Restoring Damaged Documents

4/24/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City offers document restoration for all types of documents such as books, certificates, photographs, contracts, and more!

When your home or business experiences damage due to water, fire, or perhaps mold, valued documents may seem lost. Luckily, at SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City we offer document restoration services that help salvage your valued items. 

What Exactly IS Document Restoration?

 Document restoration involves methods such as vacuum freeze drying, gamma irradiation, certified destruction/incineration, cleaning, and deodorization that aim to restore damaged documents such as certificates, photographs or any other valuable file.

How Its Done:

• Vacuum Freeze Drying: This process involves freezing and drying an item containing moisture with various vacuums and pressures to achieve sublimation.
• Gamma Irradiation: Used for cleaning/disinfecting, and decontaminating documents by emitting high-energy photons from the isotope force Cobalt 60 to produce ionization, killing organisms that have affected the product.
• Certified Destruction/Incineration: When you or your facility have documents that are no longer needed our certified technicians can dispose of them properly.
• Cleaning: Each document is hand cleaned front and back, removing dirt, soot, or any other contaminants. 
• Deodorization: Achieved by removing the odor causing agent then cleaning the document with various methods such as scrubbing, power-washing, sanitizing, ultrasonic immersion, or whatever else necessary. After the document has been cleaned off, we apply a deodorizer to the affected surfaces.

Our Process:

• Inventory: All documents will be inventoried at the location of the loss prior to packaging.
• Packaging: Documents will then be packaged/boxed accordingly
• Cold Storage: Documents will be frozen to prevent further damage.
• Shipping: Documents will be shipped to the SERVPRO corporate office for vacuum freeze drying.
• Receipt: Upon receipt of documents they will be placed either in cold storage until ready to be processed through the Vacuum Freeze Drying Chamber or processed immediately.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City knows that timely mitigation is the key to reducing severity and recovering damaged items. Without proper handling, valuable files and irreplaceable documents could be lost forever. Our technicians are trained to use the most advanced technology for document drying and recovery along with proper HIPPA Master Certification to protect your information and keep it confidential. 

If you experience damage to valuable documents, you can trust SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

How to Prevent Lingering Issues Following a Fire

4/17/2024 (Permalink)

A fire caused tremendous damage to this house, leaving smoke and soot damage to the structure both inside and out.

Not only does a fire cause visible damage to your property, it can also cause lingering problems that are hard for an untrained eye to detect such as smoke and soot damage. Smoke damage, if not taken care of immediately, can cause discoloration of surfaces, leave behind residues, and cause corrosion over time. Fires can also coat your properties in soot, which not only prolongs the cleaning process but can seep into fabrics, upholstery, and appliances as well as cause irreversible damage to flooring and walls. Lingering effects of fire damage are not limited to property damage, smoke and soot can also pose health risks affecting the respiratory system that can lead to coughing, shortness of breath, and respiratory distress.

In order to prevent further damage to your property and protect your health after you experience a fire, it is important to get a highly-trained and trusted restoration team, such as SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City, to your home or business immediately. At SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City, our fire restoration process provides full restoration services after a fire to your residential or commercial property to ensure it goes back to its pre-damage conditions so that you don’t experience any lingering issues such as smoke and/or soot damage. The steps to this process include:

• Step one: Contacting us. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your call to begin the restoration process. Our specialist will ask you a series of questions about the fire event that will help us arrive quickly with the right equipment and resources needed.
• Step two: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. Our team will inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke and soot damage.
• Step three: Immediate Board-up and Roof-tarp Service. SERVPRO® can board up missing windows and walls and place tarp on damaged roofs to avoid further damage and maintain security.
• Step four: Water Removal and Drying. If water damage is present, we remove the water immediately, we will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove any remaining water and complete the drying process.
• Step five: Removal of Smoke and Soot From All Surfaces. SERVPRO uses special equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from walls, ceilings, and any other surfaces. 
• Step six: Cleaning and Sanitizing. We will clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the fire by using various cleaning techniques. We are also trained to remove odors.
• Step seven: Restoration. In this final step, we will get your home to its pre-damage condition. This may involve minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet; or major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas in your home or business.

If your home or business experiences a fire, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City to begin the restoration process and get your property back to normal “Like it never even happened.”

How to Prevent Mold Growth in Commercial Buildings

4/5/2024 (Permalink)

Understanding what mold is and how it grows

Understanding mold and how it grows is the first step in preventing your business from being affected. Mold is a fungal growth which can be found almost anywhere moisture and oxygen are present. Growth of mold can be harmful to the structure of your building and has the potential to cause health-issues if breathed in. Some common moisture problems that lead to the formation of mold growth are leaks such as from the roof or plumbing, poor drainage around the property and any scenarios of high humidity or condensation. 

Knowing where to look for mold can also aid in the preventative maintenance of mold growth. Common places that mold can hide are the backside of drywall, wallpaper, the underside of carpets, paneling, and the top of ceiling tiles. Along with these areas mold can also hide in pipe chases or utility pipes if a leak is present, on walls behind furniture when condensation is present, condensate drain pans inside air handling units, and roof materials above ceiling units. Considering possible spots for mold growth is essential to ensuring your business does not suffer the consequences of this fungal infestation. 

There are many suggested prevention strategies along with the knowledge of what mold is and where it grows that are available to you and your business. These strategies include:

• Fixing leaking plumbing/leaks in roofing as soon as they arise
• Prevent moisture by increasing surface temperature such as insulating or increasing air circulation
• Prevent moisture due to condensation by reducing the moisture level in the air by repairing leaks, or increasing air ventilation, or dehumidify
• Perform regular building/HVAC inspections and maintenance 
• Dry/clean wet or damp spots within a 48-hour window 
• Keep heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean and unobstructed
• Vent moisture-generating appliances such as dryers, to the outside where possible
• Don’t let foundations stay wet
• Provide drainage and slope the ground away from the foundation

If you suspect that your business might be impacted by mold, please do not hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City. We have the qualified experts to meet your needs and ensure your business is restored back to its normal state “Like it never even happened.”

Why Choose SERVPRO

3/8/2024 (Permalink)

floor drying equipment for flooring.

When a water emergency happens inside your home or business, SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City can help. Using our specialized equipment and time-tested processes, we can quickly and safely extract water from inside your homes or business no matter the flooring type and then follow that up by providing the needed drying equipment and reconstructing any affected areas. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a broken appliance, or the weather, we've got your back and that's why you should choose SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City for your needed water mitigation needs. 

Navigating Through Water Damage Restoration in Oklahoma City

2/13/2024 (Permalink)

Navigating Through Water Damage Restoration in Oklahoma City

A Beacon of Hope in Times of Water Crisis

In Oklahoma City, where the weather can turn at the drop of a hat, the threat of water damage looms large over homeowners and businesses alike. Be it due to heavy rainfall leading to flooding, or the unforeseen burst of a pipe, water damage can wreak havoc on the sanctity of your property. This is where SERVPRO of Oklahoma City steps in, offering a lifeline with our unmatched water damage restoration services.

Immediate Response to Water Emergencies

Understanding the critical nature of water damage, SERVPRO ensures a rapid response at all hours. Our 24/7 emergency services mean that we are just a call away, ready to dispatch our team of highly trained technicians to your doorstep. Upon arrival, we assess the situation with precision and begin the restoration process without delay, aiming to mitigate further damage and start the journey back to normalcy.

State-of-the-Art Water Extraction and Drying

The cornerstone of our water damage restoration process is our advanced water extraction and drying techniques. Utilizing the latest in technology, we efficiently remove water from your property, tackling not just the symptoms but the root cause of the damage. Our goal is to prevent future problems, ensuring a thorough cleanup and drying process that paves the way for effective restoration.

Specialized Structural Drying for Long-Term Protection

Water damage often goes deeper than the surface, affecting the structural integrity of your property. SERVPRO is adept at identifying and addressing these hidden issues. We collaborate closely with you to devise a comprehensive drying and repair strategy, employing specialized techniques to ensure your property is completely dry and secure before we consider our job done.

Why Oklahoma City Chooses SERVPRO

With over 50 years in the restoration business, SERVPRO's expertise in water damage restoration is unparalleled. Here's why we stand out:

• Experience: Our extensive history in the field equips us to handle any challenge, no matter the scale.
• Customer Service: At SERVPRO, we prioritize your peace of mind. Available around the clock, we're here to answer your questions and provide the support you need.
• Quality of Work: We're committed to restoring your property to its pre-disaster glory, using cutting-edge equipment and techniques that guarantee satisfaction.

A Call to Action for Preparedness and Partnership

As residents of Oklahoma City, it's essential to stay prepared for water-related emergencies. Partnering with SERVPRO not only ensures a quick and efficient response to crises but also equips you with the knowledge and support to prevent future incidents. Remember, in the face of water damage, you're not alone. SERVPRO of Oklahoma City is your trusted ally, ready to restore, repair, and revitalize your property.

In Conclusion

Water damage can be a formidable challenge, but with SERVPRO of Oklahoma City, you have a partner equipped to face any storm. Our commitment to excellence, combined with our unwavering support for the communities we serve, makes us the go-to choice for water damage restoration in Oklahoma City. When disaster strikes, remember that SERVPRO is here to help, turning crisis into calm and damage into restoration.

Water Damage Prevention and Proactivity in Oklahoma City Guide for Residents and Businesses

1/30/2024 (Permalink)

Water Damage Clean-up - Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City, the heart of the Sooner State, is no stranger to water-related challenges. From heavy rains to unexpected plumbing issues, water damage can strike at any time. But fear not, OKC residents and businesses! By staying proactive and understanding prevention strategies, you can safeguard your properties against the havoc water damage can wreak.

Understanding Water Damage Risks in OKC

The Threat of Severe Weather

In Oklahoma City, the weather can be as unpredictable as the winning horse at the Remington Park Racing Casino. Thunderstorms and heavy rains, especially during the spring and early summer, can lead to flooding and water intrusion. It's crucial for residents and businesses near areas like the Oklahoma River or Lake Hefner to be particularly vigilant.

Plumbing and Infrastructure

Beyond the weather, the city's infrastructure and your own plumbing can be a source of water woes. Whether it's a burst pipe in Bricktown or a leaking water heater in Edmond, the consequences can be significant.

Proactive Measures for Water Damage Prevention

Regular Maintenance Checks

• Inspect Your Plumbing: Regularly check pipes, faucets, and water heaters for signs of wear and tear. An ounce of prevention at the Paseo Arts District beats a pound of cure at a waterlogged home!
• Gutter and Roof Maintenance: Keep gutters clean and ensure your roof is in good condition. This is particularly important in areas like Nichols Hills, where leafy streets can lead to clogged gutters.

Weather-Proofing Strategies

• Flood Barriers and Sandbags: For businesses in lower-lying areas like near the Myriad Botanical Gardens, having flood barriers or sandbags on hand during the storm season can be a lifesaver.
• Sump Pumps and Backflow Valves: Install sump pumps and backflow valves, especially if your property is in a flood-prone area.

Emergency Preparedness

• Emergency Contact List: Have a list of emergency contacts, including a reputable water damage restoration service like SERVPRO.
• Regular Drills and Training: For businesses, conducting regular emergency drills can ensure that your team knows what to do in the event of water damage.

When Water Damage Strikes: Immediate Actions

Despite all precautions, water damage can still occur. Here’s what to do:

1. Safety First: Ensure the safety of everyone involved. Avoid electrical hazards and unstable structures.
2. Stop the Source: If possible, stop the source of the water.
3. Call for Help: Contact professionals like SERVPRO for immediate water damage restoration.
4. Document the Damage: Take photos and document the damage for insurance purposes.

SERVPRO: Your Ally in Water Damage Restoration

SERVPRO stands out as a leader in water damage restoration in Oklahoma City. With our 24/7 emergency response, advanced water extraction and drying equipment, and a team of experienced technicians, we ensure effective and efficient restoration of your property.

Why SERVPRO?

• Rapid Response: Our team is ready to respond swiftly, crucial for minimizing damage.
• Advanced Techniques: We use state-of-the-art equipment to handle water extraction, drying, and restoration.
• Local Expertise: Familiarity with OKC's unique challenges means tailored solutions for your property.

Stay Prepared and Protected

Water damage in Oklahoma City is a manageable challenge with the right preparation and response. By adopting proactive measures, staying vigilant during severe weather, and having a plan in place, residents and businesses can significantly reduce the impact of water damage. And remember, in times of need, SERVPRO is just a call away, ready to restore your property to its pre-damage condition.

Stay safe and dry, OKC!

Riding the Wave: Navigating the Intricacies of Water Damage Restoration

6/11/2023 (Permalink)

As the minutes roll by, water can seep into the structure of your property, leading to more extensive damage.

The sudden onslaught of water damage can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed. Whether it's caused by natural calamities or plumbing malfunctions, the swift and often unexpected nature of such incidents makes understanding the restoration process incredibly valuable. At SERVPRO, we aim to demystify this process and guide you through the essential steps to reclaiming your property from water damage.

Water damage restoration, as the name suggests, is a process of mitigating and restoring a property that has been subjected to water intrusion or flooding. It's not merely about extracting the visible water but involves an intricate series of steps designed to address both the immediate and long-term effects of water damage.

One of the most pressing concerns in the face of water damage is the ticking clock. As the minutes roll by, water can seep into the structure of your property, leading to more extensive damage. Structural elements like walls and flooring can absorb moisture, leading to weakening over time. Furthermore, the damp environment becomes a fertile breeding ground for mold and mildew, posing additional health risks. It's essential to promptly seek professional help to limit these escalating issues.

A reputable water damage restoration company like SERVPRO employs specialized equipment and techniques to address this damage efficiently. The restoration process begins with an assessment to understand the extent of the damage. Water extraction tools are then used to remove the bulk of the water from your property, after which drying, and dehumidification techniques come into play. These processes help eliminate residual moisture, averting mold growth and further structural damage.

Water damage doesn't just affect your property physically; it can leave behind odors and potential health hazards. That's why professional restoration also involves cleaning and sanitizing the affected areas, ensuring a safe environment for occupants.

The end goal of any water damage restoration process is to return the property to its pre-damage condition. This involves repairing any damages caused by the water and possibly redecorating the space to its former glory.

Choosing a professional for water damage restoration can save you time and potential financial loss, not to mention reducing the risk of health hazards associated with mold growth. By seeking professional help, you're not just salvaging your property; you're reclaiming your peace of mind.

The devastation of water damage can be immense, but understanding the restoration process can turn the tide in your favor. Remember, the sooner you act, the better your chances of mitigating the damage and reclaiming your property. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to navigate the stormy seas of water damage restoration.

A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Fire Damage Restoration

6/11/2023 (Permalink)

A glimpse into the aftermath of a kitchen fire

Experiencing a house fire can be a devastating event, leaving behind substantial damage long after the flames are doused. The remnants of fire, namely soot and smoke, can continue to harm your property if not promptly addressed. This blog post aims to provide an insightful guide on fire damage restoration, helping you better comprehend the process involved in restoring your home back to a safe and habitable state.

Imagine this scenario: the fire trucks depart, leaving behind a property filled with the scars of fire and smoke damage, as well as the aftermath of water damage from firefighting efforts. It's a daunting scene. However, understanding the fire damage restoration process can provide some comfort during this stressful time.

Each fire damage situation is distinct, and while the process might be adjusted based on the severity of the fire, the fundamental steps remain consistent:

• Emergency Contact: The restoration process begins as soon as you reach out to a professional restoration company. Your call initiates a quick response to limit further damage to your property.
• Inspection and Assessment: The damage assessment involves a careful examination of the affected areas to understand the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This forms the foundation for devising an appropriate restoration strategy.
• Property Securing: Professionals take immediate measures to prevent additional damage, such as boarding up missing windows, covering damaged roofs, and reinforcing compromised walls. This ensures that the property is safeguarded and secure.
• Water Removal (if applicable): If water damage has occurred due to the firefighting efforts, a water extraction process is initiated. This involves removing most of the water, followed by the use of dehumidifiers and air movers to thoroughly dry the area.
• Smoke and Soot Removal: Smoke and soot residues can cause extensive damage if left untreated. Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to effectively clean these residues from various surfaces.
• Cleaning and Sanitizing: This stage involves restoring your personal belongings to their pre-fire condition using a range of cleaning techniques. Odors are also neutralized using air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
• Restoration: The final stage of the process can range from minor repairs like replacing drywall and painting, to larger tasks like installing new carpeting or full-scale room reconstruction.

Post-fire, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Be mindful of potential hazards, such as electrical issues and slip risks, and only undertake activities that are safe.

With the support of professional fire damage restoration services, you can navigate the challenging post-fire period more smoothly, steadily working towards making your home or business feel like it never even happened!

Understanding the Intricacies of Commercial Mold Remediation

6/11/2023 (Permalink)

Welcome to the world of mold

Have you ever caught a whiff of a musty scent in your commercial property and wondered where it could be coming from? Welcome to the world of mold – an intricate, invisible, yet essential subject that affects building. This blog post aims to unravel the complexities of mold remediation, drawing from real-world experiences of locally-owned businesses in our community.

 Let’s start with the basics: What is mold? Mold consists of microscopic spores that float in our environment, both indoors and outdoors. They enter buildings through open windows, doors, and HVAC systems, and can even be carried in on clothing or pets. Despite their seemingly innocuous nature, these spores can rapidly evolve into a major problem when exposed to moisture.

 The story gets more complicated when you consider the various factors that affect mold growth. These include the amount of water present, the frequency of the water source, the type of food source (substrate), the water affinity of the substrate, and the temperature range. As conditions change, different species of mold can colonize, with each presenting unique challenges for remediation.

 So, what happens when a commercial building or home encounters a mold issue? The remediation process goes beyond merely cleaning visible mold patches. It begins with the identification and repair of the water source causing the mold, otherwise, mold will simply return. Utilizing moisture meters, experts can pinpoint the precise location of dampness fueling the mold growth.

Subsequently, professionals must navigate the painstaking process of containment, cleaning, treatment, and removal of mold. This involves specialty equipment such as high-quality HVAC filters for capturing mold spores and humidity gauges to monitor indoor humidity. An experienced team will be trained in these techniques, transforming contaminated buildings into safe, habitable spaces.

 Prevention, as in many things, is better than cure. Regulating indoor humidity levels (ideally within 30%-50%) can help inhibit mold growth. It's also vital to have an action plan ready should a mold problem arise. That's where an Emergency Ready Plan comes into play. This is a strategic response plan that allows businesses to minimize disruptions and resume operations as quickly as possible following a mold outbreak.

 In the end, understanding and addressing mold hazards is a complex task requiring specialized knowledge and a proactive approach. But with awareness and effective planning, businesses can effectively manage and mitigate these risks. Stay informed, stay prepared, and most importantly, stay safe.

Understanding Fire Damage Restoration: A Comprehensive Guide

6/11/2023 (Permalink)

This image captures the aftermath of a devastating fire. But expert restoration, homes can be rebuilt and lives be pieced back together.

Experiencing a fire incident can be a traumatizing event. The aftermath often leaves behind a trail of destruction, with the severity extending beyond the visible charred structures.

Fire damage, coupled with smoke and soot, can gradually deteriorate your property. To navigate this challenging period, understanding the fire restoration procedure can offer much-needed peace of mind and insight into what the recovery journey entails.

Fire restoration services are specialized procedures offered by trained experts to recover and restore properties damaged by fire. A professional fire restoration procedure involves several stages, starting with an emergency call. Fire damage is time-sensitive, every minute counts. A prompt response mitigates ongoing damage and aids in salvaging as much as possible.

The second stage involves a comprehensive fire damage assessment. Experts conduct a detailed inspection to gauge the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This evaluation may also identify any accompanying water damage due to firefighting efforts. A thorough understanding of the damage's scope helps formulate an effective restoration strategy tailored to the situation at hand.

Securing the property is another crucial step in fire restoration. This can involve board-up and roof-tarp services to protect the property from external elements and potential unauthorized entry. Windows, walls, or roofs damaged in a fire need immediate attention to ensure the property's integrity and safety.

The cleanup process is the most extensive stage of restoration. Professionals use specialty equipment for fire damage cleanup to remove smoke and soot from all surfaces. Various cleaning techniques restore belongings to pre-fire conditions as much as possible, and industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment help eliminate odors. In some cases, water damage restoration might be needed if substantial water was used in firefighting efforts.

The final step in the fire restoration procedure is restoration and repairs. This could range from minor tasks like replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, to significant ones like reconstructing damaged rooms.

Fire incidents are daunting, but with understanding and preparation, recovery can be a systematic process. Relying on fire & smoke restoration contractors ensures professional handling of your situation and peace of mind during the process. Remember, as challenging as the experience might be, fire damage does not mark the end of your property's story; it's just a hurdle to overcome.