Friday, July 23, 2021

Water Damage Restoration, Repair and Cleanup Services in Chattanooga, Tennessee

ServiceMaster Cleaning & Restoration is a full-service water damage restoration company in Chattanooga, Tennessee and the surrounding areas. We offer a wide range of water damage restoration services, including structural drying and dehumidification, document restoration, sewer backup cleanup, and water damage reconstruction and repairs.

ServiceMaster Cleaning & Restoration is certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), upholding standards of restoration and cleaning that are recognized globally, giving us a competitive edge over other restoration companies in the area.

We are a part of ServiceMaster Restore's network of 1,900 franchises, combining the scale and experience of a national company with the personalized guidance and service of a locally owned and operated company. Our technicians are licensed, bonded, insured and certified with the training and expertise to carry out inspections and assessments, create customized restoration plans and deliver thorough restorations.

Call ServiceMaster Cleaning & Restoration at (423) 220-4482 or message us online to schedule an appointment in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Tennessee's Most Preferred Vendor for Insurance Companies

ServiceMaster Cleaning & Restoration is a Preferred Vendor for some of the top insurance carriers in Tennessee, meeting strict standards in regards to service levels, communication quality and the requirement to be licensed, bonded and insured. Our Project Managers assist in the claims process to ensure nothing is overlooked and provide adequate and accurate documentation for insurance purposes.

With Continuing Education (CE) options from ServiceMaster Restore, our technicians and restoration specialists are better equipped to help policyholders through constant exposure to the industry's latest practices, methods and procedures.

Don't Know What to Do Next? We Do.

Contact ServiceMaster Cleaning & Restoration at (423) 220-4482 or connect with us online to schedule an appointment. We service residential and commercial properties in Chattanooga, Tennessee and the surrounding areas. Our Emergency Response Team is on-call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Thursday, July 22, 2021

Top Causes of Home Water Damage in Acworth, GA

Water damage is a common problem for residential property owners. It is often an unexpected event and a recurring issue that has the potential to cause serious damages if not attended to right away.

In the home, water damage can stem from a variety of sources. ServiceMaster of Cobb has compiled the top causes of water damage and how to deal with them before the professionals arrive.

What Causes Water Damage at Home?

Broken or leaking pipes

Among the most common causes of residential water damage are leaking or broken pipes. These can stem from changes in water pressure or freezing temperatures.
Even a small leak can lead to substantial water damage over time, leading to more serious problems in the long run.
Furthermore, not all leaks are visible, as they may also occur in plumbing or water lines within the walls of your home or in areas which are not highly trafficked.
To prevent serious water damage, regularly inspect your home for signs of leaking or broken pipes. The earlier you detect the problem, the better and the less costly it will be. If you suspect a hidden leak, look for signs including sounds of dripping water or water rings or stains on walls.
If a pipe bursts, contact a water damage restoration professional immediately to restore your property back to pre-loss condition fast.

Water overflow

Overflowing sinks, tubs or toilets can damage flooring, carpeting and even wreck a downstairs ceiling if ignored for a long time.
Permanent wood damage and mold growth can occur if water overflows are not completely cleaned up and restored immediately.
Always turn faucets off after use and turn off the toilet water supply at the valve located on the wall. You can also stop the water at the source or at the main water supply lines to avoid further damage during overflows.
Minor damages can be fixed by a plumber or repairman, but serious and extensive water damage needs the intervention of a water damage restoration expert, such as ServiceMaster of Cobb.

Faulty household appliances

Water damage can also be caused by malfunctioning appliances and equipment, such as dishwaters, refrigerators, washing machines and HVAC units.
If any household appliance has a leak, clean up the leakage as quickly as you can. If the damage incurred is extensive, call a restoration company right away.
To prevent water damage from appliances, practice routine maintenance.

Clogged gutters

Gutters direct water away from your property, which is very helpful especially during a storm or severe weather. If your gutters are clogged, water can overflow and seep into your property through a damaged foundation, a damaged siding or a roof leak.
Clean your gutters regularly to ensure that they are free from blockages such as leaves, twigs, and seed pods. Follow proper safety precautions if you plan to clean your own gutters.

Sewage backups

Sewer backups can result from severe storms or tree roots that are blocking your pipes, resulting into an extensive water overflow in no time.
Have your sewer line cleaned annually to prevent tree roots from blocking it.
Contact your insurance agent to discuss which policy can best protect you from water damage from sewer backups.

How to Prevent the Lasting Effects of Water Damage

It is difficult to guard against all the possible causes of water damage at home, even with the best precautions.
If water damage incidents occur, call a restoration expert to return your home back to normal and prevent serious long-term effects. A unique and comprehensive restoration project will get your home up and running as quickly as possible.

Contact ServiceMaster for Your Water Damage Emergency

ServiceMaster of Cobb has a 24-hour emergency hotline for an immediate response to your water damage restoration needs in Acworth, GA and surrounding areas. We provide residential and commercial properties with a wide range of water damage restoration services, including:

An IICRC-certified firm with offices in Georgia and Tennessee
A trusted restoration company since 1996
Preferred by insurance companies in Georgia

Our office is located at 111 Kelli Clark Ct SW Cartersville, GA 30121. You can find our other offices at:

Tennessee

6101 Enterprise Park Dr Chattanooga, TN 37416

(423) 220-4482

Downtown Commercial

2060 Franklin Way, Suite 110 Marietta, GA 30067

(678) 909-1078

Don't know what to do next? We do. Contact us today.

Thursday, June 24, 2021

How to Remove and Prevent in Basement

Mold, a type of fungi, thrives in moist conditions. Homeowners often discover mold growing on shady areas of an outdoor deck or on bathroom tile and grout. However, the discovery of basement mold is most common. Fortunately, mold can be prevented and removed by mold remediation experts at ServiceMaster of Cobb.

Common Causes of Basement Mold

Mold flourishes in most basement conditions. A basement should not smell damp, musty or unpleasant. Musty smells are from mold. Mold requires moisture to grow and prospers in humid conditions where air circulation is minimal. Mold cannot grow in freezing conditions or under ultraviolet light.

The most common causes of basement mold include:

A leaking pipe
Flood/water damage
Foundation cracks leaking moisture into space
Inadequate drainage away from the foundation
Poor ventilation and high humidity
Poorly sealed/insulated windows

How to Prevent Basement Mold
1. Eliminate the growing mold.

2. Increase basement ventilation and decrease humidity with running fans and a dehumidifier.

3. Determine the cause of the moisture.

Has a pipe leaked?
Are there foundation cracks allowing moisture in?
Is there condensation on the windows?
Has the basement flooded recently during a storm?

4. Repair the issue to eliminate further water damage.

How to Remove Basement Mold

Depending on the extent of the mold issue, removal may be as simple as a thorough cleaning or more complex requiring the expertise of the ServiceMaster of Cobb professionals.

Mold growth limited to individual items such as cardboard storage boxes is simple. Transfer the items in the boxes to water-proof containers and dispose of the moldy cardboard. Locate and eliminate the source of the basement's moisture, increase the ventilation and if needed, run a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels low.

Safety Tips

Always wear protective gloves and goggles when working with bleach or other cleaners.
Always check the manufacturer's label before using bleach on a fabric.
Ensure the area is well-ventilated.
Remove mold from items like clothing, blankets and other fabrics by thoroughly washing and drying. To remove the moldy smell completely, bleach or a non-chlorine bleach product may be required.
Wet, moldy carpet/rugs and upholstered furniture require professional cleaning or possibly removal.

Contact ServiceMaster of Cobb for Professional Mold Remediation

The professionals at ServiceMaster of Cobb safely and effectively clean and restore personal items affected by water damage and mold, including books, documents, artwork and more.

ServiceMaster of Cobb offers complete mold remediation services to homes and businesses in Georgia and Tennessee. Since 1996, we have delivered a prompt and professional response rate to any mold damage incident. Our mold remediation team removes mold sources, cleans affected surfaces and materials, recreates the conditions of penetration with appropriate counteractants or neutralizers, and seals restorable surfaces as necessary. We are an IICRC-certified firm with offices in Georgia and Tennessee.

To schedule an appointment, connect with us online or call ServiceMaster of Cobb today!

Georgia: (678) 264-3310
Tennessee: (423) 220-4482
Commercial Cleaning Services: (678) 909-1078

Water Damage Restoration, Repair and Cleanup Services in Roswell, Georgia

Water damage is a recurring problem in homes and businesses. When your residence or commercial facility in Roswell, Georgia experiences a flood, a roof leak, an appliance malfunction, a sewer backup, a sink overflow, or other water damage incidents, contact the professionals at ServiceMaster of Cobb right away. For over 15 years, our wide range of water damage restoration services have been trusted by our clients in Roswell, Georgia and surrounding areas. ServiceMaster of Cobb's restoration specialists have the experience, knowledge and equipment to deliver proper disaster mitigation and speed up recovery after a water damage event. In case mold has already started developing, our team can also handle mold cleanup and remediation to keep your health safe. Our firm has also been certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, upholding globally recognized industry standards and ensuring 100% customer satisfaction.

Call ServiceMaster of Cobb at (678) 264-3310 or message us online for a FREE on-site inspection and estimate.

Preferred Vendor for Insurance Companies in Roswell, Georgia

ServiceMaster of Cobb works closely with some of the top insurance carriers in the state of Georgia, enabling us to help policyowners after a water damage incident. Our team is continuously exposed to the latest industry methods and practices with Continuing Education (CE) options from ServiceMaster Restore, allowing us to deliver only the best disaster mitigation and recovery solutions to our clients.

Our Water Damage Restoration Services

Professional Water Damage Restoration Process in Roswell, Georgia

Inspection and assessment. An intensive surface and penetrative inspection process identifies the severity of the water damage and enables us to lay out an effective remediation plan.
Water removal. We will remove all standing water from the structure.
Anti-microbial application. Our technicians will apply carefully selected professional-grade chemicals that inhibit the growth of mold and mildew.
Drying with air movement. Our team will utilize high-powered blowers and dryers to wick moisture from materials at rates that maximize the ability to restore all possessions and materials, including the substructure.
Drying with dehumidification. We will use professional-grade dehumidifiers to eliminate moisture in the air.
Monitor drying. During our daily monitoring process, we leverage moisture probes and IICRC-developed charts to assess the progress and depth of remaining moisture to complete the mitigation process in the ideal time frame.

Don't Know What to Do Next? We Do.

Contact ServiceMaster of Cobb at (678) 264-3310 or connect with us online to schedule an appointment. We service residential and commercial properties in Roswell, Georgia and surrounding areas. Our Emergency Response Team is on-call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Water Damage Restoration, Repair and Cleanup Services in Alpharetta, Georgia

ServiceMaster of Cobb is committed to restore your property in Alpharetta, Georgia back to pre-loss condition after a water damage event. Whether the damage originated from a toilet or sink overflow, a sewer backup, a roof leak, a basement flood, or a broken pipe, we have the tools and expertise to deliver a thorough restoration job. Our team is composed of experienced and knowledgeable restoration and cleaning specialists who are constantly exposed to the latest practices and techniques in the industry to serve our clients better. We have been Alpharetta, Georgia's trusted company since 2003, returning residential and commercial properties back to normal with state-of-the-art equipment and cleaning products. ServiceMaster of Cobb is a part of ServiceMaster Restore's over 1,900 franchises, combining the scale and experience of a national network and the personalized service of a locally owned and operated company.

Call ServiceMaster of Cobb at (678) 264-3310 or message us online for a FREE on-site inspection and estimate.

We Work with Insurance Companies in Alpharetta, Georgia

ServiceMaster of Alpharetta, Georgia is backed by a national network that has extensive familiarity with insurance processes, making it easier for us to process claims and assist policyholders. We help policyholders navigate the uncertainty after a major loss event and guide them through the claims process.

With Continuing Education (CE) options from ServiceMaster Restore, our team is better equipped to handle emergencies by understanding the latest disaster restoration methods and procedures.

Our Water Damage Restoration Services

Professional Water Damage Restoration Process in Alpharetta, Georgia

Inspection and assessment. An intensive surface and penetrative inspection process identifies the severity of the water damage and enables us to lay out an effective remediation plan.
Water removal. We will remove all standing water from the structure.
Anti-microbial application. Our technicians will apply carefully selected professional-grade chemicals that inhibit the growth of mold and mildew.
Drying with air movement. Our team will utilize high-powered blowers and dryers to wick moisture from materials at rates that maximize the ability to restore all possessions and materials, including the substructure.
Drying with dehumidification. We will use professional-grade dehumidifiers to eliminate moisture in the air.
Monitor drying. During our daily monitoring process, we leverage moisture probes and IICRC-developed charts to assess the progress and depth of remaining moisture to complete the mitigation process in the ideal time frame.

Don't Know What to Do Next? We Do.

Contact ServiceMaster of Cobb at (678) 264-3310 or connect with us online to schedule an appointment. We service residential and commercial properties in Alpharetta, Georgia and surrounding areas. Our Emergency Response Team is on-call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Thursday, May 27, 2021

Dangers of DIY Black Mold Cleanup in Georgia

Mold growth is a common issue in homes and businesses. A property owner's first instinct upon discovering mold is to clean it up immediately to prevent it from spreading to other areas. However, mold exists in varying species and while some are harmless, some can also be dangerous.

Among these harmful types of mold which can grow indoors are Stachybotrys chartarum and Stachybotrys chlorohalonata – also informally known as "black mold." Without proper knowledge, cleaning black mold is a dangerous step for property owners to take. Mold remediation usually calls for professional service, provided by companies such as ServiceMaster of Cobb. It's not a job that can be performed by just anyone. Learn about why removing black mold on your own is not advisable.

What are the risks of being exposed to black mold?

Health problems such as allergies; eye, nose and throat irritation; headaches; nausea and respiratory distress
Neurological issues such as brain fog, memory loss and seizures
People with compromised immune systems, children and the elderly are more susceptible to the effects of black mold exposure.

Dangers of Do-It-Yourself Black Mold Removal

As mentioned, black mold can lead to serious health problems and aggravate existing ones. Black mold releases toxins, which is why professional mold remediation technicians utilize full-body suits, respirators and other specialized equipment to protect themselves and limit their exposure.

Additionally, mold removal service providers know how to properly handle a black mold outbreak and are able to eliminate mold and its spores from your home or business with the right equipment and proven techniques. They have been exposed to a variety of mold removal scenarios and know how to deal with a specific mold problem. From professional experience, here are some dangerous scenarios that can occur when removing black mold:

1. Black mold that covers a large area. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the larger the area that the black mold contaminates, the more complex the containment and the cleanup can be. The improper cleanup of a small area affected by black mold can make things worse by releasing mold spores into the air, which follows that improper handling of a large-scale mold problem can present greater dangers. Also, cleaning mold on a surface level without addressing the root cause cannot eliminate it completely. An expert has the tools and knowledge to assess the mold situation and remedy it according to its cause, location, size and other factors.
2. Black mold that develops after flooding. Flooding can stem from a variety of sources, such as a burst pipe, a roof leak, or a sink overflow. Simply cleaning up the standing water may not be enough to stop consequential mold growth. A company offering both structural drying and mold remediation must be contacted to tackle the problem.
3. Black mold in your air system. Black mold on and inside your heating and cooling systems can indicate a system-wide outbreak, and mold spores may already have been circulated all throughout your house. In this case, you would need professional evaluation to detect and clean up the mold, especially if it is growing inside hard-to-reach areas.

4. Black mold that's growing on wood. Wood with mold growth may or may not be salvageable. It could also be difficult to detect mold if it grows inside walls or in the crawlspace. Contact an expert for professional advice and remediation.

Black Mold Removal?

Contact ServiceMaster of Cobb, Georgia's Trusted Mold Remediation Company

Do-it-yourself mold removal will not only threaten your home but your health as well. When experiencing black mold in your home or commercial property, hire a team of experts to perform the removal for you. ServiceMaster of Cobb offers complete mold remediation services for homes and businesses in Cartersville, Georgia, and surrounding areas. Since 1996, we have been delivering a prompt and professional response to any mold damage incident. Our mold remediation team will remove the source (as possible), clean affected surfaces and materials, recreate the conditions of penetration with appropriate counteractants or neutralizers and seal restorable surfaces as necessary. We are an IICRC-certified firm with offices in Georgia and Tennessee. Contact ServiceMaster of Cobb at (678) 264-3310 for Georgia customers, ServiceMaster Cleaning & Restoration at (423) 220-4482 for Tennessee customers and ServiceMaster Downtown Commercial at (678) 909-1078 for commercial cleaning services. You may also connect with us online to schedule an appointment.