GET IT DONE RIGHT! | SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

When you come home after work and find that a pipe burst and that water has been sitting for a couple of hours you just hop into action. But after you’ve shut off the water and called a plumber what’s next? Do you clean it up? You can try but do you have the equipment to properly clean and restore your valuables and home to its precondition? Probably not, so why take those chances.

Our highly trained restoration technicians are prepared to respond immediately to flood or water damage at your property. We have experience, expertise and training to restore your home or business quickly and properly. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment and practices to find and remove water in a quick and efficient manner. Our technicians will monitor and document the drying process from start to finish ensuring your experience with us goes seamlessly. Weather can be unpredictable so being prepared is paramount to ensuring your property or business can return to normal after a disaster. SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon will have your back from beginning to end in any disaster!

Our goal here at SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is to serve and be the best Cleaning/Restoration Company in Reston/Herndon or anywhere in between, we take pride in serving your neighborhood! We are a locally owned and operated franchise with employees dedicated to providing a quality customer experience! Give us a call today at 703-471-6040.

What to Expect During the Water Damage Inspection Process

2/15/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike unexpectedly, causing significant stress and disruption to your property. At SERVPRO®, we understand the importance of a thorough water damage inspection to assess the extent of the damage and to formulate an effective restoration plan. In this guide, we'll walk you through what to expect during a water damage inspection.

Why Is a Water Damage Inspection Crucial?

Before initiating any restoration work, a comprehensive inspection is crucial. This inspection serves multiple purposes:

Assessing Damage Extent: The inspection helps determine the scope and severity of the water damage, including affected areas and potential hidden issues.

Tailoring Restoration Plan: Insights gained from the inspection help in formulating a customized restoration plan tailored to your property's specific needs.

Documentation for Insurance Claims: Detailed inspection documentation provides crucial evidence for insurance claims.

Step-by-Step Water Damage Inspection Process

1. Initial Assessment

Upon arrival at your property, our trained professionals will conduct an initial assessment to identify potential safety hazards and evaluate the overall situation. Ensuring safety is important before proceeding with the inspection.

2. Determining Water Source and Type

Locating the source of water loss is crucial. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or natural flooding, identifying the source helps in mitigation efforts. Additionally, understanding the type of water involved (clean, grey, or black) helps assess contamination levels and guides appropriate cleanup procedures.

3. Assessing Visible Damage

Our team will meticulously inspect visible areas affected by water damage. This includes examining walls, ceilings, floors, and structural components for signs of moisture, staining, or deterioration.

4. Utilizing Specialized Equipment

Advanced moisture detection tools like infrared cameras and moisture meters are employed to identify moisture levels in hard-to-reach or hidden areas. This helps pinpoint areas needing immediate attention and prevents future issues like mold growth.

5. Documenting Findings

Thorough documentation via photographs, videos, and detailed notes ensures a comprehensive record of the damage. This documentation is crucial for insurance claims and the formulation of an effective restoration plan.

6. Discussing Restoration Plan

After completing the inspection, our team will discuss their findings with you. They'll explain the extent of the damage, and the proposed restoration plan, and answer any questions or concerns you might have.

What Sets SERVPRO® Apart?

With years of experience in handling water damage restoration, our trained professionals bring expertise and know-how to every inspection. Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment, we ensure precise and accurate assessments, enabling swift and effective restoration processes. Our tailored approach addresses specific needs, ensuring a thorough restoration while minimizing disruptions to your property.

When faced with water damage, trust the expertise of our SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon professionals. Contact us today for a thorough water damage inspection and personalized restoration plan!

Navigating Water Damage Safely: Understanding Electrical Hazards

2/15/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage is a common concern in our coastal community, and it often brings along unseen dangers—especially electrical hazards. When water and electricity mix, it can lead to serious risks for homeowners and businesses alike. In this blog, we'll delve into the critical importance of understanding electrical hazards during water damage incidents and how to stay safe in Portland's picturesque surroundings.

1. Risk of Electric Shock

Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, and when it comes into contact with electrical systems or appliances, it increases the risk of electric shock. Even a small amount of water can pose a significant danger if it reaches outlets, switches, or electrical equipment.

2. Potential for Fire

Water damage can compromise the insulation of electrical wiring, leading to short circuits or exposed wires. This can generate sparks, heat, and potentially start a fire. Electrical fires are a severe risk during and after water damage incidents.

3. Hidden Hazards

Some electrical hazards may not be immediately visible. Water can seep into walls, ceilings, and floors, making it challenging to identify potential dangers. Hidden electrical hazards can persist even after visible water has been removed.

4. Impact on Appliances

Water damage can affect electrical appliances and equipment. Moisture can damage sensitive components, rendering appliances unsafe to use. Attempting to operate water-damaged appliances can lead to electrical accidents.

5. Damaged Electrical Panels

Electrical panels or circuit breaker boxes can be vulnerable to water damage. If these essential components are compromised, it can result in power surges, outages, or other electrical issues.

Safety Measures During Water Damage

The safety of you and your family or employees should be the top priority. If it's safe to do so, turn off the electrical supply to the affected area or the entire property. Never enter areas with standing water until you're certain it's safe to do so. Standing water can conceal electrical hazards, and contact with it can be life-threatening. Avoid using any electrical appliances or equipment that have been exposed to water until they have been inspected and declared safe by a professional.

Contact a qualified electrician to assess and repair any electrical damage caused by water damage. DIY electrical work is highly dangerous and should be avoided. After water damage, have your electrical systems thoroughly inspected to ensure they are safe for use. This step is essential to prevent future hazards.

Understanding the dangers of electrical hazards during water damage is crucial for the safety of your home or business in Reston/Herndon. By being aware of these risks and taking appropriate safety measures, you can minimize the dangers associated with water damage incidents. If you ever find yourself dealing with water damage and electrical hazards, remember that SERVPRO® is here to assist Reston/Herndon residents with professional cleanup and restoration services. We prioritize safety and are dedicated to helping you navigate the challenges of water damage while ensuring a safe and secure environment.

Commercial Restoration From Reston/Herndon

2/14/2024 (Permalink)

Our team stands out from the rest by playing a critical role in commercial recovery events. With the capability to respond quickly and efficiently to any size commercial disaster we are your number one call in the event of water, fire, or storm damage. Our proven SERVPRO® strategies reduce overall losses and keep your commercial property running, even during the recovery process. Our culture and team mentality is the key to our success.

Our franchise general managers and owners create a positive, winning atmosphere. Each of our employees is taught to take pride in their work and to recognize the importance of professionalism at all levels.

Our project managers prioritize their responsibilities to help minimize damage to properties in the event of a disaster. Project managers combine years of training with years of practical experience to quickly assess the situation and provide a quick response when faced with a disaster on a commercial property of any size.

SERVPRO is the preferred choice for disaster restoration. Our technicians have the ability to fully understand the processes. They respond immediately to restoration calls, monitor multiple job sites, and work closely with team members in order to ensure that every job site is safe.

We also rely heavily on technology and our equipment to provide the best possible results. We can use a wide range of tools to successfully complete commercial restoration projects. We keep abreast of the latest trends in drying technology, soot and scent removal equipment, and dehumidification.

The Sprinkler System in a Business Can Cause Damage

2/14/2024 (Permalink)

Damage from fire and the sprinkler system in a  establishment require professional restoration services.

Whether your business is a cafe or a yoga studio, you are susceptible to a fire erupting on the premises. 

Flames can be devastating, but their effect is often compounded by the gallons of water your sprinkler system pours to quench the fire. Rather than guess at the best method to clean and restore your business, allow a professional crew to help you.

Those needing fire damage restoration in Reston/Herndon n can count on SERVPRO® to give expert advice and mitigate your loss. Upon arrival, our technicians address the sprinkler system and verify that it is safe to enter the premises. With a clear view of the damage, we can make a plan to address the following-

• Soot removal keeping in mind the nature of each surface we’re cleaning
• Deodorizing following the effect of smoke
• Ancillary damage such as mold growth or debris removal

Let SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon be your ally when you face fire damage. Call us at (703)471-6040 and let us protect your business like it was our own.

Emergency Fire Damage Restoration Process

2/13/2024 (Permalink)

1. A SERVPRO of Reston/Herndonprofessional will contact you within one hour to arrange for service. 

• We understand the importance of letting you know help is on the way, right away. 

2. Within four hours, a trained professional will arrive on-site prepared to begin emergency mitigation services (if necessary).

• Timely response is key to preventing further damage. 
• Timely mitigation can mean the difference between restoring property and replacing it. 

3. The loss site will be reviewed with you, and your questions and concerns will be addressed. A SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon Professional will: 

• Identify the source of loss.
• Identify the source of your concerns. 
• Identify the types of residue present. 
• Identify safety issues. 

4. A SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon will begin pretesting for restorability. By pretesting, four key questions are answered: 

• What is unable to be restored?
• What is restorable and what methods of restoration will be most effective?
• What areas and items are unaffected? 
• What areas need to be reviewed by the Adjuster or Property Owner?

5. The scope of the project will be communicated to you or your adjuster if a claim has been filed. 

6. The structure and contents will be cleaned and restored by SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon Professionals. 

7. After the work has been completed, a final work through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction. 

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon has trained and certified technicians to help you in the event of fire damage to your home or business. 

Call us at (703)471-6040.

Storms Can Cause Flood Damage...Beware For Scammers

1/31/2024 (Permalink)

Storm scammers are everywhere and tend to target distressed homeowners who have suffered damage, especially seniors. Below are some tips on what to look out for and how to protect yourself from those individuals.

1. Scammers will pretend that they represent your insurance company and ask for personal information over the phone. Your insurance company will always notify you if a representative or contractor will be sent to your home.
2. Never sign up with the first contractor to your home. Always get more than one estimate to make sure you do not end up being the victim of price gouging.
3. Officials with government disaster assistance agencies do not call or text asking for financial information. Anyone who calls asking is an imposter.
4. Contractors may call claiming to be partners with your insurance company. If this were to happen, do not provide any personal information.
5. A major red flag is when a contractor says they will only charge you half of what the others will charge. Most times they will take your money and run.

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is always available to help you navigate through your storm damage. Call us at (703)471-6040 today!

Is Your Air Clean?

1/31/2024 (Permalink)

It seems that in addition to the more mainstream celebrations and holidays there are various observances that aren't as well-known. For example, did you know that February was "National Care About Your Indoor Air Month?" It just so happens that your local SERVPRO franchise is equipped to help you with that! If the air is coming out of your vents smells musty, or your air vent looks dirty, it could be time for an HVAC and air duct cleaning from SERVPRO. A healthy living environment starts with clean air. Each time your HVAC system circulates, your air ducts collect dust, dirt, and other airborne particles that were missed by the air filter. In just one year, a typical home can collect more than 40 pounds of dirt, dust and particles. Everyday house cleaning gets most of it, but it takes a professional cleaning service like SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon to clean air ducts.

As a homeowner, you should schedule a routine air duct cleaning if:

• You have pets living in your home
• You have allergies or asthma
• You smoke
• Your home has suffered damage
• Your has been renovated or is being remodeled. 

SERVPRO's uniquely trained technicians follow the air duct cleaning process industry standards as defined by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA). 

Space Heater

1/24/2024 (Permalink)

Many people use space heaters to take the chill out of a room in Reston/Herndon during winter, and heating equipment can cause fires. Our local team offers these heating equipment safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel-burning space heaters
• Never use your oven to heat your home
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional
• Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the risk of CO poisoning. If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not light the appliance. Leave home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company
• If you have a fireplace, make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container, and keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Call Us Today!

When you need help with a fire damage emergency in your Reston/Herndon home or business, our Reston/Herndon team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 703-471-6040.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Broken Pipe Causes Water Damage

1/24/2024 (Permalink)

Our local Reston/Herndon team has been restoring water damage for commercial businesses in Edgewater for many years. Water is invasive and can cause significant damage in as little as one hour when left unaddressed. That’s why our technicians are on call 24 hours a day to respond to your emergency, 365 days a year. We typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call and will immediately begin the mitigation process. Our use of powerful, industrial-grade water extraction and drying equipment reduces the chances for secondary damage and more labor-intensive and costly repairs. We have established relationships with all major insurance companies and can assist with the insurance process and paperwork.

Why are we a top choice for commercial water damage restoration services?

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

Call Us Today!

Every minute counts when you have a water damage emergency, so when your commercial business in Edgewater has a water damage emergency and you need fast emergency assistance, our local team is Here to Help.® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 703-471-6040.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Do I Deal with Commercial Fire and Smoke Damage in Reston/Hernon?

1/4/2024 (Permalink)

I have a fire in my retail building and need help restoring it to normal. Who can help me remove the ash, water from firefighting efforts, smoke stains, and odors? 

Hiring SERVPRO® is the solution after a fire has ruined your place of business. We are well-equipped to perform commercial fire and smoke damage repairs. Our restoration process includes the steps below: 

• Assessment and emergency repairs
• Ventilation and salvaging of contents
• Extraction of water
• Removal of soot and cleaning
• Deodorization
• Reconstruction 

Assessing the Damage and Performing Emergency Repairs

Upon arrival, our technicians evaluate the damage and perform the necessary emergency repairs to maintain the integrity of the building. These repairs may include patching holes in the roof with roof tarps and boarding up windows or openings.

Ventilation and Salvaging

To get rid of dust and harmful soot, our SERVPRO® technicians can ventilate the building. We can remove severely-damaged items for disposal and the salvageable ones for cleaning and restoration. 

Extraction of Water

Fire damage invites water damage from hoses and sprinklers used to fight the fire. We can remove all the water and dry the building on a case-by-case basis to prevent the loss of tenants. 

Removal of Soot and Cleaning

Soot is acidic, which gives it the ability to cause further damage if not removed immediately. Our technicians clean and remove soot from walls, ceilings, upholstery, air ducts, and the HVAC system.

Deodorization

Soot and smoke leave an unwanted foul smell in the building. Our SERVPRO® technicians can use water-based wet mist deodorizers to deodorize the structure. We apply the deodorizers using a ULV mister. This device produces a fine mist that penetrates cracks and crevices where smoke odors are present.

Reconstruction

Our SERVPRO® technicians can rebuild the damaged sections on the interior and the exterior of the building to restore it to its preloss condition. 

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon takes pride in assisting commercial property owners to get back in business after fire and smoke damage. Contact us for help at (703)471-6040.

To Get A Mold Inspection, Or To Not Get A Mold Inspection?

1/4/2024 (Permalink)

There is an urban myth that there is mold in every Florida home, therefore every home buyer calls for a mold inspection report to be done before moving in. Real Estate Agents also call on behalf of their out of state clients. When purchasing a property, make sure to pay special attention to hot spots like Bathrooms, especially near showers and toilets; Windows, for leaks from rainwater, sprinklers and condensation from the Florida humidity, can all cause mold to form.

Not all mold is visible mold. It can hide within HVAC ducts, behind kitchen cabinets and baseboards. In that instance it is recommended that you seek a mold inspection to help determine your course of action. If you do however see mold, give the skilled professionals at SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon a call (703)471-6040.

How Often Should My Business Get Its Roof Inspected?

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

What happens when there is a forecast of rain, snow, or a storm? 

We look up – specifically to the roof – to keep us and our facility protected. 

In fact, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that a business's first line of defense against relentless weather conditions is its roof. 

Not only does a strong roof help your business establishment exist for generations to come, but it also tells your customers that you are diligent, professional, and mean business.

Ultimately, your customers’ perception of your business and revenues are affected by the condition and strength of your roof, and your business's ability to ride through storms – figurative and legit.

To keep your roof in top shape, you need frequent inspections. Exactly how often should you get the roof inspected? 

Here’s all you need to know.

How Often Should You Inspect Your Roof

The magic number is two. 

It would be best if you got your roof inspected twice each year. Once, before the onset of rainfall or snowfall season. 

National Roofing Contractors Association approves the sound advice of inspecting twice each year.

New Roof versus An Old Roof

The general rule of thumb is to inspect your business' roof twice.

But if your roof is old, you must perform an inspection at least every three months. 

Although frequent inspections sound a lot of work, they are imperative as they can be the step that protects both your business and the belongings inside your business.

When Should You Inspect Your Roof?

While two annual inspections are enough, some special conditions require extraordinary measures. 

For instance, after an episode of strong winds, downpours, or hailstorm, your business' roofs can become susceptible to wear and tear. Since a leaky roof can lead to basement flooding too, due diligence during difficult conditions is important.

Moreover, harsh weather conditions, including strong heat, create fault lines that cause concern.

Therefore, having enjoyed your time in the rain or snow, be sure to give your roof a health check.

How To Inspect Your Roof

Frequent inspections require an eye that can detect details. 

So, for a quick check-up, you can simply look for any peeled-off paint, mold, water damage, or fault lines. These are vital checkpoints to determine if your roof needs additional professional care.

DIY or Hiring A Professional?

Hundreds of blogs and thousands of business owners cannot decide whether to give their business's roof a quick inspection or hire a professional.

Inspecting the roof by yourself is a good exercise.

But to be one hundred percent sure about your business’s roof, it is advisable that you contact a professional roofing inspection company that is experienced and understands your business and its roof. After all, how can you take a chance on something that literally hangs over your head?

Parting Thoughts

Now that you know when to inspect your business’s roof and contact a professional, the next step is to get a professional roof repairing and restoration company like SERVPRO to do the difficult work for you.

Contact SERVPRO to get all your roof restoration and remediation needs covered now! 

Give us a call for your quote today at 703-471-6040.

BIOHAZARD: Reston/Herndon

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon 703-471-6040!

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are trained to safely clean and remove biohazardous substances and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are here to help transform any unsafe environments back into clean, safe homes and offices.

If the unfortunate happens, SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon has the training, knowledge, and experience to handle even the most difficult of situations. We perform Bio-Hazard cleanup from either homicide, suicide, sewage, etc. and wanted you to be aware of it.

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon respond quickly to your needs. Call the office today:

(703)471-6040.

Christmas Safety Tips | Reston/Herndon

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Winter holidays are a time for families and friends to get together. But that also means a greater risk for fire. Following a few simple tips will ensure a happy and fire-safe holiday season.

Holiday decorating:

• Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn. The recommendation is at least 3 feet away.
• Make sure to water your live trees on a regular basis.
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

Holiday Entertaining

• Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about your home fire escape plan.
• Keep children and pets away from lit candles.
• Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
• Ask smokers to smoke outside. Remind smokers to keep their smoking materials with them so young children do not touch them.
• Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding.

Before heading out, or to bed:

• Blow out lit candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
• Turn off all light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.

Not So Fun Facts

• More than one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles.
• More than two of every five decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source.

And Remember, SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is here if the unfortunate happens 703-471-6040.

Be Prepared: Winter Storms Impact Your Business & Residential Home | Reston/Herndon

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

If you have storm damage, give us a call 703-471-6040.

You see a big winter storm in the forecast. What can you do to make sure you and your home are ready for it? Well, we’ve got a few tips for you. First of all, make a list of anything you need from the store and get there well before the storm is set to hit. Chances are, everyone in town will be doing the same thing, so give yourself plenty of time to make it through the store and get back home. Make sure you have some backup sources of heat such as space heaters. Also, having some flashlights or candles on hand is a great idea in case you lose power. You’ll need to make sure that you have a snow shovel to dig your way out and some rock salt so that you and your family don’t slip once you do. If you have pipes in any part of your house that is unheated or not insulated well, run cold water through them. Even a small trickle of water can help them not to freeze up. If they do freeze, you not only run the risk of not having water, but them bursting and causing water damage in your home that can be devastating. Make sure your windows and doors are sealed well to keep the warm air in and the cold air out! Sometimes, even with all this preparation, things are beyond our control.

Does winter storm damage have you worried about your business? We know how stressful that can be, especially in Northern Virginia! You could have a day that’s fifty degrees and sunny, and the next be stuck in your house because there is so much snow. With so much unpredictability in our weather, one thing you can depend on is that we are always here to help! With our 24 hour emergency services, we are faster to any size disaster. We know how important your business is. We also know you can’t run it effectively if you’re worried about how you’re going to get the water cleaned up from that pipe that froze and burst. So let us worry about that for you! We’ll do whatever you need to work with your schedule, insurance carrier and any other needs you may have. We know getting you back to preloss conditions as quickly as possible is the priority, so all of our managers and technicians are trained to be efficient and effective in their work. Let us take it from here. 

Indoor Air Quality

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

Indoor Air Quality is important because it refers to the air we breathe everyday in our homes and at the work place. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the amount of pollutants indoors can be 2 to 5 times higher than in the air outside. Indoor pollutants usually increase, however, after a fire, water or mold damage. One way to improve indoor air quality is through cleaning and restoration services provided by SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon Professionals.

Duct Inspection and Cleaning

Duct cleaning is often necessary following a fire or water damage situation. When contaminants such as soot enter a duct system, they must be cleaned out to restore the structure to preloss condition. Dirty ducts can be a source of re-soiling if they are not properly cleaned. Particles and contaminants in the system will be continually recirculated until they are removed from the system. After a fire, your SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon Professional can determine whether smoke has damaged your insureds’ HVAC system, if duct cleaning is needed and make recommendations about the best way to address any concerns.

Control Moisture and Mold Growth

Spend time educating your insureds that prompt response is key to preventing and controlling water damage and moisture problems. Moisture in a duct system can contribute to the growth of molds and other biological contaminants. Before a SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon Professional arrives, occupants can follow these simple steps to help reduce the likelihood of costly water and mold claims.

1. Correct any water leaks or standing water
2. Properly maintain humidifiers
3. Ensure proper ventilation of the area.

In many cases, your SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon Professionals can restore the HVAC system and ductwork to previous condition. You know SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon as an industry leader with a proven track record. You can be confident in the consistent quality service from a one-step vendor.

How Does Duct Cleaning Help?

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

A major factor in indoor air quality is inadequate ventilation. It should be noted that studies have shown almost half of the problems associated with poor indoor air quality are a result of poor ventilation. Therefore, attention has become focused on the need to clean the inside of the ventilation system.

How can this help?

1. By reducing the contaminants in the environment Effective duct cleaning can remove most of the contaminants in the ventilation system.
2. By reducing operating costs. Dirty ventilation systems are expensive ventilation systems. The restriction caused by dirt buildup inside the system increase the costs of operating the system.
3. By reducing maintenance costs. Dirty ventilation systems will also increase floor, carpet, wall and ceiling cleaning. If the system is dirty, it will carry dirt into the indoor environment.

Your

A major factor in indoor air quality is inadequate ventilation. It should be noted that studies have shown almost half of the problems associated with poor indoor air quality are a result of poor ventilation. Therefore, attention has become focused on the need to clean the inside of the ventilation system.

How can this help?

1. By reducing the contaminants in the environment Effective duct cleaning can remove most of the contaminants in the ventilation system.
2. By reducing operating costs. Dirty ventilation systems are expensive ventilation systems. The restriction caused by dirt buildup inside the system increase the costs of operating the system.
3. By reducing maintenance costs. Dirty ventilation systems will also increase floor, carpet, wall and ceiling cleaning. If the system is dirty, it will carry dirt into the indoor environment.

Your SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon Professional will select the best method for cleaning your insureds’ duct system should the need arise. To ensure the ducts are professionally cleaned, use the professional source: SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon !

Professional will select the best method for cleaning your insureds’ duct system should the need arise. To ensure the ducts are professionally cleaned, use the professional source: SERVPRO of South Orange County!

How to Keep Your Home Safe When Going on Vacation

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

If you're going away for longer than a weekend, it's important that you know how to leave your home so you're not coming home to a disaster. There are a few things you can do to avoid mold growth, water damage, fire damage, and even storm damage. In this blog, we'll cover some tips on what you can do so you're able to look forward to coming home without stress.

Humidity Levels

Many people, when they leave for vacation, turn their air conditioning off. We understand that you're saving money by not running the air while you're not home. We get it, why run something that costs money if you're not there to use it? Well, you're actually doing your home and health a favor by running it. Sure, it'll cost money, but it'll also cost you even more money to get mold growth remediated when it grows due to the humidity levels. Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold to grow, so it's best to keep indoor humidity below 45%.

To understand mold a bit more:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, AC/heating systems, and could even hitch a ride on your clothing or pets.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. They can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

If you do, in fact, return to mold or suspect it, you need a mold remediation team to help. DIY mold cleanup and restoration is never a good idea. It can be dangerous to you and your family. Give us call!

Water Damage

It's hard to always know if the area is getting hit with a lot of rain while you're away. We suggest that you keep in contact with a neighbor and check in to ensure your home is ok. If your home gets hit with a flood while you're away, you can come home to water damage.

Ensure that your windows and doors are properly sealed, and if you live in a flood zone, it's important to prepare your home in the event that a storm could hit. If your home ends up with water damage and you need a water damage restoration team, give us a call. Our water damage restoration process is thorough, ensuring your home is back to the way it was - like it never even happened.

Fire Damage

Fire damage is one of the most devastating events that can take place in your home. We've seen so much devastation over the years and helped so many people restore their homes back to preloss condition. Although it's tough to totally avoid fire damage, due to a faulty wire in your home or something happening outside near your home, this is where it comes in handy to stay in contact with a neighbor. Be sure to let them know that you'll be away and ask them to keep an eye on your home.

In the unfortunate case that this does happen to your home, we're the fire damage restoration team that'll be on your side from beginning to end. The fire damage restoration process is difficult to attack on your own and it may be difficult to find a reputable company that can come out ASAP, especially when it comes down to smoke damage, smoke odors, and the house fire cleanup in general. SERVPRO is your answer.

Storm Damage

Storm damage is one of the scariest things that can happen to your home and property. Storms are very unpredictable. Sure, the weather reports can call for a severe storm, but sometimes it's worse than they think. If you're going away, just make sure that your trees have been looked at to ensure that they won't easily fall on your home, make sure that your home is secure and sealed, and if there is a storm in the forecast, use sandbags around the structure of your home as a precaution.

Storm damage restoration is no easy task, especially when it comes to debris removal, broken windows, and the need for a thorough cleaning.

SERVPRO is Here for You

SERVPRO is the restoration company that will always be by your side. If you need fire damage restoration services, water damage restoration services, mold remediation, or anything having to do with restoring your property back to preloss conditions, we're your best bet.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Understanding Commercial Carpet Cleaning After Fire Damage

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

Every year, there are close to 1.5 million fires that occur in the United States alone. Judging from the sheer number of cases, fire damage is a common problem that many businesses have to deal with. Fire is an important part of lives but it can be extremely detrimental to our lives when we lose control of it. Fire damage has resulted in many people losing their businesses and their assets ruined permanently. As such, if you have a wall-to-wall carpet that has been affected by fire damage, this article will explain about the carpet cleaning process and what can be done to mitigate the damage that has been done.

Level of Difficulty

Your business or corporate property, you might not even know where to start when it comes to cleaning after fire damage has been sustained. However, when addressing the issue of difficulty when cleaning commercial carpets, it is dependent on the extent of damage that has been done and the type of damage. If your carpet is merely affected by the smoke, then the chances are that it will be much easier to clean. On the other hand, if your carpet or upholstery has been damaged by a combination of water, dirt and heat, then the process of cleaning will definitely be more complicated and difficult.

Cleaning Process

If you make the wise choice to hire a professional to clean the carpet after fire damage, then it is best that you are aware of the carpet cleaning process. The process usually involves the sanitizing of the carpet and mitigating any damage that has been caused by debris and smoke as a result of the fire. Before anything can be done, the carpet will be sanitized using the proper cleaning agents, in order to prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria which might cause adverse health effects. The sanitation will also help to remove the remaining dirt that are stuck in the fibers of your carpet. After ridding your carpet of these unwanted items, it is then necessary to apply anti-odor chemicals to it. This will help to eradicate the odor of smoke, which can be extremely overwhelming if it is not dealt with properly.

Carpets that Cannot be Restored

If you see that your carpet has already sustained substantial damage from things like heat or water, then there is a high chance that you might have to get it replaced. When carpets are exposed to extremely high temperatures, the fibers can be damaged permanently. If you are dealing with upholstery, the internal wood or metal components might also be structurally compromised.

Conversely, if your carpet has been exposed to too much water, it might remove the adhesives that bind it to the flooring. In cases where the carpet gets too wet, its padding can become saturated. Unfortunately this damage is irreversible and the only way to fix the problem is to replace it with a new one.

Mold In Commercial Buildings

8/29/2023 (Permalink)

Just like in your home, you also need to be concerned with mold in commercial buildings. Mold can be found almost anywhere and can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as there is moisture and oxygen present. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold starts to grow, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. Although it is impossible to completely eliminate all mold and mold spores, but you can control mold growth by controlling the moisture indoors.

In commercial buildings, moisture problems may include:

• Roof leaks
• Landscaping or gutters directing water into or under the building
• Unvented combustion appliances
• Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance

As mentioned before, the key to mold control is moisture control. Follow these mold prevention tips:

• Fix any leaky plumbing and leaks in the building as soon as possible.
• Look out for condensation and wet spots. Fix sources of moisture problems as soon as possible.
• Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing the surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in the air.
• Keep heating, ventilation and air conditioning drip pans clean, properly flowing and unobstructed.
• Maintain a low indoor humidity, below 60% relative humidity, 30-50% is ideal.
• Have your building and HVAC inspected and maintenance regularly.
• Clean up and dry out wet or damp spots within 48 hours.
• Never let foundations stay wet.

Contents You Should Keep Or Discard After A Fire

8/24/2023 (Permalink)

After a fire, it is important to carefully consider what belongings to keep and what to dispose of. 

Some materials, such as plastics, nonorganic fibers, and wiring, release harmful chemicals when exposed to high temperatures. These chemicals can be dangerous if ingested or absorbed through the skin. It is important to dispose of any items that you plan on putting in or onto your body. 

This includes food, medicine, makeup, and toiletries. You should also get rid of most items in plastic containers, as these can also release harmful chemicals.

When dealing with fire damage, it is always better to be safe than sorry. If you are unsure about whether or not an item is safe to keep, it is best to dispose of it.

Hiring a professional fire remediation company, such as SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon can help you make these decisions. They have the experience and expertise to assess the damage and help you determine what items can be saved and what needs to be disposed of.

Here are some additional tips for disposing of fire-damaged items:

• Do not throw fire-damaged items in your regular trash. This could contaminate the waste stream and pose a risk to public health.
• If you are unsure about how to dispose of an item, it is always best to err on the side of caution and dispose of it properly.

Space Heater Safety

8/24/2023 (Permalink)

In Reston/Herndon we haven't been getting much cold weather but with the colder seasons approaching we start pulling out our space heaters. Space heaters are amazing at keeping smaller areas warm but there are some risks with having one. The following are some ways SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon have found to help you stay safe with your space heater. 

• Make sure you turn off your heater before you go to sleep or leave your property. 
• Keep your space heater at least 3 feet away from anything flammable
• Check that your space heater has an automatic shut off feature
• Keep your heater on a solid flat surface 

These are some ways to keep your property and you safe. SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is always here to help. 

Understanding Flood Cuts: A Vital Step in Restoration

8/23/2023 (Permalink)

When a flood wreaks on a home or building, the damage can be extensive and overwhelming. Among the various restoration techniques employed, one crucial step stands out, the flood cut. This process involves removing a portion of the damaged walls to mitigate the effects of water intrusion and initiate the recovery process. In this blog post, we will delve into what exactly a flood cut is, its purpose, and why it is an essential component of post-flood restoration efforts.

Defining a Flood Cut

A flood cut refers to the intentional removal of drywall or plaster from the lower portion of interior walls that have been affected by floodwater. Typically, a flood cut involves cutting the wall at a specific height, often 12 to 24 inches above the flood line or the highest point of water intrusion. This procedure creates a clear demarcation between the affected and unaffected areas, enabling a more targeted restoration process.

Purpose and Benefits

The primary purpose of a flood cut is to remove and discard the water-damaged materials in order to:

• Enhance Drying Efforts: After a flood, thorough drying is crucial to prevent further damage and inhibit mold growth. By removing the lower portion of the walls, moisture trapped within the wall cavities can be exposed and effectively dried using professional equipment like dehumidifiers and air movers.
• Assess Structural Integrity: A flood cut allows restoration professionals to assess the structural integrity of the affected walls, identifying any hidden damage or compromised structural elements that may require repairs or reinforcement.
• Facilitate Restoration: By creating a clean, defined boundary through the flood cut, the restoration process becomes more manageable and efficient. It allows for a fresh start in rebuilding the affected areas, ensuring a safer and more aesthetically pleasing outcome.

Proper Execution and Professional Involvement

Performing a flood cut correctly is crucial to achieve the desired results and avoid unnecessary damage. It is recommended to involve professional restoration experts who possess the necessary skills, experience, and equipment for executing the task safely and efficiently. Professionals will carefully measure and mark the appropriate height for the flood cut, use appropriate tools to make precise cuts, and ensure proper disposal of the removed materials.

In the aftermath of a flood, taking swift and appropriate action is paramount to mitigate damage and initiate the restoration process. A flood cut plays a vital role in this process, allowing for the removal of water-damaged materials, ensuring proper drying, and setting the stage for efficient and effective restoration. By understanding the purpose and benefits of a flood cut, homeowners and property owners can make informed decisions, seek professional assistance, and expedite the recovery of their living or working spaces. Remember, when faced with flood damage, consult with restoration professionals to ensure a comprehensive approach to flood cut implementation and post-flood restoration.

How Long Does It Take for a Roof Leak to Cause a Mold Infestation?

8/23/2023 (Permalink)

A roof leak can be a frustrating and potentially costly issue for homeowners, and one of the concerns associated with a roof leak is the potential for mold growth. In this blog post, we'll explore how long it takes for a roof leak to cause a mold infestation and what steps you can take to prevent mold growth.

Timeline for Mold Growth

The timeline for mold growth can vary depending on a number of factors, including the severity of the leak, the temperature and humidity of the environment, and the type of materials affected. In general, mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours of a water intrusion event, such as a roof leak.

Signs of Mold Growth

At first, mold growth may not be visible, as it can occur in hidden areas such as behind walls, under carpeting, or in insulation. Over time, however, mold growth can become more visible, with signs such as a musty odor, discoloration, or even visible mold growth on surfaces.

Preventing Mold Growth

To prevent mold growth from a roof leak, it is important to address the leak promptly. This may involve repairing the roof, replacing damaged roofing materials, or addressing any underlying issues that may be contributing to the leak, such as clogged gutters or inadequate ventilation.

Drying Out Affected Areas

Once the leak has been addressed, it is important to dry out the affected areas as quickly as possible to prevent mold growth. This may involve using fans, dehumidifiers, or even professional drying equipment to ensure that all moisture has been eliminated.

Addressing Existing Mold Growth

If mold growth has already occurred, it is important to address it promptly to prevent further damage. This may involve removing affected materials, such as drywall or insulation, and cleaning and disinfecting the area with specialized equipment and cleaning solutions.

How a Professional Can Help Address Mold Growth from a Roof Leak

In some cases, a roof leak and resulting mold growth may be too extensive for homeowners to handle on their own. In these instances, it may be necessary to enlist the help of a professional disaster restoration company, such as SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon. These professionals have specialized training and equipment to address mold growth safely and effectively, minimizing the risk of further damage or recontamination. With their expertise, they can also help identify and address underlying issues that may be contributing to the roof leak, ensuring that the problem is fully resolved and that your home is protected from future mold growth.

In conclusion, a roof leak can lead to mold growth within 24 to 48 hours if left unaddressed. To prevent mold growth, it is important to address a roof leak promptly and to dry out the affected areas as quickly as possible. If mold growth has already occurred, it is important to address it promptly to prevent further damage. By being proactive, you can protect your home and prevent costly damage from mold growth.

Surviving the Storm: Essential Tips

8/22/2023 (Permalink)

Storms are a force of nature that can cause substantial damage to homes and businesses. Understanding the risks, preparing effectively, and knowing how to respond in the aftermath are critical steps to safeguarding your property and ensuring a swift recovery. Here are some important guidelines on how to be storm-ready and recover efficiently.

Understanding the Risks

Every storm carries its unique set of risks. Torrential rains can lead to flash floods, high-speed winds can cause structural damage, and lightning can spark fires. Identifying the specific threats associated with different types of storms in your region can inform your preparedness strategies and response mechanisms.

Storm Preparedness

1. Safeguard Your Property:

Your property is your first line of defense against a storm. Regularly inspect your home or business premises for potential vulnerabilities. Ensure your roofing is in good condition and that gutters are clean and damage-free. Secure loose items outside your property that could become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Install storm shutters or use plywood to protect windows.

2. Create a Disaster Plan:

Develop an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, meeting points in case family members or employees get separated, and a list of emergency contacts. Consider the needs of pets and any special requirements of family members or employees.

3. Assemble an Emergency Kit:

Keep a kit ready with essential items like bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, first-aid kit, necessary medications, important documents, and a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio.

Weathering the Storm

1. Stay Informed:

Follow the latest weather forecasts and heed local authorities' advice. If ordered to evacuate, do so promptly. Your safety should always be the priority.

2. Secure Your Property:

Before the storm hits, ensure your property is as secure as possible. Bring outdoor furniture inside, shut off utilities if instructed to do so, and lock all doors and windows.

After the Storm

1. Assess the Damage:

Once it's safe to return, assess your property for damage. Document the damage for insurance purposes by taking pictures and making detailed notes.

2. Cleanup and Restoration:

Post-storm cleanup and restoration can be a complex process, often requiring professional assistance. SERVPRO's expert teams are trained to handle post-storm cleanup and restoration, helping you get your property back to its pre-storm condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Storms can be formidable, but with preparation and the right recovery partner, you can weather them and bounce back effectively. Remember, when the storm passes, SERVPRO is ready to assist with cleanup and restoration services. To learn more, reach out to us anytime at 703-471-6040. Your safety and quick recovery are our top priority.

Mold In The Winter Time

8/22/2023 (Permalink)

Mold In the Winter time?

There is a common misconception that mold is a seasonal problem. Many homeowners think mold issues disappear when the weather is cold. While temperature does affect the way mold grows, it’s a year-round problem. It’s important to be aware of how and where mold can grow in your home, even during the winter months. Keep reading to learn the answers to the most-asked winter mold questions our technicians are asked.

Does mold grow in cold temperatures?

YES! Mold needs three things to grow: moisture, adequate food source, and the correct temperature. But contrary to what many people think, mold can grow in cold temperatures.

Different types of molds thrive under different conditions, and some molds are more likely to grow in the winter months than others. Unfortunately this comes from the temperature conditions we create ourselves. Mold growth can occur when we heat our homes to stay warm..

So, does mold die in the winter?

Cold weather will not kill mold. Mold spores are opportunistic, they wait for the right conditions and then begin to spread. Even extreme temperatures do not kill mold spores, but they can deactivate them for a period of time.They become dormant and will begin to multiply and grow again as soon as the temperature rises back to ideal. Controlling the temperature alone will not solve your mold problems if you have them. The key to removing mold from your home and keeping it from reoccurring is to control humidity levels and properly treat it at the source. 

Mold growth on windows during the winter?

The fall and winter months bring precipitation and dew onto surfaces in our homes that can begin to collect  moisture. Places like your window panes, are ideal for mold to expand and grow as moisture collects and sun shines through. When the temperature drops during the winter, the warm air in your home comes into contact with the cool glass of your window panes, depositing more water vapor and leading to an increase in moisture buildup around your windows. That’s why sometimes mold tends to collect around windows during the colder months.

How do you prevent mold from growing in the winter?

Here’s what you can do in your home to prevent mold from growing and spreading during the winter months::

• Keep humidity below 50% throughout your home at all times. 
• Inspect pipes and fix plumbing leaks as soon as possible to prevent water from collecting.
• Use mold-killing cleaners in bathrooms and areas of your kitchen where moisture collects.
• Avoid having carpets or rugs near windows, sinks, or other places that can become wet.
• Inspect your air ducts and change filters on your furnace regularly.
• Always use a ventilation fan during showers or baths to prevent moisture buildup.
• Clean your gutters often to prevent moisture from building up on collected debris.
• Get rid of old recycled material, newspapers, and any upholstery or fabric that has been exposed to moisture.
• Call a Professional cleaning crew like SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is prepared and certified to handle any mold issues you may be facing this Winter. Don't waste another day with mold in your home. Call us for a consultation at (703)471-6040.

Why Is Professional Water Removal Reliable?

8/21/2023 (Permalink)

As a homeowner, one of the worst nightmares is water damage. Whether it's a burst pipe, flooded basement, or natural disaster, water can quickly destroy your property and create costly repairs. Quick action can save your home from further damage, which is where professional water removal equipment comes in. With the right equipment and expertise, you can quickly dry up your home and prevent severe water damage. SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is a trusted and experienced water damage restoration company. In this article, they explain how professional water removal equipment can save your home and why it's important to work with a company like SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon.

What is water removal?

Water removal is the process of removing standing water from a home or property. The process can involve using pumps, vacuums, and other specialized equipment to extract water from floors, carpets, walls, and other surfaces. Water removal aims to quickly and effectively remove as much water as possible to prevent further damage and prepare the space for drying and restoration.

Why is professional water removal equipment important?

Without the proper equipment and training, it's easy to miss hidden pockets of water or damaged delicate surfaces. A professional water removal company like SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon has the experience, training, and specialized equipment for quick and effective water removal in Reston/Herndon which reduces the risk of further water damage.

Some of the equipment that SERVPRO Reston/Herndon may use during water removal include:

1. Pumps: High-powered pumps can quickly extract large amounts of water from floors and other surfaces, making them essential for effective water removal.
2. Vacuums: Wet/dry vacuums can be used to remove water from carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces, making them an important tool for more detailed water removal.
3. Air movers: These powerful fans can circulate air and dry out damp surfaces, helping prevent mold and mildew growth.
4. Dehumidifiers: These machines can remove excess moisture from the air, helping to speed up the drying process and prevent further damage.
5. Moisture meters: These devices measure the moisture levels in different areas of your home, helping to ensure that all areas have been properly dried and prepared for restoration.

With the right equipment and expertise, water damage can be effectively managed. SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is one of the #1 water damage restoration companies in Culpeper & Fauquier area. They have highly-trained water damage restoration technicians who are IICRC-certified. For speedy water removal in your area call 703-471-6040.

Do You Know What Type of Water Damage You Have?

8/21/2023 (Permalink)

Water from sewer system backups should be considered very dangerous. The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness. Special training and equipment is necessary to safely clean this type of contamination. Luckily, SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is here to help!

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet. If left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3 water depending upon such factors as time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

Category 2: "Gray Water"

This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category 2 water may include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow. It can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated.

Category 3: "Black Water"

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

Did your home or business have a sewage backup or toilet overflow? Call us today at 703-471-6040!

How We Handle Commercial Losses

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

When it comes to commercial restoration, Reston/Herndon property managers want to leave nothing to chance. That's why they rely on professionals like SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon. 

What sets us apart from other restoration companies is our skilled technicians and the advanced equipment we use to take care of any-scale disaster. This use of professional equipment allows us to restore your Reston/Herndon commercial property or retail business back to its preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

Here are some of the unique tools we have to restore your property:

• An infrared camera may be used to identify hidden water locations for the thorough removal of moisture that is hidden from the naked eye.
• Sensitive moisture meters/detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.
• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water from events like floods. 
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.
• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace.
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.
• Trailer mounted generators and desiccants (Large Commercial Air Dryer) provide power and large scale drying capabilities.
• Air Scrubbers that are able to filter the air of contaminants and fumes.
• The use of Thermal Foggers and environmentally-safe Deodorization Agents to leave a pleasant scent upon use.

You can count on SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon to take care of any size loss you may have, so you can put your commercial business back in order and get you back to doing what you do best. 

Give us a call 703-471-6040.

Indoor Health: Cleaning Your HVAC System

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

Is your HVAC system not working the way it should? If you live in VA and your utility bills are higher than usual, your air ducts may be to blame. Air ducts play a very important role on how your HVAC system functions and its efficiency. The ducts themselves can be considered as passages that are used for ventilation. Ducts have air constantly pass through them, effectively delivering or removing it.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Having your air duct system filled with dust, dander and mold is never a good thing. These contaminants are transported as your HVAC system starts to produce hot or cold air. While there are air filters to prevent these contaminants from circulating around your home, some of them can’t be filtered out. Regularly maintaining and cleaning your air ducts has been proven to greatly improve the air quality indoors as well as the airflow.

Promoting Indoor Health

Some of the most common indoor pollutants are fumes, smoke and mold, which are intensified when exposed to humidity. To make matters worse, the mold spores, dust particles, allergens and viruses are also carried through the air ducts. By cleaning your air ducts, you will significantly reduce of air pollution while promoting good indoor health. Furthermore, air that's blown will be fresher and free of any allergens.

It Will Help Save Money

Cleaning your air ducts not only improve indoor air quality in VA, but you'll also save money all year long. When your air ducts are dirty, your HVAC system has to work twice as hard to circulate air in your home. However, with regular air duct cleaning VA by SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon, not only is your home fresher, but your utility bills are significantly lower.

Leaking Roof Causes Water Damage

5/8/2023 (Permalink)

Whenever it rains, there is a chance for water damage from water entering the structure through a leak in a roof, windowsill, or foundation crack. Our local SERVPRO Reston/Herndon team is trained and certified to restore water damage, no matter how big the job is. 

Inspect and Repair Your Home’s Exterior

You can prevent water from entering your home by inspecting your home’s exterior for any place where water can enter the home and making repairs as needed.

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

Call Us Today!

When you have a water intrusion issue in your Reston/Herndon home or commercial business, our local team of technicians in Reston/Herndon will restore the rain damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 703-471-6040.

All SERVPRO Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Steps To Protect Yourself & Your Family

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

If your home in Reston/Herndon uses gas for heating or cooking, it's important to know what to do in the event of a gas leak. On its own, natural gas doesn't have a smell, so providers put additives in that give it a scent in order to protect consumers. If you smell gas inside or outside of your home or hear a hissing sound, there are steps to take to ensure that you protect yourself and your family. 

1. Don't touch the lights
   When you first smell gas and you're not sure what's happening, the first step is to NOT turn on the lights. If there is a leak, turning a switch on or off can trigger a reaction that causes a gas fire. Similarly, don't use matches, start or stop appliances, or use the phone.
2. Check the Stove
   Check the stove to make sure that all the burners are off. One common reason that you smell gas but a gas explosion isn't imminent is that a burner was accidentally bumped on.
3. Open the Windows
   If you can verify that the natural gas smell was caused by an improperly closed burner, it's safe to open the windows and doors to air out the house. However, if you've checked the stove and no burners are on, it's important to leave the windows closed to prevent oxygen from getting to a flame.
4. Leave the House
   When the stove is ruled out as the cause of the smell, it's time to leave the house — and quickly. Worry only about getting the people in your home out; don't try to take extra items with you.
5. Call for Help!
   Once you're safely away from the house (at least across the street), call 911 for help. In the event of an explosion that causes damage, an emergency restoration team will work with you to get you back in your home quickly. A gas fire is a common way that homes sustain damage. 

Fire Damage - Content Cleaning

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon knows what it's like to lose your belongings to a fire. That's why we offer content cleaning to help you recover from the effects of fire damage. If your clothes have been damaged in a fire, our professional team will spot and clean them for you. We can also advise you on what process is best for any specific piece of clothing or item.

Content cleaning is a service that can be done by professionals if your clothing has been damaged in a fire.

Each piece of content will be pre-spotted, pre-tested and thoroughly cleaned. Contents with smoke residue may need an additional ultrasonic cleaning process.

Each piece of content will be pre-spotted, pre-tested and thoroughly cleaned

The first step in the cleaning process is pre-spotting, which involves a thorough inspection of each item to determine what damage it has sustained and whether it can be cleaned. If an item cannot be cleaned, we will discard it. Next, we thoroughly clean all items (including furniture) using our proprietary process that removes smoke residue while also preventing any new soiling from occurring.

Contents with smoke residue may need an additional ultrasonic cleaning process.

The contents of your items can be affected by smoke residue. Smoke can make an item smell like burnt or wet wood, or it may leave behind a yellow discoloration that won't wash out. Smoke residue can also cause the ink on labels to fade, which will make them illegible. Smoke residue may need to be removed before you clean the item using other methods such as steaming and dry cleaning (using chemicals). Ultrasonic cleaning is one effective way of removing dirt and grime from objects but not all materials are suitable for this type of cleaning process so check with your dry cleaner first!

We'll help you get your belongings back in good shape after fire damage. 

We're here to help with our expert post-fire cleaning services. Whether you need help getting rid of the smell or repairing some of the physical damage left behind by fire, we'll fix everything up, so it looks like nothing ever happened. We'll even make sure all those pesky stains disappear from your carpeting so no one will ever suspect anything was amiss. Our experience with these situations makes us uniquely qualified to handle any situation involving smoke or water damage. So, whether you've been through a kitchen fire recently or have just gotten back from vacation (and found out about another family member's house burning down), let us do what we do best: restore order after chaos has taken over!

How To Use A Fire Extinguisher

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

From the moment that you see the active fire in your home to when it is extinguished, you will do anything in your means to try and get it put out as soon as you can. If this doesn’t extinguish the flames then the second line of defense arrives which is the team of firefighters. When they arrive they bust down the door and hose down the remaining blaze which means more water soaking the room.

P.A.S.S 

Pull the pin; this will then break the tamper seal.

Aim low; you need to hit the flames where the source is hottest, the base.

Squeeze the handle; this will disperse the extinguishing agent on the flame. The agent will remove oxygen from the blaze, ultimately putting the fire out.

Sweep from side to side; the critical thing to remember is DON'T LET GO OF THE HANDLE until it is fully extinguished.

Reston/Herndon - Board Up Services

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon provides 24 hour, 365 day a year emergency board-up services for any residential or commercial location in the Reston/Herndon area. Whether you experience vandalism, storm damage, a fire, or another unexpected disaster, you want to restore your property to its normal state as soon as it can be done. Boarding-up incorrectly can cause additional moisture damage, making the situation even worse. We have Contractors standing by and ready to assist in any emergency event. We can provide you with one-stop shopping. Leave the inconvenience of board-ups to the professionals at SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon to make it "Like it never even happened." Call us at 703-471-6040 to ensure no further damage occurs to the structure or its contents.

Communication is Key

5/2/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon knows that when your residential or commercial property is threatened with damage, it can be a VERY stressful and unknown time. This is why we make it a priority to communicate with our clients every step of the way. SERVPRO will provide detailed information to our customers in every step of the restoration process so that our valued customers are never left in the dark. 

Our office staff will talk through options and scheduling with the customer. The staff will gather information and let the customer know SERVPRO is here to help. A project manager will scope the loss and provide an estimate whether it's an initial or final. These managers will also discuss the restoration process with the customer and inform him or her of the work that will need to be done. Our skilled technicians will work to make fire, water or mold damage "Like it never even happened." Our consistent communication continues through the payment process with our office staff and follow-up conversations. 

Reston/Herndon - Carpet Cleaning

5/2/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon specialize in carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, drapery cleaning, rug cleaning, and furniture cleaning.  We do carpet cleaning for residential and commercial customers. We have licensed technicians who are trained by the IICRC in the proper methods to clean different types of carpets and fabrics. We pretest fragile fabrics and make sure that we take the best care of your home or office that we can.  We clean carpets for general cleaning, after water damage, after fire damage, to remove odors, to remove stains, and to clean up after pets.  We pride ourselves in a job well done.  We do stair cleaning as well.  We have the right equipment and the right products to keep your carpets and fabrics safe.  Our estimates our free and we do our pricing based off of square footage.  Give us a call today 703-471-6040 !

It's Time For Spring Cleaning

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

Nothing beats that feeling of accomplishment when you get a head start on spring cleaning. Spring Cleaning can be overwhelming to try and get everything done. Let SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon help lighten the load! Not only is spring cleaning a great way to reset, but the yearly chore also gets rid of any accumulated dust and dander before allergy season reaches full swing. Cleaning your home from top to bottom may never become effortless however, you can make the project more manageable by planning ahead. SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon provides general/deep cleanings, carpet cleaning, odor removal, air quality testing, and mold remediation that can help get your house sparkly clean. Take a minute and smell the fresh air on a lovely spring day and let SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon do your household spring cleaning. 

Hurricane Season

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

Hurricane season begins in the Eastern Pacific mid-May and lasts through the end of November. Even if you don't live near the coast, it is beneficial to be aware of what your exact hurricane risk is, as well as safety measures you can take to protect yourself and your property. Ready.gov has some great tips for being hurricane ready. The most important thing you can do is make a plan, and educate those it it impacts. Ensure that your household knows what to expect should a hurricane develop, even if you aren't at home. Have a continuity plan for your business should an emergency strike as well. Stay tuned to weather alerts for your area and heed watches and warnings as they are made available. For more tips follow: ready.gov/hurricanes

Storm Damage

4/19/2023 (Permalink)

Its storm season which increases the probability of high winds and rain that lead to the risk of storm damage to your property. SERVPRO of Reston & Herndon is faster to any size disaster and will help you step by step through the restoration process.

What if a tree falls on my house?

• Instead of worrying about calling individual services like electricians, tree removal and plumbers, simply make one call to SERVPRO of Reston & Herndon and we will find the right service providers including a system that each Technician has been fully trained to follow.
• Do not re-enter the property without being advised to do, so. Do not worry about your personal belongings. We will make sure that your home is secured until repairs are complete. If items need to be removed, we can facilitate that process and make sure the belongings are returned to their original place.
• Evacuate the property

Storm Damage Restoration

Many homeowners like to be fully informed about the restoration process. We want you to have peace of mind and feel good about trusting SERVPRO of Reston & Herndon with your cleanup and restoration.

• Ensure the tree and tree debris is removed from the property.
• Secure the roof with a temporary tarp to prevent no further damage inside.
• Make sure any tree debris indoors has been removed.
• Assess damage and ensure demolition of damaged areas including ceilings and walls.
• Spray exposed surfaces an antimicrobial agent

Our #1 priority is to make storm damage as stress free as possible.

Hurricane Tips & Tricks

4/19/2023 (Permalink)

Here’s a few tips and tricks to better prepare!

• Before the Storm: Gather food, water, medicines and power supplies.  Organize supplies into a Go-Kit and a Stay-at-Home Kit. Keep personal, financial, and medical records safe. Anchor objects that would be unsafe to bring inside, such as gas grills and propane tanks. Trim or remove trees close enough to fall on your home. Stockpile protective materials such as plastic sheeting and sandbags. Consider elevating the heating system, water heater, and electric panel.

• During the Storm: Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level during the storm. Put as many walls between you and the outside as you can. Stay away from windows, skylights, and glass doors. If the eye of the storm passes over your area, there will be a short period of calm, but at the other side of the eye, the wind speed rapidly increases to hurricane force winds coming from the opposite direction. So, make sure you stay secured and connected to what’s going on.

• After the Storm: Stay out of floodwater!  Floodwater can contain many things that may harm health, including germs, dangerous chemicals, human and livestock waste, wild or stray animals, and downed power lines among other things. If the power is out, use flashlights instead of candles. If you must use candles, keep them away from anything that can catch fire.  Watch out for fallen power lines that may be hanging overhead. Stay clear of fallen power lines. Call the electric company to report them. Always make sure it is safe to leave before you try to evacuate the area.

Moisture in Commercial Buildings

3/15/2023 (Permalink)

Moisture problems in commercial settings can be caused by a variety of conditions, including increased humidity, condensation, and roof and plumbing leaks. High humidity at 60% and above is the leading cause of commercial moisture problems. Some moisture problems in buildings have been caused by changes in building construction practices during the past twenty to thirty years. These changes have resulted in more tightly sealed buildings that may not allow moisture to escape easily. Moisture issues are also associated with delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance, due to budget and other constraints. Temporary structures, such as trailers and portable classrooms, have frequently been associated with moisture and mold problems. 

If you suspect any moisture issues in your facility, contact your local SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon. We have handle commercial and residential facilities and can service you quickly and efficiently. "Like it never even happened." 

Its Not Luck

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

Do not leave disaster prep to chance. Pour yourself a pint of preparedness this St. Patrick's Day and visit ready.gov/plan to update your emergency plan! Your local SERVPRO professionals have the tools and equipment to helper Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough to reach spaces inside walls and much more. SERVPRO of Reston & Herndon uses state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed up the drying of your home or business. The bottom line? SERVPRO has top industry training and certifications to help make water damage "Like it never even happened." 

Is your go bag ready to sham-rock and roll in case of a disaster? Why take the risk? 

Fires in the Warmer Months

3/2/2023 (Permalink)

Looking forward to the warmer weather after the long cold months of winter. Spring is in full bloom, and summer is right around the corner. 

It's a time of renewal and getting outdoors. There are plenty of activities to do outdoors such as hiking, going to the lake, grilling, and barbecuing with friends and family, just to name a few.

With the warmer weather families will begin to gather for reunions, graduations and the seasonal cookouts that everyone loves. That also brings with it the risks of increased fires. 

Unfortunately, spring sees more daily fires on average than any time of year. But by being cautious, you can minimize fires at home this season. 

Here are some great places to start: 

The grill: Grills are one of the biggest culprits of spring fires. It presents a substantial risk due to the combination of flame, grease, heat and gas. But just taking a few precautions can greatly reduce the risk of a fire on the barbecue grill! Make sure the grill is cleaned prior to every use and that all parts are in proper working order. Replace any worn or damaged components before grilling and keep the grill at least six feet away from any flammable objects, especially the home! Lack of proper cleaning is responsible for almost 20% of grill fires! 

The fire pit. While the grill gets it share of blame for accidental fires, the fire pit can be dangerous as well. Gathering on a cool spring or summer evening around a fire pit can provide some of the best rest and relaxation after a long day or week. Keep these safety tips in mind: Kids should never be left alone or around a fire pit. Keep a bucket of water close by at all times. Don't add pine needles or leaves to a fire pit as this can cause "flare-ups" and embers can be carried away by the wind. If you are cooking hot dogs or roasting marshmallows do it over the embers and not the open flame, which will help avoid the flame damage and help you get that elusive perfect roasted finish that you're looking for. 

Chimneys and dryer vents. Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned by a professional at least once every season. Ash, soot and creosote buildup is a major cause of fires, and with proper maintenance, this risk can be reduced. The failure to clean dryer vents is a leading cause of fires that emanate from the dryer. 

Our technicians are on speed dial 24/7 for emergencies. If you encounter fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we will be there faster and have it cleaned up sooner. Experience the SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon difference. 

Fire Restoration

3/1/2023 (Permalink)

A fire is one of the most destructive elements of nature and can turn a habitable home into a heap of dust within a short amount of time. Even though there are proactive methods to control the destruction of the house, you cannot snub the damage that may have already occurred. Not only do the flames from a fire cause charring on things like cabinets, but you would be looking at the smoke, which causes widespread damage. The smoke penetrates carpets, clothing, furniture, upholstery, and other porous materials. The ultimate goal of fire restoration in damaged  homes is to reinstate the property and contents to pre-incident condition, leaving a clean and safe environment. If cleaning is not done properly, the smoke odor lingers, and further ruin can occur to your contents and structure. SERVPRO professionals start by evaluating the situation, including the extent of the damage, to know what they are dealing with. Depending on the situation, our crews can use onsite and offsite techniques to restore your home. Onsite restoration may include the removal of odor particles using the following equipment: 

• Air Scrubbers
• Thermal Fogging 
• Ozone Treatments

Cleaning Smoke Damage

Only some restoration projects require a pack out. Some contents can be manipulated and cleaned within their respective spaces. SERVPRO crews might even clean items onsite and then move them to a designated area that has not been affected to be stored. However, when cleanup requires multiple treatments, contents could be packed and taken to the Franchise Warehouse for cleaning. 

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon knows rebuilding a fire damaged home can be stressful, but you don't have to face fire restoration alone. Call us at (703)471-6040. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

Sewer Line Issue

2/28/2023 (Permalink)

While a blocked sewer drain is relatively common in commercial properties, legitimate concerns over sewer line functionally may be few and far between. However, when major sewer line issues occur, it is essential to remedy the problems quickly to avoid potential backups and structural damage. 

Be aware of these four signs, which may indicate sewer line problems.

1. Odors 
   While drain or toilet overflow are frequent problems in commercial properties, you should pay attention to odors surrounding these problems. For instance, if after clearing a clog you smell sewer gas, you may want to call a plumber for an inspection, as strong sewer smells can be an indicator of issues further in the line.
   
   
2. Clogged Drains
   A blocked sewer will not only cause unpleasant odors to occur in your building, but the blocked pipe can also cause frequent clogging of your drains and toilets. This problem may also cause sewer backups into your facility.
   
   
3. Indentations in Landscaping
   Also, while you may not have any clogging issues, it is still possible that your sewer lines have failed. Pipe breaks may cause indentations in your landscaping, like divots on the lawn. If the break is severe enough, it is possible that sewage is leaking into the grounds of your property. Eventually, this can also lead to a sewage backup in your building.
   
   
4. Deformations in Landscaping 
   In addition to indentations in the lawn, you may notice perpetual puddling in certain areas. You may also see that areas of your parking lot have sunken or cracked along with sidewalks. Depending on how close the break is to your building, you may even notice cracks in the foundation. These issues often require the expertise of a disaster restoration specialist in the area to resolve, which depending on your insurance policy may be covered.
   
   You should be aware of the warning signs of such a problem so that you can resolve the issue as early as possible.

Commercial Building Water Damage

2/28/2023 (Permalink)

Due to the wide variety of issues that can stem from water damage, it is one of the most difficult challenges a property owner can face. Depending on the severity, water damage can compromise structural integrity and damage belongings. When left unresolved or if not taken care of properly, water can result in the growth of mold. 

What is water damage? 

Water damage is the type of damage that occurs on a structure and to personal property due to excessive moisture and collected water. Most often water damage will occur where water can collect without notice. For example, they will occur in the lowest depths of one's property such as crawl spaces and the basement.

Here are some examples of the equipment used for water damage repair services: 

• Air Movers: Help dry water-damaged flooring and surfaces by forcing moisture to evaporate more quickly
• Dehumidifiers: Help by maintaining the humidity of the room, a dehumidifier is a catalyst for drying an area that has excessive moisture
• Air Scrubbers: Filter out any particles in your indoor air which may include airborne contaminants including the smell of musk and smoke
• Moisture Meters: Gauges the severity of water damage on a surface or an area by assessing the moisture preset

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon, we have state of the art equipment to ensure that your property is taken care of properly. By reducing the time it takes to dry your property, you'll be saving time and money. Call our SERVPRO Team today at (703)471-6040.

The Science of Drying

2/27/2023 (Permalink)

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychometrics is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be able a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damage area, your local SERVPRO of Reston & Herndon professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. If your home or business suffers a water damage, your local SERVPRO team will: 

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening. 
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

After the Storm... What's Next?

2/27/2023 (Permalink)

The second you notice flooding in your home do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon immediately! Time is the biggest factor in preventing further damage, as well as slowing the spread of water into places like your floors and walls. With a quick enough reaction to the issue can make a huge difference! Regardless, if you notice damage days after a storm we can still help. With a team of experts who know the ins and outs of storm damage we can find the solution to your issue! Not only do we perform the cleanup and treatment of the area, we restore what was ruined. When we leave it will be, "Like it never even happened." 

Ways To Prevent Damage and Prepare for a Winter Storm

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

A winter storm can be beautiful, but it can also be a nightmare for your business if you are unprepared for it in Reston/Herndon. The heavy snow, wind and ice that accompanies the storm can cause severe damage and costly repairs. When these disasters happen, call your insurance company and a storm damage restoration service immediately to file a claim and begin repairs. While you cannot prevent a storm from coming your way, there are several steps you can take to prevent some of the damage from happening and mitigate loss. Here are a few ways to prepare your business for winter weather.

1. Insulate Your Building

Make sure your building is properly insulated. If temperatures drop below freezing, your pipes could freeze and burst, causing flood and water damage. Routinely inspect your building’s heating system to ensure it is working properly and keep the temperature above 55°F to avoid a pipe break.

2. Perform Regular Maintenance

Keep a regular maintenance schedule to make sure windows, doorways and the outside of your building are in good condition. Over time, building materials can wear down, allowing cracks and gaps to form which can reduce the structural integrity and insulation of your building and make it more susceptible to storm damage and flooding. In addition, you should routinely inspect your roof. Replace any broken shingles and make sure shingles are intact and firmly nailed down to prevent roof leaks and wind damage.

3. Stock Emergency Supplies

Create an emergency weather kit that includes snow shovels, ice-melting salt and a first aid kit in case a winter storm comes through unexpectedly. Keep non-perishable food items available in case you are stuck in your building overnight and cannot go home.

4. Watch Local Weather

During the winter months, stay on top of the local weather forecast. Start preparing early if a snowstorm is heading your way, and make sure your staff is adequately prepared.
A winter storm can cause severe damage if you do not take it seriously. Performing routine maintenance on your building and keeping an eye on the weather can greatly reduce damage and keep your business safe.

When Pack Out Services Are Needed

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

In servicing our community, we have come across losses of all sizes. There unfortunately have been cases where areas of a home are so heavily affected that thorough steps are needed to fulfill proper restoration including packing out rooms or an entire residence. Why does this happen and what can this mean for you and your family?

• Reasons for Packing services

Each project we restore is evaluated on a case by case basis but the following are guidelines we employ to ensure the health, safety and proper restoration of every project. First, a source of loss may be considered Category 3 where all affected materials (touched by the source of loss) need to be removed. Another scenario often occurs when a home is built before 1985 and tests positive for lead and asbestos. Per industry standards affected materials with lead and asbestos require a very specific procedure for removal. These are two common scenarios that require access to all affected materials which may run behind, under, in between and/or above personal belongings and furniture. 

• The Packout Process 

It's important to our team to help guide each homeowner through this step. What may already be a difficult process can become seemingly even more overwhelmingly. However with our expert packing teams you can rest easy. After obtaining approval from your insurance, we work directly with you to make sure you have access to the items you need and the rest is covered, padded and sealed under lock and key. 

Dealing with water damage in your home alone is no easy task, we are here to help our community no matter the scope of the job!

Put the Nightmare Behind You

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with the aftermath of criminal activity prevents you from moving on with your life after a tragedy or frightening experience. Many different substances, odors, and dangerous contaminants remain, most requiring very specific remediation not easy or safe for a typical cleaning crew to complete. SERVPRO offers clients discrete, certified trauma and crime scene cleanup.
 
You already experienced considerable trauma during illegal activity playing out in your home. The authorities completed their investigation, and you now need fast and efficient crime scene cleanup in your home. In addition to bodily fluids, a broad variety of evidence-gathering and preserving chemicals and substances contaminate the place you used to treasure as a haven and refuge from the world. Put your trust in our well-trained team of specialized cleaning experts. We value the confidence you feel for our services and wish to restore both your home and your sense of peace.
 
If a standoff occurred inside your house, the smell and physical residue of tear gas, pepper spray, or other topical irritants fills the air and the area. You need the skills of our crime scene team to remove the substances, and especially the smells, from your home. Because of the chemicals utilized, there is a special methodology followed to clear them away completely. Likewise, if investigators lifted prints or other physical evidence from the surfaces inside your house, SERVPRO staff know how to make these powders, liquids, or gels disappear for good.
 
The debris remaining after the production or distribution of illegal drugs or other substances are tricky to contain and remove. We make certain our staff receive up to date schooling on the proper methods recommended by federal and state agencies to remove all dangerous and volatile materials.
 
If the worst happened and death or serious accident occurred within the walls of your home, SERVPRO technicians follow OSHA and EPA directives to ensure that human or other tissues, blood, or bodily fluids are managed safely. Removal without any trace is the goal, permitting you to move forward in a safe and protected manner.
 
For professional, compassionate, and comprehensive crime scene cleanup services contact SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon. One simple call to (703)471-6040 puts you on the road to recovery from a life-altering experience.

How Do Hygienists Check for Mold?

1/16/2023 (Permalink)

Sampling Techniques Professionals Use

Hiring an environmental hygienist to perform a mold test is the most accurate method for determining whether mold is growing in a residence. Learn about the sampling techniques professionals use and how test results can increase the effectiveness of mold cleaning.

Obtaining Samples

An environmental hygienist will take samples to send to a lab for analysis. Depending on the situation, a hygienist may obtain different types of samples:

• Air
• Bulk (contents or materials)
• Spores

Any of these methods can yield conclusive results about the type of mold present in a house. Air testing may include analysis of microbial volatile organic compounds and spores. Bulk testing may focus primarily on the presence of spores. All of these methods allow for targeted mold remediation measures.

Analyzing Samples

There are several methods of lab analysis that a hygienist or mold specialist may recommend. The amount of detail and speed of these methods vary:

• Microscopy
• Culturing
• A combination of these methods

Microscopy involves visual analysis and can provide results in as little as two days. Culturing is a slower process that involves growing mold spores in a Petri dish. This process can provide more detailed results, such as the subspecies of mold, but is slower and more expensive.

Reporting Findings

A hygienist can provide test results and recommendations for mold cleaning. A homeowner may want to work with a full-service restoration company to ensure that mold remediation proceeds as efficiently as possible. Depending on the species of mold and the extent of an infestation, different cleaning or quarantining methods may be recommended.

These are the three major stages of checking for mold. An environmental hygienist can recommend the best mold cleaning methods for a particular species of fungi or type of infestation. If a homeowner is concerned about mold damage at a residence in Reston/Herndon he or she should hire a certified hygienist.

What To Do When You Smell Natural Gas

1/16/2023 (Permalink)

If your home in Reston/Herndon uses gas for heating or cooking, it's important to know what to do in the event of a gas leak. On its own, natural gas doesn't have a smell, so providers put additives in that give it a scent in order to protect consumers. If you smell gas inside or outside of your home or hear a hissing sound, there are steps to take to ensure that you protect yourself and your family.

1. Don't Touch the Lights
When you first smell gas and you're not sure what's happening, the first step is to NOT turn on the lights. If there is a leak, turning a light switch on or off can trigger a reaction that causes a gas fire. Similarly, don't use matches, start or stop appliances, or use the phone.

2. Check the Stove
Check the stove to make sure that all the burners are off. One common reason that you smell gas but a gas explosion isn't imminent is that a burner was accidentally bumped on.

3. Open the Windows
If you can verify that the natural gas smell was caused by an improperly closed burner, it's safe to open the windows and doors to air out the house. However, if you've checked the stove and no burners are on, it's important to leave the windows closed to prevent oxygen from getting to a flame.

4. Leave the House
When the stove is ruled out as the cause of the smell, it's time to leave the house — and quickly. Worry only about getting the people in your home out; don't try to take extra items with you. A potential gas fire is an emergency!

5. Call for Help
Once you're safely away from the house (at least across the street), call 911 for help. In the event of an explosion that causes damage, an emergency restoration team will work with you to get you back in your home quickly.
A gas fire is a common way that homes sustain damage. If you think you smell gas, protect your family by leaving the house and calling for help.

Essential Steps for Sewage Cleanup

1/13/2023 (Permalink)

The last thing you want to experience in your home is some sort of sewage spill, but it does happen. This serious situation calls for a rapid response from an experienced water restoration company in your town of Reston/Herndon. A team of highly-trained and certified technicians will arrive quickly and get to work restoring your home to its original condition. They will follow a proven sewer cleanup protocol that prioritizes safety and minimizes damage to your home and its contents.

The Sewer Damage Restoration Process
Once a crew arrives at your home, they will immediately begin to assess the situation. In the case of a sewer backup, the workers will don the appropriate PPE, watch out for safety issues and contain the damage. They will come up with a plan, communicate with you and get your approval, and then follow through with some or all of the following actions:

• Complete water removal through the use of vacuums and pumps
• Thorough drying of impacted walls, flooring and other structures
• Professional cleaning and sanitizing of tainted surfaces
• Cleaning of salvageable personal items through advanced techniques
• Restoration of damaged structures such as drywall and insulation
  
  

While a flooded toilet might impact a smaller area, the process remains similar. The crew has one main goal: restoring your home to its original condition.

The Sewer Cleanup Results
A professional job makes sure that there are no lingering smells in the home. It also makes sure areas are dried enough to prevent the future growth of mold, which can be a possibility after water damage. A quality contractor will also make sure to look at the reasons for the spill in the first place and make recommendations to prevent a recurrence.
A sewer cleanup can be a traumatic event for you as a homeowner. A professional job allows you to continue on with your life without lasting consequences.

Hidden Mold Causes Odors and How To Detect It

1/13/2023 (Permalink)

An odd smell in your commercial building that you can't locate the source of can be an extremely frustrating experience. There are several reasons why you may be noticing a mold smell on your property, even though you haven't seen any mold. If you discover any, it is important to have mold remediation professionals deal with it before the problem grows.

Reasons You May Smell Mold But Not See It

Fungus smell is often described as a musty odor. If you are smelling mold but not seeing any, it is probably because there are a variety of hidden places mold may grow:

• Behind walls
• Under flooring
• In-ceiling tiles
• Inside storage areas
• Under fabric on upholstered furniture
  
  

Causes of Mold Odor
Mold smell occurs because these fungi produce and release compounds, called microbial volatile organic compounds, that have strong odors and are quickly released into the air. If you are noticing mold or mildew smell in your building, you should investigate any surfaces that have recently been wet and current sources of moisture.

Detecting Hidden Mold
You can find some hidden mold by simply looking for it. However, mold that occurs behind walls, under flooring and other areas may not be able to be detected by visual inspection without tearing out material. Test kits are available that may detect the presence of mold, but usually are not very helpful at identifying the location of it. A mold professional in Reston/Herndon, can inspect your property and use advanced detection systems, such as infrared cameras, to locate mold that is hidden behind surfaces.

Preventing Mold
To prevent future mold problems, dry out anything that is damaged by water within 24 to 48 hours. Repair any leaking plumbing or equipment. Take steps to control excess moisture from condensation in HVAC systems and other sources. If there is a mold smell in your building, chances are you have mold growing somewhere. A professional inspection can help you identify and remove sources.

Hidden Mold Causes Odors and How To Detect It

1/13/2023 (Permalink)

An odd smell in your commercial building that you can't locate the source of can be an extremely frustrating experience. There are several reasons why you may be noticing a mold smell on your property, even though you haven't seen any mold. If you discover any, it is important to have mold remediation professionals deal with it before the problem grows.

Reasons You May Smell Mold But Not See It

Fungus smell is often described as a musty odor. If you are smelling mold but not seeing any, it is probably because there are a variety of hidden places mold may grow:

• Behind walls
• Under flooring
• In-ceiling tiles
• Inside storage areas
• Under fabric on upholstered furniture
  
  

Causes of Mold Odor
Mold smell occurs because these fungi produce and release compounds, called microbial volatile organic compounds, that have strong odors and are quickly released into the air. If you are noticing mold or mildew smell in your building, you should investigate any surfaces that have recently been wet and current sources of moisture.

Detecting Hidden Mold
You can find some hidden mold by simply looking for it. However, mold that occurs behind walls, under flooring and other areas may not be able to be detected by visual inspection without tearing out material. Test kits are available that may detect the presence of mold, but usually are not very helpful at identifying the location of it. A mold professional in Reston/Herndon, can inspect your property and use advanced detection systems, such as infrared cameras, to locate mold that is hidden behind surfaces.

Preventing Mold
To prevent future mold problems, dry out anything that is damaged by water within 24 to 48 hours. Repair any leaking plumbing or equipment. Take steps to control excess moisture from condensation in HVAC systems and other sources. If there is a mold smell in your building, chances are you have mold growing somewhere. A professional inspection can help you identify and remove sources.

Certified: SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon

8/31/2022 (Permalink)

We offer a wide amount of cleaning services to our Reston/Herndon residents. We take pride in ourselves on being the go-to company for your restoration needs. 

SERVPRO Cleaning Services

1. Air Ducts & HVAC
2. Trauma and Crime Scene
3. Biohazard and Sewage
4. Odor Removal and Deodorization
5. Vandalism
6. Ceilings, Walls and Floors
7. Carpet and Upholstery
8. Drapes and Blinds
9. Post Construction

You name it SERVPRO provides the service for you “Like it never even happened.”

Trust us when we say that we care about the commitment and security of your employees, customers and community.

We serve Reston/Herndon and the surrounding cities. Hiring a professional service means you are getting experience, expertise and professional cleaning tools that can clean your space to the highest standard. It might catch you off guard on the number of different services we offer

Do You Know How To Put A Grease Fire Out...?

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

Grease fires happen when oil, grease or fat get hot enough to ignite. Grease fires can be extremely dangerous because grease is a liquid that can easily spread.  If you suspect the fire is larger than you can handle contact 9-1-1.

NEVER THROW WATER ONTO A GREASE FIRE THIS CAN CAUSE THE FIRE TO WORSEN.

Steps to take if this happens to you:

• Turn off the Stove – If you’re cooking and a pot catches fire, the first step is to remove the heat source. Turn off the burner or oven. (If your grease fire is in the oven, leave the door closed.) A fire can reignite if it’s not smothered.
• Cover with a Lid – Using a metal pan lid or baking sheet can be another to way to cut off oxygen to a grease fire. Do not use any type of Kitchen fabric the material may catch fire.ALWAYS avoid using glass or ceramic pan lids these materials can shatter.
• Products to use –Baking soda or salt can help to extinguish the fire; however this would require smothering the fire with salt or baking soda to fully extinguish the fire. Sometimes it’s easier and more effective to quickly find a lid & cover the fire. *DO NOT USE FLOUR OR BAKING POWDER as these products are highly combustible and can explode.*
• It is always recommended to have a fire extinguisher close by.

Do You Know How To Respond To A House Fire?

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

It’s that time of year again.

A fire can start from any number of sources: a faulty wire, an overloaded outlet, a kitchen accident, or a bonfire left unattended. If your home catches fire it’s important to know how to respond quickly and effectively.

Stay Safe!

If a Fire Starts, Here Is What You Need To Know:

The first line of defense against a fire is to know how to safely use the right fire extinguisher for a house fire. This simple step can save lives and tens of thousands in property damages. If the fire loses control, immediately get out and stay out, then call 9-1-1. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.

If your clothing catches on fire, remember the old phrase: Stop, Drop, and Roll.

If you live in a building with elevators, it is important to use the stairs in case of a fire. A fire can short out the elevator electrical system, and the shaft can act like a chimney and rapidly fill up with dangerous smoke.

Understanding how to use doors to your advantage during a fire can mean the difference between life and death. If the door or handle is warm, do not open it. If you can't escape through the primary way, find another way out. Do not open any doors that are warm to the touch.

If some, heat, or flames block your exits, close any doors around you, place a wet towel under the doors and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Tell them exactly where you are so they know where to find you.

If you're near a window that you can't use as an escape, open it and wave a brightly colored cloth or use your phone flashlight to signal for help.

What To Do After a Fire:

After a fire, it is important to contact a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon. We have the training, experience, and equipment to properly restore your home - "Like it never even happened."

If you try to clean up the fire damage yourself, you could end up making the situation worse both in your home and with your insurance company's process.

Call us today! (703)471-6040

We Are Always Here To Help!

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

Many different biohazard situations can occur in a home. Sewage backing up into a home is the most common biohazard problem. However, there are some less frequent problems that may require special attention.

Biohazard Examples

• Human blood & blood products – Items that have been affected by blood & other bodily fluids.
• Animal Waste – Animal carcasses and body parts, or any bedding material used by animals that are known to be affected with pathogenic organisms.
• Crime scene cleanup, including decontamination.
• Suicide, homicide and accidental death cleanup and decontamination.
• Emergency vehicle, facility and equipment cleanup
• Prison cell clean up
• Infectious disease, viral and microbial site decontamination.

Why Hire SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon?

• 24 – Hour Emergency
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Highly Trained Technicians
• Keep your employees, or loved ones safe from any dangerous chemicals, infectious disease and blood borne pathogens.
• Local and state regulations govern biohazard cleanup and disposal. In most cases, require certified professionals to complete the remediation.
• Minimize the risk of mental stress and trauma to friends, family, employees.
• Save time and energy.
• Restore your property “Like it never even happened." 

The safest way to restore your business or home to its pre-existing state is to hire a team that specializes in the cleaning and restoration procedures you need.

Common Causes of Water Damage...

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon has the experience, expertise and proper training to restore your home or business quickly and properly. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment to find the water and remove it as quickly as possible. Our Technicians will monitor and document the drying process to ensure your property is back to “Like it never even happened."

Water Damage can be a costly and devastating event. We have often found that careful routine maintenance can lower the risks and costs of water damage restoration. The restoration process can be stress, but by following some simple home maintenance tips, you can prevent flooding from structural issues.

If you or someone you know needs restoration services; Save our number for the future or call today for a rapid response (703))471-6040.

1) Assess your water heater

Water heater issues are common when it comes to our emergency calls in Reston/Herndon. With regular routine maintenance, you can prevent this from happening. Make sure the water heater’s thermostat is regulating the temperature properly to prevent any pressure buildup.

Tip: If you notice an odd taste or odor in the water from your water heater, it may have rust or sediment buildup inside. Also, if your water starts to make strange noises it may require you needing an inspection or replacement.

2) Appliance hoses and connectors

Always check for cracks, kinks, unraveling, wear, or corrosion on hoses & connectors. If you find any damage to these replace them immediately. DO NOT WAIT! Most manufacturers and plumbers also recommend replacing water hoses/connectors every 3-5 years.

3) Replace old caulking in your windows and doors

Caulking your windows can not only stop water leaks, but also help to keep out drafts. It is a simple process that you can do yourself. Most window caulks should last about five years, but you should always inspect your caulking at least every six months to a year; and replace it if you notice any cracks developing.

Tip: You should also check your exterior door flashings for holes or rust that can allow water entry.

Lightning Safety Tips…

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

Even though your home is a safe shelter during a lightning storm, you may still be at risk.

Here are some indoor safety tips per CDC:

• Avoid Water –Do not bathe, shower or wash dishes. Lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing.
• Avoid Electronic Equipment –Do not use your computers, laptops, game systems, washers, dryers, stoves or anything connected to an electrical outlet. Lightning can travel through electrical systems, and any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.
• Avoid Corded Phones – Corded phones are not safe to use during a thunderstorm. However, it is safe to use cordless or cellular phones during a storm.
• Avoid windows, doors, porches and concrete –Do not lie on concrete floors during a thunderstorm or lean on concrete walls. As mentioned lightening can travel through any metal wires or bars.

If you have experienced any damages interior or exterior give us a call we are always here to help 703-471-6040!

What Is A Dehumidifier...? Do You Know...?

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

A dehumidifier is specialty equipment that lowers and retains the intensity of humidity in the air, generally for health or convenience purposes. SERVPRO uses dehumidifiers to quickly dry a wet structure. Our high quality equipment can minimize stinky odors and reduce the possibility of microbial growth by removing moisture from the atmosphere.

Dehumidifier’s Will Stop Mold Growth?

If you have a mold issue in your commercial or home, don’t delay. Mold will grow as soon as it has a supply of water. When a room’s relative humidity rises, the mold will begin to show dark black spots on walls, fabrics, and much more. It is very common for rooms that do not have quality ventilation to have mold issues. Common places for mold to develop are inside an attic, crawl spaces, and in the bathroom.

Placing a dehumidifier in the common places will help stop the growth of mold. Make sure that you work on finding the cause of the growth. The source of the moisture should not be neglected; neglecting may cause mold growth to occur in the future.

How Long Do You Need To Place A Dehumidifier On-Site Due To Water Damage?

It’s difficult to tell how long water damage equipment will remain in your commercial or home. The time can vary based on the level of water damage, the region’s extend, and the kind of dehumidifier. 

Here at SERVPRO, our goal is to have your property dry within three to five days. The dry time can vary on the size of the water loss, the category, and the number of contents in the property. In some cases, we have had to leave dehumidifier’s on-site for prolonged periods due to microbial growth.

When it comes to any restoration job, it is important to get in touch with SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon. We will provide the appropriate specialists to help find a prompt solution. Our restoration experts perform standard procedures taught by the IICRC. 

Heavy Rain Leads to Flooding...

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

Heavy Rain Leads to Flooding…

Our team here in Reston/Herndon restores storm damage throughout the year.

Although, we don’t experience many Tornadoes in our county here are the National Weather Service alert definitions for tornadoes and high winds:

Tornado Watch: This means a tornado is possible.

Tornado Warning: This means a tornado is already occurring or will occur soon.
Go to a safe place immediately.

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

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

Preparing for High Winds

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

Give us a call!

When your home or commercial business has storm damage, you can trust our local team here in Reston/Herndon to restore the damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 703-471-6040.

How to locate your home water shut off valve..

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

Do you know where the shutoff is located and could you locate it in the case of an emergency? If not, that’s okay. Many people do not know where to locate their water and gas shut offs.

If the leak is from a sink or a toilet, it is easy to turn off the water for that line by turning the valve that is located beneath or beside the fixture.

Typically, these shut offs lie on the exterior of the home around the perimeter of the building. Once you have found the shut off, make sure that all members of your household know where it is. The quicker you are able to turn off the water, the less damage is caused. 

What if you're not sure where the leak is coming from? It could be a pipe behind your wall, under your home, or somewhere that is hard to locate. In this case, you should turn off the water to the whole house. This means locating the water main shutoff. 

Next steps? Call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon

If you experience water damage in your home, whether from a busted pipe, leaky roof, or natural occurrence, call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon at 703-471-6040.

We are here to help 24/7.

Common Causes of Water Damage...

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage is a common problem that many homeowners in Reston/Herndon face each year. These problems can cause thousands of dollars in damages, and even force the family out of the house temporarily. The worst thing about water damage is that it can happen at ANY time.

When water creeps into areas of your property where it shouldn’t be, your floor could warp. Water damage also discolors walls and ceilings. Moisture can cause microbial growth if the damages are not immediately addressed.

List of Common Causes:

1. Severe Weather (Thunderstorms)
2. Clogged gutters
3. Leaking / Burst pipes
4. Washing Machine / Water Supply Line
5. Blocked drains
6. Water Heater
7. Toilet leaks

If you discover water damage inside your home, call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon our highly trained and certified professionals are here to handle any disaster you find yourself in (703)471-6040.

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is Available Around the Clock!

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage is something that is never an enjoyable experience. It can be extra difficult to experience. Many people put off planning for water damage as it seems like something that may never occur, but it is more frequent than most anticipate. Approximately one in 50 homeowners file a water damage claim each year in the United States, but for those who plan ahead, the damages tend to be much less severe.

Do you know what to do in the event of a Burst Pipe?

• Shut off your water main – When a pipe bursts and is left unattended, it will continue to pour into the area until it is taken care of. It is very important to be able to find and switch off your home’s water main as this can prevent water from fully affecting the area.
• Shut off your electricity – Keeping water away from electricity is KEY, so it is safe to do so, turn off your home’s power from your breaker box to prevent the soaked area from becoming a shock or fire hazard.
• Contact your local restoration company – One of the things you can do to plan for water damage in advance is decide which Company you will be working with. This way, you can contact them immediately when you discover water damage to have the restoration started right away.
• Record of the damages – If you are filing an insurance claim, it is important to keep your own thorough records of all the damages via photos, videos and lists. Even if you can’t file a claim, these can come in handy as to work to recover.
• Contact your Insurance Company – While all insurance policies are different, contacting yours is the best way to determine if you are eligible to file and confirm your policy coverage.

If you have water damage in your home or commercial building due to a burst pipe or another cause, you can count on us for your needs.

Contact SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon at anytime to learn more about our services!

(703)471-6040.

Do You Know How To Put A Grease Fire Out...?

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience any fire damage to your home or business please don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon - (703)471-6040

Grease fires happen when oil, grease or fat get hot enough to ignite. Grease fires can be extremely dangerous because grease is a liquid that can easily spread.  If you suspect the fire is larger than you can handle contact 9-1-1.

NEVER THROW WATER ONTO A GREASE FIRE THIS CAN CAUSE THE FIRE TO WORSEN.

Steps to take if this happens to you:

• Turn off the Stove – If you’re cooking and a pot catches fire, the first step is to remove the heat source. Turn off the burner or oven. (If your grease fire is in the oven, leave the door closed.) A fire can reignite if it’s not smothered.
• Cover with a Lid – Using a metal pan lid or baking sheet can be another to way to cut off oxygen to a grease fire. Do not use any type of Kitchen fabric the material may catch fire. ALWAYS avoid using glass or ceramic pan lids these materials can shatter.
• Products to use – Baking soda or salt can help to extinguish the fire; however this would require smothering the fire with salt or baking soda to fully extinguish the fire. Sometimes it’s easier and more effective to quickly find a lid & cover the fire. *DO NOT USE FLOUR OR BAKING POWDER as these products are highly combustible and can explode.*
• It is always recommended to have a fire extinguisher close by.

30 Seconds Is ALL It Takes!!!

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know the most common cause of a grease fire is cooking food unattended? Two of every five homes start in the kitchen while food is cooking. It takes less than 30 seconds for a fire to start, so never leave your pan unattended.

Oils and grease are highly flammable, which means they can catch fire easily. Studies have shown that different oils burn at different temperatures. Any oil you purchase from a grocery store is capable of catching on fire.

The most flammable cooking oil has to be coconut oil it has a smoke point of 385°F or 196°C and a flash point of 563°F or 295°C. It may catch fire easily than other oils in comparison. If you catch your cooking oil boiling and smoking this is a sign to turn down the heat.

Oils have a smoke point – What does “Smoke Point Mean?”

The “smoke point” is also referred to as the burning point of cooking oils & fats. When an oil or fat is heated past its “smoke point” it gives off bluish smoke.

The most recommended cooking oils to use that tend to have a higher smoke point making them suitable for frying – Peanut oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, safflower oil & corn oil.

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon keeps your safety a priority. IF there is a fire in your home, call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon (703)471-6040.

Get your ducts in a row…

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

When was the last time you had your air ducts or HVAC system checked or cleaned?  SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is the right company for you. We will inspect your HVAC system & ductwork to make any recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns.

Ventilation systems can often be the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality because many people allow HVAC systems to operate for sometime without much attention or upkeep. Keeping your HVAC system and duct work clean can extend the life of your equipment, which could save you money and provide better air quality. Studies have shown that we spend 60-90% of our lives indoors, so all of that dirt and debris is circulating in the air you breathe.

Cleaning your air ducts help eliminate these items from the air you breathe: 

• Dirt, dust & debris.
• Mold or mildew
• Pollen
• Pet hair & dander

Call us today!

(703)471-6040

Can You Trust SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon?

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is here to provide your specialty services! Give us a call for more information at (703)471-6040.

At SERVPRO, we take pride in sending highly trained Technicians to service Reston/Herndon locations. Each Technician of ours is IICRC Certified and is required to maintain that certification. Here at SERVPRO our Technicians are trained to look for damages that may not be visible to the eye and utilize the latest method & equipment to locate damages.

IICRC Training & Certification

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

SERVPRO’S Technicians Arrive Quickly to Help Prevent Additional Damages

Whether you have an overflow in an upstairs Bathroom or water damage caused by a recent storm, SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon can provide you with services to recover quickly and efficiently.

You only have to make one call! SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon offers full service solutions, making your restoration experience as stress free as possible.

If you are looking to receive quality results give us a call!

(703)471-6040

Cleaning tips for Outside your home

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

With Spring approaching, it’s time to check your home and see if the wintery cold caused any damage to your home or building. Signs of winter damage start to show themselves once the weather warms up and the surrounding environment starts to thaw. This article will help you get out of winter hibernation and back into barbeque season! Here is a quick maintenance checklist focusing on the exterior of your building.

1. Start at the Top (Inspect the Roof)

A healthy roof is one of the most important parts of your home. Ensuring it is sturdy and sealed is central to keeping your entire home efficient. Damage to your shingles, flashing, or any leaks can quickly trickle down and affect other areas of your home. When looking at your shingles look for curled edges, tears, or loose stones in your gutters, these are all signs of damage and could be a signal for replacement.

2. Check the Structure (Inspect the Foundation, Walls, Windows, and Doors)

Do a walk around of your home and check for cracks/holes in the foundation. as well as inspecting the exterior walls, siding, windows, and door. If you identify a foundation issue, contact a specialist to take a look. When inspecting the windows and doors, pay special attention to the caulking and weather stripping, issues in the seal are often harder to find than obvious holes or tears. 

3. Independent Structures (Garages, Sheds, Fences, etc)

Make sure the garage door is functioning properly and has a strong seal at the bottom. Sweep and vacuum dust, dirt, and debris around the doors. Also, make sure there is nothing that could fall off the ceiling and impede the doors from working properly. Look for signs of cracked or split fencing boards, especially near any gates, and ice can raise fence boards and make gates stick.

4. Spring Yard Cleanup

It is almost grass-cutting season! Before you get ready to use that lawnmower, make sure to change the oil, and get the blade sharpened. Now, head to your local hardware store to restock on supplies such as landscaping bags and grass seed. Don’t forget to pick up the tools you need to thatch, weed, and clean out your garden beds. Now that you are ready, fire up the BBQ, pull out the cooler and invite the family and friends.

What to do before a thunderstorm?

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can be dangerous and not taken for granted. Every thunderstorm produces lightning and other hazardous weather conditions, which can include tornadoes, strong winds, hail, and flash flooding.

In Reston, VA we tend to get a mix of heavy rain and dry thunderstorms. Below are great tips from the READY to help prepare you for what to do before, during, and after a thunderstorm.

What to do before a thunderstorm

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Postpone outdoor activities.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard-top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.
• Lightning Risk Reduction When Outdoors

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon urges each and every one of you to PREPARE before a thunderstorm comes. And whenever they do come, SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon will be here to help.

Our team is ready to handle your storm damage

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

Storm season is approaching and our teams have stayed active in serving our communities following the aftermath of heavy winds, rain, and hail. 

While the meteorologists can predict what will be the cause of storms, it’s hard to determine what the effects will look like once the winds have settled, the sirens go silent, and all that’s left is the debris and damage.

At SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon, we’ve witnessed firsthand the magnitude of damage these storms have caused. They wreak havoc on homes, businesses, schools, hospitals, and whatever structure stands in their way. 

Though we have absolutely no control over when, where, or what will be affected, we stand firm in the fact that we are “Ready for whatever happens” whenever it happens. 

Our Disaster Response Team is complete with experienced project managers that travel at a moment’s notice to site locations of large-scale storm events, making us “Faster to any size disaster.” Backed by one of the largest Emergency Response Teams in the country, we are uniquely equipped and positioned to take on even the largest restoration project; whether in Central Alabama or beyond. Our fleet of cars, trucks, vans, are fully stocked with the resources needed to respond to disasters of any scale, anywhere. 

Whatever this storm season looks like, it is no match for the force that is our Disaster Recovery Team. 

What to do before a thunderstorm?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can be dangerous and not taken for granted. Every thunderstorm produces lightning and other hazardous weather conditions, which can include tornadoes, strong winds, hail, and flash flooding.

In Reston, VA we tend to get a mix of heavy rain and dry thunderstorms. Below are great tips from the READY to help prepare you for what to do before, during, and after a thunderstorm.

What to do before a thunderstorm

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Postpone outdoor activities.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard-top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.
• Lightning Risk Reduction When Outdoors

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon urges each and every one of you to PREPARE before a thunderstorm comes. And whenever they do come, SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon will be here to help.

Flood facts!

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States.

There is always potential for flood damage no matter where you live. According to the American Red Cross floods cause more damage in the United States every year than any other weather related disaster. The American Red Cross offers these flood safety tips:

-Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

-If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are riding rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

-Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. 

If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon.  Even minor floods have potential to cause major damage. We are faster to ANY size disaster. Let us help you get your life back in order. 

Commercial Cleaning for businesses

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

One Chance to Make a Great First Impression

We had clients coming into town who had never visited our offices before. Although our furniture, floors, and carpets were only a couple of years old, they looked kind of dull and no longer smelled fresh and clean.

Our building manager referred us to SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon. They sent out a team that cleaned our offices from top to bottom. They cleaned the light fixtures, millwork, blinds, drapes, upholstery, carpets, floor mats, floors, bathrooms, and breakroom. By the time they completed the work, our offices looked sparkling clean and smelled wonderful.

Commercial Cleaning Services

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

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

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

Local businesses can rely on SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon.  to clean and renew tired and dingy-looking offices and workspaces.

What to do after a fire

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Have you had a fire in your home?  "Devastating" is an understatement when experiencing the chaos of a fire in your home. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean-up can be, too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority!  The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage. These can lead to corrosion, unpleasant odor, and discoloration. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem.    Take immediate action by following these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire:  1. Contact your insurance company. 2. Contact your local fire restoration company. 3. Take photographs of the damage. 4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company. 5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed. 6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property. While a house fire is a difficult experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So remember these steps for the next time you or someone you know is handling the aftermath of a house fire, and call SERVPRO® Reston/Herndon

Common causes of fire

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Do you and your family know the common causes of fires?

 Here are a few common causes to look out for: 

• Cooking
• 48% of all fires are caused by cooking.
• Remember to turn off source of heat.
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand.
• Heating
• Do not put anything close to the heater.
• Follow guidelines on how the heater can run.
• Electrical Fires
• Make sure fireplaces and lighting are up to code and are safe.
• Ensure alarms are replaced
• Smoking
• Never lay cigarettes, cigars, etc., down and forget about them.
• Smoke outside to avoid any potential fires related to dropping or forgetting about the item.
• Candles
• Never leave a candle unattended.
• All materials should remain 12 inches away from all candles.

These are just some tips in order to prevent fires. SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon keeps your safety a priority and we hope you and family values that as well. Other things to have in place is a route for you and your family if there ever was a fire. Also, everyone in your family should know the route and plan in place. IF there is a fire in your home, call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon.

What is A Commercial UV Light Sanitizer System?

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Many commercial properties have recently started using commercial UV light sanitizer systems.

During the coronavirus pandemic, ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection has received a lot of coverage. The essential advantage is its ability to destroy pathogens such as viruses and bacteria.

UV (ultraviolet) light is a form of electromagnetic radiation. It is more energetic than radio waves or electrical light but less vigorous than X-rays or gamma rays. UV light may be emitted by either natural sunlight or human-made sources such as tanning beds.

The most efficient UV light for destroying COVID-19 is to use germicidal UVC light, also known as Ultraviolet Germicidal Radiation (UVGI) technology. While ultraviolet light has newly gained momentum in the national discourse as a result of the pandemic, it's been used in hospitals and water systems for years to kill viruses, bacteria, fungus, spores, as well as other pathogenic microorganisms.

While it's the direct impact on Coronavirus is still being verified, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says UVC light disinfection has been shown to destroy other types of coronaviruses. 

Is a commercial UV light sanitizer worth the investment?

As with any new product, people have many questions about how UV light sanitizers work and whether they are safe before installing them on their property. So we conducted some research to assist you in determining if a commercial UV light sanitizer is worth investing in.

As mentioned, ultraviolet disinfection is the process of killing or destroying harmful microorganisms in a controlled setting. Bacteria and viruses, as well as algae and protozoa, are examples of microorganisms. UV disinfection is used in water and air purification, waste treatment, foodservice protection, and a variety of other disinfection, including sterilization requirements.

Property owners have recently installed commercial UV light sanitation equipment due to its environmentally sustainable operation, rapid action, simple installation, minimal maintenance, and cost-effectiveness.

There are understandable concerns about the efficacy of any new technology, but evidence shows that commercial UV light sanitizers successfully destroy 99 percent of germs in most situations.

When it comes to efficiency, it is critical to choose high-quality items. Any product you install should be checked and engineered to function for beneficial purposes in your commercial property.  

4 Key points on UV light sanitation 

1) UV light has been used to destroy germs such as bacteria and viruses. You also may have heard of its use in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2, the latest Coronavirus.

2) UV light comes in a variety of forms. UVC light is the most potent form of UV light for destroying germs. It can be used to clean surfaces, the air, and liquids.

3) UVC light destroys germs such as viruses and bacteria by causing damage to molecules such as nucleic acids and proteins. As a result, the germ is unable to carry out the processes required for survival.

4) UVC light is an appealing disinfection choice because it can efficiently inhibit the new Coronavirus without chemicals. 

What does the CDC say about UV light sanitation?

The latest research supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports and improves on previous research supporting the usefulness of an automated UV-C-emitting system to fight pathogens. 

The CDC's suggestion for ultraviolet germicidal irradiation is based on the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) stance on airborne contagious diseases. 

ASHRAE recommends two types of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation techniques: installation in air handlers or ventilating ducts and irradiation of occupied spaces' upper air zones with shielding of lower occupied areas. These methods sanitize the air in a room while protecting inhabitants from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation.

Where Can UV Light Sanitation Be Used?

UV light sanitation has multiple uses. It is most commonly used in:

• Air Disinfection
• Water Disinfection
• Wastewater Treatment
• Aquarium And Pond
• Laboratory Hygiene
• Food And Beverage Protection
• Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
• Water Treatment Systems

SERVPRO Provides Commercial Pathogen Cleaning

We hope you enjoyed learning about commercial UV light sanitation. We have provided this information to you to help keep our community safe. Whether or not you choose to install a commercial UV light sanitizer, you should consider hiring a team of properly trained professionals that offers pathogen cleaning for regular maintenance on your property. 

As opposed to the traditional house or business cleaning, pathogen cleanup is a service that necessitates industry experience, specialized equipment, and the required certifications. 

The professionals at SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon have the experience and skills to sanitize your commercial property quickly so you can get back to functioning order. 

Is your business prepared for winter weather?

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Prepare your business for winter weather!

-Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rai, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries. 

-Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential. 

-Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.

-Ask your SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon Professional about starting an Emergency Ready Profile for your business. 

What is an Emergency Ready Profile?

It is a "snapshot" of each building owned/managed by a business, that provides critical information for emergency preparation. 

Flood damage prevention

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

According to the National Flood Insurance program flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States causing $2.7 billion in losses between 2001 and 2010. Flooding is not covered by most homeowner’s insurance policies so it may be necessary to buy a separate flood policy for your home.

Here are a couple of tips to keep water from entering your home during a heavy rain event:

1. Fix foundation leaks that may allow water to enter your home.
2. Make sure your roof is secure and protected.
3.  Clear gutters and drains

If water ever floods your home, getting someone on site as soon as possible is key to keeping the amount of damage to a minimum. SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is ready to respond at any time and also provides a free assessment and estimate.

How to protect the pipes from freezing

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

1. Insulate pipes - Exposed pipes are most likely to freeze. The more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be. Make sure to drain the water from outside faucets and insulate them from outside elements.

2. Let water drip - Simply maintaining a light trickle or steady stream of water in your faucets can go a long way in preventing water from freezing up in your pipes.

3. Steady thermostat  - Keeping a consistent temperature in your home or office puts less strain on the furnace. 

All we need to follow these tips is to reminisce on the events following the freeze of 2021. Rolling blackouts, homes completely destroyed due to burst pipes, and citizens stranded with no place to go to keep warm and stay safe. Our team is here, and we are Ready for whatever happens®. 

Is your business ready for a disaster?

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Have you stopped to consider whether or not your business is truly ready for whatever happens?

Sure, you may have your shelves stocked and your labels printed with restock orders on the way. But do you have a plan in place for when the unexpected happens and you’re stuck with picking up the pieces?

You may know SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon as your go-to disaster restoration company, which we are. But do you also know that we specialize in helping your business get disaster ready as well? One of the ways we enjoy serving our community partners is by creating Emergency Ready Profiles, or ERPs, for their commercial properties. 

When our dedicated, local SERVPRO Representatives meet with local business owners and facility managers, we gather important materials such as building information, utility shut off locations, and key contacts. Not only is this information important as it pertains to the daily tasks of a facility manager, but it’s also pertinent in the event of an emergency or disaster when time is of the essence. 

One of the key benefits in setting up an ERP with our team is having all of your essential property information in one place. In addition to keeping such relevant information organized, your local SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon representative will contact you periodically to update any changes to your profile. 

Becoming disaster-ready is a process and our team is eager to help you get started! To set up your free Emergency Ready Profile, call our office today to speak to one of our representatives and ensure that your business is "Ready for whatever happens", just like SERVPRO. 

Cleaning tips

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

Spring  & Summer time has become a great time of year to undertake deeper cleaning projects.  Although spring cleaning is commonly associated with residential homes, it is just as much needed for commercial places as well.  The cold winter months keep everyone cooped up inside and bacteria & messes start to grow.  A good cleaning helps to give workers a more open and less hectic environment; additionally, a clean and welcoming place of business helps to attract customers. Here is a list of some important areas to inspect during your deep cleaning cleaning:   

OUTSIDE

• Windows

Windows are one of the simplest yet crucial areas to keep clean.  Beyond making sure you have squeaky clean windows, check to make sure they have tight seals.  Small gaps in window seals can cause cool air to seep out (and warm air in the winter months), as well as allowing water to trickle in. Checking caulking and weather stripping remains intact and up to par can save you money in the long term. 

• Landscaping

This is very important for the presentation of your business.  Now the grass, flowers, weeds and other plants are starting to grow, it’s important to start grooming your landscape.  Don’t wait till your plants get out of control, hire someone now or take some time yourself to pull the weeds, mow the grass, and trim any trees or bushes.  Additionally, this is a great time to plant some flowers if you want to spruce up your place of business. 

• AC/HVAC

When converting your buildings air flow system from heating to air conditioning now is the best time to quality check your system.  Test your system by running it for a while to make sure it’s working properly, check any old or out of date parts that might need replacing.  Clean out the ventilation system by removing dust particles and any other debris lying inside.  Ventilation systems are rarely cleaned, which is why lots of building owners tend to find pest infestation or mold problems when cleaning their vents/ducts.  It’s best to take these precautions while the temperature is in a transitioning period.  

• Pest Maintenance

Along with the re-birthed trees and plants, spring also brings back hordes of pests.  Ants, spiders, termites, mosquitoes, and even bed bugs can become a problem.  It’s best to take preventative measures to ward off pests instead of being forced to shut the business down for a couple weeks in order to fumigate for pests. Lastly, if you are continually having the same pest problems each year, try to identify exterior factors that might be attracting those pests and any defects in your building that might be letting them in. 

INSIDE

• Dusting

Simple and effective.  Even if you already dust on a regular basis now’s a good time to dust those harder to reach, and often ignored, areas.  

• Flooring/Carpets

As people come in from the rainy times and wipe their feet on your carpets, dirt begins to build up.  Don’t let this grime buildup in your building; buy some strong cleaning products for your floors and a top quality vacuum for carpets. In addition to constantly maintaining floors and carpets, now is a great time to hire a professional carpet and floor cleaner to give your floors a deep clean. 

• Reorganization

Reorganizing comes in two parts.  The first is the organizing of all the previous years files into a consolidated area for ease of access.  Best practice is to do this at the beginning of every year so that your files are neatly organized and easy to find when needed.  The second is the reorganization of the office itself. Ideally, this is a continuing process year round.  If the office has gotten out of hand this can be a good time of year to tidy up and breathe some fresh air into the workplace.  Depending on your type of business will help determine what type of cleaning takes priority. If you need extra help or an even deeper clean call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon to help!

Extending the life of your carpet

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Whether you have been living in an apartment complex for 6 months or a two-story house for 10 years, everyone needs to be mindful of when they last had their carpet professionally cleaned. We realize that there are things around the house that are tossed aside and forgotten about, however maintaining clean carpets should not be one of them. Here at SERVPRO® of Reston/Herndon we understand life happens, like when your child spills a drink all over the carpet or the dog mistakes the carpet, for the grass outside. We get it, but we only want what's best for you and your health. 

Why Does My Carpet Need to be Professionally Cleaned? 

Many people have been exactly where you are now, thinking "I wipe up all spills and vacuum often, I am good to go." That simply is just not the case. And frankly this alone isn't good enough. It may not be evident to the naked eye, but carpets can house all sorts of dirt, bacteria, and allergens that can be harmful to your health. Carpets that are not well maintained can hold dust mites, molds, pet hair, dead skin cells, insect feces, and other particles deep-seated in their fibers. Below are three possible problems that can be the result of carpets that are not well-maintained.

Danger #1: Weak Immune System

• Everyday our bodies fight to keep us healthy and strong. However, living in an unclean environment, leads to being exposed to harmful bacteria, which can cause you to be more susceptible to diseases.
• Getting out carpets professionally cleaned helps to remove dust mites, bacteria and other allergens, which ultimately helps your family breathe easier and reduces the risk of colds and other health problems. As strange as it may sound, dirty carpet can negatively impact the airflow in your home.

Danger #2: Reduces the Life Span of the Carpet

• Not professionally cleaning your carpet allows for dirt to stay embedded inside the fibers of the carpet. Which ultimately will lead to the fibers breaking and wearing down.
• Regular vacuuming will keep your carpet looking good and prevent debris and dirt from embedding into the fibers.
• Keeping your vacuum in good shape will help keep your carpet in good shape. A vacuum that is half full will be much less effective than an empty one. Be sure to keep it cleaned out and keep up on the maintenance with it as well.

Danger #3: Odor in Carpet                                                         

• Professional cleaning companies can use top notch chemicals, to get out odors that regular vacuums or cleaners just simply cannot get out. A couple of these odors are dog urine and cigarette smoke. These odors almost always take a professional crew to come in and get rid of.

Do Not Worry! SERVPRO Can Help!

If you are unsatisfied with your carpet SERVPRO® of Reston/Herndon is here to help. We are open 24/7 and work to respond quickly to calls.  We care about your health and safety. 

Electric heater safety

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

As winter begins to hit and temperature begins to drop, you may choose to buy a space heater for warm up your home, apartment, or work space. Space heaters are a good alternative if you do not want to turn up your thermostat to heat up your home. However, space heaters, if not used correctly, can cause fire damage to your property. Here are some tips that you can use to prevent any disaster caused by a space heater:

• Leave the heater on level floor, don’t place on carpet - it can overheat and start a fire.
• Do not use in bathroom, unless it is designed for it - moisture can damage the heater.
• Keep three feet away from flammable materials and out of the way of children and pets.
• Should always be plugged directly into wall outlet, don’t use with extension cord because it can cause overheating.
• Don’t leave heater unattended, make sure to unplug when not in use.
• Install smoke alarms on every floor.

If you run into any issues with fire damage, call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon.

SERVPRO is here to help

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help the Reston/Herndon area!

Like the rest of the nation and much of the world, the Reston/Herndon, VA area is in high alert due to the coronavirus pandemic. It is strange to think that in just a couple of weeks, we went from our regular lives to maintaining social distance and working from home. We must take every step to prevent the spread of this deadly virus. Children, adults, and the elderly are all vulnerable to contracting COVID-19, so we must do our best to keep it away from our homes.

Residents can reach out to our SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon crew to help disinfect and clean your home or workplace. Contrary to other companies offering cleaning or disinfection services, it’s something we are trained and certified to do.  We have been we offer cleaning and sanitizing services for years. Our staff trains specifically to address cleanup situations with biohazard threats.

To date, there is no specific protocol proven to eradicate the virus from frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, kitchen counters, and bathrooms. However, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is encouraging the use of hospital-grade, EPA registered disinfectants typically used to remove certain pathogens. Our standards of service include the use of EPA registered cleaning solutions suitable for this kind of work. As the CDC releases new recommendations, we adapt and apply them as appropriate.

In your home, you get to decide what you do to protect your family in this crisis. However, some entities, such as schools and nursing homes, require a third party to verify the effectiveness of the cleanup process. SERVPRO is prepared to coordinate services with any relevant entities as required. Our technicians are professionals in our field and accustomed to high-stakes situations, so dealing with potentially hazardous microbes is nothing new for us.
Advice from the medical and scientific community regarding how to deal with the coronavirus is based on present knowledge, which is subject to change as the situation continues to develop. There can be no assurance that disinfectants alone will be adequate to fully eliminate the virus. We are not physicians or infectious disease professionals. Consult your medical professionals for individual medical advice.

Is standing water dangerous?

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Surface water can affect your home and its tenants in multiple ways. While this standing water can absorb into materials and ultimately allow for the deterioration of exposed structural elements, pooling can also present potential health effects or hazards for those exposed and remaining in the area. 

SERVPRO offers fast extraction and drying solutions for your home after a flood. 

We can help reduce the standing water concerns by offering efficient flood removal. To accomplish this, we can call upon a wide array of extraction and moisture removal tools in our broad inventory. 

What Tools Are Best for Drying Up Flood Damage? 

Because every flooding situation is different from the last, there are different tools and devices that are best to remove water or dry the area. Identifying the most efficient solution is always the priority, as the sooner standing water gets addressed, the less damaging flooding typically becomes. Some of the standard water removal and drying tools include:

• Air Movers
• Dehumidifiers
• Positive Pressure Systems
• Floor Mat Systems

After a flood, you want your home to look like it did before the disaster as soon as possible. Our SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon team can help anytime you need us.

What to do when your refrigerator leaks

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

What happened?

The common cause for these water leaks is the plastic water line behind the refrigerator will crack, a slow drip begins and water pools behind the fridge unnoticed. Another common cause is excess condensation buildup which has the same effect. Water damage from your fridge can cause numerous problems in your home especially since the problem can go unnoticed for so long, at this point the damage has already taken a toll on your floors and surrounding areas. Moisture and heat in the dark environment create perfect conditions for mold to form and your floorboards to rot. This should not be overlooked. Over at SERVPRO we are experts in mold remediation and will gladly remove and prevent further frustrations for you.

So now what?

It is important to first clean up any visible water to avoid further damage and possibilities of mold occurring. Once this is done you should inspect your fridge and see if there are any noticeable leaks or areas where condensation may be forming to excess. It is important to replace any faulty connections to stop the immediate leak if possible. If you are able to, assess the damage done to the area under and around the fridge. Most of the time floorboards will show visible damage, but the real problems can occur underneath where you cannot see. We recommend you give us a call at SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon where we are available 24/7 to assist. We will send a team out to stop any further damage and spread of mold and help prevent this issue from occurring again. While you may be able to swap out the damaged areas of flooring, mold can continue to grow and cause more problems in the future. With many years of experience we will make the cleanup a quick and easy experience.

Pro tip: add a water alarm behind/under your fridge to catch any further problems from getting far

Answers to Your Water Damage Questions

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

When water damages residential and commercial properties in our area, property owners have a lot of questions.

Here are the answers to your burning questions about water damage restoration.

What happens when water floods my home or business?         

Once drywall comes in contact with water it begins to sag and disintegrate. If the water is not contained quickly and in a proper manner, the wood will begin to swell. The more time that water is spent within the contents of your home, the more likely your hardwood floors will buckle and warp. 

Why do I need to call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon? I already wiped up the water myself.

If your property was flooded with water the most important issue to address is the water that you can't see, not the water that you wiped up in the middle of your floor. Mold and mildew love to grow in the dark cavities of your home. To prevent future health and structural effects, call 703-471-6040 and leave it to the experts.

How does a professional water damage restoration contractor handle water differently than I would?

Your normal household fan and towels won't cut it when there's been excessive water damage. We use specialized industrial air movers and dehumidifiers to handle water after a flood. Our advanced technology will be placed in a precise manner, drying your property out as fast as possible. 

How long does it take to dry my home or business?

The answer varies with every different situation. The type of water damage, the extent of the damage, how long the water was at the property, and the material that was affected. Typically water damage takes 2-3 days to dry, but if the materials have been exposed for a long period of time there may be other issues!

Is it okay to leave the equipment running all day every day? 

Without a doubt! Our equipment was created to run for extended periods of time without causing any safety problems. The equipment is placed in a precise location according to our moisture mapping - do not move it!

Do I have to use the restoration company the insurance company recommends?

No way! You are free to hire whoever you want, you absolutely do not have to use what they recommend. 

Why hire us? Once we have the information about the claim you make, we will communicate directly with your insurance agent. This way you'll be able to worry less - we know you've already experienced enough hassle.

Residential and Commercial Restoration

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is close by and ready to respond to your cleaning or restoration needs. We are proud to be an active member of the Reston/Herndon community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.

Handling Intruding Water

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Once a water damage event occurs on your property, the first 24 hours are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage. SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is on-call 24/7 and has the capabilities to get to your property within the first hour of the phone call. Our technicians will be on-site to help ensure that your water damage is handled properly.

Inspection

The expert technicians at SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon will first inspect the property and damages. This will help determine the extent of the water damage and will allow them to create a plan to review with you. Our customers rave about how informative and helpful our professionals are when it comes to their concerns.

Emergency Services

Once the plan has been created, our expert technicians will place our industrial-grade equipment in precise locations so that the drying process is done properly and efficiently. If any questions come up during the process, the experts will have no problem explaining the needed emergency services to you step-by-step.

Monitoring

To ensure that the process is going smoothly, a professional from SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon will monitor the drying process daily. If there are any changes or updates, our experts will be consistently communicating with you.

Emergency Water Damage Tips

1. If you know where it is, shut off the water source so that the damage does not get worse.
2. Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution is unsafe from electrical shock.
3. Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. Do not enter rooms where the ceiling has begun to sag from retained water.

For more information on recovering from water damage, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon by giving us a jingle at 703-471-6040 today.

Stand Strong Against Wind Damage

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Wind and water damage are the two most common results of a heavy storm. There are many areas of the United States that have experienced heavy winds and storms that have caused significant damage to homes - it is important to contact a storm damage restoration professional like SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon as soon as the storm is over to help limit and repair the damage.

Important Facts to Know About Wind Damage

Wind Type Varies by Storm & Causes Different Degrees of Wind Damage

Thunderstorms are the most common source of wind and storm damage, but wind stemming from hurricanes or tornadoes are stronger and can cause more severe damage. It is essential to know when and what type of storm is headed towards your area so you know the potential and level of damage to expect. Thunderstorms are responsible for over half of all wind damage cases in the U.S., but the repair may be more costly for hurricane or tornado wind damage.

Characteristics of the Wind will Affect the Wind Damage

The wind has many characteristics that differ depending on the situation such as:

• Speed
• Direction
• Duration of Gusts

By recognizing the pattern and type of wind, you will be able to determine another part of how much potential damage to expect. If the wind is expected to come in long gusts, it's important to be aware of branches from trees. Depending on the speed of the wind, you may have to board up windows.

Preventing Wind and Storm Damage

Wind really isn't the thing that causes a majority of the damage - it is the items that get flung around by the wind. Whether it is your garbage can out on the edge of your driveway or debris from plants and trees, unsecured objects can become dangerous in windy situations. If a storm is approaching your area, ensure your patio furniture, toys, and garbage cans are secured or brought inside. It wouldn't hurt to double check your windows to make sure they're locked and secured, too.

The expertise SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon brings to storm damage cleanup and restoration in the Northwest suburbs leads the industry. Give us a call at 703-471-6040 today for any of for storm damage needs.

Foundation Water Damage: Know the Warning Signs

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

You can't build a strong home on a weak foundation.

Foundation water damage weakens the structure of your home, causes cracks, bowed walls, and can be as extreme as causing your home to collapse.

Here's how to identify and address the early signs of foundation water damage:

Cracks.

Cracks may appear on both the interior and exterior of a home and are a tell-tale sign of foundation water problems. On the exterior, a few hairline cracks aren't normally a concern. It is important to be aware of horizontal cracks and stair-step cracks in block walls or corners. This may indicate serious structural damage and you should consult a water damage professional like SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon. 

Standing water in a basement or crawlspace.

Water in a basement could be an indication of a plumbing issue, however it could also mean that there is water seeping in through cracks in the foundation or gutter runoff. Either way, they're both causing issues and should be addressed immediately. Seeping water is a perfect host for mold growth and can weaken wooden support structures.

Windows and doors are jamming.

Excess water absorption in a building can cause frames to warp, which means that there is probably a waterproofing problem. Excess outside moisture can also cause your entire foundation to shift, leading to much bigger issues that will need to be addressed.

Mold Patches or Rotting Wood

As we've stated before, mold needs two things to grow: a source of moisture and organic material. If you can't spot the mold with your eyes, you'll without a doubt be able to smell the distinct mildew scent. Mold remediation should be enacted as quickly as possible once you discover mold. Mold could result from a crack or opening in the foundation that's allowing water to seep in.

Flooded soil.

If your gutters or other drainage systems are not doing their job properly, it can cause water to redirect back to your foundation instead of away from your house. If you see pools of water around your home, the wet soil will increase the likelihood that water will penetrate the foundation of your home.

It is important to keep track of your preventative maintenance on your home. Most importantly, if you suspect you have foundation water damage the best thing you can do is call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon at 703-471-6040.

Biohazards and How to Handle Them

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Biohazard Cleanup and Restoration

Biohazards, such as sewage backups, crime scene residues, blood cleanup, and chemical spills create unhealthy and dangerous environments. These hazards put people at significant risk and their removal is essential for any building. 

How can I ensure the best method of removal for a biohazard? 

Call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon of course! Our technicians have certifications through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in biohazard cleanup. We are continually training and re-training in niches like bloodborne pathogens through OSHA.

24 Hour Emergency Service

We are available 24 hours a day—our highly trained technicians are standing by. We have the qualified trained professionals who are ready to respond to these incidents. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.

Need Biohazard Cleanup Services?

Call Us Today – 703-471-6040

Top 10 Questions To Ask When Choosing a Carpet Cleaning Company

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

There are a lot of carpet cleaning companies out there.  How do you choose? Here are ten questions to ask to ensure you only use the best!

1. Are your cleaning technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC)? The IICRC is an independent body that certifies people in carpet cleaning. For a technician to be IICRC certified, he or she must go through extensive hands-on training and have passed a comprehensive test. If a carpet cleaning service doesn’t require their technicians to be IICRC certified, consider looking elsewhere.
2. How long have you been in business? How long a company has been in business can speak volumes about their quality.  There are many carpet cleaning companies that open and close their doors each year.  The best ones tend to stand the test of time!
3. Do you offer “Green” Cleaning? If you have young children in the home or have any household members with sensitive skin or allergies then this could be an important option for you.
4. How is your pricing structured? Many carpet cleaning companies utilize a “bait and switch” technique.  They will quote a very low price up front, but then once they secure the job they will add on extras for things like “trip charge”, “gas surcharge”, “stain removal”, “furniture blocking”, etc.  When all is said and done, the initial price can triple or quadruple!
5. Do you charge extra for stain removal? This is important to know upfront so you don’t get surprised by extras after the service is performed. A good carpet cleaner will include the price for stain removal in their base price.
6. Do you use a truck mounted cleaning system? A truck mounted cleaning system is critical to effectively clean your carpets.  It allows for better extraction of dirt and grime and the proper application of any cleaning agents.
7. Is your company insured against accidental damage? This is important to ensure you are protected in case anything gets damaged during the cleaning.
8. Do you move Furniture? Some carpet cleaning companies will charge high fees for moving furniture.  Typically, this should be included in the original price unless a room is literally filled wall to wall with furniture!
9. What do you charge extra for? Again, avoid surprises and make sure the quoted price reflects what is actually charged.
10. Do you charge by room or by square foot? Some carpet cleaning companies will charge by room but in reality, square footage is a much more accurate method to determine pricing.  If you think about it, it shouldn’t cost more to clean three small bedrooms versus one large family room if the square footage is comparable!

At SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon, each of our technicians are certified in cleaning by the IICRC.  We have been in business for over 9 years and are proud of our upfront pricing model that includes ALL stain removal.

Please give us a call with any questions at 703-471-6040. We are happy to help even if you don’t end up using our services!

We are a team!

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Our crew here at SERVPRO can handle any job big or small and work together to come up with a plan of action to get the job done. 

Whether calling in at 8:30 am or 8:30 pm, we are available. We have trailers, trucks, and CREW ready to go for any emergency no matter the size of the loss. SERVPRO will show up and make sure the homeowner is helped out in any way they need. 

We will make sure the job is done to the fullest and offer reconstruction to ensure it is "Like it never even happened."  

Here at SERVPRO, we are here to make the homeowner satisfied while getting the work done efficiently. 

This is why SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is your go-to for any kind of loss. 

Mitigate Damage While Waiting for Roof Repairs

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

The effects of a fire in your Reston and Herndon business can be far-reaching. If the damage has made it to the roof, you may have more than just fire cleanup on your hands. Any areas of the roof exposed to the elements may also mean securing the services of a water damage and mold professional. After contacting your insurance to start the claim process, the next call to be for tarp services to protect against secondary damage.

Why Mitigation Is Important

Whether the damage requires a roof repair or replacement, time isn’t always on your side. Along with waiting for the adjuster, getting the fix scheduled will likely require a wait. Below are reasons it is important to secure your exposed property.

Another weather event could cause more damage, increase repair costs.
If excess moisture begins to build up, mold only needs less than 48 hours to start forming.
Exposed areas may provide an opening for vandals or thieves to gain access to your property.
Even a small hole is enough for unwanted rodents and bugs to find a new home.

Tips for an Easier Claim
While waiting for fire clean up to happen, most insurers have a stipulation that requires mitigation. If windows aren’t boarded and tarps aren’t temporarily installed to keep the elements out, any additional damage incurred may not be covered. Taking the necessary steps can help ensure you get the most out of your claim.
Although you should never make repairs until after the adjuster gives the go-ahead, documenting the damage is a good way to verify the need for the claim, as well as make the process easier for the adjuster. Photographs and videos should be taken of all areas and items damage. If possible, gather any documentation that lists the value of items.
When it comes to fire cleanup, it is often not just the area the flames burned that need repaired. If there is roof or window damage, take steps to minimize damage.

What Steps Must Begin Right After Flooding Occurs?

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage can be a devastating force, meaning that mitigation and recovery efforts should begin as soon as possible.

There are often times where homeowners look at their Herndon and Reston property and determine the best course of action after a flood emergency. The longer this process takes in choosing the right professionals to begin restoration and recovery, the more your home and its belongings could become irreparably damaged. Knowing what to do when flooding first occurs can help you to appreciate your need for professional restoration despite possible mitigative efforts you can begin on your own.

Regarding your home in Reston and Herndon, several steps must occur, beginning with emergency services when our team arrives. With flooding scenarios, often, the most pressing concern is standing water in the affected areas. Surface water damage can quickly penetrate porous materials, forcing water into structural cavities and causing more substantial concerns like deterioration, microbial threats, or spreading bacteria. The earliest actions that our professionals can take after a flood loss include:

• Extraction
• Content Management
• Debris Removal

What Happens to Damaged Belongings?

Content management is one of the vital services that we offer during your flood-damaged home's mitigation period. The objective begins with assessing the damage to each item or personal belonging still in the house after flooding occurs. Some of these items can get moved to a safer location on the property to prevent damage, while others must get restored on-site or offsite at our SERVPRO facility. In our care at our warehouse, we can offer focused drying, cleaning, and safe storage.

Flooding can be a threatening situation for your home. However, with mitigation beginning as soon as our professionals arrive, there is little to stop you from reaching out to our SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon team as soon as possible. We can make flood losses "Like it never even happened." Call us at 703-471-6040

5 Ways To Lower Your Company's Water Consumption

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Of all the water issues worth discussing, one of the most relevant is conservation. In addition to being good for the environment, lowering your building’s consumption also reduces your water bill.

Here Are Five Measures You Can Take To Enhance Your Status As A Responsible Corporate Citizen

1. Install Touch Free Faucets

Because executives carry their phones everywhere, they often become distracted before leaving the restroom. This sometimes results in running faucets. Touch-free sensors eliminate this trouble entirely. As an added bonus, the spread of germs is greatly limited. While they can be expensive, these water upgrades come highly recommended and are extremely popular.

2. Submeter Irrigation

Faulty irrigation systems have the potential to create seriously destructive water issues. If your business floods, the resulting water damage may necessitate a commercial restoration service provider to repair. Submetering irrigation alerts building managers and landscapers when too much water is being used, possibly indicating a faulty system. The ability to address issues early on could prevent an inconvenient disaster.

3. Add Flush Valves

Toilets installed before 1992 use between three and five gallons per flush. Introducing flush valves dwindles this by up to 40%. Unlike replacing old toilets with low-flush alternatives, you can keep your original commodes and the cost will be minimal.

4. Trade Plants

Interior designers sometimes attempt to counteract the industrial feel of office buildings with trees and other leafy offerings. Some vegetation needs to be watered more than others. Try less thirsty options, such as sago palms, spider plants or orchids.

5. Change Urinals

Although they require different cleaning methods than traditional urinals, consider ones that are water-free. With one training session, your cleaning crews will have no trouble understanding how to handle them.

Addressing these common water issues will work wonders in lessening the amount your office in Reston/Herndon, uses. For the sake of the future, implement as many solutions as possible.

Commercial Mold Damage Tips

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

If your commercial building recently experienced water damages, you're probably unsure of the next step. Not only are you worried about property damage from the water, but you also have to worry about mold in your business. Mold can affect indoor air quality, can cause significant property damage, and can cause a foul smell that even the best deodorization techniques can't get rid of! Follow these tips if you're dealing with residential or commercial mold.

1. Get Rid of Moisture - This is the very first step! Before the mold can be properly addressed, as much moisture as possible needs to be removed. If there is standing water, it can be dangerous to walk into your home or commercial property, so please make sure you can safely enter the building or structure.
2. Protect Yourself  - You just never really know what can be floating around in standing water that can hurt you. For example, electrical wiring. You don't want to endure an electrical shock. Once you know you can safely enter, protect yourself by wearing protective clothing, such as gloves and a face mask.
3. Hire a Professional - The best thing you can do is leave it to the experts. Rely on a team of professionals to help get your home or business back in tip-top shape. Experts can come in and assess the true extent of the damage and help ensure all of the molds are properly remediated. We promise it could save you a lot of time, money, and headaches in the future. 

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is ready to help you ensure your commercial property is cleaned and ready to support your business. Give our team a call at 703-471-6040

Whose Water Damage Is It?

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage is a pain; no matter what the source of cause.

Just think about the damage, the time, the money, the inconvenience, having to miss work; the list goes on.

Maybe the water damage has just begun. Or maybe the water damage is reoccurring, but you are just now noticing. Which means you may have to worry about mold too!

Now, imagine a scenario where you and your home are affected by water damage; but the source is coming from your neighbor!

This happened to a recent customer of ours.

The apartment above had a slow continuous leak coming from their cold supply line for the washer. This caused the apartment above to have water and mold damage to their floor. It also caused the apartment below to have the same damage but to their ceiling.

Which one is worse...?

Your home has damage and damaged someone else's home? (You have to deal with an upset neighbor and paying double).

Or...

Your home is damaged by your neighbor? (You have to go to your neighbor just to find out what is going on and make sure they pay for the damages) SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is trained to help with such situations.

Why SERVPRO? Document Restoration Leader

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? We are an Industry Leader - in Document Restoration!

We use the same state of the art process that is used by the Library of Congress!

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is one of the industry leaders in restoring and salvaging water damaged documents, books, photos, microfilm, microfiche, X-rays, audio/video tapes and other materials by using state-of-the-art vacuum freeze drying technology.

Document Response Team - We have an experienced and trained HIPAA certified team ready to mobilize for on-site pack out, pickup and transportation of your wet or damaged documents.

Water damaged items that can be salvaged using vacuum freeze-drying:

• Books and manuscripts: coated papers, maps, parchment, pulp paper, drafting linens, text books, reference books, manuals
• Business/Personal records and documents: legal/bank/company files, patient and medical records, x-rays, engineering and architectural plans and drawings, catalogs, reference materials, certificates, contracts, passports, transcripts, tax records
• Historical and collectible items: archival documents, rare documents, maps, stamp collections, money collections
• Keepsakes: photographs, leather and hide items, newspaper articles, recipe books, cards, scrapbooks, baby books, wedding albums, yearbooks, baskets, awards & achievements
• Textiles: embroidery and needlework, silks, tapestries, flags
• Artwork: acrylic paintings, linen drawings, water colors

Mobile Document Restoration

We have access to one of the only portable document restoration vacuum freeze drying machines, in the industry.  In the event that you have a project where the documents are legally required to remain onsite, we can accommodate.

 Additional Document Services Available

• Secure Document Destruction
• Gamma Irradiation
• Document Cleaning
• Scanning/Digitizing
• Ozone Treatment (Deodorization)

What Renters Can Expect From Their Coverage

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

What Renters Can Expect From Their Coverage

Many tenants buy renter’s insurance to cover the cost of replacing their personal belongings if they are damaged or destroyed by an accident in the building where they live. Your coverage, however, may pay for much more than just item replacement. It’s important to talk to your agent, so you know just how much you can expect your insurance company to pay if the place you are renting in Reston or Herndon catches fire.

Belongings

Part of the fire restoration process is determining which items can be cleaned and saved and which must be thrown away. Your insurance coverage should pay for:

•  Assessment
•  Cleaning costs
•  Replacement costs

Make sure your policy states that it pays replacement cost rather than the actual cash value of your items. The purpose of insurance is to make you whole again, and replacing lost belongings is a good start.

Liability

If the fire was caused by your negligence, you might be liable for any damages you cause to other people or to the structure itself. Your renter’s insurance probably has a clause that protects you from legal costs. Your policy may cover damage to your neighbor’s belongings or the property itself, as well as cover medical bills of anyone injured in the fire if you bear some responsibility for its starting.

Shelter

Fire restoration experts may work quickly, but there are probably going to be some nights that you are unable to stay in your rented space. Finding a temporary place to live can be expensive. Your insurance policy is likely to cover this as well. You can include your shelter needs as part of the fallout of the fire damage to your home when you file your claim.

Your renter’s insurance does cover the loss of your belongings, but it can also cover other losses. Your insurance agent can help you build a solid policy that takes all potential expenses of the fire into consideration.

How To Identify Odors in Your Home After a Flood

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Identify Odors After A Flood And Eliminate Their Cause

When storms cause serious flooding and affect your Reston/Herndon home, you may notice several different types of foul odors in the aftermath, even when the waters recede. From mold growth to sewage chemicals, the flooding may leave your home smelling less than pleasant. Learning to identify these odors can be the first step to finding and eliminating their cause.

Musty Smells

If you detect an odor like wet dirty laundry after a flood, then you may be dealing with mold. There are many different types of fungi that can take hold after a flood, and many can develop as soon as 24 hours after the event. Mold does not require sunlight to grow and may grow unchecked in a variety of locations:

• Behind drywall
• Around insulation
• Under carpeting
  

Having your home inspected after a serious flood can help to uncover hidden mold.

Sewer Odor

The strong, bitter smell of a sewer is hard to mistake for anything else. The odor may also smell like rotten eggs, especially if a nearby sewer has malfunctioned and sewage loss caused a flood in your home’s basement. Because any standing water in your home may contain contaminants and bacteria, you may want to seal off the area until you can call a water damage and mitigation service to come to drain it away and deodorize your home so the offensive smell from the flood water does not linger.

Dirt or Mud Smells

Serious flooding can bring silt, dirt and debris into your home. The moisture it contains can also encourage increased mold growth. You may detect an earthy, fishy or wormy odor from dirt or mud left behind in the wake of a flood. Your flood technicians can remove this debris and offer you options for odor removal as well, such as using ozone machines to clear the air.

Serious flooding can affect your home and cause foul smells from mold growth and dirty standing water. Learning how to identify different odors can give you a head start on cleanup efforts, especially once help arrives.

There are Different Types of Soot

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

Complete water removal in Reston and Herndon areas requires an investment in training and an extensive inventory of specialized equipment to rid homes of standing fluids and lingering moisture. Dedication to industry best practices is why SERVPRO acquires the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) for all workers. Our fleet of service vehicles delivers the following crucial machinery to every water emergency project:

• Submersible pumps
• Truck-mounted and portable extractors
• Air movers
• Heaters
• Dehumidifiers 

Although it is unlikely today that antique plumbing fittings from the "Brass Capital of the World" cause water removal urgency, the ability to manage even that scenario is why SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon, should be your first call. Reach us at 703-471-6040

What Kind of Smoke Detector Do I need?

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

There are 3 types of smoke detector alarms on the market today. They are Ionization, Photoelectric and Combination.

An ionization smoke alarm contains a small amount of radioactive material. The radiation passes through an ionization chamber which is an air-filled space between two electrodes and permits a small, constant current between the electrodes. 

When smoke that enters the chamber absorbs the alpha particles, it reduces the ionization and interrupts the current, setting off the alarm. 

This type of alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires.

The Photoelectric smoke alarms operate using a light source.

A light beam collimating system and a photoelectric sensor. When smoke enters the optical chamber and crosses the path of the light beam, some light is scattered by the smoke particles, directing it at the sensor and thus activating the alarm. 

This type of alarm is generally more responsive to fires that begin with a long period of smoldering.

Combination smoke alarms feature both ionization and photoelectric technologies. Ionization smoke alarms respond faster to high energy fires, whereas photoelectric detectors respond better to low energy smoldering fires. The best overall protection is provided by using combination smoke alarms.

Common Commercial Plumbing Issues

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

Plumbing issues can be devastating to a business. It can cause leaks that turn into a water loss that could affect productivity in your business. With plumbing issues, it can happen with little to no warning, sometimes it starts with a small leak and other times it can happen suddenly. It is important to fix these issues before they become big problems with big expenses. Some problems include leaking seals and drain clogs.

Leaking seals

Seals can go badly at any moment, so it is important to inspect for small leaks around these areas, if you wait it could turn into a major water loss. Leaks can occur wherever two plumbing components meet. This means sometimes they aren’t always noticeable. Not only can this turn into a bigger leak but if the seal completely breaks off when you aren’t present you could cause thousands of dollars in water damage to your property.

Drain clogs

Drain clogs aren’t usually an issue in homes however in commercial buildings they seem to be more common. The reason for this is people are more cautious of what they put down their own drain or toilet vs public restrooms. This causes debris to get stuck in the pipes clogging up the system and slowing down the release of water. It may not cause any immediate issues but could contribute to a major backup down the road. With commercial experience SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is ready to assist any commercial restoration job.

Why Does SERVPRO Top the List for Help When Old or Failing Plumbing Leaks?

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Why Does SERVPRO Top the List for Help When Old or Failing Plumbing Leaks?

Complete water removal in Reston/Herndon requires an investment in training and an extensive inventory of specialized equipment to rid homes of standing fluids and lingering moisture. Dedication to industry best practices is why SERVPRO acquires the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) for all workers. Our fleet of service vehicles delivers the following crucial machinery to every water emergency project:

• Submersible pumps
• Truck-mounted and portable extractors
• Air movers
• Heaters
• Dehumidifiers 

Although it is unlikely today that antique plumbing fittings from the "Brass Capital of the World" cause water removal urgency, the ability to manage even that scenario is why SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon should be your first call. Reach us at 703-471-6040

Preparing for Winter Storms

12/24/2020 (Permalink)

Winter storms are not uncommon in the Northern Virginia area and to be stuck unprepared in blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days is not ideal. Many winter storms are accompanied by extremely low temps and potentially strong winds, icing, sleet, or freezing rain.

No matter the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared to ensure your safety in these events and know that SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is here to help.

Know the Difference

Meteorologists may not always be accurate in their predictions, but more often than not they are able to give out a notification for what kind of weather is to come. It is important to note the difference between a Winter Storm Outlook, Winter Weather Advisory, Winter Storm Watch, and a Winter Storm Warning.

• Winter Storm Outlook - storm conditions possible between 2-5 days
• Winter Weather Advisory - conditions are expected to cause inconveniences and be hazardous
• Winter Storm Watch - storm conditions possible within 36-48 hours. Be alert of changing conditions
• Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening & severe conditions have begun or will begin < 24 hours. Take precautions immediately

Preparation

Now that you know what each warning means - it's time to prepare before scary weather happens!

Winterize your vehicle. Keep the fuel line full to prevent freeing.

Insulate your home. There's nothing worse than a cold home and frozen pipes. Cover windows with plastic and insulate any exposed pipes outside your home. If you speculate that there is a frozen pipe, call your local SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon.

Put together a Supply Kit. Ensure you have your basic necessities of food and water for several days. Batteries, flashlights, medication, a multi-purpose tool and various personal hygiene items.

Now that you know how to prepare for the different types of winter weather, maintain your awareness of the ongoing situations. Listen to the local Weather radio, keep your loved ones close, and avoid traveling if it isn't necessary.

If we can be of any assistance, call us day or night. There will always be a live person on the other end of the line available for whatever you need, even if it is just to answer questions. We are eager to help 703-644-0620.

Why Choose Us?

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know we are part of 1,700 franchises altogether? We are responsible for creating, maintaining and implementing a disaster recovery plan. For example we have helped business, homes and schools in several catastrophic events. Having a disaster recovery team helps create an actionable disaster recovery program. SERVPRO having many franchises nationwide helps us get to you faster. We are proud to be one of the few top disaster recovery teams across the United States because we are experts at our job so when you chose SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon you get;

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

Residential Services

With over 1,700 Franchises in the U.S. and Canada, SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration industry and is dedicated to providing quality service. Our highly trained technicians respond quickly, whether you need water damage restoration or simply need your upholstery cleaned. You can depend on SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon for these residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation

Commercial Services

Your property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. When it’s impacted by fire or water damage, you need professional help. Every hour spent restoring your business is lost revenue and productivity. When you need professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, we have the training and resources to get your property back to business quickly. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Fire Restoration
• Commercial Cleaning Restoration
• Commercial Water Restoration
• Commercial Storm and Major Events

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, we live and work in this community too. We are close by and ready to respond immediately when you need cleaning or restoration services. For questions of services please call us at 703-644-0620 and we will be glad to assist you.

How to Prevent Pipe Bursting

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

As the winter time approaches us it’s time to prepare and take precautions, when cold temperatures happen that can cause pipes to freeze and burst. Frozen Pipes can result in costly repairs to you as a home or business owner. The good news is there are ways to prevent pipes from freezing. Frozen pipes are a problem by themselves because they prevent water flow, but even worse, frozen pipes can eventually burst, causing damage and potential flooding. There are ways to protect your pipes from freezing. Here are some tips for this winter

Keeping your house warm – keeping your thermostat set above 50 degrees Fahrenheit at all times is a good idea. This should provide enough heat to keep the pipes warm and to prevent any water inside from freezing.

Opening faucets - When temps hit the freezing level it is a good idea to allow faucets to drip. Allowing With the faucet open you avoid blockage in the pipes.

Leave cabinet doors open- leaving cabinet doors open will help warm air flow to the pipes keeping them warm.

Seal leaks in your home- it’s important that there are no leaks in your home. If a leak is present it can allow cold air in causing your home to get cold and potentially bursting some pipes.

Insulation is important - Foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves can help reduce the chances of your pipes bursting so make sure you’re up to date with them.

SERVPRO® of Reston/Herndon is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us at 703-644-0620

What is Asbestos?

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Asbestos is known to be a very durable mineral and is recognized for its ability to stay airborne well after being disturbed, moved or damaged. The fact that asbestos is almost microscopic makes it hard to detect. Asbestos looks like sharpened needles, they tend to come in different colors. The most common one used in the United States is the chrysotile asbestoses. This one is mostly found in construction material such as roofing material, asphalt, vinyl tile, mastic and cement. Another type of asbestoses is Amosite; this one is mainly used for fire proofing. If asbestos is swallowed or inhaled it can cause several health problem including lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothioma. If you suspect asbestoses have been released in to the air or if you have been exposed to it you should take immediate action and have a specialist inspect the area for signs of asbestoses. SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon can help with asbestos testing and abatement so please give us a call. If you suspect asbestoses is present, our team will collect a sample and have it immediately tested to prevent further dangerous exposure. To learn more about asbestos visit this link https://www.asbestos.com/asbestos/

6 Things You Didn't Known About Mold

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

We all have heard about mold and how there are over 100,000 different types but here are some interesting things you might have missed.

1. Mold has been proven to help gardens grow.
2. Mold spreads quickly on walls and other surfaces because it requires growth to survive.
3. Bleach does not kill mold it just changes the color of it.
4. Mold tends to grow more in dark areas
5. Because mold looks a lot like mildew it’s often confused with it.
6. Mold can grow in dirty air ducts too, causing mold to circulate around.

To stay safe and healthy from mold check your home regularly. Make sure to check in your basement, ceilings, tiles, under carpets and showers. If mold is found have a professional check it out. Give SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon a call.

How to prepare for a fire incident in your workplace

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Nobody ever thinks or likes to prepare for a dangerous terrifying fire situation but in order to be safe in the office, you should know these simple strategies to safely confront a fire situation in your office.  Have your peers know these strategies since it can make a huge difference when a fire hazard arises.

• Have an evacuation plan and make sure to share it with the staff. Make sure this evacuation plan meets legal requirements. This plan should be customized to the unique size of your office workplace.
• Make sure all employees know how to properly use a fire extinguisher. Have proper training sessions on how to do so.
• Fire drills are very important. Have at least 2 a year with all the staff participating. This will help in planning out where all of you will meet in case of an actual fire situation. It’s important that everyone has an easy route to an escape exit; this drill will help establish this route.
• Keep smoke detectors up to date and make sure they are functional. Have a few around the office so the staff can hear them clearly in case of a fire. Make sure everyone knows what the fire alarm sounds like.
• In order to reduce potential hazards frequently check the conditions of electrical cables and replace them if they seem old or wear out. Take a look to see if they are overloaded.

Remember these strategies and practice them in your work place to keep everyone safe.  Have the plan somewhere visible such as the office break room or the office kitchen. Keep the plan and employees update in order to work in a safely planed office and in the case of a fire incident SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is a phone call away.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Table tent signs describing the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program on top of a wooden table.

Let us help you get back to business

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

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

Extensive training and specialized products

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

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

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

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

Call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon today at  (703) 471-6040 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.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help in these difficult times!

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 Reston/Herndon, 703-471-6040]

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

How to slow the spread of germs in your home

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

The kitchen sink is one of the dirtiest places in your home. Make sure to properly clean and sanitize it after use.

Did you know that with the right temperature and nutrients some certain types of bacteria can divide every 20 minutes? That is a lot of potential germs lurking in your home. There is no possible way to completely rid your home of germs and bacteria, but with the right knowledge, you can keep them from spreading. 

Before you can get rid of household germs you must know where to find them. You might automatically assume that the bathroom is the best place to start, but you would be wrong. In fact, the kitchen is usually the most contaminated room in the home. According to the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) “areas where food is stored or prepared had more bacteria and fecal contamination than other places in the home.” When cleaning your kitchen be sure to always clean the kitchen sink, countertops, the refrigerator, cutting boards, the coffee maker, and drawer handles. Use disinfectant wipes to clean these surfaces. Other good practices include heating damp sponges in the microwave for a minute to kill bacteria and washing your hands before and after handling food. 

Some other great places to clean throughout the entire house include:

• Doorknobs
• Wallets and phones
• Keys
• Purses
• Laundry (put in the dryer right after it is finished washing to stop germs from spreading)
• Remote controls
• Keyboards

The best practices to keep things clean are to use disinfecting wipes and bleach and water to clean items. It is also very helpful to use hand sanitizer on your hands and wash your hands as much as possible. 

Sources:

www.healthline.com/health/germy-places#good-habits

www.webmd.com/parenting/speed-cleaning-germs#1

Five ways to prevent a dryer fire

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

A home dryer fire.

Did you know that dryer fires are the cause of over 15,000 home fires each year? They are also the cause of about 190 million dollars worth of damage and 29 deaths every year. Laundry is an essential household task, but every homeowner must be made aware of the potential dangers that using dryers can create if not used properly. In this article, you will find a few best practices for safe dryer use.

1. Always remember to clean the lint trap. Do this every time you use the dryer! Not only will this help extend the efficiency of the dryer, but it's vital in preventing dryer fires.
2. Make sure that your dryer and the surrounding areas are free of any combustible materials. Make sure to constantly sweep and dust around the outside of the dryer to prevent lint and dust build-up. 
3. Make sure your outside dryer vent is clean. Make sure the flap is open and no snow or debris is blocking the opening of the vent.
4. Check your clothes. If your clothes aren’t dry or they are extra hot after a normal dry cycle it may be a sign that something is wrong with your dryer. Before you put in your next load make sure that your vents aren’t clogged and that your lint trap is clean.
5. Read the tags. Make sure you carefully look at the tags on your clothes and wash them accordingly. For example, if the tag says to wash on low don’t put the machine on high. 
6. Use a metal dryer duct. Plastic and other kinds of ducts can sag and collect lint and cause a fire hazard. Metal ducts don’t sag and they are more likely to contain a fire if one should start. 

Mold in the Airducts?

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

There is a lot of concern with Air Quality in today's homes and the possibility of it being compromised through mold.  Mold in your air ducts is not common.  If you can see or smell the mold, then it is a safe bet it is there and call SERVPRO to come and do the remediation.

If you can't see or smell it, then hire a qualified person to come and test for mold.  The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that there are no standards for what is an acceptable amount of mold; and that every home has a certain amount.

The company that inspects for mold can't be the same company that does the remediation.  This poses a potential conflict of interest.  Remediation can be as easy as a few hundred dollars to thousands.

Ice Dams

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Ice dams when snow melts.  The water runs down your roof and refreezes forming icicles. This only occurs when part of your roof warms to above 32 degrees F, warm enough to melt the snow, while the roof edge remains below freezing. When snow builds up on the roof the heat from inside the house will warm and melt the snow which runs down the roof side and refreezes. 

The water pools up and freezes back up under the shingles.  In some cases it can go mas high as 6 to 10 feet up the roof. Later as it melts, it drips through the roof and into your walls or worst yet your ceiling. 

Damage can be serious; Can cause peeling paint, rot, mold and more. The problem is most common after a heavy snow.

Hose Bib Winterization

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

To prevent damage to your home drain your outside hose bibs during the winter months!  If you don't you run the risk of water freezing in the pipes; then when the exterior hose bibs are turned on, they will attempt to push water through, breaking the pipes and flooding inside your walls. Last spring several Fort Belvoir families were inconvenienced by these burst pipes and the ensuing repairs. Your hose bibs have been equipped with anti-siphon devices to prevent your pipes from storing – and subsequently freezing – excess water.

***** Always disconnect hoses from the exterior hose bib faucets. *****

If you use your faucets during the winter months make certain to drain the hose bib of any excess water. 

If you do not expect to use the outdoor faucets during the winter months, we advise that you drain the hose bibs and shut off the water line from inside your home.

This simple process can save you a lot of aggravation and money.

Storm Damage Prevention and Pruning

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage - Maintenance - Landscape plants - Edward F. Gilman - UF/IFAS

There is no doubt trees can cause damage and be damaged in storms. However, appropriately placed and maintained trees can help reduce damage to structures in storms by deflecting wind, and reduce damage to trees. Appropriate actions includes proper placement and planting, and structural pruning prior to the storm. Species selection can also be somewhat helpful in avoiding some damage. Actions in the weeks and years following a strong storm can help bring damaged trees back to health.

Pruning - Landscape plants - Edward F. Gilman - UF/IFAS

New research on effects of pruning trees on wind damage was recently conducted.  Five trees were pruned by either 1. doing nothing (controls), 2. reducing crown size, 3. raising the crown, or 4. thinning the crown for a total of 20 trees. The same amount of greenery was removed from each tree. All of the trees were blown with winds reaching 120 mph. These results support usage of structural pruning as a preventive method to reduce tree damage.

Smoke Detector Checks Are Key

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

Checking the batteries and the status of your smoke detectors regularly is so much more important than the average home owner thinks it is.

We know they are checked before you rent or buy a house.  We know they are checked when you sell a home.  These legal steps have been added for your protection, so get in the habit of taking the extra steps necessary of checking them periodically and log it somewhere.

One of the first items mentioned when a residential fire happens if there is an injury or fatality; is that the smoke detectors were or were not operable. Something so simple can save hundreds of dollars in damage and maybe even a life.  

Some states have now required detectors that have sealed batteries guaranteed active for 10 years, Maryland recently enacted the law.  Take the time to check the status of your detector and test it on a regular basis. 

Reston/Herndon Fire, Smoke, and Soot Cleanup

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Reston/ Herndon will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 703-471-6040

Fire Pit Safety

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

One of the newest “items to have” for both summer and winter months is a Fire Pit.  Fire pits come in various shapes and materials, brick, metal, concrete and more.  Many individuals are even constructing their own fire pits based on pictures that they see, or out of sheer desire and creativity.  Fire pits can be propane or wood burning or natural gas.  Please note Propane and Natural Gas are NOT  the same.

 While a fire pit may be the new “must-have” item in home and garden, users must remember to implement detailed safety practices for users to maintain. This may include using a poker, log grabber, or shovel when adjusting burning logs or assuring that enough space exists between seats and the pit so that pedestrians may easily walk by.

Please remember: do not leave a lit or burning fire pit unattended. Wind may blow fumes and embers into surrounding areas which may create a significant fire hazard.  Please also note that embers can remain a fire hazard for days if not adequately dealt with, so double check before leaving the fire pit that there is no residual heat present.

Mold Problems?

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.  
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business. If you suspect mold, call us today at 703-644-0620.

Water Nightmares

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage occurs when excess water begins to pool in areas where it shouldn’t. This issue may arise due to bursting or leaking pipes, faulty or malfunctioning household appliances, or a natural disaster or weather related issue. One appliance that frequently causes water damage in homes is the washing machine. Homeowners leave washing machines unattended to complete other chores throughout the house or even fall asleep until the next morning. DO NOT MAKE THIS MISTAKE! In some instances, washing machines may fail to transition from the “filling stage” and continue to fill with water until the water is shut off. This causes water to overflow from the machine and begin to fill the house.

It only takes minutes for water to quickly spread throughout the property, saturating everything in its path. Water may be absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings, furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets, and photographs, books, and other paper goods may swell and warp.  If you are unfortunate enough to have to face water damage in your home, don’t do it alone. Contact SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon, your regional flood specialist, at 703-471-6040.

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

Drywall Dust

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

There is not a single builder, contractor or home owner that does not hit a frustration level with the dust that dissipates from dry wall work. IT GETS EVERYWHERE!  Well I am happy to say that SERVPRO can help the largest of jobs with this issue and will make sure it is a "non-issue" at the smaller jobs where we have our own Rebuild Division do the drywall work.

So contractors take note that if your time is getting short and your deadline creeping up on you then call SERVPRO to come out and get that dust out of your way you you can complete your work!  We can install additional barriers if you want us to work while you work... no time lost at all.  In tight situations we can even double up the work crews so you close your contract on time.

Call SERVPRO to help and free your Maintenance Crews for other jobs

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial fire after debris removed

Many many times at commercial properties the Maintenance Crew(s) stay busy doing the many jobs necessary to take cake of the Units and Property.  

Depending on the size of your property and the number of your Units, this can be overwhelming.  Particularly if there has been a storm or natural disaster.  Don't let your Maintenance Crews burn themselves out trying to keep up with a task SERVPRO can come take off of their shoulders and free their hands for tasks that we don't do.  If multiple units are affected, we have a warehouse full of equipment to get the job done.  Better to let us help and get it done right than to try and do as much as you can risking a shortage of equipment to complete the drying process of wet and damaged debris sitting in a unit longer than it needs to.

When mold sets in your drywall

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can cause health problems and should removed as soon as it is noticed. The method used to remove mold from drywall varies on a number of issues including whether or not the drywall is coated. If it is, then cleaning it with water and a cleansing agent should work. If it is not, then that section of drywall must be removed since it is too porous to clean.

SERVPRO Technicians take specialization courses and a Certified to idenify and remove mold.  They know when it is necessary to remove the materials and drywall and when cleaning and sanitizing with chemicals is the best method to not only rid your home of mold, but keep it out!   

SERVPRO gives a warranty with every one of their services and that does include mold remediation.  Sometime the Insurance Company not only covers the process but has a warranty tailored to that company in an agreement for using SERVPRO as a Preferred Vendor.   

Prevent Basement Mold and Odors

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

Mold sets around pipes in the basement

Basements and crawl spaces are the most problematic areas for mold and mildew.  This usually results in odor and stains.  There are measure that you can take to prevent this from happening.  By doing so you can actually improve your air quality.

* Excessive moisture builds up from every day infiltration and every day activities. WATCH for the moisture and do not let it sit...wipe the area dry.

* POOR ventilation can lead to excess moisture.  Put a fan in the area to circulate the air and dry the area out. If that does not help you may want to have a professional  give an estimate on adding proper ventilation to the area.

* Tighter homes trap moisture, so if your home is close to the adjacent house check to make sure the area between the homes is getting air, light and drying out.

* Natural air flow pulls the pollutants up into the living areas affecting the whole house.  Take the measures to watch and monitor your air quality. 

Electrical Safety Counterfeit Products Portable Heaters

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

• More than 3,000 electrical fires are caused by extension cords each year, resulting in 50 deaths and 270 injuries.
• Large appliances cause nearly 20 percent of consumer-product electrocutions annually.
• U.S. Customs confiscates more than $3 million in consumer electrical products each year, and explains that products with counterfeit certification marks, including CSA, UL and ETL, have not been tested for shock and fire hazards.

Sales of electrical products increase during the winter months.  Sales of Counterfeit Electrical products is on the rise, these items have not met the testing and safety standards and can result in injury, death and property damage.  Purchase your products from reputable dealers and check for certification marks.

PORTABLE HEATER SAFETY:

• Keep all furniture, draperies, and other household objects at least three feet from the in-wall fan heaters and 12 inches from baseboard heaters.
• Keep portable space heaters at least three feet away from all flammable materials, such as furniture and draperies. ? Plug portable space heaters directly into the outlet; do not use an extension cord.
• If an in-wall or baseboard heater is shut off at the circuit breaker, be sure to lock or tag the circuit breaker to prevent someone from inadvertently turning it back on.
• Some portable space heaters, electric in-wall fan heaters and baseboard heaters have been subject to product recalls. Check your brand and model number and visit www.cpsc.gov for possible information about your heater.

Winter Storm Damage and Personal Safety

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

There are a number of different ways that winter storms can impact a region and the residents. Winter storms are considered deceptive killers because most deaths are not directly related to the storm itself. People could get in an automobile accident on icy roads, have a heart attack while shoveling snow, or suffer frostbite or hypothermia from prolonged exposure to the cold.

Wind - Some winter storms have extremely strong winds that can create blizzard conditions with blinding, wind driven snow, drifting, and dangerous wind chills. These intense winds can bring down trees and poles, and can also cause damage to homes and other buildings. Heavy snow accumulations can immobilize a region and  strand motorists, and disrupt emergency services. 

Ice - Heavy ice accumulations can bring down objects like trees, utility poles and lines, and communication towers. Even a small amount of ice can cause hazardous conditions for motorists. 

Cold - Extremely cold temperatures risk exposure to infants and the elderly.  The severe cold can be potentially life-threatening and cause hypothermia and frostbite. 

Wind Chill is how the wind and cold actually feel on exposed skin. As the wind increases, heat is carried away from the body driving down the body temperature. 

Frostbite is damage to body tissue caused by extreme cold.  If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately. Slowly re-warm affected areas. 

Hypothermia is a condition when the body temperature drops to less than 95°F, and it can be fatal.  Warning signs include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion. 

Water Damage and Category type

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration sets three categories of water that cause damage in buildings. They are summarized as follows: 
Category 1 Water - Refers to a source of water that does not pose substantial threat to humans and classified as "Clean Water". Category 1 water may become contaminated if it mixes with soils or floor coverings, building assemblies, etc... Time and temperature can promote growth and amplification of microorganisms in water can cause Category 1 water to degrade.

Examples of category 1 water are: a broken water supply line (including the toilet), and tub or sink overflows. 

Category 2 Water - Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants.  These contaminants can cause discomfort or sickness when exposed or consumed. This water type carries micro organisms and is nicknamed "Gray water."

Examples of catagory 2 water are:  toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, dishwasher water discharge, and washing machine water discharge. 

Category 3 Water - Nicknamed "Black Water" and are grossly unsanitary. These indoor water sources  contain unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness.

Examples of type 3 water are:  water sources from sewage, seawater, stream or river water, ground surface water or standing water. 

Category 2 Water that is not promptly removed and remained stagnant may be re classified as Category 3 Water. Toilet back-ups that originate from beyond the toilet trap is considered black water contamination regardless of visible content or color.

Knowing the classification of your water may help you understand personal safety concerns and the necessary material and debris removal anticipated.

Reaching out to Businesses; make RELIABILITY and Service Quality a "Given" in delivery

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO recognize that when your business needs assistance that the clock is ticking.  It might be a general cleaning or inspection that can be scheduled...or it might be a major water issue with a broken pipe or sewage back up where response time is critical.  We guarantee our service time after we confirm the service needs when you contact us!  

If you are in Property Management or if you are a Warehouse or any other business... we make sure to understand your concerns before and after we arrive on site. Water, Mold, Fire, Cleaning, Asbestos, Storm related or Independent we do prioritize your situation to get your business back to normal and functional to the best of our ability.  If needed we even do the rebuild.  Top quality work, fast response and completely reliable; that is our commitment to you.

Schedule your Building Hallway and Common Area Carpet Cleanings with your Budget Submissions

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

New carpet or flooring for your office, common areas and those highly trafficked hallways can take a huge bite out of your annual budget.  Granted that the atmosphere needs to stay updated so replacement will need to happen at some point, but weather like rain and snow is predictable and brings wear and tear that will challenge the highest quality fibers in any carpet.

Schedule the care and maintenance of your carpets with the submission of your annual budget.  This will reduce the likeliness of your need to replace carpets and revitalizes the look of your areas.  Our products sanitize the cleaned areas and leave a pleasant and refreshing smell.  We are  happy to customize estimates at your request and recommend what we think will be the best maintenance for your areas.  One size does NOT fit all when it comes to taking care of your carpet needs. Studies also support the health benefits of maintaining a cleaner environment.  

SERVPRO is there to help Contractors from Concrete Dust Removal to Water Mitigation

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

Attention General Contractors: We understand your business and many times the customer wanted their job completed "Yesterday."  SERVPRO can help!  We can help with many of the unique challenges from concrete dust removal, mold remediation, odor control, fire cleanup, structural drying and of course water mitigation.  We have our crews on standby 24/7 to help your crews!

If that broken water valve flooded your work zone and you need it dried ASAP we will put the crews and equipment you need "On the job" to get it done!  If you don't have power in the building yet, we have the capability of providing our own to ensure the job is completed.  

We have the personnel to mitigate from some of the toughest situations.  Safety always comes first, all the necessary precautions are taken in every situation but rest assured... we will get the job done and done right!

Choose SERVPRO for your Commercial Fire needs.

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

Fires bring a number of circumstances and needs from the smallest, to some of the most significant.  Smoke damage with the absence of fire can be a monumental loss... well SERVPRO can handle it all from the removal of goods to the rebuild of the Facility and Residential areas. 

We have trained crews to remove the debris, other crews specialize in the pack out of contents and personal property of those affected, a warehouse to store the items removed, and highly trained cleaning crews for all of the soot and water issues resulting from the fire and chemicals needed to extinguish the flames. 

Then when the building has been properly dried and the debris removed, SERVPRO does the complete rebuild.  You don't have to shop around or wait for someone to fit you into their schedule, we have your back.  Check our testimonials, even the Fire Departments call us to help after a fire.

Hoarding and Fire Safety

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Departments are finding that hoarding causes issues with evacuating the residence and higher risks for adjoining properties.

NFPA - Hoarding and fire safety

The excessive accumulation of materials in homes poses a significant threat to firefighters fighting fires and responding to other emergencies in these homes and to residents and neighbors. Often, the local fire department will be contacted to help deal with this serious issue. Since studies suggest that between three and five percent of the population are compulsive hoarders, fire departments must become familiar with this issue and how to effectively handle it.

NFPA - Hoarding and fire safety

• Hoarding can be a fire hazard. Many occupants die in fires in these homes. Often, blocked exits prevent escape from the home. In addition, many people who are hoarding are injured when they trip over things or when materials fall on them.
• Responding firefighters can be put at risk due to obstructed exits, falling objects, and excessive fire loading that can lead to collapse. Hoarding makes fighting fires and searching for occupants far more difficult.
• Those living adjacent to an occupied structure can be quickly affected when a fire occurs, due to excessive smoke and fire conditions.

Storms can cause major roof damage

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

Your roof can take a severe beating during a storm.  It is important to get out and inspect your roof after a storm to inspect for any potential damage.

Wind may be the number one culprit.  High winds can tear shingles off as well as the metal fascia pieces that protect your chimney and other components.

Tree limbs and other debris can tear shingles and fall through the roof potentially exposing the inside your home exposed for further damage.

Hail damage to the roof can be severe.  Shingles can be loosened appearing in tact, when in fact the winds can lift them up and water can seep under the cracks into your home with potential mold and moisture issues.

Remove potential hazards to your roof, try to do regular inspections, its even worth having a contractor come out if you have serious concerns. 

Turn off your main water valve before going on vacation!

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

Even a broken or frozen water line to the toilet can cost thousands in damages!

Nothing can ruin a vacation faster than a phone call alerting you to catastrophic damage to your house, or returning to a home that has been sitting in water due to a broken/frozen pipe or a hot water heater that defaulted into a flood. Turn off your main water valve before going on vacation! 

If you are traveling during the winter it is also a good idea to drain the lines too.  It is easy to drain the lines by simply turning on a faucet on the main floor or in the basement.  If you do not know where your main valve is, ask your plumber.  It is also a great idea to make sure that the valve works.

If for any reason you are not able to turn it off yourself sometimes the water company will shut it off for you.  This simple act can prevent thousands of dollars of damages.

Should you remove or repair drywall that has visible mold?

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

Removing moldy drywall is almost always recommended for highly infected areas. If the core of the drywall is starting to disintegrate or the paper is peeling off then definitely get it replaced.

If you see black mold, you may want to get it tested, just know that not all black mold is toxic.  Place your safety first if you do try to remediate it yourself and if you need help with the rebuild we have a division that will come out and patch/replace the affected area.

If you do decide to have the mold tested then get a quote before you commit to remediating.  Sometimes it is equally as cost effective to remove and replace the affected drywall, then there is no need for testing at all.  We recommend getting quotes for both.

Holiday Fires are twice as likely

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

The Holiday Season is the most deadly and costly time of the year with regard to fires.

The  U.S. Fire Administration reports more than double the  number of open flame fires on Christmas Day than the average day.  Property loss in a Holiday Fire is about 34% greater than in a regular fire, and loss of life is and fatalities is about 70% higher if the cause is a Christmas Tree. 

*One if every four Christmas Tree fires is due to Electrical problems. 

*A heat source too close to the tree causes 1 in every four Christmas Tree fires.

*The top 3 days for Candle Fires are Christmas, New Year's Day and Christmas Eve.

*Candles start 2 out of 5 Home Decoration fires.

Mak and effort nto get Holiday, candle and "Christmas tree fire" Safety outreach materials.

What to do About Frozen Water Pipes

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Protecting your pipes in the bathroom can prevent a major water loss.

What to Do About Frozen Water Pipes

By T.D. Powell, Business Development Manager SERVPRO of RESTON/HERNDON

The damage caused by frozen water pipes and the subsequent leaks that may be caused can be catastrophic. The water damages themselves can cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair. Filing a claim with your homeowner’s insurance carrier can lead to higher deductibles and premiums, or cancellation of the insurance itself. Untreated, the water damage can become water rot, or mold which can be hazardous to your family’s health.

The fact is that the frozen pipe generally blocks the flow of water through the pipe. The growth of the ice blocks and splits the pipe itself. Once thawed the leak occurs. Obviously, when this happens, call SERVPRO of Reston/ Herndon for fast response, water cleanup, drying, and treatment to inhibit possible mold development.

I have listed suggestions to minimize the chance of a frozen pipe and water leak in the first place.

-Identify areas where pipes may be located on outside walls, ceilings, crawl spaces, etc. Seal gaps around the home where cold air penetration may come in contact with piping.

-Locate the main shutoff valve as well as individual shutoffs for outside hose bibs. Allow hose bibs to remain on slightly and drain after the inside has been shut off.

-Open kitchen and bath vanity doors to allow ambient warm air to circulate especially to cabinets on outside walls that may have pipes running through them.

- DO NOT attempt to thaw pipes with electric heaters, hair dryers, or open flames. Warm air circulation, time and patience will allow the pipe to thaw gradually. You can contact a plumber, although most reputable companies will tell you it is time consuming and expensive for the technician to thaw your pipes. 

Tips for Homeowners: Protecting Your Reston / Herndon Home from Storm Damage

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know: Fall is the second most severe weather season?

Are you prepared to protect your home from storm damage?

No clue? No worries! Check out our heroes' tips for preventing storm damage to your Virginia home.

Take these precautions to prevent structural damage outside of your home and water damage inside of your home:

• Pay close attention to any trees that could fall on your house during a storm. Keep your trees trimmed regularly, and immediately remove all dead, diseased, and hanging branches.
• Lock, seal, and board your windows.
• Store your outside belongings- plants, furniture, bikes, etc. in your garage or another storage space inside your home. Remove or secure anything that can become a projectile during heavy wind storms.
• Secure your gutters and downspouts and fix any defects. Neglected leaks can cause significant and costly flooding and water damage to your home.
• Prepare for potential evacuation. Pack your essentials and store them in an easily accessible location in your home.

Unfortunately, no matter how much you prepare, severe storms may yield consequences beyond your control. On the bright side, however, our heroes are here to help with your fire and water cleanup and restoration needs 365 days a year, 24 hours a day! If you fall victim to storm damage, contact SERVPRO of Springfield / Mt. Vernon for your storm cleanup needs.

Tips for Virginia Homeowners: Be Storm Ready

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Reston / Herndon provides emergency relief from any size disaster-- 24 hours a day, 365 days a year!

Hopefully you have followed our steps to protecting your home from potential storm damage, but in the case of emergency evacuation, are you prepared?

Regardless of the severity of a storm, it is imperative that you have an emergency ready kit and plan in place in case a storm requires you to leave your home.

The following is a list of essentials to include in your emergency ready kit:

• Important documents-- identification, insurance policies, etc.
• 1 gallon of water, per person, per day
• 3-day supply of non perishable food
• Flashlight and batteries
• First-aid kit-- antiseptic wipes, antibacterial ointment, adhesive bandages, tweezers, etc.
• Extra clothing
• Dust mask and/or scarf
• Plastic sheeting
• Heavy-duty tape
• Matches (sealed in waterproof container)

Although these essentials may sustain an individual or household, it is important to prepare your business as well. We understand the significant demands of this task, and our heroes are here to help.

Is your business ready for whatever could happen?

Contact SERVPRO of Reston / Herndon to set up your company’s FREE Emergency Ready Profile today!

Tips for Virginia Property Managers: Why Your Company Needs an Emergency Ready Program

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

Of the 50% of businesses that survive disasters, nearly 100% had an emergency preparedness plan in place. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP), you can achieve security and peace of mind by knowing what to do before the disaster. In addition to timely mitigation and reduced property damage, allowing SERVPRO of Reston/ Herndon to create a plan for your company offers the following benefits:

1. 100% free- The ERP comes at no cost to your company.
2. Quick and convenient reference of critical information in case of emergency.
3. Personal introduction to SERVPRO of Reston / Herndon as your fire and water cleanup and restoration provider.
4. Save time- minimize the time your company spends inactive after a disaster; also expedite the mitigation process with an immediate plan of action.

Ready to get started? Contact us to schedule your free facility assessment today!

Tips for Homeowners: Preventing Water Damage to Your Home in Reston/ Herndon, VA

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

Home flooded in Reston, VA

Avoid the cost and hassle of severe water leaks! Follow SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon's simple tips to prevent water damage in your home.

• Clean your gutters at least twice a year to avoid costly gutter damage. Defective, clogged downspouts can cause severe water damage to your home- including rot, mold, and basement flooding. Be especially cautious after heavy rain and snow storms to ensure that your spouts are properly secured and that no residual water remains to seep into your house.

• Disconnect idle water hoses. This protects your home against busted pipes, damaged walls, and flooded floors.

• Maintain appliance pipes and hoses. In our professional restoration experience, defective pipes and leaky hoses are among the most frequent causes of water loss. Be sure to replace yours regularly to prevent significant water damage.

• Install a water detector. A water detector will immediately alert you at the sign of water damage. Our professionally trained restoration crew suggests that homeowners install this device close to areas most prone to water damage i.e. water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers, toilets, etc. This prevention method will protect both your home and your pockets from the physical and financial costs of water remediation.

• Monitor your water bill and water pressure. Too high water pressure can cause erected pipes and hoses. Likewise, irregular water bills can point to problems with the water flow in your home. Act immediately on any signs of water damage or leaks to prevent mold, mildew, and other water disasters.

If you have any questions, or if you need our help in protecting your home against water damage, contact us today at (703) 471-6040. Our heroes are ready to help 24/7!

Mold Prevention Tips for your Reston/Herndon Home

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

When flood and other water intrusions are not handled appropriately, the resulting water damage can cause harmful mold growth. Do not allow mold to grow in your home or place of business. Be alert and take the following precautions:

• Maintain low humidity levels- install an air conditioner or dehumidifier to keep humidity below 50%, and check the humidity levels more than once a day.
• Maintain ventilation in your home and be sure to use fans that vent outside of your home. This will prevent the areas in your home from becoming excessively moist.
• Immediately repair leaks in your home’s roof and walls. The only thing mold needs to grow is water. Keeping your pipes sealed and floors dry will starve mold of its primary food source.
• Renovating your home? Decluttering? Use mold-inhibiting paint and cleaners.
• Recent flood? Call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon to provide top of the line water removal services to prevent water damage.

Call us at (703) 471-6040 to schedule an appointment for our Mold Remediation Services. We are happy to provide 24/7 water cleanup and restoration services in Reston/ Herndon, VA.

Stop, Drop, and Call SERVPRO: Fire Damage DOs and DON’Ts for Virginia Homeowners

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

Are you a homeowner or property manager in Reston/ Herndon, VA? In the case of a fire, do you know what to do before help arrives? Regardless of your fire cleanup and restoration knowledge, allow us to help you minimize the damage to your home as you await the arrival of emergency service professionals.

The first 48 hours after a fire disaster can make all the difference between fire cleanup and restoration versus complete replacement of your property and belongings.

Check out these tips for fire damage prevention to your Virginia home:

DO:

• Limit movement of persons and furniture to prevent soot particles from settling into your home.
• Prevent soiled furniture by covering upholstered belongings with clean towels or old linens.
• Remove soot from chrome faucets, trim, and appliances.
  
  

DO NOT:

• Attempt to clean walls or painted surfaces without contacting SERVPRO.
• Shampoo carpet or upholstery without consulting fire cleanup professionals.
• Clean or repair electrical equipment.
• Clean clothes- improper cleaning may permanently stain clothes with soot and smoke odor.

In the case of a house fire, remove yourself from the property as quickly as possible, call 911, then call SERVPRO of Reston/ Herndon-- your trusted Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration experts. Our professional staff can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems in your home. We provide fast response to any size disaster, with services ranging from fire cleanup to contents claim inventory and document restoration.

Call us with your fire restoration needs - (703) 471-6040. We offer our 24-hour emergency cleanup services 365 days a year.

Does Your Reston or Herndon Home Have A Mold Problem?

3/17/2017 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

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

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 703-471-6040

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO ofReston/ Herndon for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Reston/ Herndon specializes in mold cleanup and restoration; in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.