Archived Blog Posts
Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO is Faster to Disaster
4/20/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas offers a 24 hour emergency service. Our office is open Monday through Friday, however there will always be someone to answer your call after hours and on the weekends. If the event is classified as an emergency, SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas will be out right away regardless of time or day. When hurricanes, floods, wild fires, and other disasters strike all around the country, SERVPRO franchises band together and travel sometimes thousands of miles to come to the disaster area to help restore homes and businesses affected. If there is a catastrophic event in your area, SERVPRO will call in "extreme teams" that will arrive in your city or town to help cover more ground and to help more home and business owners. If your home or business has suffered a water damage or other emergency event, please do not hesitate to call.
Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO is at the Forefront of Continuing Education for the Insurance Industry
4/20/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas offers complementary continuing education credits for insurance and real estate industry professionals. Call or email us today to find out when and where the next class is. (830) 693-6415
SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas offers both credit and noncredit courses for: real estate professionals, insurance adjusters, insurance agents, and franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation. Courses include:
- Water Damage Restoration
- Fire Damage Restoration
- Mold Restoration and Remediation
- Restorative Drying for Loss Control
- Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar
(non-credit course)
When we all work together for our clients, everyone wins. Striving for the most efficient and cost-effective restoration process is always the goal. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas is happy to offer CE credits in our specialty lines of business.
SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas - Here to Help
Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO Uses Industrial Grade Equipment and Cleaning Products on your Home or Business
4/20/2022 (Permalink)
If your home or business has suffered a water damage event, simply cleaning up the water and opening up the windows will not completely dry the space, leaving your home or business vulnerable to future mold growth (known as secondary damage). SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas uses industrial grade dehumidifiers and fans to completely dry your home or business. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas uses moisture testing devices to make sure your walls, closets, and floors are dry before we leave your home and close out the job. In addition to drying, commercial grade anti-fungal treatments are applied in order to prevent mold from forming.
If your home or business has suffered a fire damage event, air scrubbers are brought in to the area to "scrub" the air clean and remove the chemical and smoke odor. In addition to air scrubbers, special cleaning agents are used to save as many smoke-affected items as possible in your home or business.
If your home or business has suffered a water damage, fire damage, or mold growth event, please do not hesitate to call us today.
Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO is Hazmat and Bio Hazard Removal Trained
4/20/2022 (Permalink)
Bio hazard clean up is considered: blood clean up, urine clean up, human feces clean up, animal feces clean up, vomit clean up, and other human fluids. General maid and janitorial services will not remove these items due to their potentially hazardous nature. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas technicians are trained and properly uniformed to safely remove bio hazardous materials. This is why you can rely on SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas to get the job done quickly, safely, and to sanitation standards. Many homes and buildings that have been left unattended and/or improperly cared for will generally require this type of service. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas will remove all hazardous items and properly dispose of them. If you or your business is in need of bio hazard removal, please do not hesitate to call today.
Overflowing Toilet – What to Do
4/19/2022 (Permalink)
What to do When Your Toilet is Overflowing
An overflowing toilet is a problem everyone will likely deal with at some point. When water overflows from the bowl, chances are the culprit is a clogged toilet drain—usually an easy fix with some basic tools.
First, turn off the toilet’s water supply, on the wall behind the toilet. If you can’t find the water supply to stop the toilet overflowing, take the top off the tank and lift the float ball or cup high enough to stop the water from running. If that does not work, the shut off valve for the water supply to the house is generally located near the water heater.
Should overflow continue once the main water supply is off, you’re dealing with sewage backup, a serious situation due to the hazardous nature of the sewage water. If you are on a municipal septic system, you may need to call the city. If you have a septic tank, you’ll need a plumbing company that can flush out your system.
Water Damage to a Mobile or Manufactured Home
4/19/2022 (Permalink)
At SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas, we often are asked if we can restore water damage to mobile or manufactured homes. The answer is “yes”! Mobile homes and manufactured homes are treated for water damage very similarly to single family homes. Actually, the process is often times quicker. If the mobile or manufactured home is not often used, many times the water damage goes undetected for some time and has caused mold growth to form as well. Mold growth after untreated water damage is called “secondary damage”. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas is mold certified and can treat the secondary damage in addition to the water damage if needed.
If you suspect water damage or mold growth in your mobile of manufactured home, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas today. We will work with your insurance.
How Big of a Water Heater Do I Need?
4/19/2022 (Permalink)
The installation of your home’s water heater is an important decision. There are many factors to consider:
- Tanked vs. tankless water heater
- The right water heater for your household size
- Best location for your heater (installation)
- Gas or Electric
- How big of a water heater do I need
If you decided on a tank water heater, you may ask yourself, how big of a water heater do I need? Determining factors will be the size of your family and the utilities available in your home. Use this simple guide to determine your water heater size needs:
- Family size 1-2: 30-gallon heater
- Family size 2-3: 40-gallon heater
- Family size 3-4: 40-50-gallon heater
- Family size 5 or more: 50-80-gallon heater
If you have experienced a water damage due to a cracked, leaky water heater, please give us a call at SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas right away.
Source: Zine Trip Online
Three Probable Causes of a Leaky Refrigerator
4/19/2022 (Permalink)
Why is my Fridge Leaking
WATER FILTER
If your filter is not installed properly, or the filter is old or doesn't fit correctly with your refrigerator model, chances are there is a poor connection between the filter and the water supply. To prevent your refrigerator from leaking, check to see if water is escaping due to holes in the filter. Also, check the size and model of both the fridge and filter to ensure it's the correct part for your refrigerator.
DRAIN PAN
Examine the drain pan for any cracks, which is located at the bottom of the refrigerator. If you notice a significant amount of pooling underneath, chances are the pan has a crack and that's what is causing the leak. Replace the pan immediately if you notice any damage.
DEFROST DRAIN
One of the most common causes of a leaky refrigerator is a faulty defrost drain. When the defrost drain is blocked by food particles or ice, it prevents the water accumulated during the defrost cycle to properly drain into the pan. Eventually, water will start to build up. Without anywhere to drain, water will begin to flow right onto your floor. Remove any blockage caused by food particles or ice by flushing the drain with hot water and removing debris carefully with a wire hanger.
Source: Roto-Rooter Online
What Secondary Damage can occur after Storm Damage?
4/18/2022 (Permalink)
Mold Damage after Water Damage
After roof leaks or flood damage, if not properly dried and treated, a home or business can develop mold from the moisture left on: wood, tile, carpeting, windows, concrete, and/or other materials/items that were affected. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas strives to prevent secondary damage every time we remediate water damage. Building material and flooring are dried and treated to prevent mold and other allergens/contaminates using specialized equipment and cleaning products.
If water damage is not properly treated, the perfect environment is created for mold spores to grow in your home and to contaminate the air that is breathed.
Should you ever suffer water damage due to: excessive rain, storm damage, leaky roof, flood damage, a water heater leak, sink overflow, fire, refrigerator leak, or any other reason water has invaded your home or business, please know that SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas is here to help. Faster to Any Disaster
Protecting Your Roof During a Hurricane
4/18/2022 (Permalink)
Protect your roof. Consider hurricane straps to ensure your roof is bolted to the rest of your house. And inspect your roof tiles or shingles to make sure they are secure. Use roofing cement to fix any loose tiles to prevent them from becoming lethal projectiles during a storm and damaging the underlying roofing material. Seal any areas where wires enter the home, minimizing the chance of water damage during heavy wind and rain.
Trim your trees. Broken limbs could land on your (or your neighbor’s) roof/house or become missiles that can break windows during a storm. If your tree damages your house or a neighbor’s house, your insurance cover the damages, but it may pay only a portion.
If your home is damaged during a San Antonio area storm, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas. Faster to Any Disaster
Source: Kiplinger Online
Marble Falls - Are You Storm Aware?
4/18/2022 (Permalink)
As we continue to see storms throughout our Marble Falls area cities, we at SERVPRO® of Marble Falls / Lampasas want you to be aware of what the different threat levels mean so that you can be prepared for whatever happens.
Flash Flood Watch
A Flash Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flash flooding. It does not mean that flash flooding will occur, but it is possible.
Flash Flood Warning
A Flash Flood Warning is issued when flash flooding is imminent or occurring.
Flood Watch
A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.
Flood Warning
A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
If your home or commercial building ever suffers flood damage, call the SERVPRO® of Marble Falls / Lampasas experts.
Fire safety in manufactured homes
4/17/2022 (Permalink)
Safety tips
To increase fire safety in manufactured homes, NFPA offers the following guidelines:
- Choose a HUD-certified manufactured home
If you are in the market to purchase or rent a manufactured home, select a home built after 1976 that bears the HUD label certifying compliance with safety standards. - Keep smoke alarms working
Never remove or disable a smoke alarm. If you experience frequent nuisance alarms, consider relocating the alarm further away from kitchen cooking fumes or bathroom steam. Selecting a photoelectric smoke alarm for the areas nearest kitchens and baths may reduce the number of nuisance alarms experienced. As an alternative, NFPA 501 permits a smoke alarm with a silencing means to be installed if it is within 20 feet of a cooking appliance. Test all smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the "test" button. It is not necessary to use smoke or a real flame to test the smoke alarm's operability, and it is risky to do so. Replace batteries at least once a year, and when the alarm "chirps," signaling low battery power. Occasionally dust or lightly vacuum smoke alarms. - Make sure you have enough smoke alarms
If your older manufactured home does not have smoke alarms in or near every sleeping room and in or near the family/living area(s), immediately install new alarms and fresh batteries to protect these rooms. For the best protection, interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound. - Plan your escape
Know ahead of time how you will get out if you have a fire. Make sure you can open and get out of windows and doors. All post-HUD Standard manufactured homes are required to provide windows designed for use as secondary escape routes for the bedroom. Familiarize yourself with their operation and don't block access to them. Immediately fix any windows that have been painted or nailed shut, doors that are stubborn or "stuck," and locks that are difficult to operate. Security bars or grates over windows or doors should have quick-release devices installed inside, which allow you to open them in an emergency. Hold a fire drill twice a year to rehearse how you will react if the smoke alarm sounds.
- Electrical
Hire a licensed electrician if you notice flickering lights, frequent blown circuits, or a "hot" smell when using electricity. Use extension cords for temporary convenience, not as a permanent solution. Avoid overloading electrical receptacles (outlets). Electrical cords should not be run under carpets or rugs, as the wires can be damaged by foot traffic, then overheat and ignite the carpet or rug over them. Ground-fault circuit interrupters reduce the risk of electrical shock and should be installed by electricians in kitchens and baths. Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters monitor electric circuits for arcing and should be installed by electricians on bedroom circuits. - Cooking
Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires in U.S. homes. Supervise older children who cook and stay in the kitchen when heating anything on the stove. Keep cooking surfaces clean and place anything that can burn well away from the range. Heat oil slowly and know how to slide a lid over a pan if you experience a grease fire. Read more cooking safety tips. - Heating
Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn. When purchasing new space heaters, select appliances with automatic shut-off switches. Kerosene heaters are illegal for home use in some jurisdictions. Check with your local fire department before purchasing a kerosene heater. Turn off portable space heaters before falling asleep or when leaving the room. Refill kerosene heaters outdoors, after the heater has cooled down. Supervise children and pets when space heaters are operating. Read more heating safety tips. - Walls
All post-HUD Standard manufactured homes are required to have wall linings that do not promote rapid flame spread, with special protection around primary heating and cooking equipment, such as the furnace and cooking range. Presently, gypsum wallboard has replaced plywood wall paneling and wood based ceiling panels in the fabrication of manufactured housing walls and ceilings. This action has dramatically reduced the impact of fires in manufactured homes. Do not mount anything on the walls – such as paneling, drapery, or wall hangings – that would reduce this protection, especially near major heat sources. - Smoking
If you have smokers in your home, ask them to smoke outside. Wherever people smoke, set out large, non-tip ashtrays on level surfaces and empty them frequently. Thoroughly douse butts with water before discarding. Check around and under cushions for smoldering butts. Read more smoking safety tips. - Protect yourself from intruders
Install outdoor lighting to deter intruders, including would-be arsonists. Keep gasoline, charcoal lighter and other flammable liquids locked in an outdoor shed. Don't store items underneath your home. Store firewood away from your home and keep trash and other flammable debris cleaned up. Report any suspicious activity in your neighborhood.
Source: National Fire Protection Agency
SERVPRO® of Marble Falls / Lampasas will Deep Clean your Restaurant
4/12/2022 (Permalink)
Obviously, a restaurant's preparation areas should be kept clean. But, besides the everyday cleaning of kitchen equipment and appliances, it is necessary to perform a deep cleaning of kitchens at least once to twice a year.
Appearance
A restaurant's: atmosphere, attention to detail, and well-kept facilities are important for a customer's good first impression. The appearance of a restaurant's kitchen can bring in clients as well as scare them away.
Safety
A messy and unorganized look will affect guests' appetites as well as employee productivity. Daily mopping sustains a clean floor, but will not scrub deeply enough to remove certain bacteria. Sticky floors and unwanted objects can cause personnel or guests to slip. For a truly clean floor, it is important to remove: grease, oil, gum and even mold.
For a deep cleaning of your restaurant, please call SERVPRO® of Marble Falls / Lampasas today!
Source: Yahoo Finance Jan 2019
Would your business be prepared in the event of a disaster?
4/12/2022 (Permalink)
Commercial Damage Restoration
What would you do if your business suffered: Water Damage, Fire Damage, Smoke Damage, Mold, or a Bio-Hazard contamination? Do you have a plan in place? SERPVRO® offers at no charge a business "Ready Plan" app for your phone that will walk you through a preparedness plan that could save your business $1,000's.
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. In general, the faster the response time to a disaster, the less secondary damage can occur. SERVPRO is "faster to any disaster" and works with you and your employees every step of the way.
The SERVPRO Ready Plan app will guide you through a: Water Damage event, Fire Damage event, Mold, Bio-Hazard contamination, and more. Pre-planning and having this app on the ready can help to give you tremendous peace of mind.
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
Fire Prevention Tasks for Your Business
4/12/2022 (Permalink)
A fire can cause severe damage to business equipment, materials, and structures. As a business owner, focusing on fire risk assessment, fire prevention, and staff education can help reduce your chance of fire and smoke damage. Here are three tips to help:
Assess the risk of fire hazards : The National Fire Protection Association offers handbooks and other publications on the fire safety code in place for businesses. If your local government offers it, a visit from a fire marshal is a great step for your fire prevention plan. If a marshal visit isn't available, ask for workplace fire risk assessment guidance from your building's property manager.
Have fire protection equipment : If you have an automatic sprinkler system in place, this will provide primary fire protection for your business.
Standard fire safety practices call for smoke detectors and fire extinguishers on every floor. Your best bet is multipurpose extinguishers, which will douse most small fires with ease, without shorting out your electronics.
Protect your people : Your employees are your most important business asset. These tips can help prevent them from being injured in a fire.
- Fire Plan : Make sure your employees know what to do if there's a fire, including calling 911 immediately. Conduct a fire drill at least once a year to keep employees aware of your workplace fire safety protocol.
- Evacuation Plan : In larger buildings, post a fire evacuation plan in several spots around the workplace. Never include elevators in an evacuation plan; always use the stairs.
- First Aid : In case of fire injuries, your employees should be familiar with the location of the first-aid kit, which should be kept where possible hazards can occur most-such as in the kitchen.
Source: State Farm online
The Importance of Proper Smoke Remediation after Smoke or Fire Damage to your Home
4/12/2022 (Permalink)
Smoke Odor Removal
After a fire in a home it's very possible that contaminating smoke has touched every item and area in your home. Within smoke, there are residual amounts of chemicals and other bi-products due to burning plastics and other chemical-based items in your home that may have burned in the fire. Those residual chemicals have been transferred by the smoke and are now left on your walls, furniture, floors, personal items, and other contents in your home. Even things like your light bulbs in your lamps must be decontaminated or disposed of properly.
It's important to remove and remediate the items in the home that were exposed to the fire and smoke so that they do not further contaminate your home.
SERVPRO® of Marble Falls / Lampasas uses special equipment, techniques, and cleaning products to remove the smoke and soot from your home and salvageable contents. SERVPRO® of Marble Falls / Lampasas will also remove the odors using our industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment. In most cases, air ducts will need to be cleaned as well along with new HVAC filters installed.
SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas will help to make it "Like it never even happened."
Why SERVPRO - SERVPRO's Mold Technicians are Mold Certified
12/15/2021 (Permalink)
Are you smelling mildew or a musty odor in your home or business? Can you visually see mold growth? SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas can perform your Mold Remediation using a Mold Certified Technician so you know it's done right. Mold remediation means the removal, cleaning, sanitizing, demolition, or other treatment, including preventive activities, of mold or mold-contaminated matter. The industry is regulated to ensure that persons conducting mold assessment and remediation services are properly trained and licensed, and are following minimum standards that protect the health of workers and building occupants. In the state of Texas, a company can either perform the mold testing or the mold remediation; the company cannot do both. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas performs the remediation. We can certainly recommend to you companies who test for mold if you are in need of direction. We are here to help! Don't hesitate to give SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas a call today to set up a time to start the mold remediation process.
Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO® Will Work with Your Insurance
12/15/2021 (Permalink)
Which remediation companies work with my insurance?
In the unfortunate event your home or business suffers: water damage, fire damage, mold damage, or bio-hazard clean up needs, SERVPRO® of Marble Falls / Lampasas will work seamlessly with your insurance company. This means less hassle and less worry for you. Our employees talk with insurance adjusters every day to make sure things are billed correctly with your insurance and the job is properly documented to ensure things are going according to plan. Having been in business for decades in the San Antonio area, whatever property and casualty insurance you or your company uses, odds are we have worked with them in the past. If you need the job done right with less hassle for you, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO® of Marble Falls / Lampasas.
Causes of Refrigerator Leaks
12/14/2021 (Permalink)
Why is my fridge leaking?
Maybe your water alarm alerted you, maybe you see a puddle or some dripping, or maybe you see some signs of water damage (corrosion, water stains, etc.). Once you’ve discovered a leak, consider the possible causes.
Blocked defroster. A blocked defroster can stop defrost-cycle water from draining properly. Try clearing out the small drain by pouring hot water into it. Remove any debris with a pipe cleaner.
Drain pan. Sometimes the drain pan itself can leak. Check for cracks.
Filter. Refrigerators with filters can leak if the filter is the wrong size or not installed properly.
Water line. This is potentially the most problematic. Refrigerators with ice makers or water dispensers have water lines running between the main water supply and the back of the fridge. Feel to see if the water line is wet or dripping. Cracked hoses and loose connections are often the culprit.
Refrigerator leaks can damage the flooring and cabinets in your kitchen. If you experience a refrigerator leak, please contact SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas right away to treat and help to prevent any further damage.
Source: ERPlumbing Online
Water Damage and Wood Floors
12/13/2021 (Permalink)
It doesn’t require a disaster of the scope of a spring flood or hurricane to damage a wood floor. Plumbing leaks, fire hoses and the upstairs neighbor’s overflowing tub might pose problems for porous wood floors and substructures. Whatever the cause, water causes warping, and can trigger mold and mildew growth that can ruin wood. Major flooding creates problems in foundations and walls that must be addressed, but the first step in mitigating the damage done by water to a building -- including its wood floors -- is to gently but quickly ventilate and dry materials.
SERVPRO® of Marble Falls / Lampasas uses commercial-grade machines that extract the water from the wood flooring with a powerful force. If we are called immediately following a water damage event, there is a good possibility we can save your wood floors from buckling using the high-powered water extractors. Don't hesitate to call right away.
Source: Homeguides Online
SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas is Prepared for Storm Damage
12/12/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas keeps an eye on the weather and is always prepared for storm damage at any moment. In the event of a huge storm that affects many, many homes in the area, storm "Extreme Teams" are called in to help us so we can help out even more homes and businesses in the San Antonio, Marble Falls, and Lampasas areas. Oftentimes with storm damage comes water damage, and if not properly treated, comes mold damage. The first 48 hours of storm damage are critical in preventing further damage to your home or business. As always, SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas works with your insurance every step of the way. To learn more about storm damage restoration from SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas, click HERE. We are open 24/7 for emergency service and here to help.
Contaminated Water after a Storm
12/12/2021 (Permalink)
Should you experience a flood in your home after a storm, our team of technicians will inspect your home or business to determine the appropriate plan of action for the type of water encountered.
Category 3: "Black Water"
Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.
- May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
- Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup
24 Hour Emergency Service
Water contaminated with sewage backup should be considered an emergency situation and dealt with as quickly as possible. Our technicians at SERVPRO® of Marble Falls / Lampasas are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for any emergency situations that arise. We have been a trusted name in safety and properly restoring homes and businesses for almost 15 years! We are here to help!
Deep Cleaning Industrial Kitchens
12/11/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas would like to deep clean and sanitize your industrial kitchen! Whether your building is a restaurant, a school, a church, an office, a cafeteria, or even a roller rink, chances are it's been a minute since the kitchen has had a full deep cleaning and sanitization. The flooring is cleaned and sanitized along with all surfaces and storage areas. Today, it's more important than ever to keep food preparation and storage surfaces clean and sanitized. Customers and patrons have been more and more demanding of a clean restaurant and/or industrial kitchen. In addition to cleaning the flooring, and the food prep and storage surfaces, SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas employees will move large appliances to the best of their abilities and even clean behind those as well. Call today to schedule. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas, Here to Help.
What is the SERVPRO® Ready Plan Tool
12/11/2021 (Permalink)
The SERVPRO® Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency READY Profile. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your home or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your home or business.
SERVPRO® of Marble Falls / Lampasas has restoration experts available 24 hours a day to get your business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold mitigation and removal. SERVPRO's Large Loss Division has the expertise to manage the cost and operations of large commercial disaster recovery projects.
Christmas Tree Safety
12/6/2021 (Permalink)
Like candle fires, Christmas tree fires are more common during the holidays, with 43% occurring in December and 39% in January. The NFPA says an average of 230 fires are attributed to Christmas trees each year and they are more likely to be serious because of the factors that can contribute to the fire: a dry tree, electrical lights, and an abundant fuel supply (gifts) under the tree. Christmas tree fires cause an average of $18.3 million in property damage each year.
The most common causes are electrical failures (32%), having the tree too close to a heat source like a fireplace or wood stove (17%) or being too close to candles (7%).
Safety tips:
- Keep live trees well watered and dispose of them before they become dry.
- Turn off tree lights before leaving the house or going to bed.
- Check lights for any shorts or other electrical issues before putting them on the tree.
Source: National Fire Protection Association
Fire Safety Tips for Manufactured Homes
12/6/2021 (Permalink)
Safety tips
To increase fire safety in manufactured homes, NFPA offers the following guidelines:
- Choose a HUD-certified manufactured home If you are in the market to purchase or rent a manufactured home, select a home built after 1976 that bears the HUD label certifying compliance with safety standards.
- Keep smoke alarms working Never remove or disable a smoke alarm. If you experience frequent nuisance alarms, consider relocating the alarm further away from kitchen cooking fumes or bathroom steam. Selecting a photoelectric smoke alarm for the areas nearest kitchens and baths may reduce the number of nuisance alarms experienced. As an alternative, NFPA 501 permits a smoke alarm with a silencing means to be installed if it is within 20 feet of a cooking appliance. Test all smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the "test" button. It is not necessary to use smoke or a real flame to test the smoke alarm's operability, and it is risky to do so. Replace batteries at least once a year, and when the alarm "chirps," signaling low battery power. Occasionally dust or lightly vacuum smoke alarms.
- Make sure you have enough smoke alarms If your older manufactured home does not have smoke alarms in or near every sleeping room and in or near the family/living area(s), immediately install new alarms and fresh batteries to protect these rooms. For the best protection, interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
- Plan your escape Know ahead of time how you will get out if you have a fire. Make sure you can open and get out of windows and doors. All post-HUD Standard manufactured homes are required to provide windows designed for use as secondary escape routes for the bedroom. Familiarize yourself with their operation and don't block access to them. Immediately fix any windows that have been painted or nailed shut, doors that are stubborn or "stuck," and locks that are difficult to operate. Security bars or grates over windows or doors should have quick-release devices installed inside, which allow you to open them in an emergency. Hold a fire drill twice a year to rehearse how you will react if the smoke alarm sounds.
- Electrical Hire a licensed electrician if you notice flickering lights, frequent blown circuits, or a "hot" smell when using electricity. Use extension cords for temporary convenience, not as a permanent solution. Avoid overloading electrical receptacles (outlets). Electrical cords should not be run under carpets or rugs, as the wires can be damaged by foot traffic, then overheat and ignite the carpet or rug over them. Ground-fault circuit interrupters reduce the risk of electrical shock and should be installed by electricians in kitchens and baths. Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters monitor electric circuits for arcing and should be installed by electricians on bedroom circuits.
- Cooking Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires in U.S. homes. Supervise older children who cook and stay in the kitchen when heating anything on the stove. Keep cooking surfaces clean and place anything that can burn well away from the range. Heat oil slowly and know how to slide a lid over a pan if you experience a grease fire. Read more cooking safety tips.
- Heating Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn. When purchasing new space heaters, select appliances with automatic shut-off switches. Kerosene heaters are illegal for home use in some jurisdictions. Check with your local fire department before purchasing a kerosene heater. Turn off portable space heaters before falling asleep or when leaving the room. Refill kerosene heaters outdoors, after the heater has cooled down. Supervise children and pets when space heaters are operating. Read more heating safety tips.
- Walls All post-HUD Standard manufactured homes are required to have wall linings that do not promote rapid flame spread, with special protection around primary heating and cooking equipment, such as the furnace and cooking range. Presently, gypsum wallboard has replaced plywood wall paneling and wood based ceiling panels in the fabrication of manufactured housing walls and ceilings. This action has dramatically reduced the impact of fires in manufactured homes. Do not mount anything on the walls – such as paneling, drapery, or wall hangings – that would reduce this protection, especially near major heat sources.
- Smoking If you have smokers in your home, ask them to smoke outside. Wherever people smoke, set out large, non-tip ashtrays on level surfaces and empty them frequently. Thoroughly douse butts with water before discarding. Check around and under cushions for smoldering butts. Read more smoking safety tips.
Source: National Fire Protection Agency
Securing Your Home for Hurricanes
3/10/2021 (Permalink)
Brace your garage door to prevent more-extensive damage. Most garage doors are not reinforced, and when the wind gets into the garage, it creates a positive push at the same time that the wind swirling above the structure creates a negative pull. That push-pull combination can cause the roof to fly off. Find a kit that you can buy at home-improvement stores to brace your garage doors.
Secure your windows and doors. Broken windows can let in wind and rain, and they can also increase the pressure under the roof. Storm shutters provide the best protection, but boarding up windows when a storm is on the way can help, too. Make sure doors have several locking mechanisms so they don’t fly open; deadbolts are best. And it’s important to secure windows and doors at all sides of the home -- not just the one facing the body of water where hurricanes could form -- because hurricanes can swirl in any direction.
Source: Kiplinger Online
Office Disinfecting for COVID-19
11/23/2020 (Permalink)
During these difficult times, please know that SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas is here to help your business. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas will disinfect your business, office, restaurant, school, commercial building, and more! Would you like to assure your customers and employees that your commercial space has been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected? We can help you with that! We will give you a sticker for your window as well that lets customers know the building has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Deep cleanings and bio hazard removals have been services SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas has been offering for over a decade. We know how to do it safely and effectively. To learn more about Commercial Cleaning from SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas, click HERE. Or, call today for more information – we are here to help: (512) 525-8825.
The Three C's of Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
11/23/2020 (Permalink)
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. It is a proactive viral pathogen cleaning.
SERVPRO of Lake Conroe, Magnolia, and Cleveland have been cleaning, sanitizing, and removing Bio Hazard in both homes and businesses for over a decade. Deep cleaning is not new to us.
Below are the Three "C's" of Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned:
- Consult: Not all businesses are the same, so we’ll tailor a bespoke cleaning program based on the unique needs of each facility.
- Clean: Based on the agreed plan, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.
- Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers and community.
So when you are walking around the San Antonio area, when you see the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield sticker in the window, you know the #1 choice in clean up and restoration was there.
Lightning During Storms and House Fires Resulting
4/27/2020 (Permalink)
Lightning During Storms and House Fires Resulting
Unlike other types of house fires, which occur more frequently in the winter months, fires in the home caused by lightning are more likely to happen in June, July and August in the late afternoon or early evening. From 2007-2011, NFPA says there were an average of 22,600 fires per year caused by lightning strikes. Lightning is responsible for a number of wildfires as well.
Lightning during storms poses the greatest risk outdoors and frequently strikes the highest point on a structure.
Safety tips During Lightning Storms:
- When possible, stay away from doors and windows during an electrical storm.
- Do not use corded phones, computers, TVs or other electrical equipment during storms.
- Unplug major electronics – TVs, stereo equipment, computers and microwaves to minimize damage if there is a lightning strike close by.
- Avoid plumbing such as sinks, baths and faucets during a thunderstorm as metal plumbing is an excellent conductor of electricity.
Source: National Fire Protection Association
Why SERVPRO – SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas Has Been Locally Owned and Operated in the San Antonio area for Years
4/27/2020 (Permalink)
Why SERVPRO – SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas Has Been Locally Owned and Operated in the San Antonio area for Years
The owners of SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas are residents of the San Antonio area themselves and have been helping home and business owners in the San Antonio area for over a decade. We have worked with all the insurance companies and know many of the agents. We are here to help not only you and your home/business, but Marble Falls, Lampasas, and the surrounding areas as well. When the San Antonio area is successful, we are all successful. We service the surrounding areas of: Marble Falls, Burnet, Granite Shoals, Buchanan Lake, Brownwood, Goldthwaite, Horseshoe Bay, Lampasas, Spicewood, Copperas Cove, Bertram, and more. Each franchise of SERVPRO is individually owned and operated. Click HERE to view our team and HERE to learn more ABOUT US.
The Water Damage Timeline
4/20/2020 (Permalink)
Within Minutes
- Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
- Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
- Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
- Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
- Drywall begins to swell and break down.
- Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
- Furniture begins to swell and crack.
- Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
- A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
- Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
- Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
- Metal begins to rust and corrode.
- Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
- Paint begins to blister.
- Wood flooring swells and warps.
- Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
- Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
Toilet fail.
7/24/2019 (Permalink)
Fast drying to get business up and running again.
We received a call from a customer in Burnet, TX who owns a commercial property on the downtown square. The toilet supply broke and flooded numerous offices and she needed SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood's help.
Technicians arrived onsite within the hour, assessed the offices in need of drying and began proper tear out for drying equipment set up. In this case the building couldn't handle the drying equipment needed so a mobile generator was used to expedite drying of the commercial property.
STORM Ready with the SERVPRO Extreme Teams
7/6/2019 (Permalink)
This photo is from a home that was affected in the Highland Lakes area after intense storms caused extreme flooding. The damage to the area was so extensive that a STORM Site was activated in SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas' territory.
With help from SERVPRO Extreme Teams, and numerous other SERVPRO Franchises from all over the great state of Texas, we were able to service many of the over 600 homes affected during this unexpected crisis.
SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas is equipped to respond to any size disaster. Their professional team is on call 24/7, and can be on site quickly to begin remediation of the damage to your property. If there are widespread areas of destruction, or if your loss is extensive, we can call on our network of franchises for support to help make it "Like it never even happened."
Why SERVPRO? We Clean Up Biohazardous Materials
7/6/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas was called out to a job in San Saba, TX for a bio clean up after the occupant living in a unit there needed to be hospitalized due to personal health issues.
At the request of the customer, we removed all of the unsanitary items from the residence, and thoroughly cleaned the property from top to bottom so that the unit could then be made available for rent to a future possible tenant.
Once the job was completed, the manager of the property came out to assess our work, and make sure that expectations were met regarding the sanitizing of the unit; he could not have been more pleased with the work that SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas did. We were happy to exceed customer service expectations and provide a quality experience.
Under Water Resort?
7/6/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood can help your business get back on its feet after a water loss.
After receiving a call from a local resort hotel in Cottonwood Shores, TX that had suffered a water loss, SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood arrived on site to assess the damage.
The problem originated from a pipe leak under a sink; after our production crew arrived on the scene, they assessed what areas were affected by water. Our team performed the necessary water extraction, completed demolition to ensure the proper drying of walls and cabinets, and set up drying equipment to ensure the structure was fully dried to industry standards.
The resort was so pleased with our team's response and quality work that they added SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood to their vendor list so that any future losses would come directly to us.
If your business experiences water damage, please call us and let us help your business get back in working order quickly.
Flood Damage
6/30/2019 (Permalink)
Water damage isn't fun. Let us help take the pressure off by getting your property to pre-damage condition.
Water damage comes in many forms, and from various points of origin. Storms, faulty plumbing, household accidents, etc. The where and how might change, but the who should never change: call SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood to fix your property.
Whether it's a water heater leak at 1 in the afternoon, or a toilet run-over at 3 in the morning, we've got your back! Water damage can be a nightmare, but don't let that ruin your life.
Here at SERVPRO, we're all about helping the people in our community; that's why we have 24-hour emergency service, for whenever disaster strikes!
Our water certified technicians are standing by, determined to get you back on dry land!
Give us a call at any time of the day or night, and our highly educated technicians will be more than happy to assist you!
SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood - (830) 693-6415
When strong winds cause damage.
6/18/2019 (Permalink)
A metal roof of a business was folded back from strong winds.
A strong line of storms blew through the Burnet County area, and caused the metal roof on this business to be folded in half. In addition to the structural damage it caused, the hole allowed rain to fall into the structure.
Production technicians from SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood arrived on site to help find out what all was wet, and what needed to be removed. We set up proper drying equipment, and made sure that affected areas were sprayed with an antimicrobial. This was particularly important since the rain water came from the ceiling through the insulation and down the walls, bringing unknown bacteria with it.
Should water damage impact your commercial property, call SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood to help ensure that the restoration is handled expertly, so your business can get back up and running as quickly as possible.
What's Lurking Behind the Walls?
6/4/2019 (Permalink)
Visible mold on wall.
A repeat customer from Spicewood, TX called SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood about a water loss they had that occurred at their home. Water was coming in to their closets and bathroom.
Upon arrival, the trained team from SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood noticed a very small visible area of mold on the ceiling. Upon removing the contaminated section for disposal, it became obvious that the water loss had been going on longer than previously expected, and more mold/mildew was hidden within the wall. The source of origin was a slow leak in the hot water line that had finally burst.
Our clients had nothing to worry about; Our production technicians removed the appropriately affected mildew areas, and dried the rest of the structure.
Broken Pipes in a Bathroom Wall in a Home in Horseshoe Bay
4/19/2019 (Permalink)
This leak in the wall had been going on for so long the wall studs and sill plates rotted.
SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas received a call from a homeowner in Horseshoe Bay referred to us by a local plumber regarding a water leak in a walk in shower. The problem turned out to be a slow leak in a pipe in the bathroom. When the pipe burst, the homeowner could hear the water spraying in the walls, and he gave SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas a call.
A moisture check was performed; elevated moisture levels in the exterior walls of the bathroom were detected.
Our technicians removed multiple interior walls and part of the exterior stucco wall behind to the walk in, tiled shower. Upon opening up the walls, multiple leaks were found. All three different areas had been leaking over time much to the surprise of the homeowners.
If you suspect a water leak in a pipe in your home or business, please give us a call today.
When a Water Leak Goes Unchecked.
4/19/2019 (Permalink)
Mold showing on wall.
A homeowner in Highland Haven, TX was referred to us by a local adjuster for some mold that was found in their home.
When production technicians from SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood arrived to meet the adjuster and homeowner on site, it was determined that this was a water loss that may have been going for some time. Fortunately, the mold/mildew was contained to a couple of closet areas in the home.
With instructions from the adjuster, and permission from the homeowner, our production technicians removed and bagged the drywall, verified that there were no other issues with mold in the walls, and sprayed antimicrobial to prevent future mold growth.
Pro Tip: If you're planning to be gone for extended periods of time, it's a good idea to turn off the water at the main to your home to avoid possible water damage.
Soaked Carpets in the Workplace?
4/11/2019 (Permalink)
After a pipe under a sink in a bank building in Johnson City, TX leaked during the night, SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas was called out to remediate the water damage. The water affected multiple rooms in the building, including the lobby, conference room, two offices, and other areas as well.
Our technicians arrived on site, assessed what needed to be done, extracted the standing water, and set up the drying equipment. By implementing the drying procedures that have made SERVPRO a respected industry leader, we were able to have the bank building dry in less than three days. In addition to the water removal, we cleaned all the carpets to ensure that they were fresh and not musty.
It's our privilege to serve the businesses in our community. If water damage impacts your commercial property, give SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas a call!
When storms roll through, what damage are you left with?
4/11/2019 (Permalink)
Water in the walls from major storm.
After a major storm system rolled through Blanco, TX, this family's home experienced wind damage and rain driven into its interior, affecting both the structure and its contents.
When the certified technicians from SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas arrived on site, there was major work to be done. We assessed non-salvageable items, demo'd on the exterior walls and ceiling to remove wet insulation and drywall, applied antimicrobial spray on surfaces, and set up industrial grade drying equipment. Contents were packed up, itemized, and moved.
As you can imagine, this ordeal was quite an experience for the homeowners, and those of us at SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas were privileged to help walk them through it, and to get them on the road to recovery. It's our passion to help make it "Like it never even happened."
Water loss can be sneaky!
4/5/2019 (Permalink)
It doesn't look like anything is wrong until you see the waterline on sofa.
Water damage can be deceiving. In the picture from this water loss in Burnet, Texas everything looks normal until you notice that water has been absorbed into the fabric of the sofa.
SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood received this call from a water heater leak. When production technicians did a moisture check with our meters they found numerous rooms affected by water. Just because the carpet seems dry doesn't mean the pad underneath isn't. Same goes for walls. That's why having the right tools to find out what is wet and what is dry is so important.
We got this property dried in an efficient 3 days and the insurance company received all our documentation regarding this mitigation within 24 hours of the job being closed.
Black water backup!
3/26/2019 (Permalink)
Fecal waste coming out of the toilet.
SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood received a call from a local contractor in Horseshoe Bay, TX while doing a renovation on a condo. The sewer line backed up and our help was needed!
They originally thought a small area was affected but when SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood did a proper moisture check they found the black water had seeped into more rooms than the contractors realized.
With permission from the Horseshoe Bay, TX homeowner, our production technicians got to the task at hand removing all affected materials, spraying anti-microbrial and then setting up drying equipment to take care of this residence.
Sewer back up.
3/8/2019 (Permalink)
A stinky situation.
A city sewer back up in Llano Texas caused this nasty mess to happen in multiple areas of the home. Our technicians arrived on site and with proper safety gear on for protection, began the clean up process.
This was a 100 year old home and the homeowner wanted to save the original wood floors. We removed necessary contaminated materials and did an extensive cleaning, drying and sanitizing so the floors could be saved.
The homeowner and adjuster were happy with not having those beautiful original floors torn out.
Does mold have you held prisoner in your home?
3/8/2019 (Permalink)
When water damage goes unchecked.
This property was on the market and empty allowing a pipe leak to go unchecked. We received a call from the realtor about water in the home at this property in San Saba, Texas.
When technicians from SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood arrived they found mildew/mold growing behind the stove. The affected drywall was removed and bagged for disposal. The wall and framing scrubbed and sprayed with an antimicrobial agent.
In addition, other walls needed to be removed due to water damage as well as carpet and pad in several areas.
Be sure to turn your water off at the main if away from your property for a while.
Does Water have you a float in your home?
3/5/2019 (Permalink)
Full tear out after flooding of residence.
This is the end result during a STORM event in Marble Falls, Texas. Excessive rain caused massive flooding in the area. A STORM Site was activated and SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood along with numerous other SERVPRO Franchises were here to help the local residents get back to normal. Over 600 properties and business' were affected but SERVPRO was there to help.
Multi unit water loss.
3/5/2019 (Permalink)
Drying equipment if flooded room.
SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood received call from a local resort hotel that had a multi unit water loss due to pipe leak under a sink in Cottonwood Shores, TX.
My production crew arrived on the scene, assessed what areas were affected by water and did appropriate water extraction, demolition to ensure proper drying of walls and cabinets and drying equipment setup.
The resort was very pleased with our response and work and added SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood to their vendor list so any future losses would come directly to us.
What a mess!
3/5/2019 (Permalink)
Prior to clean up.
This was a bio clean up job in San Saba, TX that SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood received after the person living there needed to be hospitalized due to personal health issues.
Per customer request, we removed all unsanitary items from the residence and cleaned the property from top to bottom so that this unit could then be available for rent to the next tennant.
Once complete we had the manager of the property come out to make sure expectations were met regarding sanitizing of the unit. They could not have been more please.
Flooded Home in Kingsland, TX
3/5/2019 (Permalink)
Water logged kitchen drawers from leaking pipe in second floor bathroom.
A leaking pipe from a second floor bathroom caused all the cabinets in the kitchen of a Kingsland, TX residence to become full of water.
The SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood crew was called on site, and had to assess the damage. Unfortunately, the water loss had been going on for a few days before it was discovered. Fortunately, though, our certified technicians were able to determine that there were no mold or mildew issues to be concerned about.
After the mold evaluation was completed and cleared, our team meticulously extracted water from drawers, and drilled holes under the kitchen cabinets. We also tore out the ceiling, walls, and insulation on both sides of the kitchen for drying purposes. Ultimately, we were able to save the kitchen cabinets, which saved the homeowner replacement costs.
Flooded home in Marble Falls
11/6/2018 (Permalink)
Demo done after 5 feet of water flooded this home.
This was one home recently affected in the Highland Lakes area after extreme flooding caused a STORM Site to activate in my territory. With help from the TEAM STONE Directorship and numerous SERVPRO Franchises from all over Texas we were able to service many of the over 600 homes affected during this unexpected crisis.
Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas is Certified for Mold Remediation
11/6/2018 (Permalink)
Mold in a bedroom baseboards on hardwood floors.
Homeowners in Lampasas had a roof leak that, over time, led to a mold issue on the baseboards by the hardwood floors in the master bedroom. The picture shows the mold build-up along the walls and baseboards. The mold in the picture is black in color, but mold can also be white or even green; we can remediate it all. The Lampasas homeowners contacted SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas for help with the mold removal and mold remediation. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas is certified for mold remediation and was able to remove the mold and effected materials as well as spray for future mold spores and mold formation.
To learn more about mold remediation from SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas, please click HERE. Or give us a call today, we would be happy to answer your questions.
Restoring Your Burnet County Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event
2/28/2018 (Permalink)
Water soaked flooring in commercial property.
Flooding and water damage events at Burnet County commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges
Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood
SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Horseshoe Bay Smoke and Soot Cleanup
2/28/2018 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (830)693-6415 or (512)556-5979
Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Marble Falls Home
2/28/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood
SERVPRO of Marble Falls specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
When Storms or Floods hit Burnet County, SERVPRO is ready!
2/28/2018 (Permalink)
Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Marble Falls or surrounding Highland Lakes areas.
SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Burnet County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams [[Click to your disaster recovery page]] that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today at (830)693-6415 or (512)556-5979.
Kingsland Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold
2/28/2018 (Permalink)
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of Marble Falls for mold remediation services.
What Not to Do:
- Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
- Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
- Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
- Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas & Brownwood specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (830)693-6415 or (512)556-5979
Faster to your Lampasas County Water Damage Event
2/28/2018 (Permalink)
Flooding and water emergencies do not wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. A live person will always be available to take your call.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage as well as the cleaning and restoration costs. Additionally, it helps to prevent secondary damage - mold growth.
To learn more about water damage restoration from SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas, please click HERE or call: 512-525-8825
Has mold made itself welcomed in your home?
12/1/2017 (Permalink)
Toxic black mold all over drywall.
It's found indoors and out doors.
It can get into your home or business through windows, doors, vents, A/C systems even on your clothes and pets. Even after flooding has dried out it can still grow in dry wall, wood, paint, dust, wall paper, fabrics and upholstery. But how do we stop it? Can we prevent it or stop the growth before it has harmful affects on us?
YES! Yes, you can!
Here are just a few small tips to help prevent mold growth in your home or business:
- Control humidity levels in your building. Mold thrives in moisture and dampness.
- Quickly asses leaking pipes, toilets, sinks, windows, roofs and ceilings.
- Thoroughly clean up and dry after any leak or spill.
- Make sure your shower/bathtub is ventilated and caulked as well as cooking areas and laundry rooms and water heaters.
- Make sure that all A/C and water heater pipes are not leaking or corroded.
Can I do anything to stop it once I find mold in my home or is it too late?
Mold can be cleaned or even removed from hard surfaces, walls, wall studs and carpets with the right treatments and remedies.
What to do if you find mold growing in your home:
- You need to clean it and stop the moisture problem right away. After all Mold thrives in Moist damp conditions.
- CALL SERVPRO!
- it can be removed from hard surfaces with chemicals such as bleach or antimicrobial.
If mold has you held hostage in your home, call SERVPRO of Marble Falls, Lampasas and Brownwood today! We can help!
We're open 24/7, 24 hours
You can reach one of our highly trained technicians at (830)693-6415
Bad Storm Leaves Home in Marble Falls with a Flooded Living Room
11/30/2017 (Permalink)
Flooded Home in Marble Falls
From a bad storm in Marble Falls, flooding in the area caused major flooding in this living room. This would be considered black water and potentially dangerous. Please call the professionals to restore the damage. SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas was able to remove the water and restore this home.
Whether it's a water heater leak at 1:00 in the afternoon, or a toilet overflow at 11pm at night, SERVPRO of Marble Falls / Lampasas is here to help. Water damage from a bad storm can be a nightmare. That's why we have 24-hour emergency service for whenever disaster strikes. Very importantly, we will work with your insurance.
Give us a call at any time of the day or night, and our certified, professional technicians will be more than happy to assist you.
Don't let Jack Frost ruin your Christmas season this year!
11/30/2017 (Permalink)
House cascading frozen water out the windows after a water line erupted from freezing weather.
With cooler temperatures coming our way we want to do our very best to keep our homes from flooding and freezing.
Here are just a few small tips to save your pipes from freezing this winter.
To staying warm and dry!
- Check your sprinkler or irrigation systems. Make sure you've turned them off and fully drained the system.
- Check your home for pipes in areas that might be prone to freezing such as Crawl spaces, unheated rooms, basements, garages, shops and exterior walls.
- Locate your main water shut off valve when leaving for a few days. best to shut it off just in case of freezing temperatures.
- Protect your pipes! where pipes are exposed wrap them with insulation, heat tape, fabric or even newspaper to keep from freezing.
- Locate your outside faucets and make sure that they are shut off and covered. Covers are sold at almost any home improvement store or at any Walmart.
Stay safe, and stay warm!
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