Time for some Spring Cleaning? Let us Help!

4/19/2023 (Permalink)

April Showers bring May flowers so let us do the cleaning while you enjoy Springtime!

It's that time of year when everyone starts getting the Spring Cleaning bug....  we have been stuck inside for more days than us Floridians like due to cold weather.  

Even though we have not had a harsh winter, it just keeps going up and down in temperature.  We hope we are on the down slope towards Spring!  

Now is the time to plan what you can clean, schedule with SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg what you might like us to clean and prepare for long days at the beach or on the river.

Here is a cleaning list to help you with what you might like to clean and then you can just schedule with us through this website or calling our office located in Orange Park, Florida at 904-861-8870.  You might also want to get your HVAC ductwork cleaned and we have the best prices in town for the advanced equipment we use versus just using a small shop vac system as some of our competitors use. 

We would be glad to assist you in any of your needs.  

How Technology is Valuable during a Hurricane

9/28/2022 (Permalink)

Technology is important during a Hurricane

While the idea of technology seems simple on the outside, the constant updates and innovations can deter people from learning all that their devices can do for them. When emergencies or natural disasters hit close to home, it can be extremely advantageous to know how to make the best use of your technological devices. Technology allows you to stay updated on outside conditions as well as let family and friends know where you are.

We recommend keeping portable chargers readily accessible so that you can make the most of your technology during an emergency. Keep these tips on how to effectively use your devices in mind.

Applications for News Updates

Checking apps for updates on your smartphone is a fast and easy way to catch up with the latest news in North Clay County to include western Orange Park, North Middleburg, Oakleaf and areas around Black Creek. Make sure you have reliable news apps downloaded before inclement weather hits so that you can stay posted on local weather conditions and national updates.

Mark Yourself Safe

Another helpful feature of social media that not a lot of people know to use is the ability to mark yourself as safe. Facebook offers a feature called Safety Check that lets users mark themselves as safe if there is a dangerous situation in or near where you live. Simply updating your status as safe lets family and friends know that for the time being, you are out of harm’s way. The Red Cross has a similar feature called Safe & Well, which is both an app and website, where users can be marked safe.

Use Online Storage

Websites like Google Drive and DropBox ease the stress of possibly losing important copies of identification cards, passports, insurance policies, medical records, pet records, etc. in the event of a disaster. Be sure to scan and save any important documents before inclement weather is expected.

Make SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg your go-to team when your home or business in is in need of any kind of remediation. Call us today at (904) 861-8870.

Don't let Water put your business on hold

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Don't let this be you! We are Here to Help 24/7/365

If you have a large commercial flood in your Clay County Office building, SERVPRO of North Clay County / Oakleaf / North Middleburg is here to help! We have many years of large loss experience and have resources available that not many other companies have. 

It is important that every large loss is properly handled with documentation and proper steps taken. Doing the job correct the first time is important to prevent secondary damages from occurring. 

We strive to be an education company in the disaster restoration industry. With that said if you have any questions on what to do or how to even be better prepared, feel free to reach out to us at any time. We have several team members that are trained and specialize in different areas of large loss restoration. We will make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at our Orange Park office at 904-861-8870!

What if your boat has a fire? Are you ready if this happens?

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

Helpful Tips to Enjoy your Boat Safely This Summer!

Summer has arrived, which means it’s boating season. Whether you are trying to sneak in some lake time or preparing to head out for a bit of fishing, fire safety on the water should always be a priority. Boat fires are more common than you think. Common causes of boat fires include equipment failures, fuel leaks, or poor fueling practices. Be prepared.  Make sure you have the correct fire suppression equipment to prevent or extinguish boat fires. Here are some handy fire safety tips for boaters.  

Which Kind of Fire Extinguisher Should Be on Your Boat?

The United States Coast Guard has requirements for the number of portable fire extinguishers to be carried on engine-driven recreational boats. For any boats under 26 feet, the requirement is at least one two-pound fire extinguisher. For boats between 26 and 40 feet, there should be at least two (2) 2 lb. fire extinguishers or one 2.5 lb extinguisher. For boats that are between 40 and 65 feet, the requirement is three (3) 2 lb. fire extinguishers. For detailed information, you can visit Boat US at www.boatus.org. 

The type of fire extinguisher used for your boat fires is critical. Many boat fires are of electrical origin, but that is not always the case. Picking an ABC fire extinguisher will ensure that fires can be safely extinguished. You will be protected while boating this way.

Typical Causes of Boat Fires

The most likely origins of boat fires are electrical panels, galley cooking appliances and the engine compartment. Given this information, it is not shocking that a lot of boating fires are caused by fuel and electrical systems. Most boat fires are caused by issues with 12-volt DC electrical systems associated with batteries or engines located inside the engine compartment. Poorly maintained wiring within an enclosed area containing gasoline or diesel fuel is a common source of fires. Overloaded outlets and faulty plugs can create dangerous scenarios. Cooling system failures and the resulting overheated engines are also a source for fires.

SERVPRO of North Clay County / Oakleaf / North Middleburg is located right here in Orange Park, Florida to assist with cleanup if you need us.

Do you need your ducts (HVAC) cleaned?

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

Ductwork can be part of what is irritating your senses, you might want to have them checked out.

There are so many impurities that can run through your HVAC duct system which is why is it important to have them cleaned. Smoke, dust, dirt, pet dander and hair, pollen, smoke and mold can all be circulating through your ductwork.

When this occurs you, your family, employees, etc. could be exposed to dust or allergens that continue to circulate. Mold growth in the ductwork or HVAC system can cause damage and as spores circulate through the air, can pose other concerns. Impurities that flow through your HVAC ductwork can also lead to odors in the home.

Duct cleaning services are usually on an as needed basis and while there is no need to clean them regularly, you may have certain circumstances where they need cleaning more often. For example, you may have mold or mildew growth which can cause a moldy smell or you may even be able to see mold growth within the ducts or HVAC system. Pests such as mice are also able to penetrate through ducts through the attic, crawlspace or even outdoors. If they nest or even die inside they leave behind droppings, bodies, and impurities.

If you ever find yourself needing a duct inspection or cleaning service then please feel free to call us here at SERVPRO of North Clay County / Oakleaf / North Middleburg and we can give you a quote for cleaning.  We provide services in Orange Park, Oakleaf, Middleburg and MacClenny to assist you with your cleaning needs.  We utilize high performance machines that provide the vacuum and air flow required to achieve a negative pressure and remove contaminants from an air duct system whereas some companies are using small, hand held equipment that will not have enough power to vacuum the lines of your HVAC trunk lines. These portable vacuum systems are designed for both residential and commercial air duct cleaning and meet the National Air Duct Cleaning Association (NADCA) standards for the proper capture and Source Removal method of cleaning HVAC systems.  

There are a couple of steps that you can take to help keep the HVAC ductwork such as changing air filters on a regular basis. You can also clean the vents thoroughly with warm soapy water removing the impurities from the vents.   We offer our professional opinion to determine your specific needs.

Types of Smoke that can cause Damage

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

We are experts in cleaning up soot from a fire damage, regardless of what caused the fire and what materials burned.

Did you know that there are four different types of smoke? Wet, Dry, Oily, and Protein

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.

Oily Smoke - Grease, Fuel Burning, and Burnt Plastics

• Easily smeared, resistant to wet cleaning

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 - SERVPRO of North Clay County / Oakleaf / North Middleburg is located in Orange Park, Florida is ready to respond and answer your questions on how to tell which type your fire might have been and also clean.  If you don't know which type of soot it is, you can DO MORE DAMAGE by trying to clean it yourself.  You also have to know what kind of paint you have or you could do more damage as well.  You can reach us at 904-861-8870 and we will be glad to assist you.   We cover Middleburg, Oakleaf, Orange Park, Jacksonville, Macclenny and other surrounding areas.  

Prepare for Heavy Rain - The Correct Way

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Rain Heavily Falling and Gutters Overflowing with Rain Water

Living in Florida there is always that chance of heavy rain storms coming our way.  SERVPRO of North Clay County / Oakleaf / North Middleburg has worked on multiple projects that were due to the surplus of rain.  The most memorable one being 2012 during Tropical Storm Debbie.  With almost 30 inches of rain in a short time we had several people call us at all hours of the day and night due to leaks caused by the rain. Sometimes these leaks are unavoidable, but we want to make sure you are prepared for the next storm.  

There are various forms of getting prepared for rainy weather but for the most part normal maintenance will keep your home or business safe from heavy rain.

Here are some tips to avoid rain damage. 

• Plant shade trees or palm trees at least 20 feet away from your home. 
• If you have gutters, make sure they are clean. 
• Ensure there are no leaks on your roof. 
• Check for damage on your home or business and repairs are needed. 
• Weatherstrip windows and doors. 
• Have your trees trimmed. 

Are Your Floors Buckling?

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Are Your Wood Floors Buckling? Call us for a Moisture Test!

"Some moisture-related problems are visible to the discerning eye. Primarily, wood flooring problems can occur when the wood expands and contracts. This “wood movement” occurs naturally according to seasonal shifts or when ambient RH levels change in the home. These changes can also present a less-than-desirable change in the appearance of your wood flooring."

If you begin to see signs of your floors shifting, there could be underlying moisture. Failure to act on this moisture could result in structural damage.

Water Damage Specialists

We are specialists in restoration of water damaged floors and are ready to restore your business or home back to pre-water damage condition. We quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment. SERVPRO of North Clay County / Oakleaf / North Middleburg located in Orange Park, Florida uses moisture monitoring equipment to effectively measure and document the drying process to ensure your property is dry.

Our technicians are certified and trained and go to continuing education courses designed to keep us up to date on all new equipment and industry standard drying methods.

If you have any questions please feel free to call us at 904-861-8870 and we will be glad to provide a free assessment, moisture check, etc. or just answer your questions.  

YIKES! I Think That’s Mold!

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

What is hidden behind your walls?

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If you think you may have a mold infestation, let SERVPRO of North Clay County / Oakleaf / North Middleburg in Orange Park, Fl. put your mind at ease.  Call us at (904) 861-8870.

How Do I Properly Clean My Orange Park Home After A Fire?

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Right after you call the Fire Department in Clay County, Make SERVPRO of North Clay County your very next call!

Contacting a cleaning professional may be the best decision you can make if a fire occurs in your home. The flames, heat, soot, and smoke will affect every room in your house, and your structure can even be adversely affected. Recovery from a fire event is a tremendous job, so you will need the assistance of professionals who have the expertise and equipment required to get your work or personal space back to normal as soon as possible. Our SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg team can be onsite right away to help you begin the recovery process.  Located in Clay County - Orange Park, Florida we are right in our beautiful community and Here to Help!

What Steps Can I Take While Waiting For SERVPRO of North Clay County To Arrive At My Home or Business?

While you are waiting for SERVPRO to arrive, there are some things you can do to begin the cleaning and recovery process:

• Be sure to limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of the leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What Types Of Fire-Related Cleaning and Restoration Services Does SERVPRO of North Clay County / Oakleaf / North Middleburg Offer?

Cleaning Process. SERVPRO specializes in restoring the contents of a home or business that has suffered from fire damage or water damage. The team will assess all your belongings carefully to determine which items can be restored to their “pre-fire” condition and will use several cleaning methods to restore your property to its original condition. These can include:

• Foam. The foam method is used for upholstery since upholstery can shrink, or the colors may bleed in water.
• Dry. This method gets rid of light residue.
• Wet. This technique is a very effective cleaning method used to remove moderate to heavy residues.
• Immersion. In this method, items are dipped into a bath of cleaning products for a thorough cleaning that removes heavy residues and overwhelming odors.  

• Electronics. Electronics damaged by fire and the accompanying smoke often present a serious hazard, so never turn on fire-damaged electrical devices. The smoke residue contains acids that corrode metal and can cause electronic failure in an electrical component. Computers, televisions, and CD/DVD players should be assessed and cleaned by a professional before being used. 

• Odor Removal. Inhaling smoke can have an immediate negative effect on you, even if it’s only for a short time, so managing lingering soot and smoke is important. Hiring a professional fire and smoke damage restoration contractor will ensure that your property is free from the after-effects of a fire quickly and thoroughly. 

• Reconstruction. If the smoke and fire damage to your home or business is such that it will need extensive restoration or rebuilding, SERVPRO can organize your move-out process. Removing your items from designated areas will help any remodeling process go a lot faster and protect them from any further damage. Once that is complete, we can then coordinate and organize your move back into your premises to get back to normal.

If your Clay County home or business located in Middleburg, Oakleaf or Orange Park has suffered damage from fire, water, or mold, SERVPRO of North Clay County team is fire damage and water damage experts, and we handle mold remediation, too. As part of our fire restoration services, we remove all unpleasant fire-related odors, as well. 

This franchise is independently owned and operated.  We are located in your community and are Here to Help!  

Hurricane Names for 2022

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

2022 - Are You Ready

The 2022 hurricane season is underway and the first named storm of the season is now behind us.  Although tropical systems can form in any month of the year (and they have), the official hurricane season for the Atlantic basin runs from June 1 to November 30.

Tropical storms and hurricanes are named via a 6-year rotating list, standardized by the World Meteorological Organization. Representatives from hurricane-prone nations contribute names for the lists, which alternate between male and female. The letters Q, U, X, Y, and Z are not used.

There have been two changes to the list since 2016. Matthew was retired after causing almost 600 deaths and over $16 billion in damages. It has been replaced by Martin in the 2022 list. Otto caused substantial damage in Central America in November 2016, and will be replaced by Owen in 2022 and beyond.

If a hurricane season turns hyperactive with more than 21 named storms, the National Hurricane Center will then proceed to a supplemental list of names.

NOAA is expecting between 14 to 21 named storms with six to 10 hurricanes. Of those hurricanes, they anticipate three to six will become major hurricanes. CSU’s outlook predicts 20 named storms including 10 hurricanes, five of which they expect to be major hurricanes.

Those of us living in North Florida always are hopeful for a quiet hurricane season and when we do have one coming are normally well prepared.  For those of you new to Florida see a prior blog of ours about hurricane preparedness.   

Our office, located in Orange Park, Florida in North Clay County is Here and Ready to Help if your home or business experience any damage. We are 24 / 7 / 365 available for emergency services.  You can reach us at 904-861-8870.  Areas of service are North Middleburg, Oakleaf, Orange Park and a small portion of Jacksonville.  

Prepare your home before leaving on vacation

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure when you return your home is as you left it by preparing it before you leave.

Many people are heading out of town soon for summer break / vacation. Here are a few helpful tips we recommend you do before you leave. 

1. Leave a ‘lived in’ home. Set timers on lamps and place a hold on packages. 

2. Lock more than just the doors. Don't forget to lock all garage entry doors, back doors, and windows. Also, if you have any pet doors, cover them from the inside. 

3. Unplug all of your appliances. Mixers, coffee makers, other daily use countertop items. It's amazing how things can short out with minimal interference. 

4. Inform your most trusted neighbors. Let them know how long you’ll be away and ask them to check the house and maybe pull your mail. 

5. Contact the alarm company and let them know that you'll be gone. Activity from certain dates will be treated as legitimate. 

6. Remove outdoor spare or hidden keys. 

7. Turn off your water. Shutting the water off, whether it’s the main line, under the toilet or the kitchen sink, will mitigate water damage loss should disaster strike. 

If you do come home after a vacation and find a problem, our number is 904-861-8870. SERVPRO of North Clay County located on Knight Boxx Road in Orange Park, Florida is locally owned and operated, and we are always glad to take care of you when the unexpected happens. 

Have a great vacation and stay safe!

Here to Help

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's work together to help communities recover after a storm

SERVPRO'S from surrounding areas head in from all over to help the in areas that have been affected by inclement weather.  SERVPRO is a team oriented company that has compassion for everything we do and everyone we help.  When another area of the country is impacted with a storm or tragedy we can call upon our fellow teammates to come in and help.  Sometimes due to the area being affected it may require out of state SERVPRO's to respond in a time of need.  We have traveled to Pennsylvania, Michigan, Texas, Louisiana just to name a few and continue to be ready for the call when we are needed.  The goal is to assist our fellow SERVPRO's and treat all customers with the best customer service experience as one, unified company.  After all was said and done, all the help of these surrounding SERVPRO's were able to team up together and restore this broken community. 

Factors That Can Affect Mold Cleanup Time

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

Check closets and rooms unused often to ensure you don't have hidden mold growth

Professional remediation of microbes per Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) protocols addresses multiple factors contributing to home mold damage. 

Typical home microbial cleanup takes less than a week, usually between one and five days, depending on the level of contamination. It may take only several hours at most for small amounts of surface-level mold. Heavily contaminated buildings, such as those with extensive flood damage that can increase microbial growth, may take more time to repair and replace unsalvageable components.

SERVPRO professionals consult with homeowners about the mold cleanup process to formulate a comprehensive restoration plan, which can include:

• Containment procedures that prevent mold from spreading are implemented with polyethylene sheeting over doorways and vent registers. Technicians can also perform temporary duct sealing services to prevent HVAC from spreading spores during remediation
• Technicians can also clean contaminated sheet metal vents with OSHA-approved sanitizers and replace flex ducts impacted by mold.
• SERVPRO personal protective equipment (PPE) allows technicians to clean and remediate spores safely. PPE is decontaminated in a designated space to prevent mold damage from spreading unintentionally during cleanup
• SERVPRO crew members prevent spores from floating in the air with HEPA-filter air scrubbers that can lower local air pressure in a sealed room, which causes microbes to sink to the floor for thorough cleanup with vacuums that can catch microbes as minuscule as 0.3 microns
• Controlled demolition on unsalvageable sheetrock, insulation, and other components allows techs to prepare affected areas for structural repairs, reinstallation and repainting as needed

Here in Orange Park, Middleburg, Oakleaf and Jacksonville you can depend on SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg to assess the damage and give a qualified opinion to assist you in making decisions on remediation.  You can reach us at 904-861-8870 to speak with a certified mold remediator at no charge.

Should I have my Ducts Cleaned?

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Excessive Dust vs Cleaned System

Knowledge about the potential benefits and possible problems of air duct cleaning is limited. Since conditions in every home are different, it is impossible to generalize about whether or not air duct cleaning in your home would be beneficial.

You should inspect your ducts if your furniture is excessively dusty or if you notice your registers (vents) are dust filled.  After a visual inspection of the inside of the ducts, you see no indication that your air ducts are contaminated with large deposits of dust or mold (no musty odor or visible mold growth), having your air ducts cleaned is probably unnecessary.

On the other hand, if someone in your household suffers from allergies, unexplained symptoms or illnesses you may want to consider having your ducts cleaned.  It is normal for the return registers to get dusty as dust-laden air is pulled through the grate. This does not indicate that your air ducts are contaminated with heavy deposits of dust or debris; the registers can be easily vacuumed or removed and cleaned.

Contact SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg located in Orange Park, Florida (904) 861-8870 to have your ducts cleaned today!

What's that Smell?

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Call your local SERVPRO for odor removal

Business owners, property managers, realtors & homeowners may be totally unaware that their business or home has an unpleasant odor.  It can be unrecognizable to them but immediately apparent to visitors on entering their work places or homes.

Candles, aerosol cans or cooking good smelling baked goods cannot get rid of the smell.  To eliminate the odor, the source of the smell first must be found and then removed.  Once this is done the affected area can be treated to rid the home of the unpleasant odor.

Realtors, as you know one of the most offensive odors to people looking for a new home is cigarette smoke.  Most buyers will not even look at or consider buying a home where smoking is allowed.  This odor will penetrate all porous materials in a home; such as carpets, furniture, window treatments, clothing, drywall, cabinets, and doors. 

Although most people love animals and consider them a part of their family, there is still an issue with pet odors.  No matter how “trained” an animal is there are always accidents, and as animals age these accidents always tend to be more common.  Urine is a bio-hazard and has to be treated as such.  And it just does not absorb into the carpet, but also the padding and subfloor.  Sometimes, the walls and floors have to be clean, sealed and treated before new paint or floor covering can be installed.  Remember!  Urine is a bio-hazard and most over the counter products will not effectively clean a bio-hazard substance. 

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg has professionally trained technicians that are committed to help you rid your home of offensive odors.  Our technicians are trained with different processes to remove these odors from wherever you might need help.  Call us at (904) 861-8870 for assistance in helping with all of your cleaning and deodorization needs.  We also cover McClenney and a small portion of Jacksonville in our coverage territory so call us if you need assistance.  

Are you Prepared for Hurricane Season

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Disaster Supply Kit Checklist

Here at SERVPRO we are prepared and ready for whatever happens!  To assist your family or business in being prepared we recommend you have a preparedness plan.  FloridaDisaster.org recommends the attached list of items to include in your plan. 

Here in Clay County we have low lying areas and we have Black Creek, that is prone to flooding.  Being prepared for overflowing water is a must.  When something such as a hurricane is headed our way, Clay County has areas designated to offer sand bags to assist in your efforts to keep things from flood water intrusion.  

Along with these tips, there are evacuation routes per zone (residential and commercial) and you can find those here. 

If there is anything SERPVRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg can do to assist you please feel free to call.  Advice is always free!

Fire Safety & Halloween Tips from SERVPRO

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO wants YOU to Stay Safe for Halloween

If you’re carving pumpkins, odds are you’re also adding candles to add that spooky flicker on Halloween night. But multiple pumpkins with multiple candles outside can also increase the risk of fire. Especially with children running around in costumes that may be hard to see out of. Glow sticks and battery powered candles are a great, safe alternative that can still be just as spooky.

Remember that 3 out of 5 home fire deaths happened in homes without working fire alarms, so if you do decide to use candles, check to make sure your fire detectors are working properly. That way in the event of an accident you’re prepared to be alerted and take action.

Home electrical fires account for an estimated 51,000 fires each year.

If you’re really going all out for the season, you might find yourself with a large inflatable ghost or animatronic Frankenstein terrorizing your neighbors from your front lawn. Most similar decorations can even be purchased at any hardware store. But refrain from getting too many though as the more plugs in a socket only increase the risk of electrocution or an electrical fire.

By following some general safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association you can keep your children and family safe!

What's under your floor? Do you know??

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

Is this underneath your home or business?

The reasons you might have standing water under your home include a clogged low-point drain, leaking pipes, cracks in the foundation of your home, issues with foundation vents, moisture from the ground, etc..   

Obviously this is not ideal.  

Water pooled at your foundation and collecting in your crawl space can be damaging. It can lead to structural and health effects if left neglected. The ground under your home can be compromised leading to settling. A building that has settled too much has creaks in the floors and sticky doors.

Most times, water in the crawl space gets there one of three ways: a plumbing leak, water seepage from the surrounding soil (usually after heavy rain), or condensation. (Humidity condenses on cold surfaces, like ducts, and drips onto the crawl space floor.)

Using fans in your crawl space drain system will help dry out the area thoroughly and quickly, and will help prevent the growth of mold. Afterward, be sure and have a dehumidifier in place to keep the area dry. Sandbags are also a great way to help dry out a basement that is below ground level.

If you notice any damage to your floor such as cupping or curling, discoloration, etc. please call us at 904-861-8870 (SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg) and we will be glad to assess the situation and advise you to the best of our ability.

Once You Call SERVPRO to Your North Florida Home, We Arrive Within Hours to Begin Water Cleanup and Drying

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

Rubber ducks are cute, but they belong in the bathtub

If your duck has found a new pond in a place a pond shouldn’t be, call us.  Our professionals will get it back to the proper water and make sure your home is dry land, once again.

Many water incidents take place that cannot get cleaned up with a mop and bucket. Even if you have a wet-dry vacuum at your Clay County home, most standing water calls for skilled technicians for rapid cleanup to keep secondary damage from setting in. With a single call to SERVPRO, we are Faster to Any Size Disaster, and we can get to work right away so that you have the rapid water removal you need. 

How Does Water Cleanup Work?

Once water cleanup in Orange Park is underway, our team works to repair and restore your interior wherever water damage has set in. The work performed here may include repair or replacement of:

• Drywall
• Baseboards
• Flooring 
• Insulation
• Carpeting

Our crew utilizes a broad range of controlled demolition techniques to bring your business back to preloss condition so that everything is just “Like it never even happened.” We always work with a plan to restore rather than replace so that we can save you the most time and money for your water cleanup project.

We adjust our cleanup protocols based on each unique job that we get. For large amounts of standing water, we use truck mounted pump extractors to pull up thousands of gallons promptly. We also have specialized tools for handling water removal from your carpets to salvage as much as possible. Once standing water is gone, we implement drying techniques using:

• Centrifugal Air Movers – Sometimes called a ‘snail shell’ or turbo dryer, these fans produce focused, powerful air movement.
• Axial Fans – Powerful fans force air to move with high dynamic pressure while being light, small, and easy to move around to adjust drying protocols.
• Dehumidifiers – Specialized units that help to remove moisture from the air to bring down humidity.

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whenever you need help with water cleanup. You can reach us by calling (904) 861-8870.

Damaged Books from Flood or Fire?

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damaged books caused by a flood

Devastated over your water damaged Family Bible or important papers?

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg can help! We can vacuum freeze-dry your special documents. You may want your damaged documents restored for sentimental or legal reasons. Often these documents are one-of-a-kind or are irreplaceable. These important papers include family bibles, personal/medical documents, government/business records, personnel files and blue prints.

SERVPRO Document Restoration Service use the process of sublimation. This process takes frozen documents through temperatures and pressures that turn moisture into vapor. The result is a dry document that can be restored or reused.

Water damage may occur when a home or business floods, water damage from another source or even water from extinguishing a fire. SERVPRO will help you decide which documents to save and which ones to discard. We will box up, freeze and ship your damaged papers with the care and security they deserve.

If you have questions about water damaged documents and how we can help, call us at (904)861-8870!

Understand your insurance choices prior to the need for it

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

Like any natural disaster, a flood can become very problematic as a disruption to business operations. It’s imperative that it is handled efficiently, so business can continue as soon as possible. While considering the best process, you likely think of commercial insurance for floods. To know if commercial flood insurance is worth the cost for your business, you must first understand its scope.

Flood insurance may or may not cover water damage that was nonexistent before the flood event. There are several flood events where losses are usually covered depending on your policy such as:

• Overflowing bodies of water
• Excessive or extended rainfall
• Storm draining blockage
• Broken dam
• Broken levees
• Storm surge
• Melting snow

If the damage is due to a burst pipe or precipitation overfilling gutters, the flood policy may not be necessary.  Those events often are covered by regular commercial insurance if negligence cannot be determined.

Is Flood Coverage Standard in Business Insurance?

Flood damage is not traditionally rolled into a baseline package. The federal government offers coverage through the Nation Flood Insurance Program, known by its abbreviation of NFIP. NFIP is offered by FEMA alongside private options in the market.

There is a caveat to the necessity of flood insurance. Any business mortgaged by a federal lender in an area with a major flood risk is mandated to buy flood insurance. Outside of flood prone areas, it is not required.

How Do I Remedy Flood Damage Once Insurance Takes Effect?

A local commercial storm recovery company will send out experts to evaluate and create a plan to repair the damage. If you have flood insurance, the policy provider will work with connected partners to fix up your business from the storm damage.

Even if you don’t have an appropriate commercial insurance policy, you can contact a restoration company for estimates of repair costs. Depending on the area, it may be more economical to keep a flood policy rather than wait for a costly disaster to hit your business. Checking the flood risk and prices in the area gives you a cost-benefit analysis to determine if it’s appropriate for your business.

For more information, visit our website at www.SERVPROnorthclaycountyoakleafnorthmiddleburg.com

Develop a plan with your family on how to escape if fire starts.

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

Fires can happen anywhere at any time

Each year, the Red Cross responds to nearly 64,000 disasters. The vast majority of which are home fires. As a matter of fact, 1 in 5 home fires are caused from unattended cooking; "pot on the stove". Did you know you have as little as 2 minutes to escape?

Here are the Top Tips for Fire Safety courtesy of the American Red Cross.

• Install Smoke Alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas.
• Test Smoke Alarms every Month.
• Talk with Family Members about a Fire Escape Plan. Practice your plan twice a year.
• If a Fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP.

We want to help you!

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. The specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage Questions? SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg & Westside Orange Park is here to help! 

Call Us Today @ (904) 861-8870

We help you to know WHAT TO DO!

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

Not only do we help you when you need it, we advise you of things to do and not to do!

With over 30 years of experience under our belt SERPVRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg has helped home owners and businesses with fire, smoke and water damage clean up.   

But, did you know, that SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg has professionals that are trained and certified in Bio-Hazard clean up?  Here are some helpful tips on what to do until help arrives if you experience damage from a crime scene, vandalism or bio-hazard damage in your home or business.

VANDLISM DAMAGE

DO:

• Hose or wash egg damage from your building exterior as soon as possible
• Vacuum glass particles from carpets
• Save containers which reveal the ingredients of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints

DON’T

• Don’t attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
• Operate damage lamps or appliances
• Discard furniture wood chips, broken pieces from porcelain, furniture or art objects.

Harmful Waste

(Sewage, blood borne pathogens, etc.)

DO:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening
• Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.

DON’T

• Attempt cleanup of any kind
• Touch or handle items that might be contaminated with bodily fluids.

These Emergency Tips will assist you in taking the proper actions until SERVPRO's (located in Orange Park) professionals arrive to your home or business.

Please follow these Dos and DON’Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.  Call SERVPRO at (904) 861-8870 for assistance with any Bio-Hazard cleanup. 

We are available 24/7/365 to serve our residents and businesses.

Time to Clean your Ducts?

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Do you need our ductwork cleaned?

There are so many impurities that can run through your HVAC duct system which is why is it important to have them cleaned. Smoke, dust, dirt, pet dander and hair, pollen, smoke and mold can all be circulating through your ductwork.

When this occurs you, your family, employees, etc. could be exposed to allergens and triggers that keep circulating leading symptoms to occur more often. Mold growth in the ductwork or HVAC system can cause damage and as spores circulate through the air, it can pose serious health effects. Impurities that flow through your HVAC ductwork can also lead to odors in the home.

Duct cleaning services are usually on a as needed basis and while there is no need to clean them regularly, you may have certain circumstances where they need cleaning more often. For example, you may have mold or mildew growth which can cause a moldy smell or you may even be able to see mold growth within the ducts or HVAC system. Pests such as mice are also able to penetrate through ducts through the attic, crawlspace or even outdoors. If they nest or even die inside they leave behind droppings, bodies, and impurities.

If you ever find yourself needing a duct cleaning service then please feel free to call us here at SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg and we can give you a quote.  We also cover Baker County/MacClenney and western Orange Park.  

There are a couple of steps that you can take to help keep the HVAC ductwork such as changing air filters on a regular basis. You can also clean the vents thoroughly with warm soapy water removing the impurities from the vents.   We offer free quotes & can give you advise or our professional opinion to determine our specific needs.

Are your ducts in order?

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

There are so many impurities that can run through your HVAC duct system which is why it could be important to have them cleaned on an as needed basis. The United States Environmental Protection Agency has recommendations you should research to make your own decision.  Smoke, dust, dirt, pet dander and hair, pollen, smoke and mold can all be circulating through your ductwork.

When they do, you or your family may be exposed to allergens and triggers that keep circulating leading the symptoms to occur more often. Mold growth in the ductwork or HVAC system can cause damage and as spores circulate through the air can pose serious health effects. Impurities that flow through your HVAC ductwork can also lead to odors in the home.

Duct cleaning services are usually on an as needed basis and while there is no need to clean them regularly, you may have certain circumstances where they need cleaning more often.

For example, you may have mold or mildew growth which can cause a moldy smell or you may even be able to see mold growth within the ducts or HVAC system. Pests, such as mice are also able to penetrate through ducts through the attic, crawlspace or even outdoors. If they nest or even die inside they leave behind droppings, bodies, and impurities.

There are a couple of steps that you can take to help keep the HVAC ductwork such as changing air filters on a regular basis. You can also clean the vents thoroughly with warm soapy water removing the impurities from the vents. If you find yourself needing a duct cleaning service then please feel free to call and we can give you a quote. 

What to Do After Storm Damage, Repairs, Tips

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

What to Do After Storm Damage, Repairs, Tips

Knowing the right steps to take after storm damage can go a long way toward protecting you and your family, as well as your property and finances, from risks of further loss. As challenging as storms can be, learning the steps to take before a storm comes through and turns your life upside down will arm you with the knowledge you need to stay prepared. Here are some tips from the restoration and cleanup specialists at SERVPRO of Columbia & Suwannee Counties.

Five Things to Do After Storm Damage

You can mitigate some of the damage caused by a storm by following this checklist:

1. Check your home for damage. 

While not all storm damage will be apparent immediately after the storm has passed, checking your home's condition will give you a clearer picture of the extent of the damage left by the storm.

SERVPRO of Columbia & Suwannee's experts provide a word of caution to take all the necessary safety precautions when checking your home since unexpected damage may cause injuries. Watch out for loose or exposed ceiling tiles or floorboards, broken electrical lines, and slippery floors. Fortunately, some safety tips can help:

• Avoid standing water
• Avoid checking for storm damage in the dark.
• Watch out for exposed nails, window damage, collapsed walls and roofing materials, and broken glass
• Switch off the electricity and shut off the main gas line before entering a damaged home

2. Assess the potential damage

During a storm, some areas in a home are more susceptible to damage than others. One site that is often vulnerable is the roof. Common signs of roof damage include:

• Split seams
• Dented, missing, or broken shingles
• Holes in the roof
• Leaks in the ceiling or roof

Other areas that are susceptible to storm damage include doors and windows. Inspect all windows for damaged frames, broken panes, cracks, and holes. Remember to board up any broken windows.

Also, assess your home's exterior, looking for damage such as dents, holes, cracks, and chipping to any brickwork, paint, or siding. The storm could have also damaged outdoor appliances such as air conditioning units.

Taking all the necessary precaution, be sure to remove debris from the gutters and roof, and then check that the downspouts are intact and unobstructed so they can continue diverting water away from your home. Remember to check for mold, which is common after flood damage.

3. Get in touch with your insurance carrier.

Document the damage and loss that has been caused by the storm, taking photos before removing or moving any objects or debris. Remember to document any additional costs incurred due to the loss, such as hotel receipts or other temporary living costs.

Once all this information is together, contact the insurance provider to determine whether your insurance plan covers the damage caused. Likewise, inquire about the steps to take to make a claim.

4. Attend only to the damage you are capable of handling.

In some cases, the storm might not have caused extensive damage, and you may be able to restore what little damage exists with a few repairs before seeking professional repair services. Prompt repairs can go a long way toward limiting the damage. 

If that's the case, you should begin with what you can fix yourself, taking care not to cause additional damage. For example, if wind and water are getting into your home through a broken window, board it up as soon as possible. However, if you're not confident in your repair skills, it's best to get in touch with a company that can offer emergency repair services.

5. Choose the right contractor.

The next step is to hire a professional and trustworthy cleaning and restoration service company to restore your home to its former glory. Choosing a contractor that will promptly attend to your home's restoration, take care of water damage, and immediately mitigate the presence of potential mold is critical. 

It's essential to ensure that your house is once again a habitable, healthy living environment. That will likely require water cleanup (flood cleanup) and mold removal by a specialized commercial cleaning service.

Getting Back to Normal

While storms can wreak catastrophic damages upon a home or commercial building, promptly addressing the storm damage—first, to make emergency patches and then to take care of longer-term restoration—will go a long way in getting your home or business back to normal. 

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO is a leading storm damage restoration company that has served Fort Worth for upwards of 50 years. They can handle all aspects of the restoration process, from water removal to debris cleanup.

For more information about storm damage cleanup and restoration, contact SERVPRO of Suwannee Counties.

Practice Fire Safety Every Time You Light Your Grill

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Practice Fire Safety Every Time You Light Your Grill

Getting your family together and grilling up a delicious meal is a great way to spend a summer afternoon, but when you are making ample use of your grill, it is important to not let your safety efforts grow lax. While grilling may be as natural to you as cooking on the stove, it is important to remember the special fire safety considerations that an open flame presents.

Grill fires are quite common according to the U.S. Fire Administration—there are over 5,000 fires that result from grilling accidents yearly, which adds up to millions of dollars in property losses. Knowing how to stay safe when grilling can significantly reduce the chances that you will be included in one of these stats.

Fire Safety Considerations for Grilling

Create a safe zone around your grill. You want your grill to be set up in a spot that is convenient to cook in, but make sure you consider safety when you designate a spot for it as well. In case of a flare-up, designate at least three feet around the grill to be absent of any flammable materials such as a deck or your home’s siding.

Clean your grill grates often. When food is allowed to build up on the grates of the grill, a fire hazard can quickly occur. These bits of food are often greasy, which can lead to a severe grease fire any time they become hot enough to ignite. Simply brushing your grill grates off after each use will remove these stuck-on food particles and make your cooking more consistent.

Never leave the grill unattended. It is wise to never leave an open flame, even for just a moment, and grills are no different. Even if the lid is down, still be sure that you have someone take over for you if you need a break and be sure to keep a working fire extinguisher nearby just in case.

Inspect the grill regularly. Double-check your grill’s hardware every time you use it to prevent any accidents. Make sure the lid closes properly and that the connection to the gas tank is still air-tight and shows no signs of wear. Gas leaks are an extremely common cause of grill fires, so you may want to replace your hoses or connectors if issues arise

If you have a grill fire that does damage to your home, we are here to help. You can call us any time, day or night, to have a quick response from our restoration experts.

Commercial Flood Insurance: 3 Important Facts To Know

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded Building

Commercial Flood Insurance

Flooding may spring from a multitude of causes, including structural malfunctions (pipes bursting, waterlines leaking, etc.), storm surges, overflow of existing water bodies and more. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc, climate change has exacerbated weather conditions around the globe. Floods, which are common and potentially devastating natural disaster events in the U.S., are projected to increase in both frequency and severity as sea levels continue to rise and storms worsen. With this, there will be a correlating spike in the need for the services of a professional cleanup and restoration service in North Clay County - Orange Park, Fl, and other expert contractors. It is therefore important to consider commercial insurance, specifically flood insurance.

1. Flood Coverage Is Usually Not Included in Property Insurance
Many individuals fail to realize that most standard commercial property policies do not include commercial flood insurance. This means damage from flooding (water damage) is not covered.

2. If a Business Meets Certain Criteria, Flood Coverage Is Required
Businesses must have it if they are located in a high-risk flood area and possess a mortgage courtesy of a federally regulated lender. An insured lender may also force them to buy coverage. To find out if a building resides in a high-risk flood area, the owner can look at the FEMA flood maps through the organization's Flood Map Service Center online portal. Letters denote the hazard level, with high-risk zones starting with either "A" or "V," where "V" signals coastal areas.

3. Flood Coverage Is Available From the Government or Private Insurers
Some private companies offer commercial flood policies. The NFIP is another potential source of coverage. Managed by FEMA, it was established by Congress in 1968 and offers insurance to business owners among others. This coverage must be obtained through a professional insurer — a business owner cannot simply purchase it from the government.
With the growing weather and climate change threats on the horizon, proper commercial coverage is more important than ever. All structures are vulnerable to the ravages of flooding. Having flood insurance is a vital precautionary measure.

Moisture Meters

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

Proper Equipment Makes A Difference

Many times when a customer experiences water damage it can be hard to tell how bad the damage is just by looking around at the property. There can be underlying damage that is not visible to the eyes and this is where moisture meters come in to play. A restoration moisture meter or sensor measures the amount of moisture in an environment and in certain materials. Drywall, flooring and other structural components can be measured to assess the damage they may have incurred as well. These meters are very useful to put a number on the level of damage a property may have incurred.

There are a few different types of meters that all have a different pros and cons. Some jobs will only require the use of one but others will require more.

• Non-Penetrating Meters: These are one of the easiest meters to use and are a popular choice because they pose no risk of causing any damage to the flooring or structure. These have two flat sensors usually located at the bottom of the device and compare the amount of moisture located between them. They are best for quickly comparing levels between affected and unaffected areas.

• Penetrating Meters: These meters have a series of prongs that will penetrate the surface of a structure to take the moisture reading. These readings are much more accurate and are great for finding any trapped moisture on a site.

• Hydrosensors: These meters are a type of penetrating meters that are great for seeing how far moisture has traveled from the surface of the structure. These work best for carpet or carpet padding but do not work with drywall.

• Thermo-Hygrometers: mage restoration projects as they give you a good understanding of how big or small the job will be. Also it gives you readings to bring back to the customer and discuss the work that will need to be done in more detail. 

• Thermo-hygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity, which both will affect how drying equipment will function. These essentially test whether or not an environment can be efficiently dried with the tools that are at the teams disposal. The measurements these put out are helpful in determining if your dehumidifier is working properly.

These tools are very essential in water damage restoration and require training and knowledge to understand how they each work to reach drying goals in materials such as wood and drywall.  Call us at 904-861-8870 if you think you need a moisture test.

SERVPRO Wants to Make Sure You’re Prepared for Storms

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

Are you Prepared or Not?

Because weather can be so volatile, especially with the upcoming hurricane season, it’s important be prepared in advance. Here at SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg we’ve seen firsthand how destructive storm damage can be, and we want to make sure everyone in this community knows what they can do before, during and after a storm to help protect your family and your property in case of a storm emergency.

Here’s a helpful guide so you can be prepared when a storm is in the forecast:

Before

• Make sure you’re ready with a Disaster Preparation Plan. Determine a meeting place away from your home or commercial building and plan escape routes from each room. Practice the plan with everyone, so there won’t be any question what to do in an emergency.
• Put together an Emergency Supply Kit. Some good items to include are water, non-perishable food, extra medications, a flashlight, batteries, copies of your personal documents, a blanket, a first aid kit, and cash.
• Check that your home or commercial building is in good condition to withstand a strong storm. Check your roof now for loose shingles and make sure your doors, windows, and basement are waterproof.

During

• During a storm, make sure all the windows and doors have been securely shut. Keep away from windows in case the glass should break and shatter.  If the storm is severe, you may want to stay in the basement if you have one, or an interior room.
• If you go outside, be careful of moving water, because just a few inches of rapidly flowing water can be enough to sweep a person off their feet. If you can, try to stay on higher ground and keep away from low lying areas where deep flooding is more likely.

After

• Once the storm is over, make sure everyone is ok and start to check your property for any damage. Don’t forget the maxim “Safety First” as flooding can cause potential hazards, including risks of falling, contamination, and electrocution.
• Make a list of any lost or damaged items, and take photos to document the extent of the damage.

Don’t forget, any storm can happen suddenly, so now is the best time to plan and act. And, if you do require emergency flood repair or water damage restoration, rest assured that SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg located in Orange Park, Florida is always here to help. We’re known for being “faster to any disaster” with the advanced technicians and equipment needed to restore your property so that it’s like new. We can even help you work with your insurance provider.  If your located in Middleburg, Oakleaf, MacClenny or Orange Park we are here to help!

What are the Most Common Reasons For Commercial Water Damage in Clay County?

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

The technicians are available 24/7 to restore your property and make it, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO technicians have comprehensive training for handling all kinds of water damage in commercial properties

It is easy to get busy and keep putting off inspecting your Clay County commercial property for water damage. However, this can enable slow leaks to go on and cause a greater amount of damage to the building materials and contents. Some incidents happen suddenly, such as a sewage backup or floodwater issues after heavy storms in the area. Other frequently seen reasons for water cleanup restoration services by SERVPRO include:

    •    Broken or damaged pipes
    •    Leaking sprinkler systems
    •    Damaged roofs and windows

Can a Business Stay Open During Commercial Water Damage Cleanup?

Whether or not an Orange Park, Middleburg or Oakleaf business can remain open during commercial water damage restoration services depends on the type of water in the structure and any safety concerns. For example, a sewage backup would result in closure due to the toxic nature of the water. Simultaneously, a sprinkler malfunction that drenched an office may also require closure because of the need to move out the contents of the area even though this water-type is clean.

The construction materials that make up the property can contribute to whether the business can remain open if the water spill is a level one or categorized as clean. Wet slab or tile flooring can also present significant slip and fall hazards. SERVPRO techs put up security tape to cordon off the worksite and inhibit unauthorized persons from entering.

Before reopening, the commercial property needs to verify it is dry according to readings on the technicians moisture detection equipment and then sanitized to ensure both employees and customers enter into a clean and healthy environment when the business reopens.

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg at (904) 861-8870 is the place to call when you have commercial water damage that needs cleanup and drying pronto. The technicians are available 24/7 to restore your property and make it, “Like it never even happened.”

How SERVPRO’s ERP Can Help Your Business If You Experience Damage

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Being prepared and ready for whatever happens is essential in your business

Since its implementation, the SERVPRO ERP (Emergency Ready Plan) system has allowed SERVPRO to respond faster and more effectively to hundreds of business calls nationwide and has saved business owners thousands of dollars in restoration costs. Learn more about SERVPRO’s ERP and how ERP can help your business if you experience damage.

What is the SERVPRO ERP?

SERVPRO’s ERP is a system that helps businesses create a readiness profile for all of their locations to be prepared for any disaster. The ERP helps business owners create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for their facility, at no charge. The business owner works with SERVPRO to gather and document information that will become critical if a disaster strikes. It allows business owners to create customized, pre-organized profiles of their properties and locations so that in case of a disaster, we have access to any relevant documents and information immediately Once the ERP is created, business owners have access to their information 24/7 online and by using SERVPRO’s free smartphone app, creating a comprehensive emergency plan for the business. A comprehensive emergency plan contains critical information about the location of shut-off valves, fire suppression system controls, emergency contact numbers and more—information that can save emergency responders precious time and help contain damage and minimize injury.

The SERVPRO ERP Creates Faster Responses

With a profile in the ERP system, we can respond to your business emergency faster much quicker than if you had contacted us by phone. The system allows your call to be simplified to the press of a button, saving valuable time otherwise spent searching for phone numbers, relevant documents, and communicating the situation to us. Whether your emergency is water, fire or flooding, the ERP gets us out to your business faster, which can help minimize damage with faster reaction to the emergency.

Our ERP Priority Response

Some events, such as flash flooding, may hit many buildings and neighborhoods at once. This can cause resources to get tied up quickly, and we may have to delay our response to some inquiries. With the ERP system, you can avoid having to contact a representative and get your request in before others around you. The ERP app gives you priority response to any damage emergency you have. We’re dispatched faster to your location to start handling your issue right away.

More Effective Responses with Prior Knowledge

Having critical information such as breaker locations, water lines placement, floor plans, and inventories allow our IIRC trained technicians to do their work with unmatched efficiency. By giving us a wealth of information ahead of time, businesses help to ensure that any SERVPRO teams working on your business can better understand what they are working with and the job they are doing, without wasting precious time locations breaker boxes, lines, etc.

Multi-Location Management Damage Control

Many companies operate multiple locations, some of which may be damaged in an event while others remain unscathed or encounter different problems, depending on the situation. The SERVPRO ERP system allows businesses to create separate profiles for each business location, eliminating confusion and ensuring that more severely damaged locations are treated first.

Damage of any kind can impact a business. SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburs is ready to respond to your company's needs 24/7. If water, storm, flood, or fire damage has impacted one or more of your locations, or if you would like to learn more about our ERP system, call us at (904) 861-8870.

How to Prepare for Hurricane Season

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

HERE TO HELP AFTER THE STORM

Officially, the hurricane season starts on June 1 and ends on November 30. However, in the Eastern Caribbean and along the US East Coast, the peak season runs mainly from mid-August through mid-September. Hurricanes are powerful and unpredictable storms that can cause immense damages in their path. For you to stay safe and protect your property during a hurricane, preparedness is critical. Check out how to prepare for hurricanes and what to do during and after one.

Hurricane Preparedness Tips

Before the Hurricane

• Create an emergency kit. FEMA recommends packing the following items in your emergency kit:
  • Water for drinking and sanitation to last at least three days;
  • Non-perishable food for at least three days;
  • Hand crank or battery-powered radio (tuned in to NOAA Weather Radio), as well as spare batteries;
  • Flashlight with extra batteries;
  • First aid kit;
  • Whistle to call for help;
  • Dust mask, plastic sheeting, and duct-tape for shelter making;
  • Moist towelettes and garbage bags for sanitation;
  • Pliers or wrench to turn off utilities;
  • Can opener;
  • Local maps;
  • Cell phone with an extra charger.
• Learn your area’s flooding risk and community hurricane evacuation routes. Know the geographical location you live in.
• Create a family evacuation plan. Determine a meeting place for your family and routes to get there. Plan how to get in touch with your family if separated. Plan where you’ll go if you must evacuate, such as a shelter.
• If you don’t have flood insurance, get one now. Regular homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flood damage.
• Find out whether your property is flood-prone due to its elevation level.
• Store copies of important documents, such as proof of ownership of any property in your emergency kit.
• Back up the data on your electronic devices to ensure it’s secure if your computer or other devices are damaged during the hurricane.

Secure Your Property:

• Secure your roof. Make your roofing and frames stronger by installing reinforcements, such as straps or clips. Also, secure loose shingles with heavy-duty adhesive and seal around your home’s chimney or vent pipes to keep water out.
• Maintain gutters and downspouts. Clean your gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent clogs. These could cause water damage to your home when the rain starts to pour. Also, ensure your gutters are firm and not sagging.
• Secure your windows. Strong winds can shatter your windows, leaving your home vulnerable. The best way to secure your windows is to install permanent storm shutters made of steel, aluminum, and other materials. Installing plywood is also a good defense for your windows. However, avoid taping as it doesn’t prevent the glass from breaking.
• Caulk your home. Caulking is a fast way to waterproof your house and reinforce vulnerable areas. Caulk around your windows and doors, the edges of your house, and around chimneys and other roof penetrations.
• Insulate the outside first floor walls with rigid foam or install plastic sheeting. It won’t stop all the water from getting in, but the insulation will keep out most of the silt.
• Reinforce your garage. To make it withstand powerful winds, secure your garage door with a brace kit rated for storm and hurricane winds. Other ways to strengthen your garage door are installing a metal post system or covering the door with metal panels, fabric screen, or 5/8-inch plywood.
• Trim trees and shrubs. Loose branches in your yard (and neighborhood) could be struck by powerful winds during a storm, damaging your house. So cut those dead or loose branches to safeguard your property.
• Secure loose objects. Your yard may also host things that could become projectiles in high winds. Tie-down and secure anything that could be swept up by winds, such as potted plants, lawn furniture, and dog houses. When a storm is imminent, bring light objects inside.
• Protect appliances from power outages. While you should unplug electrical devices during a powerful storm, it’s also ideal to purchase a surge protector. It prevents damage to your devices in case the power goes out.
• Move valuables to a higher floor. As electronics and appliances are susceptible to water damage, move them to a higher floor. If you can’t, at least raise them off the floor on concrete blocks.
• Use sandbags when a storm is hours from arriving. Pile up sandbags at least two feet high as an efficient barricade against floodwaters. If you don’t have sandbags, place heavy-duty garbage bags – filled one-third of the way with water – around your house doors.
• When a storm is hours from arriving:
  • Ensure your car is in good working condition and fill up the gas tank. If you’re going to evacuate, stock your vehicle with emergency supplies.
  • Charge your cell phone to have a full battery if the power goes out.
  • Turn your refrigerator to the coldest setting so that food lasts longer during a power outage.
  • Be alert for the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.

Small Business Week May 2nd - 8th, 2021

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

Support your local businesses!

SERVPRO franchises are owned and operated individually.   With extensive training and guidelines in place we offer the best of the best.  We treat each customer as if it were our own family.  In our line of business, whether an emergency water or fire cleanup or a tile floor cleaning job, our goal is for the "repeat customer".    Small Business Week is a celebration and appreciation of small businesses who make our community the incredible place it is. With an emphasis on local shopping and supporting local entrepreneurs, it highlights the role small businesses contribute in the nation’s economy.  Ways you can participate in Small Business Week 2021 

• Visit and shop at a local small business you've never been to before!
• Thank a small business for all they do in our community!
• Support a local eatery! Dine in, take out or swing by the drive through.
• Mention your favorite small business on social media.

Polar Vortex 2021 - TEXAS - ONE TEAM

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Trailer of drying equipment headed to Texas - ONE TEAM

When the local franchises receive over 24000 phone calls from customers experiencing water losses due to frozen pipes bursting in their homes and businesses it is a call to action for franchises not affected!  We received this call on Tuesday evening the 16th and dispersed a crew on Thursday the 18th at 5:30 am.  

Our 2nd crew headed towards Texas loaded down with more drying equipment and supplies on the 23rd.   The amazing thing about SERVPRO you ask??  We are all ONE TEAM when the time comes and the need arises!  

So very thankful to be able to travel and assist the customers located in Texas that have damage to their homes or businesses.  Thankful for our wonderful staff that continues to shine day after day helping customers get through a difficult time.   

We strive to treat each customer we serve in the highest regard and their home or business as if it were our very own.   

You can trust us to the same for you!  ONE TEAM!

Busted pipes can bust the holiday season

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

Pipe leaking

When temperatures plummet, the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting skyrockets. In fact, burst pipes are one of the most common causes of property damage during frigid weather and can cause thousands in water damage—easily $5,000 or more, according to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety.

The pipes most at risk are those in unheated interior spaces such as basements, attics, and garages. But even pipes running through cabinets or exterior walls can freeze. The good news is there are some simple things you can do to keep your water running and your house dry.

“Pipe insulation can cost as little as 50 cents per linear foot at your local hardware store,” says Susan Millerick, IBHS spokeswoman. “So for not much more than the cost of the aspirin you’d need, you can avoid the headaches of cleanup, loss of precious keepsakes, and the cost of your insurance deductible.” Use the pipe insulation liberally to protect any vulnerable pipes.

How to Beat the Freeze

Once the temperature starts dropping outside, you should take measures inside to keep your pipes warm and water running. Research conducted by the Building Research Council at the University of Illinois shows that the “temperature alert threshold” is 20° F, especially if you have uninsulated pipes running through an uninsulated space.  

Some of the steps experts recommend may go against your better instincts of conserving water and heat, but the extra expense is nothing compared with a hefty repair bill. Here’s what to do:

Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water supply lines in the garage.

Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, especially if your sinks are on an exterior wall. (If you have small children, be sure to remove any harmful cleaners and household chemicals.)

Let the cold water drip from a faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe—even at a trickle—helps prevent pipes from freezing.

Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during day and night. Again, during a cold snap is not the time to set back the thermostat at night to save a few bucks on your heating bill.

If you plan to be away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

For the long term, add insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in those areas. And to prevent drafts, seal cracks and openings around windows, doors, and at sill plates, where the house rests on its foundation.

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, you may well have a frozen pipe. “If you suspect the pipes are frozen, be careful when thawing them out because if the pipe has already burst, the water will come flowing out and flood your home,” says John Galeotafiore, who oversees Consumer Reports’ testing of home products and power gear.

If a pipe has broken, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve, which is usually at the water meter or where the main line enters the house. If the water is still running and no pipes have burst, you can take the following steps. (Of course, if you suspect a more serious problem, call a plumber.)

Turn on the faucet. As you heat the frozen pipe and the ice plug begins to melt, you want the water to be able to flow through. Running water through the pipe, as cold as it is, will help melt ice in the pipe.

Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, or a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. As tempting as it may be, do not use a blowtorch, a kerosene or propane heater, a charcoal stove, or any device with an open flame; the high heat can damage the pipes or even start a fire.

Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. Check all other faucets in your home to see whether you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

Call a licensed plumber if you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you cannot thaw the pipe.

If you have any questions or run into any issues with busted pipes, frozen or not, feel free to give our office a call.

Standard services offered with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned logo

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a program that was developed by SERVPRO to allow employers to give its employees peace of mind about the cleanliness and safety of their office space. Standard services with this program focus on cleaning and disinfectant application to frequently contacted touch points.  These touch points may include:

• Door knobs, pulls, and locks, as well as 1 square foot around the knob, pull or door jambs
• Push doors
• Light switches, switch covers, and accessible outlet covers
• Countertops, tabletops, vanity tops, and desktops while taking measures to control overspray and limit potential damage to other items (e.g paper products, electronics devices, personal property). Disinfection of accessible surfaces without moving contents
• Chair arms, backs, and height/swivel controls
• Faucets, sinks, soap dispenser, towel dispenser, dryer, water fountains, napkin dispenser
• Cabinet door and drawer exterior, door and drawer pulls/knobs
• Toilets, urinals, bathroom stalls around locks and handrails, handrails, bathroom fixtures (e.g. toilet paper dispenser and paper towel dispenser)
• Telephones, computer equipment, shared office equipment

Turkey Fryer Fire

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

Turkey Fryer Fire

Tips to help prevent deep fried turkey accidents

• Keep outdoor fryers off decks, out of garages and a safe distance away from trees and other structures.
• Make sure the turkey is thawed and dry before cooking. Ice or water that mixes into the hot oil can cause flare-ups.
• Watch the weather. Never operate a fryer outdoors in the rain or snow.
• Place the fryer on a level surface, and avoid moving it once it's in use.
• Leave 2 feet between the tank and the burner when using a propane-powered fryer.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfilling. Oil can ignite when it makes contact with the burner.
• Choose a smaller turkey for frying. A bird that's 8 to 10 pounds is best; pass on turkeys over 12 pounds.
• Never leave fryers unattended.
• Purchase a fryer with temperature controls, and watch the oil temperature carefully. Cooking oil that is heated beyond its smoke point can catch fire. If you notice the oil is smoking, turn the fryer off.
• Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey into the oil. Once the turkey is submerged, turn the burner on.
• Wear goggles to shield your eyes, use oven mitts to protect your hands and arms and keep an "ABC" or grease-rated fire extinguisher close by. Do not to use water or a garden hose on a fire related to Turkey Fryers.
• Skip the stuffing when frying turkey, and avoid water-based marinades.
• Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.
• Once finished, carefully remove the pot from the burner, place it on a level surface and cover to let the oil cool overnight before disposing.
• Opt for an oil-less fryer. This uses infrared heat, rather than oil, to cook the turkey.

Cracking a water damage case

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Cracked toilet bowl

When SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg receives a call about a water damage one of the first things we do is attempt to find the source of the damage if the homeowner is unsure where it is coming from.

This particular case was a very easy find. Our office received a call about a water damage in our local area and we sent a team out to assess the damage and begin to work on fixing the issue.

When we arrived we noticed that the toilet bowl in the second bathroom had a huge crack and water had gone into most of the house.

Over the course of a few days, our crew was able to remove the flooring in the effected area along with some of the kitchen cabinets and began the drying process.

If you have a similar situation, feel free to give us a call at 904-861-8870.

How to Choose and Use a Fire Extinguisher

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Extinguishers

Here at SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/Middleburg we like to keep our local community as informed as possible.

The best way to choose what type of Fire Extinguisher is to first know what type of fire you are dealing with.

There are a few different grades of Fire Extinguisher-A, B, C, D and K

A is the common household extinguisher

B is used to combat grease and gasoline fires

C is used with electrical equipment

D is used on flammable metals

K is the most common restaurant extinguisher

Using a Fire Extinguisher follows four easy steps

Pull the pin

Aim low

Squeeze the lever slowly

Sweep the nozzle from side to side

For more information on how to choose and use a fire extinguisher, visit https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/extinguishers.html

Cleaning Area Rugs

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning Area Rugs

An area rug can be used a few different ways. To designate a certain area of a room or to protect the flooring underneath.

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg offers a few different options for cleaning area rugs.

Our fantastic team can clean your area rug where it is located in your home but we also have options for having it cleaned at our warehouse. We can either bring the rug to our warehouse or you can drop it off and then we can begin the process of steam cleaning your area rug.

Once your area rug is cleaned, SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg can either deliver the rug to your home or you can stop by our warehouse and pick up the area rug.

Whichever option you choose, feel free to call SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg and we will be more then happy to assist.

Build a Sandbag and how to use it

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Sandbags in doorway

Where can I get sandbags from?

Sandbags can be purchased from some local hardware stores or landscaping suppliers. During times of flood and storm, quantities may be distributed by your local Council. Contact your local Council or visit their web site for further information.
When significant flooding is occurring, sandbags maybe in limited supply and may only be issued by the Council or State Emergency Service (SES) on a case by case basis. So be prepared and purchase/prepare your own sandbags prior to, or when aware of an impending flood event.
Self-inflating sandbags are ready-to-use sandbags that don’t require filling are a light weight alternative to traditional sandbags. They will self-inflate when they come into contact with water and can be stored a long time. Self-inflating sandbags can be purchased from some local hardware stores or landscaping suppliers.

How do I fill the sandbag?

• It is preferable that you only use sand to fill the bags. Soil, clay, gravel or a mixture of these is not usually recommended.

• Sandbags only need to be filled to 2/3 full.

• Do not over fill as they will be too heavy to carry. A filled sandbag can weigh 15-20 kilograms.

• Do not tie the top of the bag. The top of the bag may be tied for transport purposes only.

Where do I need to put the sandbags?

• For most buildings to reduce the impact of flooding, sandbags should be placed over floor wastes and drains (e.g. laundry, shower and bath) to prevent backflow of grey water entering. Sandbags should also be used in front of doorways / roller doors and brickwork vents.

• Most standard homes and buildings on a concrete slab can be protected with less than 25 sandbags.

• It is not always necessary to place a sandbag wall around your whole building to provide protection.  This may only be necessary if it is on stumps or constructed of materials such as timber or fibro sheeting. Before building a sandbag wall consideration should be given to how you would remove floodwater that could become trapped between the sandbag wall and your building. (e.g. pump, siphon or bailing bucket).

If you have any further questions, call SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg.

Six Reasons Why Your Roof Is Leaking

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Leaking roof

Flood Factor

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

High rising water

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/Middleburg is always keeping an eye out for resources that we can provide to our community to help with any issues that may arise.

Our latest find is https://floodfactor.com/ , which is a website where you can input you Florida Zip code and that map will designate whether your home is in an area where there is a high possibility of flooding.

Flood Factor has a few different resources such as a flood risk explorer which allows you to see an estimate of the flood risk in your area as it changes as far as 30 years in the future.

Flood risks are increasing because of the environment. Flood Factor also has an area on its site where you can how environmental changes will be affecting a larger area.

The final section listed is a community solutions section which provides ideas on how you can lessen the risk of flood in your area in the future.

PREPARING TO REOPEN AFTER COVID-19?

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

PREPARING TO REOPEN AFTER COVID-19?

As your business schedules to reopen and return to regular operations, it is important to make sure the necessary precautions are taken. Reentering a facility after COVID-19 requires more than basic cleaning or janitorial services, it requires a company with the experience of handling biohazard cleaning and virus outbreaks.

SERVPRO, in conjunction with environmental experts have developed comprehensive cleaning protocols for commercial facilities looking to reopen after the COVID-19 crisis. 

Our facility reopening cleaning includes:
Hand cleaning of all horizontal and frequently contacted surfaces such as: door handles, keyboards, desks, seating areas, handrails, copiers and printers, shopping carts, production equipment, touch screens and more. 

After hand cleaning all frequently contacted surfaces, we will apply an aerosolized disinfection solution to frequently touched porous surfaces such as upholstery, carpet, cubicles, etc.

All restrooms within the facility will be disinfected to include: toilets, sinks, partitions, counters and all other surfaces within the restrooms frequently touched.

If your facility has large open areas such as those found in warehouses or manufacturing plants, SERVPRO can mist an aerosolized EPA-registered, healthcare-grade disinfectant into the atmosphere of the area and on horizontal surfaces. If required, we can also hand clean individual pieces of equipment.

Working with renowned environmental scientists and industrial hygienists to engineer our COVID-19 cleaning and disinfection processes provides you with the most comprehensive service available, while avoiding unnecessary costs. Our technicians are trained in biohazard cleanup and certified by the IICRC. In addition, each employee is trained on the proper use of personal protective equipment to not only protect their safety, but also limit the chance of cross-contamination.

SERVPRO offers the most comprehensive COVID-19 re-opening cleaning available. We have the experience with biohazard cleanup and even previous coronavirus outbreaks such as SARS and MERS. Reentering your facility is a big step in getting back to normal business operations and requires careful planning and preparation. SERVPRO is Here to Help.

The Dark Water Rises

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

flooded basement

Flooding is an overflowing of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods can happen during heavy rains, when the snow melts too fast, or when rivers overflow. Flooding may happen with only a few inches of water, or it may cover a house to the rooftop. Floods are the most common and widespread of all weather-related natural disasters.

How Does Rain Water Enter a Home?

Rainwater can seep into your home from cracks in your foundation – large or small, windows that are not sealed correctly and landscaping that is sloped toward the home.

Make sure all your concrete – driveways, sidewalks, patios and walkways slope either away from the house or into a drain. Check to make sure that rain gutters are clean and working properly to carry rainwater away from your home. It is important that downspouts drain at least 10 feet from the foundation of your house. Clogged gutters can also lead to water spilling over the top and that water can end up directly on the foundation of your house.

Keeping an eye on your home inside and out can help with noticing potential problems and could save you thousands in water damage remediation.

Flood Damage Can Be Fixed

It is important to recognize the signs of flooding so that the water can be extracted and any further damage can be prevented. Rainwater flooding that is not taken care of quickly and efficiently can cause black mold (this can form within two days after flooding occurs), furniture damage (moisture seeps into the furniture, which provides an ideal habitat for mildew, mold and fungi), and damage to the ceiling tiles, drywall, and flooring.

If you have any questions, feel free to give our office a call and SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/Middleburg will assist you in getting your home back to a point where it is "Like it never even happened."

Storm season is upon us

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricane

The Essential Guide to Hurricane Preparedness

Our team at SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/Middleburg want to make sure that you have a place you can go to if you have any questions as far as Hurricane season and storms are concerned. Each year hurricane season begins on June 1st and lasts 5 months, with storms typically peaking in August and September. As with every hurricane season regardless of forecast, knowing the essentials of how to prepare could truly be a life saver.

Hurricane Knowledge

First, know your hurricane facts and understand common terms used during hurricane forecasts. Storm conditions can vary on the intensity, size and even the angle which the tropical cyclone approaches your area, so it is vital you understand what the forecasters and news reporters are telling you.

Tropical Depressions are cyclones with winds of 38 mph. Tropical Storms vary in wind speeds from 39-73 mph while Hurricanes have winds 74 mph and greater. Typically the upper right quadrant of the storm (the center wrapping around the eye) is the most intense portion of the storm. The greatest threats are damaging winds, storm surge and flooding. This is in part why Hurricane Katrina was so catastrophic when bringing up to 28 foot storm surges onto the Louisiana and Mississippi coastlines.

Here are some important terms you may hear:

• Tropical Storm Watch: Tropical storm conditions are possible in the area.
• Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are possible in the area.
  Watches are issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical storm force winds.
• Tropical Storm Warning: Tropical storm conditions are expected in the area.
• Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected in the area.
  Warnings are issued 36 hours in advance of tropical storm force winds.
• Eye: Clear, sometimes well-defined center of the storm with calmer conditions.
• Eye Wall: Surrounding the eye, contains some of the most severe weather of the storm with the highest wind speed and largest precipitation.
• Rain Bands: Bands coming off the cyclone that produce severe weather conditions such as heavy rain, wind and tornadoes.
• Storm Surge: An often underestimated and deadly result of ocean water swelling as a result of a landfalling storm, and quickly flooding coastal and sometimes areas further inland.

During a watch, prepare your home and evacuation plan in case a warning is issued. During a warning, carefully follow the directions of officials, and immediately leave the area if they advise it. In the event of an Extreme Wind Warning/Advisory, which means that extreme sustained winds of 115 mph or greater are expected to begin within an hour, immediately take shelter in the interior portion of a well-built structure.

Hurricane Forecasts

Predicting a tropical cyclone's path can be challenging; there are many global and local factors that come into play. The storm's size and path can directly influence what sort of wind patterns guide, enhance or hinder its growth, and vice versa! Forecasters have computers that take huge amounts of data and try to predict where the storm will go and usually can calculate 2-3 days out fairly accurately. This is where you hear the terms computer models and spaghetti models being used. Generally the forecast track or path is given with the average consensus of these models. The National Hurricane Center has the most up-to-date information on tropical cyclone developments, forecasts and weather alerts, discussions analyzing the data and more. http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/

If you have any questions feel free to give us a call and we will more then happy to help any way that we can.

Fire Safety for the summer

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

Grill fire

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/Middleburg would like to share some tips on how a safe summer can be had by everyone in our local community. Summer weather means cookouts, Fourth of July fireworks, and all sorts of campfire fun as families across the country take advantage of the warm temperatures to get back in touch with nature.

It’s certainly relaxing to enjoy a beach bonfire with friends and loved ones, or roast marshmallows by the lake or in the backyard fire pit, but it’s also important to ensure that everyone stays safe by observing a few simple fire protection guidelines.

1. Keep a bucket of water handy. If an ember floats out of your fire pit, or a log falls down from your bonfire stack and sets nearby foliage, paper, or other flammable materials aflame, you don’t want to be scrambling for a way to put the fire out. Having a bucket of water nearby is a great first response tool to keep a fire under control.
2. Supervise all fireworks (if fireworks are legal in your state, of course). Sparklers and pinwheels might seem “low risk,” but the reality is that there aren’t any fireworks out there that are safe enough for kids to use without adult supervision. It’s also important to ensure that no one tries to re-light fireworks that don’t work properly the first time. Dump these in a bucket of water and move on to the next package.
3. Don’t let barbecue grease build up. Whether you’re using a charcoal or a gas grill, it’s important to keep it clean to prevent accidental grease fires caused by all of the gunk that can accumulate on a grill over time.
4. Inspect the area around your BBQ and campfire. You don’t want to grill or light a campfire anywhere near other flammable materials. This includes deck railings, overhanging branches, dry grass or that pile of dry wood and recycling sitting in the back corner of your yard. If you’re camping, clear out the area immediately around your BBQ or campfire spot to be sure that there’s no scrub or brush nearby that could ignite if a spark lands on it.
5. When you’re done with the fun, put out the flames. While it might seem romantic to fall asleep in front of a campfire, you really should dump water and/or sand on those embers before catching some shut-eye. The same goes for BBQs – close your propane valve and the unit’s lid, as well as any vents on a charcoal grill once you’re done. Unsupervised BBQs can easily tip over in the wind. A breeze can pick up and carry coals and embers from that campfire, dropping them where they can ignite dry grass, branches, trees or deck planks.

First 2020 Hurricane season action - Tropical Storm Cristobal

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

Flash Flood in Jacksonville

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/Middleburg is here to assist with any issues that may arise from the first Tropical event to make US landfall in 2020, Cristobal.  "The earliest calendar year landfalling named storm in Louisiana on record (since 1851) is Tropical Storm Arlene on May 30, 1959," Phil Klotzbach, a meteorologist at Colorado State University, said on Twitter. "The 2nd earliest landfalling named storms in LA are unnamed tropical storms in 1912 & 1956 on June 13." That means Cristobal is thesecond-earliest named storm to make landfall in Louisiana since records have been kept, he said. Our local area suffered through quite a downpour of rain and some severe flash flooding that closed down streets and also some parts of I-10. If you have any issues stemming from the flooding, feel free to give us a call at 904-861-8870 and we will assist to make it "Like it never even happened."

Hard Water hurts

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Busted pipe

What Is Hard Water?

Very simply put, hard water is water that contains a high concentration of certain minerals, namely calcium and magnesium. While hard water is safe for human consumption, it can leave unsightly, hard-to-clean spots on your fixtures. Even worse, over time hard water can leave deposits that can damage your pipes.  

How Does Hard Water Damage My Pipes?

Mineral deposits from hard water, also known as scale deposits, are often responsible for clogging pipes. When hard water is heated, a certain amount of water evaporates, causing the minerals suspended in it to precipitate. This solidified scale (or limescale) can then accumulate inside your pipes, water heater, washing machine and dishwasher. 

These accumulations can cause major troubles all throughout your plumbing system, from low water pressure to the failure of certain appliances. What’s more, some types of plumbing are more susceptible to hard water clogging than others. While copper, PVC and PEX pipes are more resistant to hard water buildup and corrosion, they can still get clogged or completely blocked by scale deposits.

What Are the Best Hard Water Solutions?

When it comes to preventing hard water damage, you have two main options: installing a water softener or a reverse osmosis water treatment system. 

A water softener is a tank situated between your water source (e.g., your municipal water supply's main line) and the internal plumbing that services your home. Inside this tank is an inorganic softening medium — a resin or crystalline substance — suspended in a saltwater solution. As water filters through the softener, the hard minerals in it literally swap places (on the molecular level) with the sodium in the medium itself via a process known as ion exchange. The result is that these minerals are effectively removed from the water before it reaches your appliances and faucets. 

In the reverse osmosis process, impurities are stripped from your water through a semipermeable membrane. This microscopic filter catches all manner of substances and not just "hard" minerals. In fact, the pitcher in your refrigerator may very well use this same technology to supply your family with clean, refreshing drinking water. Reverse osmosis systems are typically more expensive than water softeners. 

New Normal?

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

Social Distancing

The coronavirus has changed what it means to clean.

In the year 2019 B.C. (Before Coronavirus), homeowners or their housekeepers could basically scrub, wipe, dust and vacuum their way to a clean house.

But now many homeowners are hiring companies with specialized tools and chemicals to disinfect their homes as a way to protect themselves and their businesses to protect not only employees but their customers.

We understand the dire need of proper disinfectant services to combat the spread of COVID-19. We offer services to deep clean and disinfect your business, school, or other commercial property as well as your own home. No more guessing whether you have cleaned that doorknob or entire wall.

Our Protocols and Certification:
- We wear protective gear (masks, gloves, protective uniforms) when necessary.  i.e. a confirmed case of Covid - 19
- We use the highest quality, approved by the CDC, sanitization products
- We are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration, Restoration Industry Association
‍

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/Middleburg is outfitted with the necessary tools and skills to combat this situation and help protect your employees and clients.

Ready to Grill?

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

Grill Fire Safety

The weather gets warmer, more people use outdoor grills – and incidents of grill-caused fires go up.  According to the National Fire Protection Association from 2014-2018, fire departments went to an annual average of 8,900 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues per year, including 3,900 structure fires and 4,900 outside or unclassified fires.  Gas grills cause more home fires than charcoal grills, the association adds. 

Regardless of the type of grill you own, here are 9 BBQ safety tips that we are sharing from Nationwide that will keep you safer during barbecuing season:

1. Grill outside and away from structures
2. Make sure your grill is stable
3. Keep your grill clean
4. Check for propane leaks on your gas grill
5. If the flame goes out, wait to re-light
6. Take care around the grill
7. Be careful with charcoal starter fluid
8. Wear the right clothing
9. Be ready to put out the fire

These easy-to-follow tips will help you and your family to enjoy a safe summer barbecuing season.

SERVPRO in Our Community

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

Couple Expands into Clay County to get back to his high school roots!

When you see our green trucks around town, it’s a reminder that SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg is locally owned and operated by folks who have lived right here in our community.  We understand that every call is an opportunity to help our friends and neighbors.

We also enjoy being an active part of our beautiful community.   Having expanded from neighboring Union, Columbia & Suwannee County recently you will begin seeing the familiar faces of our SERVPRO team members at a local sporting event, or, one of our favorite fund raising activities as soon as Covid - 19 passes.    

Having lived in Middleburg, Fl growing up,  Chuck (franchise owner) is also very familiar with the unique needs and circumstances our environment can present.  We have hot temperatures and high humidity which puts us at an increased risk of mold.  Since we enjoy a mild climate, many of us are not prepared for when a cold snap hits.  In, the summer, our beautiful trees put us at risk for Fire.  Your local SERVPRO team understands what you are experiencing and is ready to help you through your disaster.

Faster to any size disaster, your local SERVPRO is ready to help restore your home or business in the event of Fire Damage, Water Damage, Biohazard, Mold Remediation, and much more.  If you ever find yourself in need, know you can rely on your friends and neighbors at SERVPRO - providing services in Black Creek, North Middleburg, Oakleaf & the West Side Orange Park!

Covid-19 Has Changed What It Means To Be Clean. Is Your Business Ready?

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

GETTING BACK TO BUSINESS RELIES ON GETTING YOUR CUSTOMERS BACK THROUGH THE DOORS.

While SERVPRO here in Orange Park wishes safety and good health for all, you must be prepared for cleaning after a case. Do you know who you will call to clean after a case? SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg has the staff with experience and the tools to decontaminate your business. We are used to helping before, during and after challenging and unfamiliar events. Trust SERVPRO to thoroughly decontaminate after a positive case or if no case just to offer some reassurance to your employees & customers. We can help make it safe again and/or offer some peace of mind.

Put your trust in the nations #1 choice for cleanup and restoration.  SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive program that goes way beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning - always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.  SERVPRO professionals have been on the frontlines of proactive and reactive COVID-related cleanup and are Here to Help as your business begins to reopen.

Call us at 904-861-8870 to answer questions regarding services we can offer!

The Urge to Spring Clean

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

The Urge to Spring clean

Spring is just around the corner and with spring comes the spring cleaning. It’s the time of year when people feel the need to take big cleaning projects, indoors and outdoors. But why? Is it because of the cold and general gloominess of the winter? Is it because we are constantly inside that we feel there is no point in thoroughly cleaning?

If could be because the general idea of spring cleaning (removing furniture, carpets, or even cleaning out the garage) is just rooted in the idea to get the house in order. In our past, our houses became more dirty in the winter. Before the furnace, the house was heated with a wood burning stove or fireplace. Getting the sooty mess out of the home every spring could be a ritual we keep today.

One of the things that most people look forward to with the warm weather is opening the windows and letting the fresh air in and the dust from the long winter out. If could be that with the fresh air we want a fresh home.

While the urge to clean is strong, it’s a good time to get your air ducts and carpet cleaned. A good rule of thumb would be to professionally clean your carpet every 12 months. Possibly sooner if you have children or pets. The best advice is to clean carpets before they become totally saturated with soil. If you wait until carpets look really dirty, the carpets may never be restored to their former appearance. Dirt builds up in layers, and when a carpet look dirty you are only seeing the dirt at the tips of the fibers. More dirt is hiding below the surface down near the base of the pile, causing damage to the carpet. When a carpet is saturate with dirt, the soil has penetrated crevices and has become firmly lodged.

With carpet cleaning being recommended every year, the spring cleaning time is a good way to remember to get your carpet cleaned regularly.

The amount of time between air duct cleanings can vary. Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating dust, pollen, odors, dirt and debris, or other contaminants. If you notice an excessive amount of dust in your home, it may be a good time to get your ductwork inspected.

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/Middlerburg can help with your spring cleaning. With a long list of cleaning services, we can help you get through the spring cleaning urge and with much less effort. With services from whole home cleanings, to simply just having your carpets cleaned. We will get the job done right! You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, but our professional residential cleaning services can also make a dirty carpet “Like it never even happened.”

Call us today. 904-861-8870.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

A Guide to Employers

As much as we are here for you if you need our services we also always attempt to advise our customers on things they can do themselves.  We are here to help!  SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg located in Orange Park is always interested in helping our community in anyway possible.  Here are some recommendations from the CDC.

How to clean and disinfect: 

Clean surfaces using soap and water. Practice routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces. High touch surfaces include: Tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, etc. 

Disinfect

Clean the area or item with soap and water or another detergent if it is dirty. Then, use disinfectant. Follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product.

Many products recommend:

Keeping surface wet for a period of time (see product label)
Precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product. 

Download CDC Employer Guidelines 

Alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol may also be used.  

Additional Considerations for Employers

• Educate workers performing cleaning, laundry, and trash pick-up to recognize the symptoms of COVID-19.
• Provide instructions on what to do if they develop symptoms within 14 days after their last possible exposure to the virus.
• Develop policies for worker protection and provide training to all cleaning staff on site prior to providing cleaning tasks.
? Training should include when to use PPE, what PPE is necessary, how to properly don (put on), use, and doff (take off) PPE, and how to properly dispose of PPE.
• Ensure workers are trained on the hazards of the cleaning chemicals used in the workplace in accordance with OSHA’s Hazard Communication standard.
• Comply with OSHA’s standards on Bloodborne Pathogens, including proper disposal of regulated waste, and PPE. 

For facilities that house people overnight:

• Follow CDC’s guidance for colleges and universities. Work with state and local health officials to determine the best way to isolate people who are sick and if temporary housing is needed.
• For guidance on cleaning and disinfecting the bedroom/bathroom for someone who is sick, review CDC’s guidance on disinfecting your home if someone is sick. The content of this email is republished from the Center for Disease Control website at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/.

Please refer to their website for more detailed information.  We provide services in Orange Park, Oakleaf and Middleburg.  

Need help for Water Damage Situations in Your Home

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

When you need help, call us! We are trained to help you in these situations.

Water can be damaging. It can permeate through solid materials like concrete or cinder blocks if given enough time and makes its way into any crack or crevice found on your property. It is thoughtless, unconcerned, or impartial to whether it does damage to your home. SERVPRO can help with water damage situations.

How a professional can help

A professional water damage restoration specialist in Orange Park, Florida can help you fight back against water issues plaguing your home.  With a variety of tools, experience, and training a quality technician can make the most of what your insurance company provides and work hard to produce the results you deserve. There is no reason for you to take problems like this on alone, in fact, it is likely better that you seek help from the start.

Types of water damage situations

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg has technicians that respond to a variety of water intrusion situations, providing customers with a solution to each one in detail. During the winter months, you may have problems with frozen or broken pipes. When a pipe bursts, you can easily find your home filled with over 6-inches of water within minutes.
 
SERVPRO also responds to a variety of issues concerning washing machines or dishwashers. A malfunctioning appliance can flood your home within minutes, leaving little time to react. Causing serious damage to your flooring, furniture, and belongings, or even leading to additional hazards that make it hard to recover.

Water damage restoration at a glance

It takes industrial-grade water extraction equipment and infrared moisture detectors to get water out of every nook and cranny; it is just not enough to mop up and move on. Cleaning, deodorization, and sanitation technicians with the proper IICRC certification provide you with your best opportunity for recovery.
 
All you have to do is contact SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg located in Orange Park, Florida to receive professional quality help for all your water damage needs. We can help you recover from most of the problems that occur in your home, so call today (904) 861-8870. We are available 24 hours a day to assist you.

Entertaining or Just Cooking on the Grill? Use these practices to ensure safety!

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

During these times of staying home more and cooking for the family..... make sure you use the following tips to keep your home safe.

Every year, 7,000 Americans are injured while using backyard barbecue grills. It's usually a case of good products used incorrectly.

Do:

1. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your house. Farther is even better. This includes portions attached to your house like carports, garages and porches. Grills should not be used underneath wooden overhangs either, as the fire could flare up into the structure above. This applies to both charcoal and gas grills.

2. Clean your grill regularly. If you allow grease and fat to build up on your grill, they provide more fuel for a fire. Grease is a major source of flare ups.

3. Check for gas leaks. You can make sure no gas is leaking from your gas grill by making a solution of half liquid dish soap and half water, then rubbing it on the hoses and connections. When you turn the gas on, with the grill lid open, the soap forms large bubbles, that's a sign that the hoses have tiny holes or that the connections are not tight enough.

4. Keep decorations away from your grill. Decorations like hanging baskets, pillows, and umbrellas look pretty AND provide fuel for a fire. To make matters worse, today's decor is mostly made of artificial fibers that burn fast and hot, making this tip even more important.

5. Keep a spray bottle of water handy. That way, if you have a minor flare-up you can spray it with the water to instantly calm it. The bonus of this tip is that water won't harm your food, so dinner won't be ruined!

6. Keep a fire extinguisher within a couple steps of your grill. And KNOW HOW TO USE IT. If you are unsure how to use the extinguisher, don't waste time fiddling with it before calling 911. Firefighters say many fire deaths occur when people try to fight a fire themselves instead of calling for expert help and letting the fire department do its job.

Don't:

7. Turn on the gas while your grill lid is closed. NEVER do this. It causes gas to build up inside your grill, and when you do light it and open it, a fireball can explode in your face. 

8. Leave a grill unattended. Fires double in size every minute. Plan ahead so that all of your other food prep chores are done and you can focus on grilling.

9. Overload your grill with food. This applies especially to fatty meats. The basic reason for this tip is that if too much fat drips on the flames at once, it can cause a large flare-up that could light nearby things on fire.

10. Use a grill indoors. People often think it will be safe to use a grill, especially a small one, indoors. NOT TRUE. In addition to the fire hazard, grills release carbon monoxide; a deadly, colorless, and odorless gas. That gas needs to vent in fresh air or it can kill you, your family, and your pets.

WE OFFER EMERGENCY COVID-19 CLEANING & SANITATION SERVICES

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

Prepared and Ready to handle all situations!

The coronavirus has changed what it means to clean.

In the year 2019 B.C. (Before Coronavirus), homeowners or their housekeepers could basically scrub, wipe, dust and vacuum their way to a clean house.

But now many homeowners are hiring companies with specialized tools and chemicals to disinfect their homes as a way to protect themselves and their businesses to protect not only employees but their customers.

We understand the dire need of proper disinfectant services to combat the spread of COVID-19. We offer services to deep clean and disinfect your business, school, or other commercial property as well as your own home. No more guessing whether you have cleaned that doorknob or entire wall.

Our Protocols and Certification:
- We wear protective gear (masks, gloves, protective uniforms) when necessary.  i.e. a confirmed case of Covid - 19
- We use the highest quality, approved by the CDC, sanitization products
- We are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration, Restoration Industry Association
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SERVPRO is outfitted with the necessary tools and skills to combat this situation and help protect your employees and clients.
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24/7/365 - HERE TO HELP!

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

WE ARE HERE TO HELP 24/7/365

Nobody can predict when a water heater will burst, a pipe will break, or your stove will catch fire while you’re cooking. That is why SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg is always available, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Within minutes, water will quickly spread, saturating everything in its path. Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. Within the first 24 hours drywall begins to swell and break down, metal surfaces begin to tarnish and furniture begins to swell and crack. The earlier SERVPRO can get to the scene, the faster water can be extracted from the area and the important step of drying and mitigation can begin.

Fire and smoke is especially destructive. Not only does the structure suffer physical damage, smoke and soot can creep into tiny spaces and settle there, leaving a lingering odor and settling in air ducts, furniture, clothes, and crevices.  In many instances property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts.

Immediate response can mean all the difference in further issues .If you wait too long, there is the possibility of  the appearance of mold and mildew, wood flooring begins to swell and warp or metal and paint being affected. The longer an area remains unmitigated, restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.

So remember that SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg is available day or night, we are always on call, and we’re here to help.  24/7/365 you can reach us at 904-861-8870.

SERVPRO, here to help

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help

Each one of us is learning to live a little differently these days with "social distancing."  We pray you and your family and businesses are being successful practicing a safe distance from everyone.  

During times like this we come to realize how strong we truly are.  We hope you are taking as many precautions as you can to keep your home and business safe.  

If you find yourself in need of some extra deep cleaning and are unable to do so, please feel free to call SERVPRO of North Clay County, Oakleaf and Middleburg to help you out.

We can help minimize the spread of germs with proactive cleaning! At SERVPRO, we’re trained to adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitization standards, making us the #1 choice for cleanup and restoration. Call 904-861-8870 to see how we can help clean your home or business. 

We are Cleaning Experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg, 904-861-8870.   Also serving Westside Orange Park & Baker County.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Severe Spring Weather Tips

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Be prepared for whatever spring brings.

While spring brings the promise of warm weather and longer days, it also brings a variety of conditions that can include heavy rains and severe weather, which can increase your flood risk. Take action to protect yourself, your family, and your business—before a weather event occurs and it’s too late.

April marks the start of the rainy season. Spring storms can bring several inches of rain in only a matter of hours or there can be consistent rainfall for days. These heavy rains can lead to severe flooding by over-saturating the ground, overfilling storm drains, or rivers spilling over their banks.

As one of the most common hazards in the United States, it’s important we prepare for the potential disaster that flooding can cause. Even if you feel you live in a community with a low risk of flooding, remember that anywhere it rains, it can flood. Just because you haven’t experienced a flood in the past, doesn’t mean you won’t in the future.

In order help prepare you for the possibility of a flood, we offer you these tips:

• Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan
• Avoid building in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce your home
• Elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk
• Install check-valves to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home
• Seal basement walls and floor with waterproofing compounds to prevent seepage through cracks
• Always keep your gutters and downspouts clean to allow water to flow freely
• Prepare a flood evacuation plan
• Know how to safely shut-off utilities
• Keep insurance and vital records in a water-proof box
• Have a portable radio to listen for important current information

When your home sustains water damage from flooding, you should call SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg immediately. SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg professionals have the expertise to prevent or mitigate the devastating effects that water damage can have.

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg covering the West Side Orange Park has the equipment and experience necessary to handle the most challenging water damage and removal situations and we are available around-the-clock. Call us at (904) 861-8870, and we’ll return your home back to normal, "Like it never even happened."

Is Air Duct Cleaning Worth It?

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Is it time to have your HVAC Ductwork Cleaned?

Deciding when (or even if) your air ducts need a good clean out is one of the trickier parts of homeownership.  While there is little scientific evidence as to whether routine air duct cleaning improves air quality, experts agree air ducts should be clean when there's clear evidence that they're dirty.

Some people notice an immediate improvement in air quality, less dust on furniture and the entire HVAC system works more efficiently.

Checking and changing filters, keeping systems maintained, having regular inspections, and ensuring moisture doesn't get in are more important check lists or maintenance ideas.

With more air flow you may use your system less in the summertime and heater less in the winter.  There are many positives to having the duct system cleaned in your home or business.

Call us at 904-861-8870 here in Orange Park, Oakleaf, Middleburg, McClenney and North Clay County to get a free quote and inspection.

We look forward to being the honest company that gains your trust.

Knowing, Understanding & Who Can Help

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Faster to YOUR disaster SERVPRO is here to help make sure your disaster seems "Like it never even happened."

Damage That Can Be Done..

No one likes to think about the possible ails of a disaster attacking your property. SERVPRO wants to help you become more knowledgeable. Understanding the extent of potential damage is key to taking the right steps in getting your property back to pre-damage condition!  SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg is here to help.  Handling the west side of Orange Park as well, we are here to help when you need us!

Water Damage Timeline

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:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Know which type of fire you have had to enable mitigation cleaning to be successful!

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Be sure to know which kind of soot you are mitigating so you don't cause MORE DAMAGE!

Did you know that there are four different types of smoke? Wet, Dry, Oily, and Protein

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.

Oily Smoke - Grease, Fuel Burning, and Burnt Plastics

• Easily smeared, resistant to wet cleaning

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 - SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg are ready to respond and answer your questions on how to tell which type your fire might have been and also clean.  If you don't know which type soot it is, you can DO MORE DAMAGE by trying to clean yourself.  You also have to know what kind of paint you have or you could do more damage as well.  You can reach us at 904-861-8870 and we will be glad to assist you.   We also cover the west side of Orange Park in Clay County, Macclenny in Baker County and Starke in Bradford County.   

Storms or Cleaning, We are here for you!

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

We are here for you when you need us!

SERVPRO Storm Response

The team here at SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg is ready for whatever happens, no matter the time, night or day. When it comes to fire & water damage, our professionals work endlessly to make sure our customers are happy and that we walk them through each step of the cleaning process.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As leaders in the storm and water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-storm condition.

We're Quick to Any Size Disaster

When a storm hits your home or business, you need help immediately. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

We can access the resources and personnel of 1,700 Franchises to handle major storms and disasters. We also have access to special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to catastrophic storms and events.

Locally Owned and Operated

SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too.  Westside Orange Park is where we grew up and went to school.  When you have a storm event or flooding emergency, we are in the area and ready to help.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?

Call SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg today (904)861-8870

Bio-Hazard Tips for Homes and Businesses

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Protect yourself by using personal protective equipment during any type of bio hazard situation.

SERVPRO of North Clay County has helped home owners and businesses with fire, smoke and water damage clean up.  But did you know that SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg professionals are trained and certified in Bio-Hazard clean up?  Here are some helpful tips on what to do until help arrives if you experience crime scene, vandalism or bio-hazard damage in your home or business.

VANDLISM DAMAGE

DO:

• Hose or wash egg damage from your building exterior as soon as possible
• Vacuum glass particles from carpets
• Save containers which reveal the ingredients of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints

DON’T

• Don’t attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
• Operate damage lamps or appliances
• Discard furniture wood chips, broken pieces from porcelain, furniture or art objects.

Harmful Waste

(Sewage, blood borne pathogens, etc.)

DO:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening
• Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.

DON’T

• Attempt cleanup of any kind
• Touch or handle items that might be contaminated with bodily fluids.

These Emergency Tips will assist you in taking the proper actions until SERVPRO professionals arrive to your home or business.

Please follow these Dos and DON’Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.  Call SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg at (904) 861-8870 for assistance with any Bio-Hazard cleanup.  We are available 24/7/365 to serve our residents and businesses.

Are your employees complaining?

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Is your ductwork causing employees to call out sick?

Knowledge about the potential benefits and possible problems of air duct cleaning is limited. Since conditions in every business are different, it is impossible to generalize about whether or not air duct cleaning in your business would be beneficial.  Sometimes if you have noticed an above average amount of employees experiencing sickness this could be a quick fix to help with making sure the building is "clean" of allergy promoters.

You should inspect your ducts if your furniture is excessively dusty or if you notice your registers (vents) are dust filled.  After a visual inspection of the inside of the ducts, you see no indication that your air ducts are contaminated with large deposits of dust or mold (no musty odor or visible mold growth), having your air ducts cleaned is probably unnecessary. On the other hand, if someone in your business suffers from allergies, unexplained symptoms or illnesses you may want to consider having your ducts cleaned.  It is normal for the return registers to get dusty as dust-laden air is pulled through the grate. This does not indicate that your air ducts are contaminated with heavy deposits of dust or debris; the registers can be easily vacuumed or removed and cleaned.

Contact SERVPRO of North Clay County/Oakleaf/North Middleburg @ (904) 861-8870 to have your ducts cleaned today!!  We also provide services in West Orange Park & MacClenney.  

Welcome to our new home

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Our new location

As Oakleaf, Middleburg and the surrounding areas grow and expand, so does the need for a company with the fantastic reputation of SERVPRO.  With the opening of our SERVPRO of North Clay County, Oakleaf and Middleburg office, we will be able to better assist our local community with water removal and dehumidification, cleaning of airducts and HVAC systems among other services 24 hours a day.  Our goal is to take whatever problem you have contacted us about and make it "Like it never even happened."

As we expand our footprint over the North Clay County, Oakleaf and Middleburg area, we would like to bring the great Customer Service and reputation that SERVPRO provides to more of our new neighbors who maybe haven't heard of us or used SERVPRO personally.  We look forward to growing with our new blossoming community.