Proper Protection = Safe Mold Removal

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

When there's water intrusions, like a rook leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow's staff has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same.

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us to book your free inspection. A member of our team will ask you a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources and personnel needed.

Look for our next blog when we discuss more of these standard steps for proper mold restoration!

Here are 8 reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile®

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is so important. Just go to our website on your mobile phone or call 603.893.9700 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best.

Here are 8 reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile^® today on every one of your buildings.

• 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.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is part of a Franchise System that has more than 50 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners in Danville, Hampstead, or Windham, NH, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. We are quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is also a van full of clean.

Holiday Prep Tips

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

As we start getting closer to the holidays and the Christmas lights begin to shine, it's important that we all take a step back and remind ourselves of all of our blessings. 2021 has been a difficult and confusing year for all of us. COVID-19 has forever changed the way we live, interact, even breathe; through a mask! The biggest change that we fight to overcome is how to stay united as a community and help each other while maintaining social distancing guidelines and quarantine. 

We at SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow work hard every day to keep our local towns and municipalities safe and in the best position to combat the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.

Don't let these uncertain times allow you to forget life's simple treasures that are still alive and well all around us. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow can provide you with an increased sense of control and confidence that you are taking every measure to continue to hold your friends and family near and enjoy them this holiday season. 

Call us today at 603.893.9700 for a free quote on cleaning and disinfecting your home and/or business. 

How SERVPRO works with you, not for you!

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Our goal at SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is to save as much of your impacted property as possible, on every disaster. When assessing damage to your home or business after a fire, flood, storm, etc., our team will determine what can be cleaned and saved, such as furniture, contents, and structural materials. This allows you as the business or homeowner to get your life back faster and with much less interruption.

Why restoration?

Restoration is much more cost-efficient than replacement. Sanding and refinishing our original hardwood floors will have a lot less impact on your wallet versus having to replace that floor and lose the original charm.

We offer you peace of mind. Many items cannot be replaced, such as important documents, antique furniture, and family heirlooms. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow always walks through the property right from the start to ensure that old worn out teddy bear gets the treatment it needs to bring it back to preloss condition!
We save time. No one enjoys having their kitchen or bathroom torn apart. Let SERVPRO restore!
It’s the preferred method of insurance companies. Insurance policies often have limits that cap the amount of a claim.
Better for the environment. Everything that is ripped up and taken away needs to go somewhere.

If you find yourself in the middle of disaster, our trained, certified professionals are just a phone call away. We are available 24/7/365 and we work with your insurance company to manage the process and paperwork. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow would love the opportunity to work with you to make it “Like it never even happened.”

One to SERVPRO can save you $1000s in the Long Run

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Picture this...

You come home after a long day of work, head towards the fridge to start the process of figuring out dinner only to step into a puddle of water on your way. You discover your ice maker water line has failed and you rushed to find the water main shut off. After finding some towels you set up a few fans and attempt to dry everything out. After a few days, everything seems fine and you start to work on getting someone to reinstall the water line. 

The repairman comes out and pulls away the fridge only to find some black mold and bubbling paint. He tells you he can't fix the problem until the mold is gone. Now you need to call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow. 

We come out and fully inspect the property. Our team finds that there is still water trapped between the subfloors and the wall is insulated and is reading wet against our moisture meters. 

Now demo is involved along with costly repairs. The kitchen is now quickly becoming a construction site. Calling our trusted brand fast more often than not is the cheaper option! We work hard to restore not replace and have built strong relationships with major insurance companies.

Don't wait - call us for a free inspection and estimate. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow - 603-893-9700.

Summer Safety Fun

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

While this time of year is a great time to enjoy BBQs, fire pits, and fireworks, it is also a time to be wary of potential fire hazards that could impact your home or business in Kingston, NH.

Here are 6 tips to help keep your Summer fun AND safe!

• Keep a bucket of water or, as is required in many towns, a hose handy near your fire pit. If embers float out of your fire pit, or a log falls down from your bonfire stack and sets nearby foliage, paper, or other flammable materials aflame, you don’t want to be scrambling for a way to put the fire out. 
• Supervise all fireworks that you are using (if fireworks are legal in your state, of course). Sparklers and pinwheels might seem “low risk,” but the reality is that there aren’t any fireworks out there that are safe enough for kids to use without adult supervision.
• It’s also important to ensure that no one tries to re-light fireworks that don’t work properly the first time. Dump these in a bucket of water and move on to the next package.
• Keep your grill or BBQ pit clean! Prevent accidental grease fires by cleaning out your pits or grease traps
• Inspect the area around your BBQ and campfire. It is important to make sure that you there is nothing flammable around where you are going to be lighting a fire. - Consider deck railings, overhanging, branches, dry grass, piles of dry wood and recycling, brush nearby
• When you will not be supervising the fire, make sure you put it out!

Thanks to American Alarm for this awesome information!

Keep us in mind if you are in the Windham, NH,  Danville, NH or Salem, NH area! 603.893.9700

Managing Mold

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

When there's water intrusions, like a rook leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow's staff has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same.

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us to book your free inspection. A member of our team will ask you a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources and personnel needed.

Look for our next blog when we discuss more of these standard steps for proper mold restoration!

Bet you didn't know SERVPRO could do this!

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

• Vacuum Freeze drying is the most effective time way to salvage water-damaged documents. 
• The Document Restoration Team uses sublimation - turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage to avoid causing more damage to the documents. 
• The state of the art technology used by SERVPRO technicians is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA). 
• Other methods such as dehumidification can alter the structure of the paper’s fibers causing them to become more brittle.
• All employees of the Document Restoration Team are HIPAA Master certified. 
• Once your items arrive at the SERVPRO facility, 24/7 video surveillance is guaranteed. 
• Anyone entering the Drying Chamber Facility must sign in and out with their arrival and departure time.
• Standard drying time is 7-10 days. Time frame varies based on moisture content and backlog. Call a member of the Document Restoration Team for current lead time. 

The Real Value in SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow

11/22/2020 (Permalink)

Our goal at SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is to save as much of your impacted property as possible, on every disaster. When assessing damage to your home or business after a fire, flood, storm, etc., our team will determine what can be cleaned and saved, such as furniture, contents, and structural materials. This allows you as the business or homeowner to get your life back faster and with much less interruption.

Why restoration?

Restoration is much more cost-efficient than replacement. Sanding and refinishing our original hardwood floors will have a lot less impact on your wallet versus having to replace that floor and lose the original charm.

We offer you peace of mind. Many items cannot be replaced, such as important documents, antique furniture, and family heirlooms. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow always walks through the property right from the start to ensure that old worn out teddy bear gets the treatment it needs to bring it back to preloss condition!
We save time. No one enjoys having their kitchen or bathroom torn apart. Let SERVPRO restore!
It’s the preferred method of insurance companies. Insurance policies often have limits that cap the amount of a claim.
Better for the environment. Everything that is ripped up and taken away needs to go somewhere.

If you find yourself in the middle of disaster, our trained, certified professionals are just a phone call away. We are available 24/7/365 and we work with your insurance company to manage the process and paperwork. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow would love the opportunity to work with you to make it “Like it never even happened.”

So You Didn't Call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Picture this...

You come home after a long day of work, head towards the fridge to start the process of figuring out dinner only to step into a puddle of water on your way. You discover your ice maker water line has failed and you rushed to find the water main shut off. After finding some towels you set up a few fans and attempt to dry everything out. After a few days, everything seems fine and you start to work on getting someone to reinstall the water line. 

The repairman comes out and pulls away the fridge only to find some black mold and bubbling paint. He tells you he can't fix the problem until the mold is gone. Now you need to call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow. 

We come out and fully inspect the property. Our team finds that there is still water trapped between the subfloors and the wall is insulated and is reading wet against our moisture meters. 

Now demo is involved along with costly repairs. The kitchen is now quickly becoming a construction site. Calling our trusted brand fast more often than not is the cheaper option! We work hard to restore not replace and have built strong relationships with major insurance companies.

Don't wait - call us for a free inspection and estimate. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow - 603-893-9700.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow - Helping Keep Us All Safe.

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

As we start getting closer to the holidays and the Christmas lights begin to shine, it's important that we all take a step back and remind ourselves of all of our blessings. 2020 has been a difficult and confusing year for all of us. COVID-19 has forever changed the way we live, interact, even breathe; through a mask! The biggest change that we fight to overcome is how to stay united as a community and help each other while maintaining social distancing guidelines and quarantine. 

We at SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow work hard every day to keep our local towns and municipalities safe and in the best position to combat the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.

Don't let these uncertain times allow you to forget life's simple treasures that are still alive and well all around us. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow can provide you with an increased sense of control and confidence that you are taking every measure to continue to hold your friends and family near and enjoy them this holiday season. 

Call us today at 603.893.9700 for a free quote on cleaning and disinfecting your home and/or business. 

During the Storm Tips for Safety

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

7/1/2019

Summer damage can be stressful, ruin vacations, and disrupt lives. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is here help you make it "Like it never even happened." With over 1,700 franchises to call on for support, no job is too small or large

We hope you have a safe August, remembering these tips when the storm hits:

• Use your battery-operated NOAA Wather Radio for updates from local officials.
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Cordless and cellular phones are safe to use.
• Avoid Contact with electrical equipment or cords.
• Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers. Power surges can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors.

For more information on Summer Safety tips, tune into our Facebook page or call 603.893.9700

Vacation tips for your Salem, NH Home!

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Try to get out during COVID - 19 can be tough - but if you do - follow these tips!

School is out and summer is officially here. It’s vacation season! Before you leave from Windham, NH - read these tips!

No matter if you are choosing a staycation especially during the COVID -19 pandemic or making daily road trips, traveling across country or venturing overseas; it always seems to be top of mind to stop the mail and newspaper (or have a trusted neighbor gather them), have a plan for our pets, and clean out the refrigerator. But what about the important parts of our homes? The water, fire alarms, and smaller appliances. We tend to see an increase of water losses in the summer months because people go away and then come home to overflowed toilets, broken hot water heater tanks and washer pipes. We don’t want to see your return to home after a nice relaxing time turn to chaos. Below are some tips on preparing your home for vacation to hopefully make your return a little less stressful.

Water

Just like life there are so many pros and cons to this and you need to use your best judgment and what you are comfortable with in your home while you are away. But here is the deal, unless you shut off the main supply of water coming into your home, the water will sit in pipes, toilets, and faucets. Without anyone home to notice, if any of the pipes or lines fail, water will continue to run as if the source has been turned on and is running. This could leave you with a flooded home causing serious water damage and headache upon your return. Once you locate the main water shut off, it is an easy on and off, and brings you a little peace of mind.

Theft

We live in a social media world where we want to share everything the minute we are doing it. This also lets criminals know when your home will be vacant and for how long. It’s tempting to post pictures of your fun carefree time in Cabo or amazing ski trip in the mountains. Police will advise against this. You never know who might have access to your social media feed even if it is private. Police also suggest alerting them to your vacation. In many towns they will add your street to their patrol route as a precaution. As much as you want to share, it’s better to be safe than sorry and post once you return home.

Smoke Detectors

No one will be home and you never know what might be lurking behind your walls. Electrical fires happen every day! Before you head out, check your smoke alarms and be sure your batteries are new. No one wants to get a call from a neighbor that their house caught fire while sipping an ice cold beverage on the beach.

Trash & Dishes

While many of us keep it top of mind to make sure we have an empty dishwasher, sink, and trash barrel. In the rush to get out the door to catch a flight or beat the traffic we will brush off these items. Leaving a full waste basket in your house or dirty dishes is an open invitation for rodents to enter. Save yourself the hassle and take the extra 5 minutes so you can return to a rodent free house.

Small appliances

Unplug the coffee maker, television, toaster, alarm clocks, etc. No one will be home to use them anyway! This will help save energy in your home as well as help prevent any fire that might occur if there was a power surge while you are away.

These are just a few suggested tips to consider when preparing for your home for vacation. We hope you have a wonderful relaxing and enjoyable summer no matter where the road may lead you. If upon your return, you do find yourself in a situation requiring a little assistance, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is always here to help.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow now offering Reconstruction!

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Scott Massaro joins our team as the head of our Reconstruction Division and has completed our rigorous SERVPRO's Hero Ready Training. This program teaches advanced cleaning and restoration techniques and how to properly use our state-of-the-art equipment. This training program also focuses on listening skills and customer service. Scott has been with us for a few months and has been working diligently to learn and grow within our company. Scott brings 30+ years of construction and industry experience to SERVPRO!

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, 
helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and 
residential customers. When fire, water, or mold disrupt your life, Scott and his team are there to help make the process as stress free as possible for you and your family. For more information on SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow, please contact 
603-893-9700 or office@SERVPROoflawrence.com.  

We are Cleaning and Disinfecting Experts

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow - 603-893-9700

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

Why Choose SERVPRO Vacuum Freeze Drying

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

State of the Art Technique -Ready for your use!

• Vacuum Freeze drying is the most effective time way to salvage water-damaged documents. 
• The Document Restoration Team uses sublimation - turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage to avoid causing more damage to the documents. 
• The state of the art technology used by SERVPRO technicians is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA). 
• Other methods such as dehumidification can alter the structure of the paper’s fibers causing them to become more brittle.
• All employees of the Document Restoration Team are HIPAA Master certified. 
• Once your items arrive at the SERVPRO facility, 24/7 video surveillance is guaranteed. 
• Anyone entering the Drying Chamber Facility must sign in and out with their arrival and departure time.
• Standard drying time is 7-10 days. Time frame varies based on moisture content and backlog. Call a member of the Document Restoration Team for current lead time. 

Cold Temps can Bring New Troubles

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Prepare your home and business before the weather becomes unpredictable!

With the holiday season upon us, this brings laughter, joy, and a lot of frigid weather! Freezing temperatures can bring burst pipes, puffbacks, ice dams, and even the dreaded flu. You’re in luck as there many things you can do to help prepare your home and/or business for all winter throws at us.

Getting your home ready:

Keep cabinet doors open during times of extreme cold so warm air can move around pipes.
Keep a slow flow of water coming through faucets especially if they run through unheated or exterior areas of your home.
Ensure all your gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris can accumulate in gutters which could lead to roof problems and water damage like ice dams.
Get your furnace serviced! Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.

Preparing your business:

Inspect your business property for downed tree limbs and branches these can cause personal injuries.
Check walkways and parking lots for proper drainage to reduce flood hazards.
Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potentially slippery or hazardous areas.
Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
Contact your local Sales & Marketing Representative at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow and ask about starting and Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your business. Click here to learn more about the ERP.

Why Restoration is King

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t rip out what SERVPRO can SAVE!

Our goal at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is to save as much of your impacted property as possible, on every disaster. When assessing damage to your home or business after a fire, flood, storm, etc., our team will determine what can be cleaned and saved, such as furniture, contents, and structural materials. This allows you as the business or home owner to get your life back faster and with much less interruption.

Why restoration?

Restoration is much more cost-efficient than replacement. Sanding and refinishing our original hardwood floors will have a lot less impact on your wallet versus having to replace that floor and lose the original charm.

Offers you peace of mind. Many items cannot be replaced, such as important documents, antique furniture, and family heirlooms. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow always walks through the property right from the start to ensure that old worn out teddy bear gets the treatment it needs to bring to back to preloss condition!
Saves time. No one enjoys having their kitchen or bathroom torn apart. Let SERVPRO restore!
It’s the preferred method of insurance companies. Insurance policies often have limits that cap the amount of a claim.
Better for the environment. Everything that is ripped up and taken away needs to go somewhere.

If you find yourself in the middle of disaster, our trained, certified professionals are just a phone call away. We are available 24/7/365 and we work with your insurance company to manage the process and paperwork. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow would love the opportunity to work with you to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why Restoration is King

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t rip out what SERVPRO can SAVE!

Our goal at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is to save as much of your impacted property as possible, on every disaster. When assessing damage to your home or business after a fire, flood, storm, etc., our team will determine what can be cleaned and saved, such as furniture, contents, and structural materials. This allows you as the business or home owner to get your life back faster and with much less interruption.

Why restoration?

Restoration is much more cost-efficient than replacement. Sanding and refinishing our original hardwood floors will have a lot less impact on your wallet versus having to replace that floor and lose the original charm.

Offers you peace of mind. Many items cannot be replaced, such as important documents, antique furniture, and family heirlooms. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow always walks through the property right from the start to ensure that old worn out teddy bear gets the treatment it needs to bring to back to preloss condition!
Saves time. No one enjoys having their kitchen or bathroom torn apart. Let SERVPRO restore!
It’s the preferred method of insurance companies. Insurance policies often have limits that cap the amount of a claim.
Better for the environment. Everything that is ripped up and taken away needs to go somewhere.

If you find yourself in the middle of disaster, our trained, certified professionals are just a phone call away. We are available 24/7/365 and we work with your insurance company to manage the process and paperwork. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow would love the opportunity to work with you to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Is your Business Prepared and Ready?

11/13/2019 (Permalink)

Helping business owners protect their business, from the palm of their hands.

Water Damage occurs as your business at 5pm on a Friday; do you know where the water shut off is, do your employees? If the answer is no, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow can help!

An Emergency Ready Profile® also referred to as an ERP, is a no cost solution offered by SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow to all business owners in and around the Salem/Plaistow area. It contains significant information needed in the event of an emergency, and helps ensure your business gets back up and running fast!

Preparation is crucial for making it through any size business interruption whether it is a small water leak, large fire, or a burst pipe that flooded your business over the long holiday weekend. No one ever wants to think about these events and they usually happen at the most unfortunate times. However, forecasting for such disasters can save you a lot of time if you ever find yourself knee deep in waste water. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize any “down time” to your business.

When fire and water cleanup is needed, getting help is now quicker and easier using the SERVPRO® Ready Plan App. The Ready Plan 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.

During the Storm Tips for Safety

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

No damage is too large or small for a nationwide system of more than 1,700 Franchises.

Summer damage can be stressful, ruin vacations, and disrupt lives. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is here help you make it "Like it never even happened." With over 1,700 franchises to call on for support, no job is too small or large

We hope you have a safe August, remembering these tips when the storm hits:

• Use your battery-operated NOAA Wather Radio for updates from local officials.
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Cordless and cellular phones are safe to use.
• Avoid Contact with electrical equipment or cords.
• Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers. Power surges can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors.

For more information on Summer Safety tips, tune into our Facebook page or call 603.893.9700

Vacation Tips for Your Home

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

We hope you have a wonderful relaxing and enjoyable summer no matter where the road may lead you.

School is out and summer is officially here. It’s vacation season!

No matter if you are choosing a staycation and making daily road trips, traveling across country or venturing overseas; it always seems to be top of mind to stop the mail and newspaper (or have a trusted neighbor gather them), have a plan for our pets, and clean out the refrigerator. But what about the important parts of our homes? The water, fire alarms, and smaller appliances. We tend to see an increase of water losses in the summer months because people go away and then come home to overflowed toilets, broken hot water heater tanks and washer pipes. We don’t want to see your return to home after a nice relaxing time turn to chaos. Below are some tips on preparing your home for vacation to hopefully make your return a little less stressful.

Water

Just like life there are so many pros and cons to this and you need to use your best judgment and what you are comfortable with in your home while you are away. But here is the deal, unless you shut off the main supply of water coming into your home, the water will sit in pipes, toilets, and faucets. Without anyone home to notice, if any of the pipes or lines fail, water will continue to run as if the source has been turned on and is running. This could leave you with a flooded home causing serious water damage and headache upon your return. Once you locate the main water shut off, it is an easy on and off, and brings you a little peace of mind.

Theft

We live in a social media world where we want to share everything the minute we are doing it. This also lets criminals know when your home will be vacant and for how long. It’s tempting to post pictures of your fun carefree time in Cabo or amazing ski trip in the mountains. Police will advise against this. You never know who might have access to your social media feed even if it is private. Police also suggest alerting them to your vacation. In many towns they will add your street to their patrol route as a precaution. As much as you want to share, it’s better to be safe than sorry and post once you return home.

Smoke Detectors

No one will be home and you never know what might be lurking behind your walls. Electrical fires happen every day! Before you head out, check your smoke alarms and be sure your batteries are new. No one wants to get a call from a neighbor that their house caught fire while sipping an ice cold beverage on the beach.

Trash & Dishes

While many of us keep it top of mind to make sure we have an empty dishwasher, sink, and trash barrel. In the rush to get out the door to catch a flight or beat the traffic we will brush off these items. Leaving a full waste basket in your house or dirty dishes is an open invitation for rodents to enter. Save yourself the hassle and take the extra 5 minutes so you can return to a rodent free house.

Small appliances

Unplug the coffee maker, television, toaster, alarm clocks, etc. No one will be home to use them anyway! This will help save energy in your home as well as help prevent any fire that might occur if there was a power surge while you are away.

These are just a few suggested tips to consider when preparing for your home for vacation. We hope you have a wonderful relaxing and enjoyable summer no matter where the road may lead you. If upon your return, you do find yourself in a situation requiring a little assistance, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is always here to help.

Restore vs. Replace

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

Wouldn’t it just be easier and faster to demolish and rebuild? They make it look so easy on all those TV shows, but is it covered by your insurance.

Restore vs. Replace

The goal at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow on every disaster is to restore over replace. But why should you consider restoring over replacing? Isn’t this a great time to remodel and get that dream kitchen or bathroom you have always wanted? Wouldn’t it just be easier and faster to demolish and rebuild? I mean they make it look so easy on all those TV shows, but is it covered by your insurance policy?

Why restoration?

• Restoration is much more cost-efficient than replacement. Did you know that it is more cost effective to restore your wet/damaged floor than it is to rip it up and replace it?
• Gives you peace of mind. Many items cannot be replaced, such as important documents, antique furniture, and family heirlooms. New is not always the better answer when it comes to memories.
• Saves time. Drying a wet floor will get you back to your preloss condition a lot sooner than, tearing out and laying down a new floor.
• It’s the preferred method of insurance companies. Insurance policies often have limits that cap the amount of a claim.
• Better for the environment. Everything that is ripped up and taken away needs to go somewhere.
  

If you find yourself in the middle of disaster, our trained, certified professionals are just a phone call away. We are available 24/7/365 and we work with your insurance company to manage the process and paperwork. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow would love the opportunity to work with you to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Arson, Vandalism, Methamphetamine Labs, and Blood borne Pathogens

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow Professionals has the necessary tools to safely complete these jobs so that it is safe for all to return.

Blood borne Pathogens

We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime, or death. Trained Professionals thoroughly clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.

Methamphetamine Labs

Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout at structure. We follow federal and state guidelines to clean all surfaces.

Arson and Vandalism

We are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. We also provide general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods, and human or animal waste.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow Professionals has the necessary tools to safely complete these jobs so that it is safe for all to return, whether it be home or to work. 

What to expect in winter – Salem/Plaistow New Hampshire

11/26/2018 (Permalink)

We have outlined a few of the hazards often seen when we are in the dead of winter.

What to expect in winter – Salem/Plaistow New Hampshire

Frozen pipes, puffbacks, ice dams, and the flu. Yes the fresh fallen snow is a beautiful sight for many, but all the complications that can accompany winter may leave you a little uneasy. Maybe you are a new home owner or business owner? Maybe this is your first time in a location where temperatures often dip into the negatives? Either way we have outlined a few of the hazards often seen when we are in the dead of winter.

Frozen Pipes

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water sources and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly. To learn about how to prepare your home or business click here. (link to winter weather blog)

Ice Dams

Ice dams form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under shingles and into your structure’s interior. Ice dams can be a major problem during the winter months. Be sure all gutters are cleaned and secured.

Puffbacks, Chimneys, and Space Heaters

A puffback is a messy furnace malfunction that occurs when an oil burner backfires, sending soot throughout your home or business. It can happen all at once covering an interior in grimy soot or a puffback can leak soot particles more gradually. Likewise a chimney fire could end smoke billowing throughout your home. Proper maintenance of your furnace and regular chimney checkups can help reduce these risks.

Space heaters present a greater potential for human error such as leaving them too close to combustible materials or failing to operate and maintain them properly. It’s important to remember to never sleep or leave a room with a portable heater still on, and keep combustibles at least 3 feet away.

Flu Season

Every year it seems that cold & flu season hits us earlier and harder than the year before. You can help prevent the spread of flu germs by depending on us to sanitize building materials, surfaces, and contents following restoration industry standards. We use professional cleaning products and EPA-registered cleaners and disinfectants.

Be prepared this winter and know SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is available 24/7/365.

Biohazard, Vandalism, Hoarding, Sewage & Crime Scene Remediation and Cleanup

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

As items pile up in a home it can create a serious safety hazard. Hoarder homes become a breeding ground for pests and possibly unsafe pathogens.

Biohazard, Vandalism & Crime Scene Remediation and Cleanup

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers and owners. Failure to properly handle and safely remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow Professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove hazardous biological substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, our trained certified professionals, help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and businesses.

Hoarding

Hoarders typically collect excessive amount of items. As these items pile up in a home it can create a serious safety hazard. Hoarder homes become a breeding ground for pests and possibly unsafe pathogens. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow has the necessary tools to safely complete the job.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty and smelly. These damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. Trained Professionals remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture disinfecting as they clean to ensure the structure is cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

Why does my business need an ERP?

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

Contact your local Sales & Marketing Representative at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow and ask them to schedule an ERP for your business today!

An Emergency Ready Profile® also referred to as an ERP, is a no cost service offered by SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow to all business owners in the Sothern Rockingham County of New Hampshire. It contains critical information needed in the event of an emergency, to help you from becoming part of the 50% of business that do not reopen after a disaster.

Preparation is key for making it through any size business interruption whether it is a small water leak, large fire, or a burst pipe that flooded your business over the long holiday weekend. No one ever plans on these events and they usually happen at the most inopportune times. However, planning ahead for such disasters can save you a lot of time if you ever find yourself knee deep in waste water. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize any “down time” to your business.

Emergency Ready Profile Highlights:

• No cost assessment of your facility.
• Concise document (also available digitally on an app), that contains all of the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identifies the chain of command authorizing work to begin.
• Provides detailed information such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and contact information. It is so detailed it contains information for our crews so they know where to park, what door to enter, and what elevators to take if needed.

SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and we want to help you quickly get your business back in working order. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever happens?”

Preparing your home and business for winter

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

We all know that winter means all Mother Nature has to unleash is on the horizon. Colder temperatures can bring frozen pipes, puffbacks, ice dams, and the flu. There are however many things you can do to help prepare your home and/or business for all winter throws at us.

Preparing your home:

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells so warm air can circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets especially if they run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
• Ensure gutter are clean and secure. Leaves and debris can accumulate in gutters which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
• Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.

Preparing your business:

• Inspect your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Heavy wind , rain, ice, or snow can cause branches to fall which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Check walkways and parking lots for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potentially slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
• Contact your local Sales & Marketing Representative at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, and ask about starting and Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your business. Click here to learn more about the ERP.