Understanding Puffback and the Importance of HVAC Cleaning

10/25/2024 (Permalink)

As the colder months approach, many property owners start firing up their heating systems. While this helps keep indoors comfortable, it also increases the risk of a phenomenon known as puffback. Puffback is a misfiring within a furnace or boiler that causes soot and debris to be blown into your home or commercial building. This can leave a sticky, greasy mess on walls, ceilings, furniture, and air ducts.

What Causes Puffback?
Puffback typically occurs in oil-burning heating systems, but it can also happen with gas systems. It’s often the result of a malfunction within the burner, such as clogged nozzles or failing ignition. When this happens, unburned fuel is ignited suddenly, creating a mini-explosion that sends soot throughout the HVAC system.

Why HVAC Cleaning is Crucial
After a puffback, cleaning the HVAC system is essential. Soot can travel through your ductwork, spreading contaminants into every room and lowering air quality. Beyond the mess, exposure to this soot can cause health issues, particularly for people with respiratory problems.

Regular HVAC cleaning, especially after a puffback, ensures that your heating system runs efficiently and keeps the air in your building clean. It also helps prevent further damage and costly repairs.

Take Action Now
If you’ve experienced a puffback or notice unusual soot around your property, act quickly. SERVPRO Team Paparone specializes in puffback cleanup and HVAC system cleaning, restoring your property and improving your indoor air quality.

Storm Roof Damage? How SERVPRO’s Tarping Services Protect Your Home

10/21/2024 (Permalink)

When a storm damages your roof, immediate action is crucial to prevent further issues. A compromised roof exposes your home to water infiltration, which can lead to extensive interior damage, mold growth, and costly repairs. SERVPRO’s emergency roof tarping services provide an essential first line of defense, protecting your home from additional harm while you plan for permanent repairs.

1. Prevents Water Intrusion

After a storm, even small openings in your roof can allow water to seep into your home. This can damage ceilings, walls, insulation, and personal belongings. SERVPRO’s tarping services seal these vulnerable areas, preventing water from entering and protecting your home’s interior.

2. Minimizes Long-Term Damage

Water entering your home doesn’t just cause immediate damage—it can also lead to long-term issues like mold growth, wood rot, and structural weakening. By tarping your roof quickly, SERVPRO® helps minimize these risks, reducing the chance of secondary damage and extensive repair costs.

3. Provides Temporary Protection Until Repairs

After a storm, it might take some time to assess the full extent of the damage and schedule permanent roof repairs. In the meantime, SERVPRO’s tarping solution provides a temporary but effective barrier, allowing you the time needed to make informed decisions without worrying about further damage.

4. Quick Response to Secure Your Home

SERVPRO understands the urgency of post-storm repairs and offers fast, professional service. Their trained technicians are available 24/7 to respond to storm emergencies, ensuring that your home is secured as soon as possible. The sooner your roof is tarped, the better protected your home will be from additional damage.

5. Avoids Costly Repairs Down the Line

Leaving a damaged roof exposed to the elements can lead to much more significant and expensive repairs in the future. SERVPRO’s tarping services prevent small problems from escalating, saving you money on repairs by protecting your home from further storm-related damage.

SERVPRO’s roof tarping services offer homeowners peace of mind after a storm by providing immediate protection against water intrusion and helping you avoid costly long-term damage. If your roof has been compromised by severe weather, don’t wait—contact SERVPRO to secure your home and protect what matters most.

Why to Call SERVPRO for Fire Damage

7/3/2024 (Permalink)

When you call SERVPRO of Society Hill/Downtown Philly for fire damage restoration, we follow a comprehensive process to ensure your home is restored to its pre-fire condition as efficiently as possible. Here’s an overview of the typical steps involved:

1. Initial Contact and Emergency Response

Initial Call:

• 24/7 Availability: SERVPRO® offers emergency services 24/7, so you can contact us immediately after the fire.
• Gather Information: During your initial call, a SERVPRO representative will ask for details about the fire damage, such as the extent of the damage, the cause of the fire if known, and any immediate concerns you have.

Emergency Response:

• Immediate Dispatch: Based on the information provided, SERVPRO Team Paparone will dispatch a team to your location as quickly as possible to begin the mitigation process.

2. Inspection and Assessment

On-Site Evaluation:

• Comprehensive Inspection: The SERVPRO team will conduct a thorough inspection of your property to assess the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. They will inspect all affected areas, including the structure, contents, and air quality.
• Damage Assessment: They will document the damage, take photographs, and determine the scope of work needed for restoration. This assessment helps in creating a detailed restoration plan and an estimate for the insurance company.

3. Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Services

Securing the Property:

• Preventing Further Damage: If the fire has caused significant structural damage, SERVPRO Team Paparone will board up missing windows, walls, and doors, and place tarps over damaged roofs to prevent further damage from weather or unauthorized entry.

4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

Water Mitigation:

• Water Extraction: If the fire was extinguished with water, SERVPRO will begin by removing any standing water using pumps and vacuum units.
• Drying and Dehumidification: They will use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out the affected areas. This helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

5. Removal of Smoke and Soot

Cleaning and Deodorization:

• Soot and Smoke Cleaning: SERVPRO uses specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. They employ advanced cleaning methods to restore your home’s structure and contents.
• Odor Removal: They use industrial air scrubbers, fogging equipment, and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate smoke odors and sanitize the area.

6. Cleaning and Sanitizing

Content Cleaning:

• Personal Belongings: SERVPRO will clean and restore personal belongings affected by the fire. This includes furniture, clothing, and other items. 
• Documentation: They will document and inventory items that are beyond repair for insurance purposes.

Sanitizing and Disinfecting:

• Sanitization: The team will thoroughly clean and disinfect all affected areas to ensure a safe living environment.

7. Restoration

Repair and Reconstruction:

• Structural Repairs: SERVPRO provides comprehensive repair and reconstruction services. This may include minor repairs such as drywall replacement, painting, and installing new carpet, as well as major repairs like rebuilding entire rooms.
• Restoration: Their goal is to restore your home to its pre-fire condition. They work with your insurance company to streamline the claims process and ensure that all repairs are completed to your satisfaction.

Conclusion

The process of calling SERVPRO for fire damage restoration involves several critical steps, from the initial emergency response and thorough inspection to water removal, soot and smoke cleaning, and complete restoration. SERVPRO’s professional approach ensures that your home is restored efficiently and effectively, minimizing the disruption to your life and helping you return to normal as quickly as possible.

What To Do After a Storm

10/2/2023 (Permalink)

No matter how much preparation or planning, there is no telling what damage a storm can leave behind!

Collapsing roofs, broken windows, hazardous debris, and standing water in your home are just a few damages that can be left behind - along with possible mold growth from water getting into carpets and furniture.

Following these steps after a storm strikes will help keep you and your family safe:

If you smell any gas shut off the gas line. 
Look out for any broken glass, sharp objects, or nails that could cause a risk. 
While taking these immediate precautions, contacting a reputable restoration company such as SERVPRO of Society Hill as soon as possible to help in the recovery process. Our goal is to dispatch out a team out to inspect damages within the hour of your initial call to us.
Next you will want to photograph any damage they may have occurred to have on record for your insurance company, as well as contacting your insurance company to get an adjuster out to survey the damage.

After all these steps are take just leave the rest to SERVPRO of Society Hill to clean up any mess no matter the extent. We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week including holidays.

Soot, Soot, go away!

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to personal property and structures. Quick action is the only way to minimize the destruction.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, IICRC, is a globally recognized organization whose mission is to establish higher industry standards. As a referral source for consumers, IICRC certified firms are more likely to provide a faster, better service than non-certified competitors.

Restoration costs increase and damages escalate when the cleaning process is extended. By using an IICRC certified technician, owners will be rewarded by having the damage stopped so repairs can begin.

What happens only minutes after the disaster? Immediately after a fire, soot residue settles onto the property. Discoloration of porous materials is permanent, but other surfaces may be properly cleaned to remove the discoloration. Acidic soot begins staining other surfaces if not treated quickly.

Within hours all surfaces begin to suffer from fire and smoke damage. Wooden furniture may require refinishing. Metal begins to rust, pit and corrode. Painted walls begin to yellow. Clothing can become permanently stained. And finally, flooring may require refinishing or replacements.

If left untreated, within weeks the restoration process will take longer and cost more. Prolonged soot exposure permanently harms all surfaces and embeds in fibers. Replacement of property may be the best option at this point.

The structure may continue deteriorating if not properly restored by SERVPRO of Society Hill.

6 Tips to Protect Your Philly Home While on Vacation

7/20/2023 (Permalink)

Many people go on vacations during the summer months, leaving their properties unattended. SERVPRO is the #1 choice in restoration services to property owners, property managers, and vacation rental agencies. The need for routine inspections, maintenance, and restoration is very important to prevent any potential damage while the properties are vacant.

Here are some tips to make sure your property is taken care of while you’re relaxing! 

• Secure doors and windows: Before leaving, double-check that all doors, windows, and entry points are securely locked. You don’t want water to make its way uninvited.
• Inform trustworthy neighbors or friends about your vacation plans. Provide them with your contact information and ask them to keep an eye on your property. 
• Maintain your property's exterior: Before leaving, ensure that your property's exterior is well-maintained. Trim trees and bushes, mow the lawn, and remove any potential hazards or debris that could cause damage during your absence.
• Unplug non-essential appliances: To prevent electrical fires or power surges, unplug non-essential appliances, such as computers, TVs, and kitchen appliances. This also helps conserve energy while you're away.
• Check water sources: Turn off the main water supply or shut off individual water valves to prevent leaks or flooding. Consider installing leak detection devices that can alert you to any water leaks or pipe bursts.
• IF EMERGENCY OCCURS: Inform your security company and emergency contacts, such as SERVPRO of Society Hill/Downtown Philadelphia. We are available 24/7.
  

Vacation is supposed to be a relaxing getaway from reality. Performing these tips and tricks will help your family have a stress-free trip!

9 Tips to Keeping Your Pets Safe During an Emergency

7/6/2023 (Permalink)

Saturday, July 15th is National Pet Fire Safety Day! It is important to include your furry family members into your emergency plan should a fire ever occur. You want to make sure they know their way out of the house during an emergency.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in the United States, an estimated 500,000 pets are affected by house fires annually, with a significant number suffering injuries or losing their lives. Here are some tips to keeping your pets safe during a fire emergency:

1. Develop a clear and well-rehearsed evacuation plan that includes your pets. designate a meeting point outside where everyone, including your pets, can gather safely.
2. Display pet alert window stickers. 
3. Ensure that your pets wear collars with identification tags at all times.
4. Pets can accidentally knock over candles, lamps, or space heaters, causing fires.
5. Consider installing pet-specific fire alarms or detectors that can detect the unique frequencies of a pet's distress call.
6. Take steps to minimize the risk of fires in your home. Don't leave pets unattended near open flames or hot appliances.
7. Include essential supplies for your pets in an emergency kit, such as food, water, medications, and copies of vaccination records. Keep this kit easily accessible in case of an evacuation.
8. Inform neighbors or nearby friends.
9. During a fire emergency, pets may become frightened and seek hiding spots. Be aware of their favorite hiding places and inform firefighters or rescue personnel about their likely locations. 

Show some love to your pets and make sure they are ready to escape during or following an emergency. Call SERVPRO Team Paparone immediately following any fire damage restoration services. We are HERE TO HELP® 24/7.

Why SERVPRO of Society Hill for Water Damage Restoration

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

Property damage doesn’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Society Hill provides emergency cleanup and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. No damage is too big or small for our team! 

Why is immediate response time crucial?

The short answer: to keep a bad situation from getting worse. In many cases an immediate response will help contain and minimize damage, thus reducing cleaning and restoration costs. The sooner the cleanup process starts, the better.

Here are a few immediate steps you can take to help speed up the process:

1. Call your insurance company as soon as possible. Once you have filed a claim with your insurance company, SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem can take it from there to determine next steps. 
2. Call SERVPRO of Society Hill, who provides 24 hour, 7 days a week emergency service by having a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you.
3. Document the damage by taking pictures or videos for the insurance claim. 
4. Shut off the water source so no further damage is created.
5. Turn off circuit breakers. 
6. Don’t enter affected areas! 

Use technology such as alarms and/or smart home monitoring systems that can be managed and monitored even when you aren’t home! 

Is you Philly Business Emergency Ready?

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

ARE YOU READY FOR WHATEVER HAPPENS?
No one plans for disasters, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have too. Partnering with SERVPRO of Society Hill, ensures you’re ready for whatever happens to your business or commercial property. By preparing now, you demonstrate excellence in readiness planning by compiling a comprehensive information resource to use in case of a disaster. 

WHY SERVPRO’S EMERGENCY READY PLAN?

By having an immediate plan, you minimize potential business downtime when disaster strikes. Here’s why SERVPRO’s ERP is the way to go! 

1. 50+ years in disaster recovery experience
2. 2,000+ service provider locations
1. This means there is a SERVPRO in your area within a two-hour distance
3. 20,000+ SERVPRO Personnel
4. No Retainer/Upfront Costs
1. SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan is completely free to utilize. We will come out to do a free assessment of your property while storing all the property information in one place.
5. Largest Supply of Owned Equipment

Our Ready Plan is designed to be a start-up approach that provides critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. 

If you and your business are interested in learning more about our ERP profile, please contact our offices at 215-772-1203.

What Your Homeowner and Renter's Insurance Covers

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

Do you live in Philadelphia with renter’s insurance or homeowners insurance? Do you know what your insurance covers if you are hit with water damage?
No worries, SERVPRO of Society Hill has your back. Our partnership with State Farm has allowed our professionals to understand the ins and outs of insurance. Here is what renter’s insurance covers - in short, it covers all the things you own.
1. Accidents - this includes objects damaging your property
2. Weather impacts - any damage resulting from a natural
3. Malicious mischief - this includes vandalism, theft, riots, & vehicle damage
4. Loss of use - if your home or property is damaged and uninhabitable after a covered loss, living accommodations and expenses that accrue will be covered by this type of insurance.
According to Forbes and the Insurance Information Institution, every year about one in 50 homeowners file water damage claims, accounting for 29% of all homeowners insurance claims. It is important to be aware of what your insurance covers and the steps to take in the event of water damage.
SERVPRO of Society Hill takes pride in relieving stress from our customers and clients. Our professionals are equipped with the knowledge and resources to be the middle person between our business and their insurance claims.