Dont Let Stormy Weather Ruin your Vacation

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane season is June 1 through November 30, peaking in mid-August to late October. Here are traveling and safety tips so storm damage has little to know damage on your vacation.

• Hurricanes can disrupt flights and you may be separated from your baggage. You can minimize this inconvenience by packing necessities in your carry-on bags. Also, our travel insurance plans can reimburse you if you need to buy necessary items if your bags are delayed more than 12-24 hours, depending on your plan.
• It's tempting to completely unplug on vacation, but advance warning about hurricanes is not always guaranteed. We recommend you keep up-to-date on the latest information about possible storms before and during your trip.
• If you're truly concerned about a hurricane impacting your travel plans, consider taking a cruise to your destination as they are more flexible than flights and can detour to alternative ports.

Families or groups traveling together should make an emergency plan to determine where they are going to meet and how they will get there. Additionally, they should check with their accommodation provider to see if they can access an emergency kit with a radio, water, food and other survival basics, if necessary.

Helping Hands at Feeding America

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Pandemic Volunteers

During the pandemic many of our neighboring volunteer organizations struggled to find volunteers. Our owners and Marketing team decided what better way to help than to volunteer our time in the community we serve. Feeding America in our area was one organization we love to support and happy to help. They check temperatures and require gloves and masks to come into the building. They take measures to make a safe place to volunteer. Once inside you can help clean off all the food, sort boxes, check for damages, or do pack up. It is an awesome time to meet other volunteers in the community. The team has decided to spend time each month helping organizations like Feeding America. You can check with your local chamber or library to find local organizations in need of helping hands. Feeding America Southwest is always looking for smiling faces and a helping hand to serve the community.

The Importance of Water Safety

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

For many people, the summer means cookouts, swimming, and having fun with those we are closest to.  And while swimming can be a great way to cool off in the summer heat, it is important that we are keeping an eye on all and any children tempted by the cool water, no matter how hectic and busy the parties may get.

Here are some tips provided by CPSC.gov to ensure your child's safety this summer!

Staying Close, Being Alert and Watching Children in and Around the Pool

• Always keep an eye on your children around any body of water, and never leave them unattended!
• Make sure your child is aware of basic water safety tips
• Keep small children away from pool drains, pipes, and other openings to avoid entrapments
• Make sure to keep a telephone close by whenever you are near a body of water
• If a child is missing, look for them in the water first
• Share safety instructions with family, friends, and neighbors, so everyone will be alert

Learning and Practicing Water Safety Skills

• Make sure both you and your child know how to swim if you will be in the water
• Learn how to perform CPR on children and adults, and update those skills regularly
• Understand the basics of  life-saving so that you can assist in any water emergency

Following these tips and being aware this Independence day will not only keep your child safe, but it will give you peace of mind, so you can enjoy the holiday to the fullest!

Safety with Heating Sources

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

Tips to help prevent fires in your home or office from heating sources:

1. Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.
2. Use heating equipment that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
3. All heaters need space.  Keep flammable objects at least three feet away from heating equipment.
4. Plug space heaters directly into outlets.  Never use a power strip or extension cord.
5. When using fuel burning heaters, use only the type of fuel specified by the manufacturer.
6. Install and maintain carbon monoxide and smoke alarms inside your home and business.  Test alarms monthly.
7. Remember to turn off portable heaters before leaving the room or going to bed.
8. When using a wood-burning fireplace, make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to help prevent sparks from flying into the room.  Spent fireplace ashes should be cool before removing and putting them into a metal container.  The container should be stored away from your home or business.

Safety tips provided by National Fire Prevention Association

Workplace Hazards

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

OSHA lists the 5 most common workplace Hazards as the following:

1. Safety: any type of substance, condition or object that can injure employees
2. Chemical: exposure to chemicals and improper use of chemicals 
3. Biological: exposure to infectious materials such as blood, fungi, mold, viruses, and animal droppings
4. Physical: radiation exposure, extreme heat or cold etc.
5. Ergonomic: work activities that cause harmful strain on the body 

These are common issues that can occur in the workplace some easier than others to remedy. It is important to have a plan in place for workplace hazards such as these and for emergencies. Records show that as many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster.

We are also available to schedule a free Emergency Response Plan for your company to better prepare for potential emergencies.

Water Damage in Your Business? We can help!

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events in Roanoke commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response.  Whether we're dealing with a small water cleanup or a large scale water 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.

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 budget.  We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour lost revenue & 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 Roanoke

SERVPRO of Roanoke specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event.  Our staff is highly trained and certified 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!

Bathroom Safety

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

If you have little ones chances are you have or will experience the not so fun joy of a toilet overflowing. With little ones it is usually rubber duckies and whatever item looks fun for them to see going down the drain. If caught quickly this is typically a quick fix but if left unattended a toilet can overflow out of the bowl and to your beautiful bathroom floors. It may seem minor but this could lead to water damage, mold, and possible bio hazard( sewage water). If this happens here are a few steps if you feel it safe you can take on your own:

1. confirm what is actually clogging the toilet (toys, toilet paper etc.)
2. scoop the water out of the bowl and clean up spillage 
3. use a plunger
4. use an auger
5. purchase a de-clogger
6. stop water from flowing into the toilet bowl
7. call a professional (if the previous steps do not work you can always call a professional to fix the clog and repair any damage caused)

Rain Rain Go Away!

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to remember that floods caused by rain can occur anywhere, with floodwaters rising gradually or flash floods striking suddenly. Water's powerful force can easily overtake vehicles and people.

Safety tips for driving in heavy rain:

• If you must drive in the rain, drive slowly and steadily.  Pull over and stop if it is raining so hard that you cannot see.
• DO NOT DRIVE THROUGH FLOODWATERS!
• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control or possible stalling.
• One foot of water will float most vehicles.
• Two feet of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles — including SUVs and pick-ups.
• Stay away from water that electrical or power lines have fallen into; electric current passes through water easily.
• Stay off your cell phone unless you must report severe injuries or call for help.

Safety tips for walking or cycling on urban trails:

• When rain is falling, it’s best not to walk or bike near a river or stream, even on Denver’s paved urban bike and walking trails; water flow can quickly increase and flooding can occur without notice.
• Move to higher ground and never go into a culvert! If you are on a streamside trail during a rainstorm use the alternate trail up to street level to avoid underpasses and culverts.
• NEVER take shelter in a culvert, under a bridge, or in an enclosed space, especially in low elevations by rivers and streams. Always go to higher ground out of the flow of water.
• Do not walk or bike through moving water. Six inches of moving water can cause a person to fall.
• If lightning is present, do not stand under or near an isolated tree or group of trees.
• Never allow children to play around streams, drainage ditches or viaducts, storm drains or flooded areas.

Localized street flooding:

• In underpasses and some areas that are geographical low-points, water cannot be expected to disappear down the storm inlets instantly; the pace and volume of the rainfall may be too quick and too great to immediately drain off. It takes time for the system to accommodate the rainfall.
• If you know that your street tends to flood because it is located in a low point, be sure to move your vehicles to higher ground whenever rain is forecast.

Flooded buildings and basements:

Residents with flooded basements or buildings are advised to contact their insurance companies immediately to find out what cleanup and repair work is covered. Other recommended steps include:

• Turn off the electricity at your building even if the electric company  has turned off the main supply line or power is out. Primary power may be restored when you are not ready.
• Take pictures/videos and thoroughly document damages, cleanup, and repairs.
• Open windows and ventilate well.
• LOOK BEFORE YOU STEP: Floors and stairs can be covered with slippery mud and/or covered with hazardous debris.

The Facts about Smoke and Soot

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot are both very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor.  Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Smoke And Soot Facts

• 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.

Different Types 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.  Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Roanoke will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred.  The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting.  Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke - Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering
• Pungent odor, sticky, smeary.
• Smoke webs from a wet smoke are more difficult to clean 

Dry Smoke - Paper and Wood

• High temperatures, fast burning
• Heat rises and therefore the smoke rises

Protein Fire Residue - Produced by evaporation of mater rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible
• Discolors paints and varnishes
• Extremely pungent odor

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your treat your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO of Roanoke

540-389-5818

Water Damage? What do I do now?

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Give us a Call Today - SERVPRO of Roanoke 

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 Roanoke 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

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 including:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address where the water damage occurred
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Roanoke

SERVPRO of Roanoke specialized 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, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Do you know where your Main Water Shut off is located?

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Knowing how and where to shut off your home's water supply is as important as knowing how and where to turn-off or reset an electric breaker or replace a fuse.

Every home was required to have a main water shut-off valve installed during initial construction.  So for most emergencies, shutting-off the proper inside valve is very important.

Basements:

The shut-off valve is typically located near the front foundation wall.  The main water may have come through the concrete floor or through the wall.  The valve is typically within 3-5 feet of where the main water enters.  In some cases, the main water may enter in a different area, like a laundry room, up through the floor, near the water heater or furnace.

Crawl Space Plus a Basement

The shut-off valve may be where the water enters the basement or in some older homes, the shut-off may be inside the crawl space.  If the latter is true, you may want to consider a secondary valve located in the basement.

Crawl Space With No Basement

The shut-off valve will typically be located near the water heater or under the kitchen sink, but anywhere is possible.  As with a situation where there are a crawlspace and a basement, the valve may be inside the crawlspace; in which case, you may want to consider a secondary valve located up in the living space (near the water heater or under a sink).

Slab-On-Grade Construction

The shut-off valve will typically be located near the water heater or under the kitchen sink, but anywhere is possible.

SERVPRO of Roanoke will provide you free water shut off tags for your home.  Call us today and get yours!

Coffee Spills in the Office

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Like most offices coffee is everyone's best friend. But what do you do when a cup slips out of someones hand on to the carpet at work? Here are a few steps to make your work carpet like new: 

Step One:

Always start with water!  If you catch the spill immediately, take a clean towel and blot blot blot.  Start at the edges and work your way to the middle.  Spray with water and repeat until the coffee is all removed.  On a still wet stain, this may be all you need to do.

Step Two:

Still stained?  Try foamy white shaving cream.  Gently run into the carpet without pressing (you don't want to push the stain in further).  Allow to stand for a few minutes, then blot.  To rinse, spray with water and blot.  Repeat the process until it is completely rinsed.

Step Three:

Got an already dry stain?  No problem!  Make a baking soda and water paste, run into the carpet, and allow to dry.  Once dry, vacuum up the powder.  You should be stain free!

Step Four:

Stain a tad more stubborn?  Mix one part white vinegar, two parts water and spray directly to the stained area.  Blot with a clean dry towel.  Rinse by spraying water and thoroughly blotting.  Repeat the rinse until all the vinegar is removed.

Step Five:

Once your stain is gone, take a dry towel and lay it over the still wet area, stomp your feet over the towel to remove excess moisture.  Once this area is dry, vacuum to return the carpet to its normal texture.

Lightning Safety

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

All thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous.  However, people can remain safe, as long as they follow some simple guidelines when thunderstorms are in the forecast.

Lightning will often strike outside the area of heavy rain and may strike as far as 10 miles from any rainfall.  A lot of the lightning deaths that occur happen either before the storm before any rain has arrived, or after the storm has appeared to have passed and the rain has ended.

If you can hear the thunder, you are in danger.  Do not be fooled by the clear blue skies.  If you can hear the thunder, that means that lightning is close enough to pose as an immediate threat.

Lightning leaves many of its victims with permanent disabilities.  While only about 10% of lightning victims die, many of the survivors are left with intense pain, neurological disabilities, depressions, and other health problems that stick with them for the rest of their lives.

Visit www.weather.gov/lightning to learn about how you can stay safe during a thunder and lightning storm.

Tornado Safety

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

Tornadoes can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris. Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground.

Tornadoes can:

• Happen anytime and anywhere;
• Bring intense winds, over 200 MPH; and
• Look like funnels.

IF YOU ARE UNDER A TORNADO WARNING, FIND SAFE SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

• If you can safely get to a sturdy building, then do so immediately.
• Go to a safe room, basement, or storm cellar.
• If you are in a building with no basement, then get to a small interior room on the lowest level.
• Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
• Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You’re safer in a low, flat location.
• Watch out for flying debris that can cause injury or death.
• Use your arms to protect your head and neck.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A TORNADO THREATENS

Prepare NOW

• Know your area’s tornado risk. In the U.S., the Midwest and the Southeast have a greater risk for tornadoes.
• Know the signs of a tornado, including a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud; an approaching cloud of debris; or a loud roar—similar to a freight train.
• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts. If your community has sirens, then become familiar with the warning tone.
• Pay attention to weather reports. Meteorologists can predict when conditions might be right for a tornado.
• Identify and practice going to a safe shelter in the event of high winds, such as a safe room built using FEMA criteria or a storm shelter built to ICC 500 standards. The next best protection is a small, interior, windowless room on the lowest level of a sturdy building.
• Consider constructing your own safe room that meets FEMA or ICC 500 standards.

 Survive DURING

• Immediately go to a safe location that you identified.
• Take additional cover by shielding your head and neck with your arms and putting materials such as furniture and blankets around you.
• Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.
• Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle.
• If you are in a car or outdoors and cannot get to a building, cover your head and neck with your arms and cover your body with a coat or blanket, if possible.

Be Safe AFTER

• Keep listening to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, and local authorities for updated information.
• If you are trapped, cover your mouth with a cloth or mask to avoid breathing dust. Try to send a text, bang on a pipe or wall, or use a whistle instead of shouting.
• Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.
• Do not enter damaged buildings until you are told that they are safe.
• Save your phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems are often down or busy after a disaster. Use text messaging or social media to communicate with family and friends.
• Be careful during clean-up. Wear thick-soled shoes, long pants, and work gloves.

 For more information go to : https://www.ready.gov/tornadoes

Flood Preparedness

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

In the event of a flood, do you know your evacuation routes?  How about a place to stay if you must evacuate?  Do you have pets and can they stay with you?  These are all questions we ask in the moment of crisis when we realize we must evacuate due to flooding.

The safest way to survive a flood is to evacuate the area if you are advised to leave.  To ensure that you will be able to act quickly, you need to plan ahead.

Know your community's local flood evacuation plan and identify several escape routes for your location if roads are blocked.

If you will evacuate by car, keep your car fueled and in good condition when there is a flood risk.  Keep emergency supplies and a change of clothes in your car.

If you need to relocate for an extended period of time, identify a place away from home now where you could go if you had to leave.  Consider family or friends who live outside of the local area.

If you expect to go to a shelter after evacuating, download the American Red Cross Shelter Finder app.  This app displays open American Red Cross shelters and provides the capacity and current population of each shelter.

Planning ahead will take some of the stress off in the event of an emergency evacuation.  And remember - TURN AROUND DON"T DROWN - never drive through flood waters.

Prepare your business

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

No one wants to believe that their business will be affected by a disaster.  But the reality is that between natural disasters, human-caused hazards, and technology-related hazards, the odds are high enough that businesses have to be prepared.  As many as 50% of business will never recover or reopen after they experience a disaster, and of those businesses that do survive, the overwhelming majority of them have a preparedness plan in place. 

Coming up with a preparedness plan may seem daunting, but SERVPRO has a solution that will ensure your business has an immediate plan of action following a disaster.  Our Emergency Ready Profile provides your business with the critical information that is needed to begin mitigation and recovery services, and it includes all the necessary quick references to important building and contact information.  

Advantages of having an Emergency Ready Profile:

• No cost assessment of your facility
• A concise Profile Documentation that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
• Establishes SERVPRO as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing any work to begin
• Provides your facility with details such as shut-off valves locations, priority areas and priority contact information

Deep Clean Your Business

6/4/2021 (Permalink)

The start of summer brings about a lot of amazing things, such as green grass, sunshine, flowers, and no more school for the kids!  However, as great as all these things are, they also bring about allergies, germs, pollen, and dust!  A work environment can be negatively affected by these factors because they can affect how the people working in the environment are feeling.  Keeping a healthy and cleanly work environment is very important in keeping with a positive work ethic and attitude amongst employees.  Here are some helpful tips on keeping your business a positive and clean space.

Keep Those Carpets Clean!

Dust, grass, pollen, and other allergens can easily get caught in the fibers of carpeting and rugs.  They can be stirred up from foot traffic and make people's allergies flare up throughout the day.  By making sure your carpets are getting both a daily vacuum and a reoccurring deep clean is very important in keeping your work environment comfortable. 

Give Your Office a Good Wipe Down

Wiping down surfaces will not only prevent the spreading of germs, but it will also prevent the accumulation of dust particles on the surfaces.  Giving your offices a good wipe down regularly will also help keep away any unpleasant smells that may come from drink spills or food residue often left behind.

Regular cleaning of your office environment will not only improve your business's overall smell, look, and health, but it can also keep you on top of potential damages.  Regular cleaning means you will be able to find and catch damages such as water and mold growth from hidden leaks before they become a larger issue.  Finding damages early is the key to being able to fix them properly and quickly. 

What to do if your business has emergency?

6/4/2021 (Permalink)

No one wants to believe that their business will be affected by a disaster.  But the reality is that between natural disasters, human-caused hazards, and technology-related hazards, the odds are high enough that businesses have to be prepared.  As many as 50% of business will never recover or reopen after they experience a disaster, and of those businesses that do survive, the overwhelming majority of them have a preparedness plan in place. 

Coming up with a preparedness plan may seem daunting, but SERVPRO of Roanoke has a solution that will ensure your business has an immediate plan of action following a disaster.  Our Emergency Ready Profile provides your business with the critical information that is needed to begin mitigation and recovery services, and it includes all the necessary quick references to important building and contact information.  

Advantages of having an Emergency Ready Profile:

• No cost assessment of your facility
• A concise Profile Documentation that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
• Establishes SERVPRO of Roanoke as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing any work to begin

Provides your facility with details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Commercial HVAC Cleaning

6/4/2021 (Permalink)

Like anything else that remains stationary in a business, your Air Ducts and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems get dirty over time.  And as these systems gather large amounts of dust and particles, the quality of air is affected.  While many people are more apt to notice the quality of air in their homes, many overlook the importance of keeping these systems clean in their businesses.  

Benefits of Cleaning your Air Ducts or HVAC Systems:

Energy Savings

The U.S. Department of Energy reported that 25-40% of the energy used for heating or cooling is wasted due to contaminants in the systems.  The contaminants cause the system to have to work harder to keep up with the temperature you desire.  When your HVAC systems are cleaned properly, they do not need to use as much energy and, therefore, are more cost-effective.

Indoor Air Quality

With the weather warming up, allergies are in full swing.  Pollen and dust are running rampant through the air, and it is not hard for those particles to find their way through an opening door and straight into your business.  Pollutants such as dander, dust, chemicals, and even pollen are all pulled into HVAC and Air Duct systems and re-circulated an average of 5-7 times a day.  Over time these particles start to accumulate in the duct work and cause a build-up of contaminants.  No one wants to feel uncomfortable in their work environment, and the quality of air due to a dirty HVAC or Air Duct system can do just that for an individual.  

Keeping up with cleaning out your Air Duct and HVAC systems will not only improve the quality of your work environment, but it will also save on your business's energy

Appliances in the Office

6/4/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage, burst pipes, and storms, OH MY! It feels like, between all the crazy weather we have had in the past year, we have enough to worry about when it comes to potential water damages affecting our businesses. However, there is a hidden danger that lies within your business's walls that needs to be paid attention to. Leaking and blocked appliances may not seem like a big deal, but it does not take a lot of time for a little leak to cause a lot of damage to your business. Taking the time to pay attention and keeping your appliances up to date can not only save you a lot of money in the long run, but it can also ensure you are keeping your business doors open and operating. Here are some helpful tips on how to make sure you're making your appliances a priority.

Mark Your Calendar

When you purchase new appliances, make sure you write down the expiration dates and recommended replacement dates on their parts and hoses. You have enough to remember throughout your busy days, so this allows you to write it down and forget about it (until the time comes to make replacements that is).

Make a Date Every Friday Afternoon

Cut out 30 minutes every Friday afternoon and walk around and check all your appliances that are hooked up to a water source. Check for blockages, the hoses, and any leaks, so that you can make sure you are not leaving them unattended for a whole weekend. A small leak over a two-day span could not only create a large amount of damage, but it could be the cause for you having to close your business's doors for a few days. Keeping up with your appliances will help keep your weekend as stress-free as possible.

Don't Put it Off

When you find the problem, fix the problem. Replace a leaky hose, or call a plumber to clear the blockage in your drains or sinks before it is too late. Finding and fixing an issue early on will save you a lot of trouble, time, and money, so don't put it off!

If you do find yourself with a water damage due to a faulty appliance, make sure you give SERVPRO of Roanoke a call at 540-389-5818!

Tips on Fire Safety in Your Home

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Tips on Keeping Your Home Safe from Fire

There are simple stays every family can take to protect their home and loved ones from a potential house fire. Worst case scenario your home experiences a fire some of those tips will help make you aware faster and give better chances of everyone getting out safe.

1.Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside of sleeping areas

2.Test smoke alarms every month

3.Talk with all family members about a fire escape plane and practice the plan twice a year

4.If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP

5.Never go back inside for anything until safety officials clear it as safe

The American Red Cross website has these tips plus many more disaster prevention and awareness tips you can find on their site https://www.redcross.org

SERVPRO also offers Emergency Ready Profiles that are helpful in preparing your home for emergencies such as these.

Common Fire Hazards in the Home

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Hazards in the Home

House fires can happen in the blink of an eye if we aren’t careful. There are easy every day hazards we could avoid to help reduce the chance of a fire in your home.

Common Fire Hazards in the Home:

1. Candles: Many candle fires are started due to unattended candle usage. Candles should not be left burning for hours at a time and its highly recommended to not use in the bedroom.
2. Cooking: Kitchen fires are some of the top places home fires start. Never leave cooking unattended. If you leave turn off the burner, oven, or microwave. Clean your oven regularly and the rest of the kitchen appliances. Keep kids and pets clear of cooking areas and always turn pot handles in.
3. Electrical fire: Use safe appliances. Keep appliances on level surfaces and remember to turn off all electrical appliances when not in use
4. Matches and lighters: Keep out of reach of children. Make sure they are completely out when done using and if a lighter use all safety measures.
5. Smoking materials: The misuse of products like cigarettes and pipes can cause house fires too. Make sure to put out all cigarettes and follow all guidelines for electrical smoking devices

These are just a few tips to help keep your home safe

Salem Roanoke County Chamber Awards Breakfast

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

The team at the Salem Roanoke County Chamber Awards Breakfast.

Our team had the great pleasure of attending the Salem Roanoke County Chamber Award Breakfast this week. All the members of our Marketing team serve as Ambassadors at our local Chambers to help service the community and to support other local businesses. At the awards breakfast, Clark Goodman our Business Development Coordinator was presented with the Judy Griensenbrock Volunteer of the Year Award. Clark is a pivotal member of our community and to the team.  Early in his career he was awarded Rookie of the Year with the Homebuilders Association and Ambassador of the year in 2016 with our Chamber. He has served in the Chamber Golf committee for 7 years and has been a pivotal member of our chamber. He has served the community through the Kiwanis Club of Roanoke for the last 7 years and will be President in October. He has helped lead a few of their key projects that benefit the community such as their Bocce tournament and their Kiwanis pancake and Auction. He has most recently participated in their literacy program to read for third graders as well as community trash clean up. Around the office at SERVPRO Clark is always there to assist above and beyond his job and lend a helping hand

Water Leak Tips

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

Water leaks are subtle and may go unnoticed until they lead to a larger water damage or water bill!  These tips provided by the Water Damage Defense website will help you to get a handle on your water leaks before they turn into a big mess. Water trapped behind walls or paneling make it an ideal place for mold growth.

1. Water Bill Checks

Make sure to monitor your water bills. If you notice the bill has a sudden increase, there is a good chance there may be slow leak and to ask your local water company to take a look.

2. Check Your Meter

Test out your home water usage and meter accuracy. Check your meter and try not using the water in your home for two hours. After the two hours see if the meter has changed this is another indicator of a leak.

3. Food Dye Trick

To check your toilet for leaks, put a drop of food dye in the tank.  If you see that the colored water is in the toilet bowl in under 15 minutes, you probably have a leak.  (Make sure you flush your toilet a few times after doing this, as to not stain your toilet)

4. Fix Leaks and Drips Quickly

As soon as you see a leak or drip, make sure you fix it as soon as possible.  These are usually cheap fixes if you catch them at the beginning. Always dry as much as possible to mitigate further damages.

5. Use Water Leak Alarms

Use water leak alarms as well as automatic water shutoff systems to make sure you catch leaks quickly.

Following these tips and tricks can help you catch sneaky leaks before they become a bigger issue.   Water leak alarms average in price as low as 9.00 – and as high as 200.00.

Flood Damage and Awareness

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

In the Spring  Virginia takes time to bring Flood Awareness to the state. Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster yet research shows many Virginians aren’t prepared. Floods aren’t limited to mapped flood risk areas. In fact, many of the 2,000 homes that were flooded in 2016 during Hurricane Matthew were outside the mapped floodplain. Also, hurricanes don’t just hit coastal Virginia. In 2018, Hurricanes Florence and Michael tore through central and western areas of the state. After Hurricane Michael, the Dan River region alone suffered around $12.9 million in damages (DCR) Flooding doesn't only occur during hurricanes or named storms. In February 2020, southwest Virginia communities had severe flooding from days of heavy rain, bad enough where some had to be rescued from their homes. The flooding resulted in damaged buildings and road closures. Tides can also impact flood risk, and they’re not only found along the coast. Tidal waters extend inland to places like Richmond and Fredericksburg, as well as north, like Alexandria and Arlington. The Virginia Institute of Marine Science developed a map that forecasts water levels to help visualize the magnitude and impacts of coastal flooding, its called Tidewatch. Anywhere it can rain, it can flood that’s why it's extremely important to be prepared.

For more information visit: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/dam-safety-and-floodplains/floodawareness

V3 Certified Company

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

We were recently honored to be recognized as a V3 Certified Company by the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Virginia Vales Veterans (V3) Program is an official Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Veterans Services Program. We received this recognition by completing and sustaining all requirements for the V3 program and our continued commitment to recruiting, hiring, training and retaining Veterans. We are proud of all those who serve and even more proud to have them be apart of our team. 

First Responder Recognition

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

A big part of what makes our community great is all the amazing First Responders. The men and women who get up each day to serve our community and keep us safe, local heroes. We try and honor our local heroes any chance we get. This year we decided to kick off the year with providing lunch from our local restaurants to the First Responders. Our Business Development Coordinator plans on providing lunch throughout the year  as a small token of appreciation. Again a big thank you to our local restaurants and First Responders for being apart of what makes our community so awesome. To see more on the local restaurants and local First Responders make sure to follow our Facebook and instagram accounts. 

https://www.facebook.com/SERVPRORMP

instagram.com/SERVPROrmp

Happy Holidays From SERVPRO

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

Owners Quinn and Lisa Mongan with Chamber Director Beth Bell and Fiona the Gingerbread

Every year at this time at SERVPRO we really get into the holiday spirit. Our office team sets up games, secret Santa, decorations and all. One big part of our holiday celebrations is our Thanksgiving breakfast and our holiday breakfast in December. It is a time for us to come together as a work family and celebrate one another and the holidays together. This year was even more special as Covid has cancelled a lot of plans and events this year. We were able to offer breakfast and still stay socially distanced which made our team happy to have a little sense of normalcy this year. We also had a visit from our local chamber director and a few North Pole visitors. We are looking forward to continuing this tradition for years to come. 

Know The Fire Facts

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month, so it is the perfect time for you to start getting educated on all things fire prevention related!  Below are facts provided by the National Fire Protection Association to help get the word out on how dangerous, common, and preventable home fire damages can be!

Home Fires

• Fire departments respond to an average of one home fire every 86 seconds.
• Between 2011 and 2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 358,500 home structure fires per year. These fires caused 12,300 civilian injuries, 2,510 civilian deaths, and $6.7 billion in direct damage.
• On average, seven people per day die in U.S. home fires.
• Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home-fire injuries.
• For decades, smoking has been the leading cause of home-fire deaths.
• Heating equipment was involved in one in every five home-fire deaths.

Follow us on social media for more tips and facts on fire prevention!

Fire Safety Tips

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

These year the theme for NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week is “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen”. We will be sharing tips and facts all month to help you plan and practice in case of emergencies.

The NFPA States the Following:

Did you know?
In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have, giving everyone enough time to get out. In a fire, mere seconds can mean the difference between a safe escape and a tragedy. Fire safety education isn’t just for school children. Teenagers, adults, and the elderly are also at risk in fires, making it important for every member of the community to take some time every October during Fire Prevention Week to make sure they understand how to stay safe in case of a fire.

Did you know?
Cooking is the #1 cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of fires in the kitchen.

Recipe for safety

Before you serve a meal, it’s essential to serve up fire safety in the kitchen. There’s nothing like spending time in the kitchen cooking a delicious meal for family and friends or an appetizing treat for yourself. But do you know the important steps to take long before anyone takes the first bite?

JDRF Month

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

Every year on Southside Lane we get pretty pumped about the JDRF One Walk. This year the walk is virtual but we are still full steam ahead. In previous years we have done pie the bosses, raffle tickets, lunches and flamingo flockings. This year we have changed a few options for great social distance fun. Kayla our team captain has put together some amazing raffle items this year as well as great team shirts.  JDRF is the leading non profit in the fight against type 1 diabetes.  JDRF helps to change the lives of those with type 1 diabetes and their families. The funds raised through JDRF events are used to find a cure and in the meantime find ways to make their current routines easier. 

Helping the Community

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Giving back to the community is a big part of our blueprint. Every year we are happy to be a sponsor for Roanoke Kiwanis Annual Pancake and Auction Day. Kiwanis Club of Roanoke uses funding from the event to give back to the community each year. Our Business Development Coordinator Clark Goodman is the Vice President and on the committee for KPADS. The Kiwanis Club of Roanoke have held the event for 25 years. Many thought it wouldn’t make year 25 due to COVID but the team was able to pivot and this year they will offer a drive through option to keep everyone safe. We love all they have done and continue to do in the community and are happy to have our team member a part of such a great organization. The KPAD event is this Saturday September 18^th, 2020 and you can still get tickets to attend.

https://www.roanokekiwanis.org/?page_id=2562

Hurricane Preparedness

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are usually accompanied by powerful winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, and coastal and inland flooding, which means that even though we are inland from the ocean, we still need to be prepared.  

How You Can Start Preparing Now:

Know Our Area's Risk of Hurricanes

While the Roanoke area is not at a high risk for hurricanes, we still are susceptible to the storms that result from them.  Heavy rainfall and high winds are both something our area needs to be aware and cautious of.  

Stock Up On The Necessities

It is not uncommon for these larger storms to lead to power outages.  Make sure you are stocked up on water, food, batteries for flashlights, and anything else you may need to feel more comfortable during a power outage.  Keeping your cellphones fully charged as the storm nears is also smart; being able to contact family, friends, and first responders is always important!

Stay Informed

Keep an eye on our local news and weather alerts, for information regarding the storm.  Staying alert for flash flood warnings and strong wind advisories can help keep you and your family safe throughout the storm.

Have a Backup Plan

If your home is in an area prone to flash flooding, have a backup plan!  Call relatives and friends and make a plan to visit a home in a safer location during the storm!

For more information on hurricane preparedness, visit ready.gov

You can also check SERVPROprep.com for more ways to keep your home safe

If you find your home has been affected by damage as a result of the storm, call SERVPRO of Roanoke at 540-389-5818, and we will make it, "Like it never even happened."

Proactive Cleaning

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

·         Kitchen/Food Areas

·         Bathrooms

·         Schools/Classrooms

·         Offices

·         Retail Spaces

·         Water Fountains

·         Shelving/Racks

·         Sales Counters

·         Carpets and Rugs

·         Stair Handrails

·         Elevator Cars

·         Playground Equipment

·         Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services or fogging , call the experts today – [SERVPRO of Roanoke 540-389-5818]

Lending a Hand: Feeding America

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

Our Marketing Team at Feeding America Southwest

At SERVPRO we place a high value on community service. Our team jumps at the chance to get involved and make a difference. Most recently our local Feeding America announced they need all hands on deck to help get food out to those in need. Our Marketing team members volunteered to help sort food and pack boxes for those in need. The local office Feeding Southwest Virginia serves over 26 counties and a 9 city region. They have served all 26 counties for 38 years and have provided over $27 million worth of food and grocery products. They have a setup of over 354 partner feeding programs and over 7000 volunteers. Feeding America Southwest Virginia has received over 36,000 volunteer hours. The marketing team really enjoyed learning more about the organization and being able to make a difference. If you want to learn more about ways to help check out their site : https://www.faswva.org/home/volunteer/

We're Hiring

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Production Technician

Do you love helping people through difficult situations?

Then, don’t miss your chance to join our Franchise as a new Production Technician. In this position, you will be making a difference each and every day. We have a sincere drive toward the goal of helping make fire and water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Our Franchise is seeking someone who is comfortable working hard in challenging situations, enjoys meeting new people, has excellent communication skills, and is a serious multi-tasker. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you’ll thrive in this work environment. Are you highly dependable and super-excited about routinely exceeding expectations? Then you may be our perfect hero! Can't wait to have you apart of our team !

Feeding America

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Owners Quinn and Lisa Mongan and Marketing Coordinator Jamie Dillard volunteering at Feeding America

We believe the most important part of being a great company is Service. Not just customer service but service to the community. When you meet an employee in our office you will find out quickly we are passionate about our town. Most of our SERVPRO family volunteers time at one or more service organization regularly. We love to give back to the town we serve our customers become more like family. Owners Quinn and Lisa Mongan and Marketing Coordinator recently got the opportunity to help pack meals for seniors at our local Feeding America facility. Food severity is a large problem here in the Valley and Feeding America is on the front lines helping. It was a very humbling experience to see how some of our local seniors are living day to day. With the recent pandemic Feeding America has a large request for food and has even bigger need for volunteers. Our team has been able to assist more frequently and encourage others to help out as well. 

Fire Prevention from NFPA

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

These year the theme for NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week is Not every hero wears a cape. PLAN and PRACTICE your ESCAPE! We will be sharing tips and facts all month to help you plan and practice in case of emergencies.

The NFPA States the Following:

Did you know?
In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have, giving everyone enough time to get out. In a fire, mere seconds can mean the difference between a safe escape and a tragedy. Fire safety education isn’t just for school children. Teenagers, adults, and the elderly are also at risk in fires, making it important for every member of the community to take some time every October during Fire Prevention Week to make sure they understand how to stay safe in case of a fire.

JDRF

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Here our Production Manager was "flocked" by our Marketing Coordinator.

For the last 5 years Marketing Manager Kayla has been a team captain of SERVPRO HEROES for JDRF’s One Walk. JDRF is a nonprofit organization that raises awareness and funding to help find the cure for Type 1 diabetes. One of our production managers actually has Type 1 diabetes so this is a cause very near and dear to us. We do “flocking” , bake sales, dinners, and t-shirts to raise funds for our team. Our whole team gets involved in the fun for a great cause. The One Walk is truly something everyone looks forward to every year. This year the walk will take place at Elmwood park on September 22^nd. We are excited to flood the park with orange and green as the SERVPRO HEROES Team.

Roanoke Valley SPCA

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

A few members from our team showing what team work can do!

We believe very strongly in serving in our community. Our team recently got to participate in a food drive for The Roanoke Valley SPCA, a local animal shelter. Many of our employees are fur parents and jumped at the idea of being able to help. We asked in our weekly meeting for team support and boy did they show up. We filled the box from the SPCA to the top and beyond with toys, food, blankets and treats. The Roanoke Valley SPCA is located in Roanoke, Virginia and they provide a safe home and care for animals as long as they need. They open their doors for fostering two weeks at a time and for the best part adoptions. You can find more information on this organization by checking out their site https://rvspca.org/who-we-are/.

Watch them Grow

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Roanoke we want our customers to have the best experience. In order for that to happen we have to make sure our employees, who are more like family are having the best experience. One way for us to give back to our team is to invest in their growth and development. We offer all our team the chance to further their skill set and to become certified in the many services we offer. We love to promote our team and to give them a chance to shine as leaders. Even with a busy work schedule and a busy home life our employees continue to grow their certifications. When an employee completes a new training program or certification we bring them in front of everyone to take their pretty picture and for their fellow team to show them recognition. This past week we got to celebrate four members of our team on their newest achievement of becoming Certified Bio-Recovery Technicians through the American Bio Recovery Association. We are so proud of them and their many achievements in and out of work. 

Keep Your Vacation as Stress Free as Possible!

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

Planning a vacation can be a stressful time.  The last thing on your mind while packing and preparing to leave is the potential of water damage to your home, but it is something that can be detrimental to a property.  The longer the water sits, the more damage it can cause.  Below are some helpful hints to sneak into your pre-vacation check-list to ensure you do not come home to a major mess! 

• Inspect all appliances around your homes, including their hoses.
• Make sure your water heater is not showing any signs of leakage.
• Check any drains in your garage or basement to make sure they are unclogged.
• Look at all pipes under sinks.
• Check window seals to ensure that they can withstand a rainstorm.
• Shut off your main water.
• Drain every pipe once your water is shut off.

Following these steps will increase your chance of having a stress free vacation, but no prevention method is 100%.  If you come home to a water damaged home, call SERVPRO of Roanoke, and we will make it, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Roanoke donates Kia Soul to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Virginia

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roanoke County was approached by Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Virginia with a request for a newer vehicle so they can continue to serve the families needing a home - away - from home to be close to their child during a difficult time.  Because of SERVPRO’s dedication to families in their time of need we decided to partner with Ronald McDonald House Charities to cover the cost of a newer, lower mileage vehicle for their use.  On February 27th, 2019 at 11am we formally presented the car to our partners at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Virginia.

Three IICRC Master Certified Technicians

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

Our 3 IICRC Master Certified Technicians

SERVPRO of Roanoke County is proud to announce that we now have three IICRC Master Certified Technicians on our team.  This morning we presented Mikee Bogan, One of our Production Managers, with his Master Fire and Smoke Restorer Certificate.  He now joins our owner, Quinn Mongan, who is a Master Certified Fire and Smoke Restorer and a Master Water Restorer, and Kevin Lancaster, our Vice President of Operations and our General Manager, who is a Master Fire and Smoke Restorer, a Master Water Restorer, as well as a Master Textile Cleaner.  We are proud of our SERVPRO of Roanoke team, and we take pride in their education and development in our field of work.  Congratulations to Mikee Bogan for taking his IICRC certifications to the next level!

Bigs in Blue

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roanoke County is a proud sponsor of the Bigs in Blue program with Big Brothers Big Sisters.

The Bigs in Blue program is built on the belief that trust and understanding in a community are developed one relationship at a time. A police officer who volunteers to be part of Bigs in Blue will be matched with a child facing adversity in the community. Many children in our area see law enforcement officers solely as authority figures, not as regular people in our communities. Bigs in Blue will not only enable youth to bond with caring, supportive officers, but will also enable officers to get to know the community they serve. Win-Win for all!

The local goal is to match 30 children with law enforcement officers across Southwest Virginia in 2017. All officers in the police departments, fire departments, sheriff's office and emergency response agencies are invited to make a difference in a child's life by becoming a Big.

"Look, Listen, Learn"

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

Even though we are dedicating the whole month of October to keeping you educated and up to date on everything Fire Prevention, this week is the week The National Fire Protection Association has deemed Fire Prevention Week!  This year's theme is "Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere.™”  This theme does not only focus on how to be more contentious of how you can prevent potential fires, but it also focuses on how to react if you are ever put in a situation where a fire does occur.

The NFPA States the Following:

"Look" for places a fire could start.  Take a good look around your home.  Identify potential fire hazards and take care of them.

"Listen" for the sound of the smoke alarm.  You could have only minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds.  Go to your outside meeting place, which should be a safe distance from the home and where everyone should know to meet.

"Learn" two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter.

Preparation can make all the difference when it comes to fire safety and prevention, so act now and make sure you and your family are all informed!

Alisha's Last Day

9/21/2018 (Permalink)

We are sad to see our amazing accounting clerk go after almost 4 years working with us here at SERVPRO of Roanoke, but we are so thankful for the time we got to share with her!  Alisha is going to be switching to staying full-time with her wonderful son, but we hope she will still stop in to see us every once in a while! She has been a true asset to our office team since the start of her SERVPRO career.  Whether she is communicating with customers over the phone, working on bookkeeping, or helping to manage job file activity, Alisha always kept a positive attitude flowing throughout the office.

From all of SERVPRO, we wish Alisha the best of luck, and we will miss you!

Rock A Tee Day

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

Our Team in their Rock A Tee Shirts!

Here at SERVPRO of Roanoke, we are proud to help support the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Virginia during their annual Rock A Tee day.

The Ronald McDonald House Charities keeps families from all around with sick children close to each other and provides them with the care and resources they need.   

Their Mission is, "Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Virginia provides the Ronald McDonald House, a comfortable and supportive, 'home-away-from-home' for the families of sick and injured children who must come to the Roanoke area for medical treatment, and the Ronald McDonald Family Room, a respite area for parents to rest and regroup, steps away from their child's bedside."

The Rock A Tee day is an annual fundraising event that helps provide comfort, support, and care for the families who may have seriously ill or injured children receiving treatment in our local hospitals.

To learn more about this awesome charity, click here!

Biohazard, Trauma, and Crime Scene Cleanup in Roanoke

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

BIOHAZARD, TRAUMA, AND CRIME SCENE CLEANUP

The last thing you want to worry about following a trauma or crime scene that occurred in your home is the cleanup.  These traumatic events are overwhelming enough without having to worry about the logistics of getting your home back to a normal state, and this is where SERVPRO of Roanoke comes in. 

How We Can Help:

At SERVPRO of Roanoke, we send our highly trained technicians to help return your home back to a safe and livable condition.  Taking all the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of both our crew, and anyone else working around them, we will remove all bloodborne pathogens, arson/vandalism, methamphetamine labs, crime scene residues, sewage backups, and mold situations that may be affecting your home or business.  Our professionals are available 24/7 for reliable biohazard, trauma, and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to both residential and commercial properties.  Our technicians are trained in accordance with OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations to ensure they are working in the safest and most effective way possible.  SERVPRO of Roanoke will help turn an unsafe environment back to its clean, safe state.

Call SERVPRO of Roanoke at 540-389-5818 !

National Get To Know Your Customers Day!

7/19/2018 (Permalink)

July 19, 2018 is National Get To Know Your Customers Day, and we want to do just that, but not just today, every day!  When we are working with our customers, it is usually due to the aftermath of some type of damage, whether that be flooding, fire, or even just the need for a general cleaning or air duct cleaning.  During these times we strive to make genuine connections with our customers so that we can help improve their situation as seamlessly as possible.  In order to get an even better understanding of our customers, and the experiences they've had with us, we would like to welcome you to leave us feedback.

Have you worked with us in the past?  How was your experience?  How can we improve our services to provide you with a better customer experience?  

How You Can Share:

Leave us a review on our  Facebook Page

or our Google Page:Google Page

or even feel free to give us a call at 540-389-5818 and leave us feedback!

Esporta

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roanoke is an Esporta Certified Operator, meaning that we utilize a patented restoration technology that can restore over 90% of the soft contents in a home to a food grade clean.

The Esporta technology also allows us to be able to restore 85% of the soft contents that may have been previously considered unrestorable and tossed by restoration dry cleaners using a traditional cleaning method.

Types of Damages and Contaminations We Can Restore with the Esporta:

• Contaminated water & sewage
• Heavy smoke & soot
• Mold
• Bio waste contaminated goods

What Types of Items Can Be Restored with the Esporta Wash System:

• Leather goods of all kinds
  • Shoes
  • Purses
  • jackets
• Laundry of all kinds
  • Wash and fold
  • Press and hand
• Household goods of all kinds
  • Sleeping bags
  • Pillows
  • Comforters
  • Stuffed animals
• Unique articles such as sports equipment
• A wide variety of other articles

Not only is the Esporta cleaning process thorough, but it is quick as well.  Laboratory results indicate that this process is five times more effective than the traditional washing machines, which means we are able to restore many of the items that you previously thought would need to be replaced.

If you find yourself in a situation where soft contents within your home have been negatively affected by a disaster, call SERVPRO of Roanoke, so we can make it "Like it never even happened."

Storm Response

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roanoke specialized in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews 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.

Resouces to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit the Roanoke Valley or surrounding area's, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster.  We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises around the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?  Call Us Today at 540-389-5818 for 24/7 Emergency Service!

let SERVPRO make it, "Like it never even happened."

Flood Preparedness Tips

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

These tips were provided by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) to help you prepare your home or business for a flood.

Before the Flood:

• Have a qualified professional elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel is susceptible to flooding.
• Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home or business.
• Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to help avoid seepage.

During the Flood:

• Turn off all utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.
• Disconnect electrical appliances.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Do not walk through moving water.  Even six inches or moving water can make you fall.

After the Flood:

• Listen for news reports to learn if the community's water supply is safe to drink.
• Avoid floodwaters.  Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.  Water may also be electrically charged.
• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

If you do find yourself in a situation where your home has been affected by flood damage, Call SERVPRO of Roanoke to make it, "Like it never even happened."

What to Expect Following a Water Damage

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

The first 24 hours following a water loss are the most crucial in preventing secondary or permanent damage to your home.  Within just a few hours of a loss being reported to our team, a SERVPRO Professional will be on-site to help ensure that the water damage is being handled properly and efficiently by completing the following steps:

Inspection

A SERVPRO of Roanoke Professional will inspect the affected areas of the property to determine the extent of the damage.  They will also be there to provide a review of the inspection with you to answer any questions before we begin working on your home or business.

Emergency Services

Next, SERVPRO of Roanoke's team of professionals will take immediate steps to protect the home or property and personal belongings from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing for the drying process.  They will explain in detail the needed emergency services step-by-step.

Monitoring

To help ensure your home and personal belongings, or property are dried to appropriate industry standards, one of our professionals will monitor the drying process.  The results will be consistently communicated to you throughout the monitoring process.

Restoration Services

Our team will replace structural materials such as drywall and baseboards, reinstall carpets, and clean affected areas of the property and belongings.  A final walk-through of the job site will be conducted with you to help ensure their property was returned to the preloss condition when possible.

How to Stay Safe During a Thunder and Lighting Storm

6/27/2018 (Permalink)

We are no stranger to thunder and lightning storms here in Virginia, but the harsh danger that lurks behind them is unknown to many of us.

Local U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 22,600 fires per year that were started by lightning (www.iii.org)

These fires can cause a lot of damage and can put the lives of your family in danger.

The use of lightning rods as well as the accompanying protection system are designed to protect a home or building from a direct strike of lightning, as well as a lightning-initiated fire.  These systems work by intercepting the lightning strike and providing it with a conductive path for the harmful electrical discharge to flow through directly into the ground.  For more information on lightning rods and lightning protection systems, you can visit https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning-rods .

If your home is not equipped with a lightning-protection system, here are tips on how you can stay safe inside your home throughout a lightning storm provided by weather.gov.  

• Stick to your cellular and cordless phones.  Do not use any phones that are connected by a cord!
• Do not touch electrical equipment throughout the storm.  This can include computers, TVs, or cords, however, you CAN use remote controls safely.
• Avoid plumbing as much as possible.  Do not wash your hands, take a shower, or wash your dishes throughout the storm
• Do not lie on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls
• Protect your pets!  Dog houses are not a safe shelter during there storms, and dogs that are chained to trees or on a metal runner are particularly vulnerable to lightning strikes
• Protect your property!  Lightning will generate electric surges that can damage electronic equipment even from some distance from the actual strike.  Typical surge protectors will not protect your equipment from a strike of lightning.  Do not unplug equipment during a thunderstorm, for there is a risk you could be struck!

Take The Fire out of Fireworks

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

With the 4th of July just around the corner, we are seeing the pop-up fireworks shops all over.  They have every type of firework you can imagine ranging from a smaller scale popper to a full-blown sky display for your viewing pleasure.  As beautiful as the sky may look lit up with all the colors of these fireworks, it is important that we are making sure we are taking the necessary precautions to keep our loved ones, neighbors, and surrounding homes safe on this holiday. 

Fireworks cause nearly 20,000 home fires each year! (NFPA.org)

This why it is safest to leave the firework shows to the professionals, but if you must put on your own show it is important to follow these recommended safety tips provided by Fireworksafety.org to ensure you are keeping yourself and your surroundings as safe as possible.

Recommended Safety Tips:

• Obey all laws regarding the use of fireworks
• Know your fireworks: read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting
• A responsible adult should always be present to supervise all firework activities. NEVER allow fireworks to get into the hands of children
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting off your fireworks
• light one firework at a time, and move away quickly
• Use fireworks outside in a clear area, away from all buildings and vehicles
• Never relight a "dud" firework.  Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water
• Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trashcan away from any building or combustible materials until the next day
• FAA regulations PROHIBIT the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage
• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department

Don't let a firework mishap ruin your Independence Day, be safe when handling any and all fireworks!

Time To Turn On Those Dehumidifiers

6/5/2018 (Permalink)

With summer starting in full swing, it is not hard to feel the humidity lurking in the air. The thick feeling heat is bad enough to deal with outside your home, but when it starts affecting the inside it's almost unbearable. It's time to drag out those dehumidifiers that have been hiding in the corners of your basements and get them started up. Here are some ways dehumidifiers can positively affect your living environment.

They Keep Mold At Bay
Dehumidifiers remove the thick moisture from the air and make your home a more comfortable place to live. Removing this excess moisture can also keep the pesky mold spores that are always lurking in the air from attaching to your walls and furniture. Typically, mold is able to grow and spread when the humidity level is above 60%. When a dehumidifier is set up and running to remove enough moisture to keep the humidity level below 50-60%, the mold spores are unable to grow and spread. This is why it is important to keep those dehumidifiers running in the hot, thick summer months.

They Provide Relief From Various Allergies
Dehumidifiers work to rid of humidity in the air, but by doing this they also kill germs and blow out the dust particles that linger in the air, purifying the air within your home. This can help minimize the allergies an individual is affected by even within their home.

They Help Keep Your Home Cool
With the help of a dehumidifier, you may be able to turn down your air conditioning, saving you energy costs. By getting rid of the moisture in the air, your home will instantly feel cooler and more comfortable.

Be Smarter With Your Water

6/5/2018 (Permalink)

It may be hot outside, but that doesn't mean your water bill has to skyrocket. Here are some helpful tips on how you can lower your water bill this summer!

Fix Those Leaks!
Go around your house and make sure none of your appliances, faucets, hoses, or any plumbing are showing signs of leaks. We've talked about how harmful even the smallest of leaks can be to your home in regards to leaving water damage behind, but they can also drain thousands of gallons of water from your home along with the money you could be saving on your water bill.

Keep Drinking Water in Your Fridge
Fill pitchers or re-usable water bottles with water and store them in your fridge. Not only is this better for the environment by not using wasteful plastic bottles of water, but it will ensure you always have a nice glass of cold water waiting for you without having to run your tap waiting for your sink to get cold. This is a great way to save on your water bill and help keep waste out of the environment.

Fill Up That Dishwasher
Running your dishwasher utilizes less water than washing dishes individually in the sink. Make sure you fill your dishwasher completely to ensure maximum water savings.

Insulate Your Water Pipes
By insulating your water pipes with foam you can buy at a hardware store, you will help your water be able to heat up faster. The foam comes already cut in the shape of the pipe, and all you have to do it tape it up; you will be surprised at the difference it can make. This way you will not waste as much water running your faucet until it heats up.

Trash Those Scraps
The disposal on your sink may save you a trip across the room to the trashcan, but it may be the reason your water bill has increased. It requires water to be running while it is in use, which may be adding on to your bill without you even realizing it.

Use Cold Water For Your Washes
Washing your clothes in cold water gets them just as clean, and it will actually keep colors better than washing in warm water. Cold water washes will save you in water and energy as well!

By starting to implement these tips into your everyday routine you will see how these small changes can make a big difference in your water bill!

All About Mold

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

Mold always seems to be a very mysterious thing.  We see it on food, on old items in our basements, and even in our showers and toilets, but it never looks the same.  Mold is considered a fungus, but the number of species of mold is unknown, varying between 20,000 to 30,000.  The fungi grows by feeding and deriving nutrients from organic matter such as wood, paper, drywall, insulation, etc, which is all present in buildings and homes.  The growth requirements of mold are a necessity of mold spores to be present, a food source for the mold to feed on, temperature between 32°F and 122°F, water, and time, which can be as little as two days.  The environment in which we live our every day lives in does not much differ from the environment in which mold can grow and thrive.  This is why it is important to catch mold growth as soon as it starts.  Read the following blog on What You Should Do When You First Notice a Mold Presence to know how to react.

What You Should Do When You First Notice a Mold Presence

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

The start of a mold growth may not be in plain sight, it may be first determined by a musty odor within your house.  If the musty odor is present, then there may be a growth going on out of plain sight, and it is important to take action.  If the mold problem is visible, it is also important to take immediate action.  Mold is dangerous because we cannot always see the growing mold colonies or the spreading of mold spores.  Disturbing the mold by trying to self-remediate can be dangerous because the disturbance will cause the spore mass to aerosolize and release into the air stream and, therefore, allow it to spread further.  This is why you should always call in a professional mold remediation team to take care of the problem. They will contain the affected area and block off the rest of the home, as to not spread the mold spores further.

By acting as soon as you notice a presence of mold you are not only stopping it from spreading further, but you are increasing your chance of preserving and saving irreplaceable items within your home. 

Don't let mold get ahold of your home and valuables, call SERVPRO of Roanoke, and we will make it, "Like it never even happened."

Preventing Mold Growth

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

It does not take much for mold to grow, and sometimes it is inevitable based on the type of environment you live in, but there are ways you can help prevent the growth from starting and spreading!

Moisture is the most critical factor in mold growth, so quick responses to all water damages within your home are very important for preventing mold growth.

Keeping your living environment dry during big spells of humidity and rain is also important.  Using dehumidifiers and leaving your air condition on will help keep your home cool and dry.  

It has been a rainy and hot month, so it is important to work towards keeping your house safe from the weather conditions affecting the inside environment.  Taking the necessary precautions now can save a lot of time and money for future remediation, so make sure you are staying aware!

How to Safely Respond to a Fire

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

House fires cannot always be avoided, but it is important that you know how to respond when they do occur.  Following these tips provided by the Red Cross will make sure that you are handling and responding to a house fire in the safest way possible to get yourself to safety.

Escape Tip 1: Do NOT Open a door that feels warm to the back of your hand

Make sure you are checking all doors for heat with the back of your hand before you attempt to open them.  The presence of heat on a door or doorknob could mean that there is fire on the other side of the door.  It is important to try to find another exit.  If there are no other exits, stay put and open a window to yell and wave a white item out of, such as a pillowcase or tee shirt.  This is an important signal for help.

Escape Tip 2: Stay Low

When moving through your house, stay low and crawl to safety!  This will help make sure you are not breathing in too much of the harmful smoke from the fire. 

Escape Tip 3: Stick to Your Plan

If you are experiencing a house fire, make sure you are sticking to the escape plan your family has gone over.  Get out of the house as quickly and safely as possible, do NOT go back in, and call 911.  

Storm Damage?

11/27/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roanoke specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews 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.  Our teams are trained and qualified to assist you in any disaster.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit the Roanoke Valley we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 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 Roanoke

Fire Safety Tips for your Dryer from FEMA

11/27/2017 (Permalink)

Clothes dryer do’s

Installation

• Have your clothes dryer installed by a professional.
• Make sure the correct electrical plug and outlet are used and that the dryer is connected properly.
• Read manufacturers' instructions and warnings in use and care manuals that come with new dryers.

Cleaning

• Clean the lint filter before and after each load of laundry. Don’t forget to clean the back of the dryer where lint can build up. In addition, clean the lint filter with a nylon brush at least every six months or more often if it becomes clogged.
• Clean lint out of the vent pipe every three months.
• Have your dryer cleaned regularly by a professional, especially if it is taking longer than normal for clothes to dry.

Maintenance

• Inspect the venting system behind the dryer to ensure it is not damaged or restricted.
• Put a covering on outside wall dampers to keep out rain, snow and dirt.
• Make sure the outdoor vent covering opens when the dryer is on.
• Replace coiled-wire foil or plastic venting with rigid, non-ribbed metal duct.
• Have gas-powered dryers inspected every year by a professional to ensure that the gas line and connection are together and free of leaks.
• Check regularly to make sure nests of small animals and insects are not blocking the outside vent.
• Keep the area around the clothes dryer free of items that can burn.
• If you will be away from home for an extended time, unplug or disconnect the dryer.

Clothes dryer don’t's

• Don’t use a clothes dryer without a lint filter or with a lint filter that is loose, damaged or clogged.
• Don’t overload the dryer.
• Don’t use a wire screen or cloth to cover the wall damper. They can collect lint and clog the dryer vent.
• Don’t dry anything containing foam, rubber or plastic. An example of an item not to place in a dryer is a bathroom rug with a rubber backing.
• Don’t dry any item for which manufacturers' instructions state “dry away from heat.”
• Don’t dry glass fiber materials (unless manufacturers' instructions allow).
• Don’t dry items that have come into contact with anything flammable like alcohol, cooking oils or gasoline. Dry them outdoors or in a well-ventilated room, away from heat.
• Don’t leave a clothes dryer running if you leave home or when you go to bed.

SERVPRO wins awards from 3 Chambers of Commerce

11/27/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roanoke, Montgomery & Pulaski Counties have so much to be thankful for in the past year.  With our extensive community involvement, knowledgeable work force and high consumer satisfaction rating, we were able to win the following prestigious awards from our local Chamber of Commerce's.

SERVPRO of Roanoke has won the 2016 Small Business of the Year award from the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce.

SERVPRO of Roanoke has also won the 2017 Business to Consumer category Small Business of the Year award from the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce.

SERVPRO of Montgomery & Pulaski Counties has won the 2016 Business of the Year award from the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce.

We are so honored and blessed. Thank you to all the Chambers for this honor and thank you to our employees who allowed us to make this happen.  We are so proud and will continue to strive to be the best remediation company around.

Reasons to keep your Air Ducts Clean

11/14/2017 (Permalink)

The air quality in your home is important. Keeping dust, pollen, pet dander, and other irritants out of the air you breathe involves more than changing the air filter. What about the air ducts? Contaminants collect in the duct system too, and regular cleaning of the air channel is important.

Energy Consumption

Dirty HVAC systems consume more energy than clean ones. Older ductwork starts leaking and not only do irritants enter through cracks, but air escapes too. Dirty ductwork also impedes airflow that drives up energy bills as much as 20 percent. Plus, dirt stresses your system causing frequent breakdowns. Clean ductwork helps lower your utility bill and helps your HVAC unit last longer.

Smelly Air

If someone in your home smokes that cigarette or cigar order hangs not only in the air but in the ductwork. Likewise, if you burned something on the stove, the smoke must go somewhere. These smells and other household odors collect in the ductwork and get circulated five to seven times per day, on average. Odors continue to plague your home long after you remove the offensive item.

More Reasons

Mold and mildew grow in your duct system especially if your home suffered recent water damage from flooding or foundation cracks. Home renovations and repair often lead to contaminants settling in your air system, and newly built homes need the air ducts cleaned before occupancy.

Call the Professional

Air duct cleaning is not an easy job. It needs special vacuum hoses and tools to reach throughout the system. This is not a do-it-yourself task.   Contact SERVPRO of Roanoke and schedule your cleaning today. 

Make sure you contact a NADCA Certified Company for ductwork cleaning. Another helpful idea is to buy a high-quality air filter like the ones sold at home improvement stores. Look for pleated filters costing around $15. Not only do these last a little longer, these filters also catch more debris, including bacteria and viruses, before you breathe it in.  

Holiday Cooking Safety Tips

11/14/2017 (Permalink)

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but
if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The
leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.

* Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.
* Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
* If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking. 

* Keep anything that can catch fire—oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or
curtains—away from the stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire, Follow safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe:

*Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
* Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
* For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
* If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
* Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

SERVPRO of Roanoke wish you a safe and happy holiday season. 

Source: National Fire Protection Association

Tips for Water Damage

7/5/2017 (Permalink)

Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas.  Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical hazards may exist.

Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping & blottng.

Wipe off any wood surfaces and use clothes pins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors or carpets.

Use aluminum foil or wood blocks between furtniture legs and wet carpeting

Keep a close eye on rivers and streams - be aware of surrounding water!

Call SERVPRO of Roanoke, Montgomery & Pulaski Counties for 24 hour Emergency Service.

What to look for after a Hail Storm

7/5/2017 (Permalink)

Do you have hail damage?  It is not that easy a question to answer. If your building has asphalt shingles or a metal roof, you may see dents. But, on a built-up (tar & gravel) roof, you might see few to no visible signs of damage. 
When do you need professional help? Three Helpful Indicators:

Hail comes in many sizes and densities, so it can be difficult to know when you actually need to be concerned about damage. Whether you’re staring at pea-sized hail on the ground or golf-ball size hail, here are some signs that indicate it would be a good idea to at least talk to a professional:

• Damaged vehicles—If the roofs of nearby cars were dented, then there’s a good chance your building also sustained hail damage.
• Damaged siding, downspouts or windows—If you are unable to safely inspect your roof, hail damage to other parts of your building, such as dented downspouts or siding, can be a good indicator you may need to take action.
• Work on neighboring properties—If a neighboring building sustained hail damage and is being repaired, it’s a sign you should more closely inspect your roof and building. 

Tips to avoid Freezing Pipes

1/6/2017 (Permalink)

Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem

Water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal or plastic pipes. No matter the "strength" of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break. Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets. Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation are also subject to freezing.

If your pipes do freeze and cause damage to your home or business, STAY CALM AND CALL SERVPRO, we can make it "Like it never even happened.®"

During a freeze, Take Preventative Action

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.
• When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

 To Thaw Frozen Pipes

• If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.
• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you can not thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.

·  Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too

Storm Damage

11/8/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roanoke specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews 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.  Our teams are trained and qualified to assist you in any disaster.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit the Roanoke Valley, 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 Us Today SERVPRO of Roanoke  540-389-5818

Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

11/8/2016 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Roanoke for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Roanoke specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Roanoke  540-389-5818

Stop the fire BEFORE it happens

8/4/2016 (Permalink)

Before you send your child off to college, make sure you are complying with the safety regulations. The campus usually requires documentation of flame retardant materials.

“Curtains, draperies, wall hangings, blankets, banners and other decorative materials suspended from wall, closets, or other vertical surfaces must be flame resistant or noncombustible. Proof of flame resistance may be requested during a fire inspection” 
"2016 Virginia Tech Division of Student Affairs; Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code; Fire & Safety Regulations for Residents ©"

Flame Stop is a water-based fire retardant coating for most synthetic and natural fibers, and is particularly recommended for the treatment of drapes, upholstery, fabrics, paper, rugs, carpets, mattress covers, bedspreads and most porous decorative materials. Flame Stop is a pyrolytic formulation that prevents the spread of flame by developing a self-extinguishing reaction.
Please call- 540-389-5818 for a free estimate

When Storms or Floods hit the Roanoke or New River Valley SERVPRO is ready!

5/24/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roanoke, Montgomery & Pulaski Counties specialize in Storm or Flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to pre-storm condition, "Like it never even happened".

FASTER RESPONSE

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important.  A faster response lessens the damage, limits further damage and reduces the restoration cost.  

RESOURCES TO HANDLE FLOODS & STORMS

When storms hit our area we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster.  We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1650 franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

If you are faced with storm or flood damage, call us today!

SERVPRO of Roanoke, Montgomery & Pulaski Co.  540-389-5818

FASTER TO ANY SIZE DISASTER!

Emergency Readiness Plan

3/31/2016 (Permalink)

Emergency Readiness

Is your business ready?

The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to PLAN FOR IT!

Did you know that we offer businesses a no cost emergency readiness mobile app?

Allergies

3/18/2016 (Permalink)

Allergies? Let us help!

Springtime bringing bad allergies? There are many possible causes. Give us a call, and we'll be here to help!

Read Across America

3/2/2016 (Permalink)

The Cat in the Hat!

Read Across America is a celebration of Dr. Suess's Birthday and allows us the honor of reading to the Elementary School Children.  Thank you to the Roanoke Rotary for allowing us this honor!

Salem Roanoke Chamber of Commerce Building & Technology Expo

2/11/2016 (Permalink)

Business & Technology Showcase

Salem Roanoke Chamber of Commerce hosted the Business & Technology Showcase.  Clark Goodman & Lisa Bain represented SERVPRO of Roanoke

SERVPRO® Named to Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Franchise List

2/3/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO^®Named to Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Franchise List

for 7^th Consecutive Year

Cleanup and restoration franchisor retains top ranking in restoration services category and climbs to #4 ranking overall in the 2016 Franchise 500 rankings

Salem, VA  January 19, 2016 - SERVPRO^®, a cleanup and restoration franchise company, maintains its hold on the top ranking in the Restoration Services industry for the 13^th consecutive year and moves up to the number four spot overall in the 2016 Franchise 500 rankings from Entrepreneur magazine.* This is the seventh consecutive year SERVPRO has been included in the magazine’s Top 10 list, standing out in a group of more than 951 franchises that qualified for inclusion in the list.

 Some of the most important factors considered by Entrepreneur in developing the list each year are “financial strength and stability, growth rate and size of the system.”

“It’s exciting to be part of a dynamic organization that continues to grow and strives to always provide superior support for its franchisees, and by extension its customers,” said Lisa Mongan, owner of SERVPRO of Montgomery and Pulaski Counties. “The recognition that the company earns year after year in this prestigious list is confirmation of a commitment to excellence that starts at the top and is evident in the service that each franchisee provides to each and every customer.”

 According to Mongan, a number of differentiators set SERVPRO apart from the competition and fuel the attractiveness of the company to both existing franchisees and would-be entrepreneurs looking for a strong business opportunity. Key among these are:

·         SERVPRO’s strength as a brand with a national footprint, wide-spread market penetration, laser-focused brand messaging, and the ability to create national partnerships with organizations such as the PGA TOUR and the American Red Cross.

SERVPRO’s commitment to being a learning organization, which keeps training and support at the forefront of the company’s culture and philosophy of success and helps franchisees plan, track, and deliver best-in-class services to consumers

Employee Certifications

1/26/2016 (Permalink)

Employees receiving their IICRC Certifications

Our newest Certified Employees.  Congratulations and thank you for your dedication to continuing education to ensure we stay the BEST!

Frozen Pipes Tips

1/19/2016 (Permalink)

Cold weather has hit our area.  Protect your home from freezing pipes:

1. Turn off outside faucets and allow to drain then cover with insulating foam covers.

2.  Insulate any exposed pipes under or around house with foam insulation.

3.  Open cabinet doors under sinks.

4.  Allow interior faucets to drip, both hot and cold.

5.  Know where your main water shut off valves are located.

Frozen Pipes tips

1/19/2016 (Permalink)

Cold weather has hit our area.  Protect your home from freezing pipes:

1. Turn off outside faucets and allow to drain then cover with insulating foam covers.

2.  Insulate any exposed pipes under or around house with foam insulation.

3.  Open cabinet doors under sinks.

4.  Allow interior faucets to drip, both hot and cold.

5.  Know where your main water shut off valves are located.

'Twas the night before Christmas

12/24/2015 (Permalink)

'Our office Manager Julie Wilburn honored her coworkers with her rendition of Twas The Night Before Christmas.  Hope you enjoy as much as we did...........

Twas the night before Christmas and all thru SERVPRO not a crew member was resting they were ready to go! 

The hoses were hung by the truck mounts with care in hopes that a St. Mongan soon would be there! 

Marketing was nestled all snug in their beds - while visions of ERP’s danced in their heads.

With all the jobs uploaded and invoicing done, the girls in the office and were having some fun!  

When out in the warehouse there arose such a clatter I sprang from my desk to see what was a matter!  

Away to the warehouse I flew in hurry - the bay door was open - I was beginning to worry! 

Then what to my wondering eyes should appear - but a large loss trailer and 9 crew chiefs in hero gear! 

With a super hero driver, a real man among men  - I knew in a moment it must be Saint Quinn!! 

More rapid than SERVICE MASTER his crew chiefs came - and he whistled and shouted and called them by name!

Now Zack, now Matt, now Quinn and Robert and Jimmy! 

On Mikee, on T, on Nikki and Timmy!

To the top of the ceiling, don't miss that spot on the wall - now clean away clean away clean away all!!  

So up to the roof top his crew chiefs they flew with a van full of scrubbers and St. Quinn too!! 

And then in a twinkling I heard on the roof the stomping and smashing of each little boot.

As I ran to my desk and was turning around - down the duct work St. Quinn came with a bound. 

He was dressed all in green from his head to his foot and his uniform was covered with ashes and soot!

He was smiling and joking - a very jolly old elf 

And I laughed when I saw him in spite of myself!

He spoke not a word but went straight to his work - he emptied all the truck mounts and turned with a jerk.

And laying a carpet wand beside of the hose - and giving a nod up the duct work he rose. 

He sprung to his trailer, his crew on the ball

And away they flew like there was an all call! 

And I heard him exclaim so that all could hear   - Merry Christmas dear SERVPRO - it was a very good year! 

2015 SERVPRO Christmas Breakfast

12/23/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO hosted a Christmas Breakfast at our Salem office for all staff.  A great time was had by all!  From our family to yours, we wish you a Happy & Safe Holiday!

SERVPRO honors Veterans

11/11/2015 (Permalink)

Quinn Mongan, Zach Saunders, Jimmy Williams, Kris Hacker, Pete Lassen & Mason Paxton representing the US Navy, US Marine Corps and the US Army

THANK YOU to all our Veterans today for their service. We are honored to have our own SERVPRO Veterans!

Dryer Fires on the rise

11/6/2015 (Permalink)

Dryer Fire caused by clogged dryer vent

Dryer fires are responsible for a significant number of damages, injuries, and deaths every year. There are approximately 15,600 structure fires, 400 injuries, and 15 deaths reported annually as a result of dryer fires. According to the United States Fire Administration, every year clothes dryer fires account for over $100 million in losses. Also, dryer fires involving commercial dryers have a 78% higher injury rate than residential dryer fires.   

Thank you Montgomery County & the Town of Christiansburg

10/30/2015 (Permalink)

Grand Opening of our Christiansburg location!

What a wonderful welcome we received from Montgomery County and the Town of Christiansburg on the opening of our new location in Christiansburg.  Thank you all for your continued support!

Thank you Roanoke!

10/6/2015 (Permalink)

2015 Best in Roanoke!

Thank you to our customers for their vote in the 2015 best in Roanoke Readers Poll.  We thank our dedicated staff for the great job they do every day.  We thank each and every one of you for always being your best! 

Emergency Tips for Water Damage

9/29/2015 (Permalink)

Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas.  Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical hazards may exist.

Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping & blottng.

Wipe off any wood surfaces and use clothes pins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors or carpets.

Use aluminum foil or wood blocks between furtniture legs and wet carpeting

Keep a close eye on rivers and streams - be aware of surrounding water!

Call SERVPRO of Roanoke, Montomgery & Pulaski Counties for 24 hour Emergency Service.

SERVPRO of Roanoke, Montgomery & Pulaski Counties are PROUD sponsors of the Roanoke Rampage

9/21/2015 (Permalink)

The Roanoke Rampage Fire and Police Football Team are made up of professional fire, police, EMS and public safety workers throughout Roanoke and the New River Valley. The Roanoke Rampage football team was formed to raise money for local charities while playing competitive football in the National Public Safety Football League (NPSFL). All players, coaches, and team assistants are strictly volunteers. 

2015 ZOMBIE RUN

8/26/2015 (Permalink)

Roanoke Zombie 5k October 3, 2015

Please join us for the 3rd annual Roanoke Zombie 5k on Saturday, October 3 from 8-12 at Green Hill Park in Salem, VA.

Run for your life then shop the Rummage Sale.  Presented by Roanoke Regional Jail in partnership with Roanoke County Parks Recreation and Tourism.

Net proceeds to benefit Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics of Virginia.

Come as a RUNNER, come as a ZOMBIE, come as YOURSELF and enjoy the fun!

Register at www.roanokezombie5k.com

SERVPRO of Roanoke, Montgomery & Pulaski Counties voted "Best Duct Cleaning"

6/1/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roanoke, Montgomery & Pulaski Counties voted "Best Duct Cleaning" as chosen by readers of The Roanoker magazine!

Salem Kiwanis Golf Tournament

5/5/2015 (Permalink)

Please join us by participating in the Salem Kiwanis Golf Tournament on Friday, May 22, 2015 at Hanging Rock Golf Club.  Lunch will begin at 12:00 noon, with tee off at 1:30.  Please call Brenda Giles at 540-389-5818 for registration information.  

Spring Home Show

3/25/2015 (Permalink)

Look for SERVPRO at the 2015 Spring Home Show this weekend, March 27-29 at the Salem Civic Center put on by the Roanoke Regional Homebuilders Association.  

Women's Leadership Conference - Montgomery County

2/24/2015 (Permalink)

Join us at Montgomery Co. Chamber's Women's Leadership Conference March 5, 2015 from 12:00 noon - 4:30 p.m. at the Inn at Virginia Tech.  Call the chamber for reservations 540.382.3020.

Salem Roanoke Co. Chamber's Business & Technology Showcase

1/21/2015 (Permalink)

Look for SERVPRO at the Salem Roanoke Co. Chamber's Business & Technology Showcase will be held Wednesday, February 11, 2015 in the Community Room of the Salem Civic Center from 4 pm - 7 pm.

Holiday Fire Safety Tips

12/8/2014 (Permalink)

Follow these simple safety tips, to reduce the fire risk to your home or buisiness this holiday season:

1.  Place Christmas trees, candles and other holiday decorations at least 3 feet away from heat sources.

2.  Purchase flame retardant metallic or artificial trees.  If purchasing a live tree, water regularly.

3.  Make sure light strings or other decorations are in good condition.  Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords.

4.  Unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving home or going to bed.

5.  Never use lit candles to decorate a tree.  Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.

6.  Use only sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over.

7.  Keep flammable items away from stove top - oven mitts, pot holders, wooden utensils, etc.

8.  Designate one person to walk around your home to make sure that all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after guests leave.

9.  Smoke alarms save lives.  Install smoke alarms near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed.  Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. 

Veterans Appreciation Picnic

11/7/2014 (Permalink)

Free to Veterans and one guest!

Veterans Appreciation Picnic and Veterans Day Ceremony

Sunday, November 9, Noon until 3:00
Vinton War Memorial 

Free to veterans and one guest with proof of service.  $5 donation for other guests accepted at the gate.  All donations go to Virginia Wounded Warrior Program, Military Family Support Center and Blue Ridge Veterans Celebration Grant Program

Large Loss Ready!

10/7/2014 (Permalink)

We are large loss ready with the purchase of our own Desiccant Dehumidifier.

JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes

9/3/2014 (Permalink)

JDRF Walk 2012 - with SERVPRO'S HEROES

Sunday, September 28, 2014 Team SERVPRO's Heroes will be walking 3 miles to raise money for Type 1 Diabetes research.  The walk will be at The Virginia Museum of Transportation at 303 Norfolk Ave., SW, Roanoke, VA.  Online donations may be made to http://www2.jdrf.org/goto/SERVPROSHEROES.

Fire Safety Tip

8/4/2014 (Permalink)

Overloaded outlets can cause #fires and other life threatening dangers. Keep your home or office safe by understanding your property's electrical demands.

4th of July Safety Tips

7/3/2014 (Permalink)

http://www.cpsc.gov/fireworks

Successful Blood Drive

6/18/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roanoke, Montgomery & Pulaski County held a successful American Red Cross Blood Drive at their facility in Salem.  We had 13 donors and successfuly collected 10 pints of life saving blood.  Thanks to everyone who donated or helped out with this drive.

Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce Bocce Ball Tournament

5/29/2014 (Permalink)

Join us at the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce's Bocce Ball Tournament June 5, 2014 from 3-8 pm.  The event will be held at HHHunt/Home Depot Field in Blacksburg. For more information, contact the Chamber at 540-382-3020.

SERVPRO to host American Red Cross Blood Drive - June 16

5/20/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roanoke, Montgomery & Pulaski Counties will be holding an American Cross Blood Drive as part of the Red Cross' "100 days of summer...100 days of hope"  Blood is especially needed this time of year.  SERVPRO's blood drive will be Monday, June 16, 2014 from 3pm - 6pm at the SERVPRO facility located at 1331 Southside Drive, Salem, VA.  For an appointment sign-up online at redcrossblood.org.  Questions? Contact Brenda Giles at 540-389-5818 or brendagiles@servprormp.com.

Visit us at The Spring Home Show - Better Living Expo

3/24/2014 (Permalink)

The Roanoke Regional Homebuilders Association's 44th Annual Spring Home Show is March 28-30 at the Salem Civic Center.  Show hours are Friday 2pm-7pm; Saturday 10am-7pm; and Sunday 12 noon-5pm. 

More than 160 showrooms under one roof, including SERVPRO.  Stop by our booth to have your jewelry cleaned and to register for our door prize - a free carpet cleaning!

For more information go to www.theSpringHomeShow.com

March is National Red Cross Month.

3/5/2014 (Permalink)

March is National Red Cross Month.  SERVPRO is a National Sponsor of the American Red Cross and their Ready Rating Program.

http://www.redcross.org/about-us/red-cross-month

Tips on How to Prepare for a Power Outage - from the American Red Cross

3/4/2014 (Permalink)

Power Outage - Prepare BEFORE they happen!

How Do I Prepare for a Power Outage?

To help preserve your food, keep the following supplies in your home:

 One or more coolers—Inexpensive

Styrofoam coolers work well.

 Ice—Surrounding your food with ice in a

cooler or in the refrigerator will keep food

colder for a longer period of time during a

prolonged power outage.

 A digital quick-response thermometer—

With these thermometers you can quickly

check the internal temperatures of food to

ensure they are cold enough to use safely.

Put together an emergency

preparedness kit with these supplies

in case of a prolonged or widespread

power outage:

• Water—one gallon per person, per day (3-

day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for

home) • Food—non-perishable, easy-toprepare

items (3-day supply for evacuation,

2-week supply for home) • Flashlight

(NOTE: Do not use candles during a power

outage due to the extreme risk of fire.) •

Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA

Weather Radio, if possible) • Extra batteries

• First aid kit • Medications (7-day supply)

and medical items • Multi-purpose tool •

Sanitation and personal hygiene items •

Copies of personal documents (medication

list and pertinent medical information,

deed/lease to home, birth certificates,

insurance policies) • Cell phone with

chargers • Family and emergency contact

information • Extra cash

 If someone in your home is dependent on

electric-powered, life-sustaining

equipment, remember to include backup

power in your evacuation plan.

 Keep a non-cordless telephone in your

home. It is likely to work even when the

power is out.

 Keep your car’s gas tank full.

Tips to Help Prevent Catching the Flu

12/27/2013 (Permalink)

The Center for Disease Control suggest "Take 3" Actions to Fight the Flu -  a serious, contagious disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death.  Flu-like symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people also may have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu, and have respiratory symptoms without a fever.

1.  Take time to get flu vaccine.  Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a vaccine.  It is very important that people of high risk receive their vaccination to reduce risk and severity.  Those at high risk of flu complications include very young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions, and those age 65 and older.

2.  Take steps everyday to prevent the spread of germs: 

•       Avoid close contact with those who are ill.
•       Stay home if you have flu-like symptoms at least for 24 hours after your fever subsides.
•      While you are sick, avoid contact with others.
•      Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
•      Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohols based hand sanitizer.

•      Avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth.
•      Clean and disinfect surfaces that may have been        contaminated by germs.

3.  Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them.  this may shorten the time you are sick or make the symptoms milder.  They may also prevent serious flu complications.  It is recommended that you take the flu antiviral within two days of getting sick.  But starting later can also help, especially those at high risk.  Always, follow your doctors instructions.

Here's to a flu-free season!

Thanksgiving Cooking Safety Tips

11/21/2013 (Permalink)

Safety Tips for Thanksgiving Cooking

THANKSGIVING SAFETY

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Safety in the kitchen is important, especially on Thanksgiving Day when there is a lot of activity in kitchen. The National Fire Protection Association offers SAFETY TIPS:
1. Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
2. Stay in the home when cooking turkey (or other food in oven) and check it frequently.
3. Keep children away from the stove.
4. Keep children away from hot food and liquids. Steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
5. Keep the floor clear so you don't trip over items like bags, toys, pocketbooks, etc.
6. Keep knives out of reach of children.
7. Be sure electric cords from kitchen appliances like mixers, etc. are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
8. Keep matches and utility lighters out of reach of children.
9. Never leave children alone in a room with a lit candle.
10. Please make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

SERVPRO of Roanoke, Montgomery & Pulaski Counties wishes everyone a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving Holiday!

Cold weather tips for your home

11/13/2013 (Permalink)

Cold weather has hit our area.  Protect your home from freezing pipes:

1. Turn off outside faucets and allow to drain then cover with insulating foam covers.

2.  Insulate any exposed pipes under or around house with foam insulation.

3.  Open cabinet doors under sinks.

4.  Allow interior faucets to drip, both hot and cold.

5.  Know where your main water shut off valves are located.