Milwaukee Fire Restoration 101: Methods of Content Cleaning

2/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North uses Ultrasonic technology to clean soot from delicate items such as this porcelain figurine.

When a home or business sustains damage from a fire, much of its contents can often be saved and restored.  The experienced professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North are trained in multiple methods and technologies which can be used to restore your belongings. The following are specific systems and methods available at our facility. 

ULTRASONIC CLEANING

Ultrasonic technology uses a spectrum of sound frequencies, water, and cleaning solutions to remove debris and soot from non-porous items.  These frequencies range from 20,000-100,000 cycles per second, with various frequencies performing separate applications.  Lower frequencies can be used on sturdier items with heavy soil, and higher frequencies are safer for more delicate items.

ESPORTA WASH SYSTEM

The Esporta Wash System uses hydraulic action to force organic and inorganic contaminants out of items to be cleaned.  Commonly, these items are clothing, linens, and shoes.  The force applied is comparable to the force of waves crashing against a beach.  Esporta restores 90% of soft contents  damaged by odor, soot, grime, mold, and mildew to food-grade clean using sustainable, phosphate-free detergents.  

OZONE CHAMBER

Ozone generation is a process that removes smoke odor molecules by releasing additional oxygen into the air.  While ozone is often used in open air to deodorize a home, there are some safety concerns.  Ozone is most effective when utilized in a controlled environment such as an ozone chamber.  Contents and furniture that cannot fit into either the Ultrasonic system or Esporta are first cleaned by hand and then often placed into an ozone chamber to remove any lingering odors of smoke by eliminating the microorganisms that cause them.  Our dedicated ozone chamber is utilized for items with stubborn embedded odors that would otherwise be impossible to remove.  

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is an industry leader in fire restoration.  We have the technology needed to restore your home and belongings to their original state, reducing the amount of personal or sentimental items that would otherwise be unsalvageable.  We are here to help and here to answer your questions 24/7/365.  Give us a call at 414-354-7566!

Preventing Water Damage from Frozen Pipes in Your Milwaukee County Home

1/5/2023 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes are one of the biggest risks of property damage when the temperatures drop.

When temperatures dip during the winter, frozen pipes could be a concern for your home – but there are ways to prevent your property from disaster.  Here are some helpful facts from the American Red Cross:

To Prevent Frozen Pipes

• 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.

In the event you suffer water damage from frozen plumbing fixtures or ice damming, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help 24/7/365 at 414-354-7566.

A Happy Customer in New Berlin, WI

12/15/2022 (Permalink)

There is no greater compliment here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North than a 5 star recommendation from one of our customers!

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a Google review written by a customer in New Berlin WI who experienced damage in their home. Paul D. wrote:

"Judson and his SERVPRO Team were very professional, responsive, and diligent with their Water Damage Cleanup at our house. He gave us timelines of when each part of the project would be completed, He worked closely with our insurance claims adjuster to make sure communication between all of us was seamless. During the wood refinishing stage, when we couldn't walk on our floors. We knew by Judson's timetable, exactly what nights we were going to be spending in a hotel, and what nights our dog was going to be spending at a dog sitter. After our project was completed, they even had a professional cleaning crew come in and clean any part of our house (floors, nearby carpet, windows, cabinets) that were in the vicinity of the water damaged area. I would absolutely recommend Judson and his SERVPRO Team to anyone who needs this type of help."

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.

Milwaukee Fire Restoration 101: Structure Cleaning Methods

12/5/2022 (Permalink)

Our trained professionals use specialized methods to ensure that your home is restored completely from soot residue and odors.

In a study of 2018 fire activity published by the National Fire Protection Association, it is estimated that property owners experienced over $11 billion in fire losses across nearly half a million structures.  All of these events are unique in circumstance and severity.  Before a structure cleaning can begin, it is important to understand the cause and type of the fire as well as the materials affected.   The professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North are experienced in these scenarios and have the training necessary to restore your property fully to its pre-fire condition.

Here are some types of fires and subsequent methods of cleaning:

High Oxygen

High oxygen fires create a dry soot residue, so they are cleaned by first using a dry chemical sponge method.  Introducing moisture to a dry soot environment can further lodge the soot into building materials, so removing as much soot as possible before wet cleaning with a low-alkaline detergent and rinsing is crucial.

Low Oxygen

Due to the wet soot this type of fire causes, it must be cleaned with a wet method.  We use a high-alkaline detergent to wash walls and structural components. 

Kitchen/Grease

Often the most difficult and intricate fire to clean, kitchen fires present a soot residue that is often harder to detect.  Cabinets, drawers, appliances, etc. must often be removed for full access to all residue so that it may be properly removed to eliminate lingering odors.

Remember that SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is available 24/7/365 to restore your home or business after damage from fire.  Our professionals are highly trained and experienced in this type of cleaning, and will work hard to take the worry out of your restoration process.  Call us today at 414-354-7566!

Ice Dam Tips for Milwaukee Residents

12/1/2022 (Permalink)

Icicles hanging from your roof might be pretty, but they could be an indication that you may have an ice dam.

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas.  Ice dams usually occur after a heavy snowfall and several days of freezing temperatures. Frequently the result will be a water spot or leak from the ceiling or wall under the roof damage.

Tips for handling and preventing ice dams

• Don’t get on your roof yourself; it could be dangerous.
• Avoid standing on the ground and “chipping away” at the ice. Not only could this cause damage to your roof, but you can be seriously injured by falling ice and debris.
• Seal air leaks and duct air leaks in your attic to stop warm air leakage.
• Check your attic insulation, replace anything damaged, and add additional insulation. This prevents warm air from your home from getting in your attic.
• Provide adequate attic ventilation. Check to make sure attic insulation is not blocking roof ventilation. Your attic should be a temperature similar to the outdoor temperature.
• Clean leaves and other debris from gutters before the first snow. This will help prevent ice build-up in gutters.
• Have an energy specialist or air sealing professional do an in-home evaluation. A good specialist will use diagnostic equipment to evaluate the performance of your home and generate a customized list of improvements.

If you have experienced interior water damage in your home or business, please utilize the professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North.  Our trained technicians are available 24/7/365 to assist with your water emergencies. Call today at 414-354-7566.

5 Star Service for a Milwaukee County Business

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, it is our goal to exceed customer expectations.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, we understand that minimizing business interruption is crucial to business owners. We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service and complete the job efficiently and correctly!  We are available 24/7 for situations such as this. 

One such example comes from a Google review written by a customer in Mayville, WI who experienced damage in their business. Jackie M. wrote:

"Ryan and his team were quick to respond, got the work done quickly, all while being friendly to our staff and residents. We had a great experience with SERVPRO, and will certainly use them in the future!"

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our commercial clients are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.

5 Star Customer Service in Milwaukee, WI

10/15/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North we do what we say we are going to do. It is our goal to exceed customer expectations.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a Google review written by a customer in Milwaukee, WI who experienced a flooded basement in his home. Doug M. wrote:

"We had water in the basement and it damaged drywall, doors, carpet etc. SERVPRO came that day set up drying equipment and took care of everything with the insurance agent. When we called, we were in their phones and they would respond with our names. They run a very tight ship and did everything they said and more. I would highly recommend them."

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.

Milwaukee Fire Restoration 101: Structure Cleaning

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help with any fire, soot, or smoke damage that may occur in your home or business.

Navigating the destruction of a fire in your home or business can be stressful, but SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is IICRC certified, experienced, and ready to bring your property back to its preloss condition.  Fires, large or small, can cause a great deal of smoke and odor damage. The heat generated by a fire and air currents can carry soot, smoke and odor throughout your entire property.

Before reconstruction can begin, structural cleaning is necessary so new materials will not be contaminated from previous damage. Utilizing the most up to date equipment, products and technology, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North thoroughly cleans damaged areas of your structure.

Our process will ensure that odor causing materials and potentially hazardous conditions are removed and treated before reconstruction takes place.

We focus on removing smoke residues from the building’s structural components and neutralizing odors given off by the residues. Following basic principles of cleaning allows us to accomplish this task:

• Locate the smoke residues by carefully inspecting the affected area
• Identify the type of residues
• Capture and remove residues

When fire damage takes control of your life, we help you take it back. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is ready and waiting for your call 24/7/365. Contact us for more information at 414-354-7566.

Water Damage Time Line

9/5/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage doesn't wait; call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North now!

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.  We arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately! This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.  Here is some information on the timeline of a water damage event.

Within Minutes

Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.

Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.

Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.

Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

Drywall begins to swell and break down.

Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.

Furniture begins to swell and crack.

Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.

A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

Mold and mildew may grow and spread.

Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.

Metal begins to rust and corrode.

Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.

Paint begins to blister.

Wood flooring swells and warps.

Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.

Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

In the event you sustain water damage for any length of time, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help.  Call us today at 414-354-7566 for a no-cost assessment of your damage.

Fire Safety Tips to Protect Your Milwaukee Area Business

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

If you own a business, make sure you take all of the steps necessary to mitigate the risk of and prepare for a fire emergency.

One fire can completely destroy a company’s finances and productivity.  In severe instances, this risk can lead to a closure.  In addition to ensuring you are compliant with all fire safety codes, here are some tips to mitigate the threat fires pose to your business.

Have the Right Equipment

Make sure you have functioning smoke alarms and extinguishers in the workplace at all times.  A fire suppression system is also recommended.

Minimize Flammable Materials in Storage

Packaging materials, paper files and batteries, as well as other common office items can be highly flammable.  Minimize the amount of these materials kept in the workplace, and safely store those that are kept.

Manage Electronics Safely

When leaving for the day, always turn off everything plugged into an outlet.  Make sure electrical cords are not damaged as broken wires can start fires, and never allow circuits to be overloaded.

Regularly Check Fire Alarms

Conduct monthly checks to ensure that all fire alarms, as well as the systems that monitor the building, are functioning properly.  Alert employees therein to give them ample time to evacuate in the event of a fire.

Have a Written Plan

Write out a plan that includes evacuation protocols, fire prevention policies, emergency phone numbers, and all other matters pertaining to procedures.  Make sure all employees have access to the plan.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North can help create an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) to keep a digitally accessible record of your plan and important information.

In the event your business is affected by fire, smoke, or soot damage, don’t hesitate to call on the professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North.  We are here to help 24/7/365.  We can be reached at 414-354-7566.

Providing 5 Star Customer Service in Waukesha, WI

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, we aim to exceed customer expectations through caring and professionalism.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a review written on Facebook by a customer in Waukesha, WI who experienced a flooded basement in her home. Donna M. writes:

"I had a major water loss...SERVPRO came to the rescue and handled everything efficiently and professionally!!!"

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done. We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365.  Give us a call for help at 262-250-1101.

Milwaukee Fire Restoration 101: Levels of Fire Damage

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help answer your questions and restore your home to its preloss condition.

Levels of Fire Damage

Not all fires end with the same amount or level of damage. Fire damage is categorized into three different levels: minor, moderate, and major.  The trained professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North will assess your damage and provide a plan of action to restore each unique fire loss.

Minor Fire Damage

• Smoke residue is light and contained to certain rooms or areas. 
• Restoration may involve dry cleaning and/or wet cleaning of ceilings, walls, floors and contents. 
• Areas may need to be repainted, and minimal items may need to be replaced. 

Moderate Fire Damage

• Smoke residue is moderate, and more materials require wet cleaning. 
• Multiple areas require repainting, and the number of items requiring replacement multiplies.
• Floors may require refinishing. 
• Heat damage requires more materials to be replaced. 
• Smoke orders are noticeable and the structure may require additional deodorization.  

Major Fire Damage

• Smoke residue is present through a large portion of the structure.  
• Smoke odor is much stronger, even overwhelming. 
• Heat damage is severe.
• Structural framing and finishes may be charred, requiring structural repairs. 
• Emergency services are needed.  These include boarding up, establishing a source of electricity, winterizing the building in cold weather, and removing smoke-filled and charred debris.
• Restoration will require extensive cleaning of the structure.
• Contents that are salvageable will be moved off-site for cleaning.  
• Multiple methods of deodorization are needed to remove smoke odors.

A fire of any size is one of the most devastating events a home or business owner can encounter. Each smoke and fire damage situation is different, and each requires a unique solution.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore fire and smoke damage.  It is our number one priority to treat your family with respect and your property with care.  Call us today at 414-354-7566 for a no cost assessment. 

Being Prepared in Waukesha County: Pack a Severe Weather Emergency Kit

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

The United States ranks highest as the country with the most tornadoes. Canada places second.

Despite the fact that meteorologists are now better able to predict them, tornadoes can strike with little warning. Therefore, it’s best to be prepared well before a tornado approaches. One way to be prepared is to compile an emergency kit.  Here are some suggested items:

Water

Have a purification kit and enough water to last 72 hours

Food

Plan enough food to last 72 hours, plasticware, and some means of preparation

First Aid Kit

Include supplies to treat minor wounds and keep larger wounds under control

Medication

Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medication, and prescriptions

Waterproof Clothing

Boots, jackets, pants, and warm clothing

Flashlight

Don’t forget the batteries!

Blankets and Pillows

Protect your head, neck, and body from falling debris with a heavy blanket and fluffy pillow

Toilet Kit

Sanitation and hygiene is extremely important! Include some wet wipes

Extra Supplies

Remember to pack any necessary supplies for your babies, kids, elderly parents, or pets, if applicable

NOAA Weather Radio

Stay updated with the current conditions.  Download the app too!

Important Documents

Make sure to keep all of your important documents in a sealed waterproof container away from an area that can flood

Things to Do

Books, crosswords, games, and other items to keep yourself and loved ones occupied while waiting out the storm.

When the storm is over, if you find that you have property damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North right away for help.  We have crews available 24/7 for tarp up and board up as well as water mitigation services. 

Ejector Pump Vs Sump Pump: What's the Difference?

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help take the stress out of water damage clean up. We are available 24/7/365.

EJECTOR PUMP

Most homes are built so gravity can transport waste to the sewer system. For this to be possible, the home must be higher than the sewer pipes so the waste can drain properly. Sometimes, however, this isn’t possible because of a home’s location or because of plumbing in the basement that reaches deeper than the main sewer lines. In these instances, an ejector pump, sometimes called a sewage pump, is used to force sewage out of the home’s plumbing.

One of the biggest differences between an ejector pump and a sump pump is that an ejector pump has the ability to move solid waste with water pressure.  The ejector pump breaks up solid waste to force it farther down the line and out to the main sewer.  Without an ejector pump, basement bathrooms and any plumbing below the main sewer level would be unable to clear waste. The result would be sewage backing up into the home. 

SUMP PUMP

A sump pump provides a different function than an ejector pump. Sump pumps do not deal with waste or sewage at all. Instead, a sump pump sits in a pit beneath your home. This pit is drainage for excess water that builds up during rainstorms, snowmelt, or flooding of any sort. When excess water accumulates in your sump pit, the sump pump expels the water out through pipes that drain to an exterior location far enough from your home to not cause any issues or backflow. Without a sump pump, basements could be flooded every time it rains. A sump pump ensures that you keep a dry home, even when torrential storms rage outside.

Sump pumps are mostly found in wet climates or where basements are prevalent. They are less common in dry areas or where basements are not popular.

Sump pumps cannot be joined to a sewer line. Instead, they must drain outside. Sump pumps also cannot handle debris. They generally have a screen or grate on the intake so the pump doesn’t suck up anything that could damage and ruin the pump. Sump pumps are meant to transport water only.

While each of these is important in its own right, ejector pumps and sump pumps are different tools that perform very different jobs. Ejector pumps push waste and sewage uphill to remove it from plumbing that’s below the main sewer level. Sump pumps stop your basement from flooding by evacuating water that accumulates from natural sources. If you require one of these pumps but don’t have it, the results could be disastrous.  

In the event you do sustain damage from a failed ejector pump or sump pump, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help 24/7/365.  Give us a call at 414-354-7566 for a no-cost assessment of your water damage situation.

Providing 5 Star Service to Milwaukee County Business Owners

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

There is no greater compliment here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North than a 5 star recommendation from one of our customers!

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a Google review written by a customer in Waukesha, WI who experienced damage in his business. Rick K. wrote:

"Water main broke in our office building. Called SERVPRO at 8:45am, team of Jeff, Drew, Rick, Lawrence and Antonio were here by 10am. with all equipment to begin damage mitigation. Very impressed with their knowledge, professionalism and their focus on making sure we understood the complete process. Can't ask for better service!"

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.

A Happy Customer in New Berlin, WI

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

We pride ourselves in our problem solving skills here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North. We are always Here to Help.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage or other emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a Google review written by a customer in New Berlin, WI who experienced a disaster in his home. Bob L. wrote:

"It did take a little while to get someone out to our house due to a communication issue but once they arrived, the team did a great job. They performed a detailed evaluation of the damage, discussed alternatives, provided an estimate of the fees and began the work. The teams were very professional, thorough and did a great job of the clean up. They even helped us to remove some damaged items from the basement."

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.  

Flood Insurance and Water Backup Coverage: What’s the Difference?

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

Water in your basement? The professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North are here to help!

Spring and Summer in Milwaukee County is a happy time for so many home and business owners who are ready for warmer weather, and sunshine!  We Midwesterners look forward to that first day on or in the water.  So what happens when that water we love so much finds its way into our basements?  How can property owners recover losses to their property from flood waters?  

Water/Sewer Backup Coverage

Most homeowners insurance policies come with an optional endorsement for water backup and sump discharge/overflow which will cover losses, up to a certain limit, caused by the backup of water or waterborne materials through a sewer or through a drain. It will also cover water or waterborne material that overflows from a sump, even if the backup of water is due to the mechanical breakdown of the sump pump. Coverage includes damage to property but excludes the sump pump and any related equipment that has broken down.  Contact your insurance professional for more information about this coverage and its limits.

The endorsement does not cover damages caused by a flood. A separate flood insurance policy needs to be obtained to cover losses due to flooding.

Flood Insurance

What is a flood?  The dictionary defines “flood” as rising and overflowing of water onto normally dry land. For the purpose of insurance, “rising” is the key to distinguish flood damage from water damage. Basically damage that has occurred from water that has been on the ground at some point before causing damage to your home is considered flood damage, and would not be covered by your homeowners insurance policy.

Flooding can happen anywhere; even if your home is not in a flood plain.  Flood insurance is available to all homeowners who live in a participating community, which must enforce floodplain ordinances and building requirements that meet or exceed FEMA guidelines. If your community does not participate in the NFIP, you can make a request for it to do so through your mayor, city council or county commissioner’s office.  Contact your insurance professional for more information about this coverage and its limits.

In the event you do sustain property damage from any type of flooding, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help.  We are available 24/7/365 at 414-354-7566 for your emergencies.

Water in your basement? The professionals at SERVPRO of Libertyville/North Chicago City/Lake Bluff are here to help!

Milwaukee Fire Restoration 101: Types of Soot

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Soot webs were caused by wet soot formed during a house fire.

There are two different types of soot: wet and dry. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North will test the soot to determine which type of damage occurred. The cleaning procedure we use will then be based on the information identified during pretesting.

Wet Soot - Plastic and Rubber

• Low Heat,
  smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Creates smoke webs that are more difficult to clean.
• Example: plastics, synthetics, household fires

Dry Soot - Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
• Example: organic materials, wildfires

Protein Soot - Food products

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 
• Example: grease or food, kitchen fires

A fire is one of the most devastating events a home or business owner can encounter. Each smoke and fire damage situation is different, and each requires a unique solution for the specific situation.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore fire and smoke damage.  It is our number one priority to treat your family with respect and your property with care.

Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North today at 414-354-7566 for a free inspection to assess your unique situation.

Tornado Warning vs. Tornado Watch in Milwaukee, WI

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

The United States experiences an average of 1,000 or more tornadoes every year.

What’s the difference between a tornado warning and a tornado watch?

Both tornado watches and tornado warnings are issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)/ National Weather Service. However, there are critical differences between the two alerts. 

Tornado Watch 

Conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop. Be alert to changes in the weather, account for all family members, and listen to local radio and TV stations for updated storm information. Move cars inside and keep car and house keys with you. If time permits, move lawn furniture and equipment inside to minimize flying debris. If a tornado siren sounds, stay inside and take cover.

Tornado Warning

A tornado has actually been spotted or is indicated on weather radar in your area. This means danger is imminent and you may only have seconds to take cover!

In the event that your home or business sustains damage caused by the high winds of a tornado, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North can help!  24/7/365 emergency service is available for board up, tarp up, and water mitigation. 

Types of Commercial Sprinkler Systems

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Choosing the right sprinkler system for your facility can save thousands of dollars in damage should you sustain a fire loss.

Commercial fire sprinkler systems are designed to expel water until they are shut down manually. Choosing the appropriate system for your property and occupancy can mitigate possible water damage.

Wet Pipe System

Most common

• Pipes are filled with water
• Heat from a fire triggers the system and opens the sprinklers closest to the fire
• Usually, only one or two sprinklers open

Dry Pipe System

For areas with below freezing temperatures

• Pipes are filled with pressurized air or gas used to hold water back in a heated space. 
• Heat from a fire opens the sprinklers closest to the fire 
• Air escapes and the dry pipe valve opens to allow water flow
• Usually, more sprinklers open than with a wet pipe system

Deluge System

For use in hazardous environments prone to fast-spreading fires

• Pipes are not filled with water or gas
• All sprinklers stay open
• A signal from a fire detection device opens the deluge valve
• Water will flow from all sprinklers

Pre-Action System

For areas where concerns or water or fire damage to property are high

• Pipes are filled with pressurized air or gas
• Loss of air or gas pressure summons maintenance
• A signal from a fire detection device opens the pre-action valve, filling the pipes with water
• Because sprinkler heads are closed, heat from a fire opens the sprinklers closest to the fire
• Usually only one or two sprinklers open (similar to the wet pipe system). However, ”double interlock” pre-action systems use more air or gas pressure in the pipes. That will delay the water delivery and allowing more sprinklers to open at a time (similar to dry pipe systems)

In the event that your business or building sustains damage from water or fire, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is Here to Help.  We have the advanced expertise and technology to minimize loss of use in your facility.  Call us for your emergencies 24/7/365 at 414-354-7566.

Exceeding Expectations in Cedarburg, WI

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, we have the expertise and training to take on an overwhelming disaster and make it manageable. We are Here to Help.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a Google review written by a customer in Cedarburg, WI who was overwhelmed with a full home cleanup. Cindy B. writes:

"When my brother went to the hospital, we saw what had become of his apartment and knew the only service to call was SERVPRO. We were not disappointed. They tackled what seemed to us an insurmountable job - smoking for over a decade, no real cleaning for a long period of time, and toilet overflows that ruined a bathroom floor. Jonathan and the crew that removed that bathroom floor and the toilet and vanity and the horribly stained couch did a wonderful job with a great attitude. Veronica led a great team of gals who tackled those floors and ceilings and made everything almost like new. It was not inexpensive but worth every dollar. Now my brother can have a new fresh start when he is released from the Rehabilitation Facility. Thank you to this wonderful team and Kevin Galang who worked so hard to get it done in a timely fashion and stayed within our budget."

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.

Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Maintaining your sump pump could potentially save thousands in water damage.

When was the last time you maintained your sump pump?  Here are some tips to show your sump pump some love and keep your basement dry as we enter the rainy season of spring.

1. Make sure your sump pump is totally upright. Your sump pump should be sitting on solid, even ground. Any sort of leaning can shift the water in the pump’s pit and put unnecessary pressure on its components.
2. Open it up. Take the cover off the sump pump pit or basin and have a look inside. Clear any debris, mud or rocks that you find, as any foreign items can clog your sump pump and cause an overflow.
3. Double-check the drain hose. Check to make sure the drain hose is connected, and that it’s not blocked or frozen. A clogged drain hose can cause your sump pump to run continuously, as it won’t be able to dispose of the water that’s filled its pit.
4. Clear out the inlet screen. Make sure the inlet screen is allowing water to enter your sump pump’s pit. If your inlet screen is blocked, water won’t be able to make its way into the sump pump’s pit and could lead to a basement flood.
5. Keep it afloat. Your sump pump’s float controls when it will turn on and pump excess water out. Make sure the float component can move freely and isn’t blocked. A malfunctioning float can cause your pump to not run when it’s supposed to, or run constantly, eventually burning out your pump’s engine.
6. Make sure it’s flowing away from your house. The next time you hear your sump pump running, go outside and make sure its discharge pipe is pumping the water away from your home at a safe distance. If it’s too close, the water could seep back into your pump, causing your pump to run continuously and inefficiently. The more your sump pump runs, the more likely it is to burn out early in its life span.  

   While you don’t want your discharge pipe too close to your house, shed, garage or other structure, make sure it does stay on your property. You’ll have some unhappy neighbors if your sump pump is pushing your excess water onto their lot.

7. Give your sump pump a test run. Fill the pit with a bucket of water to turn your pump on. Watch it carefully to see if it’s getting rid of the water, then check the discharge pipe outside to make sure it’s disposed of properly. If the pump doesn’t run, make sure it’s plugged in and its power cord is in working order.
8. Plan for the unexpected. Having a backup battery or generator can be crucial if a strong rain storm comes complete with a power outage. And eventually, your sump pump may give out without the help of a power outage. To avoid the stress of trying to buy and install a new sump pump while the water seeps closer and closer to your basement, have a backup sump pump handy — and be sure to test it regularly, too.
9. Call a professional. You’ve checked the power cords, discharge pipe, inlet screen and every other piece of the pump, but still can’t figure out what’s wrong. It’s time to call a professional! Risking your basement and everything else in it isn’t worth maintaining your pride as a handyman or woman — get it fixed and fast!

If worse comes to worst, and you do have a backup and need assistance with damage from water or sewage, call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for 24/7 help at 414-354-7566.

Milwaukee Fire Restoration 101: Pretesting

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire why is pretesting so important?

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, fire damage professionals use pretesting to determine the scope of the loss, type of fire loss, and the method of cleaning for areas that have been affected. This process also helps determine what items are restorable or repairable vs. those items that will need to be replaced. 

Factors determined by pretesting:

• Method of Cleaning
• Condition of Surface
• Level of Soil
• Type of Soil
• Pre-Existing Conditions

Pretesting helps to ensure our customers are back into their homes as soon as possible, within a realistically accurate time estimate. For help 24/7/365, don't hesitate to call on the professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North today at 414-354-7566.  We are here to help.

Providing 5 Star Commercial Service in Milwaukee, WI

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, it is our goal to get you back to business as quickly as possible using our experience and technology.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, we understand that minimizing business interruption is crucial to business owners. We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service and complete the job efficiently and correctly.  We are available 24/7 for situations such as this. 

One such example comes from a Google review written by a customer in Milwaukee, WI who experienced a flood in her business. Justina P. wrote:

"We had such a great experience! Our water emergency happened after normal business hours but the SERVPRO team came promptly after we called them and worked into the early morning hours so we could open for business the next day. They were sure to come and check the status of our facility when they said they would and explained everything they were doing/checking. While having an emergency like this is never ideal, they helped make the process as stress free as possible. I would definitely recommend this location to others!"

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our commercial clients are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.

Roof Snow Removal Tips to Prevent Damaging Ice Dams in Southeast Wisconsin

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help 24/7/365 with your winter weather water damage emergencies.

Snow and ice storms on top of already large snow accumulation make snow removal from roofs a growing concern in the Midwest.  Removing snow completely from a roof surface can result in serious damage to the roof covering and possibly lead to leaks and additional damage, according to the Snow Load Safety Guide, published as part of the Risk Management Series by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA says that at least two inches of snow should be left on the roof.

Most of the time, it’s better to leave the snow alone if you can, because removing it can pose a risk to the workers and the structure. But if you do have to get the snow off the roof, here are some tips from FEMA for removing snow safely and effectively.

DON’T

• Use mechanical snow removal equipment. The risk of damaging the roof membrane or other rooftop items outweighs the advantage of speed.
• Use sharp tools, such as picks, to remove snow. Use plastic rather than metal shovels.
• Stockpile snow on the roof.

DO

• Remove drifted snow first at building elevation changes, parapets and around equipment.
• Remove any snow remaining after you’ve removed drifts from the center portion of the roof.
• Remove snow in the direction of the primary structural elements on the roof to prevent unbalanced snow loading.
• Keep snow away from building exits, fire escapes, drain downspouts, ventilation openings and equipment.
• Remove snow starting at the ridge and moving toward the eave for gable and sloped roofs whenever possible.
• Use a non-metallic rake for steep snow roofs if possible to avoid damage to roofing materials.
• Have someone below the roof to keep foot traffic away from locations where falling snow or ice could cause injuries.
• Be careful of dislodged icicles whenever you’re removing snow from a roof because an icicle falling from even a short height can still cause damage or injury.
• Be prepared for roof snow to slide while you’re using a roof rake, and stay a safe distance away from the eave of the roof to be sure you’re out of sliding range.

If you do experience water damage or collapse caused by an ice dam or heavy snow, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has skilled workers standing by to help.  We are available 24/7/365 to assist with your water damage emergencies.  Call 414-354-7566 for help.

When Disaster Strikes, Customers Can Count on a Best in Class Brand

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO ranks #1 in the Cleaning and Restoration category for the 19th consecutive year.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is proud to announce that SERVPRO has been recognized again as one of the best overall franchise opportunities by Entrepreneur magazine’s 2022 Franchise 500, the industry’s most comprehensive franchise ranking. Evaluated on categories such as growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power, SERVPRO® was named the #8 overall franchise system, and #1 in the cleaning and restoration industry for the 19th consecutive year!

“SERVPRO is built on the foundation of outstanding customer service, industry-leading training and the success of following a proven system,” said former SERVPRO CEO Rick Isaacson. “On behalf of the more than 1,900 SERVPRO franchises across the U.S. and Canada, we are honored by this recognition. 

“The SERVPRO brand and its franchisees share a strong partnership, working together to set and achieve goals which have allowed us to grow each year for more than half a century despite the challenges many businesses have faced, especially over the past 18-24 months.”

“The past year has been one of the most challenging for businesses in recent memory, which made putting together our 43rd annual Franchise 500 list more enlightening than ever,” said Entrepreneur Editor in Chief Jason Feifer. “The companies named to this year’s list showed us how being resilient, supportive and nimble can help navigate extraordinary challenges and also underscore the grit and innovation that define entrepreneurship.”

SERVPRO franchise owners pride themselves on being “ready for whatever happens,” Isaacson said, which helped the company jump two spots from its #10 ranking in 2021.

“Our franchisees have a ‘never say no’ mentality, working together with other owners to make sure we are able to satisfy all of our customers’ and clients’ cleanup, remediation and restoration needs, which allows us to ‘Keep it Green,’ as we like to say.

“We pride ourselves on rushing in when others are running out – whether that is in response to a natural disaster such as a hurricane, flood or tornado; cleaning up after a home or business water or fire loss; or helping clean and sanitize spaces from unseen threats like COVID-19. Maintaining our position for nearly 20 years as the best franchise in our category on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 list validates our long-standing strategy for growing our brand: invest in franchisee training and support and commit resources to continually improving our infrastructure.”

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is available to assist with damage of any severity 24/7 in your home or business.  Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566. 

Source: SERVPRO Industries, LLC

After the Storm: Assessing Health and Property Damage in Milwaukee

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Winter storms can cause major damage to your home. Inspect the exterior and interior after a storm and call us if you need help!

After a severe winter storm, there is much to assess.  The number one concern is the physical well being of yourself and your family.  Secondly, you’ll want to assess any damage to your property.  Here are some tips for both from the American Red Cross and FEMA:

Check for Frostbite

Frostbite can cause loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers, and toes. Signs may include numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, and firm or waxy skin. Actions to take include going to a warm room, soaking in warm water, and using body heat to warm. Do not massage or use a heating pad

Check for Hypothermia

Hypothermia is an unusually low body temperature. A temperature below 95 degrees is an emergency. Signs could include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness.  Action to take include going to a warm room, warming the center of the body first—chest, neck, head, and groin. Keep dry and wrapped up in warm blankets, including the head and neck.

Make a careful and thorough inspection of your home’s structural elements

1. Check the outside of your home before you enter
2. Look for loose power lines, broken or damaged gas lines, foundation cracks, missing support beams or other damage. Damage on the outside can indicate a serious problem inside. Ask a building inspector or contractor to check the structure before you enter.
3. Is your ceiling sagging? That means it got wet – which makes it heavy and dangerous. It will have to be replaced.
4. If power is out, use a flashlight.  Do not use any open flame, including candles, to inspect for damage or serve as alternate lighting.
5. Take photographs of the damage. You may need these to substantiate insurance claims later.

If you do find damage, call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for help.  We are experienced in these situations, and we know what to do next.  We are a preferred vendor for most insurance companies, and we can help with your claim if you choose to file one.  We are here to help 24/7/365.

Milwaukee Fire Restoration 101: Safety First

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

House fires have many sources. This one was caused in a kitchen by a dishwasher malfunction.

After your fire has been put out you may be left with the question, “What should I do next?”  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North can help.  We will walk you through your next steps. Safety is our number one concern until help arrives, so here are some basic do’s and don'ts:

Do:

• Hire a reputable, insured company to board up your home or business to secure it from the elements, animals, and vandals.
• Limit the movement of damaged areas
• Keep your hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.

Don't:

• Touch contaminated surfaces
• Attempt to clean walls, carpet, contents, or other contaminated surfaces
• Use food, cosmetics or mediations exposed to soot.
• Send clothing to ordinary cleaner; improper cleaning may set odors

No one wants to experience a fire in their home or business.  If you experience this and need help, please give us a call at 414-354-7566.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has the expertise and experience to assist you in the cleanup and restoration of your property.  We are here to help 24/7/365 with the board up and securing of your property.

During the Storm: Winter Storm Safety in Northern Milwuakee

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Winter storms can be deadly. Staying safe is the #1 concern!

Milwaukee winters can be brutal, with severe storms causing widespread damage and injuries.  Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion.  Here are a few tips from FEMA on how to be smart and stay safe during a winter storm:

Stay off roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, stay inside

Limit your time outside

If you need to go outside, wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia

Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning

Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven

Reduce the risk of a heart attack. Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow

Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia and begin treatment right away

Check on neighbors. Older adults and young children are more at risk in extreme cold

Keeping yourself and loved ones safe during these storm events is always the number one concern.  After the storm, if you need assistance with property damage or water intrusion, please call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for assistance.  We are always here to help 24/7/365.

Pre-Storm Winter Storm Preparedness in Northern Milwaukee

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Winter storms can cause damage and injury. It is important to be as educated and prepared as possible.

Winter storms and blizzards in Wisconsin can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds. It is important to be prepared to protect yourself and your property from these winter storm events.  Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion.  Here are a few tips from FEMA that can help:

Know your area’s risk

Extreme winter weather can leave communities without utilities or other services for long periods of time. 

Prepare your home to keep out the cold

Check insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups

Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms

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.

Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. 

Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights. 

Create an emergency supply kit for your car

Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. Keep the gas tank full.

Learn the signs of and basic treatments for frostbite and hypothermia

Taking a first aid or emergency resuscitation (CPR) course is a good way to prepare for health problems related to cold weather. Knowing what to do is an important part of protecting your health and the health of others.

In the event that your home sustains damage from a winter storm, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at 414-354-7566. Our trained professionals are standing by 24/7/365 to assist with your emergencies.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and reassurance.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North today at 414-354-7566 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

10 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes in your Milwaukee County Home

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

A burst pipe can release up to 12 gallons of water per minute, causing a disastrous amount of water damage.

Frozen or burst pipes are expensive problems that homeowners dread facing during blustery Midwest winters.  Here are ten simple tips for homeowners to help prevent the frustration and mess of this common plumbing nightmare.

Insulate Pipes 

This is a relatively inexpensive task that could save you thousands in potential repairs. When insulating, pay particular attention to pipes in unheated, interior spaces of your home, such as in your attic, garage or basement.  The most common kinds of pipe insulation are made from fiberglass, polyethylene or foam

Open Cabinet Doors

 Keep kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors open during particularly cold temps to promote warm air circulation around plumbing fixtures.  You may need to find a temporary home for any household chemicals if you have children or curious pets.

Keep Thermostat Settings Consistent 

This may cost you a little more overall, but the cost is a small fraction of the potential damage caused by a burst pipe. 

Seal Crawl Spaces

 If your winter looks like it will be especially bitter, you will probably need to temporarily cover any ventilated crawl spaces in your home, which will reduce the amount of cold air surrounding your pipes.

Use Heating Tape 

This is helpful in exterior spaces that are harder to quickly access.  There are two different kinds of heating tape you can use — self-monitoring and manual. The first type of heating tape has a sensor and turns on and off by itself whenever it senses that the pipe needs more heat. The manual type of heating tape requires you to plug it in whenever heat is needed and unplug it once the pipe is warm.  Like any heating system, electrical heating tape can be dangerous. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety procedures when applying it to your pipe systems.

Keep Garage Doors Closed

This is an easy one!  A garage door accidentally left open leaves any water supply lines vulnerable to freezing temperatures, which is a disaster waiting to happen.

Let Faucets Drip

Running water, even a small trickle, carries more energy than standing water.  Friction warms the water slightly, making it more unlikely to freeze.  This will also relieve pressure in pipes which could save them from bursting even if they do freeze.

Seal Cracks and Openings  

Perform an inspection of your home. Do you find any cracks or openings?  Caulk these areas to keep excess frigid air from entering your home.

Open Interior Doors

This will help keep temperature consistent through your home.  

Keep the Heat On 

It may be tempting to turn off the heat to save on energy bills while you are out of town, but keeping the thermostat above 55 degrees or higher is appropriate to keep your pipes safe from freezing.

Even if you diligently maintain your home, you may still sustain damage from frozen plumbing.  In the event you need immediate help, call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North any time at 414-354-7566.  We are here to help 24/7/365 and will even call a plumber for you if needed.

Fireplace Safety Tips for Milwaukee Area Homeowners

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

According to the latest statistics available, there are over 25,000 Chimney Fires per year in the US that are responsible for over 125 million dollars

It’s getting to be that time of year again where the nights are getting colder and people will begin to use their fireplaces to help heat their homes.  Fireplaces are fun and safe, but if not used or maintained properly, they could cause a fire.  By following some basic safety tips, you can enjoy your fireplace all season long.

Make sure you have all the proper equipment in place.  This should include a fireplace screen, fireplace tools such as a poker, shovel, tongs, and possibly heat resistant gloves.  There should be a metal bucket or container nearby for ash removal.

To enjoy an evening by the fire, follow these simple operating instructions:  Open the chimney damper all the way.  Place the fire starter or kindling under the grate and place two to three dry logs on the grate.  After lighting the fire, make sure that the smoke rises up the chimney flue.  If you are using a natural gas log starter, make sure you only leave it on to start the fire then shut off the gas.

Finally, here are some basic safety tips for all fireplace users:  At the beginning of each year, make sure to have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional chimney sweep.  When burning wood, it should be dry seasoned wood.  Burning wet, unseasoned wood will cause more creosote build-up in the chimney which could increase your chance for a chimney fire.  Never use flammable liquids or an excessive amount of paper to start a fire in your fireplace.  When using a manufactured log, burn only one log at a time and never add regular firewood to the fire.  These logs burn as hot as eight pieces of normal wood, and adding anything to them will increase the chance of a chimney fire.  Never close a damper with hot ashes in the fireplace.  This can cause a heat buildup which can cause a fire to flare up.  Hot coals can be located in ashes for up to 72 hours after a fire.  All of the coals and ashes should be cool prior to removing them.  Once you remove them, place them in a sealed metal container; never dispose of them in a trash can.

In the event you sustain damage from a fireplace mishap, please don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at 414-354-7566 for help.

Fire Pit Safety for your Milwaukee Home or Business

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

According to the United States Fire Administration, it takes less than 30 seconds for a small flame to get completely out of control.

Surrounding oneself with family and friends around an outdoor fire pit is a fun pastime as the weather begins to cool.  While these gatherings are forever memorable, please ensure they are the good type of memorable by following these safety tips.

• Check the weather.  If winds greater than 15 MPH are in the forecast, do not ignite the fire pit at your gathering.

• With weather permitting, make a fire pit and clear all brush from the area.  No structures within 25 feet of the fire pit should be present.

• The safest way to start a fire is with small kindling.  If you must use charcoal lighter fluid, make sure to seal the container and keep it far away from the fire.  Never use lighter fluid once the fire has started.

• The size of a recreational fire should be no more than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high.

• Keep a bucket of water and garden hose nearby.

• Never use an accelerant such as gasoline, diesel fuel, or kerosene.

• Do not spray aerosols or toss canisters or fireworks into the fire.

• Keep a safe distance from the fire, and don’t horse around.

• Avoid consuming alcohol near the fire pit.

• Make sure to put the fire out completely.  Stir the ashes and dou7se thoroughly with water.

Most villages and townships do not allow open burn of garbage, automobile tires, papers, trash, leaves, foliage, clippings, brush, and trees and grass clippings.  Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits are permitted only when firewood is used for recreational purposes in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

In the event you sustain damage from a fire pit mishap, please don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at 414-354-7566 for help.

A 5 Star Customer Experience in Richfield, WI

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

There is no greater compliment here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North than a 5 star recommendation from one of our customers!

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a review written on Google by a customer in Richfield, WI who experienced property damage.  Andrew W. writes:

"Best restoration company, emergency service A+, cleaning service A+, Mold service A+. Would NOT use anyone else but the SERVPRO team!"

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done. We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365.  Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.

Storm Preparedness in Milwaukee, WI: Emergency Supplies

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is proud to be a partner of the American Red Cross both corporately and locally since 2013.

You may not be at home when a storm starts, so it is important to have basic supplies of food and water as well as a way to stay warm without power in several locations such as your workplace, vehicle, and/or school.  You can build your supplies over time by adding a few items each week or month.  For a complete list of emergency supplies, visit www.ready.gov/kit.  Check these supplies off of your Winter Storm Preparedness Checklist once you add them to your emergency kit, which appears at the end of this document.

• Emergency Communication

Make sure you have everything you will need to get in touch with your family either through cellular phones or email.

• Medical Needs

Be equipped to tend to any current or unexpected medical conditions your family members may have.  Ask your doctor about storing prescription meds such as at least a three days’ supply of heart and blood pressure medication, insulin for diabetics, and other prescription drugs such as inhalers for those with asthma.  Include battery backup power for power-dependent mobility devices, oxygen, and other assistive technology needs.

• Critical Documents

Place any important documents in a sealed, waterproof container to keep them dry and easily accessible.

• Tools and Safety Items

Small items like matches, flashlights, a multi-tool, pocket knife, and a whistle (to signal for help) can make a huge difference for your family while weathering a storm. 

• Food/Supplies

Have at least a three-days’ supply of non-perishable food and water for your family. Remember to store anything specific to your family’s needs. 

• Warm Clothing and Blankets

Warm clothes and blankets can help prevent hypothermia. Do not forget warm, waterproof, and protective footwear as well as gloves.

In the event that your home or business is damaged by severe weather, please don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for assistance.  Our team is available 24/7/365 for your water damage emergencies as well as a variety of other property repairs.

Christmas Tree Safety in Waukesha County Homes

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

U.S. firefighters respond to roughly 200 Christmas tree fires per year. Follow these tips to stay safe this holiday season.

Don’t let a house fire disrupt your holidays.  The most common sources of winter holiday fires are live Christmas trees and holiday decorations that are too close to a heat source, candles, and cooking fires.  Although these fires are rare, they do occur, and they can be destructive and deadly.  The following are a few tips to help make your Holidays safe from fire.

When purchasing a live Christmas tree, safety starts before you even head to the tree lot.  If you live in a condo or apartment, there is likely a restriction against live Christmas trees.  Be sure to check with your HOA or management company for any rules or restrictions before choosing a tree.  At the tree lot, look for a fresh, green tree!

Checking Your Tree

• Bend the needles.  If they break, the tree has probably already dried out.
• Grip a branch and slide your fist down it.  Most of the needles should stay on the tree.
• Check the trunk, especially at the bottom where it’s cut.  It should be covered in sap and sticky to the touch.
• Shake the tree.  If green needles fall everywhere, it’s too dry.

Before bringing the tree inside, shake it to dislodge loose needles or other debris.  Prior to placing it in the tree holder, make a fresh cut off the bottom of the trunk.  A freshly cut trunk will absorb water more effectively.  Use a tree holder that’s wide and strong enough to keep the tree stable.  

It is also very important to take care of your tree once it is inside.  Fill the holder with water as soon as you set your tree up.  Then, check it every day.  It needs to stay full!

Additional Tips

• Place your tree away from heat sources, especially open flame heat sources.

• Don’t block exit routes with your tree.

• Use only lighting approved by a nationally recognized laboratory such as UL.

• Check all lighting for frayed wires.

• Don’t leave the lights on when the tree is unattended.

• When the tree dries out, discard it immediately.

With these safety tips, your holiday can be fun and enjoyable for your family and your guests.  Please contact your local fire department for questions about fire safety and make sure you have a working fire and carbon monoxide detector on each floor of your home.

In the event you sustain fire or smoke damage from a decor mishap, please contact SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at 414-354-7566 for help.

Fall Fire Safety for Milwaukee Area Homes and Businesses

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

For more information on smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, contact your local Fire Department or go to NFPA.org.

With the fall time change, remember to change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. This is an easy way to remember this task and to keep your detectors in working order, however this is not the only attention you need to give to these life saving devices.  The following are important facts regarding the use and installation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home.

Smoke Detectors

1. Make sure smoke detectors are installed in every bedroom, outside sleeping area, and at least every floor of your home.
2. Test your smoke detector every month.
3. Have a plan when your smoke detector sounds to get out, account for everyone, and call 911.
4. Replace smoke detectors every 10 years.  Many new smoke detectors have a 10 year sealed battery.  Make sure you test your detector to make sure it is working; if it is not, replace it.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

1. Make sure carbon monoxide detectors are installed outside each sleeping area and have at least one on every floor level.  The law requires a carbon monoxide detector to be installed within 15 feet of every room used for sleeping purposes.
2. Test your carbon monoxide detector every month. 
3. Contact your local fire department when your carbon monoxide detector activates, move to fresh air outside, and make sure everyone in the home is accounted for.
4. Replace carbon monoxide detectors every 10 years.

Furnaces

1. Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths.
2. Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
3. The leading factor contributing to home heating fires (25%) is failure to clean, principally from solid-fueled heating equipment, primarily chimneys.

When purchasing smoke or carbon monoxide detectors, make sure they have been rated by an approved agency such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).  Homes built within the last 20 years will have hard-wired smoke detectors located on each floor of the home.  When replacing these smoke detectors, make sure you use a licensed electrician to assure the work is performed according to applicable codes.

In the event you sustain damage in your home or business from smoke or fire, please contact SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at 414-354-7566 for a no-cost assessment.  We are always here to help.

5 Star Rating from Milwaukee Customers

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, we aim to exceed customer expectations through caring and professionalism.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a Google review written by a customer in Milwaukee, WI who experienced a flooded basement disaster in their home. Maureen C. writes:

"I am so impressed with the services of SERVPRO. This company was thoroughly professional, hard working and prompt. I am very satisfied. All the workers made a very difficult water disaster through the basement that much more bearable and I thank everyone who participated in the mitigation."

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied by a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.

6 Common Causes for Plumbing Fails in Northern Milwaukee Homes

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

We all love a good laugh, but water damage is no fun! Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for help.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has been helping homeowners and business owners repair water damage caused by plumbing failures for many years.  We have seen all kinds of water damage, and we have the training, experience, and equipment to restore the emergencies you may encounter. While there are many reasons pipes burst or fail, here are some top culprits:

1. Freezing
2. Tree root encroachment
3. Corrosion
4. Soil Shifting
5. High water pressure
6. Clogs

Some of these examples may be prevented through maintenance of your pipes.  Water pipes, if not properly maintained and insulated, can cause a costly repair, and in some cases, even destroy or cause extensive damage to your home. Smaller water leaks can, over time, damage your home as well as attract mold growth.

In the event you do sustain damage from a failed plumbing system, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help 24/7/365.  Give us a call at 414-354-7566 for a no-cost assessment of your water damage situation.

Four Classes of Water Damage

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

If this is a familiar scene in your home or business, we can help! Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North today.

Classes of water damage losses are determined by the rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected by water damage to your property. Determining the Class of Water is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to restore your business. There are four IICRC water damage classifications, and they are as follows:

Class 1 - Slow Evaporation Rate 

Water losses that affect only part of a room or area, or losses with lower permeance/porosity materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, vinyl composition tile or VCT, concrete). Little or no wet carpet or cushion is present. Minimum moisture is absorbed by materials, releasing moisture slowly.

Class 2 - Fast Evaporation Rate 

Water losses that affect an entire room or carpet and cushion. Water has wicked up walls 12" - 24". There is moisture remaining in structural materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, concrete).

Class 3 - Fastest Evaporation Rate

Water may have come from overhead. Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushion and sub-floor in the entire area are saturated.

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations

These consist of wet materials with very low permeance/porosity (hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, stone, and crawlspace). Typically, there are deep pockets of saturation, which requires very low specific humidity.

In the event you do experience water damage in your Lake County home, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at 414-354-7566.  We are here to help 24/7/365 with your water damage emergencies.

Providing 5 Star Service in Bayside, WI

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

There is no greater compliment here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North than a 5 star recommendation from one of our customers!

At SERVPRO of Highland Park/Deerfield, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a Google review written by a customer in Bayside, WI who experienced a flood in their home. Lisa J. writes:

"The SERVPRO team addressed my concerns and questions promptly and provided the best solution that was most effective and cost efficient. Thank you friendly folks at SERVPRO!"

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call at 414-354-7566.

Going Above and Beyond for a Customer in Whitefish Bay, WI

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, it is our goal to exceed customer expectations.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service and consideration for our customer's needs. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a Google review written by a customer in Whitefish Bay, WI who experienced a flood in her home. Elisabeth B. wrote:

"I want to share my great experience with SERVPRO North Milwaukee, right before New Year’s Day, I had a water/sewer backup into my basement contained to a pet bath and area of floor. I called SERVPRO and they immediately dispatched a team on the weekend to clean up the backup. The team members were courteous, knowledgeable, wore all the Covid protective clothing and went above and beyond to make sure the affected area was throughly cleaned and disinfected. I highly recommend SERVPRO and thank the team members for their attention to detail and their kindness during this stressful situation."

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.

Content Restoration after Water Damage in Northern Milwaukee

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North can dry and restore your residential or commercial space.

Restore Vs. Replace

We specialize in cleaning contents after water damage. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North helps to restore rather than replace to help save your sentimental items. How do we assess items that have been exposed to water? There are a few main considerations: 

1. Class of water affecting the items.  Is the water contaminated?
2. Materials affected.  Are the items made of porous or non-porous materials?
3. Length of time affected.  How long has the water been standing stagnant?

When should you replace?

Soft/Porous contents affected by water containing sewage.  Category 3 or “Black Water”

• Materials have been affected for an extended period of time and are showing signs of microbial growth.

When can you restore?

1. Hard contents that have not been penetrated by contaminated water.
2. Soft contents that have been affected by Category 1 or “clear” water and sometimes Category 2 “gray” water.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, our first step is to determine which items have been exposed to water as well as to what category of water. Then we make sure the items are dry and free of any moisture. This helps our water damage professionals determine what can be saved and what cannot. This process is also used for furniture, upholstery, and carpeting.

If you have experienced water damage in your home or business, please utilize the professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North.  Our trained technicians are available 24/7/365 to assist with your water emergencies. Call today at 414-354-7566.

Portable Fire Extinguishers in Your Northern Milwaukee Business

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Teaching proper extinguisher safety to your staff can save property damage and lives!

When used correctly, portable fire extinguishers can be essential in saving lives and property as well as preventing extensive damage. If fire extinguishers are available for employee use, it is the employer's responsibility to provide education.  Employees should understand the principles and practices of using a fire extinguisher as well as the hazards associated with fighting small or developing fires.

When operating a portable fire extinguisher, the NFPA suggests remembering the word PASS

Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle away from you and release the locking mechanism. 

Aim low. Point the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire.

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Fire extinguishers do have their limitations, so it is important that you have the correct one in your facility.  Fires start within a matter of seconds.  In the event you incur more extensive damages and need professional assistance, please contact SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at 414-354-7566 for more information.  We are here to help!

Storm Preparedness in Milwaukee, WI: Stay Informed

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help with any storm damage to your home or business.

Emergency Notifications

• The National Weather Service (NWS) provides alerts and warnings for all hazards through a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio (NWR) receiver.  For more information on NWR receivers, visit nws.noaa.gov/nwr/info/nwrrcvr.html.
• Sign up for emergency alerts and notifications that your community may offer.  Download Be Smart. Know Your Alerts and Warnings for a summary of notifications at ready.gov/prepare.
• Download the FEMA and American Red Cross apps on iOS or Android at no cost.  These apps may provide information about finding shelters, providing first aid, and seeking assistance for recovery. 

Watches and Warnings

Learn the difference between Advisories, Watches, and Warnings, which describe changing winter weather conditions.  Learning what these terms mean can help you understand how an approaching storm may impact you and what actions to take to stay safe.  These alerts are issued by your local National Weather Service office and are based upon local criteria.

• Winter Weather Advisories are issued when snow, blowing snow, ice, sleet, or a combination of these wintry elements is expected but conditions should not be hazardous enough to meet Warning criteria.  Be prepared for winter driving conditions and possible travel difficulties.  Use caution when driving.

• Winter Storm Watches are issued when conditions are favorable for a significant winter storm event.  Heavy sleet, heavy snow, ice storms, blowing snow, or a combination of these events are possible.

• Winter Storm Warnings are issued for a significant winter weather event including snow, ice, sleet, blowing snow, or a combination of these hazards.  Travel will become difficult or impossible in some situations.  Delay your travel plans until conditions improve.

In the event that your home or business is damaged by severe weather, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for assistance.  Our team is available 24/7/365 for your water damage emergencies as well as a variety of other property repairs.

5 Star Customer Service in New Berlin

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, it is our goal to exceed customer expectations.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a review written on Google by a customer in New Berlin, WI who experienced a flooded basement in her home. Adria L. writes:

"Our experience with SERVPRO was nothing short of exceptional! Aside from the initial panic of having 2" of water over our entire basement (the finished and unfinished portions) once we called SERVPRO the panic was over. Kevin took the time to explain the entire process and when Rick and his team showed up and started the clean up I was so relieved. They showed up when they said they would. They explained what they were doing and why. The communication was awesome, everyone was kind and respectful. I have tried and I cannot think of one complaint over the 10 days they were working at our house. Calling SERVPRO was the best decision we could have made!."

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done. We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365.  Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.

Providing an Excellent Customer Experience in Brown Deer, WI

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

There is no greater compliment here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North than a 5 star recommendation from one of our customers!

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a Google review written by a customer in Brown Deer, WI who experienced a flood in her home. Anna A. wrote:

"I had severe water damage to my bedroom. SERVPRO Milwaukee North managed the cleanup and restoration. Dean, the project manager was extremely helpful. He explained each step of the process as it occurred. Every person involved in each step was courteous and efficient. The job was finished before the projected due date was very helpful as I was having company for the holidays."

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.

A Happy Customer in Milwaukee, WI

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, we aim to exceed customer expectations through caring and professionalism.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a Google review written by a customer in Milwaukee, WI who experienced damage in her home while out of town. Claudia H. wrote:

"I called SERVPRO to help with a complicated situation as I live out of state and could not personally be there. They were extremely helpful and were able to take care of my problem in a timely manner."

Here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 414-354-7566.

Storm Preparedness in Milwaukee: Protecting Your Property

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

When gutters are clogged, they rapidly fill and overflow forcing water to take a path of least resistance, often causing damage to your property.

During the winter months, your property could be at risk of sustaining damage from a storm.  Here are some tips to prevent property damage in the winter months.

Winterize Your Home

by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic.

Insulate Water Pipes

Also, allow faucets to drip or trickle during unusually cold weather or if the power and heat are out to avoid freezing. When water freezes, it expands, and this can cause water pipes to burst. Know how to shut off water valves if a pipe bursts.

Clear Rain Gutters

repair roof leaks, check your roof to make sure it can handle the extra weight of the snow and ice, and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or neighboring structure. Keep pathways and driveways clear between storms to avoid buildup of snow piles and icing.

Install Battery-Operated Carbon Monoxide Detectors

or electric detectors with battery backups in central locations on every level of your home. This will provide an early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide, which is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and potentially deadly gas.

Hire a Contractor

to check the structural ability of your roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow and/or ice

Keep Fire Extinguishers on Hand

and make sure everyone in your home knows how to use them. If your smoke alarms get power from your home’s electrical system (hardwired), make sure the backup battery is replaced at least once a year, so your alarms will work during a power outage.

Maintain Heating Equipment

and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.

In the event your property does become damaged despite your best efforts, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help.  Call today for a free estimate.  We are available at 414-354-7566, 24/7/365.

Preparing Milwaukee Area Businesses for Disaster: What is an ERP?

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

The ERP is accessible both on the web and an app for quick access when you or your employees need it most.

Nearly 50% of businesses do not reopen after a disaster. There are many reasons this happens, but a large contributing factor is the lack of a disaster recovery plan.  

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North can help minimize disruption to your business while delivering superior results.  With a highly trained team and specialized equipment, we can get the job done quickly and professionally.  See our full list of commercial services here.

One way we can be most effective is in creating a no-cost Emergency Ready Plan or ERP for your business.  Whether you have a large or small operation, it is essential to have a plan in place.

An ERP includes:

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile Document 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 your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Please contact SERVPRO of Milwaukee North today at 414-354-7566 for more information.  We are here to help!

Water Damage in the Milwaukee Area: 3 Categories To Know

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Often, water damage spreads to areas that cannot be seen. Call an expert for help to ensure all moisture has been removed.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, we pride ourselves on being the experts in water damage remediation.  We ensure our technicians are educated by requiring them to become certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) as Water Restoration Technicians.  This gives them the ability to classify and categorize the type of water damage a property may have.  With regard to infiltration, there are three categories of water.  Knowing what these are and how to properly mitigate their damage is paramount to restoring your home or business to a healthy, safe state.

Category 1

Water originates from a sanitary water source and does not pose substantial risk from dermal, ingestion, or inhalation exposure.  Examples include but are not limited to:

Broken water supply lines; tub or sink overflows with no contaminants; appliance malfunctions involving water-supply lines; melting ice or snow; falling rainwater; broken toilet tanks, and toilet bowls that do not contain contaminants or additives.

Category 2

Water contains significant contamination and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed by humans. Category 2 water can contain potentially unsafe levels of microorganisms or nutrients for microorganisms, as well as other organic or inorganic matter (chemical or biological). Examples include but are not limited to:

Discharge from dishwashers or washing machines, overflows from washing machines, overflows from toilet bowls on the room side of the trap with some urine

Category 3

Water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents and can cause significant adverse reactions to humans if contacted or consumed. Examples include but are not limited to:

Sewage; waste line backflows that originate from beyond any trap regardless of visible content or color; all forms of flooding from seawater; rising water from rivers or streams; and other contaminated water entering or affecting the indoor environment, such as wind-driven rain from hurricanes, tropical storms, or other weather-related events. 

Category 3 water can carry trace levels of regulated or hazardous materials (e.g., pesticides or toxic organic substances).

In the unfortunate event that you experience water damage, call the experts at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North to help.  We have the training and expertise to make sure your home or business is safe and clean.  We are available 24/7/365 for your emergencies at 414-354-7566.

Fire Sprinkler Systems: Myths and Facts

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

A home fire sprinkler can control or put out a fire with a fraction of the water that would be used by fire department hoses.

Automatic sprinkler systems have a proven track record of protecting life and property for over 100 years. However, there are still some common misconceptions about the operation and effectiveness of automatic fire sprinkler systems.  Source: American Fire Sprinkler Association

Myth: “A smoke detector provides enough protection.”

Fact: Smoke detectors save lives by providing an early warning to a smoke or fire incident, but can do nothing to extinguish a growing fire or protect those physically unable to escape on their own, such as the elderly or small children. Too often, battery operated smoke detectors fail to function because the batteries are dead or have been removed. As the percent of homes in America that were “protected” with smoke detectors increased from zero to more than 70%, the number of fire deaths in homes did not significantly decrease.

Myth: “Water damage from a sprinkler system will be more extensive than fire damage.”

Fact: Water damage from a building sprinkler system will be much less severe than the damage caused by water from fire fighting hose lines or smoke and fire damage if the fire is allowed to spread. Quick response sprinklers release 8-24 gallons of water per minute compared to 80-125 gallons per minute discharged by a fire hose.

Myth: “When a fire occurs, every sprinkler head goes off.”

Fact: Sprinkler heads are individually activated by fire temperatures in excess of 155°. Residential fires are usually controlled with one sprinkler head. 90% of all fires are controlled with six or fewer heads and a study conducted during 80 years of automatic sprinkler use found that 82% of the fires that have occurred were controlled by two or fewer sprinkler heads.

Myth: “Sprinklers are designed to protect property, but are not effective for life safety.”

Fact: Sprinklers provide a high level of life safety. Statistics reveal that there has never been any multiple loss of life in a fully sprinklered building. Property losses are 85% less in residences with fire sprinklers compared to those without sprinklers. The combination of automatic sprinklers and early warning systems in all buildings could reduce overall injuries, loss of life and property damage by at least 50%.

In the event that you do sustain fire or water damage, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is Here to Help.  Call us today for a no-cost assessment of your property damage.  We are always available for your call at 414-354-7566.

Board-Up Services for your Milwaukee Area Business

9/5/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO board up team helped to keep many businesses safe after some recent vandalism in the area.

Whether your windows are broken by a storm, wind, fire, or vandalism, action must be taken quickly to secure your business until replacement doors and windows can be permanently installed.  The board-up professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North are here to help.  We have years of experience securing homes and businesses after damage occurs, and we are available 24/7/365 for this type of emergency.

What is a “board-up”?

Board-up is the process by which we secure windows, doors, and other openings with wooden boards to protect the interior from damage.

Most often, windows and doors are boarded up after severe storms, fire damage, or vandalism that left a building exposed to the elements. Boarding up your business can also protect it from vandalism and theft during the repair process.

Why should broken windows and doors be boarded up?

Some people use sheets of plastic or tarps to seal their building from the elements after damage. In more mild cases, this can be a cost-effective alternative that requires less setup and take down than using wood.  However, a tarp is not sturdy enough to protect your business when the openings are particularly large or the environment is unfriendly. If you’re concerned about theft or further damage to your building, it’s best to use a professional board up service.

How do I board up my own windows?

There are a few steps to boarding up doors and windows after they’ve been damaged.

• First, protect yourself from hazards like broken glass by wearing safety glasses and thick gloves. Long sleeves and pants are also recommended.
• Tape over cracks in windows that haven’t been completely shattered, or remove them entirely. If you leave a crack untreated, it has the potential of getting bigger and causing further harm.
• Measure the window or door frame and cut a board to cover the opening.
• Secure the board to the window or door frame, preferably with a power drill. You can also nail the wood in place, though it will take a little longer.
• If those steps seem complicated (and they sure can be — measuring and cutting for a large do-it-yourself project like this is no easy task) don’t hesitate to reach out for help. 

If your business is damaged by a storm or by vandalism, let us take some of the worry away by keeping the interior of your building safe and secure.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has seen countless board-up situations, and we are always available for your call at 414-354-7566.

Commercial Duct Cleaning in Northern Milwaukee

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North today to schedule your spring duct cleaning!

Did you know that your ventilation system determines your indoor air quality? Dirty ducts can circulate contaminates such as mold or irritating dust as well as unwanted odors throughout your home or business. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North provides a professional service to inspect and clean your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC system). 

How does the SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System work?

• First, our patented equipment automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth prior to beginning vacuuming.
• Next, is a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system that will transfer the debris from the duct to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. These HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.
• Part of an optional process, a sealant or coating may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
• In addition, filters will need to be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information or to schedule a residential or commercial duct cleaning appointment, contact SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at 414-354-7566.

Water Damage from Sprinkler Systems: Cause and Effect

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

Inspection, testing and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems, along with adequate building heat, can help reduce the risk of future water damage.

An automatic sprinkler system is a very valuable tool in fire suppression and prevention. Even so, by some uncontrollable event or if not properly maintained, these systems may fail.  This failure could result in disaster by fire or from serious water damage from the sprinklers if water is unexpectedly released.  

Common Causes for Sprinkler System Failures

1. Freezing of water filled pipes
2. Mechanical damage
3. Installation defects
4. Deliberate sabotage
5. Overheating from excessive temperatures
6. Corrosion of sprinklers, fittings, pipes, and other components
7. Environmental stress cracking of PVC plastic sprinkler pipe and fittings
8. Manufacturing defects, including recalled sprinklers

Potential Hazards of Water Damage

1. Damage - Destruction to property 
2. Disruption - Loss of use of property during repairs
3. Health Effects - Mold can develop causing health hazards
4. Costs - Repair and/or replacement of sprinkler system
5. Reputation - Lost customers or tenants due to unusable space

Prevention Tips

1. Maintain fire sprinklers in accordance with recognized standards
2. Ensure installations are completed by experienced and licensed contractors
3. Take action to reduce chances of system freezing
4. Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North if water damage is experienced in your facility.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has the experience and professional staff to bring your property back to its preloss condition quickly and efficiently.  Call 414-354-7566 today for a free assessment of your damage.

Simple Tips for Cooking Fire Prevention in Your Milwaukee Area Home

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Cooking is the #1 cause of fires in homes.

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and fire related injury.  Here are a few steps from FEMA and the US Fire Administration to help keep your family safe while cooking:

Stand by your pan

If you leave the kitchen, turn the burner off

Watch what you are cooking

Fires start when the heat is too high.  If there are signs of smoke or boiling grease, turn off the burner

Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove

This way, no one can bump them or pull them over accidentally

Keep a pan lid or baking sheet nearby

Use it to cover the pan if it catches on fire.  This should help smother the fire.

In the event your home does sustain damage from fire or smoke, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help.  Our experienced technicians are standing by to restore your home.  Call us today at 414-354-7566 for a free assessment of your property damage.

Midwest Tornado Season is Here: Be Prepared and Safe

7/10/2021 (Permalink)

The US averages over 1,200 tornadoes per year. This exceeds the number of tornadoes in any other country, according to the NOAA.

Prepare:

• 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.  Become familiar with your community's sirens.
• Pay attention to weather reports. Meteorologists can predict when conditions might be right for a tornado.
• Identify and practice going to a safe shelter for 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 in a sturdy building on the lowest level.

Survive:

• 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.
• 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. 

Recover:

• 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.

In the event your home or business is damaged by a tornado or high winds, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is available 24/7/365 to assist in securing your property.  Our reconstruction team is experienced in restoring properties from this type of damage, working in conjunction with your insurance company to bring your home or business back to life.  Call us today at 414-354-7566.

Reducing Business Interruption in Milwaukee

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in your business, call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for fast and efficient help.

When a home experiences disruption due to water or fire damage, it can be difficult to imagine things getting back to normal. The quicker a family can get back to normal life, the better everyone feels. 

It is just as important to get commercial spaces back into operation quickly. Every hour your business is down, money is being lost. At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, it is our priority to get businesses back into operation with as little interruption as possible. We make every effort to be quick and thorough, making sure that every detail has been taken care of and remediation is complete.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is equipped to service the following, no space is too large or small:

• Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotels/Motels
• Retail Stores
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military
• Universities/Colleges
• Schools

Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North today for assistance at 414-354-7566.  Our professionals are available for your emergencies 24/7/365.

Insurance Coverage for Spring and Summer Storm Damage to your Milwaukee Home

6/5/2021 (Permalink)

Understanding your property insurance can help protect you in the event your home sustains damage from a storm.

Spring and Summer weather in the Midwest is welcomed with open arms each year.  It can, however, bring storms that could cause a wide variety of damage to your home.  Fortunately, much of this damage is covered by your homeowner’s insurance.  This insurance protection depends on what type of damage was caused and what caused it.  

Here are a few common events that are often covered on a standard home policy:

Wind Damage

Wind almost always damages the weakest areas of a home. After a storm, indications of damage would include:

• Shingles in the yard
• Creased or broken shingles from wind
• Loose or missing siding and trim on your home
• Loose or broken downspouts and gutters

Hail Damage

If hail causes damage to the exterior of your home, your dwelling coverage helps cover the cost to repair or replace the damage.

However, your home’s detached structures, such as a fence, garage, gazebo or swimming pool, may only have limited coverage from your base policy. In order to properly protect them from hail damage, you may want to consider adding coverage for your detached structures.

Lightning Damage

Lightning can cause serious damage to your home, including fire and damage to your electronic devices. Fortunately, your home insurance covers lightning-damaged electronics and other personal property, and your dwelling coverage protects the structure of your home if lightning causes a fire.

Here are a few coverages that can be added for extra protection:

Flood Insurance

Floods are a natural disaster that aren’t covered by your homeowners policy, but many companies offer flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program. If you live in a flood-prone area or just want peace of mind, consider purchasing flood insurance to protect your home and personal property.

Roof Replacement Cost Coverage

Your home insurance is designed to help cover the replacement of your roof if it’s damaged by a covered loss. But the amount you’ll receive for your damaged roof depends on if you have actual cash value (ACV) or replacement cost value (RCV). Having roof replacement cost value coverage means you’re covered for what it’d cost to replace your roof today without worrying about depreciation.

Matching Siding Coverage

Homeowner’s insurance replaces siding damage from specific types of losses, like damage from wind.  However, it only covers the parts of your home that are damaged. By adding matching siding coverage, you’ll be covered for a higher amount to compensate for replacing additional siding to match.

Sump Pump Coverage

Your sump pump is designed to remove excess water that accumulates around your home’s foundation. If the system ever fails or the power goes out, water overflow may occur. And you're typically not covered for this type of damage with your homeowners insurance. Having water backup and sump pump overflow coverage gives you that important layer of protection that is so important during these Lake County spring and summer rains.

In the event you do suffer damage from a storm, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at 414-354-7566 for your restoration or repair concerns.  We are here to help 24/7/365.

Preparing your Northern Milwaukee Home for a Spring Storm

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Spring weather can be unpredictable. It is important to prepare in advance for the ever changing Midwest weather.

Spring has officially arrived.  Warmer days have begun, and spring foliage is popping up all around us.  The beauty of spring brings along with it the probability of strong storms.  With a little forward thinking, you’ll be prepared to protect your home.  Check out these tips for some ideas to be ready for whatever happens.

Sign up for weather text alerts

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) sends text messages to keep you updated on emergency situations. However, long before anything gets that severe, your local government, weather channel, radio stations and power companies have similar services that let you know what’s happening in your region. The more information you get, the easier it is to plan and prepare.

You can also download the FEMA app to your smartphone, which gets you real-time National Weather Service alerts. You’ll also have access to important emergency safety tips for over 20 types of disasters.

Evaluate your home’s exterior

Your home is designed to shelter you from the weather. To keep it in tip-top condition, do regular walk-arounds and inspect for issues. Keep an eye out for the following things:

• Loose shingles
• Loose siding
• Tree branches extending over your house or driveway
• All unattached structures like sheds or gazebos should be bolted securely to their foundation
• Loose patio furniture that should be secured
• Loose gutters and missing/detached downspouts
• If you have shutters, make sure they’re secure and clear of debris
• Check to see if your fence needs repair

Check your sump pump

As the saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers.” And with all that rain, your risk of flooding increases. If you have a sump pump, it’s a great idea to run through an annual sump pump maintenance list.

You’ll want to clear all debris so it doesn’t impede function and ensure your back-up is in working order. With added sump pump failure and water backup coverage on your homeowner’s insurance policy, you’ll have better protection that can bring real peace of mind when the rain starts to fall.

Weather can be unpredictable, but you can still prepare for the unexpected.  Talk with your local insurance agent to review your homeowner’s coverage, and call SERVPRO of MIlwaukee North in the event your home sustains damage.  We are available to take your call 24/7/365 at 414-354-7566.

Commercial Cleaning in Milwaukee, WI

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPROXIDE® is a powerful disinfectant that is both EPA registered and safe for the environment.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is committed to providing our commercial partners and communities with resources on how to clean and disinfect spaces and reduce risk to human health.  Our trained professionals are prepared with products to reduce health risks in your business or home.

RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & HOSPITAL DISINFECTANT

• Kills harmful bacteria on hard and soft surfaces
• Removes mold and mildew & keeps it from growing for up to 4 weeks
• Sanitizes hard and soft surfaces with a 100% biodegradable surfactant
• No rinse required for food contact surfaces (D-2)

SERVPROXIDE®

• Kills mold and mildew at its roots 
• 99.999% Sanitization of food contact surfaces
• 7 in 1 cleaner technology
• Disinfects as it cleans

AREAS OF USE INCLUDE: homes, vehicles, schools, daycares, gyms, locker rooms, sports gear, hospitals, senior living and assisted care facilities, laundry rooms, veterinary, ambulances, laboratories, restaurants, boats, ships, federally inspected building, egg processing premises, refrigerated storage units, HVAC, and AC systems

Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North today for assistance at 414-354-7566.

Commercial Duct Cleaning in Northern Milwaukee

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North today to schedule your spring duct cleaning!

Did you know that your ventilation system determines your indoor air quality? Dirty ducts can circulate contaminates such as mold or irritating dust as well as unwanted odors throughout your home or business. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North provides a professional service to inspect and clean your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). 

How does the SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System work?

• First, our patented equipment automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth prior to beginning vacuuming.
• Next, is a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system that will transfer the debris from the duct to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. These HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.
• Part of an optional process, a sealant or coating may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
• In addition, filters will need to be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information or to schedule a residential or commercial duct cleaning appointment, contact SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at 414-354-7566.

How Thawing Snow and Ice Can Create Water Damage in Your Milwaukee Home

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Ice Dams and Water Damage Restoration for Your South East Wisconsin Home

Snow covered roofs in the Milwaukee & surrounding areas can form ice dams as they melt and refreeze this winter. With the warmups that have occurred, water damage is a concern for many homes. Ice dams can cause water to back up and go under the shingles and into your home, causing damage to your drywall and ceilings. In these situations, prevention is critical to avoid costly repairs.  

If your Milwaukee area home has already experienced water damage due to ice dams, you need the immediate help of our professional staff at SERVPRO. We are an experienced remediation company who can dry your home out and repair the damages that the ice dams have caused. The faster you pick up the phone and contact us the better, as the water leak continues to harm your home until it stops.  

In a case like this, you’ll likely have hidden water damage inside your walls and ceiling. Therefore, SERVPRO techs use special moisture sensors that can detect the hidden leaks, which allows us to restore your home thoroughly. If we did not do this and any water is left behind, it causes mold growth, making a big problem even more significant. Once we find where all the issues are, we can begin drying and restoring your home. Industrial fans and dehumidifiers help to dry your structure and the air and remove all the excess moisture.  

To prevent ice dams in the first place, begin by keeping your gutters clear of debris and leaves. Check and seal any areas that can allow warm air to leak from your home to the attic such as chimneys, exhaust fans, vent pipes, light fixtures, and attic hatches. You should also get your attic and roof inspected for insulation and proper ventilation. Inadequate signs of ventilation include rusty nails, rust spots, or mildew smell.  

Do not let snow accumulate on the lower three to six feet of your roof. For extra protection, you can install ice and snow slides to stop the ice and snow from bonding to the lower portion of your roof. Installing rubberized water and ice shields under the roof shingles for the first three to six feet, and heating cables along the eaves help to melt any ice.  

If your home in the Milwaukee area has been the victim of ice dams creating water damage inside, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North can help whenever you need us. Give us a call at (262)250-1101 as soon as you realize there is an issue so we can take care of everything for you and prevent further damage.

Potential Hazards of a Winter Storm

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Winter weather in Milwaukee, WI can be challenging to the body, but have you considered the toll it takes on your home? The last thing you want is to be panic prepping or making emergency repairs in a winter storm. Staying ahead of potential hazards will help to ensure a safe and comfortable winter in your home.

1. Ice Dam

An ice dam occurs when the ice melts off your roof and then refreezes on its edge later. This frozen “dam” prevents proper drainage from the roof, thereby forcing the water back up under the shingles. This entrapped water causes roof leaks, which can cause more serious problems like roof damage, structural damage and mold. Insulating your attic is one way to keep the warmer temperature of your home from melting the ice on the roof.

2. Burst Pipes

Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst due to pressure buildup between an ice blockage and a closed faucet. This pressure pushes the water toward the closed faucet, causing enough pressure that the pipe eventually bursts. Unheated areas and uninsulated areas are at the most risk. Opening the faucet to a trickle can keep the pressure from building up. Also, installing fiberglass or foam sleeves onto the pipes can help insulate them.

3. Driveway Damage

Freezing water can wreak havoc on your asphalt driveway. When moisture from a winter storm collects in cracks in asphalt and then freezes, it expands. This expansion can create larger cracks, even potholes. Avoid the need to repave the entire driveway by sealing cracks as soon as possible.

4. Fallen Tree Limbs

A blizzard or ice storm can damage trees due to the weight of the snow or ice. Falling branches can damage your roof, siding and gutter system. They can also fall on power lines, creating a fire hazard. Maintain your trees by cutting back suspicious-looking or dead limbs.
It’s important to be proactive when it comes to winter weather. Constantly monitor your property for potential threats and keep it well-maintained. If your home sustains damage from a winter storm, storm damage cleanup experts can assist.

Why SERVPRO Fire Damage Specialists Rely On Hydroxyl Generators When Restoring Homes In Milwaukee

12/27/2020 (Permalink)

During a house fire, firefighters douse the interior of the home with thousands of gallons of water. This water soaks into walls, floors, and your belongings. After they put the fire out and no signs of hot areas pose additional threats to reignite the fire, the fire department’s personnel return to the station. Their job never includes removing the water or foam soaking into your residence.

The presence of so much water is why SERVPRO uses specific machinery to mitigate fire damage from homes in Milwaukee & Waukesha Co. One of these choices involves our options regarding deodorizing equipment. Initial efforts to help make the air safer to breathe while we work on your home have the potential to bring about unexpected effects.

Ozone can cause permanent changes in the color of damp carpets, furniture, and other furnishings. Plants can also suffer drastically when ozone generators fill an area. We must wait until after one of our employees turns off the machine and then a bit longer to clear the air of ozone before we can enter the home. However, we do have a safer alternative with very few drawbacks.

We can safely use hydroxyl generators while we work, as well as in damp conditions. If you see us wearing masks or respirators as part of our personal protective equipment (PPE) while we work on mitigating the fire damage in your dwelling, this is because of the soot hanging in the air. Hydroxyl generators push hydrogen peroxide molecules into the air where they can interact with odor-causing particles at the molecular level.

The extra oxygen molecule turning plain water into hydrogen peroxide has a fragile bond with the water molecule, allowing the oxygen to form bonds with other substances. Our desiccant machines pull the water molecules produced by the breakdown of H2O2 as we remove the water hosed in during the fire. Ozone does not give us the flexibility to work as efficiently as hydroxyl generators provide.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North wants to assure our customers that we always use the most efficient methods when mitigating fire damage. Call us at (262)250-1101, so we can restore your property, “Like it never even happened.”

Christmas Tree Fire Safety Tips

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Christmas is around the corner, and you know what that means: fire safety. Each year, fire departments respond to an average of 210 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. Carefully decorating Christmas trees will make the holidays safer.

Here are some great Fire Prevention tips:

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, such as fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Add water to the tree stand daily.
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both make sure you choose the right ones.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
• Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.

There are so many other ways to prevent fire, around Christmas time, but these are a few of the common mistakes. We hope that you do not ever experience a fire.

We know how devastating fire damage can be, but we are here to help! Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North (262)250-1101  to help get your home restored efficiently.

Smoke Detectors Save Lives!

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives and provide you and your family time to leave the home and get to safety or alert you to potential fires in the home like a cooking fire or an unattended candle. In the event of a home fire, soot and smoke damage can cause damage throughout your home and require repairs and restoration. 

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has the technicians, expertise, and experience to clean and restore your home to preloss condition. After a fire, our crew's inventory and pack out the contents in your home. Contents are then brought back to our secure, climate-controlled warehouse where items are recleaned and packed into new clean boxes. While contents are being cleaned, crews work to clean and restore your home. Once your home has been restored, all contents are packed back and your home is ready to be put back together as it was before the fire. 

How To Use IICRC Classifications To Assess Flood Damage

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

If you have endured flood damage to your Milwaukee home – SERVPRO can help you. We are an experienced flood damage restoration company.

If you have endured flood damage to your Milwaukee home – SERVPRO can help you. We are an experienced flood damage restoration and repair team, with access to sophisticated tools and the finest equipment. If your property needs saving, we are the right choice. The first that thing we do, once we arrive on site, is to conduct a full inspection. This is designed to help us determine the extent and nature of the damage. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) categories flood damage according to four key classifications. The SERVPRO technicians will use this guide to shape their plan of action and decide which repairs are required.

Here is some more information on the IICRC classifications and what they might mean for your property.

Class One: Limited Intrusion
This is the least severe type of flood damage. A small amount of water has entered the home. There is minimal damage to walls and soft furnishings. Depending on the size, shape, and location of the affected space, large fans can likely be used to dry it out.

Class Two: Intrusion With Some Spread
Here, flood water has started to spread. If your house was impacted by a storm, the damage is almost going to have advanced beyond small pools of water. It may have risen into the walls and started to soak into timber, concrete, and insulation materials. The water has reached the subflooring beneath carpets. Industrial drying machines (and carpet lifters) will be brought in to absorb the excess moisture.

Class Three: Invasive Liquid
The walls, ceilings, soft furnishings, and floors are all damp and need to be dried quickly. Most are fully saturated with water. Water lines on the walls extend more than two feet above the floor. This tends to occur when ceilings leak (during heavy rainfall), and water seeps through the walls. Dehumidifiers and dryers can be used to restore the home, but some materials may be unsalvageable.

Class Four: Severe Invasion
In the most severe cases, objects not usually affected by flooding have been compromised. For instance, paintings high up on walls, attics (if the danger is from natural flooding), and crawlspaces. At SERVPRO, we’re committed to saving as many of your possessions as possible, but extensive damage can render some items irreparable. We will, however, inform you of the fact before disposing of any materials. Serious flood damage may require you to move out of the property while we secure its structural safety and install heavy duty drying machines.

Whether your home has been damaged by a storm or by something more familiar, like a burst pipe, assessing the damage is an important part of formulating a response. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is a locally based service, which means that our response is always fast. Call us 24/7 at (262)250-1101.

Sprinkler Systems Are Common Causes of Water Damage

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Sprinkler systems are commonly installed in commercial and industrial buildings. They save life and structure when a fire occurs. They do cause water damage though when putting out the fire or when the system malfunctions. This is when SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help. We come in and dry the structure when a system malfunctions. Fire sprinklers are activated when the mercury liquid filled bulb bursts between 135 and 165 degrees. It is thought by many that they are triggered by smoke, they are actually activated by heat. Failures occur with sprinkler heads commonly when the line freezes from cold weather or the head gets hit or pulled on by something. We are here to help when you need it most and want to help prevent issues before they arise. It is always a good idea to know where your sprinkler line shut off valves are located in case you have a malfunctioning system and know who services these systems for your facility.

Milwaukee Area Smoke and Soot Cleanup

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is 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 Milwaukee North 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 are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme 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 property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (262)250-1101

Thanksgiving Day Tips for Emergency Prevention

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas, and Christmas Eve? We want you to enjoy these days with your loved ones, so here are a few safety tips for when you are cooking that scrumptious meal.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids or toys.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Be especially aware when Deep Frying a turkey, people tend to put too much oil in which causes overflow and spreads to the open flame causing a mass fireball. Also putting in a frozen or very wet bird can cause major problems which they call B.L.E.V.E which stands for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion.

• Always use fryer outside away from any structure
• Keep oil under 350 degrees, the hotter the oil the more combustible it is
• Don’t overfill the pot with oil
• Thoroughly defrost turkey(24 hours for every 10 pounds the turkey weighs)
• Turn off flame before putting turkey in
• Keep grease fire approved extinguisher on hand
• Lower turkey into pot slowly

If by unfortunate event you have an emergency this Holiday Season please know your SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on Holidays. Contact us if need be at (262)250-1101 and we will be there to help. Happy Holidays!

Tools for Water Detection

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North knows the right tools for the job are important and understanding how to use them to dry a structure and property effectively is even more crucial.  The right tool is vital for timely mitigation and to help get the business up and running again.  

Water can damage in two ways - absorption through direct contact and absorption of moisture from the air.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North must understand how to alter humidity and temperature levels to produce an environment favorable for drying.

Our technicians have to locate the areas affected by water and to what extent moisture has been absorbed.  To do this they can use:

Moisture Sensors - detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls
Moisture Meters - determines actual moisture content of materials
Thermohygrometers - measure temperature and relative humidity which helps calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure.

All these tools help us start the process of making it "Like it never even happened."

Watch Out For Avoidable Mistakes When You Face Water Damage In Milwaukee

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

Mold Damage In Your Home

The buildup of indoor moisture from high relative humidity, plumbing, and roof leaks may lead to mold damage. When the relative humidity is kept low, chances for condensation to take place reduce, and that means there are no appropriate conditions for fungi to grow. Mold spores cannot thrive without the presence of water in your Milwaukee property.

It is necessary to take precautionary measure when dealing with mold damage because it can cause health effects. Our SERVPRO technicians assess the level of contamination and choose the right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the job. When the area is extensively contaminated, we prefer a half-mask respirator, full body suits, and chemical resistant gloves. For light levels of contamination, an N95 respirator can be good enough.

We are careful not to spread the contaminant to clean areas, and if we have to disturb the mold when cleaning the site, we make sure containment procedures are already in place. Containment also helps limit mold exposure to the occupants and our SERVPRO team. If the area we are working on is small, we practice limited containment. Otherwise, we do full containment when the area is more than 100 square feet.

After disturbing the mold, spores and dust might settle on porous and non-porous surfaces. When that happens, we do damp wiping and HEPA vacuuming to do the removal. We first determine the airflow direction and clean areas towards that path, and the cleaning process starts from the structure's top towards its bottom.

When drying the items and rooms, our SERVPRO technicians first remove any wet objects from the area to speed up the rate of evaporation and after that setup dehumidifiers to lower the humidity. Moisture meters provide initial readings of overall humidty at the start of the job and will be monitored to ensure the project is complete.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster whether it strikes your home or business property. Call us at (262) 250-1101 when you need to be served by a proven industry leader.

What SERVPRO Can Do When Disasters Strike Milwaukee

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will always be first in line to help when disaster hits in your Milwaukee property.

Let us be there to show you why when it comes to your Milwaukee Community.

We strive to provide every customer with an unparalleled recovery experience for their Milwaukee property. While we have specialists in every niche of the industry, our primary focus is continuing to be a leading company providing restoration services to Wisconsin in the common damage areas of fire, water, storm, and mold loss. Our SERVPRO professionals can help steer your home through every phase of its recovery, from the initial damage inspection and mitigation work through reconstruction and cleanup. 

Fire

Because We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, many Milwaukee residents have looked to our expertise and training to help restore their properties after fire loss incidents occur. These situations can be devastating for homeowners, so it is vital to work quickly on mitigating loss and reducing the physical hazards that threaten the customer and our SERVPRO team working in the house. 

No fire damage in Milwaukee residences is precisely the same, and because of this, our professionals must continue their education into modern practices, equipment, and products. We have accreditations and endorsements through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in Fire & Smoke Restoration (FSRT), Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning (UFT), Odor Control (OCT), and Carpet Cleaning (CCT.) Many of our fire recovery specialists have more than one of these certifications to make our efforts more efficient and to help complete jobs on time and under budget. 

We know that some structure fires can take a heavy toll on your Milwaukee home, and we have structural engineers and construction experts to help from small repairs through full-scale reconstruction and renovation. We are a one-stop shop for fire recovery, offering effective mitigation services like soot and smoke removal, deodorization, and fire debris cleanup which seamlessly transitions to reconstruction and repair. 

Water 

Especially with larger properties like Mayfair Mall, water damage in Milwaukee structures can happen from countless sources and become a hazardous situation for many affected individuals. Preparing for all of these potential outcomes could be impossible, but protecting your property and its contents during these emergencies does not have to be. Our SERVPRO staff is the most prepared for water loss incidents, as this is among the most common of callouts that our team must respond to throughout the area. This preparedness for these emergencies has encouraged nearly all of our employees to get IICRC-Certified as Water Restoration Technicians (WRT) so that no customer ever has to wait for knowledgeable mitigation and recovery. 

We are structural drying specialists, able to both assess the damage to your Milwaukee home quickly and implement the right machines and tools to overcome saturation and water exposure. Many of our Water Restoration Technicians also have secondary accreditations from the IICRC for Applied Structural Drying to stay attuned to the latest practices, equipment, and products involved in moisture removal. 

With a 24/7 response to water damage emergencies, our SERVPRO team can help your Milwaukee home or business to avoid costly conditions like mold growth and structural degradation. Though we have a full-service contracting division capable of helping in reconstruction efforts and in other areas where repair could be necessary, it is our focus to restore before replacement when possible. 

Storm 

Our SERVPRO team is a part of a much grander Large Loss Recovery Team, helping to quickly and confidently manage storm damage in Milwaukee homes and businesses. With so many powerful storm systems that can compromise many homes and properties simultaneously, having the support and expertise of accredited and well-trained restoration specialists like ours can help. With our focus on a fast response in critical situations, no customer ever has to wait for the effective mitigation, reconstruction, and attention their property needs. 

Considering how frequent flooding is in storm-damaged Milwaukee properties, you need a restoration team that can not only address the water but also the structural concerns for your house as well. Our comprehensive recovery approach can start with temporary construction solutions to prevent further water penetration, even including security measures for your property like installing provisional fences to ward off both intruders and animals to your compromised home. 

Restoring flood effects on the inside of your home includes employing the latest cutting-edge equipment and products. We can quickly manage the extraction and drying of your Milwaukee property, working to prevent unnecessary tear out and replacement whenever possible. 

Mold 

Of all of the restoration services that our SERVPRO team provides, our remediation of mold damage to Milwaukee homes and businesses is among the most intricate and involved. We have extensive training in recovery of these conditions, learning not just about how to get rid of mold colonization in a home but understanding the science of microbial threats and how to protect our customers, their properties, and our service technicians in the field. 

Mold colonization can become a rapidly spreading and hazardous situation for Milwaukee residents. By the time that many homeowners recognize a problem, the conditions have often gotten out of control. Our IICRC-Certified Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians (AMRT) can first work quickly to address the food source of the organism, reducing relative humidity levels and identifying the source of dampness in the affected areas of the house. 

We do not cut corners when removing colonies from your Milwaukee property. We have multiple strategies for this removal, including media and sandblasting, antimicrobial sprays, and even controlled demolition and replacement with our team of reconstruction contractors. No matter how widespread and severe these conditions might appear, we have trained technicians to handle it safely and swiftly. 

Our advanced restoration specialists can offer credible solutions for every niche of the industry, even including biohazard cleaning and reconstruction. We have continued to work to maintain our position as a leading recovery team in Wisconsin, and you can count on our expertise and fast response in any emergency. Our SERVPRO of Milwaukee North team can make all loss incidents “Like it never even happened,” because we have the backing of our Large Loss Recovery Team to ensure that no job is too much for our professionals. Give us a call anytime that you need us at (262) 250-1101.

Important Facts To Prevent A Mold Infestation From Taking Over Your Home In Milwaukee

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Facts That Can Help You Prevent Mold Damage From Harming Your Milwaukee Home

Some microbes can easily cause costly harm inside your house in Milwaukee. SERVPRO wants to help you prevent this from happening by giving you some information about mold and mildew that helps to keep these microorganisms under control.

Once your property in Milwaukee suffers from mold damage, you might be surprised at how effortlessly it can spread from one region to another location. Here are some facts about microbes that can shed some light on these prolific but tiny living things that we share our homes with, no matter where we live.

First, complete eradication of mold and mildew is not possible. No matter how much we try, nor which equipment types we use, mold and mildew, and their spores continue as a presence in almost every inch of the planet. As tiny as they are, the weakest air currents and deposited elsewhere. They travel on clothing, pets, food, books, bags, and anything else that goes from one place to another.

Second, it is not their absence that protects your home from mold damage, but the elimination of excess humidity. Elevated amounts of water vapor in the air give microbes the necessary changes in their environment to gain access to cellulose. Without moisture, microbes cease to grow. SERVPRO uses special tools to measure the amount of moisture your home's structure contains and also how much water vapor the air holds. Part of our work involves reducing these so mold cannot return after we finish remediating your home.

Third, after an incident involving a water loss, you only have 24 to 48 hours before mold and mildew begin forming in visible patches. Containing the water and drying the affected area prevents this growth from occurring. This is why we use not only air movers to dry out saturated interiors, but also air scrubbers. Trapping microbes coming into the area can significantly reduce the amount of mold and mildew we see later.

Household bleach contains substantial amounts of water, and microbes get a drink from its contents. When used on porous materials like drywall, only the water molecules are small enough to pass through the pores of the drywall coverings. The bleach's molecules are too large to do this and remain on the surface. Bleach cannot penetrate to kill microbes hidden in a wall. Now provided with fresh water, microbes unexpectedly but quickly proliferate.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North wants to help homeowners protect their property from invasive microbes that cause mold damage. When you find mold damage more massive than the size of a twin mattress, you need experts like those at SERVPRO. Call us at (262)250-1101 any time, day or night, year-round.

Mold Damage Can Rapidly Grow in Your Milwaukee Home's Attic

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Thoroughly Remediates Mold Damage

Microbial growth in any home needs special care when it spreads. Airborne spores can cause health effects in Milwaukee residents, and the winter months do not slow microbial activity a significant amount. During the colder season, the flu, colds, and allergies can all cause confusion and disagreement regarding the best treatment for individuals suffering runny noses and other undesirable symptoms.

Milwaukee residents can eliminate one source of the sniffles by hiring professional mold damage experts to remediate an attic overcome by microbes. Although your family may rarely enter the attic, air ducts can carry spores away from the attic and into the living spaces of your home.

Remediation by SERVPRO's IICRC-certified technicians can help reduce the microbial population to reasonable numbers. Part of this involves washing and treating damaged materials and cleaning mold-inundated belongings stored in the attic. Because many attics do not include drywall materials, removing materials does not happen at the same level commonly found for living areas of a home.

Attics can easily harbor hidden mold, so we use devices that can detect higher levels of moisture. These areas easily allow microbial populations at very rapid rates. After locating all mold growth, cleaning the surfaces of microbial activity, and then treating the area, helps prevent any further damage.

Finding the source of water that permitted such growth to occur in the first place lets us stop any additional water from coming into your attic. These sources can include slow drips from ice damming, overhead water lines from new appliance's installation or remodeling of your home, leaks around the chimney, or other sources. Each source never precludes the presence of any others, so we always check thoroughly to ensure we find all possible sources.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North always keeps the equipment and tools ready to combat mold damage and provide excellent mold remediation services to our local community. If the moisture from winter storms overfed mold in your attic, call us at (262) 250-1101. Our services are available 24/7 year-round.

Call SERVPRO When Disaster Strikes in Milwaukee

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is HERE TO HELP 24/7

When you are in the middle of a crisis, it can be difficult to make the right decision. If your Milwaukee home is on fire, the first thing you should do is call 911. If a storm has dropped a power line in front of your office, you would call the power company. These choices are rational, normal choices but whom would you call after the fire is out? Who do you call after the storm ends and you notice the damage is worse than you thought?  Maybe you notice the power line actually fell because a tree branch took it down and damaged a part of your home. 

You call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North. We are centrally located in Milwaukee, and are efficient, experienced, and open 24/7. We have a trained team of IICRC certified professionals who can take care of water damage, mold damage, storm damage, fire and smoke damage, and even flood damage. That’s right, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North comes when you call, and we show up ready to work. If you need a restoration company, please consider us because we can make your problem or damaged area look “Like it never even happened.”

Why You Should Use SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for Restoration

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is ready to help your business or home disaster look “Like it never even happened.”

Who should I use?

At different times in life we may find ourselves in emergency situations that call for quick reactions. In cases where a home or business structure in Milwaukee is being compromised by unhealthy and/or unsafe conditions, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is the-fast-response you need to get relief.  Chaotic situations should be handled by professionals with the right tools to do the job efficiently. When you are choosing your clean-up and restoration specialist, you may be considering a few important things such as:

• Convenient location
• 24/7 availability
• Professionalism
• Efficiency
• Honesty
• Experience
• Latest equipment

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is the answer.

In a problematic and possibly chaotic situation, remember, we’re here to help.  We want to make the clean-up process as easy as possible for you and reduce the amount of stress you may be feeling. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has trained professionals who are quick to respond and apply the latest equipment and techniques to make your disaster in Milwaukee look “Like it never even happened.”

Are You Prepared for Snowmelt Flooding in Milwaukee?

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Snowmelt Can Cause Flood Damage in Your Milwaukee Home

As the seasons change in WI, melting snow can cause flood damage in your home. Typical weather in the Midwest brings us a heavy winter. If your home is positioned at the bottom of a hill or a slope, the chances of flood damage for your home grow significantly, as gravity dictates that the water would flow downward. Most homes in these situations have defenses for this, such as sump pumps laid in their basement to redirect snowmelt-waters away from the house. However, sometimes, defense mechanisms can fail.  

Calling for help as soon as you find the flood damage in your Milwaukee basement is best. Unfortunately, the flood damage in your home did come from a sump pump failure, causing puddles of water to form around the drain. In severe cases, it can flood the entire floor of your home. The reason why it is essential to call for aid, as soon as you can, is because leaving water-based damage for any length of time can lead to future problems developing in your home. Furthermore, allowing more damages to develop only makes the problem more expensive to solve. Dealing with it quickly not only ensures the best price but also increases the chances of smooth remediation.  

SERVPRO Franchise professionals understand how stressful finding flood damage inside of your home can be. As a result, we always make an effort of arriving at the earliest time possible after we get your call. Once we arrive, our SERVPRO techs can get to work right away and use advanced technology to solve the issue.  

To remove the standing water, SERVPRO Franchise professionals can use a combination of portable pumps, even submersible if the water is significant in volume, wet/dry vacuums, and extractors. All of these devices are designed to get the water out of your house as soon as possible. Depending on the location and situation, SERVPRO can either redirect the water away from your house or remove it via truck. Once the water is gone, we can focus on using drying equipment to ensure that your home is at the proper moisture level that it should be, relative to the climate of your location.  

If snowmelt causes flood damage in your home, always get help right away. Speak with SERVPRO of Milwaukee North by phoning (262) 250-1101. 24/7, we are open and ready to get the job done.

Commercial Promises

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial downtime is bad.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North recognizes that for all businesses downtime is loss of revenue.  As a business, do you have an Emergency Plan?

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North promises:

- quick response that may help avoid revenue loss for property owners and minimize losses for tenants and business owners.  We are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your needs!
- restoration services that avoid costly downtime and helps resume business functions quickly
- industry approved equipment and techniques along with well trained and uniformed professionals that saves time and money.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North also offers a free Emergency Ready Profile for businesses.  This gives people a chance to walk through their business to see the whole building and maybe even re-familiarize themselves with the area.  Water, Electric and Gas shut-offs all get labelled to help with any emergency situations.  Emergency contacts are detailed and all this is located in one easy to use booklet or can be accessed online with the ERP app.  SERVPRO wants to be sure that you are Ready for Any Size Disaster.

Commercial Biohazard Cleanup In Milwaukee -- Rely On SERVPRO’s Specialists

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Offers Safe and Clean Biohazardous Removal from Milwaukee Area Enterprises

Even if you employ high-quality in-house or contracted cleaning services, your Milwaukee business needs specialized biohazard cleanup help from a certified firm in some circumstances. When an accident, emergency, crime, or tragedy strikes in your commercial space dangerous substances and residues complicate cleanup. We can help.

A typical example of Milwaukee commercial jobs that require professional biohazard cleanup includes sewage backup or flooding that allows contaminated water to enter one or more areas of your business property. The contaminants contained in sewage are many -- human and animal waste, fertilizer and road chemical runoff, insects and vermin, and rotten food and other waste are just a few. Our crews receive baseline and updated training on how to manage these biohazards safely and effectively.
 
Human or animal fluids and waste deposited through other means such as traumatic injury or violent crime on your premises also needs our expert attention. The viruses, bacteria, parasites, and other pathogens involved in blood and other secretions need to be managed using protocols developed by OSHA, the EPA, and local health authorities. Proper cleaning with registered disinfectants is key to restoring your workplace, and SERVPRO has the experience with biohazards and innovative commercial cleaning products to achieve the goals.
 
Your business may also suffer from a chemical spill or other spread of a biohazard. The often is a complication of a flooding scenario where your own inventory or cleaning and maintenance products are knocked over or soaked through, contributing to the dangers in the waters contained in your building. SERVPRO contains such contaminated water, ensure that it is disposed of properly to keep you, your employees and customers, and the general public safe from harm.
 
During these unique catastrophic events, it is critical that your biohazard cleanup company be not only professional and effective but also completely discreet. Our team can return your business to a safe and healthy condition, “Like it never even happened.” For you to retain the confidence of your employees and customers, the process must be transparent yet ethical and without unnecessary drama or scare tactics.
 
SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is a full-service restoration company, poised to assist with your biohazard cleanup needs. Contact us at (262)250-1101 for fast and confidential help.

Water Removal Services Available For Your Milwaukee Area Business

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

Water Removal Services

You may operate a Milwaukee area business that recently experienced water intrusions varying in size and exposure. If you do, you know first-hand that these incidents can wreak havoc on productivity, cause extensive damage to equipment, and directly affect your company's bottom line.

Operating a shipping warehouse, retail establishment, or high-rise office building in Milwaukee comes with a hefty responsibility. Having water removal problems is something you just cannot afford to deal with, which makes finding a trusted professional that much more crucial.

Being unable to remove water from your warehouse as soon as possible means that your stored goods, equipment, and business assets become exposed to elements longer, often leading to irreversible damages that have a severe impact on your company. SERVPRO’s expertly trained staff can help locate profoundly affected areas and take steps to limit any losses you might experience.

Standing water in a retail space can severely damage products, cause you to close your doors, and cost immeasurable amounts of revenue loss. The sooner you get water out and the entire space dried, cleaned, and restored, the sooner you can get back to business. SERVPRO has access to a variety of water extractors, air-movers, hygrometers, moisture detectors and additional drying equipment that quickly and efficiently removes water, making any water removal on your property take less time than you might imagine.

Our vast network of resources puts needed supplies, personnel, and equipment at our disposal. SERVPRO can handle any job, regardless of size or scope, even those in hard to reach high-rise offices, or those affecting many floors at once. Our entire team of IICRC-industry certified technicians makes short work of even the most demanding jobs and provides you with quality services that often exceed any expectations you might have.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has qualified professionals available 24/7, 365, and offer unique solutions to water removal situations that may occur on your property. Get the help you need to get your business back on track by calling our offices, today (262) 250-1101.

Why You Should Use SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for Restoration

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is ready to help your business or home disaster look “Like it never even happened.”

Who should I use?

At different times in life we may find ourselves in emergency situations that call for quick reactions. In cases where a home or business structure in Milwaukee is being compromised by unhealthy and/or unsafe conditions, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is the-fast-response you need to get relief.  Chaotic situations should be handled by professionals with the right tools to do the job efficiently. When you are choosing your clean-up and restoration specialist, you may be considering a few important things such as:

• Convenient location
• 24/7 availability
• Professionalism
• Efficiency
• Honesty
• Experience
• Latest equipment

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is the answer.

In a problematic and possibly chaotic situation, remember, we’re here to help.  We want to make the clean-up process as easy as possible for you and reduce the amount of stress you may be feeling. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has trained professionals who are quick to respond and apply the latest equipment and techniques to make your disaster in Milwaukee look “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO When Disaster Strikes in Milwaukee

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is HERE TO HELP 24/7

When you are in the middle of a crisis, it can be difficult to make the right decision. If your Milwaukee home is on fire, the first thing you should do is call 911. If a storm has dropped a power line in front of your office, you would call the power company. These choices are rational, normal choices but whom would you call after the fire is out? Who do you call after the storm ends and you notice the damage is worse than you thought?  Maybe you notice the power line actually fell because a tree branch took it down and damaged a part of your home. 

You call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North. We are centrally located in Milwaukee, and are efficient, experienced, and open 24/7. We have a trained team of IICRC certified professionals who can take care of water damage, mold damage, storm damage, fire and smoke damage, and even flood damage. That’s right, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North comes when you call, and we show up ready to work. If you need a restoration company, please consider us because we can make your problem or damaged area look “Like it never even happened.”

Let Us Be There to Show You Why When It Comes to Your Milwaukee Community.

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will always be first in line to help when disaster hits in your Milwaukee property.

We strive to provide every customer with an unparalleled recovery experience for their Milwaukee property. While we have specialists in every niche of the industry, our primary focus is continuing to be a leading company providing restoration services to Wisconsin in the common damage areas of fire, water, storm, and mold loss. Our SERVPRO professionals can help steer your home through every phase of its recovery, from the initial damage inspection and mitigation work through reconstruction and cleanup. 

Fire

Because We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, many Milwaukee residents have looked to our expertise and training to help restore their properties after fire loss incidents occur. These situations can be devastating for homeowners, so it is vital to work quickly on mitigating loss and reducing the physical hazards that threaten the customer and our SERVPRO team working in the house. 

No fire damage in Milwaukee residences is precisely the same, and because of this, our professionals must continue their education into modern practices, equipment, and products. We have accreditations and endorsements through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in Fire & Smoke Restoration (FSRT), Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning (UFT), Odor Control (OCT), and Carpet Cleaning (CCT.) Many of our fire recovery specialists have more than one of these certifications to make our efforts more efficient and to help complete jobs on time and under budget. 

We know that some structure fires can take a heavy toll on your Milwaukee home, and we have structural engineers and construction experts to help from small repairs through full-scale reconstruction and renovation. We are a one-stop shop for fire recovery, offering effective mitigation services like soot and smoke removal, deodorization, and fire debris cleanup which seamlessly transitions to reconstruction and repair. 

Water 

Especially with larger properties like Mayfair Mall, water damage in Milwaukee structures can happen from countless sources and become a hazardous situation for many affected individuals. Preparing for all of these potential outcomes could be impossible, but protecting your property and its contents during these emergencies does not have to be. Our SERVPRO staff is the most prepared for water loss incidents, as this is among the most common of callouts that our team must respond to throughout the area. This preparedness for these emergencies has encouraged nearly all of our employees to get IICRC-Certified as Water Restoration Technicians (WRT) so that no customer ever has to wait for knowledgeable mitigation and recovery. 

We are structural drying specialists, able to both assess the damage to your Milwaukee home quickly and implement the right machines and tools to overcome saturation and water exposure. Many of our Water Restoration Technicians also have secondary accreditations from the IICRC for Applied Structural Drying to stay attuned to the latest practices, equipment, and products involved in moisture removal. 

With a 24/7 response to water damage emergencies, our SERVPRO team can help your Milwaukee home or business to avoid costly conditions like mold growth and structural degradation. Though we have a full-service contracting division capable of helping in reconstruction efforts and in other areas where repair could be necessary, it is our focus to restore before replacement when possible. 

Storm 

Our SERVPRO team is a part of a much grander Large Loss Recovery Team, helping to quickly and confidently manage storm damage in Milwaukee homes and businesses. With so many powerful storm systems that can compromise many homes and properties simultaneously, having the support and expertise of accredited and well-trained restoration specialists like ours can help. With our focus on a fast response in critical situations, no customer ever has to wait for the effective mitigation, reconstruction, and attention their property needs. 

Considering how frequent flooding is in storm-damaged Milwaukee properties, you need a restoration team that can not only address the water but also the structural concerns for your house as well. Our comprehensive recovery approach can start with temporary construction solutions to prevent further water penetration, even including security measures for your property like installing provisional fences to ward off both intruders and animals to your compromised home. 

Restoring flood effects on the inside of your home includes employing the latest cutting-edge equipment and products. We can quickly manage the extraction and drying of your Milwaukee property, working to prevent unnecessary tear out and replacement whenever possible. 

Mold 

Of all of the restoration services that our SERVPRO team provides, our remediation of mold damage to Milwaukee homes and businesses is among the most intricate and involved. We have extensive training in recovery of these conditions, learning not just about how to get rid of mold colonization in a home but understanding the science of microbial threats and how to protect our customers, their properties, and our service technicians in the field. 

Mold colonization can become a rapidly spreading and hazardous situation for Milwaukee residents. By the time that many homeowners recognize a problem, the conditions have often gotten out of control. Our IICRC-Certified Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians (AMRT) can first work quickly to address the food source of the organism, reducing relative humidity levels and identifying the source of dampness in the affected areas of the house. 

We do not cut corners when removing colonies from your Milwaukee property. We have multiple strategies for this removal, including media and sandblasting, antimicrobial sprays, and even controlled demolition and replacement with our team of reconstruction contractors. No matter how widespread and severe these conditions might appear, we have trained technicians to handle it safely and swiftly. 

Our advanced restoration specialists can offer credible solutions for every niche of the industry, even including biohazard cleaning and reconstruction. We have continued to work to maintain our position as a leading recovery team in Wisconsin, and you can count on our expertise and fast response in any emergency. Our SERVPRO of Milwaukee North team can make all loss incidents “Like it never even happened,” because we have the backing of our Large Loss Recovery Team to ensure that no job is too much for our professionals. Give us a call anytime that you need us at (262)250-1101.

Thanksgiving Day Tips for Emergency Prevention

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas, and Christmas Eve? We want you to enjoy these days with your loved ones, so here are a few safety tips for when you are cooking that scrumptious meal.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids or toys.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Be especially aware when Deep Frying a turkey, people tend to put too much oil in which causes overflow and spreads to the open flame causing a mass fireball. Also putting in a frozen or very wet bird can cause major problems which they call B.L.E.V.E which stands for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion.

• Always use fryer outside away from any structure
• Keep oil under 350 degrees, the hotter the oil the more combustible it is
• Don’t overfill the pot with oil
• Thoroughly defrost turkey(24 hours for every 10 pounds the turkey weighs)
• Turn off flame before putting turkey in
• Keep grease fire approved extinguisher on hand
• Lower turkey into pot slowly

If by unfortunate event you have an emergency this Holiday Season please know your SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on Holidays. Contact us if need be at (262)250-1101 and we will be there to help. Happy Holidays!

Milwaukee Area Smoke and Soot Cleanup

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is 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 Milwaukee North 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 are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme 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 property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (262)250-1101

Thanksgiving Day Tips for Emergency Prevention

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas, and Christmas Eve? We want you to enjoy these days with your loved ones, so here are a few safety tips for when you are cooking that scrumptious meal.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids or toys.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Be especially aware when Deep Frying a turkey, people tend to put too much oil in which causes overflow and spreads to the open flame causing a mass fireball. Also putting in a frozen or very wet bird can cause major problems which they call B.L.E.V.E which stands for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion.

• Always use fryer outside away from any structure
• Keep oil under 350 degrees, the hotter the oil the more combustible it is
• Don’t overfill the pot with oil
• Thoroughly defrost turkey(24 hours for every 10 pounds the turkey weighs)
• Turn off flame before putting turkey in
• Keep grease fire approved extinguisher on hand
• Lower turkey into pot slowly

If by unfortunate event you have an emergency this Holiday Season please know your SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on Holidays. Contact us if need be at (262)250-1101 and we will be there to help. Happy Holidays!

Milwaukee Area Smoke and Soot Cleanup

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is 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 Milwaukee North 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 are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme 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 property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (262)250-1101

The Four Classes of Water Damage

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

4 Classes of Water Damage

Classes of Water Damage losses are determined by the rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected by water damage to your property. Determining the Class of Water is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to restore your business. There are four IICRC water damage classifications, they are as follows:

Class 1 - Slow Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect only part of a room or area, or losses with lower permeance/porosity materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, vinyl composition tile or VCT, concrete). Little or no wet carpet or cushion is present. Minimum moisture is absorbed by materials, releasing moisture slowly.

Class 2 - Fast Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect an entire room or carpet and cushion. Water has wicked up walls 12" - 24". There is moisture remaining in structural materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, concrete).

Class 3 - Fastest Evaporation Rate
Water may have come from overhead. Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushion and sub-floor in the entire area are saturated.

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations
These consist of wet materials with very low permeance/porosity (hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, stone, and crawlspace). Typically, there are deep pockets of saturation, which requires very low specific humidity.

Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North Today – (262)250-1101

Common Causes for Sump Pump Failure

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Power Failure

Your primary sump pump should not be treated any different than any other appliance in your home - without power, it is completely worthless.  As a safeguard, invest in a high quality battery back-up sump pump.   A battery kept continually charged by the backup system operates a separate pump linked to the discharge pipe, providing you hours of protection until power is restored. Some backup pumps even monitor the condition of the battery and alert you when it needs to be replaced.

Frozen Discharge Pipe

If the discharge pipe is not installed pitched properly, water will collect and eventually freeze, causing a blockage. 

Switch Stuck in Place

There are several different types of sump float switches.  Vertical and tethered floats are the most common.  Vertical floats seem to work the best as tethered floats are known for getting stuck on the side walls of the sump pit (resulting in a flooded basement).

Over-worked / Under-Powered Sump Pump

Not all pumps are created equal.  Make sure you install the correct horsepower pump capable of keeping up with your flow of water.   

Old Age

It is generally recommended that sump pumps should be replaced every five to seven years in order to be reasonably safe. Don’t wait until it’s too late!

If your Sump Pump Fails: Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North (262)250-1101

How To Use IICRC Classifications To Assess Flood Damage

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

If you have endured flood damage to your Milwaukee home – SERVPRO can help you. We are an experienced flood damage restoration and repair team, with access to sophisticated tools and the finest equipment. If your property needs saving, we are the right choice. The first that thing we do, once we arrive on site, is to conduct a full inspection. This is designed to help us determine the extent and nature of the damage. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) categories flood damage according to four key classifications. The SERVPRO technicians will use this guide to shape their plan of action and decide which repairs are required.

Here is some more information on the IICRC classifications and what they might mean for your property.

Class One: Limited Intrusion
This is the least severe type of flood damage. A small amount of water has entered the home. There is minimal damage to walls and soft furnishings. Depending on the size, shape, and location of the affected space, large fans can likely be used to dry it out.

Class Two: Intrusion With Some Spread
Here, flood water has started to spread. If your house was impacted by a storm, the damage is almost going to have advanced beyond small pools of water. It may have risen into the walls and started to soak into timber, concrete, and insulation materials. The water has reached the subflooring beneath carpets. Industrial drying machines (and carpet lifters) will be brought in to absorb the excess moisture.

Class Three: Invasive Liquid
The walls, ceilings, soft furnishings, and floors are all damp and need to be dried quickly. Most are fully saturated with water. Water lines on the walls extend more than two feet above the floor. This tends to occur when ceilings leak (during heavy rainfall), and water seeps through the walls. Dehumidifiers and dryers can be used to restore the home, but some materials may be unsalvageable.

Class Four: Severe Invasion
In the most severe cases, objects not usually affected by flooding have been compromised. For instance, paintings high up on walls, attics (if the danger is from natural flooding), and crawlspaces. At SERVPRO, we’re committed to saving as many of your possessions as possible, but extensive damage can render some items irreparable. We will, however, inform you of the fact before disposing of any materials. Serious flood damage may require you to move out of the property while we secure its structural safety and install heavy duty drying machines.

Whether your home has been damaged by a storm or by something more familiar, like a burst pipe, assessing the damage is an important part of formulating a response. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is a locally based service, which means that our response is always fast. Call us 24/7 at (262)250-1101.

Through Storm Damage, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is Here to Help

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Every year, all over the country, catastrophic natural disasters wreak havoc on communities large and small.

Whether its a tornado, flooding, or hail damage, the effects of these colossal events can be felt across the nation.

In the midst of the chaos and stress caused by these happenings, it is easy for business and home owners to feel overwhelmed and lost.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North strives to put our customers at ease, guiding them and supporting them through the STORM emergency process while providing education and knowledge on how to best navigate the situation. 

So in the event that your home or business is involved in a STORM, you can rely on SERVPRO of Milwaukee North (262)250-1101 to turn a stressful situation into a manageable, professional experience.

Sprinkler Systems Are Common Causes of Water Damage

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Sprinkler systems are commonly installed in commercial and industrial buildings. They save life and structure when a fire occurs. They do cause water damage though when putting out the fire or when the system malfunctions. This is when SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help. We come in and dry the structure when a system malfunctions. Fire sprinklers are activated when the mercury liquid filled bulb bursts between 135 and 165 degrees. It is thought by many that they are triggered by smoke, they are actually activated by heat. Failures occur with sprinkler heads commonly when the line freezes from cold weather or the head gets hit or pulled on by something. We are here to help when you need it most and want to help prevent issues before they arise. It is always a good idea to know where your sprinkler line shut off valves are located in case you have a malfunctioning system and know who services these systems for your facility.

Large Loss

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is certified as a SERVPRO, Inc. Large Loss Provider!

Being a Large Loss franchise doesn't come easy, first you need training on every step of a large loss.  Then you need to make a significant financial investment of stocking the franchise with hundreds of desiccants and even more hundreds of air movers and for this you also need storage space.  For SERVPRO of Milwaukee North that means shelves up as high as we can get them of equipment.  Another investment is a commercial grade desiccant that usually is on a flat bed (and has to be pulled by something capable).  This desiccant has the ability to dry out large buildings in hours instead of days and is crucial when a commercial business faces downtime due to a water loss.  Along with all this equipment and our experience, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is ready to tackle any loss!

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is proud to be the large loss SERVPRO in Wisconsin!

Tools for Water Detection

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North knows the right tools for the job are important and understanding how to use them to dry a structure and property effectively is even more crucial.  The right tool is vital for timely mitigation and to help get the business up and running again.  

Water can damage in two ways - absorption through direct contact and absorption of moisture from the air.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North must understand how to alter humidity and temperature levels to produce an environment favorable for drying.

Our technicians have to locate the areas affected by water and to what extent moisture has been absorbed.  To do this they can use:

Moisture Sensors - detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls
Moisture Meters - determines actual moisture content of materials
Thermohygrometers - measure temperature and relative humidity which helps calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure.

All these tools help us start the process of making it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO's Highly Trained Restoration Specialists

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

We have always put a high priority into educating our team. That need is more important than ever today. SERVPRO is an IICRC certified firm with certified technicians. That means you can expect the very highest in standards and protocol to be used in your home or business.

IICRC Training and Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Advanced Structural Drying

Mold Doesn't Have to Be a Scary Thing!

9/30/2020 (Permalink)

The Only "Spooky" Mold

In recent years, mold seems to be a buzzword in the DIY world that people freak out about.  They make you feel like it is everywhere in your home! There is no need to freak out but instead become informed.

Mold is naturally occurring and as the years progress our houses become better sealed up from outside air.  This reduces ventilation and increases the opportunities for mold to occur if the environment is warm, wet or humid.

Mold on drywall and wood can be dealt with by removing and replacing the affected area and is a great solution as long as the humidity, water leaks and temperature are taken care of.  The most important factor with removing and replacing is that the area is contained and that there are air scrubbers that can clean the air and remove airborne mold spores.  If air scrubbers are not used then the removal will allow all the mold spores to become airborne, which can be filtered through an HVAC system all through the house.

Mold on tile and tubs can be treated by store purchased Mold Stain removers.  This is only for a small area and these removers should not be used on wood/drywall.

If you watch DIY shows they make you feel like mold is everywhere!  We hope that a little information goes a long way to calm your mold fears!

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North does free inspections to check on any of your mold concerns, just keep calm and give us a call.

SERVPRO's Highly Trained Restoration Specialists

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

We have always put a high priority into educating our team. That need is more important than ever today. SERVPRO is an IICRC certified firm with certified technicians. That means you can expect the very highest in standards and protocol to be used in your home or business.

IICRC Training and Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Advanced Structural Drying

Our Specialists Explain The Advantages Of A Fast Response To A Water Damage Emergency At Your Milwaukee Home

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

The Benefits Of Prompt Water Removal In Milwaukee

When your home in Milwaukee sustains an overflowing sink or tub, broken pipe, or other lost water, getting the water out as quickly as possible from your living space comes with added benefits. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, making it possible for our teams to make the situation less troublesome for you.

We work with homeowners in the Milwaukee area after lost water incidents cause problems by using water removal methods that help make things normal again fast. We want to make your residence like it was before, “Like it never even happened.” Because the process of extracting water while it is in its liquid form before it can escape into the air and additional objects inside your home than it is to pull moisture from the air, we start as soon as we possibly can.

The benefits go beyond a lower restoration cost, also. Not only does it cost less to extract more and dry less, but it also requires less time to accomplish this and start with cleanup. Because water that has less time to evaporate into the air and condense elsewhere, we do not need to use equipment to track it to other locations in your home.

We also can use less equipment, meaning the cost falls even more. Instead of four heaters, six air movers, and three desiccant machines, we can use about half of that number.

Other stories of your home might not become affected at all, meaning less traffic in these areas by our specialists, and increased privacy for your family members. Fewer or no machines in these areas also result in less noise that can disrupt children's schoolwork and interfere with anyone who sleeps during the daytime hours.

Fast action to a lost water event means that microbes have less time to become a problem for you. When mold's access to water is only temporary, the few spores that become active initially quickly die off from lack of continued moisture.

If your home in Milwaukee County sustains a terrible incident involving lost water and you need water removal services, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is the company you can trust to do the job right. Call our 24-hour emergency services line at (414) 354-7566, year-round so that we can send out the appropriate crews and equipment your home needs.

Riding the Storm Out

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

There are many things you can do to prepare for a "storm event".  One of these very important items is a Home Emergency Kit/Car Emergency Kit.  In the kit is a collection of basic household/automobile items that you will need in an emergency. Try to assemble your kit as soon as possible so that it will be ready in case of an emergency and don't forget to rotate new items in so when you need it there will not be expired or out-of-date items.  

When there is a "storm event" it takes at least 72 hours for emergency and relief workers to be on scene. Services like electricity and phone might be cut off for over a week. Kits should be prepared with this information in mind.

Be Prepared!!  Use online resources to see what should be in your emergency kit!

Getting the Right Fire Insurance

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

What the Policy Covers

Every policy is unique, but most will cover many different aspects of the fire restoration process. The following are some common expenses that are often covered by insurance:

• smoke cleanup
• repairing damage from the fire itself
• repairing damage from the fire-suppression efforts
• paying fire department fees
  

Most fire insurance policies do not cover arson. This means that you are not covered if the fire is intentionally started.

What Your Policy Needs
Insuring a commercial property can be tricky. Here are a few things to check for when buying fire coverage:

• whether the policy covers the replacement cost
• if the policy covers the full value of the property
• whether the policy covers damage created by the fire-suppression efforts
  

Some fire policies insure property for its actual cash value at the time of the loss. This means you would only get the depreciated value of your property and not the replacement cost. Make sure you know which of these values your policy covers. It is also important to make sure you buy coverage for the full value of the property, so you do not have to make up the rest out of pocket. At the very least, make sure to insure the property for the minimum amount mandated by the policy itself. Have an experienced appraiser determine the value.
Additionally, make sure you know what types of damages are covered. Most policies will cover losses caused by fire extinguishers, fire hoses, and other fire-suppression efforts, but double-check your policy to make sure. Read the policy yourself and ask your agent if you have any questions.
If your business suffers fire damage, a fire insurance policy can help you financially. For help with the restoration process, a certified restoration company can help you get your business back to normal quickly and safely.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is Here to Help Businesses Come Back After COVID

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

This Pandemic Won’t Last Forever

This global pandemic crisis caused by COVID-19 has taken away many of the social activities that we as Americans enjoy, but it will not last forever. When businesses reopen, people will be ready to socialize, dine, and enjoy all the activities that they used to. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North wants to help Milwaukee businesses get back to business. We have years of experience cleaning biological contaminants and viruses similar to COVID-19 and we use EPA-approved hospital-grade cleaning products.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility

We follow the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations and adhere to their strict protocols for cleaning and disinfecting both porous and nonporous surfaces. The CDC recommends the routine cleaning of all high-touch surfaces including:

• Tables
• Handles
• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Countertops
• Desks
• Keyboards
• Bathroom fixtures
• Common areas

SERVPRO Technicians are Uniquely Prepared

Our highly trained professionals are required to undergo rigorous initial and ongoing specialty cleaning training and we are uniquely positioned to respond to any biological cleaning need. When you are ready to get back to business, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North wants to help.  Our team is specialty trained to provide the highest level of commercial cleaning and restoration services. Call us today at 262-250-1101. We’ll clean and restore your business in Milwaukee “Like it never even happened.”

COVID-19 Is the "Storm" of the Century

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

The COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic has reminded all of us how important it is to properly clean the surfaces and objects we handle.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cleaning and disinfecting are separate processes. Cleaning removes dirt, oils and most surface germs. Disinfection kills (or deactivates) remaining germs.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is qualified to clean and properly apply disinfectants according to the CDC’s protocols.

We have numerous years of experience in cleaning and disinfecting contaminants, including infectious bio hazards. We have specific training and the appropriate equipment to go beyond standard cleaning services.  More recently, our professionals received additional training certifications regarding COVID-19 decontamination.

Many SERVPRO cleaning products include products the CDC recommends for other coronaviruses (such as SARS).  The EPA has just added three more of our branded disinfectants to their approved product list!  Although there has not yet been product testing against COVID-19, we can assure our community in and around Milwaukee that we follow all of the CDC-recommended guidelines.

We clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as:

• Counters and tabletops
• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Toilets & other bathroom fixtures (faucets, handrails, tubs & showers)
• Tablets, keyboards & other office (home or business) equipment

We also clean soft surfaces such as:

• Carpets & rugs
• Upholstered furniture
• Exercise mats

The CDC recommends cleaning and disinfecting the following areas:

• Kitchen & dining areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools, classrooms, conference rooms
• Retail spaces, including
• Sales counters
• Racks, shelves
• Hand-rails & elevator cars
• Flooring, regardless of material
• Water fountains
• Carpets, rugs
• Fitness equipment
• Playground equipment

Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for a Proactive Cleaning Today!

We are Ready To Respond to The "Storm"!  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, 262-250-1101.

Be Prepared for Storm Season

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Wisconsin Spring Weather is Unpredictable!

April showers don’t always bring May flowers. Springtime in Wisconsin means we all have to be prepared for any type of weather at any time.

According to NOAA, every year, Americans are forced to cope with: 10,000 severe thunderstorms, 5,000 floods or flash floods, 1,000 tornadoes, and 2 land-falling deadly hurricanes. As a result, there are around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage.

Don’t wait for a severe weather event to prepare. Form plans, build an emergency kit, and keep you, your family, and your home safe during this unpredictable weather season.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is ready 24/7, 365 days a year to assist you in your time of need. We are prepared year round.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North Supports Sports!

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

The familiar orange house logo of SERVPRO will proudly be displayed as a sponsor of the Milwaukee Kickers. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North will soon join the field wall of sponsors along with companies such as: Pepsi, Kohl's, Adidas & Sprecher at Uihlein Soccer Park. We love supporting our community and youth sports.

Commonly our services are called upon during an unfavorable situation. Whether residential or commercial, if we are involved - someone is probably having a pretty bad day! Marketing to a community for when their fortune takes a turn for the worse is not always an easy thing to do. But if we can create a presence in a positive setting and support our community while doing so, our goal has been met.

We hope to be your preferred Restoration Company in a time of need & you allow our family to assist yours. 

New Employee Profile

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

New Employee Announcement!

Meet Stephanie Kirsch she is our newest team member in the office. She is filling the role of Commercial Administrative Assistant and is enjoying a change of pace reentering the workforce after being a Stay-at-Home Mom for the last 8 years. (Which we know is truly a job title to honor!) She has previous experience in Property Management & is becoming a true asset to our Commercial side of the business. Her duties include fielding phone calls, scheduling, logging commercial projects & assisting the Commercial Sales team.

In her free time Stephanie runs a Non-Profit Organization for children with illnesses. She also has true SERVPRO spirit, as she owns an "orange" cat as well as a "green" tortoise.

Help us Welcome her to the SERVPRO family!

How Thawing Snow and Ice Can Create Water Damage in Your Milwaukee Home

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Ice Dams and Water Damage Restoration for Your South East Wisconsin Home

Snow covered roofs in the Milwaukee & surronding areas can form ice dams as they melt and refreeze this winter. With the warmups that have occurred, water damage is a concern for many homes. Ice dams can cause water to back up and go under the shingles and into your home, causing damage to your drywall and ceilings. In these situations, prevention is critical to avoid costly repairs.  

If your Milwaukee area home has already experienced water damage due to ice dams, you need the immediate help of our professional staff at SERVPRO. We are an experienced remediation company who can dry your home out and repair the damages that the ice dams have caused. The faster you pick up the phone and contact us the better, as the water leak continues to harm your home until it stops.  

In a case like this, you’ll likely have hidden water damage inside your walls and ceiling. Therefore, SERVPRO techs use special moisture sensors that can detect the hidden leaks, which allows us to restore your home thoroughly. If we did not do this and any water is left behind, it causes mold growth, making a big problem even more significant. Once we find where all the issues are, we can begin drying and restoring your home. Industrial fans and dehumidifiers help to dry your structure and the air and remove all the excess moisture.  

To prevent ice dams in the first place, begin by keeping your gutters clear of debris and leaves. Check and seal any areas that can allow warm air to leak from your home to the attic such as chimneys, exhaust fans, vent pipes, light fixtures, and attic hatches. You should also get your attic and roof inspected for insulation and proper ventilation. Inadequate signs of ventilation include rusty nails, rust spots, or mildew smell.  

Do not let snow accumulate on the lower three to six feet of your roof. For extra protection, you can install ice and snow slides to stop the ice and snow from bonding to the lower portion of your roof. Installing rubberized water and ice shields under the roof shingles for the first three to six feet, and heating cables along the eaves help to melt any ice.  

If your home in the Milwaukee area has been the victim of ice dams creating water damage inside, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North can help whenever you need us. Give us a call at (262)250-1101 as soon as you realize there is an issue so we can take care of everything for you and prevent further damage.

Potential Hazards of a Winter Storm

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Winter weather in Milwaukee, WI can be challenging to the body, but have you considered the toll it takes on your home? The last thing you want is to be panic prepping or making emergency repairs in a winter storm. Staying ahead of potential hazards will help to ensure a safe and comfortable winter in your home.

1. Ice Dam

An ice dam occurs when the ice melts off your roof and then refreezes on its edge later. This frozen “dam” prevents proper drainage from the roof, thereby forcing the water back up under the shingles. This entrapped water causes roof leaks, which can cause more serious problems like roof damage, structural damage and mold. Insulating your attic is one way to keep the warmer temperature of your home from melting the ice on the roof.

2. Burst Pipes

Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst due to pressure buildup between an ice blockage and a closed faucet. This pressure pushes the water toward the closed faucet, causing enough pressure that the pipe eventually bursts. Unheated areas and uninsulated areas are at the most risk. Opening the faucet to a trickle can keep the pressure from building up. Also, installing fiberglass or foam sleeves onto the pipes can help insulate them.

3. Driveway Damage

Freezing water can wreak havoc on your asphalt driveway. When moisture from a winter storm collects in cracks in asphalt and then freezes, it expands. This expansion can create larger cracks, even potholes. Avoid the need to repave the entire driveway by sealing cracks as soon as possible.

4. Fallen Tree Limbs

A blizzard or ice storm can damage trees due to the weight of the snow or ice. Falling branches can damage your roof, siding and gutter system. They can also fall on power lines, creating a fire hazard. Maintain your trees by cutting back suspicious-looking or dead limbs.
It’s important to be proactive when it comes to winter weather. Constantly monitor your property for potential threats and keep it well-maintained. If your home sustains damage from a winter storm, storm damage cleanup experts can assist.

Frozen Pipes in Milwaukee, WI

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

This winter the temperature is expected to drop below freezing several times. When that happens it can cause pipes in your building to freeze and then burst when the temperatures rise. 

Rest assure, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North can help cleanup and dry your home or business when this happens. Our team is trained and qualified to come into your home or business and get things done quickly. 

We make sure everything is photo documented and in the guidelines with what the insurance companies expect. Timing is everything so our main goal is to get your home or business dry quickly and efficiently to prevent any type of secondary damage. 

If you have any questions, feel free to call us at anytime at (262)250-1101. We have teams ready to help 24/7, 365 days a year. 

When Time Matters, Technology and Equipment Must be Counted On To Perform

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

THE TOOLS WE USE

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, helping our customers and returning water and/or fire-damaged areas and items to their preloss condition is our number one priority. To do this, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North understands that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, technology, and equipment must be counted on to perform. With that in mind, we will take you through a behind-the-scenes look at some of the tools we use to help get your property and structure to its preloss condition. Each machine and piece of equipment has a crucial role in the restoration process. Every SERVPRO of Milwaukee North Restoration Technicians is trained to use each piece of equipment to its highest potential. Here are a few of our most commonly seen and used machines and their purpose.

PORTABLE EXTRACTORS: Extractors are used for cleaning carpets, cleaning upholstery, and removing water from floors after a water loss. An extractor has three major components: a heater, a pump, and a vacuum system. Restoration Technicians use this machine for variable heat-controlled cleaning, including to heat the rinse solutions to clean more effectively. The vacuum system and waste recovery tank remove soils and moisture from the surface and collects it in the reservoir. With this machine, we can expedite the removal of water and humidity from damaged materials and textiles to help restore it to preloss conditions. In doing this, the potential of having to replace contents or belongings is lowered.

THE OZONE GENERATOR: The portable ozone generator eliminates a variety of odors caused by animals, cigarette smoke, mold and mildew, fire, and water damage. This machine generates "ozone," which consists of unstable oxygen molecules (containing three oxygen atoms). Ozone chemically reacts with odor-causing molecules to oxidize residues and remove the odors. When using this piece of equipment, we follow the necessary guidelines. People and pets need to evacuate from the environment during the ozone process for health and safety reasons. Once the deodorization process is complete, ozone quickly reverts to the typical oxygen molecule, leaving no residues. Once the odor is gone, the results are permanent. One of the features of the ozone generator is that it is made to be compact and portable, yet also be a durable and professional unit.

WEARING AND FIT CHECKING OUR RESPIRATORS: Safety for not only our Technicians but also our customers is a priority at SERVPRO. We enforce that respirators must be worn during all times by our technicians during exposure to hazardous situations. Our crews wear their respirators to be safe. If we are using respirators, we inform customers in the general area of this and advise them with the necessary precautions associated with the work going on for their safety.

DEHUMIDIFICATION EQUIPMENT:  

The dehumidification process increases the rate of evaporation by removing water vapor from the air. Our Restoration Technicians position dehumidifiers strategically in a water-damaged structure, so the moist, humid air moves through the unit while dry, warm air is discharged. Did you know that dry air acts like a sponge to absorb moisture from wet materials? Since it does, we use the dehumidifiers, primarily because it provides a continual source of dry air to enhance the restoration process. We use small commercial refrigerant-dehumidifiers because it removes approximately 8 gallons of water per day from the atmosphere. An extra-large industrial refrigerant could remove as much as 20 gallons per day.

AIR MOVING EQUIPMENT: Air movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level and reduce drying time. These machines introduce airflow at the surface level and replace the highly saturated air with drier air to enhance dissipation. Our crew is required to complete the "science of drying" coursework. This coursework teaches them how many air movers they will need and how to position them to create airflow across all wet surfaces. In some cases, when the lower portion of multiple walls are saturated, many air movers are placed to create a vortex of circular airflow around the walls. Our technicians operate the air movers in several different positions, offering flexibility in how to direct the airflow with the best possible outcome. 

TRUCK MOUNT EXTRACTOR: A truck-mounted extraction unit consists of several smaller components, which work together to make one of the best pieces of cleaning equipment in the industry. The pieces are made up of the engine, the vacuum, the chemical pump, the water pump, and the heating system. The heated chemical pumping system, along with the vacuum extraction tool, remove various soils and pressurizes the water used for cleaning. Due to the required training of this equipment, our technicians know the specific environment needed for this piece of machinery to work and how to maintain it appropriately for health and safety reasons. 

The SERVPRO® Equipment Department tests all equipment, including the truck mount, before putting the items in the product line. To provide the best service to our customers, we must know how the truck mount works, how to set up and maintain the unit, how to use it safely, how to clean the vehicle interior, unit, tools, hoses, and so forth as needed, and how to inspect all equipment and accessories for any damage, leaks, or wear.

There are many other devices and accessories we use, but for today's behind-the-scenes look, these are some our most commonly used pieces of equipment. The use of these devices helps us get your water or fire disaster back to its preloss condition. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is always here to help!

When fire and water take control of your life, we help you take it back. Our goal is to make it… "Like it never even happened." 

Christmas Tree Fire Safety Tips

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Christmas is around the corner, and you know what that means: fire safety. Each year, fire departments respond to an average of 210 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. Carefully decorating Christmas trees will make the holidays safer.

Here are some great Fire Prevention tips:

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, such as fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Add water to the tree stand daily.
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both make sure you choose the right ones.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
• Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.

There are so many other ways to prevent fire, around Christmas time, but these are a few of the common mistakes. We hope that you do not ever experience a fire.

We know how devastating fire damage can be, but we are here to help! Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North (262)250-1101  to help get your home restored efficiently.

Christmas Tree Fire Safety Tips

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Christmas is around the corner, and you know what that means: fire safety. Each year, fire departments respond to an average of 210 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. Carefully decorating Christmas trees will make the holidays safer.

Here are some great Fire Prevention tips:

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, such as fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Add water to the tree stand daily.
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both make sure you choose the right ones.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
• Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.

There are so many other ways to prevent fire, around Christmas time, but these are a few of the common mistakes. We hope that you do not ever experience a fire.

We know how devastating fire damage can be, but we are here to help! Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North (262)250-1101  to help get your home restored efficiently.

Christmas Tree Fire Safety Tips

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Christmas is around the corner, and you know what that means: fire safety. Each year, fire departments respond to an average of 210 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. Carefully decorating Christmas trees will make the holidays safer.

Here are some great Fire Prevention tips:

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, such as fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Add water to the tree stand daily.
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both make sure you choose the right ones.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
• Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.

There are so many other ways to prevent fire, around Christmas time, but these are a few of the common mistakes. We hope that you do not ever experience a fire.

We know how devastating fire damage can be, but we are here to help! Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North (262)250-1101  to help get your home restored efficiently.

Prevention is Key to Avoid Frozen Pipes in Milwaukee Area Homes

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Cold weather is great for winter fun in the Milwaukee area, but not so great for the pipes. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North will remediate water damage “Like it never even happened”, but life is better if you can prevent the damage in the first place. Every year, over a quarter of a million homes and businesses suffer water damage from frozen pipes that burst (Federal Emergency Management Association). SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is sharing these tips to prevent frozen pipes that may lead to water damage.

Keeping Pipes from Freezing in Wisconsin:

• Check for exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas

• Wrap uninsulated pipes with pipe insulation

• Add insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces to keep cold drafts from freezing the pipes

• Keep indoor temperatures at 55 degrees F, even when no one will be at home or in the office

• If you will have several days of temperatures at or below 20 degrees F, let cold water trickle through an open tap

• Remove outside hoses from their taps

• Open cabinet doors in bathrooms and kitchens to let warmer area circulate around the pipes

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North wishes you a winter free from water damage or storm damage.

Let Us Help You Prep Before the Storm

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

When you are running a business, you have a thousand decisions to make every day. We want to help make your life easier by helping you have a plan in place for property damage before you need it. SERVPRO offers a FREE Emergency Ready Profile App that you can download in the iTunes store today to help you be ready for any type of disaster. 

It's important to have a plan in place for your business before an emergency happens and that everyone in your company and team knows what to do when disaster strikes. When water is pouring through the ceiling on to your computers or into your showroom you don't have time to call around for references or check reviews online before calling a mitigation company. We are ready 24/7, 365 to help you make it "Like it never even happened." 

Smoke Detectors Save Lives!

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives and provide you and your family time to leave the home and get to safety or alert you to potential fires in the home like a cooking fire or an unattended candle. In the event of a home fire soot and smoke damage can cause damage throughout your home and require repairs and restoration. 

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has the technicians, expertise, and experience to clean and restore your home to preloss condition. After a fire, our crew's inventory and pack out the contents in your home. Contents are then brought back to our secure, climate-controlled warehouse where items are recleaned and packed into new clean boxes. While contents are being cleaned, crews work to clean and restore your home. Once your home has been restored, all contents are packed back and your home is ready to be put back together as it was before the fire. 

We Get to Work So You Can Get Back to Your Work.

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Document Restoration

When water damage strikes not only does it cause property damage but it can also affect the contents including important documentation. When documents and contents for your business get wet from a pipe break, a sprinkler system malfunction the team at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help you restore not only the structure but also the contents. 

When you call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, no matter the time of day, even 2 AM on a holiday weekend we have crews available to respond and begin the mitigation project because we know that when your business is in need it needs to be done right away. Our goal is to help get your business back up and running as quickly as possible so that you can get back to serving your customers. 

The Classes of Water Damage

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

The Classes of Water Damage Losses are determined by the rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected by water damage to your property. Determining the Class of Water is an important first step and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to restore your business. Here are four IICRC water damage classifications:

Class 1 - Slow Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect only part of a room or area, or losses with lower permeance/porosity materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, vinyl composition tile or VCT, concrete). Little or no wet carpet or cushion is present. Minimum moisture is absorbed by materials, releasing moisture slowly.

Class 2 - Fast Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect an entire room or carpet and cushion. Water has wicked up walls 12" - 24". There is moisture remaining in structural materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, concrete).

Class 3 - Fastest Evaporation Rate
Water may have come from overhead. Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushion and sub-floor in the entire area are saturated.

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations
These consist of wet materials with very low permeance/porosity (hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, stone, and crawlspace). Typically, there are deep pockets of saturation, which requires very low specific humidity.

Water or Flood Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at (262)250-1101

Highly Trained Mold Remediation Specialists

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North understands mold and mold growth and has the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business.

We carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view. We use various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources.

Our professionals use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. All fans and heating and cooling systems will be turned off to prevent the spread of mold.

Have Mold Related Questions? Call Us Today – (262)250-1101

Why SERVPRO Fire Damage Specialists Rely On Hydroxyl Generators When Restoring Homes In Milwaukee

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

During a house fire, firefighters douse the interior of the home with thousands of gallons of water. This water soaks into walls, floors, and your belongings. After they put the fire out and no signs of hot areas pose additional threats to reignite the fire, the fire department’s personnel return to the station. Their job never includes removing the water or foam soaking into your residence.

The presence of so much water is why SERVPRO uses specific machinery to mitigate fire damage from homes in Milwaukee & Waukesha Co. One of these choices involves our options regarding deodorizing equipment. Initial efforts to help make the air safer to breathe while we work on your home have the potential to bring about unexpected effects.

Ozone can cause permanent changes in the color of damp carpets, furniture, and other furnishings. Plants can also suffer drastically when ozone generators fill an area. We must wait until after one of our employees turns off the machine and then a bit longer to clear the air of ozone before we can enter the home. However, we do have a safer alternative with very few drawbacks.

We can safely use hydroxyl generators while we work, as well as in damp conditions. If you see us wearing masks or respirators as part of our personal protective equipment (PPE) while we work on mitigating the fire damage in your dwelling, this is because of the soot hanging in the air. Hydroxyl generators push hydrogen peroxide molecules into the air where they can interact with odor-causing particles at the molecular level.

The extra oxygen molecule turning plain water into hydrogen peroxide has a fragile bond with the water molecule, allowing the oxygen to form bonds with other substances. Our desiccant machines pull the water molecules produced by the breakdown of H2O2 as we remove the water hosed in during the fire. Ozone does not give us the flexibility to work as efficiently as hydroxyl generators provide.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North wants to assure our customers that we always use the most efficient methods when mitigating fire damage. Call us at (262)250-1101, so we can restore your property, “Like it never even happened.”

Our Experts Can Help You Restore Your Flood Damaged Furniture In Milwaukee

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Restoration Services In Milwaukee To Salvage Your Furniture

Commercial flood damage restoration services are meant to help a business to return to its normal operations after the disaster. To get your business to pre-damage condition, you need to act quickly and minimize further damage, get the dirt removed from the building and have the damaged areas repaired. We are going to look at how we can help you restore the furniture of your Milwaukee business after the unfortunate water event.

When our SERVPRO technicians arrive at your Milwaukee business to perform commercial flood damage restoration, we have to find out if the property is safe to re-enter. We also have to evaluate the damage and record everything since your insurance provider may need a report before making any compensation. When restoring your furniture, we must inspect to find out what is restorable and what is unrestorable. Sometimes, it is not the water that causes all the damage; excess humidity can also cause some degree of destruction.

Where possible, we can move the furniture to a dry location to enhance the drying process. If the furniture cannot be moved because of its weight or any reason, we place a wood block or aluminum foil under the legs. By doing that, we prevent contact with the wet carpets. If upholstered furniture was wholly submerged in the water, its fabric coverings may form favorable conditions for mold growth and become hard to salvage. They can be saved if it was a slight flood, so, we separate colored items from the upholstery fabrics to limit chances of color bleeding.

Our SERVPRO technicians hose off the dirt and mud from furniture before drying can take place. Drying the wooden items under the direct sun is not a good idea since wood is likely to warp. To speed up the drying process, we can disassemble drawers, doors, and back panels. In case they are stuck, we wait for the wood to dry and shrink before taking them off.

Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North  when you need to return your business to its normal operations after facing any size disaster. We can extract the water, clean the dirt, dry the structure, and perform necessary repairs. To get an immediate response from an industry leader, call (262)250-1101

Expert Restoration Of Retail Water Damage In Historic Milwaukee

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

When water damage affects your business, call SERVPRO for restoration

Our town is a one-of-a-kind, as is your business situated in a historical Milwaukee building. Water damage is a challenge wherever it strikes, but when the structural components and contents of affected premises carry the weight of more than a century of tradition everyone stands to lose. Our highly-qualified technicians employ up-to-date methods, equipment, and products to ensure continuity in the community as we restore your business investment.

The water damage in a commercial building can have an immediate cause like broken plumbing, and then reveal longer-term issues found when SERVPRO project managers complete an in-depth assessment. We begin removing water with pumps or industrial-strength wand extractors. As those tasks get underway, our team takes moisture readings of structural elements and scans for hidden recesses that contain water. The data noted helps us determine drying goals and also helps locates spaces where we need to release the water and expose the dampness behind walls, under floors, or above ceilings.

Once the now visible water exits your business's spaces, SERVPRO stages air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to regulate moisture. Our crew members use their combines experience and knowledge of typical moisture levels of a broad range of building materials and contents to guide the progress. A balance of temperature, ambient humidity, and air movement comes together to normalize any excess moisture found in your business. We revisit decisions about the spacing and operation intensity of the drying equipment and make our best effort to contain our work so that your business can remain open for commerce or customer services to some degree during restoration.

If the current crisis and vestiges of past water damage remain even partially unresolved, you risk progressive deterioration of supporting structures, fixtures, and decor. Unabated water harm also threatens your commercial property with the possibility of microbial growth, including dry rot of the heirloom floors and woodwork that lend such charm to your retail or other space.

The team at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has years of experience in dealing with water damage in a business setting -- both current and the footprints of former unmitigated water issues. To improve the chance of a successful outcome, contact us at (262)250-1101 immediately upon discovery of water losses.

Has Water Damage Left an Unpleasant Odor in Your Milwaukee Home?

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

WHY SERVPRO’s Water Removal Techniques Can Make a Difference in Your Milwaukee Home

If you have been asking yourself WHY SERVPRO should be your preferred water removal service provider, then read on. After a water damage incident, one thing that we check for is the odor. To neutralize the unpleasant odors, our technicians adopt various tactics. First, we determine the cause of the odor. As water comes into contact with organic materials, rotting may take place and lead to the formation of the odors. At the same time, the odor can emanate from wet materials that are not thoroughly dry. Our services certainly come in handy in eliminating odor in your Milwaukee property.  

To deal with the odor problem after water damage in Milwaukee, our SERVPRO Franchise professionals start by determining the source of the odor. In most cases, the smell usually emanates from multiple sources; thus we employ different methods in the deodorization process. To perform the job satisfactorily, we have the latest technical equipment and a vast wealth of knowledge on how to deal with such situations.  

When removing the unpleasant smell, our SERVPRO Franchise professionals understand that one type of deodorization agent cannot fight all types of water damage odor. For that reason, we use different types of deodorants to eliminate the different types of odor. Depending on the situation we are dealing with, we may decide to use thermal foggers or ULV foggers to dispense the deodorants.  

There are different types of deodorants that our technicians use. They include masking agents that cover the smell with a pleasant smell. We can also use filtration and absorption agents which combine with the odor particles causing them to fall on surfaces that we later on clean. After deodorization, we can apply disinfectants to inhibit the growth of mold.  

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has a track record in eliminating bad smells from both commercial and residential properties. Be sure to reach us at (262)250-1101 to benefit from our proven services.

What SERVPRO Can Do When Disasters Strike Milwaukee

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will always be first in line to help when disaster hits in your Milwaukee property.

Let us be there to show you why when it comes to your Milwaukee Community.

We strive to provide every customer with an unparalleled recovery experience for their Milwaukee property. While we have specialists in every niche of the industry, our primary focus is continuing to be a leading company providing restoration services to Wisconsin in the common damage areas of fire, water, storm, and mold loss. Our SERVPRO professionals can help steer your home through every phase of its recovery, from the initial damage inspection and mitigation work through reconstruction and cleanup. 

Fire

Because We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, many Milwaukee residents have looked to our expertise and training to help restore their properties after fire loss incidents occur. These situations can be devastating for homeowners, so it is vital to work quickly on mitigating loss and reducing the physical hazards that threaten the customer and our SERVPRO team working in the house. 

No fire damage in Milwaukee residences is precisely the same, and because of this, our professionals must continue their education into modern practices, equipment, and products. We have accreditations and endorsements through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in Fire & Smoke Restoration (FSRT), Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning (UFT), Odor Control (OCT), and Carpet Cleaning (CCT.) Many of our fire recovery specialists have more than one of these certifications to make our efforts more efficient and to help complete jobs on time and under budget. 

We know that some structure fires can take a heavy toll on your Milwaukee home, and we have structural engineers and construction experts to help from small repairs through full-scale reconstruction and renovation. We are a one-stop shop for fire recovery, offering effective mitigation services like soot and smoke removal, deodorization, and fire debris cleanup which seamlessly transitions to reconstruction and repair. 

Water 

Especially with larger properties like Mayfair Mall, water damage in Milwaukee structures can happen from countless sources and become a hazardous situation for many affected individuals. Preparing for all of these potential outcomes could be impossible, but protecting your property and its contents during these emergencies does not have to be. Our SERVPRO staff is the most prepared for water loss incidents, as this is among the most common of callouts that our team must respond to throughout the area. This preparedness for these emergencies has encouraged nearly all of our employees to get IICRC-Certified as Water Restoration Technicians (WRT) so that no customer ever has to wait for knowledgeable mitigation and recovery. 

We are structural drying specialists, able to both assess the damage to your Milwaukee home quickly and implement the right machines and tools to overcome saturation and water exposure. Many of our Water Restoration Technicians also have secondary accreditations from the IICRC for Applied Structural Drying to stay attuned to the latest practices, equipment, and products involved in moisture removal. 

With a 24/7 response to water damage emergencies, our SERVPRO team can help your Milwaukee home or business to avoid costly conditions like mold growth and structural degradation. Though we have a full-service contracting division capable of helping in reconstruction efforts and in other areas where repair could be necessary, it is our focus to restore before replacement when possible. 

Storm 

Our SERVPRO team is a part of a much grander Large Loss Recovery Team, helping to quickly and confidently manage storm damage in Milwaukee homes and businesses. With so many powerful storm systems that can compromise many homes and properties simultaneously, having the support and expertise of accredited and well-trained restoration specialists like ours can help. With our focus on a fast response in critical situations, no customer ever has to wait for the effective mitigation, reconstruction, and attention their property needs. 

Considering how frequent flooding is in storm-damaged Milwaukee properties, you need a restoration team that can not only address the water but also the structural concerns for your house as well. Our comprehensive recovery approach can start with temporary construction solutions to prevent further water penetration, even including security measures for your property like installing provisional fences to ward off both intruders and animals to your compromised home. 

Restoring flood effects on the inside of your home includes employing the latest cutting-edge equipment and products. We can quickly manage the extraction and drying of your Milwaukee property, working to prevent unnecessary tear out and replacement whenever possible. 

Mold 

Of all of the restoration services that our SERVPRO team provides, our remediation of mold damage to Milwaukee homes and businesses is among the most intricate and involved. We have extensive training in recovery of these conditions, learning not just about how to get rid of mold colonization in a home but understanding the science of microbial threats and how to protect our customers, their properties, and our service technicians in the field. 

Mold colonization can become a rapidly spreading and hazardous situation for Milwaukee residents. By the time that many homeowners recognize a problem, the conditions have often gotten out of control. Our IICRC-Certified Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians (AMRT) can first work quickly to address the food source of the organism, reducing relative humidity levels and identifying the source of dampness in the affected areas of the house. 

We do not cut corners when removing colonies from your Milwaukee property. We have multiple strategies for this removal, including media and sandblasting, antimicrobial sprays, and even controlled demolition and replacement with our team of reconstruction contractors. No matter how widespread and severe these conditions might appear, we have trained technicians to handle it safely and swiftly. 

Our advanced restoration specialists can offer credible solutions for every niche of the industry, even including biohazard cleaning and reconstruction. We have continued to work to maintain our position as a leading recovery team in Wisconsin, and you can count on our expertise and fast response in any emergency. Our SERVPRO of Milwaukee North team can make all loss incidents “Like it never even happened” because we have the backing of our Large Loss Recovery Team to ensure that no job is too much for our professionals. Give us a call anytime that you need us at (414) 354-7566.

Call SERVPRO When Disaster Strikes in Milwaukee

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is HERE TO HELP 24/7

When you are in the middle of a crisis, it can be difficult to make the right decision. If your Milwaukee home is on fire, the first thing you should do is call 911. If a storm has dropped a power line in front of your office, you would call the power company. These choices are rational, normal choices but whom would you call after the fire is out? Who do you call after the storm ends and you notice the damage is worse than you thought?  Maybe you notice the power line actually fell because a tree branch took it down and damaged a part of your home. 

You call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North. We are centrally located in Milwaukee, and are efficient, experienced, and open 24/7. We have a trained team of IICRC certified professionals who can take care of water damage, mold damage, storm damage, fire and smoke damage, and even flood damage. That’s right, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North comes when you call, and we show up ready to work. If you need a restoration company, please consider us because we can make your problem or damaged area look “Like it never even happened.”

Why You Should Use SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for Restoration

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is ready to help your business or home disaster look “Like it never even happened.”

Who should I use?

At different times in life we may find ourselves in emergency situations that call for quick reactions. In cases where a home or business structure in Milwaukee is being compromised by unhealthy and/or unsafe conditions, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is the-fast-response you need to get relief.  Chaotic situations should be handled by professionals with the right tools to do the job efficiently. When you are choosing your clean-up and restoration specialist, you may be considering a few important things such as:

• Convenient location
• 24/7 availability
• Professionalism
• Efficiency
• Honesty
• Experience
• Latest equipment

SERVPRO of Milwuakee North is the answer.

In a problematic and possibly chaotic situation, remember, we’re here to help.  We want to make the clean-up process as easy as possible for you and reduce the amount of stress you may be feeling. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has trained professionals who are quick to respond and apply the latest equipment and techniques to make your disaster in Milwaukee look “Like it never even happened.”

Commercial Biohazard Cleanup In Milwaukee -- Rely On SERVPRO’s Specialists

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Offers Safe and Clean Biohazardous Removal from Milwaukee Area Enterprises

Even if you employ high-quality in-house or contracted cleaning services, your Milwaukee business needs specialized biohazard cleanup help from a certified firm in some circumstances. When an accident, emergency, crime, or tragedy strikes in your commercial space dangerous substances and residues complicate cleanup. We can help.

A typical example of Milwaukee commercial jobs that require professional biohazard cleanup includes sewage backup or flooding that allows contaminated water to enter one or more areas of your business property. The contaminants contained in sewage are many -- human and animal waste, fertilizer and road chemical runoff, insects and vermin, and rotten food and other waste are just a few. Our crews receive baseline and updated training on how to manage these biohazards safely and effectively.
 
Human or animal fluids and waste deposited through other means such as traumatic injury or violent crime on your premises also needs our expert attention. The viruses, bacteria, parasites, and other pathogens involved in blood and other secretions need to be managed using protocols developed by OSHA, the EPA, and local health authorities. Proper cleaning with registered disinfectants is key to restoring your workplace, and SERVPRO has the experience with biohazards and innovative commercial cleaning products to achieve the goals.
 
Your business may also suffer from a chemical spill or other spread of a biohazard. The often is a complication of a flooding scenario where your own inventory or cleaning and maintenance products are knocked over or soaked through, contributing to the dangers in the waters contained in your building. SERVPRO contains such contaminated water, ensure that it is disposed of properly to keep you, your employees and customers, and the general public safe from harm.
 
During these unique catastrophic events, it is critical that your biohazard cleanup company be not only professional and effective but also completely discreet. Our team can return your business to a safe and healthy condition, “Like it never even happened.” For you to retain the confidence of your employees and customers, the process must be transparent yet ethical and without unnecessary drama or scare tactics.
 
SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is a full-service restoration company, poised to assist with your biohazard cleanup needs. Contact us at (414) 354-7566 for fast and confidential help.

Commercial Promise

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Down Time is bad.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North recognizes that for all businesses down time is loss of revenue.  As a business, do you have a Emergency Plan?

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North promises:

- quick response that may help avoid revenue loss for property owners and minimize losses for tenants and business owners.  We are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your needs!
- restoration services that avoids costly downtime and helps resume business functions quickly
- industry approved equipment and techniques along with well trained and uniformed professionals that saves time and money.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North also offers a FREE Emergency Ready Profile for businesses.  This gives people a chance to walk through their business to see the whole building and maybe even re-familiarize themselves with the area.  Water, Electric and Gas shut-offs all get labelled to help with any emergency situations.  Emergency contacts are detailed and all this is located in one easy to use booklet or can be accessed online with the ERP app.  

SERVPRO wants to be sure that you are Ready for Any Size Disaster.

Water Removal Services Available For Your Milwaukee Area Business

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

Water Removal Services

You may operate a Milwaukee area business that recently experienced water intrusions varying in size and exposure. If you do, you know first-hand that these incidents can wreak havoc on productivity, cause extensive damage to equipment, and directly affect your companies bottom line.

Operating a shipping warehouse, retail establishment, or high-rise office building in Milwaukee comes with a hefty responsibility. Having water removal problems is something you just cannot afford to deal with, which makes finding a trusted professional that much more crucial.

Being unable to remove water from your warehouse as soon as possible means that your stored goods, equipment, and business assets become exposed to elements longer. Often leading to irreversible damages that have a severe impact on your company. SERVPRO’s expertly trained staff can help locate profoundly affected areas and take steps to limit any losses you might experience.

Standing water in a retail space can severely damage products, cause you to close your doors, and cost immeasurable amounts of revenue loss. The sooner you get water out and the entire space dried, cleaned, and restored, the sooner you can get back to business. SERVPRO has access to a variety of water extractors, air-movers, hygrometers, moisture detectors and additional drying equipment that quickly and efficiently removes water, making any water removal on your property take less time than you might imagine.

Our vast network of resources puts needed supplies, personnel, and equipment at our disposal. SERVPRO can handle any job, regardless of size or scope, even those in hard to reach high-rise offices, or those affecting many floors at once. Our entire team of IICRC-industry certified technicians makes short work of even the most demanding jobs and provide you with quality services that often exceed any expectations you might have.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has qualified professionals available 24/7, 365, and offer unique solutions to water removal situations that may occur on your property. Get the help you need to get your business back on track by calling our offices, today (414) 354-7566.

Watch Out For Avoidable Mistakes When You Face Mold Damage In Milwaukee

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Damage In Your Home

The buildup of indoor moisture from high relative humidity, plumbing, and roof leaks may lead to mold damage. When the relative humidity is kept low, chances for condensation to take place reduce, and that means there are no appropriate conditions for fungi to grow. Mold spores cannot thrive without the presence of water in your Milwaukee property.

It is necessary to take precautionary measure when dealing with mold damage because it can cause health effects. Our SERVPRO technicians assess the level of contamination and choose the right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the job. When the area is extensively contaminated, we prefer a half-mask respirator, full body suits, and chemical resistant gloves. For light levels of contamination, an N95 respirator can be good enough.

We are careful not to spread the contaminant to clean areas, and if we have to disturb the mold when cleaning the site, we make sure containment procedures are already in place. Containment also helps limit mold exposure to the occupants and our SERVPRO team. If the area we are working on is small, we practice limited containment. Otherwise, we do full containment when the area is more than 100 square feet.

After disturbing the mold, spores and dust might settle on porous and non-porous surfaces. When that happens, we do damp wiping and HEPA vacuuming to do the removal. We first determine the airflow direction and clean areas towards that path, and the cleaning process starts from the structure's top towards its bottom.

When drying the items and rooms, our SERVPRO technicians first remove any wet objects from the area to speed up the rate of evaporation and after that setup dehumidifiers to lower the humidity. Moisture meters provide initial readings of overall humidty at the start of the job and will be monitored to ensure the project is complete.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster whether it strikes your home or business property. Call us at (414) 354-7566 when you need to be served by a proven industry leader.

Mold Damage Can Rapidly Grow in Your Milwaukee Home's Attic

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Thoroughly Remediates Mold Damage

Microbial growth in any home needs special care when it spreads. Airborne spores can cause health effects in Milwaukee residents, and the winter months do not slow microbial activity a significant amount. During the colder season, the flu, colds, and allergies can all cause confusion and disagreement regarding the best treatment for individuals suffering runny noses and other undesirable symptoms.

Milwaukee residents can eliminate one source of the sniffles by hiring professional mold damage experts to remediate an attic overcome by microbes. Although your family may rarely enter the attic, air ducts can carry spores away from the attic and into the living spaces of your home.

Remediation by SERVPRO's IICRC-certified technicians can help reduce the microbial population to reasonable numbers. Part of this involves washing and treating damaged materials and cleaning mold-inundated belongings stored in the attic. Because many attics do not include drywall materials, removing materials does not happen at the same level commonly found for living areas of a home.

Attics can easily harbor hidden mold, so we use devices that can detect higher levels of moisture. These areas easily allow microbial populations at very rapid rates. After locating all mold growth, cleaning the surfaces of microbial activity, and then treating the area, helps prevent any further damage.

Finding the source of water that permitted such growth to occur in the first place lets us stop any additional water from coming into your attic. These sources can include slow drips from ice damming, overhead water lines from new appliance's installation or remodeling of your home, leaks around the chimney, or other sources. Each source never precludes the presence of any others, so we always check thoroughly to ensure we find all possible sources.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North always keeps the equipment and tools ready to combat mold damage and provide excellent mold remediation services to our local community. If the moisture from winter storms overfed mold in your attic, call us at (414) 354-7566. Our services are available 24/7 year-round.

Are You Prepared for Snowmelt Flooding in Milwaukee?

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Snowmelt Can Cause Flood Damage in Your Milwaukee Home

As the seasons change in WI, melting snow can cause flood damage in your home. Typical weather in the Midwest brings us a heavy winter. If your home is positioned at the bottom of a hill or a slope, the chances of flood damage for your home grow significantly, as gravity dictates that the water would flow downward. Most homes in these situations have defenses for this, such as sump pumps laid in their basement to redirect snowmelt-waters away from the house. However, sometimes, defense mechanisms can fail.  

Calling for help as soon as you find the flood damage in your Milwaukee basement is best. Unfortunately, the flood damage in your home did come from a sump pump failure, causing puddles of water to form around the drain. In severe cases, it can flood the entire floor of your home. The reason why it is essential to call for aid, as soon as you can, is because leaving water-based damage for any length of time can lead to future problems developing in your home. Furthermore, allowing more damages to develop only makes the problem more expensive to solve. Dealing with it quickly not only ensures the best price but also increases the chances of smooth remediation.  

SERVPRO Franchise professionals understand how stressful finding flood damage inside of your home can be. As a result, we always make an effort of arriving at the earliest time possible after we get your call. Once we arrive, our SERVPRO techs can get to work right away and use advanced technology to solve the issue.  

To remove the standing water, SERVPRO Franchise professionals can use a combination of portable pumps, even submersible if the water is significant in volume, wet/dry vacuums, and extractors. All of these devices are designed to get the water out of your house as soon as possible. Depending on the location and situation, SERVPRO can either redirect the water away from your house or remove it via truck. Once the water is gone, we can focus on using drying equipment to ensure that your home is at the proper moisture level that it should be, relative to the climate of your location.  

If snowmelt causes flood damage in your home, always get help right away. Speak with SERVPRO of Milwaukee North by phoning (414) 354-7566. 24/7, we are open and ready to get the job done.

Employee Profile - John Szyjewski

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

John Szyjewski is our Commercial Marketing Representative, he is new to our SERVPRO family as of earlier this Spring but has jumped right in & easily become one of our team. On a daily basis, John takes charge of Building Customer Relationships, he is the face of our Mass Marketing Department, Association Events & Company Awareness. Not to mention his new found talent for YouTube as our Master of Web Presence & all things social media!

In his spare time John is a family man with a love for motorcyles & concerts. When not riding or rocking out he can be found running a Non-profit Charity and is well known in WI bridal scene as the Rockin Rev. We are proud at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North to have him on our team!

Important Facts To Prevent A Mold Infestation From Taking Over Your Home In Milwaukee

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Facts That Can Help You Prevent Mold Damage From Harming Your Milwaukee Home

Some microbes can easily cause costly harm inside your house in Milwaukee. SERVPRO wants to help you prevent this from happening by giving you some information about mold and mildew that helps to keep these microorganisms under control.

Once your property in Milwaukee suffers from mold damage, you might be surprised at how effortlessly it can spread from one region to another location. Here are some facts about microbes that can shed some light on these prolific but tiny living things that we share our homes with, no matter where we live.

First, complete eradication of mold and mildew is not possible. No matter how much we try, nor which equipment types we use, mold and mildew, and their spores continue as a presence in almost every inch of the planet. As tiny as they are, the weakest air currents and deposited elsewhere. They travel on clothing, pets, food, books, bags, and anything else that goes from one place to another.

Second, it is not their absence that protects your home from mold damage, but the elimination of excess humidity. Elevated amounts of water vapor in the air give microbes the necessary changes in their environment to gain access to cellulose. Without moisture, microbes cease to grow. SERVPRO uses special tools to measure the amount of moisture your home's structure contains and also how much water vapor the air holds. Part of our work involves reducing these so mold cannot return after we finish remediating your home.

Third, after an incident involving a water loss, you only have 24 to 48 hours before mold and mildew begin forming in visible patches. Containing the water and drying the affected area prevents this growth from occurring. This is why we use not only air movers to dry out saturated interiors, but also air scrubbers. Trapping microbes coming into the area can significantly reduce the amount of mold and mildew we see later.

Household bleach contains substantial amounts of water, and microbes get a drink from its contents. When used on porous materials like drywall, only the water molecules are small enough to pass through the pores of the drywall coverings. The bleach's molecules are too large to do this and remain on the surface. Bleach cannot penetrate to kill microbes hidden in a wall. Now provided with fresh water, microbes unexpectedly but quickly proliferate.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North wants to help homeowners protect their property from invasive microbes that cause mold damage. When you find mold damage more massive than the size of a twin mattress, you need experts like those at SERVPRO. Call us at (414) 354-7566 any time, day or night, year-round.

How To Use IICRC Classifications To Assess Flood Damage

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

If you have endured flood damage to your Milwaukee home – SERVPRO can help you. We are an experienced flood damage restoration and repair team, with access to sophisticated tools and the finest equipment. If your property needs saving, we are the right choice. The first that thing we do, once we arrive on site, is to conduct a full inspection. This is designed to help us determine the extent and nature of the damage. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) categories flood damage according to four key classifications. The SERVPRO technicians will use this guide to shape their plan of action and decide which repairs are required.

Here is some more information on the IICRC classifications and what they might mean for your property.

Class One: Limited Intrusion
This is the least severe type of flood damage. A small amount of water has entered the home. There is minimal damage to walls and soft furnishings. Depending on the size, shape, and location of the affected space, large fans can likely be used to dry it out.

Class Two: Intrusion With Some Spread
Here, flood water has started to spread. If your house was impacted by a storm, the damage is almost going to have advanced beyond small pools of water. It may have risen into the walls and started to soak into timber, concrete, and insulation materials. The water has reached the subflooring beneath carpets. Industrial drying machines (and carpet lifters) will be brought in to absorb the excess moisture.

Class Three: Invasive Liquid
The walls, ceilings, soft furnishings, and floors are all damp and need to be dried quickly. Most are fully saturated with water. Water lines on the walls extend more than two feet above the floor. This tends to occur when ceilings leak (during heavy rainfall), and water seeps through the walls. Dehumidifiers and dryers can be used to restore the home, but some materials may be unsalvageable.

Class Four: Severe Invasion
In the most severe cases, objects not usually affected by flooding have been compromised. For instance, paintings high up on walls, attics (if the danger is from natural flooding), and crawlspaces. At SERVPRO, we’re committed to saving as many of your possessions as possible, but extensive damage can render some items irreparable. We will, however, inform you of the fact before disposing of any materials. Serious flood damage may require you to move out of the property while we secure its structural safety and install heavy duty drying machines.

Whether your home has been damaged by a storm or by something more familiar, like a burst pipe, assessing the damage is an important part of formulating a response. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is a locally based service, which means that our response is always fast. Call us 24/7 at (414) 354-7566.

Milwaukee Area Smoke and Soot Cleanup

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is 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 Milwaukee North 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 are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme 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 property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (414) 354-7566

Thanksgiving Day Tips for Emergency Prevention

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know that Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas, and Christmas Eve? We want you to enjoy these days with your loved ones, so here are a few safety tips for when you are cooking that scrumptious meal.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids or toys.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Be especially aware when Deep Frying a turkey, people tend to put too much oil in which causes overflow and spreads to the open flame causing a mass fireball. Also putting in a frozen or very wet bird can cause major problems which they call B.L.E.V.E which stands for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion.

• Always use fryer outside away from any structure
• Keep oil under 350 degrees, the hotter the oil the more combustible it is
• Don’t overfill the pot with oil
• Thoroughly defrost turkey(24 hours for every 10 pounds the turkey weighs)
• Turn off flame before putting turkey in
• Keep grease fire approved extinguisher on hand
• Lower turkey into pot slowly

If by unfortunate event you have an emergency this Holiday Season please know your SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on Holidays. Contact us if need be at (414)354-7566 and we will be there to help. Happy Holidays!

Open House

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Business After 5

Please join us for facility tours, demonstrations, networking, food, drinks, raffles & more

Thursday, October 17 5:00PM - 7:00PM

N92 W15600 Megal Dr

Menomonee Falls, WI

Please RSVP by October 14th to:

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at (414)354-7566

Common Causes for Sub Pump Failure

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Power Failure

Your primary sump pump should not be treated any different than any other appliance in your home - without power, it is completely worthless.  As a safeguard, invest in a high quality battery back-up sump pump.   A battery kept continually charged by the backup system operates a separate pump linked to the discharge pipe, providing you hours of protection until power is restored. Some backup pumps even monitor the condition of the battery and alert you when it needs to be replaced.

Frozen Discharge Pipe

If the discharge pipe is not installed pitched properly, water will collect and eventually freeze, causing a blockage. 

Switch Stuck in Place

There are several different types of sump float switches.  Vertical and tethered floats are the most common.  Vertical floats seem to work the best as tethered floats are known for getting stuck on the side walls of the sump pit (resulting in a flooded basement).

Over-worked / Under-Powered Sump Pump

Not all pumps are created equal.  Make sure you install the correct horsepower pump capable of keeping up with your flow of water.   

Old Age

It is generally recommended that sump pumps should be replaced every five to seven years in order to be reasonably safe. Don’t wait until it’s too late!

If your Sub Pump Fails: Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North (414)354-7566

The Four Classes of Water Damage

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

4 Classes of Water Damage

Classes of Water Damage losses are determined by the rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected by water damage to your property. Determining the Class of Water is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to restore your business. There are four IICRC water damage classifications, they are as follows:

Class 1 - Slow Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect only part of a room or area, or losses with lower permeance/porosity materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, vinyl composition tile or VCT, concrete). Little or no wet carpet or cushion is present. Minimum moisture is absorbed by materials, releasing moisture slowly.

Class 2 - Fast Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect an entire room or carpet and cushion. Water has wicked up walls 12" - 24". There is moisture remaining in structural materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, concrete).

Class 3 - Fastest Evaporation Rate
Water may have come from overhead. Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushion and sub-floor in the entire area are saturated.

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations
These consist of wet materials with very low permeance/porosity (hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, stone, and crawlspace). Typically, there are deep pockets of saturation, which requires very low specific humidity.

Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North Today – (414) 354-7566

We Can Handle Any Size Flood Damage Disaster In Milwaukee

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

For any water intrusion into your home, call us 24/7 at (414) 354-7566 to begin work.

Typically WI Springtime is synonymous with flooding, not the Fall Season. When water begins spreading across floors or filling basements, it is usually from a failed water heater shut-off valve or a split line on a washing machine. But as all Wisconsinites know, our unpredictable weather can cause trouble without warning.

No matter where it came from, water removal for Milwaukee homes needs to be started, and finished, as soon as possible. It is why SERVPRO maintains a support office 24/7, so our Water Damage Restoration Technicians can begin work within minutes after receiving a call.

If the water level is over two inches, each team of Restoration Technicians starts removal with a commercial grade, submersible pump. All water we remove goes directly in a drain, and not across the backyard to cause a problem for neighbors or the residents one street over. If possible, technicians direct it into sewer access if one is available.

For water levels under two inches, SERVPRO Restoration Technicians utilize extraction wands and other, smaller devices. Each one has three components, but technicians start by using only the pump option to draw water off of floors. Once they begin drawing water out of carpets, upholstery, and other items, they use the other two, a heater and vacuum to carefully draw water out of carpets and from between floorboards.

That is particularly important for carpets. After they become soaked, the glue holding the layers together weakens significantly, and delamination, or separation of the layers, can occur. Restoration Technicians know to carefully monitor all three components to prevent tearing carpets apart, as well as overheating the already damaged wood floorboards, cracking and splintering them.

After completing water removal, technicians then lift the carpets, remove the carpet pad, and dry the floor using air movers and fans to force warm air over and under the carpet while also drawing out the damp air and sending it outside the nearest window or another exit. Once completed, they insert a new pad and then stretch the carpet back in place.

At SERVPRO of Milwaukee North, we want to return each home to its original condition, safe for occupation once more, as quickly as possible. For any water intrusion into your home, call us 24/7 at (414) 354-7566 to begin work. We are here for you.

In-Home Fire Safety for the Milwaukee Area

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

Fall is quickly approaching! That means all of the fall activities are about to begin in Milwaukee, if they haven’t already! One popular item associated with the fall season is the candle. If a house smells like fall, it feels like home. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North knows that candle fires happen and even though candles are small, the damage of a residential fire by a candle can turn out to be larger than expected.

Here are some candle fire safety tips for the Milwaukee area:

• When lighting a candle in the home, keep the candle at least twelve inches away from anything that can burn
• Try to avoid keeping a lit candle in bedrooms, bathrooms or sleeping areas
• Do not leave a lit candle where a child or family pet can access or reach it

One more important candle safety tip will tie to one of the above tips about not leaving a lit candle in the bathroom. When cleaning a bathroom using aerosol chemicals, this becomes extremely dangerous if there is a lit candle nearby. Aerosols are highly flammable and this can cause an explosion of sorts – please practice safety first and share this tip with friends and family who may not be aware of it.

If a Milwaukee home catches fire for any reason, including a candle, please call the trained professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North so we can help clean up the fire mess and damage.

Link: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/media/pictographs/candles.html

Storm Safety

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

No matter where you live or work, you will experience severe storms at one time or another. It is important that you are prepared and educated in advance of this so you are best able to handle the circumstance. Whether you live in Tornado Alley, along the coasts, on a fault line, or in fire prone locations, the following is a lists of preparation steps you should take.

• Keep a battery powered radio at your residence
• Have a flashlight accessible
• Unplug electrical appliances from your home when gone for extended periods
• Ensure roof shingles are well secured and nailed down
• Employ a lightning protection system to avoid strikes on your home
• Board up windows and doors in advance of a major storm

These are just a few of many important steps to take to be prepared for a storm. Call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North at (414) 354-7566 with questions regarding storm safety and preparedness.

Our Specialists Explain The Advantages Of A Fast Response To A Water Damage Emergency At Your Milwaukee Home

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

The Benefits Of Prompt Water Removal In Milwaukee

When your home in Milwaukee sustains an overflowing sink or tub, broken pipe, or other lost water, getting the water out as quickly as possible from your living space comes with added benefits. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, making it possible for our teams to make the situation less troublesome for you.

We work with homeowners in the Milwaukee area after lost water incidents cause problems by using water removal methods that help make things normal again fast. We want to make your residence like it was before, “Like it never even happened.” Because the process of extracting water while it is in its liquid form before it can escape into the air and additional objects inside your home than it is to pull moisture from the air, we start as soon as we possibly can.

The benefits go beyond a lower restoration cost, also. Not only does it cost less to extract more and dry less, but it also requires less time to accomplish this and start with cleanup. Because water that has less time to evaporate into the air and condense elsewhere, we do not need to use equipment to track it to other locations in your home.

We also can use less equipment, meaning the cost falls even more. Instead of four heaters, six air movers, and three desiccant machines, we can use about half of that number.

Other stories of your home might not become affected at all, meaning less traffic in these areas by our specialists, and increased privacy for your family members. Fewer or no machines in these areas also result in less noise that can disrupt children's schoolwork and interfere with anyone who sleeps during the daytime hours.

Fast action to a lost water event means that microbes have less time to become a problem for you. When mold's access to water is only temporary, the few spores that become active initially quickly die off from lack of continued moisture.

If your home in Milwaukee County sustains a terrible incident involving lost water and you need water removal services, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is the company you can trust to do the job right. Call our 24-hour emergency services line at (414) 354-7566, year-round so that we can send out the appropriate crews and equipment your home needs.

We Have A Cleaning Product For Any Situation

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has a cleaning product for any cleaning situation. Weather you have an issue with sewage, a fire, mold, a biohazard, or graffiti. We have a product specialty formulated by our scientists at SERVPRO that will be able to help remove that stubborn situation. We are here as your premier cleaning company to make it "Like it never even happened." We have products stocked and ready on our shelves all the time and our trained technicians know how to safely and properly use these resources to treat the most stubborn of situations. We have deodorizes and air fresheners as well as  environmentally friendly "green" products. You can depend on SERVPRO to take care of you, your home, business, carpets, upholsteries, etc. Give us a call today with your stubborn cleaning needs.

Sprinkler Systems Are Common Causes of Water Damage

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

Sprinkler systems are commonly installed in commercial and industrial buildings. They save life and structure when a fire occurs. They do cause water damage though when putting out the fire or when the system malfunctions. This is when SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help. We come in and dry the structure when a system malfunctions. Fire sprinklers are activated when the mercury liquid filled bulb bursts between 135 and 165 degrees. It is thought by many that they are triggered by smoke, they are actually activated by heat. Failures occur with sprinkler heads commonly when the line freezes from cold weather or the head gets hit or pulled on by something. We are here to help when you need it most and want to help prevent issues before they arise. It is always a good idea to know where your sprinkler line shut off valves are located in case you have a malfunctioning system and know who services these systems for your facility.

SERVPRO's Highly Trained Restoration Specialists

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

We have always put a high priority into educating our team. That need is more important than ever today. SERVPRO is an IICRC certified firm with certified technicians. That means you can expect the very highest in standards and protocol to be used in your home or business.

IICRC Training and Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Advanced Structural Drying

Springtime Check List

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

Springtime is upon us in Wisconsin. It’s time to start thinking about planting some flowers and getting your lawn mower ready to start the long mowing season. There are lots to look forward to in the Springtime, but there are also lots of things that need to be done to make sure your home is up for the season. Below we cover five things to check in your home to make sure it is free of water damage and mold damage - and ready for Springtime. 

#1 Check Your HVAC System

 As the warm weather approaches, you need to make sure your air conditioner is ready. The first thing to check and most likely replace is the air filter. The air filter catches allergens and reduces the buildup of dust in your home’s air ducts. It would help if you also made sure that there is no standing water or dirty air coils where mold can grow and then be pushed through the air ducts.  

#2 Check Around Your Windows & Doors

 During the winter, water can seep into cracks around your windows and doors and freeze. The frozen water will expand causing tiny cracks to grow to allow more water to enter into your home. Check around the outside and inside of all your windows and doors. Look for cracked or missing caulking. If you find any cracks where water could enter your home, be sure to caulk or seal the holes. 

#3 Check Your Roof for Damage

 When it’s nice out and your roof is dry, if you're comfortable climb up there and do an inspection, or call a qualified specialist to help you. Check to make sure your gutters are clear. Otherwise, water could run over the gutters and cause water to enter through your foundation and into your basement. Also, check to make sure there are no missing shingles. If you have exhaust pipes or chimneys, check around them to make sure they are sealed and there are no signs of cracking. 

#4 Check Attics, Basements and Crawl Spaces for Mold

 As the ground thaws out from the Winter, water will find its way into your crawl spaces and basements. If you have any roof damage, it could seep into your attics. Make sure to check all these areas for any signs of water. This could be standing water or water stains. If your basement or crawl space smells musty, then you may want to get a dehumidifier to remove the excess moisture from the area before it leads to mold growth. If you do find mold growth or water that you can’t remove, then call the professionals at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North to help remediate the mold damage. 

#5 Check Exposed Water Pipes

 If you have water pipes in your basement or crawl space that you can see, make sure to check them for any drips around the joints and connections. During the Winter, these pipes could have frozen causing the plumbing to expand and crack. Even a small drip can lead to extensive water damage and mold growth. It’s also a good idea to check any external faucets for cracks or leaks. If you find any sign of leaks, make sure to have it fixed before it leads to even worse damage. 

Enjoy a Stress-Free Spring

 While you can’t ultimately reduce the risk of water damage to your home, you can lower the risk by following the five steps mentioned above. If you should experience water damage or find mold growth when inspecting your home, contact SERVPRO of Milwaukee North online or call them at (414) 354-7566 to help clean up the damage and restore your home.

House Mold: Types and Solutions

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Containment to prevent the spread of spores throughout the home

House Mold

Mold growth is typical in a variety of climates and homes. There is no shame in having experienced these types of problems. However, while not uncommon, mold comes in all shapes, sizes and species, and it can be beneficial to understand the kinds of household molds and how to prevent or treat them, ensuring a safe and clean living environment for you and your family.

1. Food Mold

Food mold is likely the most common type of mold, and most people experience it as bread mold. You may look in your bread drawer one day, and everything is fine, but the very next day you see areas of green and black blotches on some of the pieces. This type of growth is natural and likely unrelated to any particular underlying problems in your home.

2. Surface Mold

Another common type of house mold is surface mold. As the name implies, the mold growth is restricted to the surface of an object. This type of mold may be remedied quite easily by using certain over-the-counter cleaners. However, it is essential to make sure that the mold issue is indeed surface and does not penetrate the drywall or framing.

3. Mold Infestations

A mold infestation typically occurs in areas with significant water damage or spaces with high humidity levels. Unfortunately, a problem like this usually requires deep penetration of the structure to ensure that the area is clear of the infestation before restoration.

4. Mold Remediation

Whether you only suspect a problem or have the water damage to prove one, it is beneficial to call a mold remediation specialist in the Milwuakee, WI, area. Mold can be invasive and dangerous. Specialists are certified and capable of remedying your problem quickly and efficiently without risking the safety of you or your family.

Mold growth is common in homes, and while food mold and surface mold are relatively simple and easy fixes, mold infestations can be dangerous and present a more substantial risk to the integrity of your home. When dealing with large mold problems, it is likely best to hire a professional.

Fire And Smoke Damage Restoration In WI

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

Grease Fire Damage in Milwaukee, WI

Fire And Smoke Damage

A fire disaster in Wisconsin can cause serious damage to your house. The resultant flames, smoke, heat, and even water can have permanent repercussions on the structure and many of your items. The contents that survive fire damage may sustain extensive smoke damage in exchange. The firefighters may also cut holes in the walls or roof when putting out the flames, leaving you with a massive cleanup job.

Time and patience are crucial when dealing with any form of fire damage in Milwaukee. Once the fire fighting crew leaves, SERVPRO can come in and initiate the restoration process. We have highly skilled, IICRC-trained technicians that are on standby in case of an emergency. Using special smoke cleanup and restoration techniques, we can restore your property to preloss conditions, "Like it never even happened."

When the fire calms down, the resultant smoke damage appears in the form of discolored walls, charred items, or soot and ash on the floor. In some cases, other side effects such as smells can remain behind, presenting health risks to the occupants. It is important to keep in mind that some signs of smoke damage can show almost immediately while others take several hours (sometimes days) after the event to manifest.

Within a few days of smoke and fire damage, walls and flooring may turn yellow (although this yellowing effect does not show right away). Warping and discoloration can also occur on wood and plastic surfaces/appliances. Metal hardware tends to rust and corrode away several hours after a fire. If you have tiles, counter tops, or any other surface with porous stone such as travertine, granite, or marble, the acidic residue in soot can cause them to discolor permanently.

Certain surfaces, especially fabric items, may show both visible signs of fire damage and smoke odor. Smoke releases tiny carbon particles into the air that, when deposited, are known as soot. The first step SERVPRO takes to reduce the smell of a fire is getting rid of this smoke deposit or soot.

In addition to these tiny particles, smoke also contains various components that contribute to the unbearable smell that lingers after fire damage. These include toxic gases and vapors. Vapors are misty droplets that can be poisonous upon absorption or inhalation. Toxic gases come in different forms. Carbon monoxide is the most common toxic gas in a fire disaster. Household products such as plastics, vinyl, and other materials containing chlorine produce phosgene during combustion. Carpets, synthetics, clothing, and carpets release hydrogen cyanide when burning.

The smell that follows smoke damage penetrates different materials after some time. Unless a professional fire damage restoration company cleans up and deodorizes these items properly, the smoky smell may remain for a long time. SERVPRO technicians can pinpoint the source of the odor and neutralize it accordingly.

Do not leave your property to fate when a fire disaster comes knocking. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is a part of your community and can arrive promptly to reverse the fire damage. Call us anytime at (414) 354-7566!

Chemical Drain Cleaners: Should You Use Them?

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

Chemical Drain Cleaners

Most people, when dealing with a clogged drain, will go out and purchase a chemical drain cleaner from their local big box store. While this is standard practice, are you actually resolving the issue or compounding it? For more modern homes with updated plumbing, these cleaners may be OK, but for older homes, the chemicals in these cleaners may create more problems.

1. Older Metal Pipes

If a pipe is completely clogged when you pour drain cleaners into the drain, then that cleaner will buildup at the clog and settle in. For newer pipes, this is not a significant issue, but for older metal pipes that are thinner and less resilient, these cleaners can begin to eat away at the metal, breaking it down even more than it was and potentially leading to leaks and breaks.

2. Plastic Pipes

Chemical cleaners help clear a clogged drain through a process that heats the clog, essentially melting any grease or grime so that it flows freely through the pipe. For plastic pipes, this chemical reaction can cause the pipe to melt and deform. Therefore, these types of cleaners should rarely, if ever, be used.

3. Complete Blockage

Again, cleaners are useful in partial blockages, but should not be used in complete blockages. The chemical reaction required to melt away a clog can be damaging to all types of piping. If you suspect that your drain is completely blocked, then use an alternative to chemicals.

4. Alternatives to Chemicals

Chemical cleaners are not your only option for clogs. You can use a drain auger or snake, which is a tool with a cleaning or clearing head attached to a long cable stored in a drum. You push the snake through the drain until you reach the blockage, and then, turning the handle, work your way through the clog. However, if you are more interested in sewage cleaning or have a clog that is especially difficult, you can call a plumbing specialist in the Milwaukee Metropolitan area.

A clogged drain is a nuisance, but chemical cleaners may not be your solution. Consider the age of your home and plumbing materials before using any chemical cleaners.

Through Storm Damage, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is here to help

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Every year, all over the country, catastrophic natural disasters wreak havoc on communities large and small.

Whether its a tornado, flooding, or hail damage, the effects of these colossal events can be felt across the nation.

In the midst of the chaos and stress caused by these happenings, it is easy for business and home owners to feel overwhelmed and lost.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North strives to put our customers at ease, guiding them and supporting them through the STORM emergency process while providing education and knowledge on how to best navigate the situation. 

So in the event that your home or business is involved in a STORM, you can rely on SERVPRO of Milwaukee North (414) 354-7566 to turn a stressful situation into a manageable, professional experience.

Protecting your property from flooding

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Flash Flood Warning-- the alert that many of us dread because of the concerns that our homes will be affected by it.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North understands that your home is more than a structure: it's your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings that help transform a house into a home.  Here are some helpful suggestions on how to protect your property just in case disaster happens.

 How to Protect Your Property:

• Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box. Keep them in a place where it's least likely to be damaged by a flood.
• Raise your furnace, water heater, and electric panel to higher floors if there are areas in your home that are capable of being flooded. 
• Install check valves in building sewer traps top prevent flood water from backing up into drains of your home. 
• Seal walls in basements with waterproofing elements to avoid leakage through cracks. 

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (262) 250-1101

Storm Damage Board-up

4/18/2018 (Permalink)

Board-ups are not just for Hurricanes! There are many reasons that you may need a board up or to use tarp to protect your home.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North can board-up your home due to fire, wind, vandalism, animal infestation or even when a car runs into your house! Board-ups can secure the property from looting or more vandalism.  Board-ups also can protect your property from more weather-related damage until you can get it fixed.  Most insurance policies require that the Homeowner/Renter protect their property against secondary damage.  This is damage that occurs because a person doesn't take the appropriate actions after the first damage occurs to secure the property.  If they are found to be negligent, the secondary damage might not be covered by insurance. Board-ups are just one service along with our fire, water clean-up and rebuild department that can make it "Like it never even happened."

Mold doesn't have to be a scary thing!

2/14/2018 (Permalink)

In recent years, mold seems to be a buzzword in DIY world that people freak out about.  They make you feel like it is everywhere in your home!  There is no need to freak out but instead become informed.

Mold is naturally occurring and as the years progress our houses become better sealed up from outside air.  This reduces ventilation and increases the opportunities for mold to occur if the environment is warm, wet or humid.

Mold on drywall and wood can be dealt with by removing and replacing the affected area and is a great solution as long as the humidity, water leaks and temperature is taken care of.  The most important factor with removing and replacing is that the area is contained and that there are air scrubbers that can clean the air and remove airborne mold spores.  If air scrubbers are not used then the removal will allow all the mold spores to become airborne, which can be filtered through an HVAC system all through the house.

Mold on tile and tubs can be treated by store purchased Mold Stain removers.  This is only for a small area and these removers should not be used on wood/drywall.

If you watch DIY shows they make you feel like mold is everywhere!  We hope that a little information goes a long way to calm your mold fears!

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North does free inspections to check on any of your mold concerns, just keep calm and give us a call.

Tools for Water Detection

2/14/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North knows the right tools for the job are important and understanding how to use them to dry a structure and property effectively is even more crucial.  The right tool is vital for timely mitigation and to help get the business up and running again.  

Water can damage in two ways - absorption through direct contact and absorption of moisture from the air.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North must understand how to alter humidity and temperature levels to produce an environment favorable for drying.

Our technicians have to locate the areas affected by water and to what extent moisture has been absorbed.  To do this they can use:

Moisture Sensors - detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls
Moisture Meters - determines actual moisture content of materials
Thermohygrometers - measure temperature and relative humidity which helps calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure.

All these tools help us start the process of making it "Like it never even happened."

Fixing the Mold Moisture Source

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

When SERVPRO of Milwaukee North gets called into a mold job one of our first questions is, where did the water or moisture that contributed to the mold come from?  Many times it was a leaky roof or leaky pipe that went unnoticed for a length of time or a water loss that was cleaned up incorrectly.  The second question is, did the water problem get fixed?  This is a very important question as if we do a mold mitigation job and the water source is not fixed the mold will come back!  As a restoration company that guarantees all our work, we cannot guarantee anything on a mold mitigation job if a water source is not fixed!  So we are more than happy to wait for our customers to fix the water problem before we help them out!

Cigarette Fires

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

As a fire restoration company we have seen our share of fires and reasons for fires. So lets talk about cigarettes...

Cigarette fires cause close to 1,000 deaths and 3,000 injuries each year in the united states, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). That records just the death and injuries but what about loss of property...not just property but also nature as wildfires can be caused by cigarettes not disposed of properly especially during a drought.

In the cold  of winter many smokers go to their garage instead of outside.  How many chemicals do you store in your garage?  If you smoke just outside your garage where do you put the cigarette?

We know from experience the damage cigarettes can do, if you choose to do it, use caution as we would rather not have to come clean up your house from destruction contributed to a cigarette!

Large Loss

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is certified as a SERVPRO, Inc. Large Loss Provider! Being a Large Loss franchise doesn't come easy, first you need training on every step of a large loss.  Then you need to make a significant financial investment of stocking the franchise with hundreds of desiccants and even more hundreds of air movers and for this you also need storage space.  For SERVPRO of Milwaukee North that means shelves up as high as we can get them of equipment.  Another investment is a commercial grade desiccant that usually is on a flat bed (and has to be pulled by something capable).  This desiccant has the ability to dry out large buildings in hours instead of days and is crucial when a commercial business faces downtime due to a water loss.  Along with all this equipment and our experience, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is ready to tackle any loss!

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is proud to be the large loss SERVPRO in Wisconsin!

Containment

1/25/2018 (Permalink)

With mold remediation, there are a few things that have to be done but one of the most important things is called containment.  Our technicians make a sealed off section with plastic around the area to be remediated in order to prevent mold spores from traveling to other places.  In this sealed off area the demolition and the removing of affected material begins. During the demo, mold spores will be in the air so an air scrubber is run during and after the whole process to ensure that no renegade mold spores survive.  Any affected materials are put in a sealed bag to be removed and disposed of and technicians have to be vacuumed to be sure no mold spores exit containment with them.  After the job is done, containment is broken down and disposed of properly. SERVPRO of Milwaukee North guarantees our work so sticking to these steps helps us do the job right!

Sump Pump Knowledge

1/25/2018 (Permalink)

If you have a sump pump, most the time you don't realize how important it is until it stops working.  Power outages, failure and a sump pump that cannot handle the capacity are common problems.  Another is knowing how old is your sump pump?? Avoid potential problems by doing routine inspections or replacing your old sump pump. Usually sump pumps should be replaced every 5 years or according to manufacturers guidelines and each year the sump, switch and float should be inspected as well.  Pay attention to how often the sump pump is running and if it runs regularly or there is a higher water table, consider a sump pump with higher horsepower.  

Another way to increase the pump's efficiency and prolong life is to clean your sump pit, remove any dirt, sand, gravel and other debris routinely. Ensure that the discharge line opening is free of obstructions so that water can be pumped through the line and out of your basement or crawlspace and also be aware in the winter the discharge line may freeze bringing the water back into your house.  Regular checks can make sure you don't ever get surprised by your sump pump!

Home Maintenance Helps Prevent Water Loss

1/15/2018 (Permalink)

Ah the joys of homeownership, it is never-ending!  Here are a few things you can do in your home to lower your chances of getting water damage.

- Do ceiling, attic and shingle checks routinely so you can catch a small problem before it becomes a BIG problem.
- Check your downspouts.  They should point away from your house so water flows away and not toward your foundation.
- Check your sump pump yearly and know when it needs to be replaced whether you think it needs to or not.
- Plants are nice but some have very evasive root systems that can wreak havoc.
- If your water bill is unusual, there might be a leak that needs to be addressed.
- Clean your gutters. This is very important to prevent overflow onto your roof and ice dams in the winter.
- Grease goes in the garbage NOT down your drain!
- Do regular inspects of hoses or water lines on wash machines, dish washers and refrigerators and corrosion on hot water heaters.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North

1/15/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has over 20 years of experience responding to damage situations and are available 24/7.  We are one of over 1600 franchises nationwide that are locally and independently owned and operated. Local & family owned out of Menomonee Falls, WI, we work hard to restore your property and contents to make it "Like it never even happened." with our great mitigation crews and fantastic rebuild department.

- We rely on our quick response which may help avoid revenue loss for property owners and minimize inconvenience to tenants. 
- Restoration services can help business owners resume normal business functions quickly while avoiding costly construction downtime.
- Professional equipment and industry-approved techniques can save you time and money.
- We work with your insurance for a stress free claims process.
- Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration by SERVPRO corporate and IICRC-industry certification classes. 

Water Damage - Commercial

1/15/2018 (Permalink)

When it comes to any mitigation work in a commercial setting, getting it done fast and right is essential.  A definite bonus to those items is being able to work quickly enough to save the content of the business like furniture, desks and computers.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is in the business of restoring items....not throwing it away and buying a new one.  If an item can be saved or restored to like-new status it is worth the time to do so.  This is especially important to our customers and also the insurance company.

We take extra special care to protect items from damage while we do work, whether that is content shifting and covering items at the loss or boxing it up to clean up back at our shop.  Our content specialists do amazing clean-up on a wide variety of materials and types of damage.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North is very proud of keeping the "restore" in restoration!

Water Leaks & Detection

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Small or big leaks, they are all big!  A leak from a hole that is 1/16" in diameter can pour 822 gallons of water a day into your home! 

With any leak or spill, it’s the water you don't see that can cause the most damage. In order to find that materials that are wet we mainly rely on a Moisture Meter. There are two types, pin-type and pinless.  Pin-type Moisture Meters measure the resistance between test pins inserted into a piece of wood/building material and use that reading as a proxy for the object’s absolute moisture level. Pinless Moisture Meters rely on the ability of moisture to inductively distort an electric field created by turning on the meter.  This sounds like a bunch of scientific talk, and it is!  But mainly the moisture meters will tell you when something is wet and how wet, so you can find any hidden wet spots in your home.  While the surface may seem dry, the water you don’t see can contain bacteria, cause mold or rot, and cause other unseen damage that must be mitigated immediately.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North have the tools to find where any water is lurking and can come out and give a free inspection to see how best to tackle any water damage.

Tips to Help Prolong Carpet Life

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Follow these how to clean carpet tips to keep your carpet as dirt-free as possible.

Vacuum often
To protect your carpet, vacuum entrance areas and high-traffic areas twice a week and the rest of the carpeting at least weekly. Oily soils attract oily soils, and frequent vacuuming will reduce soil buildup.  Make sure your vacuum is set to the right height.

Start with a clean bag or filter
A dirty bag or filter can cut a vacuum’s suction power in half. Bagless vacuums stop working if the filters aren’t changed often enough. Replace or wash (if possible) the filters on bagless vacuums every three months. Replace vacuum bags when they’re three-quarters full.

Vacuum at the right speed
Vacuum slowly enough to get out as much dirt as possible. Make one quick pass over low-traffic areas and two slow passes over high-traffic areas. 

Use walk-off mats
Use walk-off mats inside and out to keep dirt off the carpeting. Coarse-textured mats outside your doors remove soil. Water-absorbent mats inside prevent wet shoes on the carpeting.

Treat stains immediately
Most stains can be removed if attended to right away.  Be sure to use any carpet stain treatments according to their directions and blot don't rub.

If all else fails, SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has a wonderful carpet cleaning service!!

CE Classes - Insurance Industry

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North has committed to having CE classes for the insurance industry every quarter starting in 2018.  Partnering with Goff's Collision which has locations all around Milwaukee, we are offering a wide variety of classes that encompass the residential and auto insurance topics.  
We offer classes in several fun locations in the Milwaukee area that help to encourage learning, discussion and willing participation of all attendees.  The best part of our classes is that they are FREE and we offer a light breakfast and lunch with attendance.
Please see Goff's Collision website to check out our upcoming classes or visit Goff's Collision or SERVPRO of Milwaukee North Facebook sites.

http://www.goffsautobody.com/about-us/events/ceform/

We look forward to you joining us!

Winter Water Damage

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

For Milwaukee area and most of the northern United States winter freezing temperatures are always a cause for concern. 
Besides the fact that it is freezing to us, it is also freezing our pipes!  Frozen pipes many times lead to broken pipes and during these times of frozen pipes the restoration industry is swamped with work.  When this happens we are lucky to have the backing of SERVPRO to help us in this time!  Whether is it the polar vortex or just a week of ridiculously cold weather, SERVPRO franchises are always available to help out others who are at max work capacity.
This gives you the ability to have quick service and know that you are still getting industry-leading equipment, set-up, monitoring and restoration services.  

Commercial Promises

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Down Time is bad.  SERVPRO of Milwaukee North recognizes that for all businesses down time is loss of revenue.  As a business, do you have a Emergency Plan?

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North promises

- quick response that may help avoid revenue loss for property owners and minimize losses for tenants and business owners.  We are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your needs!
- restoration services that avoids costly downtime and helps resume business functions quickly
- industry approved equipment and techniques along with well trained and uniformed professionals that saves time and money.

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North also offers a free Emergency Ready Profile for businesses.  This gives people a chance to walk through their business to see the whole building and maybe even re-familiarize themselves with the area.  Water, Electric and Gas shut-offs all get labelled to help with any emergency situations.  Emergency contacts are detailed and all this is located in one easy to use booklet or can be accessed online with the ERP app.  SERVPRO wants to be sure that you are Ready for Any Size Disaster.

Smoke Alarm Safety

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.* The National Fire Protection Association

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.  Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshal to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

SMOKE ALARM SAFETY TIPS:

-Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement according to alarm instructions.  Larger homes may need more smoke alarms.

-Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen and at least 10 feet away from a cooking appliance to prevent false alarms.

-Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.

-Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm “chirps,” the battery is low and should be replaced right away.

-Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

*Tips and statistics provided by the National Fire Protection Association.

Fire Protection

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

In order for a fire to start it needs three things - Oxygen, Heat & Fuel.  If one is missing a fire cannot start!  In order to protect yourself, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of fire.
• Fire is FAST. In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.
• Fire is DARK. Fire produces gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Instead of being awakened by a fire, you may fall into a deeper sleep. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a three- to- one ratio.
• Fire is HOT. Heat and smoke from fire can be more dangerous than the flames. Inhaling the superhot air can sear your lungs.

How do you protect yourself from fire?
• Plan 2 minute escape plan and practice it!
• Make sure smoke detectors work!!
• Avoid overloading extension cords.
• Have open and clearly marked exits.

What About Mold Spores?

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Spores need three things to grow into mold and removing any one of these can reduce or eliminate new mold growth:
1. Nutrients - Dust or Dander
2. Moisture 
3. Warmth

Food sources for mold in buildings include cellulose-based materials such as wood, cardboard and the paper facing on drywall and organic matter such as soap, fabrics and dust-containing skin cells. A basement or crawl space, a leaking roof or a leak in plumbing pipes provide the moisture to start mold growth. Insufficient ventilation may accelerate moisture buildup and visible mold colonies may form where ventilation is poorest.

If there are mold problems in a house only during certain times of the year, the house is probably too airtight or too drafty. Molds grow best in warm temperatures, 77 to 86 °F.  HVAC systems can also produce all three requirements for mold growth creating a difference in temperature encouraging condensation or with the dusty air movement through the system.

Here are some steps to help prevent mold in your home.
- Stop and fix any water leaks - fix leaky pipes, prevent seepage, have rainwater drain away from house & ventilate enclosed areas
- Keep surfaces clean - dirt promotes mildew
- Keep surfaces dry - reduce moisture with dehumidifiers, keep humidity in home below 40%
- Routinely check problem areas like steamy bathrooms, kitchens, roofs, windows, laundry rooms, anywhere that has had a leak previously

SERVPRO of Milwaukee North provides free inspections if you ever think you have a water or mold problem!

Winter Weather Water Tips

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

Winter weather comes with a bunch potential water problems including frozen and then broken pipes.  Here are some helpful hints that can help in the winter.

• Before you turn on your furnace make sure I has been inspected and maintained.  Puffbacks from your furnace can send soot and smoke all through your house!
• Shut off outside faucets in your crawl space or basement and keep the faucets open to allow them to drain after being turned off.
• Clear out gutters to ensure proper flow of water away from house.
• Be aware pipes that run through unheated or non-insulated parts of your house and keep a slow trickle of water flowing through these faucets.
• Keep cabinet doors open during extra cold spells to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Make sure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated to prevent ice dams from forming.
• If pipes do freeze do not attempt to thaw water without turning main shut-off valve first

Grilling Safety

7/3/2017 (Permalink)

Now that summer is in full swing, so is grilling season!  In order to prevent a trip to the emergency room, or a visit from SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for fire damage, please follow these helpful tips.

- All grills should be used outdoors away from the house, eaves, railings and overhanging branches.
- Keep the grill free of grease buildup and never leave it unattended.
- Kids and pets should be at least 3 feet away from the grill at all times.
- For gas grills check for leaks before it is used for the first time every year.
- If you smell gas when using a gas grill, immediately get away from the grill and call fire department.
- Use only charcoal starter fluid to start a charcoal grill.
- Let charcoal cool completely before disposing in a metal container.  When disposing make sure the area is inaccessible for children and pets.

Make sure all grilling memories are great memories, use caution when grilling!

Employee Profile - Andy Webber

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

Andy Webber

Andy is one of our Mitigation Project Managers at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North.  Andy is busy daily with inspections, estimates, overseeing jobs, talking with adjusters and customers and driving all around the Milwaukee area attending to all these things.

Andy has 8 years of experience responding to water, fire, mold, and specialty cleaning projects. He has certifications from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification in Water Damage Restoration Technician and Applied Microbial Remediation Technician.  

Andy lives in Slinger and enjoys golfing,  snowboarding, spending time outdoors especially with family including his fiancé and her son.  He especially enjoys braving the elements as a Soccer Parent.  

If you ever need SERVPRO of Milwaukee North and Andy Webber shows up, you are in good hands.  We are proud to have him representing us!

Employee Profile - Christina Schrubbe

4/17/2017 (Permalink)

Christina Schrubbe

Christina is our Production Administrator and one of the wonderful people who might answer your phone call here at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North.  Along with providing great customer service she tackles some very tough and intricate software in her daily activities and always has a willingness to dive in and try new things.  You can always count on her cheerful attitude in the office even when she is filing!

When she is not at work Christina is planning a wedding for 2018, enjoying the outdoors, camping, spending time with her fiancé and son and like most moms is busy with her son's activities.  Maybe included in these activities she is also daydreaming of her next trip to Colorado.  We are very lucky to have Christina!

Employee Profile - Andy Geiger

3/24/2017 (Permalink)

Andy Geiger

Andy is one of our Mitigation Project Managers at SERVPRO of Milwaukee North and logs many miles a day going from jobs to inspections, back to the office and then out again into the field.  If you see a tall, bearded man driving a green SERVPRO Scion, that is Andy!

He has 8 years experience responding to water, fire, mold and specialty cleaning projects.  Andy has recently taken on more responsibilities as Mitigation Project Manager and like always is reliable, hardworking and great with our customers.

Andy hails from scenic Waukesha and in his spare time he dotes on his young daughter, cheers on the Packers, plays video games and finally rescues and adopts bearded dragons from dumpsters.  We are lucky to have Andy!!

Employee Profile - Russ Maki

2/14/2017 (Permalink)

Russ Maki

Russ Maki is one of our Project Managers in our Rebuild Department and has been handling multi-faceted rebuild projects for SERVPRO of Milwaukee North for 3 years.  On a daily basis, Russ is coordinating repair schedules, working with our subs, and consulting homeowners with their selections to replace parts of their home damaged by water or fire.  He builds a great rapport with homeowners by keeping in contact with them, giving them updates on how everything is proceeding and in general just being an even-tempered guy even when dealing with the toughest jobs. 

In his spare time Russ likes to trap shoot, go fishing, play volleyball and ride his motorcycle when Wisconsin weather allows.  We are very lucky to have Russ as a part of our SERVPRO of Milwaukee North team!

Employee Profile: Etta Llanas

1/2/2017 (Permalink)

Etta Llanas

If you call SERVPRO of Milwaukee North with a water loss, fire loss or cleaning need, chances are you will get to talk to Etta at some point.  If you ask Etta about anything that goes on here she will either know or know where to go to get the answer.  She is the go-to for pretty much everyone in the company and tackles everything with a smile, which means she has to work extra hard to get stuff done with all the interruptions!  Whether it be tracking down payments, coordinating schedules, cleaning up files that get dumped on her desk, following up with our people in the field, being on-call (I could go on forever), we are not sure what we would do without Etta!

IFMA New Member Profile

12/16/2016 (Permalink)

Our own Mike Bartsch was profiled in the IFMA Newsletter this month! Mike came to us when we purchased the East Central Waukesha County franchise and has been doing a great job!

http://sewifma.org/news.php#Member_Profile

In Memory of Shawn Retherford

12/14/2016 (Permalink)

Shawn Retherford 1977-2016

In early November we lost our friend and colleague, Shawn Retherford, after a courageous battle with cancer. We will miss his smile, laughter and most importantly his friendship.

Shawn knew and had an impact on many people.  We would love to hear any stories and memories from those who knew him.

Please continue to keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.