10 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes in your Northern Lake County Home

1/20/2023 (Permalink)

Burst plumbing can release up to 12 gallons of water per minute! That can create a water damage disaster.

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

Insulate Pipes  

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

Open Cabinet Doors

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

Keep Thermostat Settings Consistent 

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

Seal Crawl Spaces

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

Use Heating Tape  

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

Keep Garage Doors Closed  

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

Let Faucets Drip  

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

Seal Cracks and Openings  

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

Open Interior Doors  

This will help keep temperature consistent through your home.  

Keep the Heat On 

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

Even if you diligently maintain your home, you may still sustain damage from frozen plumbing.  In the event you need immediate help, call SERVPRO of Gurnee any time at 847-838-2954.  We are here to help 24/7/365 and will even call a plumber for you if needed.

Safe Biohazard Cleanup for Northern Lake County, IL Businesses

12/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee's technicians are certified in biohazard remediation.

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

A typical example of commercial jobs that require professional biohazard cleanup includes sewage backup or flooding that allows contaminated water to enter one or more areas of your business property. The contaminants contained in sewage are many -- human and animal waste, fertilizer and road chemical runoff, insects and vermin, and rotten food and other waste are just a few. Our crews receive baseline and updated training on how to manage these biohazards safely and effectively. 

Human or animal fluids and waste deposited through other means such as traumatic injury or violent crime on your premises also needs our expert attention. The viruses, bacteria, parasites, and other pathogens involved in blood and other secretions need to be managed using protocols developed by OSHA, the EPA, and local health authorities. Proper cleaning with registered disinfectants is key to restoring your workplace, and SERVPRO of Gurnee has experience with biohazards and innovative commercial cleaning products to achieve your goals.

Your business may also suffer from a chemical spill or other spread of biohazard. This often is a complication of a flooding scenario where your own inventory or cleaning and maintenance products are knocked over or soaked through, contributing to the dangers in the water contained in your building. SERVPRO of Gurnee contains such contaminated water and ensures that it is disposed of properly to keep you, your employees and customers, and the general public safe from harm.

During these catastrophic events, it is critical that your biohazard cleanup company be not only professional and effective but also completely discreet. Our team can return your business to a safe and healthy condition, “Like it never even happened.” For you to retain the confidence of your employees and customers, the process must be transparent yet ethical and without unnecessary drama or scare tactics.

SERVPRO of Gurnee is a full-service restoration company, poised to assist with your biohazard cleanup needs. Contact us at 847-838-2954 for fast and confidential help.

A Glowing Recommendation from a Lake County Customer

12/27/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

One such example of this comes from a review written on our website by a customer who experienced damage in his home. Kevin J. writes:

"We can’t overstate how pleased we are with the project just completed today by Josh of SERVPRO.  Not only is the workmanship excellent, it was completed quickly and with minimal intrusion.  Additionally, we noticed that Josh went above and beyond (on his own initiative) to correct a couple of other things he discovered in the process of repairing our bathroom.  What a great ambassador for SERVPRO he is…and our little dog fell in love with him too.  BONUS!  We also want to express our appreciation to Nicolle for the great job she did coordinating the project throughout.  She too was very accommodating and helpful at every step of the process.  We hope not to require such services again, at least not for a very long time.  But if/when we do, there won’t be a moment of hesitation in placing the call for SERVPRO to come to the rescue!”

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done. We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365.  Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

During the Storm: Winter Storm Safety in Northern Lake County, IL

12/12/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Limit your time outside.

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

Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

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

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

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

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

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

Fire Restoration 101: Structure Cleaning Methods

11/28/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

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

High Oxygen

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

Low Oxygen

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

Kitchen/Grease

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

Remember that SERVPRO of Gurnee is available 24/7/365 to restore your home or business after damage from fire.  Our professionals are highly trained and experienced in this type of cleaning, and will work hard to take the worry out of your restoration process.  Call us today at 847-838-2954.

Northern Lake County Flooded Basements

11/20/2022 (Permalink)

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

Flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall, but can happen any time for a variety of reasons.  Basements are more prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building or home and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

SERVPRO of Gurnee personnel are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week/365 days a year
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to most National Insurance Companies
• We Can Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• We use advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

A flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Gurnee and letting our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

Basement Flooded? Call SERVPRO of Gurnee Today- We’re Ready To Help - 847-838-2954

Portable Fire Extinguishers in Your Northern Lake County Business

10/28/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

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

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Fire extinguishers do have their limitations, so it is important that you have the correct one in your facility.  Fires start within a matter of seconds.  In the event you incur more extensive damages and need professional assistance, please contact SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954 for more information.  We are Here to Help!

Providing an Outstanding Customer Experience in Northern Lake County, IL

10/27/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

One such example of this comes from a review written on our website by a customer who experienced water damage in his home. Harold C. writes:

"Both Ken and Ralf were excellent. They explained exactly what they were doing and were very efficient and polite. They worked quietly and precisely.”

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done. We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365.  Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Pre-Storm Winter Storm Preparedness in Northern Lake County, IL

10/12/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

Know your area’s risk

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

Prepare your home to keep out the cold

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

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

Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

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

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

Create an emergency supply kit for your car.

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

Learn the signs of and basic treatments for frostbite and hypothermia

In the event that your home sustains damage from a winter storm, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954.  Our trained professionals are standing by 24/7/365 to assist with your emergencies.

Fire Restoration 101: Structure Cleaning

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

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

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

When fire damage takes control of your life, we help you take it back. SERVPRO of Gurnee is ready and waiting for your call 24/7/365. Contact us for more information at 847-838-2954.

Content Restoration after Water Damage

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee can help dry and restore your commercial or residential space.

Restore Vs. Replace

We specialize in cleaning contents after water damage. SERVPRO of Gurnee strives to restore instead of replace to help keep insurance costs down and save your sentimental items. So how do we assess items that have been exposed to water? There are a few main considerations: 

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

When should you replace?

• Soft/Porous contents affected by water containing sewage.  Category 3 or “Black Water”
• Materials have been affected for an extended period of time and are showing signs of microbial growth.

When can you restore?

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

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

Preparing Northern Lake County Businesses for Disaster: What is an ERP?

8/28/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

An ERP includes:

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

Please contact SERVPRO of Gurnee today at 847-838-2954 for more information.  We are here to help!

Providing 5 Star Customer Service in Northern Lake County

8/27/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

One such example of this comes from a review written on our website by a customer who experienced biohazard damage in his home. Ron M. writes:

"SERVPRO had to do a total demolition and restoration of the inside of my house due to a biohazard. Ken and Josh went above and beyond to help with item removal that was not part of their job. Really great guys and sympathetic to the stress I was having to deal with during this ordeal. Cody Hutt was their Production Manager. Dealt with my insurance company to get the most to cover damage I was not aware of. Great bunch of guys. Thanks.”

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done. We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365.  Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.  

Insurance Coverage for Storm Damage

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Wind Damage

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

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

Hail Damage

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

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

Lightning Damage

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

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

Flood Insurance

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

Roof Replacement Cost Coverage

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

Matching Siding Coverage

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

Sump Pump Coverage

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

In the event you do suffer damage from a storm, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954 for your restoration or repair concerns.  We are here to help 24/7/365.

Fire Restoration 101: Levels of Fire Damage

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

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

Levels of Fire Damage

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

Minor Fire Damage

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

Moderate Fire Damage

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

Major Fire Damage

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

A fire of any size is one of the most devastating events a home or business owner can encounter. Each smoke and fire damage situation is different, and each requires a unique solution.  SERVPRO of Gurnee has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore fire and smoke damage.  It is our number one priority to treat your family with respect and your property with care.  Call us today at 847-838-2954 for a no cost assessment.

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

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help take the stress out of your water or sewer cleanup and restoration. We are available for your call 24/7/365.

EJECTOR PUMP

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

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

SUMP PUMP

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

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

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

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

In the event you do sustain damage from a failed ejector pump or sump pump, SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help 24/7/365.  Give us a call at 847-838-2954 for a no-cost assessment of your water damage situation.

5 Star Customer Experience in Northern Lake County

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

One such example of this comes from a review written on our website by a customer who experienced water damage in her home. Gretchen M. writes:

"These boys descended on my MESS and quickly stopped the water damage and started the drying process. We are only on day 2 after the flooding but they’ve already checked in again to see how things are going. They were polite and working quickly and knew what they were doing. Thanks to all the guys that were here- Josh, Ralph, Jared and David!!"

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done. We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365.  Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Board-Up Services for your Northern Lake County, IL Business

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

What is a “board-up”?

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

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

Why should broken windows and doors be boarded up?

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

How do I board up my own windows?

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

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

If your business is damaged by a storm or by vandalism, let us take some of the worry away by keeping the interior of your building safe and secure.  SERVPRO of Gurnee has seen countless board-up situations, and we are always available for your call at 847-838-2954.

Lake County Tornado Season is Here: Be Prepared and Safe

6/12/2022 (Permalink)

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

Prepare:

• Know the signs of a tornado, including a rotating funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, or a loud roar similar to a freight train.
• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.  Become familiar with your community's sirens.
• Pay attention to weather reports. Meteorologists can predict when conditions might be right for a tornado.
• Identify and practice going to a safe shelter for high winds, such as a safe room built using FEMA criteria or a storm shelter built to ICC 500 standards. The next best protection is a small, interior, windowless room in a sturdy building on the lowest level.

Survive:

• Immediately go to a safe location that you identified.
• Take additional cover by shielding your head and neck with your arms and putting materials such as furniture and blankets around you.
• Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle. 
• If you are in a car or outdoors and cannot get to a building, cover your head and neck with your arms and cover your body with a coat or blanket, if possible. 

Recover:

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

In the event your home or business is damaged by a tornado or high winds, SERVPRO of Libertyville/North Chicago City/Lake Bluff is available 24/7/365 to assist in securing your property.  Our reconstruction team is experienced in restoring properties from this type of damage, working in conjunction with your insurance company to bring your home or business back to life.  Call us today at 847-557-1080.

Fire Restoration 101: Types of Soot

6/4/2022 (Permalink)

It's not poor housekeeping! These are soot webs caused by wet soot formed during a house fire.

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

Wet Soot - Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Soot - Paper and Wood

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

Protein Soot - Food products

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

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

Call SERVPRO of Gurnee today at 847-838-2954 for a free inspection to assess your unique situation.

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

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

Water/Sewer Backup Coverage

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

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

Flood Insurance

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

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

In the event you do sustain property damage from any type of flooding, SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help.  We are available 24/7/365 at 847-838-2954 for your emergencies.

Making Happy Customers in Northern Lake County Illinois

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

One such example of this comes from a review written on our website by a customer who experienced a vehicle crashing into his home in the middle of the night! Raphael S. writes:

"A car ran into my house.  Ken and Ralph who came out to my house to board up my house did a great job.  They were very neat and did a wonderful job with the clean up!"

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done. We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365.  Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Commercial Duct Cleaning in Northern Lake County Illinois

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Gurnee today to schedule your spring duct cleaning!

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

How does our SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System work?

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

For more information or to schedule a residential or commercial duct cleaning appointment, contact SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954.

Preparing your Home for Spring Storm Season in Northern Lake County

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

Sign up for weather text alerts

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

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

Evaluate your home’s exterior

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

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

Check your sump pump

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

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

Weather can be unpredictable, but you can still prepare for the unexpected.  Talk with your local insurance agent to review your homeowner’s coverage, and call SERVPRO of Gurnee in the event your home sustains damage.  We are available to take your call 24/7/365 at 847-838-2954.

Fire Restoration 101: Pretesting

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire why is pretesting so important?

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

Factors determined by pretesting:

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

Pretesting helps to ensure our customers are back into their home as soon as possible, within a realistically accurate time estimate. For help 24/7/365, call on the professionals at SERVPRO of Gurnee today at 847-838-2954.  We are here to help.

Sump Pump Maintenance Saves Northern Lake County Homeowners Thousands in Water Damage

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Proper sump pump maintenance mitigates your risk of water damage, potentially saving tens of thousands of dollars.

A number of homes that SERVPRO of Gurnee personnel have recently inspected had flooded basements or other living areas. During the initial inspection process, it was often discovered that a sump pump failure was the culprit of the damage.

Here are some steps that homeowners and business owners can take to ensure their sump pump are operating properly and mitigating their risk of property damage:

Every 3-4 months

• Clean pump inlet screen
• Check power cord / make sure the cord is plugged in
• Make sure the pump turns on by dumping a bucket or two of water into the sump, this will also help to determine if the float is operating correctly up and down.

Annually

• Take the pump out of the sump to clean and inspect it for any obvious defects
• Clean out the sump
• Grease/lubricate any necessary bearings on the pump. Check the owners manual for maintenance instructions.
• Lower the pump back into its correct position in the sump
• Test the pump and float by dumping a bucket or two of water into the sump.

Most importantly, if you do not feel comfortable taking care of the maintenance or are not mechanically inclined, ask the company that installed it to do the maintenance or for a referral for a company that can. Regular maintenance of your sump pump will help keep your water prone areas safe from flooding and keep your home environment a safe livable space for years to come. A little maintenance will go a long way.

In the event you do suffer a property loss due to water damage, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954.  We are here to help with your emergencies 24/7/365.

Reducing Business Interruption in Northern Lake County Illinois

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

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

Call SERVPRO of Gurnee today for assistance at 847-838-2954.  Our professionals are available for your emergencies 24/7/365.

Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist

3/20/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

Make sure your sump pump is totally upright. Your sump pump should be sitting on solid, even ground. Any sort of leaning can shift the water in the pump’s pit and put unnecessary pressure on its components.

Open it up. Take the cover off the sump pump pit or basin and have a look inside. Clear any debris, mud or rocks that you find, as any foreign items can clog your sump pump and cause an overflow.

Double-check the drain hose. Check to make sure the drain hose is connected, and that it’s not blocked or frozen. A clogged drain hose can cause your sump pump to run continuously, as it won’t be able to dispose of the water that’s filled its pit.

Clear out the inlet screen. Make sure the inlet screen is allowing water to enter your sump pump’s pit. If your inlet screen is blocked, water won’t be able to make its way into the sump pumps pit and could lead to a basement flood.

Keep it afloat. Your sump pump’s float controls when it will turn on and pump excess water out. Make sure the float component can move freely and isn’t blocked. A malfunctioning float can cause your pump to not run when it’s supposed to, or run constantly, eventually burning out your pump’s engine.

Make sure it’s flowing away from your house. The next time you hear your sump pump running, go outside and make sure its discharge pipe is pumping the water away from your home at a safe distance. If it’s too close, the water could seep back into your pump, causing your pump to run continuously and inefficiently. The more your sump pump runs, the more likely it is to burn out early in its life span.

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

Give your sump pump a test run. Fill the pit with a bucket of water to turn your pump on. Watch it carefully to see if it’s getting rid of the water, then check the discharge pipe outside to make sure it’s disposed of properly. If the pump doesn’t run, make sure it’s plugged in and its power cord is in working order.

Plan for the unexpected. Having a backup battery or generator can be crucial if a strong rain storm comes complete with a power outage. And eventually, your sump pump may give out without the help of a power outage. To avoid the stress of trying to buy and install a new sump pump while the water seeps closer and closer to your basement, have a backup sump pump handy — and be sure to test it regularly, too.

Call a professional. You’ve checked the power cords, discharge pipe, inlet screen and every other piece of the pump, but still can’t figure out what’s wrong. It’s time to call a professional! Risking your basement and everything else in it isn’t worth maintaining your pride as a handyman or woman — get it fixed and fast!

If worse comes to worst, and you do have a backup and need assistance with damage from water or sewage, call SERVPRO of Gurnee for 24/7 help at 847-838-2954.

Commercial Cleaning in Northern Lake County Illinois

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & HOSPITAL DISINFECTANT

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

SERVPROXIDE®

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

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

Call SERVPRO of Gurnee today for assistance at 847-838-2954.

SERVPRO Supports Northern Lake County Law Enforcement Agencies

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Five-star customer service is our number one priority. We love hearing positive comments from our customers when our team completes a job well done!

At SERVPRO of Gurnee, we find as many opportunities as possible to support our local First Responders.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service, caring, and a positive attitude. 

One such example of this comes from a review left on our website by a customer who was in need of disinfecting after an outbreak of COVID-19 in his facility.  Commander K. writes,

"I would like to thank the staff that disinfected our Police Department after a recent exposure. They worked feverishly and did outstanding job. They were professional and courteous and didn't stop working for one second after they got started. I would recommend SERVPRO to anyone. Thanks to; April, Jose, Ana, Jesus, Emerson and Ignacio. What assets and dedicated workers. Thank you and keep up the great work."

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Water Damage Timeline

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage doesn't wait! Call SERVPRO of Gurnee for help today at 847-838-2954.

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

Storm Preparedness in Northern Lake County, IL: Protecting Your Property

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Icicles formed on your gutters could cause structural damage to your home. This is due to ice melting and refreezing.

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

Winterize Your Home

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

Insulate Water Pipes

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

Clear Rain Gutters

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

Install Battery-Operated Carbon Monoxide Detectors

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

Hire a Contractor

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

Keep Fire Extinguishers on Hand

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

Maintain Heating Equipment

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

In the event your property does become damaged despite your best efforts, SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help.  Call today for a free estimate.  We are available at 847-838-2954, 24/7/365.

Ice Dam Tips for Northern Lake County Home and Business Owners

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

Tips for handling and preventing ice dams

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

If you have experienced interior water damage in your home or business, please utilize the professionals at SERVPRO of Gurnee.  Our trained technicians are available 24/7/365 to assist with your water emergencies. Call today at 847-838-2954.

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

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SERVPRO of Gurnee is available to assist with damage of any severity 24/7 in your home or business.  Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954. 

Source: SERVPRO Industries, LLC

Storm Preparedness in Northern Lake County, IL: Emergency Supplies

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

Emergency Communication

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

Medical Needs

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

Critical Documents

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

Tools and Safety Items

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

Food/Supplies

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

Warm Clothing and Blankets

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

In the event that your home or business is damaged by severe weather, please don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954 for assistance.  Our team is available 24/7/365 for your water damage emergencies as well as a variety of other property repairs.

Renters Insurance: Benefits for Northern Lake County Landlords and Tenants

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

Renter’s insurance is relatively inexpensive but can save tenants and property owners thousands in the event of a disaster.

Requiring renters insurance for your tenants is not required by law, but some landlords make renters insurance mandatory as part of their lease. When executed correctly, requiring your tenant to have their own renters insurance policy is legal. Learn the benefits of requiring renters insurance as a landlord and what protections it provides to both you and your tenants.

Landlord insurance vs. Renter’s insurance?

Rental property insurance typically only provides coverage and protection to the structure and the owner or landlord -- the coverage is not extended to the tenant.

Renters insurance provides certain protections to tenants that would typically fall outside of what is covered in a landlord insurance policy. For example, a renters insurance policy can provide coverage of the tenant's personal belongings and provide additional liability protection in the event there is damage to the property by the fault of the tenant or a guest of the tenant.

For the Tenant

Protection of personal property:

One of the biggest benefits to a tenant is having protection for their personal effects in the event they are damaged or stolen. Even if the damage to the property, such as an electrical fire or storm, would be covered in the landlord's property insurance policy, the tenant's personal effects would not be included. 

Personal Liability coverage

If damage is caused to the property and the tenant or a guest of the tenant is found at fault, rental property insurance will provide liability insurance repaying part or all of the replacement cost or repair cost for the damage done. 

For the Landlord

Lowers Liability

Renters insurance provides some security by reducing the potential for litigation between the landlord and tenant. For example, if the tenant doesn't have renters insurance and their personal effects are lost, they may pursue legal charges for the cost or replacement of their belongings.

In another example, the tenant may attempt to take the landlord to court if they or one of their guests are injured on the property and do not have adequate health insurance to help cover related medical expenses. Renters insurance provides tenant coverage up to a specified amount, reducing the likelihood of litigation and reducing the landlord's overall liability.

Supplements relocation costs

If the property is damaged and is considered uninhabitable until the repair or replacement is completed, some states may require the landlord to find temporary housing for the tenant while the work is completed. Maybe a pipe burst and the flooring of the property needs to be replaced. If the tenant has renters insurance, this can help pay for some or all of the cost relating to relocation and temporary housing expenses for the tenant.

Provides financial protection for the landlord

If the tenant causes damage to the property, your property insurance policy may cover the cost for damages at no additional cost to you. However, you as the landlord are still responsible for paying the deductible. If the tenant has renters insurance, the cost for the deductible will likely be covered from that insurance policy, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.

In the event your rental property sustains damage from flood, fire, biohazard, or the like, please don’t hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954.  We are here to help with any size disaster, and we will respond to your call 24/7/365

Providing 5 Star Customer Service in Winthrop Harbor, IL

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

Customer Service is #1 at SERVPRO of Gurnee.

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

One such example of this comes from a review written on Facebook by a customer in Winthrop Harbor, IL who experienced water damage in her home. Angela B. writes:

"We are dealing with water damage that involves all three floors of our home.  Best decision we could've made going with SERVPRO!  Jose, Josh, and their team were fabulous, on time, knowledgeable, professional, friendly, followed covid protocols, and simply made this situation manageable."

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Storm Preparedness in Northern Lake County, IL: Stay Informed

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

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

Emergency Notifications

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

Watches and Warnings

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

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

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

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

In the event that your home or business is damaged by severe weather, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Gurnee for assistance at 847-838-2954.  Our team is available 24/7/365 for your water damage emergencies as well as a variety of other property repairs.

Fire Restoration 101: Safety First

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

Do:

• Limit movement in damaged areas
• Keep your hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
• If the electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator completely.  Prop doors open to help prevent odor.

Don't:

• Don’t touch contaminated surfaces
• Don’t attempt to clean walls, carpet, contents, or other contaminated surfaces
• Don’t use food, cosmetics, or mediations exposed to soot.
• Don’t send clothing to ordinary cleaner; improper cleaning may set odors

No one wants to experience a fire in their home or business.  If you experience this and need help, please give us a call at 847-838-2954.  SERVPRO of Gurnee has the expertise and experience to assist you in the cleanup and restoration of your property.  We are here to help!

Providing an Outstanding Customer Experience in Antioch, IL

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

One such example of this comes from a review written on Facebook by a customer in Antioch, IL who experienced water damage in his home. Andrew W. writes:

"The team of Ken, Jesus, and Julieth were great!  They came to our home and had all the water damaged carpet and flooring out and all the fans and dryers in the house quickly and efficiently.  Answered any questions we had and were friendly and professional.  Great team and great people!"

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Preventing Water Damage from Frozen Pipes in Your Northern Lake County Home

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

To Prevent Frozen Pipes

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

To Thaw Frozen Pipes

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

In the event you suffer water damage from frozen plumbing fixtures or ice damming, SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help 24/7/365 at 847-838-2954.

Fire Safety Tips to Protect Your Northern Lake County Business

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

Have the Right Equipment

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

Minimize Flammable Materials in Storage

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

Manage Electronics Safely

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

Regularly Check Fire Alarms

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

Have a Written Plan

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

In the event your business is affected by fire, smoke, or soot damage, don’t hesitate to call on the professionals at SERVPRO of Gurnee.  We are here to help 24/7/365.  We can be reached at 847-838-2954.

Christmas Tree Safety in Northern Lake County IL Homes

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Checking Your Tree

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

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

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

Additional Tips

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

• Don’t block exit routes with your tree.

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

• Check all lighting for frayed wires.

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

• When the tree dries out, discard it immediately.

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

In the event you sustain fire or smoke damage from a decor mishap, please contact SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954 for help.

Fall Fire Safety for Northern Lake County IL Homes and Businesses

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

Smoke Detectors

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

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

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

Furnaces

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

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

In the event you sustain damage in your home or business from smoke or fire, please contact SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954 for a no-cost assessment.  We are always here to help.

Simple Tips for Cooking Fire Prevention in Your Northern Lake County Home

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Cooking is the #1 cause of fires in homes.

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

Stand by your pan

If you leave the kitchen, turn the burner off

Watch what you are cooking

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

Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove

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

Keep a pan lid or baking sheet nearby

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

In the event your home does sustain damage from fire or smoke, SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help.  Our experienced technicians are standing by to restore your home.  Call us today at 847-838-2954 for a free assessment of your property damage.

Water Damage in Northern Lake County: 3 Categories To Know

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

Category 1

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

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

Category 2

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

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

Category 3

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

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

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

In the unfortunate event that you experience water damage, call the experts at SERVPRO of Gurnee to help.  We have the training and expertise to make sure your home or business is safe and clean.  We are available 24/7/365 for your emergencies at 847-838-2954. 

Types of Commercial Sprinkler Systems

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

Wet Pipe System

Most common

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

Dry Pipe System

For areas with below freezing temperatures

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

Deluge System

For use in hazardous environments prone to fast-spreading fires

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

Pre-Action System

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

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

In the event that your business or building sustains damage from water or fire, SERVPRO of Gurnee is Here to Help.  We have the advanced expertise and technology to minimize loss of use in your facility.  Call us for your emergencies 24/7/365 at 847-838-2954.

Water Damage from Sprinkler Systems: Cause and Effect

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

Common Causes for Sprinkler System Failures

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

Potential Hazards of Water Damage

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

Prevention Tips

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

SERVPRO of Gurnee has the experience and professional staff to bring your property back to its preloss condition quickly and efficiently.  Call 847-838-2954 today for a free assessment of your damage.

Fire Sprinkler Systems: Myths and Facts

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

Myth: “A smoke detector provides enough protection.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In the event that you do sustain fire or water damage, SERVPRO of Gurnee is Here to Help.  Call us today for a no-cost assessment of your property damage.  We are always available for your call at 847-838-2954.

Tornado Warning vs. Tornado Watch in Northern Lake County, IL

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Tornado Watch 

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

Tornado Warning

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

In the event that your home or business sustains damage caused by the high winds of a tornado, SERVPRO of Gurnee can help!  24/7/365 emergency service is available for board up, tarp up, and water mitigation.  Call us for help at 847-838-2954.

Being Prepared in Northern Lake County: Pack a Severe Weather Emergency Kit

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

Water

Have a purification kit and enough water to last 72 hours

Food

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

First Aid Kit

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

Medication

Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medication, and prescriptions

Waterproof Clothing

Boots, jackets, pants, and warm clothing

Flashlight

Don’t forget the batteries!

Blankets and Pillows

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

Toilet Kit

Sanitation and hygiene is extremely important! Include some wet wipes

Extra Supplies

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

NOAA Weather Radio

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

Important Documents

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

Things to Do

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

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

5 Star Customer Experience in Beach Park, IL

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

One such example of this comes from a review written on Facebook by a customer in Beach Park, IL who experienced water damage in his home. Richard K. writes:

"Ken, Josh, Ana, and Emerson were professional and did a great job in helping complete the job and respond to our concerns.  Thanks for being there during this really crazy time!  5 stars for sure!"

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Safe Biohazard Cleanup for Northern Lake County, IL Businesses

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee's technicians are certified in biohazard remediation.

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

A typical example of commercial jobs that require professional biohazard cleanup includes sewage backup or flooding that allows contaminated water to enter one or more areas of your business property. The contaminants contained in sewage are many -- human and animal waste, fertilizer and road chemical runoff, insects and vermin, and rotten food and other waste are just a few. Our crews receive baseline and updated training on how to manage these biohazards safely and effectively. 

Human or animal fluids and waste deposited through other means such as traumatic injury or violent crime on your premises also needs our expert attention. The viruses, bacteria, parasites, and other pathogens involved in blood and other secretions need to be managed using protocols developed by OSHA, the EPA, and local health authorities. Proper cleaning with registered disinfectants is key to restoring your workplace, and SERVPRO of Gurnee has experience with biohazards and innovative commercial cleaning products to achieve your goals.

Your business may also suffer from a chemical spill or other spread of biohazard. This often is a complication of a flooding scenario where your own inventory or cleaning and maintenance products are knocked over or soaked through, contributing to the dangers in the water contained in your building. SERVPRO of Gurnee contains such contaminated water and ensures that it is disposed of properly to keep you, your employees and customers, and the general public safe from harm.

During these catastrophic events, it is critical that your biohazard cleanup company be not only professional and effective but also completely discreet. Our team can return your business to a safe and healthy condition, “Like it never even happened.” For you to retain the confidence of your employees and customers, the process must be transparent yet ethical and without unnecessary drama or scare tactics.

SERVPRO of Gurnee is a full-service restoration company, poised to assist with your biohazard cleanup needs. Contact us at 847-838-2954 for fast and confidential help.

Use of Hydroxyl Generators For Fire Restoration in Northern Lake County Homes

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee is available 24/7/365 to assist with your fire damage emergencies.

During a house fire, firefighters douse the interior of the home with thousands of gallons of water. This water soaks into walls, floors, and your belongings. After they put the fire out and no signs of hot areas pose additional threats to reignite the fire, the fire department’s personnel return to the station. Their job doesn't include removing the water or foam soaking into your residence.

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

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

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

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

SERVPRO of Gurnee wants to assure our customers that we strive to use the most efficient methods when mitigating fire damage. We are available for your call at 847-838-2954.

Providing 5 Star Customer Service in Wadsworth, IL

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Customer Service is #1 at SERVPRO of Gurnee.

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

One such example of this comes from a review written on Google by a customer in Wadsworth, IL who experienced flooding in her home. Sarena L. writes:

"I had a water leak and SERVPRO Gurnee came in to clean up the water damage.  From start to finish, the team was quick, professional, thorough, and educating.  Ralph, David, Jose, and Jesus are fantastic representations of the integrity of SERVPRO.  I would definitely recommend this company for any of your needs.  Customer service makes or breaks a company's reputation, and this team was great!  Thank you, SERVPRO!"

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Using IICRC Classifications To Assess Flood Damage

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

If you have sustained flood damage to your Lake County home – SERVPRO can help. We are an experienced flood damage restoration company.

If you have sustained flood damage to your Lake County home or business – SERVPRO can help. We are an experienced flood damage restoration and repair team, with access to sophisticated tools and the finest equipment. If your property needs saving, we are the right choice. The first step we take once on site, is conducting a full inspection. This is designed to help us determine the extent and nature of the damage. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) categorizes flood damage using four key classifications. The SERVPRO technicians will use this guide to shape their plan of action and decide which repairs are required.

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

Class One: Limited Intrusion

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

Class Two: Intrusion With Some Spread

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

Class Three: Invasive Liquid

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

Class Four: Severe Invasion

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

If your home has been damaged by a storm or a burst pipe, assessing the damage is an important part of formulating a response.  SERVPRO of Gurnee is a locally based service, which means that our response is always fast.  Call us for help 24/7/365 at 847-838-2954.

Northern Lake County Area Soot Clean Up

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Property fires are devastating events. At SERVPRO of Gurnee, we guide our customers through the complete process from start to finish.

After a fire, the damage by smoke and different types of smoke and soot residue can make cleanup complicated. It is important to understand the different types of smoke and soot.  The type of residue will greatly affect the restoration process.  The professionals at SERVPRO of Gurnee are well trained in identifying and cleaning these various varieties of damage.

Wet Smoke (Plastic and Rubber) 

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky and smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke (Paper and Wood) 

Fast- burning, high temperatures.  Heat rises, therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from fire) 

Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace puff backs) 

While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, in most cases the contents and structure are quickly restorable.

Other Types  (Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue) 

Special loss situations require special care and a unique plan for restoration.

If you are in need of assistance after fire or other smoke damage, please don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Gurnee.  We are here to truly make it “Like it never even happened.”

Four Classes of Water Damage

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

Class 1 - Slow Evaporation Rate 

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

Class 2 - Fast Evaporation Rate 

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

Class 3 - Fastest Evaporation Rate

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

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations

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

In the event you do experience water damage in your Northern Lake County home, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954.  We are here to help 24/7/365 with your water damage emergencies.

Commercial Duct Cleaning for Northern Lake County Businesses

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let hidden dirt and debris affect the air quality in your business!

Ventilation systems can be a prominent culprit in poor indoor air quality.  SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help improve the air quality in your facility.

Keeping your HVAC system and ductwork clean will extend the life of your equipment, allowing it to run efficiently and save costs.  Contaminants including rodents, insects, dust, dirt, bacteria, mold, and pollen can all be found in HVAC systems. 

5 Steps in the SERVPRO Duct Cleaning Process

1. Patented equipment is used that automatically adapts to the ducts shape and diameter, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
2. Push-pull air delivery and collection systems collect debris from the duct to a 16 gallon container.
3.  Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system that removes 99.97% of particles from the air.
4. Optionally, a sealant or coating product may be applied to address microbial and odor concerns.
5. Finally, we replace or clean air filters to remove odor and dirt.

Please contact SERVPRO of Gurnee today at 847-838-2954 for more information.  We are here to help!

Portable Fire Extinguishers in Your Northern Lake County Business

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

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

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Fire extinguishers do have their limitations, so it is important that you have the correct one in your facility.  Fires start within a matter of seconds.  In the event you incur more extensive damages and need professional assistance, please contact SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954 for more information.  We are Here to Help!

Providing 5 Star Customer Experiences in Chicagoland and Beyond!

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

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

SERVPRO of Gurnee provides excellent customer service not only in the Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin area, but also across the country!  When large storm events occur, the SERVPRO system springs into action.  Franchises throughout the United States band together to service as many customers in need as possible.

Here is a Facebook review a customer in Marion, IA wrote after a derecho caused extensive damage to her home.  Laura L. writes:

"We are dealing with the damage from Derecho in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. SERVPRO of Gurnee came to our rescue. We had severe roof damage and took on water. Then, it has rained all last week, and one of our tarps failed. Today, Arturo, Ralph, and Emerson came to the rescue. They were nothing but professional, knowledgeable, courteous, and respectful. They explained all that was needed and went to work. It was very impressive! I was amazed with how they were conscientious of preventing any further damage with there tools, machines, and hauling out of debris. The areas were spotless when they were done. In a time of extreme stress, these guys were amazing!!!

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365.  Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Pre-Storm Winter Storm Preparedness in Northern Lake County, IL

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

Know your area’s risk

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

Prepare your home to keep out the cold

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

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

Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

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

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

Create an emergency supply kit for your car

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

Learn the signs of and basic treatments for frostbite and hypothermia

In the event that your home sustains damage from a winter storm, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954.  Our trained professionals are standing by 24/7/365 to assist with your emergencies.

Wood Burning Fireplace Safety in your Gurnee, IL Home

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Wood burning fireplaces can help keep your home warm and create ambiance, but safety is of the utmost importance.

Fireplaces can make a home feel warm, cozy, and inviting as well as aid in heating your home.  Follow some of these simple safety tips to ensure your fireplace does not become a safety hazard.

Keep the damper closed when not using the fireplace

Be sure the damper closes tightly when the fireplace is dormant. If you plan on replacing the damper, consider investing in one that closes at the top of the chimney, as this type tends to offer more reliable moisture seal to the elements outside than those that close at the base of the flue.

Build a better fire

First, always make sure your damper moves freely and is open before starting a fire. When laying the firewood, use dry, cured hardwoods like oak, elm or maple. These will burn cleaner and longer than softwoods like pine, spruce and cedar. Some experts recommend that you hold a lit twisted piece of newspaper in the chimney to get warm air rising before lighting the kindling in your fire. Remember — never use liquid fire starters indoors.

Manufactured logs and kindling are also an option

Not only are they convenient, but they emit lower rates of pollutants, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Because they burn very hot, they should only be used one at a time.

Inspect the structure and flue

If it’s been awhile since your chimney sweep stopped by, do a quick walk around yourself, looking for structural integrity both inside and out of the fireplace. Be sure the mortar and bricks are in good shape.

Check the flue. You should be able to see daylight when you look up your flue. If not, there may be combustible material at the top, like a bird’s nest or leaves. Have the sweep inspect the issue.

Reduce creosote build-up

Creosote is that tar-like, flaky stuff that can lead to chimney fires. One of the easiest ways to reduce this buildup is to avoid green or wet wood. Also, building smaller fires can help since they produce less smoke, and in turn, less creosote.  Manufactured chimney “sweeping” logs that have chemicals in them to reduce certain types of creosote can help. Just remember that none of these replace the need for an annual chimney cleaning.

Use your fireplace tools

Standard fireplace tools consist of a poker, tongs, a broom and shovel. You may want to add a dust scoop and a good pair of gloves to your collection. These tools are there for your protection, but they only help you if they’re used consistently and correctly.

Practice smart hearth habits

Use a spark screen on top of the fireplace to keep burning embers from escaping up the chimney and a grate or glass doors on the front to keep sparks inside the wood box. A non-flammable rug adds even more protection for your floor.

Check your smoke detectors and fire extinguishers

Regularly checking your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors is important. Why not tie that check into your first fire of the season maintenance routine?

Keep fire extinguishers handy. Be sure to have a few fully charged, annually-inspected fire extinguishers nearby and in plain sight. Store them near doorways leading into the area with the fireplace. Also, keep one near the fireplace itself, taking care to locate it in an area that will stay cool.

By keeping these fireplace safety tips top of mind, you’re ready to fire up your fireplace and make warm, cozy memories all winter long. If the unexpected happens, and you do experience damage in your home from excess smoke, soot, or fire, SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help.  

During the Storm: Winter Storm Safety in Northern Lake County, IL

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Limit your time outside.

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

Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

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

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

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

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

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

6 Common Causes for Plumbing Fails in Waukegan, IL Homes

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

In the event you do sustain damage from a failed plumbing system, SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help 24/7/365.  Give us a call at 847-838-2954 for a no-cost assessment of your water damage situation.

After the Storm: Assessing Health and Property Damage in Northern Lake County, IL

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

Check for Frostbite

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

Check for Hypothermia

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

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

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

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

Disinfecting for Viral Pathogens in Gurnee, IL Businesses

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee can help with your plan to minimize business interruption due to a viral contamination concern.

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

RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & HOSPITAL DISINFECTANT

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

SERVPROXIDE®

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

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

Call SERVPRO of Gurnee today for assistance at 847-838-2954.  We are here to help.

Preparing Northern Lake County Businesses for Disaster: What is an ERP?

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

An ERP includes:

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

Please contact SERVPRO of Gurnee today at 847-838-2954 for more information.  We are here to help!

Roof Snow Removal Tips to Prevent Damaging Ice Dams in N Lake County, IL

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Winter storms can cause water damage inside your home. Call SERVPRO of Gurnee for help if you experience damage from an ice dam.

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

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

• Don’t use mechanical snow removal equipment. The risk of damaging the roof membrane or other rooftop items outweighs the advantage of speed.
• Don’t use sharp tools, such as picks, to remove snow. Use plastic rather than metal shovels.
• Do remove drifted snow first at building elevation changes, parapets and around equipment.
• Do remove any snow remaining after you’ve removed drifts from the center portion of the roof.
• Do remove snow in the direction of the primary structural elements on the roof to prevent unbalanced snow loading.
• Don’t stockpile snow on the roof.
• Do keep snow away from building exits, fire escapes, drain downspouts, ventilation openings and equipment.
• Do remove snow starting at the ridge and moving toward the eave for gable and sloped roofs whenever possible.
• Do use a non-metallic rake for steep snow roofs if possible to avoid damage to roofing materials.
• Do have someone below the roof to keep foot traffic away from locations where falling snow or ice could cause injuries.
• Do be careful of dislodged icicles whenever you’re removing snow from a roof because an icicle falling from even a short height can still cause damage or injury.
• Do be prepared for roof snow to slide while you’re using a roof rake, and stay a safe distance away from the eave of the roof to be sure you’re out of sliding range.

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

Providing Outstanding Customer Experience in Round Lake, IL

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

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

At SERVPRO of Gurnee, we work hard to give our customers an experience that encourages them to use us again.  While we don't want them to have water damage more than once, we do hope that they will always call us for help.

One such example of this comes from a review written on Facebook by a customer in Round Lake, IL who experienced damage in his home. Jim D. writes:

"Ken and Julieth did a fantastic job!  This was the second time I have used SERVPRO, and both times their employees were very professional.  I highly recommend them."

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Happy Customer in Franksville, WI

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Customer Service is #1 at SERVPRO of Gurnee.

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

One such example of this comes from a review written on Facebook by a customer in Franksville, WI who experienced a basement flood in his home. Nathan Z. writes:

"I recently had my basement flood.  SERVPRO of Gurnee came the next day and worked until 9PM to clean up as much as possible.  They were great.  Special shout out to John, Gabe, Josh, Shawn, Emerson, and Jared.  Thanks again!"

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

5 Star Customer Service in Chicagoland

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

One such example of this comes from a review written on Facebook by a customer in Maywood, IL who experienced a flood in her home. June P. writes:

"John and Jose did an outstanding job.  They were on time, fast, and extremely professional.  They explained the process and fully answered all of our questions.  Great Customer Service.  Lastly, this affiliate was able to service our home within 24hrs.  Highly recommended."

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

6 Steps for Restoring Fire Damaged Properties in Northern Lake County

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee can help restore your home or business after a fire of any size. We are here to help!

When one of our customers calls for fire damage restoration, the team at SERVPRO of Gurnee springs to action to help make it "Like it never even happened."  How do we do it?  Here is a six step breakdown of a standard fire mitigation.

Safety

Before any work can be completed, we must be certain that the structure is safe to enter.  Sometimes, a fire inspector must clear the site before any work may begin.

Inspection and Air Quality

Air quality is a major concern that will need to be addressed after a fire.  Air scrubbers and air movers are utilized to clean the air and help remove airborne particles that could otherwise continue attaching to and staining surfaces and causing lingering odor.  The restoration professional will then assess the work that needs to be completed next to mitigate water, smoke, and soot damage.

Debris Removal

Before any water or fire mitigation can begin, soot and debris must be removed from the structure.  Soot can cause additional damage the longer it remains on surfaces.  It should be removed as quickly as possible along with any debris that will impede the remaining cleanup process.  Soot and soot webs can be removed by sweeping and utilizing HEPA vacuums.  

Content Removal

All items that are too damaged to repair should be removed from the structure as well as items that are to be restored, cleaned, and stored until the structure is fully restored and they may be moved back into the home or business.

Water Removal, Dehumidification, and Demolition

Standing water should be removed as soon as possible.  Wet materials will then either be removed or dried in place utilizing air movers and commercial grade dehumidifiers.  Mold and mildew can grow quickly in these conditions, so professionally drying the structure is very important.

Content Evaluation

Some items will be unsalvageable after a fire.  Others, however, will be able to be deep cleaned and deodorized.  Restoration professionals will evaluate the contents of your home or business to make this determination.  Priority items will be discussed with the property owner.  Oftentimes, it may be more cost effective to replace a damaged item, but the item may hold sentimental value.  In these cases, the decision might be made to attempt cleaning the item.

SERVPRO of Gurnee employs certified technicians who will assist with each step of the fire restoration process.  If you suffer this type of loss, please call 847-838-2954 for assistance.  We are here to help.

10 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes in your Northern Lake County Home

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Burst plumbing can release up to 12 gallons of water per minute! That can create a water damage disaster.

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

Insulate Pipes

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

Open Cabinet Doors

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

Keep Thermostat Settings Consistent  

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

Seal Crawl Spaces 

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

Use Heating Tape 

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

Keep Garage Doors Closed

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

Let Faucets Drip  

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

Seal Cracks and Openings

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

Open Interior Doors

This will help keep temperature consistent through your home.  

Keep the Heat On

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

Even if you diligently maintain your home, you may still sustain damage from frozen plumbing.  In the event you need immediate help, call SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954.  We are here to help 24/7/365 and will even call a plumber for you if needed.

Fire Restoration 101: Reconstruction

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Property fires are devastating events. At SERVPRO of Gurnee, we guide our customers through the complete process.

Once the process of cleaning and restoring the structure and contents of your home or business that are salvageable has begun, it is time to plan the final phase of fire restoration which is the reconstruction and refinishing of structural elements that were not cleanable.  Depending on the damage sustained, there may be a little or a lot of work to accomplish.

Some common items that may need attention are:

Drywall, Sealing, and Painting

Flooring

Hardwood flooring and/or trim refinishing

Cabinetry repair or replacement

Exterior refinishing such as siding or roofing

Driveway repair (damaged from fire trucks)

Plumbing

Electrical

And more.  Every project is unique.

SERVPRO of Gurnee is uniquely positioned to work with our customers until the final completion of their fire reconstruction.  Our team has decades of experience in construction and understands what it takes to bring you home back to its preloss condition.  Only licensed professionals or direct employees are allowed into your home to perform work, and our standards are high.  

If you are in need of reconstruction after fire or other damage, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954.  We are here to truly make it "Like it never even happened."

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

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help take the stress out of your water or sewer cleanup and restoration. We are available for your call 24/7/365.

EJECTOR PUMP

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

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

SUMP PUMP

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

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

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

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

In the event you do sustain damage from a failed ejector pump or sump pump, SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help 24/7/365.  Give us a call at 84-838-2954 for a no-cost assessment of your water damage situation.

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

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

Water/Sewer Backup Coverage

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

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

Flood Insurance

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

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

In the event you do sustain property damage from any type of flooding, SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help.  We are available 24/7/365 at 847-838-2954 for your emergencies.

Fire Restoration 101: Methods of Content Cleaning

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee uses Ultrasonic technology to restore delicate items such as this porcelain figurine from damage caused by soot.

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

ULTRASONIC CLEANING

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

ESPORTA WASH SYSTEM

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

OZONE CHAMBER

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

SERVPRO of Gurnee is an industry leader in fire restoration.  We have the technology needed to restore your home and belongings to their original state, reducing the amount of personal or sentimental items that would otherwise be unsalvageable.  We are here to help and here to answer your questions 24/7/365.  Give us a call at 847-838-2954.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

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

Let us help you get back to business

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

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

Extensive training and specialized products

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

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

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

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

Call SERVPRO of Gurnee today at 847-838-2954 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

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

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

Northern Lake County Tornado Season: Be Prepared and Safe

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

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

Prepare:

• Know the signs of a tornado, including a rotating funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, or a loud roar similar to a freight train.
• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.  Become familiar with your community's sirens.
• Pay attention to weather reports. Meteorologists can predict when conditions might be right for a tornado.
• Identify and practice going to a safe shelter for high winds, such as a safe room built using FEMA criteria or a storm shelter built to ICC 500 standards. The next best protection is a small, interior, windowless room in a sturdy building on the lowest level.

Survive:

• Immediately go to a safe location that you identified.
• Take additional cover by shielding your head and neck with your arms and putting materials such as furniture and blankets around you.
• Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle. 
• If you are in a car or outdoors and cannot get to a building, cover your head and neck with your arms and cover your body with a coat or blanket, if possible. 

Recover:

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

In the event your home or business is damaged by a tornado or high winds, SERVPRO of Gurnee is available 24/7/365 to assist in securing your property.  Our reconstruction team is experienced in restoring properties from this type of damage, working in conjunction with your insurance company to bring your home or business back to life.  Call us at 847-838-2954.

Lake County Insurance Coverage for Spring and Summer Storm Damage

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Wind Damage

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

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

Hail Damage

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

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

Lightning Damage

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

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

Flood Insurance

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

Roof Replacement Cost Coverage

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

Matching Siding Coverage

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

Sump Pump Coverage

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

In the event you do suffer damage from a storm, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954 for your restoration or repair concerns.  We are here to help 24/7/365.

Board-Up Services for your Northern Lake County, IL Business

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Our board up team at SERVPRO of Gurnee took quick action to secure many local businesses following some riot activity.

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

What is a “board-up”?

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

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

Why should broken windows and doors be boarded up?

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

How do I board up my own windows?

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

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

If your business is damaged by a storm or by vandalism, let us take some of the worry away by keeping the interior of your building safe and secure.  SERVPRO of Gurnee has seen countless board-up situations, and we are always available for your call at 847-838-2954.

From Flooded Basement in Beach Park to 5 Star Google Review

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Customer Service is #1 at SERVPRO of Gurnee.

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

One such example of this comes from a review written on Facebook by a customer in Beach Park, IL who experienced a flood in her home. Carol K. writes:

"Thanks to Ken, Josh, Ana, and Emmerson as well as Brad for coming to our rescue to help clean our flooded basement. The whole group was responsive to our needs and concerned and we now have a nice clean basement once again. Josh and Emmerson also went above and beyond by helping me take a few heavy items out of the basement. Thank you! Five stars for sure!"

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Fire Restoration 101: Structure Cleaning

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

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

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

When fire damage takes control of your life, we help you take it back. SERVPRO of Gurnee is ready and waiting for your call 24/7/365. Contact us for more information at 847-838-2954.

Providing 5 Star Service in Antioch, IL

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

One such example of this comes from a review written by a customer in Antioch, IL for whom the SERVPRO of Gurnee team performed re-construction services.  Chandra H. writes, "Josh M was awesome. Almost forgot he was here as he was so involved in our basement rebuild. This was great as we are all working and schooling from home."

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Preparing Your Home for Spring Storms

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Spring weather in the Midwest can change quickly. Preparing in advance can mitigate damage to your home.

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

Sign up for weather text alerts

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

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

Evaluate your home’s exterior

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

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

Check your sump pump

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

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

Weather can be unpredictable, but you can still prepare for the unexpected.  Talk with your local insurance agent to review your homeowner’s coverage, and call SERVPRO of Gurnee in the event your home sustains damage.  We are available to take your call 24/7/365 at 847-838-2954.

Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist for Lake County Homeowners

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

Make sure your sump pump is totally upright. Your sump pump should be sitting on solid, even ground. Any sort of leaning can shift the water in the pump’s pit and put unnecessary pressure on its components.

Open it up. Take the cover off the sump pump pit or basin and have a look inside. Clear any debris, mud or rocks that you find, as any foreign items can clog your sump pump and cause an overflow.

Double-check the drain hose. Check to make sure the drain hose is connected, and that it’s not blocked or frozen. A clogged drain hose can cause your sump pump to run continuously, as it won’t be able to dispose of the water that’s filled its pit.

Clear out the inlet screen. Make sure the inlet screen is allowing water to enter your sump pump’s pit. If your inlet screen is blocked, water won’t be able to make its way into the sump pumps pit and could lead to a basement flood.

Keep it afloat. Your sump pump’s float controls when it will turn on and pump excess water out. Make sure the float component can move freely and isn’t blocked. A malfunctioning float can cause your pump to not run when it’s supposed to, or run constantly, eventually burning out your pump’s engine.

Make sure it’s flowing away from your house. The next time you hear your sump pump running, go outside and make sure its discharge pipe is pumping the water away from your home at a safe distance. If it’s too close, the water could seep back into your pump, causing your pump to run continuously and inefficiently. The more your sump pump runs, the more likely it is to burn out early in its life span.

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

Give your sump pump a test run. Fill the pit with a bucket of water to turn your pump on. Watch it carefully to see if it’s getting rid of the water, then check the discharge pipe outside to make sure it’s disposed of properly. If the pump doesn’t run, make sure it’s plugged in and its power cord is in working order.

Plan for the unexpected. Having a backup battery or generator can be crucial if a strong rain storm comes complete with a power outage. And eventually, your sump pump may give out without the help of a power outage. To avoid the stress of trying to buy and install a new sump pump while the water seeps closer and closer to your basement, have a backup sump pump handy — and be sure to test it regularly, too.

Call a professional. You’ve checked the power cords, discharge pipe, inlet screen and every other piece of the pump, but still can’t figure out what’s wrong. It’s time to call a professional! Risking your basement and everything else in it isn’t worth maintaining your pride as a handyman or woman — get it fixed and fast!

If worse comes to worst, and you do have a backup and need assistance with damage from water or sewage, call SERVPRO of Gurnee for 24/7 help at 847-838-2954.

Fire Restoration 101: Levels of Damage

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

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

Levels of Fire Damage

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

Minor Fire Damage

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

Moderate Fire Damage

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

Major Fire Damage

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

A fire of any size is one of the most devastating events a home or business owner can encounter. Each smoke and fire damage situation is different, and each requires a unique solution.  SERVPRO of Gurnee has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore fire and smoke damage.  It is our number one priority to treat your family with respect and your property with care.  Call us today at 847-838-2954 for a no cost assessment.

Cleaning Experts in Lake County Illinois

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

We offer services including the removal of biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get you back to business.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Commercial Duct Cleaning in Waukegan, IL

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Gurnee today to schedule your spring duct cleaning!

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

How does the SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System work?

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

For more information or to schedule a residential or commercial duct cleaning appointment, contact SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954.

A Happy Customer in Gurnee, IL

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

One such example of this comes from a review written by a customer in Gurnee, IL who experienced a flood in his home.  Larry C. writes, "This company is great! A couple of weeks ago on a Saturday morning we noticed that our sump pump had stopped working and water was starting to spread. I contacted SERVPRO and they had someone onsite very quickly to assess the situation. He contacted a local plumber who arrived within 30 minutes to install a new sump pump. The On-Call SERVPRO team arrived soon and removed items damaged by the water, setup fans & a de-humidifier to dry up the moisture. Everyone I dealt with from SERVPRO was very friendly & helpful. I hope I don’t need their services again anytime soon, but I’d absolutely use them again. Highly recommend!”

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Commercial Cleaning in Antioch, IL

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & HOSPITAL DISINFECTANT

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

SERVPROXIDE®

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

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

Call SERVPRO of Gurnee today for assistance at 847-838-2954.

Storm Preparedness in Lake Villa, IL: Protecting Your Property

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

Icicles formed on your gutters could cause structural damage to your home. This is due to ice melting and refreezing.

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

Winterize Your Home

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

Insulate Water Pipes

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

Clear Rain Gutters

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

Install Battery-Operated Carbon Monoxide Detectors

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

Hire a Contractor

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

Keep Fire Extinguishers on Hand

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

Maintain Heating Equipment

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

In the event your property does become damaged despite your best efforts, SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help.  Call today for a free estimate. We are available at 847-838-2954 24/7/365.

Reducing Business Interruption in Gurnee, IL

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

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

Call SERVPRO of Gurnee today for assistance at 847-838-2954. Our professionals are available for your emergencies 24/7/365.

Flooded Basements in Waukegan, IL

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall, but can happen any time for a variety of reasons.  Basements are more prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building or home and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. 

There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including:

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

SERVPRO of Gurnee personnel are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week/365 days a year
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to most National Insurance Companies
• We Can Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• We use advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

A flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Gurnee and letting our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

Basement Flooded? Call SERVPRO of Gurnee Today at 847-838-2954.  We’re Ready To Help 

Ice Dam Tips for Gurnee Residents

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

Tips for handling and preventing ice dams

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

If you have experienced interior water damage in your home or business, please utilize the professionals at SERVPRO of Gurnee.  Our trained technicians are available 24/7/365 to assist with your water emergencies. Call today at 847-838-2954.

Storm Preparedness in Antioch, IL: Stay Informed

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

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

Emergency Notifications

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

Watches and Warnings

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

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

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

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

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

Storm Preparedness in Grayslake, IL: Emergency Supplies

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

Emergency Communication

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

Medical Needs

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

Critical Documents

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

Tools and Safety Items

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

Food/Supplies

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

Warm Clothing and Blankets

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

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

Fire Restoration 101: Types of Soot

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

Wet Soot - Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Soot - Paper and Wood

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

Protein Soot - Food products

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

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

Call SERVPRO of Gurnee today at 847-838-2954 for a free inspection to assess your unique situation.

SERVPRO of Gurnee is an IICRC Certified Firm

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Staying current with IICRC standards and training is important in providing excellent mitigation results.

If you browsed SERVPRO® of Gurnee’s website, you may have seen that our crew is IICRC certified. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration was founded in 1972 with industry standards that are certified by the American National Standards Institute. Just as you would expect service professionals such as doctors, electricians, plumbers, or car mechanics to be trained in their fields and keep up to date with cutting edge technology, we at SERVPRO® of Gurnee also require the same education and experience from our employees.

When we say our crew is IICRC certified, we mean:

• Our employees keep up to date with standards in the cleaning and restoration industry.
• We exhibit professionalism when taking care of your home or business.
• Staff are up to date with the latest technological advances in cleaning and jobsite documentation.
• The Crew has been trained with in-class study, field experience, continuing education, and comprehensive exams.
• We reference and follow the ANSI/IICRC S500 Standard Reference Guide
• Background checks are performed on all employees.
• ID badges are worn and references are available.

You can be assured that our crew is professional and ready to answer your questions. They will explain with care the process that we will take whether it be water extraction, structural drying, fire damage, mold remediation, deodorization, or reconstruction.

Call SERVPRO of Gurnee with confidence at 847-838-2954 for all of your cleanup and restoration needs.

5 Star Customer Review in Lake Villa, IL

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

One such example of this comes from a review written by a customer in Lake Villa, IL who experienced basement water damage in his home.  Nick B. writes, “Our basement flooded the other week with all of the storms we had gotten. We called SERVPRO right away and had a great experience with Kenny and Emerson. They were quick, responsive, and very informative. Walked my wife and I through the process and answered any questions we had. Definitely recommend.”

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365. Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

A Happy Customer in Gurnee, IL

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

One such example of this comes from a review written by a customer in Gurnee, IL who experienced a flood in his home.  Matt B writes, “Very impressed with the SERVPRO team!  Our basement flooded while we were away from home.  The immediate mitigation was handled professionally by Josh J, Arturo, and Rick on a Saturday.  Ken and Emerson stepped in to help finish up the effort a few days later.  All worked very hard, were professional, and great to work with.”

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done.  We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365.  Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

Gurnee Fire Restoration 101: Pretesting

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

After a fire why is pretesting so important?

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

Factors determined by pretesting:

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

Pretesting helps to ensure our customers are back into their home as soon as possible, within a realistically accurate time estimate.

For help 24/7/365, call on the professionals at SERVPRO of Gurnee today at 847-838-2954.  We offer a no cost assessment of your unique situation, and we are here to help.

Fire Restoration 101: Safety First

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires can produce hard to clean, wet soot.

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

Do:

• Limit movement in damaged areas
• Keep your hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
• If the electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator completely.  Prop doors open to help prevent odor.

Dont:

• Don’t touch contaminated surfaces
• Don’t attempt to clean walls, carpet, contents, or other contaminated surfaces
• Don’t use food, cosmetics, or mediations exposed to soot.
• Don’t send clothing to ordinary cleaner; improper cleaning may set odors

No one wants to experience a fire in their home or business.  If you experience this and need help, please give us a call at 847-838-2954.  SERVPRO of Gurnee has the expertise and experience to assist you in the cleanup and restoration of your property.  We are here to help!

Dealing with a Water Loss: What to Expect

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Water and flooding emergencies can happen at any moment and can be devastating. SERVPRO of Gurnee provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day 7 days a week – including holidays.

Initial steps we take:

• Upon arriving, we will survey the damage and premises, identifying any safety concerns.  Our first priority is to attempt to “preserve and protect” your structure and contents. 
• Identify the source or type of water and make sure that its source has been stopped. Water that is contaminated, such as sewer water requires specialized cleaning. 
• Identify and locate any visible mold growth. Mold can create health concerns for anyone in the household.
• Measure temperature and humidity for the drying analysis; this process will determine what equipment we will need in order to remove all the moisture from the contents and structure. This is very important because it helps minimize property damage and mold growth. 

We understand when dealing with a water or flooding loss you may feel scared, confused and stressed. During this difficult time, you need a company with the experience and training to help you through it. SERVPRO of Gurnee has the water damage experience and training to help you through this tough time. 

Content Restoration after Water Damage

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee can help dry and restore your commercial or residential space.

Restore Vs. Replace

SERVPRO of Gurnee mitigation professionals specialize in cleaning contents after water damage. SERVPRO of Gurnee strives to restore instead of replace to help keep insurance costs down and save your sentimental items. So how do we assess items that have been exposed to water? There are a few main considerations: 

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

When should you replace?

1. Soft/Porous contents affected by water containing sewage.  Category 3 or “Black Water”
2. Materials have been affected for an extended period of time and are showing signs of microbial growth.

When can you restore?

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

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

How to Prevent Water from Damaging Your Foundation

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

The foundation of your home is an important structural element.  Without a good foundation, your home will be in big trouble.  The house could shift dramatically, causing damage to the building. Thus, proper maintenance of your home’s foundation is essential.

Water damage is the number one culprit that weakens your home’s foundation. It can damage your home’s foundation in a variety of ways such as:

• Pooling – Water pooling on the surface around the perimeter of the house eventually degrades concrete and mortar foundations.  Causes of pooling include:

• Downspouts that are too short, which allow discharged water to flow back toward the house.
• Overflowing rain gutters that allow cascading water to the ground.
• Poor landscaping that may cause water to stagnate.
• Groundwater – This is where hydrostatic pressure pushes against the underside of the foundation. This causes water to infiltrate the basement through cracks and joints.
• External pressure – This occurs when loosely packed soil adjacent to the foundation absorbs a large volume of water.

Repairing foundation damage can be expensive. Most homeowners will pay around $5,000 to repair foundation issues or more if the repairs are serious.

With that in mind, here’s how to prevent water from damaging your foundation. 

1. Utilize berms or swales.

If properly built, berms can greatly reduce storm runoff. Berms are raised areas of ground that encourage water to drain downward, away from your home.

Swales are drainage ditches. They help prevent the foundation from becoming wet. Like ditches, swales collect storm water from roads, driveways, parking lots and other hard surfaces.

2. Install a French drain.

French drains provide an easy channel for water to flow through. The drain includes a perforated or slotted pipe that helps direct groundwater or surface water away from a certain area, such as your home’s foundation.

Before installing a French drain, there are many factors you should take into account. For example, the drain flow, drain pipe length, drain aggregate, and the drain depth.

To site a French drain, look for areas where water pools for long periods of time. For example, areas like a basement, on the outdoor patio, and in the backyard.

3. Make sure the flower beds around your foundation have borders with openings.

If you don’t do this, water may pool around your home’s foundation. On the other hand, if your flowerbeds have borders with openings, water can run out of the beds and down into the yard.

For the bushes and hedges near your foundation, allow for sufficient air flow between them. This way, you’ll prevent the soil from retaining moisture and enable water to evaporate more quickly.

4. Install gutters with downspout extensions.

Rain gutters are designed to pull water away from your foundation. They are critical to protecting your home’s structural integrity.  Downspouts are designed to move water away from your home.

Without gutters and downspouts, rainwater will flow off to the edges of your roof and onto the ground around the perimeter of your home. Also, if the downspouts are short, they may fail to carry water far away. This may cause disaster.

To solve this issue, install gutters with downspout extensions. The following are ways to extend downspouts:

• Install a hinged elbow. Extending the downspout using a hinged elbow allows for better drainage and freedom of movement.
• Attach a roll-up sleeve. Roll-up sleeves are perfect for those areas that need to remain uncluttered. A roll-up sleeve placed at the end of your existing downspout will sufficiently extend it to allow for drainage away from the home.
• Use a splash block. Splash blocks help to direct the water onto the lawn and away from the house. If you end up using it, simply place it underneath the downspout.
• Use a drainage pipe. This is a DIY project that any homeowner can perform.  Simply dig a trench, lay the pipe and back-fill it with soil. Besides the drainage pipe, you’ll also need adapters, couplings, T-fittings, elbows and other PVC specialty fittings.

5. Make sure that your lawn is sloped away from your home’s foundation.

Does your lawn slope toward your home?  If so, it’s a recipe for foundation damage. Adjust it!

A lawn with an improper slope can result in serious damage to your home’s foundation. Besides causing potentially expensive foundation problems, an improper slope can cause other issues. For example, this can cause damage to sidewalks.

To keep water away from your foundation, your yard should slope at least six inches over a 10-foot span. This should give you at least a 2% grade. This way, any excess rainwater will drain away from your foundation.

Preventing water damage is a lot cheaper than paying for repairs. If you follow these five tips, you’ll not only reduce maintenance costs but you’ll also add years to your home.

Testing Your Smoke Alarms

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

it's recommended to check your homes smoke alarms every month

Despite the efforts you make to ensure your home is safe, no home is completely fireproof. A working smoke alarm system is a vital part of an adequate emergency preparedness system. Older smoke alarms need replacement batteries once a year, but the rules change as you upgrade your detectors. Following these inspection tips can help keep your system in top form.

Power Check

First, you want to make sure all your detectors have power. The power source depends on the type of smoke detector you have in your system:

• Battery-operated detectors (9-volt batteries) should have the batteries replaced every year.
• Battery-operated detectors (lithium batteries) should be completely replaced every ten years.
• Hardwired systems should have the backup battery replaced yearly, and the detectors replaced every ten years.
  
  

Regardless of the replacement for the battery or detector, fire remediation experts recommend that you test each smoke alarm every month to make sure it's working. Don't rely strictly on a schedule. Replace faulty alarms whenever necessary. 

Age Check

No matter where your detectors get their power, all of them must be replaced every ten years to keep the system in shape for detecting fire damage. Checking the age of the devices in your system is easy. Remove each detector from the ceiling or wall and turn it over. The date of manufacture should be printed on the back. As long as the date is within the last ten years and the device is still working, it does not need to be replaced. Return it to its designated spot and make sure that it is linked with the rest of the system.

Testing your smoke alarm system once a month is a crucial part of home maintenance. If you have outdated detectors or your power source is not properly supporting the system, prompt maintenance can help keep you safe during a home fire.

Landlords need to require Renters Insurance

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

Requiring your tenants to have renters insurance will help you save money and help provide some protection from lawsuits. Why should landlords require tenants to have insurance?

• Living expenses are covered with Renters Insurance

Many policies will offer relocation assistance if the renters are not able to stay in their homes due to a loss. Also a friendly relationship is sometimes established between landlord and tenant and there could be a feeling of obligation to provide housing on top of dealing with the loss of property. The renters insurance would alleviate that extra responsibility.

• The risk of a lawsuit is lowered

If the property is damaged or an individual is injured because of the tenants carelessness, more than likely the landlord's liability policy will not cover the tenant. Renters insurance protects the tenants property against damage or loss and covers personal liability if an individual is injured while on the property. Also if there is an incident such as fire damage, flooding, pipe breaks, sprinkler system break, sewage back-up or any other potential event that is not the tenants fault, them having renters insurance will give the tenant the ability to recover losses on their policy and not try to pursue litigation against the landlord.

These are two major reasons for  tenants to have renters insurance. You will save money,time and stress by having this policy in place. The tenants will be able to focus on getting their personal belongings replaced with their policy and the landlord can get the property back to preloss condition. Call us here at SERVPRO of Gurnee we can provide the remediation, mitigation, fire and smoke clean-up, pack out or any other services the landlord or tenant might need with a water or fire event.

When Floods or Storms hit, SERVPRO is Ready!

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are "ready for whatever happens."

SERVPRO of Gurnee 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 Lake County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 847-557-1080

How can an ERP help Landlords

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Be "ready for whatever happens" with an ERP

SERVPRO's new Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) system allows business owners to easily keep track of all properties and locations during a loss or emergency, and respond appropriately. Using the tool, you can create multiple individualized profiles and information sets for each property you own, and with just a few clicks after an emergency, our technicians will have all the information they need to get to work on the damage. As a result, they can save owners of multiple properties, such as landlords, thousands in repair costs after a disaster by responding quickly to each location. 

Generally, the information you submit to the ERP system is the same information that we will ask for during the emergency. The main difference is that instead of having to operate under heavy time constraints and rely on you to be available to provide that information, we can access the information digitally and before we even arrive. When a disaster hits, you can log onto our website or open up the app and have us responding with all the info we need in seconds. For apartments and rental properties, this can include relevant information and contact routes for tenants, ensuring that they make it through the process unscathed as well. 

Being prepared is key when disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO of Gurnee to schedule your ERP 847-557-1080.
 

How to prepare for a Hail storm

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Reduce Hail Damage

If you haven’t taken a look at your roof in a while, now’s the time. Spring often means storms and occasional severe weather that can include high winds and hail. Roof repairs today can help you avoid extensive, time-consuming cleanup later.

• Repair or replace worn, curled or missing shingles.
• If your roof is aging, consider replacing it before hail season begins.

During a Hailstorm

Protect Yourself and Your Car
In severe storms, a hail stone can be as big as a softball and fall at 50 to 100 miles per hour.

• Stay indoors.
• Stay away from skylights and glass doors to avoid broken glass.
• If it is safe, close drapes, blinds or shades to prevent debris from blowing inside.
• If you can, park your car in the garage or other covered area.

After a Hailstorm

If you have experienced damage from a hailstorm, report it as soon as possible. We’re "Here to Help" 24 hours a day, seven days a week. SERVPRO of Gurnee can work with your insurance to get your home back to new. Tarping your roof, and removing the water damage that can occur from holes made by hail in your roof. 

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today 847-557-1080

3 ways to prevent Mold Growth in your bathrrom

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Removing excess water after you shower can help prevent Mold

3 Ways to Prevent Mold Growth in Your Bathroom

Bathrooms are one of the most common places for mold to grow in the home. Bathroom mildew usually grows due to the intense amount of humidity that most bathrooms let off. It is nearly impossible to prevent moisture from entering most bathrooms, but there are some ways to help prevent mold from growing in these environments. 

1. Use a Swamp Cooler

Mold loves moisture, and bathrooms are typically the moistest room in a home. Swamp coolers can help you control a humidity problem to prevent any mildew from growing. They help dry out the air in your bathroom to prevent mold or mildew from growing. That being said, they are not completely effective, so other measures should be taken. Keeping your bathroom clean and doing a regular check for mold or mildew growth can help prevent expensive and costly issues. 

2. Wash Your Shower Curtain

Shower curtains are one of the most prominent places for mold to grow. Often times people do not think about washing their shower curtains. When you shower, moisture gets on the curtain and can often stay there for hours. Pulling the curtain out straight can help the moisture dry faster. Also make sure to wash towels, washcloths and bath mats on a regular basis as these can also attract mold. If you notice any mold on your towels or mats, be sure to call a mold remediation specialist right away. 

3. Keep it Clean

The bathroom is one of the most dreaded places to clean but is also one of the most necessary. Because of the excessive moisture in bathrooms, mildew and mold can grow quickly in these areas. Using a squeegee after each shower is a pain but very effective in preventive bathroom mildew. Use the proper cleaning supplies each time and try to clean your bathroom at least once a week. 

Cleaning your bathroom properly can go a long way but may not always prevent bathroom mildew. It is important to check your bathroom for mildew or mold on a regular basis, and you should call a professional if you notice any signs of mold growth.

April showers can't beat May

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

Rain, rain GO AWAY!

Lake County has seen a lot of rain this month. May is for enjoying the bloom from Aprils' showers but it seems Mother Nature has different plans this year. It's almost like everything is behind a month. The steady rain has been falling and falling saturating everything. The water table has risen and we don't know what areas will be over saturated and begin flooding soon. Almost the whole area has been on constant flood warning. Low lying areas will show signs of flooding first but sometimes flooding occurs when we least expect it.

When a flooding incident or water damage strikes, it is never a planned event. We can make preparations for heavy rain events or take precautions with our homes plumbing but it is impossible to know when water will flood and damage our home or business.

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee we provide 24/7 emergency response and our equipment and highly trained techs have the experience to handle the unpredictability of these events. We have an emergency response crew on-call after business hours just in case of an emergency. Our on-call hours are everyday of the year including holidays.You can expect an immediate response day or night. We are “ Faster to any disaster.”

So if this rainy May has caused you to have water issues, don't wait and give SERVPRO of Gurnee a call today 847-557-1080.

Fire Pit Safety

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

It's time to hang around the fire pit

The outdoors are calling as the weather begins to warm up. Lawns are gardens are returning back to their vivid spring colors and neighbors are coming out of hibernation. The sounds of lawn mowers and weed wackers are abundant. The smell of freshly mowed grass and Bbq's permeate the air. Spring is here to awaken all of our senses. With the arrival of spring and heading into summer, more and more people are coming outside to enjoy the fresh air.

When night falls, fire pits are being lit to extend the day and conversations with friends and family carry on into the wee hours of the night. Even through conversations with friends and family around the fire pit in the backyard are great ways to build memories, remembering fire safety and responsibility will ensure those times continue.  

1. When lighting your fire pit ,do not use highly flammable ignition sources such as gasoline or lighting fluid. Build a pyramid with three pieces of seasoned wood (seasoned at least 6 months) stand them end to end like a rooftop and then fill in the gaps with crumpled up newspaper and some small dry kindling sticks.
2. Make sure your pit is 10-20 ft away from any building, plant ,trees and overhanging branches. Since hot embers can travel, be cautious and keep a bucket of sand, pail of water or working garden hose close by in case an ember goes astray. Having a Class B or C fire extinguisher nearby would be good too.
3. When extinguishing the fire make sure the fire is completely out, if you purchased a fire pit kit, most manufacturers include a safety guide to explain the proper procedure to extinguish the fire in the pit. If you use your garden hose to extinguish the fire, use the wide pray selection to keep from spreading hot embers with a direct, heavy stream of water. Thoroughly drench the fire pit to ensure it is out. If the fire is just hot embers and no flames a decent coating of sand should keep any fires from occurring. A coating of sand and a decent soaking should eliminate the threat of any fire re-igniting.

These are just a couple of quick tips to ensure you and your family have a great backyard season. Safety first and if a fire does occur that becomes to large please call your local fire company immediately and evacuate the area.

Air Quality and Houseplants

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Over 26 species of plants can clean the air in your home

Sure, that potted fern is pretty, but can it really help with the air quality in your home?

Plants are notoriously adept at absorbing gases through pores on the surface of their leaves. It's this skill that facilitates photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy and carbon dioxide into chemical energy to fuel growth. Indoor plants help with removing harmful compounds from the air.

Scientists studying the air-purification capacities of indoor plants have found that plants can absorb many other gases in addition to carbon dioxide, including a long list of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Benzene (found in some plastics, fabrics, pesticides and cigarette smoke) and formaldehyde (found in some cosmetics, dish detergent, fabric softener and carpet cleaner) are examples of common indoor VOCs that plants help eliminate. These VOCs and other indoor air pollutants (such as ozone) have been linked to numerous acute conditions, including asthma and nausea, as well as chronic diseases such as cancer and respiratory illnesses.

An indoor plant's ability to remove these harmful compounds from the air is an example of phytoremediation, which is the use of any plant — indoors or out — to mitigate pollution in air, soil or water.

Some of the plants that scientists have found most useful in removing VOCs include Japanese royal ferns, spider plants, Boston ferns, purple waffle plants, English ivy, areca palms, golden pothos, aloe vera, snake plants and peace lilies.

Clean Air is important when it comes to your home and since winter is still keeping everyone indoors, clean indoor air is a must.

Three Reasons for Fires in your Gurnee Home

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

Education is the best fire prevention.

If a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape. House fires can be devastating and the road to recovery is long and hard. Educating yourself on the leading causes for house fires and prevention is a step in the right direction to ensure that your family and home are safe.

Electrical Outlets

Many electrical fires in homes or businesses are caused by faulty electrical outlets, old wiring, outdated appliances or electrical cords that are frayed.

• If you live in an older home have an electrician complete an inspection. Standards and codes are constantly being revised and updated to ensure safety.
• Do not overload your circuits.
• Understand the difference between surge protectors and power strips. Both devices allow you to plug in multiple electronics, but only the surge protector will help protect your electronics from a power surge.

Kitchen Fires

Carelessness in the kitchen can lead to devastating house fires. The leading cause of kitchen fires is due to unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.

• Never leave pots or pans unattended on your stove.
• Keeping your stove an oven clean will prevent buildup of food splatter and grease that could later ignite when the stove or oven is turned on for cooking.
• Keep any items that could ignite away from your stove top
• Ensure that you have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen in case of emergency.

Dryers

Dryer vents are becoming a much bigger and more common safety problem. Over time, your dryer vent fills with lint that sneaks by your dryer filter. Fires can occur when the excess lint builds up in the dryer or exhaust duct.

• Clean out the dryer vent regularly.
• Clean the lint filter after EACH load of laundry that is dried.
• Clean underneath and behind your dryer to eliminate any lint that collects.

Fire Damage and Your Belongings

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage can affect your belongings too.

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Gurnee understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings make your house more than a structure; they make it home.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Gurnee specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or 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 belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use 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.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Gurnee can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

• Quicker remodeling processes
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Electronic Cleanup

Fire-damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by fire. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces. If the residues are not removed, corrosion causes electronic failure in the device. We will coordinate the restoration of your electronics, including:

• Television sets
• DVD players
• Computers
• And more

The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Gurnee can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

• Air Drying
• De-humidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Contents Claim Inventory Service 

When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. We can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. We take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding.

Our Contents Claim Inventory Service:

• Pre-loss list and value of contents
• Detailed and accurate report
• Better information to settle claims quicker
• Assistance with burden of proof for claims
• Peace of mind when you need it most!

Warning Signs of Water Damage

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding is very common in Lake County, but water damage can come from many different places and is not just a problem for people living here. While the damage from a flood is pretty apparent, there are many ways water damage can happen to your home when you don’t even realize it.

Here are some common causes of water damage and how you can spot them:

-Weather is a common cause of water damage. Rains (snow and ice during the winter) cause flooding that can get into your home. Ice is an especially insidious cause of water damage because it expands as it freezes, causing cracks that allow more water to enter your home.

Even if it isn’t raining or snowing there is still moisture in the air. Damp air can lead to condensation and water damage to your walls. This is especially true of basements, bathrooms, and other damp areas of your home that don’t get much airflow.

-Appliances like your washing machine, garbage disposal, water heater, toilet, and air conditioner can all contribute to water damage if they leak or stop draining properly.

-Water from our pipes and plumbing systems can also cause water damage. Leaks and drips can go on for months, or even years, raising your water bill and doing unseen damage to your home.

What are the signs of water damage? Here are a few warning signs that you have a water damage problem in your home.

-Standing water – This may sound pretty obvious, but if you notice water pooling in your house you have a water problem that needs to be taken care of immediately.

-Bad smells – While water doesn’t normally have much of a smell, the mold and bacteria that grow in damp environments can give off a distinct musty, wet odor. If you smell mold or mildew you might have a water issue.

-Stains and spots – Stains on the ceilings or walls can be a sign of water damage. You might have a leaky pipe or roof. Call a professional to determine the cause of the problem and to clean up the damage before it becomes a serious mold problem.

-Peeling paint – Paint damaged by water will start to peel, bubble, or flake off.

-Uneven surfaces – Water damage can cause floors, ceilings, walls, and other surfaces to warp and feel uneven.

-Cracks – Water is always seeking the path of least resistance out of your home. Water can enter through cracks and once water finds its way in, the crack will expand allowing even more to get into your home. Make sure you seal all visible cracks on your property.

If you notice your home has water damage call the experts at SERVPRO of Gurnee 847-557-1080

Commercial Property Damage Specialists

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee can help with your commercial needs after a disaster

When your property experiences a disaster from a commercial frozen pipe, commercial fire or commercial sewage you are in need of knowledgeable technicians fast. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we work quickly to assess each situation and isolate the damaged area. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. We seek to help your business be able to continue operations in a temporary space if necessary while we restore your facility. With 24/7 emergency service we are able to help get your business quickly and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints.

About SERVPRO of Gurnee

SERVPRO of Gurnee specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Ways to Get Weather Warnings

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

Stay informed on weather in your area

Storm season is upon us. Do you know all the ways you can stay informed about inclement weather in your area? Here are some Ways to get Warnings and stay in the know.

Wireless Emergency Alerts

Emergency messages sent by the National Weather Service (NWS) and other agencies via your mobile carrier.

Your phone will receive the alters moments after being issued. Phones that are using cell towers in the alert zone will receive the WEA.

NOAA Weather Radio

A nationwide network of radio stations broadcasting continuous weather info from your local NWS office.

These battery-powered radios are a great source of weather warnings when the power is out and at night when you may be sleeping.

The Internet

Check weather.gov on a desktop or mobile.weather.gov on your mobile device.

Other ways to find warnings online include social media, other weather apps and local news sites.

Local TV and Radio

Local stations broadcast official warnings, plus forecasts and storm tracks from on-air meteorologists.

TV in particular is a great source of emergency info, since radar displays, maps, and other graphics can be shown.

Outdoor Sirens

Only designed to alert people who are outdoors.

Sirens are not intended to alert people who are in cars, homes, or other buildings.

Storm damage can happen, no matter how prepared you are. Call SERVPRO of Gurnee. We have the training, tools and team to help you. 847-557-1080

Improving your Business' Indoor Air Quality

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

Could air quality be affecting production?

Most people spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. Much of that time, for adults, is spent in an office, or warehouse, environment. Indoor air quality can contribute to the health and comfort of your employees, customers, and all who visit your place of business.

Why Does Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Matter?

Many studies suggest that the level of pollutants indoors often surpasses the pollutants outdoors. Poor IAQ can potentially impact the health and wellbeing of your employees.

According to OSHA, the following symptoms have been linked to poor IAQ:

• Nose, lung, throat, and eye irritation
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Concentration difficulty

OSHA also claims that specific air contaminants have been linked with varying ailments. Irritants and damp indoor environments may worsen or lead to various conditions.

After examining the potential symptoms of poor indoor air quality, it’s no surprise that good IAQ has been linked to higher productivity and fewer lost work days according to an EPA Report to Congress from 1989. Happy, healthy workers tend to take fewer days off and accomplish more in the workplace.

What Affects Indoor Air Quality?

Fixing indoor air quality is not as simple of a fix as changing a pipe or washing a window. Several independent factors, both indoors and out, can contribute to poor IAQ.

Potential factors include, but are not limited to:

• Outdoor pollutants such as smoke, smog, etc.
• Poor ventilation and/or insulation
• Inadequate moisture and humidity control
• Untreated smoke damage
• Spilt chemicals and leaking gases
• Dust, dirt, and animal dander
• Fungi, pollen, and other biological matter
• Tobacco

What Can SERVPRO do?

As mentioned before, many factors can impact IAQ. Fortunately, we offer comprehensive services that tackle many of these factors. At SERVPRO of Gurnee, we offer inspections with recommendations for the best course of action to leave your office with cleaner air.

IICRC Certified Firm

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

We are IICRC Certified

SERVPRO of Gurnee is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification 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.

SERVPRO of Gurnee 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’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Commercial Cleaning Service

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial customers can count on SERVPRO

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 professional. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on SERVPRO of Gurnee to make your workspace look its very best.

Your local SERVPRO of Gurnee will get the job done right and get it done quickly, because the SERVPRO Advantage includes these benefits:

Award-winning training

Over 40 years’ experience in the industry

More than 100 exclusive cleaning products

Specialties include:

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

Call today 847-557-1080!

When Storms or Floods happen, SERVPRO is ready!

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

"Faster to any disaster"

We got a lot of snow this winter. Spring is coming, are you ready for the thaw and flood?

SERVPRO of Gurnee 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 your city, 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 847-557-1080!

Water Damage Event Timeline

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Time is crucial when water damage occurs

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

Do not wait to call! Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 847-557-1080

Why it's important to review your Insurance

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

When's the last time you had a review?

When was the last time you evaluated your coverages with your agent? Your agent can do an annual check and make sure you are covered where you need it (and aren't paying for coverages you've outgrown). Life changes fast, make sure your insurance keeps up. If you have been wondering if you could bundle your policies, need a different life insurance policy, or bought a new boat, you could use an insurance check. Contact your agent and schedule a brief review today.

Update Home Inventory

Your home inventory is a tool that your agent can use to determine the right level of coverage for your homeowner insurance. Plus, if you have a claim, having an up-to-date inventory will benefit you and get your claim paid faster. If you haven't done an inventory on your home in a while, we have some tips on where to start. If you have completed an inventory, right after the holidays are and ideal time to update! Be sure to share the updated home inventory with your agent when you're done.

Right-Size Your Life Insurance

Life insurance is not one-size-fits-all. Your coverage needs to evolve over time. If you don't have a policy yet, now is a great time to talk to your agent about what type of policy would best suit your needs (and your budget.) We have six things to look for in a life insurance policy.

If you do already have life insurance, is it working hard for you? Could you get more benefit out of your policy while you are still living? Maybe. Talk to your agent about the ways you can make your existing policy work for you and your family.

Earn Discounts

Did you know that you can play a part in determining your auto insurance rates? Check with your agent to see if you qualify for a program that can help you earn discounts based on your good driving behavior. You can also monitor your vehicle health and environmental impact in the process.

If you have a teen driver in the house, you may be able to save even more with a Young Driver Safety program. With this program, drivers under the age of 25 can learn safe driving behaviors, and help you earn discounts on your auto policy premiums.

Prepare for the Unexpected

You try to be as prepared as possible, but you never know what is right around the corner. Prepare for unexpected risks with an umbrella policy. Umbrella earns its name because the coverage arches over your vehicle and homeowner's insurance to provide an extra layer of protection: it starts where vehicle and homeowner's insurance liability limits stop. You might be surprised by all the things umbrella policies cover for an affordable price.

Types of Storm Damage

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Wind Damage Restoration

Hurricane damage sometimes includes severe wind damage. Roof damage in this situation may range from a missing roof, to harsh winds and rains shearing away asphalt tiles. Roof repair of obvious defects usually ensues in the wake of hurricane damage and storm remediation. Correcting roof damage may challenge homeowners after a disaster, since a roof leak may not appear obvious.

How can a roof leak and roof damage escape easy detection in this situation? Wind damage may loosen flashing, eventually causing another roof leak weeks after the storm. Even a subtle roof leak of this nature can produce damp, moldy conditions inside the home. Obtaining fast roof repair may prevent long term interior damage. A wind damage home restoration expert may assist clients in receiving comprehensive roof assessments and roof repair services when hurricane damage afflicts an area. Their expertise helps property owners address storm damage and roof damage more effectively.

Flooding and Recovery

Flood water frequently poses a risk in coastal areas. Yet heavy rains may cause river flooding miles inland also. If the surrounding terrain cannot absorb ground water, runoff contributes to flood water. Even residents of mountainous areas sometimes sustain varying degrees of flood damage if frozen pipes rupture. Flood pump failures contribute to basement flooding and contaminated ground water in some locations, too.

Flooding may disrupt municipal water systems. Experts need to assess ground water and evaluate the condition of pipes following flood damage. Hiring a storm restoration firm may allow you to begin your cleanup process even before water restoration occurs. (Cleaning before water restoration often proves essential yet challenging.) By relying upon a trained specialist, you'll usually obtain faster storm remediation. These experts may suggest ways to help mitigate flood water damage in the future, for instance, by requesting backup flood pump installation.

Visit us at SERVPRO of Gurnee for more information on Storm damage.

Cleanup of Smoke and Soot

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage behind drywall

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

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Gurnee will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. 

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – 847-557-1080

Who is Responsible for Water Damage in your Gurnee Apartment?

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

Do you know who is responsible?

Unfortunately, water damage is a common issue homeowners, landlords and renters can face. The aftermath can be devastating making the property unlivable and permanent damage may occur to personal belongings. When water damage occurs in an apartment, who is responsible for the damage cost? The property owner or renter?

Renter rights

Water damage can be unpredictable and it is important to understand your renter rights and understand who is responsible for what in such an event. In general, a landlord is responsible for maintaining the property ensuring that the apartment is livable and functioning up to code. The landlord may refuse repairs, or fail to address them quick in enough – causing further damage such as mold. In the United States, basic principles in tenant rights are in place and outline the party liable for damages.  Depending on the state, rent details can vary so check with your local housing authority.

Review your lease

It’s important to know what your lease states regarding property damage. Most properties have property insurance and will list what type of damage that is covered and what is not. The lease may specify actions that may be in place depending on the severity of the water damage. If the damage is severe and the apartment is unlivable is the tenant still required to pay the rent? Can the landlord evict the tenant or can the tenant cancel their lease without penalty? In general, if the damage is minor, the tenant will not be able to cancel the lease agreement. If the terms regarding property damage are not listed in the lease, speak to your landlord about who is responsible in the event when water damage strikes.

Renter’s insurance

Accidents happen which is why it is essential to have renter’s insurance. Most places require you have it before allowing you to move in an apartment. Depending on the plan you select, coverage can vary from damages to the building, personal content and may even cover the cost of lodging while repairs are being completed.

Landlord Responsibilities

The landlord is responsible for maintaining a functional apartment ensure that it is livable. The upkeep of basic plumbing such as sinks, toilets and tubs fall on the shoulders of the landlord. Failure to maintain or repair these functions may lead to property damage and the landlord is liable due to negligence.

Damage to property and personal belongings

Water damages caused to the building itself such as flooring, walls and utilities should be covered under the landlord’s property insurance. Personal property damages fall to the responsibility of the party at fault for damages, which can be the tenant. For example, if the tenant leaves a faucet on and falls asleep causing water damages.

How SERVPRO of Gurnee can help

Water damage requires a rapid response in order to minimize loss to both the property itself and belongings inside. We are experts at water damage cleanup in apartments and building of all sizes no matter severity of the damage. Our team of experts will assess the damage and develop an appropriate plan to restore and recover your property and contents. Contact us by calling 847-557-1080 to learn more about our water damage clean-up services.

Using a Portable Generator Safely

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let your generator caused more damage

We all have been there when the power in your home or business decides to shut off caused by bad weather or a community outage. The wind and ice as of late have caused power outages for more than a few local communities. The last thing anyone wants to worry about during cold weather is keeping your heat on. Portable heaters can help, but how will you run them with no power? Many businesses and residential properties have the convenience of a backup generator located nearby. With operation of a generator do you know the first things to keep in mind to staying safe while using one?

If you have a generator on hand for power outages during severe weather, follow the safety tips below from the American Red Cross:

•  Never use a generator, grill, camp stove, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space, or any partially enclosed area.
• To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
• Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the home. Although CO can’t be seen or smelled, it can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and death. Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately.
• Install CO alarms in central locations on every level of your home or property and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.

Even in bad weather, the best place for your generator is outside. If you must keep it protected to keep it running and be safe then a garage is a good place, but pay attention to CO levels if your garage is attached to your house. Only use your generator if you absolutely have to and call for help if you need it.

Do you have an Emergency Plan?

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Making a plan is easier than you think

Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area.  Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find.

Having a plan is key to surviving. With these few simple steps, it can help you evacuate your home safely before help arrives.

Step 1: Discuss these 4 questions with your family, friends, or household to start your emergency plan.

• How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
• What is my shelter plan?
• What is my evacuation route?
• What is my family/household communication plan?

Step 2:  Consider specific needs in your household.

As you prepare your plan tailor everything to your specific daily living needs and responsibilities. Discuss supplies and responsibilities and how people in the network can assist each other with communication, care of children, business, pets, or specific needs like the operation of durable medical equipment. Create your own personal network for specific areas where you need assistance.  Keep in mind some these factors when developing your plan:

• Different ages of members within your household
• Responsibilities for assisting others
• Locations frequented
• Dietary needs
• Medical needs including prescriptions and equipment
• Disabilities or access and functional needs including devices and equipment
• Languages spoken
• Cultural and religious considerations
• Pets or service animals
• Households with school-aged children

Step 3: Fill out a Family Emergency Plan

Create and fill out important information needed for the whole family to understand. Make sure to communicate key steps and meeting spots in case of an emergency. Using pictures or graphics can make it easier for the children in the home to understand main places to evacuate.

Step 4: Practice your plan with your family/household

SERVPRO of Gurnee 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. When storms hit, 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. Call SERVPRO of Gurnee 847-557-1080 

Why Call SERVPRO of Gurnee?

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Let us handle it for you

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, we realize you have many options when selecting a restoration and emergency service provider.  So, why should you call us? 

• We are a one stop shop that can handle any job from start to finish.
• As one of 1700 individually owned and operated franchises we have access to more support during harsh weather.
• We are “Faster to any size disaster”.
• SERVPRO is a trusted name in the mitigation and restoration industry.
• We work with all major insurance carriers and have relationships with many local providers.
• Our personal franchise has over 35 years of combined experience in any situation.
• We always put our customers need first.
• We have the equipment and training to get any job completed.
• We can easily handle both commercial and residential properties.
• Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
• We are locally owned and operated so we live and work in the same communities you do.
• We love what we do and want to help you!

If you have questions, need any assistance or would like a free estimate.  Give us a call today 847-557-1080.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes your business, give us a call

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

SERVPRO of Gurnee specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

How to Survive a Sewer Back Up

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Do you know what to do in this situation?

You've just noticed water in your home and discover the source is your backed-up toilet, now what??

1.  Rapid Response

The risk of harmful bacteria in your home or business is a time sensitive issue and should be addressed ASAP. Containment is necessary to preventing extensive damage. Contact a professional cleaning team to immediately respond to the contaminated area.

2. Proper Sterilization

Water from a sewer backup is dangerous, so do not attempt a sewer back-up cleanup on your own. Specific techniques and safety equipment are needed to ensure appropriate removal of all hazardous bacteria. Contamination levels of the water may vary and require a customized sterilization process.

3. Sufficient Drying Time

Allowing adequate drying time after the water has been removed helps prevent the growth of mold and stop further damage to your home. Depending on the amount and duration of the water exposure, drying can often take days. It may also be required to remove carpet, flooring or sub floor.

4. Moving Forward

Repairing your property after a sewer cleanup can be a huge project, and keeping good documentation can aid in a speedy recovery. Having current pictures of your home prior to an accident is highly recommended. These records can help insurance companies easily identify which areas were affected to help any claims move forward quicker.

SERVPRO of Gurnee understands the stress and worry that comes with water damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

Do not hesitate to call us at 847-557-1080.

Spread Love not Fire Damage

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires can only take seconds to spread

February is the month of love and what better way to show that special someone you care than with a romantic candlelit dinner. Before you show off your chef skills though, keep in mind that cooking equipment is the #1 cause of house fires so make sure you are keeping an eye on that delicious dish you are preparing. It only takes seconds to start a fire that can engulf your whole kitchen and put a huge damper on your special night in.

Ways to stay safe in the kitchen

• Make sure your smoke alarm is working
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking
• Keep potholders, towels and paper towels away from the stove top
• Turn off your burner and oven when not in use

Once you have your meal ready don’t forget to set the mood…

Candles are a go-to choice for romantic lighting, but are one of the top 5 things that cause house fires. Salt lamps, fairy lights, table lamps, oil diffusers, wax warmers and flameless luminaries can help you “set the mood” without worry so your night can go exactly as planned.

If the unfortunate does happen, SERVPRO of Gurnee can help clean up and rebuild after a fire. We have the highly trained staff and equipment to make it seem like it never happened. Call us today!

Polar Vortex 2019 Water Damage

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

We offer estimates for your convenience

The deep freeze has come and gone, bringing with it frozen and burst pipes. Damage can be obvious, but sometimes it's not noticed right away causing more issues down the road. 

Signs that you have a burst pipe

-water marks on ceilings or walls

-standing water and puddles

-water discoloration and odors

-water pressure issues

-strange sounds when using water

If you find you have a burst pipe, use these four steps

1. Turn off your water supply
2. Trace the water/damage and locate the damaged pipe
3. Call a Plumber to repair
4. Bring in a professional drying crew

SERVPRO of Gurnee is here with the professional equipment and experience to dry and clean your home. Our goal is to restore everything like it never happened. We will keep you updated and informed throughout your experience. Call us today!

Don't forget to test your Sump Pump

You may have survived the freeze, but are you prepared for the flood? The upcoming thaw means increased water in the area. A quick check of your sump pump will ensure proper functioning that can save you from further water damage. Click the link to learn how to test your sump pump

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/test-sump-pump-34954.html

How to Clean After a Fire in My Home?

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

When you experience a fire in your home, it is a scary, unexpected time and you may have many questions as what is to come next.

First step after a fire is extinguished, the home needs to be boarded up to avoid additional damage from weather, animals, or theft. Afterwards, depending on the severity of the fire and upon clearance from the fire department is to determine the extent of the damage and survey how the home will be cleaned. There are some fires that do not require a full demo of the entire structure. SERVPRO of Gurnee inspects room by room the damage and what cleaning method would be best used. 

Once the damage is assessed, SERVPRO offers rush service for the homeowner to collect necessary soft content items such as clothing, shoes, or children’s sentimental comfort items that will be immediately needed that will be cleaned in our Gurnee facility. 

SERVPRO then can begin working on restoring your home after a fire quickly by compiling a detailed inventory list of salvageable and unsalvageable items as they are packed to be cleaned at our facility or on site. After the home is packed out, the structure is cleaned, dried, and removal of any structure materials that cannot be cleaned.

After the home and contents are cleaned, SERVPRO has a highly trained reconstruction department to complete the repairs from any rooms that requires drywall, flooring, roofing, cabinets, siding, and any other items that need to be replaced.

Odor After Water Damage

3/15/2018 (Permalink)

Why is there an odor in a home that has experienced water damage? The odors come from wet carpeting, padding, drywall, insulation, cabinets, or contents in the home.  The odor is there because of microbial growth (mold) and this smell is from a process referred to as Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds or MVOCs. This is the microorganism’s metabolism or rather the ability of mold to begin rapidly multiplying in the wet environment. Molds can be found anywhere inside structures and outside. Mold is crucial outdoors to help decay trees that have fallen or other material turning it back into soil for regrowth. Mold does not distinguish if it’s outdoors and indoors, so this same process will occur on drywall and wooded studs inside a home! SERVPRO of Gurnee is a certified cleaning and restoration firm in mold mitigation and remediation. Each structure that has mold is approached differently depending on the source of water, what type of material mold is growing on, and how much.

Flooding, Storms, and Mold

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

After a disaster or storm when a significant amount of homes and businesses have been affected many people have concerns and questions about mold indoors. Any material that is wet must get dried quickly. Mold growth can occur within 48-72 hours in a damp, high humidity environment. With a water loss from a Category Three contamination, some material may need to be discarded. Water from a flood that comes in a home is filled with contaminants, pesticides, animal droppings, fuel, and silt. With water intrusion in the home, the relative humidity temperature indoors can raise giving mold the perfect climate to grow. Our SERVPRO of Gurnee technicians are Institute of Inspection and Cleaning Restoration trained to remove water and decrease the relative humidity in your home after water infiltration. If mold is visible, there are different methods of removal based on the material that mold resides. At the job completion, SERVPRO of Gurnee also uses an antimicrobial solution to assure that no mold spores will grow in the present mitigation project.

Deodorization after a Fire

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

Frequently, we are asked how we combat odors. Odors from a skunk, odors after a sewage loss, odors from a dead animal, odors from a biohazard cleanup, and most common, odors after a fire. Each cleanup situation is unique and we first inspect to determine the best method for removal. Three methods that we use are use of ozone, hydroxl generators, and deodorants.

Ozone- Is a gas with its chemical symbol O₃. Use of an ozone machine causes a chemical reaction to occur having the free molecules that are split from an electrical arc to join any of the O₂ molecules that are in the home that then meet and chemically change the odor molecules.

Hydroxl Generators- Hydroxls have a free electron that will allows the hydroxyls to react with the materials that are in the environment. This creates a chemical reaction that reduces the odors.

Deodorants- Deodorants are pairing agents that combine with a malodor to create new odorless compounds. Use of deodorants are through the forms of liquids, gels, and solids.

Each removal method of odors is a unique situation that SERVPRO of Gurnee professionals assess with every call that we receive. We always seek to remove the source of the odor first and clean the area.

Frozen Pipes Tips

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

We have received many calls for frozen pipes causing damages in commercial and residential properties. Many have unexpectedly discovered their pipes have frozen and seek the help of a professional to unthaw and fix the problem. With winter’s arrival and freezing temperatures among us here are some tips to protect pipes from freezing:

• Allow water to drip when temperatures are below freezing
• Keep your thermostat set at the same temperature during the day and at night
• Do not let the temperature go below 55 degrees* in your home/business.
• For pipes underneath cabinets, open the door so warm air can circulate around the pipes
• If there are outside faucets, make sure that your garden hose is removed and stored. For additional precautions turn the water off at the water main and open the outside faucet to drain completely
• Check for any cracks or holes that may be letting air into the structure near water pipes. If detected, seal them.
• Add insulation to pipes that run alongside the exterior walls
• Make sure that the garage door remains closed if there is water lines located in the garage

Frozen pipes in your commercial business or residential home can cause a lot of damage. After the plumber has fixed the problem call SERVPRO of Gurnee to come out for an inspection at 847-557-1080.

*For more tips visit the American Red Cross website

Commercial Frozen Pipes

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

When your property experiences a disaster from a commercial frozen pipe, commercial fire or commercial sewage you are in need of knowledgeable technicians fast. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we work quickly to assess each situation and isolate the damaged area. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. We seek to help your business be able to continue operations in a temporary space if necessary while we restore your facility. With 24/7 emergency service we are able to help get your business quickly and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints.

About SERVPRO of Gurnee

SERVPRO of Gurnee specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Bacteria Cleanup

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

Contaminated water that has entered your home or business is classified in the restoration industry as Category 3 contaminated water. Category 3 water invades with more than just water, but also bacterial contaminants. Bacteria are everywhere and makes up most of Earth’s mass. Bacteria can multiply at an alarming rate. The smell that comes with a water intrusion isn’t just from mold growth, but also that of bacteria present. The toilet that has overflowed, stagnant water, the fish tank that has broken, all these examples have significant amounts of bacteria with them. When you have Category 3 water that contaminates your home or business it is important to have a professional inspect, and remediate properly.

SERVPRO of Gurnee is certified to clean a variety of unwanted contaminates such as:

• Mold mitigation and remediation
• Bacteria from stagnant sources
• Sewage Clean Up from sewer back flows
• Outside water intrusions
• Water that has affected a home while away on a vacation

Vernon Hills Residents: Is Your Property Ready for Winter?

11/20/2017 (Permalink)

Cold weather is approaching, and it’s important to prepare your home or business for the winter months. Freezing temperatures can cause frozen pipes. Heavy rains with improper drainage can force water back into your home or business. Snow and ice sitting on top of full gutters can force water into your attic as the sun and temperature fluctuations cause the snow and ice to melt. Here are some proactive measures to prepare your home or business for the winter:
• Inspect your roof, gutters, and downspouts. It’s a good idea to check your roof after every storm or heavy rain event. If you haven’t done that yet, now is the time to inspect for any roof damage or potential hazards that can keep standing water on your roof. Avoid ice damming this winter by cleaning your gutters from leaves and other debris. Also, double check that your downspout is directed away from your building or home to avoid water being forced at your home or business.
• Walk your property to look for any obstacles that could cause personal injury such as fallen branches. While you are walking the exterior of your residence or business also check for proper drainage.
• Disconnect your garden hose and store away this winter to avoid freezing your hose bib (or sillcock). This will help avoid a flooded basement this coming spring when you go to use your hose for the first time.
• Install mats or non-slip surfaces to avoid slips this winter.
• If you own a home or business, let SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/Lake Bluff set up your building with a no cost assessment called an Emergency Ready Profile. This provides your business with a plan to get back in operation should disaster occur.
When winter weather arrives, SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/Lake Bluff wants you to be prepared. If the unexpected frozen pipe, ice damming, or water in your basement happens to your Vernon Hills home or business, call us 24/7 365 days a year at 847-557-1080.

Gurnee Residents: Fire Prevention

11/20/2017 (Permalink)

This year’s Fire Prevention Theme is “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 ways out!” The National Fire Protection Association encourages families with their children to:

• Make a map of their home and find two exits from each room.
• Make sure exits are not blocked
• Have a meeting spot in the front of the home to meet if home experiences a fire
• Practice a fire drill at least twice a year. They also suggest doing one drill during the day and one at night.
• Make sure to teach children how they can escape on their own in case someone can’t help.
• Close any windows or doors that you leave to try to slow smoke, fire, or heat.
• Make sure address is clearly visible from front of structure and everyone knows how to call the fire department for help
• Test smoke alarms once a month, and change batteries twice a year.

For great resources, and a grid to draw a map of your home go to National Fire Protection Association’s website here.

For tips on what to do after a fire or have any questions, call SERVPRO of Gurnee or SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff at 847-557-1080, 24/7 365 days.

Lake Forest Residents: Need to remove mold?

11/20/2017 (Permalink)

Water intrusion from a roof leak?

Water line leaking from refrigerator?

Water in basement?

If you have one of these problems, you may also have concerns about mold growing in your home from the water intrusion. Mold can have serious health effects and also cause serious damage to your home. Every mold situation is different, and can be handled many different ways. SERVPRO of Gurnee has the trained technicians, protective gear, and specialized equipment to handle your mold problem.

When you call SERVPRO, an experienced technician will carefully inspect your property with specialized technology used for detecting hidden water sources where mold would be able to grow. Mold feeds off water and cellulose and grows in these undetected environments.

Prior to beginning the mold removal, various containments will be set up to prevent the spread of the mold spores throughout your home and isolate the contaminated area. We do this with negative air pressure and with physical barriers. In addition, we place specialized air filtration equipment that will capture the microscopic mold spores that are floating in the air. These air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums prevent the spread of mold during the remediation process.

Depending on the amount of mold growth and the type of surfaces affected will determine how our technicians will approach the remediation job. Some surfaces may have to be removed and disposed of that are mold-infested. These are high-porous surfaces such as drywall and flooring. In addition, antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be applied to help prevent new colonies from forming. Our SERVPRO of Gurnee technicians can also clean mold damaged contents. In addition, technicians are trained and able to remove odors and do deodorization using our fogging equipment.

Any other questions regarding mold or to schedule an appointment, call us at 847-557-1080.

Electronics that Experience Water Damage

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

With all the recent flooding from the severe storms, many homes and businesses have experienced water damage. We specialize in cleaning contents after water and fire damage. SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO Libertyville/ N. Chicago City. Lake Bluff always tries to restore verse replace to help keep insurance costs down and salvage sentimental items. So how do we assess electronics that have been exposed to water? Our first step is to determine how the electronics have been exposed to water.

Has the item been completely submerged?

When we find an electronic that has been completely underwater, these items may not be restorable because of circuit failure, the motor shorting out, corrosion and heavy rust. Our content cleaning technician looks for these signs and also notes what category of water the electronic sat in, the length of time, how much of the electronic was exposed, and other observations are made with each individual electronic brought in. In our pre-testing if a submerged item is considered un-restorable, our team removes the item from site and carefully inventories the item for homeowner/ business owner for insurance purposes.

Did water drip on the electronic?

We don’t assess the electronic just by the external appearance, but we are certain to do a thorough inspection, and we determine if we can clean and dry out the electronic. If water drips on an electronic, we open it up and inspect if the water has affected the internal components. Before making the final decision that the item was able to be saved, we do a final test to be certain of proper preloss functioning.

Has the electronic been exposed to high humidity only?

After a home or business experiences any water damage, the humidity in the environment increases. High humidity with electronics exposed for any amount of time is a cause for concern. Over time, electronics naturally attract particles from the air and dust. When an electronic is exposed to humidity, the dust on the electronic can act as a sponge for moisture particles and pull in the moisture internally. The electronics may initially work, but over time may see that corrosion and rust set in without an inspection. Electronics exposed to high humidity also have to be opened up, inspected, cleaned, dried, and undergo final testing before determining that the item will function.

***

Each content that we receive is looked at individually if the item can be cleaned and restored. SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff restores several different contents including electronics after a fire or water damage in a residential or commercial loss. Each loss is unique and different, and affects the structure and contents differently depending on the type of loss, length of time, and category of water.

After a Fire Tips

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

Cleanup after a fire or smoke damage is a job for an IICRC Certified firm. Sometimes cleaning up after a fire without the proper method can cause further damage. Depending on the source of fire determines how SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/Lake Bluff will go about cleaning up after a fire. Here are some tips that can help minimize the damage after a fire until a crew arrives:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading
• Do not send any clothing to a local dry cleaner because improper cleaning may set in odor
• Do not shampoo carpets, upholstery, or furniture
• Do not attempt to clean electronics or electrical equipment
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet
• Coat chrome faucets, trim or appliances with petroleum jelly or oil

Call us 24/7 and 365 days for help. We are always happy to help get you back into your home or business quickly.

Cleaning Biological Matter

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff cleans up after purposeful or accidental death in buildings and vehicles? Blood cleanup and decontamination should be left to professionals that carry a biohazard and crime scene cleanup certification. We have certified and trained technicians that are available to help cleanup, remove contaminated items, and deodorize. We know and understand that losing a loved one is hard, and our team is empathetic and ready to help answer any questions that you may have about the process. Our technicians are properly trained and equipped with proper protective devices, perform on site deodorization, and remove or clean contents. Upon job completion, a technician will test with our biological material tester to rest assured that the cleanup has been sanitized to SERVPRO and industry standards free of bio contamination.

Water Types

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

All the recent severe rains and unexpected flooding in Gurnee, Grayslake, Libertyville, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Round Lake and Mundelein experience on July 12^th, 2017 brought our SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff several calls, questions, and comments. One topic we found ourselves explaining frequently was water types.

When you home or business experiences water damage, there are different categories of water that we have to clean up with different levels of contamination.

• Clean Water is that water that comes from a broken pipe, sink or tub overflow, or appliance malfunctions from a water line.
• Gray Water is slightly contaminated water and can come from a dishwasher or clothes washer discharge.
• Black Water is very contaminated and comes from sewage damage, aquarium leak, toilet overflow, flooding, or natural disaster. This water is filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals, and more.

All types of water, left untreated, will allow bacteria, contaminates, fungi, bacteria, and microbial growth to occur. Having a SERVPRO technician come out to your home to provide an inspection will show you where you have water, what water type is in your home, and the proper industry guidelines for cleaning your home to an industry standard.

SERVPRO Community Service: Contingency Planning for Businesses

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

50% of all businesses that experience a disaster do not reopen. Of the 50% that do reopen 70% of them have a plan in place. Many businesses have a plan on how to get out of the building in a fire or how to help someone who is injured, but not many businesses have a plan on protecting the merchandise or how to get back in operation should a disaster occur. Let SERVPRO of Gurnee and SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff set your business up with a contingency plan! SERVPRO will go out to your business, at no charge, and create a profile locating all your important utilities and shutoffs with directions and photographs. Why do we do this for free? Disasters happen, and SERVPRO believes in businesses being prepared to help minimize the amount of work that needs to be done, and be certain the business and employees can return to operation as quickly as possible.

The SERVPRO® Ready Plan comes accessible as an App and is an emergency preparedness tool for home and business owners, property managers, risk managers and facility management. It allows for the creation of an Emergency Ready Profile containing critical facility information to help speed up response time. In addition, the profile has a space for all significant contacts that your business may need to contact in an emergency, such as: plumber, elevator repair, electric company, sprinkler company, etc. Each profile is tailored to each business needs, and can be as detailed as you want. Multiple properties are all linked together in one profile sign in for quick access. In return you will receive a secure sign on for electronic access online and through the app with editing capabilities, Emergency Ready Profile Folder to keep in your office, electronic damage log reports, and peace of mind knowing that you have a plan in case disaster occurs.

Want to learn more or schedule an appointment? Contact Ariel Flary at 847-557-1080 or aflary@SERVPROlibertyville.com.

Are your Air Ducts Clean?

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know that your ventilation system determines your indoor air quality? Dirty ducts can circulate contaminates such as mold or irritating dust as well as unwanted odors throughout your home or business. SERVPRO of Gurnee and SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff is a professional service that will inspect and clean your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). How does our SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System work?

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

For more information or to schedule a residential or commercial duct cleaning appointment, contact us at 847-557-1080.

Lightning Facts and Tips

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee and SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff will board up your home or business, clean contents, clean structure, and rebuild if your building is struck by lightning and incurs fire damage. The odds of being struck by lightning is 1 in 500,000 and is the leading cause of weather-related fatalities. Here are some tips and facts about lightning from the CDC:

• Check the forecast before planning outdoor activities. If the weather is calling for outdoor thunderstorms, postpone your trip or activity, or make sure there is adequate shelter available.
• “When thunder roars, go indoors.” Go indoors or find a safe enclosed shelter when you hear thunder. Some ideas of safe shelters are offices, homes, shopping centers, or hard-top vehicles (with the windows rolled up).
• Avoid windows, doors, porches, and concrete. Do not lie on concrete floors and avoid leaning against concrete walls. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.
• Avoid water during a thunderstorm by not bathing, showering, washing dishes, or any other contact with water because lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing.
• Avoid electronic equipment that is connected to an electrical outlet. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls.
• Make sure to equip homes and businesses with surge protectors to protect appliances and other electronic devices.
• If you are outdoors and there is not shelter, do not lie down. Instead, crouch close to the ground touching the ground as little as possible. If you are in a group, make sure to separate.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 –847-557-1080

Emergency Supply Checklist from FEMA

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

• Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
• Local maps
• Prescription medications and glasses
• Infant formula and diapers
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
• Cash or traveler’s checks and change
• Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from ready.gov
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
• Complete change of clothing including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
• Fire Extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Catastrophic Storm Cleaning in Lake County, IL

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricane Sandy, Hurricane Matthew, Hurricane Harvey, and Hurricane Irma are catastrophic storm events where SERVPRO of Gurnee and SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff have sent crews, vehicles, and equipment to help homeowners and business owners get back in their homes and businesses. SERVPRO has over 1700 franchises all over the United States, and many of these franchises have teams that are ready to respond to catastrophic storm events helping businesses and homeowners after a severe storm.

This summer we requested SERVPRO catastrophic storm teams to help with our recent storms and flooding on July 12^th, 2017 due to the high volume of calls. We received crews from California, Rhode Island, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Michigan, among other states. When you call SERVPRO during a catastrophic storm event, you are able to receive a team of technicians that are background checked, completed SERVPRO’s several Employee Certification Training Programs, follows and adheres to the ANSI/IICRC S500 Water Restoration Reference Guide, works directly with your insurance, takes photos before, throughout, and after job completion, and are professionally certified with the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification.

Healthcare Certified Cleaning in Lake County, IL

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff is proud to announce our recent accreditation with the Linders Health Institute Critical Facilities Healthcare - CFHC.  

This training further educated our technicians on infection control risk management in healthcare mitigation and remediation projects. Healthcare facilities need to keep their patients, staff, workers, visitors, and caregivers safe during construction projects. This is why they have strict requirements of contractors coming into work on their facilities. SERVPRO understands healthcare facilities commitment to their occupants and completed the proper certification program to adhere to safety, compliance, and limit airborne exposure risks.

If your healthcare facility experiences water intrusion, fire, mold, or is in need of air duct cleaning, biological matter cleaning, or general cleaning contact SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff 24/7 at 847-557-1080.

Water Damage Tips

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

Here are some tips for clean water and contaminated water before help arrives.

Clean Water

• Shut off water source if possible.
• Do not enter rooms with standing water, as electric shock hazards may exist.
• Turn off circuit breakers for those areas that are wet if access is safe from potential electric shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting in rooms without standing water.
• Protect carpet from staining by placing foil, plastic wrap beneath furniture legs.
• Remove cushions and prop to allow for even drying.
• Move paintings, documents, or other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture.
• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or any other colored item on the floor as these items may cause staining.
• Do not use a household vacuum cleaner.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures (if ceiling is wet).
• Do not enter rooms where ceiling is sagging from retained water.

Contaminated Water

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items.
• Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.
• Do not turn on the HVAC system because there is a possibility to spread contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure because the air flow could cause contaminates to spread.
• Throw away any food and/or products for personal hygiene if exposed to the contaminated area.

Call SERVPRO of Gurnee and SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/Lake Bluff at 847-557-1080 for an inspection for your water damage.

Flooding in Gurnee Tips

3/28/2017 (Permalink)

With the spring rains approaching there will be watchful eyes on the water levels of our local rivers and ponds. Recently the Village of Gurnee posted an article in their community newsletter with tips for protecting your Gurnee home from Spring Flooding. (You can read the article here.)

SERVPRO of Gurnee and SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff is open and ready to help 24/7 365 days per year. We are on site fast to help mitigate and protect your home when water has intruded whether it is from heavy rains to sump pump failure. Did you know that here at SERVPRO of Gurnee and SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff ALL of our staff are WRT certified? What that means is that our entire staff is trained as Water Damage Restoration Technicians through the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification). All our team members have gone through the course and passed an exam to be on your property to properly take care of the water damage has occurred in your home. There are more steps to just extracting the water from your home. We check to see the migration of where the water has traveled, and which walls have become saturated.

SERVPRO of Gurnee/ SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

Through its Ready Campaign, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security educates and empowers Americans to take some simple steps to prepare for and respond to potential emergencies, including natural disasters and terrorist attacks. Ready asks individuals to do three key things: get an emergency supply kit, make family emergency plan, and be informed about the different types of emergencies that occur and their appropriate responses.

All American should have some basic supplies on hand in order to survive for at least three days if an emergency occurs.

However, it is important that individuals review this list and consider where they live and the unique needs of their family in order to create an emergency supply kit that will meet these needs. Individuals should also consider having at least two emergency supply kits, one full kit at home and smaller portable kits in their workplace, vehicle or other places they spend time. 

Fox Lake Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Fox Lake basement could flood, including: 

·         A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe

·         Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home

·         Storm sewer backup

·         Sanitary sewer backup

·         Foundation drainage failure

·         Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

·         And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today -847-838-2954

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

·         We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week

·         We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies

·         We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About

·         Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques

·         We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards

·         Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today- We’re Ready To Help 847-838-2954

Faster to your Zion Water Damage Event

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 –847-838-2954

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.

About SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff

SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Lake Forest 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today – 847-838-2954

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

·         Your name and contact information

·         Your insurance information (if applicable)

·         The street address of the water-damaged home or business

·         When did the flooding or water damage occur?

·         What caused the water damage (if known)?

·         Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff

SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Lake Villa Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

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

What to Do:

·         Stay out of affected areas.

·         Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

·         Contact SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

·         Don’t touch or disturb the mold.

·         Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.

·         Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.

·         Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 847-838-2954

Does Your Waukegan Home Have A Mold Problem?

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

·         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 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 allergens and irritants.

·         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 can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

·         Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 847-838-2954

When Storms or Floods hit Antioch, SERVPRO is ready!

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff 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 Antioch, 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 847-838-2954

For Immediate Service in Lake Bluff, Call SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Lake Bluff. 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

·         A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

·         Locally Owned and Operated

·         Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 847-838-2954

Residential Services

Whether your Lake Bluff home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. 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 strike your Lake Bluff 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. 

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Wadsworth Home

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification 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 of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/Lake Bluff

SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff 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’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Libertyville Smoke and Soot Cleanup

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

·         Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.

·         Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.

·         The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

·         Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

·         Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff: 847-838-2954

Restoring Your Gurnee Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Gurnee commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Gurnee and SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff

SERVPRO of Gurnee & SERVPRO of Libertyville/ N. Chicago City/Lake Bluff specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Cleaning up After a Fire: Interview with Ryan on Fire Cleaning

6/27/2016 (Permalink)

Nothing prepares you for a fire. SERVPRO® of Gurnee & SERVPRO® of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff understands the frustration that comes after the fire is out.

What are some of the first steps SERVPRO® takes when a homeowner or business experiences a fire?

We walk through the structure with the property owner and adjuster. We determine how much of the property is affected, how we are going to clean it, and see what can be salvaged. Then, depending on the type of fire, determine the steps needed to clean everything. Sometimes we can clean items on site if there is light soot. Other times, we carefully pack up the items, and clean them in our Gurnee facility.

Will all my contents be thrown away after a fire?

Not necessarily. It really depends on the severity of the fire. Anything highly porous may need to be thrown away. Some examples being: plastics, Tupperware, medication, and toiletries. It’s really up to the property owner to choose. We never toss anything without the owner and adjuster approval. We use a system called ContentsTrack to keep track of all the items that we store/clean in our facility. We always document all of the contents in a home with photographs and write everything down. With this system, we always know where every item is in our facility.

What type of items can be saved after a fire?

Non porous materials: glass, epoxy finished woods, ceramics, and plates are a few examples. With light smoke/soot damage we can save many items from couches, carpet, drywall, to furniture.

Can you explain the pretesting process that you go through after a fire?

We walk the entire property to see the extent of the damage. We start testing in the heavier concentrated areas and work our way out. We test the severity of the fire with a chemically treated dry sponge by testing the walls, ceilings, and contents to determine where the smoke and soot damage has migrated. We do a visual inspection to see carbon buildup in ceilings. We note the contrast of the soot build up to see the degree of damage, and this shows us the best way to clean and restore the fire damaged structure. We then determine what can be cleaned, what can’t be cleaned, and what doesn’t need to be cleaned.

How long does it take to clean up after a home has experienced a fire?

Each fire, smoke, and soot damage job is different, and we can’t give a concrete time. Each job is unique and it depends on the severity of the fire and how many contents the property has that have been affected.  

• On average, packing out an entire structure usually takes a crew 2-3 days.
• Structure Cleaning, on average, with a full crew of say a single family home would be about 1-2 days.
• Average time for content cleaning takes 1-2 days.
• The reconstruction time depends on what has been affected and needs to be rebuilt.

How long have you worked for SERVPRO?

2 years                                                   

What did you do before?

General construction 

What are some of the challenges?

Confined spaces 

What are some of the rewards?

Helping people in their time of need

During the process, homeowners are stressed and upset. What do you do to reassure homeowners that it will be ok?

Calm, courteous, let them know that we are there to do anything we can to help with process.

How do you manage to balance the homeowner’s needs and Insurance Needs?

We listen and communicate with the adjuster and homeowner.

How soon are you on site for Property Claims?

Depends on the customer’s schedule. If they need us to be there right away, we will be.

Finding Mold in your Home

6/15/2016 (Permalink)

Fungi and Mold spores are everywhere and naturally occur in our environment. Fungi and mold can be found in breads, baked goods, alcoholic beverages, mushrooms, and even penicillin. The use of these molds are ordinary occurrences and can produce fantastic results. Health concerns can arise when mold begins to grow indoors. Once there is the intrusion of water in your home or place of business this creates an environment conducive for unhealthy microbial growth. The spores can multiply and grow feeding off the organic materials that are found in high humidity level environments. This is why it is so important to have a professional handle drying a structure following water intrusion. Some warning signs following an ongoing moisture problem:

Call SERVPRO® of Gurnee and SERVPRO® of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff for a quote on our mold testing available: air test, tape test, or swab test and/or a quote for inspection/remediation.

IICRC

6/6/2016 (Permalink)

If you browsed SERVPRO® of Gurnee & SERVPRO® of Libertyville’s website, you may have seen that our crew is IICRC certified. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification was founded in 1972 with industry standards that are certified by the American National Standards Institute. Just as you would expect your service professionals such as doctor, electrician, plumber, or car mechanic to be trained in their field and keep up to date with cutting edge technology, we at SERVPRO® also expect the same education and experience with our employees.

When we say our crew is IICRC certified, we mean:

• Our employees keep up to date with the standards in the cleaning and restoration industry.
• We exhibit professionalism when taking care of your home or business.
• Staff is up to date with the latest technological advances in our cleaning and jobsite documentation.
• A crew that has been trained with in-class studying, field experience, continuing education, and passed comprehensive exams.
• We reference and follow ANSI/IICRC S500 Standard Reference Guide
• Background checks on all employees.
• ID badges and references available.

You can be assured that our crew is professional and ready to answer your questions. They will explain with care the process that we will take whether it be water extraction, structural drying, fire damage, mold remediation, deodorization, or reconstruction.

SERVPRO® of Gurnee and SERVPRO® of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff

4/12/2016 (Permalink)

An Interview with Dave Brenner, Reconstruction Manager of SERVPRO^® of Gurnee and SERVPRO^® of Libertyville/N. Chicago City/ Lake Bluff

How many years of construction experience do you have?

35 years

What do you love about being a contractor?

Having a new challenge each day. 

What do you like about reconstruction work? 

Something new every time.

Can you share some of your history in construction?

I started out as a laborer at Material Service, concrete and worked on many structures, some including: US Cellular Field, Courtyard Marriott, and NBC Tower. After that, I was with Kimball Hill homes for 22 years, then started my own business before joining SERVPRO^® as their project manager focusing on the reconstruction projects.

At SERVPRO^® what type of remodel work do you typically oversee?

Everything from replacing drywall, a two foot cut from water damage on a ground level floor, water damage on a multi-story residence, and restoration of homes that have experience fire damage. 

How does reconstruction work differ from your past construction jobs? 

Before the work was new, from the ground up, and with drawn out plans. With reconstruction there are no plans or go-to-picture. Instead, we go off the homeowner and the existing structure. We recommend the way to go about the project. Including updating to keep with code, or even improve upon what they had.

What size projects will SERVPRO^® take on?

Basically any size from small residential to large commercial.

How many other projects would SERVPRO^® have going at the same time?

7-10

How long has SERVPRO^® worked with their subcontractors? 

We have worked with many of our subcontractors from the beginning. Many of the relationships were established even before SERVPRO^® started, and we have developed those relationships working alongside different trades on and off the construction site in our previous jobs.

Is SERVPRO^® licensed, insured, and bonded? 

Yes and background checked.

Does SERVPRO^® offer a warranty on your work? 

One year on reconstruction.

How long will it take SERVPRO^® to complete a job that has experienced water intrusion?

For a ground level, where we cut two feet because of water intrusion wicking up the drywall, it will only take a couple of weeks. On a multiple story unit where water has affected more than one story, then 4-6 weeks.

Mold?

Depends on the extent of the mold.

Fire?

After a fire, rebuilding the structure is more complex. Not only are we dealing with water damage from putting out the fire, there is also smoke, soot, and structural damage that occurs. It takes a couple of months to take care of the contents, clean the structure, and rebuild where necessary.

Will SERVPRO^® provide a detailed, written estimate?

Yes, and it only takes a few days to get the estimate out.

Will SERVPRO^® obtain building permits for the work?

Yes, occasionally the home owner must obtain the permits, but we always will work with them when those situations arise.

Do you have a Construction Philosophy?

If you’re going to get the work done, do it right.

What do you like about working for SERVPRO^®?

The homeowners’ reaction to having their home back after the incident occurred.

Like it never even happened. ^®

We Are Flooded Basement Specialists

3/14/2016 (Permalink)

·  We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week

·  We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies

·  We Bill the Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About

·  Our Technicians are Highly- Trained in Water Restoration Techniques

·  We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards

·  Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Here To Help – 847-557-1080

Skunk Smell in the House ?

2/17/2016 (Permalink)

You’ve tried opening windows, running fans, changing the air filters, and retracing your steps that your pet ran after being sprayed by a skunk. However, your home still carries the slight unpleasant odor of a skunk.

Any deodorization requires removing the source of the smell and being sure that the skunk cannot return to an enclosed portion of the structure to repeat the incident again. After removing the skunk, if it were trapped under the structure, SERVPRO® technicians have the ability to get rid of the smell by deodorizing and neutralizing the odor. Our technicians will arrive on the location to determine the proper cleaning method from carpet, upholstery, or drapery cleaning. With our specialized products our SERVPRO® of Gurnee & SERVPRO® of Libertyville/ North Chicago/ Lake Bluff’s team is ready to help make your home smelling fresh again.