Avoiding Fire Hazards with Halloween Decorations: Safe Setups for a Spook-Free Holiday in Wicker Park?

10/22/2024 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to restore fire damage in Chicago.

Our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams want everyone to have a fun and safe Halloween celebration in Wicker Park. Halloween decorations can bring a festive and spooky atmosphere to your home but pose potential fire hazards if not used safely. To ensure a fun and hazard-free Halloween, choose flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations.

One of the most common Halloween decoration hazards is the use of candles or other open flames near flammable items like curtains, paper, or dried leaves. To avoid this risk, consider using battery-operated LED candles, which provide the same eerie glow without the danger of fire.

Be mindful of where you place decorations. Ensure that walkways and exits are clear of flammable materials, allowing easy and safe movement in an emergency. Inspect string lights or other electrical decorations for any frayed wires or loose connections before use. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid overloading electrical outlets.

Finally, when displaying outdoor decorations, keep them away from dry leaves or other flammable yard debris. By taking these precautions, you can create a safe and spooky environment that minimizes fire risks, ensuring a memorable Halloween for all the right reasons.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Wicker Park has fire damage, our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 773-434-9100.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

The Dangers of a Leaking Tankless Water Heater in Bucktown?

10/15/2024 (Permalink)

We are water damage restoration leaders in Chicago.

Our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams respond to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Tankless water heaters are favored by homeowners for their energy efficiency and the continuous supply of hot water they provide. However, like all appliances, they can encounter problems over time, including leaks. A leaking tankless water heater not only interrupts your hot water availability but also threatens your home with potential water damage.

Leaks in tankless water heaters can occur due to various factors, such as corrosion, loose fittings, or internal component failures. Because these units are often installed in basements or utility rooms, a leak can go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Water can seep into walls, flooring, and insulation, leading to mold growth and structural issues.

If you think your tankless water heater might be leaking, it’s important to take swift action. Start by shutting off the water supply to the unit, then reach out to a professional to evaluate and fix the issue. Routine upkeep, including checking connections and flushing the system to eliminate mineral deposits, plays a vital role in avoiding leaks altogether

Don’t let a leaking tankless water heater catch you off guard. Routine checks and prompt attention to any signs of trouble can protect your home from costly water damage and ensure your hot water supply remains uninterrupted.

Call Us Today!

When your Bucktown home or commercial business has water damage, our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 773-434-9100.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

University Village Residents Learn What Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm Sounds Mean?

10/8/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Chicago.

Our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams join with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to educate the public about smoke and CO alarm safety during Residential Fire Awareness month. Here is some information for University Village residents from the NFPA about the different sounds these alarms make and why:

SMOKE ALARMS

• A continued set of three loud beeps—beep, beep, beep—means smoke or fire. Get out, call 9-1-1, and stay out.
• A single “chirp” every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be changed
• All smoke alarms must be replaced after ten years.
• Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.

CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) ALARMS

• A continuous set of four loud beeps—beep, beep, beep, beep—means carbon monoxide is present in your home. Go outside, call 9-1-1, and stay out.
• A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be replaced.
• CO alarms also have “end of life” sounds that vary by manufacturer. This means it’s time to get a new CO alarm.
• Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.

Call Us Today!

When your University Village home or business has fire damage, our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 773-434-9100.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Torrential Downpour Causes Flooding in West Loop Restaurant?

9/30/2024 (Permalink)

We restore commercial flood damage 24/7 in Chicago.

The West Loop’s Restaurant Row is a dining and nightlife hotspot in Chicago that floods when storms bring heavy rainfall to the area. Flooding can wreak havoc on commercial properties, leaving extensive damage requiring immediate attention. Our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams understand the urgency of these situations and offer storm damage restoration services to get your business back on track quickly.

Commercial flooding and storm cleanup become essential when severe weather strikes to prevent further damage and health risks. Flood water can carry contaminants, making floodwater removal and cleanup a priority. Our teams are available 24/7, including weekends and holidays, to promptly address your commercial storm damage needs. We know that time is of the essence when dealing with flooding, and our service professionals are always prepared to respond.

The process of severe weather damage restoration involves more than just removing water. We thoroughly dry and dehumidify the affected areas to prevent mold growth and structural damage. Additionally, our comprehensive approach includes repairing any storm-related damage to ensure your property is safe and operational as soon as possible.

As a trusted storm cleanup company, we are committed to providing the highest level of service. Whether it's a minor flood or extensive storm damage, you can rely on us for efficient and thorough restoration, helping you recover quickly from the disruption.

Call Us Today!

When your West Loop commercial business or home has flood damage, our local teams in West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 773-434-9100.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Chicago's Summer Thunderstorms Can Cause Hidden Roof Damage in Bucktown?

9/24/2024 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage in Chicago “Like it never even happened.”

Our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams restore storm damage 24 hours a day. Chicago's summer thunderstorms bring heavy rain, strong winds, and hail, which can cause significant, yet often hidden, damage to your roof. While the damage might not be immediately visible, minor leaks, cracked shingles, and weakened structural components can develop over time, leading to more severe issues if left unaddressed.

One of the primary concerns after a summer storm is the potential for small leaks to form in the roof. These leaks may start as minor drips but can quickly escalate, leading to water intrusion, mold growth, and damage to your attic and ceilings. Cracked or missing shingles are another common issue, often caused by wind or hail. They expose your roof to the elements and reduce its lifespan.

To prevent these hidden problems from worsening, homeowners should regularly inspect their roofs after storms. Look for signs of damage, such as loose or damaged shingles, water stains on the ceiling, or debris accumulation. Additionally, ensure your sump pump is in good working order, as a compromised roof can lead to water infiltration that could overwhelm your basement during heavy rain.

Early detection and prompt repairs can prevent costly repairs down the line, keeping your home safe and dry throughout Chicago's stormy summer season.

Call Us Today!

When your Bucktown home or business has storm damage, our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 773-434-9100.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Tips for Maintaining Your Tankless Water Heater in West Loop?

9/17/2024 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24/7 in Chicago.

Our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams are highly trained and certified to restore water damage in Chicago. A tankless water heater is a reliable and efficient appliance that requires regular maintenance to function correctly. These units can become less efficient and cause water damage without proper upkeep. Regular maintenance includes:

• Descaling the unit to remove mineral buildup
• Checking for leaks
• Ensuring that all connections are secure

Failure to maintain a tankless water heater can lead to a host of problems. Mineral buildup can reduce the unit’s efficiency, causing it to work harder and consume more energy. Over time, this can also cause blockages, leading to water pressure issues and potential leaks. Additionally, if the connections and seals deteriorate, leaks may develop, leading to water damage in your home. These risks emphasize the importance of regular maintenance.

To keep your tankless water heater operational and prevent water damage, it’s essential to schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional. These checks can ensure that the unit functions efficiently and safely, extending its lifespan and protecting your home from potential water damage. Neglecting this simple upkeep can lead to costly repairs and a less efficient system.

Call Us Today!

When your West Loop home or business has a water damage emergency, our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 773-434-9100.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Little Italy Relies on Us for Commercial Water Damage Restoration Services?

9/10/2024 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to restore water damage in Chicago.

Our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams have the training, equipment, and experience to restore water damage quickly and efficiently in Little Italy. Water damage in a commercial setting can be daunting, but our comprehensive restoration process is a proven approach to effective restoration. We begin with a prompt response, imperative for preventing secondary damage and reducing the overall impact on the business. Our highly trained technicians are available 24/7, ensuring that help is always just a phone call away.

Upon arrival, our technicians perform a detailed inspection to assess the extent of the water damage. This step is vital for developing a tailored restoration plan. Using advanced moisture detection equipment, they can identify hidden water pockets that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Next, we use powerful water extraction units to swiftly remove excess water from the premises. This is followed by a drying process using industrial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers, which help prevent mold growth and structural damage. We follow the drying process with comprehensive cleaning and sanitizing procedures to ensure the space is safe, clean, and ready for use.

Our teams are trained to restore commercial properties quickly, minimizing disruption to business operations. With a focus on quality and professionalism, we are a trusted partner for businesses facing water damage challenges.

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Little Italy has a water damage emergency, our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 773-434-9100.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Tips to Prevent Summer Flood Damage in Wicker Park?

9/3/2024 (Permalink)

We mitigate and restore flood damage 24/7 in Chicago.

Our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams witness firsthand the damage flooding can do to a home or business in Wicker Park. Chicago's summer rains can lead to unexpected flooding, but there are several strategies you can employ to protect your home beyond sandbags.

One of the most critical steps is ensuring your gutters and downspouts are debris-free. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and pool around your foundation, increasing the risk of basement flooding. Regularly clean and inspect them, especially before heavy rains.

Another effective method is to install a sump pump in your basement. Sump pumps help remove water accumulating in the lowest parts of your home, preventing costly water damage.

Additionally, consider grading your lawn to direct water away from your foundation. Sloping the ground around your home ensures water naturally flows away rather than towards your property.

For added protection, waterproof your basement walls with sealants to resist moisture intrusion. Finally, invest in a backwater valve to prevent sewer backups during heavy rainfall.

Combining these strategies can significantly reduce the risk of flood damage and keep your home safe during Chicago's unpredictable summer storms.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Wicker Park has flood damage, our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 773-434-9100.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

The Dangers of Unmitigated Standing Water in Commercial Properties in Greektown?

8/27/2024 (Permalink)

We restore commercial water damage 24/7 in Chicago.

Our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams are ready to respond to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day 365 days a year. Standing water in a commercial property is far more than a minor nuisance—it poses a significant risk to the building’s structural integrity and the well-being of those inside. When left unaddressed, water can quickly seep into flooring, walls, and structural components, leading to extensive damage that escalates over time.

Within a few hours, standing water can begin to warp wood, damage drywall, and compromise the foundation. When moisture infiltrates building materials, it fosters an environment where mold and mildew can thrive, quickly spreading throughout the structure.

The longer water remains, the greater the likelihood of electrical hazards, as water can infiltrate electrical systems and equipment. This heightens the risk of fire or electrical shock, further amplifying the hazards in the impacted area.

Unmitigated water damage in commercial settings can lead to significant financial losses, extended business interruptions, and more. Our professionals have the training, equipment, and experience to mitigate and restore commercial water damage quickly and effectively.

Taking prompt action is essential to safeguard your investment and maintain a safe environment for both customers and employees, preventing minor issues from turning into major repairs.

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Greektown has a water damage emergency, our local team in West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown is Here to Help® Contact us today at 773-434-9100.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

How to Navigate the Aftermath of Summer Flooding in Bucktown?

8/20/2024 (Permalink)

We are storm damage restoration leaders in Chicago.

Bucktown, a vibrant neighborhood in Chicago, is no stranger to the occasional summer flood. Located near the Chicago River, Bucktown's unique topography can contribute to significant water accumulation during heavy rainstorms. Residents often grapple with the aftermath of intense downpours that lead to localized flooding each year. The impact on homes and businesses can be substantial, with streets inundated and properties suffering from water damage.

The aftermath of flooding can be daunting for homeowners and businesses in Bucktown. However, the area is fortunate to have access to our local West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown teams for storm damage restoration services. Our highly trained storm and flood damage cleanup teams can provide swift and effective restoration, a crucial factor in a post-flood scenario.

Our teams of restoration professionals offer 24/7 emergency storm service, ensuring that help is available whenever needed. Our fast emergency response time, usually four hours or less, means that damage can be addressed promptly. These services also significantly facilitate an easier insurance claim process, helping residents navigate the complexities of filing claims and securing the necessary funds for repairs.

No matter how extensive the damage, residents can rely on our local teams in West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown to restore their properties "Like it never even happened."

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business has been damaged by flooding, SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown is Here to Help® Contact us today at 773-434-9100.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Top Tips for Recovering From a Flood | SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown

5/14/2024 (Permalink)

Don't let flood water damage your Chicagoland residence or business! Call SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown to restore your property.

While we can all appreciate a little rain from time to time, a lot of it in a short amount of time can overwhelm the Chicago community and can quickly lead to flooding concerns. Hot and muggy summers can lead to storms that fire up in the afternoon and evening, causing intense waves of rain to fall all over the area. 

Our community can quickly become overwhelmed with rain, and that can lead to it running down our streets and causing flash flood concerns.

Knowing what to do before, during and after a potential flood can help you navigate the entire situation with more confidence, and it can actually help you avoid more serious damage. 

Focus on Your Safety

Flash flood warnings can be issued during most of the year, but especially from spring to mid-summer. If a strong storm is forecast or a flash flood watch is issued, you should start preparing your home and family right away. Fast-moving water can quickly infiltrate your neighborhood, and even just six inches of fast-moving water is enough to knock you off your feet. 

Stay home and start preparing your property for the rain. Secure any outdoor furniture, grills or other heavy equipment that cannot be moved inside, move valuable possessions out of the lowest level of your home, and consider turning off electricity to that lowest level if your home has been known to flood before. After that, sit tight and stay above the water line if water does start rushing in. 

Navigating Your Home Post-Flood 

Once the water has stopped flowing in, use extreme caution when moving about your home. Floodwater can cause serious damage to your walls and floors and compromise your living spaces. Avoid walking through the water, as it could be contaminated with storm runoff, chemicals or sharp debris that could be dangerous to your health. 

Take photos of any damage you notice right away, but you should also just take pictures of the scene itself. These fresh images can help your insurance company file the most accurate claim for you. Once those are taken, get us on the phone!

Recovering From a Flood 

Our flood restoration team will jump right into action to help dry out your home and address your repairs. The longer standing water sits on your floors, the worse your damage can become. This can even lead to structural integrity issues and also mold infestations. Our team is dedicated to your recovery from start to finish. 

We will expertly remove the water with our blowers and industry-leading drying equipment and then we will repair any ruined walls, floors or ceilings. Our goal is to return your home to its pre-flood condition as quickly and as efficiently as possible.

Suffered a flood? SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown is here to help you recover.

Stopping a Rainwater Leak at the Source | SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown

1/27/2024 (Permalink)

Has a recent storm caused water in your damage home? Call SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown to get help today!

When it rains, it can seriously pour around the Chicago area. While we may be grateful for an intense rainstorm in the heat of the summer, strong storms can quickly become troublesome for our homes. Rain has the ability to infiltrate the tiniest gaps in our houses that can quickly become serious water leaks. 

Over time, a single water leak can be the catalyst for extensive water damage around your roof that travels into your walls. Knowing what to do before a storm hits can help you avoid these more serious water leaks.

Protecting Your Home
Storms are anything but predictable, so you should always start preparing for the different possibilities as soon as the storm is forecast. Go outside and make sure your gutter system is clean and functioning properly, and ensure your downspouts are pointed away from your foundation. A single clog can lead to water that backs up onto your roof, so take the time to clear these away before the rain starts to fall.

If your home has a sump pump in the basement, now is the time to check it to make sure it is functioning properly. Sump pumps work by pulling excess moisture away from your home by pumping it back up to ground level. This can be a helpful way to avoid water damage, but only if it is working!

Inspect Your Roof

Most storms are predicted at least a day or two in advance, so you should make sure you get up on your roof during this time to check for residual damage. 

Our roofs are the first line of defense when it comes to rain, wind and hail, so they can experience significant damage during the course of a normal year. Checking all of the shingles, gutters and vents to ensure there is no structural damage is vital to avoiding serious water issues in your attic.

Even just a single missing or broken shingle can be the reason your attic walls become soaked during a storm. Grab a ladder and do a visual inspection often, especially after a strong storm rolls through. Address any damage issues that you see quickly so that your home can weather the next storm with confidence. 

Drying Out Your Home

Even if you do everything right and prepare your property for an upcoming storm, Mother Nature can be unpredictable. Water leaks can occur quickly and can leave water stains on your walls or it could even feel like it is raining inside your house when a ceiling leak starts to drip. 

In any case, we can help you recover right away. Lingering moisture can quickly lead to further issues like mold growth, so we work fast to ensure a full recovery. 

We will remove the excess water, detect hidden moisture behind your walls and handle repairs efficiently so you can get back to your normal life as soon as possible. What are you waiting for? Give us a call right away!

A quick recovery after suffering water damage is vital. Call SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown for immediate assistance.

Creating a Reliable Fire Escape Plan | SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown

10/27/2023 (Permalink)

Have you had a fire in your home recently? SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown is “Here to Help”!

No matter where you live in the loop or in downtown Chicago, knowing how to get out of your home in an emergency is crucial. You may only have minutes or even seconds to find a reliable way out before you are stuck and put into an incredibly dangerous position.

This is especially true when fire is concerned. Fire travels quickly, so getting out immediately should always be your top concern. 

Creating a fire escape plan that your whole family can utilize and understand is essential to your safety. Follow these tips below for creating a fire escape plan that will help everyone in your household make it quickly.

The Creation Of Your Plan 

If you live in a single-family home, take the time to map out your home on a piece of paper. Let your kids go through each room and identify the different exit points, ensuring that there are at least two out of every room. Don’t forget the windows! 

Once the map is drawn, go outside and choose a central meeting location that is far away from your home but easy to get to. Mailboxes across the street or a neighbor’s front porch can be safe locations to choose.

If you live in an apartment or high-rise, go on a tour of your building to locate the stairwell as well as the fire escape for your level. Since elevators are not a safe choice during an emergency and they probably won’t work anyway, having at least two other reliable ways to get out is crucial. 

Make sure your children know how to get to each of these locations on their own in case you aren’t there when the fire breaks out. You should also still choose a meeting location for once you are all safely outside, which could be a spot across the street or down the block. 

Putting the Plan Into Action 

Creating a fire escape plan is one thing, but putting it into action is completely different! Many kids learn by experience, so going through the motions can ensure that your children retain the information they need to react accordingly. 

Practice different scenarios of them being in bed, sitting at the kitchen table or playing in the family room. Push the test button on your smoke alarm and have your kids respond like it was a true emergency. 

As they make their way to the exits, have them army crawl on their bellies or on their hands and knees to simulate staying below the smoke line. Toxic smoke from fires can be just as dangerous as the flames themselves, so practice this all together! Once you are all outside, remind your kids how to call 911 and what to say when a dispatcher picks up. 

Responding to Fire Damage

House fires can be devastating. They can cause a significant amount of damage in just a few minutes, leaving entire sections or levels of your home entirely destroyed. We understand the sensitive and emotional nature of recovering from a house fire, so let us help walk you through the process. 

Our team will handle your entire restoration, from the initial debris removal to the final repairs of your walls, floors and ceilings. We will even handle soot and smoke removal from parts of your home that were never on fire. We will help you recover faster and more efficiently, so give us a call 24/7 for immediate fire restoration assistance. 

House fires can cause serious damage to your home and property. Contact SERVPRO® of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown for a fast restoration.

SERVPRO’s Chicago Mold Removal Service Is Easily One of the Area’s Best

5/20/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides extensive training and support for mold remediation in Chicago.

Mold Removal Firm Expertly Restores Chicago Homes

Mold is the bane of many Chicago homeowners, but it is a factor in the humid lands by Lake Michigan. Any moisture can trigger its growth, and dampness is often with us throughout the warmer months. Stormy weather patterns and the persistent rains they bring only exacerbate the situation. However, even small household leaks and steam from baths/showers can cause mold problems.

SERVPRO’s mold removal service in Chicago is the remediator many area residents flock to for help. Their strong trust in us is partially due to our decades of work in this community, as well as the impressive credentials and methods of company mold specialists. SERVPRO’s experts are IICRC-certified and have a proven track record of performing high-quality mold inspection and removal work. Additionally, they have received much praise for their black mold damage repairs. Once at your residence, our specialists:

• Firstly, search for the origins of your home’s fungal problem, keeping an eye out for discolorations in ceilings, water-impacted walls and cabinets under sinks, and leaks at plumbing connections to appliances
• Secondly, work to prevent or limit the contamination of unaffected areas and residents’ exposure to mold by using proper protective equipment, sealing impacted rooms with plastic sheeting, and using negative air machines
• Thirdly, ensure accurate final results by keeping extensive records of site conditions and how remediation efforts are progressing
• Lastly, remove fungus from interiors by taking impacted contents out of the home, damp-wipe mold off soiled surfaces with cleaner-infused cloths and sponges, and vacuum any remaining mold into HEPA filters

So, as you can see, SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown has all it takes to get your mold removal project done right. Call or click us any time of the day or night because we are always ready for your call at (773) 434-9100

So Your Dishwasher Leaked… Now What? | SERVPRO® of Downtown Chicago/West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown

5/19/2023 (Permalink)

Is your kitchen damaged from a water leak? Call SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown to get it clean and cleared up.

We are all so busy nowadays that it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life and overlook signs of an emerging problem. As you run out the door to catch the L, you might not notice a single drip or a small puddle of water on your floor near your dishwasher.

While it might not be an issue now, it could certainly pose trouble for you later when you come home to find your entire kitchen flooded. If that happens to you, call SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown right away.

The Dangers of Water Damage

Even though water is an essential part of life, it can cause some widespread issues in your home. As water pours onto your floor, it will spread and leak into every possible crevice or crack that it can.

That means that water could be getting up underneath your floorboards or behind your trim where it is really hard to get at on your own!

If water seeps into your floor or behind your walls, it can be virtually impossible to dry out on your own without professional equipment or major construction. Over time, that water will linger there and can eventually cause mildew and mold growth to appear.

Once mold is present in the area, it can take over quickly and become a full infestation in a matter of days, so taking action quickly not only prevents the water damage from getting worse, you are putting a stop to a potential mold problem.

What to Do First

The first thing you should do is locate your main water valve. This will simply turn off the water connected to the appliance to prevent the water from flowing out of your dishwasher. Usually this is located in the cupboard under your sink or in the back of your machine.

Once the water has stopped flowing, turn off the power to the appliance. This ensures that your dishwasher can’t start back up again, and it also protects you from the dangers of electricity running near water.

After that, take a breath and call us. We will ask you some questions about your home and your situation, and then we will be on our way to you with our industrial drying equipment!

Why a Professional Restoration Is Important

While you could certainly get a fan out and try to dry out the area yourself, you might not be able to get all of the water on your own. Like we said earlier, water can get behind your walls and can be really hard to dry up with just a regular fan.

Our powerful drying equipment can ensure that every drop of water is gone, and we even have technology at our disposal to check for hidden moisture.

We will work hard to dry out the water for you and then we can address any necessary repairs. Water can easily warp wood and vinyl, so you might need to replace your floorboards or trim if it has been compromised. But not to worry! Our water damage restoration team can handle it all for you.

If your home has experienced water damage, call SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown.

Flood Damage in Chicago Should Not Keep You Down

5/14/2023 (Permalink)

When flooding affects your home, you need to call in the professionals. Team SERVPRO is standing by 24/7 for your emergency call.

Activities to Occupy You as Experts Handle Flood Restoration 

A property heavily soiled and contaminated by flooding may not be as functional as usual. Finding a way to address flood damage expeditiously should restore normalcy. SERVPRO can help when your Chicago property is affected.

Finding an appropriate venue within the greater Chicago area should be easy. As the professionals work to fix flood damage at your Chicago property, you have other things to take care of, ensuring everything does not come to a stop. If you had organized something with your friends or family, those plans could continue even if your home is out of commission.

Where to Hold Events in Style within Chicago

• Navy Pier - sitting on the Lake Michigan shore, it offers a variety of spaces for events, including the Lakeview Terrace, a Grand Ballroom, and Crystal Gardens.
• The Art Institute of Chicago - its museum is world-renowned, but it also offers event spaces like the Bluhm Family Terrace, the Ryan Learning Center, and its Modern Wing.
• The Drake Hotel - the historic hotel sits on the Magnificent Mile and has unique spaces like the Gold Coast Room, the Grand Ballroom, and the Palm Court.
• The Chicago Cultural Center is a historic landmark but also offers stunning function locations like the Preston Bradley Hall with its Tiffany Dome or the G.A.R Rotunda. 

Even when no formal events are planned with your family or friends, you can still choose to head out as SERVPRO IICRC-certified technicians clean and decontaminate your property. One of the best ways to have fun is by attending local events.

Notable Events to Attend in Chicago

• Spectate or participate in the Chicago annual Marathon, which draws in visitors from all over the world
• Watch fireworks on display over Lake Michigan at the Navy Pier on Wednesday and Saturday nights during summer
• Explore the winter wonderland of light displays at the Lincoln Park Zoo 
• Explore different foods from vendors at the Taste of Chicago Festival held in July.

SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago / West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown helps whenever flood damage develops. You can reach us at (773) 434-9100.

SERVPRO Provides Emergency Water Damage Repair in Chicago

4/30/2023 (Permalink)

Your commercial space functions best without excess water. Team SERVPRO can help if a situation has caused water damage. We are available.

Need Commercial Water Damage Repair and Cleanup in Chicago – Call SERVPRO

Water leaks in commercial properties in Chicago can bring business activity to an abrupt halt. Clients are inconvenienced, supplier shipments are placed on hold, your revenue drops, and you may have to lay off employees until repairs are completed. The impact can be catastrophic for the business. Business owners must repair plumbing leaks, remove the water, and repair the damage.

SERVPRO understands how important it is to complete water damage repairs in commercial properties in Chicago quickly to enable a return to normal operating conditions. That’s why our team responds within four hours of your call, and we are available 24/7 to help our commercial customers.

Our experienced professionals have extensive equipment available to address the damage caused by water leaks. We deploy high-capacity pumps, water extractors for carpets, hardwood flooring and cavities, air movers, and dehumidifiers as needed to remove water and dry your building quickly. We also utilize moisture sensors to detect high moisture areas inside walls and under cabinets to avoid further damage and mold infestations from occurring.

We aim to minimize the total damage caused by water in your commercial building. We apply controlled demolition techniques if needed to avoid further secondary damage. Our building services teams can also assist with repair and reconstruction activities. SERVPRO coordinates the trades required to return your commercial building to its original condition “Like it never even happened.”

We have you covered whether plumbing, electrical, drywall, or flooring repairs or reconstruction activities are needed. SERVPRO can reduce the total downtime and expenses by coordinating cleanup and repair activities with no lag time.

SERVPRO provides the following services:

• Emergency services water damage repair and reconstruction
• Water Cleanup
• Water damage restoration

Call SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago / West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown for water damage repair services. We provide service to Chicago and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (773) 434-9100.

Help for Drying Water Damaged Homes in Chicago

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

Our water damage technicians have the equipment and experience to restore your Chicago home to preloss condition.

SERVPRO Water Restoration Technicians Remediate Moisture with Powerful Drying Equipment

Water damage can be a distressing sight, particularly if the damage has been ongoing for some time. However, elevated moisture can impact more than surface-level structures. It may have microbial growth present, creating potential air quality concerns for homeowners. While letting it dry may seem like the most straightforward solution, this strategy can backfire. It is safer for professional restoration services to stop damage to property and air quality.

SERVPRO’s 24-hour availability for water damage cleanup in Chicago ensures that residents receive remediation, repairs, and restoration services necessary to return their homes to a pre-damage state. SERVPRO tools, including extractors and structural drying equipment, are designed to eliminate excess moisture from surfaces and the air more efficiently than DIY solutions.

Why DIY Solutions Can Exacerbate Water Damage

The key to effective water damage drying is dehumidification combined with air movement after thorough water removal. Chicago homeowners may feel ready to tackle wet drywall or carpet independently. However, without proper inspection tools, they may not be aware of:

• The scope of the water damage
• The source causing the continuous leaks or moisture
• The presence of mold
• The extent to which structures have been saturated
• Whether other crucial systems, like electrical or HVAC, are affected by water

SERVPRO trains technicians to detect and mitigate all of these factors in ways that help homeowners save on potential restoration costs. Water damage requires a careful balance of air movement and dehumidification to prevent secondary damage to surfaces and increases in relative humidity.

SERVPRO Water Damage Mitigation and Drying for Residential Structures

Chicago SERVPRO technicians can deploy a full suite of tools for moisture removal, such as:

• Penetrating and surface-level inspection sensors and meters calibrated for materials like wood and drywall, as well as thermal imaging cameras to inspect water damage behind surfaces
• Portable and truck-mounted extractors that can deploy heated solvents for cleaning of carpet and upholstery and pulling excess moisture out of nooks, crannies, and structural materials
• EPA-registered antimicrobial solutions designed to remediate microbes and odor-causing bacteria to sanitize and restore space
• Structural drying tools, which include commercial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers
• Odor control tools, such as wet foggers, odor counteractant beads, and hydroxyl generators

Temporary containment measures like polyethylene drying chambers can accelerate water cleanup in open spaces. Specialized techniques that target wet carpet and pad, as well as upholstery and drapes, can keep restoration on-site without the need to move belongings offsite.

In a typical residential water damage incident, technicians can set up air movement equipment every 10 to 16 linear feet to cover approximately 150 square feet per unit. These air movers are typically paired with low-grain refrigerant (LGR) dehumidifiers to collect humidity pulled out of surfaces and into the air.

For dehumidification, moist air is passed over cold refrigerant coils and collected for disposal in a treated sewer. At the same time, the LGR units expel warm, dry air that is pushed toward necessary surfaces by the air movers. High-powered desiccant dehumidifiers are also available for remediation of damage to structural materials. Technicians carefully calculate drying goals and position air movement and dehumidification units accordingly to save as much material as is feasible after a water damage disaster.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is proud to say that We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster and ready to address homeowners ’ concerns 24/7. Call (773) 434-9100 to get started.

The Best Way to Cleanup Fire Damage in Chicago

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO for certified technicians to help with fire damage remediation efforts in your Chicago home or business.

Chicago SERVPRO Fire Cleanup Professionals Can Detect Smoke, Soot, and Water Damage

Even when it comes from minor kitchen stove flare-ups, fire damage can appear surface-level at first glance. While that is sometimes the case, Chicago property owners may not immediately detect other odors and residues left behind by it. When extinguishers or water put out a home fire, the materials used to suppress flames can impact HVAC systems and other surfaces. These components may require professional restoration to salvage affected structures and belongings thoroughly.

Chicago SERVPRO fire damage cleanup technicians can perform mitigation per restoration industry best practices established by the IICRC. The key to saving the most items possible after a fire is having the right tools for the job and knowing how smoke damage works. SERVPRO staff is educated in both topics and uses commercial-grade equipment and knowledge to return fire-affected properties to a clean, soot- and odor-free condition.

Can Homeowners Inspect Fire Damage Themselves After a Fire?

While homeowners can determine the extent of a minor, surface-level disaster, fires affect more than just a wall or ceiling even after a small incident.

• Soot particles settle in ducts and HVAC components, where they can become sticky or corrosive on exposure to moisture. These residues can collect dust and potentially create future fire damage risks while lowering home air quality
• Cooking fires involving meats leave greasy, odorous protein residues nearly invisible to the naked eye. These soils require specialized enzyme digester and sanitation solutions for removal. Residents can unintentionally spread residues during a DIY inspection, spreading unpleasant odors throughout the home
• Smoke residues can impart soot and soils on electrical components that put them at risk for future ignition
• Water damage from flame suppression can also impact wall cavities, carpet, and pad, which can allow for mold proliferation in as little as 24 to 48 hours

While a DIY inspection may seem like a good idea on paper for saving on restoration costs, this approach can potentially cost more. Handling this process without professional assistance can hurt a proof of loss claim and unintentionally damage structures and belongings in the home.

SERVPRO Fire Inspection Tools and Process

During fire damage inspections, SERVPRO techs can look at the following:

• Ventilation registers, ducts, and other components
• Pretesting results for cleaning solutions to determine ideal cleaning strategies
• Moisture levels in various surfaces, which are ascertained by penetrating and non-penetrating sensors and meters as well as imaging
• Mold detection if conditions that allow its growth are present

SERVPRO's multi-pronged inspection process prepares homes for a thorough cleaning process that pinpoints structural damages and restores as much as possible to a pre-damage condition. Technicians can also demolish unsalvageable drywall, flooring, and insulation per homeowners' and insurance adjusters' wishes.

Light soils may only require cleaning with dry cleaning sponges or mild, EPA-registered antimicrobials. Alkaline cleaners, dry ice blasting, or soda ash abrasion cleaning may be necessary for more odorous or heavy-duty fire damage soiling on walls, ceilings, and fixtures. Crew members also inspect the property during and after restoration to ensure that restoration goals are met per homeowners' and SERVPRO's standards.

Homeowners can receive "Like it never even happened" quality services from SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown when they call (773) 434-9100.

I Have Mold Damage in My Chicago Residence

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

Finding mold in your Chicago home does not need to cause panic. Contact SERVPRO right away for an investigation and remediation.

SERVPRO Mold Remediation Technicians Can Sanitize and Restore Property 24/7

While many factors contribute to residential mold damage proliferation, elevated moisture is easily the most influential and challenging to mitigate without professional assistance. Humidity and the microbes that thrive on it can hide in nooks and crannies to eat away at drywall, clothing, carpeting, books, and other possessions. Eventually, this proliferation can impact a home's safety and structural integrity.

SERVPRO's mold damage mitigation services return Chicago residences to a safe, comfortable, almost microbe-free condition. Highly-trained technicians use sophisticated tools, inspection technologies, and commercial-grade personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent secondary damages and fully restore the property.

How Moisture Allows Mold to Thrive

Mold spores spread in environments with enough moisture for growth and sustainability like a plant.

To minimize microbial growth risk, homeowners can:

• Have their homes inspected for moisture leaks or water damage can catch the early signs of spores before they can spread further
• Keep living spaces clean and dry. So long as the conditions are kept at bay, mold growth can be prevented and minimized even when water-related incidents occur
• Maintain relative humidity levels below 50 percent. EPA guidelines suggest between 30 and 50 percent to avoid damage to wood and other contents in the home
• Ensure that homes have adequate ventilation. Regular cycling of clean, dry air is essential to keeping moisture levels stable, thereby lowering mold growth potential

SERVPRO mold remediation technicians can perform all of these services during cleanup. However, total mold removal is not guaranteed due to the microscopic nature of individual spores. Small amounts of these microbes naturally exist in all living spaces and outdoors. SERVPRO tools are designed to lower spore proliferation to pre-contamination levels for homes experiencing excess microbial contamination or conditions that can exacerbate it.

SERVPRO Education Efforts Prepare Technicians for Mold Damage Cleanup

SERVPRO staff, restoration technicians, and franchise owners receive extensive training in mold growth because this type of disaster does not occur in a vacuum. Elevated moisture levels from such incidents as:

• Home water damage
• Storms and floods
• Fire suppression

SERVPRO certified technicians can implement mold remediation solutions per Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards for repairing structural materials and belongings.

SERVPRO franchise owners, meanwhile, receive a hands-on 15-day crash course in restoration practices for mold cleanup at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility. This course includes participating in demonstrative restoration at the Corporate Training House, designed for realistic disaster cleanup practice.

Restoration staff also have access to ongoing e-Learning opportunities that are self-paced. Each module provides video and supplemental education materials to prepare team members for the knowledge tests that conclude each module. These e-Learning units ensure that staff members remain up-to-date about restoration industry best practices. This knowledge allows technicians to attain additional certification opportunities that expand their restoration skill set.

Credit and non-credit continuing education courses are available to SERVPRO team members and professionals from other industries. These courses are particularly valuable for individuals who work in insurance claims adjustment and real estate management. Units cover fire and water damage restoration, mold in the restoration industry, and restorative drying practices.

Residents who need emergency-response "Like it never even happened" restoration services can count on SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown for 24/7 restoration availability. Call (773) 434-9100 to have a team at the property within hours of first contact.

Chicago Storm Damage Calls for Expert Water Restoration

3/27/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can make your flood damaged Chicago home appear "Like it never even happened." Sometimes, it takes time to complete the project.

Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for Storm Damage Cleanup

Living in and around the Windy City means being prepared for storm damage. You need skilled technicians to handle cleanup if your Chicago property takes on water damage. Whether you have hefty debris that caused roof damage or flooding coming into your living space, SERVPRO has the staffing and equipment to provide safe, efficient results. Our team is IICRC-certified and follows all the latest protocols for handling contaminated water and all possible safety hazards present with a storm-related project.

Why call for storm cleanup and water restoration in Chicago?

The faster you contact professionals for water mitigation and cleanup, the better your chance of a full recovery. SERVPRO also works to limit the loss by repairing versus replacing, so you can save costs overall.

Can you salvage personal items and collectibles?

How we address any contents impacted by storm damage hinges on several factors. For example, if porous items come into contact with contaminated floodwater, the chances are high that they will need to be thrown out. Some of the contents that often fall into this category include:

• Carpeting and carpet padding
• Mattresses
• Comforters, pillows, and some linens
• Upholstered furnishings

You can rely on our moisture detection and control

SERVPRO follows the migration path to determine areas where moisture pockets might be hiding. We have specialized moisture detection equipment to determine saturation levels within wall cavities, subflooring, behind baseboards, and the tight regions in and under cabinetry.

Build back, and reconstruction are vital in any storm-related water incident. Luckily, SERVPRO works with trusted area contractors and vendors to ensure you get the desired results. From flooring repair to handling roof damage from falling tree limbs, we have you covered as we make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown at (773) 434-9100 if you have questions about storm damage or wish to schedule our water restoration team. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster – getting to your door within hours of initial contact.

Water Restoration in Chicago Homes Is Efficient with SERVPRO

2/21/2023 (Permalink)

We arrive to each job equipped and ready to get to work.

Consult Professionals for Water Restoration in Chicago

As a homeowner, water damage is one of the most stressful occurrences you might come across. You must handle the situation correctly, quickly, and with the utmost professionalism to avoid an incomplete restoration that might soon expose the house to more damage. You must contact a competent and reputable restorer as quickly as possible for your home to regain its status.

Such occurrences should not cause panic since SERVPRO can handle whatever situation you find yourself in. A combination of experienced, trained, and licensed technicians and a good reputation is enough to convince you to contact us to perform water restoration in your Chicago residence. We are a DCLO (Downtown Chicago Licensed Operator) that can conduct commercial and municipal restoration projects. 

Extraction is the first method our SERVPRO technicians use to remove water from a structure. For water extraction from flooring, we use equipment like:

• Portable extractors
• Deep extraction tools
• Light wands 
• Pumps

Our SERVPRO team chooses the most suitable extraction tool based on the materials we are restoring. For instance, carrying out an aggressive extraction might lead to the delamination of carpeting. When wet, carpets are usually 50% weaker. Therefore, we can use a light wand to prevent damage. Generally, an extraction wand works well when removing water from a glued-down carpet, while the heavier devices work perfectly on floors with large tufts and a thick pad. We have found extraction to be a better way of doing away with the water than dehumidification by a factor ranging in the hundreds.

When there is a significant amount of standing water, SERVPRO uses a variety of pumps, depending on the situation. When the water exceeds two inches in depth, we opt for submersible pumps since they provide adequate volume capacity and lift capability. We pump the water into a treated sewer for safe disposal.

You should make sure your house does not succumb to water damage by contacting SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Work with SERVPRO for Effective Fire Restoration in Chicago

1/23/2023 (Permalink)

Pinocchio doesn't lie! Call SERVPRO for fire and soot cleanup in your Chicago property. "Like it never even happened."

Fire Restoration in Chicago Homes Requires Experience

It is daunting to predict or imagine the devastation a fire causes. Even small fires can cause significant destruction from the blaze and the damage created when putting them out. If a blaze has engulfed your home, you must know several vital things before repairs begin.

After unexpected property damage resulting from a fire, finding effective fire restoration services in Chicago can help restore your property to normal. The fire damage repair process involves several steps like stain removal, addressing structural damage, hard surfacing cleaning, and smoke damage remediation.

Your home might have sustained structural damage based on the fire's heat and severity. SERVPRO's professional fire remediation services include the following:

• Debris removal
• Protection
• Removing water and moisture
• Cleaning

Debris removal

Once the fire department and insurance company complete their reports and release the property, our technicians can eliminate the debris at the fire's source. Debris is often the cause of most of the odor.

Protection

Your home is different after a fire. Parts of the roofing might be falling into living areas. The fire may have damaged windows and pieces of drywall that could be hanging from the ceiling. Our SERVPRO technicians can immediately offer the necessary board-up for windows and doors to protect your residence. If the roof sustained damage, our team could tarp it to prevent rain and other forms of precipitation from entering your home.

Removing water and moisture

SERVPRO's fire emergency services also include mitigating the water damage associated with fire extinguishing efforts. We can remove the water using electric submersible pumps and complete the drying process using air movers and dehumidifiers to prevent mold contamination.

Cleaning

We can choose the most suitable cleaning method based on the smoke permeating your home and the surface we are cleaning. Smoke residues bond with the surfaces they contact. We can remove the loose soot using dry cleaning sponges and then wash and deodorize the surfaces. We can dispose of the cleaning waste and debris appropriately.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown can handle the mitigation and structural repairs required for complete recovery. Please get in touch with us at (773) 434-9100. 

Efficient Mold Damage Containment for Chicago

12/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO techs wear N-95 facemasks or respirators during mold remediation in Chicago structures.

SERVPRO in Chicago Can Help with Mold Damage Remediation

Molds are endemic in indoor and outdoor environments. Microscopic spores can often be brought into the home on clothing, pets, or belongings. These spores rarely cause a bother to homeowners unless they find abundant water, temperature, and food supply that allows them to grow. When mold colonies form, they produce more spores which can cause an exponential problem called a microbial infestation. Remediating an infestation is based on three basic principles. These principles are containment to prevent spreading, correcting the moisture problem that allows growth, and removing any infested materials. SERVPRO uses licensed remediation professionals to help homeowners contain and control microbial infestations.

Our services

• Mold abatement—slow down and stop the growth
• Mold removal—as much as possible
• Mold Remediation—remove and disinfect

The scale of mold damage in your Chicago home depends on how long microbes can prosper before professional intervention. Common food supplies that support microbial growth are wet cellulose materials. These materials include cardboard, paper, wood composites, and ceiling tiles. It is normal to find mold in storage cupboards, attic spaces, and garages since these areas of the home are usually used to house boxes, and other cellulose material, while also having limited day-to-day usage. These fungi do not require light to grow, so homeowners may only notice a microbial infestation once full-size colonies have formed.

Careful containment of a microbial growth issue is essential when performing any remediation activity. Moldy carpets, for example, should be removed gently to prevent spores from becoming airborne during the removal process. SERVPRO technicians may use misters, which weigh spores down with additional moisture to prevent spreading. Working in pairs, one technician gently detaches and rolls the carpet while the other mists the surface from above. This combination is an example of the methodologies used to contain microbial growth by preventing spores from becoming airborne during removal.

Tools for mold removal

• N-95 graded respirators are vital for safety by preventing AMRT-applied microbial remediation technicians from inhaling or ingesting air-borne spores.
• Drywall saws can quickly cut away infested materials allowing for professional replacement.
• Latex or oil-based primer paints can help to seal surfaces within the building assembly and guard against future microbial growth.

Microbial infestations can get exponentially worse without professional remediation. Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown for mold damage remediation at (773) 434-9100.

Overcoming Water Removal in Chicago Warehouses

11/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides the highest quality commercial damage restoration services in your area. Call now for the fast and immediate help your company needs.

The Tools for Water Removal Services

Water removal services are an essential part of restoring warehouses and commercial properties. Around the West Loop, these production facilities and distribution centers are a part of the economy that we work quickly to protect after a disaster from burst pipes or flooding.

Where Did the Damage Start?

When starting water removal for Chicago warehouses and production facilities, it is crucial to provide a thorough inspection. Certain emergency services might be needed, like roof repairs, plumbing repairs, and other temporary fixes, to allow restoration to begin.

Mounted Extractors 

A truck-mounted extraction system is one of the most efficient solutions for removing standing water in a warehouse setting, even around the equipment and production tools of the main work floor. These parts of our SERVPRO Green Fleet produce the highest draw value of any pump, creating the most efficient solutions for standing water over several inches. In addition, these tools are practical with accessories like:

• Carpet Wands
• Weighted Extraction
• Squeegee Wands

Wet Vacuums for Removal

While undoubtedly, the mounted extractors have a greater gallon-per-minute (GPM) rating, they cannot address the full spectrum of water removal necessary for your building. When water depth reaches a certain point, usually around two inches, mounted extractors and submersible units are less effective. At this point, wet vacuums become a versatile and preferred choice to finish the extraction needed.

Clearing Moisture from the Environment

The environment is also essential in the restoration process for Large Loss recovery needs. Water removal might seemingly be isolated to physical pooling on the surface, but several more steps and stages exist to complete this process. Using trailed desiccant units, we can simultaneously address moisture in multiple areas of the warehouse from a singular, central machine and several lengths of hose stretched to the farthest reaches of the facility.

When considering the magnitude of water removal for Chicago warehouses and production facilities, you can appreciate the tools and experience necessary to accomplish these sizable goals. Our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown Large Loss team understands the urgency of restoration and recovery, so we are ready to help 24/7 when you call (773) 434-9100.

Electrical Fire and Fire Damage in Your Chicago Home

9/28/2022 (Permalink)

Excess power through power spikes or damaged cords can cause your laptop to overheat and result in an electrical fire in your home.

SERVPRO Knows the Proper Techniques to Restore Every Part of Your Home after Fire Damage

You use your laptop daily in Chicago for work or fun. Excess power, provided through poorly regulated power flow or power spikes, causes heat damage to electronics. It includes wires in a damaged power cord, plus metal parts of your laptop connected to it. The chance for combustion grows as the heat in your device builds. When the heat reaches the flashpoint of nearby furniture or carpeting, it can set other materials ablaze.

An electrical fire leaves your Chicago home with fire damage to clean up and repair, but knowing where to start can be daunting. Your Chicago home needs professional expertise to restore it to its pre-fire condition, so calling on our technicians at SERVPRO is the wisest thing you can do once the fire is out.

Our goal is to clean your home to preloss condition, which involves removing the effects of the fire damage. We also remove smoke residues from surfaces of your home. The debris also gives off smoke odors, so we must deodorize the affected areas to eliminate malodors. Fires can damage parts of your structure badly enough that they cannot be restored, so we need to dispose of these structural items.

Before SERVPRO techs start cleaning, we test to determine the correct cleaning method, effectively removing the residues from the material or surface without damaging it. We can wet clean washable materials; we apply a water-based cleaning agent to the area that does not damage the item. Non-washable materials cannot be wet cleaned. Applying a water-based cleaning product could cause more damage, so we use a dry-cleaning method instead.

The type of residues on a surface can also help us choose the cleaning method. Residues that are oil or grease-based need a cleaning agent, which is a dry solvent, even though water-based products would not harm the surface being cleaned.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown works efficiently and thoroughly to clean your home in Wicker Park, West Loop, or Bucktown after fire damage. Just reach us at (773) 434-9100 as soon as the fire is out so we can help restore your home.

Effective Ways of Removing Fire and Smoke Residues from My Chicago Home

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage cleanup is not a DIY job for this Chicago property owner. Call SERVPRO for professional help.

Count on SERVPRO to Use Industry Best Practices for Fire Damage in Chicago

The hours and days you spend recovering from a fire in your house are not the time for you to shoulder the brunt of the cleanup. As the fire made its way through your home, it consumed building materials and contents, leaving chemicals and compounds floating in the air and adhering to many surfaces.

Should You Try to Clean Fire Residues as a DIY Project?

Because of the hazardous nature of the residues, experts recommend against completing fire and smoke cleanup of your Chicago dwelling on your own. 

How Do Professionals Approach Fire and Smoke Cleanup?

The Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) at SERVPRO realize that deep cleaning is essential to returning your home to its preloss condition. The cleaning techniques, tools, and products used vary depending on the type of soot and the surface coated. Efforts to remove the soot must balance with the durability of the surface, or the affected materials might need removal and replacement at a more considerable expense and disturbance.

Is There One Cleaner that Can “Do it All” When Resolving Soot Damage?

One of the fundamental things our managers and technicians learn during certification and follow-up courses from the IICRC is that the characteristics of fire residues vary greatly depending on the fuel consumed during the fire. Because the materials and contents burned from room to room change, our crews must be alert as to the consistency of the soot on each surface, changing products and methods frequently for best results. Selecting just one master cleaner for all soots and damaged surfaces result in poor outcomes for many spaces and articles damaged by the fire.

What Are Examples of Types of Soot Appropriately Matched with Products and Techniques?

Soot has three main types--dry, wet, and protein-based, the latter from kitchen fires. Here are the most commonly used approaches our crews take when managing each.

What Are Best Practices for Dry Soot?

The residues deposited after a hot, high-oxygen paper or wood-fueled fire are loose and ashy, responding well to brushing, dry (chemical) sponging, vacuuming, and feather or cloth dusting. Wiping or scrubbing at the friable debris smears this soot, grinding it into the surfaces, staining and scraping them, and leaving odors embedded.

What Are Best Practices for Wet Soot?

Sticky and thick, this soot occurs when plastics, rubber, textiles, and padding burns or smolders at low temperatures and oxygen levels. Our project managers determine whether the soot is water or oil-based and choose like-formulated cleaners to remove. When cleaning up wet soot, our technicians first test inconspicuous areas to ensure the surfaces can withstand the combination of products. Applying the cleaning elements is usually successful at removing soiling of this kind. The elements of cleaning include:

• Agitation--towels, brushes, air and water pressure, and sonic vibrations in special ultrasonic machines all work to dislodge the debris mechanically
• Chemical action--provided by the cleaning products chosen
• Temperature--higher temperatures accelerate the chemical action
• Time--dwell time is the period a product is allowed to soak into the residue, breaking the bonds between the residues and the surfaces before rinsing or wiping 

What Are Best Practices for Protein-Based Soot?

The residues left after food or grease “burns” are more like what remains after complete dehydration. It is mist-like when airborne and then like a varnish when deposited. The coating is highly-malodorous and tightly clings to surfaces, although it is often nearly transparent. Because of the oil base of much of this soot’s fuel, solvents are frequently needed to loosen the coating. Abrasion, an intense form of agitation, might become necessary to encourage the soot to release. Abrasive tools like sandpaper are helpful. Some cleaning products have inert abrasive substances mixed to help scrape and scrub these tough-to-clean residues off of contents and structural components.

Cutting-edge products and research-based methods are how SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown efficiently cleanses a broad range of fire residues. Call us at (773) 434-9100 as soon as practical so that we can arrive as the firefighters release your property for restoration.

What You Should Do When a DIY Project Goes Wrong and Causes Water Damage

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

Attention Chicago homeowners with water damaged residences--Call us for help--SERVPRO

Team SERVPRO Arrives on the Scene with Advanced Tools to Properly Dry Out Your Home

Sometimes it can be tempting to fix an appliance or install a new faucet yourself to save some money; however, should a part of the process go wrong, you could accidentally cause water damage in your home. There are endless tutorials online that can walk you through doing installations by yourself, but they do not always prepare you for when something goes wrong. More than likely, the water damage restoration can cost you even more money than you would have had to spend hiring a professional to install the new faucet for you.

If you do not notice the leak underneath your sink for a few days while it slowly causes water damage to your Chicago home, the outcome can become even worse. All the moisture that your kitchen cupboard absorbs from the leak creates the perfect condition for mold growth. You must fix the leak once you find it so that no further water damage can occur. As a general rule, if you find water damage in your home, calling a restoration company as soon as possible can help ensure a successful job; after all, the quicker the damage is dealt with, the better it is for your home.

When you rely on SERVPRO, we strive to get a team of our IICRC-certified technicians to your home as quickly as possible. Our technicians can bring advanced technology to your home and immediately start the job. Our SERVPRO techs can open up the cupboard underneath your sink and use tools like desiccant dehumidifiers, air movers, and ventilation fans to create an ideal drying system that best fits the space.

If an accident in your home leads to water damage, do not delay. Phone (773) 434-9100 to reach out to SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown. We strive to swiftly remediate the damage in your home so you can return to your everyday life. 

Even Minor Storm Damage Can Affect Your Home for Months in West Loop

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

Storm damaged homes and structures in Chicago always benefit from SERVPRO services. "Like it never even happened."

Storm Damage Getting the Best of Your West Loop Home?

Sometimes, a storm may not seem very powerful. Weaker storms can be deceiving, making you feel there is minor possible storm damage. Storm damage does not always mean that a tree has fallen on your home, crushing the roof. Storm damage can be as little as a few shingles that have blown off or twisted hinges on a screen door. Both of these situations, and others, require repairs. Left alone, they can be sources of additional damage. Preventing those situations from escalating can also prevent increasingly higher repair bills from becoming a reality for you.

West Loop area homeowners who do not repair minor storm damage often find themselves coping with even more damage that can be extremely extensive and expensive. We can help you avoid these additional problems. There is no reason to procrastinate on having repairs made, but there are many reasons to have restorative work done as soon as possible.

Because we are SERVPRO, we have extensive training in all aspects of repairs and restorations. We have completed many different jobs over the years, and we can successfully handle any size disaster, including the one you are facing. Our certifications cover the many different cleaning and restorative types of work that storm damage can cause.

We are certified to repair your home's siding, shingles, and other roof components. Other structural elements can be restored, including gutters, windows and frames, screen doors, and much more. When storm damage happens, these repairs are necessary to prevent additional damage from affecting your home. Repairs protect your home and the contents inside.

If shingles have been torn off, or siding was peeled away, water and insect pests can enter at the first opportunity. Larger openings in your roof can permit rodents and birds to come in and make their homes in your attic space. Some rodents are more damaging than others and may move to the house's living areas. If windows are damaged, your home is at increased risk for burglaries.

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

Quick Professional Water Cleanup in Chicago Can Save Time and Money for Homeowners

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

Ceiling leaking? This Chicago homeowner called SERVPRO to repair the plumbing and restore the ceiling, "Like it never even happened."

Cost-efficient Water Restoration Is Key to Protecting Homes in the Chicago Area

When a water incident in your Chicago home damages flooring, personal belongings, and the structure of your home, it is hard to prioritize your next steps. Many homeowners consider water restoration a do-it-yourself project, but good intentions can be counterproductive. Failure to let a certified water restoration technician assess the situation and recommend a course of action can cause long-term and secondary damage to the house.

To speed up water cleanup in Chicago by applying industry best practices, call SERVPRO and let our certified technicians take over. Thanks to our field experience and training with leaders in the industry, we can bring to your home the latest techniques and equipment for water removal and drying. 

Water remediation is a multi-pronged approach, and each item may require a specific set of actions to return to normal. 

Some of the building blocks of a successful job include-

• Controlled demolition of drywall and other surfaces saturated with water and vulnerable to secondary damage.
• Removal of debris and discarding of unsalvageable items. The longer they stay in the residence, the more they can become a threat to the environment and a breeding ground for mold.
• Water extraction with pumps, wands, and specialty drying solutions. Sometimes this may include carefully taking inventory of certain items before moving them to an off-site location for cleaning and drying.

When water invades your home, SERVPRO of West Loop/ Bucktown/ Greektown is ready to help. Call our expert team at (773) 434-9100, and let us show you why we are leaders in the

SERVPRO - Chicago Fire Damage - How it Forms

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

Soot and charring destroy structural elements and emit gross odors. Call SERVPRO for fire damage cleanup and restoration for your Chicago property.

The Characteristics of Fire and Soot in Chicago Homes 

Most fire restoration costs to a Chicago home come from removing smoke and soot residues. Even a small fire in one area, such as a kitchen, can leave a residue coating throughout multiple rooms.

SERVPRO is an expert in restoring the effects of Chicago home fire damage. We start by determining what burned and how the combustion of the material forms the different types of residues. Once our SERVPRO technicians understand that, it is easier for us to determine how to clean and restore everything from a single-family home to an apartment complex.

Combustion needs three sources: Oxygen, heat, and fuel. When all three mix, materials burn. With high incomplete combustion, residues form and settle on everything the smoke reaches. We say poorly, but if all three sources were in a perfect mix, the fire would burn everything faster, causing more damage and replacement costs. The smoke moving throughout a home is composed of solid particles of carbon that did not burn completely, gases released from burning organic material, and tiny liquid particles called aerosols.

The aerosols and solid particles are what make smoke visible. If they are not present, then the gases are invisible. That is more dangerous since nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide comprise the gases. Both are very hazardous to anyone near an active fire, and why every firefighter now uses a breathing mask. The aerosols and carbon particles also leave a visible residue after the smoke settles and absorb odors which provide the smells found in a structure after the fire has been put out.

That also means the smoke leaves a heavier residue than the cooler fire. A lower temperature heat source and less oxygen mean thicker smoke since the fire burns less clean. The smoke travels less distance, which means less property is affected further away from the fire's origin point

If you need our services, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

Equipment SERVPRO Uses to Remove Water Damage in Chicago

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

Water removal and protecting furnishings and belongings are the aims of SERVPRO techs during extraction in a Chicago condo.

Extraction, Drying, and Demolition Play a Role in Water Damage Mitigation

Removing all traces of water after a flood is a nightmare for most homeowners. Water soaks into everything in a home, from tile grout to wood paneling, creating an impossible scenario for people armed only with household cleaning products. There's a reason why SERVPRO brings its heaviest equipment to these jobs: they require the fast, firm capabilities of industrial machinery. Otherwise, water may remain on surfaces, in materials, and suspended in the air until the structure sustains severe damage. These are examples of a few super-heavy machines we use to remove water after significant flooding from a split pipe or other water source.

Extractors

Extractors are the first key to Chicago water removal projects. These heavy pumps are what most people think of when they think of 'industrial water removal' - they remove high volumes of water from the structure in as little time as possible.

Esporta Washing System

We have access to an array of super-heavy-duty clothing washers and dryers to clean any drapes or smaller fabrics as soon as possible. An often overlooked part of the water removal process, clothing can be permanently destroyed if it is not cleaned quickly. These special hydraulic machines are exceptionally effective at salvaging contaminated and soiled items. Even your child's Teddy Bear!

Air Movers

Along with extractors, these machines are the second key to removing water from the structure. We train our SERVPRO technicians extensively in the proper setup and arrangement of air movers to optimize drying time without damaging the saturated materials. Hardwood flooring can split and become trash if dried too quickly. Directional air currents whisk away moisture from surfaces and porous materials.

Dehumidifiers

The airborne moisture, known as water vapor, can then be captured and removed from the ambient air. The improved indoor air quality provides a safer and more comfortable environment. LGR and desiccant dehumidifiers are always available.

Moisture Detectors

Our technicians carefully examine your home with high-tech moisture detectors to find any pockets of lingering moisture. As a result, we can easily peer behind walls and under floors to find the fullest extent of water damage in the home. Moisture restoration of building elements and materials helps inhibit mold growth.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is always on-call and ready to help. (773) 434-9100.

Call A Specialist At The First Signs Of Mold Damage In Your Chicago Area Home

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

Finding mold does not need to be a paralyzing event. Contact our certified mold damage remediation team for effective services. We are standing by.

Signs Of Mold Damage

Mold often presents itself in areas of your home with constant water sources such as your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room. Your shower, sinks, toilets, faucets, and any other plumbing or appliance that uses water can eventually lead to the development of mold.

Finding small amounts of mold damage in your Chicago area home may not be so alarming. However, if the area is over 10-square feet, you should contact a professional for help. Cleaning up mold without solving your water problem invites mold to return, and it only takes a short time for it to cover extensive areas of your home.

Expertly trained SERVPRO technicians provide you with access to advanced containment, control, and cleaning methods while wearing the proper protection to prevent inhalation of mold spores. They utilize a restore versus replace mentality to handle your belongings and discard any severely damaged materials, finding hidden mold, and keeping it from returning later.

SERVPRO technicians clean and disinfect the contaminated area using EPA-registered disinfectants and specialized equipment to reach even the smallest areas. You should understand that if you intend on tackling mold growth in your home alone, most household cleaning solutions just do not do the job well enough to combat the problem.

You can avoid many of the problems that often accompany mold growth in your home by contacting a trained professional for help. SERVPRO can help you remove mold from clothing, shoes, and other personal belongings, this includes leather items, books, paper and even electronics.

Making the right choices at the first signs of mold damage on your property can limit the losses you experience. When there are professional services available in your area, there is no reason for you to take chances on your own. Professionals are waiting to assist you anytime you need them, and you can benefit from what is available.

Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown for additional information or to schedule an initial inspection of your property, today. We can help you 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, call now (773) 434-9100.

Water Removal in Chicago Needs to be Done Quickly

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

Should you find excess water in any part of your home, contact our technicians. We have the expertise to mitigate the situation and are standing by.

SERVPRO Can Perform Water Removal in Your Chicago Home

When water damage occurs in your house, multiple issues may arise, ranging from dangerous structural problems to mold growth. To prevent the deterioration of your home, you need an effective and quick intervention.

SERVPRO is well-equipped with professional water extraction and drying equipment to perform water removal in your Chicago home to restore your peace of mind. After a water damage incident in your home, microbes can grow given proper conditions and enough time. If you do not mitigate a category one water situation for 2 to 3 days, microbes can amplify and increase contamination in the building. They can turn a category one situation into a category 2 or 3 situation. Acting fast helps prevent microbial contamination from worsening with passing time. The main steps in remediation or mitigation are: 

• Eliminating moisture by minimizing humidity levels and drying the environment.
• Removing contaminated materials. 

Our team is certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Our SERVPRO technicians have undergone rigorous training in IICRC S500 standards and psychrometry, which is the drying science. This enables us to fashion the water removal situation according to the case and perform a thorough job. Our water removal process involves:

• A thorough inspection
• Extracting the standing water
• Removing damaged items
• Drying 
• Disinfecting 

Our immediate course of action when we arrive at your house is to identify the source of the water intrusion and stop it completely. We can also assess your home to get a sense of the severity of the damage. The inspection also helps the SERVPRO team determine what items, materials, and structures have sustained severe damage and those within our ability to restore.

SERVPRO mostly follows these assessments with the extraction of standing water using pumps and removal of excess moisture using air movers and low grain refrigerant dehumidifiers. The equipment enables us to dry everything out. We can disinfect the house using antimicrobial agents.

Removing the water before the damage escalates goes a long way in ensuring your house returns to normal within the shortest time possible. Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown for help at (773) 434-9100. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

When A Pipe Bursts In Your Chicago Home, Our Crew Is Here To Help!

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

Dealing with a burst pipe can often be overwhelming. Team up with SERVPRO for effective water removal and drying services. We are standing by 24/7.

Why You Need Prompt Water Removal In Your Chicago Residence After A Pipe Bursts

Water expands when it freezes, and this is the reason why soda cans explode if placed in a freezer to chill fast and are forgotten. When water expands after freezing, pressure accumulates in the pipe, and it raptures, causing water to escape. A pipe can also rupture due to age or accidents and cause water to pool in your home, necessitating water removal.

Removing the water quickly can prevent additional damage. You should call a restoration firm like SERVPRO to assist you with water removal in your Chicago residence. Failing to remove water from your home can contribute to mold and mildew growth. Our skilled technicians have extensive training and expertise in water damage restoration and can monitor and document the entire drying process.

We use extraction equipment like wet/dry vacuums and pumps to extract standing water from a property efficiently. Our technicians can use portable extractors to remove water from restricted areas. We also use dehumidifiers to dry the affected areas. Dehumidifiers remove extra moisture from the air to dry out a home. We position dehumidifiers in a water-damaged structure strategically so humid, moist air can move to the unit while warm, dry air discharged from the machine circulates back into the damp areas.

SERVPRO technicians also use desiccants with gel to eliminate moisture from the air. Unlike dehumidifiers, desiccants do not collect water through condensation, but instead, use a ventilation system to vent moisture-laden air from inside a structure to the outside. Desiccants work on the principle of absorption. Silica gel absorbs and holds water vapor in the process. Energy then reactivates the silica gel, causing the desiccant to release moisture to the outside air. When a home is dry, we use deodorization and sanitizing agents to clear odors to enhance safety and comfort in a home. We can eliminate the water and moisture after a water leak to make your home appear “Like it never even happened.”

When in need of water removal services, SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is the right company to call. We have adequate resources for restoration jobs of any size. We serve several local communities, including Chicago, West Loop, and South Lawndale. Contact us at (773) 434-9100 and get the peace of mind you deserve.

SERVPRO's Annual Convention "Brand Partnership Panel"

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

"Brand Partnership Panel" presentation by SERVPRO owner/operator and VP of Operations at the annual Convention--2022.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown

The SERVPRO Industries LLC annual convention’s venue for 2022 is Dallas, TX. This much-anticipated event gathers more than 2000 individually owned and operated network franchises to showcase our successes and experiences in the cleanup and restoration industry.

The Brand Partnership Panel is a key component of the convention's goal of increasing the SERVPRO footprint. Frank Zubricki, owner/operator, and David Mason, VP of Operations for the SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown, will provide insight for this panel. They will share successful experiences in expanding localized branding in three initiatives. It’s all about the branding.

PGA Tour & LPGA

Insurance agents and adjusters love to play a round of golf. We keep close relationships with local agencies both on the links and by providing non-credited franchise-offered classroom instructions. This association results in many COI leads. Frank claims that establishing insurance-driven claims enhances the revenue stream greatly.

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl

Our sponsorship of this annual ESPN-owned college football bowl game puts our name in front of many viewers. We are proud to support all First Responders who put their lives on the line daily. We send brave men and women to the game as a statement of our commitment to helping our communities.

The First Responders Children's Foundation

We recognize the commitment and the benefits of supporting all families of the fire, police, EMS, and other First Responders. SERVPRO franchise owners participate in many worthwhile charitable programs to help these children. Especially, those who have lost a parent in the line of duty.

Frank and David have years of experience operating many SERVPRO franchises. Enhancing the brand in each market with timed events and programs for local communities and national regions makes good business sense. By partnering with outside agencies, we can make our mark.

Boosting Restoration Performance and Team Bonding with Ongoing Training

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Team Zubricki trains as a team and works as a team!

SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown, proud to be a part of Team Zubricki, believes that ongoing training is the key to successful restorations for all of our clients. We recently took part in an extensive training program held in Chicago that included our Florida SERVPRO team members.

Al and Anthony Zubricki of our local franchise are dedicated to all restoration projects in the area. They strive to bring the team together to provide residents and business owners with the best in terms of mitigation, restoration, and construction. Continually updating our job knowledge is why large-scale training events like this one in Chicago are essential to bringing out the best in all of our staff.

We set up inside our recently constructed, sizable, centralized warehouse in Chicago to accommodate our group for the recent training. During the educational and team building event, the training seminar was split into segments for our:

• Sales staff
• Office staff
• Production staff

We were also lucky to have members who could not attend in person tap into training via Microsoft teams. It is this ongoing training as well as regular IICRC certifications that bring out the best in each one of our staff. Our employees gain valuable knowledge and skills while enjoying our incredible company culture by coming together like this.

Contact SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown for all of your emergency restorations and rebuilding needs at (773) 434-9100.

Necessary Water Cleanup Steps for Chicago Shop

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to remove the water bubble on the ceiling, any water, repair the leak, and restore your Chicago shop. "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Has Advanced Water Restoration Methods for Chicago

After you recover from the initial shock and disappointment of realizing there is water in unwanted areas of your Chicago retail shop, you might also discover that you are not certain how to perform the necessary water cleanup processes. Since speed is crucial when responding to property losses involving moisture, you may not have time to learn and act. Hiring a professional restorer to assist is advisable.

Whether the intrusion is confined to one area or widely spread, you may need to do significant water cleanup at your Chicago business to protect inventory and keep the doors open. Once the leak starts, water spreads and changes form through evaporation and wicking through materials. It also triggers different forms of soiling, including staining from dyes and accumulation of residues from deteriorating materials such as flaking paint. SERVPRO can help you determine which steps to take and what to prioritize.

Necessary cleanup steps

• Removing the water
• Cleaning surfaces
• Disinfecting surfaces

If there is stagnant water or significant moisture accumulation in your house, any steps to clean it are not likely to bear fruit. For example, if customers keep walking on wet floor areas, they quickly re-soil any washed sections, especially if carpeted or tiled. Our SERVPRO crews expedite water extraction and ensure it is thorough enough to leave surfaces moisture-free. We have water extractors with sufficient vacuum lift to facilitate such extraction.

Various ways to clean wet surfaces

Cleaning is a variable process, so results can differ even for the same type of soiling. The affected materials also influence the outcomes. Instead of finding one perfect solution for the soiling problems from the water intrusion at your home, it is best to work with several approaches. With help from our SERVPRO crews, there is no shortage of solutions.

Handy cleaning actions 

• Applying shampoos
• Extracting cleaning solutions
• Rinsing items by hand
• Wiping hard surfaces like floors and counters

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown can help you perform water cleanup tidily. Call us at (773) 434-9100. 

Avoid Panic When You Suspect Mold Damage in West Loop

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for mold remediation in Chicago--no need for a Panic Attack.

Certified SERVPRO Technicians Have the Training and Experience to Abate Mold Problems

You may be concerned when you hear the term applied to a problem within your home. Mold infestation. Highly trained technicians at SERVPRO are constantly alert for mold growth when we are called to your home to consult and devise a plan to restore your property. We use a protocol developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and IICRC guidelines to ensure your indoor environment is correctly assessed for microbial infestation before mold remediation proceeds. An Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) can be consulted to draft a work plan to address any mold damage following EPA standards if deemed necessary.

If mold damage in West Loop is present, we can arrange to contain the contamination using poly sheeting, tension poles, and negative air pressure. Our goal is to keep everyone safe and protected while documenting the presence of the mold and our efforts to control it. Locating the source of the mold is essential. At the same time, removing contaminated material without spreading it to other areas is key, possible through our technicians’ training and the use of specialized equipment and products developed to reduce moisture, mold, and its growth.

Once the mold damage is identified and removed, the next step is to find the path moisture took to feed the microbes. Sometimes this is obvious if storms sheared off roofing or flooded basements. Often it is a detection exercise if mold grew because of high ambient humidity or a unique and complex soaking from remote damage that sent water on a route that could not be easily anticipated. SERVPRO staff have seen it all and are in a position to discover the truth behind mold feeding and growth, remediating the issue by drying the materials and structure and repairing the leak or reducing the humidity.

Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown 24/7 at (773) 434-9100.

Checking For Fire Damage Hazards in Chicago Basements

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO says to our Chicago Neighbors--be safe with electrical loads and stored flammable in your basement.

Safe Storage Can Prevent Chicago Fire Damage

Basements are highly vulnerable to fire disasters in Chicago, especially since this is where most of us store our heat-generating equipment. Putting out a fire in the basement is often challenging, and the damage can extend to the rest of the house if not controlled. Having the firefighters neutralize the situation can be helpful, but the aftermath should worry you.

Here at SERVPRO, we understand the seriousness of fire damage in Chicago.  We have highly experienced, IICRC-trained technicians ready to respond to your emergency at any time of the day. Our stock of tools and equipment is at your disposal, waiting to return your home to its preloss conditions as soon as possible, "Like it never even happened."

A thorough inspection of your basement can help detect several fire damage hazards. The combination of electricity, combustibles, and heat generators that are unattended can be hazardous. As a general rule, always have emergency escape areas with clear paths leading to the exits.

Flammable liquids are one of the most dangerous causes of fire damage in the basement. They produce denser vapors than air, which may ignite from a tiny spark produced by a water heater or furnace. Ideally, flammable liquids should be kept outside, in a shed - away from open flames, sparks, and heat. If you have to keep them in the basement, maintain enough clearance (at least 3 feet) around such appliances as the water heater.

Safely Store Flammable Materials and Liquids

A considerably large amount of combustible materials can fuel a small fire. Minimize the amount of storage by cleaning yearly or having a yard sale. Avoid storing things such as propane cylinders, snowblowers, and lawnmowers indoors as they contain flammable liquids that present a severe fire hazard.

Over-loaded electrical boxes can also lead to extensive fire damage. When a fuse overloads due to too many connected appliances or some defective device/wiring, it may blow and cause an electrical fire. Do not use extension cords for devices that require permanent electricity supply, such as freezers, refrigerators, and air conditioners. These items can overpower the cord, causing it to overheat and ignite.

All fixtures should be adequately secured, with junction boxes covered and wires adequately insulated. If you use the basement for storage, do not allow kids to play in there. Additionally, avoid storing lighters and matches in the garage and, if possible, keep them out of the reach of children.

 As a locally owned and operated company, SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown can respond quickly to your fire damage emergency. We have all the necessary resources to restore your property to its original state in no time. For any assistance, call us today at (773) 434-9100.

Honoring Inaugural White Coats from our Chicago SERVPRO Teams

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Congratulations to the team members awarded the White Coats

At a recent Large Loss training event in Chicago, our Team Zubricki roster took a special time-out to honor and acknowledge our crew members who exceeded the call of duty for both the customer and our organization. Awardees were given white coats to wear to show they were this year’s ‘Top Guns,’ an acknowledgment owner Patricia Zubricki intends to bestow on team members each year at a gathering. The inaugural class of white coat honorees included:

• Restoration Project Manager Eduardo Gomez
• Senior Project Manager Patrick Houlihan
• Owner Anthony Zubricki
• Nick Laughlin
• Randall Roach

Tony Dantonio, Vice President of National Accounts at Team Zubricki, shares his thoughts on the team members awarded the White Coats: "The team members that were recognized with the White Coats have gone above and beyond to help make Team Zubricki successful.  The White Coats are intended to stand out just as these folks have done. They are true team players, and were caught in the act of doing things right."

Because Large Loss recovery requires long hours and is not always nearby, those on this response team are asked to devote sometimes weeks or months away from home to see that we help venues and facilities around the country to make it “Like it never even happened.” In the past year, these esteemed team members exceeded expectations.

• Long Hours 

Acknowledged team members regularly spent long nights, weekends, and personal hours to ensure projects continued to move.

• Time Away from Home 

With Team Zubricki franchises being family-owned and operated, we value these relationships highly. The demand for restoration must sometimes ask our team to be away from their homes and families for long periods to help when natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, ice storms, and other events occur.

• Above and Beyond 

White Coats exceed expectations with the quality of their work, their interactions with the customer, and personal sacrifices to see that jobs are getting completed promptly.

The white coat itself is symbolic, as it stands out from the black, gray, and conventional SERVPRO green witnessed at our multi-franchise events. Just as these employees and administrators have stood out from the roster with their exceptional work ethic and commitment to helping our customers, the white coat allows them to be quickly identified as top contributors of Team Zubricki.

Our large loss response team helped all over the country, which has been the basis for choosing this year’s White Coats. Whether traveling out of the area to help hundreds of homes without power and suffering storm damage or reaching the aftermath of a hurricane in Louisiana, the commitment to those in need at the expense of holidays and family events cannot be ignored.

Skilled Fire Restoration is Critical for Best Results in Chicago

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

Our certified technicians come prepared with state of the art equipment your property needs after a fire incident occurs.

Call SERVPRO’s Chicago-Area Fire Damage and Restoration Team 24/7!

Not only is a fire extremely destructive, but any blaze leaves behind pungent odors and corrosive soot residue. Rather than making matters worse with DIY or failing to get started on house fire cleanup soon enough, SERVPRO is here to help! We understand that the faster we can get to work, the better the chance of limiting your restoration project's overall scope and cost. We're available 24/7 so your Chicago home, business, or apartment complex gets the attention it deserves. 

Fire restoration in Chicago calls for proven methods, which you only get with trained IICRC-certified fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT). SERVPRO comes in, assesses the damage, and puts together a plan tailored to the specific situation. We inspect surfaces to determine the nature of residues and gauge charring to ensure structural elements are safe. 

Secondary Damage Is The Enemy With Any Fire Damaged Homes or Businesses

Various factors bring on secondary damage, which becomes costly and lessens the chance of recovery for contents and building materials. These factors include:

• Fire residue and soot deposits that react with materials to cause discoloration, corrosion, tarnishing, etching, and pitting
• Exterior elements and weather that may penetrate the structure – making tarping and board up services paramount to secure your property
• Moisture and chemicals left behind from extinguishing the flames that can lead to materials degradation and the onset of potentially harmful black mold growth

Scalability is something we pride ourselves on at SERVPRO, meaning we have access to thousands of pieces of equipment and tools to quickly adjust to meet the demands of any project. Whether you have a fire in a single-family dwelling, at a high-rise apartment complex, restaurant, or industrial facility, we adapt and plan accordingly to get the results you need!  

Contact SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown today when you find you require help with fire restoration. Contact our customer care team to dispatch a crew to your door by calling (773) 434-9100.

Inspecting Your Home For Mold Damage in Chicago

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

Mold spreads quickly when the conditions are right. Contact SERVPRO to investigate the cause and remediate the damage in your home.

Team SERVPRO BOTH Remediates Mold Damage and Helps Prevent Mold Infestations

Any visible mold sightings are a sign of mold growth and could represent a more significant moisture problem. This is because mold and mildew can only thrive in a building that has sufficient moisture to support its growth. They also need active mold spores to spread elsewhere, as well as a source of food.

If you spot mold growth in your home, contact SERVPRO immediately for remediation before it gets worse. We have a team of highly dedicated mold damage restoration experts in Chicago who can respond quickly to your emergency. We follow IICRC guidelines in every cleanup project to ensure that our tools, techniques, and products are updated with industry standards.

Mold usually appears as dark spots or stains on the wall, carpet, ceiling, and other surfaces. Walls near the floor or ceiling and windowsills are favorite growth spots, as are corners of rooms near the floor or ceiling. To be safe, SERVPRO technicians also inspect for mold damage along seams of building materials like wall switch places, wallpaper seams, in tile grout, and between flooring tiles.

It is equally important to keep an eye for mildew when assessing mold damage. Mildew is more challenging to spot due to its light appearance. It usually comes with a white fluffy texture. However, it can also resemble a white powdery substance on certain building materials.

Unexpected incidents of moisture accumulation or any major water events can trigger mold growth. Water events can include plumbing problems, leaky roofs, floods, water seeping through the windows, and puddles of standing water in your basement. SERVPRO can go the extra mile to correct the sources of water causing mold growth.

Problems associated with excess moisture are based on the air. When humidity is too high in the house, airborne moisture condenses on appliances, walls, windows, underneath the flooring, between walls, and everywhere in between. When this condensation is unable to escape, it creates the ideal habitat for mold growth and, consequently, mold damage.

If you suspect the presence of mold damage in your home, SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown can come in and take control of the situation. We have advanced tools and products for dealing with all types of mold, ensuring that your home is safe for you and your family. Call us anytime at (773) 434-9100.

Why Do I Still Smell Smoke After Cleaning My Chicago House?

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

You can depend on our SERVPRO teams to cleanup and restore your property and personal belongings after a fire takes place.

SERVPRO Can Help You Get to the Root Cause of Fire Damage Odors in Your Chicago Home

As fire engulfs a section of your Chicago house, it spreads smoke deposits all over the structure and contents. Such deposits contain volatile compounds that evaporate into the air, and your nose picks them up as odor. Ideally, cleaning up your home should eliminate all the residues, and therefore the smoky smell should disappear. However, other factors can interfere, leading to long-term odor issues.

What Makes Fire Damage Odors Linger in Chicago Properties?

•   Residue remnants on some surfaces 
•   VOCs embedded in materials
•   Smelt odors might be non-existent

After a fire in your Chicago home, most of the cleaning efforts are directed towards areas with visible soiling, staining, or charring. However, since some of the fire residues spread thinly over surfaces or might be invisible to the eye, your cleaning efforts might ignore areas that should be cleaned, thus leaving a source of new odors.

Our SERVPRO technicians take steps to trace the spread of residues around a property, starting close to the seat of the fire. Alternatively, we clean the entire property to ensure we remove all traces of the residues that cause odors.

What are VOCs?

Volatile Organic Compounds can be described as chemicals that have high vapor pressure even at room temperature. Since such compounds are in a continuous state of evaporation, they supply a steady stream of bad odor even when absorbed deep within materials. There is a need to reach and neutralize such materials to eliminate the odor, yet regular cleaning cannot get to the areas where the compounds are embedded.

Our SERVPRO technicians rely on a range of sophisticated deodorization procedures to reach and neutralize the odors, including:

•   Thermal fogging
•   ULV fogging
•   Use of Ozone generators or photocatalytic oxidizers

Fogging utilizes odor counteractants that neutralize the odor molecules. It also mimics the process that creates the odors by atomizing the deodorizers, thus reaching deeply embedded odor molecules.

If the odor in your house does not go away, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 to help remove it. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

How SERVPRO ERP Response Times Can Make A Difference In Bucktown

3/27/2022 (Permalink)

Dealing with fire damage at your business location can be quite overwhelming. Team up with SERVPRO to help. We are standing by 24/7 for your call.

SERVPRO ERP Program

The SERVPRO ERP program allows business owners to submit detailed and relevant information about each of their properties without hassle or fee so that we can respond quickly and with heightened awareness of the situation. Then, when disaster strikes, it only takes a few clicks on the web or in our app to have SERVPRO professionals responding to the property in need. When it comes to fire damage, every minute can count, and the time saved by using our ERP system helps to make sure the damage is kept to a minimum and your doors are back open as quickly as possible. Here are a few elements of commercial fire damage in which time is critical during our initial response.

Soot And Ash

When there is significant burn in a case of commercial fire damage in Bucktown, ash can quickly begin to accumulate and collect on all sorts of surfaces. If this ash buildup is allowed to continue unabated, problems can arise such as clogged pipes and drains, increased damage to HVAC systems, and permanent damage to flooring. The faster we can respond to fire damage, the more we are able to mitigate the effects of ash buildup.

Water Damage

Most commercial fires are accompanied by some amount of water damage, usually from sprinklers. These can mix with materials such as smoke and ash, creating sludge that can stain and chip away at displays, walls, and floors. Additionally, if there is enough water to cause flooding, water must be extracted immediately to make sure that it doesn't seep down and cause massive damage to the structure.

Structural Damage

In some cases, damage to the structure may be significant enough to create a risk of partial or total collapse of walls, ceilings, and supports. Sometimes just a few minutes can make a difference.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is a locally owned business with national resources that helps business owners to get their properties back in working order as quickly as possible. Give us a call at (773) 434-9100 to request our help or advice.

Mold Damage in Chicago Can Ruin Investments and Memories Alike

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Mold remediation in Chicago by our SERVPRO techs can make your home appear "Like it never even happened."

Protect Your Belongings From Mold Damage Through Remediation

If you own a business, you know that your inventory and business equipment is a valuable asset that needs to be protected. At home, you also have personal belongings that are irreplaceable and hold sentimental value. For those with both to protect, your job is doubled. Protection from those who would steal from you is common sense, but one thief can be so small, it is easy to disregard. Mold can slip in anywhere, at almost any time, and take hold, slowly destroying items that can make them unusable and unfit for sale to others.

In Chicago, mold damage is often in the news, and reports of adverse health effects are on the rise. Protecting your family and your business fully and adequately is possible when you have skilled technicians certified in handling mold. We have specialists certified in both commercial drying (CDS) and technicians certified in applied structural drying (ASD) who can effectively decrease the humidity present in your home or business's interiors that has allowed mold to flourish. Many of our team is IICRC certified as AMRT applied microbial remediation technicians.

What Mold Will Destroy

Mold destroys porous materials such as building materials, textiles, books and papers, photos, clothing, bedding, carpeting, and much more. Hard surfaces such as metal and porcelain can be cleaned easily enough, but the residue must be contained, or it can spread elsewhere and create an infestation in other areas of your home or office. When mold attacks clothing, it can stain the textiles and render the item worthless. Mold will settle in and make a home in practically any fabric or cloth, including silk, cotton, polyester, and nylon.

Airing Out and Using Fans and Dehumidifiers are Not Enough to Eliminate Mold  

Because mold grows on the surface, many people assume that if the surface is dry, mold cannot grow there. This is not exactly true, because due to fluctuations in temperature, moisture does not remain stagnant, even when present at low levels. Mold can become dry and still be alive. It can go for short periods of dryness, only to rejuvenate itself when moisture levels rise again. This is why it is so important for the interiors of materials such as drywall, upholstery, and even more solid items such as wood found in floors and stairs to be dried with special equipment. Fans and opened windows can only do surface drying, and that just isn't enough.
 
SERVPRO of West Loop, Bucktown, and Greektown (773) 434-9100 can provide specialized assistance in removing and controlling mold growth in your home. We are available 24/7 to both residents and business owners. Call now to protect your personal belongings and inventory from the damaging effects of mold.

How SERVPRO Helps Stores Get Back to Business in West Loop

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERPVRO vans on the scene of a water damaging event at a large West Loop area building

Getting Your Business Back To New After A Water Damage Emergency

If your business is in the service industry and has been hit by water damage, the chances are that the first thing on your mind is getting doors open as soon as possible. Even if the damage is light, customers will be driven away until it is properly repaired, even as the damage gets worse while you ignore it. The best way to get your business back in gear quickly is to contact us soon after water damage strikes and to heed our advice in the field.

Fast Responses
In many West Loop commercial water damage cases, a fast response can mean thousands of dollars and weeks of closed doors saved for your store. If we can't respond in time, stains get a chance to set, water may drip into tight spaces and cracks, and any fabrics will be thoroughly doused and ruined. Furthermore, a speedy response helps to curb mold growth, a damaging, silent problem for businesses in Chicagoland. Our crews will respond within four hours of your initial call, often sooner, and can get right to work containing the damage and installing preventative measures. With less damage to repair, there is less work to be done, directly saving both time and money for you.

Speedy Negotiations With Insurers
Some businesses get caught up in messy legal situations and paperwork when negotiating with an insurance provider over damages. While it is important to protect your interests when dealing with them, you should also be aware that we may not begin many of the most important tasks until insurance documents are signed or payment has been made. Our representatives will help you to negotiate and work with an insurer to make sure everything turns out smooth and affordable for you. Our goal is to keep your business in business.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown specializes in getting businesses back in shape after disaster strikes, with professional service, quality equipment, and affordable prices. If your commercial location has sustained water damage, give us a call at (773) 434-9100.

Choosing Fire Damage Cleanup You Can Trust in Chicago

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO techs can remove debris and restore your fire damaged Chicago garage and home--but we cannot repair your car.

Certified SERVPRO Fire Damage Cleanup Technicians Available 24/7 in Chicago

With all of the restoration options you might have after a fire in Chicago, you should only trust your property to the best. Even if DIY is tempting with a smaller fire event, you could open the door to hidden moisture damage and foul smoke odors that come back in the future. Therefore hiring skilled, and highly trained fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) is best. SERVPRO is the team you need on your side if you have any sort of fire in your home or commercial property.

Why is SERVPRO the right option for fire damage cleanup in Chicago? Because we offer everything that you need to put the memory of the blaze behind you while also ensuring you get back to your routine faster. Our team is made up of a variety of technicians that work together to ensure your cleanup project goes off without a hitch, including:

• Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians – We are fully IICRC-certified. We know best practices for handling all types of intense smoke residues, charred debris, and any safety hazards present at the worksite.
• Odor Control Technicians – We inspect all surfaces to determine the type of smoke and soot to select the right processes for odor removal. Using thermal fogging technology, odor counteractant beads, and other tools in our Green Fleet, we make it “Like it never even happened.”
• Water Damage Restoration Technicians – There will be some level of moisture or chemicals left behind from first responders putting out the flames with any fire event. We take the time to inspect all areas, search for moisture, and eliminate it so that you are not left with secondary damage or mold development.

Why trust your fire damage cleanup needs to anyone else but our friendly, knowledgeable techs here at SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown? We are available 24-hours a day – all you have to do is call our office at (773) 434-9100.

Does Water Intrusion Ruin Hardwood Floors in Chicago?

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's rapid removal of water-soaked hardwood flooring in Chicago may prevent demolition and expensive construction

SERVPRO is a Specialist Water Removal Firm that Can Restore Hardwood Floors in Your Chicago Home.

Does Moisture Harm Wood?

Many Chicago properties have hardwood finishing on their floors. These are typically constructed from dense, valuable, and semi-porous materials. To correct and mitigate damages to floor finishing, production technicians need to understand how water affects these materials.

There are two influential variables when attempting to restore water-damaged Chicago hardwoods: permeance, the amount of porosity of a material, and the length of exposure. Permeance is when water travels through the flooring, usually working into materials through capillary suction and wood grains. The size of exposure can often be mitigated by reaching out to a professional restorer as quickly as possible and putting in place the correct drying procedures. SERVPRO promises to arrive on-site within four hours of notification of loss to mitigate lengthy exposure times.

What Happens When Floors are Exposed to Moisture?

When water intrusion occurs, it is vital to enact water removal and hardwood floor specialists for your Chicago home. Natural materials have a moisture content level, usually around 12%, that allows them to retain their natural shape and structure. As exposure to moisture increases, laminates or varnishes can wear away, leading to direct exposure of non-protected wood grains to moisture. As these materials absorb moisture, they can begin to expand or change shape, putting extra pressure on joints, warping the floors, or leading to buckling, cupping, and crowning. The quicker we can remove moisture from your floor, the less harm occurs to natural materials. Some effects of water exposure, such as crowning, are considered non-restorable. Crowning can lead to sourcing and replacing expensive hardwood floors.

How Do Restoration Services Return Hardwoods to a Pre-damage Condition?

• Stripping the floor to ensure an even finish and drying it to its average moisture content level
• Sanding the floor to negate the effects of warping, buckling, or cupping
• Refinishing the floor with a varnish or polymer to return it to its normal, pre-damage condition.

When are Wet Hardwood Floors Repairable?

Providing that the hardwood floor's moisture content levels do not exceed 5% of its natural level, there is a strong chance of restoration. SERVPRO technicians can use truck-mounted equipment to extract water immediately from the hardwoods surfaces and reduce exposure times. If there are carpets, we can remove these along with the carpet pad to allow the floorboards to air. Air-movers can be valuable equipment for the restoration of these materials. Our technicians may frequently adjust them to push air beneath the flooring, into crawl spaces and cavities, or run air over the surface level. In some situations, small holes may be drilled into the hardwood's surface to allow for additional equipment and drying. While these may cause light cosmetic harm, they are often essential to ensure that most structure is saved.

What are the Useful Techniques for Drying Hardwood Floors?

• Do not sand floors until completely dry, as these materials could continue to expand or contract under the influence of moisture.
• To measure the extent of water absorption, Teflon-coated moisture probes are used to read moisture migration through wood layers.
• Desiccant dehumidifiers use a silica gel to reduce relative humidity below 40GPP and assist in the hardwood surfaces' drying process.

How are hardwood floors dried quickly?

It is not uncommon for woods to remain wet after the rest of the home's structure and contents are dry. One way to improve the drying times of hardwood surfaces is to erect a smaller drying chamber. SERVPRO technicians can place thick, poly sheeting over the surface using either sandbags or duct tape to seal the edges. An air-mover, dehumidifier, or portable heater can then be attached to the sheeting, inflating it and creating a drying tent. Drying tents allow for concentrate drying by providing a smaller cubic feet chamber. These drying tents often allow technicians to dry below the surface level and through the layers of woods. Ensuring that the wood flooring is completely dry before sanding and refinishing is an essential part of mitigating the wet hardwood floors' losses.

What Mitigation Strategies are Used to Prevent Crowning, Buckling, and Warping?

• Immediately reduce the relative humidity to 30% to 45% using a drying chamber or desiccant dehumidifiers.
• As moisture content readings drop below 16%, use air-movers to increase the evaporation process.
• Finished flooring can inhibit water evaporation by creating a vapor barrier. Stripping a floor can help to increase drying times and provide an even surface for refinishing.

Hardwoods are often treatable, if not curable, after water exposure by using correct drying equipment and application of drying theory. Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

What Can I Do to Remove Groundwater from My Flooded Chicago Basement?

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

When your basement is flooded with contaminated groundwater, SERVPRO responds rapidly to your Chicago home for storm damage mitigation

SERVPRO Can Swiftly Extract the Groundwater from Your Basement

Statistically speaking, many Chicago households might face some water-related damages in their lifetime, and unfortunately, flood damage is in that broad category. Waking up to find your basement flooded with groundwater after a massive storm and all the contaminants that come with it is not an ideal morning. However, when these kinds of misfortunes happen, it’s essential to try and remain in control and get the help you need.

As flood damage hits your Chicago home, it can bring debris and biohazards with the current. Tree branches, rocks, stop signs, petroleum fuel, chemicals, and biowaste could make the water in your basement unsafe. To avoid hurting yourself or exposing yourself to blackwater, get professional help as soon as possible.

Can SERVPRO Help Me Immediately? What Could Happen If the Water Sits Too Long?

Here at SERVPRO, we strive to ensure the job gets done as soon as possible. From the moment you call, our team can assemble and prepare to travel to you. We know any water-based damage only gets worse with time. If left unattended, water can:

• Cause mold damage
• Rust metal and decay the wooden framing
• Soak drywall and flooring

Water should always be removed as soon as possible to avoid further damage inside your home.

How Can SERVPRO Extract the Groundwater from My Home?

Our technicians are highly skilled and trained to use advanced technology. To remove groundwater, we can:

• Clear out debris, such as tree branches, rocks, signs, and lawn decor
• Remove any furniture and dispose of any carpets exposed to black water
• Use wet/dry vacuums, portable pumps, and extractors to remove the water

Once the water is gone from your property, our techs can dry and disinfect your basement. We can use antimicrobial agents to try and ensure that mold growth does not occur.

If you need groundwater extraction services, never wait. Get in contact with SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown by dialing (773) 434-9100. Our experienced technicians are always happy to help you.

Will DIY Downtown Chicago Commercial Water Removal Succeed?

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is the right call for water damage cleanup and mitigation in Downtown Chicago commercial properties

SERVPRO Offers Comprehensive Chicago Business Water Damage Mitigation and Remediation

Although your in-house or contracted housekeeping and cleanup team is the best in the Loop, the demands of significant water removal in Downtown Chicago rises above their capacity to respond effectively. Burst pipes or a leaking roof from storms or drainage issues can cause hundreds of thousands of gallons of water to cascade through your commercial space. An elevated level of response is required to get your business back on an even keel.

Is SERVPRO Up to the Challenge of Commercial Water Damage Emergency Services?

SERVPRO takes responsibility as an Official Downtown Licensed Operator seriously, ready 24/7 to assist with Downtown Chicago water cleanup of any quantity and from any source. Our conveniently located state-of-the-art production facility stocks an extensive inventory of water removal equipment, tools, and products. We can mobilize an appropriately scaled water damage remediation response immediately, dispatching:

• Multiple crews of the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained technician
• Pumps, including trash pumps capable of managing debris-contaminated water 
• Truck-mounted and portable water extractors
• Generators to prevent power suspension delays 
• Capacious tanks to contain contaminated water for lawful disposal
• Specialized equipment to trace moisture migration, contain, and remove trapped water throughout all your Chicago business’s property

Does Commercial Water Removal Require Applied Structural Drying?

Extracting visible and hidden liquid water is the essential first step of water damage repairs and flood restoration. Diligent extraction is 1200 times more effective than drying techniques alone, accelerating water clean up. Partnering through extraction with the following drying techniques is critical to avoid or minimize secondary water damage such as progressive building material disintegration and mold damage:

• Air movement using axial fans and low profile air movers
• Increasing air temperature and reducing humidity with heaters as warm, dry air facilitates faster evaporation from saturated structural components and fixtures
• Dehumidification with evaporative and desiccant units to remove and capture the lingering moisture for proper disposal

Waste no time after a water disaster downtown. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 for prompt commercial property water removal services.

How Long Is Flood Damage Restoration at My Chicago Home Likely to Take?

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding can happen at any time of the year. No worries! SERVPRO is always on call!

SERVPRO Provides the Necessary Resources to Expedite Flood Damage Restoration

Knowing early enough when you can get back into your Chicago home after a flooding incident can help you plan your routines better, whether seeking alternative accommodation or otherwise. However, with the incident's clutter, soling, and damages left at the property, such estimation is not that simple.

An estimate of the time flood damage restoration at your Chicago home might require can be based on several factors. Professionals like SERVPRO make an assessment based on the activity’s restoration might involve since each activity requires time:

Typical activities when restoring floods include:

• Water extraction and material demolition
• Cleaning the structure and contents
• Decontamination and deodorization
• Drying and rebuilding or refinishing

Some activities take minimal time, although they significantly impact the restoration outcome. For instance, our SERVPRO crew chiefs can inspect your entire home within the first hour of arriving at your premises. The information gained from the inspection helps reveal the resources needed for restorative work, including the number of people, machines, and cleaning products. The assessment reveals when you are likely to get back into your home since it shows how much work is involved in the main restoration tasks.

Some time-consuming actions after a flooding incident include:

• Organizing and decluttering the site
• Cleaning various items
• Drying wet materials

In addition to providing accurate estimates, our SERVPRO teams can also expedite the process. For instance, we can run the restoration without creating too much clutter since our large trash cans store waste materials such as demolished drywall or ceiling panels. We can use several air movers and dehumidifier units during drying, thus completing the drying process faster.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown relies on better information, skills, and equipment for faster flood damage restoration. Call us at (773) 434-9100. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Does Fire Damage Cleanup in Downtown Chicago Facilities Have a Significant Impact?

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage is costly to your business. SERVPRO is your one-stop-shop for your commercial fire damage restoration needs.

SERVPRO Relies on Fire Damage Cleanup to Handle the Heavy Soiling, Odors, and Property Deterioration

Fire damage can mean different things for your property since the smoke, heat, and flames interact with materials differently. The damage you notice in the areas initially unaffected by the fire is mainly associated with moisture and smoke, which leave materials soggy or heavily soiled.

The task of fixing these additional issues can be managed through proper fire damage cleanup of your Downtown Chicago premises. If done appropriately, it is possible to salvage many materials and restore contents. SERVPRO uses convenient cleanup approaches that simplify the process and keep costs manageable.

Exposure to moisture and fire residues exhibits similar characteristics in materials like:

• Easy removal when cleaning is timely
• Significant material deterioration when cleanup is delayed
• Emission of strong odors that spread all over the property

Being thorough is as vital as taking timely action when cleaning up the fire-damaged property. Evaluating all items, especially those you want to save or reuse, helps identify all traces of residue and moisture that might cause problems later. Our SERVPRO technicians inspect materials manually or using handy tools. For instance, penetrative and non-penetrative moisture meters help reveal the level of moisture absorption. Wiping surfaces with a fresh cleaning sponge reveals soot residues' depth and spread patterns.

Various cleaning approaches help remove moisture and fire residues, including:

• Vacuuming and extracting loose residues and moisture
• Dissolving soils
• Physical agitation dislodging residues

Since smoke residues are mainly light solid carbon particles, vacuuming helps lift them off most surfaces. Our SERVPRO teams are equipped with regular and wet vacuums, thus handling dry and wet materials using this cleaning method. Dissolving helps remove soils bonded with surfaces. The process might require water or solvents. Our technicians rely on the evaluation done at your business premises to determine the best option. We are a Downtown Chicago Licensed Operator.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown provides the necessary resources for fire damage cleanup. Call us at (773) 434-9100. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Can Be Done About Frozen Pipes in Chicago Homes?

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

Be sure an take preventative measures to protect your pipes as winter weather approaches.

Freezing Plumbing can Threaten Several Chicago Residences During Cold Winter Conditions

The winter is one of the most memorable seasons for many Chicago residents, but not always for the right reasons. When cold conditions infiltrate a home or business, vulnerable pipes can freeze and rupture.

How Do Pipes Freeze? 

Whether frozen pipes or ice damming Chicago homes experience, the winter months can be brutal. Cold air circulating exposed water lines can freeze still water, and the subsequent expansion can cause the pipe to rupture under certain conditions.

Is It Possible to Prevent Burst Pipes? 

It is possible to avoid costly water damage and structural weakening with a few preventative measures. Break it down into three simple words:

• Insulate – Ensure that the pipes have the appropriate insulating material when exposed to cold air or exterior elements. 

• Circulate – Make sure warm air moves through the house and accesses these vulnerable pipes whenever possible. 

• Operate – It is a good practice to run faucets connected to problem lines at a steady drip to ensure complete freezing does not occur. 

What Should You Do If You Know Your Pipes Are Frozen? 

You might not realize that insulation is inadequate until pipes have already frozen. Resolving this situation is possible without further damage when acted upon quickly to thaw out the ice blockage in line with heat from a hairdryer. 

Can SERVPRO Help? 

As a leading restoration team for the city and its surrounding areas, we are one of the trusted names for mitigating the loss of homes and businesses when these water damages occur. As rapidly as conditions can worsen and compromise areas of a property, we mobilize fast with extraction and drying tools to show We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

Homeowners have steps to limit the possibilities of freezing pipes and subsequent line breaks. When these disasters occur, you can count on the fast response of our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team wherever you are around the metropolitan area. Call today at (773) 434-9100.

How Do Chicago Business Owners Quickly Address Plumbing Leaks?

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage affects your business, you need water extraction and remediation services. Team SERVPRO is standing by 24/7 - 365 days a year.

SERVPRO Provides Water Extraction Services as an Official Licensed Downtown Chicago Operator

Chicago is among the world’s top 20 busiest economies as of 2020 and is home to thousands of businesses. Facility maintenance is key to keeping businesses up and running as long as possible. Still, even with regular maintenance, disaster can come in the form of pinhole leaks in plumbing or frozen pipes that burst from temperature and pressure changes.

SERVPRO water extraction technicians provide Downtown Chicago businesses with fast-acting relief from water damage in their facilities. Local commercial property owners can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that SERVPRO is an Official Licensed Downtown Chicago Operator that can perform mitigation to code.

Handling Commercial Plumbing Leaks Quickly

Before technicians arrive to perform restoration, property owners are advised to do the following:

• If there is still water pouring out of damaged pipes, shut it off as soon as possible. Depending on the layout of the affected property, this can be achieved with a localized shutoff valve or at the water main for the facility
• Inspect the building in question for other potential signs of plumbing-related water damage. This step is especially crucial in commercial multi-family properties, hotels, and other facilities where multiple rooms on multiple floors could be affected
• Take pictures and video of the affected area and contact your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims failing process
• Contact SERVPRO to begin cleanup, which includes water extraction, structure and contents drying, sanitation with OSHA-approved biocides, and mold remediation as needed

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 for “Like it never even happened,” cleanup services from highly-trained technicians.

How Can Chicago Homeowners Quickly Find Storm Damage Mitigation Services?

12/6/2021 (Permalink)

A damaged roof can let in water and debris from outside into your home after a storm. Contacting SERVPRO can quickly start the damage remediation.

Chicago Storm Damage Mitigation from SERVPRO Provides Emergency-Response Disaster Cleanup

While Chicago homeowners are accustomed to stormy weather, the damage that these weather events leave behind is not always preventable. However, one of the most effective ways to minimize damage and repair needs after a storm is to call licensed professionals to clean up as soon as possible.

SERVPRO storm damage mitigation technicians provide Chicago homeowners fast relief from flooding, roof damage, and other storm-related concerns. SERVPRO staff, technicians, and franchise owners alike receive flood damage cleanup training and education that complies with Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards.

Storm Damage Inspection and Cleanup

Before SERVPRO can get to cleaning, sanitizing, and drying stormwater damage, technicians need to inspect the affected property. This can entail:

• Taking inventory of affected structures and contents, which can include taking pictures or videos of the damage
• Using penetrating moisture evaluation tools to test interior moisture levels
• Applying calibrated non-penetrating moisture sensors or meters to determine surface-level
• Determining ambient temperature and relative humidity levels to use as variables for calculating drying goals
• Using thermal imaging cameras to detect potential moisture inside wall and ceiling cavities or underneath floors

All of these calculations are necessary for formulating and implementing an effective structural drying plan that returns structural materials and contents in your home to a pre-disaster condition with appropriate moisture levels for each affected surface. Inspections are performed throughout the cleaning and drying process to ensure that drying goals are met on time.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is available for cleanup 24/7. Call (773) 434-9100 for a crew that can show you how We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Does Chicago Kitchen Flood Water Removal Entail?

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

Finding flooding in your kitchen can certainly cause some panic. Contact SERVPRO to quickly assess your situation and formulate a removal plan.

SERVPRO Professionals Render Flood Water Removal Services in Chicago

Even small amounts of ground flooding seeping into a property’s kitchen can have wide-reaching effects on everything from drywall and wall cavities to cabinets, flooring, and subfloors. The potential for mold, which can cause health effects, and other contaminants to permeate possessions can make DIY cleanup solutions inadvisable for homeowners.

Chicago flood water removal technicians at SERVPRO can perform emergency-response cleanup and build-back services 24/7, including weekends and holidays. This team’s commitment to comprehensive training for staff and technicians ensures that restoration professionals are well-equipped to restore flood-affected structures and contents.

Caring for Kitchen Walls, Floors, and Cabinets After Flooding

• Floodwater creeps up drywall as it saturates the gypsum and paperboard sheets, which can cause them to warp and eventually deteriorate. SERVPRO professionals address waterlogged sheetrock segments by cutting them away and prepping the wall cavities for extraction, drying, cleaning, and other restoration tasks as needed before implementing repairs
• Floorcare varies depending on the materials affected. Ceramic tiles, for example, can often be cleaned, dried, and reinstalled. Vinyl sheets and tiles, on the other hand, lose adhesion to the floor and may require a partial or full replacement, depending on the extent of the flooding
• Cabinets, especially those mounted directly onto exterior walls, require meticulous care to dry completely. Cabinets fixed to interior walls, meanwhile, are easier to access. SERVPRO IICRC-certified techs can cut away sheetrock on the other side of the wall, leaving an open cavity to force air through to dry the interior of the cabinet

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown can restore residential space so that they look and feel “Like it never even happened.” Homeowners can call (773) 434-9100 for fast-acting remediation.

Advanced Fire Damage Restoration Services Available Throughout Chicago

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Team SERVPRO arrives on the fire damage scene with certified technicians and the professional equipment necessary for fire damage remediation job.

SERVPRO Technicians Remediate Fire Damage Methodically for Best Results

There are two very different types of fires that can occur on your property. Insurance companies separate structure from contents when determining compensation, causing restoration companies to perform services similarly.

Fire damage to your Chicago home can lead to problems that affect both the structure of your home, as well as contents. When restoration technicians address incidents on your property, your contents get moved to a clean area, either on or off-site, to receive the proper attention in a safe environment.

With your belongings moved, SERVPRO technicians check each section of your home for fire damage, using superior cleaning and restoration methods to correct existing problems and prevent additional damage from forming. We focus on many structural components, including your walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows, ensuring to address all damage found in your home. 

Many homes also have attached floor coverings, cabinets, lighting, bathroom fixtures, and a home ventilation system that count towards structural damages. Anything connected to your home falls into this category, presenting SERVPRO IICRC-certified technicians with various challenging situations to overcome.

House Fire Clean Up

SERVPRO technicians work with you and your insurance company to get you the help you need to restore your home to a quality preloss condition that you and your family can enjoy. We eliminate soot, ash, and smoke residues that continue to cause severe damage long after the flames are under control and help identify items where restoration remains questionable.

Our restoration teams put years of experience, advanced training, and professional equipment to use to determine the appropriate cleaning methods to use as they address each damaged area of your home. We are putting items into specific categories to receive the best results. We use water-based cleaning solutions on materials that resist water damage and use dry cleaning methods where contact with water may lead to additional damage.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown has technicians available 24/7, quickly responding to homeowners with situations just like yours. Please take advantage of our experience and get started on your home’s recovery today. (773) 434-9100

Mitigation and Restoration with Our Team – Locally and Nationwide

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

When You Need Restoration and Recovery for Your Chicago Area Home or Emergency Nationwide Help--Count on our team from SERVPRO

SERVPRO’s Team Handles Large and Small Commercial and Residential Restoration When You Need It Most

Whether you are a business owner or a homeowner, a disaster can be devastating. Whether you have a water or fire emergency, having a team you can trust to handle mitigation and restoration means everything. SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown is your designated restoration team for local projects and nationwide natural disaster relief. We are part of an extensive network across the United States of professional restorers ready to travel at a moment’s notice to help those in need.

How Does the Disaster Recovery Team Work?

SERVPRO features select franchises that can deploy as needed with the transportation of extensive equipment and well-trained crews. We range far and wide to cover mitigation and restoration for catastrophic events, all while having enough personnel at home to handle all Chicago-area calls.

Green Fleet of Vehicle Includes:

• Industrial-grade pumps and extractors

• Generators that come on semi-trailers

• Tow-behind desiccant dehumidifiers

• RVs to handle lodging on-site wherever we get dispatched

Each project our Disaster Recovery Team gets called to has many elements. Some areas we may address include:

• Emergency Power

• Contingency Planning

• Rapid Mitigation Services

• Board-Up and Tarping

• Water Removal Services

• Drying, Dehumidification and Moisture Detection

Supplies, restoration services, and a kind face are some of the things people need most in a natural disaster. SERVPRO features caring, skilled professionals to handle any size project, big or small. Our goal is always to ensure we make the storm or hurricane damage “Like it never even happened,” so that impacted residents and business owners can get back to normal as quickly as possible.

Rapid action and extensive training for restoration projects help to limit damage, cutting loss and costs. SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team is who you want in your corner when you experience flooding, a leaking roof from storms, and all associated restoration needs. Call SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown at (773) 434-9100 to learn more about the services we offer. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Storm Damage Restoration Experts in Downtown Chicago

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Affected by a recent storm? Our technicians are standing by for your emergency call. We have the equipment necessary to complete the remediation.

SERVPRO Can Restore Your Storm Damaged Property

Chicagoans are very familiar with Lake-influenced snowstorms, severe tornadoes, and intense thunderstorms that vastly disrupt homes and businesses. These storms, water deluge, high winds, and the possibility of fire cause costly structural damage. This type of damage combination displaces families and businesses within our communities. Our full-service skills mean that one call can bring the scientific approach, heavy-duty equipment, technical expertise, and experience that you need to restore your property quickly.

Storm damage in Downtown Chicago can also bring sewage problems and mold growth. Storm emergency damage occurs with little warning and can be devastating. When you call SERVPRO, we do everything needed to restore instead of replacing damaged property. Don't worry; if reconstruction is required, we can handle the entire process.

Water Removal Services

We begin with a thorough inspection and assessment. Our water removal and drying process includes thermal scanning and the use of high-tech equipment and tools. With our IICRC certified technicians working on your behalf, they clean and sanitize your personal investments. Restoration can involve minor and major repairs, which we are qualified to handle.

SERVPRO is as close as your nearest neighbor because we are locally owned and operated. We are dedicated to responding immediately to water and storm damage emergencies. Our experts take photos and provide documentation of each damaged area. We can offer a stress-free claims process to help you manage the needed insurance paperwork with this action. We are not an insurance company, but our vast experience coordinating storm damage restoration with you and your adjuster is a plus.

With fire damage to your property, we don't just show up and leave when everyone else has left. We go through the restoration and repair process with you. We bring your residential and commercial properties back to life. In no time, we can have it looking "Like it never even happened." We can empathetically give families and business owners the peace of mind they deserve.

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown, to see how our trained technicians can restore your property. Our friendly customer service consultants are available to answer any questions you may have about our services. We are easy to reach for any emergency service 24/7; call (773) 434-9100.

What Are Signs a Chicago Home Needs Water Damage Restoration?

10/30/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless whether the water leak is visible or hidden behind walls, team SERVPRO can help. Call us 24/7 for your water damage emergency.

SERVPRO Techs Have Extensive Training For Handling Chicago Water Cleanup

Right now, a Chicago home has a water leak that is not getting taken care of and progressively causing more damage to the house. Slow leaks can do massive amounts of damage when they are behind a large appliance or wall until the signs of a problem become noticeable.

SERVPRO puts together the top ways to know when a Chicago home needs water damage restoration services. Here are some of the early warning signs that there is a moisture problem within the structure: 

• Musty odor
• Visible water spots or stains on walls or floors
• Paint bubbles
• Presence of mold colonies
• Loose tiles
• Buckled wood floorboards

Musty odors are one of the ways many homeowners discover they have an excess moisture issue in their homes. As excess moisture wicks into sheetrock or migrates under flooring, a distinctive odor is present.

Visible signs of water damage in a home are many. Stains appearing on walls or ceilings can show where problem areas are within the structure. Also, there may be missing floor tiles that delaminated due to moisture or signs of a mold infestation. SERVPRO technicians have the training and equipment to easily handle all these scenarios that can occur during a mitigation service. As sheetrock collects moisture, it begins to buckle and warp; this level of damage normally requires removal.

Another sign of water damage that shows on walls and ceilings is known as a paint bubble. While these side effects of water damage are another visual sign but are less common. As water collects within the walls, the paint will stretch and bubble outward.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 brings professional water damage restoration to Chicago properties and is available 24/7.

What Few People Know About Fire Damage Remediation Strategies in Chicago

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can clean the soot from a fire-damaged Pinocchio in your Chicago home--no lie!! "Like it never even happened."

Various Strategies Used to Deal with Fire Damage in Chicago Homes

After a fire in your residence, the best chance of recovering your property and possessions is to call SERVPRO franchise professionals. It is daunting to deal with fire damage, and it is not a job that anyone can complete. A fire emits soot and various chemicals that create challenges for cleaning and decontamination.

The fire damage in your Chicago property requires a prompt response. It is essential to treat the affected areas promptly and effectively with specialized equipment and skills. We have the resources needed to restore your home to its original condition. We face various challenges when restoring homes, but we overcome them by using multiple strategies.

Treating Different Materials

After a fire, we can salvage some materials in your home. Different materials require different cleaning procedures. Our technicians can determine if the various materials in your home are salvageable and clean them properly.

• Drywall – When cleaning up drywall, our technicians determine if smoke residues have seeped behind it. In that case, it may be necessary to replace the drywall.
• Tile Counters – We can clean tile counters. Tiled surfaces comprise the tile itself and the grouting. Tile varies in porosity based on how it was constructed, while grouting varies in porosity based on how well it is sealed. If the tile grouting is not well sealed, it can absorb smoke residues. We can use a strong acid cleaner, like one containing muriatic acid, phosphoric acid, or a stabilized acid, to clean grouting stains.
• Granite and Solid Formica counters – If counters remain exposed to smoke for lengthy periods, permanent discoloration can occur. We can use general surface cleaners to clean your countertops.
• Carpets – If your carpets have light smoke, we can clean and restore them to their pre-damaged state by using the right cleaning solutions and equipment.
• Laminate Flooring – There is a layer of absorbent foam under laminate floors. If the smoke seeped beneath the floor, removing it is necessary to allow for the replacement of the porous foam.
• Salvageable surfaces – Our technicians can seal smoke-damaged surfaces that need not be removed so that smoke odors do not escape.

Removing Chemical Residues

Our SERVPRO crew removes not only smoke particulate materials like char, ash, and soot from affected surfaces. We also remove chemical components like semi-volatile and volatile organic compounds that can cause long-term contamination. Our restores inspect the affected areas, searching for particulates and chemical residues. The inspection also enables us to know which materials burned during the fire so that we can identify the smoke residues present. We then use the most effective cleaning techniques to eliminate the particulates and chemical residues.

Some challenges are involved when restoring fire-damaged houses. Fortunately, the technicians at SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown have the experience and sophisticated equipment required to restore your property effectively. Contact us 24/7 at (773) 434-9100 for immediate help.

Water in the Cellar? Not a Good Thing! Call SERVPRO to Come Out Quickly to Your Chicago Property

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO for water extraction and damage mitigation to your Chicago area basement

Is Your Chicago Basement Full of Water?

We usually think of basements as being protected from the elements. As homeowners, we worry about roof leaks, frozen pipes, and even tornadoes, but we do not consider that our basement may one day be ankle-deep in water due to a broken washing machine or faulty toilet. As you consider how to tackle this water cleanup project, you may consider running to your local home improvement store for supplies, but this may not be the best route.

Water cleanup in Chicago is best addressed by a professional team such as SERVPRO. Our technicians hold an Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to address situations just like yours. Combined with our field experience, we can be your best resource for achieving full restoration of your basement and avoiding future consequences.

Since emergencies happen when you least expect them, our team is available 24/7 by merely calling our hotline. As soon as we arrive at your home, we assess the situation and draw up a plan that minimizes the impact on your life and on your wallet.

Water Removal Services

At SERVPRO, we use tools and equipment that are not typically available to the average homeowner. For example, we bring handheld water extraction wands for those hard-to-access nooks and crannies in your basement. For more significant needs, we may use our truck-mounted pumps to extract substantial amounts of water. As we carry on this process, our infrared moisture meters let us know whether we are reaching optimal humidity levels based on your home and its contents. For the most part, we can salvage much of your basement, including any wet carpets and furniture, and we use specific equipment to dry these off. If there is a compelling reason to remove them from home, we take charge of this as well. Concrete can absorb water and weaken. We have the skills for a slow and controlled drying process using our advanced equipment.

SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown is your best ally in restoring your basement. Call us at (773) 434-9100 and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Offers Premier Water Damage Cleanup to Chicago Homes

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

With our Green Fleet available 24/7, SERVPRO techs offer excellent water damage cleanup services for the Chicago area

How can SERVPRO Help You with Water Damage Cleanup of Your Chicago Home?   

Water damage cleanup of your Chicago home can be a complex process depending on the extent and type of the damage. One of the biggest challenges for SERVPRO restorers is to control the contamination that might accompany certain water damage situations.

Since water promotes and sustains microbial growth, the primary mitigation steps that SERVPRO techs take during water damage cleanup of your Chicago home include-

• Drying the structure as soon as possible
• Removing any contaminated material from the premises

In certain situations, however, SERVPRO water restoration experts might need to use products that may help slow or control microbial contamination growth.

How do SERVPRO Techs Use Professional Decontamination Products During Water Damage Repairs of Your Chicago Home?

SERVPRO techs use appropriate methods and precautions while using decontamination products during the water cleanup of your Chicago home. We only use EPA registered broad-spectrum disinfectants if water damage presents a potential for microbial contamination. SERVPRO techs use the product according to the product labeling and follow application methods specified on the label of the product.

Once the techs apply the disinfecting product, it needs to have a sufficient dwell time to be effective. The technicians also ensure temperature and pH are maintained so that the disinfectant remains effective throughout the application time.

Disinfectants generally are applied on the subfloor, tack strips, walls, and wall bottom plates. Such organic materials encourage microbial growth and the development of odors associated with microbes. Restores also apply deodorizers to help with the odor issues, if any, after the decontamination process is completed.

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100; Our technicians are available round-the-clock to assist you with water damage issues.

Can SERVPRO Remove Lingering Odors After Fire Damage in Downtown Chicago?

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot travel far from the blaze and deposit residues throughout your home.

Rely on SERVPRO to Restore Your Property After Fire Damage

Fire damage results in a home filled with the odors of smoke and fumes from various burned materials. The stench can be overwhelming, and it is difficult to remove. Additional complications arise from water damage left by emergency fire crews. The situation may seem overpowering. Your possessions are no longer usable, and many surfaces in the home are layered with soot and smoke residue. Displacement is traumatic, but there is something that you can do. Get professional help from a fire damage restoration company.

For fire damage in Downtown Chicago, SERVPRO is fast to respond. Conscientious and skilled technicians understand the need to move quickly to restore homes and possessions to their pre-fire and water-damaged condition. In many cases, furnishings can be restored, saving replacement costs. Soot is cleaned from every surface; any remaining water is removed, and the home is thoroughly dried. Smoke and other odors caused by the fire are removed with state of the art equipment like ozone machines, thermal foggers, cleaning products, and techniques to leave the home in excellent condition for occupancy.

Benefits of SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration Services

Professional and caring staff are fast responders who are committed to working hard to get families back into their homes. Years of experience combine with IICRC and franchise training to make each crew member aware of the urgency that is involved in completing fire damage restoration. Whenever possible, personal possessions are cleaned and restored rather than discarded. Rescuing belongings helps homeowners to retain a sense of familiarity and contributes to a reduction in trauma and stress. The house is cleaned and deodorized in its entirety by professionals who can work with fast precision because of the specialized equipment that reduces the amount of time involved in cleaning and restoration.

If you're dealing with residential or commercial fire damage, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

SERVPRO is Trusted for Chicago Water Damage Restoration Services

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the training and Personal Protective Equipment to safely restore your water damaged home.

Water Damage in Chicago Can Be Severe, But SERVPRO Can Help

Many people do not realize how grave of a problem water damage in Chicago can be. When a part of your home takes on more water than it would typically be able to handle, the home can begin to undergo changes and processes that leave permanent marks on the structure that can take much more time and money to repair than a professional cleanup job. Our certified SERVPRO technicians respond quickly to any calls about water damage we receive to ensure that your home gets the fast and thorough treatment and care it deserves.

The Severity of the Damage

Although all cases of water damage are different, several broad categorizations help us to understand precisely how severe the matter is and what treatment techniques we can expect to use during the mitigation and restoration processes. The water’s color can tell us quite a bit about safety hazards and necessary preventive measures, so be sure to say in your initial phone call whether the water in your home was clear, cloudy, or dark when you first saw it. Once we get an inspector to your home to analyze the situation with a professional eye, we can provide a more detailed assessment of how extensive the damage is and what we need to do to fix it.

What Comes Next?

More severe water damage situations such as floods can take several weeks to restore. These projects usually require more drying time and minor reconstruction efforts such as replacement or refinishing of floor materials. Our drying and restoration times can have much higher variance for smaller spills, but SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown makes sure to approach every job with the best care we can provide to keep the impact on your life as low as possible.

What are Factors to Consider During the Damage Restoration?

When water leaks and damages property, the main concern many Chicago homeowners have is to restore the property to its preloss state. However, it is crucial to stick with the right steps when performing the restoration processes to achieve the intended goal. We offer professional restoration services and rely on advanced training as well as vast experience to deal with any damage "Like it never even happened."

Time

Speed is a vital aspect of any exercise involving water cleanup in Chicago. Some of the damages like staining or microbial growth that occur after a water spill incident can be tied to the time taken to extract the water. Using sophisticated equipment or advanced techniques are two ways to increase the speed of extraction. Our SERVPRO technicians combine both depending on the situation. For example, we use water extractors or the more specialized injectidry systems to remove water without tearing down the structure. In other cases, we cut vent holes or do a controlled demolition to remove water from concealed areas.

To a certain degree, the total area of the house that requires cleaning is determined by the level of water migration. As the water moves, it dissolves different materials, including dust, pet wastes, and dyes, spreading the residue all over the property. Having a proper way of tracking water migration helps ensure the right outcome. Some typical ways of doing it include controlled teardown of suspect areas and using advanced equipment. Our SERVPRO technicians rely on equipment like FLIR thermal cameras and moisture sensors to track affected areas conveniently.

Types of other Damage

The type of soiling and the materials in the affected areas influence the cleaning approaches chosen. It is easier to remove soils from hard surfaces such as wood compared to porous ones such as carpets. Cleaning should also include structural parts such as walls and subfloors for satisfactory results. Our SERVPRO technicians use pressure washers and professional cleaning agents to remove dirt and grime from hard surfaces. On carpets, we use approaches such as rotary jet or hot water extraction, shampooing, and deluxe preconditioning.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is your best ally in restoring your damaged property. Call us at (773) 434-9100 and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened."

Storm Response for Hurricane Ida When It’s Needed Most

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Storm Disaster Recovery Team traveled to Louisiana to assist our distant neighbors with Hurricane Ida cleanup.

SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown is Part of a Massive Effort to Help Louisiana Residents with Hurricane Ida Response

SERVPRO’s team deals with water damage and flooding projects on a regular basis. Because water restoration and storm response are something the crew prides themselves on, we are always ready to deploy and lend a hand where any hard-hit areas of the country need it most. This is why we have crews on the ground and prepared to get started in Louisiana for homes and businesses impacted by Hurricane Ida. We are part of an elite Disaster Recovery Team – one of four – that has been strategically positioned throughout the country. With our superior training and scale of vehicles and equipment, you can count on us to be there for Louisiana residents during their time of need.

We are Heroes in Green, and we can be there whenever you need us, wherever you are! SERVPRO is available 24/7 for rapid response, and no project is too big or small.

Because of the recent hurricane devastation in Louisiana, we have activated our storm response teams to help out. Owner/Operator Anthony Zubricki arrived in the impact zone on Saturday, 8/27/21, having a stocked 53-foot semi-trailer with the necessary equipment and tools. Never worry, as we have additional crew members coming in to handle any needs for our local West Loop community in the event of an emergency.

Many of the victims of this storm require professional services to address the fallout at their homes and businesses. There are countless reasons you can count on SERVPRO in this time of need, including:

• We have hundreds of franchises across the nation ready to lend a hand
• We have highly-trained personnel and endless equipment ready to go
• We have Disaster Recovery Teams placed across the country so we can respond as needed
• We have a solid track record for success when assisting with flooding, hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, and more

We are proud to be part of such immense preparations so that we can help those in need in the hardest-hit areas of Louisiana. We have crews and equipment on the ground, with more on the way and Owner/Operator Frank Zubricki joining the Disaster Recovery Team in the coming days. He will be met by our VP David Mason who dispatched a second 53-foot semi-trailer as the hurricane passed. We understand that this is a difficult time, but all of our team members are there to lend caring and support throughout the storm clean-up and restoration process

Should you need assistance with local restorations and clean-up, give us a call at SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

How Can Downtown Chicago Water Removal Save Wood Floors?

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

It doesn't take long for water to damage hardwood flooring. But no worries! SERVPRO has the know how to dry and restore your floor.

SERVPRO Water Removal Methods Remove Bacteria and Odors from Downtown Chicago Properties

Small household leaks are common but can account for thousands of wasted gallons of water per year. According to the EPA, ten percent of homes needing water removal experience plumbing and appliance leaks that consume 90 or more gallons of water per day. This amount of damage can compromise the structural integrity of homes in Chicago and elsewhere.

SERVPRO water removal services eliminate Downtown Chicago water damage concerns and return affected structures to a pre-disaster condition. This restoration firm’s services are available to homeowners 24/7, including all weekends and holidays.

SERVPRO Wood Flooring Water Cleanup

Hardwood floors in a home are often restorable after water damage. However, extended periods of water exposure can subject planks to swelling, warping, or cupping, not to mention mold growth. Moisture can also affect subflooring, which may require replacement.

SERVPRO professionals can address wood flooring water exposure by:

• Remove microbial growth and surface dirt and bacteria with EPA-registered biocides
• Use rubber suction mats to pull moisture out of sections of wood flooring
• Set up air movement equipment to dry above and below flooring
• Accelerate drying of contained areas with polyethylene drying chambers
• Prepare the floor for staining and refinishing with the permission of homeowners and insurers

Water is isolated and removed at an approved treated sewer by restoration technicians. SERVPRO crew members also inspect moisture levels on and inside floor planks to ensure that they reach safe humidity levels without over-drying the wood.

Property owners can call (773) 434-9100 for “Like it never even happened,” service from SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown.

SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown Accepts 2020 Bronze Sales and Service Award

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

The Zubricki family accepts the award on behalf of the whole team. From left: Anthony, Amanda, Frank, Pat, and Stephanie.

Meet Our Team

This photo conveys the unity of the Zubricki Family. In this warm family portrait, Patricia and Frank Zubricki are with their three children Anthony and Amanda, on the left, and Stephanie, on the right. This is the core of our team.

Our Team Wins The 2020 Bronze Sales and Service Award

While their parent company SERVPRO Industries LLC, maintains a high standard of service for every job a franchise works on, we deliver the highest standard possible to every residential and commercial restoration service job. At the Annual Convention held this year at Disney World in Orlando, FL, we were honored with the Bronze Icon Award for Outstanding Sales and Service, ranking in the top 15 out of over 1850 franchises. That means this SERVPRO location not only meets the highest standards expected but consistently delivers top tier assistance for every client. This SERVPRO franchise has always been in the top 100 franchises every year since 2012. We are proud of the dedication of our production, sales, and office members of our team. They brought us here, with more to come. We proudly accept this Award on their behalf.

Helping the West Loop Community

The team works hard to ensure their West Loop neighbors have 24/7 access to professional restoration services. When they are not working, the organization donates to raise money and awareness for various charitable causes within the community, such as the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and NAIFA Chicago Southland. Also, Pat Zubricki is on the Board of the Children’s Museum in Oaklawn, a venue that creates hands-on learning for children of all ages and abilities.

West Loop residents depend on SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 for all sizes and types of restoration services.

How SERVPRO Assesses Clean Up After Fire Damage to Your Downtown Chicago Home

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

A house fire in Downtown Chicago is no match for SERVPRO. "Like it never even happened."

Damage to Your Downtown Chicago House or Apartment by Fire Has Many Degrees of Harm

Fire damage can happen more quickly than most people realize. An unattended candle, hot oil, or a faulty appliance are all potential house fire causes. Facing the aftermath of a fire can be emotionally draining and upsetting. Cleaning and restoring your home is a vital part of getting back to everyday life after fire damage. SERVPRO is on hand to help clean up your property.

One of the biggest challenges after fire damage to your Downtown Chicago home is deciding how and what to clean. Some items cannot be cleaned and need to be discarded. Others can be cleaned and restored "Like it never even happened."

We train our IICRC-certified technicians to assess the cleanability of your home and belongings thoroughly. Some of the factors which affect how easily your home can be cleaned include:

Type Of Surface Affected by Fire Damage

Porous surfaces are harder to clean because soot particles penetrate deeper into them. Non-porous surfaces such as vinyl or enamel-based paints are easier to clean.

Fire Damaged Materials

Synthetic materials leave behind residue when they burn. Burning rubber or plastic creates a more challenging cleanup task. Soot should not be confused with smoke particles. Natural materials such as wood do not leave the same residue and are easier to clean up. The heat and fuel dictate if an organically burned element is dry smoke (powdery) or wet smoke.

Air Pressure

The greater the air pressure, the harder it is to clean up after fire damage. As air pressure increases, the air expands and pushes soot particles into nooks and crannies because of the fire's intense heat.

Heat Levels

The hotter the temperature, the more the potential damage; this includes cracking, bubbling, or melting of surfaces and more soot being pushed into materials. The hotter the fire, the more complex the cleanup job afterward.

Age Of Surfaces

Older surfaces are generally more difficult to clean. This is because they have more wear and tear, making them less resistant to damage or dirt.

Moisture Presence

Moisture in the air sets residues and makes them harder to clean up. This happens in situations where a fire hose is used during the firefighting effort or sprinklers were activated.

Our trained SERVPRO technicians have the skills and equipment to evaluate the damage to your home and belongings. Assessing each surface and item helps us build a thorough picture of the extent of the damage. From there, we put together a plan of which cleaning techniques should work best. Not everything can be saved after a fire, but we aim to salvage whatever is possible so you can get back to your everyday life.

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 today. Our teams are ready to assess your home.

Water Damage Prevention for Your Downtown Chicago Commercial Building

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

Be Prepared for water damage in Downtown Chicago with SERVPRO's ERP Emergency READY Profile Plan

Water Damage Restoration for Your Commercial Building

Every building carries some risk of water damage at any time. Several water, fire, and storm damages are reported daily, and water is the most common type of disaster that can wreak havoc on a building.

The causes of water damage can range from minor to major, from small leaks in the roof to widespread damage from major storms. It is crucial to protect the roofs of the building and the walls and windows of the structure to minimize the chance of water damage in Downtown Chicago. If you use the following checklist, you can stand the best chance of protecting your business from water damage that can cost a great deal of money and energy.

Leaking Roofs

• Regularly, make sure to examine all rooftop penetrations on the interior and exterior.
• Examine the seals surrounding HVAC systems so that you can be sure that they are intact and not be responsible for water damage in the building.
• Keep updated regarding the flashings that surround skylights, vents, and other parts of the rooftop that could play a role in water damage.
• Look for water stains regularly.
• If you have a flat roof, make sure to examine the roof drains monthly.

Water Damage to Walls

• Look at any wall penetrations in the building and verify proper flashing and integrity of the sealant.
• Examine the wall joints located at plumbing penetrations, electrical penetrations, doors, and windows.

Leaking Windows

• Examine flashings on the exterior of the building and window joints for continuous seal integrity.
• If you have windows involved in a drainable wall system, examine any flashing openings to ensure that they are not clogged. Look at weep holes as well.
• Examine windows from the interior of the building, and verify air seal and glass integrity.
• Test out mechanical elements regularly, including cranks and locks.
• Examine the areas of the walls around the windows on the interior of the building for water damage.

The Importance of a Rapid Response to Water Damage

Even a commercial building that is carefully operated has some risk of water damage in Downtown Chicago. For this reason, your business must have a prepared emergency response plan for such situations. These plans can play a crucial role in ensuring that the building rapidly recovers from water damage from a flooded basement, a severe leak in the roof, or soaked carpet in the office. The speed of response to one of these events is often the most important key to recovering business quickly after a disaster.

What should be included in a water emergency response plan is:

• A rapid shutdown of water supply lines.
• The safe shutdown of gas and electric supply lines.
• Easy access to equipment.
• Contact information for water extraction companies, HVAC and plumbing specialists, police, fire, and emergency personnel.
• Participate in SERVPRO's ERP Emergency READY Profile Plan

If you encounter any water damage emergency at your Downtown Chicago facility, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for your emergency at (773) 434-9100.

Can SERVPRO Help with Fire Cleanup in a Downtown Chicago Home?

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO techs place ozone machines to help eliminate odors and smoke damage in Downtown Chicago homes and businesses

SERVPRO Is a Leader in Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration for All of Downtown Chicago

Although the Great Chicago Fire happened about 150 years ago, homeowners in the Windy City still find themselves in need of fire restoration services. Outdated wiring, space heaters, and even human mistakes can be behind house fires that damage your home and personal belongings. Relying on a professional fire restoration team ensures that all fire and smoke damage aspects are reviewed and addressed so your home can return to pre-fire conditions.

In Downtown Chicago, fire cleanup services are available shortly after you place a call to SERVPRO and our round-the-clock crew. Equipped with the latest technology available in the water and fire damage restoration industry, we arrive at your home and begin the process by assessing the damage and recommending a course of action. Our decisions are based not only on our experience but also on industry best practices. We are an official Downtown Chicago Licenses Operator.

It is common for our SERVPRO team to visit a fire-damaged home and find that homeowners worry about the fire clean-up as much as they do about smoke remediation and removing the pungent smell the smoke and flames leave behind. Part of our commitment to our clients is to use any of the techniques necessary to clean the air and kill smell particles. Some methods we may use include-

• Odor counteracting pellets to help fight the lingering smell
• Air scrubbers to remove the particles from the air and purify it
• Ozone generators to kill the scent by using chemical pairing

Regardless of the technique we use, our team at SERVPRO of West Loop/ Bucktown/ Greektown is ready to help. Call us at (773) 434-9100 and let us do what we do for all of Downtown Chicago: leave your home “Like it never even happened.”

Preventing Water Damage From Plumbing Fixtures And Appliances In Your Downtown Chicago Home

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

No matter how your property is impacted by water, you can call on our technicians day or night for help.

Why SERVPRO When Water Damage Occurs

Many water damage cases in homes involve inclement weather, but there are other common causes of water damage that can occur at any time. Your plumbing system is one potential source of water damage, including fixtures such as toilets and sinks leaking. Pipes can spring leaks, and several large appliances can leak, such as dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines.

It is simpler to prevent water damage in your Downtown Chicago home than to clean up the mess. If you regularly inspect your plumbing fixtures, appliances, and pipes for leaks or signs of damage, you can prevent water damage that becomes widespread and needs extensive restoration services.

When something does happen to one of your fixtures or appliances to cause a leak in your home, SERVPRO is the one that can help you clean up the water and repair the problem. As trained water damage remediation specialists, our staff is professional and caring.

Water Damage From Plumbing Fixtures 

Daily, water passes through your bathtub, toilets, sinks, and shower. If any are damaged or leaking, you may wind up with significant water damage. Regularly inspecting the plumbing in your home can help you find signs of leaks or damage before it becomes much worse.

Burst Pipes 

Pipes are running throughout your home, some of which are in inaccessible or hidden areas. Hundreds of gallons of water can spill into your home if one bursts or begins leaking, so it is imperative to check your pipes for loose connections, damage, and wear and tear.

Leaking Appliances Can Cause Water Damage

Your appliances also need to be routinely checked for leaks. Washing machines, refrigerators, water heaters, and dishwashers are all vulnerable to significant leaks. Be sure to check the hoses on your dishwasher and washing machine. It is good to replace hoses about every three years to avoid damage from normal wear and tear.

Shut Off Valve 

As an owner, you should know the location of your emergency water shut-off valve. If a plumbing fixture or appliance suddenly breaks, shutting off the water is the best thing to do. If you are gone for a week or more, it is also a good idea to shut the water off.

Even with careful checking, accidents can happen, which is why at SERVPRO, we are always ready to help. We can remove the excess water quickly with special pumps, fix the problem that caused the water damage, and dry your home out thoroughly for you.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown has the experts you need when you are facing a water damage emergency. We move fast to restore your home when you get in touch with us at (773) 434-9100.

Fire Damage in Downtown Chicago - Basic Restoration Guidelines

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot can settle on the walls and other areas of your home. Contact SERVPRO for certified technicians to help with remediation efforts.

Fire Damage Restoration Guidelines

Fire can destroy entire homes and businesses in minutes. While fire damage is quick, damage restoration takes time to clean efficiently, repair, and restore your home or business in Downtown Chicago. 

Basic Fire Damage Restoration Guidelines 

Fire damage restoration in Downtown Chicago depends on the type of materials that were damaged by the fire. They can be put into three categories. These categories determine the type of restoration response or action to treat, clean, or repair these surfaces or items. These divisions are soft materials, hard porous materials, and less porous hard materials. 

Soft Materials 

Carpets, upholstery, draperies, tapestries are all soft materials. When cleaning objects or items in this category, remember to start with the soot that remains. Use a strong vacuum cleaner at an angle to avoid trapping more soot in the fibers of the material. 

In Downtown Chicago, when fire damages your carpets, consult a carpet cleaning company for the best results. Restoration companies can handle cleaning fire and water damaged carpets with their specialized equipment. It is essential to remove smoke odors with a chemical deodorizer before cleaning. 

Porous Hard Materials 

All painted surfaces, wallpaper, drywall, and exposed wood are considered hard porous materials. These can require extensive cleaning from fire damage to your Downtown Chicago home. Remove soot with a dry chemical sponge. Smoke odors can remain for a long time in soft materials like clothes and curtains. It is, therefore, a great idea to use chemicals to deodorize the fabric before cleaning it. 

Once smoke and soot damage have been removed or cleaned, see if your walls need repainting. Further, remove damaged wallpaper quickly to save money on unnecessary expenses later. Remove all damaged painted surfaces and ventilate the area for proper smoke odor removal. 

Less Porous Hard Materials 

For less porous hard materials such as glass, metal, vinyl, or counters, use a sponge and chemical detergent solution. Remove all dangers of electric shock before beginning the cleaning process. In Downtown Chicago, your fire damage might need the help of a restoration professional.

When you need fire damage restoration in Downtown Chicago, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown Shares Newly Acquired Restoration Production Hub with Other Jointly-Owned Franchises

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

New Hub of Operations in Downtown Chicago

Continuing to Provide a High Level of Service to Their Growing Customer Base

Owners of seven SERVPRO Franchise locations in Chicagoland, Pat and Frank Zubricki found the solution for their franchise family’s growing pains through the purchase of 2.77 acres with a well-appointed commercial building. The site is conveniently located near Midway Airport and I-55 heading into the city center. See REjournals.com for additional details.

Pat finds much to appreciate and anticipate about the purchase. “The facility will enable us to accommodate future growth and continue to provide the high level of service our customers have come to expect from us.” As an Officially Licensed Downtown Operator, SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown has two locations to serve the downtown commercial and high rise-residential markets with services customized for their needs. “Working in high-rise and other large, complex structures requires specialized equipment, training, and experience. Our customer base is growing, and at times we may be engaged with several large projects in the downtown area. We are adding new properties and management companies to our customer base daily, so we are planning ahead to make sure we can continue to exceed their expectations.”

Their plans for the new facility include consolidating and expanding their contents cleaning operation and gaining space for additional equipment inventory and administrative needs. Soaring ceilings, five loading docks, upgraded power, and 61,000 square feet make the facility perfect for their needs. SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown offers residential and business customers superior restoration services.

New production facility capacity improves the SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown customer experience. Call (773) 434-9100 with your disaster restoration questions.

Do Locally-Owned Restoration Companies Deliver Outstanding Outcomes for Chicago Commercial and Residential Water Damage?

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO traveled to help the community after a Polar Vortex in Louisiana.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown earned its reputation as a water remediation industry leader through both Chicago area and national disaster restoration successes

Downtown Chicago commercial and residential water damage pose challenges. Iconic skyscrapers, multi-use retail and residential buildings, restaurants, and sprawling museum campuses line the streets, lakefront, and city avenues. When bust pipes or leaking roofs from storms occur, damage spreads, rapidly involving additional spaces and levels of the often massive properties. Managing the destruction requires a scalable trained and certified workforce and immediate access to a vast inventory of commercial-grade equipment, proprietary EPA-registered cleaning and sanitizing products, and other resources.

Can SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown Provide the Fast and Wide-Ranging Help Needed in Chicagoland?

Commercial and residential building owners and managers can rest assured that SERVPRO is up to the task of mitigating and remediating even catastrophic water damage affecting Chicago's landmarks. We are among the elite contractors of the nationwide SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division. Because of this designation, when disasters in other areas of the country overwhelm those regions' restoration industry leaders, we are eager to answer the call. Transporting work crews and equipment hundreds or even thousands of miles away to join the effort to turn the tide after extreme weather threatens to destroy housing and businesses is part of our mission. We use the experience gained during these projects to hone our skills, benefiting our local customers.

How Did SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown Assist During the February 2021 Polar Vortex in Louisiana?

The company charged with the care of the military and family housing on the U.S. military base Fort Polk and its Joint Readiness Training Center subcontracted with our Chicago area SERVPROs in early 2021 for water removal and water damage remediation and mitigation. Corvias Property Management  maintains the on-post homes, 70 percent of which suffered water damage from burst pipes due to the extreme cold as well as closely associated natural disasters in the eight months preceding, including:

• Two hurricanes
• A tropical storm
• An ice storm

Was SERVPRO Able to Help Corvias Immediately? 

The historic low temperatures dropped on Fort Polk are commonplace in our home communities. SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown stepped up with confidence because of our winter water damage background. Our managers and technicians understand the damage frozen water creates and the widespread destruction lingering after the thaw. Once we mobilized work crews and a substantial inventory of equipment 1000 miles to Vernon Parish, Louisiana, we were on the job:

• Removing standing water
• Tracing water migration with sensitive detection and metering tools
• Performing skillful controlled demolition to open wet cavities and remove soaked insulation and building materials
• Using specialized equipment to dry structural components rapidly

Understanding the complete resume of SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown makes entrusting your downtown water damage emergency to our team the savvy choice. Call (773) 434-9100 to schedule an assessment today.

Businesses in Downtown Chicago Trust SERVPRO for Mold Remediation

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

If mold is left unchecked, it can spread very quickly. Contact our IICRC certified mold damage remediation team for an assessment today.

SERVPRO Offers Fast and Efficient Mold Remediation to Downtown Businesses

Mold is the last thing you want to discover at your place of business. Not only can mold cause health effects to the employees and customers, but it can also cause structural and aesthetic damage to your property. SERVPRO can help you by promptly carrying out mold remediation of your Downtown Chicago commercial space to prevent these effects.  

SERVPRO’s IICRC certified experts establish a full containment zone with negative air pressure during mold remediation of your Downtown Chicago property. The goal is to localize the damage to a specific area and not let the mold spread to the unaffected parts of the structure. SERVPRO technicians also apply antimicrobials and antifungal agents to prevent the recurrence of the mold damage once the restoration is complete. 

Different Types of Mold That SERVPRO’s Mold Specialists Encounter in Downtown Chicago Commercial Buildings

SERVPRO's experts deal with several types of mold in Downtown Chicago buildings. Some of the most common ones include-

• Aspergillus- Grows in an oxygen-rich and damp environment. It can tolerate lower temperatures better than other molds, and hence most attic mold is of this type. There are over 40 different species of Aspergillus that can grow indoors. 
• Aureobasidium Pullaria- Also called the pink mold, is most commonly found in high humidity areas. Establishments such as restaurants and eateries stand at a higher risk of developing this mold in washing areas and walk-in cold storage.  
• Stachybotrys Chartarum- Also called the black mold. Contrary to what other restorers might lead you to believe, it is no more dangerous than other types of mold, and SERVPRO never uses this scare tactic on our customers. 

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 for any mold-related inquiry. 

How To Recover From Home Fire Damage in Downtown Chicago

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage can come in hot before you know your property is in trouble. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown to help simmer your property

For Your Downtown Chicago Home, Call in the Pros for Fire Damage Restoration

While homeowners may encounter numerous challenges with their residential property, recovering from fire damage in Downtown Chicago can be particularly difficult. First of all, the damage done to the property can total thousands of dollars. Additionally, the damage can incorporate the damage of personal possessions while also entailing emotional scars. Moreover, the fire damage recovery process can become stressful given that homeowners have to grapple with several issues at once. In attempting to work with one's insurance company, restore the home, and find a place to stay during the restoration process, homeowners can become highly stressed and anxious. For these reasons, obtaining assistance from a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO is essential and advantageous. These experts handle the cleanup and repair effort, enabling you to focus your energy on other issues. To learn why hiring a restoration company would be appropriate for you, review the short outline regarding the services offered by a fire restoration company in Chicago.

Water & Fire Damage Restorations

One of the most important and effective services provided by a professional restoration company is clearing the damage from your home. To get started, the contractor completes a Downtown Chicago fire damage assessment. This inspection is a multi-faceted process that involves the use of special equipment. The job also requires that the contractor possess substantive industry experience to ensure that the job is accomplished with expertise and excellence. This assessment will help determine the damage done to your property, and a significant emphasis is placed on what equipment is required for the restoration process. Following the damage assessment, the contractor will air out your property and remove excess water to prevent the accumulation and spread of mildew and mold. This corrective work is important given that mold and mildew can begin to thrive in your living space within 24 hours. If left unchecked, the debris can cause health effects for you and your loved ones.

Fire Damage Repair Services 

Once SERVPRO technicians have cleared and cleaned your Downtown Chicago home, they move forward by repairing the damages caused by the fire. This may include damage to plumbing, carpet, drywall, the structural integrity of your house, electrical and other damage that your home may have endured. Expedite and optimize the repair and restoration process by hiring a professional restoration service such as SERVPRO. It is critical to have the equipment, technical expertise, and sense of urgency to take the necessary steps to complete the restoration process rapidly.

Obtain Professional Services Now 

If your home endures fire damage in Downtown Chicago, it is practical and advantageous to obtain restoration services from a professional company.  Consider SERVPRO. Our trained experts are passionate about providing precise, detail-oriented services that restore your home to its pre-fire condition. 

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is locally owned and operated. We are close by and quickly respond to your smoke or fire damage emergency. Call us at  (773) 434-9100

Why Call SERVPRO for a Water Remediation Specialist for Your Downtown Chicago Home

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Any type of water damage can produce mold if left untreated. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown today.

SERVPRO Can Restore Your Downtown Chicago Property After Water Damage

These days, many residential property owners in Downtown Chicago are interested in maintaining their homes in the best condition possible. If this is the case for you, it's important to know that water damage can have a very adverse effect on the condition and appearance of your property. To ensure that your home is not negatively impacted by water damage, it's important to know when to call a water damage restoration company. Here are some excellent reasons to make that call.

Mold Inspections, Remediations, and Removal

Individuals who have a mold problem in the home should call a mold remediation expert in Chicago. If you leave a mold issue unresolved, your property could be subjected to structural damage that requires thousands of dollars worth of repairs. 

Mold Inspection

In some cases, you may be uncertain about whether you have a mold issue within the structure. Play it safe and call SERVPRO for a comprehensive home inspection. The highly trained professionals will be able to detect the presence of mold. Then the mold damage remediation can begin.

Water Removal Services

Individuals who have experienced a flood or a leak in their Downtown Chicago home may need water removal services. Water damage restoration specialists can provide you with a quick, efficient solution by utilizing state-of-the-art equipment.

Water Clean Up

Once a flood or significant leak has happened, you need to dry out the affected area after water removal. SERVPRO technicians make use of high-power drying fans and several types of dehumidifiers for this task.

Odor from Mold Damage

A strange odor in your residential property may indicate mold growth or a decaying animal carcass. Downtown Chicago water damage specialists can assess to determine the source of the problem and then eradicate it. ULV foggers are used to entrap and remove odors; masking an odor by simply deodorizing does not attack the source of the problem.

Water Damage Restoration

If your home in Downtown Chicago has been impacted by severe water intrusion,  structural damage may be the end product. Repair and restoration ( to minimize costs) are cornerstones of the SERVPRO work philosophy.

Biohazard Cleaning Company

Our water remediation technicians are effective in handling your septic systems as well as water utility devices.

Assessing Damage

Irrespective of the effects you've endured due to water damage, a Downtown Chicago water damage restoration company like SERVPRO can perform an assessment and then implement the restoration services necessary.

To maintain your Downtown Chicago property in excellent condition, it's essential to know that SERVPRO is local and can respond to your phone call within 5 minutes and arrive on the scene within one hour. From assessment to restoration, we can fulfill all the duties required to get you back home ASAP.

Locally Owned and Operated

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community. When you have a water or flooding emergency, we're already nearby and ready to help. We are faster to any water damage disaster. Call us for help. (773) 434-9100

What Options Do You Have When You Need Flood Cleanup Services in Chicago

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm strikes your home, have no doubt. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown we will help.

SERVPRO Can Provide Solutions To All Flood Cleanup Needs in Chicago

No matter how prepared you are as a Chicago resident, at one point, you may need flood cleanup services. If you find yourself in this type of a situation, you have to work with a restoration company like SERVPRO to return your property to its preloss state quickly. Flood water is normally full of contaminants such as sewer, so safety is paramount during the restoration process.

Why Should SERVPRO Be Your Preferred Flood Damage Restoration Company in Chicago?

Our SERVPRO technicians are qualified and have the necessary flood damage restoration certifications to serve Chicago residents. On top of the training, we have the essential experience and use state-of-the-art equipment and procedures to lower damage in your business or home after the disaster. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster and offer you all the written estimates before the restoration starts so that you have a reasonable expectation as we work with you. Some of the additional services you should expect from us include:

• Mold damage removal and prevention
• Replacement of wood panels, drywall, and other structural elements
• Restoration of furniture and other personal items
• Document relevant information to help you with your insurance claims

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown promises stress-free flood damage restoration services that follow state and industry regulations. Call (773) 434-9100 to work with a reputable restoration service provider.

How Quickly Can Mold Get Removed from Downtown Chicago Schools?

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial entities in Downtown Chicago call upon SERVPRO for mold removal and remediation. "Like it never even happened."

Mold can be a substantial threat to commercial properties that should get removed immediately.

Discovering mold in one of the many public and private schools around the city can be overwhelming and cause potential health effects for those exposed. Because we are leading mold removal experts in the area, we are called upon by government officials to often remediate a mold problem. We have several practices to eliminate active colonization and begin restoring widespread damages the organisms can cause.

What Remediation Strategies Are Best for Widespread Mold Concerns?

When mold removal in Downtown Chicago schools is necessary, there are specific practices that our professionals can implement right away. Remediators on our team have extensive experience with mold removal strategies that target surface growth and organisms that have deeply penetrated hosting materials. We follow IICRC guidelines for mold remediation. Containment can prevent these mold colonies from further spreading while these remediation tactics get underway, such as:

• Abrasive cleaning
• Soda blasting
• Dry ice blasting
• Surface sanding
• Controlled demolition

When mold removal is needed in a school, the threat could impact hundreds of students and staff. Our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team recognizes this urgency and moves quickly to help. Call us anytime at (773) 434-9100.

Emergency Flood Cleanup Can Prevent Downtown Chicago Properties from Total Loss

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO saves Downtown Chicago homes from excessive flood damage and build backs with a fast arrival. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster

Cleaning and drying can sometimes prevent repairs and reconstruction in Downtown Chicago homes 

When natural flooding occurs, it could have direct and debilitating effects on homes and businesses in the Windy City. Flood cleanup and debris removal often start the restoration process of removing bacteria, debris, and other solids from the house. After flood damage occurs, our SERVPRO responding technicians can begin our muck-out cleaning to remove:

• Silt
• Mud
• Contaminants
• Organic matter
• Creatures/Insects

Responding Fast to Clean Flooding Incidents Reduces Build Back Time

Not all flood cleanup in Downtown Chicago homes follows after natural flooding with possible contaminants. Clean water incidents, such as water penetration into post-storm roof damages, also require cleaning. From the removal of deteriorating and damaged building elements to the use of insulation vacuums to efficiently manage oversaturated materials, we have several solutions to clean up after devastating and destructive flood damage.

When flood cleanup is necessary, many homeowners can appreciate the training and experience of our experienced SERVPRO roster to help. Water restoration professionals and cleaning technicians of our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team are available 24/7 to help at (773) 434-9100.

How Can SERVPRO Get You Back in Business After Fire Restoration in Chicago?

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO says to secure your personal safety first. Then call us for fire and smoke cleanup for your Chicago area business

SERVPRO cleaning and fire restoration services are efficient at getting Chicago commercial properties opened

Structure fires can spread fast through large commercial properties in the West Loop neighborhood of Chicago. As leading fire restoration experts, SERVPRO can arrive quickly with cleaning and recovery tools to overcome widespread fire concerns to make it "Like it never even happened."

Can SERVPRO Improve Indoor Air Quality?

Indoor air quality concerns are often where fire restoration in Chicago businesses must begin because these conditions can be a health hazard for those exposed. Our professionals have personal protective equipment to safely navigate heavily impacted areas of the property to start vital air filtration efforts designed to capture carcinogenic particles, debris, ash, and other particulates. HEPA products in our inventory can trap soot and smoke particles to make the environment safer for fire restoration and reduce secondary effects like odors and soot soiling on surfaces. Some of the tools for this include:

• HEPA Air Scrubbers
• HEPA Vacuums
• Hydroxyl Generators

Surface Cleaning and Soot Removal

Circulating soot particles can come to rest on desks, shelves, pallets, and other fixtures of your business space or warehouse. Advanced cleaning techniques can often prevent these soils from causing irreparable harm within the structure, but these fire restoration acts must happen immediately. We utilize solvents, detergents, and abrasive cleaning tactics to loosen and remove thick soot residues on building materials and contents, including merchandise and inventory.

Does Fire Suppression Require Special Cleaning Practices?

Many of the city's buildings feature or require fire suppression systems that provide nearly full coverage of the occupiable space that could become impacted by spreading structure fire effects. Often, this suppression system is a series of sprinkler heads strategically placed across the rooms. To douse flames and stop the spread of fires, a heavy volume of water is often necessary. Our technicians must overcome these effects in the property as well to preserve impacted contents of the office and to transition to other fire restoration needs quickly. In eateries, suppressant powders are often utilized in cooking area, further complicating the clean up.

Can We Remove Harsh Smoke Damage Odors in the Building?

Harsh and noxious odors can be among the most challenging obstacles for many returning staff. Burning and combustion can destroy materials in its path, many of which can leave overwhelming odors to contend with in the property. Our professionals can implement multiple deodorization strategies at the appropriate time, namely after much of the fire restoration process has been completed in the building. Improving IAQ can be challenging.

We have counteractant products like granules and beads that can get placed in structural openings and at designated HVAC intakes and outputs to regulate and minimize the severity of spreading odors and harsh smells. When time to remove these odors entirely, we can lean on several tools in our inventory, including:

• Thermal Foggers
• ULV Foggers
• Hydroxyl Generators
• Ozone Machines

Chicago businesses can become heavily damaged by fires. Our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team has advanced fire restoration practices to help. Call us today at (773) 434-9100.

What Tools Work Best for Post-Flood Extraction in West Loop?

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

When flooding affects your home, make sure team SERVPRO is on your side. We are standing by 24/7 for your emergency call.

West Loop homes can benefit from multiple mitigation tools.

Mitigation is critical when flooding impacts area homes and businesses. We respond fast with powerful drying instruments and flood extraction devices to begin the water clean up your home needs.

What Are the Ideal Flood Extraction Instruments for West Loop Homes?

Because standing water needs to be removed as quickly as possible, multiple instruments can help to achieve flood extraction for West Loop properties. After flooding, various extractors are required to eliminate flood water pooling on the surface. Because debris and solids are a threat in this situation, not all of the tools for water removal services can be effective. Some of these devices include:

• Truck-mount extractors
• Self-priming trash pumps
• Wet vacuums
• Weighted extractors

When it comes to flood extraction, there are multiple tools and instruments our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team can use to protect your home. We are ready 24/7 to help at (773) 434-9100.

SERVPRO Minimizes Replacement Cost Through Commercial Water Mitigation Actions in Chicago

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

Your business depends on the doors staying open. Call SERVPRO if water damage has them temporarily closed. We are available 24/7.

Chicago Businesses Rely on SERVPRO for Professional Water Damage Remediation

After a water damage event occurs, the preservation of a commercial structure is even more crucial as the property can be the financial livelihood for several individuals as their place of employment or a residential unit housing several families.

When SERVPRO handles Chicago commercial water mitigation, the job goes far beyond water removal services.

The technicians have extensive training based on the foundation taught by the IICRC. This results in a commitment to saving property owners from having to replace stock and structural elements as much as possible including:

• Water clean up
• Emergency services water damage mitigation when problems happen after hours or during holidays
• Cleaning up after a sewer backup

The techs use industrial equipment with greater extraction capacity and drying units with the ability to eliminate embedded moisture to bring the structure to a dry status quickly. If computer equipment, data centers, stock, or valuable documents require moving, the technicians can move those articles offsite to a safe and secure location until the mitigation gets completed.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 supports the Chicago area with professional commercial water mitigation. 

SERVPRO Assists Chicago Property Owners with Flood Removal

3/28/2021 (Permalink)

Floodwaters can bring toxic elements inside your home. Contact SERVPRO’s experienced and certified team to remediate the storm damage properly.

Chicago Storm Damage is No Match for SERVPRO's Restoration Services

One good word to describe the weather in Chicago is: unpredictable. The city can go from sunny to downpours very quickly. There is a reason that the weather is so volatile and changeable, and it is found in Lake Michigan.

Located on the northeast boundary, Lake Michigan forms a thermal mass that can influence the size and intensity of rainstorms and snowstorms. This action is due to the temperature fluctuations in the lake.

Heavy Rains are Common in Chicago

While intense storms that bring wild weather to the Chicago area are not unusual, they usually do not pose a problem to people or property unless:

• There is a type of dangerous storms or tornadic activity causing structural damage
• The sewers get overwhelmed with floodwater and back up
• There are drainage issues around a property due to improper grading

What Chicago is Doing About Flooding in the Area

Even as far back as the 1600s, explorers realized the Great Lakes would be vital to survival as hubs for trade and shipping supplies. The building of a canal to connect these areas resulted in the need to handle copious amounts of freshwater, rainwater, and wastewater.

At present, there has been an on-going project for over 50 years to control flooding. It has the moniker "Deep Tunnel" and a more official Reservoir Plan or TARP name. This project covers nearly 110 miles of underground tunnels that feed wastewater into reservoirs that hold billions of gallons. The storage has a service ng into billions of gallons' worth of reservoirs. By 2029, the storage system should have around 17.5 billion gallons in its underground reservoirs.

Green alleys are a small-scale effort to reduce the amount of water flowing into the sewers after heavy storms. There are areas of bioswales, tree pits, green roofs, and more around the Chicago area to slow the flow of water entering the sewer system.

Local architect Jeanne Gang proposes sweeping measures to make Chicago less prone to flooding and eliminate the concrete canal and replace it with a green infrastructure with a porous surface that would retain more water naturally.

What is the Difference Between Consumer Wet/Dry Vacs and Professional Flood Removal Equipment in Chicago Properties?

When Chicago homes need flood removal, SERVPRO technicians act quickly to minimize the damage to the structure. Because the city can potentially year-round issues from strong storms, the technicians are available for emergency services water damage cleanup 24/7.

Storm damage can lead to a host of issues within a home, including: 

• Ceiling leaks
• Leaking roof from storms
• Need for temporary repairs to the structure

One mistake homeowners make attempting to clean up flood water on their own is inadequate water removal using consumer-grade equipment. Professional water removal services have powerful extraction equipment and can ascertain if the water wicked into the walls or seeped under the flooring. It is impossible to discern this from a single visual inspection.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 is available 24/7 to handle all levels of flood removal in local Chicago properties.

Who Delivers Positive Mold Remediation News in Chicago?

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Spotted what looks like mold? Call our SERVPRO team right away to investigate and remediate the mold damage.

Research-based Strategies are Why SERVPRO Mold Abatement Works

Mold growth in your Chicago house is never a happy discovery. Consumer remedies tend to focus on a spray and wait approach, using a diluted chlorine bleach solution to “kill” an outbreak. Ironically, the water-heavy mixture often brings only temporary relief, and the mold growth roars back even more vigorously than before. Why does this happen?

• Mold spores need moisture to awaken from their dormant state and grow.
• Mold organisms consist of hyphae, rootlike filaments that infiltrate deeply into porous building materials such as drywall, grout, insulation, and more.
• When a predominantly water-based solution soaks porous materials, it does not reach and kill the deepest hyphae, which “rebound” to create more mold colonies.
• The staining mold deposits on surfaces might lighten with the application of bleach, but the excess water keeps the materials damp and feeds the mold below the surface.

What Is the Reason Why SERVPRO’s Remediation Works?

The EPA protocols used by SERVPRO for Chicago mold remediation do not rely on s surface spray to eradicate mold. We instead:

• Locate the mold
• Contain it with heavy-duty plastic and air scrubbing technology to prevent drift of moldy debris
• Mechanically remove the mold with
• Brushes
• Scrapers
• Controlled soda or dry ice blasting
• Bag and dispose of mold material in line with local regulations
• Spray with EPA-antimicrobials after clearing the mold to inhibit regrowth
• Address the underlying moisture issues, including extracting water, planning plumbing or roof repairs, and using professional drying equipment to bring moisture levels to normal 

Emphasizing research and following best practices are why SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown resolves your mold remediation concerns. Call (773) 434-9100 for an evaluation and consultation.

Do Chicago Businesses Risk Significant Water Removal Issues?

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Is excess water causing you to panic? Call us at (773) 434-9100 for water extraction and thorough remediation services.

SERVPRO Delivers High-quality and Quantity Commercial Extraction

The Chicago waste and storm sewer systems are as venerable as the city itself, sometimes 100 or more years old. Their construction cannot handle the vast increase in liquids that ultimately run through them, sometimes causing substantial backups after torrential rains or flooding damage and malfunctions from waste, supply, appliance, or equipment piping and hoses. More likely than not, the water invading a commercial space will be contaminated, requiring professional intervention for safe elimination and sanitizing of the affected areas.

How Can the SERVPRO Experts Help with Commercial Water Extraction?

The massive quantities of waste, rain, or supply line water that floods into businesses mandate scalable resources to manage Chicago commercial water removal. SERVPRO uniquely positions itself to provide removal services from minor to large water emergencies with:

• Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained management and crews in the numbers needed to complete all phases of the job
• Fully stocked, expandable service vehicle fleet
• A range of submersible pumps, including “trash” pumps that can manage debris-laden
• High-capacity truck-mounted extractors discharging into containment tanks that operate without on-site power
• Containment tank capacities of 60 to over 100 gallons
• Portable extractors that can move into confined and distant areas to access all water
• Knowledge of local hazardous waste disposal rules and a commitment to follow those regulation to protect your business
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) and space containment capability (air scrubbers and 1.6 mil polypropylene barriers) for safety

The team at SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is ready for any water removal scenario. Give us a call at (773) 434-9100 for help at your commercial property.

How Can You Select Reliable Chicago Fire Damage Restoration?

3/7/2021 (Permalink)

What room in your home was affected by recent fire damage? Contact SERVPRO for information about remediation services.

Training, Tools are Why SERVPRO Excels at Smoke and Soot Cleanup

Although the Chicago Fire of 1871, perhaps better known as the Great Chicago Fire, was breathtaking in its destruction and loss of life, the disaster to some extent cleared the way for the building of the city we see today. Development of safer building codes and the modern firefighting model trace back to the devastation starting near the now-exonerated Mrs. O’Leary’s barn.

When and How Did the Great Chicago Fire Occur?

The blaze ignited on October 8 and burned until October 10, 1871. Tradition blames an ornery cow kicking a lantern for the cause, but Catherine O’Leary and her livestock were not the culprits. No specific reason for the fire has been proven, with human error likely, although one theory has a meteorite starting the fire. The dry fall weather and a housing and commercial building stock of primarily wooden buildings allowed the fire to rage out of control. At that time, even streets and sidewalks used wood as structural components, making Chicago extremely vulnerable to fire. Tragically, similar weather and building circumstances resulted in a fire in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, north of Chicago, just west of Lake Michigan’s Green Bay, with a death toll of 1,000.

What Were the Damage Totals from the Fire?

Regardless of the source of the Chicago Fire of 1871, the damage was catastrophic. When finally brought under control, the fire left devastation extending about four miles long and nearly a mile wide. The business district of the fledgling midwestern city was ruined, and many lives lost:

• 17,000 structures burned to destruction
• Damages estimated over 200 million dollars 
• At least 300 people died 
• 100,000 other people were left homeless

How Did Chicago Handle the Aftermath?

Although reconstruction efforts began quickly, the city initially suffered outbreaks of looting and lawlessness. Soldiers arrived, and Chicago was under martial law starting on October 11, 1871. Weeks later, martial law lifted, and economic development and population growth followed:

• Chicagoans elected Joseph Medill as mayor on a platform of stricter fire and building codes.
• Transportation systems and other infrastructure that remained provided the backbone of recovery.
• Architects looked upward while laying Chicago’s modern foundation, building the world’s first skyscrapers. 
• The population grew from 324,000 at the time of the fire to more than  500,000 in 10 years. 
• Checking 1890 data, Chicago was an important economic and transportation center of more than 1 million people, second only to New York City.
• Today’s Chicago Fire Department training academy sits on the O’Leary property site, where the Great Chicago Fire started.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Fire Devastation Recovery?

Residents of Chicago need fire damage restoration services delivered promptly and professionally. A steadfast commitment to training and equipping our workforce to provide mitigation, remediation, and restoration that meets or exceeds the industry’s best practice is why SERVPRO heads the list. Expect the following:

• Rapid and accurate safety and damage assessment
• Fully stocked service vehicles on the scene fast
• Scalable crews to begin emergency tasks immediately
• Effective research-driven interventions with proprietary cleaning and restoration products for outstanding results

A promise to support the needs of customers suffering from fire damage consequences is why SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown strives to make it “Like it never even happened,” 365 days a year. Call (773) 434-9100 round the clock for expert help.

Which Air Mover to Use after West Loop Flood Damage?

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage can be overwhelming, let SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown help you with your property storm damage.

Choosing the right air mover is important after flood damage

When there is flood damage in your home, it is tempting to try and sort it out yourself. It might seem that opening windows and perhaps running fans is enough.

However, after flood damage in West Loop, it is much better to call in the experts. SERVPRO has access to professional remediation equipment that you simply will not find in your basement or garage. One crucial bit of kit is air movers, which shift air across the surface of the floor, walls, or furniture and encourage water evaporation.

The three main types of air movers we use are:

• Centrifugal air movers use centrifugal force to direct air to a specific area.
• Axial air movers produce higher volumes of air at a lower pressure than centrifugal units, allowing them to cover a greater area.
• Structural cavity drying equipment directs air into wall cavities to change the pressure and enhance evaporation.

Using the correct equipment means faster drying and less risk of fungal growth in damp materials.

Do not try to fix flood damage yourself. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown on (773) 434-9100

Why Does the Right Equipment Matter after Chicago Water Damage?

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

We know how busy life can get in a big city, especially with a water damage. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown today.

SERVPRO has the tools to handle water damage

When it comes to water damage mitigation, the right equipment makes all the difference. Having the correct job tools means faster and better results and a more satisfactory long-term outcome.

If you need help with water damage in Chicago, SERVPRO is here. We equip our teams with the equipment they need:

• A range of deep extractors, surface extractors, and pumps to remove as much water as possible from your home.
• Water monitoring devices, including probes and thermo hygrometers, to accurately measure moisture levels.
• A range of air movers and dehumidifiers to dry your property.
• Spot cleaners to tackle water stains on upholstery and textiles.
• Heating and cooling equipment to keep internal areas at the correct temperature for drying.

Our well-trained teams know which equipment to use in each situation and how to combine tools for effective drying. Our techs will assess the water damage situation and figure out which tools are best for the job.

For a water damage mitigation service with all the right equipment, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown on (773) 434-9100

Looking for Flooding Mitigation in Chicago?

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

If you are a food connoisseur, Chicago is the place to be.

Do not let risk of Chicago floods spoil your appetite

With a population of 2,693,976, Chicago is the most populous city in the United States' Midwestern region. Chicago is an iconic city famous for many things, including deep-dish pizza, jazz music, Al Capone, loyal sports fans, and a wide range of museums.

One of the things Chicago is most famous for is its rich culinary heritage, and any visitor to the city will be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding a place to eat.

Chicago has a delicious culinary history

The city's ethnic and working-class roots have given rise to a wealth of different cuisines, and you will find everything from fine street fare to world-class restaurants here. Three of the most famous Chicago meals are: 

• Deep dish pizza. Authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza has a deep base with lashings of cheese and a chunky tomato sauce on top of the cheese instead of underneath it. If deep dish is not your favorite pizza, you will be glad to learn that Chicago is also famous for crispy thin crust pizza cut into squares.
• The Italian beef. This curiously named dish is a sandwich – but it is not like any sandwich you have tasted before! The Italian beef features thin-sliced beef simmered in gravy and served with Italian seasonings, on a roll soaked in the meat juices.
• Chicago-style hot dogs. Chicago dogs have an all-beef sausage on a poppy seed bun. A real dog has mustard, onion, tomato, peppers, dill pickle, sweet pickle relish, and celery salt – but never ketchup.
  
  

Chicago's food does not stop with these three popular dishes, however. Some lesser-known but still delicious dishes to look for include:

• The Big Baby cheeseburger, with cheese tucked between two hamburger patties.
• Pork chop sandwiches with a tender bone-in chop served with mustard and onions.
• Breaded steak sandwiches featuring breaded steak fried Milanese-style and served in a roll with marinara sauce.
• A gym shoe (sometimes known as Jim Shoo) sub sandwich with corned beef, gyros, and roast beef.
  
  

If you have a sweet tooth, you will love Chicago Brick. This ice cream dessert looks like traditional Neapolitan ice cream, but instead of strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate flavors, it has orange sherbet, vanilla, and caramel.

Chicago also has a burgeoning farmer's market culture, and it is becoming more common for whole families to spend a morning shopping for local cuisine. There are currently more than 30 farmer's markets in Chicago, and many are run by the city.

SERVPRO offers help with flooding mitigation

Chicago's restaurants suffered a blow in 1992, when the Chicago Flood caused billions of dollars damage to homes, offices, and retail units. The flood was caused by the breaching of a disused utility tunnel, and remediation took weeks.

Natural causes can bring about severe flooding too. When you need flooding mitigation, call SERVPRO. Our teams arrive quickly to begin the remediation process:

• First, we assess the situation and the extent of the damage.
• We draw up a personalized drying plan.
• We evacuate as much water as possible from your home.
• We monitor moisture levels during drying for optimum results.
  

When remediation is complete, we deodorize your home to get rid of damp odors.

If you need help with flooding mitigation, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown on (773) 434-9100

Take an Opportunity to Lace Up Your Ice Skates in the West Loop Area

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Get out and take part in the ice skating tradition in Lemont.

Have some family fun in nearby Lemont with weekend Ice Skating. 

Every weekend through April, The Forge in Lemont can send you back to growing up in the Chicago area with hours of ice skating fun. This is a long-standing tradition of the Windy City, and even with more significant regulations and rules, it is one that perseveres. You can reserve your spot on the ice on Fridays from 2 PM to 8 PM and on Saturday and Sunday from 5 PM to 8 PM.

You don’t even need to own skates. You can rent some at The Forge. Call (630) 326-3301 to reserve your spot for this traditional winter fun.

When the fire you deal with is not how quickly you blaze a trail up the ice rink, you can count on SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown to help with fire and smoke cleanup for West Loop homes and businesses. We have experienced professionals available 24/7 at (773) 434-9100.

Protecting Chicago Landmarks and Cultural Centers After a Fire

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is ready and available for your fire damaged property always.

Fires can be devastating in Chicago, so our restoration technicians stay ready to help businesses and homes in a crisis.

As the third-largest city in the entire country,Chicago is home to close to 2.7 million people. This whole region has grown and developed as a result, becoming one of the cultural epicenters of the United States and one of the most heavily visited municipalities in the world every year. As a result of the dense population, certain disasters are inevitable. Fires are among the most common call-outs that our professionals must address and can quickly and thoroughly impact homes and apartments throughout the city. While none of these disasters has been quite as destructive as the Great Fire of 1871 that destroyed more than three square miles of the city, fires that happen today must get met with the same urgency. This need for experienced fire restoration is critical in cultural and historic centers across the city. 

Cultural Centers and Museums 

BecauseChicago is its own melting pot of cultures and backgrounds, it is no great surprise that education and acceptance are always key ingredients in helping the city grow positively. Many structures are designed to protect and preserve the history and heritage that make Chicago such a diverse location. For those visiting the city for the first time, a tour of some of the most famous museums and cultural centers can help to showcase everything that someone should know about this ever-changing city, including the highs and lows of its history. 

Field Museum

The Field Museum of Natural History is among the largest museums of its type throughout the world. Because of both its size and educational programs available, this has become one of the most respected structures in preserving and conserving our most treasured artifacts. This building and its purpose have been part of the Chicago area since 1921. As a renowned museum with more than 24 million specimens, its exhibits and programs receive more than a million and a half visitors every year.

Art Institute of Chicago

Much like the Field Museum, the Art Institute of Chicago expects roughly 1.5 million visitors every year. There are classic works of art recognized by many across the globe permanently on display here in this renowned structure, including Pablo Picasso's The Old Guitarist and Grant Wood's American Gothic. Because it is one of the largest art museums on the planet, its permanent collection boasts almost 300,000 works. Several special exhibitions are happening annually that illuminate specific portions of this extensive collection or showcase traveling programs. It has been in this iconic building adorned with lion statues since 1893.

Chicago History Museum

Because the History Museum was established in 1856, it became part of one of Chicago's most notorious historic events with the Great Fire of 1871. Much of the artifacts and exhibits compiled for the structure at this time were destroyed during that disaster. However, they have since worked perilously to create a true spectrum of the city's history and its surrounding areas. Current collections date back even before settlers first began living near the Great Lakes when the indigenous people inhabited the land.

Museum of Science and Industry 

Since 1933, the Museum of Science and Industry here in Chicago has helped introduce many visitors to some of the most iconic and memorable exhibits that they will remember for a lifetime. Among the most popular of these, which has helped maintain the average of 1.5 million visitors every year, are items like a captured German submarine from World War II, the command module of Apollo 8, and the first diesel-powered stainless-steel passenger train. All in all, the museum has more than 2000 exhibits stretched over 75 halls.

American Writers Museum

While this museum has only been in operation since 2017, it quickly became a captivating attraction for both residents and tourists to Chicago. This entire cultural center is devoted to American literature and features many different exhibits to educate the viewer. From displays like American Voices and Readers Hall to the Children's Gallery and an area focused on Chicago's top writers of all time, this is a place that travelers will want to see if they enjoy a nice novel.

How SERVPRO Addresses Fire Damage in Chicago Homes 

While the city has been fortunate not to contend with the severity of the Great Fire of 1871 since this devastating event occurred, it is not to say that fires do not occur regularly in the city. Our fast response to these emergencies can directly affect the out-of-pocket expenses and time spent in restoration for area homes. Getting mitigation started as soon as possible is critical to lessening the impact of post-fire effects in the house, including harsh odors and soot damage.

Among the primary mitigation steps that our professionals can take, which is especially important with damaged properties like the museums mentioned before, is content cleaning and relocation. Our Content Claims and Inventory Service (CCIS) division works to evaluate individual items in your home to determine the best approach to restoring them entirely. these processes generally take one of three paths:

• On-site cleaning
• On-site relocation to a safe and unaffected area
• Off-site relocation and cleaning at our SERVPRO facility

Because of how quickly fire losses can spread through a property and is vital to address circulating loss effects like soot and smoke particles. While air scrubbers and negative air chambers can affect preventing these carcinogenic particulates from moving around the house, it is often more beneficial to utilize tools like the hydroxyl generator that can also work to deodorize the property at the same time. Thermal fogging can also be instrumental in removing harsh odors after a fire gets extinguished. 

Fire losses can be devastating when customers have to wait for the response of experienced technicians to help. Our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team is available 24/7 to mobilize quickly when disaster strikes. Give us a call today at (773) 434-9100.

Ring in the New Year with a Close Penguin Encounter in Chicago

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

What a special way to enjoy time with your family inside your Chicago home. Learn about the Shedd Aquarium penguins.

Virtually get up close and personal with the resident penguins of the Shedd Aquarium. 

On Friday, January 15th, 2021, wildlife fans can experience a once-in-a-lifetime event with the penguins of the Shedd Aquarium. This is one way the esteemed aquarium is still working to provide informative and educational experiences to Chicago residents. You can register today for your opportunity to see the penguin habitat that only the caretakers get to see.

With each penguin having its own personality, the experience is sure to be memorable for everyone. You can meet daredevil pair Edward and Annie, waddling Wellington, or explorers Izzy and Darwin. For more information, you can contact the Shedd Aquarium at (312) 939-2438.

While penguins might like a pool in their home, standing water removal in your Chicago condo should happen quickly when disasters strike. We have premier extraction equipment to eliminate surface water concerns and get to the essential drying stage. Give our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team a call today at (773) 434-9100.

Watch Live Stand-Up Comedy in Chicago’s East Lake View Neighborhood

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is looking forward to seeing all of the talent at Laugh Factory Chicago!

Laugh Factory Chicago Invites Audiences to Enjoy Comedic Talent Safely

Renowned comedy club Laugh Factory Chicago is opening its doors once more to audiences looking for live laughs from the best that the comedy scene has to offer. The next showing takes place on Wednesday, December 16, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Laugh Factory Chicago near the intersection of North Broadway and West Belmont Avenue.

Laugh Factory Chicago is taking extensive precautions to ensure that audiences can enjoy live stand-up comedy as safely as possible:

• Transactions and tickets are entirely paperless. Reservations are confirmed by pulling up the email you received on your phone
• Staff hygiene and facility cleaning standards adhere to current Chicago guidelines
• Disposable face masks are available upon request

This comedy event is available to persons over 18 years of age, with alcoholic drinks available to guests age 21 and older. There is a two-drink minimum per person regardless of whether beverages contain alcohol.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is among the premier water restoration companies in Chicago. Disaster mitigation is a phone call away at (773) 434-9100.

Enjoy a Tribute to a Holiday Classic in Chicago

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

It will be exciting to see the community at the ZooLights Event!

Chicago’s Lincoln Park ZooLights Event Features Live Jazz

On Sunday, December 13, the Chris White Jazz Trio is performing Vince Guaraldi’s timeless score for A Charlie Brown Christmas starting at 7:00 p.m. In-person tickets are limited, but virtual tickets for this event are also available. General Admission tickets go on sale at the venue, which is Cafe Brauer on North Stockton Drive. In-person reservations include one complimentary drink per guest.

• Virtual admission costs $15
• General admission tickets cost $35
• Admission is limited to stage events in accordance with Chicago public safety guidelines

Lincoln Park Zoo members are entitled to a 10% discount on their orders when they purchase tickets online. The promo code is the first three digits of your membership number.

The ZooLights event, presented by ComEd and Invesco QQQ, continues from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m. on select evenings until January 3, 2021. Admission is $5, with free nights on December 9, 17, 21, and 29.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown provides rapid-response water removal for a Chicago condo when you call (773) 434-9100.

Chicago Residents Looking for Disaster Mitigation Receive 24/7 Assistance from SERVPRO

11/28/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage remediation needs to be handled efficiently and effectively. Contact team SERVPRO when your home sustains damage.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown Provides Chicago Properties with Cleanup Per IICRC Standards When Residents Call (773) 434-9100

Being one of the country’s largest cities (3RD), Chicago is a testament to American industry, culture, and work ethic. Its skyscrapers, historic buildings, and art installations create a unique vibrance and energy seldom found even among other cities. This sprawling urban center is home to 2.7 million residents as of 2018, dwarfing Wyoming, Vermont, Alaska, and North Dakota combined.

Chicago’s art scene is second to none among major cities in both America and across the globe. It is also home to a swathe of art museums for locals and visitors alike to enjoy, such as:

• The Museum of Contemporary Art
• The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art
• The Smart Museum of Art
• The National Museum of Mexican Art

The Windy City is also home to many other museums, one of the best being The Field Museum. This unique collection of archaeological and biological findings was initially intended for exhibition at the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 before evolving into one of the country’s most acclaimed natural history museums. The museum’s collection features everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts and full-scale dinosaur skeletons to a beautiful and tranquil Chinese rock garden for guests to explore.

The Evolution of Chicago Pizza and Cuisine

Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is by far the city’s most iconic dish. It comes from the wave of Italian immigration that started in the late 19th century and continued well into the 1900s. Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo formulated a unique dish that combined Italian sensibilities with hearty American cuisine and opened Pizzeria Uno and Due in the early 1940s. Pizzeria Uno has expanded to over 200 franchise locations across the United States today.

Another family lays claim to the original idea for Chicago pizza after working at Pizzeria Uno. They have since opened a competing restaurant, Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, which serves a classic yet distinct take on deep-dish pizza.

Many other iconic Chicago eateries sprang from Pizzeria Uno’s original staff and cooks’ commercial efforts, including Louisa’s Pizza, Gino’s East, Pizano’s, and Delisi’s Pizza.

Many other dishes are associated with the Windy City’s culinary scene today, including:

Bing bread, an iconic potato, cheese, scallion, and bacon-stuffed sesame bread offered at the Korean eatery Parachute

Flaming saganaki, found at Greek restaurants all over the Midwest, is a Chicago creation. This novel dish’s beginnings date back to the 1960s in the now-defunct Parthenon restaurant. Traditionally, Saganaki is a fried sheep’s milk cheese set aflame while the server cries, “Opa!”

Chicago-style hot dogs, which feature a beef frank stuffed with toppings in a poppy seed bun covered in French fries, are a popular item at stands and restaurants all over the city. Gene & Jude’s “Depression Dogs” are among the most popular

The Chicago Art Scene

Mud City’s art offerings are diverse and blossoming, with a massive influx of innovative contemporary artists shaping the American art landscape as a whole. Many Chicago neighborhoods feature their own unique art culture, galleries, and preferred genres of creative media.

Some of the most notable neighborhoods for Chicago’s lively art scene include the following:

Hyde Park, as well as Bridgeport and Pilsen, is filled to the brim with art offerings, from artist-run galleries and showcases to sprawling warehouse venues for art exhibitions

West Loop, while more renowned for its “restaurant row,” is home to a budding contemporary art, street art, and photography scene in such galleries as the Kavi Gupta Gallery, Threewalls, and Vertical Gallery

Bucktown and Wicker Park have attracted outsider art and mixed media. This blend led to the opening of such galleries as Monique Meloche Gallery and Intuit. Many local artists live at and ply their trade at the Flatiron Arts Building on Milwaukee Avenue

Even the parks and streets of Chicago are filled to the brim with unique sculptures and art installations. Of particular note is a sculpture by Anish Kapoor referred to as “The Bean” in Millennium Park, Space Junction of Energy and the Eagle Columns of Lincoln Park, and the Batcolumn in West Loop.

How Does SERVPRO Air Movement Equipment Eliminate Water Damage from Chicago Properties?

SERVPRO offers Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-accredited water damage restoration for Chicago residences 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including weekends and holidays. This firm’s commitment to availability seeks to minimize property and structural losses from water damage while maximizing homeowners’ savings.

One crucial element of the structural drying process is ensuring the proper air movement in the area after moisture has been extracted thoroughly from affected surfaces.

SERVPRO technicians carefully calculate the air movement and dehumidification needs of water-damaged properties by taking the following factors into account:

Humidity levels of surfaces and in the air factor into calculating how to safely implement air movement without adding the risk of secondary water damage

Scale and location of water damage present aids in determining the number of air movers needed for restoration

The status of interior structures, such as subfloors or wall and ceiling cavities, can affect the number and positioning of air movement equipment

Centrifugal air movers work in tandem with dehumidification units by pulling moist air off surfaces for dehumidifiers to absorb. The dehumidifiers then expel dry air while collecting air moisture as condensation. Air movement can also float carpet by positioning two- or three-speed air movers to blow underneath it. This process is crucial to preserving saturated carpet and pad in a water damage situation.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown supports the Windy City with Faster To Any Size Disaster service from certified professionals. Call (773) 434-9100 to begin the restoration process for your home.

Get into the Holiday Spirit, and Shopping, in Chicago

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

Let us worry about fire damage so you can enjoy the holiday events!

Visit the Christkindlmarket at Two Chicago Locations 

Due to health concerns, the Christkindlmarket will host this year's event virtually. Visitors will be able to take part in an online marketplace and family-friendly activities. The event runs from November 1st-December 31st, 2020.

More Virtual Events This Year

Christkindlmarket increased the number of online events for customers concerned about their health and helped out with the already growing bad weather. Here are two to watch out for in November alone: 

• 14th – It’s Beginning to Look Like a DIY Christmas! A digital course on creating decorations with what you already have around your home.
• 21st – German Cooking – Learn how to make a traditional dish of Baked Apples with Vanilla Sauce! 

If you need fire damage cleanup in your Chicago home after the holidays, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100. We are here for you.

View Chicago's Memorable Skyline with a Skyline Cruise from November 21st.

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

Enjoy the water on a short cruise excusion while SERVPRO removes the water and damage from our Chicago property

Take a Cruise from DuSable Harbor and Enjoy Chicago's Skyline from Lake Michigan this Winter.

The Chicago skyline we know today erupted from a wellspring of manufacturing and design ingenuity that leads to the mass construction of 20th Century Skyscrapers. The Anita Dee is a cruise vessel with three stories that set sail on Lake Michigan this November, providing guests with unlimitable city views. The top deck is open-plan, with the remaining two a climate-controlled comfort cruise providing beer, wine, and cocktails to guests throughout. At over 140 feet long, there is enough room for all comers with safe social distancing. All guests and staff are following the "Be Safe Chicago" guidelines for dealing with Coronavirus.

• Boarding begins at 7:30 pm with QR tickets available through Eventbrite.
• Party booking discounts are on offer for groups of more than ten people.
• Enter the photo contest prize draw by uploading pictures onboard to Instagram using the hashtag #chicagopartyboat.

A roofing insufficiency or slow leak could cause extensive water damage to your home this winter. Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 now.

What Should a Homeowner Do if a Fire Burns Their Ceiling and Leaves Behind Debris and Soot?

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damage to Your Chicago Property? SERVPRO Can Remove the Debris and Place an Ozone Machine to Clean the of Odors and Particles

If You Ever Need Fire Cleanup Services After the Ceiling Inside Your Chicago Home Burns Call SERVPRO

If your furnace malfunctions or you have an electrical short in your attic inside your Chicago residence, heat can rise and cause your ceiling to burn. Once your ceiling starts to burn, debris can begin to fall and settle onto your floors. Soot residues can also accumulate on your walls and your contents from the smoke created and the fallen materials.

How can you safely remove burnt debris from floors?

As a part of fire cleanup inside your Chicago residence, our SERVPRO team can start by removing large burnt materials by putting them in sealed trash bags. We can also create a containment chamber around the affected areas of your home so that soot residues and dust cannot travel throughout your home during the debris removal process. We can then clean up the remaining soot and other small burnt particles using a vacuum equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

How can you remove soot residues from my walls and contents?

• Vacuuming: At first, our SERVPRO technicians can use a HEPA vacuum to remove excess soot from your drywall, furniture, and other items.
• Dry Sponge Cleaning: Next, we can use dry sponges or other cleaning tools like rags or feather dusters to remove soot from porous materials such as drywall or unfinished wood.
• Wet Cleaning: For non-porous, hard surfaces like finished wooden surfaced items, we can utilize a cloth with a general surface cleaner.

What can you do if my house smells burnt?

• Fogging: We can use an ultra-low volume or a thermal fogger that breaks down deodorant chemicals to a size similar to the smoke particle size.
• Ozone Machine: We can also use an ozone generator to dispense unstable O3 particles that can oxide malodor molecules, under extreme cases.

If your ceiling burns after you have an electrical failure, it is wise to call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 as soon as possible.

Why Is The Choice Of Equipment A Crucial Consideration During Water Removal in Chicago?

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Faster completion of water removal can allow a quicker resumption of your business activities.

SERVPRO Capitalizes On Equipment Choice to Fast-Track Water Damage Removal Restoring Services in Chicago Businesses Faster

You might panic if you find out that there is a water intrusion incident at your business premises. However, with a timely removal, you can overcome the implications such incidents usually have on daily operations. Dealing with water intrusion is easier when you have the right equipment. That is why SERVPRO steps in to provide Chicago businesses with the necessary resources.

Which equipment is vital for water removal?
For successful water damage removal at your Chicago business premises, there is a need to extract any pooling water and dry wet materials. Choosing extraction equipment is easier since most portable and truck-mounted units can move thousands of gallons within a short period and gravity flow also helps in water removal. Choosing drying equipment is a bit harder because the process requires a combination of three factors to work:
    •    Temperature
    •    Evaporation
    •    Dehumidification

What factors determine the right drying equipment?
Drying requires dehumidifiers, air movers, and in some cases, heating equipment. Since the equipment works in tandem, the choice must factor in more than just the individual capacity of each type of equipment. Our SERVPRO technicians consider the ratings provided by the manufacturers to determine the right combination. For instance, when choosing air movers and dehumidifiers, we can consider three ratings:
    •    Cubic feet per minute
    •    Standard cubic feet per minute
    •    Feet per minute or feet per second

CFM is the general measure of airflow from the equipment. SCFM, on the other hand, indicates the airflow at a standard temperature of 70°F and relative humidity of 50%. When our SERVPRO technicians take readings at the loss site with moisture meters and thermo-hygrometers, we may require a more specific rating such as SCFM to ensure the equipment we use for drying matches up correctly with the prevailing conditions, thus boosting moisture removal.

Faster completion of water removal can allow a quicker resumption of your business activities. SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown can help complete the process, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (773) 434-9100.

How is Structural Integrity Addressed After a House Fire?

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO today when it comes to your Chicago fire damage. We know what it takes.

SERVPRO Carefully Inspects Your Chicago Home for Structural Integrity While Handling Fire Damage Cleanup

Any building involved in a fire, big or small, could have some level of damage to the structural integrity. There are several factors that SERVPRO takes into consideration while assessing your Chicago property. When we get called in for cleanup and restoration after a fire, we use our specialized methods and planning to ensure no stone is left unturned. It is essential to our team that your family is safe and sound in your home once we complete the project. Once we get done, your structure and interior will be left "Like it never even happened."

What Can Happen to a Building's Structure During a Fire?

When handling fire damage cleanup in Chicago, we must look at everything from contents and building materials to structural elements. We must consider various things when determining the strength of structural details, such as:

• The duration of the fire
• The intensity of the fire
• The proximity of the flames
• Materials impacted, and more

Having direct flame or heat on materials such as wood, steel, and concrete can reduce overall strength. This then becomes an issue in terms of safety and why it is vital to have a full structural evaluation done post-fire. This helps determine the level of the damage and the need for repair or replacement moving forward. 

What is a Post-Fire Structural Evaluation?

Whenever structural components seem to be compromised, the evaluation helps provide a clear picture of whether or not they can stand up to their design's original intent. Evaluations such as these will include non-destructive and destructive testing of wood, concrete, and steel. Depending on the fire's temperature and the damage, some of the components must get cleaned to remove any soot or other contaminants so that a full visual inspection may commence. Such cleaning may take place by:

• Brushing
• Abrasive blasting with sand or baking soda
• Pressure washing
• Chemical washing

SERVPRO will take a look at a variety of collateral items and learn more about the characteristics of the fire. We look at:

• Plastics
• Windows
• Plumbing elements
• Door handles
• Lamps, and more

This part of the inspection sheds light on the fire's temperature and intensity so that we can make an educated determination of the potential damage to the structural items around these contents.

How Does Fire Impact Structural Components?

• Wood – When wood chars, it consumes the outer layers, and size gets reduced.
• Concrete – Exposed concrete may remain unaffected up to 500 degrees F of exposure. When exposure exceeds these temperatures, concrete begins to spall and crack.
• Steel – Intense heat can start to weaken steel to the point where it becomes deformed. The result may show the steel to be warped or buckled.

To facilitate efficient cleaning and restoration of your Chicago property, SERVPRO takes the time to address other structural components:

• Lighting fixtures
• Cabinetry
• Insulation
• Attics or crawl spaces
• Glass and windows
• Window treatments fixtures, and more

After a fire in your home, it is essential that you do not attempt to clean various surfaces or contents on your own. Using the wrong methods or the wrong cleaning agents could cause permanent damage. It is also best to limit movement throughout your home so that you can keep the amount of contamination tracked from one space to another to a minimum.

Will the Smoke Corrode Certain Surfaces?

When left to fester too long, smoke and soot can become corrosive to certain materials. We take the time to wipe down residue found on lightly-painted or plastic surfaces, fiberglass, finished furnishings, and countertops made of Formica. When handling some surfaces, our SERVPRO technicians may also use a pre-cleaning treatment using lubricants to help inhibit corrosion until the full restoration process commences. We also take the time to protect a range of metal surfaces that have iron or chrome, including:

• Faucets
• Door and cabinet hardware
• Lamps
• Window Frames, and more

What if There is Smoke Residue on Hardwood Floors?

Various hardwood flooring materials contain cellulose, which means that it can quickly absorb water. We have water damage restoration technicians on our team to ensure that we halt damage during the fire damage cleanup by adequately drying the floors. We can then remove lighter or moderate smoke residue with a mop and our Bright-N-Neutral Cleaner. If the smoke residue contains an aerosol that may have penetrated the floors' finish, our team will use more aggressive measures such as sanding, stripping, or refinishing.

Once your home gets overtaken by fire, you should never wait to begin fire damage cleanup. Call in the help of SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown right away, and we can send a crew out as soon as possible. We can be reached 24/7 for emergency service at (773) 434-9100.

Water Damage Restoration Chicago

9/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO for Chicago Water Damage Restoration Services 

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown Now (773) 434-9100.

There is no mistaking Chicago's magnitude, as in 234 square miles, there are nearly 2.7 million residents. The third-largest city in the country has its tourism appeals and continues to be an attractive place for young and old alike to call home. Tourism is a massive part of the economy, and this continues to be a resounding positive, with Chicago being the second-most visited city in 2018 with 58 million. Both with its booming economic upturns and headquarters for multi-million and multi-billion dollar organizations like McDonald's, Walgreens, Boeing, and Sears, residents and business owners have come to expect a fast response to protect their properties when disasters strike. This could be heavy lake-effect snow that results in blizzards like in 2011, fierce windstorms, or polar vortexes saw most recently in 2019.

Chicago Area Emergency Water Removal, Cleanup, and Restoration

• Large Loss Recovery Team with Multiple Sister Franchises 
• Full Coverage of the Chicago Area
• Locally Owned and Operated (773) 434-9100. 
• Water Extraction, Drying, and Cleanup
• Fire & Smoke Damage and Loss Prevention
• Mold Inspections, Remediation, and Build Back
• Commercial Post-Disaster Cleanup 
• Storm Damage Repair and Restoration

Restoring Chicago Properties After Water Damages

Chicago is a city that had to rebuild itself from the ground up after a fire in 1871 leveled miles of structures. What started as a commitment to rebuild even better has not stopped. We see some of the most recognizable structures ever created, such as the iconic Sears Tower and one of the last remaining original baseball fields left in the country: Wrigley Field, home to our Chicago Cubs. Knowing that disasters can strike at any time emphasizes a fast response by competent and experienced professionals like our SERVPRO team.

Our city is also full of history as unique as our deep-dish pizza and notorious as Al Capone. As much as we can relive our sordid and incredible history in the museums of the city like the Museum of Science and Industry, we also look to the future with iconic structures like the Art Institute of Chicago and nationally recognized institutions like the University of Chicago and Northwestern University. From water damage in the dorms to roof damage following wintertime cyclones, our SERVPRO team is ready to return your property to preloss condition.

Emergency Water Damage Scenarios for the Chicago Area

• Lake Effect Snow Damage 
• Wind Damage / Wind-Driven Rain 
• Frozen Pipe Bursts
• Ice Damming Roof Leaks
• Broken/Damaged Appliances and Plumbing Fixtures
• Post-Fire Flooding from Extinguishment

Why Choose SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown?

We're Faster To Any Size Disaster

Our speed and reliability when disaster strikes can be a crucial feature of saving our customers time and money on the restoration that their home or business requires.

Expertly Trained and Experienced Professionals

There are multiple niches of certification and accreditation related to water restoration, and we have a majority of our experienced roster educated in these areas, including water restoration (WRT), structural drying (ASD), and microbial remediation (AMRT.)

Advanced Water Restoration Tools and Technologies

More than ever, our success in the restoration industry hinges on our constant pursuit of the latest tools and technologies of the trade. From moisture meters to extraction and drying equipment, we can make losses, "Like it never even happened."

Questions or Concerns? We can help 24/7. Give SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown a call now at (773) 434-9100.

Also of Interest- Chicago Fire Cleanup      Water Extraction Services Chicago

How Do I Get Mold Out of My Business?

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Mold can multiply quickly and be off-putting to customers. SERVPRO knows how to remediate mold. Call us today!

For Professional Mold Removal in Chicago, Call SERVPRO  

How Do I Get Rid of Mold and Keep It Out of My Boutique? 

Remediating Chicago commercial mold damage takes more than a spray bottle of bleach, a hairdryer on an extension cord, and a paint scraper. SERVPRO specialists determine the extent of the mold growth, where it originated, and decide the best equipment needed to remove active spores and reduce the risk of future infestations.   

Where Do Your Specialists Begin? 

They start by inspecting the structure for visible mold and water. Mold spores are ordinarily inert and are as common in most buildings as airborne dust. They only become active when there is enough water to expand and extend eventually into hyphae seeking out a food source and more water.  

Our specialists’ next step is to eliminate the source of water. They dry up any puddles and drips with sponges and cloths. For larger amounts, they use extraction wands. If the water soaked into wall framing and other structure, they set up dehumidifiers to carefully draw out the water without cracking or splitting the wood.  

Finally, specialists remove the now inert spores using hand-scrapers and vacuums with HEPA filters designed to catch even individual spores too small to see unaided. If the hyphae dug into the support structure, they use power sanders to remove the wood's surface layers to get to the spores. The last step is to vacuum every affected surface once again.  

What Kind of Health Problems Are There? 

Mold may cause health effects in some people, but the vast majority of business problems are the damages mold growths cause to the structure. SERVPRO response teams work carefully and promptly to remove every threat to your business to reopen to support your customers. 

To schedule an inspection or to begin immediate removal efforts, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 today. 

More about Chicago.

Why Call in a Restoration Team to Help with Water Damage in Chicago?

8/30/2020 (Permalink)

Don’t panic when water damage affects your home. Contact our experienced team for service.

Easily Manage Cleanup in Chicago When You Hire SERVPRO for Water Restoration Service

There is never a good time to have a water emergency, but it is the action that you do immediately after you discover the water that counts most. While some people will try to remove water and clean up the damage on their own, calling in the assistance of trained water restoration technicians (WRT) ensures your Chicago property gets back to preloss condition faster. Not only that, but we work to restore and clean your structure and belongings whenever possible.

Why Does Drying Technique Matter?

When it comes to water restoration service in Chicago, the process depends on our team understanding the details of your restorative project as a whole. We consider a variety of factors that allow us to formulate the best plan of action, such as:

• The amount of water within the loss zone
• The airflow within the space
• What the temperature is
• All of the various structural components and contents affected

By using applied drying techniques while working to extract all standing water, we can salvage more than DIY methods allow. Our skilled technicians follow the rules of psychometry, understanding that airborne moisture or vapors, along with liquid water, can and will impact all materials they touch. This is water damage in Chicago that accumulates with time, so it is crucial that you act fast so that you have a better chance of salvaging your interior after a water incident.

What is Secondary Damage and Why Should I Worry About It?

The longer you wait to remove water and moisture, the more damage can set in. When this happens, it begins to complicate any of the necessary repairs. Our fully-trained IICRC-certified technicians have the knowledge and skill to handle any size or scope water restoration project. We know how to adjust our equipment and course direction at a moment’s notice to stay on track with our intended drying timeline. Each water incident we get called to we follow the HAT principle, which is:

• Humidity – We determine the relative humidity in the air and how it must get lowered to keep vapor from causing secondary damage
• Airflow – We strategically place industrial-strength fans and air movers to remove airborne vapors while bringing less humid air into the affected space
• Temperature – Since warmer air is known for holding vapor, we carefully monitor temperatures within the loss zone

How Does Drying Play a Role in Restoration?

While extraction is taking place, drying systems help to regulate the air within the home. Simple removal may not be enough, as there could still be hidden moisture that can lead to potential mold growth. We use a range of powerful equipment that help us to create the perfect balance for the project:

• Powerful dehumidifiers help to remove up to 30 gallons of water from the air over 24 hours
• Truck-mounted extraction tools allow us to pull up thousands of gallons of water 
• Why Can’t I Just Open Up My Doors and Windows?

There are some situations where our team will utilize the outdoor environment for what we call open drying. However, many instances call for more specific drying techniques and specialized equipment in order to achieve the best results. For open drying measures to work, the air outside must be a lot drier and warmer than the air inside your home.

When you contact SERVPRO to help with water restoration, you can count on:

• Having a highly-trained team on the job
• Fast service, 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• Advanced technology and proven water removal and restoration methods
• Locally owned and operated
• Skilled building and reconstruction services

What if Water is Left Sitting Too Long?

It is imperative that you call for water restoration service right after you notice water intrusion. Prompt action facilitates smooth remediation. Failing to get started on the cleanup as soon as possible can lead to issues like:

• Mold and mildew growth
• Wooden flooring that will crack, swell, bubble, or split
• Wooden furniture can start to absorb water, which may lead to deterioration or splitting
• Rusting of your appliances or other metal furnishings
• Total loss of your carpeting and the padding and subfloor below

Depending on the nature of your water incident, our team may have to perform deconstruction, otherwise known as controlled demolition. Some of these measures may include:

• Dismantling of pantries, cupboards, hutches and other wood furnishings to replace materials beyond repair
• Flood cuts can be done to remove saturated drywall – this helps to dry the area behind walls and also inhibits mold growth
• Pulling up flooring that is too damaged or overly warped

At SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown, we have the water restoration and reconstruction services that you are looking for. We are available 24/7 by calling (773) 434-9100 to have a crew sent to your location.

What Surface Cleaning Approaches Are Best After a Fire in Chicago?

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

When a fire damages your Chicago home with smoke residues, our SERVPRO team can employ multiple tactics to protect and preserve the underlying materials.

Surfaces and contents alike can become quickly damaged in wet smoke and furnace puff backs in Chicago homes. In particular, wet smoke residues can be a considerable challenge for professionals cleaning technicians of our SERVPRO team to remove. Surface cleaning is not a universal approach for different residues and soils. It leans heavily on pre-mitigation evaluations conducted by our professionals to determine the type of damage and its spread through the property.

Fire cleanup for Chicago homes or businesses is a blend of three specific cleaning approaches and strategies:

    •    Abrasive Cleaning – This general term describes multiple approaches for residue removal, but the most noteworthy of these would be vacuuming, brushing, steel wool, and other agitative cleaning techniques.
    •    Soda Blasting – The use of media on hard surfaces like concrete and brick, the typical interior design of loft apartments, can remove surface residues without allowing damage to the underlying substrate.
    •    Controlled Demolition – With a team of in-house contractors, we can offer area homes a definitive strategy for recovering widespread property loss through calculated material removal. Efficient material discarding can reduce the presence of odors and soot.

Can SERVPRO Perform Repairs and Reconstruction?

The same contractors that can arrive to begin controlled demolition on the property also work to rebuild and repair it when necessary. A seamless transition between the mitigation and the building stages help restoration as a whole to be smoother and less costly.

Water damage repairs can mean several tasks that must get completed before restoration completes, including the mending of water lines and controlled demolition. Give our experienced SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team a call to help at (773) 434-9100.

What Factors Can Influence Water Cleanup Exercises At My Chicago Business Premises?

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

A water spill can trigger a chain of events that lead to severe damage.

Assistance from SERVPRO Can Help Ensure You Do Not Miss Crucial Steps in the Early Stages of the Restoration Thus Minimizing the Resultant Damages in your Chicago property

The water that damages your business premises can originate anywhere within your property. For instance, a faulty toilet floater can release several gallons of water before you discover it and turn off the mains. Leaks can also develop in pipes hidden away in the walls or ceiling space. SERVPRO crews are available 24/7 to help Chicago businesses affected by water spills to clean up and restore their premises to the preloss state.

Do water cleanup exercises Chicago business premises differ?

When you realize there is a water leak in your Chicago property and you need to perform cleanup and other restoration procedures, you should also be aware of several things, including the divergent nature of such exercises. If you have witnessed a cleanup in a different facility, you cannot expect the procedure at your place to run the same way. Even two separate cleanup exercises at the same facility might present different challenges.  Assistance from a restoration service such as SERVPRO helps ease the process because we have the training and experience to address any challenging aspects.

Several factors determine the level of cleaning and the procedures necessary to restore your business premises to its preloss state. The main ones include:
    •    The materials you have at the premises
    •    The source of the water spilled
    •    The period it takes to discover the leak
    •    The spread patterns of the spilled water

When water spills in an area where loose soils such as dust accumulate over time, you can expect it to spread the soils all over the property. An enclosed ceiling is a typical example of an area where dust, dirt, and other debris can accumulate over time. The sudden water release from the leak dislodges the soils depositing them elsewhere, especially on wall surfaces where unsightly water streaks can appear.

What considerations are necessary when cleaning different materials?

When cleaning up after water leaks, removing any pools of water or drying excess moisture from various materials is the main step since it addresses most of the problems you are likely to face. Another crucial step is the removal of soils from various surfaces without causing damages to the underlying materials. For instance, if there are water streaks on drywall, glass, or other materials, the cleaning process should not leave deep scratches or other severe damages.

When removing the water or moisture, some inconveniences can arise when transferring it from the affected section of the property to the disposal point, especially when the entire facility is not affected. Our SERVPRO technicians rely on various resources that help ensure proper evacuation of water and moisture, including:
    •    Using water extractors with wastewater tanks
    •    wheeled trash bins to collect water extracted by dehumidifiers
    •    Lay-flat ducting to move moist air from inside the structure
    •    Using long hoses

Which cleaning aspect should be emphasized when restoring my business?

Time plays a crucial role in the outcome of a water loss incident. Although you might not have control over the time it takes to discover the damage, you should do what you can to expedite the restoration process. Delays lead to irreversible deterioration of materials and microbial growth, meaning that a problem that could be resolved through cleaning requires advanced repair processes. Some typical forms of irreversible deterioration include:
    •    Deep staining of carpets or fabrics
    •    Disintegration of materials such as wood or drywall
    •    Mold development

Our SERVPRO technicians use approaches that maximize the cleanup and restoration speed. For instance, we use water extractors with various capabilities, including vacuum lift and heating, allowing us to extract water and clean soiled areas simultaneously. Our expertise also allows us to mix various chemical agents, including cleaning detergents and deodorizers, minimizing the steps we have to perform while renovating your house.

Another aspect that helps guarantee a speedier conclusion of the restoration process is the possibility of clearing out items from the affected sections of your business premises to ease the performance of most restoration processes. Our crews have access to dollies and other accessories for moving heavy items from the affected areas as well as temporary storage pods that we bring to the loss site when necessary. Removing items also minimizes other problems such as soiling or accidental damage of items initially unaffected by the initial water spill.

A water spill can trigger a chain of events that lead to severe damage. The right cleanup done in time is the best way to forestall the problems. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 to assist. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

What Materials in My Chicago Business Are More Prone to Water Damage?

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO keep your business Chicago business above the water.

Hygroscopic Materials Are Especially Prone to Water Absorption and SERVPRO Has Experts in Place to Restore Those Items

Understanding which type of material absorbs water at a higher rate is key to understanding how we cleanup water intrusion in your Chicago business.

What are hygroscopic materials?

Hygroscopic materials are items that readily absorb water. They also hold onto water vapor in the air. How water vapor flows through a material is known as permeance. Hygroscopic items have a high permeance factor. But the good news is – the easier it absorbs water, the faster it dries. This is good news for your Chicago business requiring water extraction after a water loss. Examples of these items include:

• Carpet
• Carpet Padding
• Upholstery
• Unfaced Insulation
• Gypsum Wall Board
• Particle Board

Immediate Water Mitigation

Because these types of materials absorb water so readily, they are prone to primary and secondary damages. SERVPRO is committed to limiting primary damage and avoiding secondary damage, but immediate mitigation is a must. Hygroscopic material such as carpeting can undergo delamination if the water is not extracted promptly. This is an example of primary damage. Ceiling tiles and wallpaper can moisten, crumble, soften, and fall once they absorb water and are left untreated. This represents secondary damage, which is what we strive to prevent.

Avoiding Secondary Damages

Water extraction from both the business as a whole and the air is crucial. Hygroscopic materials are more prone to secondary damages, so crews need to move fast. You need the proper ratio of air movers to dehumidifiers to get the job done correctly. Our team has the expertise to know just what equipment to use for your situation.

SERVPRO has expert crews that understand water extraction and how to preserve hygroscopic materials. Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown /Greektown at (773) 434-9100 for service that will leave your business, “Like it never even happened.”

What is the Best Way to Restore my Chicago Home After a Flood?

7/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is your restoration partner when disaster strikes.

The Best Way to Restore Your Chicago Home After a Flood is to Call a Certified Water Restoration Company

Storms can cause damage even if the rain is not catastrophic in Chicago. It only takes a rise in water levels for your home to fall victim to damage result of higher moisture levels as well as the contaminants within storm waters. Quick action is essential to protect your health, and calling a reputable company to address the damage is your first line of defense.

Preserve your Chicago home after flood damage by calling our SERVPRO crew and allowing us to take proper steps towards a successful restoration. Our team trains with industry experts in the latest technology and methods for eliminating traces of water damage. When you reach us at our 24/7 hotline, you can access that knowledge and expertise, which we put to work for you as soon as we receive the call.

What can I do about the dirt and debris floodwaters invite into my home?

As a homeowner, you are right to worry about the outside elements that now reside in your home. Our SERVPRO team knows that some of your possessions, such as carpets, upholstered chairs, and other textiles, may need to be removed from your home for your protection. However, not everything goes into the "discard" pile. We can restore any of your belongings by applying our knowledge. For example, we may be able to spare your valuable documents and photos by using specialized techniques for document restoration. Some steps towards saving your precious items may include:

    •    Air drying
    •    Using dehumidifiers
    •    Vacuum freeze-drying
    •    Vacuum thermal-drying

All options have their use depending on the circumstances and extent of the damage on each of your items. Our SERVPRO team is here to guide you through the process and make the most appropriate action for each surface we clean.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is your restoration partner when disaster strikes. Call us at (773) 434-9100 and let us leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

What is Involved in Flood Damage Remediation?

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

When flooding occurred in this home, SERVPRO was there. We restored this home to its preloss condition.

After a Storm, SERVPRO Has the Flood Damage Restoration Techniques Necessary to Bring Your Chicago Home Back to Pre-Loss Condition 

With a flood loss event, it might seem overwhelming to determine what is salvageable in your Chicago residence and what is not. Regardless of the devastation level, it is imperative that you have a team on your side ready and promptly handle water removal and restoration. SERVPRO responds fast to not only put your mind at ease but also to lessen the development of secondary damage. Everything gets done to ensure your interior is left "Like it never even happened." 

Is the Floodwater in My Home Dangerous? 

We want our customers to know that dealing with flood damage in Chicago is best left to the experts as this water is known for harboring many contaminants. We have specialized procedures for mitigating the water damage while ensuring your interior remains protected from the transmission of microbes and bacteria from the loss zone into other rooms. Once we arrive on your property, we work to eliminate various safety hazards by: 

• Wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Our technicians wear foot coverings to eradicate the chance of grime and debris tracking
• Posting signs
• Setting a perimeter
• Tarping off areas to limit tracking from one room to the next
• Treating the flood-zone with specialized products to keep hazards to a minimum 

We must work diligently, yet carefully, to remove silt and debris from your interior that the floodwaters bring in. Floodwater often contains hazardous materials such as: 

• Lead
• Asbestos
• Fuel
• Fecal matter, and more 

In some cases, our skilled technicians may implement containment measures to keep contamination from spreading to unaffected areas. Some contaminated regions benefit significantly from negative pressure, limiting the spread of hazardous mold spores into clean spaces within the house.

How is the Water Removed from My Interior? 

SERVPRO technicians can execute timely water extraction by using: 

• Truck-mounted extractors capable of handling large amounts of water riddled with debris
• Submersible and portable pumps
• Light wand extractors
• Weighted extractors, known as rovers, use the technician's weight to push water out of carpeting and the padding beneath 

What Makes Floodwater Harmful? 

After a significant storm that results in flooding, black water throughout your home poses a considerable health threat to your family and pets. Blackwater is standing water, discolored with visible contaminants floating within. Such pollutants include debris that comes from outside your home and usually consists of a range of biohazards and bacteria.  

You Can Count on Us to Safely Address Black Water from a Flood 

Our skilled water restoration technicians (WRT) can handle whatever safety hazards and flood damage your Chicago home encounters after a storm. We have experience dealing with significant flooding and extensive interior damage, allowing us to formulate a plan of proven restoration methods.  

You mustn't try walking or wading through any portion of your home with standing water, which could lead to potentially dangerous pathogen and bacteria exposure with possible health effects. There could be hidden hazards within the murky water that could lead to bodily injury or electrocution. Once our crew arrives on the scene, we will carefully perform an assessment to tell us what type of damage to which we are working. We formulate a plan using a unique process that helps us determine the best equipment for the job. The restoration steps usually resemble the following: 

• Flood-zone assessment
• Address any potential safety hazards
• Determine the structural integrity
• Water extraction using industrial-grade equipment
• Drying measures using air movers, powerful fans, and dehumidifiers
• Moisture detection to keep hidden moisture pockets from festering and creating secondary damage
• Controlled demolition to remove unsalvageable building materials, including baseboards, drywall, carpeting, carpet padding, and subflooring
• Detailed cleaning, sanitization, and disinfecting to ensure your interior is ready and safe for your family to enjoy once again 

Besides Flooring and Drywall, What Other Items May Not Be Salvageable After Flooding? 

Each case gets treated as unique due to the uncertainty of contaminants within the flooded portion of your home. Once we perform the initial loss assessment and begin the cleanup process, we will have a clearer picture of which items need disposing. Depending on how long the water is left to fester, many belongings, fixtures, furnishings, and other building materials may call for a total replacement.  

Throughout the cleanup and restoration process, you can trust that our crew will take a detailed inventory of any pack-outs and items with which we dispose of, which helps with your records, as well as your insurance claim. 

SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown is here whenever you need professional assistance with flood damage. Call us 24/7 for emergency service at (773) 434-9100, and we send out a team as soon as possible. 

What Can I Do About the Water Damage in My Chicago Pizza Cafe?

6/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO knows how important staying up and running when it comes to your Chicago business water damage, call us today.

SERVPRO of Chicago Can Offer You Water Damage Mitigation Services! 

Owning a restaurant in Chicago can be rewarding, but it can suddenly become extremely stressful when water damage comes knocking. The best thing you can do to get your doors open again is seeking help immediately. A loss of foot traffic is a loss of revenue and, here at SERVPRO, we want to help you avoid that as much as possible. 

If water damage suddenly left your Chicago pizza cafe unable to operate, we can help. Call us swiftly, and our highly trained technicians can come, no matter the time or the day of the week. We work around your schedule here at SERVPRO. 

I Need Discretion, Can Your Technicians Work That Way? 

No matter what your needs are, we can work something out. We're dedicated to giving you the service you need. If you require discreet remediation, our technicians can: 

• Use back entrances to access the building 
• Work during the night instead of the day 
• Get our drying equipment inside your cafe swiftly 

Seeing that you are closed until further notice can chase your customers off and send them to your competitors. For this reason, we're proud to say that We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Equipment Can You Use to Mitigate the Water Damage?

Imagine that a burst pipe caused the damage to your pizza cafe. We can work swiftly to employ the use of advanced technological equipment to remove the mess. We can:

• Use extractors and wet/dry vacuums to remove excess water
• Use infrared cameras to locate all sources of water damage inside
• Employ the use of drying equipment, like dehumidifiers and air blasting tubes 

Here at SERVPRO, we have the equipment to remediate the water damage on your property. No matter how large or small it is. 

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown immediately if you find yourself in need of water damage mitigation services. Dial (773) 434-9100 to speak to a technician. We're always ready to help.

A Storm Has Caused Flooding in My Chicago Home, What Should I Do?

6/6/2020 (Permalink)

Our professionals can help restore your property to its preloss condition within a short period.

Hire Professionals from SERVPRO to Handle the Storm Flood Damage in Your Chicago Home

Severe storms accompanied by fierce winds and heavy rainfall can lead to significant damage to your Chicago home. It is vitally essential to act fast by seeking professional help to minimize secondary damage and get your property back to normal.

When should I call the professionals?

You should call professionals soon after your Chicago home sustains storm flood damage. Before you enter your home, ensure your safety. Watch out for standing water that could be electrically charged, fallen power lines, and wild animals. Beginning the restoration process soon helps prevent additional destruction like:

    •    Mold growth
    •    Wood rot
    •    Odors
    •    Swelling of laminate

When we receive our customer’s emergency call, we respond immediately. We use approved techniques and advanced equipment to restore homes effectively. Our skills and experience help us provide our customers with professional water removal, elimination of microbial threats, and odor removal.

What does flood damage restoration include?

Floodwater from a natural disaster is hazardous for human health. Therefore, it is wise to let professionals handle the restoration process, which includes:

    •    Water extraction: Immediate floodwater removal, minimizes damage and speeds up the drying process. We can work hard to preserve your home and remove the damaged materials. We can use a self-priming trash pump to remove the floodwater since it may contain solids such as leaves, stones, silt, and sand, among other debris.    
    •    Controlled demolition: Our SERVPRO team has advanced training and resources that help us save as much property as possible. To clear damaged areas effectively, we offer controlled demolition services taking care to remove what is necessary. For instance, we can use a carpet knee kicker, and a carpet razor knife to remove the carpeting and pad.  
    •    Structural drying: The drying process is essential to prevent mold growth. We use state-of-the-art equipment that helps us dry even the hard-to-reach areas and speed up the process.
    •    Application of anti-microbial products to prevent mold growth: Mold flourishes in humid areas. It can spread through airborne spores that only an effective treatment can stop. We can remove the moldy materials or use anti-microbial solutions to kill the mold.
    •    Monitoring moisture levels: After water removal, cleaning, and drying of the affected areas, we inspect the affected areas to ensure they are dry, and your property is safe to occupy. Our experts can use a non-penetrating moisture meter to detect moisture. The device is useful in detecting moisture in materials such as drywall and plaster.

Do not let flood damage distract you from your daily activities for long. Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100. Our professionals can help restore your property to its preloss condition within a short period. “Like it never even happened.”

Why Is Commercial Water Removal and Disinfection Responsibility Best Given to Restoration Professionals in Chicago?

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is ready to take on the most complex commercial water removal challenge.

Trained and Experienced SERVPRO Technicians Are Knowledgeable, Capable, and Well-Equipped for Safe Chicago Commercial Water Removal and Sanitizing

The broad range of issues arising when managing a significant water loss in a large commercial space is not amenable to DIY interventions. Even if your Chicago business has a competent day to day cleaning staff or a reliable contracted janitorial service, water emergencies swiftly exceed the ability of cleaning crews to deliver optimum outcomes. Safety concerns and the need for highly specialized equipment and professional products to resolve the damage and health concerns arising from the addition of raw sewage to the contaminant list substantially changes the cleaning requirements.

What Makes a Contaminated Water Crisis Different from other Cleaning Challenges?

When heavy rains cause a sewage drainage pipe to back up and flood your industrial warehouse, safe and efficient water removal from your Chicago distribution center rises to a whole new level of complexity. Overflow from a nearby river exerts pressure on the normal waste flow, creating a severe risk of exposure to biohazards by your employees and potential destruction of inventory as the waste returns to your facility. Cleanup now requires:

    •    The wearing of full personal protective equipment (PPE) by technicians assigned to clear away the water and to perform testing for migration of contaminants into building cavities
    •    Containment of the contaminated fluid for disposal as hazardous waste following local regulations at an approved site
    •    Cleaning and disinfection of all surfaces in contact with the toxic mix of water, industrial waste, and fecal material
    •    Management of the saturation of the porous materials present in the affected area

What Does Water Mitigation and Remediation Look Like Under These Circumstances?

A comprehensive safety survey conducted by SERVPRO project managers identifies any live utility risks and demonstrable structural instability stemming from the exterior flooding:

    •    Power is shut down until safe to restart. Our equipment uses generators until that happens.
    •    Our crews prevent or divert the continual incursion of the contaminated water with barriers or ditching outside of your building.
    •    Solid debris is removed, and then we remove standing water with a series of submersible pumps followed by truck-mounted extraction under the skilled operation of our trained technicians.
    •    During water removal, ventilation enhances the movement of moist air by the opening of all passageways and doors and windows.
    •    EPA-registered cleaners and disinfectants would be applied via broadcast methods for a first pass to mitigate the effects of the contaminants before work crews commenced tasks.

How Do You Dry Out Vast Commercial Spaces?

Even though wide-open ventilation is used throughout the first phases of water removal and initial sanitizing, these conditions are not optimal for an open drying system to complete the job. High humidity outside during the spring and summer months, including the rainy weather that caused the initial flooding that led to the sewer backup, unreasonably slows drying.

Never fear. Our Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained crews master many innovative and research-based options to improve drying outcomes. The IICRC is an international organization charged with setting standards in the restoration industry. The best practices established by the IICRC are reliable and practical, designed to carry out a wide range of restoration tasks safely.

Does Drying Work Better When You Contain Smaller WorkSpaces?

Using 1.6 mil polyethylene and temporary structures that partition the larger space into manageable drying areas, we can set up air movers and heaters to evaporate absorbed water more efficiently from structural components into the air as vapor. Dehumidifiers can clear the vapor when the spaces are reduced in area, collecting the water for appropriate disposal.

Why Is Disinfection Completed Before Structural Drying?

The foundation of structural drying is moving warm, dry air over wet surfaces. The disruption of the air movers can cause pathogens to become airborne, not a desirable result. Planning for a second disinfection or sanitization phase to occur before the placement of air movers reduces the chance of respreading hazardous residues throughout your commercial building.

What Is the Role of Air Scrubbers in Disinfection and Sanitization During Commercial Water Removal and Drying?

Since pathogens, including molds always present in typical commercial buildings and human infectious agents from the sewage, can become airborne during mitigation and remediation efforts, the use of air scrubbing technology is also part of the larger plan. The negative air pressure machinery forces the atmosphere within a containment partition through HEPA filters. Contaminants are captured in the filters, and the air passing through is exhausted to the outdoors. A HEPA filter must be 99.97% efficient against 0.3-micron oily aerosol particles at the application flow rate per the Institute for Environmental Sciences and Technology (IEST).

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is ready to take on the most complex commercial water removal challenge. Our crews are familiar with hazardous waste management and remediation, including effective EPA-registered disinfection and sanitization strategies. Call for a professional consultation at (773) 434-9100.

Chicago Properties Can Get Extra Protection Against Contamination

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

They do their part. SERVPRO helps businesses maintain a healthy work environment.

Different Properties Require Specialized Treatment

There is a lot of disinformation spreading regarding the virus in the Chicago area. However, the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control CDC states that one of the best action plans includes cleaning and applying disinfectants to surfaces.

SERVPRO has decades of experience removing biohazards due to pathogens in Chicago properties. The technicians make safety a priority and use proper personal protective equipment (PPE). They also set up containments when necessary to reduce the potential for cross-contamination during cleanup, since the CDC theorizes that the virus also spreads via airborne droplets. 

The SERVPRO technicians have the equipment, training, and proper cleaning to perform deep cleaning on any surface. Counters, computer keypads, and doorknobs get wiped down with an EPA-registered cleaning solution. The technicians will specifically use certain equipment and treatments for differing surfaces. The chosen application is based on minimizing cost and applying our years of experience in providing decontamination services.

Get peace of mind about what you can do to reduce the chances of spreading the virus in your property by contacting SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

Advice from the medical and scientific community regarding how to deal with the coronavirus is based on present knowledge, which is subject to change as the situation continues to develop. There can be no assurance that disinfectants alone will be adequate to fully eliminate the virus. We are not physicians or infectious disease professionals. Consult your medical professionals for individual medical advice.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open in Chicago, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned,but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown today at (773) 434-9100 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Whom Should I Call for Flood Damage Remediation in Chicago?

5/17/2020 (Permalink)

If you are ever faced with a similar situation, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 for assistance.

In Chicago, There are Many Services You Can Call, but SERVPRO is Perhaps the Best Option

Spring rainstorms in the Midwest can be quite severe. They routinely wreak havoc up and down the region every year. In the Chicago area, in particular, it is far from uncommon for them to swell rivers and cause massive flooding. Recently, a local resident experienced this firsthand when floodwaters deluged the basement and ground floor of his suburban home. This occurred after a particularly stormy period and resulted in extensive flood damage to the homeowner’s property. Once the floodwaters receded, he frantically searched for a cleaning and remediation service that could help him.

Who Did the Homeowner Contact for Help?

After doing an extensive search online, the resident learned more about companies that handle flood damage in Chicago. While he found several that did this work, SERVPRO appeared to be the one most capable of dealing with his specific situation. Some of the reasons he was impressed by our service and decided to contact us for help are:

    •    We are part of a disaster/large loss recovery team that pools equipment and resources, like 53-foot recovery trailers and massive electrical generators, to resolve even the biggest, most difficult jobs.
    •    SERVPRO has advanced industrial-grade cleaning and restoration equipment and products.
    •    Our Chicago firm is certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
    •    Company technicians are individually certified in relevant fields like water damage restoration and applied structural drying.

What Did SERVPRO Do for the Homeowner and What Can It Do For You?

The suburban Chicago resident was amazed by how rapidly we were able to remediate his flood damage. Moreover, we saved him time and money by helping to prevent:

    •    Structural damage
    •    Future dry rot and related issues
    •    Buckling of wooden flooring
    •    Fungal growth that could lead to an unhealthy breathing environment

After we completed all our work, the homeowner quickly regained his sense of security. If you are ever faced with a similar situation, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 for assistance.

For more about Chicago click here.

How Can I Clean Muddy Water Out Of My Carpet in Chicago?

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO has the tools and experience to restore Chicago homes to their preloss condition

When the Windy City has high winds along with a storm, it can drive rainwater, dirt, and debris into a home. Once this water enters, it needs cleanup as fast as possible. Waiting too long to start the cleanup can result in:
    •    Foul odors
    •    Loss of the carpet
    •    Warped subfloor from water absorption

Can the Deep Stains From Flood Damage in My Home Get Cleaned Up?
Flood damage in a Chicago home frequently is not just rainwater coming in. The problem gets compounded when the water picks up dirt and sometimes debris along the way. A leaking roof can mix with water in a dusty attic and trickle filthy water through a ceiling onto the furnishings and carpet below.

The following actions are necessary for cleaning carpets with water loss.
    •    Extraction of the water
    •    Drying
    •    Determination if the carpet is suitable for reuse or requires disposal

?The reason the determination happens after drying is that wet carpet is dense and has the potential to cause lifting injuries, so the water needs to get extracted, and the carpet dried before moving if necessary.

Removal of Water Stains from Carpet
It is not uncommon for carpet, particular short pile, or Berber-type carpets. After careful vacuuming to ensure any sand or dirt gets removed, SERVPRO technicians can use bonnet cleaning or hot water extraction to even out the carpet fibers and remove the stains left behind by the water loss. Although bonnet cleaning is one of the least aggressive cleaning methods, the carpet must be in good structural shape, or the rotary action during cleaning can damage the carpet. The technicians always inspect and test the carpet before choosing a method for cleaning.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 brings the experience and equipment to local properties to handle any type of storm damage to both the structure and contents.

For more about Chicago click here.

How to Avoid Further Damage from Water When Disaster Hits?

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Loop Bucktown Greektown works around the clock and can attend to any size disaster. Call (772) 434-9100

When a home experiences a water damage event and the problem is not fixed as soon as possible, it can quickly develop into a severe problem. Apart from the expected financial losses, there is a possibility of experiencing health effects when the water remains in the structure for 24 – 48 hours and molds grow. To avoid further damage and salvage as many items as possible, you have to act fast when you encounter such incidents in Chicago.

Water Damage Restoration Services that Residents of Chicago can Trust

You can never tell when you are going to need water damage restoration services in Chicago. Your property might have been in perfect condition in the morning, and a few leaks from a faulty plumbing system may change everything. It is for that same reason that our SERVPRO technicians are always available to attend to any emergency at any time of the day. Our team is well-trained to deal with any size of emergency. When we are working for you, no incident is too big or too small; we always give every restoration work the seriousness it deserves. The use of specialized equipment such as moisture meters and sensors allow us to identify wet areas and items and come up with appropriate restoration procedures.
 
The fact that we are locally owned also gives us an upper hand when dealing with water damage events. We understand the region and its environs well, thereby putting us in a position where we can respond to emergencies quickly. Upon contacting our SERVPRO team, we carefully inspect and assess the damage caused and remove the water. We start by physically extracting the water by using pumps and portable extractors. Next, we can install air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the building properly. Dehumidifiers work by absorbing the moisture that gets added to the surrounding air as wet materials lose water. If necessary, we can perform deodorization to address odors that may have resulted from rotting organic materials.
 
SERVPRO of West Loop/ Bucktown/ Greektown works around the clock and can attend to any size disaster. Call (772) 434-9100 when your home or businesses need emergency services after experiencing any fire, storm, water, or mold damage incidents.

Click here for more information about Chicago.

What are Some of Dangers Caused by Fire Damage in a Chicago Property?

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Our Professional Technicians have extensive training and equipment to get your property back to pre-fire condition.

The dangers of fire and smoke damage

The dangers of Wicker Park fire damage last much longer than the initial blaze. Fire and smoke damage can be two of the most toxic kinds of damage that a house can take. Fire and smoke have the unique capacity to permeate the walls, ceiling, floor, internal plumbing and upholstery in your home, creating a completely untenable environment for years if it is not properly treated.

Even smoke on its own is a dangerous commodity to leave unchecked. Smoke acts as a vehicle to spread fire, creating a much more hazardous environment if there is any danger of a blaze at all. Here are some of the basic facts about smoke and fire that every homeowner should know.

Smoke is actually more dangerous than fire.

Smoke is nothing more than a collection of toxic gases. While fire takes much longer to move and can be exterminated relatively quickly if addressed, smoke can completely engulf a previously safe home in less than three minutes.

Smoke can act in one of two major ways - as a narcotic or as an irritant. The symptoms of smoke inhalation can vary according to the environment and the person. Some of the more dangerous symptoms can include euphoria, confusion, disorientation, rashness and even physical pain if the smoke meets the mucus membranes in your nose.

Exposure to smoke for more than three minutes in large quantities is often fatal.

It is not just fire and smoke that make a home unsafe; it is also the damage that fire and smoke leave behind.

Aside from the toxic fumes that smoke and fire leave, they can also cause deep set structural problems to the infrastructure of your real estate. Even if you believe a certain location to be safe because fire did not destroy it after a blaze, it may not be. The structural damage may cause the entire room to cave in on you if you are not careful.

Professional restoration is the only way to make sure that your home is completely safe after a fire or smoke emergency. Your next move after a fire emergency should be to contact a fire damage contractor immediately. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

If you suffer fire or smoke damage in Wicker Park, SERVPRO of West Loop-Bucktown-Greektown can help. They specialize in Wicker Park fire and water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. Our Professional Technicians have extensive training and equipment to get your property back to pre-fire condition. Call us for your emergency 24/7 at (773) 434-9100.

Who to Call in Chicago When Fire Damage Property?

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

When fire damages your property, call SERVPRO.

Call SERVPRO to Treat Fire Damage in Chicago

Fire is a homeowner's worst nightmare. A fire can destroy a lifetime of irreplaceable possessions and precious memories. Fire can happen to any home, no matter the condition or age. If steps are not quickly taken to minimize the damage, smoke and fire can be disastrous to structures and personal property. Quick action is necessary to reduce the effect of a fire. It is best to be prepared ahead of time for Chicago fire damage so that you are aware of what steps you can take to reduce the consequences of fire.

Do Not Enter Your Home Until Given Permission by the Fire Department
Your home may not be safe to enter after a fire depending upon the extent of damage to your home. There may be electrical hazards and other issues that pose a danger to you. It is important to wait until you have the go ahead by the fire department before you try to enter your home. Also, do not turn on utilities until the fire department says that it is safe to do so.

Contact Your Insurance Company
Homeowner's policies require that losses be reported as soon as possible. Do not expect that someone else will contact your insurance company after a fire. This is one of the first things that you need to do as the homeowner. Therefore, in the event of Chicago fire damage, contact your local agent right away.

Minimize Damage to Your Home
Typically, most insurance policies require that homeowners take immediate measures to mitigate damage to a home after an event. Sometimes, they will refuse the claim if appropriate steps are not taken to prevent further damage to your home. Therefore, cover doors, windows and other openings. Make sure that the smoldering has stopped. If it has not, then contact the fire department to help prevent a flare-up. It might also be a good idea to put up a temporary fence around your property to prevent theft and vandalism.

Contact a Professional Right Away to Handle Restoration
Timing is imperative when dealing with water and fire damage. Mildew and mold can begin growing within a day after a house fire because of water used to put out the fire. It is essential to commence the restoration process as soon as possible. Contact a company that specializes in fire restoration to begin the cleanup and renovation process.

If you have Chicago fire damage, it is important to act quickly to minimize damage to your home. The professionals at SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown are committed to restoring your home to its previous condition as efficiently as possible. Call us today at (773) 434-9100 for help.

For information on fire safety in Chicago check out the Chicago Fire Department.

Info: Space Heater Fire Safety and Fire Damage

4/19/2020 (Permalink)

Even minor to moderate fires can cause heat and smoke related issues.

Preventing Fire Damage In Your Chicago Home From A Space Heater

Chicago can experience some frigid winters, and one of the favorite ways to heat homes here is with space heaters. They are especially popular because of their small and portable size, which makes them easy to reposition. However, this preferred method of keeping warm can put your home in danger of a fire if it is not safely used.

When you have had minor fire damage from a space heater in your Chicago home, you still need the assistance of a professional remediation company to help you clean and restore your home. SERVPRO is always ready to help you with our expertise and tools to get the job done thoroughly and quickly.

Even with a minor fire, smoke residues affect the immediate area, plus may have traveled to other rooms of the home. Even with a light to moderate amount of smoke, SERVPRO technicians need to restore your home with dry or wet cleaning methods, depending on the surface where the soot and smoke are. A few areas may even need repainting, and only minor items need replacement.

To help prevent space heater fires, start by choosing the right one for your home. These appliances run on electricity, natural gas, or kerosene, and each type is recommended for use in different settings. Newer models have more safety features, so stick to these. Among these features is a safety switch in case the unit tips over. It lets the space heater turn off automatically if it tips, which helps prevent a fire.

Treat space heaters like candles. They should never run while unattended. If you leave the room, turn them off and keep about three feet of space around them. Operate them on a stable, level surface so avoiding tipping by passing pets or people. You also want to avoid putting the heater near curtains, furniture, or anything else flammable. Nothing should be on top of the heater, and do not hang clothing on it to dry. Learn more about space heater safety from the Chicago Fire Department.

Fire Causes More than Just Fire Damage

Whenever dealing with fire damage, heat and smoke are both elements that can ruin items inside your home. Not all fires that burn on Chicago properties destroy the entire structure. Many times, the burns are much more minor, but they still can cause many issues with your contents and building materials. Even the most minor burns can create many problems including smoke-related issues. Smoke can solidify in the form of soot residues and cause unappealing smells to become present inside your structure. When anything torches inside your living area you should call in a professional disaster restoration company like SERVPRO.

Even minor to moderate fires can cause heat and smoke related issues.

During any fire damage project in Chicago, soot removal and deodorization are major parts of the process. If anything burns inside your home, our SERVPRO technicians start with removing the severely burnt materials. Next, we clean any soot residues that remain on the surface of your building materials or contents. If unpleasant, burnt aromas still exist after these first two steps, we can take further steps to get rid of these foul odors.

When dealing with different situations, our highly trained team at SERVPRO knows how to distinguish between minor, moderate, and heavy smoke odors. Moderate smoke odor situations exist when there are smoke residues present on both horizontal and vertical surfaces. In these cases, structural damage may be present, but it is confined to a single room or limited area of the home.

In these situations, vapor diffusers and crystals may get used including other odor control techniques like a thorough cleaning of your house's HVAC system. We may also apply vapor crystals to your attic's insulation and the forced air furnace systems. We then complete thermal fogging procedures if we deem it necessary. Whatever the case is, we strive to eliminate all odors, so its “Like it never even happened.” If you ever need help with smoke or fire-related problems call in SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

Can SERVPRO Provide Restoration Services When Pipes Break in your Bucktown Property

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready to repair damage from broken water pipes.

Generally, people think of natural disasters when Bucktown water damage comes to mind. However, the pipes in your home are responsible for water damage more often than mother nature. The source of the water does not make it any less destructive. After all, water damage of any size can be a homeowner's nightmare. Besides fixing the source of the problem, you will also need to repair the actual damage itself. 

Minor Pipe Leaks

Almost every home has a small leak somewhere. This is because these tiny leaks are hard to find. Additionally, many homeowners assume that such small leaks cannot cause big problems; this is a mistake. A slow leak under a sink can cause mold growth, rot flooring, and destroy items stored in the cabinet. If left unchecked long enough, the leak can cause thousands of dollar’s worth of damage. To make matters worse, insurance companies can rule that the problem was due to owner neglect, and refuse to pick up the bill. To save yourself the headache, just make sure to fix even minor leaks right away.

Major Pipe Leaks and Ruptures

Generally, major pluming water damage in Bucktown results from a burst line. For example, supply lines to appliances can break, and pipes can freeze solid on especially cold nights. To prevent this, professionals suggest that you replace water lines to appliances every few years. Additionally, make sure that all plumbing lines running through unheated portions of your house are either moved or thoroughly insulated.

What to look for in a repair professional

Before hiring a professional to repair the pluming Bucktown water damage, you'll first want to check with your homeowners insurance. It is possible that the entire bill covered by your policy.  

Once you've established if your insurance will pay for the cleanup or not, it's time to start whittling down your options for water damage Bucktown cleanup experts. While reading online reviews is good, you cannot rely on them alone. First, make sure you check that the business has the required licenses with your city. Unfortunately, there are some dishonest professionals who will fraudulently claim to have a license. Additionally, get all agreements in writing, make sure that they have the required equipment, and ask that all price quotes come with a guarantee.

Water or Flood Damage?

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown Today – (773) 434-9100

Restoring Water Damage In Chicago

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Why We Use Evaporative Drying Practices for Chicago Homes

Efficiency is the heart of the work that we do for Chicago homes after water loss incidents because we realize how time-sensitive recovery efforts must be to protect more of the construction materials and contents of your residence. Drying your home involves the perfect blend of sciences like temperature, humidity, and airflow to achieve the maximum evaporation of water in saturated materials and structural elements.

Evaporation has always been a staple of restoring water damage in Chicago homes and has become a centerpiece of recovery efforts when migrating water must get addressed behind surface materials or beyond the immediate rooms where the disaster originated. Evaporative drying practices make the management of moisture removal simpler and more readily monitored so that our SERVPRO professionals always have the right information regarding the progress of drying efforts. Successful evaporation involves the union of temperature, airflow, and humidity levels.

Temperature
Especially during the winter months, drying can slow to a crawl when temperatures inside of the residence are not as warm as they could be. To counteract these sometimes-cooler temperatures in the drying zones, our team bring along portable electric heaters to warm both the entire work area as well as specific points on damaged construction materials to bolster evaporation.

Airflow
Moving air is a vital part of drying because evaporating moisture from damp materials forms a cool-air barrier along the surface of the material. By using axial and centrifugal air movers, we can regulate airflow against the damp surfaces to clear this cool-air barrier and allow warmer, drier air to impact the affected material.

Humidity
As you might expect, evaporation can lead to higher moisture content in the damaged environments of your home. Our SERVPRO professionals have multiple dehumidifiers that can pull this moisture from the air and reduce the relative humidity levels in the structure.

Evaporative drying is the fastest and most efficient method our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team uses to remove moisture from materials and contents in the house after a water loss. To make these disasters, “Like it never even happened,” give us a call today at (773) 434-9100.

For more about Chicago click here.

Services for Flooded Chicago Properties - What is the Process?

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

We are part of the Chicago community. We are ready 24-Hours for Emergency Services

SERVPRO Takes Charge of the Situation to Prevent Further Damage

As Chicagoans, we are accustomed to floods, intense thunderstorms, the melting winter snow, and other destructive natural forces that can wreak havoc on our homes and businesses. In addition to natural disasters, busted or frozen pipes, leaking pipelines, and other in-home accidents can occur and ruin not only your day but compromise the interior of your home and your belongings.

The Importance of Water Removal

 
If you have flood or water damage in your Chicago property, we offer a range of services for both residential and commercial properties. It is important to remember that when you have with standing water or the remains of receding water, the damage does last and must be addressed immediately.
 
Waterlogged furniture, flooring, drywall damage, the potential for mold growth, and other unsafe conditions remain. The effects of water damage require the work of professional water removal and restoration experts. This is where SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown can help you!
 
Water Restoration Professionals
 
We proudly serve our customers with the goal of ensuring that your home or business receives the care and restoration that it needs.
 
Our Services include:
• Water Removal
• Storm Damage Cleaning and Restoration
• 24-Hour Emergency Services
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Professional Equipment and Restoration Services
• Mold Remediation

 
Water Removal, Damage Mitigation, and Cleanup in Chicago

SERVPRO begins the process with an immediate and thorough assessment of the damage in order to meet your needs. From water removal, cleaning up damage, and inspecting the structure's integrity, our IICRC certified technicians will professionally clean and even replace damaged property.
 
Our process of water removal and drying include the use of thermal scanning and other high tech high tech equipment and tools for the best results.
 
Contact Us Today!
 
Dealing with a damaged property can be stressful for personal residences and businesses alike -- but when it comes to water emergencies, there is no time to waste: call us at any time and let us take care of your water removal.
 
As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is strategically located to respond quickly to your water emergency event. When water damage occurs, we have the resources and personnel to help with water removal. Call us 24/7 at (773) 434-9100!

Learn more about the City of Chicago.

What Other Things Can Fire Damage in a Chicago Property?

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Our top priority is to mitigate the effects of fire damage in your home while keeping your family safe.

Effects Of Fire Damage

Once the flames have been extinguished, homeowners are often overwhelmed by the amount of damage that is left behind. It is not just ashes and smoke that result from fire damage, but several other surprising things ranging from flooding to lingering odors.

If you are a homeowner dealing with fire damage in Chicago, you know that fire emergencies can affect a home in many devastating ways. Here's how the experts at SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown tackle these challenges to restore your home.

Smoke Particles
The big problem with remaining smoke particles caused by fire damage is that it's notorious for causing odors. It also severely affects indoor air quality by not only imparting off smells by making the air itself harder to breathe in. Our technicians are equipped with advanced professional tools that effectively eliminate these particles, so your home will feel much cleaner and fresher.

Soot Residue
It's typically easy to see soot that has settled on home surfaces after fire damage has occurred, but soot is more than just an eyesore. It can be corrosive, damage surfaces, stain fabrics, and will wear through paint over time. SERVPRO professionals do not just wipe and vacuum away soot; we work to obtain a deep clean to prevent future damage throughout your home.

Water From Fire Damage
Firefighting efforts inevitably deposit additional residue as well as large quantities of water. Though it's necessary to tame flames, this type of fire damage can also be destructive to a home's structure. We're careful to extract water to not only make your home fit for occupying again but to ward off mold and mildew growth down the road.

Damage To Possessions
Furniture, clothing, electronics and other items can be ruined as a result of fire damage, but we're often able to salvage certain possessions. Our industry leading techniques and equipment allow us to restore what others end up throwing away, which saves you time and money.

SERVPRO's Methodology and Equipment Restore Smoke Damaged Properties

When a fire occurs, the most vital thing is to get it under control. After this crucial factor has been achieved, the next stage is to restore your home and belongings to their pre-fire condition. However, even after the initial cleanup has been completed, the smell of the fire can linger. Many homeowners find that even after all charred and damaged items are removed, and surfaces are thoroughly cleaned there is still a smoky smell in the air.
 
If you can still smell a burned or charred scent after fire damage to your Chicago home, further work may be needed to deodorize your house. SERVPRO technicians are trained to deal with lingering fire odors swiftly and efficiently. Our professionally trained and certified IICRC teams have the skill and equipment needed to deodorize your house and leave it smelling fresh once more –"Like it never even happened."
 
We train our IICRC certified technicians to assess what is causing lingering odors after a fire. Confined areas, attics, rafters, and the insulation in your home are all especially susceptible to odor entrapment after a fire has occurred. Each area needs to be treated carefully to ensure the odor is removed.
 
SERVPRO does arrive at your home equipped with deodorizing equipment. The first step is to assess what is causing the smell to linger. The next step is to tackle the smell at its source. We thoroughly vent the problem area, and clean surfaces to help scrub away the source of the smell. For some spaces, an odor counteractant can be used to clean away those odors. In some cases, placement of an activated charcoal unit overnight can absorb the smell. IF the home is vacant of the residents, live plants, and pets, we can set up ozone machines which chemically capture smoke particulates in the air. This process is typically used during the initial phases of fire and smoke cleanup. Hydroxyl generators are also very useful in purging the ambient air of unwanted particles, thus mitigating, and finally, eliminating the smoke odors.
 
If cleaning and ventilation fail in tackling stubborn smoke smells after a fire, our technicians are equipped with thermal fog equipment. Thermal fogging equipment mimics the heat and pressure of the fire in a safe manner. Materials that picked up the smell of smoke from the fire now pick up the deodorization droplets from thermal fogging in the same manner. Thermal fogging is one of the most effective ways to tackle lingering odors after a fire.

At SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown, our top priority is to mitigate the effects of fire damage in your home while keeping your family safe. We will perform speedy and efficient restoration so you can start enjoying your home once again. To receive further information or for a quote about our fire damage restoration services, call us 24/7 at (773) 434-9100.

Can Apartments Receive the Same Restoration Services as Homes?

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

We give apartment complexes the same priority as houses.

SERVPRO Restores Water Damaged Properties Whether a House or Apartment Unit.

Your Bucktown water damage can be the result of many circumstances. It could be a water heater that has given out. It might be a pipe that has burst because of freezing. It might occur when a septic tank or sewer connection breaks or loosens up. It might also be a sustained level of rain that does get enough time to soak into the ground and finds its way into your basement. It might be as simple as a dishwasher or washing machine or bathtub overflowing, some of which might happen while you are out of the house for a while.

If more than a small puddle of water remains after the source of the water intrusion has been stopped, consider calling a professional company that offers water damage restoration in Bucktown. Make the call after you are safely out of your home or apartment. Be sure to call your insurance company for advice and a possible provider to restore your residence.

Looking for Hidden Damages in an Apartment

Conducting an inspection is necessary. This inspector is looking for damage, such as water-soaked building materials and stained ceiling tiles as well as warped floors and furniture that may have become de-laminated. The search for the presence of mold patches also is noted as well as water and moisture sources between the walls, above the ceiling and below the floors. During the inspection, the SERVPRO Professional will utilize a corporate software program--CCIS. This Contents Claim Inventory Service will list water damaged items and building materials on a room-by-room basis. They will be categorized as salvageable, non-salvageable or questionable. Your insurance adjuster, with your input, makes the decisions of what to discard and what to try to save. This CCIS report aids in securing your best-case scenario for monetary reimbursement along with the restoration of your Bucktown Residence. Your insurance claim and the paperwork will be easier to complete with this detail-oriented report.

The final process is the repairing of everything that was torn out by the technicians. This would include the replacement of unsalvageable drywall, baseboards, and any wood flooring. Of course, first the water must be pumped or vacuumed out of the structure, dehumidifiers and air movers placed to enhance evaporation and moisture removal, cleaning all items, and sanitizing and disinfecting affected areas with antimicrobial and antifungal agents.

 Water can be destructive to your apartment unity, but our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown can help. Give us a call today at (773) 434-9100.

For more about Chicago click here.

How Do I Stop Leaking in the Ceiling of My Chicago Home?

4/4/2020 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Can Arrive Quickly to Dry Out Your Chicago Residence

Leaking can occur for several reasons, from poor insulation for the plumbing in your Chicago home to exterior damage on the connection points. Persistent leaks might not flood your house, but they do require immediate attention to prevent the situation from getting worse.

Water damage to Chicago homes that exist in ceiling structural cavities must get addressed using controlled demolition tactics and drying equipment. With an in-house roster of contractors, our SERVPRO team can provide real-time, minimalistic demolition was necessary to grant access to saturated materials in the ceiling assemblies and access to the compromised portions of pipe.

What can you expect when our professionals arrive at your water-damaged home?

    •    Fast and confident action to make real-time drying decisions
    •    Advanced technologies and equipment to extract water and dry materials
    •    Experienced contractors to rebuild after restoration

Water damages can be destructive to your home, but our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown can help. Give us a call today at (773) 434-9100.

For more about Chicago click here.

Removing Kitchen Fire Damage In Chicago

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown provides mitigation that is Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Removing Kitchen Fire Damage from a Chicago Condo

Fires, particularly in home kitchens, are one of the most common disasters that occur in the United States. In 2018 alone, fires incurred a whopping $25.6 billion in property damage. The staggering costs of a fire are not limited to property, however. Fires also cause long-term damages that consumer-grade products are not formulated to clean.

If your Chicago residence needs kitchen fire damage mitigation from certified restoration professionals, a SERVPRO crew can be at your home within hours of your call to address damages and restore your home and its contents to a preloss condition. SERVPRO prioritizes extensive training and education for all staff members, including franchise owners, so that they can provide as much assistance as possible to property owners in need of disaster cleanup. This includes continuous learning opportunities and online education to extend mitigation knowledge for professionals after certification.

Tips for Containing Cooking Fire Residues
    •   Fires that ignite in pans or pots should be covered, and the heat turned off immediately to smother the flames. Never move burning pans.
    •    Oven and microwave fires should also be smothered by keeping the door closed. Unplug the microwave if it is safe to do so.
    •    Baking soda and salt can be effective at dousing small kitchen fires. Never use sugar or flour for the same purpose. Water and Type-A fire extinguishers should never be used on grease fires. Use a Type B extinguisher, which is made for flammable liquids.
    •    Minimize personal fire risk by wearing short or tight sleeves and keeping long hair pulled back.
    •    Never microwave metals. This includes aluminum foil, silverware, and twist-ties that seal packaging.

How SERVPRO Removes Soot and Proteins
Protein residues and soot can work together to create foul odors, contaminate food, and discolor and corrode surfaces with long-term exposure. SERVPRO technicians can use enzyme digesters to turn protein residues from cooking fires into odorless, water-soluble byproducts. Soot deposits and charring can be addressed with mechanical agitation, wet cleaning solutions, and odor-killing blast media like baking soda.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown provides mitigation that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (773) 434-9100 for professional-grade disaster cleanup services.

For more about Chicago click here.

Water Cleanup from Basement Leak in Chicago Ceiling

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Our water damage technicians have the equipment and experience to restore your Chicago home to pre-damage condition.

Water Removal and Cleanup From Your Chicago Basement With Ease 

Basements have many purposes in the home, such as storage or as a home office. Others use them as playrooms or additional bedrooms. The process of having a basement dry-locked can average $10,000 or more. Once this area of the house gets finished, water damage from an interior source has the potential to be costly.

A homeowner in Chicago needed water cleanup after she noticed discolorations on the ceiling tiles of her finished basement. Looking directly below the water spots, she found the recently installed carpet directly below felt wet. 

Locating the Source of Water Loss

She called in SERVPRO to assist with water removal from the carpet and repair the basement ceiling. The techs used their moisture detection equipment and found a slow leak in a pipe in the ceiling. While the homeowner brought in a plumber to make the repairs, the techs continued the restoration services.

Minor Controlled Demo Needed

Only a small portion of the ceiling had wicked water, and the techs cut it away to open up the ceiling area for both drying and necessary repairs. They used a portable extractor with a weighted head to push the water out of the carpet and padding to prep it for drying.

Drying the Floor and Ceiling

When SERVPRO techs dry a property, they carefully set up the air movers to direct the airflow directly into wet areas to expedite drying. While the air movers cause embedded moisture to rise, the dehumidification equipment captures it and ports it away, which brings down the air moisture levels rapidly. This cycle lessens the chances of mold or musty odors being a secondary issue after the fact. The drying process gets monitored to ensure that the room attains preset interior humidity goals. 

Final Touches 

Once dry, the techs wiped down the exposed area in the ceiling with antimicrobial cleaning agents to ensure it was clean and ready for the installation of new ceiling tiles to get the room back to normal.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 brings their advanced equipment and skills to any size water cleanup need and makes the loss, "Like it never even happened."

Want to learn more about Chicago?

We Get You Back In Business In Chicago After A Fire

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

Our industry certified technicians are equipped with the latest equipment to mitigate your fire damage. Call us right away to prevent further damage.

Restoring Commercial Fire Damage Incident in Chicago Condo that Gutted a Roof

A gaping hole was left in the roof of a Chicago Condo after a fire burnt the support structures but left the rest of the structure intact. It was more than a lucky break since the response from the occupants and firefighters helped prevent a catastrophic outcome. When SERVPRO arrived at the site, we continued with what they had already started by cleaning up and restoring the Condo to its preloss state.

Commercial fire damage incidents affecting Chicago Condos present unique challenges, especially if the property remains occupied during the restoration process. The movements of people around the common areas of the property can spread soot and other soils. Air movements can also spread aerosols and other fine residues to the occupied areas where they can affect the residents, especially causing respiratory issues. Our SERVPRO technicians took different steps to address these problems. We boarded up the affected areas and installed a roof tarp to seal the hole in the roof. We also set up engineering controls like 6-mil plastic sheets on openings such as doorways to halt the spread of residues.

After establishing control, we started the fire damage cleanup process by first removing unsalvageable contents and building materials in the affected areas. Our SERVPRO technicians had to mix different approaches, including controlled demolition to access building materials such as drywall, insulation, and power cables. Some of the materials sustained salvageable damages such as charring or heavy residue deposits. In these areas, our technicians used abrasion techniques to remove the charring and residue deposits, restoring the materials instead of removing them.

The fire fighting and cleaning processes had left considerable amounts of moisture in the building, so our crews had to carry out thorough drying to restore normal levels. The expansive space in a Condo can complicate drying processes. Our team was up for the challenge since we had a trailered desiccant dehumidifier to manage the drying process. Accessories such as lay-flats helped move the air around the property.

Fire damage in a condominium inconveniences many people, thus the need to complete restoration quickly. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 to help manage an incident, "Like it never even happened."

See more about Chicago.

How Frozen Pipes Cause Water Damage in Chicago

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

Winters can be brutal in Chicago. Take precautions to ensure that your pipes won't freeze.

SERVPRO Handles Burst Pipe Water Removal in Chicago 

While homeowners know the necessary precautions for preventing frozen pipes from bursting, they may be surprised to know that even during mild weather, all it takes for a pipe to burst is for the temperature to be at or below freezing. In a study of 433 Philadelphia burst pipe claims, the average loss incurred from frozen pipes was $27,000, but expenses were as much as $1.7 million for more significant properties. 

If wintry weather leads to you needing water removal for your Chicago residence, IICRC-certified SERVPRO technicians can arrive at your home within hours of your call to address the source of the damage and restore your home to preloss condition. SERVPRO's state-of-the-art tools and consistent adherence to Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards ensure that you get high quality and thorough cleanup anytime disaster occurs in your home. 

Preventing Pipes from Bursting in Wintry Weather

• Maintain adequate temperatures in your home. To minimize fire risk, do not use space heaters, but if you do, do not leave them unattended and make sure there are at least 3 feet from anything flammable. 

• Keep pipes insulated and make sure that there is warm air circulating wherever there are water pipes in your home, including in garages and unheated areas. 

• Run some cold water on each floor of your home, especially in the areas furthest from your water main. 

• Remove garden hoses from their bibs and cover them with hose bib insulating caps. 

How SERVPRO Can Help

If the pipe bursts under the floor, water can thoroughly saturate the carpet and potentially damage the subfloor if left unchecked. With this in mind, SERVPRO technicians can use a variety of extraction tools to address and remove the issue. If the carpet is salvageable, this team can pull it up and float it. We then use air movers and low-grain refrigerant dehumidifiers to circulate air both over and under the carpet. 

However, the carpet may require removal and replacement if it is separated from the pad underneath. Exposure to moisture can weaken carpet as much 50%, so fast action is a must for restoring it. 

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown wants to ensure that your home looks, "Like it never even happened." Call (773) 434-9100 for professional disaster mitigation at any time of the day or night. 

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We Are The Choice You Can Trust In Chicago After A Fire Disaster

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

This grease fire on the stove top of this home caused soot and smoke damage and our experts arrived right away and began restoration.

Manipulating Temperature for Pre-loss Fire Damage Restoration in your Chicago Home

Fire Damage Chicago

While a recent house fire may seem like catastrophic harm has come to your home, necessary cleaning and restoration tasks can go a long way toward reducing the expense of your claim. You may also find that with professional cleaning solutions, many of your possessions can return to their preloss condition and return to your home "Like it never even happened." The cleaning procedure relies on a good knowledge of how fire works and being able to identify the different types of smoke damage as well as the materials they effect. By using trained experts in the field, you give your home the best chance of returning to a preloss condition.

Our roster of fire damage restoration technicians here in Chicago is capable of performing a detailed assessment of your home. During SERVPRO pre-testing, we try to locate smoke residues, use ph testing equipment to help us identify different residues, and note down the type of surface material. These steps are essential to successfully capturing, removing, and disposing of smoke residues. Often, we may need to take debris to a waste facility for correct, safe disposal, which we include in our service.

Each surface in your home is going to respond differently to cleaning efforts. These individual responses are what can make fire restoration a challenge. SERVPRO may use temperature as a means of removing soiling. With higher temperatures, chemical reactions speed up as well as the movement of particles on a molecular level. Heat can help to remove soils that bond with surfaces or speed up the dissolving of smoke residues into a cleaning solution. We can use truck-mounts to heat chemical cleaning solutions or bring in portable heaters to increase the overall temperature of the room.

Another method of removing stubborn soiling from fire damage is to agitate the surface. SERVPRO technicians may use necessary equipment like scouring pads, brushes, or dry sponges to loosen soiling from walls or ceilings. In some situations, we may use more advanced equipment like air whips or sandblasting. Often this equipment have more of an aggressive impact on the surface itself and can sometimes be useful at removing layers of the material that are soiled beyond repair. Certain woods can benefit from being sanded down and refinished rather than replaced.

When dealing with fire restoration, many different methods require know-how to enact correctly. Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

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Fire and Odor Cleanup in a Chicago Apartment

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

Advanced Skills Ease the Challenges of Fire and Odor Cleanup in a Chicago Apartment

When a fire broke out at a Chicago apartment, most of the residents were concerned they would lose their valuables to the flames. Fortunately, most of the materials in the affected unit were not highly combustible, so the fire did not spread quickly. However, the smoldering combustion process produces significant volumes of smoke, spreading odor around the unit and adjoining areas.

Identifying odor sources
The main challenge when dealing with the fire and odor cleanup at the Chicago apartment was identifying the odor sources. We had to check contents and construction materials, including those hidden in wall cavities, to identify likely odor sources. For items covered in layers of residue, it was easier to pinpoint them as the odor sources. However, since odor molecules are invisible, we could not rule out those without residue. Common walls within the apartment complex also meant that odor spread from the unit affected by the fire to other unaffected units. Our SERVPRO technicians opened up the walls to reach hidden materials such as insulation, which we suspected, would act as odor reservoirs.

Multi-step odor control
Odor molecules are volatile, so they spread quickly around the affected property. We had to use several steps to clean up the apartment, and get rid of the odor. Our SERVPRO technicians cleaned off residues from surfaces by wiping them off with cleaning sponges and other manual agitation methods. Physical removal of residues eliminates a considerable percentage of the odor. We then applied water-based odor counteractants through direct spraying and ULV fogging. Ventilating the area and running air filtration devices finally helped remove odor molecules suspended in the air.

Cleaning the HVAC system
During a fire, soot and other smoke residues find their way into the heating and ventilation system. Later on, when the system is turned on, the residues emit odor, which is reintroduced into the indoor air. We cleaned the ducts at the apartment to ensure this did not happen.

Odor issues can linger long after a fire incident. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 to help restore your apartment after an incident, “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Chicago click here.

Some Ways to Effectively Remediate Commercial Water Damage in Chicago

1/26/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage at your Chicago resort is a No Go! Contact SERVPRO for effective remediation efforts.

Expedited Commercial Water Removal Helps Save Chicago Resort's Reputation

When people make reservations to visit a resort in Chicago, they expect to find everything in top condition when they arrive. If any change is expected, most people would want an upgrade, such as a nicer room or extra services at no additional cost. A water loss incident can ruin the stay for customers, and damage the reputation of a resort.

After receiving a call to handle water removal at a Chicago Resort, our SERVPRO team had to ensure a fast turnaround to minimize or eliminate any inconvenience that visitors would experience. We scoped the loss to determine the time it would take to complete restoration, allowing the management to disseminate clear information to guests already at the resort. Apart from choosing steps that would expedite the restoration, we also had to use the fastest approaches when implementing them. We chose:

•     Partial Instead of complete move-out
•     Closed drying system
•     High-speed extraction equipment
•     Specialized floor drying

Having sufficient space to maneuver when removing water from property helps speed up the process. Moving furniture such as beds and other contents from the wet areas helped create the room we needed. However, performing a full move-out to an external storage facility would take time, so we choose a partial move out, such as stripping bedding and moving it to dry rooms.

Most of the water had settled on the floor surfaces necessitating wet vacuuming and other forms of water extraction. Our SERVPRO technicians used a truck-mounted water extractor because of its faster rate of water extraction, thus completing the job faster.

On finalizing the extraction, we also had to dry the rooms, including the wooden floors that hard absorbed some of the standing water. We set up drying mats on the floors to extract moisture while running air movers and dehumidifiers in the rooms to dry other surfaces and remove excess humidity from the air.

Water loss incidents should not lead to extended business closure. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 to help manage any incident, "Like it never even happened."

Click here to learn more about Chicago.

Using Borescopes and Cavity Drying Equipment to Correct Minor Water Damage in your Chicago Home

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

Let us help you get your Chicago home back in order after a water incident takes place.

Our SERVPRO Team has the Experience and Equipment to Help Reduce Chances of Water Loss in your Chicago Home.

Water Damage Chicago

Inside the walls of your home is a matrix of electrical cables, water-pipes, and drainage pipes. There may also be several microbial bacteria or mold spores which make up a natural part of any indoor environment. However, issues like a slow leak can begin to cause severe problems in your property. You may notice an area of your home begins to fade, yellow, or become odorous. Alternatively, the water pressure of your taps and shower may weaken. 

These are signs of a slow leak that could be causing water damage to your Chicago home. The longer that slow leaks go unnoticed, the more costly issues they create, which is why homeowners need to stay vigilant to the subtle changes in their home environment and amenities. Among some root causes of damage, mold growth as well as stagnation or rot occurring from inside wall cavities. For a homeowner, these areas may be tough to inspect regularly, which is why you can use SERVPRO to investigate and restore potential water loss.

One of the issues with water buildup in wall cavities is restrictive access. Demolishing or removing sections of drywall may be an unnecessarily aggressive response. SERVPRO technicians use Borescopes to check inside cavities without the need to remove them altogether. Where there are significant water issues, we can remove walls to gain drying access. But in many cases, we can use non-invasive equipment to achieve the same result. 

Examples of non-invasive structural cavity drying equipment may include injectidry systems, negative and positive air pressure machines. A negative air pressure machine uses a large exhaust that stretches outside the property. Smaller ducts can be fitted and attached to the wall. A SERVPRO technician can either drill holes beneath the baseboard or on the wall itself, filling it in again once the service is complete. 

Depending on the extent of damage, we may choose negative air pressure to remove contaminants from inside a wall or injectidry systems to circulate warm, dry air inside the cavity. Which option we want depends upon the results of the Borescope inspection. SERVPRO can help you to overcome minor water issues in restrictive areas of your home by using the right equipment at the right time. 

You can reach us anytime from our emergency operator. Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

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Our Technicians Are Ready 24/7 To Restore Your Chicago Home After A Water Damage Disaster

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

We used our state of equipment to suction out the standing water, and then removed the carpet tiles in this home after a water damage disaster.

DIY Cleanup vs. Professional Water Cleanup in Chicago

One mistake homeowners sometimes make taking on water cleanup in their homes after a plumbing disaster, appliance malfunction, or storm damage is self-cleaning. Sometimes the amount of water is more considerable than the home efforts can handle. 

One of the most significant differences between DIY and professional water cleanup in Chicago properties is the equipment. SERVPRO technicians have access to a vast array of advanced equipment designed specifically for different types of surfaces and situations. 

Why SERVPRO?

The training the technicians of SERVPRO undergo is extensive and ongoing. As new advancements happen in the restoration services industry, they stay on top of the latest technology to ensure each job they work on gets the best outcome from fire, mold or water damage.

Consumer vs. Professional Drying Equipment

Fans blowing on a wet surface tend only to dry the area the airflow hits. When SERVPRO deploys their air movers and dehumidification equipment, it works to not only dry surfaces but pulls embedded moisture out of the structure for complete drying. 

For particular situations such as wet wall cavities, there are specific pieces of equipment such as the Injecti-Dry system that directs concentrated airflow into tight spaces. Drying mats have the potential to make the difference in a hardwood floor that is a restorable rather than a loss. The careful monitoring during the drying phase ensures that the damaged area meets preset goals for air moisture levels.

Avoiding Water Odors

Often, after drying and wiping down the water loss area with antibacterial cleaning agents, it is enough to dispel residual odors. However, in some cases, the musty calling card of damage from water may require more robust treatments. The techs have access to numerous types of odor control equipment and choose the best method based on the level of scent removal required. 

When your home needs water cleanup, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100. The technicians arrive quickly and work to restore your home to its preloss condition "Like it never even happened."  

See more about Chicago.

Call Us Today To Make Your Chicago Water Loss "Like It Never Even Happened"

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

We have the experience, expertise and equipment to dry and restore your property after water damage sets in.

Drying and Demolition Cleaning for Chicago Apartments

Water loss incidents can originate from many sources in Chicago apartments, and getting ahead of the spreading damage can help you to reduce the total losses you experience. As you might expect, water effects can migrate quickly through a property from the source outward, so within a short period, a broad area of your living space has become affected by this spreading threat. Drying up the damage is, unfortunately, only part of the equation, however.

While drying and even extraction are vital elements to the recovery of your apartment, water cleanup in Chicago properties plays an equally important role. In many situations involving category 2 or above water losses, the likelihood of controlled demolition and necessary reconstruction is high. Not only can intricate material removal eliminate overly damaged construction materials and contents, but it can make otherwise inaccessible areas of the building available for focused drying and cleanup.

Wet-vacuuming can remove pooling water damage from the flooring of your apartment. With the inclusion of wands and carpet extraction pads, we can more successfully remove moisture from flooring materials. With exposed elements like wood trim and drywall, however, there is little that can be done to protect these items if the exposure has persisted for longer than 24 hours. The only suitable solution to both reduce potential microbial growth and to most efficiently return the property to preloss condition is through controlled demolition and later reconstruction.

We have a full team of general contractors that can help both the demolition and the build back of damaged areas of your apartment. A prompt start to these definitive steps can reduce the possibility of damaging neighboring units through shared walls or the floors. Our SERVPRO contractors have more than 30 years of combined experience, ensuring that we can only remove what is necessary to maximize drying and recovery efforts.

Water loss incidents in an apartment can threaten much more than just your unit. You can count on the fast response and expertise of our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team to limit the migration of these effects and provide practical strategies to make water losses “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at (773) 434-9100.

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SERVPRO Explains Some Equipment for Water Removal in Chicago Properties

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Advanced Equipment for Water Extraction and Drying for Chicago Properties Following Leaks

Water Extraction Chicago – Detection and Drying

An overflowing sink or a leaking pipe can cause a great deal of water to spread rapidly across floors, into other rooms, as well as to the floors below. Water always seeks the path of least resistance, flowing into nooks and crannies, and wall cavities. Hidden water soaking into building materials can be very problematic.

SERVPRO deploys both water extraction equipment from our Chicago offices along with moisture detectors to dry your home or office. We want to avoid potential structural damage from long term moisture exposure as well as bypass potential mold infestations. We make sure your home is dry before we leave.

Water Extraction Techniques

Once we determine that the environment is safe to enter, SERVPRO can deploy a variety of equipment to remove water from floors, cavities, and walls. Truck-mounted water extraction pumps can be deployed for large amounts of standing water. Otherwise, we utilize hand-carried vacuums and wands to remove water from the floors. Weighted extractors can be used on carpeting to remove water from carpeting and underpadding.

Water Detection

Occasionally water can penetrate walls and hard to reach crevices. We can use moisture sensors to check for water in these areas. If there is water or moisture detected, small holes can be drilled, and water can be withdrawn using small tubing. We avoid the requirement of tearing large holes in drywall by following this detection technique and then blowing dry air into the area to remove all moisture.

Reducing Humidity and Removing Moisture

SERVPRO deploys air movers to drive dry air across damp areas and under carpeting if needed. The dry air absorbs the moisture. The air is then conditioned by dehumidifiers placed in appropriate areas of the room. We may also ask the homeowner to turn on the AC to assist in lowering the humidity level throughout the home. Your home is dry to standard levels before we leave after our final walk-through.

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve South Lawndale, West Garfield Park, University Village – Little Italy and the surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Here is Greektown.

Water Removal Chicago – Clean Carpeting

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will be there for all of your Chicago water damage, from the pack out down to the carpet cleaning.

Carpet cleaning after your Chicago water damage.

Water leaks often occur in bathrooms, kitchens, and even laundry rooms. Water spreads from these rooms, which are typically hard surface flooring into rooms with carpets on the floors. Now is the time to not only remove the water that has collected in these rooms and clean the carpet at the same time.

SERVPRO technicians are all trained in carpet cleaning and water damage services in the Chicago area. In addition, we also provide storm damage, flood damage, and mold remediation services.

Initial Focus – Remove the Water

Our SERVPRO team's initial focus is to remove the water that may have collected on the hard surface floors. We remove water that has migrated to carpeted floors, as well. Our crew chief assesses the requirements and arranges for the appropriate deployment of equipment and team members.

Water extractors are used to remove the moisture from the carpet and underpad. Air movers are used to blow dry air over the carpet to draw moisture out of the carpet. Occasionally we may need to lift the carpet and blow dry air under the carpet to enhance drying.

Cleaning Carpets Simultaneously 

SERVPRO also provides carpet cleaning services. Our experience has shown that when there is water damage to a carpet, it is an excellent time to have the carpets cleaned at the same time. After the water has been removed, our teams can deploy our state of the art cleaning equipment.

Dust, dander from pets, food items, and skin cells regularly find their way onto carpeting and into the deeper regions of the carpet. Regular vacuuming can minimize the number of particles and dust collecting in carpets. Depending on the last time your carpets were cleaned, your floors could benefit from a thorough cleaning.

Carpet cleaning services are offered to match the condition of your carpet, from least aggressive to most aggressive.

• Bonnet Cleaning
• Hot Water Extraction
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse
• Rotary Jet Extraction and
• Showcase

SERVPRO can clean your carpets in conjunction with water damage events, remove odors, and return your carpeted floors to like-new condition.

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve South Lawndale, Cicero, West Garfield Park, and the surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

To find out more about Chicago, click here.

Why Immersion Cleaning Is Crucial After A Fire In Chicago

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

You can rely on us to apply the latest restoration standards and technology to every job we do.

Applying Immersion Cleaning to Fittings and Fixtures that have Fire Damage in Chicago Homes

When burning materials release hot-smoke, it can apply pressure to surfaces as well as wear away finishes. As a general rule, hot air is attracted to cold surfaces, which is why homeowners often find the recipients of the worse damages are chandeliers, drapery rods, or other solid metal fittings. In some cases, these materials can be costly to replace and unsuited to agitative or aggressive cleaning methods. We operate with a restore over replace mentality and utilize the latest technology in our everyday restoration services.

The extent of fire damage in your Chicago depends on the size and scope of the fire. However, smoke damage is consistent in every fire restoration service we carry out and can often spread far from the source. This can be particularly problematic for fittings as well as ornaments or lighting. Since smoke particles are microscopic, they can quickly enter into the smallest fixture gaps or buildup on the surface of a well-designed fitting.

For dense items that have attracted a significant amount of smoke damage, SERVPRO technicians can use immersion cleaning techniques. Immersion cleaning involves completely covering an object or material in the solvent cleaning solution. Ultrasonic soundwaves are then emitted into the solvent, which causes it to bubble. When these bubbles burst, they create both heat and friction, which can be exceptionally effective at removing deep-set soots from hard materials.

Ultrasonic cleaning methods can be a valuable tool for a restorer of contents. However, not all materials are suited to immersion cleaning. Porous materials can quickly become damaged by the pressure, heat, or friction created during ultrasonic cleaning. During the inspection of your property, a SERVPRO technician can identify which items in your home are suited to immersion cleaning.

Other items may respond more readily to traditional cleaning methods or maybe deemed non-salvageable. As part of our restoration services, SERVPRO can inventory non-salvageable items or structural contents. These materials can be removed and replaced by your technician. The removal of materials can be logged for passing onto your insurer.

You can rely on us to apply the latest restoration standards and technology to every job we do. Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 to begin.

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We Provide Reliable Water Cleanup Services For Your Chicago Home

10/26/2019 (Permalink)

Call (773) 434-9100 today to have a team at your home within hours.

Why SERVPRO Can Offer Reliable Water Cleanup in Chicago

In just one year, the amount of water leaked in water-related claims all over the US can amount to 1 trillion gallons. This consumption is more than the water usage of Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami combined. Whether from a pipe leak, appliance failure, or flooding, many homeowners often need additional care to prevent mold growth and structural damage after water-related disasters affect their property.

If your Chicago residence needs water cleanup from disaster mitigation experts, SERVPRO can help you with jobs both big and small. Technicians and franchise owners alike are highly trained in disaster mitigation techniques with state-of-the-art techniques and EPA-registered, OSHA-approved cleaning products. SERVPRO's training program is both extensive and continuous and provides IICRC training, employee certification training, online learning options, continuing education courses, and much more.

Choose IICRC-Certified Experts
Why is IICRC certification training necessary? The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification sets the standard for what is expected from cleaning and restoration companies. Everything from carpet and upholstery cleaning practices, to fire and water cleanup standards, is set by the IICRC. The emphasis in SERVPRO's education materials is placed on adhering to these guidelines and providing consistent quality to homeowners who require disaster cleanup.

How SERVPRO Can Help
Even small punctures in appliance hoses, such as those required for dishwashers or washing machines, can cause extensive damage. Running faucets can wreak havoc on flooring and porous surfaces. When SERVPRO comes to your home, they can use state-of-the-art technologies to monitor the condition of your property and get to work extracting water. Cleanup specialists can use wet/dry vacuums on tile floors as well as rovers that suck moisture out of carpets with ease. After thorough extraction, technicians can set up centrifugal air movers and low-grain refrigerant (LGR) dehumidifiers to pull moisture off of surfaces and replace it with warm, dry air. These pros focus on restoration to lower insurance rates and save clients millions of dollars per year.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown knows the importance of being Faster to Any Size Disaster and is committed to bringing the community quality cleanup and restoration 24/7. Call (773) 434-9100 today to have a team at your home within hours.

For more about Chicago click here.

We Discuss Measures To Prevent Flood Damage In Your Chicago Home

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

Actions to Prevent Flood Damage in Chicago Homes

People who reside in flood zones know to expect the area or occasionally flood, but the fact is that is can happen anywhere.

When flood damage occurs in Chicago, homes with some prior preparation have the potential to limit loss with actions such as possessing sandbags for use to create a barrier, having HVAC equipment raised off the floor, and the installation of sump pumps in basements.

Move Important Documents and Heirlooms Out of the Threatened Area
In the event, groundwater begins to enter your home. It is good to have a plan of action. Determine items that need to go to other areas of the house. Homeowners should turn off the gas and electricity if there is a danger of water coming into contact with wiring or outlets. Most importantly, have the phone number for both your insurance agent and a restoration services company in the event you find yourself dealing with floodwater in your house.

Actions to Limit Damage from Floodwater
Once groundwater is in the home, it is vital to engage a professional restoration services company. Until the water receives testing to determine the nature of any contaminants or sewage, residents and pets should avoid contact. SERVPRO technicians arrive on-site quickly and extract any remaining water.

Drying is Crucial
Running fans on wet furnishings or carpet does little to assist in the limiting of flood loss. In some cases, this action increases the damage. Carpeting compromised by groundwater has no restoration potential and requires disposal as a biohazard. After the elimination of saturated items and building materials, SERVPRO technicians use a combination of high-velocity centrifugal air movers and dehumidification equipment to capture and port away the moisture to quickly dry the property.

Odor Control Before Reconstruction
Post-flood loss cleanup, there are often repairs and rebuilding efforts needed. SERVPRO technicians use different applications to give homeowners a water-odor-free structure to build on, so there are not musty scents trapped anywhere in the home.

At the first sign of damage, contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100. The certified technicians have both the experience and equipment to clean up and restore your home to its pre-flood condition, “Like it never even happened.”

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Got Stuck? Try These Tips to Streamline Your Commercial Flood Damage Situation in Chicago

10/13/2019 (Permalink)

Finding that your grooming facility has suffered flood damage can cancel some much needed appointments. Keep your business opened with SERVPRO.

Special Needs of a Chicago Dog Groomer Facility with Commercial Flood Damage

Some businesses have their brand rooted in the look and feel of their establishment. Spas, hairstylists, and dog groomers are just three types of companies that come to mind. 

When a specific niche business such as a dog groomer facility in Chicago has commercial flood damage, the property needs restoration to sanitary levels for regular operations as fast as possible. Downtime means customers seek out other groomers, and loss of clientele is a possibility.

Preservation of Stock

In a service business that relies both on foot traffic and sales of a limited amount of stock such as dog shampoos, matted hair treatments, brushes, and other items for clients to purchase for home dog coat care, it is vital to remove those items to a safe area away from the flood loss area. 

Floor Extraction Methods

SERVPRO technicians test the water for the type if any contaminants they are dealing with in the cleanup and apply appropriate bactericide or antimicrobial solutions as a proactive treatment. They use portable pumps to remove the water with squeegees for use on tile flooring. Doing multiple passes ensures they lift the maximum amount of moisture, and this, in turn, lessens the drying time so the business owner can get back to providing services to human and canine clients.

Rechecking Before Drying

Technicians scope the water loss areas with their moisture detection equipment to confirm they did not miss any areas where water migrated during extraction. They use a combination of tools to ensure complete water removal and drying of the property.

Ensuring Cleanliness for Return to Daily Operations

After drying, the technicians disinfect the premises using antibacterial and antimicrobial cleaners. Their exclusive SERVPRO Orange cleaner is suitable for most surfaces and leaves a pleasant citrus scent that is not overpowering to human or canine noses. 

Restocking

Once the flood damage cleanup efforts complete, technicians move previously removed items back into the store so it can reopen ready to receive customers and sell products. 

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 is available to clean up and restore commercial flood damage with their vast array of equipment and experience to make it "Like it never even happened."

Click here for more information about the city of Chicago.

Our Water Damage Experts Can Save Your Chicago Day Care Facility

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 to help keep your doors open.

Specialized Assistance Eases Commercial Water Damage Restoration In Chicago Day Care Facilities

With the flurry of activities in a daycare facility, a water loss incident is an unwelcome distraction. The incident can also cause damages and pose risks to the kids in your facility. Since your staff members have to perform their regular duties and keep an eye on the kids, there might be no one free to do the cleanup. Severe damages might also occur so help from professional water damage restorers is essential.

Improved Safety
Taking steps to improve safety for everyone is essential before taking other steps to deal with commercial water damage incidents in Chicago. Slip and fall accidents are common when surfaces are wet. The kids might also venture into the affected areas if the incident happens when they are in the facility. Our SERVPRO technicians take various actions to ensure everyone is safe, including posting warning signs to inform parents and other adults to keep away from affected areas. We also help move items that may pose risks to residents and create barriers to isolate affected areas from the rest of the facility.

Better Cleaning of Contents
Water spills affect different contents, including play toys, furniture, and appliances. Part of the restoration process should involve cleaning all affected items to sanitary levels so that they can be safe for the kids at your facility. Our SERVPRO technicians use environmental-friendly professional cleaning agents to clean contents. These agents bio-degrade rapidly ensuring that apart from removing soils and contaminants, they also leave no chemical traces that might be harmful, especially to young children using the items.

Ease of Dealing with Carpeted Areas
Carpeted areas in your daycare facility can be hard hit if there is a water spill. If the incident is significant, removing the affected carpet and pad is mandatory. Our SERVPRO technicians know various tricks that help when dealing with carpeted areas. For example, we use carpet awls and knee kickers for simpler detachment of the carpet from the pad. We also use extractors with shorter hoses to expedite the water removal since shorter hoses reduce resistance.

Closing your daycare due to water damage can have a significant spiral effect. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 to help keep your doors open. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Our Trained Professionals Are Ready To Restore Your Chicago Home After A Flood

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

We have the equipment to remove the residual flood damage and moisture trapped in your walls and floors after a flood.

Enhanced Moisture Detection Equipment and Skills Needed to Map Out and Manage Flood Damage Perimeters in Chicago

Out of sight, out of mind is not a phrase that bears repeating when coping with flooding in Chicago. If you own one of the Arts and Crafts or Prairie Style homes our area is known for, be prepared for the possibility of significant water migration inside your home after a flood. An incredible amount of water can seep through and hide in, between, and under the hardwood floors and built-in cabinets, bookcases, and buffets these dwellings feature.

Water Sources

Chicago residents see flood damage during extreme late summer and early autumn weather patterns dumping many inches of rain over a short time. Significant water incursion occurs because of overland flash flooding, damage to your home exterior, and seepage that follows supersaturation of the ground around your home.

Obtaining Water Metering and Other Locating Skills

Our managers and technicians develop and hone their skills during the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training. We know that substantial quantities of water hide in building cavities after flooding. Skill in using moisture meters and probes help us “see” water on the other side of building structures. Infrared imaging cameras use temperature fluctuations to locate larger caches of water. We map out the places where excess flood waters hide.

Considering Controlled Demolition Techniques to Reach Trapped Water

Water that flowed under your built-in kitchen cabinets or dining room buffet can release for extraction by removing kick plates. Drilling holes inside a set of drawers or through the faux floor of an under-counter pantry or corner lazy-susan are strategies. Our technicians might use negative pressure to suction the flood waters out and then switch to directing warm, moving air into a series of drilled holes to complete drying.

Negative Air Pressure Floor Drying Mats

Extracting flood water that drained below to the subfloor accomplishes by sealing mats to spaces identified as lying just above areas of subfloor saturation. Hoses attach to the mats, and the water pulls out after the conduits are connected to an extractor.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown employes trained employees and stocks sensitive detection tools to find hidden flood water before it damages structures and encourage mold growth. Call us at (773) 434-9100 to schedule an extraction evaluation and plan.

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Some Effective Paths to Flood Damage Remediation Success in Chicago

9/15/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let this happen to your Chicago laundry room. Call the remediation specialists at SERVPRO today for help.

How SERVPRO Protects Your Chicago Home After Flooding

Saturation is one of the most pressing concerns for professional restorers responding to flooding and other substantial water loss scenarios in Chicago homes. The professionals of our team have years of hands-on experience in water recovery situations, and when combined with our training through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and our cutting-edge flood recovery equipment, we provide a service that can exceed your expectations.

Some homeowners might believe that flood damage in Chicago properties can often get addressed by the property owner alone without the employment of professionals. The truth is, many homeowners lack the equipment and training to address the full spread of water damage, and only the damage on the visible surface can get dried and cleaned. Especially with substantial loss incidents like flooding, many areas you cannot immediately see can get equally damaged and saturated by the spreading effects.

The solution to this situation is to place your trust in the fast response and continually growing experience of our SERVPRO team. We seek to protect your property from the moment that we first arrive, including powerful mitigation practices designed to reduce out of pocket expenses. Many of our customers have not sought out flood insurance or do not have this coverage option for their homes, so cutting costs without cutting corners is a vital element to the work that we do.

Extraction can involve multiple units working simultaneously, especially if the flooding has affected an entire floor of your property. Water removal on the same level as our trailered equipment and the Green Fleet can put powerful tools like the truck-mounted pump into the arsenal. With a 300-psi efficiency, this pump can get your property prepared for drying almost immediately.

Because we want to help our customers through the trauma of this ordeal, we also set aside an entire division of our team to protect the belongings of our clients. We can remove them from the premises with pack-out procedures and provide these possessions with focused cleaning and drying efforts while restoration continues in the house.

These might only be a couple of the steps that our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown professionals take when addressing a flood loss situation, but we can help however your property and family needs. Give us a call anytime at (773) 434-9100.

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Crisis Averted! SERVPRO's Quick Commercial Water Removal Keeps Chicago Coffee Shop Opening on Schedule!

8/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can remediate water damage quickly to keep the caffeine flowing in your coffee shop.

Fast Commercial Water Removal Saves Chicago Coffee Shop's Grand Opening 

When you are planning a grand opening for your new business, the last thing you want to deal with is water damage. Fast cleanup and disinfection of the premises are vital, primarily when the company serves food and drink to the public. 

When SERVPRO handles commercial water removal in Chicago businesses, our goal is to cause as little disruption as possible. In the case of a company that is getting ready to open, appearances are even more crucial to make an excellent first impression. 

When our technicians arrived at the job-site, the property owner explained she came into the building to do some preparatory set up before the grand opening the following week and discovered a supply line break in the kitchen area. Water sprayed out and ran under the cabinet area, covering the floor. 

We quickly removed the baseboards and extracted all the water from the floor and under the cabinet area with our portable pumps. We moved the boxes of cups and other necessities for serving coffee out of the way during cleanup. Very little loss occurred due to the owner catching the water spill early and fast action getting cleanup efforts started. 

Our goal was to get the property ready for the grand opening. After removal of the water and thorough drying of the property, our technicians scoped the room to ensure no excessive moisture remained. Common issues with inadequate water cleanup can be:

• Foul, musty odors
• Formation of mold colonies
• The weakening of building materials
• Delamination of floor tiles and damage to subflooring

The final stage of water cleanup is odor control to make sure when the coffee shop had its grand opening; it smelled fresh and clean.

When you need commercial water removal, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100. Our certified technicians can turn back the clock on water damage and make it "Like it never even happened." 

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We Get You Back To Business In Chicago After A Flood

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

Storm Damage can leave the site of the damage without power or without sufficient power to operate. Our team has the equipment to handle this.

Chicago Retail Flood Damage Risks Need Professional Attention

Every time meteorologists announce that a rainstorm battering Chicago approaches record-breaking status, you wonder if the next round of extreme weather will exceed the mark. Knowing that your store could be in the line of business-busting flooding after another storm is a scary proposition. We offer you an opportunity to plan for disaster and streamline recovery.

Operating a store on the Magnificent Mile means residents and visitors from around the world are in line to stroll into your high-end Chicago venue. Flood damage in Chicago impacts not only the customers who queued up to disappointment immediately after flood damages your premises, but also the friends and family to whom they express their frustration.

Business owners stand to lose more than inventory, equipment, and decor after a flood. Your reputation is also at stake. SERVPRO understands how essential a rapid and effective response is for the future of your store. We recommend working with us on an Emergency Ready Plan and Profile (ERP) to prepare for a flooding crisis.  

An experienced SERVPRO manager inspects and assesses your store before any flood damage occurs. We do this for two reasons. First, to familiarize our team with the layout of your store and how you conduct your operations. Second, to note vulnerabilities on your retail floor, storage and inventory spaces, and offices or other areas. A thorough viewing allows us to plan the approach we need to respond to future flooding. It also permits us to make practical suggestions intended to minimize the probability of damage to the contents and structural components of your shop.

SERVPRO’s knowledge of the locations of utility shut-offs, drains, interior recesses, and other features unique to your store speeds our water removal and structural drying process. Understanding how you manage customer flow can help us prioritize and even plan with you strategies to keep a portion of your operations open during remediation.

Take advantage of our mobile app-driven Profile to designate SERVPRO as your mitigation and remediation contractor. Share the contact information of vendors and consultants who designed your spaces and systems if we have concerns or questions. Appoint trusted employees or other individuals to guide the recovery effort if you are unavailable or unable to do so yourself.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown knows the whole community benefits when you survive flooding events with your commercial property and customer base intact. Call us at (773) 434-9100 now for an ERP assessment.

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Our Experts Discuss How to Protect Your Chicago Home From Flood Damage

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let flooding take over your Chicago home. Call the professionals at SERVPRO today for remediation assistance.

How Costly Flood Damage Can Be for Chicago Homes 

When disasters strike your Chicago home, especially natural disasters like flooding, there is no time to lose to correct the effect on your property. Saturation and potential contamination all play a role in how critical it is to act immediately when your home gets damaged by rising floodwater. Often these circumstances can be overwhelming, and it can be challenging to know what is the best solution and approach to restoring the property. 

Unfortunately, there is little that you can do initially to ward off flood damage in Chicago residences when these situations develop unexpectedly. The ideal approach in these situations is to determine the severity of the damage as safely as you can and determine your competency to restore, clean, and dry these affected areas. Often people reach out to the experienced professionals of our SERVPRO team when flooding occurs. 

Restoration costs considerably less when the symptoms of the damage are manageable. When our professionals can arrive and extract standing water or dry saturated elements fully without the need for demolition and later reconstruction, the overall costs of restoration and recovery stay as low as possible. When homeowners delay in reaching out to professional technicians like ours to help, or even wait to begin their own versions of recovery, damages can compound and increase exponentially in severity. 

Our SERVPRO professionals have a 24/7 response to all storm relief and flood recovery situations, and we can mobilize our experienced team quickly with our fully-stocked ready trailers and service vehicles at our facility. This readiness combined with our trained Water Restoration Technicians (WRT) and Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians (AMRT) accredited through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), we can offer customers a confident and efficient restoration approach. 

No two flooding incidents are the same, and so our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown specialists must formulate a restoration and recovery plan tailored to your residence and its needs. We can help to save our customers money because We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. Give us a call anytime you need us at (773) 434-9100.

Click here to see more about Chicago. 

A Quick Response Is Crucial After A Flood In Your Chicago Home

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 for 24/7 service. We can meet all of your flood damage needs.

Flood Damage Chicago – Quick Response Reduces Losses

Storm systems moving quickly through a neighborhood can cause a great deal of damage in minutes. With heavy rain, creeks and rivers overflow, storm drains are overwhelmed, and many homeowners find their homes flooded within short time frames. The amount of destruction caused in these situations can be significant and only gets worse the longer your house remains filled with water. High moisture can cause the growth of mold if not dealt with quickly.

SERVPRO responds to flood damage in Chicago and surrounding areas. We provide water removal services, moisture removal, and drying services. Our crew is highly skilled in these areas in addition to providing restoration services to bring your home back to its original condition.

SERVPRO technicians follow a time tested process to ensure that we deliver the best service possible to our clients in the least amount of time. We aim to minimize the losses to your family and reduce the stress of these events.

The process we follow immediately after receiving a call from a customer in distress is first to scope out and evaluate the damage. We take the time to assess the issue and martial the equipment and team members needed to deal with damage to your home caused by disasters.

Next, we focus on protecting the structure and contents. We board up windows and doors if needed. A hole in the roof is covered to reduce the amount of additional water penetrating the home. It is also essential for the homeowner and our technicians to establish a safe environment. For example, We shut off electrical circuits and gas mains if needed. Next, we focus on extracting the water and drying the structure and contents.

Our team works with the homeowner to prioritize the drying and recovery of essential documents. Various items are often removed for further treatment. We dry the documents and restore these materials to the best condition possible. Restoration can begin as soon as drying and moisture removal is complete.

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 for 24/7 service. We can meet all of your flood damage needs. We serve Chicago, South Lawndale, Cicero, and surrounding areas. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

For more about Chicago click here.

When A Disaster Strikes Your Chicago Property, You Need To Call The Crew At SERVPRO!

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

Call us at (773) 434-9100 to level the playing field when water, fire, mold, or storms seem to have the upper hand.

Good Management And Great Customer Service: Why SERVPRO Stands Out For Disaster Recovery In Chicago

The restoration team from our family-owned and operated disaster recovery business is honored to assist with your Chicago water, fire, mold, or storm disaster. We bring the integrity, training, experience, and cutting-edge equipment necessary to restore your home fast and with compassion and adherence to the highest quality standards. Our communications with all customers are open and transparent, and we are committed to providing clear documentation for your insurance claims to limit the financial stress of your project.

Water Damage
When the toilet overflows or the washing machine spews soapy and dirty water across the floor, you need help with the water cleanup in Chicago. Our team of Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained water removal specialist arrive as soon as possible after your call, ready to assist with the management of contaminated water damage in your home. Our employees are well-versed in the different categories of water and how to rid your home of them safely.

If water with urine or fecal matter invades your bathroom, you face the possibility of your family and friends coming in contact with dangerous pathogens. The crew we send knows how to contain and remove the overflow, disposing of fluids per local regulation. We use the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered cleaners and antimicrobials to remove soiling and disinfect the space. Because the moisture and its contaminants can percolate through grout lines, we check for trapped water with thermal imaging and use moisture meters to ensure we extract all the offending liquid and apply the disinfectant as appropriate.

A toilet water overflow can rate as black or Category 3 water, but there are still concerns with the gray or Category 2 water your laundry appliance sends into a utility room or basement. The organic compounds in soap and dirty laundry provide nourishment for microbial infestations like mold and mildew. Our familiarity with categorizing and safely eliminating contaminated water is why SERVPRO has your back after a household appliance or fixture emergency.

Fire Damage
Chicago soot and smoke cleanup for both your home and its contents are only a phone call away. Our IICRC-trained Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) are prepared for every aspect of mitigating and remediating the aftermath of a blaze in your house. We handle everything from removal of the firefighting water to cleaning of sooty residues to odor elimination. We also help arrange for any rebuilding or repairs needed after the fire damage cleanup.

Even a seemingly minor fire can spread soot and smoke throughout all the spaces of your home. If the HVAC system was engaged and operating at the time of the fire and its extinguishing, residues might have been vented into other living and storage areas far from the actual site of the fire. Our experience and training support us as we inspect every room inside your home, looking for evidence of damage. An untrained eye might not see the signs, exposing structures to progressive harm from corrosive fire residues, which is why SERVPRO’s assessment is vital.

The odors left by a fire can be particularly unpleasant and long-lasting. Our resources include technological advances in odor-fighting, including thermal foggers, hydroxyl generators, and other equipment. Strategies that work involve attaching the odor-bearing particles of soot at the molecular level, changing the chemical composition of the soot to neutralize not just cover up the stench.

Mold Remediation
Whenever we assess a home for water, fire, storm or other damage, our crews are vigilant to inspect for mold damage in Chicago. Anytime water intrudes into a home mold growth is likely, especially if any areas remain damp for more than 24 to 48 hours. Mold spores are always on-site, but they are cause for little concern unless they begin growth after they encounter moisture. When growing, they can eat into organic building materials and irritate susceptible individuals.

Hidden mold growth is not uncommon in attics along the roofline after a harsh winter. Ice dams that built up in the midwestern winter can allow water to seep into your upper levels during the thawing and freezing cycles. The colonies eventually move into living areas or at least share their unpleasant smell, so we come looking. Our remediation team can contain, remove, and disinfect the moldy areas without exposing the rest of your home to mold debris drift.

After the mold remediation, other members of the team can help arrange for roof repairs and inspection of the gutters and downspouts that might contribute to the development of ice dams. Our full-service restoration focus is why SERVPRO is the company to rely upon when mold remediation becomes needed. We can take care of the effect and the cause throughout the same project.

Storm Damage
The Chicago area is no stranger to severe weather every month of the year. Residents are aware of the possibility of tornadoes and torrential rains during the summer and heavy accumulations of snow, sleet, and ice during the colder months. Straight-line winds can be strong enough to tip semi-trailer trucks, winds gusting over 50 miles per hour coming across the flat landscape west of the metropolitan communities on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Homes in Chicago can experience storm damage that looks very different depending on the season. Spring and summer rain amounts have been recorded here that exceed an inch and a half an hour, resulting in flash flooding and seepage of significant amounts of water into the lower levels of area homes. Some areas of the city struggle with antiquated sanitary sewer systems that drain poorly with the added load, causing a backup of human waste into basements. Reliable, professional removal, containment, and disposal of contaminated flood water are why SERVPRO is your storm damage remediation choice.

The Windy City lives up to its title during snowstorms, roofs and other parts of home exteriors vulnerable to harm from the crushing of blowing snow or falling trees that allow water to force itself inside, an even more disturbing pattern as ice dams grow in damaged gutters. When you call for help because of winter snow damage we board up and tarp areas open to the elements and attend to water damage inside. Fast response is needed no matter the temperature as mold growth can occur even when the daily highs are frigid.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is up to the challenges posed by the change of seasons and disasters that follow their own timetables. Call us at (773) 434-9100 to level the playing field when water, fire, mold, or storms seem to have the upper hand.

https://www.chicago.gov/city/en.html

Restoring Fire Damaged Items in Your Chicago Home

7/6/2019 (Permalink)

Rather severe or slight, SERVPRO will help you.

Let us get you back to the basics.

If your home experiences a fire damage incident, then the cabinets are part of the structures that are likely to experience some damage. No matter how small the fire is, efficient measures need to be taken to restore your property and prevent further deterioration. Usually, smoke travels around the building and can affect walls, furniture, ceilings, and other items that are far away from the point of combustion. We are going to look at some of the procedures we use to reface your Chicago home. 

The seriousness of the fire determines whether the fire damage outcomes in your Chicago home are severe or slight. There are instances where our SERVPRO technicians reface the cabinets by removing their exterior doors, removing the smoke damaged finishing, and make the needed repairs such as refinishing and repainting. However, replacing the cabinet’s is the best option when there is significant smoke permeation. 

When it is necessary to clean the cabinets, we have to choose a method that suits finished or unfinished surfaces. Most cabinet interiors are made of unfinished wood, so, our SERVPRO technicians may use a dry cleaning sponge to remove the residues. In some instances, we use the sanding technique to remove any remaining residues. 

Another challenging location that our SERVPRO technicians need to clean during the restoration process is the attic’s. They are hard to clean since they are porous, comprised of unfinished wood, and their shapes are irregular. If you had stored some contents in the attic, we need to first remove them before the cleaning can take place. Whenever we come across unexposed structure timber, we use a deodorizing pre-sealer or a duct sealer to do the sealing. 

Smoke may also change the appearance of your home's insulation. Our SERVPRO technicians usually replace the insulation as opposed to cleaning it. In some cases, we may remove and replace the top layer of the insulation when the lower section is free of smoke damage. 

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown follows the regulations of the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) when attending to commercial and residential properties. Call (773) 434-9100 to learn more about the restoration and cleaning services that our experienced technicians offer. 

Click here to learn more about Chicago.

Our Water Damage Professionals Will Save Your Chicago Pizzeria

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Give us a call anytime disasters strike at (773) 434-9100.

Restoration For Water Damaged Chicago Pizzerias

Water loss incidents can occur from multiple sources, and when you have a busy Chicago pizzeria to manage, you might not stay fixated on all of these potential problems. From plumbing breaches to fixture breaks like the supply line for the toilet in the customer bathroom, loss incidents can quickly get out of control if you do not seek out the professional assistance and expertise of qualified technicians. We have a full roster of restoration specialists accredited through the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in both Water Restoration (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying (ASD.)

With our extensive experience with water loss recovery, we can quickly identify the severity of water damage to Chicago pizzerias like yours and establish a plan of action to address each of these concerns specifically. As challenging as it might be to keep your business open with widespread water loss effects, we can work with business owners like you to establish containment strategies that can keep you serving hungry customers despite the recovery efforts taking place within the establishment.

As this is a location affiliated with the food and beverage industry, it is even more critical to avoid costly and reputation-damaging scenarios like mold and microbial growth. Persistent moisture and dampness can facilitate the colonization of mold organisms from naturally occurring spores in the environment. As part of our containment and mitigation solutions, our SERVPRO team can set up air scrubbers and hydroxyl generators to begin filtering out mold spores and other potential contaminants, debris, and dust from the environment.

We have multiple rapid drying solutions, and with hundreds of drying units in our inventory, we can handle even large loss situations with ease. Our SERVPRO professionals can identify the full spread of moisture and dampness and set up these drying units to maximize their effectiveness.

Our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team knows that closing your doors can be even more damaging to your business than any disaster, so we can work with property management to keep your business running through restoration when possible. Give us a call anytime disasters strike at (773) 434-9100.

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Summer Storms Can Spell Big Trouble For Your Chicago Home

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is prepared to respond 24 hours a day to your request for flood damage assessment and remediation.

Summer Storms Bring Flood Damage To Chicago Residents

North Central Illinois to Lake Michigan can be a corridor for severe summer storms. Every time the skies lower and darken,  your home risks the devastation that tornadoes or straight-line winds and heavy rains can inflict on the Chicago area. Overtaxed sewer systems in some areas of the city also contribute to the possibility that your basement might soon be swimming in rain runoff. We are up to the challenge of remediating your flooding woes.

Flood damage in the greater Chicago area needs fast and professional attention. The combined load of overland and street flooding experienced from heavy rains plus the additional water pouring through holes into a wind-damaged home send significant quantities of water rising in the living, utility, and storage areas below your first floor. Our trained technicians offer customers well-honed skills in everything from tarping and boarding up exterior damage to water removal and drying to cleaning and disinfection of flood-affected areas.

SERVPRO crews arrive with all equipment needed for flood damage remediation packed into our signature green trucks. As our crew leader assesses the damage, members of the team begin securing any breaches in your roof, windows, or siding. Once the project plan finalizes, our crew immediately gets to work removing water, employing high-efficiency submersible pumps and extractors to evacuate the majority of the flooding. Since storms often cause electrical outages, SERVPRO ensures access to alternative power sources to avoid delays in our response. Our gas powered pumps and truck mounted extractors can operate using onboard fuels and generators we transport to your site.

Flood water contains contaminants including human waste from sewage backup, chemicals from roadways and the surrounding landscape, and decaying organic matter such as deceased animals. The levels of contamination require us to treat flood water as hazardous waste and SERVPRO follows local requirements by containing and properly disposing of the tainted fluids.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is prepared to respond 24 hours a day to your request for flood damage assessment and remediation. Call us at (773) 434-9100 to arrange for a consultation as soon as possible after the storm.

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If Your Chicago Home Experiences A Water Loss Event, Our Crew Is Here To Help!

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

You can count on our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team to arrive quickly with the equipment and experience to help.

Debris Removal For Water Loss Incidents In Chicago Homes

Once you have got the flow of water stopped through burst pipes in your Chicago home, you get your first look at the widespread damages and effects from the incident. It can surprise many homeowners how far water loss effects can move from the source to affect materials and areas of their house far from this plumbing break. Contending with moisture and dampness can prove problematic without understanding where these problems persist, and on top of this need for proper drying in your residence, you also have to begin debris removal and controlled demolition to prepare the property for reconstruction efforts to come.

There are many steps involved in water cleanup for your Chicago residence, but this process typically begins with a full assessment of the damage to your property using our sophisticated moisture detection tools and leak detection devices to determine the location of the ruptured plumbing within the walls. Our thermal imagery can often prove vital to determine which areas of your house have become severely affected by pooling water and saturation, which can help to direct drying efforts and to educate our SERVPRO professionals on irreparably damaged areas of your house’s construction.

Controlled demolition is a vital component to preparing your property for the work that is necessary to return it to preloss condition. In many cases with substantial loss incidents, flood cuts, and removals of entire drywall panels must occur to prevent secondary effects like mold and microbial growth from taking root on hosting materials like sheetrock. Instead, our thermal imagery and infrared cameras can identify moisture content and saturation and determine which portions of the wall must get removed and later replaced to make this water loss incident “Like it never even happened.”

Responding quickly to a water loss emergency is vital to protecting your property as much as possible from the spread of devastating effects. You can count on our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown team to arrive quickly with the equipment and experience to help. Give our technicians a call anytime at (773) 434-9100.

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Call Our Crew Of Technicians If Your Chicago Home Experiences A Fire

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

Contact us 24/7 at (773) 434-9100 for quick remediation.

Using Debris Removal Services After Fire Damage In Your Chicago Residence

One of the leading causes of direct property damage is electrical lighting and distribution equipment. Many home fires occur because of faulty electrical or lighting systems. To prevent these fires, it is vital to ensure that a qualified electrician does all the electrical work in your home.
 
In the unfortunate event of fire damage to your Chicago residence, you need to hire experts who can help you restore your home to its pre-fire damage condition. Apart from charring the floors, ceilings, and walls, a fire can ruin other items. Smoke from the fire can damage your pictures, clothing, and furniture. This is where a restoration company like SERVPRO comes in handy. We have the equipment, manpower, and experience to offer you high-quality fire damage cleanup and debris removal services.
 
Depending on the seriousness of a fire, removing debris is the initial step in remediating a fire loss. Our technicians can conduct debris removal to prepare for the rest of the remediation project. A fire can leave a lot of debris behind that can pose some health risks to the residents of a home. Sharp objects like broken utensils and nails can cause injuries. Our technicians can remove such items to make it easier for the restoration process to begin.
 
The exteriors of your home may also have things that need to be disposed of like damaged shingles, torn gutters, and ash. We have portable storage containers that are useful for debris removal. We also abide by waste disposal laws to dispose of the debris safely. Once we remove the debris, we can take the other steps to restore your home to its normal condition, including deodorizing the scents.
 
Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover the expense of debris removal but may not offer reimbursement until after the work is complete. Our SERVPRO technicians can work with your insurance company and provide the adjuster with pertinent information about billing. We also monitor a fire damage restoration job daily and remain accessible to our customers.
 
When there is fire damage in your home, SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is the right remediation company to call. We have the expertise to make the damage look “Like it never even happened.” Contact us 24/7 at (773) 434-9100 for quick remediation.

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Water Extractors Mitigate Damage in Chicago Properties -- And SERVPRO Has Them!

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Tall Chicago Buildings to a Studio Apartment SERVPRO Has the Equipment for Water Loss Mitigation

Water Extraction Technicians in Chicago Talk about Different Equipment

Whenever moisture enters a structure in Chicago, various types of damage can occur. The first step to preventing moisture-related issues is to conduct water extraction methods promptly. Once water sprays out of your pipes or another source, it quickly starts to soak into your contents and building materials as well as evaporate into the air inside the structure. Our professional technicians at SERVPRO know that it is much easier to remove moisture while it is in its liquid form. Therefore, we always conduct water extraction promptly after we receive your emergency damage phone call.
 
When it comes to removing liquid H2O from your contents and building materials, our SERVPRO team has many different tools of the trade we can utilize for various scenarios. Most water removal devices in Chicago that we use consist of an extractor and tools that attach to it. Extractors come in different sizes and consist of a vacuum motor and water tanks. Some units are portable and can be pushed into areas of your house that are difficult to access. Other systems are permanently mounted to trucks or vans and provide significantly more suction and lift power than portable machines.
 
After we figure out which extractor is best to use for your specific situation, we then decide the best extraction tool to attach to it. These tools range in size, and there are specific items designed for removing moisture from certain materials. For example, when removing water from small areas like closets or furniture pieces like recliners, handheld extraction tools may work best.
 
If a large portion of the carpet inside your home gets wet, then more heavy duty tools can be implemented. We can use large extraction systems that use the weight of the operator to compress the carpet, allowing more water to get vacuumed up. One such device is called a Rover, similar to a riding lawn mower.

If you ever suffer from a plumbing failure that results in wet carpet, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 24 hours a day.

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Our Fire Damage Experts Can Restore Your Real Estate Office In Chicago To Pre-Damage Condition

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

With our green service vans, We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster and available 24/7 by calling (773) 434-9100.

SERVPRO Gets Rid Of Commercial Fire Damage And Returns Curb Appeal To Real Estate Office In Chicago

It was just a little fire damage in the bathroom of a real estate office when an employee threw a still-lit cigarette into the trash. There was a strict no-smoking policy, and the employee thought the cigarette was completely out when it was thrown away. Laying on paper towels and other items in the trash, it quickly ignited. This, in turn, caused the fire suppression system to activate and the office was misted with a fine layer of water.

When SERVPRO mitigates commercial fire damage in a Chicago business such as a real estate firm, we know that the term "curb appeal" needs to apply to the office we are restoring. First impressions count in the matter of whether or not potential buyers or sellers have confidence and trust in their company and lingering odors or visible damage from smoke can make the difference.

Our emergency response teams arrive quickly, and we bring everything we need so once the work starts, it does not stop. Immediately the place where the fire occurred would be contained, and damp items affected by the mist would be removed for drying off-premises. Walls and floors are inspected to determine if they are retaining moisture for special attention during the drying phase.

Our experts try to cause as little disruption to the office as possible during restoration. Instead of moving out large conference tables, desks, and chairs, we put them up on blocks to dry while the air movers and dehumidifiers pull the residual moisture from the property. After drying, we wipe down all surfaces with our EPA-registered professional cleaning formulas that remove soot, smoke residue and odors while leaving a fresh scent. This ensures when clients come to the office, they will not even be aware a fire has happened.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown knows that the faster mitigation starts on your property the more secondary commercial fire damage issues you can avoid. With our green service vans, We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster and available 24/7 by calling (773) 434-9100.

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Our Experts Explain How To Prevent Structural Burns To Your Chicago Property

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

Any time something burns inside your Chicago apartment, items inside can get ruined.

Fire Damage Crews From Chicago Give Advice On How To Prevent Structural Burns

Any time something burns inside your Chicago apartment, items inside can get ruined. Even the smallest blaze can cause you to have to call in a professional fire damage restoration company such as SERVPRO. Even minor burns can create smoke that can travel throughout the structure and cause problems far away from the fire's source. Partially combusted particles can stick to surfaces throughout your apartment unit and cause unpleasant aromas to exist inside the building. The longer fire damage goes without being properly treated, the worse the foul odors can get.

Having something burn inside your home is not very common, but it does happen more often than it should. The best way to prevent fire damage in your Chicago dwelling from occurring in the first place is to take steps to keep the blaze from taking place. There are several things that can be done that help burns from starting and help keep them from being very devastating.

One main practice that can help prevent destructive fires is to have smoke detectors and make sure they are operating at all times. These tools are a requirement to have for most insurance policies because they can warn people of a burn before it gets out of hand.

Heat sources are a common source of structural blazes, and they should be checked regularly. Always make sure your furnace's filters are clean and if you are using a space heater do not place it close to any flammable items.

A common source for structural burns is your kitchen. Making sure all of your kitchen's appliances are clean can help keep grease from setting ablaze. When you are cooking inside your kitchen, never leave items you are preparing unattended. Unattended cooking accidents account for a major part of all structural fires.

Another part of being prepared for these types of accidents is always to have a fire extinguisher handy and ready to use. However, if something does ever burn inside your home, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 24/7.

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We Can Help Return Your Fire Damaged Home In Chicago To Pre-Damage Condition

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's emergency services are available to assist you 24/7 to restore your home to its preloss condition.

Specialty Fire Damage Cleaning In Chicago

Every fire damage situation we handle is unique. Even though the science behind cleaning and restoring property that has been damaged is relatively finite, it must be applied individually to each site we remediate. A procedure that worked well at one location may not be as effective at another. That's why our technicians pursue continued education in restorative sciences so they can stay on top of the latest developments and trends.

SERVPRO technicians know that the quicker homeowners call them, the faster they can begin to turn around fire damage in Chicago homes. Expediting cleanup lessens the potential for secondary damage from standing water from extinguishing the fire, odor problems, and mold growth.

Drying areas drenched in the fire fighting efforts is a double issue for SERVPRO technicians. First, the longer water stands, the more contaminated it becomes along with the potential for structural damage. Second, odor-causing particles from the fire smaller than the naked human eye can see, and they can spread throughout the home and create pungent problems in currently unaffected rooms. Our IICRC-certified technicians know that containment is crucial and set up barriers to limit the spread of soot particles before positioning air movers and humidifiers. After drying, our technicians often employ negative air fans which move contaminants from a contained space through ducts to an outside area creating a vacuum (negative air) effect.

HEPA-vacuums remove dangerous particles from surfaces prior to hand cleaning to remove all traces of smoke and residue from surfaces. Carpeting, furnishings, drywall and other porous materials are not automatically a loss due to a fire because they absorbed the foul odor and are smoke damaged. SERVPRO has Odor Control Technicians who specialize in removing fire odors mitigating loss to homeowners.

Cleaning up fire damage, even for small fires, is never a DIY project. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100. SERVPRO's emergency services are available to assist you 24/7 to restore your home to its preloss condition.

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Why Professional Remediation is Necessary for Your West Loop Botique

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

lSERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is available 24/7 to get your business back up and running.

Never Hesitate When Your West Loop Beauty Boutique Suffers Water Damage

A broken pipe can cause a lot of problems for a retail establishment, problems that stem from the initial water damage. Leaving excess moisture for too long can create mold. Water can damage the merchandise that your beauty boutique offers. Not to mention, water damage can also cause the foot traffic in your store to halt until it remediation occurs. Overall, having a water damage-problem inside of your store is not optimal, and it is vital to tackle it as soon as possible.  

A pipe in the ceiling burst over the back wall and the storage room behind it inside of your West Loop beauty boutique, causing water damage in the ceiling, surrounding walls, and the floor. In the storage room, boxes of new eyeshadow palettes, highlighters, and blushes were soaked through and ruined. It is essential to get both the plumbing fixed and the water damage remediated as soon as possible, to avoid further problems inside of your shop.  

When you call SERVPRO for help, we always make it a top priority to get to your shop when you need us to be there. We understand how hectic your schedule can be and how valuable your time is. Thus, we work around your clock. Day or night, we can come to your aid and get your shop up and running again.  

When we arrive at your store, SERVPRO can do a brief investigation and create a drying plan for the water damage. To start, we can clean out the boxes of ruined merchandise and help you make an insurance claim by taking inventory of everything lost. From there, we can remove the standing water from your shop using tools like wet/dry vacuums, portable pumps, and extractors.  

To dry out the space between the wall that the water used to rush to the floor, SERVPRO can drill a tiny hole and feed air blasting tubes through, exposing all sides of the wall to dry air. In your storage room and at the back of the store, we can set up dehumidifiers, axial fans, and air movers to keep a flow of dry air going throughout the space while also encouraging excess moisture to evaporate.

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.Once we finish, we can return your store to you, "Like it never even happened." 

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Get The Assistance You Deserve When Dealing With Fire Damage In Your Chicago Area Home

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke residues cover every item caught within the affected area.

Fire Damage In Your Home

You never wanted to have to deal with fire damage on your property, but accidents happen, and here you are. Several friends and co-workers give you unsolicited advice about how to handle your situation, each with ideas about what is important and whom you should contact for help.

When deciding on a fire damage restoration company in the Chicago area, consider someone who can deliver far more than essential services. You need a company that handles fire, water, storm, and mold issues on a daily basis, but you should also look for someone who wants to be there for you.

You want someone who can address each one of your concerns individually, tailoring their restoration process to fit your unique situation and provide you with services needed to get things back to normal as quickly and efficiently as possible. However, the entire restoration process should also be as stress-free and enjoyable as possible, that company is SERVPRO.

If you want someone who has 24-hour emergency service, who responds to your request for help promptly and can provide you with useful tips to help prevent future events, call SERVPRO. We understand how devastating this type of incident can be and provide you with the caring expert solutions necessary to help guide you through the restoration process.

Think about it, a fire happening on your property involves drying the entire area, cleaning carpets, giving individual attention to each item to remove fire and smoke damage, cleaning and deodorization methods, water removal, as well as possible microbial remediation. Do you want to leave your home in the hands of someone inexperienced in any of these methods? No, you want to get the best help possible and get things back to normal as soon as possible. Never hesitate to call, waiting only makes things worse.

Fire and smoke residues cover every item caught within the affected area. Making it essential for professional restoration technicians to fully inspect each item individually, giving each of your belongings the attention they deserve to determine whether they are restorable or not. SERVPRO’s professional technicians utilize IICRC standards and best practices in water, fire, mold, carpet, and cleaning during your restoration process to help return your property to a quality pre-damage condition you can enjoy.

Make the call to SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown to receive the help you deserve. Our staff eagerly awaits your call (773) 434-9100.

For more information regarding Chicago, click https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en.html

Our Professionals Have The Tools To Handle Your Bucktown Home Restoration

1/31/2019 (Permalink)

When these icicles melt they can cause water damage in the roof and our experts are here to help.

Why SERVPRO is Excellent for Water Damage to Your Bucktown Home

In the winter months in Bucktown, ice dams are just one of several natural occurrences which post a threat to the structure of your home. A buildup of ice from melted snow which has refrozen, an ice dam forms near the edge of your home, usually in the gutters. Then, melted snow cannot drain off your home to the ground, which creates a backup of liquid with nowhere else to go other than into your home.

Ice dams can form quickly on your Bucktown home and cause water damage. It is best to call the professionals at SERVPRO when you find an issue like this so the water inside can be cleaned up and your home can be restored. SERVPRO techs are adequately trained and equipped to handle any water damage to your home and do it promptly to avoid additional damage. Therefore, it is easy to see why SERVPRO is an excellent choice for water damage restoration.

When weather conditions mean there is repeated freezing and thawing your home can be prone to ice dams. When snow settles on your roof, some of it melts and goes down into the gutters. If your attic is poorly insulated, the heated air from inside your home and the lack of insulation melts snow rapidly, and this newly formed liquid goes down the slope of your roof. As the weather gets cold again, this water refreezes, creating a dam that snow which melts cannot get past. You then have that melted snow seeping into your home.

SERVPRO technicians have the tools to dry up the water damage which has come in, and since some might be hidden, we use moisture meters to find it, so nothing is left behind. Hidden water and moisture can easily create mold inside your walls and ceiling, so it is imperative that we find all the moisture and dry it out.

When ice dams have caused melted snow to invade your home in Pilsen, Wicker Park, or Chicago, reach out to SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown for assistance. We can be reached anytime you need us by dialing (773) 434-9100, so do not hesitate and we can restore your home to the way it was before the water intrusion.

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Storms Off of Lake Michigan Can Damage Roofs in Chicago--Call SERVPRO for Cleanup and Restoration

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Stormwater Leaks in a Chicago Attic Need a Fast Cleanup and Drying Before This Happens--Call SERVPRO

Flood Damage Technicians in Chicago Discuss Problems with Attics

One common place that can get negatively affected by a severe thunderstorm that comes into Chicago is your attic. The confined space above your living area is a common spot that can develop flood damage after severe weather strikes. The most frequent cause of problems with your attic is a leak in your roof. Excessive rain or hail can ruin your roof's shingles and allow moisture to get into your home. When mitigating flood damage after a storm, our SERVPRO technicians always inspect your roof and attic for issues.
 
Once moisture gets into confined spaces in your home the humidity level in the area can rise significantly. Elevated relative humidity levels can cause your building materials to get wet and create flood- damaging effects inside your Chicago residence. When the humidity rises inside your attic, it can start to ruin your structural components. Elevated humidity levels can also create an environment that is prime for mold growth. Attics are a common place for fungi to develop since there is a large number of organic substances and natural microbes present.
 
Whenever dealing with problems inside your attic structural materials such as your insulation can get ruined. When insulation gets wet, it lowers the R-value of the material. Some types of insulation must get removed when it gets wet. Other types of insulation such as fiberglass, can sometimes be saved with drying procedures. There is also the problem of personal possessions and contents being ruined from the water or moisture.
 
When drying out an attic, our SERVPRO technicians can contain the area with a plastic barrier to better control the environment. To do this, we seal off the entrances and any vents inside your attic. We then attach an air scrubber to the containment chamber to suck up any harmful particles that get caught in the machine's HEPA filter. Once the region is contained, we set up air movers to create a counterclockwise airflow within the affected area. The fans help water evaporate into the air as dehumidifiers work on removing moisture from the air and dispensing it in liquid form.
 
If you ever notice wet materials inside your attic after a storm, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 any day of the week.

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Leave Commercial Water Damage In Chicago To The Professionals At SERVPRO!

1/5/2019 (Permalink)

If your commercial property requires immediate attention, contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

Maintaining A Safe Environment For Your Tenants With Commercial Water Extraction In Chicago

Property managers are expected to maintain a safe environment for their tenants at all times and are liable for any damages or injury caused by burst pipes, heavy rainfall, and flooding. In instances where water spills are concerned removing said water and rapidly drying the property are a priority. In these circumstances, professional help is a must.

As a leading provider of Commercial Water Extraction in Chicago, we offer a viable solution for your property. SERVPRO is a local company with national resources and has Large Loss teams that have traveled all over the country helping to restore damages. Not only do we have unrivaled experience in dealing with commercial properties, and their insurance adjusters, we also offer a unique service proposition.

We operate a 24-hour emergency call-line. On receiving your call, we can send a team of highly trained specialists to your property immediately on receiving notification of loss. Each team is lead by an IICRC qualified project manager who can liaise with you directly throughout service. Communication is essential to ensuring an efficient service, particularly in older commercial residences where builds may have pre-existing structural issues.

SERVPRO can mobilize a significant amount of equipment in a short amount of time. Our truck-mounted extraction units are capable of removing 750 gallons of water in one go. We can also provide portable extractors for use inside smaller areas where accessibility may be an issue- useful when damages occur in attics or on upper levels. Where there is standing water above two inches, fully submersible gas-powered pumps can be deployed to remove it rapidly.

SERVPRO has a national reputation which carries weight with insurance adjusters. Our experts also have experience in dealing with claims. If necessary, your project manager can act on your behalf when contacting your adjuster as well as providing a full itinerary of the service operation to make your claim as simple as possible.

If your commercial property requires immediate attention, contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

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SERVPRO Provides Cicero Customers with Mold Remediation

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Can Improve IAQ Indoor Air Quality with a Professional Mold Remediation Service for Your Cicero Home

Mold Removal Technicians In Cicero Talk About Indoor Air Quality

If a small water leak occurs in your home, there is a chance that a mold colony could develop. If you ever notice the presence of fungi, it is wise to call in a professional mold removal company like SERVPRO. Once microbes activate, structures called hyphae form that produce root-like anchors so that they adhere to the surfaces of organic substances. Once the hyphae start spreading around the surface of the material and the organisms expand, they start releasing microscopic seed-like structures called spores. These spores can then circulate and start more fungi issues in other areas of the house.

Once the spores are in the air they can get inside your home's ventilation system. As a part of the mold removal process in Cicero, our SERVPRO technicians take measure to remove harmful particles from the airflow and prevent more from getting released. Before we begin work in a contaminated area, we seal the affected region off with a thick plastic barrier. We then set up an air scrubber that cleans the contaminated air by pushing it past a HEPA filter that catches even the smallest microscopic particles. If the spores have been in the air for an extended amount of time, we can clean your heating and ventilation ducts with specially formulated chemicals, extension brushes and a powerful vacuum just for this purpose.
 
Any time mold exists there is a possibility that it can negatively affect the air you breathe. According to the Environmental Protection Agency or EPA, the air inside buildings can be more contaminated than the air outdoors. Once spores are present in the air, your house can suffer from degraded indoor air quality or IAQ issues. IAQ is defined as the overall quality of the air you breathe when you are inside a building. Fungal contaminations are just one of the thousands of different types of pollutants that can exist in the air.
 
In some cases, we can leave the air scrubber in the affected area after the work is complete to remove further any harmful particles that remain. If you ever notice mold developing inside your house, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

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Tips To Protect Your Home In Chicago From Being Destroyed By A Flood

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown provides help with flood damage mitigation and restoration when worst comes to worst.

Fixes To Protect Against Flood Damage In Chicago And Improve Your Home

Although flood damage in Chicago is usually a rare event, it still holds the chance to cause you significant amounts of grief when you least expect it. With a few small steps, you can both help keep your home safer against flooding in the future and implement a few common-sense improvements to your daily life. Although you can never fully protect your home from the effects of storm flooding, these ideas may make its impact on you much smaller down the road.

Keep Valuables in Plastic Bins
Electronics, fabrics, and other items that could take permanent and severe flood damage in your Chicago home can all be placed in plastic bins for easy storage, organization, and protection against floodwater. Although a thin plastic barrier may not stop the most powerful of floods, they can protect your belongings from most floods we see, which are usually not powerful enough to topple bins over or rise above their brim.

Prioritize Storage on Upper Floors
Although basements and some ground-level floors may seem to be ideal places to store your belongings, almost all danger of flood damage to them can be avoided by instead storing these items in an attic or upper floor space. Consider also prioritizing the placement of expensive rooms, such as home offices, on upper floors as well to avoid losing valuable objects and sensitive information contained in them.

Seal Up Windows and Doors
Many older homes suffer from degrading windows and doors that fail to completely separate the inside of the home from the outside air. On top of adding to your risk of incurring flood damage from a storm, these cracks and openings can cost you a great bit of money in the winter months as your heating leaks out into the cold air. Protecting these spaces with new windows and doors or, at the very least, one of many available commercial sealing products can save on both your heating and potential flood damage restoration bills.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown provides help with flood damage mitigation and restoration when worst comes to worst. Call us 24/7 at (773) 434-9100 for our help.

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How to Navigate Fire Damage Restoration After a Fire in Your Chicago Home

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

Facing fire damage without a certified restoration company by your side can seem daunting. Contact SERVPRO to formulate a remediation plan.

Why Choosing SERVPRO for Fire Damage Mitigation in Chicago Gets Your Home Livable Faster

There are many reasons why SERVPRO should be your go-to mitigation and restoration partner after your Chicago home experiences the damaging effects of fire. Our training encompasses the full range of effects fire can bring about within a home, and the best methods to mitigate those effects. Bringing your home back to the same condition it was before the fire, “Like it never even happened,” is what we do best.
 
Residents whose home sustains fire damage in Chicago can rely on us to remove the charred areas, eliminate the soot, and deodorize your home. Other aspects of fire damage can make your home not only unsightly and ugly but also unsafe. We train our technicians to always keep their safety in mind and to examine the structure's level of safety before beginning any work.
 
During a fire, anything that becomes too hot can ignite and begin burning. Smoke permeates every inch of your home and leaves soot behind on all surfaces, including contents and structures. Odor-causing elements of fire include soot, burned plastics and synthetics, and in the fire damage involving a cooking fire, high-protein items, especially meat. Often, the water or foam used by homeowners during smaller fires or the much more considerable amount used by the fire department can also severely damage a home's interior.
 
SERVPRO gets to work on a home with fire damage by removing the water from the home. This process includes eliminating the high humidity often left behind after a fire. Saturated carpets need a proper and thorough examination to determine if we can save them or if we should instead replace them.
 
Cleaning surfaces until they are free of soot and removing any damaged materials and contents helps keep it from spreading and also decreases the odors. Soot can also cause health effects if not removed promptly, as well as dull the surfaces of shiny or glossy items throughout your house. To further improve the healthy condition of your home, our Odor Control Technician (OCT) uses special chemicals that bond at the molecular level with any soot particles it comes into contact with during thermal fogging. Like all our other techniques, this method produces highly effective results.
 
SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is Always Faster To Any Disaster in Wicker Park, Cicero, and Pilsen, including fire damage. Call us at (773) 434-9100 for competent professionals who understand how fire damage affects your home and your family.

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After Your Water Heater Bursts In Your Chicago Home Call The Experts At SERVPRO!

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Whether you have flooding in your home from a broken water heater, leaky window, plumbing pipes, or fixtures, SERVPRO can help.

What To Do When The Water Heater Bursts In Your Chicago Area Basement

Getting up in the morning every day is hard enough all on its own. You have to tear yourself out of your nice warm bed, wash up, get dressed and head to the kitchen to start your day. What happens when you go to turn on your faucet or shower they fail to produce any hot water?

You may think that your water heater isn’t working and that you might be facing flood damage in your Chicago area home this morning instead of going to work. Unfortunately, this is a scenario that homeowners face all too often, and it is something most of us dread. However, when you have a local restoration expert on speed-dial, things become a lot easier.

Whether you have flooding in your home from a broken water heater, leaky window, plumbing pipes, or fixtures, SERVPRO can help. Our technicians assist with shutting down the water source fast and limit the affected area to minimize damage. We also have access to a variety of extraction equipment that makes fast work of water removal after a flood.

Even if you already have a sump pump installed in your basement, SERVPRO can use emergency water extraction services to get the water out quicker. The longer you let water sit, the more damage you have to deal with in the long run. Standing water can ruin your carpeting, flooring, furniture, baseboards, drywall, and many other contents of your home.

Unless you have the equipment, training, and resources of a company, like SERVPRO, you should never attempt dealing with large amounts of water on your own. You could expose you and your family to a variety of biohazardous conditions that cause even more issues. Our company provides you with a quick, thorough solution to flood damage problems in your home and help you get back to normal in no time.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown has technicians available 24/7, 365, always ready to respond quickly to your call for help. With extensive cleaning and restoration training, we work hard to make your property look its best. Call today (773) 434-9100.

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Getting Speedy Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Can Make All the Difference For Your Business

11/9/2018 (Permalink)

No matter how severe the fire damage may be, our technicians will take care of it and restore your commercial property.

Our Commercial Fire Damage Services Can Save Your Chicago Eatery

One of the most unsettling events for a business owner to experience is a fire. You can lose merchandise and revenue and may have to close down indefinitely. The effects of combustion can also be extensive, which is why contacting professionals like us makes perfect sense. Our techs can restore your business to its preloss condition.

SERVPRO commercial fire damage crews have the expertise and skills to do the job right and work fast to minimize costs and damages. Undoubtedly, smoke, soot, and dirt cover many of the items inside your eatery. Plus, there probably is a great deal of water left behind by the firefighters, which can lead to secondary damages like rot, bacteria and structural damage. Our technicians can handle the daunting task of removing, categorizing and tracking everything we remove from your restaurant. Plus, our teams can eliminate all moisture with portable or truck-mounted extractors so that you can get back in operation quickly.

One of the most crucial steps our SERVPRO technicians take after a fire in your business is sealing and containing the affected areas. Also, we can clean soot, and smoke residuals from materials and surfaces with dry sponges or we may need to use scraping or scrubbing tools. When fire burns, residue and vapors flow or drift through the atmosphere within your restaurant and cover various surfaces like walls, floors, windows, tables, chairs and soft materials like curtains, tablecloths, and carpeting. Soot can be difficult to remove because often layers of ash cover surfaces and contents. When we arrive at your property, you can trust us to get rid of the dirt, soot and smoke residues when possible.

Our team can reduce offensive smoke odors by removing burned and charred furniture and contents as well as any debris emitting strong odors. We also can remove and clean items that have not been ruined by the fire. Deodorization is also part of the restoration phase. We can use air scrubbers, ozone machines, high-velocity fans and thermal fogging equipment to push out smoke odors and drag in purifying air from outside the structure.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown commercial fire damage services can restore your business. We work fast and efficiently. Contact us 24/7 at (773) 434-9100. Our crews are here to help and can make it look “Like it never even happened.”

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How Our Specialists Tackle Flood Damage In Your Chicago Home

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Properties affected by flood damage in Chicago require a thorough inspection to establish the extent of the problem.

The Correct Approach Helps Deal With Flood Damage In Chicago Effectively

Floods can occur anywhere, but some people believe that since their Chicago property is outside known flood zones, there is no need to take precautions. Buying flood damage insurance is vital because the standard homeowner cover is not sufficient. Even with the right coverage, you still need to do a lot to restore the property after a flooding incident. We offer professional restoration services and help homeowners file proper claims with the insurer.

Properties affected by flood damage in Chicago require a thorough inspection to establish the extent of the problem. Such examination should reveal the kind of waste dumped in the affected area, the materials affected by the water and all the sections the water reaches. When our SERVPRO team carries out such inspection, we can identify the kind of equipment necessary for restoration.

In a case involving floodwater, there is more to worry about apart from the effects of excessive moisture, or microbial growth. This is because the water carries many contaminated wastes including sewage, silt, among other debris. The person handling the restoration must, therefore, follow the right procedures to decontaminate the structure. Our SERVPRO crew first sprays EPA-registered disinfectants into the affected areas before starting the recovery. We also have proper protective gear including rubber gloves, boots, and full body suits, so you do not have to expose yourself to contaminants.

Removal of porous materials from the affected areas is important because cleaning does not remove all traces of contamination. Our SERVPRO crew is well versed with carpet and pad removal as well as proper disposal since such material can be considered infectious waste. We always consult your adjuster before removing such materials to ensure we iron out the cost implications.

Although contamination might be a big concern after a flood, there is still need to dry the structure properly to prevent mold development and bad odor among other issues. We use various approaches to ensure the property dries to the correct levels. For example, where the conditions are right, we can ventilate the affected area by opening windows then use air movers to drive moist air out of the building. Another alternative is a closed drying system whereby we seal off the affected area, then use air movers and dehumidifiers to extract moisture.

Flooding incidents are very disruptive, but they are easier to deal with when you have a professional helping you. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 to assist. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

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The Ultimate Guide To Our Mold Damage Remediation Process In Cicero

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

If water remains in your business or home for 48 - 72 hours, then problems such as mold damage are likely to develop.

How To Safely Restore Your Cicero Property After Mold Damage

If water remains in your business or home for 48 - 72 hours, then problems such as mold damage are likely to develop. It means all plumbing or roofing leaks should be corrected as soon as they are noticed. Mold spores can quickly spread to other regions and cause some deterioration of your property and possible health effects. We advise you to let professionals inspect and assess your Cicero property whenever you suspect such a problem.

Mold damage in your Cicero property affects both porous and non-porous materials and surfaces. The cleaning and removal procedures that our SERVPRO technicians use when addressing either of the surfaces or items are different. When the interior walls or ceilings have the contamination, we have to remove the drywall and ceiling tiles. For buildings that have dry panel-type walls, we pull the bottom edge out and separate it from the studs. We can also remove the baseboard and drill homes when it is necessary to drain the walls. When removing soaked wallboard, we look at the watermark and remove an extra foot above that point.

After opening up the walls, our SERVPRO technicians remove the wet insulation to disinfect and dry the surface. While it is possible to clean and dry, rigid insulation, in most cases we discard other forms of insulation as per the state and local regulations. We can also vacuum, wet-wipe, rinse and dry the building's ductwork and other non-electrical equipment. Once we turn off the breaker and remove fuses, we can introduce a plastic wand and vacuum wiring boxes, light fixtures and other electrical appliances.

Another area that is likely to have the mold problem is your bathroom. Such a challenge usually occurs when the exhaust fans malfunction or when they are not used when bathing. We can check whether there is mold in the shower walls, in between ceramic tiles, soap scum, and fiberglass. If it is present, we can remove, clean, and disinfect such areas to reduce the chances of future contamination.

Our team at SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown specializes in mold, fire, storm, and water damage restoration. Call us at (773) 434-9100 when you need to work with professionals with the proficiency to safely handle your commercial and residential needs.

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SERVPRO Rescues, with Great Aplomb, Chicago Historical Buildings from Water Damage

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Saves Chicago Buildings--Old or New, Tall or Small, from Water Damage

Preserving A Historical Chicago Office with Professional Water Removal

One of the most noteworthy observations about Chicago is all of the old buildings that have managed to survive for decades or even more than a century, defying modern construction techniques and the demand for progress. Many of these historical buildings are in use throughout the city, which makes it a more severe situation when something like a substantial water loss incident occurs.

To preserve your historic Chicago office building from water damage, you need to make sure that you react to the situation as quickly as possible. There is something to be said for the mitigation work being as important as the restoration process for professionals like our SERVPRO team. When we arrive at your office building following your initial phone call, our focus begins with limiting the spread of this water to allow for the restoration process to be smoother and easier to manage.

One of the first tasks that our professionals must do in this situation is to focus on extracting the water. The longer that pooling water sits in the affected area, the more it can saturate into the construction materials and become more challenging to remove. Our approach is always to restore before rebuilding, and this is especially the case when it comes to preserving the look and feel of historic properties throughout the area. Many of these buildings, if demolition is needed, must be restored to their preloss condition, a great challenge.

Water penetration into materials like wood flooring and the walls can quickly cause disastrous effects without the right approach. Our SERVPRO professionals utilize specialized equipment like large floor drying mats to penetrate not only the flooring material but to pull moisture and dampness from the subflooring material as well to prevent lingering effects from developing. Dehumidification equipment also gets set to gradually pull the moisture out to protect materials like plaster and wood framing in the walls from splintering or erosion as well. We can insert tubes into the wall cavities to force in heated air to increase the evaporation rate and the movement of moisture through baseboard level small exit holes.

Historical buildings require professionals to restore, especially when water removal is already a concern. The best decision that you can do for the property is to reach out to our SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown restoration specialists as soon as the problem arises to allow us time to get to work and preserve the materials for continued use for years to come. Give us a call anytime at (773) 434-9100.

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How to Eliminate Mold Damage in Chicago

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO technician determines the source of moisture that could lead to mold damage.

How to Treat Mold Damage in Chicago and Prevent it Returning

Mold spores are a part of any home environment. These tiny fungi are relatively harmless, residing behind walls, in-between floorboards or hidden away in attics and crawlspaces. However, when they come into contact with moisture or damp spots they can proliferate rapidly and become a problem, affecting indoor air quality and, in when found in large quantities can cause health effects.

Homeowners with mold damage in Chicago may be tempted to carry out testing. However, testing can be expensive and time-consuming. Noticing a musty odor or the visible spread of mold growth is usually a sign of damp spots and should be enough to begin a remediation process.

Controlling the level of moisture in your home is crucial to reducing the impact of mold growth. At SERVPRO, we start a remediation process by scrubbing affected areas using chemicals that are designed to remove mold and protect the surface from future infection. We may need to cordon off affected areas and apply negative air pressure to reduce the risk of spores spreading around the home.

Where abrasive cleaning methods are necessary to remove buildup, we can repaint walls or ceilings using mildew retardant paints. These paints prevent mold from returning and act as a base coating to be painted over. SERVPRO understands the importance of indoor air quality. We use air-scrubbers fitted with HEPA filters to remove 99.7% of bacteria from the surrounding air.

SERVPRO can also remove any tainted materials and dispose of them properly. Once a trained mold technician is convinced that the affected surfaces and surrounding air is treated and remediated, we can begin the drying process which reduces the risk of mold returning.

Using a moisture meter, we can establish a natural dry level by testing rooms in your home that have not been affected. The measurement becomes our dry goal which we aim to achieve using the industrial-grade dehumidifying equipment. Dehumidifiers that use chemical components are especially useful as they have a low air output, thereby reducing the risk of spreading fungi around. At the end of service, we can thoroughly deodorize the affected area and explain to you the process and outcomes of the work carried out.

If you notice a musty odor in your home, call in the experts. SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown has the experience and equipment to help. Call us at (773) 434-9100 now.

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Why SERVPRO's Water Cleanup Team in Chicago is Always Ready to Take Your Emergency Call

9/22/2018 (Permalink)

Should your office setting be facing flooding, call SERVPRO for water removal and remediation services.

An Effective Action Plan for Commercial Water Removal in Chicago

Being prepared to face a flooded workplace is very important. Most incidents of flooding in Chicago happen when you least expect them, or when you are away from the property thus making it harder to respond appropriately. Having a response plan can help you deal with the situation if it ever arises allowing your business to bounce back stronger. We offer professional restoration services that can help you deal with the situation "Like it never even happened."
 
Any effective plan for commercial water removal in Chicago needs to address the speed of response. The obvious solution is to extract water from the premises as fast as possible. However, if the water source from outside the building, then extraction is not a practical approach. Such cases would require a transfer of free contents to areas not affected by the water. You can set some space in an elevated section of your property. This way, it is possible to move items from the flooded sections to this area thus minimizing damage caused by prolonged exposure to water. If you do not have such a space, our SERVPRO team can move out items to an offsite facility.
 
Most workplaces have physical documents, which either contain customer data or important business records. If such documents are saturated, the loss of information can be devastating. To avoid such loss, you should store documents in high places or invest in waterproof cabinets. If such measures are not in place when the loss happens, SERVPRO technicians can help limit the extent of damages. We utilize methods such as freeze drying, dehumidification, vacuum thermal-drying or vacuum freeze-drying to remove the water without causing further damage.
 
The water that floods property also tends to deposit waste collected inside or outside the property including mud and other materials. Thorough cleaning is important to restore the property back to its preloss conditions, and also prevent problems such as bad odor, or microbial growth. It is expensive to invest in the necessary tools and workforce needed for proper cleanup. Our SERVPRO team has the necessary tools including power washers, and our staff is adequately trained to do a thorough cleaning.
 
Even if ill-prepared, working with a professional restorer can help. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 to help restore your workplace.

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Flood Damage and Your Chicago Home's Floors

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

Tiles and Parquet Floors, Stormwaters in Chicago, and SERVPRO for Cleanup and Restoration

SERVPRO Can Remove Moisture from Joists and Subfloors During Demolition of Damaged Floor Tile from a Flooding

When inclement weather comes indoors in a Chicago house, it can create some pretty bad conditions for homeowners. Dealing with such problems do not happen on a regular basis, but SERVPRO is always available to get your home back to how you want it, quickly and efficiently.
 
In Chicago, houses sometimes suffer flood damage because the water in nearby streets cannot drain rapidly enough because of debris covering the drains. When the water in affected streets rises high enough, the water can enter homes and apartments. SERVPRO can handle the messy cleanup work and flood damage mitigation needed so your family can reside in a clean and dry home free of potential adverse health effects.
 
The floors in a home with flood damage can easily retain water and become ruined because of the tight seal that adheres tile to the floor. What once kept the floor in pristine shape now can create a severe problem. Such tile can begin to break when some areas swell underneath and push upward under the tile. Once enough pieces become broken, restoring the floor can become highly tricky. Many insurance adjusters opt to replace the floor instead of funding restoration efforts that might result in long-term maintenance needs that fail to provide cost-effective benefits. SERVPRO can attempt to dry the underpinnings or use drying mats to salvage tile and vinyl flooring components.
 
To remove tile from a home can prove difficult without the right tools. We first seal off the area to prevent dust, broken tile pieces, and any other debris from affecting other areas of your home. When we keep the space involved in this stage as small as possible, cleanup can happen much more efficiently. We also wear protective gear as tile can easily cut exposed skin, and the process of breaking it up turns many pieces into dangerous mini-projectiles.
 
Once these pieces have been broken down, we use a bully tool to slide them away from their base. This process works well in small areas with a hand-held tool, but for larger ones, we often use a powered machine which quickly removes the loosened tile pieces. This method leaves the floor ready for the reinstallation of new tile or another flooring of your choice. Afterward, we remove these from your home and dispose of them. Older tiles can contain asbestos, so we want to assure you that we follow all applicable regulations regarding such materials.
 
SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is always ready to help the residents of Ukranian Village, Cicero, and Pilsen with expert guidance and professionalism in all stages of flood damage mitigation. Contacting us by calling us at (773) 434-9100 puts you in control of your home again.

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Fire Damage Effects and Efforts in Cicero

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

When any portion of your home has suffered from fire damage, it is time to contact SERVPRO for effective remediation and cleanup services.

Team SERVPRO Understands How Different Materials Burn and Create Residues During a Fire

No matter the level of destruction, Cicero home fires are difficult to clean and restore. Dozens of different types of material burn in every home, even it lasts for only a few minutes. Temperatures vary over the life of fire, which affects how quickly and cleanly it all burns.
 
Many factors affect Cicero fire damage. Understanding them allows SERVPRO restoration teams to tailor a cleanup and restoration plan for each home. Different items burn quickly or slowly based on moisture and temperature, so anything that can melt on the surface of something like a kitchen counter can affect how we can clean it or decide to dispose of it.
 
First, one of our technicians examines each surface to see if it is porous or non-porous. A porous surface like latex paint or plastics, lets particles penetrate them even under normal circumstances. When a fire heats them up, particles can penetrate even deeper which make them more difficult to clean. Non-porous surfaces like vinyl and enamel paint resist better, making them easier to clean, even when heated in a house fire.
 
At the same time, other team members look for sprinklers and ask about fire suppression efforts by firefighters. A large amount of moisture increases the risk of staining surfaces and sets residues in a tougher layer, making them more difficult to clean. That applies to not just horizontal surfaces, but walls as well. Higher temperatures can also work with moisture on many surfaces to give them a yellowed appearance.
 
Now, SERVPRO technicians determine what burned. Physical damage from the flames means that the item requires disposal, but its material content tells our restoration teams what type of residue is left after the fire ends. Plastic and rubber kitchenware, for example, leave wet residues that can smear across surfaces. Technicians either allow the residue to dry, or use a stronger cleaning agent to make it easier to wipe it off the surface. Natural materials like wood burn more evenly and usually leave a powdery, dry residue that technicians can wipe away with a sponge and perhaps a mild cleaner.
 
There are other factors like age of the item, and how long the fire burned which help determine our cleaning and restoration efforts, but material, type of surface, and moisture are the main concerns for SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown when it comes to helping our neighbors return to their homes. If you need our help, call (773) 434-9100 today to set up a visit and inspection.

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Why A Detailed Mold Damage Remediation Process Can Salvage Your Chicago Property 

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

During mold damage remediation, we start by evaluating and determining whether the site is safe to enter.

Mold Damage Remediation Process

During mold damage remediation, we start by evaluating and determining whether the site is safe to enter. Damage to the load-bearing walls after a severe wood rot may lead to structural hazards. So, we check out for roofs that are sagging in the middle or towards the end, whether the exterior masonry has cracks, and if the walls are not straight or vertical. Also, we check whether there are live electrical lines in your Chicago property and turn off the mains.

Containment techniques are essential during mold damage remediation in Chicago. The primary goal of containment is to separate clean areas from the areas with the contamination. Our SERVPRO technicians use plastic sheeting to create barriers separating the work areas from the non-contaminated areas. We can also put the site under negative pressure to prevent the movement of the mold spores to the clean sections of the structure. If we already turned off the electrical circuits, then we can provide portable lighting to prevent the possibility of the fall, slip, and trip hazards.

It can be challenging to clean crawl spaces since such areas have limited means of exit and entry. When working in such areas, we follow the safety standards outlined by OSHA. We usually come up with an appropriate safety plan during the inspection to safeguard our SERVPRO technicians during mold remediation in crawl spaces.

If your structure has painted cement or brick, we follow specific steps to remove the mold deposits. For instance, through HEPA vacuuming, we can remove the spores, and then use a detergent solution together with a wire brush to remove any form of discoloration. The cleaning detergent that we use has anti-microbial properties that sterilize the surfaces and prevent the chances of mold damage reoccurrence. It is the same solution we use to clean non-porous surfaces like ceramic tiles.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is locally operated and a trusted leader in storm, mold, fire, and water damage restoration. Call us at (773) 434-9100 when you need your home or commercial property to benefit from our 24-hour emergency services.

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Monitoring the Progress of Flood Damage Mitigation in Chicago

8/12/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding is something that can happen quickly after a storm. Should your home get flooded, contact SERVPRO for remediation services.

SERVPRO Technicians Remediate Flooding to Help Prevent Any Secondary Damages From Occurring

Residential properties in Chicago can end up with all sorts of problems because of our proximity to Lake Michigan. SERVPRO can help homeowners through these problematic situations so the damage sustained by their homes remains minimal. We handle situations every day of the year, making us a reliable and professional company you can depend on in emergencies.
 
One type of situation that often affects area homes involves flood damage in Chicago. Our skilled technicians can effectively mitigate this type of problem, restoring your home back to its previous state. Making everything inside your home “Like it never even happened” includes ensuring the safe conditions, as well as the visual aesthetics that made your house a home.
 
Making sure your home is completely dry again minimizes the risk of microbial infestations, damage from water, rust of electrical components (including any newly installed units), warping of wood trim throughout your home, and peeling of paint and wallpapers and trim. Water vapor left behind by flood damage can continue to affect your house in many ways long after we finalize the visual aspects of flood damage mitigation.
 
In a thoroughly saturated home, the process of taking moisture level readings is just as important as taking measurements within a home where the problem seems minimal. We gather this information so we can assist your insurance agency in understanding the gravity of the emergency situation. In less severe situations, these measurements help us detect hidden water that you may not know about before we arrive. We continually monitor the amount of moisture in your property at various locations for similar reasons.
 
We must replace any walls that became saturated for a different reason than what carpets require similar treatment. The materials that your walls are made of cannot withstand the forcefulness that floods often produce, nor can they become undamaged, no matter how dry they become. Once damage by water occurs, only replacing these affected sections suffice.
 
Because damp conditions can adversely affect replacement materials of any kind, the technicians at SERVPRO use state of the art technology and the latest equipment to restore your home's interior to normal humidity levels. Our equipment not only removes moisture but it also measures its presence and helps us find hidden pockets that we might otherwise miss.
 
SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown can be contacted by calling our 24-hour emergency services number, (773) 434-9100 whenever you need us. Flood damage can affect your home and lead to long-term problems that early mitigation can prevent.

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Get Your Life Back on Track with Professional Water Removal Services in Chicago

7/24/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Chicago Dwellings Get Mitigated with SERVPRO's Fast Service

SERVPRO Advises Property Owners to Seek Professional Help for Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration

Whether you want to take a shower, quench your thirst, clean your garments, or in some cases the house too, water should be a welcome sight. When uncontained, though, water can become a nuisance, at the very least leaving you with a challenging task when it comes to getting rid of it. In the extremes, however, water damage could threaten the health of anyone who occupies the building, be it your family, colleagues at your workplace, or even your pets. Besides, “hidden” water, being somewhat hard to find, could lead to unseen damages to your Chicago home or some other building that has been affected by any water damage or flooding.

DIY. Is it the right thing?
There is a group of Chicago homeowners who do not think that they need water removal services, so when faced by the situation, they opt for DIY solutions, unaware of the problems they create as a result. Someone may head over to a store, rent a wet vacuum so they can get rid of the water, then use different air drying methods to finalize the process. As much as the problem seems to have been solved, any case of “unseen” water could hit back in the form of mold attacks, moisture can be the cause and must be controlled.

Think professional
When faced with any water emergency, the best thing would be to act fast and make the right choice which is consulting water removal experts. At SERVPRO, we believe that any water emergency situation can be handled and the effects mitigated so you can enjoy your peace. When you think professional, think of our IICRC certified experts and the high-quality results they are capable of delivering.
 
Always prepared
Our team of able professionals can do whatever it takes to reverse the effects of an emergency situation or even a scheduled cleaning. We respond immediately with all the necessary water removal equipment to ensure that no more time is wasted for better chances of a complete recovery.
 
We are here for you
At SERVPRO of West Loop/ Bucktown/ Greektown, we are available to help  24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling (773) 434-9100.

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The Proper Way Of Cleaning Your Cicero Property After Experiencing A Fire Damage Disaster

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning is an essential procedure during fire damage restoration.

The Proper Way Of Cleaning Your Property After A Fire

Cleaning is an essential procedure during fire damage restoration. Though it sounds a bit straightforward, it is challenging since there are instances when you have to deal with finished, unfinished, painted, or unpainted surfaces. That is why restorers pretest surfaces for cleanability and then come up with the most appropriate cleaning methods. We are going to look at some of the procedures we perform when addressing fire incidents in Cicero.

When our SERVPRO technicians are cleaning ceilings and walls in your Cicero property after a fire damage event, we organize the structure such that the falling soils do not cause resoiling. If the team is using dry cleaning as an option, we start by cleaning the ceilings before moving to the walls. We also dry clean the floors after dry cleaning the walls. By cleaning walls from top to bottom and wiping from the dirty regions to the clean places, we avoid resoiling.

During wet cleaning, our SERVPRO technicians clean walls first before moving to the ceiling area. We do that to prevent streaking the walls since there is a possibility of the cleaning solution dripping. The cleaning process also starts from the bottom to the top to ensure the dirty areas do not streak. In situations where the ceiling is so high, we can use an extension pole together with a spotting pad holder. Alternatively, we can reach 8-foot ceilings by using a 5-foot ladder.

If your property has an acoustical ceiling, our SERVPRO team uses a unique technique that preserves its sound-deadening properties. The method is known as peroxide active ceiling cleaning. It is also effective on porous surfaces as far as such areas do not deteriorate after exposure to water-based solutions. Since stabilized hydrogen peroxide is present in the product, we cover natural materials such as cotton, paper, and wool as a precautionary measure.

The goal of SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is to return your property to its earlier state after experiencing Any Size Disaster. You can get in touch with our specialists by calling (773) 434-9100 to learn more about the available options.

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Remediating Water Damage and Drying Property in Chicago Homes

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Dealing with active water damage can be exhausting and frightening. Contact SERVPRO and we arrive on the scene quickly to help.

Team SERVPRO Understands the Four Factors to Focus on During the Water Damage Remediation Process

Removing water from Chicago homes after a flood is only the first step in restoring them to a clean, dry, and safe environment. To allow the owners and residents to resume their routine means getting every bit of excess moisture out of the home and carefully drying the interior and property.
 
SERVPRO restoration teams need to bring four different factors back to normal levels to reverse the effects of water damage in Chicago homes. Once accomplished, our technicians can restore most property if it wasn’t already, permanently damage by the water by adjusting the Humidity, Evaporation, Air Movement, and Temperature.
 
Relative Humidity is the level of moisture, or water vapor, in the air inside the home. If it is over 60 percent, then the air is considered saturated, and drying slows almost to a standstill. To lower it to an acceptable level of under 40 percent, our specialists install dehumidifiers to draw water directly from the air and nearby structural property like wall panels and ceiling tiles.
 
Reduced humidity ties directly into Evaporation. As the dehumidifiers lower the humidity, natural evaporation increases. Water trapped in personal property like furniture turns to vapor faster as the air dries. Evaporation starts after the amount of water in a home is reduced to less than two inches in depth, so removal is very important.
 
At the same time, SERVPRO specialists also increase Air Movement. At key points in the home, they install air movers to blow warm, dry air throughout the home and across the surface of the affected property. To assist in this, they also install fans at doors and windows to draw out the cool, damp air and force it outside the home. Both actions help speed up the overall drying process which prevents the property from absorbing too much moisture and causing permanent damage.
 
Finally, there is the Temperature of the home. Property dries faster in a range of 70 to 90 degrees. If the outside air is below that range, and the home HVAC is not usable, then our team can bring in portable heaters to raise the inside temperature. They do this carefully, since raising the temperature too quickly can raise the humidity level, counteracting the efforts of the dehumidifiers.
 
Restoring any home from the effects of water damage is not a simple process, but a professional restoration service can get you back to your home quickly and only when it is safe. If you need us, contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 today. We are here for you.

Click here for more information on the city of Chicago.

How Mold Damage Remediation Returns Your Chicago Property To Its Pre-loss State

6/30/2018 (Permalink)

Finding mold in your home does not need to cause a panic. Contact SERVPRO right away for an investigation and remediation.

Team SERVPRO Follows Proven Protocol When Remediating a Mold Infestation in Your Home 

Mold damage remediation entails all the cleanup of both mold and moisture with the aim of returning the contaminated structure and materials to their pre-damaged condition. The degree of contamination and the extent of water damage usually determines the scope of the remediation process. Not only does remediation prevent further damage, but it also ensures that as a resident of Chicago you are not exposed to possible health effects.
 
We are looking at some of the procedures and strategies that our SERVPRO technicians use when performing mold damage remediation in Chicago. While no standard strategy provides a solution to all such incidents, there are accepted processes and principles that we follow when we are working on your property. The first step that we perform is to locate and eliminate the source of moisture. For instance, we can use moisture meters and sensors to detect any water intrusion and determine how far the water has traveled.
 
During the remediation, our SERVPRO technicians turn off ventilation, heating, and air conditioning systems to prevent the mold spores from moving to clean areas. If we identify some contamination on the HVAC systems, we may change the filters and apply other professional remediation procedures to correct their condition.
 
Both contaminated and non-contaminated materials can either be porous, semi-porous and non-porous. If porous materials such as carpets, drywall, wallpapers, and ceiling tiles have some mold contamination, we remove and discard them; cleaning them is not sufficient. If there is mold growth on semi-porous materials such as wood, our SERVPRO technicians can clean surfaces by combining HEPA vacuuming, scrubbing and scraping. After that, we carefully inspect them before deciding whether they can still be operational or a replacement is necessary. We can also use the above methods when cleaning non-porous materials such as glass and tiles.
 
We wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to prevent exposure to the mold contamination. For instance, when we are dealing with larger contaminations, we use half-mask respirators that have proper cat ridges, chemical resistant gloves, eye protection, and full body suits.
 
SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is devoted to solving all your mold damage concerns. Call us at (773) 434-9100 if you need our experienced technicians to return your property to its earlier state and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Click here for more information on the city of Chicago.

Why Mold Damage To Upholstery In Chicago Homes Poses Such A Challenge

6/8/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can cause damage to your home.

Mold Damage To Upholstery

While mold damage in a Chicago home can work its way into almost any area of your home and the objects within it, one of the most costly places to incur damage from a fungal colony can often be in fabrics and upholstery around the house. Upholstery, the cushions, padding, and covers making up the bulk of most furniture pieces in the average Illinois home, is an easy target for hungry spores looking to settle down and grow outwards. However, you may ask, why does upholstery present so many problems for SERVPRO when dealing with mold damage?

An Easy Place to Grow
While mold damage thrives in Chicago homes' walls, floors, and other structural components when in contact with a source of water, it grows even more readily within most types of furniture. Cushions, sheets, and lining all create ideal growing places for mold, which seeks a warm, protected organic material with plenty of surface area to grow. By the time you recognize a problem, the colony may have already wholly overtaken the interior of that furniture piece and possibly spread to nearby objects as well.

Difficult to Restore
Even though SERVPRO brings industry-leading technology and versatility to the table when handling mold remediation work, we still find it difficult to reverse damage to many types of upholstery. Along with carpeting, furniture represents one of our most oft-incurred replacement expenses when we are forced to order a partial or full replacement for the affected object instead of restoring it to its prior condition.

Ease of Spread
While mold damage in walls, ceilings, and other structural components often must rely on air currents to spread to new areas of the home, spores growing in your furniture find a much more easily accessible way to move any time someone sits down on their home. Using mold damaged furniture as normal allows spores to puff up into the air, float to new surfaces, and even sometimes hitch a ride on your body to somewhere new. As a result, an isolated problem can quickly become a home-wide issue without any noticeable changes in the situation.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown helps local homeowners to remove mold from their homes and reverse the effects of damage without ordering replacements whenever possible. Call us at (773) 434-9100.

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Chicago's Commercial Mold Damage Technicians Describe Removal Methods

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

From small to tall offices, SERVPRO can help remove mold damage.

Mold Removal Methods

If you ever notice a fungus developing inside your office complex in Chicago, it most likely was caused by a water leak of some kind. If moisture slowly leaks over time microbe issues get worse the longer materials stay wet. Mold can cause health effects with some people making prompt remediation essential.

Once fungi forms inside a structure, they can quickly spread to other sections of the office building. During every commercial mold damage project in Chicago, specific procedures get implemented to keep microbes from affecting multiple areas. Spores created by the contamination become airborne until they settle somewhere else.

Once a fungus exists inside your offices, our SERVPRO technicians use different techniques to remove the contamination from the materials. Before any work takes place, the affected sector of the office complex gets sealed off. Thick plastic gets put up around the entire affected area creating a containment chamber.

Containing the work area with plastic helps keep any dust or spores from contaminating more sections of the office. In most cases, a hole gets cut into the chamber, and an air scrubber gets zip-tied to the plastic around the hole. Doing this creates negative air pressure within the containment chamber that sucks particles into the air scrubber forcing it through a HEPA filter that attracts even the tiniest particles.

Next, measures get taken to remove the contamination. In certain situations, the fungi have grown deep into the materials requiring the affected items to get removed. Other times, the mold can get scrubbed, scraped or sanded off.

Various methods get implemented depending on the type of mold damage and how long it has been present. Some contaminated materials can be wiped with a dry sponge or scrubbed off. Other fungi require soda blasting or sanding to get removed entirely.

After the fungi get removed from the affected items, a HEPA vacuum is used to suck up the remaining dust and debris created by the work completed. The HEPA filter in the vacuum ensures that clean air is exhausted out of the vacuum. If you ever need assistance with remediating microbial growth, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 any day of the week.

Learn about the history of Chicago here.

Water Damage Experts In Chicago Explain Final Cleaning

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

Excessive moisture can also cause mildew-like odors to exist after it is removed.

Water Damage

If a pipe ever breaks inside your Chicago apartment, structural components and your possessions can get damaged. Excessive moisture can also cause mildew-like odors to exist after it is removed. The last steps of any restoration project are the cleaning and deodorization stages.

Before leaving any job site, our SERVPRO technicians make sure your home is as clean as it was before the loss. During any water damage scenario in Chicago, odor control is vital. In most cases, as long as moisture is removed within 48 hours, microbial growth does not take place, but some pungent aromas can still exist.

During the work process, it is possible that dust and debris get into your home. When our SERVPRO technicians complete the final cleaning process, any soils created by the work get removed. Structural items like floors and walls often get cleaned before we finish the job.

Whenever cleaning items inside your apartment we use IICRC certified methods and chemicals specifically made for the materials, we are cleaning. During the final clean, we shampoo and deodorize any carpeting or rugs that get affected by moisture. When cleaning carpets, we pick the best method based on how severely the carpets got soiled. Different methods get implemented if the soils are just on top of the carpet fibers or if they got deeply embedded into the fibers.

In some cases, if the soils are light but the source of the water was gray water, a more aggressive method must be used. For lightly soiled carpets we typically use hot water extraction or bonnet methods. If the carpet is a low pile carpet, then we can use shampoo during the cleaning phase.

For moderate soiling, we can also use hot water extraction methods and shampoo if it is a low pile carpet. Since the soil is a little more prevalent with moderate soils we also sometimes use the deluxe preconditioner and rinse method. We also can use the preconditioner and rinse method with heavy, deeper soiling. With deep soils, we also can implement showcase and rotary jet extraction methods.

When cleaning after a restoration project, we clean until your home looks as good as it did before the water damage if not better. For help with cleaning after water-related issues, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 24 hours a day.

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Chicago's Fire Damage Technicians Explain Cleaning Soot Residues

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke coming from a fire that burns a house in Chicago can leave behind soot residues and pungent, burnt odors.

Fire Damage Technicians Explain Cleaning Soot Residues

Smoke coming from a fire that burns a house in Chicago can leave behind soot residues and pungent, burnt odors. Soot residues have different chemical compositions based upon what fuels were burned in the blaze. Some soot adheres better to certain surfaces than others.

When cleaning smoke damage, different methods get utilized to clean the various types of soils. The method and chemicals used to clean soot created by fire damage in Chicago depend upon what type of surface got affected. Porous surfaces are cleaned best using dry cleaning methods so that wet chemicals to do not soak the soot into the material. Hard, non-porous surface materials usually get cleaned using a wet chemical that is made specially to clean the type of soot present.

Many homes have wallpaper or other types of wall coverings on top of the drywall. Depending on what the wallpaper is made from can change the type of methods and chemicals used during restoration. Paper wall coverings are porous, so they get cleaned with dry sponges whereas vinyl and foil wallpapers resist moisture making wet cleaning the best method.

Most foil wallpapers have a glossy, metallic finish that does a decent job of repelling moisture. If acidic soot residues stay on the foil surface for too long, they can eat away and fade the shiny finish. Our SERVPRO technicians know that the best way to clean foil wallpapers is to use a wet cleaning solution and gently wipe the affected walls so that scrubbing does not ruin the metallic finish.

Some walls are covered with grasscloth which is any covering that consists of natural dried fibers such as hemp or flax woven together. These types of wall coverings are porous and can only be cleaned using dry methods. If the smoke damage is severe, then the hemp or flax fibers may be uncleanable and require removal.

Another type of wallpaper called flocked wall coverings consist of design-shaped fibers applied to the paper surface. Flocked wall coverings can only be dry cleaned since they are made of porous paper and fiber materials. It is best to gently wipe the walls with a dry sponge so that the friction does not pull off the flocked fibers.

Knowing which methods work best for various kinds of damage situations requires experience and knowledge in the restoration industry. For professional help with smoke-related issues, call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 seven days a week.

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Fire Damage from a Kitchen Fire in Your Cicero Home

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

Even a small fire can cause damage to your home. Call SERVPRO for assistance.

SERVPRO can help clean your kitchen after a fire

The kitchen is the center of most Cicero homes, with people walking in and out of it all day prepping meals or grabbing a snack. Unfortunately, the kitchen is also where a majority of home fires originate. Cooking is one of the top causes of house fires and can do devastating damage to your kitchen and home. Taking safety precautions while you are cooking is always essential, but sometimes accidents still happen.

A kitchen fire and fire damage in your Cicero home are undoubtedly overwhelming. Much damage can happen quickly, and your kitchen may be unrecognizable. Cleaning up and restoring the area afterward is a big task, so reaching out to our staff at SERVPRO is the best thing to do. We are specially trained to handle these situations, and we have the equipment needed to do the job thoroughly.

There are various structural components we have to clean after a fire in your kitchen. For cabinets, the cleaning method varies depending upon whether the surface is unfinished or finished. Knobs and other hardware are removed if needed so we can clean in crevices and recessed areas. The interiors of cabinets are usually unfinished wood. A dry cleaning sponge is used to remove residues, and denatured alcohol is used for any remaining residues to avoid setting the smoke residues into the pores of the wood. Sanding may be required if any residues remain.

SERVPRO technicians usually clean lighting fixtures when cleaning the ceiling. We ensure the power is shut off first before cleaning any electrical fixtures. Cleaning solutions are pretested to ensure they do not affect the finish on a fixture. We clean behind light fixtures as well, not just around them.

When cleaning windows, we not only clean the glass but the framework and any hardware which are part of the window construction as well. We use a low-alkaline glass cleaner to get rid of residues from the glass without streaking, using a spray bottle and squeegee. Drapery rods and fixtures are also cleaned.

SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown works to thoroughly clean your home in West Garfield, Bucktown, or Cicero after a kitchen fire. Do not hesitate to give us a call at (773) 434-9100 once the fire is out to avoid additional damage.

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Efficient Mold Remediation for Your Chicago Pizzeria

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can quickly and thoroughly remediate mold damage found in your pizzeria.

Rely on SERVPRO When You Discover Mold in Your Commercial Space

If this Chicago area is famous for one thing, it is the way that we make pizza. While you might be one of the original pizzerias to the region, or just getting started in the business, the last thing that your eatery needs is mold growth in the building to slow down your successes. As a place that offers food to the hungry local community, the presence of mold in the kitchen areas or dining areas of your establishment could pose potential health effects to your patrons as well as your staff.

As you likely already know, the preparation and kitchen areas of your pizzeria offer the highest temperatures all day long that you find anywhere in the restaurant. When you couple this higher temperature with moisture present in the environment from humidity or another possible source, you have met the conditions necessary for mold spores to seat on organic surfaces and thrive. Battling mold damage to your Chicago restaurant is not as simple as you might believe.

It is a common misconception that mold is easy to remove on your own with various DIY methods that you can find on the internet as opposed to professional remediation from SERVPRO. While some mold colonies can get affected by these approaches, you are never reaching the entire organism. These methods might appear to work, but have only removed the surface mold that you can see, and did not affect the entire hyphae. Ultimately, the problem occurs again after a short period.

When you choose our SERVPRO mold remediation specialists, you are getting highly trained technicians educated in every facet of mold removal and property restoration. We work quickly to isolate the affected area and identify the source of the moisture that allows the mold colonies to grow. We understand that your business loses money with the doors closed, so our team works efficiently to remove the present colonies, deodorize, and dry up the area as promptly as possible.

Finding mold in your pizzeria does not have to be something that ultimately derails your business. Trust in the experienced IICRC certified remediation specialists at SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown to help you reclaim your restaurant. Give us a call 24/7 at (773) 434-9100.

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What to Do When Your Chicago Home Sustains Water Damage

4/10/2018 (Permalink)

Bathroom Leaks Can Lead to Major Water Damage in Chicago Homes--Contact SERVPRO for Cleanup, Drying, and Restoration

Call SERVPRO, of Course, for Swift Water Removal and Restoration

Coming home to water damage in your bathroom is a nightmare that most would not walk into willingly. Being away on a brief vacation and returning home to the piping under your bathroom sink leaking is just enough time for the problem to get out of hand. The water can pool and then slowly soaked into the floor and walls around it. Soon enough, the bathroom is in desperate need of professional services. Ignoring the problem would only allow the potential for mold growth or rot. Fortunately, professional help is not far.

Our IICRC-certified SERVPRO technicians can inspect your Chicago bathroom for water damage and then pick the appropriate method to tackle it. The longer that water sits in your home untouched, the more damage it can do. We appreciate your time is limited and strive to arrive at your home as soon as possible so that we may begin the restoration process swiftly.
 
What is essential in water damage restoration is establishing the best method to create a dry environment. SERVPRO technicians can achieve this through the use of advanced technology, such as dehumidifiers to take the moisture content out of the air. There are several types of dehumidifiers that we can pick from based on the unique circumstances that the water damage in your bathroom has created. Desiccant trailer mounted are for large loss jobs, smaller desiccants with silicone-based gel for the interior of homes, and LGR low grain refrigerant ones that condense out moisture like an a/c unit. We can also use tools like air movers and axial fans to keep air moving and taking moisture off of wet surfaces for the capture of the water vapor.
 
While it does not happen often, sometimes water damage can lead to the loss of belongings. Should you lose anything to the damage in your bathroom, such as towels or cosmetics, SERVPRO can help you take inventory of what you lost and then assist you with making a claim to your insurance company. For structural damage of non-salvageable materials, we can use our CCIS claims form to itemize losses.
 
If a pipe should leak on your property and cause water damage, do not wait. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100. We can take your call 24/7 and send our technicians to your home as soon as possible.

Information about this side of Chicago right here.

Fire and Odor Damage Cleanup from an Electric Blanket in Your Chicago Bedroom

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Restores Smoke & Fire Damaged Properties in Chicago

SERVPRO Can Abate Smoke Odors After House Fires

For many people in Chicago on a freezing night, the warmth of an electric blanket is excellent. If you hate getting into a cold bed, then turning on your electric blanket and letting it make a comfy place for you is appealing. Most of the time these blankets are safe, however, things can sometimes go wrong. Electric blanket fires happen for two main reasons: The element overheating to the point that it combusts or a broken electrical conductor arcing.
 
It is a very frightening event to suddenly have your electric blanket burst into flames, especially when you are under it. Even if put out quickly, the fire damage left behind in your Chicago bedroom needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Our technicians at SERVPRO are not only prompt in answering your call but also understand that times like these are stressful for anyone who has gone through them.
 
One challenge after a fire is removing the smoke odor after a portable heater or blanket fire. Though the fire is quickly extinguished, the odors are often a challenge. We have been trained to understand how odor molecules permeate a structure and how to use various methods for odor removal. We also know how to perceive odors. Whether an odor is pleasant or not is in the mind of individuals. Some odors are unpleasant to everyone, while others such as paint fumes or gasoline, could be thought of as good odors by some, but very offensive to others.
 
The deodorization techniques that SERVPRO staff use deal with both real odors and imagined scents. The real odor is the sensation of smell made by a substance. Odor molecules interact with olfactory nerve cells in our noses. These nerves send a message to our brains which is interpreted by the olfactory lobe. An imaginary odor is what people think they smell. They are stimulated by a set of circumstances and strong impressions from previous, similar circumstances. Some think they are smelling something because of these events, not because there is an odor present. We can explain this phenomenon to clients, but that is all.
 
Deodorizing unpleasant odors can be a challenge. Real odors must be neutralized by using hydroxyl generators, thermal fogging, air scrubbers, and sprays.
 
SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown understands that any fire in your home in Cicero, Wicker Park, or Greektown is stressful. When you call us at (773) 434-9100 for help, we want to make sure we do our job to your complete satisfaction.

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Water Removal Services Can Make a Big Difference in Your Cicero Property

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage from inside or outside of your home can be overwhelming. Contact SERVPRO to send our team to dry out and remediate your property.

Team SERVPRO Detects Hidden Water on Your Property Using Specialized Equipment

If you do not go for immediate water removal services after a flood or water incursion on your property, your home may experience long-term damage. The risk is more if you are dealing with gray water. Delayed services may lead to mold proliferation in your Chicago property. Porous materials such as wallboards, carpets, ceilings, and insulations are more prone to microbial contamination.
 
Observing safety aspects is so essential when our SERVPRO technicians are offering water removal services in Chicago. We start by assessing the structural integrity, and during that step, we look for things like gas leaks, electrical shock. If the water category is black or gray, we never miss wearing Personal Protective Equipment. We also isolate the area by putting up warning signs and barriers.
 
Usually, when black water contaminates porous materials, they are not entirely safe to use even when they are dry, so discarding them is the best option. If our SERVPRO technicians have to remove any debris and excess water from hard surfaces, we perform wet vacuuming, and with a HEPA-filtered vacuum, we can clean dry your materials. To efficiently collect mold spores without dispersing them, we employ high filtration and after that dispose of the contaminants in sealable plastic bags.
 
Our SERVPRO team can also clean your furniture and any hard surfaces by using a detergent and water. After washing your contents, we dry them and monitor for fungal growth and odors. We also access hidden places such as crawl spaces, shafts, and ceilings and investigate any presence of damage. By using moisture meters, we can measure the moisture content in those areas. We remove any wet insulation and tiles and dispose of them when necessary. The hidden spaces might be the sources of odors, so we perform deodorization to neutralize the smells.
 
SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is a trusted industry leader in storm, mold, fire and water damage restoration. Call us at (773) 434-9100 at any time of the day, and we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

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Restoring Your Flood Damaged Chicago Area Home Does Not Have To Be Hard

2/27/2018 (Permalink)

The amount of water that entered your home can make restoring your home somewhat tricky to handle.

Restoring Your Flood Damaged Home

Many homeowners struggle with whether or not they should choose to hire an IICRC certified company to address flood damage on their property. Hopefully, today we can help you understand why it is so important to have a licensed professional with the proper equipment, training, and resources provide you with the help you need.

After experiencing flood damage in your Chicago home, you may wonder how long the restoration process is or how much it might cost, or even whether or not you can perform repairs yourself and save a couple of dollars along the way. Well, each restoration is different, depending on the amount of damage present in your home. It takes a trained expert to locate all of the damage and drastically reduces your long-term losses, further protecting your home and living environment.

The amount of water that entered your home can make restoring your home somewhat tricky to handle. With the right equipment, a few inches usually does not last long. However, if you are dealing with over 4-5ft of water, it can take hours, if not days to get things under control. SERVPRO technicians can put a variety of hand-held or truck-mounted units to work for you, making water removal and drying procedures faster than ever before.

Flood damage restoration services are also highly dependent on the water source that causes the event. Local rainfall, broken pipes, and sewer backups all require a specific response. SERVPRO’s fully-trained restoration experts can provide you with the services necessary to handle contaminations of hazardous products such as sewage, oil, and gasoline that clean and disinfect your entire home after a flood. Doing cleaning like this on your own can often lead to missed areas that develop corrosion, rot, or mold.

Handling damage to household goods can be overwhelming as well. Are you dealing with just a few pieces of hardwood furniture, a few rugs, and a small area or are you faced with an entire structure, filled with dozens of boxes, books, furniture, bedding, carpeting, clothing, appliances, and more? SERVPRO can perform services on all of these items, limit any losses you experience, and get things back to normal quickly.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown services the entire area, providing quality cleanup and restoration services you can trust, call today (773) 434-9100.

Visit https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en.html for more about Chicago.

Professional Mold Remediation for Your Chicago Restaurant

2/18/2018 (Permalink)

Make sure that your restaurant kitchen gets thorough services after a mold infestation by contacting the technicians at SERVPRO.

SERVPRO Technicians Expertly Remediate Your Commercial Mold Damage

With so many restaurants in Chicago, you have to stand out from the pack to make a substantially profitable mark on this landscape. While you might have all of the business models in place and the right dishes to prepare to wow the crowds that come in through your door, one thing that you cannot account for is the possibility of something unforeseen derailing your progress and setting you back.  
 
When it comes to hot kitchens that are not well ventilated, there is a lot of steam and moisture that cannot find a means of escaping the area. Mixed with the higher temperatures present in such a bustling area of your building, you have the right makings for mold to grow in areas that might not get as consistently cleaned as other regions of the kitchen. When you encounter mold damage in your Chicago restaurant kitchen area, the best thing that you can do for your business is contact certified mold remediation specialists.  
 
Our SERVPRO team gets expertly trained to the high standards set by the IICRC for mold remediation and removal strategies. We have a comprehensive and broad knowledge of various types of fungus and how best to remove each one. The presence of mold is a cause to immediately cease food preparation until the mold has gotten removed and remediation gets completed. This fact not only implies a loss of profit for you, but a potential loss in reputation as those that might have spoken highly of your establishment are forced to go elsewhere. That is why you need professional remediation specialists that have your business at heart and look to mitigate your losses in every capacity.  
 
From the moment that our SERVPRO team arrives at your restaurant, our specialists get to work assessing the extent of the damages and sectioning off the area using negative air chambers. This equipment prevents the spread of active mold spores to new surfaces while the affected areas are getting cleaned with our scrubbers. Air circulation is cut off throughout the building while the remediation process is ongoing to further prevent the new colonies from forming elsewhere.  
 
You cannot expect to handle mold damage in your restaurant alone. Trust our experienced team at SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown to get your doors open for business again quickly. You can call us anytime at (773) 434-9100.  

Click here for more information regarding Chicago. 

Professional Flood Damage Crews In Chicago

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

Whenever a window breaks during a rainstorm, water gets inside your house and causes damage.

Professional Flood Damage Restoration

Most of the time when a rainstorm hits the Windy City, high winds occur. Whenever it gets windy, things like rocks become airborne and possibly break windows inside your Chicago home. Whenever a window breaks during a rainstorm, water gets inside your house and causes damage.

Water that gets in from a broken window causes damage to contents and building materials inside your home. If you notice water damage from a broken window inside a room in your house, it is smart to call in SERVPRO's flood damage experts in Chicago. Rainwater that enters your home during a rainstorm potentially causes some significant issues.

Any time rainwater gets into your house, contents and building materials get wet. Even if the damaged area seems small, it is possible that there is damage you cannot see. SERVPRO's IICRC Certified team has experience in mitigating both small and large problems. In any rainwater damage scenario, our team first tests the water to see if it is contaminated. If the water coming in from the outside has high contamination level, then some items inside the home get removed. In some cases, all of the water gets dried out, and removal of things is not necessary.

If drying is possible, then our specialists come in and remove furniture or objects from the damaged area. The experts then set up specialized drying equipment to bring moisture levels back down to normal so that mold growth cannot occur. The number of air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers set up depends on the extent of the water damage.

If the damage inside your dwelling is small, then the drying process will be quicker. For small areas, our team can set up a small number of air movers and possible one dehumidifier to keep the moisture level in the air low. If the wet area is large, then furniture gets set up on blocks, and more air movers get put into the region to dry out all building materials before fungi can grow.

Any water damage situation involving rainwater needs to get professional attention immediately. If you notice moisture inside your home, it is wise to call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 for assistance 24/7.

Visit https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en.html for more about the city of Chicago.

Attic Moisture Can Cause Mold Damage In Chicago Homes

1/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in Chicago Attics Is Remediated and Removed with the Help of SERVPRO

SERVPRO Remediates Many Chicago Properties After Mold Infestations

Ice damming on the roof of your Chicago home might undoubtedly be a potential culprit for flooding upper levels of your house, but that is not the only threat that this phenomenon might allow occurring. There are many instances in which ice forms up along the edges of your roof, backing up the water from melting snow until it finds any access it can through your roof and into your home. Even with a well-constructed roof, small amounts of water can still get in, making attic spaces wet and damp.

As you might already be aware of, damp spaces with warm temperatures are a breeding ground for fungus and mold. Mold damage to your Chicago home is not likely to happen overnight, so you may not be aware that there is an issue until several colonies have sprouted along organic materials (like the drywall). It is crucial, especially during the winter months to regularly check your attic space for dampness and potential mold growth so that you can spot a problem well before the situation gets dire.
 
With any mold growth in your home, it is better to leave the removal of colonies and remediation efforts to the professionals. Our SERVPRO team has gotten thoroughly trained to high standards in remediation and restoration through the IICRC, and we have the necessary tools and expertise to handle any fungus or level of severity that we could encounter.
 
Our SERVPRO remediation specialists can isolate the affected area and prevent spores from spreading while we implement our scrubbing equipment to deeply clean surfaces (successfully uprooting and removing the entire hyphae of the fungi). Dehumidification equipment is also put to work in the area, pulling the moisture from the air so that naturally occurring spores do not have the opportunity to grow again.
 
Removal of the source of the moisture is an essential aspect of the remediation process, as our team aims at the assurance of preventing mold growth from happening again. In this instance, it might be merely removing the ice dams from your roof that were allowing the water to seep into the attic, but whatever is causing the moisture and dampness to any affected area of your home has to get resolved.
 
Mold damage might be something that most do not even consider, especially during the winter months. If you encounter it in your home though, give SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown a call. You can reach our experienced mold remediation specialists anytime at (773) 434-9100.

Data and Information about this great city by clicking right here.

How Flood Damage Gets Restored to Your Chicago Home

1/21/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding can literally leave you under water. Contact SERVPRO after you and your family are safe to dry out and remediate your property.

Team SERVPRO Responds Quickly to Your Flooding Disaster

Natural disasters can occur with little warning. While local news teams work tirelessly to give you the latest information about developments and the possibilities of instances like flash flooding occurring, the warnings do not always happen in enough time to stop the damage. When your Chicago home falls victim to a flash flood or other circumstances that leave several inches of water in lower levels of your home, it might not always be clear how to clean up the mess and restore the damage.
 
Flood damage to your Chicago residence is something that everyone does not have to experience or deal with in their lifetime, but the possibility is always there. With even the most sound construction of homes, mortar joints in foundations crack and erode, leaving pathways for water penetration into your basement or lowest level of your home. Once a path is available, it only becomes more significant over time as more water can pass through unabated.
 
Resolving this issue might be a product of hindsight once you already have flooding in the lower levels of your residence. Our SERVPRO professionals have the tools and experience to extract the water quickly and restore the damage to your home. Additionally, our focus has to follow with preventing future flood damage by repairing the fractures and cracks in the foundation.
 
Repairing the damage to the foundation is often as simple as using hydraulic cement and applying it to cracks and missing mortar joints. To polish this look, sometimes mortar is reapplied over the hydraulic cement to give the appearance of natural blockwork again. Unless water is actively still pouring through these pathways, our SERVPRO technicians focus first on extracting the pooled water to prevent structural damages and other potential problems.
 
In most instances of flooding, our SERVPRO team utilizes pump trucks within our fleet to pull the water from the floors very quickly. With the use of this truck and spot extractions with a wet vac, the affected area is ready to be dried. With a combination of dehumidification equipment and our air movers, we can thoroughly dry the entire area.
 
Flood damage does not have to be a costly and traumatic event in your family’s home. Trust the experienced technicians at SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown to get the job done right. You can reach our emergency response team anytime at (773) 434-9100.

For more information regarding Chicago, click here.

Commercial Water Damage and the Musty Atmosphere in Your Chicago-area Used Bookstore

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

Chicago Bookstore and Retail Shops Benefit from Water Damage Restoration by SERVPRO

SERVPRO Can Mitigate Water and Secondary Damages to Your Commercial Property in the Chicago Area

With easy access to the internet, few people in Chicago seem to read books the way they did only a generation ago. Nevertheless, many people still enjoy finding a classic that they once read as a child, and without such bookstores, this treasure would remain inaccessible.

Especially when it involves commercial water damage, Chicago, our Windy City on Lake Michigan, poses unique challenges to some business owners. Bookstores that sell only new volumes escape some of these problems merely because their merchandise never faced exposure to mold and mildew over the years from the buildup of moisture.

Bound in leather or heavy paper and cloth, books contain the perfect environment for microbes. Pages hold moisture, while at the same time provide the cellulose fibers these organisms need. The grooves between the pages at the top of the book provide the surface area that mold spores can easily land on while hiding them from feather dusters. Not washed with soap and water like many other items found in a typical home or workplace microbes can collect in staggering numbers, waiting for an elevation in humidity to trigger their growth.

Placing your inventory on the shelves of your store brings the mold spores from the past into one location. Keeping humidity low in such a situation is crucial to protecting not only your merchandise but also for protecting your entire building. In this kind of ongoing need, SERVPRO recommends the use of a dehumidifier, which we can install for your company. Water damage can severely impact your inventory by allowing microbes to grow wildly, making mitigation vital to your business' continued success.

Lyophilization, basically freeze drying documents and papers to mitigate damage as part of the restoration service, can help remove the mold present in your inventory, and it can also prevent any further deterioration of older volumes, as it also kills anything that may live inside books. While this process takes place, our crew can perform the necessary work in removing any water damage, removing any present mold from shelving, cleaning out storage areas, and repainting walls and ceilings, so both mold and its musty odor disappear.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown views each business in our area as an essential part of our community's fabric. Helping you continue providing your goods and services to the public gives us great satisfaction. Call us at (773) 434-9100 to reach our 24-hour service whenever you notice water damage and its effects on your bookstore or another place of commerce.

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Safety With Electricity After Flooding In Your Chicago Home

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

If the weather and flooding have taken you by surprise in your Chicago home, the flood damage you are faced with can be very daunting.

Safety After Flooding

Disasters are bound to happen at some point. It is how life goes. Even in Chicago, you can be a victim of flood damage. You might not live in an area which is prone to heavy rains, but changing weather patterns can send surprises to people who thought they were safe. It's in your best interest to do all you can to prepare and prevent flood damage from heavy rains.

If the weather and flooding have taken you by surprise in your Chicago home, the flood damage you are faced with can be very daunting. It can come upon you quickly, as well, and before you know it your once dry home is under inches or feet of water. SERVPRO understands how stressful and overwhelming something like this can be, so that is why we are always available when you need us.

When we are faced with a flooding situation, environmental hazards are present. These include structural hazards, electrical hazards, and hazardous materials.

Water conducts electricity, and mixing the two can be disastrous. Flooding can cause water to enter the wiring system of your home. The first item we check is the power distribution box. All circuit breakers are turned off at the panel. Doing so is especially important if water got into electrical outlets or wall cavities, or when you have outlets on the floor.

Since SERVPRO’s equipment to remove the water from your home requires electricity, we must use ground fault circuit interrupters which cut the power if they detect too much current. We always check any tools, cords, and other accessories for damage before using them, and ensure the ground plugs are not broken, and the cords have no cuts, frays, or nicks.

Once we have made sure that no electrical dangers are present in the home, we can begin working safely to dry your home back out and restore your structure and possessions.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown takes pride in our safety procedures on every job to keep your family and our staff safe. Residents in the areas of Ukrainian Village, Wicker Park, or Bucktown can rest easy when they call us at (773) 434-9100 to clean up flood damage.

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Restoring Chicago Mold Damage in a Home

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Cleanup and Remediation in Chicago Means a Call to SERVPRO

SERVPRO Offers Mold Remediation to Property Owners in Chicago

Mold is not what Chicago homeowners think of when considering home disasters. Fire is loud and bright, and everyone has that nightmare about walking down into their basement and stepping in water halfway up to their knees.

The reality is that mold damage to Chicago homes can cost just as much to remove and restore as fire or water damage. Worse, the presence of mold may cause health effects in people with existing respiratory conditions. SERVPRO response teams understand that this should not happen when the mold is found and dealt with quickly.
 
The first sign of mold is often that distinctive musty odor. However, it is not noticeable until enough mold has grown to generate the odor and is not present in all types of mold. Homeowners must look in any location where there might be enough moisture for mold spores to expand and grow. It is not an easy task, as even a large group of hundreds of spores is smaller than the dot at the end of this sentence.
 
It takes very little for mold to get started. Once the first spores expand, they extend hyphae across and into surfaces, searching for food and moisture. That is why SERVPRO technicians quickly move to dry all water-soaked building materials and items like carpets and rugs. Removing the source of water halts spore growth and forces them back into an inert state.
 
If the spores have already grown into ceiling tiles or drywall, removing the water source does not make them retreat though. When compromised, it is much cheaper to a homeowner for us to remove and replace these building materials.
 
If the mold is only on the surface, we spray the affected areas and items with an anti-fungal agent that kills the spores on contact. Next, we wipe down the surfaces with cloths or sponges to remove the spores. If the layer is thick, our teams use commercial vacuum cleaners with specially designed HEPA filters. These filters can capture and trap mold as small as a single spore.
 
Safely removing mold from your home requires training and special equipment. It is not a simple process. If you have or just suspect you have a mold problem, contact us here at SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown. Call today at (773) 434-9100 to schedule an inspection.

A local area of Chicago is right here

Saving Your Beauty Salon from Commercial Water Damage in Chicago

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

If your salon experiences water damage, rely on SERVPRO to restore your space "Like it never even happened."

Professional Water Damage Restoration Services for Your Commercial Space

Pampering your wonderful clientele and making them feel and look even more beautiful than they did when they walked through the door of your Chicago beauty salon can keep you and your employees busy. Using water to shampoo hair and fill spray bottles is a significant part of the work involved. When water overflows a sink or sprays everywhere after a pipe breaks, your salon faces a complex set of problems.

Small businesses like salons in Chicago with commercial water damage find that recovering from such disasters take time. SERVPRO professionals can help small businesses recover more quickly. Being able to recover quickly can help minimize loss of profits and help retain clients. While the bookings immediately after a disaster might need rescheduling, those appointments in the future might not need changing with fast and efficient service.

We can help you through the complex nature of damage caused by water, clean your salon, and help ensure that things are once again “Like it never even happened.” Water easily seeps into cracks on floors, and we must remove all of this water before it can cause the floor's support system to rot and weaken. This water only turns to moisture, feeding tiny insects and mold, while disintegrating the materials it comes in contact with, so extracting it is crucial.

Water can also increase the amount of moisture in the air, adversely affecting your client's hair. Rusty fixtures in your salon can create a dingy look and feel, also. SERVPRO can prevent all of this, and other situations, too, so you can continue providing your services. The products you use on clients' hair can continue to work the way they always have in the past, with no shocking surprises for your staff or unsuspecting customers.

Training for and earning certificates from the IICRC in Water Damage Restoration (WRT), Applied Structural Drying (ASD), and also Commercial Drying (CDS) provides us with the information and skills needed to remediate situations such as overflowing basins and broken water lines. We have experience in remediation of all sizes of businesses, and all types. We know to always handle your valuable equipment with care and to keep the lines of communication open with our customers.

Small businesses provide a sizable portion of our economy, and without your participation, our entire community suffers. SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown wants to work with you in any water damage event or any other disaster that affects your business. Contacting our 24-hour service by calling (773) 434-9100, any day of the year, can help keep your business running smoothly.

Click here for more information regarding Chicago.

Helping Chicago Pizzerias To Remove Water Damage

11/6/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO helps to remove water from pizzerias through hi-tech industrial machines and solutions, overcoming even the most severe damage there is.

Water Damage Removal

Large-scale flooding can seem like an imposing problem to many restaurant owners. Water of measurable depth in wide, open areas such as dining areas and some kitchens can seem like too big a task for anyone to handle quickly, making the whole situation seem much direr than it is. SERVPRO helps to remove water from Chicago pizzerias through hi-tech industrial machines and solutions, overcoming even the most severe damage there is. Here are a few of the ways our tech helps to give us an edge over the competition.

Water Extraction
For water removal jobs in Chicago pizzerias and other dining establishments, we typically use larger truck-mounted water extractors to remove standing water from the building at an unprecedented pace. These gasoline-powered machines pump water out of the store and into the street, where it can safely flow into gutters and sewer systems. In the event of catastrophic flooding, we also have access to more extractors so that we can remove the water before further damage has a chance to set in. Also, for deeper areas of the building or less demanding jobs, we also use small, portable water extractors to get a different reach.

Further Drying
Once the standing water has been safely pumped out, we can then start to dry the structure further. The next step is drying out soaked materials, which we accomplish via heavy duty air movers. These can remove moisture from carpets, wood, masonry, and any other materials in the building. Then, we bring in thermal and chemical dehumidifiers to take airborne water droplets out of the air and store them in containment tanks. SERVPRO treatments and techniques ensure that water is removed as quickly as possible and all damage that can be avoided has been avoided and that your business opens doors sooner.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is a local provider of water removal and restoration services in the Chicago area. Call us 24/7 at (773) 434-9100.

For more about Chicago, Illinois click here.

Be Prepared for Flood Damage in Chicago This Winter

11/3/2017 (Permalink)

When snow melts it can make its way into your home causing flood damage.

Rely on SERVPRO if Your Home Experiences Flood Damage from Wintery Conditions

Predicting the weather months in advance is a process too complicated for even the most powerful modern supercomputers, but you should be prepared for winter flooding regardless. Flood damage can still happen in Chicago in the winter and early spring, even when the ground stays snowy and the precipitation remains frozen. Snow can melt, rainstorms can melt ice to create sudden flood incidents, and even some household water lines can freeze or break and create a big problem. SERVPRO is ready every hour of every day to respond to flood damage calls in the local area, so never hesitate to contact us in an emergency.

While flood damage in Chicago is most common in the later spring and summer months, it is still entirely possible in the coldest parts of the year. Any of the reasons mentioned above could cause flooding in your home, or other, less common issues could crop up. Regardless of the cause, we do not allow cold weather to get in the way of our service to the community. Any time and any day you have an issue, we should be available to respond.

Winter conditions can sometimes complicate flood damages in unusual ways. Water that is allowed to freeze and melt repeatedly can cause severe and lasting damage to a home's building materials. If snow manages to get into the home, it can melt into surprising volumes of water that can seep deep into carpets and flooring materials. Also, in the event of a major blizzard or snowstorm, snowpack may be so thick and heavy that it can cause significant water damage to the exterior of your home before the bulk of it ever gets a chance to melt. If you feel that any of these factors have managed to permanently damage your home, be sure to call SERVPRO to learn how we can help.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is a locally owned home damage restoration company with the resources and backing of a national label. Contact us at (773) 434-9100.

To learn more about the city of Chicago, click here.

Sources of Indoor Moisture That Can Cause Mold Damage in Chicago Apartments

10/15/2017 (Permalink)

When you find mold in your home, it is time to contact SERVPRO for a thorough investigation and remediation of the infestation. Call today.

SERVPRO Tackles Mold By First Inspecting the Property and Determining the Cause

Indoor moisture problems are common in Chicago and usually, come with mold and mildew. Mold can become a concern when the contamination is severe. When mold spores and particles are present in large numbers, they may cause health effects if inhaled. Mold can also contribute to structural damage by weakening the wood frame. Additionally, when wood makes contact with water, it can warp and cause cracks on your walls.
 
The best way to protect your home from extensive mold damage is having a reputable restoration company inspect for mold growth. If you need quick and efficient mold remediation services, SERVPRO is locally based and has a long history of providing mold damage restoration services to the residents of Chicago. We have a wide range of industry-standard tools and techniques that can restore your property to preloss conditions in no time.
 
Water leaks are one of the most common causes of mold damage in the house. SERVPRO technicians can help assess plumbing leaks in the building and then devise the best course of action to repair the problem. It is important to grade driveways, walkways, and exterior soil away from the house to keep water from puddling near the foundation. Cleaning gutters can also go a long way towards preventing the formation of mud and ice dams.
 
High indoor humidity is also notorious for causing mold growth and mold damage. Common control methods include venting bathrooms, clothes dryers, kitchen stoves, and space heaters to the outdoors; maintaining dry crawlspaces and basements; removing un-vented gas or kerosene space heaters; and, keeping firewood outdoors. SERVPRO mold remediation experts often use exhaust fans to remove moisture from various spaces. A stand-alone dehumidifier or refrigerated air conditioning can also come in handy if increased ventilation is not possible or outdoor air is more humid than inside air.
 
A slight increase in indoor temperatures can help limit condensation on cold surfaces and subsequently minimize the risk of mold damage. SERVPRO professionals can do this by adding insulation in walls and ceilings, opening heating grilles in unoccupied rooms, opening closet doors on exterior walls, and turning up thermostats. Redirecting cold air away from walls and other areas during warm weather can also help minimize condensation.
 
If you detect the presence of mold on your property, you need to act fast to avoid extensive mold damage. SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is an experienced company in the restoration industry, and our technicians are available 24/7 to respond to your emergency. For any assistance, call us today at (773) 434-9100.

For more information regarding Chicago, click here

Flood Damage Restoration and More Throughout the Chicago Area

10/9/2017 (Permalink)

When you are facing flooding in your home, it's time to get to safety and call the professionals at SERVPRO. Our quick response will right after.

Our Certified SERVPRO Technicians are Ready to Tackle Your Flooding Disaster

Harsh weather conditions can take a severe toll on your property and even cause separation issues when things get too rough. If you find yourself facing significant flood damage to your Chicago area home, call us for help.

When overwhelmed or caught off-guard, it helps to know that professional help is available. We can help you return to your home safely and provide flood damage restoration services in Chicago needed to recover quickly. With qualified cleanup and restoration technicians available 24/7, We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster and have the personnel, equipment, and resources available to tackle any size job.

After you place a call to our office, it becomes our duty to make damages disappear. "Like it never even happened." We put all of our training and expertise to work, focusing on your home, family, and the situation you find yourselves experiencing. Our entire staff drives your restoration as quickly and efficiently as possible while producing the excellent results you deserve. SERVPRO staff works with you and your insurance company to make the process as stress-free as possible.

As fully IICRC-industry certified technicians, every SERVPRO team member makes every effort to limit your losses. We have access to advanced water extraction equipment, water detection devices, and drying equipment that makes getting water out faster. We help you return home safely and get the most out of a possibly devastating experience.

We provide technicians with several years of experience, who understand what it takes to save many of the items affected by a flood. Your furniture, carpeting, and personal items just might be salvageable; it just takes a professional to perform the right services to make it a reality. SERVPRO can help you get back on track, providing unique solutions tailored to fit your home’s specific conditions.

Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown for full-service solutions throughout Bucktown, Greektown, and more. We are ready whenever you need us and provide you with the understanding, caring, hardworking professionals that help make your house a home again call today. (773) 434-9100

For more information regarding Chicago, click here

Water Removal Services That Help Protect Your Chicago Area Property

9/19/2017 (Permalink)

Water that enters your Chicago area property during a storm only takes an hour or two to spread throughout your home.

Water Removal Services

Water that enters your Chicago area property during a storm only takes an hour or two to spread throughout your home. This exposure can cause significant damages that hide within your walls, often leading to additional rot, corrosion, and even mold. Reduce the chances of being exposed to secondary damages by calling a professional.

Waking up to a broken window or standing water in your Chicago area home should make water removal flags go off in your mind. As you sleep, the raging storm outside produces a vast amount of water that can cause severe damage to unprotected areas of your home. You need professional help to determine the extent of exposure, limit secondary damages, and any losses you might experience.

SERVPRO’s team of IICRC-industry certified professionals are ready to respond to your emergency situation 24/7, 365, day or night. We train hard and work harder so that you never have to worry about environmental issues in your home again. A single call gives you full access to qualified technicians that understand how water behaves, staying on top of common problems that plague most homeowners. SERVPRO has industrial-grade water extraction and drying equipment that makes recovering fast while helping you avoid the majority of guesswork, managing your entire process from beginning to end. You never have to battle water removal alone; we are here to help. Our knowledgeable staff even works with your insurance company to make the claims process as simple as possible.

SERVPRO is locally owned and operated, making our company a valuable local resource that you can count on during an emergency. We are proud to serve other members of our local community, offering services that provide you with answers to dangerous situations and being a part of the solution that keeps you safe.

Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown for full-service water removal solutions throughout Bucktown, Greektown, and Wicker Park, today. We are a part of the surrounding community, enabling us to respond, “Faster to Any Size Disaster.” Our team is ready to respond immediately, call now (773) 434-9100.

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Checking For Fire Damage Hazards In Chicago Basements

9/14/2017 (Permalink)

Basements are extremely vulnerable to fire disasters in Chicago, especially since this is where most of us store our heat generating equipment.

Checking For Fire Damage Hazards

Basements are extremely vulnerable to fire disasters in Chicago, especially since this is where most of us store our heat generating equipment. Putting out a fire in the basement is often times challenging, and the damage can extend to the rest of the house if not controlled. Having the fire fighters neutralize the situation can be helpful, but it is the aftermath that should actually worry you.

Here at SERVPRO, we understand the seriousness of fire damage in Chicago. We have highly experienced, IICRC-trained technicians ready to respond to your emergency any time of the day. Our stock of tools and equipment is at your disposal, waiting to return your home to preloss conditions as soon as possible, "Like it never even happened."

A thorough inspection of your basement can help detect several fire damage hazards. The combination of electricity, combustibles, and heat generators that are unattended can be hazardous. As a general rule of thumb, always have emergency escape areas with clear paths leading to the exits.

Flammable liquids are one of the most dangerous causes of fire damage in the basement. They produce vapors that are denser than air, which may ignite from a small spark produced by a hot water heater or furnace. Ideally, flammable liquids should be kept outside, in a shed - away from open flames, sparks, and heat. If you have to keep them in the basement, maintain enough clearance (at least 3 feet) around such appliances as the hot water heater.

A considerably large amount of combustible materials can fuel a small fire. Minimize the amount of storage by cleaning yearly or having a yard sale. Avoid storing things such as propane cylinders, snow blowers, and lawn mowers indoors as they contain flammable liquids that present a serious fire hazard.

Over-fused electrical boxes can also lead to extensive fire damage. When a fuse overloads due to too many connected appliances or some defective device/wiring, it may blow and cause an electrical fire. Do not use extension cords for devices that require permanent electricity supply such as freezers, refrigerators, and air conditioners. These items can overpower the cord, causing it to overheat and ignite.

All fixtures should be properly secured, with junction boxes covered and wires adequately insulated. If you use the basement for storage, do not allow kids to play in there. Additionally, avoid storing lighters and matches in the garage and, if possible, keep them out of the reach of children.

As a locally owned and operated company, SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown can respond quickly to your fire damage emergency. We have all the necessary resources to restore your property to its original state in no time. For any assistance, call us today at (773) 434-9100.

Click here for more about the city of Chicago.

Preventing Water Damage from a Failing Dishwasher in Chicago

9/8/2017 (Permalink)

One way to prevent your dishwasher from failing is to not overload it.

Steps to keep your dishwasher working properly

One of the most common reasons for water damage in Chicago homes is dishwashers. There are several important steps you can take to help prevent your dishwasher from failing and causing havoc to your home.

If you have already had a water emergency from your dishwasher in your Chicago home, SERVPRO are the ones to reach out to. Our staff is specially trained and experienced to handle any water damage, and we move fast to get to your home, assess the harm, and come up with a plan to remove the water and dry your home out again.

You should also ensure your drain line is hooked up correctly to the sink. It needs to be tightly connected to the plumbing underneath your sink and not loose in any way. The natural pressure from the dishwasher wears at the connection between the two if it is loose at all, possibly dumping a full dishwasher’s worth of water into your kitchen. Only run your dishwasher while you are at home so you can shut it off if something happens.

Keep an eye out for buckling or warping on the area of the floor surrounding your dishwasher. It is a sure sign there is a leak, and you need to contact us at SERVPRO right away.

If you have a basement immediately below your kitchen, monitor the ceiling in that area for water stains or any other distress signs.

Lastly, make sure you are not overfilling your dishwasher, as it causes water during the cycle to move in ways it should not be moving, exacerbating small issues.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown has the industrial equipment, such as truck mounted pumps, to remove any standing water in your home in West Loop, Chicago, or Bucktown after your dishwasher has failed. We also have large fans and dehumidifiers to dry it out completely again. Call us at (773) 434-9100 as soon as you recognize a problem, as more damage can occur if you leave the water for any length of time.

Click here for more information about Chicago, Illinois.

Help Managing Mold Damage in Your Chicago Home is Closer Than You Might Think

8/27/2017 (Permalink)

When you see or smell mold on your property, call SERVPRO to prevent a full infestation from occurring. We are standing by for your call.

Our Certified Technicians Understand Mold Tendencies and Proactively Remediate the Damage

Mold damage on your property can get out of control pretty fast. Before you know what is happening, mold uses water to travel throughout your living environment, taking hold in hidden areas that cause significant problems.  
 
Remember when facing mold damage in your Chicago area home, you are not alone. Knowledgeable, helpful, experienced technicians can help you find the answers you need to get mold damage under control quickly. You should always avoid taking on remediation of areas larger than 10-square feet, alone. Without professional help, you can easily find yourself in way over your head.
 
When having continuous water issues under your kitchen sink, mold tends to make its way into your cupboards, cabinets, appliances, and even under your floor. Since mold needs water to grow, SERVPRO technicians use infrared moisture detectors to locate hidden areas regardless of how small. We make every effort to locate and remove water from the equation altogether.  
 
After accomplishing a water-free indoor environment, SERVPRO technicians use physical removal methods to control mold growth in your home. Using various containment methods, we prevent mold from entering other clean areas and introduce airborne spores to air scrubbers and HEPA filtered equipment. We capture spores that are invisible to the naked eye, controlling access to your property.
 
With contaminated materials bagged and disposed of properly, SERVPRO cleaning technicians use a combination of methods to restore various surfaces, contents, furniture, and many of your personal belongings that others might consider a loss. We follow strict EPA guidelines and disinfect the affected area with EPA-registered disinfectants.  
 
Our technicians are available anytime, day or night. When you find yourself facing unsuspected emergency situations, call us. We can provide you with a variety of services to help you return your home to a quality condition, making several problems disappear, “Like it never even happened.”
 
Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown for additional information or to begin your home’s remediation, today. Our expertly trained staff is ready and willing to take your call. (773) 434-9100

For more information regarding Chicago, click here

The High Visibility of Water Damage in Chicago Apartments and Homes

8/11/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is faster to any size disaster!

SERVPRO Can Clean and Restore Your Water Damage in Chicago

Many times, the damage a dwelling holds is known soon after an event by those who occupy the home. Damage often comes about as a result of the changes experienced at the molecular level. From the disintegration of normally solid materials to the staining of surfaces on walls and ceilings, evidence that these changes have taken place can sometimes be quite apparent.

Chicago homes can experience water damage and its effects in different ways. Either absorption and redistribution of substances that produce stains on walls and ceilings or expansion of the spacing between molecules before, during and after the presence of water in a sheet of drywall show how extreme water can affect these materials.

More durable surfaces, such as wood and metal can also exhibit signs that water has been present, even long after removal of any water. Wooden fixtures and floors can swell so much that they begin to buckle, warp, and even crack apart because their expansion forces them to become greater than the area they occupied. While floors have some small leeway for expansion and shrinkage, this is done only to allow for normal conditions. Other millwork falls into the same problem when faced with excess water.

Preventing the damage is always easier to do than it is to restore materials after the fact, making it crucial for residents with excess water to call as soon as possible. SERVPRO knows that preventing water damage is easier to do than restoring a home that has already begun to show signs of it within materials, both interior and exterior. Having received IICRC certifications in this and other related restorative methods ensure that our technicians are prepared to handle your home's disaster, regardless of difficulty or complicated nature.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Whichever stage your home or apartment is experiencing water damage, the time to call for assistance in mitigating any and all damage present and restoring your home is now. You can contact us, SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown by calling our local number, (773) 434-9100, on any day and at any hour. We are always here when you need us the most, and we are always Faster To Any Size Disaster.

For more information regarding the city of Chicago, click here.

Specialized Fire Damage Restoration Services Your Chicago Area Business Deserves

6/30/2017 (Permalink)

It is crucial for you to receive fast, efficient restoration services when dealing with any disaster to your shop.

Fire Damage Restoration Services

Running an antique shop gives you access to a wide range of customers, characters of all shapes and sizes. Some looking for a special gift, others adding to their collection, all seeking a product that adds quality or meaning to their lives. You take that to heart, providing everything you possibly can to your customers.  
 
When your Chicago area building becomes compromised by fire damage, you deserve access to someone who takes their job and their company as seriously as you do. With access to cutting-edge techniques, a variety of specialized equipment, and expertly trained technicians, we provide you with more than just a way to repair your building.
 
It is crucial for you to receive fast, efficient restoration services when dealing with any disaster. Time can be especially harmful to materials and contents affected by flames. Water, soot, and smoke residues continually damage everything they come into contact with even after the fire is out. Until someone takes the proper steps to eliminate the problem, damage continues that you simply cannot afford.
 
SERVPRO has several years experience helping customers just like you overcome problems caused by a fire on their property. Everything from minor content fires to full structure fires can cause a significant amount of damage. However, if given the right support, a company can easily recover with little to no losses, it just depends on the quality of the support you enlist.  
 
SERVPRO technicians utilize industrial-grade restoration equipment and cleaning techniques to save as much of your property as possible. Woodwork, walls, ceilings, carpeting, furniture items, artwork, electronics, and precious antiques receive careful attention, cleaning and deodorization methods that help return them to a quality condition that others can enjoy.  
 
SERVPRO puts every resource at your disposal to assist with your restoration, cut costs, and reduce any disruptions your business may experience. Your restoration becomes our only goal, providing you with the attention you deserve during an especially trying time.
 
Make the most of what is available to you, contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown to obtain the services you deserve (773) 434-9100.

For more information about Chicago, Illinois visit https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en.html.

Protect Your Chicago Area Pizzeria With Fire Damage Restoration Services You Can Count On

5/22/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in a Chicago Pizzeria Gets Help from SERVPRO

SERVPRO Restores Pizzerias to Working Condition After Fires

Taking the proper precautions to keep your pizzeria safe from fire takes some real effort on your part. You have to consider every circumstance and take the proper steps to ensure that your employees and guests remain safe from hazards that may exist.
 
Looking at the amount of equipment and services that your Chicago pizzeria likely has, fire damage can happen anywhere. Your entire serving station, kitchen, and even your preparation area makes fire inspectors cringe.  
 
These hazards make it necessary for you to have a pre-existing relationship with a fire damage restoration company, like SERVPRO that you can count on to combat problems that have the potential to close you down for good.
 
You want to maintain your deep fryers properly, whether they are electric or gas. Sure they offer efficient heating and fast recovery between frying cycles, but they also expose workers to a variety of hazards that can quickly get out of control.  
 
While your dough preparation equipment poses few problems, your counters are full of dangers. The majority of machinery that you use implies risk including your pizza scales, cheese graters, and mixers.  
 
Filling them too much, cleaning them improperly, or failing to check for problems that may be present with feed lines or frayed cords can lead to catastrophic damage in your kitchen.  
 
All of these appliances can result in electrical hazards if not maintained or used properly by your staff. The fire hazards present due to pasta cookers, dough presses, and holding cabinets alone should cause red flags to fly.  
 
You may have deck ovens powered by natural gas or liquid propane, electric countertop ovens for breadsticks or other side dishes while using conveyor ovens to produce your pies and other main courses.  
 
SERVPRO technicians can help you limit risks and come up with a plan to help protect your business both before and after an incident occurs on your property. Take advantage of the expertly trained fire damage technicians available by having an initial inspection performed today.
 
At SERVPRO, we enjoy a good pizza, just like anyone else. However, we put our stock into helping business owners, just like you, remain in business, or successfully recover from disastrous events that may occur.
 
Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown for more information or to take the first steps in protecting your business today. (773) 434-9100

Info on Our People: https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/ofinterest.html

When The Roof On Your Chicago Area Home Fails And Causes Water Damage In Your Home

4/24/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO TIp--Roof Repairs Prevent Water Damage to Chicago Properties

SERVPRO Offers Restoration and Repairs to Your Water Damaged Property

Do you find yourself constantly flipping channels to view hourly weather status updates? Have regular stations for drip bucket deployment in your home? Whether your roofing is two years old or twenty, a single leak can cause catastrophic damage to your property.  
 
To make it clear, we would like to help you prevent these types of incidents. There is no longer any reason for you to live with water damage in your Chicago area home. We cover everything from quick, simple repairs, to major remodels and renovations. Our restoration process makes damages disappear, “Like it never even happened.”
 
Roof Flashing -
Roof flashing consists of thin metal plates that get installed on joints under the shingles of your roof. Combined with a rubberized coating flashing helps create a water-resistant barrier, protecting the rest of your home from exposure to outdoor elements. Over time, this coating dries and cracks, giving various elements access to unprotected areas of your home.  
 
SERVPRO can send professional technicians in to locate the source of the leak, remove and replace old flashing if not too extensive, re-coat the area with roofing sealant and help return things to normal quickly. Roof Valley cracks are also common; our inspection catches these defects as well.
 
Broken Shingles -
As you examine the exterior layer of your roof, identify any cracked, discolored, or missing shingles. A single missing shingle may not be much of a problem. However, after inclement weather causes violent winds and torrential rainfall to scatter shingles throughout your yard, you may want to consider having someone out to perform an inspection. In the cold season, ice damming can also lead to interior and exterior water damage to your property.
 
SERVPRO technicians easily repair obvious issues, using a variety of moisture detectors, water extractors, and water removal methods to eliminate the problems plaguing your home. The sooner you call, the more likely you receive the results you are looking for, limited damage and exposure.
 
Roof Vent Issues -
Your roof may also contain pipe vents, which are used to expel excess moisture from various areas of your home. When the booting used to seal the area around the piping cracks, the excess moisture causes dark spots, musty odors, and possible mold contamination in your roof framing, or attic area.
 
All of these issues can result in major damage to the structure and indoor air quality (IAQ) of your home. Making it necessary to contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown as soon as possible to assist with correcting the issues you face. Call Today. (773) 434-9100

SERVPRO Flood Damage Bucktown

2/27/2017 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown to restore your flood damage!

SERVPRO Bucktown Flood Damage 

Floodwaters in our area usually come from storms and when the North Branch of the Chicago River overflows its banks. It has been more common this winter because of the incredible rains we have had so far.

Flood damage to Bucktown homes is never a routine issue for residents, regardless of the source. Water not removed quickly enough damages walls in just a day or two which now must be demolished and replaced. SERVPRO has the trained personnel and the equipment needed to restore your home to its pre-flooded state.

Drywall is particularly vulnerable to absorbing water and begins crumbling right off of the wall frame or in the hands or a restoration crew, regardless of how careful they are with each panel. If removed successfully, the drying procedure still takes five to seven days before a single panel is safely re-hung in your home. This extended drying time costs almost as much as new panels.

Double layers of drywall require ten days to two weeks to completely dry out. These panels are not as common and are used to provide additional soundproofing where needed. Double layer drywall costs more obviously, but if a homeowner can wait, it is still cheaper than buying new panels.

However, if an insurance company is paying for alternate housing while we work to restore your home, the additional cost of new panels may be cheaper than an extended stay in a hotel or motel; especially for a large family. Our managers have extensive experience with the major insurance companies and do their best to keep you and your insurer happy with the process.

If an inspection shows the panels are not too soaked from the flood damage, there is the option of drying in-place. Our technicians use commercial air movers and specialized heaters to dry the panels and the air behind them The process is monitored from start to finish using a penetrating moisture tester. In-place drying is the only option available if a homeowner wants to save panels covered with wallpaper.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

There may be some rain later this week, but the temperatures stay above freezing till the weekend. It is the perfect time to call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown to look at previous flood damage or to ask for an inspection and try to get ahead of the next foul weather. Contact us today at (773) 434-9100.

Flood Damage Services Offered To Chicago Homeowners

2/27/2017 (Permalink)

In some cases, the standing water in your home exceeds two inches in depth, making submersible pumps necessary to remove water in larger volumes.

SERVPRO Offers Flood Damage Services to Homeowners in Chicago

Flooding issues can become a major problem in areas like your kitchen, bathroom, or basement that contain a constant water source, causing significant problems if not maintained correctly.

Whether it is the result of a broken pipe, faulty fixtures, or improper drainage, flood damage can endanger your Chicago home and create some serious health risks for you and your family.

SERVPRO technicians are flood damage restoration experts who come prepared to perform quick, efficient services, returning your home to a quality preloss condition with limited interruptions to your daily routine.

We offer 24-7 emergency services, providing customers with immediate attention and solutions that meet their schedule. We work quickly to help avoid additional losses from occurring and fast-growing fungus from thriving on your property.

SERVPRO has access to water extraction equipment of all sizes, from hand-held extractors that have a 5 to 12-gallon waste tank to truck mounted extractors with 60 to 100-gallon containers.

In some cases, the standing water in your home exceeds two inches in depth, making submersible pumps necessary to remove water in larger volumes. Our technicians have the right tools available to address your situation.

All of the water exposure causes problems with vulnerable items like photographs, paperwork, electronics, or expensive belongings that other companies may give up on saving.

SERVPRO technicians have experience in cleaning and restoring many damaged items and materials, delivering the appropriate antimicrobial, antibacterial, or disinfectant treatments necessary to eliminate potential health risks that may exist.

If you are concerned about unpleasant odors that develop along the way, we offer services that involve the use of air scrubbers and fogging equipment that help remove even the most persistent odors caused by flooding.

Air scrubbers are a portable HEPA filtration system that uses filters to draw air in from the surrounding area, removing various particles, gasses, and chemical substances from the air within the affected areas of your home.

SERVPRO also safely disposes of materials and items that are beyond restoration and help with the repairs needed to return your home to a quality pre-damage condition that you and your family can enjoy.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Contact SERVPRO of West Loop - Bucktown - Greektown today to learn more about the high-quality flood damage restoration services available in your area. (773) 434-9100

Basics You Should Know When Dealing With Mold Damage In Your Chicago Business

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

Fungi in Petri Dishes, Call SERVPRO for Mold at Your Place of Business in Chicago

For Your Work Place, Rely on SERVPRO to Remediate Mold Infestations

You discover a small patch of mold growing in the storeroom of your bar and make the decision to contact a remediation company before things get out of control. If any mold makes its way into your serving area, it could begin affecting your customers.

When facing a mold damage situation in your Chicago business, it benefits you to seek help. By the time you can see even the smallest amount of mold in your building, the problem that exists could be far larger than you think.
 
An employee brings a box of cocktail straws from the storeroom into your serving area, brushing their shoe against the wall on the way out. Spores hitch a ride, contaminating the rest of your building and you do not even know it yet. This simple everyday activity could start a chain reaction that affects your entire building.
 
The mold itself begins life as a tiny spore, which functions as a seed. This seed is quite smaller and simpler than any seeds you may currently be familiar with, such as an apple seed. Smaller than a pinhead, thousands of these seeds can float through even the gentlest breezes when the mass containing them is disturbed. These spores do occur naturally and are ubiquitous in every environment.
 
SERVPRO technicians have experienced instances where airflow alone carries spores from area to area until they eventually settle on a surface. These spores may lie dormant for long periods, waiting for the right conditions to exist for growth to occur. Moisture on any surface, such as areas under your bar, floor mats, bar stools, or even behind the jukebox can cause these spores to absorb water, beginning their growth process.
 
SERVPRO technicians have found that the best environment for mold growth includes temperatures between 68 and 86 degrees. However, even poor conditions fail to stop some types of mold. Some adapt to colder temperatures as low as 32 degrees, while others can thrive in temperatures up to 122 degrees.
 
According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control), there is no such thing as an acceptable amount or type of mold. When you discover that mold exists on your property, possible health risks exist that could affect your employees, patrons, and products.
 
You should seek professional assistance from a company like SERVPRO to remediate the situation and get things under control immediately. The type of mold infecting your structure does not matter; the fact that it is present is all you need to consider.
 
For additional information that can help save your business and protect your customers, contact SERVPRO of West Loop - Bucktown - Greektown today, we can help. (773) 434-9100

Preventing Mold Growth in Your Bucktown Bathroom

2/12/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Growth is Facilitated with Excess Moisture in Your Bucktown bathroom

SERVPRO Tips for Bucktown Residents to Thwart Mold Infestations

The growth of mold can ruin the safety and comfort of your home. Out of all the rooms in your house, your bathroom can be the primary area where you find this dangerous fungus growing. Instead of letting mold take root in your home, you could think about remodeling this room to make it a place that is less inviting for fungus. The tips below are essential for maintaining a clean, safe, and mold-free bathroom.
 
If your home does suffer from mold damage, you need to get it checked out right away by a professional remediation company. Mold can spread quickly throughout your Bucktown home, and SERVPRO can be there fast to assess the damage and repair them for you. Our specially trained technicians have the industry leading equipment, including scoping devices to find any hidden mold.
 
Increasing Air Flow
If your bathroom has poor air flow, you are inviting mold to take root in the walls, plumbing, and flooring. If there is no ventilation system in your bathroom currently, you need to install one right away to increase circulation and keep the area dry. After you or a family member takes a shower, this is of particular importance. You can also circulate the air and assist your bathroom in keeping dry by adding screens to the window or putting in a ceiling fan.
 
Upgrading the Plumbing
Many homeowners use plastic or vinyl plumbing fixtures since they are inexpensive. Plastic and vinyl pipes and plumbing parts, however, many times break, crack, warp, and leak very easily, which causes water to pool along floorboards and under cabinets. Water damage like this could easily create mold growth in your bathroom. Instead of dealing with leaking drains, pipes, and such, you can stop the growth of mold in the first place by investing in fixtures which are constructed of polished brass or metal.
 
Carpeting can conceal mold growth. As you get out of the shower and step onto a carpeted floor, the water drips off you and the shower curtain or door, soaking through the carpeting and matting, and into the sub-flooring. Mold can start growing over time, which makes your bathroom dangerous and toxic. You can stop water from soaking through your flooring by taking the carpet out and laying ceramic or tile down instead. These materials resist the absorption of water and mold growth. If you find mold when you remove the carpeting, call SERVPRO right away so we can look at the damage for you and correct the problem.
 
Paint, not Wallpaper
Wallpaper, like carpeting, can hide mold. Wallpaper is porous, letting humidity and water soak through the paper onto the wall under it. Instead of letting mold take root behind your wallpaper, you can stop this threat by painting your walls. Painted walls do not absorb water and humidity like wallpaper, lowering the chance that mold forms behind the surface of your wall.
 
Keeping mold out of your bathroom is essential for the health of you and your family. If you still wind up with a mold problem, talk with us at SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown. We are always available to take your call at (773) 434-9100.

How You Can Help SERVPRO Water Mitigation Efforts in Your Greektown Office

1/15/2017 (Permalink)

Set up a profile using the ERP and then call SERVPRO quickly when flooding occurs for best results.

Preparation is Helpful When Facing Damage at Your Business Location

One of the reasons why SERVPRO is so well-trusted around the country is our strategy of mitigation. Rather than waiting around for damage to continue, our technicians are ready to respond around the clock to stop sources of damage and make efforts to contain disasters to where they are. This ends up saving us time in restorations, especially for larger buildings like offices, and money in your pocket. There are things you can do to help us with the mitigation efforts, both improving conditions for our technicians and reducing costs to you.
 
The ERP System
 
One of the biggest initial steps you can take towards mitigating commercial water damage in a Greektown office is to set up a profile in the SERVPRO ERP system. The Emergency Ready Profile system is a new tool we offer that allows you to submit relevant information about your building or buildings to our servers, giving us access to critical information beforehand and allowing us to perform critical procedures the moment we arrive on-site. Anything of use can be submitted, from contact lists to floor plans to blueprints. Setting up a profile is quick and easy, and you can alert us to disasters instantly from any computer or our mobile app.
 
Shutting Off Systems
 
One of the first things we have to do when responding to water damage in an office is to locate power and water systems and make sure they are offline. Offices tend to contain many types of electronics and water outlets, so getting these under control is critical for both safety and restoration efforts. If it is safe to do so, shutting these off yourself can be of great use to us.
 
Get Valuables Out of the Way
 
Valuable items such as art and glass displays can be severely damaged both during and after a flood by a number of factors. Where possible, try to get these fragile and valuable items out of the way before mitigation efforts begin. Note that this generally excludes electronics, which can still be very dangerous even if it appears that the water is gone.
 
SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is an experienced local restoration company that helps offices large and small to recover from damage dealt to them. Call us 24/7 at (773) 434-9100.

Avoid Panic When You Suspect Mold Damage in West Loop

12/19/2016 (Permalink)

Mold can appear anywhere and comes in many colors. Call SERVPRO at the first sign and ask them to investigate!

Certified SERVPRO Technicians Have the Training and Experience to Deal with Your Mold Problems

It is always concerning when you hear the word mold applied to any area of your home. The media is often focused on mold and mildew damage and potential health concerns after severe weather and flooding has inundated homes with water. Highly trained technicians at SERVPRO are constantly on the alert for mold growth when we are called to your home to consult and devise a plan to restore your property after water damage structure and contents. We use a protocol developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure your indoor environment is properly assessed for microbial infestation before mold remediation proceeds. An Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) will be consulted to draft a work plan to address any mold damage in accordance with EPA standards if we deem it necessary.

If mold damage in West Loop is present, we will arrange to contain the contamination to protect both the residents of your home and the technicians remediating the overgrowth. We may advise temporary relocation of you and your family in severe cases or simply block off the affected area until the mold is managed. Be aware that some individuals may be more sensitive to mold than others and you are urged to seek medical advice if the young, elderly, allergy prone or immunosuppressed are normally living or working in the area. Our goal is to keep everyone safe and protected while documenting the presence of the mold and our efforts to control it. Locating the source of the mold is essential while removing contaminated material without spreading it to other areas is key, possible through our technicians’ training and the use of specialized equipment and products developed to reduce moisture, mold, and its growth.

Once the area of mold growth is identified and the majority of the infiltration removed the next step is to find the path moisture took to feed the microbes. Sometimes this is obvious if storms sheared off roofing or flooded basements. Often it is a detection exercise if mold grew because of high ambient humidity or a unique and convoluted soaking from remote damage that sent water on a route that could not be easily anticipated. SERVPRO staff have seen it all and are in a position to discover the truth behind mold feeding and growth, remediating the issue by drying the materials and structure and repairing the leak or reducing the humidity.

When you find or suspect mold in your home, do not panic but instead contact us 24/7 at (773) 434-9100. The professional mold remediation team at SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is ready to assist and restore your peace of mind.

Storm Damage Issues in Chicago

12/16/2016 (Permalink)

Storms can damage your home as they pass through. Call SERVPRO today to remediate!

SERVPRO Technicians are Ready to Assess and Tackle Storm Damage to Your Property

Although snow is only expected for two days over the next week, we all know that the forecast can change on a dime. With the threat of a new polar vortex coming our way, now is the time to consider what to do if your home suffers damage from the coming weather.

Storm damage to Chicago homes does not have to be a permanent problem. Roofs can be fixed or replaced, and outside walls can be repaired. SERVPRO does not do major construction, but we are one of the largest restoration companies in the State of Illinois when to comes to putting the interior of your back together after the snowstorms have passed.

First, our response team will remove any standing water or puddles that are in your home. As a company with a nationwide network available, we can use the exact size pumps needed to get the job done.

Next, we will use specialized vacuums and extractors to draw out the water from your carpets and floors. Technicians will then use heaters that are designed to touch and dry carpets without scorching the fibers or discoloring them. If the carpets have been under water for too long, the pads underneath may need to be removed and replaced.

As the carpets are dried out, commercial heaters and dehumidifiers will be used to dry out floors and walls. Besides the need to prevent wood floors from warping, returning your home to a normal level of moisture also helps to prevent the growth of mold.

If the water removed from your home has a large amount of dirt or other soil in it, you will need us to clean and sanitize the carpets and floors as well. We have a large inventory of cleaners and sanitization agents to accomplish this. If the water has been standing for too long, we may also need to apply deodorizing cleaners to furniture and walls to remove lingering odors.

Dealing with the aftermath of a severe storm is never simple. At this time of year, it can be a disaster. SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown is here to help you restore your home to its original state and hopefully get you back in the holiday spirit. Call us today at (773) 434-9100 to get started.

Mold Damage Can Cause Significant Problems For Home Improvement Projects In Chicago

11/23/2016 (Permalink)

Mold damage can start slow but then overtake an area in a short time.

Home Improvement Projects And Mold Damage

Mold can be found everywhere because it is so easily carried by air currents. Mold is not a problem except when it has grown and formed colonies. At that point, it can begin causing deterioration of the material it is growing on. This happens because as it grows, mold's anchor points, similar to roots, infiltrate the surface, be it concrete or fabric. This can often leaves stains.

When Chicago area homeowners first become aware of mold damage in their home, it's often during the phase of tearing out walls during a home improvement project. Work on the project should be stopped, if possible, and an assessment made by a professional certified in dealing with remediation of mold. If mold has been able to grow in an area that is not damp a majority of the time, such as in the bathroom or kitchen area of a home, mold growths are possible in other areas of the home. The bathroom and kitchen are often harborers of mold and other microbial colonies, even if they are small colonies.

Dust from home improvement projects can also contain mold spores, and if these are not adequately contained during the completion of the project, mold damage can begin in areas that were formerly uncontaminated. Mold damage can start slow but then overtake an area in a short time. Capable of growing on almost any surface, it can damage the materials recently used in your home improvement project, or even begin growing behind the materials you've put in place. This can cause a home that was previously, seemingly mold-free, now a haven for mold colonies. It only takes a small, minute amount of water from a newly installed water line to allow mold to grow. Even though water lines are checked beforehand, this does not guarantee that they will cause problems. Because water does not stay in one spot, the mold may grow in other areas to which the water has been seeping.

If you've recently had a home improvement project done in your home, it may be beneficial to have an assessment to determine if mold damage is an issue. Call SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100 to find out more about inspections to detect possible areas of mold damage in your home.

Safety is Crucial During Flooding

10/14/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding can be devastating. Get to safety and then call SERVPRO to remediate your property!

SERVPRO Can Help You Recover from Flood Damage

If your home has been flooded, it is useless for us to offer you preventative advice -- the damage has been done. However, it is important to avoid being caught unaware after you have fallen victim to flooding in your home.
 
Flood damage in North Side Chicago can be a scary experience. Nobody wants to experience a devastating event like flooding, and many homeowners can find themselves at a loss of what to do after it has happened. SERVPRO takes pride in being a part of the incredible Chicago community, and our specialists are sympathetic and sensitive to your needs during a disaster.
 
What to Do After a Flood
After flooding has taken place in your home due to natural disaster or a burst pipe, it is important to make sure you make the right decisions during and after the event.
 
Turn Off the Electricity
First, if you are able to do so safely, turn off the electricity at the main breaker or fuse box. Even if the power is off in your community due to a natural disaster, shut down the power regardless. Once this is done, you can avoid electricity safety issues.
 
Get You and Your Family to Safety
The most important thing during a flood is your safety and the safety of your family and/or pets. If it is an in-home flood, take what you can on your way out (waterproof tub of important documents, cell phone, pets), but do not risk your life. During a natural event, it is of particular importance to get to higher ground and stay safe, even if you cannot grab anything on your way out.
 
Call Your Insurance Agent
Call your insurance agent once you and your family are safe. Make sure someone comes out to inspect the damage. It is always better to have your insurance company inspect the damage, even if you do not think they will cover it. Your policy may pay for it after all.
 
After a natural flooding event, if it is catastrophic, call FEMA, the Red Cross, or another federal/local government disaster agency if needed. If you need help with food, shelter, clothing, and more, do not be afraid to seek assistance to get what you need.
 
Contact Us Today
If you have run into an unfortunate flooding event, we are happy to take your call and get you on your way to recovery. Our Emergency Services line means you can call us 24/7 when disaster strikes. Contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown at (773) 434-9100.

Water Damage 101

6/27/2016 (Permalink)

Got water damage issues in your Wicker Park home? SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown has a solution!

101 Water Damage 

Any water damage can be devastating. It only takes a few inches of water to make a serious threat to building components, occupants, and interior furnishings. Water’s harmful effects can be lowered by the prompt and reliable water damage restoration services from our experts at SERVPRO, who will mitigate the damage for you quickly. 

Water Restoration Professionals 

Our water restoration team at SERVPRO are experts who are well-trained and knowledgeable. Every technician has gotten their Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, or IICRC, and will perform all water restoration services in compliance with the standards of IICRC for professional restoration water damage. Our vehicles are also totally equipped with professional drying, water extraction and moisture testing equipment for all kinds of problems with water. 

We have plenty of experience in water restoration problems in businesses and homes, and we have an excellent reputation for quality, fast service. Our professional team gives you Wicker Park water damage cleanup that is unparalleled, and we’ll also work alongside your insurance carrier so you will have one less thing to worry about. 

With SERVPRO, you will get the professional service you expect and deserve, which includes:  

• Equipment that is state of the art
• Emergency service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
• IICRC insured and certified
• Direct billing to your insurance company

Emergency Water Extraction and Removal 

The key to controlling water damage and keeping your property protected is immediate action. You can count on our team at SERVPRO to help you at any hour on any day of the year. We can professionally clean up water from toilet and sewer line backups, water heater and sump pump failures, busted pipes, dishwasher and washing machine leaks, flooding from heavy rain, ice maker problems, natural disasters and ground water seeping into your basement. 

Extra moisture can hide in your foundation, floor coverings, walls and wood structures, which causes major damage to your property and makes the perfect environment for mold and other growth of fungi. It is important that water is removed, and the property is dried out, ventilated and disinfected as quickly as possible to stop the growth of fungi, bacteria, mildew and other microorganisms which are harmful. 

Advanced Equipment for Water Damage Restoration 

SERVPRO can handle any size commercial or residential water extraction job. With our processes that are state of the art, using both suction and compression and bringing water to the surface to suction it away, the water won’t be able to be re-absorbed into the carpeting or padding. We’ll also use the most efficient units for dehumidifying and air movers to get rid of moisture and stop secondary damage to walls, furniture, and flooring. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

When water damage has threatened your home or business, give us a call at SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown by dialing (773) 434-9100. We’ll get out to your property quickly so we can avoid your property from getting damaged further and get your life back to normal as soon as possible

What to do About Chicago Water Damage

4/29/2016 (Permalink)

Chicago Water Damage From Ice Dams Needs Help from SERVPRO

SERVPRO Fixes Water Damaged Properties in Chicago

Water damage in Chicago is a problem which most property owners dread. When snow melts or heavy rains come down quickly, you can be at a higher risk for this type of damage. Thousands of dollars’ worth of damage can be caused by water by damaging upholstery, wood furniture, household appliances, electronics, and plumbing equipment. The chance of mold growth can also be increased from water intrusion, and is a problem which is highly expensive to fix. Hiring a water damage restoration company like SERVPRO is an efficient way to mitigate secondary water damage and to control costs. This company also has experienced workers who have received extensive training, adhering to the IICRC industry standards for water removal and restoration.

Water Damage Causes
There are various reasons for water damage. It can include clogged toilets, leaky dishwashers, overflowing washing machines, broken or frozen pipes, leaky roofs, broken dishwasher hoses, foundation cracks and plumbing leaks. Heavy snow, floods, and downpours can also cause this kind of damage, and can lead to water coming into your basement. Minor problems can be due to pooling or dripping water which can escalate into the destruction of businesses and homes. Once a building sustains water damage, start clean up right away. This is imperative, as it can increase the likelihood of salvaging items and possessions like water-soaked carpets, furniture, clothing, rugs, and momentoes.

Process of Restoration
The process of recovery after Chicago water damage has occurred is vital. Using the right materials and procedures will help you to save your cherished belongings and keep your home from being ravaged. Companies who specialize in water restoration can mitigate the effects of water, but the success of this restoration will depend on how severe the damage is, how much water has caused the damaged, and how quickly the intrusive water is extracted.

An experienced water damage restoration company like SERVPRO employs skilled technicians to assess a property and figure out a plan for water removal and restoration. This company has equipment that is high-tech, industry leading training, and also documents the procedures to help with any insurance claim you may have.

Hazard to Your Health
As mentioned above, you can be at risk for mold when you experience water damage. This makes it even more important to hire a professional water damage restoration company as soon as you can once you realize you have a problem. Moisture removal through the use of air movers and dehumidifiers help to lessen the chance of mold propagation. Mold can form because of moisture, and exposure to mold can cause health effects.

Should you experience any water damage in Chicago, contact SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown right away by calling them 24/7 at (773) 434-9100.

Bucktown Water Damage From Roof to Foundation

2/10/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Suggests a Sump Pump Installation in Your Bucktown Home Basement

SERVPRO Can Restore Your Water Damaged Home in Bucktown

Water damage in Bucktown can be caused by the fickleness of Nature. Water may be a vital part of life, but it can also be destructive. For homeowners, too much water can cause significant problems. In wet weather, all of that excess liquid has to end up somewhere and, very often, that somewhere is around the foundations of your building. SERVPRO points out the following guidance to help prevent the unwanted effects of water damage to your property.

The Consequences of Bad Drainage

If your property does not have a robust drainage system, there could be consequences during wet weather. If you do not take action and successfully reroute runoff away from your home, you are at risk for severe water damage. Foundation weakness occurs when an inadequate drainage system cannot prevent water from accumulating around the foundation of the structure. Dry soil close to the surface enables water to percolate deep underground. The soil expands when the water interacts with it, and this can end up shifting the structure above. This kind of water damage is responsible for cracks in the concrete and loss of perpendicular structural stability.

Foundation collapse is the most serious effect of the conditions described above. While such incidents are rare, the cost of shoring up the base to limit upper level damages is expensive. Crawlspace foundations are easier to remedy by re-enforcing existing perimeter supports and floor joists. Still, expensive and inconvenient. Why not prevent this foundation erosion by eliminating the causes?

Persistent dampness is a less urgent, but no less negative result of poor drainage. Cracks in the foundation let moisture infiltrate the concrete. This moisture buildup in a basement area, probably already lacking in proper ventilation and heat, can lead to water damaged walls, powdering plaster, and peeling paint. Tack on to this conducive conditions for mold growth and remediation becomes more urgent than initially thought.

Tips for Successfully Rerouting Runoff
Clearly, these are serious issues which can threaten the structural integrity of a home. They need to be addressed as soon as they appear, preferably with the help of a reliable company like SERVPRO. These tips will help you reroute runoff water away from your home, but you will need to call in the experts if there is already extensive water damage.

Install Rain Gutters and Keep Them Clean: just one-half inch of water running off 1,000 square feet of roofing represents around 310 gallons, so it is imperative that all of this moisture is directedly away from the foundation. The downspouts should be unclogged and angled away from the house. Use leaf guards if necessary to maintain a gravitational flow of water from the gutters. In the winter be aware of ice dams that restrict melting ice or snow from being dispatched to the downspouts. If this is an issue, consider adding insulation inside the attic. This will reduce heat convecting through the roof sheathing which will liquefy snow leading to icing. Also, be alert to possible frozen pipes.

Finding Reliable Water Restoration Services
If water damage in Bucktown still occurs, the IICRC-certified technicians from SERVPRO can respond quickly, assess the problems, remove the water, and dry out and restore your home "Like it never even happened."

Highly-Trained Water Restoration Specialists

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown has vast expertise, experience, and training that enables us to quickly return your Bucktown property to preloss condition. Call us 24/7 for help. (773) 434-9100

Chicago Water Damage Clean Up —Why is Fast Response So Important?

12/10/2015 (Permalink)

Pay attention to your water bill. A significant increase could indicate a leak.

Why is Fast Response So Important When It Comes to Water Damage Cleanup in Chicago

Water Damage Restoration: A Brief Overview

When your residential property is impacted by water damage in Chicago, experts encourage you to attain water damage remediation services within the first 24 to 48 hours. This course of action is important for numerous reasons, including that it prevents the growth of toxic microbial like mold. In a study on water damage, wet drywall that was not treated within a 48 hour period already indicated signs of microbial growth. Luckily, attaining excellent restoration services following water damage can prevent this type of unwanted activity from transpiring. Learn more about how industry professionals can assist you by reviewing the following outline:

 The Water Damage Remediation Process

 The first thing Chicago water damage contractors will do upon arriving at your property is to perform an assessment. The assessment will show the professionals the extent of the damages on your property. Once the assessment is complete, the contractors will put together a customized treatment plan that outlines how they are going to remove standing water and resolve all other damage-related issues.

 After the strategic plan is drafted, the contractors will move forward with the water extraction process. This part of the restoration work will involve discarding or removing wet materials like insulation, sheetrock, carpet pad, and carpet. After the contractors extract the standing water, they will use drying equipment like commercial air movers and high efficiency dehumidifiers to remove any moisture that remains in the air. Contractors work with speed to complete these processes to limit damage and ensure that you can return to peaceful living in a safe, sanitary home.

 Moisture Readings

 In addition to extracting water from your property, the Chicago water damage specialists will take moisture readings in affected regions of the home during the drying processes. This work will help ensure that all parts of the property are dry before the water damage repair process starts. Contractors will be sure to monitor moisture levels in hidden regions of the property such as behind cabinets and wall cavities. This prevents the growth of microbial organisms.

 If you find that your property has been impacted by water damage, there's only one company to call for fast, friendly service: SERVPRO. Our IICRC-certified technicians will work with lightning speed to restore your property. Moreover, we offer 24/7 emergency services to ensure that we can address your issue whenever it arises. Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

 As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown is strategically located to respond quickly to your flood and water emergency event. Call us today! (773) 434-9100

Chicago Commercial Fire Damage

10/28/2015 (Permalink)

One Fire Suppressant Sprinkler Head Just Might Save Chicago

Why SERVPRO Is the Answer to a Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in Chicago

One of the most economically devastating and destructive forces a business owner in Chicago can face is a fire leaving behind large scale fire damage in Chicago. Fires can produce a number of varying problems to your property. The obvious burn damage to the building structure, such as roof or truss weakness, HVAC damage, electrical and plumbing breakdowns have to be addressed and repaired in a set sequence to maximize results will optimizing time and associated costs. Then include the secondary water damage resulting from the extinguishing of the flames. Furniture, computers, printers, telephonic systems, carpeting and business documents and files are often the recipients of large-scale water damage. Any sensitive inventory such as food or clothing will be inspected, and then either discarded or moved to a safe location. Mold growth and rapid proliferation can start from 48-72 hours after the fire damaging event. For these reasons and more, it is critically important for you to contact a Chicago commercial fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO to begin water extraction to mitigate the water damage.

The Assessment

The first service that a professional fire damage restoration company does is thorough assessment and inspection. During this assessment, our remediation specialists will check your structure and contents to determine the extent of the fire damage in Chicago. The inspection is an in-depth walk around looking for broken windows, structural integrity, and any remaining fire hazards that could lead to future break-ins. After the SERVPRO experts have completed the assessment, they will develop a detailed, customized course of action that will address and resolve all of your fire and water damage issues. If any damaged roofs, doors, walls, or windows allow for the external weather to affect them, we will secure and cover these areas using tarps, buttressing walls, and boarding up the windows.

Once the remediation specialists ensure the structural integrity of your commercial property and the water removal using powerful pumps, wet-vacs, and sump pumps has been accomplished, then the final drying process begins. Equipment like dehumidifiers, both refrigerant, and chemical, and air-movers complete these processes. Moisture removal will aid in the prevention of mold growth. The IICRC trained cleanup crews will wipe down and remove soot from the furniture, walls, and ceilings. Skillful execution will allow for repainting rather than replacing drywall and ceiling tiles. This will save you time and money. Additionally, they will clean your upholstery and carpet, when salvageable. Smoke and soot's pervasive odors will be removed using specialized foggers. Air scrubbers will aid in the removal of mold spores. Finally, the specialists will offer content restoration services for vital documents, photographs, and paintings.

If your commercial business in Chicago suffers fire damage, it is critically important that you secure a reliable, professional fire damage restoration company. Our professionals at SERVPRO have the training, equipment, and experience to restore your business to running order as quickly as possible.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown can respond immediately to your Chicago commercial fire damage emergency regardless of the size or scope of the damage. Call SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown for an immediate response. (773) 434-9100

Cleaning Smoke Damage With A Cicero Professional

6/12/2015 (Permalink)

Specialty equipment has to be used in order to clean smoke damage.

Cleaning Smoke Damage With A Professional 

It is best to live the job of cleaning Cicero smoke damage to a professional. Many business owners and homeowners have the tools that they need, it can be difficult to restore drapes, carpet and upholstery that have been blackened by the fumes of a fire. Many people believe that they can use basic and simple techniques to clean up Cicero smoke damage. However, if they make a mistake, then they may cause even more damage. As a result of this, the item may need to be replaced. Professionals, like SERVPRO, who have received training from the Institute Of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration can ensure that the job is properly done and has the best results.

A powerful vacuum is the first tool used to clean up smoke damage. Soot is the most important thing to remove from drapes, carpet and upholstery. Soot is oil-based, so it has to be removed as soon as possible. If it is not removed, then it may attract additional dirt. The proper methods have to be used in order to avoid pushing the soot deeper into the carpet and fabric. The furniture and carpet will likely be covered in order to keep it from getting soiled again.

Specialty equipment has to be used in order to clean smoke damage. Rotary devices that eject steam, wet cleaning tools and rotary scrubbers are examples of items that may be used. One advantage of using extractors is that there is minimal or no residue or detergent foam. This allows for deeper suction within the furniture or carpet. Two applications are often required regardless of the tools that are used.

Not protecting the carpet from the furniture, wetting the carpet and using too much shampoo are some of the mistakes people often make when people attempt to clean up Cicero smoke damage. A professional will use the proper methods in order to ensure that your furniture and carpet does not suffer any damage.

Furniture is one of the main factors that affects one's ability to clean Cicero smoke damage effectively. The dye from wooden furniture can cause the carpet to stain. Metal furniture may rust and cause the carpet to stain. Without protective squares and foam blocks, it is very hard to separate the carpet from the furniture until it is dry.

Not only do professionals, like SERVPRO, have the proper tools, but they can also resolve a dispute with the insurance adjuster. Homeowners insurance policies often cover this type of damage. However, adjusters often recommend replacing drapes, carpet and upholstery instead of repairing it. A certified professional, like SERVPRO, can help you decide which is the best option for you.

Professionals, like SERVPRO, will be able to convince the adjuster that items can be restored with the proper techniques and materials are used. Restoration costs may be covered by the policy.

What To Do After A Fire

• 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 light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Eliminate Mold and Mildew with a Chicago Water Damage Restoration Company

5/13/2015 (Permalink)

House water damage creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew in Chicago.

Eliminate mold and mildew with a water damage restoration company.

Chicago mold and mildew present an immediate hazard to the health of you and your family. That’s why it’s essential that you take immediate action when water damage invades your home. Mold and mildew spores can start propagating within hours of a fire or flood emergency. Even if you repair the damage, mold and mildew can impact your home.

The best way to prevent the growth of mold and mildew Chicago after a fire or flood emergency is to contact a fire restoration contractor as soon as possible. There are also steps that you can take to reduce your exposure to mold and mildew. A water damage emergency is bad enough, but the long-lasting effects of mold and mildew can be even worse.

Water Damage and Mold Growth

Molds consume organic materials as they spread throughout a home or business. They love to chow down on materials such as wool, cotton or any surface covered with things like soil, food, or grease. Mold will eventually destroy the wood, textiles and other materials in your home. Your home is especially vulnerable to mold growth if you live where the weather is warm or humid. Voracious mold spores thrive on the moisture introduced by a fire or flood emergency.

The Toxic Effects of Mold and Mildew

House water damage creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew. It’s important that you protect your health and home by speaking with a professional restoration company. They have the knowledge, experience and equipment to prevent the spread of toxic mold and mildew. Only a water damage restoration company has the expertise necessary to locate and destroy harmful mold and mildew.

Understanding Mold

Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors, making it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. 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. 
• 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.

SERVPRO of West Loop / Bucktown / Greektown professionals are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact them. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further Chicago mold damage, and reduces cost. If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, call SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown at (773) 434-9100. We can inspect and assess your property for the presence of moisture, humidity, and mold infestation. If mold is found, our technicians have the training, equipment, and expertise to handle mold damage in your Chicago home or business.

Chicago Water Damage Restoration How To Select A Restoration Company

2/26/2015 (Permalink)

Chicago Water Damage Restoration

What Is Required For Chicago Water Damage Restoration 

Water damage restoration is more than just mopping up spilt water with towels. After all, flood water will soak up walls, trickle in to the flooring, and seep into furniture. To ensure that the cleanup process is done properly and completely, several steps need to be followed, and professional equipment is needed. Otherwise, mold can grow, and the problem will only get worse.

- Ensure safety
Before any flood water can be entered, a homeowner or professional team needs to ensure safety. Power sources in the area should be turned off, the cleanliness of the water should be accessed, and protective gear needs to be worn.

- Find the source
Once the safety of the area has been accessed, the next step is to identify the source of the problem. This way the professional clean up team can make sure that water still isn't pouring in.

- Water removal
Next, it is time to remove the excess water. Depending on what caused the flood, this process can be greatly complicated. After all, debris can clog pumps and contaminated water will need to be handled safely. What many homeowners don't realize is that this step will include removing water from walls, furniture, and flooring. This can mean that industrial strength fans and dehumidifiers may need to be run for several days or even weeks after the flood.

- Mold damage
Water damage restoration is just as much about water removal as it is about mold control. In fact, mold damage is perhaps the biggest threat of Chicago water damage. After all, even a small leak under a sink can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage if mold is allowed to grow at an uncontrolled rate. Once excess water is removed, the humidity level will need to be lowered, and special chemicals will need to be sprayed. Otherwise, it's almost a certainty that mold will grow.

- Prevention
Now that the home is back to normal, the final step is prevention; otherwise, the problem may come back again. A professional will identify what could have stopped the problem in the first place. For example, if a frozen pipe burst, then the pipes in the home should be moved or insulated. If a backed up sewer flooded a basement, then a sump-pump might be installed. Only after this step has been done is the water damage restoration complete.

SERVPRO® Damage Restoration
Residential and Commercial Restoration Services
SERVPRO of West Loop/Bucktown/Greektown Professionals provide fire and water damage restoration services. SERVPRO of West Loop-Bucktown-Greektown proudly serves Chicago, Alsip, Riverdale, Calumet City, Dolton, Lansing, Homewood, Hazel Crest, Country Club Hills, Flossmorre, and surrounding areas. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home orcommercial structure caused by:

    •    Water Damage
    •    Fire Damage
    •    Flood damage
    •    Mold Damage
    •    Storm Damagee

How much snow on your roof is too much?

2/3/2015 (Permalink)

Snow roof risks

Snow levels totaled over 19 inches in the Chicagoland area after the Superbowl Blizzard this weekend. When snow/ice on your roof exceeds 20-25 lbs. per square foot, your roof may be in the 'Danger Zone.' A roof rake can help to safely remove snow and prevent damage to your home. As the ice and snow begin to melt, it's the best time to check for leaks. Check for soft spots on your roof, ceilings, and walls. Look for signs of water around windows, showers, and toilets.

If you happen to have roof damage or water leaks from the snow, SERVPRO of West Loop/ Bucktown/ Greektown is here to help 24/7! We provide emergency board-ups, water mitigation services, and reconstruction including roof repairs.