Tips for a Mold-Free Home Renovation

11/9/2023 (Permalink)

Whether you're planning a minor remodeling project or a full-scale home renovation, it's important to be aware of the potential risks of mold growth.

Whether you're planning a minor remodeling project or a full-scale home renovation, it's important to be aware of the potential risks of mold growth during the process. In this blog, we will share essential tips to help you achieve a mold-free home renovation while maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Read on to discover how you can safeguard your renovation project from mold-related issues.

1. Start with a Solid Plan

Before embarking on your home renovation, create a well-thought-out plan that considers potential moisture sources and areas prone to mold growth. Identify any existing mold issues and address them before starting the renovation. This proactive approach will minimize the chances of mold spreading during the construction process.

2. Maintain Proper Moisture Control

Moisture is the main contributor to mold growth. During your renovation, it's essential to control moisture levels to prevent mold from developing. Here are a few measures you can take:

Ensure Proper Ventilation: Properly ventilate high-moisture areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms by installing exhaust fans. Proper airflow helps reduce excessive moisture accumulation.

Utilize Dehumidifiers: In spaces where humidity can be a challenge, such as basements or crawl spaces, consider using dehumidifiers to maintain an optimal moisture level.

Control Water Intrusion: Protect your renovation site from water intrusion by addressing any leaks, properly sealing windows and doors, and ensuring proper drainage around the property.

3. Monitor Humidity Levels

Keeping a close eye on humidity levels within your home is crucial during a renovation. High humidity levels create a favorable environment for mold growth. Consider using hygrometers to monitor humidity and maintain levels below 60%. This simple tool can help you detect and address any moisture issues before they escalate.

4. Properly Dry Materials and Surfaces

During the renovation process, it's common for construction materials and surfaces to become wet due to plumbing work, moisture from building materials, or accidental spills. Ensure that all wet surfaces and materials are thoroughly dried before proceeding with the renovation. This will prevent mold from thriving and spreading.

5. Professional Mold Remediation

If, despite your best efforts, you discover mold during the renovation, it's crucial to address it promptly. Contact a professional mold remediation service like SERVPRO® of The Seacoast to ensure proper containment, removal, and remediation. Our experts will employ specialized equipment and techniques to effectively eliminate mold from your property, providing a clean and healthy environment for your renovation project.

A mold-free home renovation is essential to maintaining a healthy indoor environment in your New Hampshire property. By following these tips and being vigilant during the renovation process, you can significantly minimize the risk of mold growth. Remember, if you encounter mold issues, it's best to seek professional assistance to ensure a thorough and safe remediation process. Contact SERVPRO® of The Seacoast for trusted mold remediation services. Enjoy your renovation journey while keeping mold at bay!

Expert Cleaning Tips for Water-Damaged Upholstery

10/14/2023 (Permalink)

it's essential to address the damage quickly to prevent permanent damage and ensure the safety and longevity of your furniture.

Water-damaged upholstery can be a significant headache for homeowners. Whether it's from a leaky roof or a plumbing issue, water damage can leave your furniture sopping wet, dirty, and even foul-smelling. However, it's essential to address the damage quickly to prevent permanent damage and ensure the safety and longevity of your furniture.

In this post, we will share expert tips on how to clean water-damaged upholstery for safety and longevity. Follow these techniques to restore your upholstery to its pre-damaged condition and maintain its lifespan.

Assessing the Damage

Before starting the cleaning process, it is essential to evaluate the extent of the damage and identify potential issues.

• Take an inventory of the affected furniture, making a note of the material, age, and condition.
• Look for signs of mold growth, as damp upholstery is an ideal environment for mold to grow.
• Check for any signs of structural damage or instability, such as softened, warped, or broken wood frames.
• Once you have assessed the damage, you'll have a better idea of how to proceed with the cleaning process.

Cleaning Methods

Cleaning water-damaged upholstery requires careful attention to detail and particular cleaning techniques. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Removing Excess Water

The first step is to remove any water from the upholstery to prevent further damage. Here's how to do it:

• Use a wet-dry vacuum to extract large amounts of water.
• Place a clean, dry towel over the affected area and press down to absorb as much water as possible.
• Do not use any heat sources such as hairdryers, as this can cause shrinking and damage to the upholstery.

2. Cleaning Solutions

Different types of upholstery require different types of cleaning solutions. Here are some tips to help you choose the right cleaning solution:

• For natural fabric upholstery, mix equal parts white vinegar and distilled water. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and shake well before use.
• For leather, mix a mild soap with distilled water. Avoid using solvents or harsh chemicals as they can cause permanent damage.
• For synthetic fabrics, refer to the manufacturer's instructions, as some types of fabric require specific cleaning products.

3. Spot Cleaning

Once you have the right cleaning solution, it's time to spot-clean any stains or marks on the upholstery. Here's what to do:

• Spray the cleaning solution on the affected area.
• Use a clean, white towel to blot the spot, starting from the outside and working your way inwards.
• Do not rub the stain as this can spread it.

4. Deep Cleaning

After spot cleaning, it's time to deep clean the upholstery. Here's what to do:

• Spray the cleaning solution over the entire piece of furniture, including the cushions, armrests, and backrest.
• Use a soft-bristled brush to work the solution into the fabric, focusing on dirtier areas.
• Allow the furniture to air-dry thoroughly. Do not use a heater or fan as this can cause shrinkage or damage.

Drying Techniques

Drying your water-damaged upholstery properly is crucial to prevent further damage and mold growth. Here's what to do:

• Ensure the furniture is in a well-ventilated area with good air circulation.
• Use fans or dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process.
• If the furniture is not drying properly, consider hiring a professional who can use specialized drying equipment.

Safety Precautions

Cleaning water-damaged upholstery requires extra precautions to ensure safety. Here are some safety measures to keep in mind:

• Wear protective gear such as gloves, eye goggles, and face masks to avoid mold spores or chemicals from getting into your eyes or lungs.
• Avoid mixing cleaning chemicals as they can cause dangerous fumes.
• Keep children and pets away from the affected area until it is completely dry and safe.

Professional Cleaning Services

If the water damage is extensive or you are not confident in cleaning the furniture yourself, consider hiring professional upholstery cleaning services, such as our SERVPRO® of The Seacoast team. Our team of professionals has specialized equipment and training to clean furniture that has been damaged by water or mold safely.

Water-damaged upholstery can be a significant headache for homeowners, but it doesn't have to be. With the right cleaning techniques and maintenance tips, you can restore your furniture to its original condition and ensure its longevity. Follow these expert tips for safety and longevity, and enjoy your furniture for years to come.

Emergency Communication: Setting Up a Family Communication Plan

9/7/2023 (Permalink)

Have a family communication plan in place incase of an emergency is important to ensure your safe.

During times of emergency, effective communication is vital for the safety and well-being of your family. Whether it's a natural disaster, a medical emergency, or any other unexpected event, having a well-established family communication plan is essential. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of setting up a family communication plan to ensure that everyone stays connected and informed during emergencies.

Create a Contact List

Start by creating a comprehensive contact list for all family members. Include their full names, phone numbers, and any relevant medical information or allergies. Additionally, include the contact information for emergency services and any out-of-town relatives or friends who can assist in case of regional disasters.

Choose a Primary and Secondary Meeting Place

Identify a primary meeting place where your family can gather in case of an emergency near your home, such as a designated room or a specific spot outside. This location should be easily accessible and safe. In addition, choose a secondary meeting place, preferably outside your immediate neighborhood, in case you cannot reach the primary meeting place.

Establish Communication Channels

Determine the communication channels you will use during emergencies. This can include phone calls, text messages, social media, or email. Take into account that during large-scale emergencies, network congestion might make it difficult to rely solely on phone calls.

Assign specific roles and responsibilities to each family member. For example, designate one person as the emergency contact who will be responsible for communicating with relatives and updating them on your family's status. Assign someone to be in charge of gathering emergency supplies, and another person to be in charge of pets or small children.

Practice and Rehearse

Regularly practice and rehearse your family communication plan to ensure that everyone is familiar with it. Conduct drills or simulations to test its effectiveness. This will help identify any weaknesses or areas that need improvement.

Keep up-to-date with emergency alerts and warnings through local news channels, radio, or official emergency management websites. Many communities offer notification systems that send alerts directly to your phone, so sign up for those services.

Secure Important Documents

Make copies of important documents, such as identification cards, passports, insurance policies, and medical records. Store them in a secure location, either in a fireproof and waterproof safe or on a cloud-based storage system. This ensures that you can quickly access these essential documents in case of an emergency.

Periodically review and update your family communication plan. Regularly update contact information, revise meeting places if needed, and adjust responsibilities as necessary. It's crucial to keep this plan relevant and up-to-date.

Having a well-thought-out family communication plan is a proactive way to ensure that everyone stays connected and informed during times of emergency. By creating a contact list, establishing meeting places, choosing communication channels, and regularly reviewing and updating the plan, you are taking important steps to protect and care for your family during challenging times. Remember, effective communication is key, so invest the time and effort to establish a comprehensive family communication plan—it may make all the difference when it matters most.

Common Issues Uncovered During Fire Sprinkler System Maintenance and How to Address Them

8/19/2023 (Permalink)

Taking care of a fire sprinkler system through regular maintenance is a responsibility that should not be overlooked.

Fire sprinkler systems are a critical line of defense against fires, providing valuable protection for homes and properties. To ensure these systems function reliably when needed, regular maintenance is essential. During routine inspections, professional technicians often uncover common issues that, if left unaddressed, could compromise the system's effectiveness. In this blog, we will explore these common issues in more depth and provide helpful guidance on how home and property owners can address them to maintain the optimal performance of their fire sprinkler systems.

Corrosion and Rust Buildup

Corrosion and rust buildup are common issues in fire sprinkler systems, particularly in older properties or those exposed to harsh environmental conditions. Corroded pipes and sprinkler heads can hinder water flow and reduce the system's overall efficiency. The presence of rust can also contaminate the water supply, making it less effective in fighting fires.

Addressing the Issue:

To combat corrosion and rust buildup, property owners should prioritize using corrosion-resistant materials for replacement pipes and sprinkler heads. Regular pipe flushing is also essential to remove sediment and minimize the risk of rust accumulation. Engaging professional technicians who have experience in dealing with corrosion-related issues will ensure the proper assessment and repair of affected components.

Obstructed Sprinkler Heads

Over time, sprinkler heads can accumulate dust, dirt, or debris, leading to blockages that compromise their functionality during a fire emergency. Obstructed sprinkler heads may not distribute water evenly, leaving certain areas inadequately protected.

Addressing the Issue:

Property owners should schedule routine inspections and cleaning of sprinkler heads to ensure they remain clear of any obstructions. Technicians can use specialized tools and techniques to remove debris without causing damage. In environments prone to dust or debris accumulation, installing protective covers on sprinkler heads can help maintain their effectiveness.

Leaks or Damaged Pipe Joints

Leaking pipes or damaged joints can cause water wastage and reduce the water pressure within the fire sprinkler system. This decrease in water pressure compromises the system's ability to effectively suppress fires.

Addressing the Issue:

Inspections should include a thorough check of pipe joints for signs of leakage or damage. Prompt repair or replacement of any damaged sections is vital to prevent further deterioration. Utilizing pipe sealants or joint compounds can also be beneficial in preventing leaks from occurring.

Inadequate Water Pressure

Insufficient water pressure within the fire sprinkler system can hinder its ability to provide adequate coverage during a fire event. Low water pressure may result from various factors, including water supply issues or clogged pipes.

Addressing the Issue:

Regularly testing water pressure is critical to ensure it meets the manufacturer's specifications. Property owners should collaborate with certified professionals to evaluate the water supply and recommend suitable solutions to address any water pressure issues. Installing pressure-regulating devices can also help maintain consistent water pressure within the system.

Improperly Positioned Sprinkler Heads

Misaligned or improperly positioned sprinkler heads can lead to uneven water distribution, leaving certain areas vulnerable to fire damage.

Addressing the Issue:

Property owners should conduct visual inspections to verify that all sprinkler heads are properly positioned and oriented correctly. If any misalignments are detected, immediate corrective action should be taken. Technicians can reposition or realign sprinkler heads as needed, ensuring comprehensive coverage and maximum effectiveness.

Blocked Fire Sprinkler System Control Valves

The control valves are crucial components of fire sprinkler systems, responsible for activating the system in response to a fire. Blockages or malfunctions in these valves can prevent the system from functioning as intended during emergencies.

Addressing the Issue:

Regular inspections and testing of control valves are vital to identify potential blockages or malfunctions. Technicians can clean and lubricate control valves following the manufacturer's guidelines to prevent issues and ensure smooth operation. Property owners should also maintain clear access to control valve areas, ensuring that they are readily accessible for inspection and maintenance.

Taking care of a fire sprinkler system through regular maintenance is a responsibility that should not be overlooked. By understanding the common issues uncovered during maintenance inspections and knowing how to address them proactively, home and property owners can keep their fire sprinkler systems in top-notch condition. Engaging the services of certified professionals for inspections and repairs ensures that any detected issues are promptly and effectively addressed, providing peace of mind and enhanced fire protection for their properties and loved ones. Remember, the reliability of your fire sprinkler system is crucial, as it can be the difference between a contained fire incident and a devastating disaster.

Tips for Handling Commercial Water Damage in a Portsmouth Senior Living Facility

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

Structural damage is likely if the water intrusion extends to the walls and baseboards. Call SERVPRO for fast, effective remediation.

Hire SERVPRO for Commercial Water Damage Repair in Portsmouth

Moisture is among the most destructive forces in a building. Water intrusion can be particularly harmful in senior living facilities. Apart from the repair costs, waterlogged materials can present mold issues that must be safely managed. The facility’s operations can also halt. 

Structural damage is likely if the water intrusion extends to the walls and baseboards. You need experts to repair commercial water damage in your Portsmouth senior living facility. SERVPRO can respond shortly after your call. Upon arrival, our technicians can create a digital map for your property. 

Walking through the facility, we can mark the map to indicate the areas with damp building materials. This process offers a clear image of the affected areas. Using moisture meters for precise results, we can measure the moisture levels of all impacted surfaces like baseboards, subfloors, cabinets, furniture, ceilings, and walls. The other steps SERVPRO can take to restore your facility include the following:

• Water extraction
• Drying and dehumidification
• Restoring contents
• Repairing or replacing damaged materials.

SERVPRO’s team is trained and certified in water damage repair. Our team can use electric submersible pumps to extract water from the affected areas. We can use air-moving and dehumidification tools to dry the property. Our technicians can also inventory, pack and take damaged items like fabrics and furniture to our facilities to clean, deodorize and restore them until restoration work at your facility is complete.

We can repair or replace some building materials if they are severely damaged. When doing so, our SERVPRO team can set up containments for worker and occupant safety. The degree of containment can vary based on the regulations that apply to your facility and the safety of the residents. At a minimum, we can use a barrier to separate work areas to prevent debris and dust from entering non-work areas. We may also create negative air pressure within containment areas to prevent air from blowing out of the work area. 

As you create your emergency response plan after commercial water damage, keep SERVPRO of The Seacoast, SERVPRO of Dover-Rochester, and SERVPRO of Durham in mind. Call us at (603) 433-4300.

Efficient Water Removal in Portsmouth Prevents Severe Damage

4/25/2023 (Permalink)

Don't let storm damage take over your property, Call SERVPRO.

SERVPRO Provides Portsmouth Homeowners Rapid Water Cleanup

A powerful storm can leave your Portsmouth home severely water-logged. With any storm comes the possibility of flood and mold damage. Water remediation services help clean up the water damage after a storm.

Calling a water removal company in Portsmouth to begin extraction is vital to protecting your home and belongings. It does not take long for wet drywall, flooring, carpets, and other materials to become irreparably damaged. A water remediation service provider that understands the essence of time when dealing with stormwater damage would best fit your home. SERVPRO crews have a 4-hour standard response time and broad experience with all water damage and can help quickly return your home to normalcy. We ensure a dry and sanitary environment for repairs to take place.

Resources facilitating rapid water cleanup:

• Sufficient extraction power
• Specialized extraction equipment – self-priming trash pumps
• Powerful cleaning resources – rotating brushes
• Reliable drying resources – LGR, desiccant dehumidifiers

Property Water Cleanup and Recovery

SERVPRO can rally the labor force and equipment rapidly, tackling any-sized storm damage. Our crews respond with well-organized and stocked vehicles with the right supplies, tools, and equipment for water restoration. No matter the amount of water in your home, we have equipment with adequate extraction capacity, such as large truck-mounted units which offer a powerful vacuum and are powered by the vehicle.  

More equipment for sufficient water removal include:

• Pumps - examples include high-pressure pumps, self-priming trash pumps, and electric submersible pumps
• Deep extraction tools which can be self-propelled or stationary
• Portable extractors that operators move from room to room

SERVPRO of The Seacoast, SERVPRO of Dover-Rochester, and SERVPRO of Durham have friendly and skilled technicians fully equipped to provide efficient water removal and repair the damage after a storm. Call us at (603) 433-4300. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Portsmouth Residents Restore their Homes after Fire Damage

3/30/2023 (Permalink)

If your Portsmouth home suffers fire damage, call our professionals for assistance with remediation services right away.

SERVPRO Has a Proven Formula for Efficient Portsmouth Fire Cleanup and Restoration

A fire in your home can be a traumatic experience. Everyday household items like draperies, mattresses, or fabrics can quickly ignite and leave behind debris and malodors. Sorting through belongings can be an upsetting experience. However, with a professional fire damage restoration service, it is often possible to save many possessions and return the structure of your home to a preloss condition.

Efficient fire damage restoration in Portsmouth depends upon the organizational experience of technicians. No two household fires are the same. However, it is possible to follow the same detailed procedure for taking home from a burnt-out ruin back to an inhabitable space. After less extreme fire damaging events, we can immediately inspect and begin mitigation steps to preserve, restore, and not replace burned furnishings, fixtures, and assemblies. Our tried and tested response ensures that technicians can deal with the numerous challenges presented by a property disaster like this. Our work begins when you pick up the phone to speak with one of our trained phone handlers. You can provide a notification of loss, and we can schedule a call out to your property. Our team can guarantee that we reach your home within four hours of receiving your call in emergencies. 

The Planning Stages of a Restoration Project

• On arrival, our IICRC-certified technicians can review any information with you on-site and provide the necessary information on insurance, loss management, and any forms you need to fill out.
• A consultation and pre-testing phase allows us to get a more accurate picture of the damages and our techniques to reverse them.
• We can then present your insurance adjuster with a restoration plan and timeframe. Provided you are satisfied, we can begin as soon as you sign an authorization to begin services form.

The early phases of restoration are critical. It ensures that you are kept in the loop regarding work requirements, but it also allows us to organize the service most efficiently. Using the pre-test results, we can then coordinate the delivery of dumpsters for fire debris, removal vans for items that need to be packed out, storage locations for belongings, and equipment. Standard equipment in fire damage restoration relates to air quality. In moderate to severe fires, it may be necessary to bring air filtration devices (AFDs) to ensure that any particulate matter is safely filtered out from the property. Odor control devices such as foggers and misters may be crucial to remove your home's burnt smell. In some situations, advanced equipment like hydroxyl generators can be a valuable tool in returning your home to preloss conditions. 

Performing Effective Restoration in your Home

• Production scheduling involves providing you and your insurance adjuster with accurate time frames for each restoration process. These may include drying the property, storing possessions, and cleaning rooms of soot or smoke residues.
• Job management and monitoring are essential tasks that measure our predicted time frames against actual progress. Monitoring progress helps us to ensure we meet our predicted timeframes.
• All restoration services end with a detailed walkthrough of the property with the homeowner. We can refer to our job file, production scheduling, and job management records with you and answer any questions you may have. 

A house fire is a challenging situation for any homeowner. We are here to ensure the process runs as smoothly as possible. Contact SERVPRO of The Seacoast, SERVPRO of Dover-Rochester, and SERVPRO of Durham for fire damage restoration at (603) 433-4300.

Avoiding Water Damage at Home for Residents of Portsmouth

3/30/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage in your Portsmouth home? Don’t let the moisture take over; call SERVPRO right away.

Preventing Secondary Portsmouth Water Damages with Mitigation Experts from SERVPRO

Many homeowners experience the debilitating effects of water intrusion during their ownership. Water issues can occur from many sources. Preventative measures, while effective, are often incapable of covering all the bases for water-related damages. SERVPRO is here to help put your home back together after an emergency.

Moisture migration can cause water damage in your Portsmouth home to spread from one area to another. As a general rule, wet moves to dry. In practice, liquid spillages often seep into wall cavities, reside beneath fittings or penetrate the subfloor. Professional water restoration services are helpful to homeowners because they combine knowledge of water theory with the practical skills and equipment needed to mitigate water damage. In its simplest form, mitigation is the prevention of further harm to a property experiencing a water intrusion event. Blocking furniture to lift above the water level, extracting liquid, controlling humidity, and drying cavities are examples of the emergency mitigation services we provide. 

Effective Mitigation Can Help Prevent:

• Liquid water or humidity from stagnating and causing microbial growth problems, including bacteria, mold, and virus growth.
• Unnecessary replacement of wet materials, belongings, or home structures adversely affected by water intrusion. 
• Permanent damages to fixtures, building assembly, electrics, and belongings commonly associated with water emergencies.

The structure of your home may feel or appear like a cohesive whole. However, modern properties are constructed from numerous layers. They begin with foundations. These foundations are fitted with the framework, usually solid lumber, that organizes the space within your property into rooms, garages, and staircases. The final layer is gypsum board, drywall, or plaster, painted and decorated. Water impact can vary in severity but is usually measured by how far the moisture has migrated from the source and how deep it has penetrated the building assembly. Measuring equipment to determine the answers to these questions is commonly used once excess water is drained from the property.  

SERVPRO restoration technicians determine the extent of water migration in your home through moisture meters. Moisture meters come in two categories: penetrating surfaces or measuring surface temperatures. Penetrating moisture meters can be used on carpets, softwoods, or furnishings and have an inherent advantage in accurately determining the moisture content of those materials- usually displayed in a percentage. Non-penetrating moisture sensors are typically deployed on denser surfaces such as concrete and some types of hardwood. These sensors measure the temperature of the surface, which can often indicate how much moisture is residing in or behind the object. Sensors are more prone to false readings and may be used several times across the same spot to produce an accurate report.

Finding moisture is crucial in preventing future water-related issues from affecting your home. Many microbial growth issues like mold result from improper restoration following a water intrusion issue. SERVPRO uses advanced structural drying (ASD) technicians to ensure a home dries correctly and secondary damages are minimal. 

Advanced Drying Equipment for Water Intrusion

• Injectidry systems allow technicians to dry the cavities in your home without demolishing walls for access. 
• Rapid air-movers fitted with flex-hoses can often be adapted to circulate dry air beneath fittings and floorboards, ensuring the entire property is dry.
• Thorough dehumidification of the home can reduce chances of water vapor damage which can cause excessive harm to your property. 

Following a water emergency, contact SERVPRO of The Seacoast, SERVPRO of Dover-Rochester, and SERVPRO of Durham for water damage restoration at (603) 433-4300.

Preventing Recurring Mold Damage for Portsmouth Residents

3/30/2023 (Permalink)

No matter the scope of the mold damage in Portsmouth, our team will be able to remediate the area "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Mold Remediation Technicians Can Help Neutralize Microbial Growth

Mold usually occurs in homes that have moisture problems or damp spots. As your property ages, it becomes more susceptible to these issues, becoming more apparent during heavy rainfall, seasonal temperature changes, or plumbing malfunction. Microbial growth does not always go away by itself. Sometimes, professional remediation is required to return your home to its normal condition. 

It is helpful to remember that mold damage in your Portsmouth home is not inevitable. Professionally trained and licensed technicians in the area can help to ensure microbial growth does not become a permanent issue. At SERVPRO, we like to reassure homeowners that microorganisms are not scary. Modern antibiotics like penicillin are derived from molds, and spores naturally occur in almost all indoor spaces. At the same time, we understand that unchecked microbial growth can be a problem for homeowners as it produces odor, damages decor, and can be unhygienic. The transition from being an unnoticeable part of the home to an issue requiring remediation occurs when spores settle in moist or humid regions of your property. Micro-organisms thrive in moisture, which allows them to grow and reproduce. We are here to correct the moisture problems in your home, remediate growth and remove infested materials.

How Unchecked Fungi Can Damage your Property

• Microbes release microscopic particles into the air space of your home, which can create malodor. Indoor air quality is often a focal point of effective remediation. 

• Digestive enzymes that allow microorganisms to process organic matter into energy for growth can take a toll on decor. Common signs include weakening drywall or discoloration.

• Mold reproduces and grows in short cycles that take around 72 hours. Due to these short growth cycles, micro-organisms can rapidly spread from one area to another.

Lab-testing different types of microbes is a time-consuming task. We believe that the visible symptoms of mold are enough to justify remediation, but we are happy to work with both indoor environmental specialists and industrial hygienists during any project. However, our crew chiefs and remediation technicians can handle most household issues without external assistance. We rely on scientifically proven protocols to remediate microbial growth, endorsed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certifications (IICRC). Below are the core protocols supported by these two restoration bodies.

Core Principles for Effective Household Remediation

• Containment uses physical and atmospheric barriers to prevent airborne mold spores from traveling from one part of the home to another. The containment protocol is usually achieved with thick polyethylene sheeting and negative air pressure machines.

• Demolishing and disposing of porous, infested materials. Some of these materials may include parts of the building assembly such as drywall and insulation, which SERVPRO can replace once areas are fully-remediated.

• Production controls dovetail with containment protocol. These include personal protective equipment (PPE) and decontamination rooms to prevent spores traveling via technician's clothing or equipment. We may also use EPA-registered antimicrobial spraying to stop mold from passing through the stages of growth during remediation.

Ensuring that fungal colonization is not a recurring issue in your home requires trained remediation technicians. Contact SERVPRO of The Seacoast, SERVPRO of Dover-Rochester, and SERVPRO of Durham for mold damage remediation at (603) 433-4300.

Kitchen Appliance Fire Restoration in Portsmouth

3/29/2023 (Permalink)

For fast and efficient service call SERVPRO of The Seacoast at (603) 433-4300.

SERVPRO Strategies for Protein Soot Cleanup

Kitchen fires cause nearly 50 percent of the yearly damage related to blazes reported in US residences. Unattended cooking, spills and boilovers, and combustible materials too close to the heat are common causes. Excessively high temperatures encourage liquids to boil away, producing charred and dehydrated ingredients. Greases and oils heated above their “smoke points” break down, becoming rancid. The dehydrated food bits vaporize with the rancid oils into a fine protein-based mist that spreads rapidly throughout the home on superheated air currents. 

The airborne soot attaches to surfaces as it spreads, so it is no surprise that kitchen appliances take a real beating after cooking mishaps in Portsmouth. Fire restoration interventions for protein-soot removal rely on technicians like our SERVPRO crew members, well-trained in the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) best practices for releasing highly adhesive and unpleasant-smelling residues. 

SERVPRO Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) focus efforts on the appliances near the kitchen ignition site. Typically the “suite” includes a refrigerator, oven and stove, and dishwasher, with trash compactors, microwaves, and freezers often rounding out the inventory. Appliance surfaces are usually non-porous and factory spray-painted with high-gloss or satin finishes. Some feature a stainless steel veneer. The restoration process includes the following:

• Technicians pre-test how well different cleaners remove the coating in inconspicuous areas. Usually, the protein and oil-rich residues respond best to an oil-based solvent.

• Workers evaluate the surface’s durability during cleaning, gradually increasing heat and agitation aggressiveness to dislodge stubbornly stuck residues. 

• The team adds grit to the cleaner, employs rough-sided tools, or uses both enhancements to break the bond between soots and the surface. The skilled hands of our technicians ensure that if more vigorous scrubbing is needed, we do it cautiously and patiently to avoid permanent damage to the integrity of the appliance surface. 

The specialized training and experience of SERVPRO of The Seacoast fire restoration technicians support thorough appliance cleaning even when protein-based soot is present. Call (603) 433-4300 to set up a fire cleanup and recovery assessment to determine effective interventions.