Water damage? Quick action is critical!

1/10/2024 (Permalink)

When water damage occurs, do not hesitate to call the professionals at SERVPRO®

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO® arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious 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.

SERVPRO® 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 Corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.  Need Emergency Service? Call us today at 541-745-2097

Why choose SERVPRO?

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

Our crews are standing by, ready to help make it like it never even happened!

When things like broken pipes, dishwasher leaks, and sewage backups happen, you need to act fast! You need a restoration company who acts fast, as well. That is why our team at Hillsboro/Forest Grove has crews who are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We are here to respond to property damage and help make it “Like it never even happened.”

With 20 years of experience, there are not many situations we have not seen or restored. Our team of trained and empathetic professionals is here to walk through the disaster and damage with you. SERVPRO® also has an in house construction company, McGinnis Restoration and Construction, so we can work with you from start to finish. SERVPRO® of Hillsboro and Forest Grove is proud to be a locally owned and operated team committed to our customers and our community. If property damage strikes, we are just a phone call away – 541/745-2097

SERVPRO® has the heart to help

12/26/2023 (Permalink)

Our hardworking team at SERVPRO® loves spending time giving BACK to the Communities we serve thru Charity Fundraisers.

SERVPRO® is a company that strongly believes in giving back to our Community.  We are involved in many charitable events during the year. Our Team goes above and beyond to give back. Even after assisting customers during the business week, our team still finds time to go above and beyond when the call arises. We have even participated in two fundraisers back to back in one day! These organizations that provide assistance to those in need mean so much to our SERVPRO® family.

Just to name a few, our Team has proudly participated in the Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics in both Salem and Corvallis for the past few years, which benefits our local Special Olympic athletes. The event in Corvallis also combines with Run Off Your Tutu for Furniture Share, a Walk/Run 5k which helps local in-need families with beds and furniture. Both of these organizations impact our community in such a positive way.  SERVPRO® is proud to participate and assist these, and many other charitable groups, as our mission is to give back whenever we can. That’s why when you're looking for a company to work on your home or business for your restoration needs, SERVPRO® has the heart to help our community!

Water damage can happen anywhere in your home

12/6/2023 (Permalink)

Many common household appliances can be the source of water damage. Knowing what to look for can help prevent damages!

Water damage can happen from many different appliances in your home. Here are some tips from SERVPRO® on how to make sure your appliances are working properly and the water supply lines are in good condition. As a good rule of thumb, check behind your appliances once per year. This is a good way to address problems before they happen.

Washers

Small leaks stemming from a washing machine may appear to be a minor issue, but the problem should not be ignored. Even a pinhole leak in a water supply line can subsequently break out into a household flood. In fact, a burst supply line is a key cause of significant water damage involving washers. A good way to prevent water damage is to check your hoses leading to your washing machine a couple times per year.

Also consider installing an automatic shutoff valve. When water pools on the floor, the sensor detects it and closes the water valve.

Refrigerators with Ice Makers Hooked up to plumbing

We appreciate the convenience of an automatic ice maker, but it can also be the culprit of household floods. The copper or plastic water line that supplies an ice maker can leak or worse yet, become unattached if it’s not installed properly. Again, you should inspect the line periodically for crimps and make sure the valve connection is secure. Leaving a four inch gap between the refrigerator and wall also helps to prevent crimping in your water line.

Dish Washers

Dishwashers are another common appliance that can cause problems. If a dishwasher has a supply line burst it can fill your kitchen with water during a wash and rinse cycle.

Another source of household floods is when a dishwasher backs up soaking the floor with sudsy water. The problem could be the wrong detergent, a faulty float, the buildup of food and other debris in the drain gate or a clog in the discharge hose under the sink.

Routine inspection of the hoses and connections can save you major repair costs in the future. In addition, check the drain gate frequently and remove food particles and debris.  And if water damage does happen, know that you can rely on the Water Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO®!

Certified: SERVPRO® Clean

12/5/2023 (Permalink)

Dont let viruses keep your business from operating - call the Cleaning Professionals at SERVPRO® today!

As we heading into Cold and Flu Season - and COVID-19 hasn't gone anywhere, we need to look to a NEW standard in Commercial Cleaning.

Starting in 2005, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) established the National Influenza Vaccination week “to highlight the importance of continuing flu vaccination through the holiday season and beyond.” In 2017, by the end of November only about 41% of the recommended US population had been vaccinated. And in 2020, we saw the tremendous toll COVID-19 on families and businesses across the country.

If you’ve already gotten the flu or COVID you can still get vaccinated to protect you against other strands of the flu, according to the CDC. People with high risk of complications from the flu include young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions and people over the age of 65, and should get vaccinated. Although anyone is at risk of getting the flu, for high-risk people, hospitalization or death is more likely than for others.

According to the CDC, flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations. Get a flu or COVID shot today to protect yourself, your loved ones and your place of business.  And Certified: SERVPRO® Clean brings a higher standard of clean to business across our Communities if the Flu or COVID impact your place of business.

Cell Phone Fire Risk

12/5/2023 (Permalink)

Understanding Safe Cell Phone charging practices can help prevent a fire loss for you and your family

SERVPRO® of Benton/Linn County has responded to multiple home fires that were caused by cell phone chargers. Now days it’s hard to find a home that doesn’t have a cell phone in it, and if there is a cell phone then there will be charger.  Our phones are major part of our day, and we have them will us all the time. I personally have mine on me 24/7, and I charge it on my night stand next to my bed.  Did you know that chargers produce a large amount on energy? One fire we responded to the cell phone charger caught a mattress in a child's bedroom on fire. He are some tips to help keep you safe from a cell phone charger fire.

1. Only buy and use devices that are listed by a quality testing laboratory.
2. Make sure to always follow the manufacturer’s instruction.
3. Only use the battery and charging cord that’s designed for you specific device.
4. Do not charge your device under a pillow, on your bed, on a couch or in a location that’s exposed to direct sunlight.

We here at SERVPRO® of Benton/Linn county is always here to help if your home or business has experienced a fire. We are ready to help 24/7.

Water Damage to different floorings

11/27/2023 (Permalink)

Water effects flooring types differently - your trained professionals at SERVPRO® know how to help YOU

Your home has many different flooring types, and our SERVPRO® professionals have different tools and equipment that can help to restore these after water losses. Many materials compose the construction of your home's flooring, walls, and ceiling systems. Different strategies are necessary to remove water and moisture from these structural elements because so many materials make up your home. Our team of professionals has extensive training and experience to provide the ideal approach for whatever wet surface we encounter. 

Recognizing what tools are best for actions like water removal in your homes gets determined during the initial evaluation and damage assessment. Scoping the job is a process where our project manager and crew chief work with the customer to identify preloss conditions and pre-existing conditions so that we can return the property to its original state as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible. 

Can You Remove Water from Carpeting?  

In areas like your living room and bedrooms, carpeting is one of the typical flooring types encountered in area homes. When migrating water reaches the fibers of carpeted floors, this moisture can get quickly absorbed. It is critical to remove water from carpeting as soon as possible so that moisture does not penetrate the padding and, eventually, the subflooring material. When reconstruction is necessary, the cost of recovery amplifies. Some of the water removal tools and practices for carpeted floors include: 

• Carpet Wands – Wands are fierce attachments for wet vacuums and extractors that can pull water from the surface layer and the padding of carpeted floors. These tools are wise choices when the padding is getting replaced. 
• Weighted Extractors – Stand on and ride on extraction tools can force the surface layer of carpeting and the padding together against the subflooring. This action forces moisture to the surface for an onboard vacuum to remove. 
• Floating Practices – By placing a centrifugal air mover between the top and padding layers of carpeted floors, we can dry both of these materials simultaneously in a floating process. This style is risky as it could cause de-lamination from the primary and secondary backing of the carpet. 

Is Wood Flooring Salvageable After Water Damage?  

The composition of wood surfaces, especially flooring, makes it a sensitive material to standing surface water. Absorption can happen quickly, which can be disastrous if the water does not get removed quickly. Within as little as 48 hours, saturation can reach the point where it begins to warp and distort wood planks, leaving no option but removal and replacement. Some of the approaches for drying wood floors include: 

• Air movers
• Drying Mat System
• Tenting 

Does Standing Water Damage Tile?  

Many homeowners believe that tile flooring is impenetrable, even to standing water. While it is far more difficult for water to breach even the grout joints between floor tiles, a small opening or breach in this water-tight seal can allow penetration to the mortar bed and subflooring material. The water beneath tiling can be destructive and hard to detect initially. Our SERVPRO® team can address potential concerns with a simple three-step formula for removing water: 

• Extraction – We cannot determine the damage that standing water has done in areas like the kitchen or bathroom until we have removed it. There are multiple extractors, but often wet vacuums and electric submersible pumps are the common implements. 
• Surface Moisture Meter – With pooling water addressed, our technicians can work to determine the damage to tile flooring and other exposed materials. Finding moisture pockets often falls to a surface moisture meter device or probing tool to identify if damp areas exist beneath the top layer. 
• Drying Mats – If pockets of moisture get detected with thermal imagery and surface meters, we can lay drying mats to slowly draw moisture from the mortar bed and subflooring materials to preserve and protect these areas. 

Does SERVPRO Replace Flooring?  

We can offer effective solutions for extraction and drying after a full-service restoration and recovery team after a water loss incident. While we strive to restore before replacing, this is not always possible. We have a full team of licensed residential contractors that can repair and reinstall flooring materials that required discarding from water damages. In this way, we can seamlessly transition between mitigation and repairs to get you back to normal life as soon as possible. 

While you might not be able to avoid water loss incidents, you can choose the team that oversees your property's restoration and recovery. No matter what materials become affected by water exposure, our SERVPRO® team can help. Contact us today at (541) 745-2097.

PNW Winter Storms Bring RAIN

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

The discovery of mold in your attic could indicate there is a leak in your roof. Dont wait until the storms hit to find out!

Winter in the Willamette Valley means the start of the rainy season, and sometimes freezing overnight temperatures.  It’s a good idea to inspect around your home to see if you find signs of moisture or mold in your attic. This could indicate that you have a leak in your roof that has gone unnoticed. A leak in the roof will allow moisture to enter your home thus creating an ideal growing condition for mold. Before doing any mold remediation it is ideal to have the roof repaired first or else you may have mold growth again if you wait on repairing the roof after having the mold removed.

The most common roof leaks are the following:

• Ice dams
• Missing or broken shingles
• Damaged flashing

In the winter you could experience an ice dam. Ice dams happen when the snow freezes at the edge of the roof causing water to back up and leak into your home. To prevent an ice dam try removing 2-4 feet of snow from the edge to prevent an ice dam from forming.

A storm can cause damage to your roof, it is a good idea to check your roof after a storm to see if the roof has any broken or missing shingles.

Damaged flashing will allow water to leak into your home. Check your flashing regularly to see if they have any damages.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you.

If your home or business suffers from water damage or mold growth after a storm, call SERVPRO® today at 541-745-2097.

SERVPRO® helps every step of the way!

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Your SERVPRO® Team is here to help you every step of the way! Call today!

SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals understand your situation. As an agent or adjuster, you have a responsibility to keep claims costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers.

SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals are uniquely qualified to help. Our results create a measurable difference, giving you many competitive advantages.

Emergency Response to Claims

Restoring property is the SERVPRO Franchise Professional's first priority. Your customer will appreciate the immediate response and you will know everything is being done to limit the damage.

Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense

Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. Claims Professionals know the rule is, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary." SERVPRO Franchise Professionals make sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability.

Claims Inventory Service

SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can provide an itemized loss inventory. You will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items.

Electronic Claims Information

Our Claims Information Center provides fast, accurate information you need to make sound decisions, including:

• A Complete Electronic Job File.
  • First Notice of Loss.
  • Detailed Estimate.
  • Digital Loss Photos.
  • Scanned Forms and Paperwork.
  • All delivered by email or hard copy.
• On-line Access to All Files.
  • New Assignments.
  • Pending Jobs.
  • Completed Jobs.
• Informative Reports to Improve Results
  • Job Cost Data.
• Performance Comparison to Industry Standard.

Superior, Time-Tested Training

Effective training is the best way to help ensure your customers receive the service they deserve. Franchises are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. In addition, continuing education classes are available to Franchise Professionals and Insurance Clients at our state of the art IICRC Approved Training Facility. 

Vendor Qualification Compliance and Professionalism

If you call SERVPRO®, we will use only qualified vendors to service your customer. That commitment resulted in:

• A National Call Center to achieve prompt handling of the claim.
• Implementation of best practices and job process programs.
• National Accounts qualification criteria and annual compliance checks.
• Crew and vehicle standards.
• Insurance requirements.
• File documentation requirements.
• Quality assurance program.

Serving Adjusters and Their Clients

A SERVPRO® Franchise Professional's job is to reassure the customer, perform quality service and to report to you quickly. We know your job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim... and not to deal with problems from vendors! Working together we strive to save you time so you can focus on priority files, while having complete control of every loss you are assigned. 24-hour emergency response, damage mitigation, loss assessment, and an electronic file are available to you within hours. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals’ documented, measured performance increases value to you and your shareholders, managers and customers.

Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO® leaders in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. The SERVPRO System is geared to achieve customer satisfaction and mitigation results, adding to your company’s competitive advantage. Call today! 541-745-2097

Here for your Commercial Loss needs!

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Do not let your company become another statistic after experiencing damage.

Nearly 50% of businesses will not reopen following a property disaster such as a pipe break or fire leading to water or fire damage. Our team in Hillsboro wants to make sure that you do not become part of that staggering statistic. Our team of trained, experienced and skilled professionals are ready to respond 24 hours a day. We know that property damage can not only distract you and your employees but can also cause delays in getting business done and taking care of your clients.  We work with you and your team to minimize disruption to everyday workflow.

Our on-call teams in Hillsboro and Forest Grove are ready to respond to any kind of damage you may suffer, and can leap into action to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 541-745-2097.

Here for your Commercial Loss needs!

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Do not let your company become another statistic after experiencing damage.

Nearly 50% of businesses will not reopen following a property disaster such as a pipe break or fire leading to water or fire damage. Our team in Hillsboro wants to make sure that you do not become part of that staggering statistic. Our team of trained, experienced and skilled professionals are ready to respond 24 hours a day. We know that property damage can not only distract you and your employees but can also cause delays in getting business done and taking care of your clients.  We work with you and your team to minimize disruption to everyday workflow.

Our on-call teams in Hillsboro and Forest Grove are ready to respond to any kind of damage you may suffer, and can leap into action to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 541-745-2097.

What SERVPRO can do for your business...

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

While we cannot predict any disaster, here at SERVPRO®, we are ready for your call!

SERVPRO  technicians maintain certifications from the IICRC this allows our team to handle weather related damages to residential and commercial properties.

A snow storm in Bend, Oregon caused commercial property damages and our team -yes, our Willamette Valley team -  was dispatched to the area.

Here is an example of the certifications our team members have;

• Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT)

Technicians learn techniques and procedures to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination such as mold.

• Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD)

Technicians learn to dry water-damaged structures efficiently and effectively. 

• Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT)

• Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT)

Technicians with AMRT certification learn safety practices and mold/ sewage remediation techniques. 

Let our trained and qualified employees take the stress and worry away from storm damages by keeping you up to date with the process, with our fast and efficient work to get your home or business back in order, and with our courteous and polite employees.

SERVPRO® is "Faster to Any Size Disaster". Call 541-745-2097 for an inspection.    

For more training and certification requirements check out our website.

Bio Hazard Clean Ups

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

In SERVPRO® of Benton/Linn County’s line of work, we face a lot of jobs that pertain to biohazard, including exposure to blood or bodily fluids. We are here with the tools necessary to clean up situations that normally would not be safe for the average individual.

Our franchise is there to clean up after deaths, sickness, sewage, or accidents, so you don’t have to!

Part of the precautions that we take to keep our techs safe, is proper training, and continuing education; we are never done learning how to be even better at our jobs. This includes weekly meetings where we go over a particular subject, and training's.

Another part to how we keep our techs safe is through proper PPE, also known as “Personal Protective Equipment”.  One of the important requirements for our techs is to have or acknowledge the need for a Hepatitis B vaccination.

For extreme biohazard risk, our techs will apply a suit, gloves, face mask, and then seal it with tape, to ensure full security from biohazard elements.

At SERVPRO® of Benton/Linn County, we always ensure the safety of not just out customers, but our employees too!

Ways to safeguard your home during storm season

10/30/2023 (Permalink)

the heavy rains we get here in the PNW can bring down branches and even entire trees!

We live in the Pacific Northwest and we love it! That also means we have a a lot of different weather that we experience in the winter months. From strong winds and rain to heavy snow here are 4 ways to protect your home from a storm. 

1. Clear away outdoor items

Make sure all lawn furniture, gardening tools, sporting equipment and other outdoor items are stored away if a storm is heading your way. High winds during a heavy storm can potentially pick up these items and send them flying through a window or far away from your home. Putting away loose outdoor items in this situation can protect your house (and your neighbors’ houses) from unnecessary damage.

2. Trim the trees

Take time to examine the trees in your yard or surrounding your house.

Storms will often snap large tree branches, which can damage your home's siding, smash your car or even topple power lines and cause outages. If the tree has a loose connection with a big branch, consider sawing it off. It might reduce some shade in the yard, but can potentially protect your home.

3. Have standby power

Electricity lines are vulnerable during storms. Fallen branches can easily snap the power lines, and lightning strikes can blow up transformers, causing major power outages.

A whole-house surge protective device runs in the $200 to $300 range and is easy for an electrician to install. A generator is a great way to protect your home during storms and for a constant back up.

4. Flood-proof your home

Heavy rainstorms can lead to flooding, which can potentially wreak havoc on homes. Water damage can devalue a house and cause significant problems with the foundation.

Be ready in case of emergency, but if and when one occurs, rely on the professionals at SERVPRO®. Call us today at (541)745-2097.

Malodors can impact your business

10/30/2023 (Permalink)

After water damage, lingering unpleasant odors can impact your business

Have you experienced flooding or water damage in your Commercial business?

 These issues can leave unwelcome and defiantly unwanted odors in the air. This odor is most always displeasing to customers, employees or yourself. Based on the source of the issue, we have 5 tips to help solve the problem: 

1. Ventilate the Building and Evaluate the Situation- Allows any lingering scents to disperse through a window, if possible. You can then work to identify and locate any centralized, problematic scents. If sewage loss is causing the odor, it’s best to stay away from the contaminated water and contact SERVPRO® to mitigate.
2. Dry Wet Carpeting and Flooring- Carpet holds moisture and it could be the source of the scent. A wet and dry vacuum, which can be rented if needed, can shampoo the carpet and then dry it afterward. This sanitizes the area to potentially remove some of the smell.
3. Scrub Moldy Surfaces- Mold growth left alone will continue to reproduce and spread along with its musty odor
4. Spray Furniture and Upholstery- Furniture can be sprayed and scrubbed. Porous materials are likely not able to be fully cleaned this way since the fungus settles within.
5. Consult Professionals for Extensive Cleanup- There are many instances that commercial-grade machines will need to be used to remove the malodor. An expert SERVPRO® technician can help remove problems caused by floodwater and/or other water damage. When dealing with flood odors, most do-it-yourself remedies will fix only the symptom. Trust the help from SERVPRO® where we can assist you to remove most of the unwanted smells alongside any mold growth or other nuisance.

Call us today 541-745-2097!

Fireplace Safety Tips

10/10/2023 (Permalink)

Fireplaces can be cozy on colder fall and winter evenings, but it is important to maintain the safety of your fireplace to avoid a disaster!

As the weather turns cooler, it is a special treat to have a wood burning fireplace in your home. This is if the fireplace has been well maintained and works properly when you light it. Here are some maintenance tips for your fireplace this winter

Hire a Chimney Sweep

It is recommended that you get your chimney cleaned and swept out once per year. This clears it of any additional debris and also is a good way to address any problems that may be going on in your chimney. Hiring a professional for this job is probably the best idea as it requires special tools.

Install a Chimney Cap

The cap provides several benefits, including: it prevents water from entering the chimney when it rains, causing costly water damage; a chimney cap with mesh will prevent animals from getting into your chimney and nesting or getting stuck and dying; a chimney cap can prevent other types of blockage, all of which can cause deadly carbon monoxide to enter the home; a spark arrester can help prevent hot embers and sparks from escaping onto the roof or other combustible materials.

Check your chimney and fireplace for any damage.

Before lighting your first fire of the year take some time to look around your fireplace inside and out and notice any changes that may be questionable. If you find damages, hire a wood stove expert to come and address your chimney.

Leave a layer of ash when you clear out your chimney

When you clean out ashes from the firebox, leave at least one inch of ash, which acts as insulation. The ash will allow coals to heat more quickly and will also allow them to retain heat longer.

Watch out for sparks

Place a rug that is non-flammable in front of the fireplace so that if sparks escape, they won’t do any damage to your floor or carpeting. This comes in handy for those embers that you aren't expecting to come out of your fireplace. They will burn your flooring quickly and before you can grab them safely.  Or better yet, install non-flammable tile or stone flooring in front of your fireplace.  Tile/stone is also easier to clean up if any ash is spilled!

And as always, if you do have a fire-related incident, do not hesitate to call your local SERVPRO® Franchise at 541-745-2097!

Kitchen Repairs Can Be Costly!

10/2/2023 (Permalink)

Kitchen damage can be a COSTLY repair!

When we think about the kitchen in a home we think about cooking, food, dishes, and appliances.

Often these days we also think about the finishes in the kitchen. It’s fairly common for counters to be made of Quartz, Marble, or Granite. Also cabinets have become more costly in the last decade, and even more costly in the last year with the lumber prices skyrocketing. Often the thing people splurge on is the appliances in a kitchen, which can run anywhere from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

The average cost of a kitchen renovation today in America is $22,184 dollars. Or roughly $150 dollars per square foot! This makes the kitchen the most expensive square footage in your home. With bathrooms only coming in at $18,000 (Master Bath, much less for guest bath).

So taking all the costs into account, it’s easy to understand how a customer can be very upset when we arrive onsite at a water loss in a kitchen. Many times water losses in kitchens means we have to take out all flooring and cabinets to dry the underpayment (and sometimes subfloor!) Most of the time water losses in kitchens are due to dishwashers, refrigerators, insta-hot devices, and freezers. Sometimes kitchen losses are due to an adjoining laundry room having a water loss from the washer.

This is why our SERVPRO® technicians will try and dry wooden floors in place if possible. It saves the homeowner time without a kitchen if it can be achieved, and also many times saves the customer from having to file a costly claim with their homeowner's insurance.

If the water is contaminated, that is another situation entirely, and SERVPRO® always recommends that the flooring be removed and replaced if saturated beneath the surface area.

Whatever the loss and whatever the cause, trust SERVPRO® to help you through the stressful time of a homeowners loss. Our employees are capable, trained, and want to provide our customers with the best possible outcome in the end.

Call us TODAY! 541-745-2097

Heart to Help

9/26/2023 (Permalink)

Your caring team at SERVPRO® of Hillsboro & Forest Grove has the heart to help you in your time of need

SERVPRO® representatives come from all types of back grounds, but all have the same focus on WHY they choose SERVPRO® of Hillsboro & Forest Grove and to work in this industry. They all have the heart to help.

What we do here at SERVPRO® is more than restoring property damage. We assist our communities and work hand in hand with folks during their most tragic life happening event. 

Going through a major loss such as a house fire, back up of sewage, water loss or biohazard clean-up is a daunting process. Our team here at SERVPRO® understands our expertise, the need of calmness and guidance. 

From commercial size scale of loss to the small leak in a home, all losses are the same to us.

When considering a mitigation company, choose SERVPRO®, the folks with a heart to help!

Electrical Safety

9/8/2023 (Permalink)

Faulty Electricity is a common cause of many fires

Our local team in Forest Grove and Hillsboro is trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification to restore fire, soot, and smoke damage. Electrical fires are one of the top causes of fire damage in the United States.

Here are some electrical safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Have all electrical work done by a qualified electrician
• Only use one heat-producing appliance plugged into a receptacle outlet at a time
• Major appliances should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle outlet. Extension cords and plug strips should not be used.
• Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) shut off electricity when a dangerous condition occurs. Consider having them installed in your home.
• Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of shock. GFCIs shut off an electrical circuit when it becomes a shock hazard. They should be installed inside the home in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and basements. All outdoor receptacles should be GFCI protected.
• Test AFCIs and GFCIs once a month according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets. Extension cords are intended for temporary use. Have a qualified electrician add more receptacle outlets, so you don’t have to use extension cords.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business experiences fire damage from a faulty electric cord or for another reason, you can rely on our local team to restore the damage “Like it never even happened.”  Call us today at 541-745-2097.

Always ready to help!

9/8/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® is always ready for when life catches you off guard.

Late at night, you may be the last one in the office…it’s quiet, it dark outside, and you begin to tidy up your desk to head home. Only when you turn off the faint noise of your 80’s music playing on your laptop do you hear it, you hear something…It sounds like a water fountain. Only you know that your office doesn’t’ have one of those…hmmm…you make the decision that each doomed horror movie expendable character makes, and you start to look and see what the noise is.

As you get closer to the source of the noise, your shoes begin squishing on the carpet below…you look down and realize you’ve walked into puddles of water. You round the corner in the hall and find the culprit - a single solitary sprinkler head spraying water in an awkward fashion onto the floor and surrounding walls. You don’t know what to do?? You worked late, and it’s now after business hours. You try to reach out to your boss, no response. You think of what to do next, and you remember the facilities man that was in to fix the overhead lights last month. You rush to the company call list and find his name and title. You try calling the manager of facilities. He picks up right away.

When you tell the facilities manager what is happening, he instructs you to turn off the water. As he walks you through how to find the shutoff switch and how to turn it off, he says he will reach out to a contact he has within the community. Someone who deals with water damages like this all the time.

You let out a sigh of relief as the water stops flowing from the sprinkler head. A moment later, your phone rings and a SERVPRO® technician gives you their ETA.

Shortly after you notice a bright green van pull up outside and several team members pile out and enter the building. They greet you, their hands full of what appear to be large green machines, with hoses and vacuum heads. Some of the other team members are carrying what appears to be large green fans.

After going over the process with you and confirming they have received the facilities managers signature to move forward, they get to work.

Like a well oiled machine they move throughout the soaked space, assessing damage, and extracting water where needed. A little while passes and the facilities manager shows up, he informs you that you can leave and head home now. He also said you did a great job calling him right away.

As you leave you feel relieved and yet a bit of adrenaline still courses through your body…it has been an exciting evening. SERVPRO® is always prepared, even when life catches you off guard.

Different Ways Water Can Damage A Home

9/1/2023 (Permalink)

Not all water damage is immediately noticeable - flooded crawlspaces often go hidden, until damage has already begun!

A Leaky Basement

One of the most common causes of water damage is a leaky basement. To make repairs, you have to find the leak. We can help address this problem.

Leaky Plumbing

Another cause of water damage is a leaky plumbing system. Unless the system is plagued by multiple leaks, you can do the repair yourself. Depending on the extensiveness of the damage, you can either patch up the leaky pipe or change one or several damaged pipes if the problem is internal. SERVPRO® can always help you with water damage repair that is out of your hands.

Fixing the Plant Root System

Did you know that plant and shrub overgrowth could cause water damage to the home too? When the root system of the plant and shrub is too close to a structure, water could penetrate its foundation. You can resolve minor water damage caused by plant overgrowth by trimming the shrubs and removing water that pools near the foundation of your home.

Damaged Drywall

For ceilings, the usual culprit is a leaky roof or a leaky toilet. For leaky toilets, we highly recommend getting a Plumber to stop the leak. Then let the Professionals at SERVPRO® repair any damages that may have occurred.  We can repair drywall, dry any moisture and help protect against mold. 

Call SERVPRO® today if your home or business is experiencing Water Damage our number is (541)745-2097.

Electrical Fire Safety

8/7/2023 (Permalink)

Electrical fires are no joke. Know what to do in the event of an Electrical fire.

Electrical fires can not only catch us off guard, but can also be tricky to deal with. There are warning signs that you may be at risk for an electrical fire. Knowing the signs to look for can help protect you from an electrical fire disaster.

The warning signs include:

• Circuit breakers that repeatedly trip
• Shocks or tingling feelings as you touch an electrical appliance
• Flickering lights
• Discolored electrical wall outlets
• A burning smell of smoke or “hot plastic” coming from wiring, a plug or an appliance

If you happen to experience an electrical fire, there are steps to take to help lessen the damage, as well as help keep you and your family safe.

• Take action with an appliance by unplugging it immediately and cutting the power at the electrical panel.
• Pay attention to the voltage of the appliance you are plugging in.
• Use a Fire Extinguisher, or smother with baking soda if no Fire Extinguisher handy on a smaller fire

NEVER try to extinguish an electrical fire with water. Water conducts electricity and you could be badly shocked. 

If you have electrical fire damage we can help you at SERVPRO®. We will come out and assess the damage for you. Then we can get to work to make it like it never even happened. 

Keep those Storm Drains Clear!

8/7/2023 (Permalink)

Blocked Storm Drains can lead to flooding, causing severe damage to nearby structures

The Central Willamette Valley region of Oregon is hit with rain storms every year. Beginning in late August the leaves from trees start to drop, which is a leading cause of clogged storm drains.

While, yes, it is primarily the city’s responsibility to maintain our streets and sidewalks, storm drains near a residential or commercial property can become a hazard if clogged during a storm. As the fallen leaves cover a drain, the rain water collects in the streets, and can cause small rivers, which then wash even MORE debris down streets which can completely block up the drains. The increased water build up can flood streets and rise to impact nearby structures. Anytime water damage occurs from flooding, even with minimal flooding, the water needs to be extracted.

Standing water along a street can even weaken the ground surrounding tree roots, putting everyone at risk for a fallen tree! So, if you notice a storm drain covered in leaves and/or debris near your property, help keep your property safe by carefully clearing it off.

If water damage does occur after a storm, SERVPRO® technicians are highly trained in water mitigation. They use state-of-the-art equipment such as powerful pumps and truck-mounted vacuums that will remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from your property.

No matter the size of the disaster, SERVPRO® is quick to respond and prepared for anything. In case of a water disaster call 541/745-2097

The Importance of ERPs

8/7/2023 (Permalink)

ERPs are extremely useful tools provided by your local SERVPRO Team to help your business be better prepared for any emergency

Being a business owner can have many responsibilities, and you may have to take on multiple roles.

In most cases, disaster is the last thing you are thinking about, but every business owner, regardless of how new or old your business is, should have a plan and guide for what to do in the event of a disaster.

SERVPRO® of Benton County offers a free community service called the "Emergency Ready Plan", or an ERP.

ERPs are handy little guides that we make at SERVPRO that contain basic information regarding your property, who owns the property, and where your emergency shut off locations are.

We document and photograph where your electrical, water, and gas shut offs are, as well as your sprinkler system and security system. We also have the contacts for those utilities companies in the event that you must make contact.

Key contacts are also listed in the ERP, such as the owner, the insurance agent for the property, the SERVPRO® representative, and the managers of the building.

The emergency contacts and services page has the fire department and police department's emergency and non-emergency numbers as well, that way, if contact is needed, you know where to find all those phone numbers and contact points.

It's very beneficial to have an ERP because although the business owner might know where everything is and who to contact, your employees might not. Having a guide like this can help so much if the business owner is not present.

ERPs are very convenient as well, we are able to provide a paper copy, and we can provide a digital version on the Ready Plan app! Which makes ERPs very easy to access in times of need.

When you run a business, it's good to prepare for not just the next day's shift, but for the things that happen unexpectedly.

SERVPRO® to be here to help! 541/745-2097

Create a Defensible Space

8/4/2023 (Permalink)

Creating a Defensible Space around your property can help protect your home in the event of a Forest Fire near you

Unfortunately during Summer and into Fall, Forest Fires ravage the West Coast.  Thousands of acres of timber are lost.  And, sadly, so are many homes.  While a wildfire is beyond our control, as a homeowner there are certain steps you can take to help reduce your property risk in case of a Forest Fire.

• Install a fire-proof roof. A metal roof is ideal here in the PNW due to the heavy rain and also provides excellent fire protection. Contact your local Roofing Professional for all your options,
• Create a ‘defensible space’ around your home – in some areas, it is required by law. Think ‘Lean, Clean and Green’ – remove all flammable vegetation within 30 feet of your home.
• Clear debris from the yard – this includes dead branches, twigs, any old building material, etc.
• Stack wood piles at least 30 feet from your home, and remove vegetation from within 10 feet of the woodpile.
• Remove lower branches, at least 6 feet from the ground.
• Trim any unhealthy looking trees. Remove dead branches, and clean out dead leaves/dried debris from under the trees.
• Consider removing any trees that are too close to your house – many fires jump tree top to tree top, as well as Emergency Vehicles need to be able to work all the way around your home in the event of a fire.
• Store any fuel tanks, propane or butane, at least 30 feet from the house.

For more information on Fire Safety & Prevention, you can visit: http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Fire/Pages/FirePrevention.aspx

If your home is damaged by a Wildfire, or sustains any kind of fire damage, please contact your Fire Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO®!

Professionals at work

8/4/2023 (Permalink)

Your SERVPRO® Team has been train by the IICRC to provide you with the utmost highest industry standards

SERVPRO® is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry, as well as provides training and certification directly to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops THE Standards for the Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO®

SERVPRO® 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO® Corporate Training Facility to IICRC-Industry Certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO can help your business during Wildfires!

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

There are steps you can take to protect your business during Wildfire Season. And SERVPRO can assist you!

Even states as wet as Oregon and Washington are affected by wildfires several times a year. When the Eagle Creek fire shut down businesses our phones rang off the hook with concerned business owners. In times like these SERVPRO® is the first to call as we are faster to any size disaster. 

Some tips from FEMA to protect you and your property from hazards are as follows:

• Wear protective clothing 
• Lock up your business
• Choose a route away from fire hazards
• Close windows, vents, doors, and blinds
• Shut off all utilities, if possible
• Move flammable items to the center of the building
• turn on a light in each room to increase visibility of your property
• Turn off gas lines and propane tanks
• Connect the outside house to water taps
• Gather fire tools

These tips along with preparation and quick thinking can and will protect your investments!

How to protect your home from flooding...

7/5/2023 (Permalink)

Heavy rains can cause water to seep into your home, cause damage and mold

A flood will occur when experiencing excessive rain, this causes rivers or streams to overflow. A flooding in a basement can be caused by water pooling around your home, this allows water to get into your home. A few tips can help prevent this. 

• Properly maintain your property. The slope in your yard and flower bed placement can direct the flow of the water towards your home, causing the water to pool at the base of your home. In some cases, it may be a good idea to install a French drain.
• Maintain the gutters and downspout. It is important to maintain your gutters and downspout as the debris will stop the flow of the water thus making the water run down the side of the building instead of flowing away from your home.
• If your home has a sump pump, it is a great way to help prevent your basement from flooding. This doesn't mean you can just forget about your pump, you will still need to maintain the pump to make sure it is still in working conditions. if you know a storm is coming, make sure you test your pump that it is still working. Having a second sump pump can be handy if your pump does fail. Also having a backup generator can keep your pump running even after the power goes out.

We're faster to any disaster

At SERVPRO®, we are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage, limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professionals make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call 541/745-2097

Let us get your business back up and running

7/5/2023 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO, our trained professionals have the right equipment to protect your business

When it comes to owning a business, especially in a large commercial building, you may be so
wrapped in the day to day tasks that you may not have noticed the signs pointing to water
damage. Undiscovered leaks can cause damage to floors, walls and ceilings and may lead to
soft dry wall and stained ceiling tiles. These leaks can be coming from old damaged pipes, or
damages to the roof. As a business owner you should

• Inspect ceiling tiles regularly for discoloration or leaks
• Check the waterlines in coffee makers, refrigerators and water filtration systems for kinks and leaks
• Remove standing water with a mop and seek professional assistance for proper drying.

As a SERVPRO® franchise, we have thermal imaging equipment that can detect even the smallest amounts of moisture. If or when moisture is detected, we have trained professionals in water extraction and drying. SERVPRO has been serving commercial properties for over 50 years, and will help protect your business from further damage!  Call us today at 541/745-2097!

Like it never even happened!

7/5/2023 (Permalink)

Sprinklers can help put out a fire in your office, but they can cause extensive damage to your workplace...SERVPRO can help!

When water damage from a broken sprinkler, or when smoke and soot from an electrical fire cause havoc in your office, warehouse, store, or restaurant SERVPRO® is ready to spring into action and help you make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO has decades of experience serving our customers in the area when property damage strikes. We know that no matter where the damage came from or whatever caused it, there is still work to be done to begin mitigating the problem.

Our teams of on call technicians are ready to leap into action around the clock because we know that property damage does not happen when it is convenient for you or us, that is why we are ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

When its not just water!

7/5/2023 (Permalink)

Knowing where a leak comes from can help keep you and your family healthy during a clean-up

Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals have specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.

Toilet Overflow or Sewer Backup?
Call Today 1-800-SERVPRO

Water damage can be classified by the three types of contaminated water. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will inspect your home or business to determine the appropriate plan of action for the type of water encountered.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Hour Emergency Service

Water contaminated with sewage backup should be considered an emergency situation and dealt with as quickly as possible. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are water damage restoration specialists with specialized training, equipment and protective gear to safely restore your home or business.

Sump Pump Failure Floods Basement During Rainstorm in Cornelius?

5/30/2023 (Permalink)

We restore damage from heavy rain 24 hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is a trusted leader in water damage restoration services in Cornelius. Water is invasive, so it can do serious damage to a structure in a short period of time if it is not mitigated quickly.

Our technicians are highly trained and certified to restore water damage. We use powerful industrial-grade water extraction and drying equipment to restore damaged areas quickly. Here is a recent Google review from one of our customers:

“My sump pump failed during a time of heavy rain. I just bought the house after relocating from out of state. I found the water on a Sunday night. The Company was very responsive and I feel the team they sent went above and beyond to help me get the water out of the basement and dry out the floor, carpet, and drywall. My homeowner's insurance doesn't cover this as a claim so they were really great to work with.” Dawn Dipre

Positive: Professionalism, Responsiveness

Service: Water damage-related cleanup & repair

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Cornelius has a water damage emergency, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Toilet Overflow Contaminates Forest Grove Home with Dangerous Black Water?

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24 hours a day in Washington County.

Toilets can overflow for many reasons. They can become clogged, parts can fail, or seals can crack and cause water leaks. Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is a trusted leader in emergency water damage restoration services in Washington County. We have the training, equipment, and experience to restore any sewer backup quickly and efficiently. Here are the three classifications for contaminated water:

Category 3: "Black Water"

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category three water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Category 2: "Gray Water"

• It may contain bacteria and viruses
• It can quickly degrade into category three if left untreated

Category 1: "Clean Water"

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category two or three

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Forest Grove has a water damage emergency, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Mold Discovered Growing in Gaston Garage?

5/16/2023 (Permalink)

We restore mold damage in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is a trusted leader in mold damage remediation services in Gaston. Mold is a common challenge in Oregon, and the State of Oregon website offers helpful information on how to prevent mold from growing inside homes and buildings as follows:

What causes mold to grow?

Molds need moisture to grow. Some household situations that lead to mold growth include:

1. Clogged gutters and downspouts
2. Leaky plumbing
3. Leaky roofs
4. Using hot water without venting the steam to outdoor air.

Also, when indoor air is warmer than outdoor air, moisture can collect on cold surfaces like single-pane windows, uninsulated walls, pipes, and roofs.

Preventing household mold

• Install double-pane windows or insulation to keep moisture from collecting on cold surfaces
• Inspect and repair leaks in roofs, gutters, foundations, and plumbing
• If you rent, consider taking pictures of moisture problems and documenting the situation with your landlord
• Review Home Moisture Problems (pdf) by the Oregon State University Extension Service

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Gaston has a mold problem, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your mold damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

My Hillsboro Home Was Flooded by a Broken Pipe – Now What?

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Washington County.

When I discovered the leaking pipe in my home, I knew I had to act fast. Water was shooting out in all directions and flooding my garage floor. After shutting off the main water valve, I called the local Hillsboro and Forest Grove office and they sent a crew out right away!

First, they pulled the water from the room using powerful water extraction equipment, then they set up air movers and blowers to remove the excess moisture from the area. They monitored and documented the drying process to ensure the room returned to normal moisture levels, and they helped me with the insurance process and paperwork. Thanks to their fast emergency response time the drywall was salvaged and the repairs were minimal.

Water Damage Restoration Process

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

Call Us Today!

Water damage can happen at any time of the day or night. When your home or commercial business in Hillsboro has water damage from a broken pipe, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Windstorm Preparation Tips for Forest Grove Residents?

5/2/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Washington County.

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams have been helping people in Forest Grove with wind damage for many years. Windstorms can cause severe property damage, but here are things you can do to protect yourself and your property before the storm hits. Here are some tips from the Oregon Health Authority for things you can do before a windstorm happens:

• Contact your local emergency management office or the Portland-based National Weather Service office to find out what types of storms are most likely to occur in your community
• Assemble an emergency kit and make a family communication plan
• If you have a home generator, make sure you know how to use it safely. Follow all instructions and contact the vendor, if necessary. Improper use of a generator can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Find out who in your area might need special assistance, such as the elderly, disabled, and non-English-speaking neighbors
• Check with your veterinarian for animal care instructions in an emergency situation
• If you live on a coastal or inland shoreline, be familiar with evacuation routes
• Know what emergency plans are in place at your workplace, school, and daycare center
• Conduct a home safety evaluation to find out which nearby trees could fall in a windstorm
• If you have an electric garage door opener, locate the manual override

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Forest Grove has storm damage from a windstorm, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Heavy Rains Damage Homes in Hillsboro?

4/25/2023 (Permalink)

We restore rain damage in Washington County 24 hours a day.

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams restore rainwater damage in Hillsboro throughout the year. When you notice any signs of water entering the house, it is important to get professional help right away. Here are some tips from our website for things you can do while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after the removal of lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn the air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water
• Don't use television or other household appliances
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Hillsboro has flooding from rain or another form of storm damage, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Safety Measures Should I Follow After a Windstorm in Banks?

4/18/2023 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to restore storm damage in Washington County.

Windstorms are known to cause extensive damage and power outages in the Pacific Northwest. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team offer this safety information from the State of Oregon for things you can do after a windstorm in Banks:

• Check yourself and those around you for injuries
• Evacuate damaged buildings. Do not re-enter until declared safe by authorities.
• Call 911 only to report a life-threatening emergency
• If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound indoors, open windows and leave the building. Turn off the gas source and call your gas company. Do not use matches, candles, open flames, or electric switches indoors.
• If the power goes out, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep food frozen for up to two days. Learn about food safety during an emergency.
• Assist your neighbors, especially the elderly or disabled
• Try to make contact with your out-of-area phone contact, but avoid making local telephone calls
• Monitor your portable or weather radio for instructions or an official "all clear" notice. Radio stations will broadcast what to do, the location of emergency shelters, and medical aid stations, and the extent of the damage.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Banks has a wind or other storm damage emergency, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Mold Discovered Growing in Forest Grove Home?

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in mold remediation services in Washington County.

Mold is a common challenge for people living in Forest Grove. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team follows local and state laws for inspection and documentation protocols based on the size of the affected area and will advise you on the process. We follow this procedure for every mold remediation job we perform:

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment

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.

4. Air Filtration

We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while mold remediation is in process.

5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

We use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming.

6. Cleaning Contents

We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold.

7. Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or require the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. 

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business has a mold damage problem, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Microwave Fire Damages Kitchen in Gaston Home?

4/3/2023 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Washington County.

Busy Gaston families benefit from the ease and convenience of heating or defrosting a meal using a microwave oven. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team offer these microwave oven safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• PURCHASE a microwave oven that is listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Make sure to complete and return the product registration card. This way, the manufacturer can reach you if there is a recall of the product.
• PLUG the microwave oven directly into the wall outlet — never use an extension cord
• MAKE sure the microwave oven is at a safe height, within easy reach of all users
• OPEN food slowly, away from the face. Hot steam or the food itself can cause burns.
• FOOD heats unevenly in microwave ovens. Stir and test before eating or giving to children.
• NEVER heat a baby bottle in the microwave. Since a microwave oven heats unevenly, it can create hot pockets, leading to burns. Warm a bottle in a bowl of warm, not hot or boiling, water, or by running it under the tap.

Call Us Today!

When your kitchen in your home or commercial business catches fire in Gaston, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Commercial Cleaning Services Keep Orenco Businesses Clean and Smelling Fresh!

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

We provide commercial cleaning services in Washington County.

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team offers a full range of commercial cleaning and restoration services to fit the needs of every workplace in Orenco. Although we are better known for fire and water damage restoration, we also provide a full range of commercial cleaning services to keep your business looking its best.

We are committed to providing the highest level of support and services for all our valued customers. Property damage can happen anytime and for many reasons: fire, water, storm, mold, vandalism, chemical spills, biohazard contamination, you name it! Our technicians are trained and certified to provide a full range of cleaning, restoration, and rebuilding services.

What makes us a top choice for cleaning and restoration services?

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Cleaning Services

• Air Ducts and Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
• Biohazard
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Ceiling, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Drapes and Blinds
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Sewage and Toilet Overflow
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Vandalism and Graffiti

Restoration Services

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Cleanup
• Building Services

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Orenco needs deep cleaning services that go beyond what standard cleaning services can do, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Are You Ready for the Next Big Windstorm in Banks?

3/21/2023 (Permalink)

We restore wind damage in Washington County.

Every year, windstorms cause significant damage, including downed trees and loss of electrical power. If we had a big windstorm tomorrow, would you be ready for it? Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team responds to property damage emergencies every year in Banks involving property damage from severe winds. With some advanced preparation, you can minimize the chances of wind damage.

Here are some tips for minimizing wind damage from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA):

High Wind Warnings 

• Are issued when sustained winds of 40 miles per hour or greater or gusts up to 58 miles per hour or greater are expected
• These high winds are usually associated with severe thunderstorms and hurricanes

Preparing for High Winds

• Be sure your property is secure
• Remove any dead trees or overhanging branches near structures
• Remove loose objects outdoors, on patios, roofs, or balconies that could blow away.
• Shutter windows securely and brace outside doors
• Bring in unsecured objects from patios and balconies and secure objects that could blow away and cause damage or injury

Call Us!

Winds can cause severe damage to homes and businesses in Banks. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help ® when you need help with wind damage restoration services. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Sump Pump Failure Causes Basement Flooding During Heavy Rainstorm in Forest Grove?

3/14/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in restoring storm damage in Washington County.

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is trained and certified to restore storm and flooding damage. Here is a Google Review from one of our customers we helped during a recent storm in Forest Grove:

“My sump pump failed during a time of heavy rain. I just bought the house after relocating from out of state. I found the water on a Sunday night. The Company was very responsive and I feel the team they sent went above and beyond to help me get the water out of the basement and dry out the floor, carpet, and drywall. My homeowner's insurance doesn't cover this as a claim so they were really great to work with.” Dawn Dipre

Here are some loss prevention and maintenance tips to keep your sump pump in good repair:

• Open the lid and remove debris that may be blocking the water inlet screen
• Pour about five gallons of water into the pump and watch the float valve rise
• As the float valve rises, the pump should turn on, and the water should discharge through the outlet pipe
• Go outside and inspect the outlet pipe
• Water should be flowing from the pipe and away from the home
• Contact a plumbing professional if the sump pump fails to operate during this inspection
• Install a battery backup system
• Choose a system with a battery replacement warning
• Replace batteries every two to three years

Call Us Today!

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help ® when you need storm damage restoration services. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Mold Infestation Discovered in Orenco Home?

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in mold remediation in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is trained and certified to restore mold damage by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. Our technicians have the training, equipment, and experience to restore areas damaged by mold in Orenco. We follow local and state laws regarding mold inspection and documentation based on your unique situation.

Mold Containment

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.

Air Filtration

We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

We use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. We remove and dispose of mold-infested porous materials when remediating heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents

We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. We also remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

Call Us Today!

The moist climate means that mold damage can happen at any time in Orenco. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help ® when you need mold damage removal services.  Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Viral Pathogen Cleaning Program for Hillsboro Businesses?

2/28/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in viral pathogen cleaning services in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is trained and certified to provide deep cleaning and decontamination services that exceed the scope of a standard cleaning service. We offer a full range of deep cleaning services to keep your commercial business virus-free. Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is a defensive pathogen cleaning program that inspires consumer confidence.

How does the program work? It’s based on our unique 3 C’s:

• Consult: Not all businesses are the same, so we’ll tailor a bespoke cleaning program based on the individual needs of each facility
• Clean: Based on the agreed plan, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.
• Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers, and community.

Call Us Today!

Having a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned business will reinforce consumer and employee confidence. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are Here to Help ® when you need cleaning and decontamination services in Hillsboro. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

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.

Professional Cleaning Services for Mold-Damaged Belongings in Gaston?

2/21/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in mold damage remediation in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is trained and certified to mitigate and restore mold damage by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification in Gaston. Everyplace the mold spores have infiltrated will require professional cleaning to minimize the chances for the mold to return once the remediation process is complete.

We specialize in restoring belongings damaged by mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your contents to determine what items can be restored to pre-mold conditions. We utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

•  Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning
•  Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues
•  Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning
•  Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned
•  Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned
•  Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product

Call Us Today!

Mold outbreaks can happen anytime, and when you need our help, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team will restore your damage in Gaston “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Will Installing a French Drain Prevent Water Intrusion in my Home in Forest Grove?

2/14/2023 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24 hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is trained and certified to mitigate and restore storm damage by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, the nonprofit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industries. We have the training, equipment, and experience needed to restore wind damage, no matter how extensive the damage is.

French drains are a system of ditches and pipes that divert water away from a specific area, like a home’s foundation. Here are the pros and cons of French drains from a home care expert at Angi, Bailey Carson:

The Pros and Cons of a French Drain

Pros

• French drains help prevent flooding and reduce the risk of long-term water damage to your property
• They can last between 30 and 40 years
• They’re cost-effective
• French drains can be aesthetically pleasing as they are usually covered with small rocks, plants, and sometimes even decorative grates

Cons

• The installation process can be long and frustrating
• Existing structures, such as a deck or walkway, may need to be removed when digging trenches
• It could be dangerous to dig in areas with water, power, or communications lines buried in the vicinity 
• French drains can sometimes become clogged and overflow, causing damage

Call Us Today!

Stormwater intrusion can happen anytime, and when you need our help, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do to Protect My Home From Strong Winds in Hillsboro?

2/7/2023 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

In January, major storm systems impacted Washington County homes and commercial businesses. Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team responds to storm damage emergencies throughout the year in Hillsboro. We have the training, equipment, and experience needed to restore wind damage, no matter how extensive the damage is.

Here are the definitions of wind alerts from the National Weather Service:

High Wind Warning: Take Action! Sustained, strong winds with even stronger gusts are happening. Seek shelter. If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheel.

High Wind Watch: Be Prepared! Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose items and adjust plans as necessary so you’re not caught outside.

Wind Advisory: Take Action: Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong to warrant a High Wind Warning. Objects outdoors should be secured, and caution should be taken if driving.  

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Take Action! A thunderstorm is happening or is imminent in the warning area. Severe thunderstorms have 58 miles per-hour wind gusts and or hail one inch or larger. Seek shelter inside a sturdy building.

Call Us Today!

Storm damage can happen anytime, and when it does, we are Here to Help. ® When your home or commercial business experiences wind damage, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do to Ensure My Business is Storm-Ready in Cornelius?

1/31/2023 (Permalink)

We restore commercial property damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team responds to commercial property damage emergencies throughout the year in Cornelius. Here are some tips for making your business storm-ready from The United States Small Business Administration:

• Check your insurance coverage for protection against winter hazards
• Develop a procedure for restoring electrical services
• Develop a system for relocating salvageable and undamaged stock and supplies
• Add the following supplies to your disaster supplies kit: rock salt, sand, and snow shovels
• Determine your greatest risk potential: loss of heat, frozen pipes, or loss of access due to snow and ice
• Identify who is responsible for keeping heating equipment in good working order: the business owner or landlord
• Identify who is responsible for snow and ice removal: business owner or landlord
• Determine what equipment needs to be protected from freeze-up, i.e., computers, telecommunications, manufacturing equipment, etc.
• Make sure heating and heat-producing process equipment is in good condition and operating efficiently
• Drain all idle pumps and compressors, making sure jackets are vented. Provide proper lubrication on equipment for cold weather operation
• Test cold-weather equipment
• Clean and inspect boilers and firing mechanisms and controls. Maintain automatic sprinkler protection in idle buildings; promptly handle sprinkler system impairments; notify the local fire department
• Monitor building temperature, especially in hard-to-heat areas containing vulnerable equipment
• Keep temperatures above 40°F

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Cornelius needs commercial restoration services, our team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Home Damaged by Strong Winds in Banks?

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team responds to storm damage throughout the year in Banks. Strong winds can topple trees, powerlines, and anything not tied down can become a dangerous flying projectile. Here are some tips for protecting your property from wind damage from the Federal Emergency Management Agency:

Secure Fencing, Porches, Canopies, and Sheds

Have them inspected and make sure they are firmly attached and in sound structural condition. Secure any parts of fencing that appear weak or loose.

Trim or Remove Dead, Damaged, or Rotting Trees and Limbs

High winds can cause trees and branches to fall. Make sure any damaged trees on the property are trimmed or removed regularly. Your home should be at least a full-grown tree’s height away from the base of any tree, usually about 40 feet away.

Secure Objects Outside the Home

Loose shingles, your dog’s house, trash cans, and sports equipment can be picked up by the wind and cause damage to your home. Secure outdoor objects like furniture, gutters, and downspouts.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Banks needs emergency storm damage services, our team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Comprehensive Fire Damage Restoration Process Used in Gaston?

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is trained and certified to restore fire damage in Gaston by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) using a comprehensive, seven-step process as follows:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

We will board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Gaston needs fire damage restoration services, our team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Powerful Equipment Used to Detect and Restore Water Damage in Forest Grove?

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in water damage cleanup and restoration services in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the nonprofit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry, to clean and restore water damage in homes and commercial businesses in Forest Grove. We used sensitive moisture detectors, powerful water extraction equipment, and air blowers to remove water quickly and efficiently.

Moisture Detection and Measurement

• Surface moisture meters
• Infrared imagery
• Evasive moisture detectors
• Video borescope

Water Extraction Equipment

We use powerful extraction equipment to speed the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial-grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Forest Grove needs water damage restoration services, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Crime Scene Cleanup Services in Cornelius?

1/3/2023 (Permalink)

We clean and restore crime scenes in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is known for our fire and water cleanup and restoration services, but we also provide many specialty cleaning services that exceed what a standard cleaning service can do. We have been providing service in Cornelius for many years.

Crime scenes require specialized cleaning services and techniques because crime scene investigations leave behind fingerprint and evidence-gathering chemicals that are difficult to remove without the right cleaning agents. Our technicians follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines and protocols. Our professionals are trained and certified to clean and restore crime scenes quickly and efficiently by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Once the crime scene investigation is complete, our job begins.

 Crime Scene and Trauma Cleaning Services

• Fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals
• Tear gas and pepper spray residues
• Fire extinguisher residue
• Blood, bodily fluids, and tissue remnants

Crime Scene Residues

We can clean and restore your property after a crime scene investigation, from fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues.

Bloodborne Pathogens

We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accidents, trauma, crime, or death. Our trained Professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Cornelius requires crime scene cleanup services, we are Here to Help. ® Our  Hillsboro and Forest Grove team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Our Use of Advanced Technology and Techniques Saves Customers in Forest Grove Time and Money?

12/27/2022 (Permalink)

We restore property damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team uses advanced technology and techniques to restore water damage quickly and efficiently. Advanced technology and powerful equipment allow us to identify and remove water from areas rapidly. Here are some examples of the equipment we use to detect, extract, and dry water damage in homes and commercial properties:

Moisture Detection and Measurement

•  Surface moisture meters
•  Infrared imagery
•  Evasive moisture detectors
•  Video borescope

Water Extraction Equipment

We use powerful extraction equipment to speed the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial-grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

Call Us Today!

When you discover water damage in your home or commercial business in Forest Grove, we are Here to Help. ® Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Should I Do If I Discover Mold in My Hillsboro Business?

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

We remediate mold damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is trained and certified to mitigate and remediate commercial mold damage. Mold is a pervasive problem in Hillsboro and has been present in the Earth’s atmosphere since the beginning of time. Mold serves an essential role by helping to break down organic materials. Water leaks or excess moisture can encourage mold to colonize, and the mold can become visible in as little as 48 hours.  

Here are some?Mold Damage Emergency Tips?from our website about things you can do and not do while waiting for help to arrive: 

Important Facts: 

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48 to 72 hours 

• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems 
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting 

What to Do: 

• Stay out of affected areas 
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans 

• Contact our office in Hillsboro and Forest Grove for mold remediation services 

What Not to Do: 

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold 
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth 
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself 

• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold 

Call Us Today!  

When you discover a mold problem in your commercial business or home in Hillsboro, we can help. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team will restore your mold damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated. 

Christmas Tree Safety Tips for Forest Grove?

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team wants everyone in Forest Grove to have a safe and fire-damage-free holiday season this year. Here are some Christmas tree safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association: 

PICKING THE TREE 

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched 

PLACING THE TREE 

• Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk 
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights 
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit 
• Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily. 

LIGHTING THE TREE 

• Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use. 
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect. 
• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree 
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed 

Call Us Today!  

When your home or business in Forest Grove has a fire damage emergency, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated. 

Comprehensive Water Damage Inspection and Assessment Process in Gaston?

12/6/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team conducts a thorough inspection and assessment of the water damage when we arrive at your Gaston home. This includes taking photographs of all affected areas and creating a moisture map of affected materials. We document all affected materials like sheetrock, flooring, and studs. 

Identify and Stop the Water Source

We will check for the source of moisture in your home or business. The source must be stopped before any restoration or drying of the building can be successful.

• Stop the Source
• Check for Contaminated Water

Identify the Type of Water

We will identify the category and classification of water damage to ensure our professionals restore your property based on industry guidelines. The water contamination level will affect the specific restoration processes we use.

Survey the Extent of the Water Damage and Inspect the Premises

We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration. In addition, we will inspect for safety concerns that may be evident. If there are any safety issues like lead or asbestos, please bring them to our attention.

• Survey Damage
• Complete Safety Inspection

Move or Block Furniture

We move furniture, property contents, and block items to help prevent rust or furniture stains on wet carpets.

• Block Furniture

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Gaston has a water damage emergency, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Corneilus Homes Deep Cleaned in Time for the Holidays?

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

Our team deep cleans homes and businesses in Washington County.

With the holiday season upon us, it’s an excellent time for Corneilus residents to have their homes professionally cleaned. Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove team provides deep cleaning services that exceed what a standard cleaning service can do. Our technicians are trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the nonprofit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industries.

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

Our carpet and upholstery cleaning service will remove the dirt and unwanted dust you don’t see. A professionally cleaned carpet and furniture may make all the difference in brightening a room and freshening your home.

Air Duct Cleaning

We all have tasks around the house that don’t make it to the top of our priority list. Properly maintaining your home’s air ducts should not be one of them. Regular duct cleaning can increase your home’s heating and cooling efficiency and improve the quality of the air you and your family breathe.

Odor Removal

Your basic cleaning service is not going to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors.

Sewage and Biohazard Clean Up

Our experts are ready to assist in the clean-up of sewage and other biohazard materials and provide deep cleaning services for your home.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Corneilus begins to look dull and tired, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team will clean your property and leave it looking great and smelling fresh. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Is Your Commercial Roof Prepared For Storms in Orenco?

11/21/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to commercial property emergencies 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove offer these tips from the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety to prepare your building in Orenco for winter weather: 

Low-slope (flat) roofs 

• Inspect roof and repair leaks before the winter season 
• Remove all debris and other items from roof and roof drainage systems that prevent drainage of water from the roof during the melting process  
• Check that all flashing and seals are flush and secure

Steep slope roofs

• Inspect your roof and repair leaks before the winter season 
• Secure loose shingles
• Check roof-edge waterproofing and seal to prevent potential drafts
• Add extra insulation in your attic or surrounding areas 

Gutters 

• Inspect gutters and ensure they’re secured to the building. Replace any missing gutter fasteners.  
• Clean gutters and interior downspouts thoroughly, removing all debris and unclogging drains 
• Test gutters and downspouts to be sure water does not back up. This can be done by using a hose. 
• Check downspouts to ensure they divert water away from the foundation

Call Us Today!

You never know when a storm will cause damage to your Orenco business or home. Fortunaltey, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is on call 24-hours a day to help you with storm damage emergencies. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Is Your Home Prepared For Winter in Hillsboro?

11/15/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams restore storm damage yearly in Hillsboro. This part of Oregon gets 156 days of precipitation each year which may come as rain, sleet, hail, or snow. Here are some tips for preventing water intrusion from the Insurance Information Institute to keep your home protected from unwanted water:

• Caulk and seal windows
• Inspect the roof for missing and aging shingles
• Check your rain gutters and remove any debris that may be clogging them
• Check your downspouts and clear any clogs and make sure they are draining away from the house
• Gutter guards and downspout filters are an excellent way to prevent clogs and water intrusion into the house
• Check your sprinkler systems and make sure they are not spraying water into the place and that water is not pooling around the home’s foundation
• Make sure water drains away from the building.Water is invasive and will easily find its way into a structure when water is allowed to pool around the foundation. After a storm, or when the ground is already saturated by rainwater, the water may enter the foundation wall through cracks.

Call Us!

You never know when a storm will cause damage to your home or business in Hillsboro, but if one does, our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is on call 24-hours a day to help you with storm damage emergencies. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Expect to Happen When I Call With a Water Damage Emergency in Forest Grove?

11/8/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams have been restoring water damage for Forest Grove families and businesses for many years. Our technicians are standing by 24-hours a day, 365 days a week, to help you with water damage emergencies.

We follow a comprehensive, six-step process when restoring water damage. The first step in this process is speaking to you on the phone. We will ask you questions regarding the nature of your water damage emergency, and your answers tell us how many people and what equipment and resources to bring.

Here are the questions we will ask:

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

Water Damage Restoration Process

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

Call Us Today!

You never know when water may damage your home or business in Forest Grove. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is on call 24-hours a day to help you with water damage emergencies. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Happy Water Damage Customers in Hillsboro?

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in water damage restoration services in Washington County.

In all that we do, our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams strive to deliver the best customer experience to every customer we serve. Here are some customer testimonials from happy water damage customers:

“Thank you all!! This has been such a horrific time in my life, and I appreciate all of you and what you have done to help save my house. I am so incredibly thankful for every single person at SERVPRO. The quickness of response to our claim and the way every single person at serve pro has treated us and our home is amazing. As an insurance agent that has referred people to SERVPRO for years, I am impressed with what I have seen on this side of things. Thank you to every single one of you from the bottom of my heart for helping me get through one of the worst situations of my life.” Melissa in Hillsboro

Water Damage Restoration Process

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

Call Us Today!

Our team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help ® when your home or business in Hillsboro has water damage. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Forest Grove Business Exposed to Smoke Damage?

10/24/2022 (Permalink)

We clean and restore smoke damage in Washington County.

If the building next door catches on fire, smoke exposure may compromise your property. Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams are trained and certified to restore smoke damage. Here is some of the equipment we use:

Air Scrubber or Filter

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system (HVAC) air scrubber, or a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) air purifier can capture larger smoke molecules. There will still be some residual odor from smaller molecules or surface residues.

Ozone Generator

An ozone generator is a fast and highly effective smoke odor restoration method. These machines emit ozone, which follows the same paths through the air as smoke and oxidizes any residual traces in the air or on surfaces.

Thermal Fogging

Thermal fogging is an intensive treatment involving fogging machines. After residents evacuate, smoke cleaning professionals fill a structure with petroleum distillates that neutralize odors and ventilate the area.

Hydroxyl Generator

A hydroxyl generator is a slower and gentler alternative to ozone. These machines use ultraviolet light to generate hydroxyl radicals that eliminate smoke odors. It will take about three to five days of continuous operation to achieve the same results as a single ozone treatment.

Vapor Modification

Vapor modification is another odor elimination method that relies on aromatic compounds and a blower or fan to neutralize smoke odor

Call Us Today!

Our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help ® when your commercial business or home has smoke damage. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Tips for Winterizing Your Home in Hillsboro?

10/17/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams have been restoring storm damage in Hillsboro for many years. The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety offers these tips to prepare your home for winter weather.

Upgrade all your windows and doors

Create a plan for your home before and after a winter storm.

If windows or doors show signs of aging or have gaps or other areas of concern, replace them to avoid potential interior or exterior water damage.

Invest in a generator

This can be especially crucial when temperatures are below freezing, leaving your home vulnerable to frozen pipes. Determine if a portable or permanent generator is the right solution.

Prevent ice dams

When replacing your roof:

• Talk to your contractor about adding an ice and vapor moisture barrier
• Consider roof heat cables along the roof's eaves to prevent ice dams. Ensure the heating cables are UL Listed, FM Approved, or Canadian Standard Association (CSA) Certified.
• Enclose?Solid Fuel Burning Appliances in Attics.?Solid fuel-burning appliances?contribute to warm air build-up and should not be placed openly in the attic space.

Replace insulation, making sure it has an R-value. The higher the R-value, the greater the effectiveness of the insulation.

Upgrade your appliances if they are more than ten years old, and install a programmable thermostat.

Call Us Today!

Our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help ® when your home or commercial business has storm damage. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fire-Damage-Free Halloween Safety Tips for Banks Families?

10/11/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our local teams in Hillsboro and Forest Grove want everyone in Banks to have a safe and fire-free Halloween celebration this year. The National Fire Protection Association  offers these safety tips:

• Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o-lanterns
• Dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper catch fire easily. Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters.
• When using electrical lighting to decorate your home, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged
• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes. Make sure all smoke alarms are working.

For families still planning to attend Halloween parties or go trick-or-treating:

• When choosing costumes, stay away from long trailing fabric that could come in contact with open flames or other heat sources
• Teach children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them
• Provide children with flashlights to carry for lighting or glow sticks as part of their costumes

Call Us Today!

Our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help ® when your Banks home or commercial business has fire damage. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Water Damage Prevention Tips for Gaston Homes?

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our water damage restoration technicians in Hillsboro and Forest Grove are highly trained and have the experience and equipment to mitigate and restore water damage quickly and efficiently. Here are some tips from the Institute for Business and Home Safety to prevent water damage:

• Never pour grease down the drain
• Plant trees away from lateral drain lines to prevent roots from damaging piping
• If your home’s sewer system is connected to the city’s sewer system, a particular problem for older homes, or if you are located downhill or below street level, contact a plumbing professional to install a backflow prevention assembly into your sewer system
• Call a professional if you notice signs of a plumbing problem
• An increased monthly water bill
• Banging pipes
• Rust stains
• Moisture in the walls or on the floor
• Signs of wet soil erosion near the foundation

Water damage restoration process

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

Call Us Today!

Our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help ® when your Gaston home or commercial business has water damage. We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Are the Causes of Mold Damage in Hillsboro?

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in mold remediation services in Washington County.

When you discover mold growing in your home, fast mitigation is required to minimize the chances of the mold spreading to other areas of the structure. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams have been restoring mold damage in Hillsboro for years. Here is some information from our website about mold:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or air conditioning and heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet
• Mold spores thrive on moisture
• Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water 
• Mold colonies may produce allergens and irritants
• Before mold remediation begins, all water or moisture sources must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Call Us Today!

Our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help ® when your Hillsboro home or commercial business has a mold outbreak. We’ll restore your mold damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Property Management Companies Rely on Our Commercial Cleaning Services in Forest Grove?

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

We provide a full range of commercial cleaning services in Washington County.

Commercial businesses and property management companies rely on our Hillsboro and Forest Grove teams to provide deep cleaning services that exceed what a standard cleaning service can do. We use environmentally friendly cleaning products approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Here is a recent Google review from one of our happy commercial customers:

“Used them for general deep cleaning of rental unit and removal of carpet and padding. They did a great job and got everything sparkling clean top to bottom. Prompt and accommodating they exceeded my expectations and cleaned every surface to my satisfaction. I definitely would use them again.” Laurie Van Roekel

Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness

Commercial Cleaning Services

We have extensive experience cleaning all kinds of buildings and workplaces, including:

• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

Commercial Properties

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Forest Grove needs deep cleaning services, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help. ® Our technicians will leave your property looking and smelling great! Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do While Waiting For Help to Arrive After a Fire in Forest Grove?

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Washington County.

After any fire damage event in Forest Grove, your safety should be your first concern. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team offers these safety tips from our website for things you can do while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After A Fire

• Stay in the house only if it safe
• Electrical and “slip and fall” hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform
• Wet materials can be veryheavy
• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open
• Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves
• Change the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) filter
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business in Forest Grove has a fire damage emergency, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove can help. Our technicians are on call 24-hours a day to serve you. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Will Happen When My Water Damage Is Restored in Hillsboro?

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in water damage restoration services in Washington County.

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team follows this six-step process for every water damage emergency:

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property quickly. This helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. Our professionals provide sanitizing treatments to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration may involve minor or major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Hillsboro needs water damage restoration services, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove can help. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Crime Scene Cleanup Services in Forest Grove?

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

We provide crime scene cleanup services in Washington County.

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team cleans and restores trauma and crime scenes 24-hours a day. These events leave behind blood and other biohazard contaminants that can cause serious illness. Our technicians have the equipment and protective gear required to clean and restore trauma and crime scenes.

Additionally, crime scene investigations leave behind fingerprint and evidence-gathering chemicals that are difficult to remove without the right cleaning agents. Our technicians follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines and protocols.

 Crime Scene and Trauma Cleaning Services

• Fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals
• Tear gas and pepper spray residues
• Fire extinguisher residue
• Blood, bodily fluids, and tissue remnants

Crime Scene Residues

We can clean and restore your property after a crime scene investigation, from fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues.

Bloodborne Pathogens

We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accidents, trauma, crime, or death. Our trained Professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

Illegal Drug - “Meth” Labs

Many of the chemicals used in producing illegal drugs, such as “meth,” are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. Our technicians follow federal and state guidelines to clean all surfaces properly.

Call Us Today!

When your business or home in Forest Grove needs trauma and crime scene cleanup services, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove can help. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Heat Advisory for Hillsboro Community?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Oregonians are not used to excessive heat, and this summer, we’ve had heat warnings in many parts of the state. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team wants everyone to stay safe during these hot August days and offer this information from the National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about heat stroke:

Heat Stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. The body temperature can rise to 106 °F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes.

Heat Stroke warning signs:

• An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
• Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Unconsciousness

You may be dealing with a life-threatening emergency if you see any of these signs. Have someone call for immediate medical assistance while you begin cooling the victim. Do the following:

• Get the victim to a shady area
• Cool the victim rapidly, using whatever methods you can
• Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101-102°F
• If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions
• Do not give the victim alcohol to drink
• Get medical assistance as soon as possible

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Hillsboro has storm damage, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove can help. We’ll restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do If I Have Water Damage in Banks Home?

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team responds to more water damage emergencies than any other form of property damage in Banks. Water is invasive and can cause significant damage in a short amount of time. Here are some tips from our website on things you can do while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don’t leave wet fabrics in place
• Hang furs and leather goods
• Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors
• Don’t use your household vacuum to remove water
• Don’t use television or other household appliances
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us!

When your home or business in Banks has water damage, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove can help. We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Cooking Fire in Forest Grove Kitchen?

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Washington County.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports home unattended cooking as the leading cause of home fires in the United States and reports that most cooking fires involve the kitchen stove. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team responds to fire damage emergencies each year in Forest Grove, and we offer these tips from the NFPA for cooking safely:

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking
• Keep anything that can catch fire (oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains) away from your stovetop

Fire restoration process

• Step 1: Emergency Contact
• Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
• Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service
• Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
• Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
• Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
• Step 7: Restoration

Call Us!

When your Forest Grove home or business has fire damage and needs restoration services, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Highly Trained Restoration Team in Hillsboro?

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to property damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Washington County.

When you have a property damage emergency, we can help! Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove office invests heavily in training programs for our in-house and field technician team members. Our technicians are certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the non-profit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our technicians have the training, equipment, and experience to clean and restore any form of property damage in Hillsboro.

 The training program includes:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

e-Learnings

Everyone on our staff - from the office team to our field technicians - has access to web-based training. This training is voluntary and is a program designed to be an ongoing training series for our employees. These training courses feature video presentations and support materials, followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. Ongoing education keeps our office team and technicians current on new industry standards and best practices for the cleaning and restoration industry.

Call Us!

When your Hillsboro home or business needs emergency restoration services, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Mold Outbreak in Local Cornelius Company?

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

We mitigate and restore commercial mold damage in Washington County.

Mold is a common challenge for commercial businesses in Cornelius. Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team is certified to remediate commercial mold. We follow a comprehensive mold removal process as follows:

• Emergency Contact
• Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

We follow local and state laws regarding inspection and documentation based on your unique situation.

• Mold Containment

We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to prevent mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

• Air Filtration

We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.

• Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

We use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. We remove and dispose of mold-infested porous  materials when remediating heavy mold growth.

• Cleaning Contents

We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. We also remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

• Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may require the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. 

Call Us Today!

Our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help ® when your Cornelius business or home has mold damage. Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Extensive Water Damage Found In Gaston?

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to property damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Washington County.

When you have a water damage emergency in Gaston, we can help! Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove team uses industrial-grade water extraction and drying equipment to ensure the area is dried thoroughly. Here is a water damage timeline from our website describing the damage water can do to a structure over time.

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

Call Us Today!

When your Gaston home or business has water damage, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do If I Have Stormwater Damage in My Banks Home?

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Washington County.

When there is a severe storm in Banks, and your home floods in the middle of the night, knowing what to do and NOT to do while waiting for help to arrive is important. Our team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove offers these tips from our website:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors
• Don’t use your household vacuum to remove water
• Don’t use television or other household appliances
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us!

When your home or business in Banks has a storm damage emergency, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Commercial Deep Cleaning Services in Forest Grove?

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

We provide a full range of specialty cleaning services in Washington County.

Over time we can become “nose blind” to odors and adjust to the look of dulling fabrics and carpets in the workplace. Routine cleaning and maintenance of your commercial property will protect your investment by prolonging the life of many surfaces and furniture. Even if you use a standard cleaning service, cleaning products can build up over time, leaving carpets, floors, drapes, and upholstery looking old and dingy.

Our Hillsboro and Forest Grove office provides deep cleaning and deodorizing services that exceed the scope of a routine janitorial service. Forest Grove businesses can feel confident knowing their workplaces are deep cleaned and deodorized.

Commercial Cleaning Services

• Air Ducts and Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

We have extensive experience working in all kinds of business settings and buildings:

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing and Industrial
• Government/Military

Call Us Today!

When your Forest Grove commercial business or home needs emergency restoration services, our local team in Hillsboro and Forest Grove is Here to Help. ® We’ll clean and restore your workplace “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 503-648-8513.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Storms In Hillsboro, What to Do?

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

We don't get huge storms here in the Pacific Northwest like other parts of the country, but we are no stranger to high winds, lots of rain, and blackouts. SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove wants to help you stay as safe as possible when storms rage. 

Below are tips on how to stay safe during a thunderstorm while inside a building:

• Stay away from all windows or glass walls, especially during a lightning storm
• Unplug appliances if possible
• Pay attention to all alerts and warnings, as a thunderstorm can develop into a tornado if powerful enough
• Avoid running water if possible since electricity can travel through plumbing

Even here in the PNW weather is unpredictable; it can also change in an instant without much warning. If a thunderstorm does happen to turn into a larger storm on the North Coast consider the following tips:

• If the building has a basement or storm cellar, head there immediately
• Use your arms to protect your head and neck in the event of flying debris or shattered windows
• Do not leave the safe area until the local alerting system says it is safe to do so

Remember, SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is Here to Help. Our trained team members will show up ready to go and can assist in cleanup and restoration after a thunderstorm, lightning storm, or other property damage. 

Forest Grove Prepares for Large Storm!

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Forest Grove is no stranger to severe storms. If a community is not prepared for a severe storm, the results can be devastating. SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove wants to share some of the following tips to keep in mind while putting together an emergency kit in the event of a severe storm approaching. FEMA has stated that emergency kits should include some of the following:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Any medicine currently being taken
• Emergency food and water
• Extra change of clothes and shoes
• Pet supplies if you are taking care of an animal

These are just a few examples of what an emergency kit should contain. Residents can add whatever else may be needed. There should be an emergency kit in every residential building as well as all commercial buildings if possible. Aside from having an emergency kit ready, a plan should also be in place. If there is a designated storm area inside the home or office, occupants should head there with the emergency kits. Severe storms cannot be avoided, but with the right tools and resources, they can be easier to deal with. 

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove wants to make sure Forest Grove residents are prepared!

Wet floors in Hillsboro stressing you out?

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Any type of damage inside of a house can be frustrating but one of the more stressful situations is a residential flood. In the middle of a disaster such as a flooded home in Hillsboro, it can be hard to figure out where to start when it comes to cleaning up and restoring the damaged area. That is where SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove comes in. We are ready to help when called and we are highly trained in property damage restoration and in this case, water damage specifically. Here are some steps that can be taken in the event of a flooded home/room:

• Make sure the floor is secure before you start walking through the water or wet areas
• If there is an exposed plug underneath the water, do not walk in that area because electricity can travel through the water
• Call SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove to help clean up the flooded area
• Wet floors might be slick so walk slowly to avoid falling and sustaining injuries

We want to make this as easy as possible for our homeowners and reduce the amount of stress you may be feeling in Hillsboro.

Smoke and Soot Damage In Hillsboro Area Home

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating. Even a little fire caused by a bag of popcorn placed in the microwave for too long can leave a lingering odor and necessitate a cleaning.  SERVPRO of Hillsboro & Forest Grove is dedicated to helping you make it “Like it never even happened,” no matter what the cause of damage.

We know that just because we work to restore properties after damage every day, this is likely a new experience that is stressful to understand and can be frustrating. We promise to work with you and your insurance to make the process as smooth and easy as it can be.

We have teams of trained, empathetic, and professional technicians who are on call 24/7 to respond, we are Here To Help.

Hillsboro SERVPRO of Here to Help

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here to Help

Last month our team at SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove had the opportunity to help a local family in need. We had someone in the community reach out and let us know about a local family and need and told us their story. We knew at once that they were someone we needed to help and knew we could help. 

This family had mold in their home that had caused damage to the contents of the home and they needed help with how to take care of their contents. Our team helped to safely dispose of the affected contents and items. We are so proud of being part of this community and able to help those in need in our area.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here to Help when our community needs us. 

Why Trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove.

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

We know that when it comes to restoration companies you have a lot of options to use, but our Forest Grove team of professionals has 20 years of experience serving customers like you when disaster strikes. Our experienced professionals have the skills, training, and equipment to make any property disaster “Like it never even happened.”

No matter the cause of damage, from a pipe break, toilet overflow, mold or mildew, sewage leak or more, our teams are ready to respond and begin restoration. We are Here to Help you when disaster strikes. We are in the community, we are your neighbors, we know that when disaster strikes your life, you need help as soon as possible, even if it is outside of “normal” business hours.  Trust the local team with 30 years of experience, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove.

Why choose SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove when property damage strikes.

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

When things like broken pipes, dishwasher leaks, and sewage backups you need to act fast. You need a restoration company who acts fast also. That is why our team at Hillsboro has crews who are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We are here to respond to property damage and help make it “Like it never even happened.”

With 20 years of experience, there are not many situations we have not seen or restored. Our team of trained and empathetic professionals is here to walk through the disaster and damage with you. SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is proud to be a locally owned and operated team committed to our customers and community. If property damage strikes, we are just a call away.

Forest Grove Commercial Property Damage

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

Nearly 50% of businesses will not reopen following a property disaster such as a pipe break or fire leading to water or fire damage. Our team in Hillsboro wants to make sure that you are not part of that staggering statistic. Our team of trained, experienced and skilled professionals are ready to respond 24 hours a day. We know that property damage can not only distract you and your employees but can also cause delays in getting business done and taking care of your clients.  We work with you and your team to minimize disruption to everyday workflow.

Our on-call teams in Hillsboro and Forest Grove are ready to respond to any kind of damage you may suffer, and can leap into action to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Damage Restoration in Hillsboro

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

In Oregon and many places in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, it sometimes feels like you can get all four seasons of weather in one day or even one hour. So when we do have these cold snaps and reminders of winter it is still incredibly important to be safe when using your fireplace or woodstove.

When soot, smoke, and fire damage take control of your life, let us help you take control back. Our local Gresham team of trained and experienced professionals are Here to Help you when disaster strikes. Our team has the skills, experience, and empathy to respond to any fire damage, big or small in homes or commercial spaces.

Our teams work to clean, restore, and repair damage and help you get back to life preloss. If fire strikes you, call our Hillsboro team whose are professionals ready 24/7 to respond to emergencies.

Hillsboro Area Storm Damage

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Late winter or early spring snow and freezes are not unheard of in our part of the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Snow can be a lovely treat to kids but less so to property owners when the snowfall brings property damage with it. Often times ice storms accompany snowfalls that can cause property damage from things like ice dams, falling tree limbs, or frozen pipes.

No matter the cause of damage, our team of local professionals in Hillsboro are ready to help you make it “Like it never even happened.” We have teams who are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week who can respond to you when damage strikes. Our teams will come in, assess the damage, and help walk with you through the restoration and repairs process.

Fires in the Forest Grove Area

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Electrical fires in homes occur more often than we want to think, and can easily occur in an office or commercial building due to the many extension cords and electronics. It is important to practice good fire safety. A few good rules of thumb to remember are:

• Do not plug extension cords into other extension cords or power strips
• Do not plug in a space heater or portable air conditioner into a power strip
• Check extension cords and electrical cords for fraying or cuts and do not use if any are present

Even the most prudent and fire safety-minded business or organization can still suffer from fire damage, so it is important to have fire extinguishers around the area and to routinely practice fire drills.

If soot, smoke, or fire damage strike, make sure to trust the team with nearly 20 years of experience making a property damage “Like it never even happened.” Our team in Hillsboro has the skills and experience to help you restore your property after fire damage and is just a call away.

Pipe Breaks In Hillsboro Area Home

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Things like pipe breaks, dishwasher leaks, toilet overflows, and appliance failures occur all the time. And can happen anywhere and at any time. No matter how new your property is, how well maintained it is, or how much it is used. That is why our team of professionals in Hillsboro and Forest Grove are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to leap into action and help you make disaster and damage “Like it never even happened.”

Our teams have the training, experience, and equipment to restore your property after any type of damage and no matter the size of the disaster. Our crews are only a call away when disaster strikes, even if damage strikes at 3 am on a Saturday, we are Here. To Help.

Fire Sprinkler Break In Hillsboro Commercial Building

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Fire sprinklers are incredibly important in any commercial building. They help limit the spread of fire and provide additional time to vacate the building and get to safety. But when a fire sprinkler breaks or leaks it causes a huge disaster and water damage. 

Our team in Hillsboro / Forest Grove has teams on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help restore your property when disaster strikes. Our team of professionals have the training, skills, and experience to step in and restore your property. 

Our teams work alongside you to make sure that your business is able to stay open and continue to serve your customers. If property damage strikes your business, call our team who is available night and day to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Advanced Technology in Gaston?

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Advanced Technologies and Specialized Training for Gaston

At SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove we use advanced technology, and our technicians undergo initial and continuous training to keep up-to-speed on technological advancements and industry best practices. This saves our customers time and money and allows our technicians to restore residential and commercial properties in Gaston to preloss condition faster and more cost effectively.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the non-profit certifying body for the restoration industry. The IICRC sets the cleaning and restoration standards we follow. These standards incorporate the field of psychometry, allowing our technicians to become proficient in manipulating temperature and relative humidity through moisture detection and measurement equipment. This is important because excess moisture can cause further damage to a structure and encourage mold and other microbial damage.

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

• An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Call Us Today!

When you have a property damage emergency in Gaston, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day. We’ll restore your property damage, “Like it never even happened.” 

Faster to Any Size Disaster in Forest Grove.

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

Faster to Any Size Disaster in Forest Grove.

It’s nice to know that SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is on-call and available 24-hours a day to respond to property damage emergencies in . We usually arrive on-site within four hours of your call in most cases. Although we are better known for fire and water damage mitigation, we also offer many other specialty cleaning and restoration services for residential and commercial businesses! Here are some of the deep cleaning and restoration services you may not know about:

Overview of Cleaning Services

• Air Ducts
• Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Units and Systems
• Biohazard
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Ceiling, Floors & Walls
• Certified SERVPRO Cleaned
• Drapes and Blinds
• Odor Removal
• Sewage and Toilet Overflow
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Vandalism and Graffiti
• Commercial Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has experience working in many types of commercial buildings and properties, including: 

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove technicians are on call 24-hours a day to respond to residential and commercial property damage emergencies. We have the experience and equipment required to mitigate property damage, no matter how big the job is. We’ll restore your property damage in Rockaway Beach, “Like it never even happened.”  

Washing Machine Washout in Banks?

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Washing Machine Maintenance Tips for Banks.

Did you know that supply line failure is one of the top causes of water damage involving a washing machine? SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has seen the damage a burst supply line can do. Here are some washing machine supply line maintenance tips:

Conduct monthly inspections of the hot and cold washing machine supply lines.

• Look for signs the supply hose may be ready to fail—blisters in the hose, worn tubing, stress cracks, or a loose connection
• Replace the supply hose with a reinforced steel braided hose if it shows any sign of wear
• Tighten the connection if it feels loose. The most common site of failure is near the connection where the hose bends.
• Replace supply hoses every five years, even if there is no obvious deterioration or wear
• Some signs of deterioration may occur from the inside out and may not be visible until it is too late
• When replacing washing machine supply hoses, always choose a reinforced steel braided hose over the traditional un-reinforced rubber hose. These hoses will last longer and are far less likely to result in a catastrophic water loss.

Call Us!

When you have a water damage emergency, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is ready to respond 24-hours a day.  We’ll clean and restore your water damage in Banks, “Like it never even happened.” 

Water Damage Emergency in Gaston?

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

Gaston Water Damage Disaster.

At SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove we restore water damage disasters of all kinds and sizes. Because water is invasive, water can seep into cracks and crevices and can become an expensive repair when left untreated for too long. Our technicians have the specialized equipment and experience to quickly and efficiently mitigate any water damage emergency. Here are some tips for preventing plumbing failure from the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety (IBHS)

• Never pour grease down the drain
• Plant trees away from lateral drain lines to prevent roots from damaging piping
• If your home’s sewer system is connected to the city’s sewer system, or if you are located downhill or below street level, contact a plumbing professional to install a backflow prevention assembly into your sewer system
• Call a professional if you notice signs of a plumbing problem—an increased monthly water bill, banging pipes, rust stains, moisture in the walls or on the floor, and signs of wet soil erosion near the foundation

Call Us Today!

Plumbing failures can happen at any time with no warning. When your Gaston home or office experiences a water damage emergency of any size, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day.

Storm-damaged Roof in Hillsboro?

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in storm damage mitigation in Hillsboro.

Storm Damage Can Happen When You Least Expect It

When my Hillsboro home was damaged in a recent storm, we were out of town, and the damage wasn’t discovered for a few days. A tree had broken a window and water and debris were everywhere. My insurance adjuster told me to call SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove and I’m glad I did.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has been responding to storm damage emergencies for years in Hillsboro] area and know that severe weather is unpredictable and storm damage happens no matter how well prepared we are. After a storm has passed is a good time to inspect your roof for storm damage (if possible) and make repairs as needed.

Storm Damage Roof Inspection

Look for obvious signs of damage to the roof, including damaged roof shingles, damaged roof gutters, and downspouts. Check roof vents and look for cracks in weather stripping around doors and windows. Replace damaged materials as necessary.

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has a team of highly trained technicians with the specialized training and experience to clean and restore storm damage quickly and efficiently. We’ll restore your storm damage in Hillsboro, “Like it never even happened.”

Storm Damage Tips in Cornelius.

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in storm damage mitigation in Cornelius.

Storm Damage Tips

You never know when storm damage might occur, and when it does, it’s important to mitigate the damage quickly to avoid costly structural repairs. SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove offer these helpful tips from our website on what to do and what not to do after a flooding:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us Today!

When you have a storm damage emergency SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day. We’ll restore your storm damage in Cornelius, “Like it never even happened.”  

Wildfire Safety Plan for Young People in Orenco?

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove are trusted leaders in fire damage mitigation in Orenco.

Home Alone in Orenco?

Do you have an evacuation plan in place for your kids in the event they are home alone when a wildfire or home fire breaks out? SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove wants Orenco families to know that having an evacuation plan in place for your loved ones to follow when you aren’t home can save lives. Here are some tips from the National Fire Prevention Association for developing a plan:

• Work with a trusted neighbor close by who know your children and can evacuate them
• Set up a schedule with other working parents in the neighborhood so that someone is always at home and can make sure the children are safe
• Pack a “Go Bag” with treasured items, water, food, prescriptions they can grab and leave with quickly
• Practice together with their pets if time allows to crate them for removal
• Have a designated contact, like an out-of-town family member programmed into their cell phone so you can find each other quickly

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is ready to respond 24-hours a day. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage in Orenco, “Like it never even happened.” 

Fire Damage Safety Tips For Forest Grove?

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove are trusted leaders in fire restoration services in Forest Grove.

When my home was damaged by fire, my insurance adjuster told me to call SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove

They gave me some helpful tips on things I could do while waiting for help to arrive.

Fire Damage Safety Tips – While Waiting for Help to Arrive

After any fire damage situation, your safety should be the primary focus.

• Stay in the house only if it safe
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform
• Wet materials can be veryheavy   

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open
• Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves
• Change the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) filter
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers

Call Us today!

When your Forest Grove  home or commercial business experiences a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here to Help. ®

Sewage Spill in Banks?

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove are trusted leaders in commercial damage mitigation in Banks.

Sewage Spills Are Dangerous

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove technicians are on-call 24-hours a day in Banks and have required safety gear and equipment to handle any form of sewage spill.

Sewer system water, or “Category 3 black water” carries dangerous viruses and bacteria, so it is imperative for the health and safety of your employees and customers to mitigate the damage as quickly as possible.

This water is highly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Black water can come from flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with fecal matter, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth. Black water may also contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes.

Sewage backups happen for many reasons. Some examples are:

• Blockages due to tree roots
• Broken or collapsed sewer lines
• Septic tank obstructions
• City sanitary main line obstructions

Call Us Today!

When you have a sewage spill or another form of commercial damage, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day. We’ll restore your commercial damage in Banks, “Like it never even happened.” 

Commercial Fire Damage in Gaston?

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

Gaston businesses rely on SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to restore commercial fire damage.

You would never know that this office had fire damage.

Fire damage can happen at any time and when it does, it’s important to act fast to minimize the potential for further damage. After the Gaston Fire Department leaves the scene, you will be left with fire debris, smoke, soot, and water damage left from the firefighting efforts.

Mitigation Process

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has been helping commercial businesses restore fire-damaged properties in Gaston for years. We understand the importance of getting your business operational as soon as possible. Our teams of highly trained technicians are on call 24-hours a day and, upon arrival, will provide an assessment of the damage and immediately begin the cleanup and restoration process. Here is the process we follow when mitigating commercial fire damage:

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service
4. Water Removal and Drying
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Call Us!

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has a team of highly trained technicians with the specialized training and experience to clean and restore commercial fire damage quickly and efficiently. We’ll restore your commercial fire damage in Gaston, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove wants to share one of our best tips

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is Here to Help make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us 24/7 to help with your emergency needs.

Today is Give Something Away Day, and SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove wants to share one of our best tips.

One of the best tips to limit the threat of water damage is knowing where your water shut-off valve is located in your home or property.

Stopping the water is the single most important way to limit the amount of damage.

Not only is it important that you know how to turn off the water, but that everyone who could be in the home alone does as well since you can never plan when property damage might strike.  If property damage from a pipe break, appliance failure SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is Here to Help make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us 24/7 to help with your emergency needs.

Crawlspace Damage in Forest Grove

7/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Fores teams of on-call technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week when disaster strikes. Our teams are Here to Help.

Did you know that moisture can pass from a crawl space into a residential or commercial property through cracks in the walls, floors, and ceilings? This moisture creates conditions for potential mold or microbial growth. Along with identifying the source of water or moisture property owners can add vapor barriers to help reduce the moisture in those spaces.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is qualified to help with any water or moisture mitigation needed in your residential or commercial property.

 Our teams of trained and experienced restoration professionals have the skills to help you make any property damage “Like it never even happened.” Our teams of on-call technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week when disaster strikes. Our teams are Here to Help.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove Is Here for Your Construction Needs

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your emergency restoration needs.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is not only a leader in restoration and mitigation from things like fire and water damage. But our team of skilled and trained construction professionals can help you with any new home or construction remodeling projects. Our teams have years of experience helping customers make disasters and damage from things like appliance leaks or kitchen fires “Like it never even happened.” But our SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove also has the experience, skills, and teams to help with any remodeling or repair needs.

If water damage from a pipe break or soot from a kitchen fire have wreaked havoc in your residential or commercial property, we are Here to Help. SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your emergency restoration needs.

How to Protect Your Forest Grove Area Home From Wildfires

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is always Here to Help. We have teams on-call 24/7 to respond when disaster strikes.

Risk of fires is always present; a fire could start from an electrical issue in an office building or a kitchen fire in a home from an unattended stove. Wildfires are also a present threat in our area and one that needs to be taken very seriously.

Here are some tips to help you reduce the potential for fire damage due to wildfires around your home or business.

• Get rid of combustible materials within 30 feet of your home
• Remove combustible litter on roofs and gutters
• Trim tree branches that overhang the roof and chimney
• Eliminate all combustible materials within 30 feet of home.

No matter the cause of the damage SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is always Here to Help. We have teams on-call 24/7 to respond when disaster strikes.

Different Types of Water Damage in Forest Grove

6/12/2021 (Permalink)

No matter the cause of the damage SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is always Here to Help

There are many different sources of water that can cause property damage in your home. Damage can happen from floor surges from strong storms, or heavy rains or sewage backups from a plugged-up toilet, or even a supply line failure from a refrigerator or dishwasher. Depending on the source of the water, it may be extremely unsanitary and exposure can lead to discomfort or disease?

So which source poses the risk?

1. External Flooding
2. Sewage Backup
3. Laundry Hose Breakage

The answer is both A External Flooding and B Sewage backup. External flood water can be unsanitary due to the dirt, germs, and other debris that may be in the floodwaters as well as backed up city sewer lines. Sewage backups can be hazards due to the nature of where the contamination started, the sewer. No matter the cause of the damage SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is always Here to Help

.

Commercial Property Cleaning In Forest Grove

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

No matter when the disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Yamhill / Tillamook Counties has the teams, skills, and experience.

SERVPRO of Yamhill / Tillamook Counties is Here to Help our communities when disaster strikes. That includes even a deep cleaning that needs a little bit more elbow grease than your normal cleaning. 

SERVPRO of Yamhill / Tillamook Counties were called out to help a commercial property owner with one of their apartments who had a bit of a mess to clean up after a resident moved out. Our crews were able to get on-site quickly and help the customer clean up the space making it look like new so that it would be ready for the next resident who gest to call this beautiful place home. 

No matter when the disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Yamhill / Tillamook Counties has the teams, skills, and experience to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Property Damage In Hillsboro

6/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here to Help 24/7.

Property damage from things like pipe breaks or kitchen fires anywhere and commercial buildings are no exception. SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is no stranger to property damage with our 20 years of experience helping customers make it “Like it never even happened.” In your business, it is important that not only you know what to do and who to call when property damage strikes but everyone on your team also. Ensure employees in your facility, office, or organization know and have access to critical data in the event of fire, or water damage with the SERVPRO Ready Plan app. Download and create your free profile here or call SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to speak with one of our great marketing representatives about a free Emergency Ready Plan.

Forest Grove Area Crime Scene Cleanup

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

There is not much SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove cant do to help you when your property suffers from damage and disaster.

There is not much SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove can't do to help you when your property suffers from damage and disaster. Biohazard and crime scene cleanup is one of the many services that we provide for our customers. It is also one of the many services that no one wants to have to use. 

Crime scene cleaning? Yes, that's us too. The fingerprint dust used by law enforcement is messy stuff and can require professional cleaning after a home's been dusted top to bottom.

If property damage like a crime scene strikes your Forest Grove area home we have teams who are on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week. We know that when property damage strikes there is no time to wait. 

How To Prepare Your Hillsboro Area Home For Storms

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has teams on-call 24 hours a day to respond and help you make it "Like it never even happened."

To conclude this year's Hurricane Prep Week we want to focus on the importance of getting your residential and commercial properties ready for all storms. We know we don't suffer from hurricanes here in the Pacific Northwest but we do experience storms and extreme weather so it's important to be prepared. 

In the event of storms with heavy winds

• Trim the trees and bushes around your property to prevent damage from snapped branches
• Board up windows to protect from flying debris. 

To learn more about preparing your property for storms and other extreme weather check out this site. 

If your commercial or residential property is suffering from storm damage or other extreme weather SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has teams on-call 24 hours a day to respond and help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Evacuation Plan From Your Hillsboro Area Property

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has crews who are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Day 4 of Hurricane Prep Week is about having an evacuation plan. We do not experience hurricanes in the metro area but there are other storms that could cause significant property and personal damage. It is important to have an evacuation route as well as an alternative route in case the first route is unpassable. 

It is also important to remember that you may have to drive a long way to get to safety and evacuate. 

If your Hillsboro area residential or commercial property is affected by storm damage SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has crews who are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our teams have the skills, experience, and equipment to help make your property damage "Like it never even happened." 

Covering Your Hillsboro Area Property For Storm Damage

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here to Help.

Day 3 of Hurricane Prep Week stresses the importance of confirming your property insurance has you covered in the case of storm damage. It is important to review your insurance by looking at your policies ahead of time to see what is covered and what is not. It is important to check with your insurance carrier to see if flood insurance is available for your property as floods are the leading cause of damage in storms. 

To learn more about what to look for in an insurance policy and ask your insurance carrier to make sure you are covered, learn more here. 

If your residential or commercial property is damaged by storms with heavy rain, strong winds, or wildfires SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here to Help. 

What To Have In Your Emergency Kit

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has crews who are on call 24 hours a day to get to work.

No matter the cause of the storm damage, it is always important to have a trusted and local property restoration team you can call on. 

Day 2 of Storm Prep week is all about having an emergency kit with all the essentials and with you where you need it. 

It is important to have an emergency kit located

• In your car
• At work 
• At home

What to include in your emergency kit

• Water
• Nonperishable food 
• A blanket 
• A first aid kit

Check here to see the full list. 

When storm damage strikes, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has crews who are on call 24 hours a day to get to work. We know that there is no time to waste before getting a crew out to begin the mitigation and restoration. 

Make A Plan For Storms Before You Need It

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help make it "Like it never even happened."

This week is Hurricane Prep Week and even though we do not get hurricanes on the West Coast there is always something we can learn. 

All this week we at SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove will be bringing you tips each day to help you be prepared for storms. 

Make A Plan 

Step one is to create an emergency plan for you and your family. Make sure that your plan includes 

• An emergency meeting place in your home 
• An emergency meeting place in your neighborhood
• An emergency meeting place outside of your neighborhood. 

You can learn more and put together a whole plan by using the help from this site. 

If storm damage causes property damage to your Hillsboro area residential or commercial property, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help make it "Like it never even happened." 

Four Common Water Damage Areas In Your Hillsboro Home

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is always Here to Help when disaster strikes.

Every home and property has unique challenges when it comes to extracting water and drying out the structure. These are four of the most common areas and why they prove to be so difficult. 

 Duct Work 

Some duct systems made of fragile and porous materials make it difficult to dry and set up drying equipment. 

Attic Space

Attic spaces can be hard to get equipment into and may have electrical hazards. Oftentimes attic spaces require that insulation is removed to properly dry the space. 

Crawlspace 

Crawlspace may be hard to work in and place drying equipment into. Low temperatures can make it difficult to warm the space and properly dry it. 

Basements 

Many basements are unfinished with lots of porous materials that would need disposing of due to possible contamination in water. 

No matter the space or the cause of damage, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is always Here to Help when disaster strikes. We have crews who are on call 24/7 because we know that when disaster strikes there is no time to wait. 

Water Mitigation For Wallpapered Wall

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help you make the damage "Like it never even happened."

When walls are wet, wallpaper acts as a vapor barrier and restricts our ability to dry it. Special drying measures may be needed when this barrier is present.

Here are a few tips on helping to dry out your home faster and more efficiently when sheetrock covered in wallpaper is wet

• Peel away covering to expose wet drywall 
• If mold or microbial growth is present behind the wall, air movement can spread mold or microbial growth spores throughout the structure 
• Perforate the wall to ventilate 
• Remove baseboard to ventilate the wall cavity 

If your home suffers water damage from things like an appliance failure, a pipe break, or storm damage, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help you make the damage "Like it never even happened." 

Air Fryer Causes Damage In Your Hillsboro Area Home

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help you make it "Like it never even happened." We have crews on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to re

Raise your hand if you're part of the air fryer cooking craze! Follow these tips so you won't have to call SERVPRO with fire damage.

Follow these tips to stay safe while cooking with an air fryer. 

Don't 

Don't use cooking sprays with propellants, aerosol sprays, or chemical-based nonstick sprays. They might start to break down the coating on many non-stick baskets and trays. 

Do

Do invest a few dollars in a quality oil spray or pump and use a quality high flash point oil. 

If your home suffers from a fire, soot, or smoke damage from a cooking mishap, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help you make it "Like it never even happened." We have crews on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to your emergency damage. 

Storm Damage In Hillsboro From Heavy Rains

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro & Forest Grove has the trained teams to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

As long-term Oregonians, we are no stranger to a little rain. But these spring storms can bring more rain and water than even we are used to. But all this rain and water can take a toll on properties, residential or commercial.

Heavy rains can lead to flooding from standing water or cause roof damage allowing rain and water into your property. No matter the cause of property damage, SERVPRO of Hillsboro & Forest Grove have the trained teams to help you make it "Like it never even happened." 

We have teams who are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to emergency property damage. We are Here to Help from start to finish in the restoration and clean-up when storm damage strikes. 

Water Damage Impacts Insulation Quality In Hillsboro

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

If water damage is affecting your home or business, call SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Water damage in your home from things like a pipe break, roof leak, or storm damage can cause incredible damage in your home or incredible headaches for you and your family. 

Moisture and water can also damage and impact the insulation in your home like in your attic and walls. When wet, some insulation like fiberglass or expanded foam can be dried and saved. 

Insulation is measured by its R-value, R-value measures how well building insulation can prevent the flow of heat into and out of the home.

Blown insulation that is wet loses it's R-value or ability to insulate and should be replaced. 

If water damage is affecting your home or business, call SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Hillsboro and Forest Grove Suffers from Storm Damage

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Though we don’t get lots of storm damage here in the Pacific Northwest like other parts of the country who experience tornadoes, twisters, blizzards, and hurricanes throughout the year.

Here in the Hillsboro area we are more accustom to strong winds and heavy rains causing damage than any other type of storm damage. When property damage from storms occurs, it is important to know who you can call for help and what company you can trust. SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove has over 20 years of experience working with customers who suffer property damage including due to storm damage.

We are just a call away when property damage strikes our teams have the experience, equipment and expertise to help you make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Why Choose SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove?

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

When property damage interrupts life, there is no time to wait for business hours to get help, that is why SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is ready

When property damage happens to your home or business, you may ask yourself what you do next or who to use for remediation, why choose SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove to help?

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove has 20 years of experience helping customers in our communities, we have the skills and experience to restore your property and we are ready 24/7. We have crews who are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 365 days a year. No matter the day or time, when you call with an emergency we will dispatch a crew and get to helping you make it "Like it never even happened."

When property damage interrupts life, there is no time to wait for business hours to get help, that is why SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is ready 24/7 to help you. 

Immediate Property Damage Restoration in Hillsboro

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

When property damage strikes, we know that it’s important to act as quickly as possible, that is why we at SERVPRO of Hillsboro /Forest Grove have the 1,4,8 rule.

1, we will contact you within 1 hour of being notified about your emergency property damage. Whether water, fire, sewage, or biohazard.

4, we will be on-site to your property damage within 4 hours of making contact with you, if you want us then.

8, we will contact your insurance company to provide them an update on the mitigation and remediation.

We know that not no two water damages are the same that is why we work with you to find the best, least invasive methods to remediate your property damage. Trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove to make it “Like it never even happened.”

When property damage turns your home into a disaster zone

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

We know that your home is likely the biggest investment you have ever made, so when property damage strikes it can be really frustrating and overwhelming. We know that when water damage strikes your home, there is no time to waste to start making it “Like it never even happened.”

When you call SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove we leap into action to get crews on the way to help you. No matter what time the property damage occurs or even what day we are ready to respond to your emergency damage. Our team of trained, experienced professionals will first assess the damage in your home and come up with the best plan to remediate the damage as quickly and efficiently as possible. If water damage strikes, call the team with over 20 years of experience, we are just a call away.

Kitchen Fire in Hillsboro Before & After

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove have teams who are on call around the clock to help you when disaster strikes.

This fire is the result of a cooking oil where the homeowner had cooking oil in a pan. The oil spilled over the side of the pan and caused extensive smoke and fire damage. This two-story home was completely affected by smoke and soot damage. 

While the fire was contained to just the kitchen as we walked around there was soot on the walls in the upstairs bedrooms, toys, and even fixtures. Our crews at SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove worked to clean and restore the home as repairs were happening to restore the structure of the home. 

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove have teams who are on call around the clock to help you when disaster strikes. To see more about our before and after photos look here. 

Residential Fire Before & After

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is ready to help you 24/7.

We were very glad to have serviced these homeowners in our local Portland Metro community.  This was a devastating fire and all areas of the home were drastically affected.  If not charred by the fire itself, the smoke-filled the entire home from floor to ceiling.  This required many of the internal building components to be demolished and all surface layers pulled so we could access the framing to clean and seal the porous wood it contains.  The end result as seen in the after photo was positively received by the homeowners and they were glad they could even change a few of the things they had wanted to, prior to the fire.  

If your home or office suffers from soot, smoke, or fire damage, we are Here to Help. SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is ready to help you 24/7. 

To see more about our property mitigation and more before and after photos look here. 

Extreme Weather Causes Damage in Forest Grove

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

No matter the cause of damage, SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove are Here To Help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Although we do not get a lot of snow or ice on the coast it is not unheard of. More often freezing temperatures may lead to damage in the Yamhill & Tillamook counties area. 

If there is snow or ice, when it begins to thaw in spring it may be a concern for water damage. Follow these easy steps to help prevent damage and protect your property. 

• Ensure drains are free from debris and take water away from the property including downspouts. 
• Check the grading around your home to ensure water is directed away from the property and avoid puddles forming near your property
• If you have a sump pump, check to make sure that it is in good working condition if your area is prone to flooding 

No matter the cause of damage, SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove are Here To Help you make it "Like it never even happened." 

Fire Loss Mid-Project

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

We are Here to Help you when property damage strikes.

This beautiful home was damaged due to a fire which consumed much of the framing until we started rebuilding it. Sometimes when the fire extends into the actual framing additional areas not directly charred or touched by flames are affected.

Many fires involve the process of step by step opening of the structural cavities to determine how much was affected.  This is why we were so pleased to have SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove serve these local customers in repairing their property to preloss condition.  It is crucial a qualified restoration contractor is selected for your project.

 You can ALWAYS depend on SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to help you when property damage strikes. We have teams of crews who are on call around the clock to respond to emergency services.

To see more about our property restoration, look at more before & after photos.  

Large Commercial Water Loss in Woodburn, OR

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for immediate restoration service.

A 3000 square foot, 2 level office building suffered from water damage. The building had water coming through the ceiling and down to the 2nd floor due to a water heater leak. The ceiling had fallen through and the carpet, linoleum, flooring, electronics, and records were all affected. Our crews dried the floors and completed repairs to the structure.  SERVPRO of Hillsboro /. Forest Grove was able to help this company get back in business!

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage ad reduces cost. Our professional make disaster, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for immediate restoration service. To see more about our services and see our before and afters, read here. 

Fire Damage Restoration in Forest Grove

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here To Help you.

If your home or office suffers soot, smoke, or fire damage we are the team that can help you restore your property to preloss condition. We have crews who are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for emergency services because we know property damage does not happen when it is convenient for you or us. 

With 20 years of experience, we are your local and trusted fire restoration team. We use two proven methods to clean smoke residues. 

Vacuum

A vacuum is used to help remove dry particles that are loosely attached to contents and structure. 

Dissolve

Residues and soils that are not loose particles must be dissolved before they can be removed. 

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here To Help you. 

Astoria Hotel floods

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is available 24/7 for your home or business emergencies.

A hotel located in Astoria suffered from a gas line leak that resulted in catching on fire, which lead to the fire suppression system turning on and flooding the entire first floor. The fire suppression system did what it is designed for, it put the fire out, but it also created a lot of secondary damage. 

Once our crew arrived at midnight and didn't finish extraction until 7 in the morning. due to the size of the job we had a dedicated team that worked on this job until it was finish drying. 

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

We're dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is available 24/7 for your home or business emergencies. To learn more about our services, look at our before and after photos. 

26,000 gallons of water and dry in 6 days? How?

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here to Help.

This loss was really special to all of us here at SERVPRO of Hillsboro/ Forest Grove. From our operations manager to our technicians we were all pleasantly surprised when this building was dry in just 5 days.

This is a commercial medical building in Newberg, Oregon. It had a total of 26,000 gallons flow through it. The building owner was not informed of this loss until 10 days after it occurred. 

Due to the entire structure being saturated our crews had to act quickly with great ingenuity. Our program required we used 107 air movers and 6 extra-large dehumidifiers. However, due to power concerns, our technicians needed a lot of ingenuity to properly and safely set up the equipment to dry the structure. 

Plaza Broken Sprinkler Line

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is available 24/7 for your home or business emergencies.

In a Plaza located in Warrenton, a business was having construction work being done when a sprinkler line accidentally broke by a worker. When our crew arrived on site the water had already affected two adjacent stores. Our crew got to work extracting the water out of all three stores. We set up our equipment to start drying the structure. We were able to dry the structure quickly and the construction crew was able to continue their work.

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

We're dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. a fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is available 24/7 for your home or business emergencies. If property damage strikes, call us to help you make it "Like it never even happened." 

To see more before and afters, read here. 

Portland Business Pipe Broke In Warehouse

2/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is available 24/7 for your home or business emergencies.

While a business in Portland was getting new insulation installed in their warehouse, a scissor lift hit a water valve during the insulation causing an excessive amount of water, affecting several rooms throughout the building. Our crew responded immediately with emergency water damage services. Once our crew arrived on sight they started by extracting all of the standing water and moving all of the large contents in the warehouse in order to get all of the water out of the structure.

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage, limit further damages, and reduces cost.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is available 24/7 for your home or business emergencies. 

To see more before and after photos look here. 

We Need To Act Quickly!

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here to Help.

We got a call for this water loss at nearly 5 pm. It came in as a "slow leak" from the washing machine, however, upon arrival, it was clear that this slow leak had been leaking for quite a while. 

While it may have taken the moisture a while to travel, once it reached the materials it quickly began to wick its way up the walls. In order to avoid any further damage, our crews had to quickly and efficiently remove the affected materials as to not have the wicking continue any further up the walls. We had the demolition completed within an hour and a half and our equipment was in place just over two hours after we received the call. 

To learn more about our before and afters and how we can help make it "Like it never even happened," check out our other before and after photos. 

Bathroom Water Damage in Hillsboro

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes your bathroom, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove to make it "Like it never even happened."

Water damages can be caused by many different causes all throughout your home like a dishwasher leak in the kitchen, a washing machine overflow in the laundry room, or a toilet overflow in the bathroom. 

A musty clinging smell in your bathroom could be a sign of hidden water damage. There are many possibilities that could cause the smell but there common causes of bathroom water damages are; 

1. A cracked shower tile leading to water getting into the shower pan and not draining properly.

2. Leaky seals around the base of a toilet or a leaking wax ring

3. Damaged or old caulking and grout  around sources of water that allow 

If you suspect that you have water damage in your bathroom, SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove are Here To Help. 

COVID Cleaning in the Hillsboro and Forest Grove Area

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

We know that 2020 brought one of the strangest and hardest years for many businesses and families. And that is no different for those of us at SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove. We have been busy reorganizing, and reacting to the biggest change in many years, COVID. We have been very lucky in that we have been able to continue to work and help our community in their time of need after property damage strikes. 

We work hard for you around the clock and it is great to have that hard work recognized. SERVPRO has been named to the top 10 franchises by Entrepreneur Media and #1 in our Industry. 

"SERVPRO had a busy year. The company specializes in fire and flood cleanup, and between blazing forestland in the West and hurricanes blowing in off the Gulf and the Atlantic, 2020 served up plenty of both. But it was the pandemic that ultimately tested — and proved — the company’s tenacity." The full article can be found here. 

If you or your company need COVID cleaning services give us a call to schedule your Certified: SERVPRO Clean. 

Why To Trust A Professional Like SERVPRO of Hillsboro/ForestGrove With Your Property Damage

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

We know that when it comes to property restoration and mitigation you have many choices.

You can decide to do nothing and hope that the water will dry on its own or that the smell will get less over time. And that may happen, but it's not very likely. When property damage is not taken care of it often leads to secondary damage like mold or microbial growth. 

You could decide to try and take care of the issue yourself. But without the proper moisture meters, you may leave affected materials causing additional damage and can lead to musty and stale odors. 

Or you could decide to trust the local and experience restoration and mitigation company, SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove. We have been working to restore homes and businesses for 20 years and have the team, experience, and equipment to help make your property damage "Like it never even happened." 

Commercial Restoration In The Hillsboro Area

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/ Forest Grove has been helping customers make it "Like it never even happened," for 20 years. So if your Hillsboro area business

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove has the skills and experience to restore your commercial property to preloss condition. We know that this past year has been very difficult on most businesses, both larger box stores, and our local mom and pop businesses. Nearly half of all businesses that suffer from property damage do not reopen again. The stress and financial toll can be too great to come back from. 

That is why you need to select a property restoration company that you can trust and rely on. SERVPRO of Hillsboro/ Forest Grove has been helping customers make it "Like it never even happened," for 20 years. So if your Hillsboro area business or commercial property suffers from water or sewer damage, or fire, soot, and smoke damage, give us a call. 

Water Damage Due To Heavy Rains

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Here in Oregon and the larger Pacific Northwest, rain is definitely something we are all used to. We know we get a lot of it, and that liquid sunshine just becomes part of normal life. But all of that rain and moisture can have a negative impact on our homes and other buildings. 

Heavy rains when coupled with strong winds can cause damage both big and small. Some of the damage can be unseen like a leaking window or door frame that allows for water to enter the home and saturate the wall cavity or framing. When the structure becomes wet it can be the perfect home for mold or microbial growth to form. If you see signs of water damage or suspect you have water damage in your home or office, call SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove to help you make it "Like it never even happened." 

Content Restoration in Hillsboro

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

When the contents of your home are damaged from fire and water, we are Here To Help.

When a home has been damaged by water or fire damage from things like an electrical fire or a pipe break not only is the structure of your home or office damaged but so is everything inside the property. SERVPRO of Hillsboro & Forest Grove Counties helps you with the whole process, from dry out and mitigation to packing out, cleaning, and packing back. 

SERVPRO of Hillsboro & Forest Grove Counties uses a lot of bubble wrap, probably a LOT more than you think. During the restoration process, often with fire or water damage our team of trained and experienced professionals completes the "pack out" and packs away the contents to be temporarily moved during the restoration process.  

For any pack out and content cleaning needs, SERVPRO of Hillsboro & Forest Grove is Here To Help. 

When Temperatures Drop, Pipes Can Freeze in Hillsboro

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forst Grove

Temperatures in the Hillsboro area don’t normally get so cold, but each year we normally get a few days of snow and freezing temperatures. When we have a few days of below-freezing weather that is when frozen pipes are most likely to occur. Frozen pipes occur when temperatures are below freezing for a few days, causing water inside the pipes to freeze and expand. When temperatures rise again, the water melts and leaks through the newly formed split in the pipe. Leaks from frozen pipes occur regularly in the winter months and can cause a large amount of damage.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/ Forest Grove is Here To Help you when disaster strikes. We have crews who are ready to respond to emergencies around the clock because we know that property disaster never strikes when it is convenient for you.

HVAC Cleaning in Hillsboro

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro & Forest Grove is Here To Help.

In 2020 we all spent a LOT more time in our homes than ever before. Even though we are now in a new year (good riddance 2020) lots are still doing work and school, and everything in our homes, and that means more mess. 

More time at home means things are getting dirty faster including your HVAC system. SERVPRO of Hillsboro and Forest Grove is able to help with your HVAC cleaning needs.

Give us a call to see if your air ducts need cleaning.

Air Duct Cleaning

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the air ductwork of your home or business. If your HVAC has been operating a while without attention, it could be circulating odors, dust, and other contaminants. 

High Winds In Hillsboro Cause Damage

1/17/2021 (Permalink)

When storm damage cause havoc, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro and Forest Grove

Though the Hillsboro and Forest Grove area is not known for its tornadoes and blizzards that does not mean we do not get any storms whatsoever. Storms may look different out here in the Pacific Northwest but that does not mean that we are not ready to respond and mitigate damage caused by storms. SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is ready to help you make it “Like it never even happened,” when storms cause damage to your home or office.

We have experience responding to wildfires, flooding, ice storms, and other disasters, no matter the cause of the damage, we have the team and experience to leap into action and take care of the damage. Our teams have the experience, expertise, and equipment to walk through this challenging situation, just give us a call.

When Smoke and Soot Damage

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro & Forest Grove is Here To Help

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating. Even a little fire caused by a bag of popcorn placed in the microwave for too long can leave a lingering odor and necessitate a cleaning.  SERVPRO of Hillsboro & Forest Grove is dedicated to helping you make it “Like it never even happened,” no matter what the cause of damage.

We know that just because we work to restore properties after damage every day, that this is likely a new experience that is stressful to understand and can be frustrating. We promise to work with you and your insurance to make the process as smooth and easy as it can be.

We have teams of trained, empathetic, and professional technicians who are on call 24/7 to respond, we are Here To Help.

How to stay safe this holiday season.

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Stay safe this holiday season.

This holiday season, like most of 2020 will look different for all of us. Here are a few tips to keep in mind and put into practice to help keep you and your family as safe as possible this holiday season. 

Location

• Indoor gatherings generally pose more risk than outdoor gatherings. This is especially true for indoor gatherings with poor ventilation like closed windows and doors. 

Duration

• Gatherings that last longer pose more risk than shorter gatherings. 

Number of People 

• Gatherings with more people pose more risk than gatherings with fewer people. 

Mask Up

• The use of masks helps to slow the spread of the diseases and helps to protect you and those you are with. 

For more information please check with the latest CDC guidelines and adhere to any city, county, or state guidelines in place. 

Ice Damage In The Forest Grove Area

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Winter storms in the Forest Grove area are not terribly common where we get blanketed in snow, but we are no stranger to find or ice storms. Though wind and ice damage may not seem to be as damaging as feet of snow it can still take its toll on your property. 

Ice storms can cause damage to residential and commercial buildings alike from causes like frozen pipes or ice damns. When temperatures drop below freezing for several days in a row, water pipes can freeze causing them to expand and crack the pipe. Once the temperatures rise again, the ice will melt and water will stream through the newly formed crack in the pipe causing water damage to your property. SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove has crews who are ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week when disaster strikes, and help you make it "Like it never even happened." 

Broken Pipes In Hillsboro

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

Your home is likely the biggest investment you have ever made or will ever make. It is where your family gathers, memories are made, and now in 2020 it has also become where we do work, school, and all aspects of life. So when your home is disrupted by water damage it's important that you have a local and trusted team in your community that you can call to help you. 

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove has been helping neighbors in our communities for nearly 20 years. We know that it is important to get help out right away, so we have crews who are on call around the clock so they can quickly respond to your home and begin helping to make it "Like it never even happened."

Threat of Fire Raises in the Winter

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

When the temperatures start to drop many Hillsboro area neighbors have more fires in the fireplace in an effort to help keep the home warm and keep costs down. Fires also help to make homes feel cozy and inviting which is important this year more than ever when we are all spending so much more time at home than ever before. But with the increase in the use of fireplaces also increases the risk and occurrence of fires in the home. 

If your home suffers from smoke, soot, or fire damage SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is Here To Help. We have crews who are on call around the clock. We know that property damage does not strike when it is convenient for you so we are just a phone call away. 

Keeping your Forest Grove Business Safe and Clean

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

2020 has been a very strange year that has introduced all sorts of new activities and terms, like social distancing. We know that as a business this has likely been one of the most challenging and difficult years in your history, from working remotely or limiting capacity or providing curbside pick up. All changes have been done to help keep our neighbors safe and healthy as does making sure your commercial space has been sanitized and is safe for your employees, customers, and yourself. 

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is able to provide you with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove Professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

Winter Weather in Hillsboro

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

When winter weather takes its toll on your pipes, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove to make it "Like it never even happened."

As temperatures continue to drop, it is not uncommon for pipes to freeze. If you come home and find that you have had a pipe or pipes freeze there are a few things to do before help arrives. 

• Locate the after main shut-off valve 
• Open the faucet so thawing water can flow freely & relieve pressure 
• Warm the pipes with a space heater or hairdryer

If you find leaks are causing water damage, give SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove a call, our technicians have the experience, equipment, and training to help make it "Like it never even happened." 

We know that water damage does not normally occur when it is convenient for us, so we have crews who are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond. 

Why SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove is the team to trust

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

We here at SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove are the local team with nearly 20 years of experience helping our neighbors make it "Like it never even happened," when disaster strikes. Just because we deal with property damage daily, it does not mean that you do, that is why you need to have a team that you can trust. 

Property damage like water damage from flooding or a pipe break or fire damage from an electrical fire or kitchen fire due to a cooking mishap can happen at any time and in any property. That is why we have teams of trained and experienced technicians who are on call around the clock to respond to your property disaster. We are Here To Help no matter the type of loss or the cause of loss, we are just a phone call away. 

What to do when disaster strikes your Forest Grove home

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Your home is likely the biggest investment and purchase you will ever make, so when you have water pouring through the ceiling of your living room from an upstairs bathroom's toilet overflowing it can seem like the worst day. It may seem like the most impossible task to make your house feel like home again after a property disaster. 

When your home feels like a disaster and there is water, sheetrock, and insulation to clean up you need a team of trusted restoration professionals who have the skills, experience, and equipment to restore your home and treat it as their home while work is being completed. SERVPRO of Hillsboro & Forest Grove has nearly 20 years of experience helping customers like you when disaster happens, we are just a call away when you need us. 

When Water Damage Becomes Mold Damage in Hillsboro & Forest Grove

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

When property damage strikes, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove

We know that 2020 is a VERY different and hard year. Not only are we facing a pandemic and figuring out how to work from home while doing school from home, but we still have property damage that occurs. 

During quarantine, some property owners temporarily shut off their HVAC systems which created ideal conditions indoors for mold and microbial growth. 

If you think you have discovered mold or microbial growth in your property, or suspect at you do from a musty smell or weird discoloration, give us a call. 

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove has the experience, equipment, and training to help you make it "Like it never even happened." We have trained technicians on call around the clock who are ready to respond when disaster strikes. 

Hazards from Water Damage in the Hillsboro Area

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes a business or home, there can be many dangerous and hazardous materials that could be exposed. Whether your water damage is from a broken pipe, an appliance failure, or storm damage, our technicians have the experience and skills to help make it "Like it never even happened." 

A water loss can involve hazardous materials that require specialized experts. There are two types of hazardous materials that are most commonly found in structures; asbestos and lead. 

Our SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove technicians have experience working in dwellings with such materials and know-how to properly mitigate and mediate them while keeping you and your family safe. If you need help after water damage has struck, give us a call, we are Here To Help. 

Fire Damage in Your Hillsboro Area

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

When fire damage strikes, SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here To Help.

Fire damage can strike homes and businesses in our area at any time. Fires can occur from kitchen fires, electrical issues, lightning strikes, and other causes. Once the fear and worry about the safety of everyone has been confirmed, you may begin to wonder what to do next and who to call. 

Once your heart stops beating through your chest, you will begin to think about how you will clean up. Often times in fire damage restoration, there is soon and smoke stuck on materials and contents. There are many ways to loosen smoke residues, however. Blast cleaning is a heavy agitator that uses compressed air to blast sand, baking soda, CO2, dry ice, or even ground corn cobs against a solid surface like charred wood.  

Commercial property damage in Forest Grove

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage from a broken sprinkler, or when smoke and soot from an electrical fire cause havoc in your office, warehouse, store, or restaurant SERVPRO of Hillsboro/ Forest Grove is ready to spring into action and help you make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove has decades of experience serving our customers in the area when property damage strikes. We know that no matter where the damage came from or whatever caused it, there is still work to be done to begin mitigating the problem.

Our teams of on call technicians are ready to leap into action around the clock because we know that property damage does not happen when it is convenient for you or us, that is why we are ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Why trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

We deal with property damage every day, we know that pipes break, toilets overflow, and appliances leak, but that does not mean that you deal with property damage every day. We know that when water is pouring through your ceiling from the second story that there is no time to waste to get to work mitigating and remediation the water damage. SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove have teams of technicians who are ready to respond around the clock when property damage strikes.

Once onsite out teams work to assess what is wet and affected, take photos for the insurance documentation process, and begin setting drying equipment. Our teams will place large industrial fans called air movers to help circulate hot dry air and will use a dehumidifier to remove moisture from materials and the air. Out ream works to make it “Like it never even happened.”

When Water Damage Strikes Your Forest Grove Area Home

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, trust SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove to make it "Like it never even happened."

Water damage can strike in your home at any time and on any day. Water damage can strike from a broken pipe, an appliance failure or even human error. If you experience a major water loss or flooding, never turn on electrical appliances that have been exposed to water. Repairs to electrical wiring must be performed by a pro. 

We here at SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Here To Help you when disaster strikes. We have crews who are on call around the clock so we can quickly respond to your home or commercial property and begin restoration services. 

Remember if you suffer a water damage do not turn on electrical appliances that have been exposed to water. For more water damage safety tips read here. 

Fires can cause mold!

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

From the Ordinary

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified. 

Fungi produce some very useful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods, and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is product of mold as well! 

Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health effects for some people. 

To The Unhealthy

Intrusion of water into your home or a place of business can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing, or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall, and insulation provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat. 

Fire prevention week should be 365!

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.

That’s why this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme: “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!” is so important. It reinforces why everyone needs to have an escape plan. Here’s this year’s key campaign messages:

• Draw a map of your home by using NFPA Grid with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
• Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
• Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

This article comes from NFPA website at www.NFPA.org where you can find out more to help get your home prepared for any possible fires. 

Contact SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for emergency or non-emergency service when your house or business have fire damage at 503-648-8513. We are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Emergency readiness plan

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

A no cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.

A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.

A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.

Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.

Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.

Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

How can SERVPRO help during a pandemic?

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Starting in 2005, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) established the National Influenza Vaccination week “to highlight the importance of continuing flu vaccination through the holiday season and beyond.” In 2017, by the end of November only about 41% of the recommended US population had been vaccinated.

If you’ve already gotten the flu, you can still get vaccinated to protect you against other strands of the flu, according to the CDC. People with high risk of complications from the flu include young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions and people over the age of 65, and should get vaccinated. Although anyone is at risk of getting the flu, for high-risk people, hospitalization or death is more likely than for others.

According to the CDC, “flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations.” Get a flu shot today to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Cold, Flu, and Fires

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Cold and Flu

Winter season is around the corner and along with that comes cold and flu season. I thought it would be a good idea to remind you about some proactive cleaning tips to help reduce the spread of viruses and bacteria along with a reminder about some resources available to help.

Touch Point Cleaning Basics

A basic approach to cleaning to reduce the spread of viruses and bacteria that focuses on items most commonly touched such as: desktops, chairs, door knobs/push bars, door jambs, computer keyboards, water fountains/bubblers, faucets, toilet handles, light switches, counter tops and electronics.

• Use an approved disinfectant
• Let disinfectant “dwell” on surfaces before drying
• Inexpensive bleach disinfectant: 1/3 c. of bleach to 1 gallon of water
• Wipe commonly used areas at least once per day

Cold season and your commercial facility

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Free Here to Help® Class for Facilities Cleaning

A 30-45-minute instructional class to update staff on cleaning methods to reduce biohazard risk. Hosted at your facility and taught by our IICRC® (Institute of Inspection Cleaning & Restoration Certification) certified bio-remediation manager.

• Covers basic principles of biohazard cleaning
• Demonstrates how to reduce virus/bacteria spread at your facility
• Shows where and when to clean
• Demonstrates proper PPE usage
• Answer questions and address concerns

Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned Program

A defensive cleaning program that goes well beyond daily janitorial cleaning. Provides daily or weekly bio-remediation cleaning at your facility. Communicates to your customers and employees that you are committed to higher level of clean through logoed entrance door stickers.

• Helps reduce likelihood of viral transmission
• Uses IICRC® Certified cleaning procedures
• Provides dated and logoed certificate stickers on entrances
• Demonstrates to the public that you are practicing increased cleaning procedures

Many of our clients have found these resources helpful. Please be advised that the Here to Help® Class for Facilities Cleaning tends to book quickly, and I recommend getting on the schedule early. Also, if you have any questions about how our Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned Program works, I am just an email or phone call away. I hope you are well and look forward to seeing you again.

Tip of the Month

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Water, it’s the essence of life. 

But when things go wrong it’s a whole different story. 
My friends in Boise had to wait until the end of summer to paddle board on the ponds in the city parks, due to the threat of E. coli from the spring flooding. When the health department tested to find the sources, they found human, dog, and goose feces to be the cause. 
Moving forward in time, the southeast is still recovering from record breaking hurricanes. I have read many reports of contaminated water. It’s a mix of bacteria, viruses, metals and other potentially toxic pollutants leached from the myriad of refineries and chemical plants in the area, along with an untold number of submerged septic tanks. 
So what does this have to do with us? 

We are just approaching our rainy season, and as we are very aware, there will be flooding somewhere in the area. We can’t change the weather but we can be prepared. Use the following list as a guide. 

• Preventative maintenance check list 
• Make sure the foundation grading slopes away from the building 
• Check for leaking plumbing 
• Make sure the plumbing is properly insulated 
• Check for missing insulation 
• Clean the area around the sump pump and check to make sure it is working order 
• Check the foundation vents they should be closed for the winter and open in the summer 
• Make sure the vapor barrier is intact 
• Check of pest 
• Make sure the roof components are in good condition 
• Flashing round vents and chimneys 
• Roof drains
• Rain gutters and gutter downspouts
• Clear landscape debris 
• Clean out all ground surface drains 
• Check all the door and window seals 

If a flood does happen you have the peace of mind knowing that the SERVPRO team will soon be on site, and they will make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Contact SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for emergency service when your house or business have water damage at 503-648-8513. We are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Coastal Flooding

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Yamhill and Tillamook Counties  specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Yamhill County or Tillamook County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you.

If your home or business suffers from mold growth, call us today at (503) 648-8513

There is mold everywhere!

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Have you ever been in the shower and you look up and see little black spots, what about when you are getting out of the shower and see some black spots on the corners of the tub? Bathrooms tend to be the most affected areas of home when it comes to mold! When the shower or bath have been used, you may see water droplets forming on the walls, ceiling or floors. This happens when the bathroom doesn’t have proper ventilation and causing dew point to occur in the bathroom. Dew point is when the air is not able to hold the excess moisture that is usually caused by the shower or bath. Once the air has reached dew point water will start to form on the wall instead. This will cause the excess moisture to linger thus allowing great growing conditions for mold.

To help prevent mold properly ventilate your bathroom, opening a window or turning on the fan while you shower or take a bath. After you are finish you will want to leave the fan on to allow the atmosphere to return to normal conditions

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you.

If your home or business suffers from mold growth, call us today at (503) 648-8513

Faster to ANY disaster

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

We all know how hard it can be to line out a contractor to work on your home projects during the summer. 

However, if you are planning on repairing or replacing your roof make sure you have those repairs completed during the summer. 

This spring and fall we have worked on several claims that were caused by water intrusion from an open roof. 

If you are working on the roof yourself, ensure that your roof has the proper tarp and seal. 

If you are working with a contractor to repair your roof schedule with them far in advance. This will ensure that you are home is taken care of prior to the bad weather coming. 

And remember, if your home suffers a water loss of any kind please call SERVPRO!

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Tips after a house fire

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Home fires are stressful events. However, having a plan on what to do after a fire can help with the stress. At SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove, we are Here to Help® when a fire occurs in your home. We have created a checklist to help you to start the recovery after a fire damage.

What to do after a fire damage

Call your insurance company immediately after a fire. After you went through the details with your insurance company, contact SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove so the fire damage cleanup process can begin quickly. Make sure to notify your mortgage company of the fire as well. If you're not sure that the home is structurally safe, have it inspected by a certified structural engineer or building inspector before going near. 

• Make sure to arrange a board up of any broken windows and doors.
• Take pictures of all exterior damages
• If you suspect that the structure in a room is unsafe, avoid entering the room.
• Turn off the power at the electrical panel.
• Wear long sleeves, long pants, closed toe shoes and gloves. To protect you from the soot as well as trying to prevent other items being contaminated.
• Try locating any important papers and documents.
• Any burnt money can be taken to a Regional Federal Reserve Bank for replacement
• Begin taking inventory of the building damage and all damaged items.
• Begin saving receipts for any expenses incurred after the fire. These may be needed when filing insurance claims. We're faster to any disaster

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Smoke damage

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke odor is a stubborn odor that will linger long after a fire has been put out. The odor can be caused by an accident that occurred in the kitchen or even from a fireplace that was unattended, a nearby house that had burned, the odor can also come from forest fires as well.

No matter what caused the odor, at SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove we have trained professionals with the proper equipment to clean the structure and remove any odor. Our crew has a variety of products and equipment specifically to deal with odor, from Eco-friendly products to heavy soot and odor removal chemicals. We also use filters to ozone machines. Our professionals will walk through with you and figure out the best solution and approach to get your home back "Like it never even happened."

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. Limit further damages and reduces the cost.

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

What is classified as a bio-hazard?

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

9/7/2016

ARE THERE RACCOONS LIVING WITH YOU?

Last month’s Tip of the Month focused on the Hospitality Industry dealing with prevention of suicides.

From this discussion I learned there are a lot of people that don’t have a good understanding of what biohazards are and why they are dangerous to one’s health.

So what is a biohazard? According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary:

A biological agent or condition that is a hazard to humans or the environment; also: a hazard posed by such an agent or condition.

Bio-Hazard threats can be found anywhere. Your workplace, your health provider’s office, the grocery store, your child’s school or day care and even your own home! –Biohazards should be handled with extreme caution.

What are some biohazard examples?

• Human blood and blood products. This includes items that have been contaminated with blood and other body fluids or tissues that contain visible blood.
• Animal waste. Animal carcasses, body parts, and feces or any bedding material used by animals that are known to be infected with pathogenic organisms.
• Human body fluids. Cerebrospinal fluid, pleural fluid, pericardial fluid, amniotic fluid, saliva, and peritoneal fluid.
• Microbiological wastes. Common in laboratory settings, examples of microbiological wastes include specimen cultures, disposable culture dishes, discarded viruses, and devices used to transfer or mix cultures.
• Pathological waste. Unfixed human tissue (excluding skin), waste biopsy materials, and anatomical parts from medical procedures or autopsies.
• Sharps waste. Needles, glass slides and cover slips, scalpels, and IV tubing that have the needle attached.

4 Years later

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

If disaster strikes, will you still be in business a year from now?  According to FEMA 40% of businesses never reopen after a major disaster, and only 29% will still be open two years later. They go on to say that if the technology is down for nine days the business will likely be bankrupt within a year. By having a comprehensive disaster plan, the odds of survival are much greater.  All of these factors need to be considered when formulating your disaster plan: 

• Natural Hazards 

• Human-Caused Hazards 

• Technology-Related Hazards 
• Health Hazards 

 Natural Hazards: Floods, rockslides and mud-slides, earthquakes and high winds just to mention a few.  Human-Caused Hazards: Floods, fires, damaged sprinkle systems, or violence. Technology-Related Hazards: I don’t know of a business that doesn’t rely on communication systems including telephones and the internet.  Health Hazards: It seems like the flu is the big one. Are there plans in place in the event of major outbreak? How much of the staff can be out sick at the same time before it harms the business?  What to do. 

• Identify the Risks 

• Develop a Plan 

• Take Action 

Every business has risks, but they are not all the same. Plans need to be tailored to the specific location and type of business. SERVPRO has developed the Ready Plan. It is a great asset to add to the emergency plan. 

Taking action could be the only thing preventing a bankruptcy. However, after a plan has been put in place, it needs to work! PRACTICE it and work out the bugs. I participated in an evacuation drill for a care facility unrelated to Community Action Resource Enterprise, Inc... On paper it was flawless, but in reality it was deadly. Turned out the hospital beds were too big to maneuver though the evacuation route. In discussing the ideas for this month’s Tip of the Month with Erin Skaar, the Executive Director of Community Action Resource Enterprise, Inc., she suggested using high school students as stand-ins for residents for care center drills. I thought this was a great idea. Finally, plans need to be effective. I remember hiding under my school desk during the Air Raid drills. I’m still not sure that was a particularly effective plan. 

Preparing your home for wildfire evacuations

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

When you get a notification for an emergency evacuation due to wildfires you generally don’t have time to look at multiple paragraph articles about how to protect your home before you leave. Below we have outlined a detailed plan on how to protect your home. Please note the bulleted points in order to meet your needs and home.

Interior:

• Shut all windows and doors and leave them unlocked
• remove curtains, move furniture away from doors
• Leave lights on so fire fighting personnel can see your home in the dark
• Shut off your HVAC system

Exterior:

• Shut off gas meters and propane tanks
• Remove items near the exterior walls
• Move propane fueled BBQ appliances
• Connect and extend exterior hoses for firefighters use
• Do not leave any water on as to maximize water pressure for firefighters
• Keep lights on outside
• Keep all car windows and doors closed
• Keep ladder outside of home for firefighters

Prepare your home for cold weather

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

As we roll into the month of October we are getting closer to winter home owners will start to prepare for the cold weather. One of the main cause of loss during the winter season is pipe bursting. Even after the weather starts warming up home owners will find out they have a pipe leak from crack pipes caused by the cold weather.

Tips for Preparing Your Pipes for Winter Weather:

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninstalled areas of your home.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets.
• Faucet covers are ideal for the outdoor faucets.
• Keep the temperature set to the same both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may get  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..

FROZEN PIPES - - A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

Water Vs. Fire - SERVPRO is here to mitigate both

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

Many residents in our service area are currently facing the eminent threat of wildfires. SERVPRO is not only here to restore your home after a natural disaster but we are also here to share tips regarding evacuations and protecting your home during a natural disaster. Ways to protect your home: Clean debris out of the gutters; remove yard debris surrounding your home; water the perimeter, bark, grass, and trees; Keep windows and doors closed at all times; Trim trees or Limbs that could cause damage; Repair loose window screens; Move flammable materials away from exterior walls. Preparing yourself for an evacuation: Gather important documents (Id’s, Birth Certificates, Social Security Cards, proof of insurance, medical records, passports, list of personal contact; Have a go bag ready. This should consist of at least one week's worth of clothing. Emergency food to last at least one week. As the threat of evacuation gets closer to heavily populated cities ensure you are staying updated with your local Sheriff’s office and fire department. Once a level 2 evacuation has been declared it is best to evacuate as quickly as possible. Mass evacuations during a level 3 evacuation can cause traffic jams and clog exit routes.As always, SERVPRO is here to help you restore your home and belongings after a natural disaster. Should your home be affected by smoke or fire damage we are available 24/7, 365 days a year for your needs. Please call our office anytime at 503-648-8513.

Leave us a review on Yelp!

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Thank you for choosing SERVPRO! We really appreciate your business and truly value you as a customer.

Customer satisfaction is extremely important to us and we'd love to hear your feedback on how you feel about your recent service! If you could take a few minutes to leave a Google review for us we'd really appreciate it.

To submit your review, simply click on our link below and let us know what you think.

Thanks in advance for taking the time to leave a review! If you have any questions or would like to speak directly about the services we provided, please feel free to contact us at any

https://www.yelp.com/biz/SERVPRO-of-hillsboro-forest-grove-cornelius

Cleaning your car during a pandemic

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Some of us take pride in cleaning our vehicles and some of us dread it. Unfortunately, during a global pandemic all of us have to make an effort to stop the spread of virus'. This includes routine preventative cleaning of your car!

Below I have outlined ways to keep you and your car virus free. 

• Routine cleanings of the exterior and interior
• Use CDC approved cleaner for the interior and exterior touch points. 
• Shampoo carpet, mats, and upholstery regularly
• Ensure that you are constantly cleaning door handles, steering wheel, center console, and dashboard

We have seen a lot of people using their rear view mirror as a place to put their masks when not being used. While this is a great idea to ensure you mask does not end up on the floor or in a dirty glove compartment it does come with its own problems. Believe it or not, rear view mirrors are a high touch point of most vehicles. When conducting your routine cleanings ensure that you allow dwell time for all touch points including rear view mirrors before wiping. 

Clean your HVAC vents, it could cost you!

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

We have recently seen a spike in Commercial fires due to HVAC vents not being properly maintained. To ensure your business does not lose crucial income due to a fire, please refer to the following tips.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25-40% of the energy* used for heating or cooling is wasted because air pollutants require an HVAC system to work harder to heat and cool a facility. According to the EPA, a buildup of just 0.42″ of dirt on a heating or cooling coil can result in a decrease of efficiency of 21%. Dirty duct-work can load filters quickly and lead to more stress on the air handler and potentially higher energy costs

1. Maintain filters.
   Use the highest efficiency air filter recommended by the manufacturer of your HVAC system and change filters regularly. If your filters become clogged, change them more frequently. Also, be sure you do not have any missing filters and that air cannot bypass filters through gaps around the filter holder.
2. Minimize dust.
   Dust and vacuum your home regularly, using the highest efficiency filter bags your vacuum cleaner can take – preferably HEPA bags. If you undertake dusty construction or renovation work in your home, seal off supply and return registers and do not turn your HVAC system on until you have cleaned up the dust.
3. Clean cooling coils and drain pans.
   Cooling coils, which are designed to remove water from the air, can be a major source of moisture contamination that can lead to mold growth in your HVAC system. Make sure that the drain pans under these coils drain properly and check any nearby insulation for wet spots. If you see substantial standing water and/or debris in these pans, contact a qualified service professional immediately. If your system includes an in-duct humidifier, be sure to follow manufacturer operating instructions.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Inspect for mold prior to listing!

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Spring and summer are the most popular times of year to sell a home, and the best!

However, the last minute repairs and detailing can really put a ding into closing on a sale or purchase of a home. 

Now is a great time to begin getting inspections and repairs done to your home. You avoid long waits for contractors, pricey estimates, and later closing dates.

Fall is also a great time to get final repairs and detail work completed because most contractors tend to slow down due to weather concerns. 

Call us today for a free estimate on mold remediation in unfinished spaces such as attics, crawlspaces, basements, and garages!

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Protect your business and employee's during flu seaon

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Starting in 2005, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) established the National Influenza Vaccination week “to highlight the importance of continuing flu vaccination through the holiday season and beyond.” In 2017, by the end of November only about 41% of the recommended US population had been vaccinated.

If you’ve already gotten the flu, you can still get vaccinated to protect you against other strands of the flu, according to the CDC. People with high risk of complications from the flu include young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions and people over the age of 65, and should get vaccinated. Although anyone is at risk of getting the flu, for high-risk people, hospitalization or death is more likely than for others.

According to the CDC, “flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations.” Get a flu shot today to protect yourself and your loved ones.

SERVPRO is hiring

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is currently hiring Production and Cleaning Technicians.

Primary Role: Perform services as assigned, following SERVPRO production guidelines. Communicate with the customer to make sure that all needs are met. Support crew chief and other production personnel as needed. Clean and maintain vehicles, equipment, warehouse and office areas as needed.

Results Expected: Production processes are performed according to guidelines and work orders. Communications to crew chief and customer are timely. Jobs are completed at or beyond customer expectations. Vehicles, equipment, and facilities remain clean, orderly, and working properly.

The requirements for this position:

Must have a professional appearance and great attitude.
Ability to pass a criminal background check with no felony convictions or misdemeanors involving violence or theft.
Because we provide 24-hour emergency services, must be willing to be on call, as needed.
Some night and weekend work is required.
Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
Must have a high school diploma or a GED certificate.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. This company does not and will not discriminate in employment and personnel practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, national origin, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Please call 503-648-8513 for more information or email your resume to erin@SERVPROhfyt.com

Residential water damage can be a nightmare, we are here to help!

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage caused by an upstairs toilet supply line.

Imagine that you had a long day at work and you just want to come up and throw your feet onto the coffee table. 

You key your put you key in the door and you can almost feel the sweet relief. You walk in, and your entire living room ceiling has collapsed!

You left home and nothing was out of the ordinary. You get home to water and fallen sheetrock all over your floors and furniture. This truly sounds like a nightmare!

Unfortunately, that was the case for this customer. Instead of relaxing she quickly got on the phone with the insurance carrier who recommended she call SERVPRO. Within 1 hour of receiving the call SERVPRO was onsite with a full staff to begin emergency mitigation services. 

We were able to work quickly and efficiently to remove the standing water, clean the contents, and begin drying the affected materials. 

If you find yourself in this predicament please do not forget to call 1-800SERVPRO!

Where is this water coming from??

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

Rockpile had caused water to begin entering the building through an exterior wall affecting multiple rooms!

It was a busy Tuesday for this SERVPRO office due to a Monday full of rain, when we received a call from a local city office. 

Help, there is water coming into our building and we do not know where it is coming from. This is something that we here more often than not. Usually we find the source of the water is from inside the building. 

This was not the case with this city office. We received the call early in the morning. We had yet to finish our coffee! But that does not stop SERVPRO from having an onsite time of less than two hours. In this case, it was about 25 minutes. 

When we arrived onsite we first checked inside the building to find the source. With no luck we went to the exterior of the building. On the side of the building we found a rock pile that had been placed right next to an exterior wall of the building. 

This rockpile was causing the water to pool around the foundation. OH NO! We are SERVPRO do much more than just demolition and drying. Sometimes our jobs consist of digging trenches to free water from trapped spaces. 

That is exactly what we did for this facility. We created a trench to drain the water into an adjacent parking lot. 

Within 2 hours of receiving the call we had found the source, fixed the problem, extracted standing water inside, and setup equipment to begin drying. 

Remember, SERVPRO is faster to any Disaster. If your home or business suffers a disaster don't forget to call 1-800-SERVPRO!

SERVPRO Emergency Response

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

The cleanup and restoration begins with a phone call. Our national call center is fully staffed 24 hours a day and ready to dispatch the nearest SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to your home or business. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today 1-800-SERVPRO

A water damage event can be traumatic and when you call, we understand you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. Our representative will lead you through a series of questions to better understand your needs.

SERVPRO specializes in water damage—in fact, SERVPRO is the premier water damage restoration company in the U.S. and Canada.

What to Expect

When you call, a call center representative will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. Armed with the details of your water event, we’ll dispatch a nearby SERVPRO Franchise Professional who will respond immediately.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

Water Damage Inspections

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

The water damage restoration process begins with a detailed inspection of your property, including a damage assessment. The SERVPRO Franchise Professional is determining the scope of the damage so he or she can develop an appropriate plan of action.

They Identify and Stop the Water Source

They check for the source of water in your home and business and stop it. The water source must be stopped before the drying process can begin.

• Stop the Source
• Check for Contaminated Water

They Identify the Type of Water

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals must identify the category and classification of water to restore your property safely to industry specifications. The type of water contamination will affect the specific restoration processes used to restore your property.

• White / Category 1 Water
• Gray / Category 2 Water
• Black / Category 3 Water

They Survey the Extent of the Water Damage and Inspect the Premises

They inspect and test your home to discover the extent of the damage. Additionally, they will look for safety concerns and explain them to you. If you are aware of any safety issues, such as asbestos or lead, please share them.

• Survey Damage
• Complete Safety Inspection

They Move or Block Furniture

They move furniture and property contents and block items to help prevent rust or furniture stains on wet carpet.

Types of Smoke

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

In the event of kitchen fire this holiday season, it is best to be informed on the different types of smoke, and the damage they cause.

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 the smoke rises. 

Protein fire Residue: (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire)

Virtually invisible, discolors paint and varnishes, extreme pungent odors.

Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace puff backs):

While "Puff Backs" can create havoc for homeowners SERVPRO franchise professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly!

Other types: (tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue.

SERVPRO franchise professionals are trained to handle even the toughest losses. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact your local SERVPRO franchise professionals to make it "Like it never even happened".

You can't see them, but they are there! Bed Bugs

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

What Are They? 
Bed Bugs are parasitic insects of the Cimicid family that feed exclusively on human blood. They are mostly nocturnal. They can cause skin rashes, allergic symptoms and psychological effects. They have been with us for thousands of years, even though they were almost eradicated in the 1940’s in the developed world. However, they have become resistant to pesticides and have made a comeback. They are here to stay. 

Where Do They Come From? 
The Southwest, Southeast, Eastern US, Washington, and Alaska have a high concentration of Bed Bugs. This puts us at risk of an outbreak here in Oregon. 

Now What? 
As business owners and managers it is crucial to train employees so they can spot Bed Bugs as soon as they arrive. You need to have policies in place to deal with guests or residents that have encountered Bed Bugs. You should also have protocols in place to get rid of the Bed Bugs. 

Bed Bug Prevention (Early Detection) 
There is no way to stop Bed Bugs from being brought into your facility. New folks are arriving every day from all over the world, and bringing their potentially infested personal items with them. You can be Bed Bug free one day and infested the next. 
So, prevention relies on early detection. Bed Bugs must be detected very quickly after they are brought in, hopefully before they bite someone. 

Employees in every department should receive Bed Bug identification training. 
Why everyone? Because employees are located all over the facility and if everybody is looking for Bed Bugs there is a greater chance that they will be discovered quickly. 

How to Get Rid Of Them 

Some pest control firms utilize specialized heating equipment to de-infest furnishings, rooms, and entire dwellings. The procedure involves heating up the infested item or area to temperatures lethal to Bed Bugs. Portable heaters and fans are used to gradually heat the air to 120 - 130°F while monitoring with strategically placed sensors. When dealing with high temperatures remove all aerosol products and check with your fire suppression company to make sure that you DO NOT EXCEED THE WORKING TEMPERATURE OF THE SPRINKLERS! 

While the former methods are helpful, insecticides are widely used by most pest control companies. A variety of EPA-registered materials are available formulated as liquids, dusts and aerosols. Baits used to control ants and cockroaches are ineffective in this case since Bed Bugs feed on blood. Professional-use insecticides such as Temprid®, Transport® and Phantom® tend to be more effective than Bed Bug sprays sold by retailers. Bleach, alcohol, cigarette lighters, etc. should NOT be used to control Bed Bugs. 
Important Note 
It is extremely important that employees do not attempt to treat Bed Bugs themselves. Always have Bed Bug infestations treated by an experienced pest management company. If your current company does not have Bed Bug experience, call us for suggestions or an inspection. 

Sources 
Michael F. Potter, Extension Entomologist University of Kentucky College of Agriculture 
Dini M. Miller, Ph.D., Department of Entomology, Virginia Tech 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bed_bug 
For More Info See: 
http://www.bloomberg.com/bw/stories/2007-11-08/the-cost-of-bedbugsbusinessweek-business-news-stock-market-and-financial-advice 
http://www.ndhealth.gov/Disease/Documents/faqs/Bed%20Bugs.pdf 
http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7454.html 

How SERVPRO better assist you during your claim

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals understand your situation. As an agent or adjuster, you have a responsibility to keep claims costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are uniquely qualified to help. Our results create a measurable difference, giving you many competitive advantages.

Emergency Response to Claims

Restoring property is the SERVPRO Franchise Professional's first priority. Your customer will appreciate the immediate response and you will know everything is being done to limit the damage.

Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense

Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. Claims Professionals know the rule is, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary." SERVPRO Franchise Professionals make sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability.

Claims Inventory Service

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can provide an itemized loss inventory. You will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items.

Electronic Claims Information

Our Claims Information Center provides fast, accurate information you need to make sound decisions, including:

• A Complete Electronic Job File.
  • First Notice of Loss.
  • Detailed Estimate.
  • Digital Loss Photos.
  • Scanned Forms and Paperwork.
  • All delivered by email or hard copy.
• On-line Access to All Files.
  • New Assignments.
  • Pending Jobs.
  • Completed Jobs.
• Informative Reports to Improve Results
  • Job Cost Data.

• Performance Comparison to Industry Standard.

Superior, Time-Tested Training

Effective training is the best way to help ensure your customers receive the service they deserve. Franchises are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. In addition, continuing education classes are available to Franchise Professionals and Insurance Clients at our state of the art IICRC Approved Training Facility. 

Vendor Qualification Compliance and Professionalism

If you call SERVPRO, we will use only qualified vendors to service your customer. That commitment resulted in:

• A National Call Center to achieve prompt handling of the claim.
• Implementation of best practices and job process programs.
• National Accounts qualification criteria and annual compliance checks.
• Crew and vehicle standards.
• Insurance requirements.
• File documentation requirements.
• Quality assurance program.

Serving Adjusters and Their Clients

A SERVPRO Franchise Professional's job is to reassure the customer, perform quality service and to report to you quickly. We know your job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim... and not to deal with problems from vendors! Working together we strive to save you time so you can focus on priority files, while having complete control of every loss you are assigned. 24-hour emergency response, damage mitigation, loss assessment, and an electronic file are available to you within hours. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals’ documented, measured performance increases value to you and your shareholders, managers and customers.

Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO leaders in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. The SERVPRO System is geared to achieve customer satisfaction and mitigation results, adding to your company’s competitive advantage.

How can SERVPRO help your retail facility during an emergency.

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

We Work Quickly to Get You Back to Business As Usual

Time is crucial to saving your business when disaster strikes. Every hour spent on recovery is an hour lost of revenue and productivity. Our professionals are available 24-7/365 to help remeidate any damage, no matter the cause of the scale of the loss. SERVPRO Professionals are experienced in limiting business interruption, working after hours and around the clock to isolate the damage and restore your space so that you can continue business as usual. 

Types of Facilities:

• National Chain Stores
• Supermarkets
• Shopping Malls
• Department Stores
• Specialty Retailers

Our professionals are available 24-7/365 to help remediate any damage, regardless of the cause, scale of the loss, or the size of your facility. 

Have an emergency at your retail facility? – Call Us Now 1-800-SERVPRO

We Can Restore Your Facility to Pre-Loss Conditions

Whether it's a supermarket or department store, and whether the cause is a fire or a burst pipe, our team will work quickly to assess your cleanup needs and isolate the damage. SERVPRO Professionalsare experienced in working with retailers to ensure that all surfaces, displays and merchandise are restored to preloss conditions so that you can re-open your doors as soon as possible.

Our Experience Includes:

• Total Project Management
• Inventory Control and Documentation
• Facilities Cleaning and Restoration
• Flooding and Water Damage Cleanup
• Vandalism Cleanup
• Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning
• Mold Removal
• Odor Removal
• Smoke and Soot Cleanup
• Document and Records Recovery
• Electronics/Equipment Restoration

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Storm and flood damage can be devastating. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the expertise and the resources to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today 1-800-SERVPRO

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises

Why Choose a SERVPRO Franchise Professional?

They’re Faster to Any Size Disaster

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are dedicated to responding immediately to water and storm damage emergencies. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

Learn More

They're Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

They specialize in water and storm damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have extensive water damage restoration training that enables them to get you back to normal.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians

Learn More

They Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have a national network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Team strategically located throughout the country.

Learn More

Regardless of the Storm Damage, They Can Help

Storms occur with little warning and can be especially devastating, so you’ll need the company that you can trust to rise to the occasion. Regardless of the type of storm, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can handle any size disaster. During catastrophic storms and major events, our Disaster Recovery Team can respond quickly with additional resources.

• Flooding caused by heavy rains
• Hurricanes and tidal surges
• Tornadoes and wind damage
• Ice and snowstorms
• Wild fires

How SERVPRO can assist your educational facility during a disaster

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Learning Shouldn't be Paused or Canceled, Even in the Face of Disaster

When disaster strikes an education facility it can disrupt the learning environment, costing students and their educators valuable time and resources. Cleaning up the aftermath of a flood, fire, storm or other tragic event requires an efficient, timely response. Whether you have a small school building or a higher education campus, SERVPRO Professionals will work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area so that normal operations can resume while we restore your facility.  

Types of Facilities:

• Early Childhood - Preschool and Nursery Schools
• Primary - Elementary and Middle Schools
• Secondary - High school and Academies
• Higher Education - College and Universities
• Athletics - Gymnasium, Sports Complex and Stadiums

Our professionals are available 24-7/365 to help remediate any damage, regardless of the cause, scale of the loss, or the size of your facility. 

Have an emergency at your education facility? – Call Us Now 1-800-SERVPRO

Restoring Education Facilities Presents Unique Challenges

We understand that education facilities can host a variety of spaces from simple offices and classrooms to gymnasiums and laboratories. Our professionals are trained to be mindful of the unique safety, environmental, and legal challenges that each facility presents, while collaborating with your existing janitorial staff and institutional decision-makers. We will work efficiently to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. Your job is to teach your students to the best of your ability; our goal is to make sure you have a safe place to do so.

Our Experience Includes:

• Biohazard Remediation
• Flooding and Water Damage Cleanup
• Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning
• Smoke and Soot Cleanup
• Vandalism Cleanup
• Odor Removal
• Mold Removal
• Document and Records Recovery
• Total Project Management

SERVPRO Fire Damage Services

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Structural Cleaning - After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Your experienced local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your structure. Depending on the amount of soot, your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on some surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing. In other cases, SERVPRO® will clean to “prepare for painting”. This process deodorizes and ensures the new paint will adhere properly to the surface.

Contents Cleaning – All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to pre loss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more. Finally, SERVPRO® can provide an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items if requested.

Deodorization – SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them. Ask your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

SERVPRO helps with more than just fire and water

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Exposure to hazardous contaminants can pose serious health threats. Failure to properly remove such contaminants can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are trained to safely clean and remove hazardous contaminants and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are here to help transform any unsafe environments back into clean, safe homes and offices.

Need Biohazard Cleanup?
Call Us Today 1-800-SERVPRO

The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding, or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience is required when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances.

The SERVPRO Franchise Professionals provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include the following:

• Sewage overflows
• Crime Scene clean up
• Suicide/death
• Blood cleanup
• Hoarding
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup
• Meth lab cleanup

Common Biohazard Scenarios

Bloodborne Pathogens

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO Franchise Professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

Methamphetamine Labs

SERVPRO realizes many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

Animals

While you may not hear them or seem them, you will smell them. Animals like to find warm places to be during the cold winter months. They also need a place to go during the hot summer months. What's better than a shelter to keep them safe? a CRAWLSPACE! Animals will chew through and destroy crawlspace vent covers, allowing them to enter the crawlspace. It starts with feces on the visqueen, nests and feces in the insulation, and torn ducting. 

Raccoons, Opossums, and cats can really cause some damage under your home. While it may not be desirable, it is recommended that you regularly check your crawlspace to ensure this is not going on in your home. 

Biohazard emergencies don’t always happen during regular business hours, and that’s why SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We will respond day or night. Monday or Sunday. 

More than just water, SEWAGE!

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.

Toilet Overflow or Sewer Backup?
Call Today 1-800-SERVPRO

Water damage can be classified by the three types of contaminated water. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will inspect your home or business to determine the appropriate plan of action for the type of water encountered.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Hour Emergency Service

Water contaminated with sewage backup should be considered an emergency situation and dealt with as quickly as possible. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are water damage restoration specialists with specialized training, equipment and protective gear to safely restore your home or business.

The water loss process

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

In order to be prepared for our water mitigation process please see the 4 steps below!

Inspection:

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of the water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning any work.

Emergency Services:

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will take steps to help protect your home or business, as well as your personal belongings and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step.

Monitoring:

To help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will monitor the drying process. The updates will be consistently communicated to you.

Restoration Services:

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets,  and clean affected areas of your property and belongings. A Final walk-through of the job site will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to preloss condition. 

The truth of black mold

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called “black mold” or “toxic mold”. Sensational news reports warn about the dangers of black mold and these stories can be alarming and confusing. Any mold in your home should be treated with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold.

Please refer to our to learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives. 

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should contact a qualified mold remediation company regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold can exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect that you have a mold problem, contact a SERVPRO Franchise Professional immediately. 

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

•  Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
•  Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
•  Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce toxins harmful to humans and pets.
•  Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise the mold may return.
•  Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
•  Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

The mold remediation process

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Understanding The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate the “typical” process:

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call our National Call Center. Our representative will ask a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel.

Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

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

Step 3: Mold Containment

They use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. They 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.

Step 4: Air Filtration

Their specialized filtration equipment allows their Professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. They utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.

Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They’re also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

No Job Is Too Large

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Get the professionals, call SERVPRO.

Clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include the following:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Property Managers
• Universities
• Municipalities
• The Pentagon

Catastrophic Storm and Major Event Response

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are prepared for the unpredictable.

With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 1,700 Franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big. Recent mobilizations of the Catastrophic Storm Response Teams include:

• 2019 California Wildfires
• 2018 California wildfires
• 2017 Hurricane Irma
• 2017 Hurricane Harvey
• 2016 Hurricane Matthew
• 2015 Carolina floods
• 2014 Polar Vortex
• 2012 Sandy
• 2010 Nashville floods
• 2008 Ike
• 2007 Chicago floods
• 2007 Ohio floods
• 2007 California wildfires
• 2005 Katrina/Wilma/Rita

Storm restoration services

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause severe damage to your home or business. When these types of disasters strike, immediate action is necessary to prevent additional damage to your property. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the winter storm experience, expertise, and the resources to remediate damage caused by winter weather.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Winter Storm Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises

Frozen Pipes

Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. In general, pipes are more likely to freeze when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The resulting water damage can be extensive. Outdoor pipes and pipes in unheated areas of the home can freeze if they are not properly insulated or if temperatures are severely cold. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can quickly and safely repair water damage caused by frozen pipes.

Outdoor pipes most likely to freeze include:

• Outdoor hose bibs
• Swimming pool supply lines
• Water sprinkler lines

Pipes in unheated or partially heated areas are also at risk of freezing, including:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Garages

Ice Dams

An ice dam is formed when snow melts unevenly on a roof and refreezes into a dam at the edge of the roof, near the eaves. This dam prevents any further snowmelt from draining off of the roof. This standing water can back up under shingles, leak into a home, and cause significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and other areas. Ice dams can also tear off gutters and loosen shingles.

Roof Damage

Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your gutters and roof. The additional weight of snow and ice can even cause a roof to collapse. When there’s a cold snap, water can get into cracks and small spaces and expand when it freezes, causing larger cracks and more damage. The repetition of freezing and thawing cycles can cause small cracks to get larger.

Mold damage tips

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

Have a Mold Problem? Call Today 1-800-SERVPRO

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

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

What NOT to Do:

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

What is really going on behind closed doors

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

What does Crime Scene Clean Up, Meth Labs, Vandalism, Unattended Deaths, Flooding, Sewage, Smoke Damage, Mold, Hoarders, Infectious Disease Contamination, Bat Guano, Homeless Encampment Clean Up, Medical Waste, Industrial Accidents, Animal Feces, Suicide and Flooding have in common? 

They are ALL Bio-hazards!!! 

Unfortunately, bio-hazard claims tend to be very expensive. Most of us do not plan to handle a bio hazard situation. Whether you are a homeowner, insurance agent, property manager or real estate broker some of the issues you are apt to face include: 

• Health & Safety of occupants/insured 
• Cost to clean the bio-hazard 
• Response times of cleaning company—longer response times increases damage and cost 
• Selling or renting a property after a bio-hazard/stigmatized properties 
• Stalling sales time 
• Disclosure issues and liability 

What can you do about it? Well, it is nearly impossible and quite unimaginable to plan for a bio-hazard situation, but here are some tips that may help: 

Have a plan and a reliable company you can turn to in a time of crisis.

 Know who to call?---I hear SERVPROis very GOOD  

• Faster response times will limit and/or reduce damages. 
• Use certified and reputable vendors with bio-hazard experience and training in order to reduce liability and overall cost. 
Remember to have compassion for the clients 
• Keep in mind that clients are often traumatized by these incidents. 
• Fast restoration response times go a long way towards helping clients move forward emotionally. 
• Use professional vendors that are trained to treat clients with compassion. 
Find out about the procedures and relative costs of a bio-hazard clean up 
• Bio-hazards can be one of the most expensive claims, but if you have an idea of what your restoration vendor will be doing it will help you to understand the costs better and guard against bad vendor price gouging. 
• Use vendors that have a scientific and approved protocol for addressing a bio-hazard 
• Check out this link to The Insurance Journal to get an idea of what procedures are followed by professional bi-ohazard restoration vendors. 

Dealing with a bio-hazard can be very traumatic and at times confusing. SERVPRO is a specialized vendor that is trained and certified to deal with bio-hazard situations. If you have questions concerning bio-hazard issues, give us a call at 866-888-3894 and we will be happy to answer any of your questions.

Make sure everyone gets our safely, even your pets!

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Pets are just as important as any other family member. So why would you not want to make them a part of your preparedness plan? There are several things you can do to make sure they stay safe as well. 

Pet emergency kit:

Food: at least 3 days worth of food in an air tight, and waterproof container

Water: at least 3 days of water specifically for your pets. 

Medicines and important documents:

Registration information, adoption paperwork, vaccination records. Talk to your veterinarian about micro-chipping your pet.

First Aid Kit:

Cotton Bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors, antibiotic, flea and tick preventatives, latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Including a pet first aid reference book is very helpful as well!

Collar or Harness with ID

A picture of you and your pet together:

If you become separated a picture of you two together will help to document your ownership. Add species, breed, age, sex, color, and distinguishing characteristics.

Familiar items:

Familiar items such as treats, toys, and bedding can help reduce stress on your pet.

Evacuations:

While practicing fire escape or evacuation plans be sure to include your pet also! If an evacuation happens, don't leave pets behind as they can lost or injured.

Identification:

Micro-chipping pets is a great way to locate them. Most veterinary clinics and shelters have scanner that will read the microchip information to help locate a lost pets owners.

Be sure to take your four-legged friends into consideration when planning for emergencies. visit ready.gov/animals for further tips on how to keep your furry friends close and safe in the event of a disaster or emergency. 

SERVPRO fire cleaning services

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Anyone can go in with a sledge hammer and tear down walls that were affected by fire. However, it is the smoke and soot damage that is difficult to find that requires the help of a professional!

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Your experienced local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will pretest to determine the extent of damage, then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your insured’s structure.

Contents Cleaning

All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, and much more. Finally, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can provide an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items for your insured.

Say Hello To Jim!

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Jim is one of our water Project Managers. He has been in restoration for nearly 10 years.  is originally from the East Coast. He moved to Portland in 2010. Jim is an avid hiker, mountain climber, and skier. He also enjoys trips to the coast both west coast and east coast.

Jim formerly worked as a Sales Manager at Jon Don’s Supply Distribution. Jon Don’s is a staple business for those in restoration services. After nearly 10 years of working with restoration equipment and sales he decided to change his career path and work directly with a restoration service provider.

Jim is a man of his word. One of the best customer service representatives and managers around. He prides himself on his ability to assist those in times of need, he just loves to help people. Jim is certified in Water Damage Restoration, Fire and Smoke Restoration, and Carpet Cleaning through the IICRC.

Prepare your business for winter weather

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Tips for preparing your business in case of winter weather:

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property or potentially a cause for personal injuries.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slipper or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present. 

Frozen Pipes

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe located, but typically the rupture is caused by back flow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addresses quickly. 

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Prepare your home for winter weather

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Tips for keeping your home prepared for winter weather are:

• Keep Cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home. 
• Consider shutting outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawlspace and turn it to off
• If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming affect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage
• Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puff backs.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

SERVPRO is ready whenever and wherever the storm hits

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro and Forest Grove specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

We are dedicated to our 1-4-8. One hour response time, 4 hour onsite time, and 8 hour initial briefing with the customer and the adjuster. 

Our 1-4-8 helps to ensure everyone is in constant communicate and aware of what was completed each day of mitigation. 

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Hillsboro and Forest Grove, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 24/7 866-888-3894

Be prepared when disaster occurs

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Hi Daniela ,

Late Sunday evening our office received this call:

“FNOL (First Notice of Lose) came in tonight:
A manager with a Property Management company called because a tenant reported that the shut-off valve under her sink is broken. Water is still leaking everywhere, and she doesn’t know how to shut the main off.
The building is a triplex, and this is the middle unit. We will be onsite soon"

If this were your business, would you or your managers know how to shut off the water?

If the manager had an Emergency Ready Profile she would have known where and how to turn off the water. The cost of this loss would have been much lower and the time for restoration would have been shorter.

The Emergency Ready Profile is a product provided free of charge by SERVPRO. It is an app and can also be printed. By having this on file, you would never have to be in this managers predicament, you would know just what to do.

Brace your businesses, the storm is coming!

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

ARE YOU READY? 
The rain is here again! We are all faced with the challenge of keeping the water outside of our structures. We need to be diligent with this, as water will migrate in through the smallest leaks in a building. These leaks can cause hundreds or thousands of dollars of damage and reduce the income to your business. The exterior envelope should have an annual inspection. 
When inspecting the roof, look for broken or missing shingles or any damaged components. Check the flashing around any pipes or vents that come through the roof. The rain gutters need to be clear of debris, and if they are equipped with heated cables those also need to checked. Make all the repairs before the rain, snow and freezing weather strikes. 
When inspecting the exterior walls of your building, look for any damage to the siding, deteriorated or missing caulking around the doors and windows, make all necessary repairs. 

 Preventative maintenance check list 
• Door and window seals 
• Rain gutters 
• Rain gutter drains 
• Roof 
• Flashing round chimneys 
• Roof drains 
• Clear yard debris 
• Clean parking lot drains 
• Clear all exterior drains   •Foundation grading 

• Leaking plumbing 
• Missing insulation 
• Clean the area around the sump pump 
• Test the sump pump 
• Check the foundation vents 
• Make sure the vapor barrier is intact 
• Check for pest 
• Make sure the plumbing is properly insulated  

Fire Prevention Week

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO participates in Fire Prevention Week!

In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.

That’s why this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme: “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!” is so important. It reinforces why everyone needs to have an escape plan. Here’s this year’s key campaign messages:

• Draw a map of your home by using NFPA Grid with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
• Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
• Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

This article comes from NFPA website at www.NFPA.org where you can find out more to help get your home prepared for any possible fires. 

Contact SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for emergency or non-emergency service when your house or business have fire damage at 503-648-8513. We are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Tips after a fire

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is always ready to help in the case of an emergency.

Home fires are stressful events. However, having a plan on what to do after a fire can help with the stress. At SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove  we are Here to Help® when a fire occurs in your home. We have created a checklist to help you to start the recovery after a fire damage.

What to do after a fire damage

Call your insurance company immediately after a fire. After you went through the details with your insurance company, contact SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove so the fire damage cleanup process can begin quickly. Make sure to notify your mortgage company of the fire as well. If you're not sure that the home is structurally safe, have it inspected by a certified structural engineer or building inspector before going near. 

• Make sure to arrange a board up of any broken windows and doors.
• Take pictures of all exterior damages
• If you suspect that the structure in a room is unsafe, avoid entering the room.
• Turn off the power at the electrical panel.
• Wear long sleeves, long pants, closed toe shoes and gloves. To protect you from the soot as well as trying to prevent other items being contaminated.
• Try locating any important papers and documents.
• Any burnt money can be taken to a Regional Federal Reserve Bank for replacement
• Begin taking inventory of the building damage and all damaged items.
• Begin saving receipts for any expenses incurred after the fire. These may be needed when filing insurance claims.We're faster to any disaster

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

When the storm comes SERVPRO is Ready!

10/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro and Forest Grove specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Here at SERVPRO we stive to achieve our 1-4-8 Goal on ANY new loss. We are dedicated to responding to new losses within one hour of receiveing the loss, we have a standard to set of being onsite within 4 hours of any new loss, and we give a detailed briefing to the customer and insurance adjuster within 8 hours of work beginning. 

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Heavy Rains are likely in our future

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

As the fall and winter seasons approach, we can expect to experience heavy windstorms. When a wind storm occurs, the wind can get up to 50 miles per hour and sometimes the gusts can exceed of even higher wind speeds. When this happens, these gusts can create damages to the city and homeowners, it can be as small as creating power outages to as big as a tree falling into a house. Make sure to call SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove if you experience any damages to your home or business that has been caused by windstorms

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage, limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

In the event of a disaster..

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Natural disasters can occur anywhere at any given time.

Are you prepared financially in case of a disaster?

Does your family have an emergency fund for unexpected expenses after a flood or fire? Check out FEMA’s Emergency Financial First Aid Kit for an in-depth document to help you identify and compile important documents and account information all in one spot. Just search “EFFAK” on fema.gov for the free PDF. Whether its flood, wildfire or extreme winter weather, we must work together as a team to help ensure our families, businesses, places of worship and neighborhoods are prepared. Contact your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals to find out how they can help make it “Like it never even happened.” if disaster strikes in your life.

Check your Insurance Coverage Have you reviewed your insurance coverage recently to see if you’re covered in a disaster? Evaluate which hazards are relevant to your area and obtain the appropriate insurance for your home, business, or other property and become familiar with your coverage.

The rain is upon us

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

ARE YOU READY? 
The rain is here again! We are all faced with the challenge of keeping the water outside of our structures. We need to be diligent with this, as water will migrate in through the smallest leaks in a building. These leaks can cause hundreds or thousands of dollars of damage and reduce the income to your business. The exterior envelope should have an annual inspection. 
When inspecting the roof, look for broken or missing shingles or any damaged components. Check the flashing around any pipes or vents that come through the roof. The rain gutters need to be clear of debris, and if they are equipped with heated cables those also need to checked. Make all the repairs before the rain, snow and freezing weather strikes. 
When inspecting the exterior walls of your building, look for any damage to the siding, deteriorated or missing caulking around the doors and windows, make all necessary repairs. 

 Preventative maintenance check list 
• Door and window seals 
• Rain gutters 
• Rain gutter drains 
• Roof 
• Flashing round chimneys 
• Roof drains 
• Clear yard debris 
• Clean parking lot drains 
• Clear all exterior drains   •Foundation grading 

• Leaking plumbing 
• Missing insulation 
• Clean the area around the sump pump 
• Test the sump pump 
• Check the foundation vents 
• Make sure the vapor barrier is intact 
• Check for pest 
• Make sure the plumbing is properly insulated  If you have any questions or need help in any of these areas, let me know and I will gladly be of assistance. As a FREE service, I would be happy to meet with you and your maintenance staff to discuss which areas to check, and the red flags that can alert you to issues before they affect your business.

Holiday mishaps are on their way to you

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

The cooking and baking season is just around the corner. In order to avoid a ruined holiday, follow the advice below!

October: Spooky treats

November: Grease and stove fires

December: Warm cookies and an even warmer house.

Families gather to celebrate the holidays by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries.

The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.

It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.  Be on alert!

• If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stove top. 
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire—oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains—away from the stove top.
• If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe. 
• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire. 
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave. 
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. 
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out. 
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stove top. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

Fire Statistics

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

• Public fire departments responded to 1,319,500 fires in 2017.• 499,000 were structure fires- a 5% increase from 2016.
• 72% of the structure fires were home fires. This is a 1% increase over 2016.
Structure fire trends are going the wrong direction. Let’s do our part to reduce home fires. Your local fire department has very good information on how to prevent fires. Stop by and see them, they would much rather meet you in their housethan in yours!
If you or a friend suffers a loss due to fire, water damage, mold, bio-hazards or odor the heroes at SERVPRO® of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties are Here to Help® and will make it “Like it never even happened®”.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

When NOT to repair your roof

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

We all know how hard it can be to line out a contractor to work on your home projects during the summer. 

However, if you are planning on repairing or replacing your roof make sure you have those repairs completed during the summer. 

This spring and fall we have worked on several claims that were caused by water intrusion from an  open roof. 

If you are working on the roof yourself, ensure that your roof has the proper tarp and seal. 

If you are working with a contractor to repair your roof schedule with them far in advance. This will ensure that you are home is taken care of prior to the bad weather coming. 

And remember, if your home suffers a water loss of any kind please call SERVPRO!

Putting out a fire with water

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

With summer just around the corner we want to share some safe outdoor fire tips on how to properly put out a fire using water.

• Be cautious when you are intoxicated and near a fire
• Do not throw trash or debris into a lit fire
• Do not use Accelerants to light your fire
• Do not toss aerosols, bottles, plastics, or malleable metals into the fire.

Doing so can cause shrapnel to be project into the air and potentially cause injury.

• Do not leave the fire pit unattended
• Do not leave children or pets unattended near a fire pit

• Do make sure you have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher readily available
• Do keep your fire pit 10 feet away from combustible items, buildings, or other landscaping
• Ensure that the fire pit is covered to some extent
• Do not use a fire pit on a deck or under a covered patio
• Ensure that your fire pit is at least 6 inches tall
• Do keep a shovel near by to smother a fire if necessary
• Dispose of ashes in a safe metal container used solely for ashes.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you.

If your home or business suffers from mold growth, call us today at (503) 648-8513

Maintain your Laundromat free of fire

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

With a recent influx of Laundromat fires here are some helpful tips to prevent fires. 

According to Martin-Ray Laundry systems here are some very helpful tips to prevent a fire in your commercial laundromat:

Keep exterior of laundry equipment clean: No matter what type of commercial laundry equipment you use, keeping the outside of it clean is always an easy first step. Not only will the clean equipment improve the overall look of your laundry facility, regular cleanings can help prevent lint and other debris from getting inside the machines and causing damage. Regular cleaning can also prevent leftover soaps and detergents from corroding and damaging the machines.

Clean soap dispensers: Soaps, powdered detergent, and boosters can quickly gum up dispensers. Regularly cleaning out these dispensers or soaking them in water can help prevent major clogs or corrosive damage that might require you to completely replace them.

Clean or replace the water filter inlet screens regularly: These screens can become blocked by small particles over time, which may prevent proper water flow into the machine.

Check inlet and outlet hoses regularly: These hoses can get sediment buildup and tiny leaks. Inspecting and changing these as needed can help prevent loss of water and a high-water bill.

Check the belts from the motor to the drum on machines: Look for things like fraying or splitting and replace these belts as needed. Generally, these must be replaced about twice each year.

Check seals around washer doors: Regularly checking for and removing buildup around the seals on your washers can help make sure your equipment always has a water-tight seal to prevent leaking.

Leave washer doors open when possible: Leaving the washer doors open when they are not in use, can help ensure air circulates to the interior and the machines dry properly.

Check lint filters after each load: Customers may forget to clean out the lint filter on dryers between loads. You should consistently be monitoring this in your laundromat equipment to help prevent potential fires and overheating.

Be safe before, during and after "The Big One"

5/19/2019 (Permalink)

With the impending Oregon earthquake otherwise known as “The Big One” we wanted to highlight some important tips and facts regarding earthquakes.

Earthquakes can happen anywhere. However, they are more prominent in the Midwest and along the west coast fault lines.

Earthquakes can cause widespread damage: Tsunami’s, landslides, avalanches, rock fall, fires, and they can wash out and damage roads.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN AN EARTHQUAKE OCCURS

• If you are in a vehicle pull over, stop the vehicle, and unbuckle your seat belt
• If you are in bed, stay there and remove the covers
• Do not go outside
• Hold onto to door frames and other structurally sound framing
• Have a ten-day supply of food and approximately 20 gallons of water

How to be prepared beforehand:

Secure items, such as televisions, and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.

Create a family emergency communications plan that has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated.

“Obtain an earthquake insurance policy as regular homeowner’s policies do not cover it. “

Post-earthquake Safety:

Expect aftershocks to follow an earthquake.

Check yourself, children, and the elderly for any potential injuries

Do not enter damaged buildings.

Commercial review

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

This review was left by a customer from a commercial lodge we restored after the California wildfires.

We waited almost 5 weeks for another contractor to get us a cleaning estimate for cleaning our Lodge facilities after the Camp Fire tore through Paradise only to leave several unanswered messages. One of our Lodge members mentioned that SERVPRO was working right up the street. Woody Nelson approached SERVPRO's Anthony Noble about cleaning the Lodge for smoke and soot damage from the fire. Anthony and Matt were there within 2 hours to see what we needed. We had a detailed, comprehensive estimate to present to the insurance adjustor within a week. Keep in mind that this facility is over 20,000 square feet in area and covers 2 stories. The bid was accepted and cleaning was commenced shortly after. These people brought the necessary resources and personal to complete the cleaning process rapidly, professionaly, safely and cautiously, without damage, while working under some pretty extreme weather conditions, not to mention the complete devastation surrounding us in the town of Paradise. There was excellent communication throughout the arduous process of this huge undertaking.
I can't thank SERVPRO and their professional staff enough for their Caring and Professional work in restoring our Masonic Lodge to its sparkling appearance and would recommend this company without reservation to anyone who needs or requires their service.

Clean your HVAC vents, it could cost you!

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

We have recently seen a spike in Commercial fires due to HVAC vents not being properly maintained. To ensure your business does not lose crucial income due to a fire, please refer to the following tips.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25-40% of the energy* used for heating or cooling is wasted because air pollutants require an HVAC system to work harder to heat and cool a facility. According to the EPA, a buildup of just 0.42″ of dirt on a heating or cooling coil can result in a decrease of efficiency of 21%. Dirty duct-work can load filters quickly and lead to more stress on the air handler and potentially higher energy costs

1. Maintain filters.
   Use the highest efficiency air filter recommended by the manufacturer of your HVAC system and change filters regularly. If your filters become clogged, change them more frequently. Also, be sure you do not have any missing filters and that air cannot bypass filters through gaps around the filter holder.
2. Minimize dust.
   Dust and vacuum your home regularly, using the highest efficiency filter bags your vacuum cleaner can take – preferably HEPA bags. If you undertake dusty construction or renovation work in your home, seal off supply and return registers and do not turn your HVAC system on until you have cleaned up the dust.
3. Clean cooling coils and drain pans.
   Cooling coils, which are designed to remove water from the air, can be a major source of moisture contamination that can lead to mold growth in your HVAC system. Make sure that the drain pans under these coils drain properly and check any nearby insulation for wet spots. If you see substantial standing water and/or debris in these pans, contact a qualified service professional immediately. If your system includes an in-duct humidifier, be sure to follow manufacturer operating instructions.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Basement/Crawlspace flooding

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

The crawlspace flooded... Is this going to be a problem?

It is never good and it needs to be thoroughly inspected to avoid future loses!

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Commercial maintenance

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO® Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any-size disaster. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. The SERVPRO® Advantage is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor.

You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, call in your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to make your workspace look its very best. Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional will get the job done right and get it done quickly.

Their identity is masked but their odor is ... RACCOONS

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

ARE THERE RACCOONS LIVING WITH YOU

Last month’s Tip of the Month focused on the Hospitality Industry dealing with prevention of suicides.

From this discussion I learned there are a lot of people that don’t have a good understanding of what biohazards are and why they are dangerous to one’s health.

So what is a biohazard? According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary:

A biological agent or condition that is a hazard to humans or the environment; also:  a hazard posed by such an agent or condition

Bio-Hazard threats can be found anywhere. Your work place, your health provider’s office, the grocery store, your child’s school or day care and even your own home! – Biohazard’s should be handled with extreme caution.

What are some biohazard examples?

• Human blood and blood products. This includes items that have been contaminated with blood and other body fluids or tissues that contain visible blood.
• Animal waste. Animal carcasses, body parts, and feces or any bedding material used by animals that are known to be infected with pathogenic organisms.
• Human body fluids. Semen, cerebrospinal fluid, pleural fluid, vaginal secretions, pericardial fluid, amniotic fluid, saliva, and peritoneal fluid.
• Microbiological wastes. Common in laboratory settings, examples of microbiological wastes include specimen cultures, disposable culture dishes, discarded viruses, and devices used to transfer or mix cultures.
• Pathological waste. Unfixed human tissue (excluding skin), waste biopsy materials, and anatomical parts from medical procedures or autopsies.
• Sharps waste. Needles, glass slides and cover slips, scalpels, and IV tubing that have the needle attached.

Biohazard Safety Levels with Examples

There are 4 levels of biohazards, according to the Centers for Disease Control:

• Biohazard Level 1: Agents that pose minimal threat to humans and the environment. E. coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Naegleria gruberi.
• Biohazard Level 2: Agents that can cause severe illness in humans and are transmitted through direct contact with infected material. Examples include HIV, hepatitis B, and salmonella.
• Biohazard Level 3: Pathogens that can become airborne and cause serious diseases. Examples include tuberculosis and Coxiella burnetii.
• Biohazard Level 4: Pathogens that pose a high risk of life-threatening disease for which there are no treatments. Examples include the Ebola virus and Lassa virus.

If you find yourself face to face with a potential biohazardous situation that is too big or too dangerous for you to handle on your own, let me know and I will send our trained professional staff to give you the help you need.

Heating tips

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove or a portable space heater. Have a three foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.

Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.

Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.

Test smoke alarms monthly. 

Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters. 

Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. If your property does suffer fire damage, contact your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals

Winter Weather tips

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Winter weather can bring about more issues than just slippery roads and a sidewalk to shovel. If you live where temperatures sink below freezing level, you are also at risk for frozen pipes and ice dams, which can create a major disaster at your home or property.

FROZEN PIPES

Frozen pipes are often those exposed to the cold weather, such as those outside your house, or in cold areas such as basements, attics, garages or kitchen cabinets. A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly. To prevent pipes from freezing, here are a few steps you can take, according to The American Red Cross.

-Be sure to completely drain water from swimming pool and sprinkler lines, as well as outside hoses. 

-Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air circulate near the plumbing.

-When the weather is extremely cold, let water drip from faucets that may come from exposed pipes.

-Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night.

ICE DAMS

Ice dams can be a little-known, but major problem during the snowy season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof ’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas, as well as causing gutters and shingles to move or fall. Icicles can be an initial sign of an ice dam, according to Travelers.com. To spot ice dams inside, “check for water stains or moisture in your attic or along the ceiling of exterior walls of your house. Water stains or moisture may be an indication that an ice dam has formed and water has penetrated the roof membrane.” Removing an ice dam as soon as it is found is vital to helping prevent damage to your property and can be done using heated cables, a roof shovel or calcium chloride ice melter.

If winter weather causes water damage to your property, your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals are only a call away, 24/7, ready to restore to preloss condition. 

We care for more than just your home.

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Starting in 2005, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) established the National Influenza Vaccination week “to highlight the importance of continuing flu vaccination through the holiday season and beyond.” In 2017, by the end of November only about 41% of the recommended US population had been vaccinated.

If you’ve already gotten the flu, you can still get vaccinated to protect you against other strands of the flu, according to the CDC. People with high risk of complications from the flu include young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions and people over the age of 65, and should get vaccinated. Although anyone is at risk of getting the flu, for high-risk people, hospitalization or death is more likely than for others.

According to the CDC, “flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations.” Get a flu shot today to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Leaking pipes AND leaking roofs? Oh no!

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

If you find mold in your attic you might have a leak in your roof that went unnoticed. A leak in the roof will allow moisture to enter your home thus creating an ideal growing condition for mold. Before doing any mold remediation it is ideal to have the roof repaired first or else you may have mold growth again if you wait on repairing the roof after having the mold removed

The most common roof leaks are the following:

• Ice dams
• Missing or broken shingles
• Damaged flashing

In the winter you could be experiencing an ice dam. Ice dams happen when the snow freezes at the edge of the roof causing water to back up and leak into your home. To prevent an ice dam try removing 2-4 feet of snow from the edge to prevent an ice dam from forming.

A storm can cause damage to your roof, it is a good idea to check your roof after a storm to see if the roof has any broken or missing shingles.

Damaged flashing will allow water to leak into your home. Check your flashing regularly to see if they have any damages.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you.

If your home or business suffers from mold growth, call us today at (503) 648-8513

Winter Weather tips

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Winter weather can bring about more issues than just slippery roads and a sidewalk to shovel. If you live where temperatures sink below freezing level, you are also at risk for frozen pipes and ice dams, which can create a major disaster at your home or property.

FROZEN PIPES

Frozen pipes are often those exposed to the cold weather, such as those outside your house, or in cold areas such as basements, attics, garages or kitchen cabinets. A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly. To prevent pipes from freezing, here are a few steps you can take, according to The American Red Cross.

-Be sure to completely drain water from swimming pool and sprinkler lines, as well as outside hoses. 

-Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air circulate near the plumbing.

-When the weather is extremely cold, let water drip from faucets that may come from exposed pipes.

-Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night.

ICE DAMS

Ice dams can be a little-known, but major problem during the snowy season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof ’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas, as well as causing gutters and shingles to move or fall. Icicles can be an initial sign of an ice dam, according to Travelers.com. To spot ice dams inside, “check for water stains or moisture in your attic or along the ceiling of exterior walls of your house. Water stains or moisture may be an indication that an ice dam has formed and water has penetrated the roof membrane.” Removing an ice dam as soon as it is found is vital to helping prevent damage to your property and can be done using heated cables, a roof shovel or calcium chloride ice melter.

If winter weather causes water damage to your property, your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals are only a call away, 24/7, ready to restore to preloss condition,

Tips for Mold damage

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

Have a Mold Problem? Call Today 1-800-SERVPRO

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

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

What NOT to Do:

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

The water loss process

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

Extraction from an after-hours water loss

In order to be prepared for our water mitigation process please see the 4 steps below!

Inspection:

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of the water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning any work.

Emergency Services:

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will take steps to help protect your home or business, as well as your personal belongings and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step.

Monitoring:

To help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will monitor the drying process. The updates will be consistently communicated to you.

Restoration Services:

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets,  and clean affected areas of your property and belongings. A Final walk-through of the job site will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to preloss condition. 

Understanding Black mold

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called “black mold” or “toxic mold”. Sensational news reports warn about the dangers of black mold and these stories can be alarming and confusing. Any mold in your home should be treated with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold.

Please refer to our to learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives. 

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should contact a qualified mold remediation company regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold can exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect that you have a mold problem, contact a SERVPRO Franchise Professional immediately. 

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

•  Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
•  Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
•  Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce toxins harmful to humans and pets.
•  Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise the mold may return.
•  Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
•  Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Mold Remediation process

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

Understanding The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate the “typical” process:

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call our National Call Center. Our representative will ask a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel.

Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

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

Step 3: Mold Containment

They use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. They 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.

Step 4: Air Filtration

Their specialized filtration equipment allows their Professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. They utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.

Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They’re also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

SERVPRO Disaster recovery

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

No Job Is Too Large

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Get the professionals, call SERVPRO.

Clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include the following:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Property Managers
• Universities
• Municipalities
• The Pentagon

Catastrophic Storm and Major Event Response

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are prepared for the unpredictable.

With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 1,700 Franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big. Recent mobilizations of the Catastrophic Storm Response Teams include:

• 2017 California wildfires
• 2017 Hurricane Irma
• 2017 Hurricane Harvey
• 2016 Hurricane Matthew
• 2015 Carolina floods
• 2014 Polar Vortex
• 2012 Sandy
• 2010 Nashville floods
• 2008 Ike
• 2007 Chicago floods
• 2007 Ohio floods
• 2007 California wildfires
• 2005 Katrina/Wilma/Rita

Storm restoration services

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

Cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause severe damage to your home or business. When these types of disasters strike, immediate action is necessary to prevent additional damage to your property. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the winter storm experience, expertise, and the resources to remediate damage caused by winter weather.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Winter Storm Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises

Frozen Pipes

Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. In general, pipes are more likely to freeze when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The resulting water damage can be extensive. Outdoor pipes and pipes in unheated areas of the home can freeze if they are not properly insulated or if temperatures are severely cold. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can quickly and safely repair water damage caused by frozen pipes.

Outdoor pipes most likely to freeze include:

• Outdoor hose bibs
• Swimming pool supply lines
• Water sprinkler lines

Pipes in unheated or partially heated areas are also at risk of freezing, including:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Garages

Ice Dams

An ice dam is formed when snow melts unevenly on a roof and refreezes into a dam at the edge of the roof, near the eaves. This dam prevents any further snowmelt from draining off of the roof. This standing water can back up under shingles, leak into a home, and cause significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and other areas. Ice dams can also tear off gutters and loosen shingles.

Roof Damage

Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your gutters and roof. The additional weight of snow and ice can even cause a roof to collapse. When there’s a cold snap, water can get into cracks and small spaces and expand when it freezes, causing larger cracks and more damage. The repetition of freezing and thawing cycles can cause small cracks to get larger.

Hurricane Harvey damage

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team has been activated to help residents and business owners in storm damaged areas on the Texas coast, throughout the Houston area and in western Louisiana. SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Teams will be assisting the 121 local Franchises already located in the affected areas. SERVPRO has more than 1,000 crews ready to mobilize, with nearly 300 crews already on the ground ready assist home and business owners.

After the water begins to recede and authorities determine it is safe for residents to return to their property, there are several steps that can be taken to prevent additional damage from occurring. SERVPRO^® suggests the following steps to help minimize additional damage to your property while waiting for disaster professionals to arrive.

• If the water has entered the structure through the flooding of a creek, stream or river, or if it has filtered through insulation during its intrusion, it is considered to be black water and could be hazardous to your health. Avoid contact with contaminated items as much as possible.
• Take the greatest caution while entering your home, and wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing when dealing with flooded areas.
• Do not attempt to operate any electrical equipment while standing in wet or damp locations.
• Throw away all foods—even canned goods—that have come into contact with flood waters.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and pillow cushions for drying. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• If your home has a crawlspace, be aware excess moisture in this area can often foster mold growth.

SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team mobilizes from across the country, as needed, to support large storm events. SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team has responded to large loss and storm events across the country, including: 2016 Hurricane Matthew, 2016 Louisiana Flooding, 2016 Houston Flooding, 2015 Siberian Express, 2014 Mid-Atlantic Flooding, 2014 Polar Vortex, 2013 Colorado Floods, 2013 Alberta, Canada Floods, 2012 Hurricane Sandy, 2012 Hurricane Isaac, 2011 Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, 2011 North Dakota Floods, 2010 Tennessee Floods, 2010 New England Floods, 2009 California Wildfires and 2008 Hurricane Ike.

About SERVPRO^®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO's professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

SERVPRO Emergency response

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

The cleanup and restoration begins with a phone call. Our national call center is fully staffed 24 hours a day and ready to dispatch the nearest SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to your home or business. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today 1-800-SERVPRO

A water damage event can be traumatic and when you call, we understand you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. Our representative will lead you through a series of questions to better understand your needs.

SERVPRO specializes in water damage—in fact, SERVPRO is the premier water damage restoration company in the U.S. and Canada.

What to Expect

When you call, a call center representative will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. Armed with the details of your water event, we’ll dispatch a nearby SERVPRO Franchise Professional who will respond immediately.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

Water damage inspection

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

The water damage restoration process begins with a detailed inspection of your property, including a damage assessment. The SERVPRO Franchise Professional is determining the scope of the damage so he or she can develop an appropriate plan of action.

They Identify and Stop the Water Source

They check for the source of water in your home and business and stop it. The water source must be stopped before the drying process can begin.

• Stop the Source
• Check for Contaminated Water

They Identify the Type of Water

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals must identify the category and classification of water to restore your property safely to industry specifications. The type of water contamination will affect the specific restoration processes used to restore your property.

• White / Category 1 Water
• Gray / Category 2 Water
• Black / Category 3 Water

They Survey the Extent of the Water Damage and Inspect the Premises

They inspect and test your home to discover the extent of the damage. Additionally, they will look for safety concerns and explain them to you. If you are aware of any safety issues, such as asbestos or lead, please share them.

• Survey Damage
• Complete Safety Inspection

They Move or Block Furniture

They move furniture and property contents and block items to help prevent rust or furniture stains on wet carpet.

Types of smoke

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

In the event of kitchen fire this holiday season, it is best to be informed on the different types of smoke, and the damage they cause.

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 the smoke rises. 

Protein fire Residue: (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire)

Virtually invisible, discolors paint and varnishes, extreme pungent odors.

Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace puff backs):

While "Puff Backs" can create havoc for homeowners SERVPRO franchcise professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly!

Other types: (tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue.

SERVPRO franchise professionals are trained to handle even the toughest losses. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact your local SERVPRO franchise professionals to make it "Like it never even happened".

John's Tip of the Month

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

IS YOUR FACILITY AT RISK?

I found this Risk Assessment Questionnaire and I believe that it is good tool to use to help stay on top of the maintenance and operations of your facility.*

This assessment covers Fire Protection, Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, Operational Issues and Community Rooms.

 Over the years we have restored many businesses that had fallen behind on their maintenance and had AVOIDABLE DISASTERS!

Note: State and Local government generally establish inspection schedules as part of building codes. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establish requirements related to workplace safety. Use of this questionnaire should take into account the various regulatory requirements for inspection and testing. Also, a building’s use and occupancy, including visitors, may determine the level or risk—the presence of children and/or elderly or disabled persons may increase some risk.

Risk Assessment Questionnaire

FIRE PROTECTION

• Is there an automatic detection system
• Are there smoke and fire alarm systems
• Are the systems inspected and serviced annually
• Are there sufficient number of fire extinguishers of the appropriate class
• Are the fire extinguishers readily identifiable
• Are the fire extinguishers inspected and recharge annually
• Are there automatic sprinklers and/or standpipe and hoses in the building
• Are they inspected annually
• Is the fire suppression systems tested according to the local codes

 ELECTRICAL

• Are all of the breaker and fuses enclosed in metal cabinets that close securely
• Are all circuits easily identifiable
• Are all of the fuse or breakers sized for the equipment or lighting they control
• Is the area in front of the panels assessable
• Are there reoccurring problems with fuses or breakers being continually tripping
• Do metal-enclosed switch gears receive scheduled preventative maintenance
• Are ground fault interrupters (GFIs) utilized in potentially wet or damp areas
• Are surge protectors used on phone systems, computers, and office equipment? They are generally required on leased equipment
• Are extension cords use for permanent power sources in lieu of hard wiring or adding an outlet
• Are space heaters being used to augment the HVAC system
• Are tenants reminded not use extension cord as permanent power sources and not to use space heaters
• Is there proper space around and above recessed lighting
• If there is a back power supply is inspected and test on a regular schedule i.e. backup batteries or a generator
• Are the electrical rooms and cabinets that accessible from common areas kept locked.

PLUMBING & DRAINS

• Are water and drain pipes, seals, etc., inspected periodically for leaks
• Are pipes properly insulated (this very important due to the fact we don’t have hard freezes)
• Clear rain gutters annually
• Clean and clear storm water run-off drains bi-annually

HVAC

• Has the HVAC system been inspected and serviced with in the past year
• Is the boil’s low water cutoff/water supply flushed out every month during the heating season
• Dose the boiler meet fire code requirements concerning noncombustible material and proper fire rated doors and closers
• Is the boiler room properly ventilated
• Is the boiler room inspected periodically to ensure that no combustible materials are stored there
• Are vents and chimney flues inspected annually for clear passage
• Is there a program in place for cleaning ductwork and diffusers
• Are windows checked periodically to ensure that they open and close properly and fasteners are in good operating condition
• Are windows system checked periodically to ensure that they are not deteriorating
• Is installed window-washing apparatus and/or scaffolding properly attached to the roof decking

OPERATIONAL ISSUES

• Dose the building have Emergency Ready Profile (emergency procedures manual)
• Dose the building have a safety committee
• Do building staff receive appropriate training related to blood borne pathogens, first aid, and other emergency response subjects

• COMMUNITY ROOM

• What is the maximum occupancy of your community room Is it posted
• Are exits keep clear
• When positioning furniture for functions, are clear aisles maintained for quick and easy egress in an emergency
• Is the range and or microwave oven maintained in a clean and manner? Are orifices in gas ranges kept clear
• Are there curtains or any other combustible material near the range
• Is there a properly sized and vented range hood
• Is grease periodically cleaned from the hood and ductwork
• Has a Class B fire extinguisher been provided in the kitchen area
• Are the coils on the refrigerator/freezer kept clean of dirt and lint

*Source DexerityDynamics

John's Tip of the month, bed bugs!

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

What Are They? 
Bed Bugs are parasitic insects of the Cimicid family that feed exclusively on human blood. They are mostly nocturnal. They can cause skin rashes, allergic symptoms and psychological effects. They have been with us for thousands of years, even though they were almost eradicated in the 1940’s in the developed world. However, they have become resistant to pesticides and have made a comeback. They are here to stay. 

Where Do They Come From? 
The Southwest, Southeast, Eastern US, Washington, and Alaska have a high concentration of Bed Bugs. This puts us at risk of an outbreak here in Oregon. 

Now What? 
As business owners and managers it is crucial to train employees so they can spot Bed Bugs as soon as they arrive. You need to have policies in place to deal with guests or residents that have encountered Bed Bugs. You should also have protocols in place to get rid of the Bed Bugs. 

Bed Bug Prevention (Early Detection) 
There is no way to stop Bed Bugs from being brought into your facility. New folks are arriving every day from all over the world, and bringing their potentially infested personal items with them. You can be Bed Bug free one day and infested the next. 
So, prevention relies on early detection. Bed Bugs must be detected very quickly after they are brought in, hopefully before they bite someone. 

Employees in every department should receive Bed Bug identification training. 
Why everyone? Because employees are located all over the facility and if everybody is looking for Bed Bugs there is a greater chance that they will be discovered quickly. 

How to Get Rid Of Them 

Some pest control firms utilize specialized heating equipment to de-infest furnishings, rooms, and entire dwellings. The procedure involves heating up the infested item or area to temperatures lethal to Bed Bugs. Portable heaters and fans are used to gradually heat the air to 120 - 130°F while monitoring with strategically placed sensors. When dealing with high temperatures remove all aerosol products and check with your fire suppression company to make sure that you DO NOT EXCEED THE WORKING TEMPERATURE OF THE SPRINKLERS! 

While the former methods are helpful, insecticides are widely used by most pest control companies. A variety of EPA-registered materials are available formulated as liquids, dusts and aerosols. Baits used to control ants and cockroaches are ineffective in this case since Bed Bugs feed on blood. Professional-use insecticides such as Temprid®, Transport® and Phantom® tend to be more effective than Bed Bug sprays sold by retailers. Bleach, alcohol, cigarette lighters, etc. should NOT be used to control Bed Bugs. 
Important Note 
It is extremely important that employees do not attempt to treat Bed Bugs themselves. Always have Bed Bug infestations treated by an experienced pest management company. If your current company does not have Bed Bug experience, call us for suggestions or an inspection. 

Sources 
Michael F. Potter, Extension Entomologist University of Kentucky College of Agriculture 
Dini M. Miller, Ph.D., Department of Entomology, Virginia Tech 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bed_bug 
For More Info See: 
http://www.bloomberg.com/bw/stories/2007-11-08/the-cost-of-bedbugsbusinessweek-business-news-stock-market-and-financial-advice 
http://www.ndhealth.gov/Disease/Documents/faqs/Bed%20Bugs.pdf 
http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7454.html 

October is Fire prevention Month.

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

October is fire prevention month! A Perfect time to review emergency preparedness plans for your home and/or business. Do you have a fire escape plan? Have you changed your smoke alarm batteries within the last year?

The Nation Fire Protection Association designates a week each October to focus on fire prevention awareness. The 2018 theme is "Look, Listen, Learn, be aware. Fire can happen anywhere". This theme hopes to create awareness in the steps necessary to reduce the chance of a fire and how to react in the event that a fire may happen. The NFPA states the following:

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

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

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

Stay Safe and prepare now to help ensure you are ready for any disaster.

Do's and Dont's after a fire

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

DO

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet. 

• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork. 

• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas. 

• If electricity is off, empty freezer/ refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor. 

• Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/ bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant. 

• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures. 

• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON'T

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional. 

• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.

• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service. 

• Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water, as they may be contaminated. 

• If ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fans. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage. 

• Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Ohana means family, and family means no one gets left behind, event pets!

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Pets are just as important as any other family member. So why would you not want to make them a part of your preparedness plan? There are several things you can do to make sure they stay safe as well. 

Pet emergency kit:

Food: at least 3 days worth of food in an air tight, and waterproof container

Water: at least 3 days of water specifically for your pets. 

Medicines and important documents:

Registration information, adoption paperwork, vaccination records. Talk to your veterinarian about micro-chipping your pet.

First Aid Kit:

Cotton Bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors, antibiotic, flea and tick preventatives, latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Including a pet first aid reference book is very helpful as well!

Collar or Harness with ID

A picture of you and your pet together:

If you become separated a picture of you two together will help to document your ownership. Add species, breed, age, sex, color, and distinguishing characteristics.

Familiar items:

Familiar items such as treats, toys, and bedding can help reduce stress on your pet.

Evacuations:

While practicing fire escape or evacuation plans be sure to include your pet also! If an evacuation happens, don't leave pets behind as they can lost or injured.

Identification:

Micro-chipping pets is a great way to locate them. Most veterinary clinics and shelters have scanner that will read the microchip information to help locate a lost pets owners.

Be sure to take your four-legged friends into consideration when planning for emergencies. visit ready.gov/animals for further tips on how to keep your furry friends close and safe in the event of a disaster or emergency. 

Mold, mold everywhere!

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Always call SERVPRO as soon as you have a water loss or findings of mold!

Have you ever been in the shower and you look up and see little black spots, what about when you are getting out of the shower and see some black spots on the corners of the tub? Bathrooms tend to be the most affected areas of home when it comes to mold! When the shower or bath have been used, you may see water droplets forming on the walls, ceiling or floors. This happens when the bathroom doesn’t have proper ventilation and causing dew point to occur in the bathroom. Dew point is when the air is not able to hold the excess moisture that is usually caused by the shower or bath. Once the air has reached dew point water will start to form on the wall instead. This will cause the excess moisture to linger thus allowing great growing conditions for mold.

To help prevent mold properly ventilate your bathroom, opening a window or turning on the fan while you shower or take a bath. After you are finish you will want to leave the fan on to allow the atmosphere to return to normal conditions

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you.

If your home or business suffers from mold growth, call us today at (503) 648-8513

Inspect for mold prior to selling

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Spring and summer are the most popular times of year to sell a home, and the best!

However, the last minute repairs and detailing can really put a ding into closing on a sale or purchase of a home. 

Now is a great time to begin getting inspections and repairs done to your home. You avoid long waits for contractors, pricey estimates, and later closing dates.

Fall is also a great time to get final repairs and detail work completed because most contractors tend to slow down due to weather concerns. 

Call us today for a free estimate on mold remediation in unfinished spaces such as attics, crawlspaces, basements, and garages!

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you.

If your home or business suffers from mold growth, call us today at (503) 648-8513

Pumpkin Smashing clean up

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

No one likes to watch their friends get hurt!

It is that time of year again when the pranksters do their dirtiest work. PUMPKIN SMASHING!

From bio-hazards to pumpkin clean ups, we do it all!

If you are interested in getting a quote for cleaning up pumpkins outside of your home, or any other holiday clean up please call us at (503) 648-8513

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Meet our newest Estimator

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

Cassie has a huge heart and a love for all kinds of animals.

As of Today, Cassie has officially been with us here at SERVPRO for one month! 

With 5 years of restoration experience under her belt, Cassie has been a great addition to our SERVPRO Family!

When a disaster occurs at your home or place of work, you may have the chance of getting to speak with Cassie as she works in our office!

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Brace yourselves, the rain is coming!

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

ARE YOU READY? 
The rain is here again! We are all faced with the challenge of keeping the water outside of our structures. We need to be diligent with this, as water will migrate in through the smallest leaks in a building. These leaks can cause hundreds or thousands of dollars of damage and reduce the income to your business. The exterior envelope should have an annual inspection. 
When inspecting the roof, look for broken or missing shingles or any damaged components. Check the flashing around any pipes or vents that come through the roof. The rain gutters need to be clear of debris, and if they are equipped with heated cables those also need to checked. Make all the repairs before the rain, snow and freezing weather strikes. 
When inspecting the exterior walls of your building, look for any damage to the siding, deteriorated or missing caulking around the doors and windows, make all necessary repairs. 

 Preventative maintenance check list 
• Door and window seals 
• Rain gutters 
• Rain gutter drains 
• Roof 
• Flashing round chimneys 
• Roof drains 
• Clear yard debris 
• Clean parking lot drains 
• Clear all exterior drains   •Foundation grading 

Worldwide earthquake drill day!

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know earthquakes can happen anywhere? Whether you are at work, at home or on vacation, it’s important to know what to do in the event of an earthquake. On October 18, 2018 at 10:18 a.m., people across the world will participate in the “world’s largest earthquake drill,” according to shakeout.org. Participants will “drop, cover [and] hold on,” which is the best way to reduce your chance of injury in an earthquake situation if you are inside. The day can also raise awareness for what to do in other scenarios such as if you are outdoors or in a vehicle. If you or your organization are interested in participating in The Great ShakeOut, register and find more information at shakeout.org. n

In the event of a disaster..

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Natural disasters can occur anywhere at any given time.

Are you prepared financially in case of a disaster?

Does your family have an emergency fund for unexpected expenses after a flood or fire? Check out FEMA’s Emergency Financial First Aid Kit for an in-depth document to help you identify and compile important documents and account information all in one spot. Just search “EFFAK” on fema.gov for the free PDF. Whether its flood, wildfire or extreme winter weather, we must work together as a team to help ensure our families, businesses, places of worship and neighborhoods are prepared. Contact your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals to find out how they can help make it “Like it never even happened” if disaster strikes in your life.

Check your Insurance Coverage Have you reviewed your insurance coverage recently to see if you’re covered in a disaster? Evaluate which hazards are relevant to your area and obtain the appropriate insurance for your home, business, or other property and become familiar with your coverage.

Preparing for the holidays, cooking and... fire!

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

The cooking and baking season is just around the corner. In order to avoid a ruined holiday, follow the advice below!

October: Spooky treats

November: Grease and stove fires

December: Warm cookies and an even warmer house.

Families gather to celebrate the holidays by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries.

The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.

It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.  Be on alert!

• If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stove top. 
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire—oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains—away from the stove top.
• If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe. 
• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire. 
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave. 
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. 
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out. 
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stove top. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

The process after a fire

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

While some items were not salvageable there were tons of other contents that had to be professionally cleaned by our SERVPRO employees.

Anyone can go in with a sledge hammer and tear down walls that were affected by fire. However, it is the smoke and soot damage that is difficult to find that requires the help of a professional!

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Your experienced local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will pretest to determine the extent of damage, then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your insured’s structure.

Contents Cleaning

All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, and much more. Finally, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can provide an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items for your insured.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/ Forest Grove is hiring.

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is currently hiring Production and Cleaning Technicians.

Primary Role: Perform services as assigned, following SERVPRO production guidelines. Communicate with the customer to make sure that all needs are met. Support crew chief and other production personnel as needed. Clean and maintain vehicles, equipment, warehouse and office areas as needed.

Results Expected: Production processes are performed according to guidelines and work orders. Communications to crew chief and customer are timely. Jobs are completed at or beyond customer expectations. Vehicles, equipment, and facilities remain clean, orderly, and working properly.

The requirements for this position:

• Must have a professional appearance and great attitude.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check with no felony convictions or misdemeanors involving violence or theft.
• Because we provide 24-hour emergency services, must be willing to be on call, as needed.
• Some night and weekend work is required.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
• Must have a high school diploma or a GED certificate.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. This company does not and will not discriminate in employment and personnel practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, national origin, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Please call 503-648-8513 for more information or email your resume to erin@SERVPROhfyt.com

Winter is just around the corner, be prepared!

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

You may not always see a broken pipe, but you will hear it!

With the colder months just a few week away we all need to start thinking about the threats during the fall/winter months.

Frozen pipes are often those exposed to the cold weather, such as those outside of your home, or in cold areas, such as basements, garages, and kitchen cabinets. 

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located. Typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

To prevent pipes from freezing, here are a few steps to take according to the American Red Cross

• Be sure to completely drain water from swimming pool or sprinkler lines. As well as hoses outside of the home
• Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air near the plumbing.
• When the weather is extremely cold, let water drip from faucets that may come from an exposed pipe. 
• Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night.

As always, SERVPRO is a 24 hour water restoration company. If you do suffer a water loss this winter please call us at 503-648-8513 at any time of the day!

Even small flooding is a huge cause for concern

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

This is the extent of damage that can be caused by even the smallest water intrusion. Drywall is very fragile and must be removed upon penetration.

Flooding is a very common thing here in the low-lands of the Willamette Valley. Even a small amount of water intrusion can cause some serious structural damage. 

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO professionals have the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry unseen water before second damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO professionals will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. 

The layers of mold

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

The first step is to move affected contents!

Lets say it is 7 PM Saturday night and you go into the laundry room to switch the loads, when suddenly you step in a pool of hot water. This is clearly going to be chaotic. However, that is not the worst of your worries. Mold loves to grow in warm and humid areas. Sure, anyone can clean up some water off the floor but what about all the layers that could later be affected with mold?

Areas that can be affected by mold:

• Sheating
• Wall Stud
• Insulation
• Interior Area
• Drywall
• Baseboards
• Carpet
• Carpet Padding
• Bottom wall plate
• Subfloor
• Floor Joist
• Sill Plate
• Basement
• Foundation

What to do in the case of mold

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Removing Mold:

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth

Restoration:

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home. Your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals understand mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home

Mold vs. Health

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can grow anywhere and will travel!

Health Concerns are a huge issue when it comes to mold in your home or place of business.

From Asthma, COPD, all the way to infants and pets, mold can be a cause of concern in regards to your health and protecting the health of others. 

Anyone can and may experience health problems due to mold exposure. 

Possible symptoms of prolonged mold exposure can include runny nose, sneezing, coughing, aggravation of asthma or other respiratory disorders, sore throat, or inflammation of the sinuses.

Water can and will affect the contents of your home

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Water can and will damage anything in its path.

Water losses are almost never something you can foresee. Especially when it comes to your washer supply line breaking and causing nearly 200,000 gallons of water to flood their home. While the home can be saved with a quick enough response team, some furniture may not. 

You always want to ensure that your most valuable items are up and secure away from possible flood or water intrusion that way occur. Keeping filing cabinets away from walls, ensure all contents are picked up and put away, and any important documents or memorabilia should be stored in a safe place away from flood levels. 

Take Precautions With Mold

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals handle water damages everyday and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time. If your property has sustained water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly. If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold
• Strong musty odors which indicate that mold is present
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
• Excessive humidity.

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.

Help is here

If you think you might have a mold problem, call 1-800-SERVPRO. A SERVPRO franchise professional trained in mold remediation will examine the structure for any visible signs of mold. In the event mold is found, you will be asked to approve and sign a work authorization form prior to any mold cleanup or related work being performed. 

How can wildfires affect my business?

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Even states as wet as Oregon and Washington are affected by wildfires several times a year. When the Eagle Creek fire shut down businesses our phones rang off the hook with concerned business owners. In times like these SERVPRO is the first to call as we are faster to any size disaster. 

Some tips from FEMA to protect you and your property from hazards are as follows:

• Wear protective clothing 
• Lock up your business
• Choose a route away from fire hazards
• Close windows, vents, doors, and blinds
• Shut off all utilities, if possible
• Move flammable items to the center of the building
• turn on a light in each room to increase visibility of your property
• Turn off gas lines and propane tanks
• Connect the outside house to water taps
• Gather fire tools

These tips along with preparation and quick thinking can and will protect your investments!

When wildfire strikes we are here to help!

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Even states as wet as Oregon and Washington are affected by wildfires several times a year. When the Eagle Creek fire shut down businesses our phones rang off the hook with concerned business owners. In times like these SERVPRO is the first to call as we are faster to any size disaster. 

Some tips from FEMA to protect you and your property from hazards are as follows:

• Wear protective clothing 
• Lock up your business
• Choose a route away from fire hazards
• Close windows, vents, doors, and blinds
• Shut off all utilities, if possible
• Move flammable items to the center of the building
• turn on a light in each room to increase visibility of your property
• Turn off gas lines and propane tanks
• Connect the outside house to water taps
• Gather fire tools

These tips along with preparation and quick thinking can and will protect your investments!

Prepare yourself for wildfires this summer!

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

The following are tips from FEMA for preparing your family, home, and businesses from the threat of wildfires!

• Get an emergency supply kit, which includes items like, non-perishable food, water, a battery-powered radio, extra flashlights and batteries. You may want to prepare a portable kit and keep it in your car!
• Make a family emergency plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together, and what you will do in case of an emergency. 
• Protect your property from wildfires by designing and landscaping with wildfire safety in mind.
• Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government. In an emergency always listen to the instructions given by local emergency responders.
• Finally, don't forget to save your local SERVPRO'S phone number in the case of smoke or soot damage after returning to your home!

Post-Construction Needs

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Post Construction Cleaning

Once the floors are down and the drywall is up, it's time to remove the debris and dirt in order to lay carpet, paint, and decorate. SERVPRO professionals can provide debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design.

Dehumidification and Drying

During the construction phase, a building can trap moisture. Excessive moisture could result in mold growth. If you think one of your projects may have a moisture issue, rely on SERVPRO professionals to provide the help you need initiating moisture and preventing the potential for mold growth. 

Final Cleaning

You want the facility to look its best when the doors open. Your Local SERVPRO professionals provide cleaning services to give the building that extra shine. Services include:

• Carpet, resilient and non-resilient floor prep and finish
• Ceilings, walls and fixture cleaning
• Deodorization
• Air Duct Cleaning
• Debris Removal
• Window Cleaning

The last thing you need is a fire or, water intrusion or mold growth slowing down or stopping the completion of one of your projects. SERVPRO professionals provide 24-hour emergency mitigation, cleanup and restoration services to help you get back on schedule quickly. 

Severe Weather Safety

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen at any time, anywhere. I think us here in the pacific northwest are very accustomed to that. Each year Americans cope with an average of the following storms:

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,300 torandoes
• 2 land-falling deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98% of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 650 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action, and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO is so important. Just got to SERVPRO.com on your mobile phone or call 1-800-SERVPRO to get the team that faster to any disaster!

Any Fire In Your Home Is Bad

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

When you try to clean up after a fire by yourself, it can be a disaster. Especially considering that smoke and soot from even a small fire can permanently damage contents throughout a home. It will also cause odors that may resurface for years.

Your SERVPRO professionals understand how disruptive fires can be for you and your entire family. For this reason, SERVPRO offers 24-hour emergency response, and under normal circumstances, will have trained, uniformed technicians on-site of a fire damage within four hours to begin emergency mitigation services. By responding quickly with a full line of fire, smoke, and soot clean up and restoration services, your local SERVPRO professionals can help you regain control quickly while deodorizing and protecting your home and belongings. 

So, before you risk doing more damage by attempting to clean it up yourself, call your local fire, smoke, and soot clean up and restoration experts at SERVPRO or dial 1-800-SERVPRO to locate your nearest SERVPRO Franchise.

Trained And Equipped For Fires

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Fire, smoke, and soot damages in your home can create permanent and unpleasant problems if not properly addressed. As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the home leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in those hard to reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in periodically resurfacing odors. Unfortunately, such damages are often made more severe when unprepared homeowners attempt to perform the cleanup themselves. 

All of your restorable items in affected areas will be professional cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes furniture, draperies, upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air duct systems, and so so much more. SERVPRO professionals do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out the sources and clean them right at the source!

From The Ordinary To The Unhealthy: Mold

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

From the Ordinary

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified. 

Fungi produce some very useful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods, and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is product of mold as well! 

Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people. 

To The Unhealthy

Intrusion of water into your home or a place of business can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing, or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall, and insulation provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat. 

Prepare Your Home For Winter Weather

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Tips for keeping your home prepared for winter weather are:

• Keep Cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home. 
• Consider shutting outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawlspace and turn it to off
• If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming affect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage
• Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puff backs.

Prepare Your Business For Winter Weather

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Tips for preparing your business in case of winter weather:

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property or potentially a cause for personal injuries.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slipper or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present. 

Frozen Pipes

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe located, but typically the rupture is caused by back flow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addresses quickly. 

Any Water Damage Is Bad For Your Home

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Any water damage is bad, especially when the water contains potentially harmful bacteria that can affect the health of you and your family. Toilet overflows, sewage backups, and other dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly messes; these bio-hazardous damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a home, as well as the moisture necessary to support their growth.

Your SERVPRO professionals understand how disruptive black water damages can be for your entire family. For this reason SERVPRO offers 24-hour emergency response, and under normal circumstances, will have trained uniformed technicians on-site of a water damage within four hours to begin emergency mitigation services. By responding quickly with a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, your local SERVPRO professionals can help you regain control quickly while drying and deodorizing, as well as protecting their home and belongings.

DO's and DONT's of water damage in your home

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

If you ever have a water leak and as you stand there thinking of what to do, the water is at your ankles now and you are more worried and confused than ever. Here are some helpful tips to get through until SERVPRO arrives to help.

DO

• Shut off the water main, if you are unsure of how to do this call a certified person to come and help.
• Turn of all electricity to the affected areas
• Remove as much standing water as possible
• Remove and dry as much standing water on wood furniture. Remove any paper items that may have been affected.
• Remove any slip on covers for furniture to ensure a proper drying process.
• Put blocks or aluminum paper underneath furniture that was moved to dry out an area. 
• Moving all paintings, computers, documents and any other valuable items to a dry unaffected area of the property.
• Use clothes pins to pick up and loose or handing curtains or drapery.
• Move and hang anything made of fur, or skins to a dry unaffected area for proper drying.

DON'T

• Do not return to areas where there is an immediate threat of danger such as, areas that still have electricity and are underwater, or areas where black waters have risen
• Do not return to areas where electronics have come in contact with water. 
• Do not leave books, newspapers, or other articles with colored print near clothes, carpets, or other textiles.
• Do not leave rugs over installed carpets as this can cause staining from the rug to the carpet.
• DO NOT use your vacuum to extract any water from your property.
• Do not turn on electronics that have come in contact with water
• Do not turn on floor lights that have been affected by standing water. 

Two years after

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

If disaster strikes, will you still be in business a year from now?  According to FEMA 40% of businesses never reopen after a major disaster, and only 29% will still be open two years later. They go on to say that if the technology is down for nine days the business will likely be bankrupt within a year. By having a comprehensive disaster plan, the odds of survival are much greater.  All of these factors need to be considered when formulating your disaster plan: 

• Natural Hazards 

• Human-Caused Hazards 

• Technology-Related Hazards 
• Health Hazards 

• Identify the Risks 

• Develop a Plan 

• Take Action 

Every business has risks, but they are not all the same. Plans need to be tailored to the specific location and type of business. SERVPRO has developed the Ready Plan. It is a great asset to add to the emergency plan. 

John's Tip of the Month

1/3/2018 (Permalink)

The crawlspace flooded... Is this going to be a problem?

It is never good and it needs to be thoroughly inspected to avoid future loses! When doing the inspection you are determining where the water crested in the crawl space. Use the photos as a guild to assess the extent of the damage that may have occurred. If the water is still in the crawl space it needs be extracted to prevent mold growth.

Water levels below the piers and pony walls can create an environment that contributes to microbial growth. Lots of flooding in the crawlspace can occur when a storm is active due to the increase of rain fall, An inspection by a professional to insure that the structure is mold free is recommended.

If the water has drained at the time of the inspection the crawl space should be treated with an antimicrobial to prevent mold growth. Mold can grow in the ducting and insulation.

Tip of the Month is provided as a courtesy of SERVPRO® by John Lawrence.

Call 971-371-0566 or email at johnl@SERVPROhfyt.com

John's Tip of the Month

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

You just got home, and all that’s on your mind is everything you need to do to finish your day. As you step into your home you are greeted with a torrent of water rushing out the door.  Unannounced to you the Gremlins snuck in while you were away, just to ruin your day. First call SERVPRO (503) 648-8513, and then call your insurance agent. SERVPRO and your agent will work together to make it “Like it never even happened.” Now that help is on the way there are some things that can be done to help reduce your loss.

These emergency tips will assist you in taking the proper action until our crews arrive. Please follow these Do’s and Don’ts to help reduce damage, possible bodily injury and to increase the chances of successful restoration.

Things to do:

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place the furniture on wood blocks, plates, plastic or foil to keep from direct contact to the moisture.
• Remove to a safe dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Hang draperies with plastic coat hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting, floors, or furniture.
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
• Avoid all contact with sewage.

Things not to do:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Leave books, newspaper, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet, floors or furniture.
• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpet or floors, especially concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixture of the ceiling is wet.
• Spread contamination by walking areas affected by sewer.
• Tur on the HVAC system on this can spread contaminated air throughout the home.
• Use household fans to dry the structure this also can spread contaminated air throughout the home.
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

Tip of the Month is provided as a courtesy of SERVPRO® by John Lawrence.

Call 971-371-0566 or email at johnl@SERVPROhfyt.com

Your Commercial Needs

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 - (503) 648-8513

Residential Services

Whether your home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our Professionals have extensive cleaning and restoration training. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to affect your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Storm Damage Restoration

Help your apartment residences

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

In an apartment community residence will share walls from the sides and from above and below, sharing spaces. If a water damage occurs, it can get out of hand quickly. As a water damage could not only affect one residence but multiple residences.You can never know when an emergency situation will occur, but it’s in your best interest as a property manager, as well as in the best interest of your residents, to always be prepared for anything. Taking these measures today to help prevent water damage in the future.

1. Check On Aging Appliances Regularly – If the property you manage includes a fridge, dishwasher, and/or washer/dryer in unit, you should closely monitor the age of the appliances as well as routinely checking them for cracked or damaged hoses or connections. Washer hoses should be replaced about every five years. It’s a good idea to replace washers and dryers before there’s a problem. It may cost more money now, but it could save you a lot of money and a headache or two in the future.
2. Repair Old or Damaged Roofs When It’s Dry – Don’t wait for a big rainstorm to find out that the roofing at your unit(s) needs replacing. Make routine checkups to monitor the condition of the roof(s) at your property. Make time and room in the budget to make any replacements or upgrades necessary during the dry season so that you can avoid water damage in the wet season.
3. Stay in Touch with Your Residents and Know When they’re Traveling – Many people go on vacations during the summer. Talk to your residents about having their water shut off while they’re gone or, alternatively, having someone check on their apartment from time to time while they’re gone. If a water leak occurs while they’re away and no one is checking in, a small problem could potentially turn into something much worse.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

We are here to help your business

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

In manufacturing, assembly of the finished product, Water from flooding or a major leak can stall lines and keep production halted, making your plant late with orders.

No matter where the water comes from, plant managers and business owners can solve the situation with SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove. We are ready 24-hours a day, quickly remove standing water with the proper equipment. When the water is extracted we do our best to make sure our equipment is out of the way as much as possible given the situation. So your business can continue to operate while also drying the structure as effectively as possible.

Wherever absorbent or porous materials exist within your plant, water fills the pores and holes. Using water's own properties against it, we heat different areas to speed up evaporation. We also create air currents with large air movers to direct moist air, so it goes exactly where we want it – outside through open windows or toward a desiccant machine or large dehumidifiers.

Without professional water removal services, your plant's interior might seem dry after your employees take care of the problem with mops, squeegees, and towels, but this often results in a more significant problem later if microbial growth starts to occur in areas that didn’t dry properly. SERVPRO professionals can help your plant avoid this much more costly situation. Doing so and quickly responding to your plant's emergency situation can eliminate a substantial amount of future downtime, financial expenses, and other issues.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Smoke Odor in your home

11/13/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke odor is a stubborn odor that will linger long after a fire has been put out. The odor can be caused by an accident that occurred in the kitchen or even from a fireplace that was unattended, a nearby house that had burned, the odor can also come from forest fires as well.

No matter what caused the odor, at SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove we have trained professionals with the proper equipment to clean the structure and remove any odor. Our crew has a variety of products and equipment specifically to deal with odor, from Eco-friendly products to heavy soot and odor removal chemicals. We also use filters to ozone machines. Our professionals will walk through with you and figure out the best solution and approach to get your home back "Like it never even happened."

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. Limit further damages and reduces the cost.

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

What to do after a Fire

11/13/2017 (Permalink)

Home fires are stressful events. However, having a plan on what to do after a fire can help with the stress. At SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove  we are Here to Help® when a fire occurs in your home. We have created a checklist to help you to start the recovery after a fire damage.

What to do after a fire damage

Call your insurance company immediately after a fire. After you went through the details with your insurance company, contact SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove so the fire damage cleanup process can begin quickly. Make sure to notify your mortgage company of the fire as well. If you're not sure that the home is structurally safe, have it inspected by a certified structural engineer or building inspector before going near. 

• Make sure to arrange a board up of any broken windows and doors.
• Take pictures of all exterior damages
• If you suspect that the structure in a room is unsafe, avoid entering the room.
• Turn off the power at the electrical panel.
• Wear long sleeves, long pants, closed toe shoes and gloves. To protect you from the soot as well as trying to prevent other items being contaminated.
• Try locating any important papers and documents.
• Any burnt money can be taken to a Regional Federal Reserve Bank for replacement
• Begin taking inventory of the building damage and all damaged items.
• Begin saving receipts for any expenses incurred after the fire. These may be needed when filing insurance claims.We're faster to any disaster

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Water Extraction is Important in Water Remediation

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Our new HVE3000 Extractor

When a water damage occurs in a home or business, the first step in water mitigation is to remove all of the water in the affected area as quickly as possible. this will stop the water from spreading to other rooms, as well as reducing the risk of permanent damage to hardwood floors and furniture.

When extracting water from a wet surface that may not have standing water will remove any water that is trapped in the cracks and grooves of the surface. this speeds up the drying process rather than only using a dehumidifier.

The process of water not only help prevent damage to the hardwood and furniture, but also reduce the risk of mold growth on the structure as standing water and damp areas are ideal for mold growth

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage. limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Seeing Mold in the Bathroom?

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

You might have seen mold in your bathroom, which can cause some concern. When the shower or bath have been used, you may see water droplets forming on the walls. This is happening when the bathroom doesn’t have proper ventilation and causing dew point to occur in the bathroom. Dew point is when the air is not able to hold the excess moisture that is usually caused by the shower or bath. Once the air has reached dew point water will start to form on the wall instead. This will cause the excess moisture to linger thus allowing great growing conditions for mold.

To help prevent mold properly ventilate your bathroom, opening a window or turning on the fan while you shower or take a bath. After you are finish you will want to leave the fan on to allow the atmosphere to return to normal conditions

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you.

If your home or business suffers from mold growth, call us today at (503) 648-8513

Roof leaking?

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

If you find mold in your attic you might have a leak in your roof that went unnoticed. A leak in the roof will allow moisture to enter your home thus creating an ideal growing condition for mold. Before doing any mold remediation it is ideal to have the roof repaired first or else you may have mold growth again if you wait on repairing the roof after having the mold removed

The most common roof leaks are the following:

• Ice dams
• Missing or broken shingles
• Damaged flashing

In the winter you could be experiencing an ice dam. Ice dams happen when the snow freezes at the edge of the roof causing water to back up and leak into your home. To prevent an ice dam try removing 2-4 feet of snow from the edge to prevent an ice dam from forming.

A storm can cause damage to your roof, it is a good idea to check your roof after a storm to see if the roof has any broken or missing shingles.

Damaged flashing will allow water to leak into your home. Check your flashing regularly to see if they have any damages.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you.

If your home or business suffers from mold growth, call us today at (503) 648-8513

Commercial Drying

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

Our managers at SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove have taken  the IICRC Commercial drying specialist (CDS) class and obtained special certification to complete water mitigation in commercial buildings. With this knowledge, our managers are able to effectively lead our crew chiefs that had taken and acquired the IICRC Advance structure drying (ASD) class. These certifications provide our management and crew the knowledge, and the experience that they have acquired while working at SERVPRO to be able to dry out a commercial building efficiently. There is no job that is too big or too small for our Professionals.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage, limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Heavy windstorms are likely in our future

10/30/2017 (Permalink)

As the fall and winter seasons approach, we can expect to experience heavy windstorms. When a wind storm occurs, the wind can get up to 50 miles per hour and sometimes the gusts can exceed of even higher wind speeds. When this happens, these gusts can create damages to the city and homeowners, it can be as small as creating power outages to as big as a tree falling into a house. Make sure to call SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove if you experience any damages to your home or business that has been caused by windstorms

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage, limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

Tips to help your home from flooding

10/30/2017 (Permalink)

A flood will occur when experiencing excessive rain, this causes rivers or streams to overflow. A flooding in a basement can be caused by water pooling around your home, this allows water to get into your home. A few tips can help prevent this. 

• Properly maintain your property. The slope in your yard and flower bed placement can direct the flow of the water towards your home, causing the water to pool at the base of your home. In some cases, it may be a good idea to install a French drain.
• Maintain the gutters and downspout. It is important to maintain your gutters and downspout as the debris will stop the flow of the water thus making the water run down the side of the building instead of flowing away from your home.
• If your home has a sump pump, it is a great way to help prevent your basement from flooding. This doesn't mean you can just forget about your pump, you will still need to maintain the pump to make sure it is still in working conditions. if you know a storm is coming, make sure you test your pump that it is still working. Having a second sump pump can be handy if your pump does fail. Also having a backup generator can keep your pump running even after the power goes out.

We're faster to any disaster

We are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage, limit further damages and reduces the cost. Our professional make disasters, "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business suffers from an emergency, call (503) 648-8513

John’s Tip of the Month

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

Water, it’s the essence of life. 

But when things go wrong it’s a whole different story. 
My friends in Boise had to wait until the end of summer to paddle board on the ponds in the city parks, due to the threat of E. coli from the spring flooding. When the health department tested to find the sources, they found human, dog, and goose feces to be the cause. 
Moving forward in time, the southeast is still recovering from record breaking hurricanes. I have read many reports of contaminated water. It’s a mix of bacteria, viruses, metals and other potentially toxic pollutants leached from the myriad of refineries and chemical plants in the area, along with an untold number of submerged septic tanks. 
So what does this have to do with us? 

We are just approaching our rainy season, and as we are very aware, there will be flooding somewhere in the area. We can’t change the weather but we can be prepared. Use the following list as a guide. 

• Preventative maintenance check list 
• Make sure the foundation grading slopes away from the building 
• Check for leaking plumbing 
• Make sure the plumbing is properly insulated 
• Check for missing insulation 
• Clean the area around the sump pump and check to make sure it is working order 
• Check the foundation vents they should be closed for the winter and open in the summer 
• Make sure the vapor barrier is intact 
• Check of pest 
• Make sure the roof components are in good condition 
• Flashing round vents and chimneys 
• Roof drains
• Rain gutters and gutter downspouts
• Clear landscape debris 
• Clean out all ground surface drains 
• Check all the door and window seals 

If a flood does happen you have the peace of mind knowing that the SERVPRO team will soon be on site, and they will make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Contact SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for emergency service when your house or business have water damage at 503-648-8513. We are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Preparing your pipes for the winter

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

As we roll into the month of October we are getting closer to winter home owners will start to prepare for the cold weather. One of the main cause of loss during the winter season is pipe bursting. Even after the weather starts warming up home owners will find out they have a pipe leak from crack pipes caused by the cold weather.

Tips for Preparing Your Pipes for Winter Weather:

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninstalled areas of your home.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets.
• Faucet covers are ideal for the outdoor faucets.
• Keep the temperature set to the same both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may get  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..

FROZEN PIPES - - A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

Fire Prevention Week

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.

That’s why this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme: “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!” is so important. It reinforces why everyone needs to have an escape plan. Here’s this year’s key campaign messages:

• Draw a map of your home by using NFPA Grid with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
• Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
• Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

This article comes from NFPA website at www.NFPA.org where you can find out more to help get your home prepared for any possible fires. 

Contact SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for emergency or non-emergency service when your house or business have fire damage at 503-648-8513. We are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

SERVPRO Biohazard and Crime Scene Cleanup

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove professionals are trained to safely and effectively removed bio-hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO professionals help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes, and offices. Like it never even happened 

Blood-borne Pathogens

SERVPRO professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime, or death. Trained SERVPRO technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.

Methamphetamine Labs

Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. SERVPRO professionals follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

Crime Scene Residues

From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Arson and Vandalism

SERVPRO professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. SERVPRO also provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods, and human or animal waste.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits- these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO professionals remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting as they clean. SERVPRO professionals help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, SERVPRO is ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact the professional biohazard cleaning service to discover more about our Tuscaloosa biohazard restoration services and secure our help.

Contact SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for emergency or non-emergency service when your house or business have any bio-hazardous substances at 503-648-8513. We are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year

Tips while you wait for help

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

What to do while you wait for SERVPRO to arrive for water loss?

          When water damage happens after a bad storm or plumbing issue, you could know about it a few minutes or days after it starts. Here are some tips to help you while you wait for our crews to reach your property:

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Once SERVPRO arrives they will determine if it is safe to turn the power back on.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture to a safe place
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. This help prevent any further water damage.
• If you have any fans use them! Have the airflow blowing on the wet material, this helps the water from spreading quickly.

• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet
• To avoid injuries do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. The ceiling drywall has a potential to fall.

Contact SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for emergency service when your house or business have water damage at 503-648-8513. We are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The clean up after a wildfire

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

Wildfires can happen almost anywhere.

Although the wildfire might not have caused fire damage to your property directly; there may be a smoke odor that can linger after the fire has been put out. There can even be soot particles and residue that may require cleaning. 

How can soot get inside your property?

 Soot can still enter your house through your HVAC unit and air ducts, even if your windows and doors are shut and vents are closed. These areas can hold large quantities of soot that can disperse all over your belongings and your home.

A wildfire will generally burn natural materials, but occasionally will burn man-made materials; which will leave soot particles that are difficult to remove.

At SERVPRO we use the best tools and trained professionals that are dedicated to leave your house smelling fresh and back to preloss condition so you can get your life back to normal. Like it never even happened.

Contact SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for emergency or non-emergency service when your house or business have fire damage at 503-648-8513. We are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is Hiring!

9/19/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Hiring!

SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove is currently hiring Production and Cleaning Technicians.

Primary Role: Perform services as assigned, following SERVPRO production guidelines. Communicate with the customer to make sure that all needs are met. Support crew chief and other production personnel as needed. Clean and maintain vehicles, equipment, warehouse and office areas as needed.

Results Expected: Production processes are performed according to guidelines and work orders. Communications to crew chief and customer are timely. Jobs are completed at or beyond customer expectations. Vehicles, equipment, and facilities remain clean, orderly, and working properly.

The requirements for this position:

• Must have a professional appearance and great attitude.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check with no felony convictions or misdemeanors involving violence or theft.
• Because we provide 24-hour emergency services, must be willing to be on call, as needed.
• Some night and weekend work is required.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
• Must have a high school diploma or a GED certificate.
  

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. This company does not and will not discriminate in employment and personnel practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, national origin, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Please call 503-648-8513 for more information or email your resume to erin@SERVPROhfyt.com

John’s Tip of the Month

9/18/2017 (Permalink)

Microbial growth colonies

BLEACH: THE GREATEST PRODUCT EVER?

Bleach has to be the best cleaning agent ever produced. We use it to whiten our laundry, kill gems, keep swimming pools safe, purify our drinking water, and to clean mold and mildew.

• It’s a miracle product and it’s so inexpensive.  

• Why would anyone consider using any anything else, or even a professional?

• Does bleach fall into the category of if it sounds too good to be true, it’s probably not true?

We know without a doubt that it is a very good whitening agent for our laundry. We also know that using chlorine in our drinking water keeps us free of water borne diseases.

But to remove mold, that’s just a myth.

To successfully remove mold you can’t just wipe the affected area down with bleach and have it go away.

So why is that?

Bleach will not work on any porous surface. Chlorine bleach is corrosive and that fact is stated on the product label (not to mention the exposure hazards of dioxins). The properties of chlorine bleach prevent it from “soaking into” wood-based building materials to get at the deeply embedded mycelia (roots) of mold. 

Without killing the roots, the mold will be back!

This is what the EPA says about bleach:

“Biocides are substances that can destroy living organisms. The use of a chemical or biocide that kills organisms such as mold (chlorine bleach, for example) is not recommended as a routine practice during mold cleanup.”

It is tempting to use bleach because it is so inexpensive, but this is a misconception. The possible health risks from the reoccurring mold will far outweigh any perceived savings, and should be enough to end the temptation.

The EPA states that any area greater than ten square feet should be cleaned by a professional. When it comes to mold remediation, the SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove and SERVPRO of Yamhill and Tillamook Counties techs are second to none.

If this is a persistent problem contact SERVPRO of Yamhill & Tillamook Counties and SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for emergency or non-emergency service when your house or business have water, mold, or fire damage at 503-648-8513. We are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

John’s Tip of the Month

9/18/2017 (Permalink)

Mold growth

Recently I was asked how to prevent the growth of mold.  Had they asked how to prevent a kid from growing tall that would have be easy, Mom always told me I would grow up too short when she caught me drinking coffee.

I will give an answer that was better than moms, as you know it didn’t work as I am taller than most people.

Mold, the very word is enough to make a person cringe.

     Yes, mold can be good — it's essential in making brie and penicillin, for example, and necessary for the decomposition of organic matter in nature — but it can also be very, very bad, especially when it grows undetected in your home.

   Mold spores spread easily and cannot be completely eradicated. Mold can grow anywhere: on carpet, clothing, food, paper, and even in places you can't see, such as the backside of drywall, areas inside walls around leaking or condensing pipes, and above ceiling tiles. Mold forms when spore, moisture and a food source are present.

     Not only is a mold problem difficult to fix, but mold can also produce allergens and irritants that may compromise your health.

     So what can you do if you're concerned about mold growing in your home or business? The best approach is preventing mold before it becomes a problem. The key to mold prevention is simple: moisture control.

     Here are nine ways to curb indoor moisture, and the mold that thrives on it.

1. Identify problem areas in your home or business and correct them. You can't mold-proof your home, but you can make it mold-resistant. Do an audit of your home or business: where are the problem areas? Does the basement flood? Do you notice frequent condensation on an upstairs window? Is there a water stain on the ceiling from a persistent leak? Preventing mold from growing or spreading might be as simple as installing mold-resistant products, or repairing damaged gutters. Or it may be a matter of major excavation and waterproofing. Whatever the case, address the problem now. It might cost some money up front, but it will surely be more costly down the road if mold continues to grow unchecked.
2. Dry wet areas immediately. Mold can't grow without moisture, so tackle wet areas right away. Seepage into the basement after a heavy rainfall, accumulation from a leaky pipe, even a spill on the carpet should be dried within 24 to 48 hours. If you've experienced a flood, call a professional at SERVPRO to properly dry out and restore affected areas. Even everyday occurrences need attention: don't leave wet items lying around the house or business, and make sure to dry the floor and walls after a shower. Don't leave wet clothes in the washing machine, where mold can spread quickly. Hang them to dry — preferably outside or in areas with good air circulation.
3. Prevent moisture with proper ventilation. It may be that your routine domestic activities are encouraging the growth of mold in your home or business. Make sure an activity as simple as cooking dinner, taking a shower, or doing a load of laundry doesn't invite mold by providing proper ventilation in your bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, and any other high-moisture area. Vent appliances that produce moisture — clothes dryers, stoves — to the outside (not the attic). Use AC units and dehumidifiers (especially in humid climates my AC unit produces up to three gallons of water a day), but make sure they don’t produce moisture themselves by checking them periodically and cleaning them as directed by the manufacturer. Your energy-efficient home may be holding moisture inside, so open a window when cooking or washing dishes or showering, or run an exhaust fan.
4. Equip your home with mold-resistant products. Building a new home or renovating an old one? Use mold-resistant products like mold-resistant drywall or mold-resistant Sheetrock, and mold inhibitors for paints. Traditional drywall is composed of a gypsum plaster core pressed between plies of paper. Mold-resistant drywall is paperless — the gypsum core is covered in fiberglass, making the surface highly water-resistant. Moisture-resistant drywall is especially valuable in areas prone to wetness, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, and kitchens. Not only is traditional drywall more susceptible to mold than the paperless kind, but it is also difficult to rid of mold, and removal and replacement can be expensive. Mold-resistant gypsum board is also available; the core of the drywall is developed in such a way to prevent moisture absorption, and thus prevent mold growth.
5. Monitor humidity indoors. The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30 and 60 percent. You can measure humidity with a moisture meter purchased from your local hardware store. You'll also be able to detect high humidity by simply paying attention to potential problem areas in your home. Telltale signs of excessive humidity include condensation on windows, pipes, and walls. If you notice condensation, dry the surface immediately and address the source of moisture (for example, turn off a humidifier if water appears on the inside of nearby windows).
6. Direct water away from your home. If the ground around your home isn't sufficiently sloped away from the foundation, water may collect there and seep into your crawlspace or basement.
7. Clean or repair roof gutters. A mold problem might be a simple matter of a roof that is leaking because of full or damaged gutters. Have your roof gutters cleaned regularly and inspected for damage. Repair them as necessary, and keep an eye out for water stains after storms that may indicate a leak.
8. Improve air flow in your home. According to the EPA, as temperatures drop, the air is able to hold less moisture. Without good air flow in your home, that excess moisture may appear on your walls, windows and floors. To increase circulation, open doors between rooms, move furniture away from walls, and open doors to closets that may be colder than the rooms they’re in. Let fresh air in to reduce moisture and keep mold at bay.
9. Keep mold off household plants. They're beautiful and help keep your indoor air clean — and mold loves them. The moist soil in indoor plants is a perfect breeding ground for mold, which may then spread to other areas of your house.

If this is a persistent problem contact SERVPRO of Hillsboro / Forest Grove for emergency or non-emergency service when your house or business have water, mold, or fire damage at 503-648-8513. We are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Floods and FEMA

6/6/2017 (Permalink)

FLOOD LOSSES and FEMA

I know we have got past of the worst of the flood season, but with all the talk of earthquakes, I thought this could be helpful.

Catastrophe situations typically involve numerous flood claims, making for brisk business for restoration companies like SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove. When a property owner states they have insurance, it would be wise to clarify if it is going to be a standard property claim, or insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). It is important to keep in mind that flood claims have to follow the rules of the Standard Flood Insurance Policy (SFIP) and there are some fairly significant differences from a standard homeowner’s policy.

Knowing the flood program rules can keep restorers like SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove from getting into hot water after a flood claim, especially if you are referred in by an agent. Nothing upsets a client or referring partner more than surprise charges the property owner must pay when, from the onset, everyone might have assumed it would be covered by the policy.
While restorers like SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove know exactly what is required to be done to restore the property to preloss condition, it is imperative that they know these standard procedures are not always covered by the SFIP -- which the flood adjuster must adhere to. There is no wiggle room when it comes to the SFIP, and it is important that the insured read their policy and coverage and make sure they understand the coverage and limitations, or contact their agent. When a restoration professional knows the rules, life becomes easier for all involved. 

FEMA produced a lengthy memo outlining what is allowed and what is not when it comes to restoration expenses after a flood loss. The memo is titled W-13025a and a quick web search will produce it. With this in mind, the following list represents a portion of some of the major points every restorer must know before beginning work on a flood claim using an SFIP policy. Refer to the memo for a full listing.

1. Water extraction from wet carpet is not covered by the SFIP. If your estimate lists water extraction as a line item, it will not be allowed for coverage. It is assumed the extraction cost is included in the cost to remove wet carpet, so restorers must include that cost in the removal line item.
2. Restorers must provide complete daily drying logs with their invoice. This includes readings of affected and non-affected areas, equipment outputs, and material readings, documenting the drying process. Without proper drying logs, flood adjusters are only able to pay the reasonable costs that should have been incurred via calculations provided by FEMA.
3. The SFIP will not pay for claims to dry building components that are typically removed as flood water is considered category three. The removal of carpet and drywall affected by flooding is a typical example. All wet materials must be removed prior to installing drying equipment or the equipment charges will not be allowed.
4. Air scrubbers and ozone machines are not allowed by the SFIP.
5. Contents manipulation charges are not allowed unless the property owner has contents coverage.
6. Equipment cleaning charges are not allowed by the SFIP as they are “included” in the unit price.
7. Charges for generators, negative air movers, air filtering equipment, and personal protection equipment are not allowed under the SFIP. Charges of this nature are to be included in removal charges.
8. When a claim includes drying a salvageable item, the charge to apply a sealer or preservative on the same item is not allowed unless there is documentation that the sealer or preservative was applied before the loss.
9. When a building’s electrical system is not operable the charge for a generator to power drying equipment is not allowed.
10. Lastly, always keep in mind the SFIP only pays for structures and contents directly damaged by flood water, not secondary damages, unless access to the property was restricted for a prolonged time. If charges or services are deemed excessive, meaning it goes far above and beyond what is typically expected in an invoice, the invoice will be sent to a third party auditing company, which will review the claim and determine the fair practices and charges that should have been submitted and pay the claim based on that. This makes it imperative to practice fair drying techniques and when pricing is adjusted to accommodate the NFIP rules, make sure it is justified.

Knowing the rules up front not only saves a restorer like SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove from complications at the conclusion of a claim, but further establishes them as a trusted expert at the onset of the claim.  

Sourced; from Restoration Remedies

For FEMA Earthquake information go to https://www.fema.gov/earthquake

WOW! What a Winter

6/6/2017 (Permalink)

Wow! What a Winter! 

When Storms or Floods Hit Hillsboro and Forest Grove SERVPRO is Ready!

12/27/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hillsboro and Forest Grove specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Hillsboro and Forest Grove, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 24/7 866-888-3894

Are You Ready?

12/27/2016 (Permalink)

ARE YOU READY?

Guess What? The rain is here again! We are faced with the challenge of keeping the water outside of your structures. We need to be diligent with this as water will migrate in for though the smallest leaks in a building. These leaks can cause hundreds or thousands of dollars of damage and reduce the income to your business. The exterior envelope should have an annual inspection.

When inspecting the roof look for broken or missing shingles or any damaged components of the roof. Check the flashing around any pipes or vents that come through the roof. The rain gutters need to be clean of debris and if they are equipped with heated cables they need to checked. Make all the repairs before the rain, snow and freezing weather strikes.

When inspecting the exterior walls of your building look for any damage to the siding, deteriorated or missing caulking around the doors and windows. Make all the repairs.

Al Ahlberg and Handyman Bob!

9/7/2016 (Permalink)

Al's Interview with Handyman Bob!

Al Ahlberg the Owner had a chance to meet and explain a little more about what we do with a local Handyman who also has a great radio show surrounding handyman topics!  Take a listen in and find out just what caliber of professionalism, knowledge and expertise SERVPRO of Hillsboro/Forest Grove has to offer.  We were very excited and grateful for this opportunity.  Handyman Bob is a staple in the local industry for all projects around your home and office.  If there is anyone that knows what it takes to put a place back together again it is Handyman Bob!

Tip of the Month by John Lawrence

9/7/2016 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month

Disaster recovery specialist SERVPRO says a readiness plan is the key to business continuity when disaster strikes

GALLATIN, Tenn. (Grassroots Newswire) September 1, 2015 - September is National Preparedness Month, an annual awareness event sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Disaster recovery specialist SERVPRO says this is a great time for business owners to review their emergency preparedness and business continuity plans. SERVPRO points to startling statistics like this one to emphasize the importance of advance planning: according to FEMA, as many as 40 percent of businesses never reopen following a major flood disaster.

“Business owners who think they are prepared for an emergency because exits are clearly marked and fire or flood drills are parts of the regular routine really need to take another look at their preparations,” said Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc. chief executive officer. “A comprehensive emergency plan also contains critical information about the location of shut-off valves, fire suppression system controls, and emergency contact numbers and more—information that can save emergency responders precious time and help contain damage and minimize injury.”

Because SERVPRO knows the time to create a disaster readiness plan is before you need it, they have developed the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program to help business owners create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for their facility, at no charge. The business owner works with SERVPRO to gather and document information that will become critical if a disaster strikes. Once the ERP is created, business owners have access to their information 24/7 online and by using SERVPRO’s free smartphone app.

“For a business to survive and thrive, it needs to get back to business as soon as possible after a disaster strikes,” said Steen. “With an ERP in place, SERVPRO’s Disaster Response teams can immediately assess the situation and take the first critical steps to protect employees from harm and property from further damage setting the business on the road to recover

On a local note I had an opportunity to participate in a live evacuation drill at Columbia Care Center.  I was very impressed with how well the drill was planned and carried out. However, even with the entire advance planning, things can still go wrong. The evacuation was going smoothly until a bed ridden resident needed to be evacuated. It was only then that they discovered the bed was too large to maneuver around the corners of the evacuation route. This slowed the evacuation process to a crawl, losing precious time. This issue did not become known until the drill was performed live. This drill illustrated that planning and practicing is the best way to ensure safety for all the residents. 

Last winter, Kilchi’s House in Tillamook was evacuated due to severe winter conditions. Debbie, their Executive Director offers this advice, “Make sure the community is ready to go (With a cart) with pillows, blankets and comfort items for the residents as well as the staff and this cart should be on standby with the rest of your emergency supplies.”

Disasters will and do happen.

Locally, floods, mudslides, fires and even broken pipes have led to evacuations.

Is your property READY?

Tip of the Month by John Lawrence

9/7/2016 (Permalink)

ARE THERE RACCOONS LIVING WITH YOU

Last month’s Tip of the Month focused on the Hospitality Industry dealing with prevention of suicides.

From this discussion I learned there are a lot of people that don’t have a good understanding of what biohazards are and why they are dangerous to one’s health.

So what is a biohazard? According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary:

A biological agent or condition that is a hazard to humans or the environment; also:  a hazard posed by such an agent or condition

Bio-Hazard threats can be found anywhere. Your work place, your health provider’s office, the grocery store, your child’s school or day care and even your own home! – Biohazard’s should be handled with extreme caution.

What are some biohazard examples?

• Human blood and blood products. This includes items that have been contaminated with blood and other body fluids or tissues that contain visible blood.
• Animal waste. Animal carcasses, body parts, and feces or any bedding material used by animals that are known to be infected with pathogenic organisms.
• Human body fluids. Semen, cerebrospinal fluid, pleural fluid, vaginal secretions, pericardial fluid, amniotic fluid, saliva, and peritoneal fluid.
• Microbiological wastes. Common in laboratory settings, examples of microbiological wastes include specimen cultures, disposable culture dishes, discarded viruses, and devices used to transfer or mix cultures.
• Pathological waste. Unfixed human tissue (excluding skin), waste biopsy materials, and anatomical parts from medical procedures or autopsies.
• Sharps waste. Needles, glass slides and cover slips, scalpels, and IV tubing that have the needle attached.

Biohazard Safety Levels with Examples

There are 4 levels of biohazards, according to the Centers for Disease Control:

• Biohazard Level 1: Agents that pose minimal threat to humans and the environment. E. coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Naegleria gruberi.
• Biohazard Level 2: Agents that can cause severe illness in humans and are transmitted through direct contact with infected material. Examples include HIV, hepatitis B, and salmonella.
• Biohazard Level 3: Pathogens that can become airborne and cause serious diseases. Examples include tuberculosis and Coxiella burnetii.
• Biohazard Level 4: Pathogens that pose a high risk of life-threatening disease for which there are no treatments. Examples include the Ebola virus and Lassa virus.

If you find yourself face to face with a potential biohazardous situation that is too big or too dangerous for you to handle on your own, let me know and I will send our trained professional staff to give you the help you need.

Tip of the Month by John Lawrence

9/7/2016 (Permalink)

Taking Steps to Help Prevent Suicides in Hotels While working on the new “Tip of the Month,” I was talking to my wife about a hotel I once worked with in Idaho. 

Tip of the Month by John Lawrence

9/7/2016 (Permalink)

THE UNWANTED GUEST
I have seen a big ramp up for this year’s tourist season and by all indications it should be a good one. But this comes with some risk one of which is the subject of this month’s Tip of the Month.

The unwanted guest that nasty little bed bug. That hitchhiked in with a guest from abroad. I wrote an article about bed bugs a couple of years ago and with new staff on board and tourist on the way it is a good time to brush up on the issue.

So What Are They?
Bed Bugs are parasitic insects of the Cimicid family that feed exclusively on human blood. They are mostly nocturnal. They can cause skin rashes, allergic symptoms and psychological effects. They have been with us for thousands of years they were almost eradicated in the 1940’s in the developed world, but they have become resistant to pesticides and have made a comeback, they are here to stay.
We are all afraid of them.

Where Do They Come From
California and Washington have a high concentration of bed bugs this put us at risk of an outbreak here in Oregon. But as you can see from the map they can come from anywhere.

• How do we keep them out of our place of business
• Actually we can’t, but we can be proactive
• What about the guests that see them

These are all real issues and they carry a lot of weight. This problem must be properly addressed to avoid a negative outcome.

So Now What
As business owners and managers it is crucial to train your employees to know how to spot bed bugs as soon as they arrive. There needs be policies in place to deal with guests or residents that have encountered them. Have protocol call in place to get rid of them.

Bed Bug Prevention (Early Detection)
There is no way to stop bed bugs from being brought into your facility. New folks are arriving every day from all over the world, and bringing their potentially infested personal items with them. You can be bed bug free one day and infested the next.
So prevention relies on early detection. Bed bugs must be detected very quickly after they are brought in, hopefully before they bite someone.

We have the equipment to help you facilitate an early bed bug detection program to prevent an infestation. All employees in every department should receive bed bug identification training. Why everyone? Because your employees are located all over the facility and if everybody is looking for bed bugs there is greater chance that they will be discover quickly. Also keep in mind that guests are not the only people capable of bringing bed bugs into your facility.

How to Get Rid Of Them
Heat Treatments
Some pest control firms utilize specialized heating equipment to de-infest furnishings, rooms, and entire dwellings. The procedure involves heating up the infested item or area to temperatures lethal to bed bugs. Portable heaters and fans are used to gradually heat the air to 120 - 130°F while monitoring with strategically placed sensors. By carefully controlling the temperature, bugs and eggs are killed wherever they may be. When dealing with high temperatures it very important to check with the fire suppression company to make sure that you DO NOT EXCEED THE WORKING TEMPERATURE OF THE SPRINKLERS and remove all aerosol products.

Insecticides
While the former methods are helpful, insecticides are widely used by most pest control companies. A variety of EPA-registered materials are available formulated as liquids, dusts and aerosols. Baits used to control ants and cockroaches are ineffective in this case since bed bugs feed on blood. Professional-use insecticides such as Temprid®, Transport® and Phantom® tend to be more effective than bed bug sprays sold by retailers. Bleach, alcohol, cigarette lighters, etc. should NOT be used to control bed bugs. Besides being ineffective, such actions can result in fires and other dangerous outcomes.

Important Note
It is extremely important that no employee ever attempt to treat bed bugs themselves. Making pesticide applications in a facility when you are not a certified applicator is a lawsuit waiting to happen. Also, attempting to treat bed bugs when you have no experience will interfere with your pest management company’s treatment plan and potentially increase the bed bug problem. Always have bed bug infestations treated by an experienced pest management company. If your current company does not have bed bug experience, call us for suggestions or an inspection.

Sources for this article came from the following:
Michael F. Potter, Extension Entomologist
University of Kentucky College of Agriculture
Dini M. Miller, Ph.D., Department of Entomology, Virginia Tech
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bed_bug

For More Info See:

http://www.bloomberg.com/bw/stories/2007-11-08/the-cost-of-bedbugsbusinessweek-business-news-stock-market-and-financial-advice

http://www.ndhealth.gov/Disease/Documents/faqs/Bed%20Bugs.pdf

http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7454.html

www.SERVPROyamhilltillamookcounties.com

Tip of the Month by John Lawrence

9/7/2016 (Permalink)

IS YOUR FACILITY AT RISK?

I found this Risk Assessment Questionnaire and I believe that it is good tool to use to help stay on top of the maintenance and operations of your facility.*

This assessment covers Fire Protection, Electrical, Plumbing, HAVAC, Operational Issues and Community Rooms.

 Over the years we have restored many businesses that had fallen behind on their maintenance and had AVOIDABLE DISASTERS!

Note: State and Local government generally establish inspection schedules as part of building codes. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establish requirements related to workplace safety. Use of this questionnaire should take into account the various regulatory requirements for inspection and testing. Also, a building’s use and occupancy, including visitors, may determine the level or risk—the presence of children and/or elderly or disabled persons may increase some risk.

Risk Assessment Questionnaire

FIRE PROTECTION

• Is there an automatic detection system
• Are there smoke and fire alarm systems
• Are the systems inspected and serviced annually
• Are there sufficient number of fire extinguishers of the appropriate class
• Are the fire extinguishers readily identifiable
• Are the fire extinguishers inspected and recharge annually
• Are there automatic sprinklers and/or standpipe and hoses in the building
• Are they inspected annually
• Is the fire suppression systems tested according to the local codes

 ELECTRICAL

• Are all of the breaker and fuses enclosed in metal cabinets that close securely
• Are all circuits easily identifiable
• Are all of the fuse or breakers sized for the equipment or lighting they control
• Is the area in front of the panels assessable
• Are there reoccurring problems with fuses or breakers being continually tripping
• Do metal-enclosed switch gears receive scheduled preventative maintenance
• Are ground fault interrupters (GFIs) utilized in potentially wet or damp areas
• Are surge protectors used on phone systems, computers, and office equipment? They are generally required on leased equipment
• Are extension cords use for permanent power sources in lieu of hard wiring or adding an outlet
• Are space heaters being used to augment the HVAC system
• Are tenants reminded not use extension cord as permanent power sources and not to use space heaters
• Is there proper space around and above recessed lighting
• If there is a back power supply is inspected and test on a regular schedule i.e. backup batteries or a generator
• Are the electrical rooms and cabinets that accessible from common areas kept locked.

PLUMBING & DRAINS

• Are water and drain pipes, seals, etc., inspected periodically for leaks
• Are pipes properly insulated (this very important due to the fact we don’t have hard freezes)
• Clear rain gutters annually
• Clean and clear storm water run-off drains bi-annually

HVAC

• Has the HVAC system been inspected and serviced with in the past year
• Is the boil’s low water cutoff/water supply flushed out every month during the heating season
• Dose the boiler meet fire code requirements concerning noncombustible material and proper fire rated doors and closers
• Is the boiler room properly ventilated
• Is the boiler room inspected periodically to ensure that no combustible materials are stored there
• Are vents and chimney flues inspected annually for clear passage
• Is there a program in place for cleaning ductwork and diffusers
• Are windows checked periodically to ensure that they open and close properly and fasteners are in good operating condition
• Are windows system checked periodically to ensure that they are not deteriorating
• Is installed window-washing apparatus and/or scaffolding properly attached to the roof decking

        OPERATIONAL ISSUES

• Dose the building have Emergency Ready Profile (emergency procedures manual)
• Dose the building have a safety committee
• Do building staff receive appropriate training related to blood borne pathogens, first aid, and other emergency response subjects 

        COMMUNITY ROOM

• What is the maximum occupancy of your community room Is it posted
• Are exits keep clear
• When positioning furniture for functions, are clear aisles maintained for quick and easy egress in an emergency
• Is the range and or microwave oven maintained in a clean and manner? Are orifices in gas ranges kept clear
• Are there curtains or any other combustible material near the range
• Is there a properly sized and vented range hood
• Is grease periodically cleaned from the hood and ductwork
• Has a Class B fire extinguisher been provided in the kitchen area
• Are the coils on the refrigerator/freezer kept clean of dirt and lint

*Source DexerityDynamics

Tip of the Month by John Lawrence

9/7/2016 (Permalink)

“I should have used you guys….” Ever had someone send you an email with that statement? I did recently which made me realize that I should share this experience with you.

“My discount contractors did a lousy job! Then, I had to pay someone to come in and correct their issues as well!!”
After receiving this email I peeled back the onion and found they had fallen into the trap of using the “low cost service provider” to save money!

What I discovered from this incident was a handyman was hired at discounted rate. The plan was to use a local handyman and save on the repairs and they could help a local small business at the same time, it was an ideal win-win scenario.

Tip of the Month by John Lawrence

9/7/2016 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

? A no cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.

? A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.

? A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.

? Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.

? Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.

? Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Psychrometrics : The Science of Drying

8/6/2015 (Permalink)

Proactive planning with an ERP and Drybook documention on site gives control back before chaos even has a chance.

Psychrometrics : The Science of Drying

Psychrometry is the study of the air and its properties. The properties of temperature, humidity, vapor pressure and dew point are measured to evaluate air conditions in the structure, enabling a SERVPRO® Franchise Professional to create the proper atmosphere for more efficient drying.  

Water can damage materials in two ways:  first, by absorption through direct contact with water; and second, absorption of moisture from the air. Measuring the moisture content of the air is critical to the drying process.  

At SERVPRO we employ several tools and techniques to aid the drying process and accelerate it as well.  Our most important asset is our people and the knowledge they bring to the damaged property.  We are highly trained teams of IICRC Certified Water damage restoration professionals.  This means when you call SERVPRO you are getting the highest quality of professionals to address any size disaster.  We are very proud to be a leader in the emergency services and disaster restoration industry.