How To Get The Most Out Of A Partial Loss

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Drywall Removal.

A commercial fire can be devastating, both financially and structurally, as it often results in the triple threat of fire, water, and smoke damage. Not only is the area where the fire most likely damaged, but so can other areas of the building due to traveling smoke and soot through the vents. Try following the next steps in order to maximize your recovery and get your business back up and running.

?• Southeast El Paso/Butterfield team to perform a thorough inspection and document damage.?• Document everything that was damaged or destroyed, even if you're not sure it's worth documenting.?• To the best of your ability, check for mold, smoke, soot, and other irritants. Our team can handle anywhere that is too difficult for you to handle.??Most insurance adjusters won't accept a fire loss claim without the findings of a thorough inspection.  You must call in a licensed contractor who can walk through your building and inspect the roof, structure, siding, windows, insulation and plumbing, and HVAC systems. The contractor can provide an official report that itemizes damages and losses. This is called an adjusters report.??Most insurance companies are required to cover mold, smoke, or soot restoration, so long as the damage was from the recent disaster. Have your inspector check for any irritants so that you can request remediation.??In the event some things are not covered you are able to claim unreimbursed losses on your tax returns.

It is important to have a professional mitigation team on speed dial to handle any disasters your business may face.  Contact the professionals at SERVPRO today!

Southeast El Paso: Some recommendations for removing water from commercial buildings located in East El Paso

3/24/2023 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield offers expert water removal tips for East El Paso commercial buildings, including promptly identifying the source and drying affected areas.

Water damage is a serious problem that can affect any commercial building, causing property damage, lost productivity, and potential safety hazards. If you own or manage a commercial building in East El Paso, TX, it's important to take immediate action to remove water damage and prevent further issues. In this article, SERVPRO® of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield, the expert water damage restoration company, will provide tips on water removal from commercial buildings that can help you mitigate the damage and keep your building safe and functional.

Act quickly

The most important thing to remember when dealing with water damage is to act quickly. Water damage can cause structural damage and lead to mold growth in as little as 24-48 hours. The longer you wait to address the issue, the more difficult and expensive it will be to remove the water damage. If you notice any signs of water damage in your commercial building, such as damp or discolored walls or floors, musty odors, or visible mold growth, it's crucial to take immediate action to prevent further damage.

Identify the source of the water

Before you can effectively remove water damage from your commercial building, you need to identify the source of the water. Is the water coming from a leaky pipe, a broken appliance, or a natural disaster? Once you know where the water is coming from, you can stop the water's source and prevent further damage.

Remove standing water

Once you've identified the source of the water, the next step is to remove any standing water from the affected area. You can do this using a wet/dry vacuum or a pump. However, it's important to note that removing standing water is only the first step in the water removal process. To ensure that your commercial building is fully restored, you must address any hidden moisture and thoroughly dry the affected area.

Dry the affected area

After removing standing water, the next step is to dry the affected area completely. This is important to prevent further damage and mold growth. You can use fans, dehumidifiers, and other specialized equipment to dry the area quickly and efficiently. It's important to note that drying the affected area may take several days, depending on the extent of the water damage and the type of materials affected.

Remove damaged materials

In some cases, water damage may be so severe that it requires removing damaged materials like drywall, carpet, or insulation. If you're unsure whether or not you need to remove damaged materials, consult a professional water removal company like SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield. They can help you determine the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of action.

Clean and disinfect the affected area

Once the affected area is completely dry, it's important to clean and disinfect it to prevent the spreading of harmful bacteria and viruses. You can use specialized cleaning agents and techniques to disinfect the area thoroughly. It's important to note that disinfecting the area is especially important if the water damage is caused by sewage or other contaminated water.

Contact a professional water removal company

Finally, if you're dealing with significant water damage in your commercial building, it's important to contact a professional water removal company like SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield. They can also help you identify and address any hidden moisture causing additional damage.

About SERVPRO of SE El Paso/Butterfield

SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield provides exceptional restoration services for fire, smoke, water, and mold damage to residential and commercial East El Paso, TX properties. With over 50 years of experience, SERVPRO is a reliable and trusted choice for all your cleaning and restoration needs. The highly trained staff at SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield holds regular IICRC-industry certifications.

Contact SERVPRO Southeast El Paso/Butterfield today for your water removal jobs!

Phone: (915) 234-2679

Email: zbroome@SERVPRO11089.com

SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield

1212 N Yarbrough Dr #107

El Paso, TX 79925

Commercial Vehicle Water Damage

11/30/2022 (Permalink)

After a long day on the road, one of your employees or yourself may leave the sunroof or window open. Depending on what weather is outside there is a chance your Metairie business’s commercial vehicle may actually have water damage! Especially in the South, mildew and mold can happen when it's hot and muggy outside and the inside of the commercial vehicle is wet.

SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield has dealt with maybe water damage claims inside the home, commercial buildings, and commercial vehicles. We always ensure proper deodorization, drying, and getting rid of staining.

Commercial damages? Call the experts at SERVPRO!

11/30/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at any commercial property 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. 

Here are some reasons why SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield is right for your commercial cleanup. 

1. We're here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week with water, fire, storm, and viral damages.

2. We’ll inspect the damaged area. Our technicians promptly arrive on-site and inspect the property thoroughly to ensure all sources of damage have been identified.

3. We’ll perform all the work. Because you have a business to operate, our expertly trained technicians will provide the highest level of services.

4. We'll consult with your agent and adjuster after we've stabilized your environment and explain our recommendations for the restoration, mitigation, and cleaning process.

5. We’ll be here throughout that process to ensure your property has been fully restored

Commercial damages? Call the experts at SERVPRO!

11/30/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at any commercial property 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. 

Here are some reasons why SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield is right for your commercial cleanup. 

1. We're here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week with water, fire, storm, and viral damages.

2. We’ll inspect the damaged area. Our technicians promptly arrive on-site and inspect the property thoroughly to ensure all sources of damage have been identified.

3. We’ll perform all the work. Because you have a business to operate, our expertly trained technicians will provide the highest level of services.

4. We'll consult with your agent and adjuster after we've stabilized your environment and explain our recommendations for the restoration, mitigation, and cleaning process.

5. We’ll be here throughout that process to ensure your property has been fully restored

Stopping Mold Before it Takes Over your West El Paso Home or Business!

10/28/2022 (Permalink)

Mold is all around us.  It can and will get inside anywhere that it can.  The problem occurs when it decides to stay in one place and then grow as quickly as possible.  This is where the damage and health issues start.  Once you notice the mold growth, you need to get started immediately on remediation.  Where did it come from and what can we do to stop it?

While every situation is different and might require various mold removal tactics and approaches, the threats that spreading microbial organisms can cause are similar from one damaged site to the next. 

Obstacles we must overcome include:

• Damaged materials
• Noxious odors
• Moist conditions
• Structural vulnerabilities

How Can Mold Removal Get Started? 

Removing microbial colonies and beginning mold remediation in West El Paso businesses requires careful evaluations of the property and its condition. We actively pursue the most efficient removal tactics based on the state of hosting materials. Organic matter can become deteriorated from hosting colonies over even a brief period. Surface treatments like sanding and antimicrobial cleaning can remove superficial colonization, but controlled demolition can also be necessary for some situations.

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO today to see what we can do to stop your home or business mold problem from getting any worse and how to make sure it doesn't come back.

Keeping Up With Sanitization In Your West El Paso Home Or Business

10/28/2022 (Permalink)

Even though we like to think that COVID is behind us, we are constantly hearing about variants as well as other illnesses in the news.  It appears that RSV is making it around everywhere just as the flu season prepares to start.  We all learned a lot about keeping our homes and businesses clean during COVID, but it's something that we need to continually do in order to keep our friends, co-workers and family as safe as possible.  The following is some information on what we can continue to do in order to keep a safe work environment.

Start by educating workers, and developing policies for worker protection. This can include enforcing masks, and having a policy if workers start to feel ill. When cleaning your establishment, wear disposable gloves and start with plain soap and water, and then use a disinfectant. Soap and water will reduce the number of germs and following with disinfectant will kill germs. Make sure to focus on high-touch surfaces. These include but are not limited to: 

• Tables
• Doorknobs
• Light switches 
• Countertops
• Handles
• Desks
• Phones
• Keyboards
• Toilets
• Faucets
• Sinks

If your West El Paso home or office is in need of a good clean, contact the sanitization professionals at SERVPRO!

What to do if You Find Mold in Your Southeast El Paso Business

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

Our Southeast El Paso team is trained and certified to restore mold outbreaks by the Institute for Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in El Paso, TX. We have the training, equipment, and experience to restore areas compromised by mold quickly and efficiently. Here are some mold damage emergency tips from our website for things you can do and should not do while waiting for help to arrive:

What to Do

• Stay out of affected areas
• Turn off the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system and fans
• Contact our Southeast El Paso office 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

Call Us!

When you discover a mold problem in your Southeast El Paso commercial business, our team is available to help! We’ll clean and restore the mold damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at (915) 234-2679.

SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield shares common signs of mold growth

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield talks about how a faulty air conditioner can cause mold growth.

Are you having a hard time controlling moisture in your space? If you have recently noticed mold growing on your walls at home or in your commercial space it might be the case that your air conditioner cannot regulate indoor humidity which might be caused by a leaky HVAC system.

Summer is fast approaching, if you want to maintain healthy indoor air and keep mold away from your space then your HVAC must be in tip-top condition. 

In this article, the mold remediation professionals at SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield share reasons a leaky HVAC can cause mold growth in the coming summer months, plus effective ways to prevent mold in your home or business space.

Signs of Mold Growth to Look Out for:

If you are not exactly sure if you have a mold problem or not, here are a few indicators to pay attention to around your space.

Musty odor. Mold has a unique odor that smells musty or similar to how mold smells when it grows on food. If you begin to smell something remotely close to this, you might have mold on your hands.

Health effects. If you begin to experience health effects or if these signs begin to get worse, then it might be the case that mold is getting ready to take over your space.

Signs of water damage or leaks. If you start seeing new water stains on walls or ceilings, you probably have water leakage somewhere that you need to check. Needless to say that water damage is one of the biggest causes of mold. At this point, you simply should consider inviting a mold remediation and removal company like SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield to evaluate your property mold growth. If their assessment shows that you have mold then you should begin the mold removal process immediately to avoid the situation degenerating further.

You spot condensation on your windows and metal surfaces. If you notice that your mirrors and windows fog up and you continually see moisture on metal surfaces, this might be an early indicator your home is susceptible to mold, don’t wait until it becomes a serious problem that might cost you a fortune to fix, get professional help!

A Faulty Air Conditioner Can Cause Mold Growth

One of the essential things an efficient air conditioner in a good working condition does is dehumidify your home. The AC simply extracts excess moisture from the air and releases it outside your home. However, an air conditioner with a blocked drainage tube can cause water leakage inside which can lead to mold growth if not promptly fixed. 

How to Prevent Mold Growth Caused by a Faulty AC Unit

There are two key ways to stop mold growth that might be caused by a faulty AC unit:

Proper Air Conditioner Installation

A lot of people get this wrong, and they suffer for a long time. It is important to get your AC unit properly installed from the outset to prevent problems with humidity and indoor moisture control.

Regular Maintenance

One of the proven ways to mitigate mold growth in your home is carrying out routine maintenance of your air conditioner. If you want your air conditioner to serve you well for years then ensure you schedule regular preventive maintenance with a reputable HVAC company yearly to ensure your AC is running efficiently. Also, regular maintenance makes it easy to identify problems at the earliest possible time so you can fix them before they become bigger which might cost you more money. 

Work with a Reliable Mold Remediation and Restoration Company

If you live in or around Southeast El Paso and need a reliable and experienced mold remediation and restoration company to help you get rid of mold from your property then you should consider working with SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield, they have a team of highly-qualified mold remediation and removal professionals with specialized mold remediation equipment available to help save your space from mold damage.

To speak with a mold remediation professional at SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield to discuss your needs, call (915) 234-2679.

What Water Removal Equipment is Ideal for El Paso Offices?

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

From sprinkler head damage to burst pipes, substantial water loss incidents can quickly overwhelm the entire floor of an office building. Standing water is one of the most pressing threats during a water damage emergency, so our team always responds fast to help.

Engine-Driven Extractors Our truck-mount extractor is the most powerful tool for water removal in Southeast El Paso office buildings. We also can utilize this machine with attachments to make it more versatile to changing materials and flooring in an office building like:

• Light wands
• Squeegee wands
• Carpet wands

Wet Vacuums Wet vacuums remain one of the more versatile water removal tools available to our SERVPRO team. Their portability makes them ideal for smaller and confined spaces like closets or office bathrooms, and they have the power to help with the sufficient removal of standing water in larger areas.

Carpet Wands With glue-down carpeting options and short pile flooring throughout the main working areas of the office, water restoration and recovery must also address water after this thin carpeting has absorbed it. Using carpet wands attached to powerful extraction units like the truck-mount motorized machines, we can pull out trapped water absorbed into carpet fibers to protect this flooring from requiring removal and replacement.

Air Movers Promote Fast Drying Drying involves many tools and devices from our inventory. Air movers continue to be a foundational element in removing moisture and surface water. With hundreds of units available, we can put together multiple air movers to provide a large coverage area in open spaces of the office building.

When water damages of any type impacts office buildings, the spread, and severity of these conditions can be overwhelming. Because office buildings feature many open areas where water flow can spread rapidly, large loss extraction and drying tools are vital to overcoming damage. Our SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso / Butterfield team is ready to help when you call (915) 234-2679.

How to Prevent Water Damage at Your El Paso Business

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

A water-related event can be financially devastating to your El Paso business. A burst pipe can cause your business to close, and the lost revenue and the cost of repairs could be devastating.   

If your commercial business or non-profit experiences water damage, contact SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield to quickly mitigate the damage.  While insurance plays a crucial role in lessening the financial impact, it is best to prevent the disaster from happening at all. The following tips will help protect your business from water disasters.

1. Insulate exposed pipes

Properly insulating pipes is the best way to prevent frozen pipes. Dropping temperatures and wind can freeze water inside pipes causing the pipe to burst. 

2. Seal cracks and gaps

Keeping cold air out and warm air in helps to make your home or commercial building more energy efficient and reduces the risk of frozen pipes.  Use caulk, sealants, and weather stripping to seal cracks, gaps and holes in your buildings exterior and foundation.

3. Keep heat at sufficient levels

Keep the thermostat above 50 degrees, even if the building is vacant is crucial. Nighttime temperatures can be significantly colder than daytime temperatures. These differences in temperature increase the risk of freezing pipes.  

4. Inspect gutters and drainage

Leaves and debris can cause water damage to the exterior and interior walls of your home or business. Having a professional clean the gutters will help ensure water drains properly and away from your home or business.

SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield should be your first choice for any residential or commercial restoration.  Our team of professionals is trained to assess the damage, identify potential threats, respond quickly to extract the water and restore your property to preloss condition.  SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield is available 24/7 by calling (915) 234-2679.

Is Your Commercial Toilet Running?

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Your buildings toilets need to run efficiently for the comfort of your employees and customers. However, when a plumbing issue like a toilet overflow happens, it can be unpleasant for everyone. This problem may be caused by a variety of issues, but some can be fixed without the assistance of a plumber. If a toilet keeps running, there are several parts you can check before you call in a flood damage and cleanup service to ensure your bathrooms are properly dried and deodorized after an overflow.

1. The Gasket

Once you turn off the water, the first step to take is to open the winter flushometer. This is the part that causes a commercial toilet to flush efficiently. Use a screwdriver and a wrench to remove the unit’s lid. The gasket is usually located directly under the lid. If it contains a lot of debris or buildup, carefully remove and clean the gasket thoroughly.

2. The Weep Hole

A commercial toilet’s weep hole controls its suction, so when it gets clogged, this may affect water flow and cause a continuous flush. When you remove the toilet’s gasket, take a close look at this small hole. Clean it carefully with a slim tool and ensure all the sediment and other debris is cleared out. This may stop a toilet from flushing constantly and prevent a future toilet flood.

3. The Flange Cover

If this part is loose or corroded, it may be affecting the unit’s proper operation and contribute to a toilet overflow. Note how much water you find under the cover. If there is enough to run over when you remove it, there may be a leak in the gasket or the cover might be faulty, and one or both could need replacing.

How Long Does a Commercial Generator Last?

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

We never realize how much we rely on electricity and internet until it's out. When disaster strikes in Southeast El Paso you can rely on your commercial generator to kick in and keep your business thriving. A commercial generator is a crucial component of many businesses' disaster contingency plans. Take care of yours and it can provide safe, reliable back-up for decades.

What Commercial Generators Do

Commercial generators provide power when your regular service is interrupted. Hiccups in your electricity can be caused by an assortment of causes:

• Floods
• Earthquakes
• Lightning
• Trees and other impacts on power lines
• Auto accidents involving utility poles
• Animals
• A citywide overload of the power grid

Generators themselves can be operated by a variety of sources, including natural gas, diesel, liquid propane and solar power. Each type of fuel carries its own pros and cons. Natural gas, for example, is provided by your utility company, which means you'll have a limitless supply during a lengthy outage. Diesel-powered generators, meanwhile, are commonly viewed as the most reliable.

How Long Commercial Generators Last

Commercial generators should last for an average of 3,000 hours. More sophisticated models may stretch that out to 5,000 hours. In a lifetime of average use — running it during the day during power outages and shutting it off at night — most generators can last for between 20 to 30 years.

How You Can Make It Last Longer

Like most commercial equipment, the key to longevity is regular maintenance and prompt service. Addressing generator problems as soon as they arise, or better still, preventing all together them via regular inspections, can maximize your generator's lifespan and help you get the most out of your investment.

How Can SERVPRO Prevent Your El Paso Business Becoming Overwhelmed by Mold?

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage remediation is no easy task. SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield uses the latest equipment and techniques for mold remediation.

While every situation is different and might require various mold removal tactics and approaches, the threats that spreading microbial organisms can cause are similar from one damaged site to the next. 

Obstacles we must overcome include:

• Damaged materials
• Noxious odors
• Moist conditions
• Structural vulnerabilities

How Can Mold Removal Get Started? 

Removing microbial colonies and beginning mold remediation in Southeast El Paso/Butterfield businesses requires careful evaluations of the property and its condition. We actively pursue the most efficient removal tactics based on the state of hosting materials. Organic matter can become deteriorated from hosting colonies over even a brief period. Surface treatments like sanding and antimicrobial cleaning can remove superficial colonization, but controlled demolition can also be necessary for some situations.

As challenging as mold remediation needs might be for area businesses, our SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield team can help with fast and effective removal options. Give us a call today at (915) 234-2679.

When is it Safe for Employees to Return to Work After a Flood?

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

It's natural to want to return to work as soon as possible after your business suffers from a costly incident, such as a "black water" flood. After all, you have this big expense to pay off and you're losing money just by not being at the office. No matter how eager you are, you still have to consider your employees' personal safety. Keep the following safety considerations in mind before you send your employees back to your Southeast El Paso office. 

1. Sweep Up Any Physical Debris. The physical damages should be the first task you address during flood cleanup. Strong floodwaters can introduce harmful objects into the office, such as stray nails and glass shards. Make sure to sweep the office floors thoroughly to ensure every hidden danger is taken care of. As a business owner, your employees' personal safety should be your number one priority. Taking the time and effort to thoroughly clean and disinfect your office building following a black waterflood is a non-negotiable task for you. Contact flood remediation experts for assistance during the cleanup process. 

2. Clear Out the Flood Water. Both black and gray water floods pose major safety concerns for your employees. Black water is characterized by the presence of harmful biohazards, such as human/animal fecal matter, raw sewage, and dangerous chemicals. You have to make sure you clear out all of the contaminated floodwaters and thoroughly disinfect every exposed surface before you allow your employees to return to the office. 
 

3.Check the Air Quality. It's very possible that the biohazards introduced with the floodwater are now in the air. Make sure to set up fans and other air filtration devices throughout your building to help eliminate harmful agents. As an additional safety measure, you may want to consider keeping these filtration devices running even after your employees come back. 

If your business is experiencing a flood, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso today!

Maintaining Your Southeast El Paso Businesses' Commercial Carpets

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

Although most commercial carpets are made for durability, dirt and debris will still build up over time in them because of all the foot-traffic. Maintaining regular cleaning will be beneficial to your carpet because once a carpet gets too soiled, it may never be restored to its original appearance. 

Preventative maintenance actions include: 

• Regular vacuuming
• Spot removal
• Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

Even when you follow preventive maintenance actions, carpets will still have dirt trapped below the surface that you cannot see with the eye, especially in dark carpets. Carpets act as a filter trapping gasses, hair, dirt, and dust. Did you know that 79% of soil in carpets is dry soil? To reduce that percentage, you should get your company's carpet professionally cleaned once a year. Protect your company's investment by having it cleaned by SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso !

Because each carpet is different, we offer a number of options to keep your carpet and upholstery brand new. Our cleaning methods include:

• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
• Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.

For a cleaning from SERVPRO® of Southeast El Paso that is backed by state-of-the-art equipment and technicians trained to the highest standards, call us today to schedule an appointment. 

Commercial Fire Damage | SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

Offices across the United States suffer from fires more often than you think. A fire in the workplace is devastating to not only employees but also the business owner. Depending on how large the fire is if you are not prepared the likelihood of recovering can lower. Educating employees on common fire risks and ensuring they follow protocol can help minimize fires.

Damaged Power Cords

Because offices are jampacked with computers, phones, printers, kitchen appliances, and more, over time the electrical system can become overwhelmed. This can cause electrical shock which can result in a spark or fire starting. To avoid this from happening, check on your electrical panels regularly and make sure no wires are corroded. 

Dust

If your office is not regularly being cleaned, dust is accumulating. When dust builds up on wood, metal, and plastic it can become a fire hazard. Items that heat up such as computers, microwaves, and wires should always be kept dust-free.

Combustible Materials

Offices often have many papers, boxes, furnishing, and packaging lying around. All of these items can cause a fire to spread quicker than normal. Although many items are important to the daily functions of the office, try to keep it as tidy and minimal as possible. Fireproof furniture and desks should also be considered for the purposes of limiting what gets damaged and how fast the fire spreads.

Computers

Most offices have one computer per employee. Depending on how many employees you have, those can all be fire hazards. Employees should ensure they are not letting their computers overheat, or leaving laptops on materials that can catch fire if the laptop heats up too much. All employees should shut down their computers daily, and especially on the weekend.

After learning of all the fire hazards present in offices, it is important to have a plan. SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso offers an Emergency Ready Profile which allows for us to start mitigation sooner to get you back into your building quicker. Call us today to get one up!

Commercial Water Damage Methods in Butterfield

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

If a pipe breaks and water starts to leak into your auto shop in Butterfield, building materials and contents are at risk. Water can flow into all areas of your shop and damage multiple types of flooring. Most automobile repair shops have hard surface floors, but there might be tile in one room and concrete in the central area.
 
The longer moisture stays inside a building, the higher chance there is for items to sustain damage. SERVPRO's commercial water damage technicians in Butterfield have different types of equipment to extract and dry moisture out of the various types of materials. Depending on each situation we use a combination of methods and tools to mitigate moisture problems.
 
If concrete is painted, it may flake or blister requiring repainting. Concrete floors are porous so water can wick up leaving behind chalk-like calcium deposits on the surface. These can get brushed off, but if the leak is continuous, the deposits can return.
 
Asphalt tiles stay adhered to concrete pretty well even in water damage scenarios. At times the glue can break down and leave behind white, chalky deposits. These deposits can usually be cleaned without much effort.
 
Vinyl tile is not as durable and does not adhere as well to concrete as asphalt tile does. Vinyl tile can become loose when saturated with water. Vinyl tiles become loose when water flows on top of the concrete underneath the tiles. In most cases, vinyl tiling gets removed and replaced because it is relatively inexpensive.
 
Whenever your business gets damaged, we know it can take a toll on your company's revenues. We always take measures to ensure that your business does not get negatively affected during the restoration process. Many times the drying and extraction procedures take place when your business is closed.
 
Hard surface floors are usually quickly dried out and treated when damaged by moisture. Hardwood floors are made to withstand water but can still get warped if they stay wet for too long. Any time water causes a problem with your auto shop call SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield at 915.234.2679 24/7.

Why Your Southeast El Paso Business Needs an ERP!

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Everything you have built at your Southeast El Paso business can quickly be ruined by a fire or water damage incident. Your El Paso business needs fast water removal and fire mitigation when an emergency arises. Water and fire losses quickly cause significant damage to the structure and the contents of your business, and the situation gets worse hour by hour.

By signing up for an Emergency READY Profile through SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield, you are saving your business from a potential interruption in the event of an emergency or disaster. The ERP focuses on incident response and disaster recovery. Having pertinent information in one place allows for SERVPRO to have an immediate plan of action to help minimize fire or water damage to your property. Did you know when a business faces disaster, only 50% recover and those that did had a plan in place?

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Plan and Profile (ERP) takes a few steps to complete. You can set up a time with one of our managers to walk through your facility with you and our manager will point out potential vulnerabilities, including areas where excess water could collect, records, systems, and supplies that are at risk for severe damage if any disasters occur.

What makes the SERVPRO ERP so special is that it is completely free to sign up! There is also no reoccurring fee to keep your profile active, which means you never need to allocate any funds towards it. You can also access your ERP at any time through our mobile app, which makes reporting an emergency or updating your info seamless. 

The ERP contains only essential information to keep your business safe and sound during an emergency. For example, where main valves are for gas, water, and electricity, any items we should recover first, if your business stores hazardous materials, and who the main point of contact is.  This allows our crew members to know the exact building layout, and important areas so your business is “Ready for whatever happens.” 

Because SERVPRO of  Southeast El Paso/Butterfield is a 24/7/365 business, you can always count on us for your disaster mitigation and restoration services.  If you are interested in protecting your business by having a plan in place, call SERVPRO of  Southeast El Paso/Butterfield at 915.234.2679 to get your disaster plan in place today!

COVID Proofing Your Southeast El Paso / Butterfield Business

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Not every business gets the luxury of working from home during the COVID-19 Pandemic, especially if your business thrives on customers. Routine cleaning of your business is essential to limiting guests, and employees to exposure. Follow these tips to sanitize your space!

Start by educating workers, and developing policies for worker protection. This can include enforcing masks, and having a policy if workers start to feel ill. When cleaning your establishment, wear disposable gloves and start with plain soap and water and then use a disinfectant. Soap and water will reduce the number of germs and following with disinfectant will kill germs. Make sure to focus on high touch surfaces. These include but are not limited to: 

• Tables
• Doorknobs
• Light switches 
• Countertops
• Handles
• Desks
• Phones
• Keyboards
• Toilets
• Faucets
• Sinks

If an employee or customer has tested positive for COVID-19 it is best to let the professionals take care of the sanitizing. SERVPRO® of Southeast El Paso / Butterfield offers a defensive pathogen cleaning program, that goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. We will tailor the program based on the need of your facility and use an EPA- Approved Hospital-Grade solution to decontaminate. Once completed you can be sure your business is Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned. You will get a Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned shield to place in your front window to let employees and customers know your business is committed to keeping everyone safe and comfortable.

If you are interested in our commercial cleaning services or want to learn more about our Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned program, contact us! 

Creating Comprehensive Fire Evacuation Plans for Staff | SERVPRO® of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

If your business experiences any fire damage, you can count on us. SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield specializes in commercial fire restoration

If you are a business owner, you likely have plenty of long-term plans for your business in the works—but have you considered how a fire could derail them? Fires in the workplace are quite common, so including a fire preparedness plan is a wise choice for the owner of any establishment.

Oftentimes, starting a fire preparedness plan will be the biggest challenge of the whole process, so we always suggest that owners begin with the biggest safety concerns first—namely, getting themselves and their employees to safety in the event of a fire. Hosting fire evacuation drills is the best place to start so everyone can have the know-how to escape quickly and calmly.

Getting Employees to Safety in the Event of a Fire

Consult with your local fire officials. You can find so many tips regarding fire safety online, but do not forget about making use of the local resources you have at hand. You can typically get in touch with your nearest fire department and have them visit to provide personalized recommendations regarding your evacuation route options and preparedness plans.

Communicate and mark fire evacuation routes. Once you have decided what the best escape routes are, make sure they are clearly marked. Talk with your staff regarding your plans for a future drill so they know to be alert and what will be expected of them throughout the process.

Have fire drills frequently. While it may seem frustrating to take time out of everyone’s day to have a fire drill on a regular basis, safety is the most important thing when it comes to operating a business. Many businesses simply do a 30-minute drill quarterly, including the actual evacuation and a post-drill roundup to address any questions or concerns.

Run different fire scenarios. With all the ways a fire can start, it is important to have comprehensive evacuation planning in place to account for this. Run through a different mock scenario with every drill—perhaps one has a fire originating in the kitchen, while another has it originating in the supply closet. This way your staff can get used to making decisions quickly regarding what exits and evacuation pathways to take.

If your business has experienced fire damage, you can count on us. We specialize in commercial fire restoration and will be here for you at any hour—contact us today.

Do You Have A Funky Smell In Your Condo?

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

Get rid of those funky smells and call Get rid of those funky smells and call SERVPRO® of El Paso/Butterfield (915)-234-2679

Do you have a new tenant moving in, but can't get rid of a funky smell? Well have no fear, SERVPRO® of El Paso/Butterfield is here! 

You may be dealing with some unpleasant odors in your condo. Funky smells from pets, foods, cigarette smoke or just plain old grime can make life in a small-sized living space truly unbearable. As renovation and home repair experts, here at SERVPRO® of El Paso/Butterfield we have a lot of experience in handling interior odor situations. Today, we would like to list some tips for you that can help you when deodorizing your condominium. 

• Clean every surface, including behind your refrigerator and stove, and consider replacing your shower liner, bed linens, and mattress pad, too. Pantries and vanities can often hold old food and products that emit smells due to their age, so purging these items can really help. 
• Make sure you clean fabrics like drapes, throw pillows, and zippered upholstery according to their cleaning instructions. Any rugs or carpeting should be professionally cleaned for a fresh start. SERVPRO® of El Paso/Butterfield employs all the necessary equipment for deep carpet-cleaning. 
• A fresh coat of paint can also go a long way toward making your condominium smell and feel like new. Clean and flat neutral colors will make your condo seem larger, as well.
• Pet odor has become the most common problem stinking up people’s homes, and has actually surpassed cigarette smoke! People smoke in their homes less often these days because they don’t want their furniture to soak in the smell. Smoke-free condominiums have a premium over smokers’ units, so your property manager will really appreciate your choice to smoke outside, too. When it comes to your pets, make sure they are using the proper facilities for their needs, and make sure to empty the litter box daily to help deodorize your condominium. 

In a smoker’s residence, there can be instances where the smell becomes so entrenched that the sheetrock of walls has to be redone to avoid the home being completely devalued. If that is a possibility in your case, SERVPRO® of El Paso/Butterfield can help you to deodorize your condominium. We specialize in carpet cleaning and large scale cleanups.

Is Your Business Properly Prepared?

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

Don’t be one of the 60% of businesses to not have a formal emergency response plan.

When a disaster strikes the time to prepare has passed. Roughly 80% of businesses are likely to go out of business if they do not recover after a disaster within a months’ time, and 50% of businesses never reopen. The best way to protect your company is to have a solid game plan. Is your business prepared for a natural disaster to hit?

Well you are in luck; SERVPRO® of El Paso/Butterfield is here to help! We have been working with local business to ensure that they will not fall victim to these statistics.

SERVPRO® has an amazing program called the EMERGENCY READY PROFILE. This program aids property managers and owners, both residential and commercial to be prepared for a disaster to hit.

We will walk you step by step to help you put together an EMERGENCY READY PROFILE. We will help you identify and label utility shut-off locations, identify local utility contact information, identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts, and establish main internal contacts for purposes of employee safety and emergency work authorization.

For more information please contact SERVPRO® of El Paso/Butterfield (915)-234-2679. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. "Like it never even happened."