How To Prevent Water Damage

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

Flood cuts after water damage in a home in Gladstone, MO.

How To Prevent Water Damage At a Residence

Maintenance is the best way to prevent water damage. A number of appliances and systems rely on water in the home in order to function. Learn more about how to prevent damage at a residence in Gladstone, MO.

Appliances

A number of appliances rely on water in order to function. This machinery includes:

• Dishwashers
  
• Washing machines
  
• Water heaters
  
  

Connections or hoses may fail and lead to leaks. It is a good idea to closely monitor these machines and have them regularly serviced for maintenance rather than just for repairs.

HVAC System

The HVAC system in a residence relies on water, particularly when cooling. Several common causes of leaks include:

• A dirty coil
  
• An icy coil
  
• A damaged overflow drain pan
  
• Clogged drain lines
  
  

Regular maintenance can also help to prevent HVAC leaks. Schedule a yearly inspection and cleaning to reduce the risk of water damage.

Plumbing

Plumbing is the major source of water in the home, and therefore one of the most common causes of damage. A homeowner should know the age and condition of pipes. Look out for any signs of:

• Leaks
  
• Sewage backups
  
• Malfunctioning toilets
  
• Corroded supply lines
  

If you have exposed pipes, it is a good idea to add insulation. You can also drip a faucet when temperatures dip below freezing to relieve the pressure that can lead to pipe bursts. Any incidents will necessitate broken pipe repair and water damage cleanup.

These appliances and systems are the most likely sources of damage due to water in the home. Even if you take preventative measures such as performing regular maintenance, an accident may still occur. In these instances, it is important to quickly arrange for pipe cleanup. Appliance specialists or plumbers can fix the cause of damage, and mitigation professionals can remove water and promote drying. These measures are necessary to keep damage from worsening or resulting in secondary issues, such as mold.

Tips To Prepare Kids for a House Fire

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

Home fire in Kansas City, MO.

What To Do In a Home Fire?

Your kids’ safety is of utmost importance. You teach your children to look both ways before crossing the street and to stay away from strangers. But, as a parent and homeowner in Kansas City, MO, do you educate your children on what to do in a home fire? When a fire emergency occurs, every second counts. Have a fire escape plan and practice it with your children. Review the tips below to educate your family.

Practice a Fire Escape Plan

Teach and practice the following techniques with your children during a non-emergency, so your family knows what to do in the case of a home fire:

• If the smoke alarm sounds at night, roll to the edge of the bed face down, place the closest hand to the floor and slide off the bed.

• Crawl to avoid smoke in the air on knees and forearms with head down, or crawl like a snake.

• Check doors before opening by feeling for heat. If hot, find another way out of the room. If warm or cool, open slowly and check for fire. Close doors as you go.

• Create and practice an escape route and agree on an outdoor meeting place. If trapped, go to the window, open it, climb out if possible or yell for help. Once out of the house, do not return inside for any reason. Preventative Measures for Kids. Aside from teaching and practicing the above techniques, follow these kids’ safety tips:

• Maintain at least one functioning smoke detector at each level of your home. Teach your children that the alarm sound means there is fire and smoke in the house.

• Keep lighters and matches out of the reach of young children. Instruct older children not to play with these or other flammable objects, such as candles. By teaching and practicing the above tips with your children in Kansas City, MO, your family is prepared for a home fire. Once your kids’ safety is secured and the fire is out, contact a fire restoration specialist and your homeowner’s insurance agent to begin the process of returning your home to pre loss condition.

How To Fix a Flooded Basement

11/28/2021 (Permalink)

A flooded basement in Liberty, MO.

How to Repair a Flooded Basement

Despite your insurance coverage, a basement flood may be a terrible thing that can leave homeowners in complete disarray. Thankfully, the cleanup process can be straightforward and manageable. Follow the steps below to restore and protect your home from current and future flood concerns.

1. Pause and Be Safe

While it may be instinct to rush into a flooded basement and salvage everything as quickly as you can, you may want to slow down and take in your surroundings. Floodwater presents both slip and fall and shock hazards. Before entering the damaged area, turn off the electricity and put on protective clothing, like rubber boots and gloves.

2. Drain and Tear Out

Cleanup from a basement flood often requires the removal of excess water and the tear out of drywall and insulation, depending on the extent of the damage. You can rent a variety of pumps, either submersible or above ground, to quickly remove water. When removing drywall and insulation, consider tearing away material at least 20 inches above the water line to prevent any mold growth.

3. Discard and Salvage

While many items may have sentimental value, be aware that porous objects like clothing and paper can carry bacteria and produce mold after a flood. Additionally, any appliances that were touched by the water may require inspection by a professional in Liberty, MO, before further use. The main thing is to remove any sign of contamination.

4. Plan and Prepare

After a flood, you can install backflow valves, and sump pumps to help protect against basement flood reoccurrence. You may also want to inspect the grade of your landscaping as well to ensure that your homes drainage systems are in peak shape. Installation of preventative measures and routine maintenance can help prevent this type of disaster from happening again.

A basement flood can be a damaging and upsetting event. From the lost memories to the worrisome costs, a flood can be detrimental to homeowners. However, by following the above steps and preparing for potential future risks, homeowners can begin to ease even their worst concerns.

Tips for Preventing Kitchen Fires

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire damage in Gladstone, MO.

Kitchen Fire Prevention Tips

The kitchen is a source of many home fires, but there are many things you can do to keep your family out of harm's way. Some hazards you can easily remove by making small changes in the way you cook. Other risks can be minimized by properly maintaining the many appliances in the room. Take a look at some statistics from the National Fire Protection Association and then use the following quick tips to avoid the frustration and expense of kitchen fires.

• Two-thirds of home-based kitchen fires start when food and other cooking materials ignite.
• More than 60 percent of home cooking fires took place with ranges, as opposed to ovens.
• The number of household kitchen fires peaks on Thanksgiving Day.

Don't Walk Away

One of the most important things you can do to protect your kitchen and home from fire damage is to stay with the food you're cooking. You need to act fast if you have a grease fire. Don't walk away while waiting for water to boil and if you have to run out to do some errands, turn off the stove and remove your pots of food. The same is true of any food you have in the broiler.

Clear the Area

The second of these tips is to inspect your cooking area for items that could catch fire. Check your clothing for large-fitting shirts or aprons. Watch out for oven mitts, appliance cords, or recipe books that could catch fire if they are too close to a burner. Many home chefs use towels to move pots off the stove, but these could dangle onto the burner and lead to flames.

Think Safety

As you invest in appliances for the kitchen, don't forget to purchase a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors. These two affordable devices could mean the difference between expensive fire damage with injuries and a small amount of cleanup without injuries. Don't just buy those items; make sure you know how to use them and that they are in working condition.

The more you know about cooking safely, the better off you and your family will be. You may find that fire departments and fire restoration companies in Gladstone, MO, have additional tips to offer.

2 Steps for Protecting Your Roof

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Roof inspection to a commercial building in Kansas City, MO.

How To Maintain a Healthy Roof

The roof on your commercial property may not get much attention, especially when the weather is great. However, when storm season hits Kansas City, MO, you may wish you'd pay a little more attention to the protective structure at the top of your buildings. Regular wind and rain throughout the year could lead to minor damages to the roof and if those issues aren't addressed, they could lead to much more expensive and harmful problems when a storm hits. How can you maintain a healthy roof and avoid roof damage when storms come?

1. Schedule Routine Roof Inspections

Did you know that you should have your business roof inspected twice a year, at least? Appropriate officials should thoroughly inspect the area. These experts could be your building engineer or a trained member of the maintenance team, or you may hire an expert from a commercial remediation company. The expert will probably look for cracks, broken areas, peeling edges, or damaged flashing. Any blockages in drain pipes or drainage systems will be flagged and trees that overhang the roof will prompt a recommendation for repairs. Remember that minor roof damage is easier to resolve than major damages.

2. Complete Repairs and Maintenance as Suggested

These expert inspections won't do you any good unless you put the advice to good use. Clean out the gutters along the eaves of your building and cut back the trees. Although they are a good source of cooling shade, they could also provide a way for moisture and pests to get into the tiny openings on your building. Some professionals may recommend that you take steps to waterproof the roof of your building. Storm, rain, sun, and wind damage could lead to major repairs, but a bit of preventative waterproofing could resolve many of those issues.

If it's been a while since you've seen your roof, it may be time to climb up. It's best to tackle inspections, repairs, and a complete roof rebuild before storms hit or damage becomes extensive.

2 Easy Ways to Prevent Furnace Fires

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

A good furnace requires little more than regular maintenance.

Prevent Furnace Fires

Modern heating systems are typically easy to maintain and trouble-free. Built for efficient operation, a good furnace requires little more than regular maintenance. Without proper upkeep, an inefficient unit could easily catch fire. To keep your furnace in top condition in Liberty, MO, and prevent a possible fire and the resultant fire cleaning, there are several things you can do.

Furnaces Need Space

One of the most common heating system problems is the lack of space. A furnace is often set in an area by itself for a reason. A crowded unit can be a danger to you and your family. These common items can become a fire hazard when placed near the furnace:

• cleaning supplies
  
• boxes
  
• brooms
  
• clothing
  
  

A fire can quickly catch from a stray spark onto any of these items and cause considerable damage to your home, and subsequent fire cleaning and restoration is generally no fun at all.

Furnaces Need Attention

There is an old adage that says, “out of sight means out of mind.” Never has that been truer than when applied to furnace filters. This can be a huge problem for busy homeowners who may seldom see the system; it can be easy to forget to provide regular maintenance. Once dirt begins to accumulate on the filter, it can cause the furnace to work inefficiently and overheat. As the filter becomes clogged, it can start a furnace fire with billowing smoke. To prevent smoke cleaning from walls and ceiling, and a possible home fire, inspect furnace filters monthly and replace them as needed.

Furnaces Need Maintenance

These are only two of the many fire hazards associated with a poorly maintained furnace. To prevent possible system damages or fires, contact a technician and schedule an inspection at least once a year. If a furnace fire does occur, that same technician can probably help with the fire cleaning or suggest a fire restoration team that can. Most importantly, keep those filters clean and unclogged to allow your furnace to work efficiently.

What To Do If Your Flight is Canceled Due to Weather

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

Always be prepared for anything!

Use These Storm Tips To Reschedule Your Trip

 Travel delays can range from a minor inconvenience to a major issue depending on your circumstances and level of preparation. If adverse weather results in a canceled flight,

Find Your Flight Information

You will need to be able to inform your airline about the details of your itinerary to reschedule flights and determine your options for compensation. Find your flight numbers and keep them on hand when contacting your airline. An airline agent is likely to ask you for your

• Full name
• Destination
• Flight numbers
• Airports for connecting flights

Having this information ready can save time when rescheduling your trip.

Skip the Line and Call the Airline

If you are stranded at an airport, other passengers on your canceled flight may form a line at the gate counter. It is almost always easier and faster to call the airline from your cell phone or another phone in the airport. Be sure to have your tickets or boarding passes ready to provide any information the agent may need. Depending on whether the storm is in your current location, the airport may also experience power or data outages or other difficulties.

Check the Cancelation Policy

Many airlines compensate passengers for cancelations due to adverse weather. The company may reimburse you, offer rescheduling services at no additional charge, or provide a meal or hotel room, depending on how long your travel plans are delayed due to weather.

If you are dealing with a canceled flight in Kansas City, Kansas or any other location, these storm tips can help you resolve the situation. Travelers should also make sure they have the contact information for ticketing services on the airline they are flying. If a storm is expected to affect your home, you may also want to look up the number for a residential storm damage restoration service.

Important Steps To Take After a Partial Loss

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

Fire loss in Kansas City, MO.

Steps to Take Following a Partial Loss

Your business owner’s policy probably explicitly details the coverage you can expect if a fire breaks out in your building. A partial fire loss, however, should also be covered by your insurance. Fire and smoke damage can affect your business in Kansas City, MO, even if the fire occurs somewhere near your property. To receive the compensation you deserve, it is important to complete the following checklist.

1. Have your building inspected. When you file a claim, the insurance company sends an adjuster to inspect the property. Rather than settle for just the adjuster’s assessment, however, consider having restoration specialists conduct an inspection of their own. Professional technicians can assess all the areas of your building with potential fire damage:

• Interior walls, particularly if they border the area affected by the fire
  
• Plumbing, including pipes and supply lines
  
• Windows and frames
  
• HVAC system and air ducts
  
• Siding or any exterior features
  
• Roof
  
  

Your building may exhibit signs of fire loss even if the fire was in the building next door. Don’t depend solely on your insurance adjuster to note the damage.

2. Start the restoration process quickly. If there is damage to your building, you will need to hire fire restoration technicians to repair it. These repairs cannot wait. Even if you have a partial loss, unchecked damage that starts as a minor issue can become extensive if it is put on the back burner too long. Your insurance policy should pay for your business to be restored to a uniform and consistent appearance in a timely manner.

3. Keep your claim open. Smoke damage does not necessarily manifest at first. For example, the effect heat and smoke have on your landscaping can show up months later as plants eventually die as a result of a nearby fire. An open claim or supplemental claims allow you to ask for compensation.

Area disasters can result in fire loss on your property. Don’t neglect to be diligent just because the loss is partial.

Professional Mold Treatment: What You Can Expect

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Gladstone, MO.

Mold Treatment

Discovering that your Gladstone, MO, home has mold can be a stressful experience. Most types of mold growth, including black mold, usually take hold in moist, humid areas and often grow out of sight. By the time patches are large enough to be noticeable, you may have a considerable infestation. Calling in a mold remediation and restoration company to have fungi removed is one of the wisest ways to handle this problem, and knowing what to expect can help you prepare for the technicians’ visit.

1. Inspecting and Remediating

Once mold technicians arrive at your home, they will probably inspect the affected room or rooms where you have already discovered mold and then check the rest of your home to see if the issue has spread. If any other problem areas are found, techs may perform immediate remediation and isolate the fungi to prevent spores from breaking free and spreading. This remediation may include addressing any moisture issues that caused black mold growth and using negative air pressure chambers to quarantine patches for treatment.

2. Drying and Tearing Out of Building Materials

During mold cleanup, your technicians will likely have to dry or remove any affected materials and will wear protective suits and masks for this job. Drywall is often easily affected, as different types of fungi feed off the organic material in its ingredients, such as paper. When this happens, the technicians may have to tear out the moldy sections. Interior wall insulation may also have to be removed if the mold has spread, as the insulation cannot be cleaned and must be replaced.

3. Cleaning and Disinfecting

Once affected building materials are replaced or dried, mold specialists will then work to eliminate the musty, unpleasant smell fungi can leave behind. They may use specialized tools and cleansers to ensure the odor is cleared from the air itself, so it cannot return.

It is never wise to try and remove fungi from your Gladstone, MO, home on your own. Calling in professionals who know how to handle black mold and other similar substances can ensure a fresh, clean home for years to come.

Determining the Extent of Your Mold Damage

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

If you suspect that you have a mold problem in your home, work with a professional who can thoroughly test your home.

If you discover mold on your Kansas City property, you may want to know just how far the damage has spread so that you can get a better idea of remediation costs. There are a few different ways in which you can perform a mold assessment:

• Air Testing
• Surface Testing
• Bulk Testing

While you could purchase an at-home mold testing kit, only a professional assessment can give you a whole and accurate picture of the extent of any mold or mildew damage. For peace of mind and swift remediation, contact a mold remediation expert near you.

Air Testing

Air testing can tell you whether or not you have a mold problem even if you cannot find the mold growth. Air testing involves capturing air from inside your home and examining it for mold spores. Air testing can reveal the exact concentration of mold spores in your home.

Surface Testing

Surface testing involves swabbing various surfaces in your home with a cotton swab and examining the samples under a microscope. Unlike with air testing, however, surface testing cannot reveal the exact concentration of mold spores.

Bulk Testing

Bulk testing is often the best mold assessment technique, as it provides a complete picture of the extent of your mold problem. This method involves taking various items from around the home and lab testing them for black mold and mildew. Like with air testing, this method can give you an accurate idea of the concentration of mold spores present in your home.

Work With a Professional

If you suspect that you have a mold problem in your home, work with a professional who can thoroughly test your home and give you an accurate idea of the extent of the issue. A professional may perform one or all three of the aforementioned mold assessment methods. Contact a Kansas City mold remediation expert to have your home tested today.

Don’t Flush Your Savings down the Drain: Understanding Sewer Backups and Homeowner Claims

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

Nobody wants to experience a sewer backup, but it is necessary to understand the basics and to know what your homeowner policy covers.

The rainy season in flood zones can produce a lot of anxiety for homeowners. Especially, when you consider that basic home insurance policies may not cover damage incurred by a sewer backup, meaning that if sewage starts spilling over your toilet, contaminating and damaging your home, you may be left footing the bill; however, even if your policy covers backups, there are still some things that you should understand.

1. Understand the Potential Causes of a Backup

A sewage backup typically doesn’t happen without reason, and sometimes these reasons are things you have control over. For instance, one of the main causes of a backup is a blockage in the line due to roots. Shrubs, bushes, trees can produce roots that are dense enough to break through your sewer lines, clogging the pipes and ultimately causing a backup.

2. Understand Common Prevention Tactics

Understanding how a sewer backup occurs enables you to perform preventative maintenance. For instance, you can ensure that no trees or shrubs are encroaching in areas where the waste lines run. You can also ensure that you dispose of things like grease and paper properly, and you can install a backwater prevention valve.

3. Understand the Cleanup Process

In the unfortunate event that you experience a sewage backup, you should familiarize yourself with the cleanup process, which includes a lot of wet vacuuming, mopping, disinfecting, and any other contaminant removal. However, it may be a good idea to call in restoration specialists to assist you in this process, and it will likely be a requirement by any insurance coverage you may have.

4. Understand the Process of Filing a Claim

Most insurance companies expect certain things when clients file claims. For instance, you should have before and after photos of the damaged area. You should itemize a list of property that was damaged or lost. And, you should contact your insurance representative immediately. It is also a good idea to save any receipts related to any restoration work.

Nobody wants to experience a sewer backup, but if you are in Gladstone, MO, it is necessary to understand the basics and to know what your homeowner policy covers.

When Renters Insurance Will and Will Not Cover Mold Damage

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

If you discover mold on your rental property, reach out to the mold remediation experts in Kansas City, MO, to discuss remediation options.

Instead of asking whether or not rental insurance covers mold damage, you should consider rephrasing the question to "Does renters' insurance cover mildew damage or mold remediation?" Phrased like this, you have a better idea of what to look for when perusing your renters' insurance policy. During your review, you should look for the following items:

• Exclusions
• Duty to mitigate
• Mold caused by a covered peril

Within each of these sections, you should find information regarding what type of damage is and is not covered.

Exclusions

Typically, the limits on mildew damage in a rental insurance policy are relatively low, at right around $5,000. This should be enough to cover the cost of damage. If the damage is more than $5,000, the insurance company might assume that the damage was present for a while and that you failed to mitigate it in time.

Duty To Mitigate

If the mold was present before you moved in, or if it’s a result of an inherent defect with the property, then mold removal is likely the landlord's responsibility. However, if the damage was caused by a covered peril, and if it could have been stopped from spreading, the insurance company may only cover it up to the point where you should have known about it. For instance, if the damage was caused by a leaky pipe, and if you knew about the leaky pipe but failed to inform your landlord of it so he or she could make the repair, damage caused to your belongings may not be covered.

Mold Caused by a Covered Peril

If the mold damage was caused by, say, the water from a hose used to put out a fire, and if a fire is covered under your policy, then the damage should be covered by your policy. However, you likely must prove that you made a good faith effort to prevent the damage from becoming worse.

If you discover mold on your rental property, reach out to the mold remediation experts in Kansas City, MO, to discuss remediation options. The experts can also help you examine your rental insurance policy and determine whether or not the damage is covered.

What You Should Know About Basement Flooding

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

This basement in a home in Smithville, MO, experienced flood damage after recent heavy rains.

What You Should Be Aware Of Regarding Basement Flooding

If you have a basement in Kansas City, MO, you know minor foundation leaks, rain water, and broken pipes can cause flooding. As maddening as it may be, you are not alone. Insurance companies report that home flood waters are the number one disaster reported in America. But that doesn’t help when you are standing in six inches of water on brand new soaking wet carpet. You need answers about where the water came from and how to keep it from happening again.

Finding the Cause

You don’t have to live near a swollen river to find standing water all over the basement. Since water moves from high ground to low, any water source above the basement floor could be the problem. Rain, broken pipes, ground water, or even a forgotten irrigation system can all flood your home with unwanted water. It could also be a broken sump pump or a sewer problem.

Calling for Help

Removing the flooding water is only the beginning of the property clean up. Depending on the amount of water that seeped into the foundation of your home, the walls, and earth surrounding the house, it may take quite a while to restore your home. Additionally, there are three types of flood water, and each has a different method necessary for cleanup. Calling a disaster restoration specialist to identify the basement flood water can save you time and money in repairs. The restoration team can also document the steps taken in restoring your home, which can help prove your claim with the insurance company.

Dealing With Repairs

Contamination and mold spores are common issues after a flood. The restoration team can make sure the area is properly dehumidified, ventilated, and disinfected. Contractors can assess foundation, wall, and flooring damage. The actual repairs may take months.

Flooding water can be as easy to fix as a pipe repair or as difficult deal with as a broken levy. No matter what the cause, knowing who to call for help, and how to protect yourself, can help you deal quickly, and efficiently with the basement flood water in Kansas City, MO.

Understanding How Floods Create Consequential Mold Problems

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage leads to mold growth.

A flood is like a disaster that hits you with multiple attacks. The first round of moving water is actually dangerous and damaging in its powerful movement, the second attack is in the exposure of water contaminated with bacteria and other biohazards, and lastly, there is the sneak attack of mold growing in moist materials. Fast action is the key to prevent water and mold damage after a flood in Kansas City, MO.

Mold Facts

Mold growth happens rapidly. Spores are all around us in the air we breathe and when they settle in a damp area with a good food source they can start forming colonies. When you know what mold needs to reproduce, you'll understand why a flooded home is a ticking time bomb for mold development. Here are some fast facts about mold:

• Mold is a fungus that reproduces by spores
  
• Spores float through the air and enter buildings through windows, doors, and HVAC systems
  
• Mold needs moisture
  
• Mold needs an organic food source, such as cellulose found in wood and paper
  
• Mold growth begins in about 48 hours after a flood
  
  

By the way, most of those wet building materials in your home are made with wood and paper. Once the colonies begin, it's very difficult to prevent mold from developing in nearby areas since spores will be in an even higher concentration in the air. With more spores in the air and plenty of wet building materials, your flooded home is a breeding ground for mold.

Clean and Dry

So now that you understand how quickly these flood dangers can escalate, you understand that water removal and drying are the keys to preventing subsequent damage from standing water. The job is huge, but you can count on professionals to apply their knowledge and resources to get it done right. They will use special equipment to extract water and dry building materials and personal items all while monitoring moisture levels to ensure thorough drying. Quick and efficient water restoration will help prevent mold growth.

Mold Problems: At the Intersection of Water and Dirt

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Ceiling tiles are frequently composed of porous materials, allowing mold to grow.

Top Places Where Mold Hides

Your commercial property in Liberty, MO, can easily become a breeding ground for mold growth. Even with regular inspection and maintenance, mold problems can still occur. Excess dust and moisture can linger in hidden places and combine forces to cause a fungal infestation that can only be remedied by mold remediation experts. Here are the top four places mold likes to hide in commercial buildings.

1. Carpet

Carpet has many crevices where mold spores can hide and many surfaces to which it is easy for mold to adhere. While you can't prevent all spills and can't always control how well people clean up after themselves when they do spill, you can dehumidify the room by increasing airflow to the area. This can help dry out the carpet and prevent mold growth.

2. Ceiling Tiles

Ceiling tiles are often made of porous material, which allows mold to take root. Watch out for water damage in ceiling tiles and get it fixed as fast as possible. It only takes a day or two for mold to start to grow in places where leaks have occurred. Because the growth usually starts on the side of the tile that is hidden, it can become a big problem before it is noticed.

3. Walls

Walls present the same difficulty that ceiling tiles do. The moisture problem contributing to the mold issue is often inside the wall and thus can become significantly moldy long before it is detected. When this happens, it is best to let remediation experts handle the problem to ensure it is resolved completely.

4. Air Ducts

The dust in air ducts can attract mold spores and give them a place to grow. When coupled with high humidity, the mold problem gets larger. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the HVAC system is necessary to detect or prevent mold problems in the ducts.

Since mold spores are everywhere, you can't always prevent mold growth. You can, however, stop the problem before it gets out of hand if you are vigilant.

How To Maintain a Dryer Vent

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Clean the lint filter after every load and dispose of lint.

How to Keep a Dryer Vent Clean

It is important to maintain a dryer vent on a regular basis. Completing several tasks that range from clearing the lint filter to snaking out the vent pipe can significantly reduce the risk of a lint fire. Clearing excess lint from the filter, pipe, and area surrounding your dryer is the best way to prevent a dryer fire form breaking out in your home.

1. Clean the lint filter after every load and dispose of lint. This simple step can reduce the amount of lint buildup in the dryer vent pipe and around the dryer.

2. Inspect the back of the dryer for buildup twice a month. Even if you dispose of lint, it may still gather around a dryer. This combustible material raises the possibility of a lint fire breaking out.

3. Snake out the vent pipe every three months. A backed-up vent pipe is a common cause of dryer fires.

4. Brush out the lint filter every six months. Even if you regularly clean the lint filter on your dryer, lint still gets impacted into the mesh of the filter. Using a firm bristled nylon brush can eliminate all traces of lint buildup and keep your filter working at optimal efficiency.

5. Schedule a professional cleaning as soon as your dryer starts taking longer to dry clothes. If your standard cycles are no longer getting your clothing dry, this can be a sign that your dryer is due for more thorough maintenance.

Homeowners report nearly 3,000 dryer fires in the United States every year. These fires are also seasonal, and tend to break out in the fall or winter months. The month of January is notable for a record number of dryer fires. If a lint fire breaks out in your laundry room and damages your home, contact a fire and smoke restoration service located in Liberty, MO.

3 Sources of Basement Flooding

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded basement in Liberty MO.

Four Potential Causes of Flooding

When you bought or built your home with a basement in Liberty, MO, you may not have considered the different ways it could flood. A basement flood can happen from any side, including the floor, walls or ceiling. Here are four potential causes of flooding in your basement and tips on how to fix them.

1. Clogged Sewer Lines

Most clogged sewer lines are out of your control. Heavy rain or debris in municipal lines can cause the sewer lines in your house to back up, and the lower levels tend to be affected first. If sewage backs up into your basement, you must hire water restoration specialists to remedy the problem, as you do not need to handle contaminated water. They can dry and clean your basement effectively.

2. Storm Water

During regular rainstorms, your home's drainage system is probably sufficient to keep floodwaters away from your basement. Heavy flooding around your home, however, can trickle in from the place where the foundation meets your exterior walls or through cracks in the foundation itself. A drain system connected to a sump pump can help you with this problem, but it's still a good idea to have professionals make sure the area is clean and dry.

3. Pipe Problems

If a pipe bursts anywhere above your basement, it is possible for the resulting flood to end up in the basement through the ceiling or the walls. Turn off the water source to the pipe as soon as you discover the problem, and call professionals who specialize in pipe repair. They can fix the pipe and replace the damage the leak caused. A quick response is the best way to keep this problem from getting worse.

Flooding in your basement can occur from several sources. It is a good idea to take precautions to prevent it, but it's also important to know whom to call and how to fix it when a basement flood does occur.

What To Do if You Smell Natural Gas in the Home

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

A gas fire can be extremely dangerous and cause major damage to your home.

Is It Bad If You Can Smell Gas In Your Home

If you are home and smell natural gas, your first instinct may be to panic. After all, you have heard horror stories about homes that have spontaneously combusted because of an undetected gas leak. While you are right to be cautious, you can save your home from a gas fire by acting quickly. The Kansas City, MO, fire restoration team recommends doing the following when you smell gas in your home:

• Check the stove to make sure that it’s off.
• Open all windows and doors to help flush any gases out.
• Keep the lights off.
• Locate your gas meter and check it.
• Get out.

Check for Possible Causes

Oftentimes, the smell of gas isn’t anything to be concerned about. If you have a gas stove, check it first and foremost. Somebody may have bumped a knob in passing or accidentally left a burner on. Turning it off could save you a lot of panic.

Ventilate Your Home

Whether or not you discovered the cause of the smell, open all windows and doors to begin airing out your home. The less gas sitting in your home, the better. A home in which gas is allowed to build up is prone to a gas fire.

Keep the Lights and Electronics Off

Even when you don’t see a visible spark, turning a light switch on generates outward electricity. Even a single spark can ignite the gas and result in a gas explosion. If it’s dark out, use a flashlight.

Check the Gas Meter

If the situation isn’t an emergency one, go outside and check your gas gauge. Turn the valve off until help arrives.

Get Out

The best thing you can do if you smell gas in your home is to get everyone out. Do not take chances on you or your loved ones’ safety and go to a neighbor’s home. Call 911 once you are a safe distance away.

A gas fire can be extremely dangerous, which is why you should act quickly when faced with the smell of natural gas. Be smart in your actions, and a situation doesn’t feel right, get out.

4 Things You Need to Know About the National Flood Insurance Program

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Office suffering from storm damage.

The National Flood Insurance Program

As a commercial property owner in Gladstone, MO, you may protect your investment with a commercial insurance policy. The National Flood Insurance Program through the Federal Emergency Management Agency may provide you with some coverage. Your commercial storm damage remediation professional may be able to help you learn more about the NFIP.

1. It covers building property damage. This type of flood policy is designed to help you pay for the structural damages done to your building. This means the general policy does not cover the personal belongings within the building. Instead, it helps cover damages done to the foundation, plumbing, awnings, HVAC systems and other permanent fixtures of the property.

2. It won't help pay for damages that could have been avoided. Like other commercial insurance policies dedicated to flooding, this one won't pay for any water issues that you neglected to fix. For example, if a leaking pipe caused major flooding on your property, the damages may not be covered if you knew about the leak beforehand but chose not to fix it.

3. The value of damages is based on actual cash value. When an assessor comes out to your property, he or she will consider how much it will cost to replace the items that were destroyed in the flooding. That cost minus the physical depreciation of the item will equal how much you could get.

4. It can save you from the sole financial burden. While this policy through FEMA may not cover all issues caused by a storm, it can help you with the financial aspect of the repairs. Having any type of flood policy can make you feel more secure when a bad storm rolls through the area.

Not all commercial insurance policies are the same. If you want to understand the coverage you have for your commercial property, you need to contact your insurance provider. 

How To Keep Your Front-Loading Washing Machine Fresh and Clean

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

You can eliminate mold odor by mixing baking soda and vinegar.

Does your washing machine produce an offensive odor each time you open its door? Do your clothes smell of mildew and mold immediately after being washed and dried? If so, your washer might be due for an extensive cleaning to ensure no mold or mildew growth is present. Read on to learn some helpful tips on why your washer gets that mold smell and how to keep it odor-free in the future.

Why Does It Smell

Do you have a front-loading washer? Front-loaders are superior for various reasons:

• Highly water-efficient
  
• Gentle on clothing
  
• Much less expensive to operate
  
  

Though front loaders in Liberty, MO, use less water than conventional washers, they also create fewer opportunities for water to rinse away suds. The residue that remains collects dirt, lint, and other types of debris that grow mold and mildew over time, generating foul odors and dirty laundry.

Eliminate the Odor
The first step to a clean washer is to eliminate the unpleasant smells. You will need to collect several household items to get started, such as baking soda and distilled white vinegar.
Begin by filling your front loader's detergent compartment with a mixture of baking soda and water. Pour two cups of white vinegar into the dryer's drum, and run the empty machine through a single cleaning cycle. If any pesky debris remains, spray it with vinegar and scrub it with a soft kitchen sponge. Remember to contact a mold remediation specialist if residue remains after careful and proper cleaning.

Keep Your Machine Fresh
To maintain freshness, ensure you use only high-efficiency detergent in your front-loader. Conventional detergent will generate too many suds, leaving a perfect environment for future mold growth.
Always dry the drum following a wash cycle, and leave the door open when the machine is not in use. This habit will allow the washing machine to dry completely between uses.
Finally, front loaders feature a rubber seal to keep the door airtight. Regularly clean this gasket to ensure no mold or mildew is growing beneath the seal.
Proper care will keep your washing machine spotless and odor-free. Follow these tips and enjoy fresh smelling clothes for years to come.

Smart Candle Alternatives

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Pour scented oil into the special bottle that is filled with reeds or sticks.

Choices for Ambient Lighting

If you are looking for ambient lighting, battery-powered candles are a great choice. Many of the options look so authentic, you'd never know they weren't the real deal. Some come with a flickering "flame" and a remote control that turns them on and off. You can find models that are shaped to look like the wax has melted, and some are even made with non-toxic wax.
If you are looking to create warmth in a room, battery-operated candles aren’t the only option.

Grab some clean wine bottles and fill them with strings of battery-operated LED lights. Different colored bottles can add to the atmosphere. You can also choose lights in a variety of colors, depending on your mood or the season.
Fairy lights are fun and festive but don't use them just around the holidays. String them around your potted plants, or place them in painted jelly jars.

Scented Options
When you can’t do without the fragrance that scented candles provide, you can find a wide variety of candle alternatives. In addition to scented flameless candles, there are other safe ways to add a pleasant aroma to your home in Gladstone, MO.

Oil warmer - This device is designed to heat fragrant oils and circulate the pleasing scent into the air.
Wax warmer - Fragrant wax is placed onto an electric or battery-powered dish that warms the wax and disperses the aroma.
Stick diffuser - Pour scented oil into the special bottle that is filled with reeds or sticks. The fragrant oil seeps up the stick and out into the air.

To avoid the need for a fire damage assessment, try some of these candle alternatives when you want to add that special ambiance to your home.

How To Clean Your Business After a Storm

5/15/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial storm loss in Gladstone, MO.

Storm Cleanup

A flood caused by heavy rains, sewage backups, or another disaster can cause a lot of damage to your business that needs to be cleaned up. Here are some tips for how you can get started on cleanup safely.

Inspect the Area for Safety
Buildings affected by flooding in Gladstone, MO, can be dangerous. Before content cleaning can begin, you need to assess the area for safety. If you choose not to hire a storm cleanup crew, you need to take the following safety measures:

• Notify your insurance of the disaster
  
• Avoid stepping in standing water
  
• Examine the foundation before entering
  
• Ensure utilities are turned off
  
• Get utility systems checked by professionals
  
• Create an inventory of damaged items
  
• Wear protective clothing in case of sewage water
  
• Look for wildlife that seeking shelter in your building
  
  

Remove Damaged Contents
Remove any contents from your building, assess them for damage immediately, and take them to a cleaning service. Leaving them for more than 24 hours after the disaster will do enough damage that even a professional content cleaning service won't be able to repair them.

Clean and Dry Out the Building
Start your building clean-up by removing any mud or debris with a shovel and using water to wash hard surfaces. You should start this process as soon as standing water recedes to avoid mold growth. When it is safe to turn the power back on, use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the air while waiting for your content cleaning to finish. During this time, you should also take aggressive measures to prevent mold.
Taking immediate measures to dry out and clean up your business after a disaster will ensure it is returned to normal as soon as possible. Take the proper safety measures to ensure you don't touch black water and start removing contents and cleaning within 24 hours for the best results.

The Most Successful Methods for Content Cleaning After a Fire

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a commercial building in Kansas City, MO.

The Most Successful Methods for Content Cleaning After a Fire

After a fire sweeps through your commercial building in Kansas City, MO, you are left with an overwhelming mess. It can be hard to know where to start. Fortunately, fire remediation specialists have seen it all before and they know how to restore order to all of the chaos. Technicians understand the best methods for cleaning the varied contents of a business. They know that dry-cleaning works best on clothes and fabrics, while ultra-sonic methods are more appropriate for items made of ceramic, metals, plastic and rubber. They will work to match the best cleaning method with each item damaged by fire.

Advanced Content Cleaning Techniques
A fire and smoke restoration technician has a full arsenal of tools at his or her disposal. The process often begins with pretesting to determine if an item is a good candidate for restoration or if it is too damaged to be cleaned. If an item can be restored, the technician will choose from a variety of cleaning techniques:

• Dry-cleaning
  
• Abrasion cleaning
  
• Wet cleaning
  
• Immersion cleaning
  
• Foam cleaning
  
• Spray and wipe
  
  

Some items require more intensive methods to clean out soot and smoke odors. Other items call for gentler methods that won't cause any additional harm.

Additional Methods
Sometimes it makes sense to remove damaged contents to another building for better care. Content storage has several benefits. It allows the crew to work more efficiently in your damaged building. It also keeps sensitive items out of harm's way. You can feel confident that these items will be moved with the necessary care, and they will be returned at the appropriate time. The option for this service may depend upon insurance considerations.
Whether your fire-damaged items need dry-cleaning or some other method, it is good knowing that trained technicians will be in charge. The job will be done to the highest standards of the cleaning and restoration industry.

4 Steps for Repairing Roof Damage After a Storm

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

Severe damage to a building in Liberty, MO.

4 Steps for Repairing Roof Damage After a Storm

Damage that occurs during a storm in Liberty, MO, can cause a multitude of problems for your business. One way that your building might be affected is by developing a roof leak. Whether this was caused by wind, excessive moisture, or something else, it will need to be fixed quickly to prevent further issues. The following are some steps that should be taken during this process.

1. Remove Damaged Materials

A damaged roof can sometimes absorb large amounts of water during a storm. If this happens, then some materials might need to be replaced. If there was hail or heavy winds involved, then there may also be damaged shingles or tiles that should be removed.

2. Dry the Area

After damaged materials are removed, it is important that the area is allowed to dry thoroughly. If this step is skipped, it can lead to secondary damage. Moisture from a roof leak can cause materials to rot or warp, weakening their structure and making it more likely that further damage will occur in the future. It can also lead to the growth of mold which thrives in moist environments and can spread quickly throughout your building.

3. Clean and Disinfect

It is possible that winds carried dirt and debris onto the roof during the storm. In order to properly restore the roof, this material must be removed and the area should be treated with a disinfectant. This will help prevent bacteria and mold from growing inside the roof and will make it easier to place new tiles.

4. Make Repairs

The final step is to begin repairing the roof. Some areas may need to be rebuilt if they were severely affected. Missing shingles will need to be replaced as well.
If you have visible roof damage or have developed a roof leak after a storm, then you should have it repaired as soon as possible. Instead of trying to do the work yourself, it is best to hire a professional cleanup and restoration service. This will ensure that you have the best results in a timely manner.

Perfecting Your Home Fire Escape Plan

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Be sure that you have a fire escape place and practice it often

Ways To Perfect Your Strategy

If a fire ever occurs in your Kansas City, MO, house, you do not want to be caught unprepared. That is why you should create a fire escape plan. This will help everyone in your homestay calm and know what to do during an emergency. Here are some ways to perfect your strategy.

1. Remove Barriers to Doors or Windows
A basic escape strategy involves identifying two ways out of each room in your house. You need to make sure those exits remain clear at all times. Do not let toys or furniture block doors or windows. You should also avoid nailing or painting over the windows of your home. Finally, if you have security bars on windows or doors, make sure they can be quickly released.

2. Consider Infants, Senior Citizens and Guests
As you make your fire escape plan, keep in mind any members of your household who have mobility issues. Assign one member of your home to assist babies or disabled adults during an emergency. You should also designate a backup person in case the primary individual given this task is not home during the fire.
Similarly, anytime you welcome guests into your home, make sure they know the details of your escape strategy. You should also find out the evacuation strategy for any other houses you or your kids visit.

3. Practice, Practice, Practice
While over 70 percent of Americans have a strategy for escaping a home fire, less than half of those people have practiced it. Emergency drills ensure that everyone understands the plan and help you identify potential faults in that plan. You should run an escape drill twice each year, with one of the tests occurring at night.
With a proper fire preparation strategy, you can keep your family safe during a major blaze. Make a fire escape plan and practice it regularly. In between your drills, keep all doors and windows clear of barriers. You never know when you will need to exit your home quickly.

3 Benefits of a Portable Generator

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

A power outage is a worry of the past with a portable generator.

3 Benefits of a Portable Generator

Does your building in Gladstone, MO, commonly suffer from storm damages and power outages? A storm damage cleanup professional is able to help with storm damage, and a portable generator is a great solution to a power outage. There are many benefits to such a device.

1. It's Portable
It's all in the name. We love our portable devices. We all know how much cell phones have revolutionized our life. While a generator might not be as great as a cell phone, it still has many advantages over a traditional stationary one. Being able to move from site to site is a great benefit. It saves you from having to buy a generator for every location, and it's great if you have multiple buildings in different areas that often suffer from a power outage.

2. Prevents Downtime
Whether you're powering computers or power tools, no one likes downtime. Interrupting workflow is one of the most disruptive things for commercial processes and workers. We all know what it's like to lose a bunch of data after a short power dip. Though a mobile generator won't automatically turn on without some extra configuring, it's still better than waiting for a power company to fix the issue, especially in severe weather. The nature of its portability also allows quick setup.

3. Safety Features
Because of their more compact size and portable nature, these types of generators come in-built with extra safety features. A circuit breaker is a standard-issue feature; it prevents power overloads and potentially harmful levels of current. Alongside this, there are several mechanisms working in tandem that help prevent overloads in the first place. A low-oil shutoff is also a standard feature, especially in portable generators. Though it may sound like a bad idea for your generator to automatically shut off, it helps prevent dangerous damages to the mechanisms inside due to a lack of lubrication.
A power outage is a worry of the past with a portable generator.

3 FAQs About Water in Your Basement and Insurance

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

A flooded basement can occur in any home.

What Is Covered By Your Insurance?

The last thing you want to experience is a basement flood, but you still need to be prepared for one. That means understanding what your homeowner's insurance will cover. Here are some frequently asked questions about water sources in your basement and your insurance company's response.

1. Is a Pipe Burst Covered?
Generally, a basement flood caused by a burst pipe falls under the sudden and accidental clause in your policy. This means your insurance will pay for water remediation professionals to dry out your home and fix the damaged flooring and walls. Additionally, your insurance coverage will typically pay for any damage in your basement if you live in a duplex and your neighbor's pipe bursts.

2. Is Damage From a Storm Covered?
Damage that comes from factors outside of your home is another thing. A standard homeowner's insurance policy typically does not cover damage from natural disasters, including hurricanes, thunderstorms, or blizzards. However, you can get a separate flood insurance policy to protect against this type of event. This can be added to your homeowner's insurance or purchased as a single option through another company.
Although they can be crucial, very few homeowners have flood insurance policies. Even though mortgage lenders only require flood insurance policies in high-risk areas, it is a good idea to have this no matter where you live. After all, flooding can occur anywhere.

3. Is Groundwater Seepage Covered?
Sometimes, a basement flood can be caused by groundwater seeping through the cracks in the foundation of your home in Liberty, MO. The damage is generally not covered in these cases. This is because regular maintenance can often prevent groundwater seepage. Be sure to have your foundation inspected regularly and perform any recommended chores.
Since a flooded basement can occur in any home, it is important to understand what is covered by your insurance company. These frequently asked questions will give you a head start so you can find out what your policy covers.

4 Ways To Keep Insurance Claims Down

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

An emergency response team can assist businesses with the restoration process.

Four Ways A Restoration Company Keeps Insurance Claims Down

As a business owner, you have many responsibilities on your plate. What happens when an unexpected disaster strikes your Gladstone, MO, business? What action needs to be taken and what people need to be involved? Many people don’t know the proper steps to take to minimize damage. Fortunately, you can work with an emergency response team to handle everything from cleanup to claims. In fact, from pretesting to best practices, here are four ways that a restoration company keeps insurance claims down.

1. Pretesting
Professionals trained in the restoration industry know that it’s less expensive to restore items than replace them. But how do they know if an item is restorable? First, trained technicians will identify the source of damage. For example, if flooding occurred in a building, technicians will locate the water source. Next, technicians will determine what category of water caused the flooding. The type of water that flooded the building will determine what methods are available to restore items.

2. Electronic Claims
An insurance claim may seem like a major headache; however, an emergency response team makes filing a claim less daunting. An electronic claims information center manages all pertinent information including loss photos, job orders, estimates and forms. Both business owners and insurance companies have access to data to assist in making sound decisions.

3. Emergency Response
In addition to pretesting and electronic claims, a fast response is critical to reduce insurance claims. Restoration specialists are available 24/7 to help businesses that have experienced disasters. By responding quickly to disaster, additional problems can be avoided.

4. Best Practices
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification has specific standards for cleaning and restoring. Businesses that work with an IICRC trained emergency response team can feel confident that costs will be kept down. An insurance agent can also rest assured that claims are kept at a minimum.
Pretesting, electronic claims, emergency response and best practices are good ways to keep insurance claims down. An emergency response team can assist businesses and insurance adjusters with the restoration process.

What Is Category Three Water Damage?

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Black water's toxicity means that any affected furniture or flooring must be removed.

If your commercial building in Kansas City, MO has experienced a flood, you may have many questions. It's important to know what kind of floodwater you're dealing with as you begin the restoration process. There are three types of water damage, classified as Category One, Category Two, or Category Three. Here is some information about Category Three water damage, also known as black water.

Category Three Water Sources

Category Three water is the most extreme form of water damage. In order for water to be considered Category Three, it must be contaminated with toxins such as bacteria, chemicals, or sewage. Category Three or black water sources include:

• water from a rising outdoor water source,
• such as a lake or river
  
• a sewage backup
  
• a toilet overflow that contains feces
  
• water from a natural disaster, such as flood water
  
  

Another way you can get Category Three water is by leaving Category Two water untreated for more than two days.

Safety Precautions
Since black water is considered the most extreme form of contamination, it is important to take the correct precautions when dealing with Category Three water. If possible, avoiding exposure to Category Three water is the best way to stay safe. However, there are times when you must enter your commercial building. In this case, be sure to wear the proper protective equipment, including waterproof gloves, rubber boots, and a face shield. It's also important not to attempt to clean up the water, and instead call in a professional flood restoration company. A clean-up crew will bring the specialized equipment and tools needed to safely clean up black water.

Clean-up Procedures
Call in a professional restoration company as soon as possible. A clean-up crew will bring the specialized equipment and tools needed to safely clean up black water and begin the restoration process. Black water's toxicity means that any affected furniture or flooring must be removed and your building will be cleaned with biocides to kill any bacteria.
Category Three flood water can be damaging to your commercial building if not dealt with quickly. Call in a professional water restoration company as soon as possible can help keep your employees and building safe.

Check Your Insurance Policy for Mold Coverage

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Mold spores are everywhere, even if you can't see them.

After a water-related event like a storm, pipe burst or fire, mold can begin to proliferate in your Liberty, MO, building. Left unchecked, wet or damp surfaces may provide a breeding ground for mold within 24 to 48 hours. It's important to understand your commercial insurance policy to see if mold damage is covered.

Why Mold Is a Problem

Mold spores are everywhere, even if you can't see them. They are carried by wind and air currents and can enter buildings on clothing, shoes or pet fur. Spores will begin to grow in an environment with these conditions:

• Moisture
• Oxygen
• Food source (organic material)
• Warmth

Building materials like wood, drywall, ceiling tiles and carpet provide food sources for mold, so once moisture enters your facility, it can begin to colonize and cause damage.

Insurance Coverage
Commercial insurance policies differ in scope and size. Whether your policy covers mold damage depends on the language in your policy. It also depends on the source of contamination. The standard Insurance Services Office, or ISO, form contains a broad fungus exclusion. Mold is a type of fungus and falls under the exclusion.
There are three exceptions to the exclusion:

• If the mold results from fire or lightning
• If you have a specified cause of loss that results from mold
• Fungus that results from a specified cause other than fire or lightning (limited fungus coverage)

Under limited fungus coverage, the policy covers damage, repair and cleanup. It covers loss or damage if the mold results from a specified cause of loss. If your policy includes an endorsement for flood coverage, mold resulting from a flood is also covered.
To obtain mold insurance through limited fungus coverage, you must use reasonable means to preserve your property from further damage before and after the triggering event.
Limited fungus coverage can help pay for a professional remediation company to mitigate damage caused by mold. Check your commercial insurance policy for details.

Repairing Storm Damage to Your Home

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

A wet crawlspace can cause structural problems and attract pests.

Repairing Storm Damage to Your Home

A home flood in Gladstone, MO, can cause significant damage to the home, inside and out. Cleaning up the property as quickly as possible is the best way to prevent further damage.

Interior Damage
When dealing with storm damage inside the home, the first step is drying the property. Remember to keep the electricity off in wet areas. Remove standing water using pumps or wet/dry vacuums, and evaporate the remaining moisture from porous items using fans or a dehumidifier. Porous items are those that absorb water, including:

• Carpeting
  
• Upholstery
  
• Bedding
  
• Curtains
  
  

When everything is dry, you can begin cleaning and repairing items. Anything that cannot be completely dried should be thrown away. A certified restoration service can help with more complex repairs.

Crawl Space Damage
A home flood can also cause damage to the exterior of your home, particularly the crawlspace. A wet crawlspace can cause structural problems and attract pests.
There may be loose material in a water-damaged crawlspace. Throw this debris away, and then drain the standing water. If your crawlspace does not already have a sump pump, installing one now can speed the drying process and help prevent future flooding problems. Finally, set up fans or dehumidifiers to remove any remaining moisture from the area.
If mold has begun to grow in the crawlspace, you or a restoration company will need to address the problem quickly. Do-it-yourself methods, such as cleaning with bleach or vinegar, can work but may be difficult due to the dark, tight conditions in the crawl space. If it is not feasible for you to perform mold removal yourself, a restoration company can use soda or media blasting to take care of the issue.
If you experience a home flood, you may feel overwhelmed. However, taking the cleanup process one step at a time can minimize stress and help you get your home back to normal quickly.

Why Does a Toilet Leak When Flushed?

1/3/2021 (Permalink)

Replacing a wax ring on a leaking toilet isn't difficult

Top Reasons Why a Toilet Leaks From The Base

If you find that your toilet is leaking from the base when you flush, there are a couple of common reasons. A leaking toilet must be attended to quickly before water begins to damage the flooring. Make sure to call a water damage repair service right away if you discover water damage in your Liberty, MO, bathroom. 

1. Wax Ring Issues
When the seal cracks on the wax ring, water begins to puddle around the base of the toilet. If the person who installed the toilet caulked around it quite heavily, the water may not be leaking visibly, but it could still be damaging the subflooring. An unpleasant odor will usually indicate a broken wax ring seal even if it isn't visible on the surface.
Replacing a wax ring on a leaking toilet isn't difficult.

At the shutoff valve, turn the water off to avoid a bathroom leak.
After removing the lid of the tank, hold the handle down and drain the water from the tank. Scoop up any remaining water.
Loosen the compression nut from the shutoff valve to disconnect the tube. Remove the closet bolt caps and nuts.
Carefully rock the toilet back and forth at the bowl's rim to break the seal and lift the toilet from the floor.
Scrape away the old wax ring.
Position the new wax ring on the toilet flange and set the toilet down. Make sure the wax ring gets a good seal by pressing down while rocking the toilet gently.

2. Loosened Bolts
If the bolts on each side of the toilet aren't tightened, they can cause a leak. You'll see that the bolts are covered by caps. Pop off the caps using a screwdriver and tighten the bolts with a wrench.
Protect your bathroom from water damage by fixing that leaking toilet right away.

All About Commercial Property Insurance

1/3/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial insurance for your business is used to cover your property

Commercial insurance for your business is used to cover your property. It will cover the cost of hiring a remediation company in the event of a disaster and replacing any stolen items. Many different types of businesses can benefit from this insurance. Make sure you know more about it before adding it to your bundle.

What Is It?

Commercial insurance can seem like a major expense if you have expensive equipment in your shop. However, it will protect this equipment if it is stolen or damaged. Additionally, the insurance policy is deductible as an expense. This type of insurance is not ideal if you rent out space in your building and a tenant damages your property.

What Factors Impact Its Cost?
Many factors can impact the cost of the policy for your business in Kansas City, MO. These include:

• Your exact location
• The construction materials
• Your occupancy limits
• The fire and theft protection systems in place

What Property Does It Cover?
The most common thing it is used to cover is the structure where your business is. It can also cover all of the office equipment inside your business. Additionally, you can find policies that protect your important records, inventory, fences, landscape features, and exterior signs.

When Would You Use It?
Your commercial insurance can be used in a variety of situations. It is most commonly used in cases of natural disasters. For example, you can use it to replace any equipment destroyed by a fire. If you live in an area prone to fires or hurricanes, this is a good idea. It can also be used in the event of a theft.
If you have your own business, you need to protect it and your equipment. Instead, invest in a commercial property insurance policy. This will protect your building in the event of fire damage, theft, or other disasters. While it may be costly, it is often deductible and can save you from having to pay to replace your equipment.

How Do I Prevent Mold in My Commercial Space?

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth on wall

How Do I Prevent Mold in My Commercial Space?

The prospect of having a mold infestation in a commercial is a daunting one. Costly restoration efforts can easily drain businesses of their momentum and vitality. Fortunately, relatively simple preventative measures are often sufficient to prevent water damage and moisture from resulting in a serious problem.

1. Identify Problem Areas
Mold depends on moisture to spread and develop. For this reason, moist areas prone to water infiltration should be regularly cleaned and dried. In most buildings, the areas that are most prone to a developing problem are easy to identify. Low areas in bathrooms, ceilings above showers, drywall underneath windows, and mats at entryways are common breeding grounds for new colonies. Also, look underneath carpets where spills may have been overlooked and in other less-frequented areas. Mold prevention is always easier than remediation, so identifying potential problem areas is the most important step in your maintenance routine.

2. Dry Moisture
If you have located materials or surfaces with evident water damage, you should act quickly to dry them. Portable rugs can usually be removed, cleaned, and dried relatively easily. Surfaces such as large carpets or wood cabinets that have been wet for a long time may need to be replaced. Remember that replacing items is often less expensive than having to hire a full restoration team.

3. Ventilate and Dehumidify
A commercial space should always be properly ventilated and dehumidified. This is especially the case if you have just discovered a moisture problem. If you have discovered mold growth in your building but don't own a dehumidifier, a mold restoration professional will have industrial-quality equipment to ensure that your space remains dry and free of mold after a cleanup.
If you have discovered standing moisture or water damage in your Liberty, MO, commercial space, don't panic. While there is limited time to act, it is still possible to avert an entrenched infestation. By quickly removing moisture or damaged items, you can protect your business from long-term damage.

5 Warning Signs of Leaky Pipes in Your Company's Plumbing

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

Fissures may be a precursor to heftier problems

Here Are Five Signs That Your Office's Plumbing May Be On The Verge Of Failure

Leaking pipes happen for a multitude of reasons. Because of this, there are many indicators that your company may be in danger of suffering an imminent pipe break. Here are five signs that your office’s plumbing may be on the verge of failure.

1. Wall Cracks
Minor fractures in newer buildings are a natural result of settling and pose zero risks. If your building is older, however, fissures may be a precursor to heftier problems. Earthquakes and mudslides can cause severe structural damage, including a significant pipe break. Be aware of this possibility if you are located in a danger zone.

2. High Water Bills
If your statement suddenly indicates more usage with no apparent cause, you may have leaking pipes. Monthly charges for water usage typically vary. However, an uptick of more than $15 may be cause for concern. Invoices that rise beyond that threshold are good indicators of developing issues.

3. Sewer Line Complications
Although designed to last more than 25 years, cast iron sewer lines are prone to corrosion. When this happens, major complications transpire. Look for deformed landscaping, constantly clogging drains, sewer gas smells, and toilet backup as potential indicators of this affliction.

4. Indoor Dampness
Inside moisture is a surefire indicator of plumbing issues. Besides needing to handle the leak’s source, there is strong potential for other forms of building damage that must be repaired. Waterlogged insulation and soaked carpeting, for instance, should be treated by a professional commercial water restoration service.

5. Fluctuating Water Pressure
Plumbing should always produce an even flow. If weak streams become commonplace, a pipe may have burst. High water pressure, on the other hand, has the potential to create cracks and fissures. Pressure should go no higher than 45 psi.
Before leaking pipes create a major headache in Kansas City, MO, be aware of indicators that a serious matter is brewing. Catching difficulties before they expand into disasters will prevent significant inconvenience.

How To Avoid Grease Fires at Home

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

Damaged wall after a kitchen grease fire

Hot grease has the potential to auto-ignite and is a dense fuel source. Grease fires burn very hot, making this type of blaze one of the most dangerous. To avoid the risk of significant cosmetic or structural damage, homeowners and residents should take the following measures to prevent and quickly extinguish a grease fire that breaks out in the kitchen of a home in Gladstone, MO.

Prepare To Douse Grease Fires

Depriving flames of oxygen is the best way to put out burning grease. Use any of the following methods to douse a grease fire on a home cooktop or range:

• Pour on baking soda and salt
• Cover with a metal lid or sheet pan
• Use a Class B dry chemical fire extinguisher

In general, fire extinguishers are not recommended for grease fires. The force with which suppressant gets expelled can spread flames.

Don’t Leave Hot Oil Unattended
Every cooking oil has an ignition temperature. When this temperature is reached and sustained, grease can light on fire and burn very hot. Many cooking fires start when items are left unattended on a heat source. Never start heating oil in a pan and then leave the kitchen.

Maintain Good Fire Safety Standards
Monitoring food while cooking, keeping combustible items away from stoves, and keeping items on hand for dousing blazes can make major kitchen and cooking fires less likely at a residence. It is also important to protect burner controls from pets and children, as accidental contact often leads to damage that requires fire cleanup.
Being aware of the risk grease fires pose and preparing to put out this type of fire can reduce the risk of major fire damage to a home in Gladstone, MO. Make sure to keep the right ingredients on hand to extinguish a grease fire without spreading flames and take measures to keep hot grease from igniting.

Does Rental Insurance Cover Mold-Damaged Belongings?

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

The terms of insurance for renters vary

Rental insurance policies may include a limited amount of coverage for mold damage to the policyholder’s belongings. Renters should check policy terms and limits in order to determine whether to seek out additional coverage for damage caused by mold at a rental property located in Gladstone, MO.

Review The Policy Terms

The terms of insurance for renters vary. Policyholders should understand a few general principles of coverage:

• Rental insurance covers a renter's possessions
  
• Claims only cover contents of a property
  
• Policies may exclude certain types of damage
  
  

A renter’s insurance policy may have mold coverage cut out or only cover a limited amount of costs associated with cleaning mold off of contents. The named insured may want to obtain an endorsement to raise the limit of coverage for mold.

Consider Insurance Endorsements
An endorsement provides coverage for perils excluded from a primary renter’s policy. When it comes to reducing out-of-pocket costs for remediating mold or cleaning and restoring any other type of damage that has been cut out of a policy, an endorsement, also referred to as a rider, can be a good stopgap for renters.

Support Claims With Documentation
Whether a renter plans to make a mold removal claim under a primary policy or secondary mold insurance, it will be necessary to submit photographs, videos or other evidence of losses to the company that provides rental coverage. Depending on the item, a policyholder may want to seek out the opinion of restoration professionals to make the best decision regarding valuable items.
Rental insurance that includes coverage for mold can be helpful when fungi starts growing in an apartment or rental home in Gladstone, MO. This coverage offsets the expense of professional content cleaning or the need to pay out of pocket to replace contaminated possessions that cannot be thoroughly cleaned to avoid reintroducing mold to a structure after remediation.

What Swelling Wood Could Mean for Your Home

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

Finding swelling wood means you have structural damage

What Swelling Wood Could Mean for Your Home

If you find swelling wood around the water dispensing and draining areas of your home, such as bathrooms and kitchens, it is best to check for a leak. Wood is highly porous and will absorb water easily, making it especially susceptible to water and mold damage. The parts of your home that can become swollen due to leaks include:

• Ceilings
• Cabinets
• Walls
• Floors
  

Finding Swollen Wood Means You May Have Structural Damage
Most homes in Kansas City, MO, are made up of a wooden structure covered with drywall or wooden planks on the ceilings and walls. It is difficult to spot damage to the structural wooden planks because they are hidden behind the ceilings and walls. If you spot a water stain on either, it is likely that you also have swelling wood in the structure of your home. It is important to fix this right away because if wooden planks remain damp, the water damage will attract mold and cause them to deteriorate. Leaks often develop around water supply lines that connect to sinks, washing machines, and toilets. Your plumbing system can also become worn and develop pipe tears, or break at the joints. This can lead to burst pipes and a flooded home. Upon noticing any leaks or worn pipes, call a plumber right away for water pipe repair to prevent severe water damages.

Contact a Restoration Service
Some wooden surfaces can be renewed through a process called water damage restoration. A company that provides this type of service will assess the damage, extract the water, and dehumidify the wood with professional tools to restore the wood. This is a great service to fix drywall and real wood, but cabinets and subflooring will need to be replaced.
If you have noticed swelling wood or ceiling and wall stains in your home, call a water damage restoration service to fix it. This will prevent the moist wood from developing mold and deteriorating, saving you the costs of unexpected repairs.

Top 5 FAQs Regarding Commercial Flooding

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded commercial building in Kansas City, MO

Prepare Yourself To Protect Your Property

It's important for all business owners to be aware of the many dangers that could afflict their commercial buildings. After all, you can't conduct business in a building full of floodwater. Study the following frequently asked questions regarding commercial floods so you can prepare yourself to protect your property in Kansas City, MO.

1. Is Flooding Really Something to Worry About?
According to the National Severe Storms Library, flooding is responsible for over $5 billion in commercial damages each year, making it the most expensive form of natural disaster in the country. It can also occur anywhere in the United States, making it an issue that all business owners need to watch out for.

2. Why is Flood Water Considered "Black Water?"
There are three different types of flooding, each categorized by the types of contaminants present in the water itself. Black water floods are the most dangerous, as they're categorized by the presence of biohazards. If your business suffers from a Category 3 flood, you need to contact professional assistance immediately.

3. How Can You Prepare for a Flood?
There are several ways to prepare your business for a flood. Some of the most important steps involve creating a disaster plan, backing up important documents, building an emergency supply kit and assessing your personal flood risk.

4. What is Your Personal Flood Risk?
Your flood risk refers to how likely your building is to suffer from severe flood or storm damage. FEMA has several maps on their website that detail each region's personal flood risk. It's important that you take a look at these documents and commit the information to memory.

5. Why is Professional Flood Remediation Important?
When it comes to cleaning up after a flood, the initial water damage is only the beginning. If the issue isn't resolved quickly and effectively, then you're putting your business at risk for suffering from secondary damage, such as mold growth.
Don't take risks when it comes to protecting your business from flood water damage. Contact storm remediation professionals to help resolve any type of flood or storm damage that has affected your commercial building.

How To Limit Flooding During Construction

10/31/2020 (Permalink)

Just one broken pipe can cause thousands of dollars in damage

Steps To Reduce Flooding During Construction

As a construction business owner in Liberty, MO, you know the importance of minimizing harm at a work site. Just one broken pipe can cause thousands of dollars in damage. If the building becomes flooded, you will have to spend extra money on debris removal and emergency restoration services. The excess water could also put your project behind schedule.
To prevent the need for a water pipe repair company, you should take steps to reduce flooding during all three construction phases. Below are the three phases and ways to limit water damage during each of them.

1. Pre-Construction
Before your project begins, you should design a formal quality control program. Make sure that your plans are peer-reviewed in advance.
If possible, direct any draining water away from the excavation and the structure itself. Consider installing backup pumping and power systems, as well.

2. Construction
Once the construction actually begins, have the pipes tested and installed early in the process. This way, even if you do need water pipe repair, the broken pipe will not cause too much damage to the finished structure.
Each week, create a list of any potential water problems that arise. Make sure that every item on the list is resolved by the end of the week. The longer you allow issues to linger, the more damage they could cause. Ideally, you should have a designated team that focuses solely on protecting the property from water harm. You can use your own employees or outside consultants.
You should additionally perform water tightness testing once the building's roof is installed. This test should also be done by an expert.

3. Post-Construction
You may still discover some water issues as you close down the project. Any water pipe repair should be performed within 48 hours.
By making some minor adjustments before, during and after the construction process, you can prevent water damage and keep your project on schedule. You will also have more money to spend on the building itself instead of having to pay for remediation services.

3 Things Commercial Owners Should Expect To See During the Fire Cleanup Process

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Board up services after fire damage in Gladstone, MO

Fire Cleanup Process

Once a fire is put out, business owners in Gladstone, MO, begin the tremendous task of recovery. The fire cleanup process takes a while, requiring several stages to remediate concerns from the blaze. Not only do fire restoration companies need to tend to the smoke damage, but they also must safeguard the building, remove odors and tend to water damage. As a result, proprietors should expect to see the following three things during their cleanup procedures.

1. Tarps and Boards
As you survey the property's soot damage, you may notice various holes in the ceiling and walls. Some of these may have been caused by the blaze. Others occurred when the fire crew cut into the drywall, looking for any lingering sparks. Left alone, these exposures leave proprietors vulnerable to theft and harmful weather. These openings, therefore, should be covered and secured to prevent additional destruction and to minimize access.

2. Dehumidifiers
Professionals begin to clean the smoke damage once the excess moisture has been eliminated. After all, sprinkler systems and fire hoses saturated various assets and structural pieces. If allowed to dry naturally, mold can begin to grow. To avoid this complication, industrial dehumidifiers are used to extract excess fluid. These may run for a few days until moisture readers indicate the impacted zone is back within a normal range.

3. Air Scrubbers and Foggers
Along with removing the ash and soot, the rooms should have smoke cleaning deodorizing treatment. Removal of impacted items should occur first. Then, odor technicians can test the reason for strange aromas and use high-tech equipment to eliminate the source. For instance, HEPA filtered air scrubbers can run. These devices remove air pollutants from the space, including the ventilation system. In addition, workers may use a thermal fogger that applies deodorizer sprays that can reach difficult locations.
The professionals can care for your smoke damage. As they do that, they'll also consider other factors. The whole package is needed for proper restoration.

Will Your Solar Panels Survive a Storm?

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

Panel damage can still occur during storms

Solar Panel Damage

You may be wondering what will happen to your solar panels during a major storm. After all, while your panels are durable, they are not indestructible.
In general, panels should be able to survive harsh weather conditions. However, panel damage can still occur during storms. Below are some common causes of harm to these panels.

1. Lighting
Lightning strikes can destroy your panels. Thankfully, there are products available that can protect the panels from electrical harm. For instance, you can install a surge protection device for the panels.

2. Fire
Lightning can also spark fires that cause solar panel or roof damage. It is not just the flames themselves that can harm your panels. Extreme heat alone may cause them to malfunction. Adding fans or another form of ventilation may help.

3. Snow
Of course, destructive storms do not just include lightning. They can also bring heavy rain or snow. Snow, in particular, can build up on top of the panels. To prevent panel damage, this snow should be removed immediately.

4. Falling Debris
Storms may also cause large branches to strike your panels. While this debris might not break the panels, the falling objects may make your panels less efficient over time.
Still, solar panels are fairly strong. As long as the anchor and racking can survive high winds, your panels should be secure during hurricanes and rainstorms. In fact, a 2017 hailstorm that pounded the Denver area only broke one solar panel at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in nearby Golden. The lab has more than 3,000 panels on its campus. Researchers from the NREL have developed tests to ensure that various panels on the market can withstand harsh conditions.
Your panels should be able to withstand storms. Best of all, any solar panel damage that does occur may not be permanent. Cleanup and restoration professionals can repair the panels and any other parts of your Kansas City, MO, home that are harmed.

3 Steps To Resolving Mold Damage and Their Estimated Costs

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Mold removal in Gladstone, MO

How To Clean Up Mold In Your Home

If you notice dark spots growing in damp and humid areas in your home, you may have a mold problem in Gladstone, MO. While this may not sound like much of an issue, it is imperative that you address this problem quickly and enlist the help of professionals who specialize in mold removal.
Costs can escalate quickly if growth is allowed to spread. Here are a few steps to resolving your mold infestation and their associated costs.

1. Inspection
A professional mold inspection can cost up to $600, plus potential lab testing fees. Despite this expense, it is recommended you call a professional rather than attempt to remedy the situation yourself. An inspector will sample the mold properly to determine the specific type and appropriate removal process. For example, an inspector may determine that you need to hire a company that specializes in black mold removal.

2. Removal
Based on the inspection results, the next step is likely mold removal. The cost to remove mold from your home will vary, depending on how much the growth has escalated. If you are removing it from only crawl spaces, these services can range from $500 to $4,000. Removing mold from walls, attics, ducts and crawl spaces can increase the cost to nearly $6,000. If left untreated and uncontrolled, you may find yourself with structural damage, resulting in costs as high as $30,000.

3. Cleanup and Disinfection
A mold remediation service can help you eliminate your problem for good by cleaning and disinfecting your property, including the walls, carpet and other personal belongings. They will also remove any water-damaged and mold-infested items and materials, such as drywall, depending on the severity of the damage.
It is in your best interested to act quickly and hire a professional mold removal and remediation service as soon as you discover mold in your house. Mold can wreak havoc on your home if left undetected and untouched, and the costs of waiting can add up quickly.

What Causes Flooded Basements and What Should Be Done After One Happens?

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded basement in Liberty, MO

Your basement has suffered severe flooding and you have no idea how it happened. Everything remains underwater and the mess must be cleaned, but you don’t know where to begin. Remain calm and read on.

What Causes a Basement Flood?

There are a few possibilities for why your lower level now resembles an indoor pool, among them:

• Incorrectly installed tiles
• Inadequate sealing
• Overflowing gutters
• Improperly installed downspouts
  

Structural faults like these can be avoided through proper maintenance. Feel free to conduct your own repairs, but hire a professional if you ever feel unsure.
Another major complication that commonly results in basement flooding is faulty plumbing. Have a pipe repair expert tackle the matter before concerns develop.
Unfortunately, even the best efforts sometimes fail to prevent disaster. Learn the proper response after a catastrophe occurs.

What Should You Do After a Basement Flood?
Before calling upon a water restoration authority, contact your insurance provider to check your coverage and then file a claim if appropriate.
Shut down power to prevent the danger of electric shock. A qualified electrician can help if you are unable to safely reach the circuit breaker.
Wear protection before entering the affected area. Keep in mind that mold grows after dampness sets in. Rubber gloves, waterproof boots and facemasks are highly recommended for safety.
Use a sump pump to evacuate as much water as possible. Run fans to speed up the drying process and deploy a dehumidifier to discourage harmful fungus from taking hold.
Remove anything soaked, including drywall and insulation. Even carpeting may need to be excised. Clean the walls and floor, along with any other exposed surface. As a final step, install waterproofing measures in case the experience ever repeats.
Specific reasons exist as to why flooding may affect your home in Liberty, MO. Take preventive measures to halt them from precipitating severe disruption. Should your worst nightmare happen anyway, following the above recommendations can help restore everything back to normal.

4 Benefits of Working With a Certified Water Damage Expert

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in Kansas City, MO

4 Benefits of Working With a Certified Water Damage Expert

When your commercial building floods, your first concern is finding a professional team in Kansas City, MO, that can help you remedy the situation. You might not be thinking about finding a certified team. Instead, you simply want a team that can get the job done quickly. You know you have to act quickly, but it may still be beneficial for you to find a certified remediation team for your water cleanup.

1. Knowledgeable: Anyone who is certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification has to pass a rigorous set of exams. This means you can trust your professional to know how to handle even the most complex flooding situation. Your team's certification may make them better suited to handle content cleaning, mold removal, and other secondary tasks related to cleaning up after a broken pipe.

2. Ethical: The certification also ensures your team adheres to a certain code of ethics. This code may ensure no corners are cut when doing a water cleanup. If a team cuts corners, your restoration may not be as complete as you thought it was.

3. Insured: Before a company can receive the certification from the IICRC, the businesses must prove that it is fully and properly insured. Working with an insured business benefits you because it relieves some of the financial risks of having workers in your building. Flooding can weaken structures or cause mold growth, but an insured business takes the responsibility for these risks.

4. Licensed: Some restoration businesses follow storms across the country. These companies may not have local or state licenses, which means they don't know the local codes. A certified business, however, must meet all license requirements.

When you need to start the water cleanup process in your commercial building, you want to know that the team you call can get the job done correctly the first time around. If you choose to hire a certified company, you can trust that the experts know what they're doing.

How To Clean Your Gas Range

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

Clean your gas range

Range Cleaning Process

Cooking on a gas range can be messy. Food or oil may splatter from the pans onto the burners. This could be dangerous, as the leftover crumbs or grease might spark a blaze in your Kansas City, MO, home.
Luckily, the range cleaning process is fairly straightforward. Simply follow the below steps, and your range will look as good as new in no time!

1. Clean the Grates and Burner Caps
Remove the grates and burner caps from the range and let them soak in soapy hot water. You can clean off any excess grease using a scrub brush and dish soap.

2. Remove the Crumbs
Next, wipe away any small bits of food on the gas range. You can use either a paper towel or a dry brush for this step.

3. Spray and Wipe
Mix equal amounts of water and vinegar together and put the solution into a spray bottle. Spray the liquid onto the stove top, back panel and knobs. Let the cleaner sit there for about one minute before using a paper towel or rag to wipe the range.

4. Scrub the Stains
Use soap to clean any stains that have been on your stove for a while. Apply dish soap to a toothbrush or small brush. Then put the bristles onto the stain and move the brush in a circular motion.

5. Wash the Burner Heads
Finally, lift the burner heads off the gas range and wash underneath them. Once the debris has been loosened, you can use a small needle or pin to remove it.
Cleaning your range frequently can reduce the chances of a blaze breaking out in your kitchen. Still, a fire can occur even on a spotless stove. The inferno may burn parts of your home and leave behind a nasty odor. If this happens to you, fire damage cleanup specialists can restore your belongings and even remove the smoke smell.

5 Mold Prevention Measures for Rentals

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Consider installing an automated emergency water supply shutoff

Mold Prevention Measures

Mold diminishes the appeal of an apartment or rental home to tenants. The implied warranty of habitability in residential lease contracts can also make landlords liable for exposing occupants to mold. Here are five of the most effective mold prevention measures for rental properties in Kansas City, MO.

1. Maintain and Protect Pipes
A pipe burst can be a costly source of primary water and secondary mold damage. Even if the damage is discovered and reported in a timely manner, a structure may have an elevated risk of mold growth. Consider installing an automated emergency water supply shutoff.

2. Quickly Fix Water Damage
Residual moisture and water left standing for 48 hours or longer are likely to support the growth of mold. Property owners or managers should contact the closest franchise of a major commercial damage restoration company.

3. Resolve Residual Moisture Problems
Portions of a structure with high humidity levels may be at risk of developing mold. Reduce ambient moisture and frequently clean the affected area as mold prevention measures.

4. Promote Ground Water Drainage
The landscaping of a rental property can make mold more likely. Buildings where water pools around the base of the structure due to poor drainage are more likely to have basement flooding and foundation problems.

5. Make Mold-Resistant Upgrades
There are commercial-grade versions of drywall, paint, and other building supplies that are designed to resist mold growth. These upgrades may reduce the risk of major mold problems, especially when paired with other preventative measures and timely responses to mitigate and fully restore damage.
Property owners who take these mold prevention measures may be able to reduce the likelihood of a major fungal infestation at a rental property in Kansas City, MO. Try to be proactive and do maintenance to avoid major water damage. Clean up and restore any damage that does occur to keep mold from growing.

3 Ways To Reduce Your Commercial Building's Water Consumption

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Inspect your irrigation system

Methods To Improve Your Property's Water Use And Save Money

Water is an important resource to your Gladstone, MO, business, but it can also create problems when used incorrectly. One of the many water issues you may encounter involves excessive consumption. Your building may use its water inefficiently, which leads to potential problems like property damage and increased costs. Explore the following methods to improve your property's water use and save money.

1. Inspect Your Irrigation System
If you have plant life throughout the commercial building, you likely use an irrigation system to keep it hydrated during hot and dry weather. However, parts of this system can fail and create issues. Malfunctioning devices may irrigate sidewalks and driveways instead of plants and grass. They can also leak and damage the structure, which requires you to call water damage repair specialists. Inspect the irrigation system regularly to ensure correct water consumption and prevent future damage.

2. Control Water Pressure
High pressure in your building's pipes, usually caused by boost pumps, can cause numerous water issues. You may use these devices to improve pressure on the top floors of the building. Unfortunately, this also places extra pressure on the other pipes, wearing them down and potentially leading to leaks and destroyed fixtures. Conserve water and avoid these damages by installing a water upgrade, such as speed pumps and regular valves to maintain the pressure between 60 to 80 psi.

3. Add Native Plants to the Landscape
A healthy landscape within your establishment has numerous benefits, from attracting potential customers to improving property values. You may be tempted to integrate exotic plant life to increase the location's appeal. However, these plants require far more water and last less in this territory than native options. Reduce water and landscaping bills by substituting them with more resistant and less intensive plants.
While your commercial building will consume plenty of water, there are steps you can take to conserve as much water as possible. These measures will help you eliminate water issues and improve efficiency.

3 Ways to Stop Flooding at Your Place of Business

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Sand bags can be placed as water barriers, it will help to stop the flooding in your building

Flood Prevention Tips

There are a number of ways to help prevent high water after a storm in Liberty, MO, from flooding your business. Each step can help protect your business from damage which could result in loss or create other problems. Here are three flood prevention tips that many professionals recommend.

1. Water Barriers

One way to help stop flooding is to set up a water barrier around the vulnerable locations of your business property. A water barrier may be a permanent fixture such as a raise-able barricade, or a removable solution such as an inflatable wall or sandbags. These should be used in a way that directs water flow into safe drainage locations.

2. Clear Drainage

If you think you may experience high water volume during a storm, it’s a good idea to ensure that drainage ditch and storm gutters are clear of debris. Keeping these areas clear can help prevent water backup which may then overflow into vulnerable locations.

3. Regular Inspections

Another way to help protect your business is to do a regular inspection of the property. This will help you stay up-to-date on any maintenance needs, as well as allow you to catch issues such as a damaged room or cracked window before it can cause long term water damage. Remember, if you do find storm damage local restoration service can help with clean up and repairs. These professionals may also be able to offer advice for some damage mitigation solutions your business can use.

Following these three tips can help you prevent flooding from high water, during a storm. Use barriers to protect the exterior of the building, keep drainage areas clear of debris, and regularly inspect the property for any issues that need to be fixed. Remember if your business does experience flood damage, a local restoration service can help. If you have any questions about this process be sure to let them know this as well.

What Homeowners Should Know About Water Damage Claims

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Whether caused by bursting pipes or a natural disaster, water damage can cause major destruction to homes in Kansas City, MO. However, many homeowners have questions about making a claim, and learning more about the process before a disaster occurs can help to put homeowners’ minds at ease.

What Are Common Causes of This Type of Damage?

There are various reasons homes may become flooded. Common sources of flood damage include:

• Toilet overflows
• Burst or leaky pipes
• Flooding as a result of natural disasters
• Roof leaks
  

What Will Your Policy Cover?

Though individual insurance policies vary in coverage, most home insurance policies will cover the costs of flood damage that occurs accidentally or suddenly. For example, the majority of policies are likely to cover the costs of flood damage that was caused by bursting pipes or a natural disaster. However, coverage often varies when it comes to secondary damage that occurs after a flood, such as mold growth or deteriorating building materials. Additionally, damage that slowly occurs over time, such as leaking pipes, may not be covered.

What Happens After You File a Claim?

Once you know what costs will and will not be covered, the restoration process can begin. Often, it is helpful to contact experts in flood damage restoration. Professionals will first fix the broken pipe, leaky roof or any other issue that has caused the flooding. Then, efforts to prevent mold growth and the deterioration of building materials will begin. Once all water has been removed from the home and the area affected is dry and clean, the home will finally be restored.

Though flooding from bursting pipes and other sources can’t always be prevented, it’s often useful to learn about what your insurance policy is likely to cover in the event of a disaster. Knowing what coverage your policy will provide can help you better prepare yourself and your home for water damage.

Do You Need Storm Shutters on Your Home?

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

Colonial storm shutter installed in a Liberty, MO home

Storm shutters aren't necessary in all areas of the country. If you live in a hurricane-prone location, however, they are a wise choice. Destructive high winds can cause a lot of damage to your home in Liberty, MO, so it's important to take the time to protect your house before a storm hits. There are so many options from which to choose, so let's take a look at some of the best selections that are available.

Types of Permanent Shutters for Storm Protection

Colonial: The colonial look is so charming that many people install this option for decorative purposes. They are very effective, however, in protecting your windows during high winds. Before a storm hits, you simply unlatch them from both sides of the window and securely bolt them in the middle.
Bahama: These are mounted at the top of the window and pulled down from an awning position. They are securely fastened below the window. This option is very effective at keeping out the hot sun as well.
Rolling Type: These can be kept out of sight on the off-season. They roll out and then back and are stored in a bolted box above the window.
Accordion: This style, which is kept inside a box that is bolted to both sides of the window, can be seamlessly pulled and secured across the window or even a door.

Temporary Choices for Protection
Storm panels are a temporary choice to consider as well. When a hurricane threat is in the forecast, these panels are placed on a steel channel that has been bolted at the top and bottom of each window. This channel can be unbolted in the times when it isn't required.
Protect your home against high winds during storm season. If you do sustain some damage during a storm, contact a storm damage restoration company as soon as possible.

Important Workers in the Fight Against Residential Mold

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

Mold testing shows where mold is present

Your home is your castle and a sanctuary in times of trouble. It should always be a place where you can find peace and quiet and health. The presence of mold in your house in Gladstone, MO, detracts from all of that positive energy. Fortunately, professional mold cleaning can wipe away the problem "Like it never even happened." A quality mold remediation franchise employs a number of talented workers that understand mold and how to remove it from your home. These technicians have a high degree of training and often carry professional certifications that go above and beyond routine cleaning practices. They follow the guidelines of the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification organization.

The Role of an Environmental Hygienist

This worker is crucial to the process of mold cleaning. An environmental hygienist is trained to administer and interpret a highly-accurate mold test. The results of the test will show where mold is present, at what level, and even whether the fungus is black mold or some other strain of mold. The environmental hygienist is informed about the following hazards:

• Environmental
• Biological
• Chemical
• Electrical
• Physical
  

This technician plays a leading role in preventing mold in your home. He or she works to protect the health of your family and the value of your property at all times.

The Job of an Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
This person understands the fine points that are important to successful mold cleaning. This specialist keeps informed on the most effective and safest treatments available to help with mold remediation. When dealing with mold, it is not enough to use ordinary cleaning agents. Powerful disinfectants and antifungal and antimicrobial products are needed to kill mold spores, yet the products must be deemed safe by the IICRC. A number of other specialists and technicians are also involved in making sure your home is cleaned of mold.

Restoration Services To Protect Your Commercial Property After a Fire

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Board up services in Kansas City, MO

Restoration Services To Protect Your Commercial Property After a Fire

After surviving the initial fire damage, many business owners do not want to consider that their building may still fall victim to further vandalism and harm. You need to be vigilant after a disaster to protect your facility from looting, vagrants, wildlife, and the weather. A restoration service in Kansas City, MO, can help protect your property through several unique services.

Boarding and Tarping
Fencing
Video Surveillance
In-Person Security

Boarding and Tarping
After a fire ravages your company, it is likely left exposed to the elements. Broken windows, destroyed doors, vent holes in the roof are all consequences of a fire rescue. A restoration company offers boarding and tarping services to seal the interior of your building, protecting from outside elements before the fire cleanup process. They cover roof holes with tarps and seal doorways and windows with plywood sheets.

Fencing
While building owners are primarily concerned with protecting the interior of their facility after fire damage, to provide maximum security from animals and looters, most restoration services suggest using installing a temporary fence. The fencing most often used is construction fencing, which can be removed easily after a full restoration.

Video Surveillance
For property owners who want increased surveillance, some companies offer video surveillance packages. Cameras often act as a deterrent for those who wish to harm your property further. The cameras can be space to eliminate all possible blind spots, ensuring an unobstructed view of the entire property.

In-Person Security
If you want more protection than video cameras and fences, then consider in-person security. While not every mitigation firm will provide or offer this service, they may know of security firms that do. Security guards can be stationed around your property at specific entry points, and they can also walk the facility to eliminate the threat of unwelcome visitors.
Fire damage is only a part of the concern for business and property owners. It is also crucial to protect the building after the fire. Contact a mitigation service for help.

Get Your Business Running Again After Water Damage

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

No matter the size of the water damage in your commercial building, it is crucial to call the experts right away

If your commercial property in Liberty, MO, has suffered water damage, due to broken pipes or flooding, it is critical to have the area inspected right away by a technical expert. Mold can grow within 24 to 48 hours, so you need a professional to handle the damage restoration.

Who Should You Contact?

SERVPRO employs professionals who are available all hours of the day and night to begin water cleanup. They are highly trained experts who specialize in restoring property after a water catastrophe. In fact, SERVPRO is the preferred vendor for most insurance adjusters. With SERVPRO franchises located all over the United States, you will have no problem finding the critical help you need.

What Will a Professional Do?

First, the expert will thoroughly inspect the water damage to determine what caused it and what areas have been affected.
Industrial pumps and vacuums will then remove the water. The process must begin quickly to minimize damage and discourage mold growth.
Once most of the water is gone, specialized equipment is used to remove any additional hard-to-reach water. Industrial dehumidifiers and air movers will then draw out the remaining moisture.
Specially-designed cleaning techniques are utilized to clean and sanitize the entire area once it is completely dried. Antimicrobial treatments, using industrial air scrubbing equipment, are applied to remove odors and to prevent the growth of mold.
Restoration can occur once the entire area has been cleaned successfully. The amount of restoration needed depends on the extent of the damage. The experts will know if you only need to replace a couple drywall panels and carpeting, or if major rebuilding is required.

No matter the size of the water damage in your commercial building, it is crucial to call the experts right away. They will safely clean your building and equipment, and get you back on your feet as quickly as possible.

Residential Broken Water Heaters Can Leave Lasting Damage

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

A broken water heater often starts with a small leak

It can be easy to forget that those hot showers are made possible by an appliance. It quickly comes to mind if your home in Kansas City, MO, has a leaking water heater. All that water can quickly lead to damage that may require a water and mold remediation and restoration expert if left unchecked.

Signs of Trouble

While in some cases you may stumble across an unwanted pool of water, a broken water heater often starts with a small leak that can quickly go unnoticed unless inspecting the appliance. There are some subtle clues to look out for that may indicate you have a failed water heater.

• The temperature of the hot water has become cooler.
• Rust residue is found coming out of faucets.
• Cracking or popping noises are heard when the heater is running.
• Hot water begins to have a slightly metallic taste.
• The water heater has visible rust at its base.
  

Cleanup After a Leak
After discovering a leaking water heater, quick action is required to avoid water damage from spreading. Take the following steps to mitigate water damage.

Turn off the water supply to the heater and remove water remaining in the water heater. Be sure to turn off the gas line heating the water.
Begin removing water from the floor. Since this is considered relatively clean water, it can be cleaned up without worrying about harmful contaminants. Direct the water toward the floor drain if the area is unfinished or use a wet vacuum to suck up the water.
Dry out the area. This may include opening windows, as well as using a fan and dehumidifier. Take humidity levels into consideration before opening windows.
Call the experts. After the area is clean and dry, there could be hidden damage or water. Getting a professional inspection can help you avoid secondary water damage.

While a leaking water heater may not happen frequently, it is an appliance that can cause damage if not operating properly. Quick action and regular inspections can keep those showers hot and carefree.

Clay County Smoke and Soot Cleanup

5/25/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home or business, 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 Clay County 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.

SERVPRO of Clay County has been helping families and businesses throughout the Northland with their cleanup and restoration needs for over 25 years.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (816) 436-7420

Understanding Secondary Damage

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth as the result of secondary damage in Gladstone, MO

Any time your business in Gladstone, MO, experiences a disaster, it's crucial to have experts on board during the cleanup phase to assess the best possible solutions to avoid future risk. If a water disaster isn't cleaned and dried properly, you risk secondary damage such as black mold.

The Risk of Secondary Damage

Secondary damage is damage that results from the initial damage. If the initial damage, such as a flooded restroom, is attended to correctly, and damaged materials are replaced, all flooring and cracks in flooring are properly dried, and all contaminants are disinfected or removed, you won't have secondary damage.
It's important to understand that an untrained professional will not have the skills or knowledge to successfully prevent secondary damage. Always hire a certified cleanup and restoration specialist to handle disasters of any size.
Black mold is one of the most common examples of secondary damage. Because black mold can grow behind walls, in ceilings, and under flooring where it can't be seen, it can cause damage for a lengthy period of time before it is found. Black mold grows as a result of materials that remained wet due to high humidity or improper drying techniques.

Preventing Secondary Damage
Prevention measures for secondary damage include using special chemicals, drying techniques, and testing equipment that specialists have been trained to use. When you hire a cleanup specialist, look for the IICRC certification on their web page or advertising. If you don't see it, ask. If the person you hire isn't properly trained, you increase your risk of experiencing secondary damage.
The best way to avoid secondary damage is to call your clean up and restoration professional immediately after the damage has occurred. Secondary damage such as black mold can be as dangerous as the primary damage. The sooner your disaster is cleaned, the fewer material losses you will have.

Avoiding Mold Growth Lawsuits Against Property Managers

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

When you own property in Liberty, MO, you want to protect yourself from mold insurance claims

Avoiding Mold Growth Lawsuits Against Property Managers

When you own property in Liberty, MO, you want to protect yourself from mold insurance claims. As a property owner, you are required to keep your building fit for its intended use. For residential buildings, they must be kept in a habitable condition. While avoiding insurance claims is ideal for any business owner, mold problems can happen. You can decrease your chances of having a claim filed against you by knowing how these problems usually occur.

1. Building Materials
If you are having work done on your building, be sure to use a reputable company. You could end up spending a lot more money in the long run if your builder uses inappropriate building materials. Protection against leaks requires the proper type of waterproofing during the building process.

2. Proper Installation
Even the tiniest cracks or crevices can lead to mold insurance claims. Once moisture enters a space, mold can begin forming in as little as 24-48 hours unless it is properly dried out.

3. Damage During Construction
Accidents that happen during construction can provide a path for water to invade unseen places. If a nail accidentally goes through a pipe or vent, it can lead to problems.

4. Old or Damaged Pipes
Pipes and fittings can wear out over time. If a pipe begins to drip or a leak happens under a sink, it can lead to a mold claim.

5. Dirty Ventilation Systems
If there is mold anywhere within a building, the spores can get into the ventilation system. Once inside, the air may push the spores through the system and into other rooms on the property.
To help avoid mold insurance claims, building owners can perform yearly inspections to make sure everything is working as expected. If you end up with mold despite your best intentions, you can hire a professional mold remediation company to remedy the situation as quickly as possible.

How Do Storm Shutters Protect a Home?

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

A window covered by a shutter is less likely to break due to impact during high winds

Benefits of Shutter Installation At a Home

Residents of areas that have frequent severe weather should consider installing storm shutters. Shutters are intended to shield windows or other openings from high winds and flying debris. Many designs and materials are available to homeowners, such as fabric, polycarbonate, metal, and wood. Learn more about the benefits of shutter installation at a home in Kansas City, MO.

Block Flying Debris
Any outdoor object that is not secured to the ground may get ripped up and become flying debris during a hurricane or tropical storm. Here are some of the best options for shuttering windows:

• Accordion designs
  
• Panel designs
  
• Rolling designs
  
  

Most polycarbonate plastic or metal storm shutter materials are strong enough to withstand being battered by tree limbs, building materials, and other items traveling at high speeds.

Prevent Broken Windows
A window covered by a shutter is less likely to break due to impact during high winds. In addition to avoiding broken glass and preventing water and debris from blowing into a structure, shutters also help to preserve the integrity of the building envelope. Any breach can permit pressure to build up that could ultimately blow off the roof deck or expose other critical structural components to excessive force.

Provide Post-Storm Security
A shuttered home is less tempting to trespassers after a storm. Whether a homeowner decides to evacuate or shelter in place, these coverings preserve privacy while minimizing losses and the extent of secondary storm damage resulting from intrusion. Shutter materials such as plastic, metal, and wood provide these benefits.
Shutter design and the number of windows requiring protection will determine the cost of installation. Bahama-style installations are often the most expensive style, while roll down, accordion and panel designs can be more affordable. Storm shutters help to limit the extent of damage caused by high winds, hail, and other severe weather conditions at a residence in Kansas City, MO.

Ballyhoo Seek and Find!

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

Thanks for playing!

3 Reasons You Should Hire Professionals To Clean Puffback

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Hire specialist around Liberty, MO area

Reasons To Leave This Type Of Damage To The Experts

A malfunctioning furnace does more than just drive up your energy costs. It can also cause puffback damage to the walls and ceiling around it. You may be tempted to clean the soot damage in your commercial building in Liberty, MO, to save money, particularly if the furnace itself needs extensive repairs or replacement. There are several reasons you should leave this type of damage mitigation to the experts, though.

1. Difficult To Clean
When you first see the soot on the wall above the furnace, it may seem that a bucket of soapy water and some elbow grease should do the trick. Soot from an oil furnace, however, is not easy to remove. It is sticky with a tar-like texture. Even if you are able to get a lot of it off the wall, chances are that you are going to need to hire fire mitigation experts to finish the job. Why not start with them in the first place?

2. Hard To Find
Soot from a smoking furnace gets everywhere. Even if you see a lot of puffback damage, you are probably not seeing the full extent of the problem. Soot particles make their way into air vents where they can travel in the ducts throughout your building. A thorough cleaning usually involves tackling your whole HVAC system.

3. Full of Odor
Furnace puffback can leave soot in every crack and crevice surrounding the equipment. If you only clean the surface, you are leaving a lot of damage untouched, and the lingering odor proves it. Professional technicians have special processes and equipment to reach even the smallest places where soot can go. They clean and deodorize your building, leaving it just like it was before the problem occurred.
Puffback damage around your furnace tells you that you need to have it repaired. Hiring specialists who can completely mitigate the damage to your building is just as important.

Thank you to our Frontliners!

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Thank you!

SERVPRO of Clay County would like to extend a special thanks to the team of people on the frontlines of this pandemic! We appreciate you!

The Benefits of Flood Insurance

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

You also need flood insurance for your business

3 Benefits Of Having A Separate Flood Policy

A heavy storm can cause significant damage to your commercial property in Gladstone, MO. You don't want to wait until a storm is on the horizon to think about how you are going to pay for the damage repair. Basic commercial insurance policies for your business aren't enough; you also need flood insurance. Here are three benefits of having a separate flood policy.

Larger Scope of Coverage

When your building floods after a storm, the extent of the repairs it needs can be vast. A flood policy is specifically designed to cover the cost of storm damage mitigation:

• Water extraction
  
• Debris removal
  
• Wall, ceiling and carpet replacement
  
• Foundation repair
  
• Equipment repair or replacement
  
• Electrical, HVAC and plumbing cleanup
  
  

As soon as you know your building has damage, schedule a consultation with local flood mitigation experts. They can tell you the scope of the repair and work with your insurance company to get the support you need to complete the repairs in a timely manner.

Set Cost of Premiums

Owning property comes with certain expected expenses. A common concern of many business owners is how much an additional commercial insurance policy is going to cost. In communities that participate in the National Flood Insurance Program, flood coverage is backed by the federal government. The NFIP sets the premiums for FEMA flood policies, not the individual insurance companies that provide the coverage. If you are in a low-risk area, you may qualify for a policy with a lower premium. Even if your building is in a flood plain, however, you can rest assured that your premiums will be kept in check.
Don't wait until a storm is on its way to get the commercial insurance coverage you need for your building. By making room in the budget for a flood policy, you can save your company a lot of money in the event of a catastrophe.

Clean That Smelly Mold Out of Your Washing Machine

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

Does your washing machine stink?

If your front-loading washing machine starts to smell, you may worry that it is defective. A new machine probably isn’t in the budget, so finding a way to clean the appliance is the best option.

What Causes the Smell?

Front-loading machines are much more efficient than the top-loading variety, but efficiency also means that a lot less water is needed to wash your dirty laundry. If high-efficiency detergents and fabric softeners aren’t used in these machines, the soap can’t completely rinse away. Over time, a film of soap scum develops on the drum. Along with the dirt from your clothing and the heat and dampness of the washer, the scum can invite mold and mildew to grow.

How to Remove the Mold Smell

If you follow a few easy steps you can get your washing machine smelling fresh and clean again.

Mix ¼ cup baking soda with the same amount of water and add to the washer's detergent container.
Saturate the drum with 2 cups of white vinegar.
Run the washer on a normal cycle with the heat turned up high. Be sure not to add any clothes when you are completing this task.
If mold spots are still visible after this cycle, take a kitchen sponge with equal parts white vinegar and water and scrub until the spots are removed.

How to Prevent Mold From Reappearing

To avoid having to go through another round of mold cleanup, make sure you always use high-efficiency detergent. Also, remove wet laundry as soon as the machine stops to reduce dampness from setting in. You should also keep the washer door open when not in use to reduce moisture.
The rubber seal in the washer door can still create mold, so check the gasket frequently to remove any dirt and then wipe the gasket with vinegar and water. The washer’s drain filter should also be checked every week to remove lint.
Keeping your washing machine in Kansas City, MO clean and mold-free is a simple task if you follow these easy steps.

Cooking Safety: How to Prevent Kitchen Fires

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

Frying is still the leading activity associated with cooking fires.

Common Causes of Kitchen Fires

Cooking fires are the leading cause of fire damage in Gladstone, MO. In fact, the US Fire Department estimates that over 160 000 house fires occur in the United States annually. The majority of them start when flaming food ignites combustible household items such as paper, plastics or curtains.
Here are common causes of kitchen fires:

• Leaving cooking food unattended
  
• Having combustibles too close to the fire
  
• Equipment malfunction
  
  

Keep an Eye on Cooking Food
Unattended food remains to be the #1 cause of house fires in the nation as food can burst into a big flame when it burns enough. A grease fire, for example, can be easily put out if you are in the kitchen when it starts, but it can get out of hand if it happens while you’re away.

Never Dump Hot Grease in a Garbage Can
It is worth noting that grease can only take so much heat. Smoking is the first sign that it has reached the tipping point and is about to catch fire. Tossing this hot grease could burn something in the trash and result in a fire. Instead, wait for it to cool then put it in an old coffee can before disposing of it. That is one of the overlooked tips that could save you from a fire incident.

Be in a Condition to Cook
Never try to cook under the influence of alcohol. You are obviously slower when intoxicated, and the chances of leaving the cooking food unattended are incredibly high. The same applies to people who are feeling exceedingly sleepy or those who take mind-altering medication. You might not hear about it a lot, but this is one of the most important fire prevention tips.
While cooking might seem hazardous, avoiding it is a bit extreme. Just follow these fire prevention tips religiously, and you will have zero issues.

Home Basement Flooding: Will Your Insurance Pay?

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded basement in Kansas City, MO

Basement flooding is among the top reasons for homeowner’s insurance claims. If you’ve discovered a basement flood in your Kansas City, MO, home, you suddenly have a long list of tasks to take care of to protect your property. It may help to understand whether you can expect insurance to pay for your damages.
Water damage is handled through two separate insurance sectors, depending on the source of the water. Many common causes of home flooding fall under the umbrella of your homeowner’s insurance, but there are exceptions.

Homeowner’s Insurance and Water Damage

Your conventional insurance will generally cover a portion of the water cleanup and restoration costs for a basement flood, as long as the water didn’t enter from outside the home, such as with rising floodwaters. These are among the scenarios that would likely be covered:

• Broken or leaking water pipe
  
• Leaking appliances, such as a washing machine or ice maker
  
• Stormwater leaking through a damaged roof
  
• Overflowing toilet
  
• Overflowing bathtub or shower
  
  

It’s important to report the damage with your insurance agent right away if your basement has flooded. If your damage was caused by external water entering your home, you will need to look beyond your conventional policy.

Government Flood Insurance

A flood is defined as a temporary condition where usually dry land is inundated with water or mud. If your basement flood was caused by floodwater entering your home from ground level or below, a special government flood insurance policy would be required for coverage. Flood insurance is issued by the US Government, but your agent can help you purchase it or file a claim. If you are considering flood insurance, it may be useful to determine your level of flood risk. Your agent can refer you to an expert who can help assess your risk.
Researching insurance coverage options and finding out your flood risk level are important steps in food preparedness. If you experience water damage, it's a stressful time, and knowing which insurance entity to approach will move you one step closer to returning your home and your peace of mind to normalcy.

5 Tips for Preventing Toilet Clogs in Your Business

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Clogged toilet in Gladstone, MO

While many people will take care to not clog their own toilets at home and to never flush down harmful objects, not everyone is so cautious when using a public bathroom. This can become very stressful for business owners who must constantly address a clogged toilet and call for sewage cleanup and restoration services. Here are some tips for encouraging customers and employees using your bathrooms in Gladstone, MO, to avoid a toilet overflow.

Place Trash Cans Near Every Toilet

Baby wipes and feminine hygiene products are common culprits of toilet clogs. While you can’t force customers to properly dispose of these items, you can make it as easy as possible for them to rid of them by making sure there are trash cans in every stall. It is also a good idea to place a trash can near every baby changing station as well.

Put Up Signs

Put friendly signs up reminding people what items they need to throw away in a trash can instead of flush down the toilet. Use a bold color such as red and images to best catch the attention of everyone who enters the bathroom.

Address Plumbing Issues Immediately

Common plumbing issues, such as a slow drain, can lead to a clogged toilet if not addressed. Perform regular maintenance on your toilets and repair plumbing problems immediately.

Replace Paper Towel Dispensers

Paper towels can back up a toilet if flushed. Consider replacing all paper towel dispensers with air blowers to avoid this problem.

Regularly Check Bathrooms

To avoid sewage overflow, regularly have employees check bathrooms to check for any clogs. This is also a good time to empty out trashes and replace toilet paper as well.
While every business owner will need to deal with a clogged toilet at least one in their career, these tips can help make this unsanitary situation happen less frequently. If a clog does occur, make sure to get professional help to properly sanitize the area.

Tips To Cleaning up After a Water Heater Leak

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

Water heater leaking in Liberty, MO

Water can find its way into your office building in many ways. Without fast action and an effective response, you could face significant damage to the structure and to materials. A leaking water heater is one of the most common sources of water problems. You can rely on a professional to help mitigate troubling issues. There are also some important steps you should follow right away.

Make Sure it's Safe

Anytime you discover water in your Liberty, MO, building, you must exercise caution. There could potentially be black water or other hazards. Before you do anything, survey the scene to make sure everyone and every important item are out of harm's way.

• Do not touch any water if you suspect it is black water (containing raw sewage).
  
• Do not turn on any electrical switches in the area.
  
• If you have to get in our near the water, wear the proper safety equipment.
  
  

Unplug the Appliance

If you discover that a broken water heater is to blame for the incident, cut power to it immediately. Also, unplug any other appliances in the vicinity, such as furnaces, washers or dryers. Doing this will reduce the risk of shock or electrocution as you clean up the water.

Get Items out of the Way

If possible, remove any wet materials from the failed water heater. Pull up wet or damaged carpet, and set it out to dry. If there are any items you can move such as furniture or clothing, get them away from the water.

Dry up the Water

It's critical to start drying the area as soon as you can. This will discourage mold growth. Use a wet vacuum to extract the water and high-powered fans to dry out the ground and walls.

Call the Pros

A leaking water heater can cause big problems, especially if the leak persists for many weeks or months. A can assist you to make sure your workplace is safe once again.
If you have a leaking water heater issue, don't delay. Call the pros and start the cleanup process quickly.

How To Remove Mold From Air Conditioner Ducts

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

A professional company often uses special cleaning and disinfecting agents to effectivity clean ducts

How To Remove Mold From Air Conditioner Ducts

Black mold can become a problem inside commercial buildings. Any type of moisture that is left to sit can lead to mold in as little as 48 hours. Once the spores become airborne, they can circulate throughout the building in the ventilation system. If you suspect that you have a mold problem in Gladstone, MO, there are several steps you can take to remedy the situation.

1. Identify Mold

The first step is to determine if you have a problem with mold. If you notice a strange musky odor when running your air conditioner or black dust around air vents, you may have a mold problem. Suffering allergy-like symptoms while indoors is another classic sign of mold. If it is present, a certified technician can assess what areas are impacted and determine what type of mold it is.

2. Detect Spread

If black mold is found, the extent of the infestation will need to be determined. Once it has been found in the air ducts, the insulation will need to be checked. If mold is found, the material will likely need to be replaced.

3. Clean and Disinfect

A professional company often uses special cleaning and disinfecting agents to effectivity clean ducts. It is important to work with a professional because they will know the right agents to use and how to use them safely and effectively.

4. Identify the Source

Once clean up has been completed, the source of the problem should be identified and fixed. If left unattended, the spores may once again begin to circulate throughout the ductwork.
Knowing what to look for and finding indicators of black mold is only the first step. You will need a professional mold inspector to assess the situation. If you find that you are dealing with a mold infestation, you will need to hire a professional mold remediation company to restore your building to its pre-mold condition.

How To Gauge the Seriousness of a Commercial Fire

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial fire in Kansas City, MO

How To Gauge the Seriousness of a Commercial Fire

A fire at your place of business can be a disorienting experience for even the most experienced owner. Soon after, you will want to take stock of how serious the fire was, with these touchstones in mind:

• How many people were injured?
  
• How is everyone doing?
  
• What is the estimate of financial damages?
  
• When can the company resume normal operations again?
  
  

To ascertain the level of fire damage, you will likely want to work closely with a fire remediation team in Kansas City, MO. An experienced company will provide you with a quote of expenses for a full restoration of your property.

What Needs To Be Included in an Estimate?

A poor accounting of essential services isn't much better than none at all. A proper quote should include all of the pertinent expenses to right the ship of your company. These include such services as board up and tarp services for security, the cost of a roof replacement if necessary, water damage and fire restoration, smoke and odor removal and the cleaning up of debris. The contents of the property such as carpeting, textiles and clothing may need to be cleaned, while restoration of drywall and other services might be necessary. A commercial fire cleanup has many components to it, so make sure the quote is comprehensive.

What Needs To Be Included in an Insurance Claim?

As soon as possible, you should contact your insurance agent and work closely with the claims department to expedite payment. A good fire restoration company in Kansas City, MO, will provide your adjuster with a specific estimate of expenses and damages. The lines of communication should be open at all times with all parties. This ensures that repairs proceed rapidly and smoothly, with no surprises or delays. A commercial fire is a critical moment in your business and navigating the steps correctly to completion enhances the future of your company.

Preparing Your Business for Extreme Winter Weather

12/24/2019 (Permalink)

Prepare your business for winter threats such as a severe snow storm

As winter approaches Liberty, MO, it's important to prepare your business for the possible dangers of extreme cold and severe storms. You need to keep your company running, but you also need to keep your buildings and employees safe. Here are some ways to prepare your business for winter threats such as a severe snow storm.

Monitor Storm Patterns

Staying informed on upcoming storms can help you keep safe. Watch for emergency alerts from national public warning systems such as the Emergency Alert System and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. These programs provide important information on storms as well as instructions on how to prepare for them. You should take basic steps to weather-proof your building such as installing or replacing damaged weather stripping, caulking, and insulation. Before a storm hits, install and test building alarms and check their battery backup systems. Create emergency preparedness kits and first aid kits for your business. Preparing before a major snow storm hits can help you stay safe during it.

Have a Plan

If your business can run remotely, consider allowing employees to work from home. This keeps people off of potentially dangerous roads and out of extreme temperatures. If your business requires staff to be in a specific location, consider creating a "snow team" of essential employees to work during the storm. You can have them stay in a nearby hotel to minimize commute times and dangers. In the event of an extreme storm that knocks out power and utilities, know when you need to close your business.

Restore Your Business

If your business sustains damage from a severe winter storm, you should take steps immediately to minimize the effects. For example, if the freezing temperatures have caused a pipe burst, you should contact experts in emergency restoration services. These professionals can help you with an array of needs including water damage restoration, electronics restoration, and document drying.
Keep yourself, your employees, and your business prepared for extreme winter weather. Use these tips to be ready for a severe snow storm or below-freezing temperatures.

4 Steps for Using a Drain Snake

12/13/2019 (Permalink)

Using a drain snake is a simple way to fix a clogged pipe

Knowing How To Use a Drain Snake 

Plumbing issues can cause a big disruption in your daily routine. When you have a clogged drain in your home in Gladstone, MO, it can lead to leaks and overflows that cause significant water damage. Addressing the issue as soon as it occurs is a good way to avoid bigger problems and the costly repairs that go with them. Knowing how to use a drain snake helps you get rid of the clog in four easy steps.

1. Position the Snake

When you pick up the drain snake (otherwise known as an auger), you may notice that it has a coiled portion. This is the part that is going to extend into your drain to combat the clog. To release it, remove any stopper on your drain and push the end of the auger into the opening created. Once you start turning the crank, it will drive the coil into the drain.

2. Apply Pressure

You must apply pressure to get the snake to traverse the bends in your pipe and reach the clogged portion. Many homeowners are afraid that they will cause a pipe break if they push too hard, but water restoration specialists advise that this is unlikely to happen.

3. Break the Clog

Once the end of the snake reaches the stopped up area, you may feel resistance. Continue cranking the handle to break up the clog. If a solid object is obstructing your pipe, the drain snake can trap it so that you are able to pull it out.

4. Flood With Water

When you think you have released the clog, whether by breaking up the particles or pulling them out of the drain, try running your water at full blast. If the water drains easily, you know you have resolved the issue. If it doesn't, you may try snaking the drain a second time.
Using a drain snake is a simple way to fix a clogged pipe. By following a few simple steps, you can avoid potential water damage.

Why Does Mold Keep Growing On My Bread?

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

From bread mold to fridge mold, household fungus is a common frustration

What Causes Bread Mold?

Just about everyone has experienced it: You reach for a slice of bread only to discover your week-old loaf is covered in gross, furry mold. Just why does mold love bread so much? The fact is, mold grows on bread for some of the same reasons why it grows in any other part of your Kansas City, MO, home. Understanding what causes bread mold can offer useful clues to preventing this annoying fungus from taking hold elsewhere in your home.

What is Mold?

Mold is a fungus, an organism that’s not like a normal plant. Where regular plants get nutrition from the sun, mold relies on other plants, animals and organisms to survive. Molds can eat all kinds of organic materials including:

• sugar
  
• dirt
  
• dust
  
  

Unfortunately, just about every material - from wood to plastic - is covered in something mold can eat. But why is bread mold so particularly common?

Spores Everywhere

One reason mold is so prevalent is because it spreads via spores. Lightweight, mobile and present just about everywhere in our environment, spores need only land on a suitable surface to grow. Bread can provide the perfect surface: Even though its dry, bread always contains a little moisture. That combined with its high carbohydrate content creates the perfect incubator for mold.

Stopping Mold

It’s frustrating to encounter mold on bread, especially if it happens often. But it can be prevented. Mold favors warm and damp environments. Minimize the mold risk by keeping your loaf in a dark, dry place. Cooler places, such as a refrigerator, are ideal to keep fungus growth at bay, as are airtight containers.
From bread mold to fridge mold, household fungus is a common frustration. Use the above tips to minimize mold in your bread. And if mold is showing up elsewhere in your kitchen, it may be time to call a mold remediation company for an evaluation.

How to Create a Fire Escape Plan

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Be sure that you have a fire escape place and practice it often

Steps to Create a Fire Escape Plan

When you have children, you likely think about all of the worst case scenarios. You want your children to be as safe and healthy as possible. One of the biggest threats to your home and safety is the risk of a home fire. Fires can be devastating, and can spread quickly. If you have a fire escape plan, it can help ensure kids safety. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Consider Your Family Members

One of the biggest keys to having a successful escape plan is to consider the abilities of everyone in your home. Some may not have the ability to escape the fire on their own. This might include people like:

• Infants or new walkers
  
• Elderly
  
• Those with disabilities
  
  

These people will likely need extra assistance getting out of the home. Someone should be assigned the task of getting that person safely out of the home.

Plan Escape Routes

Fires are unpredictable, so you may not know which escape routes are available. You should have a minimum of two, so that you have a backup if the primary route is blocked. Keep these paths as clear as possible so it's easy to get out.

Have a Meeting Spot

To eliminate the possibility of someone going missing during a house fire, find a meeting spot that everyone can access easily. For kids safety, make it somewhere that's not too far from the home, but it should be far enough from the danger. A nearby tree or neighbor's house may be a good option.

Practice

Practicing this plan can help you work out any potential issues and make changes. Having drills once a month is a good idea. Remember to adjust the plan as necessary.
With these steps, you should be able to create a fire escape plan to help ensure kids safety, as well as your own. If you do have the misfortune of a fire in Liberty, MO, this plan will help you in a moment of panic. Once the initial shock has settled, contact a professional to help you with fire cleanup.

What To Do if You Smell Mold in Your Building But Can't See It

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage on your Gladstone, MO building

What To Do If You Smell Mold In Your Building?

If you’ve walked into your Gladstone, MO, building and were hit with an unexpected mold smell, don’t worry, you’re not alone. This is a common problem in many structures, particularly if you have recently experienced water damage. You may have thought that everything was fine since you didn’t see any remaining visible signs of damage, but this is not always the case.

1. Why Does Your Building Smell Like Mold if You Can’t See Any?

Because mold is so common, there are likely spores in many places throughout the building. Fortunately, most mold is harmless and will not cause you any trouble. However, given the right conditions, it will begin to spread. If you have a mold smell in your building but cannot locate its source, then you probably have mold hidden somewhere. It can spread behind walls and ceilings as well as beneath the floors and inside fabrics.

2. How Can You Find Out For Sure?

The best way to find the cause of the fungus smell is to hire a professional. While there are DIY tests that you can purchase for yourself, these are not reliable and will often give you inaccurate results. Have a specialist come in and inspect your building to determine if there is a problem.

3. What Can You Do About It?

After you have located the source of the mildew smell, the next step is to have it removed. A mold remediation specialist will use equipment to thoroughly clean the excessive mold growth from your building. After this, you will need to ensure that you repair any leaks as quickly as possible and clean the building regularly to keep the problem from returning.
Mold smell can be a tricky problem to solve since this persistent fungus can easily grow in hidden areas. However, following the proper procedures and hiring an experienced professional can help you get your building smelling fresh in no time.

What To Expect With Mold Remediation

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

Black mold in a Liberty, MO home.

Mold Remediation Process

If you believe you may have black mold in your Liberty, MO, home, then you may want to begin the cleanup process as quickly as possible. It's usually recommended to contact a mold remediation service to perform this procedure as there are several important steps to the process. These may include

1. Assessing the Problem

One of the first things your mold remediation professional will do is assess the problem. This may include taking samples and testing for certain types of mold, as well as checking out areas where mold is commonly found. Once they know where the mold is and what type it is, then they can begin the next step in the process.

2. Quarantine of the Affected Area

In many cases when mold is found, especially black mold, it's best to quarantine off the area. This usually means blocking off the space from any traffic, and in some cases sealing it completely from the rest of the property. This is done to help prevent contamination to the rest of the home until the original source has been removed.

3. Cleanup and Sanitation

The next step in the remediation process is the mold cleanup itself. Spores will be removed, and the area properly sanitized. Mitigation steps may also be taken at this point in the process to help prevent further mold issues. During cleanup appropriate safety gear will also be worn such as coveralls, and even breathing masks. You may also want to wear shoe covers to help prevent tracking contaminated material through the home. Once the mold has been thoroughly removed repairs can be finished. 

When dealing with black mold in the home it's important take care of the cleanup process before the mold spores have a chance to spread. In many cases it's best to contact a professional who can assess the problem and quarantine the affected area. Once It's determined what type of mold exists and where it's located, cleanup and repairs can begin.

How To Start a Flood Damage Claim

11/16/2019 (Permalink)

How to start a flood damage claim

Steps To Begin a Flood Claim Process

Once you've dealt with a flood in Gladstone, MO, you may be wondering how to start an insurance claim. Dealing with damage to your home can already seem overwhelming. Here are the steps to begin the flood claim process and get things moving:

Call Your Insurance Company

The first thing you should do is call your insurance company to start the claim procedure. If there are other people in the area who have also experienced damage, the insurer may have a lot of other claims to process. Calling early can help you prepare for dealing with flood cleanup and restoration.

Get Ready for Inspection

Once you have an appointment, you'll need to get ready for the insurance adjuster to examine the property destruction. Although you may want to start flood cleanup early, it's crucial to keep these factors in mind:

• Take pictures of everything that was damaged.
• Don't throw anything away until you have documented the damage.
• Along with pictures and a video, make a list of what was affected for your own reference.
  

Taking care to document everything can help you avoid further problems later. Photos, videos, and notes help make sure everything is noted in the flood claim.

Know Your Adjuster's Role

Your adjuster can help with the insurance claim. While you'll need to point out the areas and items affected, you can also use this time to ask questions. Check what your policy covers and how soon you can expect payment from the company.

Rebuild Your Life

After you've received payment, you can begin rebuilding any areas of the home or rooms that were damaged. This includes replacing personal possessions that were lost or ruined by the flood.
Although dealing with a flood claim can seem overwhelming, knowing the steps that will occur can make it easier. Contacting your insurance carrier and getting ready for inspection start the process and help ensure coverage of what you've lost. Talking with the insurance adjuster can begin the next steps toward rebuilding your life after a flood. Just know there is a restoration company that is Here to Help.

What To Think About When Choosing a Mold Remediation Company

11/13/2019 (Permalink)

The experts who arrive at your home have gone through extensive training.

Factors to Consider When Looking for Certified Mold Professionals

When you encounter a mold problem in your Kansas City, MO, home, it’s crucial to contact mold remediation experts as soon as possible. Choosing the right company that can meet your needs is a big decision that you should make carefully. From available services to certification, each aspect of your chosen company matters. Consider the following factors when looking for certified mold professionals in your area.

1. Certification

You can be assured that your home will receive the optimal care and treatment when you choose a company that specializes in certified mold remediation. Certification demonstrates that the experts who arrive at your home have gone through extensive training and are well equipped to do the job that you trust them to do. If you want to find a reputable company, be sure to confirm that they have mold certification.

2. Available Services

It may seem obvious, but it’s crucial to verify from the start that your chosen remediation company offers the exact services that your home needs. While all certified mold specialists will work to remediate a mold problem, not all of them will do it in the same manner. Make sure that you are familiar with the company’s practices before you choose them. Taking this simple step can help you save a lot of time and ensure that you are receiving the proper services.

3. Safety Measures

A company with the goal to free your home of mold should make safety a priority. When the specialists arrive at your home, ensure that they are dressed in proper safety equipment, including safety glasses, shoe covers and hazmat suits. Not only is this attire appropriate for their role, but it is also necessary to prevent mold from spreading to other parts of your home.
When dealing with mold in the home, it's important to find the right professionals to handle it. To confirm that your company is the appropriate choice, pay attention to the way the certified mold professionals present themselves and do their job.

Which Fire Extinguisher Is Right for Your Home

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

Home fire damage in Gladstone, MO

Which Fire Extinguisher Is Right for Your Home

While you can't prevent all fires, homeowners can take steps to mitigate them. One such action is ensuring that your family is armed with the proper fire extinguisher to knock out or lesson the flames. It's not as simple, though, as grabbing one from the shelf. You'll want to consider several factors when you make your purchase. Don't leave the store without looking at the size, cost factor and efficiency of the canister.

1. Size

In this case, bigger doesn't always mean better. For example, you could purchase a large ten pound can; however, it might be too heavy for you to use. Therefore, while you're at the store, try lifting it. If it's too heavy, opt for a smaller five-pound extinguisher instead. If a home fire occurs, you need to be able to move it quickly to the location.

2. Cost

After a while, a fire extinguisher can lose effectiveness, and replacing them can add up. Many homeowners purchase disposable one-time use cans. This would require a completely new investment. A rechargeable extinguisher, on the other hand, seems expensive at first, but only require refills. In the long run, it could save you some money.

3. Labels

Before you walk out of the store with a can, read the label carefully. Extinguishers handle three different fires: combustible (A), flammable (B), and electrical (C). As part of your fire preparedness plan, you want one that handles all three, so verify that you see all three letters on the canister. Then, read up on how to use the device properly. If the extinguisher cannot eliminate the flames, then leave the building and allow the fireman to handle the situation. Your life is too important. Locate a fire restoration company in Gladstone, MO, to evaluate your fire damage and clean up the area.
A fire extinguisher is a first line of defense. Be prepared, know how to use it and understand which one is right for your home.

Is Crawl Space Water a Problem?

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

As a Liberty, MO, homeowner, finding water in your crawl space can be unsettling

As a Liberty, MO, homeowner, finding water in your crawl space can be unsettling; it could be an ominous sign that there are bigger issues that have gone unnoticed. Now you have at least two challenges on your hands: getting rid of the water in your crawl space and finding the source of that water. A wet crawl space can cause your home a variety of problems and must be dealt with immediately.

What Are the Causes?

There are a number of reasons why water may collect under your house. Furthermore, it’s usually a sign that something else is going on. It’s recommended that dehumidification professionals are hired to assess the situation. They’ll check for the following:

• Cracks in the foundation or walls
  
• Improper grading or slope of the property
  
• Failing or improperly installed gutters or downspouts
  
• Broken water lines
  
  

These are only a few common causes of a wet crawl space. The problem can range from a noticeable increase in humidity resulting in condensation to a full-blown flood. Either way, there’s no time to waste, as things can quickly get out of control.

What Are the Risks?

As minor as a little water in your crawl space may seem, major problems can develop that can affect your whole house, one of the worst being mold. There’s a good possibility that your HVAC system and ductwork are located in your crawl space. Once mold develops down there, the spores can travel into the air ducts and throughout your home, growing mold in places where you’re likely to not even notice.
Another risk of the humidity under your house is moist wood. This is an ideal situation for termites, as well as other pests such as rodents, roaches and spiders.
Depending on the cause of your wet crawl space, there are a variety of options for remedying the situation. These solutions include installing a sump pump if the area is prone to flooding, installing a crawl space dehumidifier or installing a vapor barrier on the floor and walls. Take action immediately to get your home assessed before any more damage develops.

Do You Need Flood Insurance?

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

As a business owner in Kansas City, MO, you may wonder whether you need flood coverage

3 Things To Know About Flood Insurance

As a business owner in Kansas City, MO, you may wonder whether you need flood coverage. Would your standard policy be enough to pay for damage? Commercial insurance agents should review your plan and discuss what is and isn't included. After all, your company is valuable, and you want to safeguard it. Since flooding is usually excluded, it often requires an additional protection. If you're exploring new policies, here are three things to know about flood insurance.

1. When Is It Needed?

While standard property insurance handles water damage from leaky pipes and other household issues, it does not pay for all conditions. For example, the following events usually require a flood policy:

• Water overflow from a lake, river or ocean
  
• Flash floods
  
• Intruding water from a land collapse
  
• Sudden mudslides
  
  

These situations can create a large financial burden, forcing owners to make significant repairs and call in water restoration teams to handle clean up and repairs.

2. What Does Building Property Cover?

Commercial insurance offers a building property policy that offers up to $500,000 to fix or replace your company's permanent structural features. After assessment, the agency would determine the cost to repair your business's water-logged areas. First, you would pay the deductible amount. Then, your agent would approve cash value replacement for your rebuild needs. This includes foundation or construction issues, carpet attached (when attached to bare foundation), walk-in freezers, fire systems, water heaters and air conditioner issues.

3. How Is a Personal Property Policy Helpful?

Purchasing NFIP's personal property plan through FEMA provides up to an additional $500,000 to replace items such as furniture, stock, food, and plug-in appliances. Submit an inventory of ruined items, including approximate cost to replace each one. Again, you'll need to pay a deductible first, before the check is sent.
Flooding may not seem likely, but it happens; therefore, take time to look over your coverage needs, considering both building and personal property policies. Then, set up a meeting to review the details. Commercial insurance agents, by finding the right plan, can help proprietors afford to rebuild, getting their property looking “Like it never even happened.”

The Costs of Undetected Leaks

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

One faucet that drips once a minute wastes 34 gallons of water a year

There's a large number of things that could cause expensive water damage to your Gladstone, MO, business. Really cold temperatures could cause a pipe break or a failing air conditioning unit could have a slow leak that goes undiscovered. Sadly, that small water leak could potentially become as expensive, or even more expensive, than an obvious cause of flooding.

The Costs of Leaking Water

In the United States, water damage is one of the most commonly reported property insurance claims. The related costs go well beyond repairing the source of the leak. The longer water is allowed to drip down the wall and throughout the area, the more expensive the losses and repairs will become:

• Damage caused directly by water, such as destruction of drywall and carpeting
  
• Secondary damages, such as mold and rust
  
• Replacement of damaged furnishings and equipment
  
• Wasted water and higher utility bills
  
  
  

Imagine a leaky faucet. According to a government-sponsored drip calculator, one faucet that drips once a minute wastes 34 gallons of water a year. Unfortunately, a water leak, such as a broken a/c unit or a leaking rain gutter, sends a lot more than one drip per minute into your property.

How To Detect Leaks

Maybe you can't control all of the ways your business could suffer damage from water, but you can take steps to spot hidden leaks. One of the best ways to recognize a problem is to keep a close eye on your water usage. If you notice unusual spikes or even a slow increase, there may be a leak. You can also test your water meter before and after a period of two hours when the water has been turned off. There shouldn't be any difference in the readings before and after. If you're not sure how to do these tests, a local plumber may be willing to help.

Don't Put Leak Detection Off

Don't wait until you require expensive repairs from a Gladstone, MO, water damage remediation and reconstruction professional. Take action today to be sure you don't have a water leak undetected on your property.

What You Need to Know About Black Water

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Liberty house surrounded by flooding waters

What You Need to Know About Black Water

While you may think that all water damage is the same, this is not necessarily true. The source of the water that has affected your Liberty, MO, home can make a big difference in the way you should handle it. Particularly if you have black water in your house, you will need to be careful. The following information can be helpful in this situation.

1. What Is Category 3 Water?

There are three categories of water, ranging from 1 to 3. The highest category is black water and is considered to be highly contaminated. When this water enters your home, it can carry with it bacteria, fungi, harsh chemicals and sewage. It may also bring dirt, mud and debris.

2. What Can Cause This Kind of Damage?

Highly contaminated water can come from multiple sources. A common cause is flooding. This is because rain mixes with sewer water that carries human waste and other contaminants. If you have an overflow in your toilet or other plumbing fixtures, this can sometimes be category 3 water as well, along with category 2 water that is not cleaned quickly.

3. What Should You Do About It?

If you have black water in your home, you should avoid contact with it. Wear protective gear if you plan to clean the area. Any food that has been touched by the water should be thrown out as it is no longer safe to eat. There can be exceptions for canned foods, as long as the package does not have any dents or damage. If you are unsure, toss it.
Because this water has such high levels of contamination, it is best to have a professional to perform flood or sewage cleanup. A cleanup and restoration company has the training and equipment to get the job done safely. They can make any necessary repairs to both your home and belongings.

3 Steps to Protecting Your Business After a Fire

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Boarding up openings can keep rodents and birds from nesting inside of the facility

Keep Your Business Safe During Cleanup and Restoration Process

In the event of a business fire, fire damage is only one of several concerns you may have for protecting your business from further losses. Cleanup and restoration take time after a fire occurs. Keep your business safe during that process with the following three tips.

1. Avoid a Repeat Fire

When you discover a fire in your Liberty, MO, business you should turn to the local fire department to help you put it out. While your efforts may be good in stopping the fire from spreading, a fire crew can help you find the cause of the fire. Determining the cause is the best way to prevent further fire damage from occurring or reoccurring. If a small fire occurs, you may need to look for the cause yourself. Start by doing the following:

• Unplug or turn off any electrical devices in the area
• Turn off surrounding heat sources
• Shut off gas supply to prevent the fire from spreading
  

2. Defend From the Elements

Once the fire has been completely put out and fire cleanup has begun, protecting your building from the outside elements is a critical step to avoiding further losses. In the fall and winter months, roof damage should be secured with a tarp to keep rain, hail and snow from permeating the structure. In warm months, tarping or boarding up openings can keep rodents and birds from nesting inside of the facility.

3. Secure the Facility

After a commercial fire in Liberty, MO, your business may be left susceptible to looting. Looters are individuals who take advantage of emergency situations, such as commercial fires, and find weaknesses in the building's structure in order to get inside and steal valuable goods. If a business fire leaves your building with unsecured openings, you may need to hire a disaster response company to keep vandals and thieves from entering the premises.
As you face the fire damage restoration process, be sure to follow these tips to keep your business safe. Further damage and losses can be avoided if these basic procedures are observed.

5 Ways Cities Prevent Flooding

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Some cities utilize dams for flood prevention

Keeping Your Commercial Property Safe From Flooding

When it comes to keeping your commercial property safe from flooding, you're not alone. Here are five ways that cities and towns such as Kansas City, MO, prepare for high water.

1. Dams and Reservoirs

Some cities utilize dams and reservoirs for flood prevention. Dams are used to stop the flow of water, while reservoirs are built to hold excess water during the rainy season or excessive snow melting. The dam may also feature flood-control reservation, which prevents the water in the connected reservoir from rising above a certain limit, thereby guaranteeing space for future water.

2. River Resistance

There are a variety of ways a town may fight a rising river. These include both permanent barriers such as levees, weirs, and bunds, as well as temporary blockades, such as sandbags and inflatable tubing.

3. Floodplains

The ground can act as a natural reservoir. By diverting water into floodplains that are ready and able to hold large amounts of water, cities not only can stop flooding but also refill the groundwater supply and soak thirsty crops that are capable of handling large amounts of water, such as grapes and oranges.

4. Flood Control Channels
In some cases, special channels are constructed to divert high water and protect cities. Floodwaters are rerouted to holding areas, ponds, or floodplains.

5. Coastal Cover

Storm surges, tsunamis, and other events can cause sea water to rise and flood inland, particularly in low-lying areas. When this happens, cities turn to both man-made and natural barriers for flood prevention. Sea walls and tide gates, for example, are structures manufactured to stem the rising water. Natural obstacles, such as barrier islands, sand dunes, salt marshes, and gravel bars can also cause incoming water to slow down or stop altogether.
Flooding happens. The good news is that Kansas City, MO, is working to prevent high water from impacting your commercial property and requiring the expertise and equipment of a professional flood damage mitigation service.

Steps To Take After a Toilet Overflows

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Toilet overflow in a Gladstone, MO home

Here is What To Do If Your Toilet Overflows

A toilet that overflows unexpectedly one is probably a fluke and nothing to worry about. However, if you find that your flooded toilet is becoming a problem more often than not, you could be dealing with sewer damage in Gladstone, MO. Here's what to do if you keep having problems.

Stop the Flow of Water

The first thing to do for a flooded toilet is to stop the flow of water. The best way to do this is to remove the lid of the toilet tank and complete the following steps:

• Push down the rubber valve
• Lift the float at the same time
• Have someone turn off the water valve
  
  

The final step is easier to do if you have a second person with you but must be done regardless, even if it means a bit of extra water at first.

Begin the Cleanup Process

If the mess from the clogged toilet is a mild one, you can begin the cleanup process yourself before calling someone to check for sewer damage. First, you'll need to mop up the dirty toilet water. Do this as soon as you stop the flow of water and get as much as you can into a bucket. If you suspect the problem is a toy or other type of clog in the bowl, use a plunger to unclog it. However, if the problem seems more severe, you'll need to call a professional.

Hire a Professional

Sometimes, a clogged toilet is actually a symptom of damage to your sewer lines. If the backup occurs frequently or doesn't seem to stop, you'll need to contact a sewage company. These professionals have the knowledge, tools, and experience to salvage as much as possible in your bathroom and begin the repair process.

When hiring sewer damage professionals, search for companies that are licensed and insured. Finding the best company for the job further ensures the safety of your home and property.

How To Avoid Cigarette Fires In Your Home

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

Take your cigarette outside

How To Avoid Cigarette Fires In Your Home

According to the National Fire Protection Association or NFPA, smoking materials, such as cigarettes, contributed to 18,200 home structural fires between 2012 and 2016. Also, during this period, cigarette fires cost an estimated $476 million in direct property damage. Don’t add yourself to the statistics. Find out how to avoid a cigarette fire in your home

1. Smoke outside. Take your cigarette outside. Make yourself a place outside on the back porch with an ashtray or purchase a large outdoor ashtray. These outdoor ashtrays are fire retardant and restrict oxygen to extinguish the cigarette quickly. If used properly, it will also help to keep your yard free of cigarette butts.

2. Put out your cigarette. Always be aware of your cigarette. When you are ready to throw it away, make sure you have totally snuffed it out. Run the butt under water or smother it in sand. Extinguish the cigarette in an ashtray completely to guarantee there are no embers still lit. Use a well-made ashtray, as ashtray fires may occur in a cheaper product.

3. Don’t smoke in bed. Smoking in bed or on the couch is the main contributing cause of cigarette fires. Blankets, sheets, and upholstery easily ignite when a person unknowingly drops a lit cigarette after falling asleep. As a precautionary measure, never smoke in the bedroom, and don’t lay down on the couch with a cigarette in hand.

4. Don’t smoke near oxygen. Not smoking near oxygen may be a no-brainer, but some smokers will continue their habit even when on medical oxygen. The Center for Disease Control estimates 10 to 43% of those on oxygen therapy continue to smoke. There is more chance for severe injury when a cigarette fire occurs near oxygen.

In Kansas City, MO, as in all states around the nation, a cigarette fire not only takes a physical toll but an emotional one as well. Fire cleanup after any fire is a costly undertaking and having to contact a fire damage restoration specialist will add to the total. Pay attention and avoid a controllable situation.

Common Causes of Damage to Solar Panels

7/11/2019 (Permalink)

Check your home's solar panel in the aftermath of a storm

Solar Panel Damage

After a storm hits your area in Liberty, MO, there are many different sources of damage to look out for. You should be sure to check your home’s solar panels in the aftermath of a storm to see if they have been harmed in any way. Panels can accumulate various types of damage depending on what the trigger was. Here are some of the most common causes of solar panel damage.

Fallen Debris

Debris that lands on your home’s panels can cause damage that builds up over time. Some of the types of debris that may affect your solar paneling include:

• Tree limbs
  
• Twigs
  
• Dirt
  
• Leaves
  
  

Even minor scratches left by these objects can prevent direct sunlight from shining through the panels. As a result, the total amount of solar energy that is absorbed decreases significantly. Be sure to maintain any trees on your property and clean your panels regularly to avoid damage caused by debris.

Water Damage

Destroyed panels can also be a direct result of water damage. Water typically causes harm when the sealant gets old and worn, allowing more water to leak through. Panel damage caused by excess water can eventually cause the panels to deteriorate and function less effectively. It’s important to reseal and maintain your panels to prevent water from ruining them.

Various Types of Storms

Whether your home is attacked by a thunderstorm or hailstorm, solar panels can be negatively affected by any kind of severe weather event. Weather is highly unpredictable, and your panels cannot be protected from every possible source of harm. However, in the event of storm damage to your home, it’s crucial to call a professional immediately. Unaddressed problems can also lead to roof damage and affect your entire house.
Panel damage is only a fraction of the whole picture. If any area of your home has been destroyed by a storm, emergency restoration services can bring your living space back to life.

3 Things To Look for in Your Chosen Restoration Company

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can handle large jobs

Things to Consider When Choosing a Restoration Company

When preparing an emergency plan you may want to choose a fire damage restoration service in Liberty, MO, for your business as knowing who to contact can help you save time in the event that a fire does occur. However, you may be wondering how to select the best company for your needs. There are several things you may wish to consider when choosing the restoration company you wish to work with.

They Offer a Variety of Services

In many cases you may want to choose a restoration company that can offer a variety of services. This will allow them to make any repairs associated with the fire damage including

• Smoke cleanup
• Soot clean up
• Flood water cleanup
• Water damage assessment
• Mold remediation
• Item restoration
• Working with your insurance
  

They Can Respond Quickly

A professional fire damage restoration service should have the ability to respond quickly as well. This is important as repairs may get in the way of conducting business, and you may want to get everything operational as quickly as possible after a fire. When you contact your chosen service they should be able to get a professional out to you to assess the damage quickly, and then prepare a repair schedule based on the damage type and severity.

They Can Handle Large Jobs

One aspect that may be important for many companies when looking at commercial fire restoration service, is the ability to handle a variety is job sizes. Choosing a company that can do large-scale work often means that in a worst-case scenario they have access to any equipment that may be necessary. It also means that they may be able to handle any job size in between as well.
When choosing the right fire damage restoration team for your business's needs consider the following. What types of services they offer, how quickly they can respond to a disaster, and what size jobs they can handle. Knowing these things before hand will give you a reliable company you can contact in the event that a fired does break out at your business.

What Happens To Your Business After Flooding?

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

Drying equipment

Most cases of flooding may be covered under commercial insurance, but the time it takes to clear debris and make repairs to the facility can take weeks. This lost productivity can set your business back thousands of dollars in potential revenue. That is why knowing how to navigate the aftermath of a flood can be the difference between turning a profitable quarter and going into the red.

File an Insurance Claim and Contact Professionals

The first step in dealing with water damage is to immediately take action. Even something as minor as a broken pipe can lead to disastrous damages if left alone for long enough. Make sure the commercial insurance policy for your business will cover the expenses of any professionals contacted.

Professionals Inspect the Site and Remove Water

Once contacted, professionally trained water restoration specialists may inspect the facility to determine the extent of any damage. Once they know how large water damage is, the crew uses large pumps and vacuums to remove any water from the site.

Drying and Dehumidifying

When all the standing water is removed, experts then work to remove any water still retained inside wooden or drywall structures. More specialized industrial equipment and dehumidifiers are used to remove this troublesome water from floors, walls and doors.

Cleaning and Restoration

Once water is removed from all surfaces of the site, the team then works to restore any furniture, equipment and upholstery damaged from flooding. In addition to cleaning off grime and dirt, professionals work to disinfect items to protect them from bacteria. However, some of these may be damaged beyond repair and thus need to be thrown out. The restoration element of this process involves repairing the physical structures of the facility to pre-flood levels.

Returning a business damaged by flooding to normal requires urgency and awareness to ensure that damages do not spiral out of control. Be sure to contact professionals in the Gladstone, MO, area to start the restoration of your business as soon as possible.

Irrigation Maintenance Tips To Avoid Costly Sprinkler Flooding

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

It's important to regularly inspect your sprinkler system.

Don’t like getting your feet wet? Proper irrigation maintenance practices and performing regular inspections of your system in Kansas City, MO, can help you avoid sprinkler flooding and the problems that come along with it, but this is particularly important when turning on your system after a long period of inactivity. Failing to properly inspect your system before reactivating it can result in wasted water, poor plant health, and contamination caused by over-irrigation and run-off.

5 Places You Should Check 

One of the best ways to prevent problems is to check areas of your system that have common problems. Follow these guidelines for each area:

1. Clogged nozzles: Performing regular irrigation maintenance can help you avoid this problem, but it’s a good idea to check nozzles for debris such as dirt and leaves before attempting to reactivate the system.

2. Missing or broken heads: To help avoid sprinkler flooding, be sure to check for any damage to the sprinkler heads. Damage can be caused by lawnmowers, normal wear and tear, improper installation, or even vandalism.

3. Tilted, sunken, or misaligned heads: Look for settling of the heads or build-up that has occurred around them over time. Be sure everything is still aligned properly before attempting to turn on the system.

4. Seal leaks: If you notice a leak in your spray head, you should either replace the whole single unit or the seal under the screw-off top (depending on your device). Leaks can appear in these mechanisms from dirt and debris.

5. Leaking valves or pipes: If leaks are discovered in valves or pipes, they should be promptly replaced. Damage to valves and pipes can be caused by weather, lawn equipment such as shovels or sharp tools, tree roots, or vandalism.

Regular Maintenance and Inspection Goes a Long Way

Regular irrigation maintenance and inspection can go a long way in helping you avoid sprinkler flooding and other associated issues, but how often should you inspect your system? At minimum, the system should be checked twice seasonally; right before it is turned on and halfway through the season. Ideally, the system should be checked on a monthly basis. This will likely optimize your chances of discovering a potential problem before it occurs or before it is able to cost you a lot of time, money, or both.

What to do with water damage in home?

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in a bathroom.

Steps to follow when our home has water damage

If you have water damage in your home it is important to make sure that you have it removed as soon as possible. If the water sits for several days, it can cause secondary damage like mold and other types of microbial growth.

It is important to call SERVPRO of Clay County as soon as possible, to come on site and begin the water removal process. Our team is available 24 hours a day to remove water in your home.

Once the water is removed, SERVPRO can begin to place air movers and dehumidifiers in the house. After a few days of drying and monitoring, the equipment can be removed once the drying is complete.

If you have any questions about what to do with water damage in your home, feel free to contact us at anytime, (816) 436-7420. 

What You Should Know About Flooding and Black Water

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Category 3 water damage comes from sewage, streams and other sources

Flood water can cause catastrophic damage to your business in Kansas City, MO. Learning about flooding can make it easier for business owners and managers to know what to expect if their businesses are impacted.

What Are the Types of Water Damage?

With storm damage often comes water damage. There are various types of damage that commonly occur, including:

• Clear water, or Category 1 water damage, which comes from faucets and is considered to be relatively safe.
  
• Gray water, or Category 2 water damage, which can be potentially hazardous and comes from sump pumps, dishwashers and other sources.
  
• Black water, or Category 3 water damage, which comes from sewage, streams and other sources and is hazardous.
  
  

Can Category 3 Water Damage Be Prevented?

Regular maintenance and inspections can sometimes help to prevent Category 1, 2 or 3 water damage. However, it may not always be possible to prevent the damage, particularly if the flood water is coming from streams or other external sources. You may be able to avert some damage if you prepare your property before a storm or flood occurs by using sealants to cover cracks and by clearing limbs and other debris from around the area.

How Is Category 3 Water Damage Removed?

Since Category 3 water damage can be hazardous, it can be prudent to employ an emergency cleanup and restoration company to remove the water. Professionals will often wear specialized gear to ensure that they are protected from any hazards in the liquid as the removal process begins. After drying out the area, experts can then sanitize and clean the zone that has been affected. Restoration may be necessary once the water is removed.

Though flood water can devastate a business, learning about black watert5 may make you feel more prepared to manage the effects of a flood. It can be useful to know the various types of water damage that can occur, whether the damage can be prevented and how Category 3 water is removed.

When To Clean Your Dryer Vents

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Fires caused by a clothes dryer are more prevalent than you might think

Fires caused by a clothes dryer are more prevalent than you might think, with approximately 2,900 dryer fires reported each year. A lint fire that results from not regularly cleaning the dryer is the leading cause of clothes dryer-related fires. Every time you dry your clothes, lint is collected in your dryer’s vent and lint traps. It is important that you know when to clean them to prevent a fire from starting in your home in Gladstone, MO.

How Often Should You Clean Out Your Vents?

• Empty Filter Before Every Load: Lint is extremely flammable and can quickly overheat and start a lint fire.
• Clean Filter Every Six Months: It is also a good idea to clean the filter with a nylon brush to help combat clogging.
• Clean Out Vent Pipe Every Three Months: Make sure there is no lint in the pipe and check the outside opening for any debris.
• Have a Technician Visit Once a Year: During the visit, the technician will completely clean your vent system and ensure air can flow freely.
  
  

How Can You Tell If Your Vent Needs To Be Cleaned?

Your dryer will often let you know if there is an issue with the vents, but it is up to you to quickly take action and prevent a dryer fire. One common indicator that your dryer’s vents are clogged is that your clothes are not drying quickly. Clogged vents can also trap air and moisture inside your laundry room, making it feel hot and humid inside or even produce a musty smell. If your dryer feels hot to the touch after a load, this also is a sign your vents need to be cleaned.

A lint fire can be very dangerous and can cause extensive damage to your home, so regular cleaning and maintenance of your dryer are key. However, if a fire does occur, a fire cleanup company can help address any damage.

Get Out! How to Come up With an Effective Escape Plan

5/5/2019 (Permalink)

Having an Effective Escape Plan can save lives. Don't wait until it's too late to make your fire escape plan.

When disaster strikes, it’s too late to plan and prepare; these things must happen well in advance. Though you, of course, hope to never need to spring a fire escape plan into action, having one in place can save lives. If you don’t have such a plan in your Kansas City, KS, office, or if you haven’t reviewed yours in a while, make this a priority today.

How to Come up With an Effective Escape Plan

Meet Together

An emergency escape plan is at its best when it has input from several key people. This isn’t a plan you or someone else should come up with on a whim. It requires a group discussion and varying ideas.

• Consider selecting an emergency response committee.
• Meet regularly to review past plans and determine what improvements you should make.
• Open the group to your organization; invite people to participate who have experience or expertise in devising such plans.

Know Your Space

If a fire starts in your building, it’s vital that everyone exits in a calm and orderly manner. Employees must be swift, however, and this means they need to know how and where to properly exit. Identify all possible exits on each floor and in all areas of your building.

Assign Roles

You can’t have a mad rush for the stairs or the doors if you need to evacuate the building. You also want someone to sweep the building for stragglers and someone else to count people once you’re outside. Make sure someone is covering these important duties.

Practice Makes Perfect

No fire escape plan should be complete without holding consistent drills. At least annually, practice exiting the building and meeting at a designated spot in a safe location near your building.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to make your fire escape plan. Firefighters and restoration crews will do their jobs. Make sure you do yours too.

Water Damage in Clay County

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

Pipe Bursts can be a leading cause for Water Damage in your home.

What to Do if your Pipe Bursts

If you are unfortunate enough to have a burst pipe, follow these steps:

• Turn off your water supply at the main valve. Your main water valve can be located in a variety of places. If you have a home with a basement or crawlspace, it is probably located on an interior wall near the front of the house. In this case, it is most likely hiding in plain sight. If your home was built on a slab, the valve might be located near the hot water heater or inside your garage. It may also be located in an underground cement box near your front curb. To learn where your main water valve is, consult you property inspection report or call your local utility company or plumbing professional. Learn more tips for locating your main water valve here. If the burst pipe is a hot water line, make sure to also turn off the water valve at the top of your hot water heater.
• Once you have turned off the main water valve, call a plumber.
• If your water meter is frozen, contact your local Water Department.

If your broken pipe has caused water damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Clay County to dry it out before it ruins materials and they need to be torn out.

3 Things To Remember During Roof Repair

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

Roof damage after a storm in Liberty, MO

Three Important Things to Remember During Roof Repair

During storm season in Liberty, MO, your home may fall victim to some fierce elements. Heavy rains, wind and hail can all wreak havoc on your roof, siding and windows. After you call your insurance company, the work of repairing the roof damage and other problems begins. Here are three important things to remember during this process.

1. Not All Damage Is Visible

You may take it upon yourself to climb on top of the roof and survey what the storm has done. Just because you can’t see anything, however, doesn’t mean it doesn’t need repair. Wind damage occurs when branches and other debris are flung at your home. This can cause your shingles to break or become loose, and you may not know it’s happened until you see evidence of leakage in your attic. An inspection by flood damage experts can reveal these issues before they cause more problems.

2. Damage Does Not Automatically Mean Replacement

Most storms usually cause some roof damage, but not all of it is severe enough to warrant having to replace the entire roof. Unless the problem is severe enough to have torn up several parts of the roof, including the protective layer underneath the shingles, technicians will probably repair only the parts that need it.

3. Protection Prevents Further Damage

While the specialists are working on your roof, make sure they are protecting all the vulnerable areas when they take a break or leave for the day. Holes should be boarded up until they are repaired. If there are multiple areas of damage, a tarp should be used to cover the whole roof and protect your home from additional rain or debris.

Roof damage is common after a storm. Mitigation experts can help you identify the extent of the damage, advise you on the repairs needed and prevent further damage from happening during the process.

3 Ways To Conserve Water in Your Commercial Building

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

By implementing a sensible irrigation plan, you can maximize its effectiveness and probably save money on water bill and water remediation services.

Techniques For Conserving Water At Your Place Of Business.

Owning a business comes with many expenses, and they are often not negotiable. Tackling your water issues, however, can be a boost to your budget. Rather than pouring your money down the drain every month, try some of these techniques for conserving water at your place of business.

1. Appliance Upgrades

One of the easiest ways to use less water is to invest in a water upgrade whenever possible. Some upgrades include:

  • Low-flow toilets
  • Touch-operated sinks
  • Energy efficient appliances

You may be amazed at how much money you can save on your water bill in Gladstone, MO, just by switching to appliances that use less water. The main benefit of this strategy is that you don’t really need employee cooperation to make it work. The upgrades do the work for you.

2. Meter Separation

A general reading from your water meter only tells you your overall water use. To analyze your water issues to see where you need to cut back, you need to submeter usages such as your irrigation system and cooling tower. Once you separate those readings from the rest of your usage, you can better assess where you are using the most water and which of your conservation strategies are working the best.

3. Irrigation Planning

You may notice that your water sprinklers are getting the sidewalk just as wet as the lawn. Maybe your automated sprinklers turn on in the heat of the day, even in summer. Perhaps your drainage system causes water to pool near your foundation where it can cause water damage rather than distributing water to the vegetation where it’s needed. By implementing a sensible irrigation plan, you can maximize its effectiveness and probably save money on both the water bill and water remediation services at the same time.

Conserving water starts with assessing your water issues. With a little bit of planning and a few upgrades, you may be able to drastically reduce your water bill.

3 Steps to Professional Mold Remediation for Your Commercial Building

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

If you find mold in your commercial building, call SERVPRO.

Mold Remediation Process For Your Commercial Building  

Discovering a black mold problem in your Kansas City, MO , commercial building can be distressing. This type of fungus can spread quickly and you may not be sure how to handle its removal. Calling in a professional mold cleaning and removal service can be a first effective step in proper remediation and to ensure this damaging substance does not return.

1. Containment

Once mold cleanup technicians arrive at your business, they will likely target and attempt to contain the mold to prevent it from spreading further. Actions may include sealing off the room where the mold was found and turning off the building’s ventilation system to prevent spores from traveling through the ducts. If water damage is discovered, the moisture source will be identified and remedied.

2. Evacuation of the Building

Before the black mold can be removed, employees and customers will likely be asked to leave the building. This step is to further prevent the spread of mold to other areas and so that techs can bring in equipment and tools safely. The area may have to remain empty until all of the mold is removed and necessary repairs are completed. Your technicians may be able to give you a likely time frame for service completion in case you need to temporarily close your business while the mold is dealt with.

3. Evaluation and Restoration

The mold remediation and restoration specialists who work on your building will likely inspect the area once it has been contained and cleaned to ensure all the fungi is gone and moisture issues have been resolved before they continue with any restoration actions. You may receive a complete remediation report, along with recommended repair processes, so you understand what building materials may need replacing due to mold damage.

Black mold can cause serious damage to your Kansas City, MO , commercial building. Working with professionals from a remediation and repair service that specializes in the removal of fungi can help you feel more confident about the outcome.

Digital Files Replace Paper for Increased Efficiency and Security

3/24/2019 (Permalink)

Insurance agents play various roles, depending on which company they represent, but when the time comes to file an insurance claim, the related work can still be tedious and time-consuming. In the past, insurance companies have relied heavily on paper documents and files. However, many insurance companies and corporate partners have begun turning to electronic files, experiencing several important benefits.

• Quick access to vast information from a smartphone or laptop
  
• Diverse ways to search and organize information
  
• Ability to enter information at the agents' convenience
  
• Reduced paper consumption and waste

The Conversion to Electronic Files

SERVPRO has a digital claims center that has transformed the process of filing an insurance claim. Now, an insurance agent doesn't have to hunt through banks of filing cabinets looking for specific documents that may have been misfiled. Insurance companies aren't compelled to house vast histories of past filing. Rooms or warehouses full of filing cabinets and cases can be cleared out as they are converted into electronic file systems.

The Trouble With Paper Files

Other common problems of relying on a paper system include protecting confidentiality, the difficulty of accessing information from similar cases in other states, and the clutter that reduces efficiency. Using the SERVPRO electronic Claims Information Center, it is much easier to access and share complete files or just the facts and figures from the documents. As paper documents are converted into electronic files, the need to maintain and work around file cabinets decreases. Agents in Gladstone, MO, can complete each insurance claim without spending several minutes traveling or flipping through manila folders.

The Issue of Security

Of course, security is one of the top concerns for SERVPRO corporate professionals and for insurance agencies. Fortunately, electronic files are generally more secure than paper copies. The ability to track and record access is much better digitally. From a single location, corporate security teams can keep an eye on who can see files and where information is shared.

Converting information into electronic files helps insurance agents complete their work more quickly. As information is saved digitally, it is easier to use, to share, and to protect. It's a winning solution for everyone involved.

What You Should Know About Secondary Damage

3/14/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in walls and wooden floor as a result of water absorption

Water damage that affects your home in Kansas City, MO, can unfortunately cause additional issues such as black mold and other problems following the primary damage. It’s often useful to understand what problems often follow primary damage in order to prevent more destruction from occurring.

How Quickly Does It Occur?

After primary damage occurs in a home, secondary problems can occur in a short amount of time. In general, there are various factors that can affect how quickly secondary problems will occur. However, in many instances, the following can occur after the initial water damage:

• Mold can grow as soon as 24-48 hours
• Water from a clean source can become contaminated within days
• Structural issues can begin within hours
  
  

Common Examples

There are a wide variety of issues that can take place after a home is impacted by flooding. Common problems that occur as the result of the primary damage often include:

• Black mold growing in areas that are damp
• Wooden floors beginning to warp after they have absorbed water
• Structural damage in walls as a result of water absorption and high humidity levels
  
  

Can This Type of Destruction Be Prevented?

Although it’s not always possible to prevent flooding, there are often steps you can take to prevent additional issues. Turning off the water in your home and keeping your home as dry as possible can decrease the likelihood of more problems occurring. Maintaining the wellbeing of the appliances in and around your home and fixing small problems can sometimes prevent flooding altogether. After your home has been affected by flooding, it can also be wise to contact water damage restoration professionals who can assist in mitigation efforts.

Secondary damage such as black mold doesn’t have to be inevitable after a disaster. After your home is affected by flooding, it’s often useful to know when issues secondary to the initial flooding can occur, common examples of additional complications and how to prevent further devastation.

Mold Containment: What You Should Know

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Air Systems Must Be Turned Off

3 Things You Should Know About Mold Containment

Have you been dealing with mold contamination at your Liberty, MO, home? If so, you probably have many questions regarding the mold remediation process. Your local restoration technicians can take many steps to restore your property. One of the most important of these is mold containment. Here are three things you should know about this vital process.

1. Containment Stops the Spread of Mold

Why is containment so important? As it turns out, mold spores can spread fairly quickly when they are present. This means that surfaces in your home that are currently unaffected by mold could be damaged without swift action - which is why cleanup professionals quickly take thorough containment steps as part of their mold contamination processes.

2. Air Systems Must Be Turned Off

This is one of the most important steps to take when attempting to prevent mold migration. Air conditioners, heating systems and even fans must be shut down when mold is present, as spores can travel through air and damage other sections of your home that may not be anywhere near the source of mold. If you can, turn off all of your HVAC devices and fans before cleanup crews arrive to quickly reduce the likelihood of extensive mold damage.

3. Different Cleanup Methods Can Be Used

There are a few methods that cleanup professionals may use for mold containment. These can include the use of negative air pressure to halt the spread of mold and negative air chambers to physically isolate any growth. Keep in mind that these are advanced procedures, and your particular situation may warrant other solutions.

If you have any questions about mold contamination or cleanup during the restoration process, do not hesitate to ask your on-site residential remediation professionals. They should have experience dealing with such matters and know how to respond to even some of your most difficult mold-related concerns.

SERVPRO: How Can They Really Be Faster to Any Size Disaster

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Clay County is Faster to Any Size Disaster

SERVPRO Faster to Any Size Disaster

In the insurance claim process, a speedy restoration company response matters, and that is why SERVPRO with their Faster to Any Size Disaster motto is leading the industry. However, it is more than just a slogan. It is a tagline that the company stands behind and for several good reasons.

1. 24/7 Emergency Response

Adjusters and clients alike, require the services of restoration companies at all hours. Disaster doesn’t set a clock and therefore emergency response shouldn’t either. SERVPRO’s standard of service is built on the idea of 24/7 availability, meaning that they’re out working while the other guy is sleeping. This level of commitment has not gone unnoticed as the company has been recognized nationally for their dependability.

2. Nationally Available

Additionally, they can make it Faster to Any Size Disaster because there are over 1,700 franchises spread across the country. This level of localization means that the company truly can make it to your client’s home sooner than less expansive brands.

3. Preferred Vendor

Also, SERVPRO only works with preferred vendors, meaning that all contractors and suppliers go through a screening process. Every company is expected to meet specific qualifications and comply with the level of care and professionalism outlined in the company’s standard practices.

4. Residential and Commercial Services

Beyond being nationally available, SERVPRO’s services include both residential and commercial properties, allowing a larger client base. This versatility suits insurance companies well because they typically cater to both large and small clients.

Faster to Any Size Disaster is not merely a slogan. It is a reality. It is an honest description of a company’s ability to receive a call and respond to a client in need, regardless of property size or type. Insurance companies depend on these quick responses to mitigate further loss and to make the claims process more manageable. SERVPRO is a localized company that has a proven reputation of compliance and satisfaction that can provide the level of service both insurers and clients require.

5 Essential First Aid Supplies

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

Essential items a first aid kit should have

5 Essential First Aid Supplies

A first aid kit should include a variety of medical supplies. Here are five essential items for treating minor injuries on site or protecting more severe injuries until an ambulance arrives at a commercial building in Gladstone, MO.

1. Bandages

Several types of bandages can be helpful for protecting injuries. Adhesive bandages are suitable for minor cuts or scrapes. Include several sizes, butterfly closures, and waterproof versions. Roller bandages are useful for dressing larger wounds. Secure this type of bandage with medical tape or metal closures.

2. Elastic Wraps

Quickly stabilize a sprain or minor to moderate musculoskeletal injuries with an elastic wrap. Avoid wrapping this material too tightly, as it may restrict circulation. A first aid kit for a commercial building should contain several wraps.

3. Gauze Pads

Some injuries are too sensitive for bandages. Use gauze pads to lightly cover minor to moderate burns. This material can also be used to shield more severe burns or other types of injuries until help arrives. It is ideal to have several pad sizes on hand.

4. Scissors

A building owner or manager might not think of scissors when assembling an emergency kit, but this tool can be crucial when dressing wounds. Sharp scissors make it easy to precisely trim a bandage, gauze pad or wrap.

5. Splint

A splint is an essential short-term solution for broken bones or fractures. Try to include various sizes of splints in a kit.

A complete first aid kit should also include other supplies such as antibacterial ointment, blankets, gloves, tweezers, and resuscitation equipment. The five items listed above will enable building occupants to provide basic first aid in an emergency situation. Contact medical help for more severe injuries. Building owners should rely on a commercial mitigation and restoration company to clean and repair a damaged structure after a storm or disaster in Gladstone, MO.

3 Things To Know About Lightning and House Fires

2/5/2019 (Permalink)

In general, a lightning fire is more likely to occur during the summer when storms occur.

3 Things To Know About Lightning and House Fires

A lightning fire can occur quickly and can devastate your home in Kansas City, MO. There are many misconceptions about these types of fire, however, and learning more about these types of fires can help you feel more prepared to react in the event of a fire.

1. Damage to Your Home Is More Likely Than Injury

When lightning strikes, a house fire is often the result; it is relatively uncommon for a person to be struck. In the United States, fewer than 60 people were injured by strikes in four years. However, a significant amount of damage was done to homes in that time period due to fires that occurred as a result of a strike. Unplugging appliances in your home can help to reduce the likelihood of your home being struck.

2. The Time of Year and Environment Matters

In general, a lightning fire is more likely to occur during the summer when storms occur. Additionally, certain environments are more susceptible to fires that are caused by lightning. Areas that are experiencing drought are more likely to see these types of fires since dry grasses and shrubbery can quickly ignite and spread, which can result in extensive damage to the area.

3. Preparation and Education Can Be Useful

If you are outside when a storm begins, there are steps you can take to that can help keep you safe. Keeping away from water and keeping your distance from tall trees and power lines can reduce the likelihood of being struck. If you are inside when a storm occurs, keeping away from windows can also be beneficial. Additionally, knowing how to react if any type of fire occurs in your home can help to keep you and others safe.

Understanding the damage a lightning fire can cause, knowing when this type of fire is likely to occur and knowing how to react during a storm can help you take steps to protect yourself. If your home has been affected by this type of fire, it can be useful to contact fire and storm restoration experts.

Pipe Problems In Home

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

Clogged drain in a Gladstone, MO home

Learn How to Manage Flooding Caused by Bursting Pipes

A well-maintained residence in Gladstone, MO, can still have a few issues with its plumbing system. Learn how to manage flooding caused by bursting pipes with the following how-to suggestions.

1. Inspection

The easiest way to prevent plumbing problems is to routinely inspect your pipes and appliances for leaks. This is especially true of homes with older plumbing made of copper or certain plastics no longer in common use. While such materials are not in need of immediate replacement, they can create an additional risk of damage due to corrosion or cracking, especially at junctures and connection points. Make time to fix broken pipe segments as soon as you notice the damage.

2. Drainage

Clogged drains can present another point of failure for a plumbing system. If you notice water backing up in the basin of your sink or tub, or you hear any unusual noises as water moves through your pipes, you may have some sort of blockage. If left untreated, these clogs can contribute to bursting pipes in your plumbing. While caustic drain cleaners can be effective, they are not the only option. Use mechanical drain snakes or enzymatic clog removers if possible, to preserve the integrity of your plumbing system.

3. Recovery

Sometimes flooding and other water damage can occur regardless of the diligence of the home owner. In these cases, you should take steps to prevent any ongoing damage from water retention by safely draining the water from the premises. Cut all power to the affected area, as this can present a safety hazard. Remove any sensitive documents or electronics. Your home insurance policy likely covers the costs necessary to hire a qualified flood damage restoration service, so contact your provider as soon as possible.

While a home flood due to bursting pipes and other plumbing maladies can be an unfortunate disruption, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the risk of damage and begin the restoration process quickly.

What You Should Know About Mold in Your Home

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

Mold in your Liberty, MO home

Unfortunately, mold growth is a common issue homeowners in Liberty, MO frequently encounter. Various types of mold, including black mold, can result in a costly cleanup. However, it can be helpful for homeowners to learn about mold growth, so the issue can be prevented if possible.

What Causes Mold to Grow?

In your home, there are various reasons mold may grow. However, the following issues make mold growth much more likely to occur.

• A moisture problem in the home due to high levels of humidity or other factors
• Locations in the home that are not dry for long periods of time
  
• Access to organic materials, which can include a variety of common surfaces in the home
  
  

Why Does Mold Reappear?

There are some areas in your home that are more likely to experience mold growth than others. However, when mold keeps appearing in one area after it has been removed, this could be a sign of a problem. If an area does not remain dry and is consistently damp, this can allow mold to grow again in the same area. If mold is not properly removed in a timely manner, black mold may begin to grow in the area.

Can Mold Be Prevented?

Every situation is different, but there are several ways to prevent mold from growing in your home. Since mold thrives in damp environments, keeping your home dry is often important. In areas that experience high levels of humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens, it can be helpful to make sure there is no standing water after appliances have been used. If you do notice standing water, quickly cleaning it can stop mold growth.

Learning more about mold can help you prevent black mold and other types of mold from causing damage to your home. If your home has been affected by mold and you need assistance with the mold cleanup process, consider contacting mold remediation professionals.

3 Ways Roof Tarping Can Protect Your Business

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage on roof in Kansas City, MO

After a fire, your property is especially vulnerable. In addition to covering fire cleanup expenses, you must worry about the threat of additional damage and vandalism posed by broken windows, doors and in some cases, roofs. A basic roof tarp is one of the easiest ways to protect your Kansas City, MO, business from further damage that insurance won’t cover. Learn more about how tarping can help while you await roof repair.

A tarp is short for tarpaulin, a big piece of strong, flexible and typically waterproof material with a myriad of potential uses. These can be made of:

• Canvas
• Polyester
• Polyethylene

or any number of durable, water-resistant materials. Their size and durability make them a great choice for protecting your roof. Here’s how.

Prevent Weather Damage

Fires are notorious for burning through the roof, leaving gaping holes that can let outside weather in. Water seeping in through your roof not only damages the contents inside, but can soak insulation, creating the perfect scenario for a costly mold problem down the road.

Block Animals

Water isn’t the only thing that can get in through roof holes. Squirrels, birds and even mice can get into your building through roof holes, setting the stage for a costly infestation that can take months to resolve.

Prevent Collapses

A damaged roof is a weakened one and everything from extra water to strong winds can create more stress that leads to a collapse - and even higher roof repair costs in addition to initial fire cleanup expenses.

How Tarping Works

Tarps work by creating a temporary but strong barrier against the outside while you await roof repair. Installers simply scale your roof and nail the tarp into place. It’s reliable and easily removed when you’re ready to fix your roof.

Protecting your roof during fire cleanup need not be costly. Contact a tarp services specialist to determine what your tarping options are.

4 Sewage Damage Cleaning Steps

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Sewage backup is contaminated with biological viruses and bacteria

Sewer Cleanup Process

A sewer backup calls for thorough cleaning and disinfection. Sewage overflow and Category Three black water contain bacteria and other microbes that may pose a heightened risk of infection or mold growth. Follow these four steps or hire a damage mitigation service to complete the sewer cleanup process.

1. Remove Water and Solids

A homeowner or cleanup service should use equipment such as a mop or wet vac to remove liquid and solids. Take this step as soon as possible after a backup occurs. Keep in mind that the problem will recur until the clog in the drain line is cleared.

2. Tear Out Porous Contents and Materials

Porous materials such as drywall or contents such as carpet cannot be completely cleaned after exposure to Category Three black water. It is possible to do a preliminary disinfection of the area prior to tearing out these materials and contents. Homeowners should wait for the affected area to dry before proceeding with restoration.

3. Clean and Disinfect the Area

In addition to sewer cleanup, it will also be necessary to disinfect the area exposed to black water. A preliminary disinfection should be followed up by a thorough cleaning and disinfection after all damaged porous materials have been removed. Otherwise, the tearing out process can lead to recontamination.

4. Dry the Area

The affected area should be allowed to dry completely before restoring drywall, carpet, or other contents. Professionals may recommend the use of fans or dehumidifiers to speed up the process. Any residual moisture will increase the likelihood of mold growth.

Every one of these steps is necessary to clean up a sewer backup at a residence in Kansas City, MO. Whether the damage is due to a flooded toilet or a backed up city main, sewer cleanup specialists have the expertise and equipment necessary to address primary damage and prevent secondary damage.

Fire Alarms: The ABCs of Smoke Detection

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

You should replace your smoke detectors every 8 to 10 years

Smoke Alarm Questions

The fact is a fire alarm can save lives and every home should have more than one. That’s right houses are supposed to have more than one alarm. In order to better prepare yourself for a potential emergency, it is essential to know the answers to the most frequently asked smoke alarm questions.

1. How many smoke alarms do you need?

While people tend to concern themselves over the possibility of fire and smoke damage, they should be more concerned with the number of alarms in their homes. You should have a signal in every bedroom and outside of every bedroom. You should also have smoke alarms installed on every level of your home. Keep in mind that this is the minimum and that you may want to have more.

2. How often should you replace the batteries?

The general rule is that you should replace fire alarm batteries at least once a year. Granted, the instructions may state that the batteries have a longer shelf life, but it is always better to be safe than sorry.

3. When should you replace the smoke detector?

In order to provide the greatest defense against fire damage, you should replace your smoke detectors every 8 to 10 years. Obviously, this is dependent on the type of alarm and any guarantees. To keep track of the timeline, you can write the date of purchase on the alarm and even record it in a calendar app with a reminder to replace.

4. What type of smoke detector should you use?

While you can reach out to the fire department or a fire restoration company in the Gladstone, MO, area to learn about the specific types of fire detectors, each can be put into two categories: ionized and photoelectric. Each one provides different strengths and weaknesses depending on the kind of fire and smoke, which is why you should have a mix of detectors in your home.

A fire alarm is a life-saving tool. Be sure to install them in your home today, for the safety of you and your loved ones.

Maintaining the Plumbing on a Rental

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Liberty, MO building

Maintaining the Plumbing on a Rental

While leasing or renting a house or apartment can be a great source of extra income, maintenance can be a significant source of overhead expense. The most effective cost-reducing measures are usually the most timely, so inspect and maintain your polybutylene plumbing and other water fixtures with the following advice.

1. Material Concerns

Polybutylene pipes are no longer permissible under the provisions of most United States building codes. While they were somewhat common in installations made from the 1970s to the 1990s due to their cost-effectiveness and flexibility, they tend to present leakage issues over time. This appears to occur due to various chlorine compounds that cause progressive damage, especially at joints. If you own a rental property in Liberty, MO, ensure that any such plastic or resin pipe materials are in good condition.

2. Upkeep and Tenants

An overworked plumbing system can cause problems even if more standard materials such as copper or PVC were used in construction. Advise tenants only to flush biodegradable materials approved for your septic tank or city sewer. From time to time, plunging or chemical drain cleaning may be necessary due to the accumulation of non-soluble substances such as lipids or hair. Ideally, mechanical removal of clogs with a drain snake will lead to less damage than caustic cleaners. Enzyme-based drain cleaners are also available as an alternative.

3. Unavoidable Problems

Sometimes water damage comes from an external source, such as weather-induced basement flooding or invasive tree roots. In these cases, it may be prudent to contact a qualified flood restoration specialist once the source of the water leakage has been repaired. Professional services can help you dry sensitive materials affected by a flood and reduce the risk of mold problems in the future.

Legacy building materials like polybutylene don’t have to be a headache if properly inspected and maintained. Prevent costly downtime and keep tenants happy by remembering the above guidelines.

The Benefits of Interruption Coverage

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Gladstone,MO

4 Ways an Interruption Policy Can Protect Your Business

A fire in your commercial property in Gladstone, MO, can leave you scrambling not only for the money to repair your building and the surrounding area but also for the revenue to pay the bills while operations are slowed or suspended. Interruption insurance covers the costs of your basic operations. It can mean the difference between slowing business down for a little while and going out of business altogether. Here are four ways an interruption policy can protect your business.

1. Income Compensation

Your business interruption policy is likely to replace most of the income you would have earned during the designated time. The amount you are eligible to receive often depends on financial statements and projections from your company. It protects your business from going bankrupt while you are getting back to normal.

2. Temporary Relocation

If the repairs your building needs are extensive, you may have to relocate your operations for a little while. Interruption insurance will often cover the expense involved in doing so. It may pay rent and utilities for an additional business operations center so that productivity does not have to suffer.

3. Utilities and Property-Related Expense

While fire restoration services are underway, you may still have to pay for basic utilities and property tax or rent in your own building that is being repaired. If that is the case, you will need an interruption policy that can pay those costs.

4. Employee Payroll

Just as your coverage protects you, you want to protect your employees. Many workers fear that their jobs will be in danger when the building is in jeopardy. An excellent business interruption policy supports you by supporting your staff and covering their paychecks.

Your interruption insurance allows you to protect your business while leaving yourself plenty of time to make sure repairs are done expertly and thoroughly. With proper coverage, you don't have to rush the recovery process.

Tips for Freeing Commercial Air Ducts of Mold

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Dust accumulated in your Liberty,MO air duct can lead to microbial growth

What to Do If You Have Black Mold in Your Ventilation System

Certain conditions can cause mold growth in your company air ducts. This can cause problems for your Liberty, MO, business. If you believe you may have black mold in your ventilation system there are a few things you can do.

1. Know How to Spot Mold in Air Ducts

Mold can cause a number of problems for your staff and building so it’s important to locate and remove it as soon as possible. Some of the most common signs of mold in a ventilation system include patchy, dust like areas around vents that are difficult to clean away, and musty odors that seem to get stronger when the AC system is turned on.

2. Remove the Mold and Sanitize the Area

If you believe black mold may be growing in your ducts then it’s important to contact a mold remediation specialist to take a look at the problem. These professionals can run the appropriate tests to confirm the diagnoses, and then take any steps needed to remedy the problem. They will clean and sanitize the duct-work as well as inspect the surrounding area to insure the mold has not spread.

3. Mitigate Future Problems

One of the best ways to maintain clean ducts is to prevent problems before they start. Moisture control is an important step to this. Carefully watch areas that tend to have water problems, and do what you can to repair and clean these areas as soon as a problem occurs. You can also regularly change air filters, monitor the levels of humidity, and avoid using rugs in areas like restrooms that may retain moisture.

Once you understand how to spot mold growth, including black mold, you’ll be able to get your company’s ventilation system properly cleaned. You will also be able to take the necessary steps to prevent future problems. If you have any questions, a professional may be able to help.

Is Mold Inevitable After a Flood?

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a Kansas City, MO home

When storm waters cause flooding in your Kansas City, MO, home, the cleanup process may take some time. Not only do you likely need to hire a water removal service, but you may also have to repair secondary damage after the water has been cleaned up. While additional damage is a possibility, mold growth does not have to be inevitable after a storm causes water to permeate your house. You can avoid it by doing the following:

• Managing excessive humidity
• Removing standing water
• Reacting quickly to the flood

To better understand if your home may be affected by mold, you need to know what contributes to its growth. The type of water, time it takes to start cleaning and thoroughness of the cleanup job each plays a part in whether or not mold will start to grow.

Dirty Water

If your home is flooded after a storm, chances are the water came from an overflowing river or backed-up sewer system. These water sources are commonly contaminated with spores and bacteria. Water from a dirty source can lead to mold growth quicker than flooding from a broken water supply line.

Lengthy Wait Time

If water sits in your home for a long period of time, the risk that mold will begin to grow is increased. Stagnant water and high humidity create the ideal environment for mold to develop. Quickly calling in a cleaning crew is always a good idea when you find standing water in your home.

Partial Cleanup

Completely removing the effects of flooding is important. Any residual dampness or humidity can encourage mold growth. Some homeowners try to take on the cleanup on their own, but they don't always know how to totally remove water damage. This partial cleanup makes it possible for spores to spread throughout a home.

Mold doesn't have to grow after a flood. Addressing flood cleanup and mold removal as soon as possible can help reduce the damage done by a storm.

How To Avoid a Fire During a Natural Gas Leak

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

If you smell gas in your Liberty, MO, home, it could be a sign that there is a leak. This type of leak could put you at risk for a gas fire. Avoiding a fire may be difficult, but it can be done. Consider these five tips if you ever have to deal with gas leakage, but remember that it may be safer for you to simply evacuate your house and call emergency responders.

1. Avoid creating a spark

When natural gas fills your home, the smallest spark could start an explosion. You can avoid causing sparks by not turning lights on, using candles or making calls on a cellphone.

2. Start airing out the space 

 If the gas is not allowed to build up in your home, you may lower your risk of a gas explosion. Opening doors and windows increases the ventilation and helps the gas dissipate.

3. Check obvious sources

If you have time, you can check some obvious sources of a natural gas leakage. This usually includes appliances that run on gas. Stoves are the most common culprit as it is easy for someone to bump a burner on accident.

4. Turn off the gas

When you hear a hissing sound or smell rotten eggs, you can turn off your home's gas. The valve is usually located by the meter.

5. Know the signs of a leak

Before a gas fire can happen, there usually has to be a leak. You can avoid the fire if you can put a stop to the leak quickly. Common signs of a leak include hissing air, blowing dirt, rotten egg smell and bubbling puddles.

It may not always be possible for you to avoid a gas fire. When the unexpected happens, you need to know who to call for help. A residential fire cleanup crew can help you get your life back to normal.

What Causes Sewers To Back Up After a Storm?

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Municipal sewer systems can become overwhelmed and back up due to heavy rain. There are three common reasons why excessive rain water can lead to a sewer backup.

1. Increased Development

A storm sewer system that serves a municipality that has experienced a lot of rapid development may not be able to keep up with increased runoff levels. This can cause storm water to back up into the drains of commercial properties and homes in the region. Commercial property owners may want to consider an insurance endorsement or preventative plumbing solutions for frequent backups.

2. Poor Sewer Maintenance

The city also may not be doing a sufficient amount of sewer maintenance. Unfortunately, even if the municipality is to blame for a sewer backup, it is probably not liable for the cost of removing black water and restoring commercial property damage. Sewer backups are also commonly excluded from commercial property insurance policies. You may want to add a sewage damage endorsement to a policy to cover mitigation and restoration costs.

3. Lack of Dedicated Storm Sewers

If a municipality does not have enough storm sewers, flooding and backups may happen every time it rains heavily. If this is the case, a commercial property owner may want to consider having a basement drain raised and an ejector pump installed or having a sewer backwater device such as a check valve or gate valve installed. Keep in mind that waste and storm drainage cannot flow through while this valve is closed, which may make it less desirable for installation in large commercial buildings.

If you own commercial property in a region that frequently experiences sewer backups due to rain water, the best option may be an endorsement on a business property insurance policy. This coverage can help to offset the cost of professional cleaning and restoration after a sewer backup in Gladstone, MO.

3 Facts To Know About Water Damage and Flood Recovery

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Storm damage in a Kansas City,MO home

When flooding affects your Kansas City, MO, home, it can be difficult to know where to begin when it comes to cleanup efforts. Whether the flood was caused by a pipe burst in your cellar or bathroom or from an overflow of a nearby creek during a rainstorm, it can ruin your home’s building materials and your belongings. Before you attempt to recover from water damage, there are a few facts you can keep in mind that may make the process less stressful.

1. Not All Flood Damage Is the Same

The amount of damage your home suffers from a flood can depend on many factors. For example, basement flooding caused by a leaking or ruptured water line may be less invasive than water that enters your home forcefully during storm flooding. The condition of the water can also play a part, as water from outdoor flooding is typically a category three, or black water situation, where water that comes from a kitchen pipe burst or water line is usually much more sanitary and therefore simpler to clean up.

2. Building Material Damage Is Not Always Apparent

After a flood there will likely be problems that are instantly visible, such as standing water that can occur during heavy flooding. However, there might also be water damage that you cannot see, especially if water levels reached more than a few inches. Drywall and interior insulation can be badly affected and may even grow mold if left untreated. Calling in a flood damage and restoration company to inspect these areas can help prevent costly issues later on.

3. Restoration Is Possible for Many Items

It is important not to discard items until they are inspected by your flood damage professionals. For example, if a pipe in your basement has burst and you had items stored there, such as furniture, photographs and important documents, they may be restored if salvaged properly.

Flooding can happen at any time, whether a pipe burst or seasonal storms are to blame. However, knowing what to expect and how to handle restoration can help you return your Kansas City, MO, home back to normal.

How To Keep Mold and Mildew Out of Your Bathroom

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

Know where to look for Mold and Mildew and how to spot it!

Your bathroom’s sinks, toilet, tub and shower are frequently exposed to water. Because mold and mildew thrive in moist environments, this room can be a potential breeding ground for both organisms.

To reduce your risk of bathroom mildew and mold, follow these tips.

Increase Air Circulation

Taking a hot shower can create a high humidity problem inside the room. Using bathroom fans during and after your shower can reduce the humidity level as well as condensation buildup on mirrors and other surfaces.

Dry Your Shower

You should wipe and dry your shower’s surface after use to eliminate pooled water and excessive moisture.

Routinely Clean the Shower

You can also reduce bathroom mildew by routinely cleaning your shower and tub. This includes wiping down walls and bathmats with a cleaning solution. If possible, install a washable shower curtain that you can routinely clean with your washing machine.

Avoid Piles of Wet Clothing

Cloth is porous and offers many hiding places for mold spores. To avoid mold and mildew growth, you should hang towels up to air dry after use and avoid piling wet clothing, towels and washcloths in one location.

Use Mold-Resistant Caulking

It’s not uncommon for water to pool in the area surrounding sinks, tubs and showers. You can waterproof these spots using a mold-resistant caulking. You should also routinely inspect caulking for signs of deterioration, such as cracking, and replace as necessary.

Address Drafty Windows

Your bathroom’s window sills are also potentially susceptible to mold and mildew growth because cold drafts around the window can produce condensation. To eliminate drafts, apply plastic film or weather stripping around the window.

A Manageable Issue

Proactively managing moisture is key to preventing bathroom mildew and mold in any Kansas City, Kansas home. In the event of a burst pipe or overflowing toilet, a quick and efficient cleanup is imperative. If your bathroom sustains significant water damage, a professional cleanup and restoration crew can provide timely assistance and help ensure mold does not find hiding spots inside your saturated bathroom.

Preventing Water Damage: The Practices and Tools Necessary to Protect Your Business

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

Be ready with a plan to protect not only your business' operations but also the employees.

A broken pipe can cause massive flooding in a business, and the cost of water repair can be significant; however, depending on who is deemed responsible, your insurance company may not cover the damage. Therefore, you may want to take every preventative measure possible to protect your business and its operation.

Key preventative measure to protect your business

Routine Maintenance

Most plumbing issues can be prevented with routine maintenance. With regular sewer cleaning and annual inspections of drains and other collection systems, most minor problems can be found and fixed for little costs.

Installation of Pumps and Valves

Beyond routine maintenance, you can install sump pumps and back flow valves to prevent and control potential sewer backup and flooding events. However, these items also should be inspected regularly to ensure proper functionality, and sump pumps should have battery backups in case of power outages.

Location of Generator Fuel Tanks

In the event of a broken pipe or a flood, generator fuel tanks may cause water contamination. For this reason, you may want to install generators in elevated areas to not only prevent possible water contamination but also to ensure a working generator. If generators are located in a building’s flood zones, the increasing water level may interfere with the generator’s mechanics.

Parking Lot and Sidewalk Grading

As exterior water lines can also burst, you may want to ensure that any concrete surface is graded away from your building’s interior. Incorrect grading can lead to increased flooding risk, which can result in further interior damage.

While Kansas City, Kansas, has many restoration companies in the event of a broken pipe, it is better for a business to avoid interruption due to disaster; therefore, it may be in your best interest, as the owner, to install every possible preventative measure. However, it is also essential to maintain these elements to ensure prolonged protection for your business.

Planning a Response to a Fire Alarm

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

These are just a few things that should be addressed in your plan.

When it comes to a fire or other emergency in Kansas City, MO, a well-organized evacuation doesn’t just happen. It follows a contingency plan that has been prepared and tested in advance. All companies need to have such a plan in place. Here are a few of the components of such plans.

1. The building needs to have exit routes posted in prominent places. It is important for employees to understand what routes and exits they will use to safely exit the building. Thanks to OSHA, those placards should already be in place.

2. There needs to be a person in charge of the evacuation. The contingency plan is just a plan. When you execute a fire drill, everyone exits the building through their assigned exit. In a real emergency, it may turn out that one or more of the exits are not usable. The person in charge needs to be notified and will redirect the flow of employees exiting the building.

3. Some employees will have special jobs in the event of a fire. Many companies have chemical, manufacturing, or other processes that are not meant to run unattended. If it is safe to do so, certain key employees will be assigned the job of shutting down those processes before they personally evacuate.

4. Complete evacuation is everyone’s responsibility. If you don’t have a special job, follow the evacuation plan and exit. But what about visitors, special needs employees and employees who are somewhere that the alarm may not be heard? Safe evacuation of the building is everyone’s responsibility.

These are just a few things that should be addressed in your plan. OSHA has an excellent planning tool available to help you set up your own.
With the fire extinguished, it’s time to get your company back on track. The best way to do that quickly is to bring in the best fire restoration team you can find. You will be glad you did. While the cleanup is underway, review your contingency plan to see if anything could have been done better. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROclaycounty.com/.

Avoid and Recover From Sewer Backups

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

When the sewer backs up, you may experience much more than damage from flood water. You'll also be at risk of the destruction of your property, expensive damages to your home, electrical malfunctions, long-lasting illnesses, and lasting odors. The best way to avoid these unpleasant circumstances is to act immediately. A quick response is the best way to prevent mold growth, further damages, and an increased amount of inconvenience.

Identification of Problem Areas.

The first step in avoiding these consequences is to understand the most common causes of sewer backups. These include:

• Old sewer systems
• Single pipeline for sewage and storm water
• Tree roots
• Blockages in the city sanitary main

Homeowner Responsibilities. 

Did you know that homeowners in Kansas City, MO, are responsible for the maintenance and repair of the pipeline between their house and the city sewer main? Part of your responsibility includes any part of that sewage line that extends into public streets or right of ways. If that line becomes cracked or filled with tree roots, you'll be responsible for any repairs and other remedial actions. You can protect yourself from some of the financial burden with the appropriate insurance coverage, but routine professional inspections are the best way to protect against any financial or legal sewage loss.

Prevention.

You can also prevent backups in the lateral sewer line and protect against mold growth with several easy actions.

• Properly dispose of cooking oil and other forms of grease.
• Don't flush paper towels, diapers, wipes, and feminine hygiene products.
• Keep tree roots maintained.
• Replace old plumbing pipes.
• Hire a plumber to correct illegal connections.
• Install a backwater prevention fixture.

Expert Remediation.

When flooding does occur, a thorough cleaning and remediation may be necessary to prevent mold growth, ongoing damage, and unpleasant odors. Work closely with a remediation company and immediately take steps to disinfect plumbing systems and home surfaces. Professionals should provide you with further instructions for appropriate cleanup, including disinfection and deodorization.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROclaycounty.com/.

Mold: A Primer

7/11/2018 (Permalink)

"Black mold" is a term frequently tossed around water-cooler conversations these days. People mention it often and talk about how they should get rid of it. The fact is that all molds, not just black mold, are not welcome indoors. Here is a primer on mold so you can improve the quality of the breakroom chatter with facts.

Mold Is a Fungus.

Molds are so common that most people can identify them by their fuzzy appearances, due to tiny little filaments called hyphae. The thousands of species of molds are fungi, and they need oxygen, moisture, and organic materials to survive, which means they can survive nearly everywhere. While they are surviving, they are digesting and destroying your building materials. Some molds, including black mold, give off mycotoxins. These are odorous gases resulting from the digestive process. You are also probably familiar with the dusty surface on molds, which are actually mold spores. They travel around the air and settle in areas, where if moist enough, they will take root and develop into colonies.

Mold Infestations Can Be Prevented.

You can never fully get rid of mold in your building in Kansas City, MO because more spores will just come in through the doors or ventilation systems. Sometimes spores even travel inside by taking a ride on your clothing. Mold exists naturally in the environment, and if there is moisture then there is mold. Even though mold spores are everywhere, you can still take some simple steps to control mold and prevent infestations.

• Clean your building regularly, especially carpets and HVAC systems to prevent spore buildup.
• Reduce high humidity, which is a moisture problem, with good ventilation and proper use of air conditioning.
• Fix leaks and repair water-damaged building materials as soon as possible.

Once you find mold, you need to act fast to prevent damage and the spread of more colonies. The source of the water damage should be fixed immediately. Mold remediation professionals can help with mold cleanup, creating a containment area and special air scrubbers to prevent further spread of mold.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROclaycounty.com/.

Four Steps to Understanding Whether Your Business Needs Flood Insurance

6/27/2018 (Permalink)

A natural disaster could wreak havoc for your Kansas City, MO, business. Your commercial insurance may cover most natural damages, such as from wind or heavy rain, but when flooding occurs, you'll need special flood coverage. How can you tell if your business really requires flood insurance?

1. Ask Your Provider Whether Flooding Is Covered.

Many commercial insurance policies do not cover flooding. However, you can learn more about how and where to get this type of protection from federal government pages, such as floodsmart.gov.

2. Understand What the Policy Covers.

There are many situations that could lead to flood damage. For example, if you live in an area with a lot of snowfall, that melting snow could lead to overflow in the bodies of water around your home. That, in turn, could lead to flooded basements. Heavy rainfall could saturate the ground and expose your business to damage from overflowing roadways. Many flood insurance policies cover:

• Essential systems, including electricity, plumbing, heating, cooling, fuel, solar energy, and fuel
• Appliances, including portable air conditioners and refrigerators
• Carpeting and window treatments
• Permanently installed cabinets, bookcases, and wall treatments
• Foundation walls, stairways, anchorage systems
• Detached parking garage
• Certain personal property and valuable

3. Protect What Insurance Doesn't Cover.

If you have items stored in the basement of your business, your commercial insurance policy probably won't cover them, even if the policy is specifically for flooding. There's usually a cap for insurance; this number is generally higher for businesses than for residences.

4. Talk to Clean Up Professionals.

If your Kansas City, MO, business has been affected by flooding, a restoration professional can help you get back to your regular routine. The work completed by these professionals may be covered by your flood insurance policy. Before disaster strikes, discuss your options with the restoration company. The workers may also have other advice for you to speed the recovery process.

Have you been affected by flooding in the past? The right preparation can help you sleep well at night, knowing your business, employees, and properties are protected and covered by the right commercial insurance.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROclaycounty.com/.

How Do You Identify Secondary Damage?

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding in Kansas City, MO can be hard enough to deal with without considering the effects of secondary damage. Secondary damage is what happens less as a direct result of the impact of flood waters and more as a side effect of the presence of the water itself. Common issues include black mold and mildew. So how do you recognize the difference between primary damage and secondary damage?

Know What Primary Damage Is.

Primary damage includes the effects of floodwater on your property, including:

• Impact damage from high-pressure flooding or high-speed floodwaters
• Erosion of soil on your property
• Ruined and waterlogged items
• Structural damage

These are all direct effects of flooding. Secondary damage can happen when the initial damage of flooding isn’t mitigated quickly enough – which is where black mold comes in.

Recognizing Secondary Damage.

Areas waterlogged by flooding or suffering from high humidity after a flood even are at high risk of a black mold infestation. Black mold is a pervasive fungus that permeates your environment in the form of spores. When too much standing water is left after a flood or if waterlogged items are left unattended, this can encourage the development of mold. You may have mold if you:

• Smell foul, musty odors in the air
• Notice developing spots of black, green, white, yellow, or brown fuzz on your furniture or appliances

However, mold can also be a hidden problem. After flooding it’s usually a good idea to work with a mold remediation specialist. Mold remediation specialists are usually highly trained environmental hygienists capable of finding mold wherever it’s hiding, including inside your walls and underneath your appliances.

After a flood, it’s not enough to just dry out your home, repair any structural damage, and replace damaged possessions. You must be absolutely vigilant to prevent secondary damage such as mold from taking root and causing potential catastrophic damage to your home.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROclaycounty.com/.

Use a Professional Water Restoration Company

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning a water damage in Clay County

You come home from vacation and find a flood of water in your finished basement.

Who can you call to help you?  You may think of calling a contractor, but there are differences between contractors and professional Water Restoration Companies. As a professional Restoration Company, we try to restore, rather than replace, whenever possible.

A contractor’s job is to replace everything that is affected. This will often include all flooring, walls, cabinets and even furniture. SERVPRO of Clay County technicians are certified in drying and cleaning water damage to industry standards. We will not remove materials unless it is necessary. The average time to dry is 3 days. This prevents further interruption to your daily life and also saves you money.  We try to mitigate the water damage, and restore when possible. Restoring your home is a less expensive than replacing materials in your home.

Call SERVPRO of Clay County. We are available 24/7 for emergency water losses.

Sometimes the Smoke Lingers in Places Unexpected

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Unexpected Damage

Experts in fire repair and restoration are often trained to investigate unexpected areas where smoke damage can collect. This includes closets, drawers, window ledges, and behind draperies. The professionals often learn that the hot, soot and smoke-filled air rapidly invades the cooler air inside, under, and behind objects. That is because as the molecules heat, they can be sucked into unheated areas as soot collects onto unexpected surfaces causing considerable damage.

Smoke also collects in unexpected places such as under nail heads, behind pictures, in brick crevices, inside light fixtures, and under glass covers of tables and desks. Office plants can similarly conceal smoke as it clings to leaves, moss, and plastic containers. Smoke can also penetrate the paint on walls, lacquer on furniture, and wooden doors and window frames.

Mysterious Smoke

Restoration after a fire can take time because smoke damage can often be more extensive than the flame or water damage. In the end, smoke is typically neither random nor erratic. Physics can help restoration specialiststake the mystery out of smoke cleaning and get the building open quickly.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROclaycounty.com/.

Understanding Smoke Damage After a Fire

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Fire can be an underestimated and dangerous entity. But what most people don’t know is that the colorful flames are often not the cause of most damage during a fire. It is estimated that smoke does three times as much destruction as the blaze that can eat through a commercial building. While the inferno burns the structure, the soot and smoke damage send tendrils of destruction throughout the structure in the most unexpected ways. To completely remove the offending smell fire can leave behind in Kansas City, MO, the smoke and soot must be eliminated from the most unanticipated places.

Understanding Problems

While property can be damaged by more than a blazing firestorm it can be difficult to identify where to find the heaviest concentrations of smoke filled areas. Knowing the following can help you find where smoke and soot damage have collected within the building.

• Airflow patterns
• Temperature
• Immediate environment

In other words, recognizing what has potentially been damaged by smoke can be more a calculation than a guess.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROclaycounty.com/.

4 Tips to Help You Stop Mold From Growing in Your Bathroom

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

Bathrooms are the perfect place for mold growth to start. The damp environment invites spores to make a home in your Kansas City, MO, house. Because this room is notorious for having extra moisture, it can be hard to stop mold from appearing time after time. A residential mold cleanup crew may be able to help you stop this cycle. These experts can help you address water damage, cleanup mold and prevent new growth. Consider these tips as you try to put an end to bathroom mold.

1. Use Ventilation. Steam can create a great environment for fungus just as well as water damage can. If you want to make sure excess moisture doesn't build up in your bathroom, you need to find a way to help it escape. Fans and ventilation systems are a great tool to use in this space. Be sure to have the fan on when you use the tub or shower.
2. Dry the Shower. After you're done in the shower, water tends to cling to walls, floors and curtains. This clinging water can encourage mold growth. If you are able to, you should get the water out of your tub or shower to reduce the moisture buildup. You can use towels or a special shower squeegee to dry off your shower.
3. Reseal Fixtures. Faucets can become uncaulked after years of use. When this happens, you may notice leaking water. Water can also get trapped in these small crevices. You can reseal the fixtures in your bathroom every year to ensure they don't provide a place for mold to grow.
4. Repair Grout Lines. Cracked grout lines can also trap water and encourage mold growth. Most grout has a waterproof sealer, but this can wear out over the course of time. You should repair and reseal grout lines to keep your bathroom in top shape.

Your bathroom is susceptible to water damage and fungus growth. You can follow these tips to kick your mold prevention into top gear.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROclaycounty.com/.

How to detect water in home?

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

If you think you have water in your home, you might not be able to see it but it could require that you have a professional restoration company like SERVPRO come on site and do an evaluation. 

SERVPRO has many different tools and resources that can detect water that is unseen to the eyes. One way is using a thermal camera that can determine temperature variations in the wall and other porous surfaces.  

Once the damaged area is detected, SERVPRO can begin to remove damaged materials and extract any standing water. After that they can place equipment to dry until all of the moisture meters measure the home as dry. 

SERVPRO operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you ever have any questions, feel free to reach out at anytime. 

How to prevent water damage in your home?

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

If you have ever had a water loss in your home, you understand that it can be a very stressful time. SERVPRO of Clay County wanted to provide some information that you can use to help prevent water losses in your home for the future. However as a disclaimer these are simply to be the best prepared but no practice can prevent unexpected and accidental water losses. 

1. The first thing we always recommend is to understand where all of you emergency shut off valves are in your home. If there is a water loss from a busted pipe, you can cut the water off that will minimize the amount of damage.

2. Know your emergency contact numbers. Make sure you have a plumber, electrician and a disaster restoration company like SERVPRO of Clay County in your mobile phone. 

Overall it is important to have resources and contacts documented and reviewed throughout the year. Being prepared can help minimize and prevent future water losses. 

3 Things To Do After Your Home Has Been Hit by a Flood

4/20/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding in Kansas City home.

Unexpected flooding has left many families with major damage to their homes. The cleanup efforts following these disasters are often complicated and should be done swiftly to limit the damage. Besides the water damage to your home and belongings, floods can lead to mold growth and odor that can make your home an uncomfortable place to be. In the event of a flood in Kansas City, MO, there are three steps you should take immediate to start the cleanup process.

1. Contact Your Insurance Agent

If your insurance policy covers flooding, work with your insurance agent to set up a visit from an adjuster. During this time, be sure to take pictures and document all the damage. You may need these not only for insurance claims, but also for any disaster relief applications.

2. Clean, Disinfect and Deodorize

Use a shovel to get rid of any mud on your floors and a water hose to rinse off your walls and other hard, non-porous surfaces. The faster you can clean off the mud, especially on the walls, the better chance you may have to keep them from being ruined.

To prevent or limit mold growth as well as the eventual odor that comes with it, you should disinfect all non-porous surfaces that contacted the flood water. This should be done as soon as possible as the odor can be difficult to treat once the mold begins to set in.

Take your furniture, upholstery, rugs and other porous items outside to dry as soon as the weather allows. You can clean some of these items yourself, but others will likely need special attention from a professional.

3. Contact a Professional

Once you’ve completed these initial steps, it can be helpful to work with a professional to fight against any sewage loss, mold and other side effects of flooding. A restoration company can provide the right tools to clean up and dry out your walls, wood and carpet floors and belongings.

Flood water rushes in, but the damage and resulting mold growth can stick for a while. With these tips and the help of professionals, you can get your home (and life) back in order.

What Causes Discoloration of Ceiling Tiles?

4/20/2018 (Permalink)

Discoloration and mold on Ceiling Tile, likely the result of a water damage.

Dropped tile ceilings are an inexpensive and popular feature of many commercial buildings in Gladstone, MO.

For the most part, they remain just outside of our notice, silently creating a barrier between occupied spaces and the rafters above. But every once in a while, a particular tile or group of tiles starts to look a little bit different from the others. There are a number of reasons for tile discoloration, ranging from aging to tile mold.

Determining the Cause: Common Culprits

1. Age. Dropped tile ceilings became popular in the 1950s. Older tiles look different from newer tiles, in part because of changes in the materials and processes used to manufacture the tiles. Older tiles may also have been exposed to cigarette smoke or other pollutants, which can make them appear darker in color. Check building records to see how old your ceiling tiles are, and whether there are tiles of different ages in different areas.
2. Lighting. Ultraviolet light can cause tile discoloration. Hospitals and labs frequently use UV light to sterilize equipment, and UV rays are commonly used to cure inks, coatings and adhesives. Ceiling tiles that are exposed to these types of light can take on a different hue over time. Check for sources of UV light in your building.
3. Water damage. When ceiling tiles are exposed to water because of problems in the plumbing, HVAC system or roof, they take on a brownish color. If the source of the water is not repaired, tile mold can take hold, making the tiles even darker in appearance.

Replacement is Quick, Easy and Important

Fortunately, most ceiling tiles are easy to replace, and bringing your ceiling back to its original uniformity is a quick and inexpensive process. If the discoloration is caused by tile mold, be sure to replace the tiles as soon as possible, as mold can spread quickly to other porous surfaces.

Supporting our Community

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Getting ready for the Gladfest Fall Parade!

It has been a busy Fall in Kansas City - between the changing of the seasons, Chiefs wins (and loses) and late summer storms. It is important to us that we support the communities we serve.  This Fall we've represented at Gladfest (The Gladstone Fall Festival and parade), our annual Charity Golf Tournament supporting Variety Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City, Gladstone Chamber of Commerce Parks and Rec department's Trunk or Treat, and The Liberty Fall Fest. Our employees enjoy being out in the community!

Look Who's in the News for Water Damage Cleanup!

8/31/2016 (Permalink)

Our franchise is in the news! We are helping clean up water damage and flooded basements after these heavy storms.  Check it out!

http://www.kmbc.com/news/crews-help-homeowners-with-flooded-basements-after-storms/41424038

Kansas City Area Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

3/28/2016 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including:

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

Last year there were many flooded basement due to heavy rains and overflowing creeks and rivers.

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Please Call Us at
913-381-6550 or 816-436-7420

We use advanced inspection and monitoring equipment such as infrared cameras and moisture meters to determine if your home’s structure is actually dry. Touch is not a reliable method, as moisture can trap inside.

If Water Damage is not handled quickly and properly, it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure, not to mention the potential harmful health effects of mold. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are available 24 hours/7 days per week for emergencies.
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many national insurance companies
• We bill your insurance directly – one less thing for you to worry about
• Our Technicians are highly-trained in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced inspection and extraction equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Here To Help - 913-381-6550 or 816-436-7420