Excess Moisture and Mold Damage Go Hand in Hand in Tallahassee Colleges and Universities

9/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses boxes to protect items during mold remediation process.

Excess Moisture and Mold Damage Go Hand in Hand in Tallahassee Colleges and Universities 

Tallahassee is a post-secondary education center, with thousands of students spread out among several campuses. A percentage of students choose to live in dormitories, sharing some facilities like laundry rooms, bathrooms. Even those students who live in apartments or other residential settings still enjoy campus amenities like rec and health centers, pools, and gyms. A common theme in all of these communal spaces is water. 

Delayed Cleanup and Maintenance Facilitates Mold Growth 

Undergrads are busy with studies and social lives, many savoring their first time living away from home in Tallahassee. Mold damage can get out of hand when housekeeping tasks are far down the to-do list. Dorm rooms can incubate molds in piles of damp laundry, kitchenettes can harbor mold when leaks are ignored, and study and party rooms offer moisture “hot spots” when beverages are knocked over and left unattended. 

Conventional Cleaning Methods Can Fail for Mold Remediation 

When your housekeeping staff finds mold damage in buildings on campus, they may unwittingly contribute to its spread. Mold spores are incredibly tiny and opportunistic, needing only oxygen and a small bit of moisture to swell and grow. The organism sends out hyphae as it grows, branching filaments that can delve deep into porous materials like drywall, ceiling tiles, wood, and even cracked and poorly sealed grout lines. Often the answer to visible mold is to use a diluted bleach solution sprayed on the surface. This treatment might fade a mold or mildew stain, but it cannot follow the wide-ranging hyphae that move far from the surface. As the water-heavy solution soaks structural components, it provides an additional source of moisture for mold, creating a rebound in the outbreak. SERVPRO manages the situation differently. 

Call in the Mold Remediation Experts     

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protocols for mold remediation are SERVPRO’s blueprint. They include: 

• Containment of the mold-infested area--traditional cleaning methods skip this step, permitting spores to travel 
• Removal by scraping, brushing, and abrasive methods like soda blasting to rid the area of colonies and incapacitate the hyphae thoroughly
• Cleaning of disturbed and settled spores and other debris with vacuums and wipe-downs with EPA-registered products
• Drying of the space and elimination of the moisture source to limit future outbreaks 

SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee has a reliable protocol and experience in mold remediation applicable in commercial settings. Call us at (850) 765-5706 to schedule a walkthrough and evaluation of mold damage in student living and recreating quarters today. 

Excess Moisture and Mold Damage Go Hand in Hand in Tallahassee Colleges and Universities

9/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses boxes to protect items during mold remediation process.

Excess Moisture and Mold Damage Go Hand in Hand in Tallahassee Colleges and Universities 

Tallahassee is a post-secondary education center, with thousands of students spread out among several campuses. A percentage of students choose to live in dormitories, sharing some facilities like laundry rooms, bathrooms. Even those students who live in apartments or other residential settings still enjoy campus amenities like rec and health centers, pools, and gyms. A common theme in all of these communal spaces is water. 

Delayed Cleanup and Maintenance Facilitates Mold Growth 

Undergrads are busy with studies and social lives, many savoring their first time living away from home in Tallahassee. Mold damage can get out of hand when housekeeping tasks are far down the to-do list. Dorm rooms can incubate molds in piles of damp laundry, kitchenettes can harbor mold when leaks are ignored, and study and party rooms offer moisture “hot spots” when beverages are knocked over and left unattended. 

Conventional Cleaning Methods Can Fail for Mold Remediation 

When your housekeeping staff finds mold damage in buildings on campus, they may unwittingly contribute to its spread. Mold spores are incredibly tiny and opportunistic, needing only oxygen and a small bit of moisture to swell and grow. The organism sends out hyphae as it grows, branching filaments that can delve deep into porous materials like drywall, ceiling tiles, wood, and even cracked and poorly sealed grout lines. Often the answer to visible mold is to use a diluted bleach solution sprayed on the surface. This treatment might fade a mold or mildew stain, but it cannot follow the wide-ranging hyphae that move far from the surface. As the water-heavy solution soaks structural components, it provides an additional source of moisture for mold, creating a rebound in the outbreak. SERVPRO manages the situation differently. 

Call in the Mold Remediation Experts     

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protocols for mold remediation are SERVPRO’s blueprint. They include: 

• Containment of the mold-infested area--traditional cleaning methods skip this step, permitting spores to travel 
• Removal by scraping, brushing, and abrasive methods like soda blasting to rid the area of colonies and incapacitate the hyphae thoroughly
• Cleaning of disturbed and settled spores and other debris with vacuums and wipe-downs with EPA-registered products
• Drying of the space and elimination of the moisture source to limit future outbreaks 

SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee has a reliable protocol and experience in mold remediation applicable in commercial settings. Call us at (850) 765-5706 to schedule a walkthrough and evaluation of mold damage in student living and recreating quarters today. 

Storm Damage and Water Loss: Tallahassee Residents Count on SERVPRO for Fast Restoration

9/7/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO water damage restoration technicians are called out to service a Tallahassee home after a storm passes through.

Immediate Actions Following Water Damage in Tallahassee Homes

As with many of the loss incidents that our experienced technicians get dispatched to address in Tallahassee homes, water emergencies have one of the shortest timetables to protect your property from irreparable damages. While this fact might encourage many to seek our professional experience and roster of qualified and certified SERVPRO restoration technicians accredited by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), there are still many who can approach this with a degree of confidence in attempting to dry out their properties on their own.

While water damage in Tallahassee homes can spread uncontrollably from the source, the spread can get slowed dramatically by stopping the flow from this breach. Finding the source of the damage is tracing the effects to the point where they are at their worst, though many water damage instances have clear points of origin. Once you have found the cause of the damage and stopped water flow to it, you are ready to take the steps that must happen immediately to preserve as much of the construction materials in your home as possible.

Content removal is vital at this stage, as it prevents unnecessary harm to your personal belongings and furniture throughout the affected areas. By only moving these items to an area that cannot become affected by the current conditions, our SERVPRO team can prevent considerable loss and replacement costs. For heavy furniture or because of limited room, we may place the legs or supports on high-density foam blocks or foil to protect the items.

We then focus on the extraction and drying of the damaged components and content to prevent this situation from getting any worse than it already is. Our SERVPRO team has advanced water removal and rapid drying solutions. With the combination of air movers and dehumidification equipment, our team can begin removing saturation from exposed materials.

Our SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee team is here to help in any way that you might need. Give us a call anytime, 24/7 at (850) 878-8885.

FL State Capitol HERE

SERVPRO Team Launches Back to School Teacher Appreciation Giveaway.

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO collects donations to shower a drawing winner for the Back to School Teacher Appreciation Giveaway.

After the first week of school was complete, SERVPRO gathered gifts from local vendors who wanted to participate in a Teacher Appreciation Giveaway. From good bites to boutique bucks, the gift basket is full of the cities favorite hot spots and services.

A huge thanks to Jeri’s Midtown Care, Bannerman Nutrition and Soleil 7 Salon and Spa for donating to our most worthy nominees!

Posting on social media to acquire the nominations, the SERVPRO marketing team saw floods of teacher names coming in, and they are set to draw the prize at the end of the week.

To continue the community connection, the team is doubling down to enter all of the gracious people that took the time to submit entries into a drawing of their own!

Our team is so grateful to be heading into another school year full of fun, connection and SERVice!

SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration Experts Are Ready To Serve Tallahassee Residents

7/26/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fire damage restoration experts were called out to a structure fire in Tallahassee to begin the restoration process immediately.

Fires that affect Tallahassee homes often come with multiple layers of damaging effects for homeowners to overcome. As overwhelming as these circumstances can be, there are ways that you can work to resolve some of the pressing and challenging lingering symptoms on your own with the right equipment and products. Knowing what you need for aspects like deodorization can help the process to complete more efficiently and to be more successful in the end. By looking at the tools that our SERVPRO team uses for this niche of fire recovery, you can too acquire some of this odor removal equipment for your property. 

Fire damage in Tallahassee might feel overwhelming at first, especially with various obstacles all present at the same time. Our SERVPRO team has certified Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT), many with additional endorsements as Odor Control Technicians (OCT), so we have experience and industry-leading equipment to make a difference quickly should you decide it is too much to handle on your own. Part of our success in fire recovery over the years stems from our ability to manage symptoms like lingering smoke odors amid these other effects. 

Regardless of the severity of fire damage incidents, odor control is a considerable phase in recovery and restoration. Our SERVPRO team has an entire inventory of practical deodorization tools and products that lead the industry, and when combined with our extensive experience in fire recovery, improve the speed and success of these odor removal endeavors. Some of these devices we use regularly are:  

-  Hydroxyl Machines – These units can help to reduce or eliminate harsh odors in a compromised environment. Units also work to filter out particulates, debris, dust, and soot circulating in the damaged areas of the property. 

-  Thermal Foggers – While our SERVPRO professionals lean more towards UV foggers for the elimination of lingering smoke odors, thermal fogging is still a powerful tool in our arsenal. These machines are highly portable, helping to address odors throughout the entire property quickly and efficiently. 

If you need our experienced SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee fire restoration specialists or a second opinion on the work you have done for your home, give us a call today at (850) 765-5706.

See more about Tallahassee.

Water Damage Causes in Florida and Solutions From the SERVPRO Experts

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

Teams gather to restore property in Tallahassee that has endured significant water damages.

Water damage is a serious issue that affects many areas of Florida, especially during the hurricane season. Flooding, broken pipes, and heavy rain can all cause water damage, which can lead to destruction of property, mold growth, and health hazards.

In Florida, hurricanes and tropical storms are common and pose a significant threat to homes and businesses. The strong winds and heavy rain associated with these storms can cause flooding, roof damage, and broken windows, all of which can result in water damage to buildings. Additionally, if left untreated, this water damage can result in mold growth, which can cause allergies and respiratory problems, particularly in vulnerable individuals such as children and the elderly.

Another significant cause of water damage in Florida is broken pipes. The hot and humid climate makes pipes susceptible to wear and tear, resulting in leaks that can cause extensive water damage. Such damage can be costly to repair, especially if it is left untreated and causes black mold to develop.

Moreover, heavy rain is also a contributing factor to water damage in Florida. The state receives an average of 54 inches of rainfall each year, and when it rains heavily, the excess water can flood residential and commercial properties. This can cause damage to floors, walls, furniture, and electrical appliances.

It is vital for property owners in Florida to take preventative measures to avoid water damage. These measures include regularly inspecting roofs and pipes, ensuring proper drainage, and installing flood-resistant materials. In cases where water damage has already occurred, it is essential to promptly contact a professional water restoration company that can mitigate the extent of the damage, assess the risk of mold growth, and remediate any mold that is present.

Our teamsare the most qualified, and experienced, in Tallahassee. With years of history and continued education provided by our nationally accredited franchise, we are the call you should make when disaster strikes.   

Water Damage Causes in Florida and Solutions From the SERVPRO Experts

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

Teams gather to restore property in Tallahassee that has endured significant water damages.

Water damage is a serious issue that affects many areas of Florida, especially during the hurricane season. Flooding, broken pipes, and heavy rain can all cause water damage, which can lead to destruction of property, mold growth, and health hazards.

In Florida, hurricanes and tropical storms are common and pose a significant threat to homes and businesses. The strong winds and heavy rain associated with these storms can cause flooding, roof damage, and broken windows, all of which can result in water damage to buildings. Additionally, if left untreated, this water damage can result in mold growth, which can cause allergies and respiratory problems, particularly in vulnerable individuals such as children and the elderly.

Another significant cause of water damage in Florida is broken pipes. The hot and humid climate makes pipes susceptible to wear and tear, resulting in leaks that can cause extensive water damage. Such damage can be costly to repair, especially if it is left untreated and causes black mold to develop.

Moreover, heavy rain is also a contributing factor to water damage in Florida. The state receives an average of 54 inches of rainfall each year, and when it rains heavily, the excess water can flood residential and commercial properties. This can cause damage to floors, walls, furniture, and electrical appliances.

It is vital for property owners in Florida to take preventative measures to avoid water damage. These measures include regularly inspecting roofs and pipes, ensuring proper drainage, and installing flood-resistant materials. In cases where water damage has already occurred, it is essential to promptly contact a professional water restoration company that can mitigate the extent of the damage, assess the risk of mold growth, and remediate any mold that is present.

Our teams are the most qualified, and experienced, in Tallahassee. With years of history and continued education provided by our nationally accredited franchise, we are the call you should make when disaster strikes.   

Getting Ahead of the Storm with Hurricane Preparedness Tips from the Pros

5/31/2023 (Permalink)

Family gathers to plan out hurricane/storm protocol and prevention.

As we enter hurricane season each year, it is important that we take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of ourselves and our loved ones. Hurricane preparedness involves a series of steps to protect our homes, businesses, and communities from the adverse effects of this natural disaster. In this medium general text, we will explore the steps necessary to practice hurricane preparedness.

The first step in practicing hurricane preparedness is to create a plan. This plan should involve a detailed outline of what to do before, during, and after the hurricane. It should include evacuation routes, safe shelter options, and methods of communication. It is essential to share this plan with family members and neighbors to ensure that everyone is aware of what to do in the event of a hurricane.

The next step is to prepare an emergency kit. This kit should contain essential items such as non-perishable food, water, medications, and first aid supplies. Other valuable items, such as important documents and cash, should also be included. An emergency kit may seem unnecessary, but in the event of a hurricane, it could mean the difference between life and death.

In addition to having an emergency kit, it is essential to safeguard your home. This can be achieved by installing storm shutters or boarding up windows and securing loose objects outside. It is also important to have a backup power source, such as a generator, to keep appliances and vital equipment running in the event of a power outage.

Another vital step in hurricane preparedness is staying informed. Stay up-to-date on hurricane tracking and potential dangers by listening to emergency broadcasts, news reports, and weather alerts. This will enable you to make informed decisions about evacuations and taking additional precautions.

In conclusion, hurricane preparedness is not just about being ready physically, but also mentally and emotionally. Creating a hurricane preparedness plan, stocking up on essential supplies, securing your home, and staying informed are all critical steps to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones. Remember, it is never too early to start preparing for the hurricane season.

Our teams are available around the clock to help community members prepare for the season, and we will be there when the storm hits as well to prove with are “Faster to Any Size Disaster.”

Our Technicians Can Restore Your Property After a Flood.

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO water damage experts are called out after flood damage is endured in Tallahassee structure.

Managing Flood Loss in Your Tallahassee Home Until Help Arrives

While flood disasters can be overwhelming and stressful for Tallahassee homeowners, especially coming on the heels of severe weather events that destroyed portions of the property, securing professional assistance quickly is a wise choice. With one of the most regarded storm relief teams in the state of Florida, we can mobilize quickly when homes and businesses are at risk. We have ready trailers stocked with industry-leading equipment to aid in extraction, drying, cleaning, and reducing mold growth potential.

Even with our fast response to these emergencies, even amid the storm, there are ways that a homeowner can help manage flood damage in their Tallahassee residence as well. It is important to note that while there are helpful objectives that property owners can manage until our SERVPRO team arrives at your home, it is only beneficial to do these tasks if it poses no risk or danger to you or your family. Understand your limitations, vulnerabilities in exposed areas of your home, and the progress of the rising water before you commit to any of these actions.

• Gather Sentimental Items – One of the most critical tasks that any homeowner can embark on is gathering the sentimental and irreplaceable items from their residence before you vacate the premises. While our SERVPRO professionals have a skilled approach with content management, it is often impossible for us to manage the recovery of flood damaged photographs and other keepsakes.

• Shut Off Other Utilities – Other utilities, especially your electric service, can become damaged with high flooding. The best solution to prevent a fatal situation where water can become electrically charged is to shut off the power to your residence if you know that substantial flooding is inevitable.

• Take Photos of the Current Damage – Your insurance company is going to want documentation and proof of the damage that your home has sustained. Even additional aid groups often require documentation and cataloging of how your property was affected by the severe weather incident, so having photographic evidence can help.

 Often flooding is challenging to avoid, even with barriers and damming that many homeowners attempt. Knowing how to overcome these damaging effects as they occur begins with securing the experience and skill of our SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee team. Our fast response team stays prepared to help with all storm loss incidents 24/7 at (850) 765-5706.

See more about Tallahassee.

Preparing For Storm Damage Is Crucial and Should Include Making Sure You Know How to Contact The Experts.

3/1/2023 (Permalink)

When storms are brewing, we may not think destruction is headed our way but sometimes the inevitable happens in Tallahassee. While storms can be beautiful, they can turn deadly in just moments. Being prepared will help minimize harm to people and bring less damage to your property. If you find yourself in the aftermath of a storm, let SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee turn your chaos back to normal.

A few ways to prepare for a storm with strong winds are:

• Have a flashlight readily available in case of a power outage
• Board up windows and doors ahead of time, if possible
• Secure loose items
• Have an emergency kit ready including non-perishable foods and water
• Make a plan ahead of time so your family will know what to do

Your local meteorologists will monitor the weather conditions in your area keeping you informed on what type of storm is happening. A storm Watch indicates they are watching for formations of specific types (flooding, severe thunderstorms, hail, tornadoes, etc.)  A storm Warning means there are property and life-threatening conditions occurring so you should take precautions.

Once the storm has subsided in Leon County, please continue to be careful walking about your structure as there could be loose debris, and compromised structures, etc. Wear boots, and gloves to help protect yourself but above all call the professionals at SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee to make your loss “Like it never even happened.”