Dorian and the Aftermath”; “Summer Storm Safety In Cartersville, GA”; “Storm Insurance Related Questions”

Don’t take our word for it? See what our customers have to say about working with SERVPRO of Bartow County on Facebook, Google My Business, or the BBB (Better Business Bureau). 

The Right Tools for Any Water Restoration Job

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County helps customers with water damage 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Give us a call at (770)387-7455, we are here to help!

The right tools are an essential part of any job.  Regardless of the industry, without the proper tools, the job will not go as smoothly and will be more difficult. SERVPRO of Bartow County uses the most advanced tools on the market to properly mitigate and restore your home or business. Equipping our technicians with these advanced tools is only a part of our winning process. Training and expertise also play a large role in being properly equipped to successfully repair your home after water damage occurs.  Our technicians are some of the most well-trained, certified and experienced professionals in the water restoration industry. Disaster can strike at any moment, making the right equipment and experienced staff crucial in a disaster situation. Having the correct amount of equipment is also vital; it could be the difference in a small water cleanup or a major restoration project. 

SERVPRO is known for being the industry leader nationwide, but that is not all we do.  We also offer cleanings for residential and commercial structures.  

SERVPRO of Bartow County offers several different types of cleaning services!  

*Each of these services utilizes different types of tools based on the type of cleaning our technicians are performing.  

• Deep cleanings are much more involved than what you will find from a maid or janitorial service.  After a fire, SERVPRO of Bartow County, has the equipment, such as dry-chem sponges and other specialized, proprietary cleaning agents to properly and effectively remove soot and smoke from affected areas, such as walls, countertops and floors. HVAC systems can be properly cleaned by SERVPRO of Bartow County, using our specialized  duct cleaning systems that remove dust and debris, eliminating the continued spread of smoke damage throughout your home or office.  Deep cleaning services offered from SERVPRO of Bartow County are far more in depth and thorough than a typical cleaning service. 

• Proactive cleanings are typically used in homes or businesses that are wanting to minimize the exposure of virus or disease.  This type of cleaning procedure is most often used on high traffic areas and surfaces.  High traffic areas can be defined as walkways, foyers, handrails, door knobs, water fountains and cash registers.  These areas can be affected by bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms.  SERVPRO of Bartow County’s proactive cleaning can help minimize the exposure to these elements. In proactive cleanings, technicians will use a variety of different types of sprayers, misters, foggers and ozone generators, as well as SERVPRO’s proprietary cleaning agents. 

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this unprecedented time...

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic, COVID-19, we are here to remind our customers of our cleaning services.  SERVPRO of Bartow County adheres to the highest standards of cleaning and sanitation standards.  We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to the Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention (CDC) standards.  The CDC has recommended a usage of hospital grade disinfectants.  The SERVPRO cleaning product line has multiple products that carry the EPA approved disinfectants.  Currently, there are no products tested against this specific strain of coronavirus, SERVPRO of Bartow County is following all guidelines as approved by the CDC and local authorities.  

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County today for a proactive cleaning. 

If your home or business is interested in a proactive cleaning from the experts of SERVPRO of Bartow County, call us today at (770) 387-7455 or click here to have one of our customer service representatives contact you.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help business owners reopen their business and help keep employees and customer safe during these trying times.

The world has changed what it means to be clean, so let customers and employees know that SERVPRO of Bartow County, Georgia’s best choice in cleanup and restoration, has sanitized, disinfected and treated highly touchable surfaces at your business. SERVPRO of Bartow County wants you to feel comfortable in your place of business. That’s why the nation’s #1 choice in water restoration, can now provide you with proactive cleanings, a higher cleaning standard for the recent trying times everyone is adjusting to. Look for the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned seal outside all participating locations, and you can rest at ease knowing the facility has been cleaned, disinfected and sanitized by the best in the business. For more details, visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com/contact/contactus

The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned (CSC) program is designed to provide our communities with a way to know that a structure has been cleaned, sanitized and disinfected to minimize harmful pathogens. If a structure is sanitized and disinfected as part of the CSC program, a window decal shield will be left at the structure as well as a separate window decal which should be dated by the franchise to let everyone know when it was last sanitized and disinfected. This can be scheduled as a one time or a recurring service. 

Here is a list of frequently asked questions about the CSC program:

• What is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned? 
• Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a proactive viral pathogen cleaning process that SERVPRO franchises nationwide are beginning to offer to our commercial and residential clients. 
• Can you explain the process of proactive cleaning?
• We apply EPA registered disinfectants like SERVPROXIDE Disinfectant, Benefect Botanical Disinfectant, or Sporicidin Disinfectant Solution to touch point services in a variety of methods including but not limited to ULV fogging or cleaning/wiping highly touchable surfaces.
• How often do I need cleaning performed?
• That will vary by location, foot traffic, and activity of occupants. We can set up a recurring cleaning schedule to fit the needs of any location.
• When can you perform these services?
• Our Certified SERVPRO Cleaned crews are available 24/7. Our job file coordinator will ask you for some basic information and can schedule a time that is convenient for you and fits your schedule.
• How much does proactive cleaning cost?
• Our pricing for proactive viral pathogen cleaning is based on square footage. For a quotable price, we can schedule one of our Certified SERVPRO Cleaned crews to visit your location and create an accurate estimate.
• What type of cleaning products are you using?
• We only use EPA registered disinfectants for proactive pathogen cleaning.
• How long is a proactive cleaning effective?
• After a structure is Certified SERVPRO Cleaned, maintaining that level of clean is dependent on occupants in the structure and how closely they follow health and safety protocols. We can schedule a recurring cleaning regimen to ensure that your location maintains that level of clean going forward.
• What are your safety protocols?
• Our Certified SERVPRO Cleaned crews follow all safety protocols and social distancing guidelines dictated by local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure the health and safety of all involved individuals.
• How long will it take to perform the proactive cleaning?
• Service time varies on size and complexity of the structure. We can dispatch one of our Certified SERVPRO Cleaned crews to your location. Once on site, they will be able give you a better sense of how long it will take to perform the cleaning.
• Is there anything I should do in between scheduled Certified: SERVPRO Cleanings?
• Continue with your regular janitorial services. If you would like, we can change your recurring schedule to better accommodate your unique needs or can change the frequency of cleanings.
• Is it safe to be in the structure when it is being cleaned?
• We recommend that the structure is empty when we perform the cleaning.
• How long do I have to wait to return to the structure?
• Our EPA registered disinfectants have a dwell time of about 10-15 minutes. After that dwell time, it is completely safe to reenter the structure.

As your favorite stores and businesses are beginning to open up their doors, we are offering them an additional step to help ensure your confidence with a higher cleaning standard, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Beyond the standard cleaning protocols we know your business is implementing, take an additional step to make sure all your locations have received a higher cleaning standard with the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program. Show employees and customers you've chosen the highest level of cleaning. Our new Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is a weekly viral pathogen cleaning service, designed just for your business. For details and registration, CLICK HERE! 

*The CSC program is also available for residential service

Check out some of our previous blogs about the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned (CSC) program: "SERVPRO of Bartow County Can Help You Reopen Your Business Safely"; "Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - a defensive cleaning program"; "SERVPRO of Bartow Count is Here to Help During This Time of Need"

SERVPRO of Bartow Count Can Help You Reopen Your Business Safely

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

Give us a call at 770-387-7455 and ask us about our fogging disinfectant services.

The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned (CSC) Standard Service is centered around limiting the survival and spread of emerging viral pathogens. SERVPRO of Bartow County is not aiming to replace your company's current cleaning crew or janitorial services, but rather working to supplement your current cleaning efforts. Our highly trained and certified technicians will apply EPA registered disinfectants to touch points described below. *This application of disinfection excludes inventory or retail merchandise. 

Step 1

Long before SERVPRO of Bartow County receives your call, we are preparing for the first step in the CSC program by completing an exhaustive training program and familiarizing ourselves with the disinfectants that will be utilized to disinfect your facility, like SERVPROXIDE Disinfectant, Benefect Botanical Disinfectant, and Sporicidin Disinfectant Solution to name a few. Our technicians will have specifically reviewed safety precautions and requirements related to the cleaning process, including protocols for any necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), application methods, and needed product dwell time to insure effective application.

Step 2

SERVPRO cleaning crews and trained technicians will don all the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, tyvek suits and respirators to protect themselves during the cleaning process from pathogens like virus and bacteria that might be present. An N-95 respirator, disposable gloves, coveralls/gowns, and goggles are a minimum level of PPE. This level of PPE is sufficient when applying disinfectant with a saturated towel or a trigger sprayer and towel. Other application methods, such as utilizing a ULV mister or electrostatic sprayer, will require additional respiratory protection such as an air purifying respiratory (half-mask or full-face mask) with organic vapor (OV) cartridges. 

Step 3

SERVPRO will apply disinfectant to touch points. This can be accomplished with a towel saturated with disinfectant or a utilizing equipment to deliver disinfectant such as a trigger sprayers, pump sprayers, ULV misters, electrostatic sprayers, airless sprayers, foam applicators, or another equivalent effective dispersion technology. Our highly trained technicians will strictly follow product label directions to insure successful application and disinfection. Depending on the listed product dwell time and the application method, the disinfectant may be able to be applied once or it could require multiple treatments to keep the surfaces wet for the minimum time. We will carefully assess the surfaces to prevent the product from streaking or running while keeping the surface wet for the recommended contact time. 

• Door knobs, pulls, and locks, as well as 1 square foot around the knob or pull, door jambs 
• Push doors 
• Stair handrails, elevator car and controls 
• Light switches, switch covers, and accessible outlet covers 
• Counter tops, tabletops, vanity tops, and desktops. Disinfect accessible surfaces without moving contents. Prevent over-spray and potential damage (i.e. paper products, electronic devices, personal property). 
• Chairs. Avoid over wetting upholstered surfaces. Concentrate application on arms, backs, height/swivel controls. 
• Faucets, sinks, soap dispenser, towel dispenser, dryer, water fountains, napkin dispenser 
• Cabinet door and drawer exterior, door and drawer pulls/knobs 
• Toilets, urinals, bathroom stalls around locks and handrails, handrails, bathroom fixtures (i.e. toilet paper dispenser), diaper changing stations, fitting room stalls around locks and handrails 
• Telephones, computer equipment, shared office equipment, sales registers, point-of-sale equipment. 
• Exterior of shelves, racking, displays, bookcases, file cabinets, lockers, or other fixtures. Disinfect accessible surfaces without moving contents. 
• Operational/occupational equipment and controls (i.e. kitchen equipment, fitness equipment, laundry equipment).

Step 4

SERVPRO professionals will inspect the surfaces that have been disinfected. Wipe clean surfaces to eliminate product streaking and/or residues if needed. 

Step 5 

After step 4 technicians will perform end-of-visit cleanup. Once all work activities are complete, we will return all products, supplies, and tools to the work vehicle, bag all trash such as disposable towels and disposable PPE according to hazmat disposal procedures when necessary, and load bags into the work vehicle(s). Before leaving, walk through the work site one final time to ensure that the work site is clean and ready for your employees to return to the facility. 

Step 6 

Finally our technician will place a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned window cling, complete with date of service, so that your employees and customers alike can rest easy knowing that your facility is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

For more information about our cleaning services and the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program check our our previous blog “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - a defensive cleaning program”; "A Clean House Can Be Your First Line of Defense Against Flu Viruses"

SERVPRO of Bartow County's 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here 24/7 for all of your emergence water mitigation and restoration. If you have water damage give us a call today!

We here at SERVPRO of Bartow County have always prided ourselves on being faster any size disaster. Meaning that no matter what size water, fire, mold, or cleaning project you have on your hands, be it commercial or residential, you know that help from SERVPRO of Bartow County is on its way and will be there quick, fast and in a hurry. Our trained professionals will come equipped with all the equipment needed to stabilize water damaged areas and are ready to extract standing water with their powerful water extraction tool if necessary. SERVPRO has developed a set of Service Response Guidelines to ensure that all SERVPRO franchises are able to respond to our customers's needs in a swift and timely manner. 

Service Response Guidelines

1 Hour – Within one hour of notice of loss, one of SERVPRO of Bartow County’s loss coordinators will contact you to arrange for service.

4 Hours – Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO of Bartow County will be on-site to start mitigation services (if necessary). 

8 Hours – Within eight business hours, we will initiate a verbal briefing of the scope of damage and needed mitigation efforts.

*While these guidelines are a good way to ensure that all of our customers are taken care of properly, SERVPRO of Bartow County strives for greatness and averages less than a two hour turn-around-time when responding to emergency water or fire service requests.

Let's take a look at the first part of our Service Response Guideline, “Within one hour of notice of loss, one of SERVPRO of Bartow County’s loss coordinators will contact you to arrange for service.” What does this mean? This means that no matter what time you call, day or night, your call will be answered by a SERVPRO of Bartow County team member, and that technicians can be immediately dispatched to your location ready to start extracting water, mitigating damage, and restoring your home or business. Our loss coordinator will gather information about your water loss like: Is there standing water on-site? How many levels are affected? What type of flooring is affected? What year was the structure built? Are utilities like electrical power and water available on-site? We gather this information to better prepare our highly trained technicians and allow them to equip their service vehicle with the appropriate equipment.

The second part of the Service Response Guideline, “Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO of Bartow County will be on-site to start mitigation services (if necessary).” This section is pretty cut and dry. Within four hours of notification of the loss, SERVPRO of Bartow County will be on-site to stabilize the affected area(s) and start the remediation/restoration process. SERVPRO of Bartow County likes to point out that our average response time is well under the four hour guideline and in most cases, response time is actually less than two hours. Should our customer choose to delay our initial service call, our loss coordinator can help them schedule a more convenient time for our initial visit. We always advise our customer that the longer water damage sits unmitigated, the more likely it is to cause additional damage. The sooner SERVPRO of Bartow County can stabilize affected water damaged areas, the better!

Finally we have the third part of our Service Response Guideline, “Within eight business hours, we will initiate a verbal briefing of the scope of damage and needed mitigation efforts.” This is the step in the Service Response Guideline that gives you some solid information on what it is going to take to return your property to preloss condition and explain how SERVPRO of Bartow County can make it “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO of Bartow County does not use scare or high pressure sales tactics. We prefer to work with customers that are well informed and understand the restoration process. This is why SERVPRO of Bartow County provides estimates and a scope of work to explain what it will take to restore your property, before performing services.

SERVPRO of Bartow County’s highly trained and professional restoration team will help you navigate all of the twists and turns that can come with restoring your home or business after water damage and can help you regain control of the situation. Upon notification, SERVPRO of Bartow County can have technicians on-site within an hour in most cases, ready to start the drying process so that your life can get back to normal. If your home or business has suffered water damage, give SERVPRO of Bartow County a call today! We are approved and preferred vendors for most insurance companies and have a great working relationship with local insurance adjusters. If you happen to be a State Farm, Allstate, Farmers, Auto Owners, or The Hartford insurance customer, SERVPRO of Bartow County is a preferred provider of these carriers making the process simple for our customers. Taking all of the guesswork out of filling out insurance paperwork, scheduling with adjusters, and documenting your claim.

*Check out some of our related Water Restoration Blogs: "When Water Damage Happens in Bartow County, GA, SERVPRO is Here to Help"; "SERVPRO of Bartow County's Cutting Edge Water Restoration Equipment"; "Flooded House Near Woodland High School"; "Six Possible Signs of Water Damage"

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - a defensive cleaning program

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County today at  (770) 387-7455 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

*#1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

When Water Damage Happens in Bartow County, GA, SERVPRO is Here to Help

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County can make water damage "Like it never even happened." Call us today! We are open 24/7 for emergency services.

No matter how many precautions we take to protect our home from household accidents, we can never keep all of them from occurring. Few household accidents are more alarming than when a pipe bursts in your bathroom or your toilet overflows causing water to flood your home. 

Water is invasive and destructive, seeping into every single crevice and small opening spreading quickly. If left untreated, water damage promotes the growth of mold and mildew, only adding to its destruction. Water flowing out of your toilet or a busted toilet supply line has the potential to fill your bathroom and flow into your bedroom or hallway onto your carpet or hardwood flooring in a matter of seconds! 

At SERVPRO of Bartow County, we know the overwhelming sense of worry and dread you face when your home has been flooded with water. You may be asking yourself “How will I begin to clean up such a terrible mess?” That is where SERVPRO of Bartow County steps in, to save the day! Our trained water damage restoration technicians are IICRC certified and perform water restoration services, in compliance with industry standards, for professional water and flood damage restoration. We are Here to Help!

It is important to keep in mind that water damage from the result of a toilet overflow can be especially hazardous to your Acworth or Cartersville home. Not only do you have water now sitting on your floors and seeping into your walls, you now have contaminated water that can cause even more destruction. 

At SERVPRO of Bartow County, we are the experts in water restoration cleanup, no matter what the source of the damage. Our professional, highly trained technicians are specifically trained in handling all categories of water damage including potentially dangerous “black water” from a sewage backup or toilet leak. 

When you call SERVPRO of Bartow County, you will be put in touch with one of our professional customer service specialists, who is there to walk you through every step of the water restoration process. We are here, to not only restore your home, but also your peace of mind. Our customer service specialist will ask you a few important questions to gain knowledge of your specific loss and then immediately dispatch one of our IICRC certified water technicians to your home. SERVPRO vehicles are fully equipped with state-of-the-art water extraction, drying and moisture testing equipment so that our team can begin the water extraction process as soon as we arrive on-site. 

When you come home to find water cascading down your staircase from a toilet supply line that has busted, or you have a toilet overflowing, threatening to fill your bathroom and hallways, don’t panic! Stay calm and know that you have the professionals at SERVPRO of Bartow County on your side. Our professional team is on call all day every day, including the middle of the night and even holidays. With over 50 years of experience and a solid reputation of getting the job done right, the first time, SERVPRO of Bartow County is the name you can trust.

Did you know that SERVPRO is the preferred water restoration company of almost every major insurance company? That’s right! We have great working relationships with local Bartow County insurance agents and adjusters. We will take all of the guesswork out of filing insurance paperwork, scheduling with adjusters and documenting your claim. We will work hand and hand with you, your insurance company and your adjuster.

So if you want the job done right the first time, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bartow County. 

Let SERVPRO makes it “Like it never even happened.”

*Check out some of our previous Water Restoration Blogs: "SERVPRO of Bartow County's Cutting Edge Water Restoration Equipment"; "Flooded House Near Woodland High School"; "Prepare Your Acworth Home for Winter Weather"

SERVPRO of Bartow County is Here to Help During This Time of Need

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

We can help minimize the spread of germs with proactive cleaning! We’re trained to adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitization standards.

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Contact us today for a proactive cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today

– SERVPRO of Bartow County (770) 387-7455 –

Sources:

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

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

SERVPRO of Bartow County: Cartersville's Premier Storm Restoration Company

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help you, your family, and your business recover after storm damage. Call us today 770-387-7455!

SERVPRO of Bartow County has proudly served the Cartersville, Acworth, and greater North Georgia area’s drying and restoration needs for over fifteen years. We have been the preferred service providers for most major insurance companies for years and have established great working relationships with our local agents and adjusters. We are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), fully licenced and insured. SERVPRO of Bartow County stands behind our work and strives to impress each and every one of our customers with our customer service and commitment to getting the job done right. Whenever disaster strikes, call SERVPRO of Bartow County. We are here 24-hours a day seven days a week for emergency services including,  water extraction, roof tarping, and window boardup.

Have Water or Flood Damage? 

Locally Owned and Operated Company with National Resources

We live and work in the Bartow County area too, as a matter-of-fact, we might even be neighbors. SERVPRO of Bartow County’s average response time to an emergency service call is typically less than one hour, but is never longer than two. We are close by and ready to respond to your flood or water damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the Bartow County Chamber of Commerce and greater North Georgia community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County today! (770) 387-7455

SERVPRO of Bartow County is a preferred service provider for most major insurance providers like State Farm, American Family Insurance, Metlife, and The Hartford. We also have a great working relationship with our local insurance adjusters and claims agents. Before you file an insurance claim on your home or business policy, call SERVPRO of Bartow County. We can provide you with the information you need to make an educated decision concerning the restoration of your property and will provide you with a scope of work and estimate so that you can decide if filing a claim is your best plan of action.

No matter what type of storm damage your home or business sustains, SERVPRO of Bartow County can help. If your basement is flooded during a flash flood, we can come right over and extract the water and dry your property to preloss condition with our cutting edge drying systems and proprietary restoration products. If your business’s warehouse roof is damaged by a tornado, after the winds die down, call SERVPRO of Bartow County to secure your property, dry the structure of the building, and repair the storm damage. Mitigating property damage and restoring our customers homes and business is SERVPRO of Bartow County’s top priority. 

Our technicians are highly trained and experienced restoration professionals that hold certifications from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). We are your locally owned and operated water and storm damage restoration company with the backing of 1,700 SERVPRO franchises nationwide. This means that we have both the support network and supply chain to bring in the types of resources and manpower needed handle any size disaster. SERVPRO of Bartow County can help your family or business recover after a major storm event or natural disaster. We are the restoration company that can make storm damage “Like it never even happened.”

*Check out some of our related storm restoration blogs like, “History of Bartow County’s Natural Disasters and Weather Extremes”, “Bartow County’s Epic Flood”, or “How to File a Flood Water Insurance Claim in Acworth GA”

Don't Add Water!

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is faster to any size disaster. You can call us 24 hours a day seven days a week. We are always here to help!

Water is one of the most helpful liquids on the planet. Not just because up to 60% of the human body is made up of water and makes farmers' crops grow. Water is a basic building block of life, and mankind has harnessed its power to develop the modern world. As far back as the time of the ancient Egyptians, researchers and historians have found signs of elaborate wells, irrigation networks, and even plumbing systems that utilize water to accomplish great feats. Supporting entire cities of people in the desert can be a logistical nightmare today in modern times. Image accomplished this without the use of modern pumps and digging equipment, all the while building the Great Pyramids of Giza. Fast forward a few thousand years and we find the ancient Greeks and Romans building amazing aqueducts and plumbing systems. They were some of the first people to widely use, and educate their citizens on water purification techniques like boiling water and how to utilize primitive settling tanks, filters, and sieves. They also promoted ideas like avoiding smelly, discolored, or bad tasting water. Jump ahead to modern day in the United States and we have potable running water in almost every building and have found even more ways of harnessing water’s awe inspiring power like hydroelectric dams and hydrogen generators. Water is truly one of the most important substances on Earth, without it life would cease to exist.  

As useful as water has been to mankind throughout the ages, there are some specific occasions that water can be hazardous or harmful to people and their belongings. As water restoration professionals, SERVPRO of Bartow County drying specialists come face to face with these type events nearly every single day. Pipe bursts, leaks and toilet overflows are just a few of the types of water losses SERVPRO of Bartow County regularly mitigates and restores for our customers. The invention of modern plumbing has afforded people great comfort but can cause some major headaches when things go awry. When they do, call SERVPRO of Bartow County. We are your local SERVPRO water mitigation and restoration service provider and can make water damage “Like it never even happened.”

While soap and water are great for cleaning dishes, cars, even our own hands, soap and water can be harmful to other items and materials. In this next section we will go over some of the materials and items that should not be cleaned using water as well as some advice on how to clean said materials and items.

Electronics

Electronics are probably one of the first types of items that come to mind when you think of house-hold items that can be adversely affected by cleaning with water. Water and electronics do not mix. Batteries, capacitors, and circuit boards can be permanently damaged by exposure to water due to water’s ability to conduct electricity. Not only can water damage electronics, but they can also cause electrocution and fire hazards. If you believe an electronic device might be damaged by water, do not turn the device on and remove the device’s source of power when safe to do so. For example remove batteries or unplug computers, TVs, lamps, children’s toys or similar electronic devices. You can use a soft lint-free towel or microfiber cloth to remove surface dust and dirt and use rubbing alcohol and a clean grimy or sticky residue. Never clean an electronic device while powered on or connected to a power source.

Leather

Leather can be damaged by exposure to water resulting in streaking and spots, and with extended or repeated exposure leather can even crack. Do not use DIY cleaners from food based products like high-fat oils, mayonnaise, or peanut butter to shine leather items because they often cause more problems than they solve. Leather couches, chairs, jackets and boots can all be cleaned using soft clean towels alongside a cleanser specifically formulated for leather. When cleaning leather items, it is best to start cleaning in an inconspicuous place so that if there are adverse effects they will be less noticeable.

Wood Furniture

Wood Furniture is susceptible to several different issues when it is exposed to water. Wood can swell, split and crack when saturated with water, and discoloration of the wood’s finish can occur even during brief exposure. A common example of this are rings or spots left on a coffee table from a glass of water condensing on the table top. Dusting wood furniture regularly with a soft towel or microfiber cloth and a high-quality furniture polish or lemon oil will both shine and protect wood furniture. Drink coasters are also a great way of protecting your wooden furniture from rings and spots.

Delicate Fabrics

Silk, velvet, suede, and velour are all examples of delicate fabrics that require special attention to clean. Exposure to water can result in stains, spots, streaks, shrinking and even cause the fabric fibers to separate or pill. Silk in particular can be tricky to clean. Some silk garments and other textiles are labeled as “washable”, but are still quite susceptible to water damage and great care must be taken to ensure the item(s) are not damaged. To clean silk, gently brush surface dirt away using a soft brush or clean towel and only use mild soaps or detergents when washing. Never use your house-hold dryer to dry silk. Fuzzy fabrics like velvet, suede, and velour are also very difficult to safely clean without specialized cleaners and equipment. You can use a vacuum to gently remove surface soil from these types of fabrics. If the material is heavily soiled you can use a foaming upholstery cleaner that is specially formulated for that specific type of material. Sometimes it’s best to take items made of delicate fabrics like the ones mentioned above to a professional like the pros over at SERVPRO of Bartow County.

Masonry or Hard Surfaces

Materials like brick, stucco and marble are thought of as hard surfaces but are actually somewhat porous and can be damaged by water and/or harsh chemicals. Water can wear away protective sealants, caulking, and finishes, especially when it is sprayed at high velocity from a pressure washer. It is best to use soft-bristled brushes to remove surface dirt and a soft cloth to wipe away any residue left behind on these types of surfaces. 

Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors can easily warp, swell, cup, and/or crack when saturated with water. Even with polyurethane sealants, water can penetrate the surface of hardwood floors causing damage. The best way to care for hardwood floors is to regularly sweep, dust or vacuum the flooring using a microfiber mop and specially formulated hardwood floor cleaner. If you choose to mop hardwood floors, use no more water than what is absolutely necessary. A damp mop will hold plenty of moisture to clean hardwood floors and won't harm properly sealed/finished hardwood floors. Never let standing water accumulate on hardwood floors. If you notice water on hardwood floors, dry it up as quickly as possible.

Items Made of Metal

Copper, brass and silver are common types of metals used in home furnishings and building materials. While metal is almost impenetrable to water, cleaning such materials with water can cause metals to rust, corrode, and tarnish. Items made of brass, copper, and silver often have a protective varnish or sealant that prevents surface damages, but this protective coating can be worn down over time or with use. To clean or polish metal items, use a soft clean towel and specially formulated polishes that correspond to the type of metal being cleaned. 

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most to you on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO of Bartow County is so important. Just visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com on your computer, mobile phone, or call (770)387-7455 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster, 24/7 even during holidays. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 square feet. Be ready for the worst with the very best: Your trusted, locally owned and operated SERVPRO of Bartow County!

SERVPRO of Bartow County’s Cutting Edge Water Restoration Equipment

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is here 24 hours a day to service all of your water extraction and restoration needs!

SERVPRO of Bartow County prides ourselves on having the latest and greatest water extraction and drying equipment available. Our technicians have been trained properly on each piece of equipment utilized to restore our customer’s property. It is critical for any water restoration professionals to have an in depth working knowledge of the equipment they use. This is why all of SERVPRO of Bartow County undergo comprehensive training on both the equipment and techniques SERVPRO uses to extract water, dry, and restore homes to preloss condition. The following is a brief summary of some of the equipment our technicians are trained and certified to operate. Without the following tools and thorough training, restoration of some properties would be impossible.  

Moisture Detection Tools

Moisture detection tools do exactly what they sound like they do, detect moisture. Not all moisture detection tools are made equally. Choosing a reliable, rugged, and consistent moisture moisture detection tool is imperative to the drying process. Without accurate readings from the moisture detection tools, technicians have no way of knowing if the drying process is working or if a given property is dried to IICRC S500 Standards. By using top-rated moisture detection tools like the Delmhorst Navigator Pro Moisture Meter, SERVPRO ensures that our technicians collect and document accurate information which allows them to dry our customers property quickly, thoroughly, and safely.

Moisture Meters - There are two basic methods of moisture detection, penetrating measurements and non-penetrating measurements that moisture meters use to determine how much moisture a given material contains. Penetrating measurements are taken by forcing sharp pin-like probes into the material, breaking the surface to contact the inside of the material. A small electrical current is passed from probe to probe by the hand-held meter. The meter detects moisture by variations in the current, and has pre-programmed standards that when compared to the electrical signals can determine the moisture content readings of given materials i.e. wood, sheetrock, tile, concrete, etc. Depending on the type of material, and its moisture content level, the moisture meter displays values that let our technicians monitor the drying process and know if the material is dried to preloss condition. This method is very accurate but has one major drawback, due to this method's requirement of punching small finishing nail size holes in the material being tested. Non-penetrating methods do not require probes to be inserted into the test material, rather the hand-held unit is placed in contact with the surface of the test material and uses an electro-magnetic field to measure the density of the material. Again the hand-held unit is pre-programed with standard readings for a large number of materials (wood, sheetrock, tile, concrete, etc.). Based on the density readings returned the moisture meter will display the moisture content reading of the test material. This method is great for detecting moisture without damaging the finish of walls and flooring, monitoring the drying process, and can be used on non-affected areas to determine where moisture is coming from due to its non-invasive nature with the ability to scan materials quickly and efficiently. One major drawback is the accuracy of readings when testing multiple layers of materials and when the nature of the test material is unknown (example: hardwood floors installed on-top-of vinyl flooring). *Check out some of SERVPRO’s preferred moisture reading tools: Delmhorst - Navigator Pro,  BD-10, Techcheck Plus, BD-2100; Protimeter - Surveymaster

Thermo-Hygrometer - Thermo-hygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. These factors are the foundation of structural drying. Temperature and humidity readings are gathered to assess the drying environment on a restoration project site. Dehumidifiers and air movers are used to manipulate both the temperature and relative humidity. Thermo-hygrometer readings provide our technicians with information that allows them to adjust equipment to create the ideal drying environment. Most top-tear moisture meters have a thermo-hygrometer feature built into them, or accept attachments that accommodate this feature. This is because temperature and humidity readings are used, alongside material moisture content readings, to determine if a property is dried to IICRC Standards. *Check out some of SERVPRO’s preferred thermo-hygrometers: Delmhorst - HT-4000, HT-3000, HMI-41; Phoenix - Humiport 05; Protimeter - MMS Plus

Thermal Imaging Camera - Thermal cameras display images based on the heat signatures of the subject matter it focuses on. In layman's terms, thermal images provide pictures in “heat vision” (think of the iconic classic action movie Predator). The thermal imaging camera was invented in Hungary back in the late 1920’s, but was not adopted into practical use until the late 1940’s when Texas Instruments created a thermal imaging camera for the US military. Initially the use of such cameras was cost prohibitive for most industries, but in today’s modern era access to thermal cameras is increasing and the benefits of using this technology outweighs the hefty price tag associated with the equipment and training required to operate thermal imaging devices. 

SERVPRO uses thermal imaging to assess our customers property to detect moisture in the structure of the buildings and building materials. When a thermal image is taken of a room that has suffered water damage, the image will show where moisture has been absorbed by building materials that our naked eye can not detect. The moisture will often be depicted by a blue or red outline, or shading that denotes subtle changes in surface temperature between wet and dry materials. Using thermal imaging, large rooms can be quickly scanned and assessed for moisture. Any areas displaying signs of moisture can then be dried by strategically placing drying equipment, and/or removed all together.*FLIR branded thermal images are preferred buy SERVPRO of Bartow County

Specialized Drying Equipment and Air Filtration Systems

Again, Drying equipment sounds pretty self explanatory, but there are many different nuances to drying a property properly. Many different types of drying equipment can be used to accomplish unique drying goals. Each piece of drying equipment has its own use and is specifically designed to create an ideal drying environment. Air filtration equipment sounds straightforward as well, but calculating and staging an air filtration system is an involved process with many factors to consider. Calculating air flow rates, creating negative pressure environments, and constructing airtight containment barriers are all part of setting up an air filtration system that require both in depth training and professional equipment.

Low Profile, Axial and Centrifugal Air Movers - An air mover’s purposes is to create powerful and focus able air movement that can be harnessed to move large amounts of air across the surface of wet materials like carpet, drywall, and other building materials. By moving air across the surface of wet materials, moisture is drawn out of the water damaged material and absorbed by the moving air. The air is then dehumidified and blown across water damaged materials again, creating a drying cycle that removes moisture from the affected area(s).

SERVPRO utilizes three basic types of air movers, centrifugal air movers, low profile centrifugal air movers, and axial air movers. Let's take a look at each of these types of drying equipment and why different air movers are necessary to create the ideal drying environment.

Centrifugal air movers get their name from the mechanism that creates air flow. A compact electric motor turns a turbine like cylinder with air inducting blades that focus the airflow out of a directional spout. These types of air movers are commonly referred to as turbo dryers or “snail shells” (name coined by the distinct snail-like silhouette of the equipment). These air movers are ideal for open areas where space is readily available for strategic placement and are one of the most economical and efficient types of air movers available. One drawback to this type of air mover is the size and shape of the units. These types of air movers take up noticeably more space and might not fit into narrow or height restricted areas like crawl spaces or attics. Fewer of these types of air movers can fit in a given amount of space in comparison to other types of air movers, which limits transport quantities due to their space requirement. 

*Check out some of SERVPRO’s preferred centrifugal air moving equipment: Dri-Eaz - Sahara Pro, Santana SX, Sahara Pro X3 Turbodryer, Sahara HD Turbodryer; Phoenix - Cam Pro, Stackable Cam Pro; EBAC - Apollo

Low Profile Centrifugal Air Movers -  Low profile centrifugal air movers operate on the same principles as the aforementioned centrifugal air movers. They also are electrically powered and operate based on a similar design that generates air movement using a turbine and directional spout. The turbines in low profile centrifugal air movers are designed to be low profile, which affords this type of air mover some distinct advantages. One advantage being the overall size, and shape of low profile centrifugal air movers is more compact and can fit into cramped spaces like crawlspaces and attics. The shape of these type air movers usually resembles a square or box that is both wider and longer than it is tall. Low profile centrifugal air movers tend to be easier to carry due to a small reduction in weight, size, and shape, and their ability to be stacked in uniform columns allows for more units to be transported in a single vehicle. All of these factors contribute to the overall effectiveness of these types of air movers.

*Check out some of SERVPRO’s preferred low profile centrifugal air movers: Dri-Eaz - Velo Low Profile Centrifugal Air Movers; Phoenix - AirMax Low Profile Centrifugal Air Movers; Prochem - Triad Low Profile Centrifugal Air Movers; Super Vac -  Fireman’s Fan

Axial Air Movers - The third type of air mover SERVPRO utilizes are axial air movers. These types of air movers are also electrically powered, but utilize a series of blades that rotate around a central hub, called an impeller, to create air movement. Air is inducted into the machine from the bottom side and expelled vertically (picture a traditional box fan that has legs that allow it to be orientated horizontally). These types of air movers are great for directing air straight up towards a ceiling or an above level sub-floor. They can also be placed upside down or on their sides to change the direction of the airflow to dry flooring like hardwoods or carpet. Even sheetrock walls and exposed studs like traditional air movers. One major drawback to this type of fan is their size and weight. These types of air movers tend to be bulky, take up more space in transport, and require more amperage to operate (meaning fewer of these units can be powered by single household circuit breaker).

*Check out some of SERVPRO’s preferred axial air moving equipment: Dri-Eaz - Stealth AV3000, Jet CXV, Ace Turbodryer; Phoenix - Focus; EDIC - Aviator

Air Scrubbers - Air scrubbers also have a very intuitive name. The job of an air scrubber is to scrub or clean the air that is passed through the unit using a series of particulate matter and HEPA filters. Particulate matter filters remove microscopic particles like smoke, soot, pollen, dust, or asbestos. The HEPA filter removes even smaller particles from the air like mold, viruses, bacteria, and pretty much any particles larger than 0.3 micrometers. Air scrubbers are used on water restoration projects that deal with possible mold or sewage contamination. They can also remove smells from the air including smoke and soot odors from restoration projects that suffered fire damage.

When implementing the use of air scrubbers, they typically require the space to be prepped by erecting air tight containment barriers. Depending on the type of restoration project, these containment units may be negatively pressurized to reduce the number of airborne particles. In this scenario an air scrubber is placed inside the contained area where it filters contaminated air. Most of the exhaust from the air scrubber is safely expelled outside of the contained area through temporary duct work. Removing air from the contained area creates back pressure or negative pressure throughout the contained area. This method of containment ensures that other areas on site are not cross contaminated and that the remaining air inside of the contained area has been filtered and cleaned by the air scrubber. 

*Check out some of SERVPRO’s preferred air filtration and scrubbing equipment: Phoenix air scrubber - Guardian HEPA System, Guardian R Pro HEPA System; Prochem - Triad Air Mover w/ Air Filtration Device; Dri-Eaz -  Defendair HEPA 500, Defendair EX; Nikro - Negative Air 600, PS1000 HEPA Poly System; US Products - Patriot System 

Dehumidifiers and Desiccants

SERVPRO utilizes several different types of dehumidifying equipment. There are three basic types of dehumidifiers, low-grain refrigerant dehumidifiers (LGR dehumidifiers), conventional dehumidifiers, and desiccant dehumidifiers. Conventional and LGR dehumidifiers operate off of similar designs but result in different drying outputs. Conventional dehumidifiers take in moist air and pass it over refrigerated coils. This causes moisture to fall out of suspension in the air and condensate on the refrigerated coils, leaving the air dry and ready to absorb more moisture from water damaged materials. LGR dehumidifiers operate similarly but are far more powerful and efficient due to the use of low-grain refrigerants, a compressor system, and use of two cooling systems. These redundant cooling systems cool air to lower temperatures and more quickly than conventional systems. This increase in cooling directly reflects the speed at which water is able to be extracted from the moist air, boosting the drying capabilities of LGR dehumidifiers. This is why SERVPRO of Bartow County has all but phased out the use of conventional dehumidifiers. LGR dehumidifiers are just far more capable pieces of equipment and can be used in place of conventional dehumidifiers in almost all cases. Conventional dehumidifiers on the other hand, are not interchangeable with LGR dehumidifiers when LGR dehumidifiers are needed.

Another similar piece of drying equipment is a desiccant dehumidifier. These types of dehumidifiers might look similar but, operate off completely different principals. They do not use condensers or refrigerants to remove moisture from the air. Desiccant dehumidifiers typically utilize silicon based materials that absorb moisture. The machine forces moist air across, over and through this silicate based material where moisture is absorbed and the air is filtered (often using HEPA filtration technology). Thus drying the moist air and creating a favorable drying environment. Desiccant dehumidifiers have some distinct advantages over the other types of dehumidifiers. Desiccant dehumidifiers do not discharge water because the silicate material actually absorbs the moisture it pulls from the air. Both conventional and LGR dehumidifiers require drainage hoses and a safe place to discharge the water collected during the condensation process. Desiccant dehumidifiers are also very powerful pieces of drying equipment that surpasses even LGR dehumidifiers drying capabilities in large or very wet scenarios. One disadvantage when it comes to desiccant dehumidifiers is the amount of power required to operate these machines. Desiccant dehumidifiers typically require substantially more power than the other types of dehumidifiers and depending on the job-site may require supplemental power in the form of an electrical generator.

Low-Grain Refrigerant Dehumidifiers - LGR dehumidifiers are SERVPRO of Bartow County’s preferred type of dehumidifier because of their reliability, electrical efficiency, and drying power. Over 90% of the restoration projects SERVPRO of Bartow County takes on, have an LGR dehumidifier on-site at one point or another during the restoration process. This is because controlling the environment’s moisture content levels is intragale to the drying process and for the success of any water restoration project. Low-grain dehumidifiers are powerful and efficient pieces of drying technology that SERVPRO of Bartow County uses to dry our customers property quickly and safely. *Check out some of SERVPRO’s preferred LGR dehumidifiers: Dri-Eaz - Revolution LGR, LGR 6000Li, Evolution, LGR 7000xli, 2800i LGR, Drizair 2400, Drizair LGR 2000; Phoenix - Dry Max LGR, R150 LGR, R-175 LGR, 250 Max LGR, R250 LGR, Drymax XL LGR, 270HTX, R200 LGR, 200 Max LGR

Desiccant Dehumidifiers - Desiccant dehumidifiers are some of the most powerful drying tools SERVPRO of Bartow County has in our restoration arsenal. These drying machines typically are used in large loss scenarios or when environmental temperatures require their use. Our desiccant dehumidifiers are capable of removing moisture from air in below freezing temperatures and environments in excess of 100ºF (temperatures at which conventional and LGR dehumidifiers can not perform). SERVPRO’s desiccant dehumidifiers ranging in size from washing machine sized boxes to trailer mounted shipping containers, so no matter what size issue our customer comes to us with, we have the dry solution that is right for the job. *Check out some of SERVPRO’s preferred desiccant dehumidifiers: Phoenix - D850, 1200 Portable, D385 Portable; Arid Dry - MS-600 Desiccant

SERVPRO of Bartow County employees are some of the most well trained technicians and water restoration professionals in the Metro Atlanta area. We pride ourselves on having some of the most highly trained and most experienced team members in the water and fire restoration industry. SERVPRO views training for our team members as essential to our business plan. In our view, investing in our employees by making sure that they are properly trained is tantamount to investing in ourselves. By investing in our employees training program we are able to provide top level services and are able to provide better service, be more thorough, and even more efficient when it comes to cleaning, drying, and restoring our customers property. Our technicians are trained to both IICRC’s S500 standards as well as our own in house training programs standards. This ensures they have the knowledge base and experience to restore your home or business to preloss condition. Don’t take our word for it, just take a look at some of our satisfied customers testimonials.

IICRC Training and Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Initial Franchise Training

A 15-day hands-on course at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. This course is primarily for new Franchise owners and covers many restoration topics:

• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
• Mold Mitigation

e-Learnings

All of our staff have access to web-based training. This voluntary program is designed to be an ongoing, self-paced coaching series for a Franchise's employees. Video presentations and support materials are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. This keeps our technicians and office staff up to speed on industry standards and the professional quality you expect.

Continuing Education Classes

SERVPRO of Bartow County offers both credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals, and Franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation. Courses include:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
• Restorative Drying for Loss Control
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (non-credit course)

History of Bartow County’s Natural Disasters and Weather Extremes

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Bartow County make water and storm damage "Like it never even happened." Call SERVPRO of Bartow County today, we are open 24/7!

Bartow County is a pretty great place to live, in SERVPRO of Bartow County’s opinion. The school systems are above average when compared to the rest of the state. Average cost of living is comfortably lower than the average median income, so residents tend to have a modest disposable income. That can be invested in the community in different ways like opening a business, continuing your education, as well as purchasing leisure and luxury items. In 2000, the population growth rate was around 33% which was almost triple the us average. Today, Bartow County is still growing very quickly in large part due to the healthy local economy, favorable business environment and availability of skilled and well paying jobs. 

The weather can be a bit unpredictable at times in Bartow County but a wise person once said “variety is the spice of life”. Plus, with today's weather trends what county doesn’t have some variations in weather or unexpected weather events? The average temperature is a very comfortable and temperate 60.0 °F, and receives around twelve inches more rainfall than the national average (Nat. avg. thirty-nine inches). This combination of temperate climate and plentiful rainfall makes Bartow County bountiful agriculturally. This is why many agricultural businesses, from sod farms to soybean fields, choose to call Bartow County home.

Like most places, Bartow County has its fair share of extreme weather. Some might say more than it fair share…15,193 extreme weather events (from 1950 to 2000), to be exact. Bartow County’s risk of tornado damage is, on average, higher than both the state and national averages. Around eighty-eight tornadoes of F-2 magnitude or greater have hit Bartow County since the 1950’s. Let's take a little closer look at some of the more notable tornadoes that have hit Bartow County.

(*Data cited was gathered by USA.com, Atlanta Journal Constitution, Tornado Project Online, and the National Weather Service from 1950-2013)

H1>Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated

Dangerous storms, high winds, torrential rainfalls, even rising flood waters are no match for SERVPRO of Bartow County. While we can't stop terrible weather events from happening, we are more than prepared to help you pick up the pieces afterwards and can make it "Like it never even happened," by returning your property to preloss condition. SERVPRO has earned a great reputation in the restoration industry, and because of this SERVPRO has become one of the nation's largest and most well recognized water restoration companies. SERVPRO of Bartow County is your locally owned SERVPRO franchise and is proud to serve the Cartersville, Acworth, and greater Bartow County area. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and have technicians available to respond at any hour of the day or night. If you experience storm damage call SERVPRO of Bartow County today! 

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (770) 387-7455

Bartow County Major Tornado History

Jan. 30th 2013 - On January 30th, 2013 in Adairsville, GA near the crossing of Snow Springs Rd and Rock Fence Rd NW, an F-3 Tornado touched down just after 11:00 am EST. The tornado carved a path of destruction approximately 900 yards wide and just over five miles long hitting Downtown Adairsville with peak power winds of 160 mph. Property damages ranged into the neighborhood of sixty million dollars. Reports show that 30 homes were destroyed, 110 suffered major damage, and 70 sustained minor damage. An additional 95 structures were damaged (31 destroyed, 17 majorly damaged, and 47 with minor damages) totaling well over 350 homes impacted by the storm. The tornado injured nine and claimed the life of one resident. 

*more info on this tornado

**Video account of this tornado

Dec. 22nd 2011 - On December 22nd, 2011 in Adairsville, GA near where Woodward Creek runs into Silver Springs Park a tornado was spotted at 5:05 pm EST. This tornado was not particularly strong, registering a zero on the F-Scale (or Fujita Scale), but was part of a larger network of storms that developed in quite powerful tornadoes ranging from F-0 to F-3 magnitude. This tornado was around 440 yards wide and stayed in contact with the ground for just over one and a quarter miles. The network of storms was made up of six different tornadoes that spanned over Floyd, Gordon, Bartow, Coweta, Gilmer, Northern Fayette, and Southern Fayette Counties. Miraculously, only a single home and a barn were completely destroyed during these tornado events. A handful of homes and a church were damaged by trees falling on them and several roadways were temporarily blocked by downed trees, but all and all the storms did not cause that much damage to property. Property damages related to the Bartow county tornado totaled approximately $150,000. No injuries and no deaths were reported as a result of the storm.

*more info on this tornado

Apr. 27th 2011 - On April 27th, 2011 in Taylorsville, GA an F-1 tornado touched down close to Euharlee Rd SE and Alford Rd SE at 8:10 pm EST. Ten minutes later and about fifteen mile northeast, another tornado hit Bartow County. This time a F-3 tornado touched down near the intersection of Griffin Rd NW and Joe Frank Harris Pkwy in Cartersville, GA. The tornado in Taylorsville was about 880 yards wide and traveled just under three and a quarter miles on the ground causing minimal damage due to Taylorsville’s rural nature. No people were injured or killed during the storm, and around $250,000 in damages were reported by homes and businesses. Cartersville was not as lucky facing it’s F-3 tornado which was about the same width but traveled over fifteen miles damaging populated urban areas with wind speed in excess of 155 mph. Because the Cartersville area is more developed and more densely populated, damages were estimated around $15 million. Twenty-five residents were injured but thankfully, no one was killed during the storm.  

*more info on this tornado

Mar. 15th, 2008 - On March 15th, 2008 a series of tornadoes popped up all over northern Georgia. About three and a quarter miles west-northwest of Taylorsville an F-3 tornado entered Bartow County traveling a total of eleven miles in contact with the ground at just under 900 yards wide, across the southern Bartow County ending near the intersection of Alabama Rd SW and Hwy. 61 in Cartersville. Again due to Taylorsville’s rural nature, only a few homes rooftops were damaged by falling trees along Popham Rd. in Taylorsville. Several high voltage power transmission lines and towers were knocked down or damaged by falling trees and the Georgia Power Plant off of Hwy 113 was also damaged during the storm. Moving closer to Cartersville both Taylorsville Elementary and Woodland High school suffered heavy damage along with several surrounding businesses. No injuries or deaths were reported in Cartersville or Taylorsville as a result of the storm system.

*more info on this tornado

Nov. 11th, 2002 - On November 11th, 2002 in Kingston, GA a F-2 tornado with wind speeds up to 100 mph touched down near Barnsley Gardens off of Barnsley Garden Road. The width of the tornado varied from one hundred yards wide to five hundred yards wide in the Clear Creek Road area and traveled along a west-east path twelve miles long crossing Pleasant Valley Road and two major Highways (Hwy 41 and Hwy 75). In the tornado’s path was over a dozen homes which suffered major structural damage and a barn, seven commercial chicken houses, and an estimated 7,500 chickens were completely destroyed. The tornadic activity was so severe the governor at the time, Roy Barnes, declared a state of emergency for Bartow County as well as four other counties affected by storms in Georgia. Over $1.5 million in damages were reported but thankfully no deaths or injuries.

Apr. 4th 1989 - On April 4th, 1989 a F-2 tornado hit an area which now hosts a popular boating resort called Holiday Harbor and Resort in Acworth, GA on Allatoona Lake. Luckily at this time (1989), the area was largely undeveloped so only $250,000 in property was damaged and no people were harmed during the storm. This tornado was a concentrated and short lived twister that only traveled two miles in contact with the ground and was only one hundred and fifty yards wide. The tornado ran out of steam close to the intersection of Northpoint Pkwy SE and North Drive SE in Acworth, GA. 

Apr. 26th 1982 - On April 26th, 1982 a F-2 tornado formed along the intersection of Hwy 113 and Hwy 61 in Cartersville, GA. This area was largely underpopulated and undeveloped at the time. The tornado traveled five miles carving a path three hundred yards wide causing only $250,000 of property was reported damaged. The tornado’s path ended in Cartersville along Old Mill Rd, where the modern day Cartersville Gardens Apartments are located.

Apr. 5th, 1974 -  On April 5th, 1974 a F-2 tornado was sighted near the intersection of Sandtown Rd and Allatoona Pass Rd SE in Emerson, GA. The tornado traveled north-east almost four miles carving a swath approximately one hundred and fifty yards wide until it reached George Washington Carver Park in Acworth, GA. Property damage was minimal and no reports of injury or death as a result of the storm are on record. Many trees were toppled but developed areas were left unscathed. 

Jul. 19th 1970 - On July 19th, 1970 a F-2 tornado was spotted near the intersection of Sugar Valley Rd SW and Mission Rd SW in Cartersville, GA. This tornado was largely uneventful only touching down in twenty yards areas over a distance of half a mile and causing around $25,000 in property damage.

Dec. 5th 1954 - On July 5th, 1954 a F-2 tornado touched down near the intersection of Aragon Rd. and B.D. Trail in Taylorsville, GA. It traveled over seven miles carving a five hundred yards wide path through forest and farmland, east-northeast toward the intersection of Cartersville Highway and Picklesimer Rd SW in Cartersville, GA. Property damage was estimated at $25,000 and no reports of injuries or death are on record. 

Related Storm Services

• Overview of Storm & Flood Services
• Water & Storm Damage Tips
• Disaster Recovery Team
• Water Restoration Process
• Caring For Your Belongings
• Mold Remediation
• Sewage Cleanup
• Carpet Cleaning
• Odor Removal

• Building Services

• Commercial Storm Damage

A Clean House Can Be Your First Line of Defense Against Flu Viruses

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO has it's own line of disinfectants like SERVPROXIDE that are capable of treating 99.9% of bacteria and viruses?

Not unlike the past several years, this year’s flu virus has hit Georgia hard. With all the media attention being placed on the coronavirus (COVID-19), you might not have realized that around 16,000 Americans have perished due to the common flu since the start of 2019, thirty of which lived in Georgia. The coronavirus has infected over 130,000 people worldwide, while the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has estimated over 29 million Americans have been infected with the common household flu (Influenza A & B) in 2019. The reason the coronavirus garners such attention is due to the fatality rate among those who contract the virus. Nearly one in thirty cases diagnosed result in death. The likelihood of contracting the coronavirus outside of China is pretty low, while the odds of coming down with the flu virus are far greater here in the U.S. These stats are not intended to understate the humanitarian disaster that originated in Wuhan, China, or the severity of the coronavirus. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all affected by this global health emergency.

 Currently there is no vaccine to prevent the coronavirus, but researchers are tirelessly working to develop a vaccine (not unlike the vaccines available for influenza A & B). The cause and how the coronavirus is spread is still under investigation and being researched by scientists and health professionals alike. Figuring out how the virus is transmitted is paramount to stopping it from spreading and eventually eradicating the virus. Health professionals have determined that the virus spreads from host to host primarily by direct contact, but also believe the virus can be contracted by indirect contact as well. Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing carry the virus which has proven to be one of the most common ways viruses and colds spread in general. Direct contact means contracting the virus by coming into contact with an infectious person, and indirect contact meaning touching objects or surfaces that have the coronavirus on them. To the best of researcher’s knowledge an infected patient can host the virus for up to fourteen days without the patient presenting any signs of infection. This makes diagnosing and stopping this particular virus quite difficult.

According to the CDC, most patients that have contracted the coronavirus reported mild to severe respiratory illnesses with symptoms like fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Most agree that many of the same steps used to prevent the spread of the common cold are applicable and would be considered best practices in the case of the coronavirus. Things like washing your hands frequently, disinfecting surfaces, and covering coughs and sneezes will help prevent the spread of these types of viruses (coronavirus, Influenza A, & Influenza B, etc.). 

The following are some flu season tips that will help keep your family healthy during flu season:

• Consult a Medical Physician - Having a trusted medical physician that can diagnose and prescribe medications is key to quickly recovering from the flu virus and identifying which strain of the virus has been contracted. Tamiflu is commonly prescribed for influenza A & B and does a great job of helping patients get over the flu quickly, and every year drug companies produce flu vaccines aimed at preventing the common flu. When it comes to the coronavirus, diagnosis by a trained medical physician is not only crucial for the health of the sick but is also the best way to track the spread of the virus. If you believe you have contracted the coronavirus you should immediately see your doctor and take steps to prevent transmitting the virus to others. 
• Quarantine the Sick - Due to the ease at which the flu viruses can spread it is best to isolate infected people while they recuperate. Minimizing contact between infected and non infected people is the best way of preventing the transmission of both the common flu viruses and the coronavirus. Quarantined people should remain in quarantine well after symptoms subside, and in the case of the coronavirus patients, quarantine should last a minimum of fourteen days after they display no signs of the virus (and under the care and direction of trained medical professionals). In China, where the coronavirus outbreak started, mandatory city-wide quarantines are being enforced in effort to combat the virus. Strict regulations and instructions to wear face-masks in all public places are being implemented among the Chinese citizens to prevent transmission of the virus.
• Disinfect Surfaces - By disinfecting infected areas and high traffic surfaces you can treat for the virus before it is contracted. Use cleaning products that are specifically formulated to treat for flu viruses you are dealing with. Read the product labels and instructions to ensure the product will in fact disinfect surfaces, is formulated to treat for your specific strain of the flu virus, and follow the application instruction. The name of each virus the product has been rated to treat for should be listed on the packaging or on the manufacturers website. Manufacturers like Lysol, Purell, and Clorox produce great products for disinfecting surfaces, many of which are even rated to treat for the coronavirus. SERVPRO has developed our own line of disinfectants including SERVPROXIDE which is biodegradable, approved for food grade surfaces, and treatment of bacteria, viruses (including the coronavirus), and mold. 

The CDC has provided the following guidelines for cleaning and sanitizing different surface using household products:

First, wash surfaces with soap and warm, clean water to remove dirt and debris. Next, sanitize surfaces using approved products. It is critical to read and follow the safety instructions on any product you use. Below are the most important safety guidelines when using sanitizing products:

• Never mix bleach with ammonia or any other cleaner.

• Wear rubber or other non-porous boots, gloves, and eye protection.

• Try not to breathe in product fumes. If using products indoors, open windows and doors to allow fresh air to enter.

For information on cleaning specific surfaces click here!

• Hand Washing & Personal Hygiene - Washing your hands and practicing good personal hygiene is one of the best ways of preventing yourself from getting sick from any number of diseases and viruses. By washing your hands frequently and thoroughly, you not only prevent yourself from contracting ailments from infectious surfaces or materials you may have inadvertently come into contact with, but you also prevent the spread of ailments that you yourself may unknowingly pass along to others. Along with washing your hands, clothing and bedding of infectious patients should be handled with care and cleaned using detergents specially formulated to treat for the flu virus. Wearing a surgical grade facial mask will help prevent airborne pathogens from entering your respiratory system. These types of masks are typically readily available at your local drug store or supermarket.

*For more information on preventing the coronavirus from spreading visit the CDC.

SERVPROXIDE treats 99.9% of bacteria and viruses!

SERVPROXIDE is an EPA registered, stabilized chlorine dioxide based disinfectant and sanitizer. SERVPROXIDE carries the EPA’s lowest toxicity rating, requires no PPE for general purpose use and is safe for everyday use. It is designed to treat for harmful bacteria, viruses (influenza A, B, & COVID-19), and mold on hard surfaces and is an effective sanitizer for soft surfaces. The product is fragrance-free with a mild odor that dissipates quickly under general ventilation. The product also serves as an excellent deodorizer, once the source has been removed, that oxidizes and does not mask odors such as fire & tobacco smoke, musty odors, pet odors and stale cooking odors to name a few. It can be used to deodorize internal HVAC systems, and can also be wet fogged or misted through a ULV type mister for deodorization purposes. 

ABOUT CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19) 

A coronavirus is a kind of common virus that causes an infection in your nose, sinuses, or upper throat. Most coronaviruses infect animals, not people. However, rarely, these viruses can evolve to infect humans and spread from person to person. Most coronaviruses are not dangerous, causing only upper respiratory infection symptoms like a stuffy nose, cough, and sore throat. However, if a coronavirus infection spreads to the lower respiratory tract (the windpipe and lungs), it can cause pneumonia and be life threatening, especially in older people and people with weakened immune systems. There are some very serious types of coronaviruses, such as the SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and MERS associated coronavirus (MERS-CoV). In early January 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) identified a new serious type of coronavirus—the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) now known as CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19)

If you believe you have contracted or come into contact with someone carrying the coronavirus: 

• Contact your doctor, the CDC or other qualified health professionals.
• Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage for emerging pathogen work. 
• Contact a well informed Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) to assist in providing written protocols and to assist in scoping potential jobs. 
• COVID-19 contamination requires thorough cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and materials within the affected area. 
•  Be sure to pay special attention to common use areas where COVID-19 can be easily spread through direct contact with others and where cross contamination may occur. 
• Currently there are no disinfectants that have been tested specifically for this emerging viral pathogen. The CDC is recommending a labeled Hospital Grade disinfectant with claims against similar type organisms to COVID-19. SERVPROXIDE has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to COVID-19 on hard non-porous surfaces. This product can be used against COVID-19 when used in accordance with the directions for use against Norovirus Feline Calicivirus** and Canine Parvovirus, Strain Cornell-780916, ATCC VR-2016** on hard, non-porous surfaces. In addition, SERVPROXIDE currently has EPA approved claims for Feline Coronavirus (Strain WSU 79-1683, ATCC VR 989**) and Canine Coronavirus (Strain 1-71, ATCC VR-809**). More product specific information can be obtained on the TDS & SDS.
• As with all emerging type pathogens, the use of proper PPE is of the utmost importance.

This product can be used in areas like: Homes, vehicles, schools, daycare, gyms, locker rooms, sports gear, hospitals, nursing homes, laundry rooms, veterinary, ambulances, laboratories, restaurants, boats, cruise ships, federally inspected meat & poultry processing plants, farms, animal pens and poultry houses, egg processing premises, hatcheries, swine premise sanitation, refrigerated storage units, airplanes, trains, trucks, buses & automobiles.

Flooded House Near Woodland High School

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

No matter what time of day or night SERVPRO of Bartow Count is always on call, ready to make it "Like it never even happened"!

SERVPRO of Bartow County received a call from a Cartersville homeowner on a Friday afternoon, requesting emergency water extraction in their single level ranch style home. The house was built in the mid 90’s and was located a stone's throw from Woodland High School. The homeowner was remarkably calm but was a bit frustrated due to the water in their home and the fact that they had earlier called another water restoration company and had been waiting several hours for a return phone call to schedule services. SERVPRO’s dispatcher let the homeowner know that we had several technicians in the area and that we could be on-site within an hour. Almost overjoyed with this news the homeowner thanked our dispatcher profusely and awaited our arrival. The homeowner did not have to wait long, because SERVPRO of Bartow County is located less than 5 miles away from their home. Needless to say they were impressed with our response time.

The first step in any successful water restoration project is to document the damage for the homeowner’s records and if applicable the insurance provider. Without documentation, restoration projects can get out of hand and can cause a ton of headaches for the homeowner. That’s why SERVPRO has invested in proprietary software to document and relay information and documentation to the homeowners and insurance companies. Documentation also allows SERVPRO of Bartow County to provide better customer service and helps ensure the quality of our work. 

*The following is a synopsis of the services SERVPRO of Bartow County performed for this Cartersville customer. SERVPRO believes strongly in our customers rights to privacy and would never publish any materials related to the service we’ve performed for our customer, without their express written consent. This homeowner was gracious enough to authorize SERVPRO of Bartow County to share their experience working with us, and for that we are very thankful.

Cause of Loss: The cause of loss was a toilet with a faulty/leaking toilet wax ring in the hallway bathroom. The homeowner was out of town on business for almost a week and arrived home to find their master bedroom, master bathroom, hallway bathroom and hallway covered in pools of grossly contaminated water.

Hallway Bathroom - In the hallway bathroom, vinyl flooring, baseboards, and vanity toe kick were 100% affected by grossly contaminated water or “black water”, which required that all 69 square feet of flooring, 25 linear feet of baseboards, 25 linear feet of base shoe, and vanity toe kicks to be removed, bagged and disposed of properly. The drywall was also grossly contaminated and required a two foot flood cut from the base of the wall in affected areas. This meant removing 50 square feet of drywall then bagging and disposing of the contaminated drywall properly.

Heavy water extraction was performed throughout the bathroom to remove standing water and to prevent water from spreading to non-affected areas. Once all standing water was extracted using our of our Kleenrite Mega XL Flood Extractor, removing the vinyl flooring proved to be a little tricky due to the fact that the flooring ran underneath the bathroom vanity. This meant that the vanity would have to be removed prior to the flooring. The vanity suffered only minor water damage along the baseboards, so SERVPRO of Bartow County’s highly trained technicians carefully detached the entire vanity, removing the toe kick in the process. The vanity was in restorable condition and largely unaffected by the water damage, but as a best practice our technician cleaned and sanitized the vanity to prevent cross contamination while it was stored on-site in a non-affected area. The affected flooring and drywall could then be safely removed, exposing the cement subfloor and bare studs. After the flooring, drywall and baseboards were removed and the bathroom vanity was detached and safely stowed, the subfloor, studs and surrounding affected area was inspected, cleaned and sanitized using SERVPRO’s professional antimicrobial agents. Detaching the vanity helped facilitate the drying process in the bathroom and prevented unintended damage to the vanity while the flooring and baseboards were removed. Because the water that damaged the bathroom potentially carried contaminants like microbes, bacteria, and possibly even human waste, the toe kicks, vinyl flooring and baseboards where removed and disposed of in accordance with IICRC S500 Standards. 

The above mentioned tasks were completed during our initial visit, on day one and within the first 24 hours of notification of the loss. The affected areas and all items/materials deemed cost ineffective restoration were documented and properly disposed of, and in accordance with the insurance adjuster and homeowner’s wishes. The restorable areas and materials were cleaned, sanitized and treated with antimicrobial agents to prevent future mold growth. Two Phoenix AirMax Radial Air Movers were placed in the bathroom to create airflow and an environment conducive to drying. Over the course of the next 3 days the bathroom was monitored by our drying specialist and project managers until it was dried to preloss condition and ready for reconstruction.

SERVPRO of Bartow County’s construction team reinstalled the sanitized and fully restored vanity, a new vanity toe kick, 69 square feet of Shaw resilient vinyl flooring, and 50 square feet of drywall. Due to the drywall repair work, 205 square feet of bathroom walls were painted using 2 coats of Valspar Optimus Interior Paint, and the toilet was reset in its place with a new (proper size) wax ring. The remodeled bathroom was given a final cleaning to insure the homeowners first impression of their fully restored bathroom would be one of wonder and amazement. 

The construction team’s first step was to install new drywall in the areas removed by our mitigation team as well as eight linear feet of new baseboards. The walls and new baseboards were then painted with two coats of paint, and the salvaged and restored baseboards were painted with a single coat Valspar Custom Color Paint. With the walls and baseboards freshly painted, carpet  was ready to be installed throughout the master bedroom. After a final cleaning the master bedroom was fully restored and good as new!

Master Bathroom - In the master bathroom, 55 square feet of vinyl flooring was removed due to contact with grossly contaminated water, along with 34 linear feet of baseboards and 50 square feet of drywall, all of which had to be bagged up and disposed of properly. The vanity toe-kick was removed for disposal and the vanity itself was detached, cleaned, restored and stored on site.

Heavy water extraction was needed in the master bathroom to remove standing water, when we arrived on site. Once water extraction was completed and the vanity was detached and stored safely on-site, our highly trained mitigation specialists removed the vinyl flooring to expose the master bathroom’s subfloor and facilitate the drying process. All baseboards were removed, bagged and disposed of properly due to contact with grossly contaminated water. Wire shelving and the toilet were also detached, cleaned, restored and stored on-site to be reinstalled after the mitigation process was completed. Heavy cleaning and antimicrobial treatments were applied to the subfloor, exposed studs and all affected areas to prevent future mold growth. During the drying process two low profile Phoenix Airmax Airmovers were strategically placed in the bathroom along with a single LGR dehumidifier. The master bathroom was monitored over the next three days by our project managers and drying specialist to ensure that the property was dried to IICRC standards and would be ready for the reconstruction tema to some in and make this water loss “Like it never even happened”.

In coordination with SERVPRO’s construction department and their insurance adjuster, the homeowner made the decision to upgrade the flooring in the master bathroom from vinyl flooring to tile. So after the drywall was repaired and painted with two coats of paint, the new tile floor was ready to be installed. This required our construction department to install ½” cement board over the exposed subfloor, to give the tile a sturdy and level base to be laid upon. The vanity was then reset in its place with a new toe-kick and P-trap assembly for the sink. New baseboards were installed and painted with two coats of paint after the tile, vanity and toilet were reset in their previous places. The restored wire shelving was reinstalled and all that remained was to complete the remodel of the master bathroom was the final cleaning to ensure our customers satisfaction. 

SERVPRO of Bartow County is the locally owned and operated water restoration company that you can trust to make it “Like it never even happened!” Don't take our word for it. Check out what some of our valued customers have had to say about working with SERVPRO of Bartow County. 

Check out our reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook!

Fire Cleanup in Cartersville GA Home

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

If your home suffers fire damage...call SERVPRO of Bartow County! We can make it "Like it never even happened."

The following is a walk-through of the services performed by SERVPRO of Bartow County during the restoration of one of our residential customers homes located near downtown Cartersville, GA. The house was a single level ranch style home built on a concrete slab, with a combination of brick and vinyl siding. While SERVPRO has a firm and strictly followed policy concerning the disclosure of our customer’s personal information, this homeowner gave us express permission to share his “restoration story”.

It is always SERVPRO of Bartow County’s goal to save and restore all salvageable items whether it be storm damaged roof, fire damaged cabinets, water damaged basement, household contents, or a mold restoration project. However, in some cases it is not cost effective to restore certain item(s), and not in our customer’s best interest to restore said item(s) or material(s). SERVPRO of Bartow County has our customers best interest at heart and will always do our best to restore every item entrusted to our care.

Cause of Loss: The cause of loss was due to a stove fire. The homeowner was cooking and was called away from the kitchen for several minutes. The fire started after a hot pot of cooking oil ignited causing a grease fire and direct fire damage to the stove top, range-hood, flooring, ceiling, and surrounding cabinets and counter tops. Smoke and soot filled the house affecting 100% of the surfaces in the home, particularly porous materials and horizontal surfaces. Along with the fire damage, water was used by the Cartersville Fire Department to extinguish the fire. This caused category 3 water damage to the kitchen due to the potential chemicals, heavy metals, and microorganisms that could be present in the water.

• Kitchen: In the kitchen, the walls, cabinets and counter tops were 100% affected by smoke and fire damage. The adjuster determined that the cabinets, counter tops, dishwasher, refrigerator, and garbage disposal would be cost prohibitive to restore and allotted the homeowner’s claim budget for full replacements of the cabinets, counter tops and appliances. The sink and appliance water lines and gas lines were capped for fire safety purposes and to prevent accidental water damage during the restoration process. Around 40% of the drywall in the kitchen was damaged beyond repair by fire, requiring 150 square feet of sheetrock to be removed. The remaining 255 square feet of walls in the kitchen were damaged by smoke and soot, but could be restored. SERVPRO fire specialist heavily cleaned the fire damaged walls using SERVPRO’s commercial grade soot and smoke removal cleaning agents and tools. The affected areas were treated with antimicrobial agents to prevent mold growth due to the previous presence of water in the affected area. The ceiling was 100% affected requiring 160 square feet of sheetrock to be removed along with 160 square feet of blown in insulation from the ceiling and attic. The engineered hardwood floors were 70% affected requiring 105 square feet of flooring to be removed from the kitchen due to category 3 water damage as a result of extinguishing the stove top fire. The water was extracted and all engineered floors were removed along with all baseboards and trim pieces. Once demo was completed our fire specialist team used HEPA vacuums to remove fine smoke particles clinging to surfaces in the kitchen. As the final step in the deodorization process, the room was treated with a hot thermal fog to encapsulate and neutralize any remaining odor causing microscopic particles. 

Pack-out and Contents Restoration: Salvageable Items in the kitchen were photographed, documented and carefully packed for storage and restoration off site at our 15,000 square foot textile restoration facility, while the mitigation and construction teams completed their work. Food items were photographed, documented and disposed of due to possible contamination. Using our Morantz ultrasonic cleaning equipment, our contents department cleaned and  restored our customers items like dishes, cooking utensils, silverware, and other common kitchen items. The cleaned and restored items were then repacked, stored with care and ready to be returned to our customer’s home after construction was completed.

Construction: During the reconstruction phase our construction department hung 160  square feet of drywall on walls, 150 square feet of sheetrock on the ceiling, and installed 150  square feet of flooring in the kitchen. All 150 square feet of ceiling was resurfaced with acoustic texturing (popcorn ceiling). The construction department prepped and painted the kitchen walls for a total 415 square feet. Then installed, prepped and painted 82 linear feet of new base shoe and baseboards in the kitchen. They also replaced and installed new counter tops and cabinets from Life Art Cabinetry, as well as all new appliances from Whirlpool, Samsung, and Frigidaire. The old sink and existing sink P-trap, were replaced with a new double basin sink from Kohler, along with a new sink trap and plumbing faucet fixtures from Delta. All 150 square feet of engineered hardwood floors were eventually replaced with some of Shaw Floors high-end vinyl plank at our customers request (It was not cost effective to replace the engineered hardwood floors with the same brand and line of engineered hardwood floors, due to that particular line of flooring no longer being in production. The adjuster allowed for full replacement of the flooring with a comparable building material).

• Laundry Room: In the laundry room, the walls and ceiling were 100% affected by smoke damage and required 221 square feet of heavy soot and smoke cleaning. SERVPRO’s fire specialist heavily clean the fire damaged walls using SERVPRO’s commercial grade soot and smoke removal cleaning products and tools. Our fire restoration specialist also removed 100% of the engineered hardwood floor for a total of 33 square feet of category 3 water damaged flooring. 100% of the baseboards and trim were affected by the category 3 water damage totaling 24 linear feet of trim and baseboards removed. All 33 square feet of sub-flooring was treated with antimicrobial agents to prevent mold growth. The washing machine and dryer were both deemed non-salvageable by the insurance adjuster due to the prohibitive cost of restoration and relative low cost of full replacements. The adjuster allotted the homeowner’s claim with funds sufficient to replace them with comparable models. One light fixture was removed for deep cleaning along with 10 linear feet of wire shelving. Once demo was completed and appliances were removed, our fire specialist team used HEPA vacuums to remove fine smoke particles clinging to surfaces in the laundry room. As the final step in the deodorization process, the room was treated with a hot thermal fog to encapsulate and neutralize any remaining odor causing microscopic particles.

Pack-out and Contents Restoration: In the laundry room there were very few contents to be cleaned or packed out. Wire shelving was cleaned using specialty soot removal sponges and were stored on site for re-installation by the construction department.

Construction: During the construction phase the engineered hardwood flooring was completely replaced with 33 square feet of vinyl plank flooring to match the free-flowing floors from the kitchen. The walls were prepped and painted, totaling 188 square feet of freshly painted walls, and the ceiling was resurfaced with acoustical texturing totaling 33 square feet of newly resurfaced ceiling. The restored light fixture, shelving and new appliances were reinstalled to complete the restoration of the laundry room.

• Master Bedroom: In the master bedroom, the carpet and pad were both 100% affected by category 3 water damage, requiring 200 square feet of carpet and pad to be removed along with 62 linear feet of baseboards. Once the carpet and pad were removed the affected 200 square feet area was cleaned with professional cleaning and antimicrobial treatments to prevent future mold growth. Throughout the 702 square foot area, the ceiling and walls were 100% affected by smoke damage, but could be restored and heavily cleaned using SERVPRO’s commercial grade soot and smoke removal cleaning agents and tools. The ceiling fan and light fixtures were removed, cleaned and stored on-site for reinstallation by our construction team. Other parts of the room like the windows and doors were also heavily cleaned using HEPA vacuums and soot-removal-sponges in anticipation of a fresh coat of paint. As the final step in the deodorization process, the room was treated with hot thermal fog to encapsulate and neutralize any remaining odor causing microscopic particles.

Pack-out and Contents Restoration: Salvageable items in the master bedroom were photographed, documented, and carefully packed for storage/restoration off site at our 15,000 square foot textiles facility, while the mitigation and construction teams completed their work. Using our Morantz ultrasonic cleaning equipment, our contents department cleaned and  restored our customers belongings like pieces of furniture, clothing, window treatments, blinds, bed frame, mattress, bedding and linens. The cleaned and restored items were then repacked and stored with care, ready to be returned to our customer’s home after construction was completed.

Construction: During the construction phase the old water damaged carpet and pad were replaced with 200 square feet of Shaw Floors high grade carpeting and pad. The newly cleaned walls were then prepped and painted with the homeowners chosen Behr Premium Plus Paint. 192 square feet of ceiling was re-textured with acoustical ceiling texture sealant and paint. The newly restored ceiling fan and light fixture were then installed, along with the freshly painted and restored doors, window seals, trim and baseboards

• Master Bathroom: In the master bathroom, the ceiling, walls and floor were all 100% affected by smoke and soot damage. The floor and bathroom vanity both suffered minor water damage which SERVPRO was successfully able to dry and restore to preloss condition. The vanity was temporarily removed to facilitate drying and treated with antimicrobial agents as a precaution to prevent mold. 46 square feet of the flooring was also removed due to category 3 water damage and was treated using professional cleaning agents and antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold growth in the future. The floors, walls and ceiling were heavily cleaned using soot and smoke removal sponges and HEPA vacuums to remove odor causing microscopic soot and smoke particles. The light fixtures, shower, toilet, sink and vanity were also cleaned and restored on-site to preloss condition using SERVPRO’s proprietary restoration and cleaning technology. The room was treated with a hot thermal fog to encapsulate and neutralize any remaining odor causing microscopic particles, as the final step in the deodorization process.

Pack-out and Contents Restoration: With the exception of the homeowners medicine cabinet and several towels, there were very few items to be packed out for cleaning and restoration from the master bathroom. Items like toothbrushes and hygiene products were documented and discarded due to smoke and soot contamination. It is inadvisable and unsafe to use any hygiene products exposed during water, fire or mold loss events.  

Construction: The construction phase began with prepping and painting all 205 square feet of master bathroom walls and resetting the toilet, vanity, counter tops, lighting fixtures, sink faucet and P-trap. The ceiling was refinished using textured acoustical paint and sealant and the baseboards and trim were also refinished with a fresh coat of Behr paint.

• Dining Room: In the dining room, 100% of the floors, walls and ceiling were affected by smoke and soot damage. 156 square feet of flooring was damaged beyond cost effective restoration, due to category 3 water damage and was removed along with 43 linear feet of base shoe and trim. The affected water damage area was treated with SERVPRO’s line of antimicrobial agents to prevent mold growth. The floors, walls and ceiling were also cleaned using smoke and soot restoration sponges and HEPA vacuumed to remove odor causing smoke and soot particles. The entire dining room was then finally treated with deodorizing thermal fog to encapsulate and neutralize any remaining soot or smoke particles. 

Pack-out and Contents Restoration: In the dining room there was a medium sized china hutch, a large dining room table, and six dining room chairs. The contents of the china hutch was carefully documented and evaluated for restoration and packed up for off-site cleaning at our cleaning and storage facility. The table, chairs, and china hutch were cleaned to remove smoke and soot buildup from the surfaces, then carefully wrapped with moving blankets for off-site cleaning and restoration as well. At our 15,000 square foot cleaning and storage facility, textile restoration specialists utilize the latest in textile restoration technology to restore our customer’s belongings to preloss condition. Once restored the contents and furniture were carefully packed into moving boxes, ready to be moved back in as soon as the mitigation and construction teams completed their work.

Construction: During the construction phase, the dining room walls were prepped and painted, along with the base shoe, trim and doors. 156 square feet of premium vinyl floors from Shaw Floors were installed to match the free flowing floors from the kitchen. The ceiling was refinished with acoustical textured sealant and paint to complete the restoration of the dining room.

• Living Room: In the living room, the flooring was 100% affected by category 3 water damage, resulting in the removal of all 193 square feet of non-salvageable floating floors. The flooring, walls and ceiling were 100% affected by smoke and soot damage, resulting in 891 square feet of heavy cleaning with SERVPRO’s line of commercial soot and smoke restoration equipment such as HEPA vacuums and dry-chem soot removal sponges. In addition to the heavily cleaned structure, the light fixtures,ceiling fan, door and windows were removed, cleaned on-site, and safely stored for re-installation by our construction department once the mitigation process was completed. 

Pack-out and Contents Restoration: In the living room, there was a large couch, love-seat, coffee table, two end tables, and an entertainment center which held a large flat-screen TV, all of which SERVPRO of Bartow County was able to successfully restore to preloss condition. The living room furniture, electronics and Bric-à-brac items were documented, given an initially cleaning on-site to remove surface soot and smoke buildup, packed safely for transport, and further restored off-site at our specialized restoration and storage facility. Once the items were restored to preloss condition they were carefully packed and safely stored to be returned to our client after the mitigation and construction phases were completed.

Construction: During the construction phase, the living room walls were prepped and painted, along with the window trim, baseboards and base shoe. The newly restored ceiling fan and light fixtures were reinstalled after 193 square feet of the living room ceiling was resurfaced with acoustical textured sealant and paint.

• Hallway: In the hallway, the flooring was 100% affected by category 3 water damage and 27 square feet of vinyl flooring was removed along with 20 linear feet of baseboards and base shoe. The affected area was then cleaned with SERVPRO professional antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold growth in the house. The walls and ceiling were 100% affected by smoke and soot damage, requiring all 245 square feet of drywall/sheetrock to be heavily cleaned using SERVPRO’s soot and smoke restoration sponges and other fire restoration techniques. There were five doors along the hallway and a lighting fixture that were all successfully cleaned and restored by our highly trained technicians. As the final step in the mitigation and odor removal process, all 260 cubic feet of the hallway was treated with hot thermal fog to seal and neutralize any microscopic soot and smoke particles.

Pack-out and Contents Restoration: The hallway had very few contents, however there were several family pictures and canvas paintings that hung in the hallway that were damaged by smoke and soot. The artwork and pictures were documented, carefully packed and transported to our advanced contents restoration facility for specialty cleaning and restoration. Once cleaned and restored to preloss condition they were repacked and awaited return to our customer upon completion of the mitigation and construction phases.

Construction: During the construction phase, 27 square feet of premium vinyl plank flooring, 20 linear feet of baseboards and 20 linear feet of base shoe was installed. The drywall in the hallway was prepped and painted along with the newly installed baseboards and base shoe. After the ceiling was resurfaced with textured acoustical sealant and paint, the restored light fixture was reinstalled. The family photos and painting were returned and hung in their original places in hallway “Like it never even happened,” completing the restoration of the hallway.

• Guest Bedroom: In the guest bedroom, the carpet was 100% affected by water damage and required that all 165 square feet of carpet and pad to be removed, along with 61 linear feet of baseboards to facilitate drying of the structure. Antimicrobial treatments were applied to the affected water damaged sub-floor to prevent future mold growth. The walls and ceiling were 100% affected by smoke damage and soot buildup, requiring 562 square feet of drywall/sheetrock to be heavily cleaned using professional smoke restoration techniques. The  light fixture and ceiling fan were carefully removed, cleaned/restored and stored on site for re-installation. Our highly trained fire restoration technicians used HEPA vacuums to remove fine smoke and soot dust from the entire 727 square foot area. Then as the final step in the mitigation and odor removal process, all 1,320 cubic feet of the guest bedroom was treated with hot thermal fog to seal and neutralize any microscopic soot and smoke particles that could possibly remain.

Pack-out and Contents Restoration: The guest bedroom was fully furnished, complete with queen sized bed, two night stands, a wall-mounted TV, an American Signature Furniture dresser set, and several medium sized moving boxes of keepsakes and bricker-brac. Everything in the room was documented, evaluated for restorability and packed for transport to SERVPRO’s contents restoration facility where our talented team of fire restoration specialists cleaned and restored the items to preloss condition. After being restored small items were wrapped in packing paper and packed into moving boxes. The furniture was covered and wrapped with moving blankets to prevent unintentional damage during storage and transport back to the homeowner’s home.

Construction: During the construction phase, 165 square feet of new premium carpet was installed along with fresh carpet pad and 61 linear feet of baseboards. The baseboards, door jams, window seals and walls were prepped and painted using Behr Marquee Paint. Part of drywall prep-work involved repairing a portion of damaged drywall that required a drywall patch. The ceiling was resurfaced using acoustical textured sealant and paint, then the lighting fixture and ceiling fan were reinstalled to complete the construction phase in the guest bedroom.

• Guest Bathroom: In the guest Bathroom, the flooring was 100% affected by water damage and all 46 square feet of the flooring would have to be removed along with 24 linear feet of baseboard and trim. The affected water damaged area was treated with commercial grade antimicrobial agents and SERVPRO’s professional cleaning agents to prevent mold growth from developing in the future. The bathroom sink, toilet, door, vanity, counter tops, double light fixture, and mirror were removed to facilitate drying and to allow our fire restoration specialist to clean and restore these items. Once cleaned and restored they were safely stored on site for the construction team to reinstall at a later date. Including the bathtub, the entire bathroom was HEPA vacuumed and heavily cleaned using specialized soot removal sponges to eliminate soot and smoke dust that could cause malodors.

Pack-out and Contents Restoration: With the exception of a few towels, there were very few items to be packed out for cleaning and restoration from the guest bathroom. Items like soap, toothbrushes and other hygiene products were documented and discarded due to smoke and soot contamination. It is inadvisable and unsafe to use any hygiene products exposed during water and/or fire loss event. 

Construction: During the construction phase, 38 square feet of luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed in the guest bathroom, as well as 25 linear feet of both baseboard and base shoe. The freshly restored walls were prepped and painted along with the newly installed baseboards and base shoe. The restored vanity, double light fixture, counter tops, sink, toilet and mirror were reinstalled, after the old sink P-trap and toilet supply line were replaced. The ceiling was resurfaced with texture acoustic sealant and paint to complete the remodel of this smoke and water damaged bathroom.

• Trophy Room: In the trophy room, the carpet was 100% affected by category 3 water damage which meant that all 197 square feet of carpet and carpet pad was to be removed as well as 66 linear feet of baseboards to facilitate the drying process. The ceilings and walls were 100% affected by smoke damage and soot, requiring 510 square feet of heavy cleaning and restoration onsite by our fire restoration specialists. The single lighting fixture was removed, cleaned/restored and carefully stored on-site for re-installation by the construction team. HEPA vacuums were used to remove odor causing smoke particles and soot from 655 square feet of surfaces in the trophy room and hot thermal fog was used to encapsulate and neutralize any remaining odors in the affected 1153 cubic foot area. 

Pack-out and Contents Restoration: In the trophy room there were many sensitive and irreplaceable collectibles including personalized autographed footballs, baseballs, shoes, and photographs as well as fragile trophies, commemorative pennants and championship rings. All of which had varying levels of smoke and soot damage. Special attention was taken when documenting the items and evaluating the damage to each item. The collectible items were then packed in protective bubble wrap and transported to our advanced textile restoration facility to be meticulously cleaned and securely stored. After the items were restored to preloss condition, they were repacked and stored in our 15,000 square foot climate controlled facility. Ready to be returned and restaged in the homeowner’s newly renovated trophy room once mitigation and construction completed their work. 

Construction: During the construction phase, 197 square feet of new high grade carpet and carpet pad were installed in the trophy room as well as 66 linear feet of baseboards. The walls were prepped and painted along with window trim, door, and newly installed baseboards. The ceiling was refinished with textured acoustical sealant and paint. Then the light fixture was reinstalled to complete the restoration of the trophy room.

Fire Damage Repair and Restoration

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Locally Owned and Operated
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Highly Trained Fire Restoration Technicians

SERVPRO of Bartow County has provided first rate fire restoration services in North Georgia for over 15 years. We also benefit from the backing of over 1,600 franchises nationwide, so you know we have restoration and drying equipment close by, no matter where you live. SERVPRO of Bartow County is a preferred service provider for most major insurance companies. This means that we have years of experience working with both insurance adjusters and agents. By having this positive relationship established, we are able to circumvent problems lesser experienced restoration companies run into on a daily basis, and get you back to "Like it never even happened," faster! 

If you have experienced a home fire in Cartersville GA, CLICK HERE to contact us or call SERVPRO of Bartow County today (770)387-7455!

Related Fire Services

• Overview of Fire Services
• Fire Damage Tips
• View Fire Brochure
• Caring For Your Belongings
• Fire Restoration Process
• Water Damage Restoration
• Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning
• Odor Removal

• Building Services

• Commercial Fire Damage

Cold Weather Can Be A Silent Killer

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

No job too big or small. SERVPRO of Bartow Count is ready for any type residential or commercial water, mold, or fire loss. Open 24/7 call us today!

You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels it can kill a person in minutes. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide (or CO) is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels like gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, or propane burn incompletely. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, every year more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning. It is estimated another 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized due to CO poisoning. Everyone, including pets and animals are at risk for CO poisoning. Some groups including pregnant women, infants, and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or respiratory problems being more susceptible or at greater risk to the effects of carbon monoxide.

SYMPTOMS OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING INCLUDE:

-Blurred Vision  

-Weakness

-Dull Headache 

-Loss of Consciousness

-Confusion

-Dizziness

-Nausea/Vomiting 

-Shortness of Breath

Carbon monoxide poisoning can result from faulty furnaces, heating appliances, portable generators, water heaters, clothes dryers, or idling vehicles left running in garages or enclosed area. Taking some basic precautionary steps can help reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Protect yourself by reviewing the following tips provided by the United States Fire Administration.

• Make sure all fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside to avoid CO poisoning. Keep the venting for exhaust clear and unblocked.
• Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home.
• Open the damper for proper ventilation before using a fireplace. Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home.
• If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Never run a vehicle or other fueling engine or motor indoors, even if the garage doors are open.
• Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris. 
• Make sure the exhaust of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice, or other materials.
• Only use barbecue grills outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings. Some grills can produce CO gas. Never use grills inside the home or the garage, even if the doors are open.
• Have fuel-burning appliances, like oil and gas furnaces, gas or kerosene heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves inspected by a trained professional every year.

Dangers of Extreme Cold

While your home may be damaged due to winter weather and extreme cold, your personal health maybe at risk. According to Ready.gov, winter storms create higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, as well as heart attacks from overexertion. That is why it’s important to be aware of the effect extremely cold temperatures can have on you.

To avoid frostbite and hypothermia, stay indoors, if possible. If not, dress in layers to stay warm and keep dry!

Frostbite is caused when your skin is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Physical symptoms include white or grayish-yellow skin, skin that feels unusually firm or waxy, and numbness.

Hypothermia is when your body temperature falls to an abnormally low temperature caused by exposure to cold weather. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. If someone’s body temperature is below 95°F, seek medical attention immediately. 

Make a Resolution to Plan Ahead!

With each new year, many people resolve to better themselves or some part of their life. This year, make a resolution to be READY. No one ever plans on a disaster or a water or fire damage to strike, but you can prepare for it. The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure your business is “Ready for whatever happens” in 2020.

In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for you facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations, and priority areas. The ERP also establishes SERVPRO of Bartow County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to more than 50 years experience and a system of more than 1,700 franchises strong. The ERP is an no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future. By downloading the free SERVPRO READY mobile app for apple or mobile app for andriod, this important information is stored electronically and can be accessed using your mobile device putting immediate help at your fingertips.

Preparation is key to making it through any size disaster. Whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood, having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is effected and get you back in your building faster following a disaster. Don’t wait until disaster strikes, resolve to be READY by contacting SERVPRO of Bartow County today to establish your Emergency READY Profile and be “Ready for whatever happens” in 2002.

Advantages of the SERVPRO ERP:

• A no-cost assessment of your facility
• Establishes SERVPRO of Bartow County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Accessible electronically
• Identifies the chain of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details, such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
• A concise profile document containing only the most critical information needed about your business and building structure in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building quickly following a disaster.

SERVPRO’s network of more than 1,700 franchises is ready to help in the event a fire, water, or mold loss occurs. Call on a restoration system serving insurance companies and their insureds, as well as thousands of commercial property owners in North America. You can trust the SERVPRO brand!

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO of Bartow County is so important. Just visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com on your computer, mobile phone, or call (770)387-7455 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster, 24/7 even during holidays. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 square feet. Be ready for the worst with the very best: Your trusted, locally owned and operated SERVPRO of Bartow County!

Thanksgiving Feast Safety Tips From Your Friends at SERVPRO of Bartow County

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO cleans and restores property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques, getting you back to "Like it never even happened" faster!

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your happy holiday could quickly become hazardous in a blink of an eye. According to the The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking is the main cause of home fires and injuries, with the Thanksgiving holiday being the peak day for cooking-related fire emergencies. Review the following safety tips to help ensure you can enjoy a safe holiday.

• Never Leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food. If someone must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, they should turn off the stove.
• Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while kitchen equipment is in use. Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.
• Keep small children away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove and oven.
• Keep anything flammable like pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels away from the stove, oven, or other appliances in the kitchen that generates heat.
• Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
• Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease build-up.
• Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen year round. Contact the local fire department for training on the proper use of fire extinguishers if you are unsure.
• Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all kitchen appliances like stoves, ovens, and toasters are turned off.
• Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen, on each level of the home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside of bedrooms. Use the test button to check it is working properly every month. Replace the batteries at least once a year.

5 Dangers of Deep Frying a Turkey

During the holiday season turkey frying is a family favorite, especially here in Cartersville (and surrounding North Georgia area). While frying turkeys can definitely produce some great tasting birds, it is important to remember some safety tips if you choose to use this cooking method. The following tips were provided by our friends over at The US Fire Administration.

• Turkey fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area or surface.
• An over-filled cooking pot can cause cooking oil to spill or spatter when the turkey is placed in the pot.
• Even a small amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a large fire.
• Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can overheat cooking oil to the point of igniting a fire.
• The sides of the cooking pot, lid, and pot handles can get dangerously hot.

SERVPRO of Bartow County wishes you a safe and happy Thanksgiving and holiday season.

The Different Types of Smoke

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Would you really want to trust your life to a fire extinguisher that looks like this? Your fire extinguisher should be inspected and well maintained.

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke. There are two different types of smoke, wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire.

SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Bartow County technicians will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and its contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows your locally owned SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals to focus on saving your precious items.

SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following points are additional facts you may not know about smoke.

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

Types of Smoke:

• Wet Smoke - (Plastic and Rubber) Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, and smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

• Dry Smoke - (Paper and Wood) Fast-burning, high temperatures; heat rises, therefore smoke rises.

• Protein Fire Residue - (Produced by evaporation of materials rather than from a fire) Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

• Fuel Oil Soot - (Furnace puff backs) While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

• Other Types - (Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue) Special loss situations require special care.

Choosing the Appropriate Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers should always be easy to access if there is an emergency. You don’t want to have to search for it once a fire breaks out. Don’t block fire extinguishers with furniture, boxes or any other items. Everyone who lives in the household should know where the closest fire extinguisher is located and how to use it in case of an emergency.

• Class A: This is the most common extinguisher and can be used to put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and many plastics.

• Class B: Used on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, and oil.

• Class C: Designed for fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment electronically energized or plugged in.

• Class D: For use on flammable metals; often specific for the type of metal in question. These are typically found in factories.

• Class K: Intended for use on fires that involve vegetable oil, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. Generally found in commercial kitchens.

*for more information about smoke damage check out our previous blog "Don't Let Your Cartersville Apartment Go Up In Smoke".

Be Safe Preparing Your Holiday Feast in Acworth GA

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County for fire restoration and cleanup 24/7!

Did you know cooking equipment is the leading cause of residential fires? As the holiday season begins and you find yourself in the kitchen more often while hosting friends and family, fire precautions should be top of mind.

A property owner experiences a flood of emotions when a fire ravages their business or home. Fear, uncertainty, stress, and doubt about the future of the property and their livelihood can be overwhelming to the property owner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared.

After the first wave of heroes have rescued the property, let your local SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals help you restore it to its preloss condition. Combining rapid response, the utmost professionalism, and open communication throughout the entire job process, we strive to restore not only the home or business structure, but the customer’s peace of mind as well.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers the following eye-opening statistics on structure fires.

• 482,030 structure fires were reported in the United States in 2018.
• These fires caused $9.9 billion in property damages.
• One structure fire was reported every 48 seconds.

If the unthinkable happens and a fire strikes your business or home, give the experts at your locally owned SERVPRO of Bartow County a call. We will help make it  “Like it never even happened.”

Using a Portable Fire Extinguisher

A portable fire extinguisher can be a life and property saving tool when used correctly. In order to operate a fire extinguisher, the NFPA suggests remembering the word PASS. 

• Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.

• Aim low. Point the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire.

• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly

• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. Encourage your family members and co-workers to do the same. Remember, extinguishers do have their limitations! It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your home or facility. Check out our previous blog “SERVPRO of Bartow County | Smoke and Soot Cleanup" to learn more about the different classes of fire extinguishers and type of fire each are designed to extinguish.

Cartersville Commercial Duct Cleaning Service

10/18/2019 (Permalink)

It's important to have your HVAC and duct-work serviced regularly to prevent poor indoor air quality!

One of the largest contributors to poor indoor air quality can be your air conditioning unit (HVAC) or ventilation system. HVAC systems must have specialized maintenance and regular cleaning regimen, especially in commercial applications. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold and bacteria, and irritating dust particles throughout your building. These odors and particles can affect the air quality your customers, employees, and even your own air quality. A regular part of SERVPRO of Bartow County’s inspection process is an inspection of the heating, ventilation, ducts, and HVAC systems. By observing regular duct cleaning and maintenance programs it will most likely extend the life-span of your HVAC system, by allowing it to operate at peak condition. This also helps save money, after all if your HVAC is working efficiently you will not have to spend as much money in operational cost, insures against downtime related to poor air quality, and prevents costly repair bills and damage caused by malfunctioning HVAC units. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary, but better safe than sorry.

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County for a duct cleaning estimate today!

After certain events like a fire loss, smoke damage, or microbial growth (mold) a thorough and complete duct cleaning is essential to the restoration process. If the system is not cleaned, particles and/or microbes will be spread throughout the building contaminating restored and non-affected areas. SERVPRO of Bartow County will clean your HVAC system and duct-work to pre-damage condition, and restore the air quality of your business. 

The SERVPRO® Duct Cleaning System is cost-efficient and proven process. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO of Bartow County uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine duct-work and makes a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins. Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container. Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the air-stream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean. As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns. Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO of Bartow County today (770) 387-7455 or for more on commercial restoration and cleaning projects check out our previous blog “Basic Steps to Commercial Mold Restoration in Cartersville GA”

Choosing an Acworth Commercial Restoration Company

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

If you business suffers from water, fire, or mold damage, call SERVPRO of Bartow County (770)387-7455 today!

The commercial restoration industry is a very competitive industry, with many great restoration companies that can help your business restore and mitigate water, fire, mold, and other types of restoration projects. There are also some less than stellar restoration companies out there. One of the toughest parts of any restoration project is choosing a company that you can trust to complete the work quickly, cost effectively, and safely. SERVPRO of Bartow County has been an industry leader in both commercial and residential water, fire, and mold restoration, and wants to be your go-to restoration company in Bartow County. 

When choosing a restoration company to mitigate and restore your property, it is important to do some research and find a company you feel good about and have confidence in. One of the best ways you can research restoration companies is to visit reputable online review platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), HomeAdvisor, or Yelp. You can even try visiting the company's Facebook page, check out how many Google Reviews they have, or even simply browse their website for before and after pictures of the work they have completed. Review platforms often award badges or accreditations to companies with great customer service. For example, the BBB website rates business based on customer experiences and identifies stellar companies with a “BBB Accredited Business” badge. Google has special ad placements for companies that are “Google Verified” and even offer customers financial guarantees and warranties on the work completed by the company that placed the Google Verified Ad. In case you were wondering, SERVPRO of Bartow County is both a Googles Verified Ads service provider, and an A+ Rated Accredited Business.  

Entering a simple search engine query to look for news articles or periodicals that might have mentioned the business is another way to research a restoration company. This is a good way of checking for major issues in a company's past, or might give you some information that puts the company in a good light like charitable deeds and community organizations that they’ve worked with or major restoration projects that they have undertaken. The query might return links or images of restoration projects they’ve worked on, or let you know if they are a preferred service provider to your insurance company. You can also find out how long the company has been in business. A company that has been around for several years and has a proven track record is almost always a good indicator of a reputable restoration company. The longer they’ve been in business, the better.

If you business suffers from water, fire, or mold damage, call SERVPRO of Bartow County (770) 387-7455 today!

In today's modern age there are countless ways to choose a reputable restoration company. SERVPRO of Bartow County realizes you have many options when it comes to restoration service providers and thanks you for considering us to be your go-to restoration company. We are a locally owned business with the backing of over 1,700 SERVPRO franchises nationwide. We are ready for any size disaster and can make it “Like it never even happened.”

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it Now

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be "Ready for whatever happens!"

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the business that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. Knowing your are “Ready for whatever happens” speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Are You Ready?

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best tie for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you Ready for whatever happens?”

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, your business can receive the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO of Bartow County is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage:

• A no cost assessment of your facility.

-This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.

• A concise profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.

-It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects, but it will save a lot of time if ever needed.

• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.

-This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.

• Establishes SERVPRO of Bartow County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider

-You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by.

• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.

-This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.

• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

-Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”

Visit SERVPRO.com/Ready or Call Us Today to Get Started (770) 387-7455!

SERVPRO of Bartow County Fire Restoration Procedures

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is ready for what ever size disaster. If you've suffer a home fire or are in need of smoke odor removal, better call SERVPRO!

Mitigation requires quick action. The faster a SERVPRO of Bartow County team member arrives on-site to perform fire, smoke, and soot cleanup and restoration, the better the results (including lower claim costs). Within four hours of a loss notification, a SERVPRO of Bartow County trained professional will be on-site to help ensure a fire damage is handled properly by utilizing the following services:

Structural Cleaning

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Your experienced local SERVPRO of Bartow County professional will pretest to determine the extent of damage, then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found within the structure.

Contents Cleaning

All of the restorable contents in the affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery. SERVPRO of Bartow County can provided wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all of the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, and much more. Finally SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals can provide an inventory list of all "to be claimed" items for agents and their policyholders.

Deodorization

SERVPRO of Bartow County professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left behind by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO of Bartow County technicians do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them.

If you or some one you know has experienced fire or smoke damage, call SERVPRO of Bartow County (770)387-7455! We are the fire and smoke restoration professionals that can make it "Like it never even happened." 

Don't take our word for it. Check out what some of our valued customers have had to say about working with SERVPRO of Bartow County. 

Check out our reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook!

Smoke Alarms Save Bartow County Lives

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors can be your last line of defense against home fires. Make sure that your home has fully operational smoke alarms!

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In homes, smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and on every level, including the basement. In office and commercial environments, check your states requirements (GA state requirements)or contact your locals Fire Marshal to help ensure all codes are met. 

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA).

In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need hep installing, testing or changing batteries in you smoke alarms contact your local Bartow County fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross. Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. For more information on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Bartow County!

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line, as well. That's why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO of Bartow County is so important. Just go to www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com or call (770) 387-7455 to get the team that's faster to any size disaster. We're a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you're responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000, be ready for the worst, with the very best. SERVPRO of Bartow County your trusted local SERVPRO franchise.

Take a look at some of our before and after fire restoration images, or check us out on Youtube! 

Fire Prevention: Not Every Hero Wears a Cape

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Make sure your appliances and other electronic devices do not have frayed power cables or exposed wiring!

October is Fire Prevention Month and an excellent time to examine the emergency preparedness plans for your home and business, including your fire escape plan. Do you have a fire escape plan? Have you changed your smoke alarm batteries within the last year? Are you prepared if a disaster strikes?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets aside a designated week each October to focus on fire prevention. The 2019 theme is “Not Every Hero Wears A Cape, Plan and Practice Your Escape!”

According to the NFPA, once the fire alarm goes off, “you could have less than one or two minutes to escape safely,” yet only 8% of people surveyed said getting out was their first thought after hearing a fire alarm. Creating, implementing, and practicing a fire escape plan for your home or business may be the difference between safety and tragedy. Make a plan today! Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have, giving everyone in your home or business enough time to get out.

How do you define a hero? Is it a person who is courageous and performs good deeds? Someone who comes to the aid of others, even at their own personal risk? A hero can be all of those things! A hero can also be someone who take small but important actions to keep themselves and those around them safe from fire. When it comes to fire safety, be a hero in your household or community.

SERVPRO of Bartow County wants you to stay safe, informed and prepared to help ensure you are ready for any disaster that comes your way!

Every Second Counts in a Cartersville House fire

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

You and your family or co-workers should familiarize yourselves with your buildings emergency fire escape plan. Remember practice makes perfect!

Every second counts during a fire. Fire experts agree; people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out. In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place. A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26% of families and businesses have developed and practiced a fire escape plan. Once a plan is developed, it is critical that everyone in the home or office understands the plan. The best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building an escape plan, and then practicing it. The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan.

• Draw a map of each level of your home or business and show all the doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.
• Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory like Consumer Reports. Store them near the window where they will be used.
• Choose and outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting area on your escape plan.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them. Plan for everyone in your home or office, with special consideration for elderly or disabled individuals.

Prepare Your Acworth Home for Winter Weather

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fall is here! Don't let winter weather sneak up on you. Be prepared for freezing temperatures!

It might not seem like it right now, due to the unexpectedly long and warm summer we’ve had in North Georgia, but winter weather is fast approaching. Fall is well underway and to most people, fall means dropping temperatures, changing leaves, college football, and pumpkin spice lattes. To SERVPRO of Bartow County it is all those things and more...it’s “Pipe Freeze Season”! 

You might be asking yourself, “How could my pipes freeze and why is that a problem?”. When your pipes freeze the water that is inside of them expands. The water can expand by around 9%, which might not sound like much but can create an extraordinary amount of pressure. Household plumbing systems have improved greatly over the years but pipe freezes are still a very real hazard and when they happen can cause tremendous damage. Newer home’s plumbing systems can be built using materials like PEX flexible lines and utilize new composite insulation materials to help prevent pipe freezes. The best way of curbing a pipe freeze is by preventing the temperature from dropping in areas where the pipes are exposed (crawlspaces, basements, attics, garages, etc.).

The American Red Cross and SERVPRO of Bartow County would like the Bartow County and Cobb County communities to be better prepared for “Pipe Freeze Season” so we put together the following bullet points.

Are you ready for “Pipe Freeze Season”?

• Protect exterior pipes from freezing by draining water from swimming pools, irrigation systems, and garden hoses according to the manufacturer's or installer’s instructions. Turn off any inside supply valves to outside lines. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed to do so, due to hazards antifreeze poses to humans, animals and the environment.
• Protect your interior pipes by adding insulation to both hot and cold lines during the winter months. Pay special attention to unheated areas with exposed pipes or supply lines. If safe, add additional heaters to areas with exposed pipes or lines during extreme cold.
• Prevent kitchen and bathroom pipes from freezing by opening cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Allow faucets to drip so that water can continually move inside of the pipes (moving water has a substantially lower freezing point than moving water). If you plan to be away from home for a few days, leave the heat on and set the thermostat to no lower than 55°F

Click here for more information on pipe freezes from the American Red Cross or you can check out our previous blog “Is your property winter ready?”

Smoking Can Cause House Fires

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County can make it "Like it never even happened"!

In recent years, the average number of US home fires attributed to smoking accounts for about 5% of all reported home structure fires. This is an average of 18,100 home fires per year, which resulted in over $475 million in direct property damage. Nearly 600 souls were lost year-to-year from 2012-2016 and another 1,100+ were injured each year during the same time period. On average one in twenty home fires are caused by smoking related materials. Of these home fires nearly one in ten results in some type of injury and one in four result in a fatality(s).

While these statistics can be best interpreted as depressing and disheartening we can glean some valuable information from this data. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) tirelessly collects and reports on these types of events in an effort to educate the public and prevent fires. The NFPA has reported in recent years that home fires caused by smoking materials are on the decline. This is particularly true when compared to the early 90's and is sharply down in comparison to the 70’s and 80’s. This could be attributed to a few reasons like the improvements in fire safe building materials, the US Fire Safe Cigarette Act of 1990,  and an overall decline in the number of smokers.

SERVPRO of Bartow County is Cartersville’s premier fire restoration company and is available 24/7! If you need help cleaning up after a fire, call the pros at SERVPRO of Bartow County. We are the restoration team that can get the job done right the first time. When you call SERVPRO you can rest assured our team will restore and treat your home as if it was their own.

Smoking Fire Safety Tips

• If you smoke, use only fire-safe cigarettes. Fire-safe cigarettes are cigarettes that have been engineered to self-extinguish if left unattended.
• If you smoke, smoke outside. By smoking outside you lessen the probability of catching a structure on fire.
• Keep cigarettes, lighters, matches and other smoking materials in a safe place, out of the reach of children. 
• If you smoke, safely dispose of cigarette butts. Use a deep and sturdy ashtray and make sure it is located a safe distance from other objects or structures.
• Do not discard smoking materials like cigarette butts and ash in vegetation that could easily ignite such as mulch, potted plants or landscaping, peat moss, dried grasses, or leaves.
• When disposing of cigarette butts and ash smother them with sand or water to make sure that they are completely extinguished.
• Elderly individuals are at higher risk of dying in a home fire caused by smoking materials.

Are Electronic Cigarettes Safer?

There have been several documented cases of home fires caused by electronic cigarettes or “vaping”. Lithium-ion Batteries commonly used in e-cigarettes have been known to catch fire and even explode under certain conditions. These batteries have exploded or caught fire while being used, as well as when they were being charged and when they were simply being transport. Electronic cigarettes should be used with caution and have not been shown to be a safe alternative to smoking. For more info on the health risks of vaping click here.

Bartow County's Epic Flood

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

You can see in this picture how high the water rose from the waterlines left on this ranch style house.

Ten years ago, almost to the day, North Georgia experienced massive rainfall that caused some major flooding. This is a rare event for most of North Georgia due to the topography and proximity to major bodies of water. Over the course of six to seven days, bands of heavy rain dumped up to 20 inches of water over several counties in North Georgia. This was truly a historic weather event, breaking flood records for North Georgia ranging back to 1919 and claiming at least ten lives. The Chattahoochee River crested 500-year flood levels

Damages were estimated to number into the hundreds of millions of dollars with an estimated 20,000 homes and businesses receiving major damage. Federal Disaster Declarations were issued for 17 Georgia Counties:  Bartow County, Catoosa County, Cherokee County, Stephens County, Cobb County, DeKalb County, Douglas County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Heard County, Newton County, Coweta County, Paulding County, Rockdale County, Carroll County, Chattooga County, and Walker County. 100 year Flood levels were reached by the Chattahoochee River and many of its tributaries, causing massive flooding along the river banks and damaging homes and businesses. Low lying areas were particularly susceptible to water damage and were victims of some of the most severe flooding.

Recovery efforts started immediately once the flood rains subsided. SERVPRO of Bartow County pitched in to help our community. SERVPRO of Bartow County is a locally owned and operated company so our customers often times turn out to be our neighbors or fellow members of our community. So we treat our customers the way we want to be treated, with honesty and respect. We were able to work with homeowners with financing where needed and helped customers file claims with their insurance company. In a couple of cases were can even save homeowners from filing a claim in the first place.

If you experience storm damage give SERVPRO of Bartow County a call today! 770-387-7455

Get A Free Emergency READY Plan

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Schedule your business's SERVPRO Emergency Ready App today! Give us a call (770)387-7455

Do you own a business in Cartersville or in the greater Bartow County area? If so, you probably have some of the traditional precautions to protect your business from disaster like insurance policies or savings set aside for emergencies, but do have a disaster READY plan in place? “What is an emergency ready plan?”, you might ask, “and do I really need one?”. Well, did you know that approximately 50% of all businesses close their doors after experiencing a major water loss. 

SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Plan (ERP) service is completely free of charge and can really save the day if a disaster strikes. It is geared toward property managers and owners of commercial buildings. By having an Emergency READY Plan you can minimize the interruption of your business and you will have an immediate plan of action to get your facility back to normal.

READY Plan Benefits

A no cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. 

A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. It will save a lot of time if ever needed.

A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.

Establishes SERVPRO of Bartow County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by, ready to respond 24/7..
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.

Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Download the Free SERVPRO Emergency READY Plan App today!

SERVPRO of Bartow County has restoration experts available 24 hours a day ready to get your business back up in running in no time. Handling commercial water and fire restoration projects is our specialty. We have the backing of over 1,700 locally owned franchises nationwide as well as Large Loss Divisions and Disaster Recovery Team who have the expertise to manage the cost and operations of large commercial disaster recovery projects.

Hurricane Dorian and The Aftermath

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane Dorian as it approaches the East Coast. What a truly massive and devastating force!

Hurricane Dorian wasn’t your average hurricane. It’s size and speed made it a very unique storm, and not in the way you might think. Dorian was a particularly slow moving hurricane, meaning that it seemingly hovered in place at times, making it hard to predict its path. Ultimately, Dorian would spare the US Eastern Coast in large part, but not before doing billions in damage to the Caribbean. The Bahamas were hit the hardest, having whole islands leveled by the storm and a death toll expected to rise above 50 people. News outlets like CNN estimates that over 70,000 residents have been left homeless by the storm. 

When we think about hurricanes causing damage we typically think of wind and debris swirling around smashing into homes and buildings. Hurricanes like Dorian bring heavy rains and severe storm surge which can be just as devastating as its class 5, 180 mph winds. The high winds and slow moving nature of this storm Dorian absolutely devastated the Caribbean Islands. The Government of The Bahama’s Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) estimates that over 5,000 people were displaced by the storm.  The USAID Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) dispatched over 100 disaster response experts and search and rescue personnel to assist the Bahamian government rescue and recovery efforts. Much aid is needed in the Grand Bahamian islands.

While Dorian did not make landfall in the US as a class 5 hurricane, it did spend the better part of an entire week pounding the East Coast with high winds, heavy rains, and major flooding due to storm surge. It did finally make landfall in Cape Hatteras, NC as a category 1 hurricane with winds reaching 90 mph. Tens of thousands of homes lost power from Georgia to Virginia and many roads were left impassable, like in Charleston where they faced several feet of water in city streets. Damage totals have not been compiled as of yet but estimates tally into the hundreds of millions of dollars.

SERVPRO of Bartow County is one of nearly 1,700 locally owned SERVPRO franchises nationwide. Our network of Disaster Recovery Teams is unrivaled in our industry and afford each and every SERVPRO franchise the assets necessary to take on any size disaster. SERVPRO is hard at work assisting our brothers and sisters all along the East Coast in storm recovery efforts. Our hearts and minds are with those affected by Dorian, especially our Bahamian neighbors to the south. 

If you experience storm damage call SERVPRO of Bartow County - (770) 387-7455 - We can make it “Like it never even happened."!

National Day of Service and Remembrance : September 11, 2019

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

Join us December 30, 2019 for the second annual First Responders Bowl!

In honor and memory of those who died on September 11, 2001, as well as the survivors and First Responders, the National Day of Service and Remembrance was established in 2009 as a day of reflection. Led by the Corporation for National and Community Service, this is a day to come together as Americans following the events of 9/11 to help neighbors in need and to honor veterans and First Responders in your community.

On this day and everyday, SERVPRO of Bartow County salutes those heroes who arrived in our nation’s most dire times of need and stand strong in the face of disasters. These heroes are the First Responders who keep our communities safe in trying times. They are the heroes that answer putting their own health and safety on the line for the betterment of our great country.

Give back and make a difference in your community this year. Click here to find a volunteer opportunity near you, or register your National Day of Service and Remembrance event, or visit nationalservice.gov/911day. 

SERVPRO would like to that this opportunity to remind you about the First Responders Bowl. Mark your calendars for December 30, 2019 and join us in Dallas Texas at the home of the SMU Mustangs, Gerald J. Ford Stadium. SERVPRO is proud to sponsor the second annual First Responders Bowl! Two of the NCAA’s finest D-1 schools fight it out for 90 minutes and leave it all out on the field. 

Support our First Responders and reserve your tickets today!

How to File a Flood Water Insurance Claim in Acworth GA

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

Storm water damaged these hardwood floors in this homeowners den. SERVPRO of Marietta West had it cleaned up in no time!

SERVPRO of Bartow County recognizes that you have many choices when it comes to choosing a water restoration company. We would like to thank our customers for choosing SERVPRO and allowing us to restore their homes and businesses. Allowing a company to oversee the restoration of your home or business requires a great deal of trust. SERVPRO of Bartow County both acknowledges and accepts this responsibility, promising to always have our customers best interest in mind. When you choose SERVPRO of Bartow County can rest easy knowing that you have the best in the business taking care of your property.

Many customers have tons of questions about how to move forward with a water claim. Many have never experienced water damage before and can be a bit distraught due to the uncertainty of the situation. Put your worries at ease because SERVPRO of Bartow County is never more than a phone call away. If you are looking for some direction on how to file a water claim, the good people over at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have a great 5 Step Process to Filing a Flood Insurance Claim. 

Below is a brief synopsis of their process:

Step 1 - Call Your Agent

When it is safe, gather your insurance information. Give your insurance company a call to notify them of the loss so that coverage can be determined.

Step 2 - Take Photos

Once your home or business is determined to be safe you can return to document the damage by taking pictures or video footage of the damage.

Step 3 - Begin Cleanup

Remove water damaged items but keep items like flooring and curtains so that they can be assessed by your insurance company or adjuster.

Step 4 - Meet With Your Adjuster

Your insurance company will assign an insurance adjuster to your claim and you will need to meet with them to discuss your claim. Your adjuster will also provide you with an estimate of the damages.

Step 5 - Receive Final Payment

Once the inspection of your property is completed by the adjuster you will receive a full report on your claim and a check to cover the allotted damages and repairs to return your property to preloss conditions. 

Here’s a better option!

Step 1: Call SERVPRO of Bartow County (770)387-7455

Step 2: Step back and let SERVPRO of Bartow County take care of all the heavy lifting and make it “Like it never even happened." Our team of professional restoration specialists will document your loss using our moisture mapping systems and restore your property to preloss conditions. SERVPRO will provide estimates and drying documentation like photos and moisture readings to both you the home or business owner and your adjuster. SERVPRO of Bartow County’s goal is to make this process as easy as possible for our customers. 

We are on call 24/7 and always at the ready for any size disaster. In most cases, we can be at your door within an hour. Because we are pre-approved or preferred service providers for most major insurance companies SERVPRO of Bartow County can even help you file your claim. This stream lines the entire restoration process and allows us to get you back into your home or business quickly.

Cleaning Smoke and Nicotine Smells From Your Acworth GA Home

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

There is a tried and true method that will removal almost any odor, and it applies to almost all types of smells, including smoke. The “big secret” is somewhat simple, but the devil is in the details. In order to successfully remove any odor, you must first remove and/or clean the source of the smell. Once the source has been permanently neutralized, technicians will clean all surfaces paying special attention to horizontal surfaces. Even dust sized particles can carry smoke and nicotine smells, so all surfaces must be thoroughly cleaned using HEPA vacuums and professional cleaning products.

We will be taking a closer look at cleaning smoke and nicotine smell from your Acworth, Ga home. The following bullet points are some typical steps or procedures SERVPRO professionals use to clean smoke and nicotine from homes and businesses.

• Cleaning is done using the top-down method. This process’s name is relatively self explanatory. It is best to clean smoke or nicotine residue starting with the ceiling and working your way down the walls, and all the way down to the floors. This will minimize the potential of re-soiling cleaned areas and insure that no spots are missed during the cleaning process. 
• Wet clean all color safe or glossy finished walls and trim surfaces with a light detergent.
• We clean color safe or glossy finished cabinets, light fixtures, windows, and any other surfaces that aren’t part of your regular cleaning process with a light detergent.
• During the cleaning process, special attention is focused on horizontal surfaces. Horizontal surface provide an easy place for odor particles to land and can build up if not cleaned regularly. Examples of not commonly cleaned horizontal surfaces include door jams, window seals, window treatments/blinds, cabinet tops, and crown molding.
• Only soft white cloths are used to do this type of cleaning. We use soft white cloths to prevent damaging the surface, but also to verify that the nicotine is being removed. Because the cloth is white our technicians will be able to see yellow residue developing on the cleaning cloth as they clean. This indicates that the process is working and that the nicotine particles are successfully being removed. We will repeat this cleaning process until no yellow residue appears on the surface or cloth used to clean the surface.
• It is advisable to also have your ductwork thoroughly cleaned and HVAC filters replaced. Smoke and nicotine odor particles are typically airborne at some point, so it is likely that they have contaminated your HVAC system. Duct cleanings are an important step in removing smoke and nicotine odors.
• Thermal fog the entire affected area. Thermal fogging is a process where heat is applied to our professional deodorizing products using a thermal fogging machine. This machine releases a fog that smoke and nicotine odor particles are drawn to and are absorbed by, thus neutralizing the odor.

 Nicotine and smoke odors are probably one of the more common odor related issues and can be cleaned up quickly and effectively by well trained and well equipped professionals. SERVPRO of Bartow County has tons of experience cleaning and restoring nicotine and smoke damaged homes and businesses. Our team of trained professionals have the knowledge base and experience to take on even the challenging odor issues. 

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County for Smoke and Nicotine Odor Removal - (770) 387-7455

Summer Storm Safety In Cartersville GA

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Your emergency preparedness kit should have plenty of water, food, and essential emergency survival items.

While the spring season is known for the potential to experience severe weather, the threat exists throughout the summer months as well. In fact, the potential for severe weather even increases in some areas. Hurricane season in the Atlantic begins June 1st and runs through November 30th.

While it may be difficult to prepare for the unpredictable, there are steps you can take now to help ensure you are ready when disaster strikes. One way to prepare your business for any type of disaster is to establish an Emergency READY Profile (ERP). The best part is that it is completely cost free. Contact SERVPRO of Bartow County to learn more about our free ERP service and how it can help you be better prepared for any size disaster. Consider the following tips when preparing for an approaching storm.

Before The Storm

• Build an emergency supply kit and develop a communication plan.
• Unplug any electronic equipment before the storm arrives.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• If you are outdoors, get inside a building, home or hard top vehicle (convertibles are not preferred)
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.

During The Storm

• Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from your local officials.
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Cordless and cellular phones are safest to use.
• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords.
• Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
• Stay away from windows and doors.

After The Storm

• Never drive through a flooded roadway.
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.

Emergency Supply Kit

*Recommended item for basic emergency supply kit

• Water (one gallon per person per day)

• Food (non-perishable 3 day supply)

• Manual can opener

• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• First aid kit

• Whistle to signal for help

• Clothing

• Dust masks or bandannas

• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

• Hygiene items

• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information

• Cash

• Fire extinguisher

• Matches in a waterproof container

10 Helpful Tips for Cleaning Up After a Bartow County Fire

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Your not alone. SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to help cleanup after a house fire! We can make it "Like it never even happened"!

Home fires are some of the most destructive things on the face of the Earth. Seeing your house go up in flames is can be a heavy financial burden as well as emotionally damaging. If you have ever experienced a house fire in Bartow County you probably know exactly what we are talking about. It is important to focus on the positive when faced with such adversity. Take solace in the fact that you don’t have to face this catastrophic event alone. SERVPRO of Bartow County is here and can help you regain your grip on reality when everything feels like it is going out of control. SERVPRO of Bartow County can make it “Like it never even happened”!

What should I do once I am ready to start the fire cleanup process?

Often times when customers call on our services they wanting to know what they can do while help is on its way. The following are some easy to follow guidelines to help the cleanup process get started, and prevent additional damage to your property:

• Try to limit movement in affected areas of  the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into textiles like  upholstery, carpet, and clothing.
• Be mind full of what you touch and keep your hands clean. Touching clean items or areas with soot on your hands will further soil upholstery, furniture, clothing, and walls.
• Use dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and in traffic areas to reduce additional damage during the cleaning process.
• If the power is off, find a suitable place to store all the items in your freezer and refrigerator.Once the appliances are empty prop the doors open to help prevent odor.
• If the temperatures could drop below freezing and the heat to your house is off, winterize your plumbing by pouring  RV antifreeze in sinks, toilets, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Turn off your HVAC system, change the filters, and leave system off until a trained professional can inspect the system.
• You can use cheesecloth to prevent soot particles from traveling through the HVAC system by affixing several layers of cheesecloth to the air registers.

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting trained professionals like SERVPRO of Bartow County
• Attempting to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting trained professionals is ill advised.
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water as they may be contaminated.
• If ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fans. Wiring may be wet or damaged and could cause an electrical shock. Air movement may create secondary damage.
• Don't send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Don’t forget the number one rule...Stay calm and call SERVPRO of Bartow County (770) 387-7455

Celebrate Safely This Fourth Of July

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

From our family to yours...have a safe and fun Fourth of July!

SERVPRO of Bartow County would like to wish you and your family a happy Fourth of July! The Fourth of July,  that time of the year that we celebrate with friends and family at barbeques and picnics. With traditions like fireworks and bonfires, there may be some potentially dangerous situations along the way. In order to celebrate safely when it comes to these events, consider the following tips provided by the U.S. Fire Administration.

• The best way to enjoy fireworks is to view public fireworks displays put on by professionals.
• If you plan to use fireworks, ensure they are legal in your area.
• Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks. If a device is not marked with the contents, directions and warning label, do not light it.
• Supervise children around fireworks at all times
• Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a firework does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate. Pour water over it and dispose of it.

More July Fourth Safety Tips

• Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
• Keep a bucket of water and/or fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.
• Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a barbeque
• Use caution when using lighter fluid on a barbeque. Do not add fluid to an already lit fire, as the flame can flashback into the container and explode.
• Never grill in an enclosed area, as carbon monoxide could be produced.

See what our customers have to say about working with us or check us out at the BBB.

If you or someone you know is in need of fire restoration and clean up give SERVPRO of Bartow County. We’ve taken the hassle out of water restoration and can get you back to preloss condition in no time. We are a premier service provider for most national insurance providers and use the industry standard, Xactimate estimating software.

Commercial Restoration and Professional Cleaning

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t settle for the rest...Call in the best...SERVPRO of Bartow County (770)387-7455

Commercial water, fire, and mold restoration can present unique challenges. That is why it is advisable to bring in the professionals when your business experiences one of these types of losses. SERVPRO of Bartow County has been the industry leader in the Bartow area for decades and is the preferred restoration service provider for most major insurance companies. We also have some of the most highly trained restoration professionals in the industry with the experience needed to get the job done right the first time!

SERVPRO of Bartow County has the infrastructure, equipment, training, and experience to complete your building’s restoration. We are fully insured and have the backing of over 1,700 franchises nationwide. This means that no matter what size or type of restoration project you have in mind, SERVPRO of Bartow County is the right company to call. We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Bartow County knows when it comes to choosing a restoration company you have many choices. Here are a few things to consider while you weighing your options:

Do they have the proper equipment and infrastructure to handle your job?

SERVPRO of Bartow County utilizes equipment that is on the leading edge of technology. We can quickly and safely restore your property while thoroughly documenting the process for your insurance company and for your peace of mind.

Do they have experience and highly trained personnel?

SERVPRO of Bartow County’s restoration professionals and technicians undergo rigorous training and have the opportunity to maintain/grow their skill-set through our continued learning training courses in partnership with the IICRC.

How much is your time worth and how quickly do you need to get your business back up and running?

Everyone has heard the saying “time is money”. This is particularly true when it comes to the commercial restoration industry. The quicker your restoration company can get your property reopened the quicker you can get back to business. Calling in less experienced service provider can oftentimes cost a business more time and money in downtime and lost revenue.

Don’t settle for the rest...Call in the best...SERVPRO of Bartow County

SERVPRO of Bartow County has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies, fire restoration, and mold remediation. Whether your emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion. Learn more about Learn more about our training and certifications..

SERVPRO of Bartow County Supports Advocates for Children's Annual Duck Derby

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Advocates for Children were able to raise over $100,00 for the children and families of Bartow County!

SERVPRO of Bartow County sponsored the 17th annual Duck Derby benefiting the Advocates for children.  The event, held on May 11, 2019, included the Duck Derby and Duck Dash 5K & Kids Fun Run.  The impending, inclement weather held off long enough for the 5k and fun to be a success!  The winners, Tyler Jones and Sherry Spinks, with times 17:54 & 19:51, took home the gold duck trophies!  

Afterwards, it was time for the Duck Derby at Sam Smith Park. With no water source at Sam Smith park, one might wonder how the Duck Derby could take place in the middle of a field. With the help of Gerdau, a temporary waterway was built in the middle of the park just for the derby. Guests watched the 3 heats of over 6,000 derby ducks tumble down the waterway. Lucky ducks from each heat were selected as winners.

18,000+ Rubber Duckies Sold of Advocates for Children!

Advocates asked Gerdau Plant Manager, Rodrigo Canova, and Vista Metals Plant Manager, Jim Stewart, to select the winning duck for the main event.  Susan Simonton’s duck was the big winner of the day winning Susan the $10,000 grand prize. In addition to the grand prize, eleven additional prizes were awarded consisting of Braves tickets, an IPad, concert tickets, a drone bundle, a beach bundle sponsored by Country financial, many gift cards and a spectacular basket from Cartersville-Bartow County Convention and Visitors Bureau.  Julie Peace, Samson Salono, Alison Biles, Cathy Menerey, Frank Pratt, Jamie Row, Julie Casler-Tyrell, Carol Anne Craton, Chris & Brandy Seats, Dan Kramer & Fincher Services were the winners of the additional prizes. The Very Important Duck (VID) race was held before the main dash.  The VID package, selling for $250, offered great odds and prizes valued at $1,000, $500 & $250. Chris & Brandy Seats, Phillip Ray and Matt Sellers were the winners!

The Quacky Cash competition offered one of three cash prizes to local high school seniors who sell the most ducks.  The seniors had to sell a minimum of 500 ducks and must be a resident of Cartersville/Bartow County. Taylor Tyree, a senior at Woodland High, took the prize with a total of 2,455 sold.  Second place was Colbi Ballard, a senior of Cartersville High, with a total of 1,938 ducks sold.  Third place went to Kaylee Jones, also a senior at Woodland High, with a total of 1,350 ducks sold.  All in all the seniors of all 7 high schools sold 9,139 ducks which was 53% of all duck sales.

Guests had a plethora of culinary choices, from BBQ and cheesesteaks to frozen desserts. Great restaurants and caterers like Johnny Mitchell’s Smokehouse, Chuck’s Curbside and The Big Dipper provided food services for the entire event. The food was a major draw for the event and patriots avidly voiced their opinions of how great the food was and how they thoroughly enjoyed it all.

In summation the Duck Derby and Duck Dash 5k Fun Run was a complete success! Advocates for Children raised over $100,000 for the children and families of Bartow County and Greater North Georgia area. SERVPRO of Bartow County is proud to have had the opportunity to support such a great cause and event!

Six Possible Signs of Water Damage

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County utilizes the latest in moisture detection technology!

Finding Water damage isn’t always as obvious as walking into a room flooded with six inches of water. Sometimes picking up on the signs of water damage is a little more difficult than that. A slight musty smell could be an indicator that moisture is intruding into your home or business.

If you have questions about water damage give SERVPRO of Bartow County a call. We can schedule a convenient time to inspect your property.

This is a list of possible causes and signs of water damage. Take a moment to review them to better understand the possible signs of water damage and how water damage sometimes happens.

1. Drainage Issues- A major contributing factor to most water loss caused by outside water coming in is the structures drainage. It can also be one of the most expensive to fix, and is not always obvious to home or business owners at first glance. Most drainage issues become apparent after a large rainstorm, but oftentimes this is too late to prevent water damages.
2. Foundation Faults or Cracks - The foundation of a building provides structure and stabilization for the entire building. Issues with the foundation can cause some nasty problems including water damage. You should inspect your foundation periodically to insure you have not developed any cracks, existing cracks have not expanded, or see any crumbling portions of the foundation. Often times damage to a foundation is due to the house “settling” into the ground. Water damage stemming from foundational issues can be very complicated and are best handled by trained professionals like SERVPRO of Bartow County,
3. Signs of Leaks - This is probably one of the easiest types of water damage to spot. Signs include paint or wallpaper bubbling, staining and discoloration of walls, ceilings or carpets. Ceilings that appear to be sagging could be a result of water damage and can be hazardous due to the likely-hood of falling sheetrock. Leaks like these are typically slow moving and develop over time. They can also be signs of other issues like an aging roof, permeable masonry or brickwork, plumbing in need of repair, and faulty rain gutters, just to name a few.
4. Sewer Line Issues - Sewer backups or overflows are probably one of the hardest types of water damage to prevent because you have little control over the public sewer systems. However, home and business owners are typically responsible for maintaining the pipes and drains that lead from their property to the road or sewer system. Short of calling a professional and having them “scope” your sewer lines, send a small camera on a retractable line down drain pipes and lines. There is no way of knowing what lies in your sewer lines. A possible indicator of “back-up sewer lines” would be slow draining fixtures like showers and sinks.
5. Flickering Electricity - Flickering lights and humming switches, particularly in older homes or buildings, could be a sign of water intrusion. They can also be fire hazards, so it is important to have trained professionals inspect any electrical circuits that are behaving irregularly.
6. Mold - Mold, mildew, dry rot, and fungus can all be a result of water damage. Often times you will find these types of growth in areas that have experienced “slow moving” water damage. Meaning that the water damage and growth developed over an extended amount of time. Even small amounts of moisture under the right conditions can foster millions of mold spores and fungus. For more information about mold check out our previous blog Ten Things You Should Know About Mold.

Classification of Contaminated Water   

• Category One (CAT1) is the least harmful. Thought of as clean water, or water that doesn’t pose health concerns or threats to humans. This damage affects only part of a room, with materials that include particle board, plywood, structural wood, vinyl composition tile, and concrete. Often caused by broken or leaking appliances or sinks.
• Category Two (CAT2) is often referred to as greywater and may cause sickness if ingested due to microorganisms. Has a fast rate of evaporation. This faster rate means that carpets and cushions are damaged. The seepage of water up a wall is less than 24 inches, and moisture is held within structural materials. Often caused by broken toilets, sump pumps, and HVAC drainage lines.
• Category Three (CAT3) is commonly known as “blackwater” and is unsanitary due to bacteria and other organisms that can cause sickness and other health issues. Has the fastest rate of evaporation. Damage may come from faulty sprinklers or other ceiling sources that can soak the walls, furniture, carpets, ceilings and the subfloor. A wide-spread water event.
• Category Four (CAT4) requires special water restoration and removal treatment. This classification affects flooring, plaster, stone, brick, crawlspaces, and concrete. 

SERVPRO of Bartow County can help if you have water damage! Give us a call today (770) 387-7455!

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What To Do When Your Toilet Overflows in Acworth GA

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County has been an industry leading restoration company in the North Georgia area for over a decade. We are ready for any size disaster and can make it “Like it never even happened." Sometimes home owners encounter small water cleanups that can be easily handled with mops and towels and other times things are better left to the professionals. If you choose to go at it alone, please take the time to read through these helpful guidelines.

Grab Some PPE

The first step in any sewage or water clean up is insuring that you protect yourself from potential health risks. PPE stands for “Personal Protective Equipment” and can include but is not limited to the following types of equipment: gloves (chemical resistant & protective), different types of respirators, protective suits, and protective eyewear (a general knowledge of water mitigation safety is imperative). If at any time you are unsure of your safety or question your exposure to chemicals and/or pathogens, immediately consult your local health department or emergency services agency. The tricky nature of water mitigation and safety protocols is a major reason the restoration industry has grown to over a billion-dollar industry in recent years.

SERVPRO of Bartow County encourages you to give us a call if you plan to undertake any size water restoration project 770-387-7455!

Locate & Shutoff Water

The quicker you can locate and shutoff the source of water to the toilet the better. By shutting off the source of water you will limit the amount of water you and your property are exposed too. Water borne pathogens can be found in sewage water and can cause untold amounts of damage if left unchecked. Most toilets (and sinks for that matter) have shutoff valves located under or behind the plumbing fixtures, while other plumbing features like showers, jacuzzi tubs, and sprinkler systems can be more difficult to shutoff. These “other” types of water fixtures can typically be cut off using dedicated shutoff valves or at the water main. In the event that closing the toilets shut-off valve doesn’t stop the leak you may be forced to turn the water off at the main.

*Note that shutting off the water at the main will stop all water to the property.

Clean Up Starts ASAP

“No time like the present” is the attitude to have when it comes to water mitigation. Often, time is of the essence when it comes to recovering from any size water disaster. By acting quickly and removing the water as soon as possible you can reduce the over all scope and cost of repairs. To remove the water, you can use mops and towels, but always remember to wear PPE to protect yourself from sewage water.

Call SERVPRO

If you have experienced a toilet overflow or any other type of water loss getting the water turned off is paramount. If you find your self in need of professional help or advise give SERVPRO of Bartow County a call. We answer emergency calls 24 hour a day 365 days a year, including all major holidays. If you decide to handle a small water leak or toilet overflow on your own, give SERVPRO call after the fact. We can come by and perform a moisture check to ensure that your property is completely dry, reducing the likelihood of mold growth.

Visit www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com/ for more information on water damage.

Have you had a great experience working with SERVPRO of Bartow County? Let us know about your service by leaving us a review!

Available Administrative Assistant Position With SERVPRO of Bartow County

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

The Administrative Assistant is responsible for creating, submitting, and getting approval of mitigation estimates within the established parameters/ time frame following completion of mitigation services. This will be accomplished by utilizing job diaries, photographs, paperwork, and documents associated with the project.

The Administrative Assistant position is essential to maintaining the company’s good standing with insurance carriers, third-party administrators, property managers, homeowners and other clients. The role of the administrative assistant will support the field technicians in obtaining documentation and data as well as completing files for billing.

You can apply for this position by clicking on the following link to our Facebook Job Listings!

The Administrative Assistants role will only be suited for self-motivated, responsible, detailed-oriented, organized individuals.

Responsibilities and Duties:

Enter sketch, pictures and estimates into Xactimate.

Ensure timely completion of estimates within clients & company established parameters.
Submit estimates to Job File Coordinator for review, adjust accordingly based on feedback, and ensure timely submission of estimate is achieved.

Respond in a professional and timely manner to all job file audits and rejections

Train new Administrative Assistants as a part of their when necessary

Desired Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent required.
Minimum 18 months in the administration, execution, and/or management of water mitigation projects.

Must be able to work with others in a fast-paced environment while providing excellent service to our clients with professionalism. 
Able to work over-time during Storms or catastrophic events, or on an as-needed basis to achieve company goals for estimate turn-around.

Benefits

Competitive hourly wage, PTO paid time off, IRA with company match, Health, vision and dental insurance

Drug free, Willing to take Background check, Must be able to work a Saturday once a month with the following Wednesday off. Hours are 8:30-5

SERVPRO of Bartow County is Commercial Ready!

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County is ready for any size disaster!

While SERVPRO of Bartow County has been an industry leader in residential water restoration for decades, did you know that we have also provided the same high-quality services to our commercial clients?  Residential mitigation can involve complex issues, but commercial restoration projects can contain even more variety of complexities. The following topics are just a few of the items SERVPRO considers when performing commercial restoration or mitigation services.

Multiple Stakeholders – With commercial customers, authorizations and decisions can involve input and review by multiple individuals (e.g., property owner, tenant, property manager, insurance carrier, building consultant). SERVPRO of Bartow County has personal to coordinate with these individuals, bringing clarity and efficiently moving the restoration process forward on schedule and on budget.

Time Constraints – Time is money and you can’t buy back time. Businesses need to get back in business as quickly as possible. We often time hear, “How soon can I get my business back up and running?” SERVPRO of Bartow County can provide multiple drying plans, which will allow the business owner to choose the plan that fits their time constraints and budget the best. Together, we will come to an acceptable completion window. By giving business owners multiple drying plan options, we allow the business owner to choose the plan that is right for them.

Public Access and Security – During a commercial restoration or mitigation project, both public and occupant access may need to be limited or restricted. SERVPRO of Bartow County can work with on-site security or provide additional security measures to provide protection of the structure, contents, and restoration equipment.

Type or Amount of Contents – Commercial structures may house various types of textiles, goods, and equipment, even specialized manufacturing equipment. There may be raw materials and or finished goods that will need to be considered during the mitigation and restoration efforts. Some customers may have leased or rented equipment (requiring notification and authorization of leasing agent before relocating or servicing). Document cleaning and processing may also be needed in order to get the facility back up and running.

Safety Hazards - The potential for hazards within commercial structures is high. Commercial facilities can contain hazardous chemicals or materials (e.g., asbestos, lead), energized machinery, confined spaces, and high voltage. Restoration work may require equipment such as aerial work platforms, forklifts, and scaffolding, which create additional potential safety hazards.

Time and Materials Billing Requirements – Residential losses will rarely require a time and materials (T&M) quote/billing, but with every commercial project, SERVPRO of Bartow will compile T&M documentation. This better situates us to move forward with the restoration project because adjusters and insurance carriers often require this type of documentation. 

Commercial Construction Practices, Systems, and Codes – Commercial construction practices, systems, and codes can be difficult to understand, and compliance is often times mandatory. Buildings can contain both low voltage and high voltage electrical systems, power may be unavailable, partially available or limited to parts of the structure. Mechanical and HVAC systems may be highly advanced and require special treatment. Energy management systems (EMS) may affect the efficiency of restorative drying or deodorization.

*Local codes may differ from residential due to variances in size and function of the structure. These requirements must be identified to ensure compliance with each local area.

Life Safety Systems – Commercial structures are often outfitted with fire detection and fire suppression systems, alarm systems, emergency lighting, and emergency exits. SERVPRO of Bartow County is ready to oversee the completion of the entire process. From coordination and management of vendors/contractors, to restoring systems prior to re-occupancy.

These complexities can be difficult to manage, but they must be considered during the course of a commercial water, fire, or mold restoration project. SERVPRO of Bartow County is ready to manage these complexities and has the equipment and experience to make your commercial loss “Like it never even happened!”

Planning a Summer Vacation?

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

It is not a pleasant thought, but many things can go wrong when you leave your home on vacation. The types of things this article is going to focus on are water losses. More specifically we going to talk about different thing you as a homeowner can do to protect your home from water damage while you are out of town.

The following guidelines can reduce the risk of water damage while your home is vacant during vacation:

Check your home for moisture leaks – Prior to leaving on vacation, check around your property’s fixtures, drains and any other water features in or around your home for leaks and signs of wear and tear. Pay special attention to pipes under sinks, your water heater, make note to repair if possible. Should you find rust, cracks, or other damage to pipes, fixtures and/or drains. It’s important to check the seals around your windows and the exterior of your home as well. If you find any leakage, it should be fixed right away by a trained professional.

Inspect your appliances - In our experience, appliances that you use on a daily basis that have water supply lines like dishwashers, washer/dryers, and refrigerators have a propensity to leak. Should you find any damaged supply or drain lines you should replace them as soon as possible and without fail before leaving your home on vacation. Damage to either supply lines or drain lines can cause major water damage to your home or business.

Cleanup around the exterior of your property - Before going on vacation an easy way of preventing outside water from getting in to your home is to clean your gutters. By cleaning leaves and other debris from your gutters before going on vacation it will also prevent potential blockages from building up while you are away. Clear all downspouts so that water can quickly and easily  drain away from the structure.

Turn off the water - Whenever you leave your home for an extended period of time, it’s important to turn off the water main and make sure the pipes are completely drained. This will stop any water from continually leaking in your home while you’re away. Simply run the water and flush your toilet after you turn off the water.

Have trusted neighbor or family member check on your property - Coordinate to have someone you trust to come over and check on your home while you’re away. Having a friend, neighbor, or family member keep an eye on your property can help keep it in good shape, and they can notify you immediately if something goes wrong.

With these tips, you can truly enjoy your vacation with the peace of mind that your home is safe from any potential water damage that could occur in your absence. If your home does suffer from water damage, call our team at SERVPRO of Bartow County. We can help remove, repair, and restore any damage to your home.

Storm Insurance Related Questions

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County 24/7 Emergency Storm Repair Services (770)387-7455

SERVPRO of Bartow County answers hundreds of emergency water restoration calls every year from often frantic customers dealing with their first storm related insurance claim. This can be a very trying and stressful time for even the coolest headed individuals. SERVPRO has your back and can make it “Like it never even happened.” With over 1600 franchises nation wide we have the national backing to handle any size disaster.

SERVPRO of Bartow County prides itself on not only restoring our customers property, but also our customers peace of mind. Customers tend to have questions flying through their head causing all sorts of anxiety and stress. Having a company that you can turn to, to answer your questions and provide 24/7 service is essential.

Some of the most common questions customers ask us about their home, condo or business water damage:

• Is a water leak covered by home insurance?
• Is a leaking toilet covered by insurance?
• Is water damage from a leaking roof covered by insurance?

While we wish we could give a simple yes or no answer to these questions, there are way too many variables to issue such an overly simplified blanket answer. If you have questions about your coverage, we encourage you to contact your insurance agent. Familiarize yourself with your policy and don’t be afraid to ask your agent questions about coverage. Knowing what kind of coverage, you have will prevent you from being ill prepared when disasters happens.

Types of water damage that depending on coverage, may or may not be covered by your insurance policy:

• Sudden or Accidental Discharge - A window is broken allowing rain water to damage the interior of a structure.
• Sewer Backup or Water Backup - The sewer system is clogged causing sewage to flow backwards into a home or business.
• Overflow - A water shut off valve or drain fails causing water to flood a kitchen or bathroom.
• Flood - During inclement weather water levels rise such that water engulfs street, home & business.
• Insurance Covered Storm Related Water Damage - This would be determined on a case by case basis and depend on the insured’s coverage

SERVPRO of Bartow County is a leader in the water restoration industry and is a preferred service provider for most major insurance providers. This means that SERVPRO has pre-negotiated pricing, rates and terms of service with your insurance provider on a national level. Providing both cost savings for insurance companies and their customers. It also means that you will receive the same high level of service from highly trained restoration professional no matter where you live!

Give SERVPRO of Bartow County a call today!

Seven Emergency Preparedness Tips

3/14/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County for 24/7 Emergency Restoration Services

If a disaster strikes, will you be ready?

In recent years, many different types of disasters have affected the United States. Flooding, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires and blizzards are natural disasters that can threaten your home, business and community. SERVPRO of Bartow County wants you and your customers to be aware of the steps to take to help prepare for Mother Nature’s worst.

It is important to prepare before a disaster occurs. Consider the following steps to help you better prepare for an emergency:

• Sign up for local alerts and warnings, download apps, and/or check access for wireless emergency alerts.
• Develop and test emergency communication plans.
• Assemble update emergency supplies.
• Learn about local hazards and conduct a drill to practice emergency response actions.
• Participate in a preparedness discussion, training, or class.
• Collect and safeguard critical documents.
• Plan with neighbors to help each other and share resources.

You can reach SERVPRO of Bartow County at (770) 387-7455

SERVPRO of Bartow County Is On Your Side

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County locally owned and operated franchise!

SERVPRO of Bartow County is and emergency fire, water and mold restoration company that is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. We service all size restoration emergencies, large or small. Cleaning up and restoring water damaged homes and businesses is our specialty. Delaying even just a few hours can increase the severity of water damage. Immediate action is the best course of action. Call SERVPRO of Bartow County if you have a sewage backup, water heater leak, or any other type of water loss. We will make it, “Like it never even happened!”

We Answer the Phones 24/7 - Ready to Help - Call Today - (770) 387-7455

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of Bartow  County

SERVPRO of Bartow County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification -https://www.IICRC.org/page/IICRCCertifications- , rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Certifications

• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program

Affiliations

• Bartow County Chamber Of Commerce
• Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification - IICRC

Get to know SERVPRO of Bartow County

Are you one of our satisfied customer? Leave us a review on Facebook, Google, or Yelp!

Storm or Flood Damage in Cartersville, GA?

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Bartow County. Call SERVPRO of Bartow County at (770) 424-0400

SERVPRO of Bartow County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews at SERVPRO of Bartow County are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Bartow County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Bartow County Today (770) 387-7455

The People, Experience, Training and Equipment to make it "Like it never even happened."

The People - With over 10,000 quality teammates nationwide, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The Training - Franchise Professionals undergo extensive fire restoration training an d certification SERVPRO Industries, Inc. offers an IICRC-approved school to help ensure our training meets and exceeds accepted industry standards.

The Experience - SERVPRO is a Franchise System with over 40 years of leadership in fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, commercial property managers and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. 

The Equipment - With over 5,000,000 square feet of building space, housing over 140,000 pieces of cleaning and restoration equipment, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the resources to help you take back control of your life.

Lower Recovery Cost - Save Money

Mitigation requires quick action. The faster SERVPRO of Bartow County arrives on-site to preform cleanup and restoration, the better the results - including lower claim costs.

• Emergency Mitigation Services help minimize additional property damages.
• Restoration versus replacement of contents saves heirlooms and money too.
• Restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition when possible

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Bartow County Today (770) 387-7455

Do Air Purifiers Remove Mold?

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County for mold removal (770)387-7455

The short answer is yes, but to understand why and how air purifiers can be used to remove mold spores from the air, we need to take a closer look. In this article we will explore a few of the more commonly asked questions regarding air purifiers and mold removal. Hopefully it can help you to better understand how mold grows and how air purifiers can help prevent mold from spreading.

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County for a mold removal estimate (770) 387-7455

How does mold grow?

Mold is one of the most commonly found lifeforms on the planet and it reproduces or grows via spores. Spores can be carried by air currents and spread to environments it finds suitable to take root and grow (typically a cool damp area with poor air movement and minimal sunlight). It can be transferred from surface to surface by direct contact as well. Mold can be a very difficult thing to contain under certain conditions, but not all mold is bad. Penicillin mold, is a naturally occurring mold that has been used to derive the antibiotic penicillin. For the purpose of this article we will be referring to types of household mold that occur after water damage or exposure to the outdoors.

How Do Air Purifiers Remove Mold?

Mold spores are typically between 1-30 microns in size, which means that by using specialized filters called HEPA filters, mold spores can be trapped and removed from the air. Filtering the air in a contained contaminated areas with a HEPA filter will help prevent mold from traveling to non-contaminated areas as well as, reduce the number of airborne spores in the contained area.The goal of any mold removal is to remove, contain, or incapsulate all of the mold spores.

How Do HEPA Air Purifiers Work? What Is A HEPA Filter?

Many air purifiers utilize HEPA filters to remove contaminates such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, tobacco smoke, mold spores and many other types of particulate matter. HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air so a HEPA filter is a high-efficiency particulate air filter. The way air purifiers typically work is by forcing contaminated air through one or more HEPA filters. These HEPA filters are designed to trap airborne particles greater than 0.3 microns in size. This effectively “cleans” the air and prevents contaminates from spreading to other areas.

When Should You Call A Professional?

This is going to be based on your comfort level and aptitude for home repair. Keep in mind that for most people, our homes are our largest investment and often garner professional repairs. There are all sorts of online resources for mold removal. We would suggest looking to government agencies like FEMA or the EPA or reputable privately held companies like the IICRC.

Here are some reasons you should consider calling in the professionals:

• The mold may already be spreading which creates a nightmare for the unexperienced to contain mold spores
• Spores will most likely be embedded in furniture and other porous objects, requiring additional specialized cleaning treatment.
• If your property has a history of leaks or condensation issues

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County for mold removal (770) 387-7455

Fastest To Your Cartersville Water Disaster

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County - (770)387-7455

Faster to any Disaster

Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Bartow County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - Including all holidays.

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

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

Had a great experience with SERVPRO of Bartow County? Give us some feedback on Facebook or Google Review!

Valentine's Date Night Package Contest

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

How many candy hearts can you count?

Are you one of our local insurance agent?

Do you work at one of our local insurance office?

Could you use a night out with your special someone?

Then all you have to do is answer one more question correctly...How many hearts are in the jar?

The rules are pretty simple...Like SERVPRO of Bartow County's Facebook page and comment on the linked contest post with how many candy hearts you think are in the jar. Who ever guess the number or comes the closest will win SERVPRO of Bartow County's Valentine's Date Night Package.

We will announce the winner via Facebook, February 13th. SERVPRO of Bartow County would like to wish everyone the best of luck and a Happy Valentines Day!

Dangers of Extreme Cold

1/24/2019 (Permalink)

While your home can get damaged due to winter weather and extreme cold, your personal health is also at risk.Fifty-three people died and three were injured due to extreme cold in 2015. It is important to be aware of the effect extremely cold temperatures can have on you. The two main conditions to be aware of are frostbite and hypothermia.

Frostbite is caused when your skin is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Physical symptoms are white or grayish-yellow skin, skin that feels unusually firm or waxy numbness.

Hypothermia is when your body temperature falls to an abnormally low temperature, caused from long exposure to cold weather. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. If someone's body temperature is below 95°F, seek medical attention immediately.

To avoid these conditions, stay indoors if possible. If not, dress warm in layers and try to keep dry.

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That's why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO of Bartow County is so important. Just go to www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com on your mobile phone or call (770) 387-7455 to get the team that's faster to any size disaster. We're a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So weather you're responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 - be ready for the worst with the very best: Your trusted, local SERVPRO Professionals.

National Influenza Vaccination Week is Comming!

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

If you haven't had a flu shot yet, you should probably consider it...

Why SERVPRO? Because we care!

Starting around 2005, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) established the National Influenza Vaccination week "to highlight the importance of continuing flu vaccination through the holiday season and beyond." In 2017, by the end of November only about 41% of the recommended US population has been vaccinated.

If you've already gotten the flu, you can still get vaccinated to protect you against other strands of the flu, according to the CDC. People with high risk of complications from the flu include young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions, and people over the age of 65 should get vaccinated. Although anyone is at risk of getting the flu, for high-risk people, hospitalization or death is more likely than for others. 

According to the CDC. "flu vaccination can reduce flu illness, doctors' visits, and missed work and school due to flu-related hospitalizations." 

Get a flu shot today to protect yourself and your loved ones!

How SERVPRO of Bartow County Cleans-up Mold In Your Cartersville Home

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartow County can make it "Like it never even happened."

When there's a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Bartow County have training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solutions, the general mod remediation process stays the same. the following steps illustrate a "typical" mold removal process.

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County (770) 387-7455 your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional 

 The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO of Bartow County call center. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

• Inspection and Damage Assessment - your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water can can be hidden from plain view.
• Mold Containment - Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.
• Air Filtration - Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.
• Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials - The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Anti-fungal and antimicrobial treatment will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to re-mediate heavy mold growth.
• Cleaning Contents and Belongings - SERVPRO of Bartow County Franchise Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.
• Restoration - Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, sub-floors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas of rooms in a home or business.

SERVPRO of Bartow County understand mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Bartow County is close by and ready to help with your mold-damaged property. We are proud to be an active member of the Cartersville community and want to pitch in and help make our community the best it can be.

Ten Thing Your Should Know About House Hold Mold

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

HEPA Vacuuming after removing mold effected materials

SERVPRO of Bartow County and the fine people over at the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would anyone that encounters mold in there home or business to know the following 

1. Exposure to mold can be contribute to negative health effects and should be avoided if at all possible.
2. The way to control indoor mold is by managing the moisture level of the environment; eliminating all mold and mold spores in an indoor environment is impractical in most cases.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix any and all water leaks or water problems to inhibit mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
   • Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
   • Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
   • Increasing ventilation
   • Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dish washing and cleaning
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Bartow County is close by and ready to help with your mold-damaged property. We are proud to be an active member of the Cartersville community and want to pitch in and help make our community the best it can be.

When a major storm or event occurs, we can call upon our national network of 1,700 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams if we need additional resources or personnel.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Cartersville, GA
• Adairsville, GA
• Emerson, GA
• White, GA
• Kingston, GA
• Rydal, GA
• Euharlee, GA
• Cass, GA
• Acworth, GA

What Does It Mean for a Company To Be Certified in Mold Cleanup?

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Heavy mold growth hidden behind drywall next to this family's fireplace.

Are the people cleaning your property certified in mold cleanup?

When you have a mold problem in your Acworth, GA home, you need to act quickly. If you don't already have a residential mold remediation team, you need to find a reliable company. As you search for a professional, you may find that some companies are certified mold cleaners while others aren't. Is this certification simply justification for a company to charge you more money? Actually, working with a certified mold remediation crew can be a big benefit for you.

Expert Knowledge
A mold certification from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Cleaning means the professionals have proven knowledge of mold remediation and cleanup. The crew would have passed a test proving they understand mold cleanup, which encompasses the following:

• How to contain a colony
• How to meet legal requirements
• How to use safety gear to reduce contamination
• How to find hidden mold growth

When you work with a certified team, you can feel confident that they will know how to get the job done correctly.

Insurance-Provider Approved

Not only can you feel confident working with a company that has certified mold knowledge, but your insurance provider may also feel better about the situation. Depending on your policy, some of the mold damage remediation may be covered by your insurance. This means you need to follow the stringent guidelines set up by the provider to ensure the work can be reimbursed. Insurance providers prefer working with companies that are certified in mold cleanup because they know the right steps are being taken to address the fungus growth.

State Approved 

Some companies in this industry may work without a proper state license. This may allow them to charge less money for the remediation, but it also means you may be legally and financially liable should anything go wrong. In order to become certified, a company has to be properly licensed.

Going through the cleanup process after discovering fungus growth can be hard. When you work with a certified mold expert, however, you can feel confident that you're getting sound advice and service.

For more information call 

(770) 387-7455

or please visit us at www.SERVPRObartowcounty.com

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Bartow County is close by and ready to help with your mold-damaged property. We are proud to be an active member of the Cartersville community and want to pitch in and help make our community the best it can be.

When a major storm or event occurs, we can call upon our national network of 1,700 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams if we need additional resources or personnel.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Cartersville, GA
• Adairsville, GA
• Emerson, GA
• White, GA
• Kingston, GA
• Rydal, GA
• Euharlee, GA
• Cass, GA
• Acworth, GA

Bartow County Commercial Property Water Damage Restoration

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Large or small - SERVPRO of Bartow County is here to make it "Like it never even happened."

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

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Bartow County is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Cartersville community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Cartersville, GA
• Adairsville, GA
• Emerson, GA
• White, GA
• Kingston, GA
• Rydal, GA
• Euharlee, GA
• Cass, GA
• Acworth, GA

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Bartow County

SERVPRO of Bartow County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Prevent Commercial Property Fire Loss In Acworth GA

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial fires often are the most devastating real estate that a property owner will have to oversee. In addition to wreaking havoc on your property, fires can force you to relocate temporarily so you can maintain running your business while the restoration process is completed. However, property owners who implement high-quality safety practices can often avoid the devastation and destruction that results from commercial fires. Read the brief outline provided below to learn how you can protect your property:

• Install Automatic Fire Sprinklers

As many authorities know, having an automatic fire sprinkler on your property can reduce the risk of fire by up to 71%. Additionally, sprinklers can decrease your insurance premium. To keep your sprinkler in excellent condition, be sure that it is not blocked by dirt or paint. Also, be sure to inspect regularly your main control valve so that it is not left off. Finally, be sure that you take the precautions necessary to prevent the pipe from freezing.

Conduct Fire Emergency Training

Each of your employees should undergo fire safety training. The training can help prevent your staff members from being victimized. Here are a few subjects that should be covered in the emergency training:

• Hazard Recognition - Keep all combustible chemicals and materials away from heat-generating and electrical equipment.

• Prevention - Inspect your power sources regularly and don't overload your extension cords and outlets.

• Response - Teach your employees how to respond when a fire breaks out. Some subjects that should be covered include how to perform an organized evacuation, operate the fire extinguisher, and set the fire alarm.

Other issues that should be involved in the training include:

• Breathing Apparatus Training
• Fire Extinguisher Training
• Confined Space Entry Training
• First Aid Training
• General Staff Emergency Awareness Training
• Evacuation Exercise

Also, be sure that your employee team officials undergo the following fire emergency response training:

• Fire Safety Officer Training
• Fire Safety Adviser Training
• Chief and Deputy Chief Warden Training
• Emergency Control Organization Warden Training
• Spill Response Training
• Lay Flat Hose Training

Call SERVPRO of Bartow County Immediately

Although accessing and utilizing fire prevention measures is crucial and advantageous, there is still a chance that a fire could break out on your commercial property. If this happens, you need to know who to call for fast, efficient restoration services. The company to trust is SERVPRO of Bartow County. We have extensive industry experience and a passion for restoring offices to their original condition. We're ready to assist you immediately, so contact us now at (770) 387-7455.

Commercial Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

SERVPRO of Bartow County has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion. Learn more about SERVPRO of Bartow County training and certifications.

• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Bartow County is strategically located to respond quickly to your fire emergency event. When commercial fire damage occurs in Acworth we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (770) 387-7455.

Your Business Needs An Emergency Ready Plan

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

An ERP can be the difference in getting your business back up and running in a timely and orderly manor, and all out chaos.

The SERVPRO® Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency READY Profile. Please contact one our Business Development Representative to setup your free Emergency Ready Profile (770) 387-7455. SERVPRO of Bartow County has worked with many businesses in the area to ensure they are prepared for any emergency. 

An estimated 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster, such as fire and flood never reopen.

• Between 2004-2008 16,360 fires happened in retail stores and other mercantile properties such as grocery stores beauty and barbershops.
• Those fires caused $648 million in property damage. Fire damage is worse after normal business hours. Fires that started between 9PM-5AM caused $75,000 dollars in damage. First that started between 5AM-9AM caused $24,000 dollars in fire damage.
• More than 60% of U.S. small businesses do not have formal emergency response plans & do not back-up their data off site.

No Plan Means You're Less Likely to Recover

• 80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business.
• 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.
• 70% of small business that experience major data loss go out of business within a year.
• 43% of companies that experience catastrophic data loss never reopen.
• 51% of companies with data loss closed within 2 years.

Tips For Creating a Successful Emergency Ready Plan

Let the professionals help you. Work with an emergency restoration company for assistance in creating your emergency ready profile.

1. Identify and label utility shut-off locations.
2. Identify local utility contact information.
3. Identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts.
4. Establish main internal contacts for purposes of employee safety and emergency work authorization.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Bartow County has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. "Like it never happened." Contact us for more information.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Cartersville, GA
• Adairsville, GA
• Emerson, GA
• White, GA
• Kingston, GA
• Rydal, GA
• Euharlee, GA
• Cass, GA
• Acworth, GA