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Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts

Pottsville Mold Damage Threats to Homes

4/3/2023 (Permalink)

mold damage on a white wall SERVPRO is constantly learning and training to help you and the Pottsville community with mold damage remediation.

SERVPRO Remediators Resolve Pottsville Mold Damage

From severe weather systems to the significant water bodies surrounding the city in Schuylkill County, threats like mold development and humidity concerns are more common than homeowners might think. The creation of mold colonies in a property can be destructive and damaging, requiring responding professionals to work fast to employ effective remediation tactics to preserve exposed building materials and contents.

Our commitment to being faster to any disaster your home might face begins long before you need us. Professionals of our roster devote countless hours to training and development to be knowledgeable assets able to respond fast in a crisis. AMRT-Certified technicians stay available and ready to help 24/7 at our SERVPRO facility. As remediation starts, we can mobilize the Green Fleet of service vehicles and equipment to aid mold damage mitigation solutions in Pottsville.

Why Is Mold Damage a Concern?

Mold requires specific conditions to grow and colonies. Both these effects and the developing organisms pose substantial obstacles to comfortable living and the safety of those exposed. Remediation professionals of our team must be ready to respond at the first notice of loss to incorporate removal strategies that lessen the harmful effects of these colonies on the residence. Concerns include:

  • Structural Damage
  • Persistent Moisture
  • Offensive Malodors
  • Uncomfortable Living Conditions

Mold Damage Removal Services

Removing mold from a home or business varies on several factors, so no two situations are the same. Certified technicians of our roster calculate the best remediation response based on the severity of the damage, the location of mold growth, and the hosting material. Removal strategies can include:

  • Antimicrobial Products - Surface treatments provide the most direct methods of addressing superficial mold growth before the organism migrates beyond the surface layer and greater remediation methods are necessary.
  • Surface Sanding - Power sanding or hand sanding solutions allow our technicians to penetrate just beyond the surface layer without compromising the structural integrity of affected hosting materials. Sanding is effective on framing and wood-based building materials.
  • Abrasive Media Blasting Approaches - Combining pressurized air or water with media like crushed walnut shells, sodium bicarbonate, and dry ice allows the organism damaging a hosting material to be eliminated without marring the substrate underneath.
  • Controlled Demolition - Demolition is rarely the preferred method for remediation and recovery. However, it can often be a decisive and definitive approach to removing substantial mold damage in materials like drywall and carpeting to prevent the continued spread of the organism.

Offensive Odor Removal

A telling sign of active colonization in any home is a musty smell generated by the colonies' volatile organic compounds. Removing these malodors is one of the more significant obstacles to remediation. While the removal of organisms can aid in reducing harsh odors, it is often still necessary to deploy various deodorization products and equipment to neutralize smells in the environment and those trapped in porous building materials and contents of the household.

Are Mold Damage Repairs Necessary?

Our contractors are experienced additions to the roster and can complete a wealth of build-back services as necessary for your home following mold threats. Because of the destructive capacities of active organisms on sensitive, porous materials, several of these discarded building elements require removal and replacement. Our license allows us to complete the demolition work and provide the repairs, reconstruction, and new construction that could be necessary following remediation work.

Pottsville mold damage can happen after disasters or mismanaged moisture threats to your home. The development of these colonies is quick, so homeowners trust our SERVPRO of Pottsville remediation team to help with cleanup, deodorization, and repairs as necessary. Give our experienced crew a call when you suspect mold growth at (570) 622-8991.

Fully Addressing Mold Damage in Pottsville Properties

1/4/2023 (Permalink)

Water Caused Mold In Wall Let our fast response team eliminate further mold growth in your property.

Going Beyond to Remediate Mold Damage

Mold can be one of the more challenging and destructive conditions a home can face. The movement and severity of active colonization require professionals to determine fully. These are the same experts that arrive to remediate the colonies and protect sensitive materials and contents. AMRT-Certified technicians of our recovery team provide a comprehensive solution.

Mold Inspections

The delicate process of managing mold damage in Pottsville homes begins with a thorough inspection. Technicians must evaluate the property's current condition and track at-risk hosting materials that SERVPRO can help with before irreparable harm results. Our technicians can confirm the presence of mold growth along with the suspicions you might have the following:

  • Spotting
  • Damp surfaces
  • Harsh odors

Moisture Detection

Moisture triggers rapid mold development, so its presence can be a precursor to more significant issues in the house. We use thermography and infrared imagery to track temperature differences in installed materials that could indicate the presence of moisture and trapped water. When these get found, we can work to set up the appropriate drying tools to help. 

Controlled Demolition

A general contractor license allows us methods of aiding mold-damaged properties in several ways. Not only can our experts work to eliminate any materials that are determined to be beyond saving from moisture or mold infestation, but this license can also aid with the following:

  • Repairs 
  • Access to damaged areas
  • Build-back services 

Remediation Solutions

We can implement cleaning and remediation strategies to eliminate active organisms by understanding what installed materials can be preserved and protected despite mold infestation. Surface cleaning is the preferred approach, though this is ineffective when spores have moved in beyond the outermost surface layer. Abrasive cleaning with media can be required in that case.

Mold damage should get handled quickly when it is present in your home. Call our SERVPRO of Pottsville remediators today at (570) 622-8991. 

Why Mold Removal is Best with Expert Help in Pottsville

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

Mold Corner Spot Don't let mold take control of your property. Call SERVPRO today!

SERVPRO is Quick to begin Mold Remediation for Pottsville Residents

You may have heard some people say they have their methods for mold removal, but the facts are there is no such thing as thoroughly removing mold. Additionally, DIY plans are never recommended due to all the possible hazards. Instead, enlisting the help of trained mold remediation technicians gets you the peace of mind your interior is cleaned and disinfected for your family to enjoy once again. With SERVPRO, we have your bases covered and finish the project until your Pottsville property gets the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned seal of approval.

But why call SERVPRO for mold remediation in Pottsville? Our technicians have been trained extensively following IICRC standards for mold remediation and cleanup services. We know how to determine the cause of your mold problem and best practices for safe and effective cleaning. Our proven processes can give you the peace of mind you need when faced with foul, musty odors anywhere in your living space. 

Why Can’t I Clean Away Mold On My Own?

There are several things all Pottsville property owners should know about mold and mildew growth, including:

  • There are hundreds of various mold types.
  • Microscopic mold spores are everywhere; carpeting, pets, clothing, and the air we breathe. 
  • Many mold species thrive in temperatures between 64 to 90° F.
  • For mold to colonize, there only needs to be increased moisture and organic matter to feed on; building materials, paper, textiles, etc.

In some situations where black mold has taken over your drywall, carpeting, and other building materials, removal and replacement might occur. Controlled demolition lets us restore your property to pre-mold condition, so your interior is “Like it never even happened.” We achieve these results with the help of our network of trusted area contractors and vendors.

Call SERVPRO of Pottsville at (570) 622-8991 should you require assistance with mold remediation. You can also request help online at your earliest convenience!

Let SERVPRO Manage Mold Damage in Your Pottsville Home

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth around window and ceiling With moisture build up comes mold and SERVPRO can treat and remove the mold safely.

Dealing with the Full Effects of Mold Damage Pottsville

Most people only recognize the superficial effects of mold, like the musty smell and the staining of materials it affects. However, mold has other effects, especially if left to proliferate for long without any remediation efforts. For example, it breaks down organic materials like wood as its hyphae penetrate deep into materials devouring the nutrients. We have IICRC-certified AMRT, Applied Microbial Remediation technicians, to help you deal with all the aspects of the infestation in your Pottsville Property. 

The speed at which the infestation appears might determine the level of mold damage in your Pottsville property. After a flooding incident, mold may appear in different places within 24 to 48 hours because of the abundance of moisture. Such immediate growth prompts many people to start remediation immediately; therefore, the damages are only likely to be superficial. However, a small leak in the wall cavity or ceiling space can take a while before anyone notices, leading to severe damage. Our SERVPRO technicians use advanced moisture detection tools like thermal cameras to check all areas and establish any hidden moisture areas. 

In properties, there are areas where mold is likely to develop. These hotspots include shower stalls, bathtubs, the areas beneath sinks, and where there are plumbing joints. Growth also occurs in enclosed spaces such as closets, especially after a flooding incident. When our SERVPRO IICRC trained technicians check the relative humidity levels in your property, we can identify likely hotspots. We use thermo-hygrometers to inspect the property's temperature and relative humidity in the affected and unaffected areas. 

Most people understand that moisture is the main factor that drives mold development and therefore takes immediate steps to dry property if there is a spill. However, it can worsen or transfer the problem to another property area during the drying phase. Mold growth can spread if the moisture evaporates from the contents and the structure remains trapped in the air. Our SERVPRO technicians avoid this by setting a drying goal, which allows us to calculate the number of dehumidifiers and air movers necessary for a balanced drying process. 

Dealing with mold damage is simple when a professional is involved. Call SERVPRO of Pottsville to help. You can reach us at (570) 622-8991 at any time. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Why Is SERVPRO The Best Choice For Attic Mold Remediation In Pottsville?

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Mold On Wall For help with mold remediation, do not delay.

Pottsville Homeowners Are Frustrated By The Need For Mold Remediation – But Help Is At Hand

People living in Pottsville know that attics and basements are parts of the home that sometimes get neglected. When it comes to home maintenance, most people focus on apparent issues such as broken gutters, loose tiles, or looking after appliances. The attic is often out of sight and out of mind.

However, a Pottsville attic might need mold remediation as much as any other part of the home. Attics are often neglected and an ideal place for spores to settle. If there is moisture in the attic and a food source such as wood, mold can grow.

What is the Most Productive Method for Cleaning Mold in the Attic?

Customers often ask us the best method for cleaning the mold. SERVPRO’s most crucial piece of advice is not to try cleaning it yourself. Home cleaning methods are not as effective or as safe as professional methods.

SERPVRO technicians use a range of cleaning methods, including:

  • Scrubbing
  • HEPA vacuuming
  • Dry ice or soda blasting
  • Not many people have heard of dry ice blasting, but it is ideal for cleaning away mold in the attic. Our equipment blasts wood with CO2 pellets at supersonic speeds to attack the fungus. Dry ice blasting scrubs away mold but does not damage the wood.

When you choose SERVPRO, you can rest assured that we will use the latest techniques and equipment to cleanse your attic space.

Can SERVPRO Help Prevent Mold from Spreading Further?

Yes. Our technicians understand that it is easy for microscopic mold spores to spread. That is why we:

  • Set up containment using plastic sheeting and tape to prevent spores from escaping your attic
  • Use correct protective equipment and dispose of it carefully
  • Use air scrubbers or negative air machines to suck spores from the air

Because mold thrives in a damp environment, we carefully dry your attic and monitor moisture levels throughout remediation. We also deodorize the space afterward to get rid of that musty smell.

Cleaning is one part of mold remediation. Carefully monitored drying, containment, and deodorization are a must – which is why you can rely on us.

For help with mold remediation, do not delay. Call SERVPRO of Pottsville at (570) 622-8991.

Examining Fire Restoration Tactics in

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

Charred beam Fires can produce extensive damage far from the flame. Our team is trained and equipped to restore your home.

SERVPRO Can Help with Fire Damage Repairs in Pottsville

Anytime a fire breaks out inside your home, one of the most significant issues created can come about due to smoke released from the blaze. Once smoke contacts cooler surfaces, it can solidify and leave behind soot residues. In difficult situations, soot can cover nearly all surfaces in your structure, and they can even affect items far away from the source.

When conducting fire restoration in Pottsville, our SERVPRO technicians often spend a significant amount of time cleaning soot residues from the surfaces of your building materials and contents. The hard part is that almost every fire puts out various types of smoke, which often leads to more than one kind of soot present. The type of smoke can change depending on the types of fuels burned. For example, woodworking fuels will produce different residues than when meat gets roasted. The type of smoke also depends on whether the fire has a lot of oxygen and was fast burning or if it was oxygen-starved and smoldered.

When cleaning soot residues from your house's building materials and contents, our SERVPRO team can utilize various chemicals and methods for the cleaning process. Our highly trained team is certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) program. We can provide fast 24/7 service and access to the industry's most advanced technology.

Services offered after you suffer from a structural blaze include:

  • House Fire Cleanups
  • Fire Damage Debris Removal
  • Content Pack-outs
  • Content Cleaning
  • Restorative Carpet Cleaning
  • Fire & Water Damage Restorations
  • Smoke Remediation
  • Structural Deodorization

If you ever notice that your walls and ceilings got coated by soot residues after a fire gets extinguished, call SERVPRO of Pottsville at (570) 622-8991.

Let Trained Professionals Clean Up Mold In Your Saint Clair Home Today

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Mold damaged insulation in attic This mold was found growing in an attic and needed immediate attention to safeguard the home.

Attic Moisture Can Lead to Mold Growth in Saint Clair Homes

Heavy snowfall on your Saint Clair home can add immense pressure to structural elements like your roof. While these areas get reinforced and strengthened during construction to withstand this added weight throughout the winter months, your roof can become compromised with persistent pressure on aging components. Once weak points exist in the roof of your property, moisture can penetrate through the material into the attic. 

Attics throughout the Saint Clair area are a common location for mold to occur. Without specific knowledge that your roof has vulnerable points or inadequate insulation in certain areas of the support materials, you might be unaware that this space above the ceiling has become persistently damp. With this added moisture, present mold spores can sit and colonize throughout the environment. 

Our IICRC trained SERVPRO professionals arrive quickly in an emergency to offer you practical solutions designed to prevent the spread of active mold spores to new areas of the property. With many homes installing air circulation equipment in this portion of their property, active mold growth in the area could spread quickly through the HVAC system and affect multiple rooms and areas of your home within a brief period. 

Among the chief concerns with attic mold is the degradation of critical roof supports as the colony grows and spreads. Our team can provide emergency board-up services for the compromised roof as soon as we arrive. Our SERVPRO team can prepare your property for the reconstruction and repair required to prevent further moisture penetration that could allow mold colonization to occur continually. 

Taking care of mold in the attic might not be something that every homeowner expects to contend with, but dealing with it as quickly as possible can help protect your home's construction materials and the occupants. Give our SERVPRO of Pottsville applied microbial remediation technicians a call today at (570) 622-8991. 

How Can You Manage Mold Damage in Orwigsburg?

1/9/2022 (Permalink)

mold damage on the walls and ceiling of a room When you see or smell mold, quick action is required. Contact SERVPRO to handle the mold damage situation in your family home.

Orwigsburg Mold Remediation Offers a Fresh Start, Why SERVPRO Is a Top Choice

Mold damage in Orwigsburg is the last thing a homeowner wants to confront. Although media coverage of black mold infestation often sounds an alarm, take solace that proven mold abatement methods exist and are available in our community.

Why Does SERVPRO Emphasize Mold Remediation Instead of Mold Elimination?

Mold spores are endemic in Orwigsburg. They are a benign fact of life, microscopic in size and causing no issues until they encounter water. With excess moisture as the fuel, mold spores germinate and explode into rapidly expanding colonies. A company that promises to remove all mold damage and eradicate spores from your property sadly is perpetuating an impossibility. We believe the best approach involves following the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s remediation protocol, which is why SERVPRO is a leader in sustainable mold damage solutions.

What Is the EPA’s Mold Remediation Protocol?

The EPA urges the following steps for mold inspections, remediations, and removal. Considerable research underlies this method, why SERVPRO chose it for Orwigsburg customers:

  • Ensure technicians wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to avoid tracking moldy materials into unaffected home spaces. 
  • Locate the mold, determine the infestation perimeter using visual inspection, and add moisture detection or mold testing if some growth hides in building cavities.
  • Contain the mold remediation workspace with 1.6 mil polyethylene and negative pressure air scrubbing equipment, preventing residue drift. 
  • Remove active mold growth with mechanical strategies, including scraping, brushing, scrubbing, or controlled soda, dry ice, or corn cob blasting.
  • Clear excess spores and residues with wipe downs and HEPA-filtered vacuums.
  • Bag and lawfully dispose of the hazardous moldy waste.
  • Apply EPA-registered antimicrobials to inhibit mold damage rebound. 
  • Eliminate the water sources that could generate repeated mold growth.

Treating mold damage remediation as a sustainable process is why SERVPRO of Pottsville ranks among the community’s restoration leaders. Call (570) 622-8991 to learn about your options, especially how to mitigate the water damage underlying mold damage.

Are Wet Carpets in My Pottsville Home a Lost Cause?

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment at work. Saturated flooring is no easy task to handle. Call SERVPRO and have their technicians handle all the water damage restoration.

Our Professionals Have Efficient Moisture Removal Techniques to Restore and Clean Damaged Carpeting 

Saturated carpeting in your home can present multiple obstacles for the homeowner and the responding restoration technicians sent to address water damage in Pottsville. Removing surface water and trapped moisture in materials requires a wide variety of advanced technologies and tools. Identifying what your home needs during mitigation and restoration is vital to saving our SERVPRO technicians time and effort on the recovery of your home after a disaster.

When it comes to water removal for Pottsville flooring and carpets, there are multiple approaches that our professionals must take. As is customary with all of the water losses that our team restores, we must first overcome obstacles like standing water before we can assess how damaged other areas of the property might be.

How Can Standing Surface Water Get Removed from My Home?

Extraction is one of the emergency services that you can expect from our response team when we arrive at your damaged address. As challenging as water losses can become as they migrate through a house, tools designed for efficient surface water removal can be critically vital to reducing irreparable damage to structural elements and contents. We have multiple options for water removal, including:

  • Submersible Pumps  

These machines are the backbone of surface water removal because they offer a fast, efficient, and quiet operation wherever they might be necessary for a home. Electric units are among the most commonly used as they require little setup and have a more powerful discharge to allow the machine to span greater distances in water removal. 

  • Wet Vacuums 

Wet vacuums can take over after the water removal abilities of submersibles have gotten exhausted. At a certain depth, usually no more than two inches, submersible pumps cannot draw the appropriate volume of water to maintain prime and wet vacuums take over. By generating a constant suction, these vacuums can remove the remaining surface water to encourage drying to begin as soon as possible. 

  • Truck-Mount Pumps 

In some situations where standing water in Pottsville might be a considerable obstacle for our responding technicians and widespread throughout the property, the best and most efficient removal tool is an extractor truck. These truck-mounted pumps arrive in our Green Fleet and can pull out water at a powerful 300 psi.

Can Water Get Removed from Soggy Carpets? 

The success of water removal and drying of carpets hinges on what our project manager and crew chief learn during scoping and inspection of the property. Using sophisticated tools and technologies like probing moisture meters, we can better determine the damage beyond the surface levels for flooring, like carpeting. Discovering the spread and migration of water loss effects can determine what approaches are most beneficial to restoring the property.

With water damage that exists in the carpet and padding layers exclusively, it is often possible to dry and recover flooring. When water penetrates the pad and begins to saturate into plywood or OSB board serving as subflooring, restoration, and recovery of the carpet and pad layers can be a challenge. It is often more cost-efficient to remove the floor in these circumstances.

What is Necessary to Restore Wet Carpeting? 

Not every situation is the same, so the approach to restore and dry damaged carpets in your home varies. Some circumstances only require our SERVPRO team to remove trapped water in the fibers of the carpet and the porous pad underneath it to recover the damaged flooring entirely. More extended periods of exposure increase the need for removal and replacement.

  • Carpet Wands 

With extraction equipment like wet vacuums and pumps, attachments such as carpet wands can be a powerful tool to focus water removal on absorbent flooring materials like carpets. These implements are even more advisable for use when it is not necessary to worry about the restoration of the carpet padding. When you are only trying to dry the surface layer and intend to replace the padding, carpet wands can remove most of the water threat.

  • Air Movers 

Centrifugal air movers, especially low-profile models, are ideal for drying out wet areas of the carpet. The process known as floating places an air mover between the surface layer of carpet and the padding to dry both simultaneously. This approach is ideal when it gets determined that migrating water has not yet affected subflooring materials.

  • Controlled Material Removal

When the probing moisture meter determines that absorption has occurred at the base levels, protecting your carpet and padding might not be possible. It is vital to reach underlying supports, as these are the most difficult to replace later. Removal of carpeted floors allows for more direct drying access to reduce costlier reconstruction needs for supports, joists, and plywood.

Meeting the demands of your water-damaged home is an area where many have trusted our SERVPRO of Pottsville team. Whether you want fast extraction solutions or efficient drying of carpeted floors, we can help. Give us a call today at (570) 622-8991.

How Can Pottsville Homeowners Tackle Mold Removal Safely?

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO mold sign Mold growth has the potential to cause health effects. SERVPRO uses the latest technology for all mold remediation services.

Pottsville SERVPRO Mold Removal Services

Mold growth–whether from a plumbing leak, a damaged water supply line, or microbes in a Pottsville home’s HVAC system–has the potential to cause health effects in homeowners. Without professional mold remediation and debris removal services, these microbes can impact home structural integrity while impacting air quality.

SERVPRO mold removal for Pottsville properties is performed per Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards with commercial-grade personal protective equipment (PPE). This crew’s careful observation of containment, decontamination, and other safety procedures keeps occupants safe from further mold growth.

SERVPRO Mold Remediation Availability

SERVPRO technicians can come to a Pottsville property to perform mold remediation services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. These techs respond during late nights, weekends, and holidays because disasters do not occur on a convenient 9-to-5 schedule.

All buildings and outdoor spaces contain some small amount of mold. However, situations like residential water damage can elevate this above safe levels.

  • Mold can grow in as little as 24 hours after water damage starts. It typically makes its presence known with an unpleasant, musty odor.
  • Between two and seven days after water damage begins, mold can spread to porous surfaces, eating up organic materials and thriving in conditions with elevated temperature and humidity.
  • After more than a week, a water damage situation that has allowed mold to proliferate is much less safe for structures and occupants. Affected areas may require more extensive structural repair and replacement, as well as mold remediation with EPA-registered biocides.

SERVPRO of Pottsville can be reached at (570) 622-8991 when homeowners need a response from a We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster crew.

SERVPRO is Your Trusted Choice for Fire Recovery in Pottsville

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO logo Fire damage causes a lot of obstacles to handle. SERVPRO IICRC certified techs are ready at a moment's notice for the help you need.

What Makes SERVPRO a Wise Choice for Fire Recovery in Pottsville

Immediate and lingering effects from a blaze that began in your Pottsville home can be challenging for a homeowner to experience, and often, they are unsure of whom they can trust to restore their home to its original condition. With so many obstacles to overcome in restoring property after a fire, you need professionals with experience and advanced equipment designed to make the process as efficient as possible.

As soon as a fire damage emergency happens in your Pottsville residence, you have a finite amount of time before the destruction spreads to the point of affecting new areas, materials, and contents within your home. This persistent damage can eventually reach the point where these surfaces and items become unsalvageable. By reaching out to experienced technicians like our SERVPRO professionals, we can implement real-time mitigation tactics that can keep contents in your home out of harm’s way and begin cleaning up effects like smoke and soot damage to keep them from affecting more areas in the house.

Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and Cleanup

The SERVPRO technicians dispatched to your home come with the full measure of our fire mitigation equipment, such as tools to help improve indoor air quality like our hydroxyl generators. These machines can remove particulates, debris, smoke particles, ash, and other hazardous elements from the environment and make the area safer for our certified technicians and others that might also enter the property.

Our experienced professionals are available to customers in our area 24 hours a day, even on holidays, to ensure that we provide a fast response to any emergency as it happens. Because of the short timeline homeowners have between the initial fire and the degradation of structural elements of their home and other spreading effects, you need a team of highly-trained professionals available whenever disaster strikes.

You might have choices when it comes to professional restoration in the area following a fire in your home, but our SERVPRO of Pottsville offers comprehensive restoration from our initial inspection and mitigation efforts through the completion of entirely restoring your home. “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call anytime at (570) 622-8991.

After a Water Damage Incident in Your Pottsville Property, Call the Experts at SERVPRO

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

rippled carpet, lumpy beige SERVPRO advises DIY Pottsville homeowners call us for professional water removal--do you want this carpet in your closet?

Why SERVPRO for Effective Water Cleanup for Your Pottsville Home

Even without widespread damages, water damage incidents in your Pottsville home still require professional cleaning and drying to ensure that worse conditions are not waiting around the corner. There are many risks associated with inadequately cleaning up and drying out water loss incidents in your house. Understanding how professional assistance can help can ultimately save you time and money over DIY approaches.

No matter the cause of the water damage to your Pottsville home, water cleanup is rarely as simple as mops and buckets to the affected areas. Often water damage spreads quickly throughout the exposed area, penetrating surfaces and saturating materials to the point of requiring specialized drying equipment to recover these areas. Our SERVPRO professionals arrive with a stocked production vehicle and personnel to quickly begin drying out the damaged elements within your home to prevent costlier ventures like tear-out and reconstruction that might not be necessary.

Specialized Tools for Detecting Water Damage

We arrive with moisture detection equipment and thermal imagery cameras that can help to determine where moisture pockets exist out of sight. Understanding the depths and spread of dampness can choose the best positioning for high-velocity air movers and dehumidifiers. This maximizes their effectiveness in returning your home to preloss conditions.

As effective as this strategy is for our SERVPRO professionals on-site, many homeowners might still consider doing this independently. Failure to know the full extent of the damage and eliminate this lingering dampness can facilitate the growth of mold, which can be damaging both to the structure and those living inside. Additionally, lingering moisture can weaken structural elements to the point of failure or collapse, making it a considerable hazard for anyone exposed.

For as many choices as you might have to make when you experience a water damage incident in your home, choosing professional restoration should be an easy decision. Our SERVPRO of Pottsville rapid response team is available 24/7 to help clean up and dry out the water damage in your home. Give us a call today at (570) 622-8991.

How Can Mold Removal Happen in a Pottsville Basement?

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

basement walls ceiling coated with mold Don't Let Mold Damage get out of control in your Pottsville basement--Call SERVPRO for remediation and cleanup

SERVPRO Recommends Getting Professional Mold Damage Remediation to Ensure the Problem Ends

One thing to remember when black mold or another type is seen in a Pottsville property, it is always a symptom of a larger issue. Frequently visited reasons include unseen leaks, lack of ventilation allowing humidity to build up, or post-flood damage.

SERVPRO handles mold removal in Pottsville properties and addresses the cause at the time of the remediation. This attention to detail inhibits the issue's return and ensures the homeowner does not have to keep dealing with the mold. Scoping using our equipment can pinpoint the areas of elevated moisture, then the tech can drill a tiny hole to inspect for mold. This prevents the removal of portions of walls or ceilings in finished basements that do not harbor mold colonies.

Removal of dried matter may happen through different methods depending on the surface it is left upon. SERVPRO techs have access to abatement applications such as ice, soda, and glass bead blasting to lift away stuck-on residues without marring surfaces, such as cinder block walls in a basement.

Actions to Inhibit Further Mold Damage During Remediation

  • Lowering interior humidity under 50%
  • The use of antimicrobial sealants
  • Containment to halt the spread of airborne spores during remediation

SERVPRO of Pottsville at (570) 622-8991 brings years of comprehensive training to every Pottsville mold damage remediation resulting in the best outcome every time.

How Experienced Are SERVPRO Mold Specialists for Pottsville Homes?

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

mold remediation in basement SERVPRO has the techs and equipment for any size mold remediation service needed for your home. Call now.

With extensive training and certification, we can help local homes overcome mold threats.

Mold is not an uncommon threat to Pottsville homes, especially being in the path of winter and summer storms that can leave moist conditions or vulnerabilities in elements like your roof. Because mold can spread so fast through a humid environment, it is essential to have the right team to respond to these emergencies to begin remediating and managing this situation as soon as possible. Our SERVPRO team is highly qualified to help when microbial threats get discovered.

Are SERVPRO Professionals Experienced Mold Remediators? 

Our roster has multiple IICRC certified technicians in mold remediation (AMRT) and related niches like structural drying (ASD) and water restoration (WRT.) Removing mold colonies in Pottsville can be a challenging undertaking and involves the choice of several approaches and practices based on hosting materials and the severity of exposure, including:

  • Controlled demolition
  • Media blasting
  • Antimicrobial cleaning

Removing active mold colonies requires experience and safe practices that you can expect with our SERVPRO of Pottsville team. Give us a call today at (570) 622-8991.

Make a Light Up Dandelion Canvas in Pottsville

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO van Let SERVPRO work on their art of mold removal, while you work on art for your walls.

Create a Beautiful Work of Art at this Pottsville Event

The Art Barn is where the fun begins. You do not even have to be an artist to create a stunning canvas. The Dandelion Lighted Canvas event is hosted by Created by Corks and Canvas. It was supposed to happen in spring, but like many things got moved to the fall. But dandelions seeds are works of wonder, blowing in the wind any time of year. The event includes:

  • Making and 11x14 painting – step by step instructions provided
  • All supplies included
  • Different colored lights to customize your painting

The cost is $40, and you do need to preregister. It takes place on November 20, 2020, at 6 PM. Register now and take time to step away from the worries and stress of the day. 

SERVPRO of Pottsville provides mold removal services for homes and businesses with mold problems. Our technicians are certified in mold removal and can mitigate the problem by cleaning up existing mold, repairing damaged structural elements, and sanitizing impacted areas. Contact us at (579) 622-8991 for professional mold remediation services.

SERVPRO Provides Professional Water Extraction in Pottsville

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Equipment and technicians SERVPRO has technicians with the tools and reliability your home needs after a water intrusion.

Pottsville is a Town Rich in Culture with Homes that Experience Water Intrusions

Fall is coming to an end in Pottsville. The area is flooded with vibrant colors as the leaves change. Although the times are challenging, residents are gearing up to celebrate the holidays. This can mean diverse traditions with the many blended cultures that are in Pennsylvania. 

William Penn Founded It – Coal Kept It Going

William Penn was granted the land that would become Pottsville by Charles II.  In 1752 the city became part of Berks County. The quaint town sits on the edge of the Schuylkill River.

 In 1790, Necho Allen discovered a rich coal seam, which begins a long history in anthracite coal. Legend has it that Allen, who was a hunter, nodded off with a lit campfire. The next thing he knows, he is awakened by a large fire. Supposedly his small fire ignited a coal outcropping on Broad Mountain. 

John Pott purchased a forge that was started in 1795. It was an anthracite-fired finery forge along the Schuylkill River. The town would eventually be named Pottsville, after John Pott. In 1811, the town became part of Schuylkill County.  The town formally began with:

  •   Henry Donnell, a local surveyor, laying out the town in 1816.
  •   It was established in Norwegian Township as a village in 1819.
  •   Pottsville was incorporated on February 10, 1828.
  •   Becomes the county seat in 1851. 

Oldest Family Brewer in the US

D.G Yuengling & Son began a brewery in 1829. It is now the oldest brewery that is family-owned and continually operated in the United States. Highlights include:

  •   Prohibition Period -Yuengling stops making beer, starts making “near beer”.
  •   Yuengling Dairy – Created to help with income during the prohibition. Sold ice cream and other dairy products.
  •   Three brews were produced, Yuengling Special, Yuengling Por-Tor, and the Yuengling Juvo.
  •   In 1933, sent a truckful of Winner Beer to President Franklin D Roosevelt to thank him for repealing the prohibition.
  •   The dairy folded in 1985.
  •   2nd largest American-owned brewery in the US.

Business & Industry Comes to Pottsville

The Philadelphia and Reading Coal and Iron Company acquires vast amounts of coal lands. This leads to it becoming one of the most prominent and profitable coal companies in PA. The anthracite coal industry eventually died out after WW II. 

The Schuylkill River is an ideal location for the textile industry, and in 1881 the Phillips Van Heusen business was established. It was an amazing story of local folks growing the area. Moses and Endel Phillips began the business by hand sewing shirts. They sold their wares via pushcarts to the local miners. Although many of these textile companies would leave the area in the ‘70s, it allowed the city to flourish. 

Another textile business was the Tilt Silk Mill. This company imported silkworms from China and produced silk. The mill had mulberry trees in a solarium that fed the worms. Eventually, nylon stockings pushed this type of industry out, but the building is still in use today by another company.

Moving Into the 20th Century

As history moved along, so did Pottsville. Events shaped and changed the area to what it is today. Local happenings included:

  •   Hosting the National Football Franchise from 1925 to 1928.
  •   The Pottsville Maroons were a top team in early football history. They eventually moved to Boston and became the Boston Bulldogs.
  •   Popular spot for vaudeville performers and traveling acts through the mid-20th century.
  •   Pearl Bailey resided in Pottsville in her early career.
  •   The city was the theme of a Laurel & Hardy film called Berth Marks.
  •   Because of the “illicit” activities in town, WWII soldiers at Fort Indiantown Gap were forbidden to come to town.
  •   Pottsville Crimson Tide football team is a prep football team and one of the oldest programs in the US.
  •   Dial telephones were introduced in 1956.

Modern History

Centre Street was redone in a streetscaping project in 2007. The city became the Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) transportation hub for the county. The Union Station Intermodal Transit Center was built for $16.1 million. It houses both Greyhound and Trailways bus services. There are many places of interest that are part of the National Registration of Historic Places, including the Pottsville Downton Historic District and Burd Patterson House.

Pottsville is still a thriving town today. It is a culturally diversified town with a background of African-American, Chinese, Italians, Pennsylvania Dutch, and many more. This makes for exciting celebrations around the holidays. Visitors are amazed at the mix of culture that is in the area.

SERVPRO is Committed to Our Community

No matter the ethnic roots of the family, they all live in homes that can experience water intrusion. When this happens, professional help is required to mitigate the problem. SERVPRO provides experienced, well-trained technicians who not only understand water extraction but the needs of the community. It is our home, too, and we care when residents need assistance. Water restoration includes:

  •   Emergency mitigation if needed.
  •   Water extraction with powerful pumps and other extraction methods.
  •   Drying the home with air movers and dehumidifiers.
  •   Cleaning surface areas and content of the home.
  •   Restoration to the residence.
  •   Returning your home to preloss condition whenever possible.

Homeowners should get professional assistance as soon as possible to prevent secondary damage, such as mold. Mold can happen quickly and spread just as quickly. Water is corrosive, and if let stand, can cause severe damage to whatever it touches. 

If you have a burst pipe, overflowing dishwasher, or other water intrusions, SERVPRO of Pottsville can provide water extraction services you can trust. We are available 24/7 if it is an emergency. In any situation, we arrive as soon as possible. Contact us at (570) 622-8991. Our staff can answer any questions you might have on what we can do for you. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

What Equipment Do Professional Use for Fire Odors?

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

heavy soot and smoke damage on wall and ceiling Smoke and soot easily spread throughout the home. SERVPRO has the cleaning agents and manpower to restore your home.

Fire Damage Can Fill your Pottsville Home with Unpleasant Burnt Odors. SERVPRO Technicians Have a Range of Equipment to Ventilate and Deodorize your Property.

Why are fire odor problems tough to resolve?

Fire odors can come from numerous sources and materials in your Pottsville home. Some of these sources may be immediately noticeable, but others may reside in cavities within the home or materials and contents. The core methods of controlling odor are through deodorizing with chemicals and ventilating a property. Scents are naturally volatile particles that can dissipate quickly once the source of odor is identified and removed. Deodorant chemicals are typically used to conceal the remaining odors until they dissipate.

What equipment is useful for eliminating fire odors?

  • Pressure spraying equipment can disperse deodorant chemicals directly onto surfaces and are useful for heavily charred structure.
  • Air scrubbers remove particles from the air by drawing them through a series of filters.
  • Ozone machines are rarely used except in heavily damaged properties but can alter the chemical composition of odor particles eliminating them.

Is ventilation effective against odors?

Ventilation can help to reduce the odors of fire damage in your Pottsville home. However, it may take a long time. We typically apply deodorants to the affected area and then ventilate it to ensure that the property is safe to return. A ventilating box fan generates a tremendous amount of airflow. We commonly use this equipment after a thermal fogger to replace the indoor environment to a natural state free from malodor. To return a property to a normal state after fogging, air must be exchanged up to fifty times. Ventilating box fans help SERVPRO technicians to keep odor control efficient.

What tools are used for duct cleaning after a house fire?

  • A powerful vacuum to pull soils and soots out of ducts
  • An efficient filtering system to remove bacteria and odor particles
  • Agitative equipment like air whips, brushes, and augers

Getting odor under control is central to returning your home to a normal condition after the fire. Contact SERVPRO of Pottsville at (570) 622-8991.

How Does SERVPRO Find the Water Within a Pottsville Home?

8/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment on hardwood flooring of a home. SERVPRO can advise as well as assist your Pottsville water damage.

SERVPRO technicians bring a host of advanced water detection equipment to Pottsville homes

After a pipe break, storm damage, or toilet backup, just to name a few standard events, you need professional assistance to ensure that the water in your Pottsville property gets extracted and dried thoroughly. That is why it is crucial to outsource the task to a professional restoration services company, particularly one with advanced extraction, drying, and detection equipment. 

What is the Difference in Consumer and Professional Water Removal Equipment?  

When you need water removal in your Pottsville property, there is no comparison between a consumer-grade shop vac and the professional extraction units that SERVPRO technicians have access to use. To highlight just a few of the perks for using a professional restoration services company in terms of the devices used can have an impact on the outcome through the use of:  

  • Various types of moisture sensors and inspection equipment to track precise locations of water migration within the home
  • Professional water removal equipment for any size or depth water loss situation
  • Access to deep extraction tools for various surfaces
  • Careful attention during the removal process to ensure that nothing gets left behind by using inspection equipment before moving on to drying

Infrared cameras are an invaluable part of the technician's toolkit. While these devices do not measure moisture within the structure, they give an undeniable look at temperature differences and enable techs to compare readings from moisture sensors to nail down anywhere in the home water migrated into. The use of the inspection equipment negates the need for opening walls to determine the location of the water.

What Should I Expect When SERVPRO Dries My Property  

The extraction phase tends to take time because the more water that gets pulled up and taken away reduces the time needed to dry the structure. SERVPRO techs do not use fans but deploy professional drying equipment such as:  

  • Air movers to remove embedded moisture through their high-velocity airflow  
  • Dehumidification equipment to capture airborne moisture droplets  
  • Air scrubbers to capture any mold spores or odorous molecules
  • Drying mats for forcing air into the flooring of all types
  • Injecti-Dry systems for delivery of dry air into small spaces

Special Actions During Drying 

Individual structural elements within the home may require specific treatments for the best outcome. A good example is a hardwood floor that receives a large amount of water. The boards may swell and warp in response to absorbing the moisture, but with the training and equipment the techs have, the outlook is positive for saving the hardwood flooring from becoming a loss. The techs try to dry the boards in place whenever possible, frequently using a method known as tenting where the plastic gets sealed over the loss area, and the use of portable heaters assists in the delivery of warm, dry air that gets forced into the boards. Once dry, the boards usually return to their original shape. In some cases, mainly if the exposure to moisture was for a lengthy period, the floorboards may need sanding and refinishing, but not a replacement.

Carpet is another article in the home that requires special handling. SERVPRO techs have the training and know that restoration of a carpet after a water loss is never a one-size-fits-all job. They carefully test the fibers to determine if they can withstand re-wetting to remove water spots or if any shrinkage may occur from the drying process. 

Actively Addressing the Possibility of Mold  

Because there are airborne mold spores that occur naturally both indoors and out, they float harmlessly around unless conditions are favorable for germination. After that, a colony can establish itself quickly and begin to spread. Air moisture readings get taken throughout the restoration process to ensure that the environment is not supportive for germination or growth of mold. The use of professional antimicrobial solutions and, when necessary, the application of sealants assures that mold is never an issue post-mitigation for water damage. 

SERVPRO of Pottsville at (570) 622-8991 serves the local community with any size water removal needs. No matter if the problem is in a single room or an entire home, the certified technicians are available 24/7 to extract the water and bring your home back to its preloss condition.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Table tent signs describing the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program on top of a wooden table. Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

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

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

Extensive training and specialized products

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

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

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

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

Call SERVPRO of Pottsville today at (570) 622-8991 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.

Our Team Can Restore Your Pottsville Home After A Fire

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

An electrical fire that started as a result of damaged wiring This home was damaged by an electrical fire that started as a result of this damaged wiring. We showed up right away and began restoration.

Steps Before Cleaning Fire-Damaged Carpets in Pottsville Homes

Smaller fires can leave light residues and soil deposits on the floors of Pottsville homes that can often get restored with the right techniques and cleaning agents. The appropriate response to these conditions varies based on multiple factors, which is part of the advanced and extensive training that our SERVPRO professionals receive both as cleaning technicians and fire restorers for our team.

Pretesting and pretreating carpets can both have positive effects, especially when our technicians believe that flooring fire damage in Pottsville homes is restorable. Even pretesting a carpet to determine the likelihood of cleaning success requires a working knowledge of the restorative practices and their effects on individual styles of carpets, fabrics, and the soiling present. Before one type of cleaning technique gets chosen, our professionals must consider:

  • Colorfastness
  • Type of soil and its severity
  • Type of carpet and fibers
  • Stain resistance
  • Pre-existing damage before the fire

Pretesting 

By pretesting a fire damaged portion of the carpet, we can be assured of presenting the best cleaning method to get the desired results. With restoring carpeting, it is always a priority to preserve the color and feel of the fibers, but ultimately remove all traces of soiling from the most recent disaster. Pretesting can identify the type of fiber and the overall condition of the carpet, showcasing the best methods to suit the current conditions.

Pretreatment

Heavier levels of soiling after a fire can benefit from preconditioning and pretreatment. Our deluxe preconditioning and rinse can help to address present soiling of the carpet by emulsifying or dissolving the present sediment, which can get rinsed and extracted with rotary jet extraction or hot water extraction. That added time with a cleaning agent can often benefit the carpet restoration process and help to keep the flooring installed after a loss incident.

Soot and oily soiling can both have detrimental effects on carpeted floors. However, with a fast response to the situation, it is sometimes possible to restore these damaged areas to preloss condition. Our SERVPRO of Pottsville team can help by calling (570) 622-8991.

See more about Pottsville.

When Your Pottsville Party is Interrupted by Water Damage

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

drying mats on kitchen floor This party was interrupted by water damage. We drying mats to suction water from the kitchen floor.

Why Call SERVPRO to Help with Flood Damage in Pottsville? 

Whether it is storm season or another catastrophic event that has left you with water damage, hiring professionals is the best way to address flood damage in Pottsville. The good news is that you have all of the innovative technologies, proven cleaning methods, and the manpower necessary to get your home or business back to preloss condition when you work with SERVPRO. 

Along with the excessive amount of moisture present with a flood situation, you may also face several potential hazards. Working with the experts to address flood damage in Pottsville is the safest, most efficient way to get the results that you need. As with any water damage situation, the faster you take action, the more significant the difference in the level of damage to your structure, furnishings, and belongings. 

Packout Services 

There can be various contaminants in groundwater, so our team wearing protective gear can get through it to pull out any salvageable belongings. We work quickly to move furnishings to another location in the house and take any porous items or goods from the pantry out that could otherwise absorb floodwater. Typically, groundwater is category 3, contaminated with microorganisms, chemicals, and other debris.  

Testing 

Before starting the full flood damage cleanup, our SERVPRO technicians test the water to see if contaminants and bacteria are present, which allows us to select the best methods and cleaning agents to proceed. In any situation that impacts the home with groundwater, we scope the flooring with moisture detection equipment to determine whether or not the subfloor calls for attention before and after the water extraction process. Water penetration and absorption into structural elements require thorough inspections and final standard moisture content levels before SERVPRO signs off on a job.  

Drying 

The methods used for drying depends on the flooring type in your home. If you have tile glued down, it often disengages with water exposure, calling for full removal. However, inlaid tile and ceramic are typically safe from water penetration. SERVPRO technicians can place drying mats that we move about to dry the hardwood flooring. The joints harbor moisture that these mats can suction out. We also use high-power air movers and dehumidifiers to ensure the drying process is a success. 

Deodorization and Disinfection 

Once drying is complete, we commence with cleaning and disinfecting all of the surfaces impacted by water. We use high-strength disinfectants to eliminate unpleasant odors to restore your home to preloss condition, “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Pottsville is ready to help whenever you need assistance with flood damage. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, and available 24/7. Give our team a call at (570) 622-8991, and we can send out technicians as soon as possible. 

More about Pottsville.

Why We Are The Leader In Cressona Fire Damage Restoration

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

An electrical fire that started as a result of damaged wiring This home was damaged by an electrical fire that started as a result of this damaged wiring.

Effective Deodorization for Smoke Odors in Cressona Homes

Lingering odors present some of the most troublesome obstacles for Cressona homeowners to overcome after a fire loss. Addressing these concerns requires both the potent cleaning products available to our SERVPRO teams and the effective line of deodorizing equipment stocked in the production trucks of our Green Fleet. As challenging as many structure fires can become, many homeowners reach out to our professionals before the responding firefighters have even finished their work to ensure that our team is alert and prepared to begin mitigation and recovery as promptly as possible. 

Mitigation plays a substantial role in the successful recovery of Cressona fire damage. Our initial efforts can help to reduce the severity of the fire loss effects and to reduce both the overall losses to contents and construction elements throughout the residence. Our fast response, including our efforts to improve air quality and reduce present odors, can save our customers time and money on the restoration that the house needs after a fire. Deodorization involves the use of many practices, most of which depend on the severity and spread of the condition. 

Cleaning Surfaces

The focused fire damage removal of residues and soot throughout the house can help to reduce the severity of odors. In areas where the fire damage was most concentrated, wiping and foam cleaning practices, as well as more abrasive tactics like soda blasting, can noticeably limit the presence of strong smoke odors. 

Reduction Products 

Our SERVPRO team utilizes several products that can help to quickly reduce the severity and the spread of these smoke and noxious odors left behind after a fire. An excellent example of these products would be odor counteracting beads. These porous beads can absorb foul odors they attract and replace it with a pleasant odor. 

Deodorizing Equipment 

The most effective strategy to remove harsh odors left behind after a fire is the use of capable deodorization equipment, including thermal foggers, hydroxyl generators, and ozone machines. Many of these tools have dual functionalities, offering both filtration through onboard HEPA filters as well as varying deodorizing techniques. From UV spectrums to the creation of ozone, we have the right deodorization solution for your fire-damaged home. 

Odors can be a challenge to overcome after a fire, but our SERVPRO of Pottsville team has the equipment and expertise to help. Give us a call anytime at (570) 622-8991.

See more about Cressona.

Real Risks of Floodwater in Your Pottsville Basement

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment on the floor of a room. SERVPRO knows the severity of your Pottsville floods and the damage that comes with it.

Let us help your Pottsville home from flood damage.

Flooding is not something that many Pottsville homeowners take lightly, but many put themselves at risk working to find the fastest route to drying up the damage. Instead of securing professional assistance, DIY restoration is on the rise. The more you know about the actual risks of doing this work yourself, the safer it can get accomplished, or you might see the benefits of having legitimate trained aid in your time of need.

There are distinct advantages to choosing our SERVPRO professionals to address flood damage in Pottsville homes, and it begins with the expertise of our technicians. Even in the realm of premier recovery services, few specialists have extensive training and education that our team does. From the earliest stages of developing and growing our roster, we have our entire staff accredited through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in Water Restoration (WRT.) These endorsements ensure that you always have qualified and knowledgeable experts available 24/7 if disaster strikes.

Numerous risks exist with addressing flood loss effects on your own, and in the basement level of your house, these hazards can be even dire. As a hub for your utility services, your electrical system can cause a harmful charge to the immediate water in the basement if the service is still live. You should always look to temporarily disconnect services before entering standing water that could have become electrified.

Because contaminants could exist in the water pouring into your home as well, especially from rising waters or flash flooding, you need to avoid direct contact without the appropriate personal protective equipment. Our SERVPRO team has a safe and thorough approach that can begin extraction with our initial arrival and work to get the area dried and disinfected as promptly as possible.

As tempting as it might be to attempt DIY restoration after a flood, many issues could be harmful to you or your family. Our SERVPRO of Pottsville team is always here to help however you need, from our full restoration packages to a second opinion on the work you have done to restore your home. Give us a call anytime at (570) 622-8991.

If you would like to know more about Pottsville, click here.

Take the Stress Out of Fire Damage Remediation and Lingering Odors in Pottsville

9/29/2019 (Permalink)

fire damage in part of a home Fire damage has many components including soot and lingering odors. Take care of these and other issues with one call to SERVPRO.

Using Thermal Foggers to Address Smoke Odors in Pottsville Homes

One of the universal symptoms left behind after most fires that affect Pottsville homes is a foul odor. Through the combustion of certain materials to the light smoke odors that persist after much of the cleaning as completed, scents play a substantial role in whether a family can move forward after a disaster or not. It is because of this that our professionals have invested so much into the inventory of recovery tools at our disposal, including industry-leading deodorization machines.

While we have multiple tools and equipment that we can choose from when addressing fire damage in Pottsville homes, the choice of these tools relates to the specific conditions. We can make determinations of deodorizers based on the severity of the smell, where in the house these conditions exist, and the materials and contents of your home that have allowed odor permeation. In many cases, the best tool for both portability and versatility in odor removal is the thermal fogger.

Our foggers run on high-quality deodorization concentrate that we vaporize as we walk through the affected areas. Unlike some of the other odor removal practices that we have, thermal foggers rely exclusively on the product that you supply them with, and the production of fog helps to get into porous surfaces, soft materials, and textiles. For other affected materials and contents, we have ozone and hydroxyl generators.

Among the chief reasons that thermal foggers get used regularly is the portability of these units. Being much lighter than the other deodorization tools, we can move from one affected area of your home to another quickly without needing to disassemble or reset stationary equipment throughout the property. We can focus the densest concentration of fogging in the ignition area and lighten its use when moving to adjacent rooms and areas.

As many deodorization tools that we have in our deep inventory can ensure that we have the right machines for nearly any situation we encounter. When it comes to helping you get back to normal after a loss incident, you can trust that our SERVPRO of Pottsville can show We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. Give us a call today at (570) 622-8991.

Click here for more information about the city of Pottsville.

Why Cross-training Matters to Pottsville Residents in need of Home Restoration Services

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

The words cross-train on a piece of paper with a green background  SERVPRO is always learning and training to help you and your Pottsville community the correct way.

We are prepared to take on Pottsville no matter the incident or damage. 

Here at SERVPRO of Pottsville, we have established ourselves as a leading restoration service provider over many years working in the region. Operating in a coal-mining region like Pottsville means our community is used to working hard on extended hours. Property damages can be the final straw for most homeowners who want to get on with their everyday lives with as little inconvenience as possible. Our restoration service boasts a diverse roster of mold, water, fire, and storm recovery technicians. We operate locally, which means we can mobilize both our technicians and our extensive equipment inventory at a moments notice to help you restore your home, and get back to your normal life. 

Fire

Incidents involving fire can be extremely tough for homeowners who have spent years accumulating possessions and personal effects. Hot smoke can seriously harm structural contents like drapery rods, fittings, electrical appliances, furnishings, and ornaments. SERVPRO provides experienced restorers to help you overcome fire damage in your Pottsville home quickly with a stress-free claims procedure that allows us to handle the paperwork which can then be passed on to your insurance adjuster. 

Our inventory for restoration service equipment features cutting edge technology that can help to restore the property to a preloss condition, allowing you to avoid the costly replacement of items and fittings. Before entering your Pottsville property after a fire, you should get an all-clear from your fire officer and shut off power to the affected area. Wiring and electric appliances can become unsafe with prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures and pressure, causing permanent damage to the appliance itself or a risk to your safety. 

SERVPRO fire and smoke damage restoration technicians (FSRT) can work quickly to restore fittings and contents. In severe incidents, we can store possessions for you at the climate-controlled warehouse while ongoing restoration services take place. Our restorers can carry out essential cleaning and drying of the affected area as well as preliminary restoration of specialist items like electrics. These procedures can help to ensure no further damage is caused while electric restoration experts are brought in for repairs. Whether you need standard or specialist restorers, SERVPRO can liaise with third-parties on your behalf so that you only have to deal with one point of contact from start to finish. 

Water

Drying a property is vital in ensuring that water damage in your Pottsville home does not become an ongoing battle. SERVPRO water restoration technicians (WRT) are trained in a variety of proper drying techniques that allow us to confidently restore your home to its preloss condition without secondary damages like mold growth or structural weakening occurring. One of the core principles that our restorers work with is the restore over replace mentality that helps to keep our customers claim rates manageable throughout the restoration service. 

Water does not standstill. In fact, the longer that water is left in property, the further it spreads and the more damage it causes. Most household items are not designed to sustain prolonged exposure to moisture, therefore reaching out to a professional restoration service promptly on the discovery of a water incident is essential to reducing the possibility of irreversible harm. Cleaning and removing excess quantities of water is necessary, but it is the drying of your Pottsville home that is essential to making a full recovery. 

SERVPRO restoration services incorporate advanced structural drying equipment to remove moisture from inside wall cavities or the subfloor. Our trucks are stocked with a full inventory of desiccant and refrigerant dehumidifiers to ensure that, should the drying process requires overnight service, the likelihood of microbial growth issues is kept to a minimum. In scenarios where drying procedure is predicted to take several days, SERVPRO restorers can return to your Pottsville home daily to ensure that drying outcomes are being achieved as expected. Drying property guards against malodors, microbial growth and structural weakening, our technology allows us to be a leading supplier of water restoration here in Pottsville.

Storm

Flash flooding is a common cause of storm damage in Pottsville, which requires professional care and attention to restore effectively. Floodwaters enter the home with little or no prior warning, and once in the home, can begin to cross-contaminate floors, walls, and furnishings. Large amounts of water can create uneven ground surfaces as well as increasing the likelihood of slips or falls. Before entering the property, seek assistance from a professional with the right personal protective equipment (PPE) and experience.

Groundwaters can be extremely harmful to your health. Due to the health hazards present in floodwaters, SERVPRO technicians need to examine all porous materials in your Pottsville property to remove and dispose of contaminated materials. These materials may even include structure such as drywall which needs to be cut away at least a foot above the standing water level to avoid any chance of contaminated materials remaining in the home. 

Once the offending porous materials are removed, standing water drained from the property and drying procedure set up. SERVPRO can begin disinfecting the area. Using a combination of bleaches, Biocides, and chemical agents our technicians can clean the area several times over to ensure that any harmful pathogens are destroyed and your home restoration service delivers on creating a sanitary environment. If personal possessions were removed during the cleaning procedure, SERVPRO could return these items to their original positions in your Pottsville home after service is complete.

Mold

Microbial growth issues can often be the result of an ineffective water loss or flood restoration carried out that left behind moisture pockets in your Pottsville home. Over time, these moisture pockets become breeding grounds for microbial fungi, which eventually becomes a problem by affecting indoor air quality as well as producing an unpleasant odor. Cleaning the surface using household bleach or disinfectant can quickly become a daily task, which is why most homeowners seek professional remediation services to deal with mold damage in their Pottsville homes. 

It is essential to understand that mold is a natural part of the home environment; therefore, a full restoration is not possible. Instead, SERVPRO offer experienced remediation technicians that can control microbial growth to an acceptable level, remove colonies as well as tackling odor- essentially making the issues "Like it never even happened." There may be many physical barriers that restrict access to the source of mold which SERVPRO can remove and replace during the restoration service.

Mold remediation is an ever changing industry that adapts to new understanding and technology. SERVPRO is committed to providing advanced equipment that can help with microbial growth issues like injectidry systems- for wall cavities- as well as Esporta washing machines that can help to restore precious fabrics that would otherwise have to be discarded due to mold infestation. Our technicians are here to get your Pottsville home back to its preloss condition and can mobilize an extensive inventory of restoration equipment in a short amount of time.

SERVPRO of Pottsville operates a roster of technicians with extensive knowledge in the restoration of fire, water, storm or mold incidents. Contact us today, at 

To learn more about Pottsville, click here.

SERVPRO Provides a Steady Hand to Pottsville Homeowners for Mold Cleanup

3/24/2019 (Permalink)

Pottsville Property Often Need Mold Cleanup and Remediation--Trust a Leader in the Industry--SERVPRO

Does Insurance Usually Cover Mold Remediation in Pottsville?

Mold can grow in any home in any part of Pennsylvania. The spores that produce fungal growth exist in most parts of the world.

In Pottsville, mold and fungus growth are generally not covered in a homeowner’s insurance policy. If a home has a history of mold issues, mold coverage may be impossible to get. Part of the reason mold insurance is so rare is because of the level of damage this spore can do to a home. Not only can it be destructive, but it is also costly to remove. If you notice any signs of mold, it’s best to work with mold removal experts as soon as possible to help mitigate the damage done to your house.

Depends on the Damage Source

Some policies cover mold caused by certain water sources. For example, sudden catastrophes, such as burst pipes or sewer backups, are more likely to be covered than lingering maintenance issues. However, fast action to mitigate the water damage is needed not to break your part of the agreement with your insurer. SERVPRO can respond quickly to any water or mold issue. There are policies that put a small limit on the liability to repair, usually only about $5 to 20 thousand dollars. This may be just a drop in the bucket for the actual cost of a mold remediation project.

Your mold coverage likely will not include the following sources of water damage:

Continuous faucet leaks, ignored by the homeowner
Drainage problems in the yard, exterior issue
Condensation buildup from lack of proper ventilation
Flood waters

Because coverage can depend on how the mold was caused, it is critical for the full discovery of the source. SERVPRO provides AMRT applied microbial remediation technicians to mitigate the mold damage, but an outside, independent source should provide an official inspection report if required by your carrier.

Review Your Policy Regularly

Insurance policies can change as the years go by. Many providers choose to reword their coverage for fungus growth because this problem can spread so quickly in homes and lead to huge claims. To best understand your policy, you need to review it annually.

Look for a Change in Policy

You may be able to revise your coverage to get protection from the damage mold, and fungus growth can do to your home. Some insurance providers may have a mold cap, which would limit the amount of mold coverage or the items the coverage pays for. Other providers may allow you to pay a higher premium for limited coverage related to mold.

For professional help in removing, with never a guarantee of eliminating all the mold damage and organisms from your property, consider SERVPRO of Pottsville. (570) 622-8991.

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Hidden Hazards and Toxins Are in Groundwater from Flooding in Pottsville--SERVPRO Can Help

3/24/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to Pottsville Property for Floodwater Extraction and Disinfecting

What Makes Flood Water So Dangerous in Pottsville Properties?

It is a common misconception that restoration after a flood is just a matter of getting the water out of the home and drying things out. The reality is that flood water is far different than having a burst pipe sending clean water into your home. The potential water damage from Black Water is messy, smelly and dangerous. It isn’t just threatening to your home and belongings.


The groundwater that enters a Pottsville house during a flooding can often contain numerous pathogenic organisms along with debris and other chemicals.

Here are a few of the contaminants that you need to be concerned about.

Soil

At first appearance, you might not think of soil as being dangerous. After all, you have plenty of it in your yard. However, soil contains fertilizers and other chemicals from lawn care and other activities. These may be rated safe for outdoor use, but they aren’t so safe when they are in your home and absorbed by your belongings. It is also challenging to get soil and its hidden contaminants removed, which is why a professional water damage restoration team like SERVPRO is needed to deal with the Black Water from a flood. Also, referred to as Category 3 water.

Microorganisms

There can be high levels of microorganisms in that water as well, in part because overloaded sewer lines back up and introduce fecal matter to the slurry. The longer the water sits in your home, the more these contaminants can grow and become even more of a problem. Typically, contact with interior porous building materials means a controlled demolition.

3. Other Materials

Water can pick up any number of dangerous materials during its path into your home, including sharp materials such as metal and glass. A nasty scratch from a large piece can become infected because of the other contaminants in the water. However, it is not only large chunks that pose a danger, as just a small shard of glass entering into the bloodstream can be deadly.

While you are right to be concerned about water damage when contaminated enters your home during a flood, don’t forget about the hidden dangers involved.

Seek professional help to restore your home safely by calling SERVPRO of Pottsville at (507) 622-8991.

Here is a list of the local services.

How To Protect Your Employees and Company From Fire

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

Prepare your evacuation plan in your Orwigsburg,PA business

Evacuation and Protection

Preparing for a potential fire is one of the most important tasks you can do to protect your company. A thoughtful contingency plan provides peace of mind; you can protect both your employees and your business assets and data from fire with effective preparation. As you strategize, you should focus on two elements: evacuation and protection.

1. Create an Evacuation Plan

Prepare your evacuation plan first. Determine how your employees will leave the building and where they should meet. Assign people to monitor the evacuation, ensure the building is clear and perform a roll call to make sure everyone is safe.

Review the plan with everyone regularly, and introduce it to new hires as part of their training. Then conduct fire drills at least once per year. Your diligence will be crucial in a real emergency.

2. Eliminate Workplace Hazards

Do not allow hazardous items in the building, such as candles, space heaters and personal kitchen appliances. Keep aisles clear of boxes and storage items. Avoid desk clutter that can add fuel to fires.

3. Install and Maintain Fire Prevention Devices

Install smoke alarms and change the batteries twice each year as part of your contingency plan. Larger buildings should have a sprinkler or fire suppression system tied to fire alarm boxes. Keep fire doors closed at all times.

4. Protect Your Assets

Check your insurance policies on a regular basis to maintain adequate coverage. Take pictures of your facility, equipment and storage areas annually to support potential fire insurance claims. Maintain a disaster recovery plan for your computer systems and back up your data to an off-site location. Include a reference for cleanup and restoration services in your plan.

5. Become Friends With the Fire Department

Develop an ongoing relationship with your fire officials in Orwigsburg, PA. Have them inspect your facility and include their recommendations in your plan.

You never want to experience a fire in your business. However, adequate planning and a good contingency plan will speed up the recovery process and are crucial to protecting your employees and your firm.

Will Your Solar Panels Survive a Severe Storm?

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

Panel Damage

Solar panels are becoming popular in Cressona, PA, for home water heating, pool heating and electricity. Their green energy helps the environment, but what happens when Mother Nature strikes back? Panel damage can take many forms, from many types of weather. Here are four of the most commonly beat-up areas:

1. Solar Cells

Individual cells and the glass protecting them may be susceptible to cracking, holes and broken connections within a panel. This type of destruction can be caused by strong hail or other impacts during a storm, such as falling tree limbs. Severe wind, heavy snow, or ice can also flex panels in damaging ways.

2. Wiring Connections

Photovoltaic panels that produce electricity are wired into your home's power system. Even if they’re inside a panel's casing, these connections can be broken or exposed by the same things that affect solar cells. Severe hail, falling tree limbs, and heavy wind, snow or ice can all cause panel damage.

3. Water Connections

If your panels are the kind that heat water for your home or swimming pool, a bad storm can damage the pipes that feed the panels. Leaking or broken lines will cause further water damage to the roof beyond what the storm is doing directly.

4. Structural Roof Damage

Your cells and panels are part of a large structure that's physically attached to your roof. Heavy wind gusts or sustained wind from a hurricane or tornado can cause this structure to pull on the roof supports with a lot of force, exposing the interior of your roof to the elements. As a result, water may damage the roof during this weather or in future storms.

While home solar panels are becoming more durable, they may not survive a severe storm in perfect condition. After a major weather event, you should have your system and roof inspected for panel damage and repaired by an experienced storm damage restoration service. Keep your panels in top shape and they'll continue to produce maximum energy for your home for many years.

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