Recent Commercial Posts
Commercial Cleaning Services
5/18/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Clear Lake can help make your workspace clean.
With SERVPRO’s commercial cleaning services, you won’t have to worry about the common wear and tear of your buildings or offices. When grit/grime, moisture, and odor overwhelm a standard janitorial service, call SERVPRO of Clear Lake. You can rely on us to make your workspace the cleanest it’s ever been.
SERVPRO of Clear Lake will get it done right the first time with our:
- Award-Winning Training
- Nearly 50 Years of Experience
- Proprietary Cleaning Products
Specialty Cleaning Services
SERVPRO offers a broad scope of cleaning services - from bloodborne pathogens to mold to fire/water restoration. Our technicians have specialized training and products to effectively clean your business and make it "Like it never even happened." We can do it all:
- Air ducts & HVAC
- Biohazard
- Carpet & Upholstery
- Odor Removal
Sewage - Trauma and Crime Scene
And much more - Call us today at 281-486-4716!
How Do Fire Sprinklers Work During a Fire?
10/13/2022 (Permalink)
Fire sprinklers are an invaluable tool for fire prevention in commercial buildings.
How Do Fire Sprinklers Work in the Event of a Fire?
Fire sprinkler systems are the most common fire prevention method in commercial buildings. Sprinklers work by activating when high temperatures or smoke from a fire trigger them to release water on the flames, stopping them from spreading further. If you’re curious about how your building's sprinkler system works and what options are available for commercial fire sprinklers, read on for answers!
How do fire sprinklers work?
Fire sprinklers are designed to be activated by heat, releasing water to extinguish the flames. The process of sprinkler activation is simple: when a fire starts, heat causes the sprinkler’s metal housing to expand. That expansion triggers the fusible link inside the housing, which allows water to flow out of a small orifice at high pressure through an open onto the affected materials. Some sprinklers contain compressed air that helps spray farther than normal; others use a special mechanism called an actuated pressure switch that closes when exposed to heat and opens when cold again—like flipping a light switch off and on again!
What are the options for commercial fire sprinkler systems?
There are four different types of commercial fire sprinkler systems: pre-action, deluge, high-temperature, and dry pipe. Each type is used for a specific purpose, but they all work the same way. All commercial fire sprinkler systems are designed to detect a fire through heat sensing technology that detects fast temperature rises in certain areas of the building. When this happens, water flows out into those areas and puts out any potential flames before they can cause too much damage or injury to people or property within your building.
Can fire sprinklers cause water damage?
Fire sprinkler systems are designed to put out fires, not cause water damage. That said, there may be some instances where water damage does occur due to a water-soaking drywall and other materials. In these cases, you should seek the help of a professional restoration company as soon as possible to determine whether your home has been affected and what needs to happen next.
If you're concerned about the potential damage caused by a fire sprinkler system in your home or business, here's how they work:
Conclusion
Fire sprinklers are an invaluable tool for fire prevention in commercial buildings. They can save lives, property, and time. If you’re looking for a new fire sprinkler system or need one repaired, contact our experts at SERVPRO
2 Common Questions About Category 2 Water Damage
5/27/2022 (Permalink)
Contaminated water after a leak in La Marque, TX building.
Category 2 Floods and Their Restoration Process
A broken pipe and water damage are among the most difficult things that a business owner must face. When this type of damage occurs, a water cleanup company is generally required to help with mitigation and restoration. This is because water pipe repair is only the first step in getting a business back open. The rest includes categorizing the water and making sure the building is properly sanitized. Here are some commonly asked questions about category 2 floods and their restoration process.
1. What Is a Category 2 Flood?
When the water pipe repair professionals note they fixed your greywater lines, you know you have experienced category 2 water damage. This is simply water that contains contaminants. It will cause discomfort and irritation if you come into contact with it. The most common issues which cause this type of damage include toilet lines, kitchen pipes, and sump pump failure. Once category 2 water enters your business, you should evacuate it immediately.
2. What Measures Are Taken To Restore the Damage?
As soon as there is flooding in your business in La Marque, TX, you should call remediation professionals. After arriving, the first thing they do is develop a contract with the owner, so they have the proper authorization to start working. As soon as they have this authorization, they will start working.
The first thing a company will do is survey your building and look for safety hazards. This includes electrical wires in water or structural issues. When it is safe to enter, they will perform water pipe repair tasks and start cleaning up the flood. Once this is finished, they can replace any damaged materials, so your business looks new.
When your business is flooded with dirty water, it is likely a category 2 flood. To properly remedy the situation, you should start a suitable remediation process as soon as possible. This will mitigate the damage and restore your business to normal. Hiring professionals is often the best option because of the contaminants in the water.
What Causes Mold and How To Prevent It
5/22/2022 (Permalink)
HEPA filters are rated to remove 99.9% of particles .03 microns in size from the air that passes through.
Keeping Your Business Mold- Free
Mold growth is a very common problem in commercial buildings, but many business owners still have questions about it. It is important to understand the causes of mold and the preventive measures you can take to keep your business protected.
Mold Causes
One of the most common questions about mold is what causes it. Mold spores are nearly everywhere, but several conditions must be met before the spores can turn into an infestation. The following are the three elements that must be present for mold to thrive:
Most indoor locations are warm enough for mold growth, and most places have food and water sources. The ubiquity of these elements is what makes mold growth such a common problem.
Mold Prevention
Although a professional restoration service could quickly address a mold problem at your Clear Lake, TX, business, it is always better to prevent the issue in the first place. As mentioned above, the factors necessary for mold to grow are extremely common. This may make you feel like mold is inevitable, but it is possible to control at least one of the elements: water. Clean up spills as they happen. Standing water is a major risk factor, so address water damage as quickly as possible, preferably within 24 hours. Although you may not be able to see the moisture, high humidity can foster a mold infestation. Keep indoor humidity below 50%. You may need to run a dehumidifier in particularly damp areas.
Additionally, decreasing the mold spores present helps reduce the likelihood of an infestation. Air purifiers with HEPA filters trap spores before they have a chance to grow. Carpet cleaning removes spores that have become trapped in the fibers.
Although the conditions necessary for mold growth are very common, it is possible to prevent serious problems by taking preventive measures. Reducing the moisture and mold spores present in the building goes a long way toward keeping your business mold-free.
Why You Should Get a Mold Insurance Endorsement for Your Commercial Building
4/4/2022 (Permalink)
Commercial mold damage in Clear Lake, TX.
Your commercial insurance can pay for emergency restoration services following a fire, tornado or another disaster. However, not every type of peril is covered. For instance, most insurance policies only provide limited coverage for mold damage. That is why you should purchase a mold endorsement.
What Is Mold?
To understand why this endorsement is so important, you first need to learn a bit about mold. This fungus uses spores to reproduce. The spores spread via air and wind currents. All mold needs to grow is:
Mold eats various building materials, including carpet, wood, paper and drywall. The fungus then destroys these items as it grows. If left unchecked, mold could harm much of your Clear Lake, TX, property.
When Is Mold Covered by Insurance?
Most commercial insurance policies include a fungus exclusion that prohibits coverage for mold and similar toxins. There are some exceptions, however. Mold that grows following a lightning storm or fire is usually covered.
If the mold results from another peril, your insurance may provide limited fungus coverage. Mold growth that occurs after a flood may also qualify for this coverage if you added a flood endorsement to your commercial policy.
What Is Limited Fungus Coverage?
Limited fungus coverage gives you money for mold remediation services. The insurance funds can go toward the costs of removing the fungus and testing the building to ensure the mold is gone.
Keep in mind that limited fungus coverage only applies if you take all reasonable steps to prevent and limit mold growth on your property. There is also a cap to this mold insurance. Most insurers will only pay $15,000 per occurrence. However, cleanup and restoration can cost much more than that. You thus need an endorsement to supplement this coverage.
Your commercial insurance may include some coverage for mold infestations. However, this may not be sufficient following a major mold loss. A mold endorsement should help you pay for any additional expenses you incur.
How Do You Create a Fire Escape Plan?
1/25/2022 (Permalink)
Every employee in your building must know of at least two ways to escape from every room.
What Are the Steps to Making a Fire Exit Plan?
As a business owner in Clear Lake, TX, you may be concerned with protecting your employees and the valuable contents within your building from fire damage. While protecting those items is mainly an issue of not letting a fire start in the first place, your employees’ lives are both more valuable and easy to protect. Making sure you have a sound fire escape plan in your building is an essential safety measure. It’s not enough to just tell your employees to evacuate in the event of a fire, however. A concrete, laid-out fire escape plan is crucial in assuring everyone’s safety. Here are a few pointers to make your plan easier to design, as well as some things it should include:
Check Smoke Alarms
First and foremost, you must be sure your building meets NFPA standards for smoke alarms. This means a smoke alarm in every room and office, and outside every major working area. Also, while it’s highly unlikely that your employees will have this problem, it’s important to verify that everyone in the building knows what a smoke alarm sounds like so that they can evacuate immediately upon hearing it.
Plan Escapes from Every Room
As an important part of your fire escape plan, every employee in your building must know of at least two ways to escape from every room. If every room does not already have two means of escape, it’s a good idea to create them. For example, for rooms on higher floors, a fire escape ladder on the outside can help ensure employee safety and escape in the event of a fire.
Establish a Meeting Place
Make sure every employee in the building knows where the designated meeting place outside the building is. This makes accounting for everyone easier after evacuation and creates a more orderly and efficient escape process.
Practice
It may seem like overkill, but an important part of any effective emergency escape plan is regular drills. You should conduct fire drills at least twice a year, or until everyone in your building can complete the evacuation process within a reasonable but short time period based on the size of your building.
How To Safeguard Your Business From a Water Damage Claim
12/30/2021 (Permalink)
Insulate your pipe.
Detect Damaged Pipes and Minimize the Risk of Flooding
To help protect both their investment and financial security, it’s essential for every business owner in Dickinson, TX, to possess a commercial property insurance policy. Water damage resulting from leaking pipes is a common claim that often necessitates extensive cleanup and restoration efforts. Although aging infrastructure may complicate the situation, there are several proactive steps every business can take to help detect damaged pipes and minimize the risk of flooding.
Broken Pipes and Supply Lines
Water supply lines likely run throughout your building. In addition to sinks and toilets, water may also flow to and through a variety of equipment:
- Fire suppression system
- Water heater
- HVAC system
To help reduce the risk of leaks, you should schedule routine inspections of these vitals systems to verify the absence of obstructions, loose hose connections and defective components that may cause water seepage.
Frozen Pipes
During the winter, exposed pipes may be susceptible to freezing. Ice formation can increase pressure within the pipe, which may cause it to burst. To minimize the risk of damaged pipes, you should insulate exposed supply lines in uninsulated areas of your building and those near external walls.
Roof Leakage
In addition to leaking pipes, flooding can also arise if water seeps through a compromised roof. Completing routine rooftop evaluations can help you identify potential issues and commence necessary repairs before substantial leakage occurs.
It’s also important to take proactive steps to prevent the formation of ice dams during the winter. To alleviate this concern, you should routinely clear gutters of debris and ensure you have adequate insulation above your ceilings. Maintaining proper air circulation is also key.
Proactive Maintenance
Although most property insurance policies cover water damage, avoiding a claim is often preferable. While it may be difficult to detect damaged pipes inside walls, employing proactive maintenance procedures can help you identify and repair some potential flooding sources before significant destruction occurs.
Feeling the Burn: How To Treat Major and Minor Burns in the Workplace
10/30/2021 (Permalink)
Knowing basic burn first aid can help the healing begin.
How To Treat Major and Minor Burns in the Workplace
Fire damage in commercial buildings is not always the result of flames that rage when no one is present. A fire could break out at your business in Clear Lake, TX, even when workers are there. If this happens, it is likely that someone or several people may require burn first aid. Knowing what to do in such a situation can get them on the road to recovery faster and may even save their lives.
Minor Burns
Ideally, most of the burns sustained by employees during a fire are minor. Minor burns have several symptoms:
- Blisters
- Pain
- Change in skin color that looks like a sunburn
- Small coverage area
Minor burns do not require emergency care but simply basic first aid. As with a sunburn, you want to cool the affected skin and apply a soothing lotion. Bandage the burn to keep it clean, and it should heal on its own.
Major Burns
A major burn, however, is a side effect of fire damage that requires medical care. There are several ways to know if someone’s burn is more serious:
- Change in texture of skin, causing it to appear extra dry
- Evidence of charring, such as white or black patches
- Diameter larger than three inches
- Located on a sensitive area of the body, such as the face, groin or major joint
The first thing you do when you discover someone at your workplace has a major burn is call 911. While you are waiting for the EMTs to arrive, keep an eye on the victim. Watch for signs of shock or respiratory distress. Keep the burned area covered, and make sure the victim is out of danger.
If workers are present when flames cause fire damage on a commercial property, the people are the first priority. Calling emergency personnel for major burns trumps calling your insurance company or fire remediation specialists. Knowing basic burn first aid can help the healing begin.
How To Find Mold in Your Building
7/20/2021 (Permalink)
Water damage causes mold growth in a Dickinson, TX building.
Mold occurs naturally and may exist on your property without posing any problems unless it begins to grow indoors. If you've been affected by flooding, found leaky plumbing, or can't seem to find get rid of a musty odor in your building, you may have problematic mold. The best way to determine if and where mold is in your building is to hire a Dickinson, TX, indoor environmental specialist. These professionals have the training and specialized equipment to conduct necessary inspections and remediation.
Where Mold Hides
Whether you've seen it or not, unseen mold could be present throughout your building. Professionals will conduct a mold test to learn more. Initially, a visual inspection may be enough to find mold:
- Behind ceiling tiles
- Under carpeting
- Behind floorboards
- Inside heating and air conditioning ducts
- In the basement or attic
However, mold growth inside the walls is hard to find without cutting into the wall. Rather than risking the further spread of spores throughout your building, it is best to leave this part of the remediation process to the indoor environmental specialist. The expert will tell you if there's mold and what type of mold is present. This information will help you and the professional know the best course to take.
Why Hire a Professional
There are many sources of information offering how-to tips regarding mold remediation, but it's generally best to hire a professional for these tasks. Professionals with the right training and equipment are sure to conduct a thorough cleaning of the area. Some DIY procedures are likely to spread mold spores through your building and this can lead to more expensive problems. An indoor environmental specialist is likely to spend time searching until the source, or sources, of trouble, have been found.
When Professional Results Matter
Cleaning up the mold you can see is just part of the process. Reaching the roots of the mold and preventing future mold growth is crucial. Professional mold remediation companies have the equipment, clothing, disinfectants, and training necessary to protect themselves and your Dickinson, TX, property from further damage.
Tips for First Aid Preparation at the Office
7/7/2021 (Permalink)
Emergency kit supplies.
Emergency Preparation
It’s storm season in La Marque, TX, and you have probably dealt with some weather-related work interruptions. If you have been so fortunate that you have not had an emergency at work, now is the time to prepare. The best practice for office emergency preparation comes down to two things: having a first aid kit and having a first-aid preparation program. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires the following items to be included in your emergency kit for a small office:
- Directions for contacting emergency help
- CPR and resuscitation tools, such as a pocket mask or a bag valve mask
- Blanket
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- Adhesive tape
- Various bandages including 2” wide rolling gauze, 4” x 4” gauze pads, 8” x 10” gauze pads, triangular bandages, and adhesive bandages
- Alcohol wipes or other types of wound cleaner
- Gloves
- Splint
- Elastic wrap
If you have more than three people, you need to increase your emergency kit inventory appropriately or have multiple kits located clearly throughout your building. Check your kit once a month and restock items to ensure you have what you need during emergencies. Keep the kit in a location where it will be easily seen by the workers in the building. Remember to have multiple kits or more supplies for larger offices.
Emergency Planning
Now that you have a first aid kit, it’s important to create an emergency program. OSHA outlines four elements to making a first aid program: employee and leadership involvement, safety and health training, prevention, and analysis of your workplace risks.
What are the greatest risks in your building? You may not think it is much, but don’t forget the weather and other sudden events. You may have trees or other debris that can come through the roof or windows, hail, or flood potential. Professional remediation can make your building like nothing ever happened, but human injuries can’t always be resolved so easily. Make sure you analyze your risks and train multiple people on proper emergency response and use of the first aid kit.
5 Steps to Take After a Fire in Your Commercial Building
4/26/2021 (Permalink)
Commercial fire damage in Nassau Bay, TX.
5 Steps to Take After a Fire in Your Commercial Building
After a fire in your Nassau Bay, TX, building, it can be difficult to determine what your next step should be. Fire restoration will need to be done to make your building safe to work in again. The following are some things you should do during this potentially stressful situation.
1. Contact Your Insurance Company
Depending on the severity of the damage, restoration can be expensive. Start a fire insurance claim as soon as possible, so you can use this money for repairs. You may also be able to receive payments for work missed due to the emergency.
2. Have Mitigation Done
Before repairs are made, mitigation is done to prevent further damage. This can include removing water used to put out the flames, boarding up windows, and covering missing walls or roofing with tarps.
3. Repair the Building
A fire restoration company can make repairs to the building and leave it looking as good as new. Many things are done during this stage, from large tasks like rebuilding rooms to minor repairs such as giving the walls a fresh coat of paint. Some building materials may need to be removed and replaced as well.
4. Clean Damaged Belongings
Some items may be damaged not only by the fire itself but by the resulting soot and smoke. These can carry corrosive elements that can cause metal to rust and may damage electronic devices. Smoke can also enter porous materials, like upholstery and carpeting. Smoke cleaning should be done for any affected objects and surfaces.
5. Remove Lingering Odors
Even after everything is cleaned, there may still be some odor from the smoke. Using an air purifier can help remove this. It will decrease contaminants in the air, so you have a fresh and clean environment.
Although it can be a lengthy process, fire restoration is necessary to keep your building in good condition. A professional company can provide many services, from cleaning to repairs, and can quickly return your building to its pre-fire condition.
The Mold Remediation Process
1/26/2021 (Permalink)
Mold remediation in La Marque, TX
The Mold Remediation Process
The moment mold growth is discovered in your La Marque, TX, property, some questions instantly arise. How long will it take? Do I need a mold remediation and restoration company? What should be expected during the mold removal process? For the first two, the answers depend on the severity of the problem. In most cases, the process takes about one to five days. If the affected area is more than 10,000, enlisting an expert is recommended.
Removal Process
When it comes to the third question, choosing a certified professional provides peace of mind that the job will be done right and eliminate the potential for a future infestation. Below are key steps taking during mold removal.
Technicians will wear extensive safety gear, which includes gloves, goggles, face masks and a protective suit.
A containment system will be set up to seal off the affected area. This is essential to prevent spores from spreading and building a new colony.
The affected area will be treated with an EPA-approved biocide to kill the fungi. This is often a two-step process.
All affected surfaces will be cleaned with high-grade antimicrobial cleaners.
Any materials that can’t be salvaged, such as drywall and insulation, will be safely removed from the premises.
Once the physical mold is removed, an array of high-tech tools will be used, including HEPA air scrubbers and vacuums, which remove airborne spores.
A sealer or encapsulant will be used to reinforce areas prone to water damage.
Peace of Mind
If black mold isn’t properly handled, it likely means dealing with the same problem down the road. Since your time and money are important, getting professional help eliminates future headaches and lets you focus on running your business. Most certified companies also provide restoration services, which makes it much faster to get your business back to “Like it never even happened.”
If faced with mold removal, getting it taken care of the right way is essential. While it may mean added costs and time upfront, it ensures the problem won’t rear its ugly head again.
Does Content Cleaning Work?
12/30/2020 (Permalink)
Electronics can be affected by a fire
If you have recently had a large portion of your company's items damaged in a fire, you have probably heard of a special dry-cleaning process that can help reverse the damage. You are probably wondering if this works and how it can help your business. Read on for an overview of how you can save your items.
How Can It Help My Business?
After your building sees extensive fire damage, it is normal to think you will lose a lot of your items. The contents of your business will indeed have been affected by the fire. However, if you take action immediately, content cleaning can reverse damage to your items caused by smoke, mold, fire, and water. This is successful through a special dry-cleaning process that removes soot and odors. After the cleaning process is finished, your items will be put into content storage, where they will wait until you are ready for them.
What Does It Save?
Some of the things that can be affected by a fire in Clear Lake, TX, include:
- Electronics
- Decorations
- Equipment
- Furniture
- Tools
Fortunately, the professional remediation company that helps you will be able to restore these items. Finding a company that uses more advanced restoration technology will open up the number of items you can save. Keep in mind that this cleaning process can save a lot of your items, but it may not save everything. You may still have to throw away some porous things that cannot be restored.
If you have recently experienced a fire at your business, you are going to want to try the special dry-cleaning process, which restores your items, so they are once again usable. This is a great way to restore many items in your business, no matter what type of damage they have. Afterward, you can store them until you are ready to reclaim them. Keep in mind that you may not be able to save everything from your business.
What Causes Irrigation Leaks?
12/17/2020 (Permalink)
Sprinklers require regular checks to ensure that heads and nozzles are in good condition and are not broken
Three Reasons An Irrigation System Could Leak
A leaky irrigation system has the potential to cause major water damage. From damaged lines to sprinkler or system-wide malfunction, here are three of the most common reasons that irrigation could leak and flood landscaping or a commercial building in La Marque, TX.
Blocked or Damaged Lines
Irrigation lines that have broken during the off-season or worn down and started to leak can cause serious irrigation problems. All of the following issues may affect these landscaping water lines:
- Clogs
- Ruptures
- Shifting soil
Irrigation pipes are designed to be impervious to external contaminants. If clogs form in lines, buildup from graywater or interfering elements such as tree roots may be the underlying cause. A service that specializes in solving irrigation problems and doing regular maintenance can clean or replace any watering system parts.
Faulty Sprinkler Components
A variety of components in a sprinkler head can sustain damage that causes this part of an irrigation system to shift off of settings that prioritize efficiency. Sprinklers require seasonal upkeep and regular checks to ensure that heads and nozzles are in good condition and are not broken, clogged or improperly positioned.
Problems With System Settings
Sprinkler systems require testing at the start of the season to confirm that all elements are functional. The irrigation needs of a landscape may shift over time, particularly if a property owner makes adjustments to manage runoff and reduce flooding risks. A sprinkler service may need to recalibrate an irrigation and sprinkler system to match changing land use.
Regular maintenance of an irrigation system is the best way to prevent problems. In addition to wasting water, irrigation leaks can moisten the soil and undermine the foundation of a structure or the surrounding landscape. If water damage caused by irrigation has affected a building in La Marque, TX, the property owner or manager should schedule irrigation repair and, if necessary, a structural inspection.
How to Take Care of Water Damaged Items
10/26/2020 (Permalink)
Wet documents
A Flooded Company Can Result In A Large Number Of Problems
A flooded company building can be a frustrating emergency for your Clear Lake, TX, business. If this has happened, then there are likely a large number of items inside that have been affected. Knowing how to take care of these during restoration can help you get back to business more quickly.
1. Hard Surfaces
If a broken pipe has caused flooding in your building, then objects with hard surfaces are likely the easiest to handle. These will usually only require a quick wipe down and sanitation because water will not penetrate the surface.
2. Upholstered Furniture and Fabric Objects
Unfortunately, some furniture items are not as easy to salvage. This can be the case for objects, such as chairs and couches, that are made with fabric and absorbent materials. If the water has remained mostly on the surface, dry cleaning may be enough. Otherwise, they may need to be replaced. Smaller fabric items may be more thoroughly cleaned in a washing machine.
3. Electronics
If there are electronics in your flooded company building, these may need special attention. Because water can easily cause problems for these types of devices, you should have them checked by a professional before attempting to use them again. Turning them on if they are not completely dry can cause a short and can result in permanent damage. Water can cause metal components to rust as well.
4. Paper Items
You might think that papers and documents will be completely ruined, but this is not necessarily the case. With professional equipment, many delicate items can be saved. They will need to be completely dried and might also require an anti-mold treatment.
Because a flooded company building can result in a large number of problems, it is best to have this emergency taken care of right away. A professional cleanup and restoration company can make repairs to the building and can salvage many affected items quickly, allowing you to get back to work sooner.
Emergency Preparation
9/1/2020 (Permalink)
Emergency Preparation
Storm preparedness and emergency planning are both tools in the property manager's arsenal. These tools can be the difference between maintained business operations or complete shutdown. The four points below can guide you through the steps and the significance of emergency preparation.
1. Preplan for Disaster
As an owner or a manager, you may find that a significant part of property management revolves around employee safety and disaster prevention. Businesses require this type of preparation to help ensure business continuity; therefore, you will likely want to accumulate a list of contacts and operational procedures in case of an emergency.
2. Prepare an Emergency Checklist
Storm preparedness can be as simple as creating an emergency checklist for employees and clients. You can post this checklist around the property and make sure that every employee has a copy, ensuring that everyone will know what to do during an emergency. These lists should include maps to exits and shelter areas along with an action plan.
3. Practice Emergency Procedures Regularly
While the creation of preparation materials and checklists are a good starting point, these tools are nothing without regular practice and guidance. Many municipalities suggest performing monthly emergency walk-throughs and safety meetings. These monthly meetings will allow employees to ask questions and practice the developed safety routines while allowing management to rectify any potential concerns before a legitimate emergency.
4. Consider Restoration Specialists
When you think of the term restoration specialists, you may not immediately think of emergency preparations, but some restoration companies in Clear Lake, TX, provide a form of emergency planning for businesses. These companies may offer property evaluations to help pinpoint safety concerns as well as offer custom plans for your business in the event of an emergency or disaster.
An essential aspect of most business planning is storm preparedness, but it goes beyond the installation of storm shutters and backflow valves. Storm readiness means preparing for emergencies, not only from a business operations perspective but a safety perspective as well. Creating procedures and checklists as well as performing monthly meetings can all benefit your business and employees, ensuring that everyone and everything is prepared in emergent situations.
3 Common Water Issues in Commercial Buildings
9/1/2020 (Permalink)
Managing a business takes a great deal of time, energy and money, but the payoff can be rewarding. Unfortunately, water issues such as leaking pipes can force a business in Houston, TX, to close its doors. Knowing the common water issues that many businesses face can help you prevent water damage to your business.
1. Damaged Pipes
Pipes can become damaged over time, which can result in a break or leak. Both issues can cause long-term damage to your business. If your pipes are leaking, you may notice that your water bill has increased without an increase in purposeful water use. A pipe break is often more sudden and apparent, but it can also cause extensive damage. Maintaining your business’s pipes will help prevent leaking pipes and other damage from occurring.
2. Sewer Backup
If your building has repeatedly had a toilet backup or you notice water isn’t draining appropriately in sinks and other drains, it could be a sign of a sewer backup. Sewer backups can leave your business without functioning restrooms and appliances, and they can also be dangerous to people’s health. Backups can create water damage in a variety of locations in your business and can affect various appliances at once.
3. Foundation Damage
A sturdy, supportive foundation is essential for any building, including businesses. If water has accessed your business’s foundation numerous times, especially in older buildings, the foundation may begin to crack. It’s important to be aware of the state of your building’s foundation, since damaged foundations can make a building unsafe to inhabit. Signs of foundation damage could include visible cracks, sinking floors and doors that won’t easily open or close.
As a business owner, you know the value of having a clean, safe business. Water issues such as leaking pipes can wreak havoc on a business, but knowing what to look for can help you keep your business functioning at its best. If you do experience water issues, qualified professionals can help you fix the issues and prevent future damage.
How To Secure a Business After a Fire
4/14/2020 (Permalink)
Smoke clean up in Nassau Bay, TX
Three Things To Keep In Mind About Securing The Property
All is not lost when your business in Nassau Bay, TX, is impacted by fire damage. It may seem like that when it first happens. Charred walls, lost shingles, and smoky odors only create a sense of defeat and loss. However, there is hope. With the assistance of insurance and restoration teams, your place can reopen and get back to work. In the meantime, as an owner, you should understand the possible threats to the exposed premises, safeguarding it as much as possible after the incident. Here are three things to keep in mind about securing the property.
1. Be Aware
Once the fire has claimed your building, it became a hazard to you; however, for criminals, it became a treasure trove for looting. Thieves don't care that it is dangerous to enter. They see holes and openings, welcoming them in without a problem. Knowing this, don't just walk away from the scene, leaving it unattended. Doing so, only poses more complications. Make a plan to oversee.
2. Secure the Land
Prevent unwelcome guests by boarding up the fire damage immediately. Work with a fire restoration company in Nassau Bay, TX, to evaluate the premises, determining the best methods for protecting the establishment. The crew can place tarps over any exposed roofing and boards over any holes in the walls, windows, and doors. Also, it's important to think about how all of this is placed. Consider screwing some of the plywood on the inside, making it difficult for others to take them down. These extra preventative measures should keeping out animals, robbers, and inclement weather.
3. Remove Valuables
While the remediation team handles the fire cleanup, you can search and remove anything of importance. After all, you don't want anyone getting hands on important documentation such as tax returns, employee records or contracts. With assistance, gather what you can, taking them to a safer location. In addition, any high-priced commodities may be removed and stored elsewhere, leaving less temptation for burglars.
The experts can fix the fire damage. During that time, proprietors should be vigilant, remaining cognizant of intruders.
How the Pros Clean up After Storm Damage
3/5/2020 (Permalink)
Water removal in a Clear Lake, TX
Despite all your preparation and best efforts, your building might not be a match for a major storm in Clear Lake, TX. Though the damage your building suffers can be severe, the right cleanup company can make your building ready for use once again. By using tear out and rebuilding processes, these crews can remove water and clean up various materials in your workplace.
What the Pros Offer
Immediately after a significant storm causes water damage and other problems, you should file an insurance claim. You'll also want to contact a reputable storm damage response company to begin the process of removing the water and restoring your building. Professional crews have the following characteristics:
- They have experience cleaning up after storms in commercial buildings.
- They have the right tools and equipment for jobs of all sizes.
- They can respond the same day as your call and complete the work quickly.
Assessment
Once on the scene, the team will evaluate the extent of the damage and what it will take to complete the storm restoration process. Technicians will walk through the area, make a plan and share it with you.
Taking out the Damaged Items
Unfortunately, the technicians won't be able to salvage all the materials in your building. Porous materials such as drywall will likely be too saturated with water. Crews will do a tear out of these items as well as carpet, ceiling tiles, and damaged roofing shingles.
Water Removal
Next, the team will use commercial-grade machines to extract all the water from your building. Crews will use heavy-duty fans and dehumidifiers to dry and the affected areas and remove all traces of moisture.
Sanitizing
Dry floors, walls, and ceilings are not enough. To discourage the growth of mold, technicians will use powerful chemicals to kill any bacteria.
Rebuilding
Crews will then clean and dry all items. They will also replace and restore building materials.
From tear out to water removal and everything else, you can depend on the pros to get your office building back in shape. Don't let storm damage derail your business.
Typical Places To Spot Mold at Work
1/6/2020 (Permalink)
Mold growth is not strictly a water damage problem. Mold grows in unvented bathrooms, around leaky pipes, and underneath sinks with damaged seals
Common Areas Where Mold Likes To Show Up
In your office building, you certainly never want to hear a report that there is mold growth. Unfortunately, this is all too common for some business owners and property managers. Mold can develop in both older and newer buildings. Under certain circumstances, this fungus can spread and become a significant concern. It is important to be aware of common areas where mold likes to show up. This information will help you clean it up properly and prevent it from growing.
Under Sinks and Behind Appliances
Sometimes, mold can grow for months or even years without anyone ever seeing it. You may first detect its presence through other factors such as people getting ill. Mold frequently shows up under or near refrigerators, drinking fountains, dishwashers, water heaters or air conditioning units. You may also spot it under sinks where there has been water damage. This issues may start due to:
- A broken pipe
- A bursting pipe
- A slow leak
Walls and Ceilings
Mold growth commonly occurs because of problems with your building's water pipes or HVAC ducts. These usually run in the walls and ceilings in the facility. When water leaks out of the pipes and ducts, mold can spread onto ceiling panels and on walls. Look for water stains, accompanied by green, black or brown spots in the area.
Damp Places
Like many other office buildings in Nassau Bay, TX, you probably have a basement or attic in your workplace. These areas typically have high humidity because of decreased airflow. You should regularly inspect these parts of the building, especially if you find any water.
Bathrooms
If your restrooms also have employee shower and locker room areas, mold could be lurking. This fungus loves to grow on shower walls and bathroom floors. If you spot any mold in these places, make sure you call a certified mold remediation expert to inspect and remove it.
Now that you're aware of common breeding grounds for mold, take the right steps to reduce the moisture and humidity there. Preparation and action will give you peace of mind.
The Role of Your Business's Building Envelope
12/20/2019 (Permalink)
The envelope is the barrier between the inside of the building and the outdoors
Rain damage to your Clear Lake, TX, business can be a major hassle. Fortunately, a secure building envelope can keep water out most of the time.
The Components and Purpose of the Building Envelope
The envelope is the barrier between the inside of the building and the outdoors. It is made up of several components:
- Roof
- Walls
- Foundation
- Windows and doors
- Seals around windows and doors
A good envelope is usually referred to as being "tight" because it is airtight and watertight. "Loose" envelopes, on the other hand, allow rain, water and other elements to enter the structure. Buildings with tight envelopes have lower energy bills because they keep the heated or cooled air in the building. They are also less susceptible to black mold and other moisture problems. A good barrier will keep your merchandise safe and your employees and customers comfortable.
Designing and Maintaining a Building Envelope
When constructing a new building, it is important to use high-quality roofing, foundation, and insulation materials. This ensures that the structure is watertight to prevent rain damage. Make sure the building is designed to withstand local weather patterns. Additionally, install appropriate sealing around doors and windows. Because of increased regulations, most new construction buildings will have good envelopes. For older buildings, you may need to repair or replace some elements of the envelope in order to achieve a tight seal. Whether your structure is old or new, it is important to perform routine maintenance and inspections on the envelope to make sure it stays in good condition. Address small problems like missing or damaged shingles before they become more serious.
A well-sealed and insulated building can prevent many, but not all, instances of water entry. Even with a tight envelope, your business may suffer rain damage. A certified restoration team can help you get your business back to normal quickly and safely.
3 Common Commercial Water Damage Sources
9/28/2019 (Permalink)
Active fire sprinkler
3 Common Commercial Water Damage Sources
There are several emergency situations that could affect your La Marque, TX business property, but few come from such diverse sources as water. From outdoor floods caused by torrential storms to a broken pipe in the employee restroom, floods can spring up without warning and cause serious damage to inventory and building materials. Being aware of some common causes and origins of this issue may help you reduce the risk and extend the life of your commercial building.
Overflowing Toilets
Few indoor flood events are as distressing as an overflowing toilet. The resulting flow of water can be highly unsanitary and cause black mold to form on walls and floors as soon as 24 hours afterward. Clogged sewers can sometimes be the culprit, but generally, old plumbing systems and toilets that do not flush properly and clog often are usually to blame. Having your building’s plumbing system checked annually and keeping the toilets maintained can prevent this type of event.
Fire Sprinkler Malfunctions
Flooding that occurs from above is not common, but it can occur when your building’s fire sprinklers go off without warning. A sensor error, equipment age and indoor temperature changes can all trigger a false alarm, and the resulting flood of water could cause serious water damage to your office equipment, damage important documents and leave water stains on ceilings. Have your system inspected and replace old or damaged components as needed.
Frozen Pipes
When temperatures plummet, outdoor and exterior wall plumbing pipes can be vulnerable to freezing and bursting. A broken pipe located in your building’s basement or laundry facility could cause a serious flood and damage stored records or uniforms. Having a flood damage and water repair service evaluate your plumbing system and learning how to prevent frozen pipes can reduce the risk of this type of flood.
Understanding the risk of water damage to your La Marque, TX commercial building can help you protect it and its contents. From a broken pipe in the breakroom kitchen to malfunctioning fire safety equipment, flood awareness can be the first, best step toward prevention.
4 Steps for Using a Fire Extinguisher Correctly
9/3/2019 (Permalink)
P.A.S.S method
P.A.S.S. Method
Your commercial building in Clear Lake,TX, must be equipped with enough fire extinguishers that anyone who needs to do so can reach one quickly in an emergency. It doesn't do a lot of good to have a fire extinguisher nearby, however, if your employees don't know how to use it properly. Every person in your building needs to understand the four basic steps of the P.A.S.S. method.
1. Pull
Every canister is equipped with a safety feature that keeps it from releasing its contents spontaneously. There is a seal and a pin that holds it in place. Before you can use the extinguisher, you have to pull the pin out and break the seal.
2. Aim
You may notice that your extinguisher comes equipped with a hose. If you aim the hose at the top of the flames, however, you won't get the coverage you need. To prevent extensive fire damage that requires professional restoration services, you have to aim the hose at the base of the fire.
3. Squeeze
The fire extinguisher has a handle that allows you to release the contents of the canister. To do so, you must squeeze the handle so that the extinguishing agent comes out the end of the hose, allowing you to direct it at the base of the fire where it's aimed.
4. Sweep
If you have a small kitchen fire in your break room, you can probably put it out with the contents of the extinguisher. To do so, you need to make sure the entire base of the fire is covered in the agent that is released. Make a sweeping motion back and forth until the fire goes out or you run out of agent.
If the contents of a fire extinguisher do not put the fire out, don't grab another extinguisher. Call the fire department so that the professionals can take over. In many cases, however, using an extinguisher correctly will put out the fire and prevent a larger problem.
32nd Annual Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Business EXPO
7/17/2019 (Permalink)
32nd Annual Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Business EXPO
The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the date and location of the 32nd Annual Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Business EXPO. The 2020 Business EXPO will be hosted at the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church on Thursday, May 14, 2020.
The 2019 Business EXPO will be held on Thursday, May 9, 2019 at the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church starting from 11am - 6pm. Admission to the Business EXPO is free and comes with 1 free raffle ticket, additional raffle tickets can be purchased 10 for $5 at the event or online in advance.
The 2019 Expo Vendors include:
- AMOCO Federal Credit Union
- Anchor Point
- Bay Area Audiology and Hearing Aids
- Bay Area Habitat for Humanity
- Bay Area Printing, INC
- BBVA Compass Bank
- Beacon Federal Credit Union
- Berkeley Eye Center
- Beyond Beaute Day Spa and Wellness Retreat
- Brookdale Clear Lake
- Camp Gladiator
- Care Now Urgent Care
- CertaPro Painters of League City
- Communities In Schools-Bay Area
- Community Impact Newspapers
- Costco Wholesale
- Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health
- Dogtopia of Webster
- Door Prize Tickets
- Fantastic Sams Cut and Color
- Forest Park East Funeral Home and Cemetery
- Freedom Boat Club
- Friendly Faces Senior Care
- Fully Promoted of Webster
- Green Mountain Energy
- Hand & Stone Massage and Facial
- Harbor Hospice Clear Lake Office
- HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake
- Hope Village
- Houston Newcomer Guides
- Huntington Learning Center
- ImageNet Consulting
- Infinity Float Center
- Instant Imprints
- Key IT Systems
- Kindred Hospital Clear Lake
- D. Abdul R Moosa Sylvan Beach Wellness Center and Spa
- Light Heart Memory Care
- Lordex Spine Institute
- Love Well Creative
- Lutheran South Academy
- Main Event Entertainment
- Mariposa Apartment hOmes at Clear Creek
- MD Anderson Cancer Center
- Memorial Hermann
- Minuteman Press Bay Area
- Modern Acupuncture
- Musical Cheers
- Nightlight Pediatric Urgent Care
- Norman Frede Chevrolet
- Odyssey Academy
- One Stop Tents and Events
- Pasadena Livestock Show and Rodeo
- Pul Mitchell the School
- Peterson CPA Firm PC
- Pure Water From Air CO
- Rasa Yoga
- Reliant Energy
- Return to Wellness
- Sea Lark Chiropractic
- Sharp Business Systems
- Shell Federal Credit Union
- Silver Sycamore Events Resort
- Skin Essentials Luxury Med Spa and Salon
- Skin Solutions Day Spa and Salon
- Sleep Number-Baybrook
- Solis Mammography
- Space City Pain Specialists
- Sprint Store
- Swadley Roof System
- Texan Bank
- The Joint Chiropractor
- Tilger Center for Dentistry
- Today's Harbor for Children
- Transition Home Health
- University of Houston Clear Lake
- UTMB
SERVPRO of Clear Lake Industry Certifications
6/20/2019 (Permalink)
Certifications of SERVPRO of Clear Lake
SERVPRO of Clear Lake is proud to be a women owned and operated small business in the City of Houston. We have been in business for nearly 20 years and have received numerous accolades and certifications over the years including:
In addition we are active members of several local restoration, professional, chamber and charitable organizations.
Insurance Day
5/16/2019 (Permalink)
The SERVPRO team standing behind our booth at the 2019 Houston Insurance Day trade show!
SERVPRO had the wonderful opportunity to attend Houston Insurance Day trade show in the heart of Houston! Over 1800 independent insurance agents and insurance professionals attended to network and showcase the many services we offer. SERVPRO had the opportunity to educate insurance professionals, that we work with on a daily basis, on how the restoration industry helps reduce insured losses and get homeowners back into their homes faster with mitigation and restoration services. The event allowed us to educate insurance adjusters and independent insurance agents of Houston and the Town & Country Houston Galleria area.
The Independent Insurance Agents of Houston group hosted 133 exhibitors showcasing insurance companies offering casualty, auto and life insurance packages and unique vendors to the insurance industry including water extraction, water mitigation and structural drying vendors like SERVPRO. IIAH also showcased their keynote speaker, Chad Prather, with his hilarious and unique take on professional development and personal motivation.
Additionally, the seminars were extremely informative! We took home helpful tools that will last us a lifetime. We are looking forward to next year's tradeshow! If you’re interested and want to learn more about the insurance industry contact the Independent Insurance Agents of Houston website at www.IIAH.org. If you are in need of water restoration and mitigation services contact us directly at 281-219-8180.
4 Steps for Working with Fire Restoration Professionals
1/9/2019 (Permalink)
Smoke cleanup in Clear Lake, TX
4 Steps for Working with Fire Restoration Professionals
After the first intense period of fighting workplace fires is over, an overwhelming sense of damage and restoration work may settle in. Signs of smoke damage, debris from the fire, and pools of water and chemicals could be everywhere you look. Fortunately, you don't have to tackle this problem on your own. What do you need to do?
1. Contact Professionals Right Away
In many cases, fire restoration and cleanup professionals in Clear Lake, TX, have an emergency response technician who will assess the fire damage and existing risks. This professional, or team of professionals, will probably patch up any holes in the roof, missing windows, and other points of exposure. This board-up and tarp service is key to keeping out inclement weather and potential looters.
2. Arrange to Meet Specialists
The second step in working with the cleanup team is to arrange a time for an assessment technician to visit your Clear Lake, TX, property. At this point, professionals take note of the extent of the fire and smoke damage. This step is crucial for planning the rest of the work and is often required by insurance companies. Without adequate communication, you may not get the coverage you want.
3. Cooperate With Cleanup Crews
As soon as possible, the technicians will begin removing water. They may haul in heavy equipment, such as dehumidifiers and fans, and may ask you for permission to move existing furnishings. To complete the drying process, doors and windows may be propped open. The technicians can get their work done more efficiently in a cooperative environment.
4. Keep Communication Lines Open
A lot of cleanup may take place when you aren't on location. Provide the cleanup team with your phone number, so they can get permission before discarding items with heavy soot damage or using specific chemical cleaners.
Smoke damage restoration is a task that these professionals are prepared to complete to your satisfaction. The experts who handle fire, water, and smoke cleaning can often provide all the work necessary to get your work space looking as good as new, especially when you work together.
Established Standards for Mold Remediation
7/14/2018 (Permalink)
Decisions regarding who should handle mold clean up and how to complete necessary mold remediation in Clear Lake, TX depends on several factors. These include:
• The size of the mold problem
• The type of mold present
• Responsibility for the property
• The source of the mold
Another important factor is knowledge of OSHA and EPA standards for handling mold in commercial buildings.
Standards of the CDC, EPA, and NIOSH
One example of these mold standards is available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. On the website, each recommendation for clean up and remediation is accompanied by the appropriate standard reference (e.g. 29 Code of Federal Regulations 1910.134.) These are standards administered through the EPA.
Standards of the IICRC
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification is a good resource for those responsible for ensuring that established mold standards have been followed. The IICRC standards provide a common language used across the industry and ensure consistency in cleanup and remediation of mold contamination and the treatment of black mold. IICRC is a member of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and an accredited developer of standards.
Some of the relevant standards for mold in commercial settings include:
• BSR/IICRC S400: Standard Professional Cleaning, Maintenance and Restoration of the Commercial Built Environment
• ANSI/IICRC S500: Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration
• ANSI/IICRC S520: Standard and IICRC R520 Reference Guide for Professional Mold Remediation
• BSR/IICRC S550: Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration on Commercial Structures
In addition to these standards, IICRC also provides a couple of field guides for the safety and health of disaster restoration professionals. These guides are supplements to the existing standards and certification requirements.
Comply With Standards for Safety
Whether you're a mold restoration/remediation professional or a Clear Lake, TX commercial property owner, you should be aware of these standards and take steps to ensure that any remediation efforts are in compliance with mold standards. Visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com/ for more information on mold.
How Can a Restoration Company Help After a Water-Related Disaster?
6/22/2018 (Permalink)
As a commercial building owner in Clear Lake, TX you want to do what's best for your property. That's why you only call in professionals when you know they can help you achieve your goals. If you're dealing with a pipe burst cleanup, how can a commercial restoration company help?
• Assist with insurance claim. If the water damage falls under your commercial insurance policy, the restoration company may be able to help you file your claim. Depending on your provider, the restoration team can help you take pictures, document damage and send a quote. Some restoration professionals are preferred vendors for insurance companies.
• Remove standing water. When you have a broken pipe in your building, water may pool in the lower levels. Getting a foot or two of water out of a space requires specialized equipment. Thankfully, the experts have the pumps and machinery needed to remove standing water.
• Clean content. Not only do you have to remove standing water as part of a pipe burst cleanup, but you also have to clean the belongings that got drenched. A restoration company can help you dry out, clean and restore some of the items affected by the water.
• Control humidity levels. Whenever excess water is introduced to a space, you have to start worrying about too much humidity in your building. If you work with a professional team, they can help you keep the humidity levels normal.
• Repair damage. Not only does a sewer cleanup company help you remove water and clean up the space, but they can also help repair damage. Some teams may replace damaged drywall, flooring and other building materials to make your commercial space look as good as it did before the incident.
Working with professionals for a pipe burst cleanup can make your entire process go smoothly. These experts know what they're doing and they can get the job done quickly. Visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com/ for more information on commercial water damage.
Factors Involved in Fire Damage Estimation
5/21/2018 (Permalink)
Finding a mitigation company that gives you a customized estimate of your restoration expenses is important.
Factors Involved in Fire Damage Estimation
When you call fire mitigation specialists in Clear Lake, TX, for a commercial fire estimate, you should expect them to take the time to assess your problem individually. You want more than someone who just offers you a generic number. You want a team that analyzes your unique situation step by step. There are several factors that professionals consider when determining how much your fire damage remediation is ultimately going to cost you.
1. Emergency Cleanup
The first cost to consider is how much immediate work needs to be done. If firefighters put the fire out in your building, you are likely to have as much damage from saving the building as you have from the fire itself. Excess water has to be extracted, and the area must be thoroughly dried to prevent mold growth. Then, soot and smoke must be cleaned from the building. Broken windows and a torn roof must be patched to prevent further damage from outside elements or theft.
2. Item Cleanup
Another line in the estimate concerns the items inside the building that show the effects of damage from the fire. Electronics, important documents, furniture and inventory must be tested and either cleaned or discarded. If items are unsalvageable, they must be documented for replacement.
3. Rebuilding
Your mitigation company should also give you the approximate cost of what it takes to restore your building to its original state. This estimate can include something as major as rebuilding part of the structure itself to something as minor as making sure the carpeting is uniform. If you want your insurance company to cover any of these costs, it is necessary to have them in the bill.
Finding a mitigation company that gives you a customized estimate of your restoration expenses is important. This helps you budget better and back up your claim with your insurance company. Your business is worth hiring professionals with an attention to detail. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com/.
Beginner's Guide to Being Proactive About Plumbing Issues
4/16/2018 (Permalink)
Your commercial building in Clear Lake, TX, is full of plumbing. You rely on this system to handle water and sewage. Plumbing problems can quickly compound into a variety of issues:
• Interior flooding
• Contamination
• Mold growth
You can avoid a lot of these bigger issues by being proactive about your plumbing even when there is nothing wrong.
Fix Minor Issues Right Away
Letting a leaky faucet fester can turn your minor leak into a major water issue. As soon as you notice a plumbing issue, you should be sure to get it fixed. You may need to call in a plumber or another water professional to stop the small problem from becoming big.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
A lot of plumbing problems stem from clogged pipes and broken faucets. You can schedule regular maintenance with a plumber to stop some of the wear and tear issues in your business. This maintenance could include an inspection that gives you insight into issues that could come up in the future.
Show Tenants Where the Main Is
If a major flooding issue should arise, you and your top employees need to know where the water main is located. Being able to turn off the water to your commercial building quickly can be the difference between minor water issues and major flooding. Go over the location of the main with employees or tenants to ensure this step can be taken promptly even if you're not on site.
Know Who You Want to Call
The whole point of being proactive is to stop a problem from happening. However, a broken pipe can happen in the blink of an eye. Get familiar with the commercial water damage experts, so you know who to call should the worst happen. For more information about commercial restoration, visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com/.
Keeping Your Business Up and Running During Unexpected Power Outages
3/20/2018 (Permalink)
There’s never a good time for the power to go out, especially when you happen to own a business. If you don’t rely on computers and tech, you probably rely on other tools that require electricity to operate, so a total power outage could very well end the workday altogether, cutting off your profits in the process. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. There are plenty of ways to keep your business moving even when the power goes out in Clear Lake, TX such as:
• Investing in a portable generator
• Using power packs, battery-operated generator alternatives
• Keeping flashlights and batteries around the office space
Generators
Generators have been the go-to solution for the average power outage for decades. They’re easy enough to install, simple to maintain, and can keep an entire building running for hours. Portable generators offer the same convenience, but in a much smaller package that can be moved easily so you’ll always have it where it’s needed most.
Power Packs
Much like generators, power packs provide spaces with power when the usual source has been interrupted. While these are traditionally not as powerful as generators, they provide clean, heatless energy that’s more comfortable for you and your employees in the long run, especially if you’re confined to indoor spaces.
Flashlights and Supplies
While using flashlights isn’t the ideal solution, it may be necessary if all of your other options have been depleted. Generators and power packs can only offer so much juice before becoming depleted, so having an alternative on hand is critical. While they might not allow for much productivity, handheld flashlights and a stock of batteries can at least serve to light the way inside of your building. These can be especially useful during storm season or during other times when it would be safe for you and your employees to exit the building.
A responsible business owner is prepared for anything, and that includes the occasional power outage. Planning ahead and acquiring the proper tools can save you and your employees a huge amount of hassle down the line. Visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com for more information commercial storm damage.
The Basics of Smoke Odor Removal
2/13/2018 (Permalink)
After a fire has blazed through your commercial property, you have several aftereffects to deal with besides destruction from the flames themselves. Smoke damage also remains, leaving its telltale smell along with chemical pollution and possible structural issues. For these reasons, smoke cleaning in Clear Lake, TX, becomes an essential component of a restoration company’s techniques when they work to bring your commercial buildings back to normal after a fire.
The Right Equipment for the Job
Restoration professionals have many tools at their disposal to permanently eradicate smoke odor from your property. In their arsenals, you’ll typically find three types of smoke cleaning equipment:
• Air filtration devices
• Thermal foggers
• Ozone machines
Air filtration equipment eliminates the fine particles and chemicals introduced by smoke. Moreover, thermal foggers put out millions of ultra-fine droplets that are each roughly the same size as the smoke particles still residing inside your building, delivering odor counteractants to wipe out the smoke’s chemical composition and dissipate the smell.
A Word About Ozone Machines
You’ve probably seen ozone machines available on the consumer market during the last couple of decades, but restoration companies use professional-grade devices instead. The O3 that they produce consists of molecules bearing three oxygen atoms instead of the standard paired oxygen atoms that exist in standard breathable Earth air. This deployed ozone works by bonding itself to chemicals at the molecular level, changing their composition and nullifying both their odors and harmful effects. However, commercial-grade equipment is meant to achieve immediate results in the hands of experts, and you should not attempt to use ozone devices on your own due to the potential hazards involved.
Leave Smoke Odor Remediation to the Experts
Fire restoration is a dedicated methodology using complex techniques and innovative technology. When utilized properly by odor removal technicians, each type of equipment eliminates the harmful chemicals and noxious odors left behind by smoke. In the hands of experts, these devices working together achieve high-quality smoke cleaning for your premises in Clear Lake, TX.
For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com.
What Happens 24 Hours After a Flood?
1/24/2018 (Permalink)
You heard the flood evacuation order in time to get your family to safety. That’s the important part. Now you need to consider the protection of your home. Do you know what happens 24 hours after a flood? It might surprise you just how quickly things can go from bad to worse and why getting a jump on cleanup quickly is necessary. Whether your home is flooded from a pipe burst or flood waters, you could be in a mold cleanup situation sooner than you might realize.
The First 24 Hours
In the beginning, the water is on the surface. It is sitting on your hardwood, tile, and carpeting flooring. It is against your home’s walls and furniture legs. In anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, the water can begin to seep into other areas:
• Under your flooring
• Into the basement or crawlspace
• Beyond the surface of walls into the drywall and studs
From there it can travel to other areas of your home. As the water spreads, the damage worsens. Materials swell, warp and deteriorate soon after a pipe burst.
The Next 24 Hours and Beyond
The longer water sits past 24 hours, the more damage can occur. That makes cleanup more difficult, and in some cases, impossible. With dirty water, the solids sink and become more strongly affixed to surfaces. Solids and microorganisms can permeate deeply. Items that may have been able to be restored before that happened may need to be thrown out.
In addition to this problem, it only takes 24 hours for mold to take notice of the prime environment for growth. Now, instead of just water removal and restoration, your Clear Lake, TX home also may need mold cleanup. Mold can also begin growing because of elevated humidity levels. High humidity enables mold to grow throughout your home, not just where the water is. This makes cleanup even more complex.
Do what you can to avoid mold cleanup on top of an already stressful situation and to minimize the work and costs involved. Call a professional immediately after a pipe burst or other water damage situation.
Visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com for more information on water damage.
Outdoor Commercial Spaces Can be Damaged By Fire
11/2/2017 (Permalink)
Outdoor Commercial Spaces Can be Damaged By Fire
Many business owners have outdoor spaces that are an integral part of their business. An outdoor space may be where they sell products, offer seating for their restaurant or just allow employees some open air time and a break from their routine. When commercial fire damage is present along with soot damage and smoke damage, these can easily get all over the outdoor spaces. Commercial fire damage can spread from an electrical fire to the area right outside the space. Sparks from a utility room fire can spread from the utility room fire to other areas outside that are powered by electricity. The fire sprinkler system is often not only used inside but inside as well. A fire sprinkler system that is near a window and on after a fire can spread the water from the interior to the exterior and damage valuable plantings along the way. When dealing with the aftereffects of commercial fire damage, it is important to examine the exterior as well as the interior for signs of soot damage, fire damage and smoke damage.
Next to the Space
Many business owners have an entryway with greenery and plantings of all kinds. This area can be damaged when a fire hose is dragged across it to fight an electrical fire or utility room fire. The firefighter may have stepped on many areas here on his way from the fire truck with the fire hose. A single fire hose from a fire truck can be pulled dozens of feet across the area to reach the utility room fire. The firefighter may also need to walk around other areas of the property away from the front entrance with the fire hose from the fire truck, causing additional soot damage and fire damage to the area surrounding the office. Fire suppression methods such a fire sprinkler system may need to be turned off by the firefighter during the fire suppression efforts at combating fire damage and smoke damage along the grounds. Many business owners are dismayed to discover that the firefighter may have parked the fire truck on parts of their property that have been carefully landscaped.
Additional Damage
Exterior spaces can also be particularly vulnerable to smoke damage and soot damage. The electrical fire can cause scorch marks both inside and outside. Any business owner may also have an adjacent empty lot that has also been damaged by an electrical fire. many business owners have outdoor spaces that are used as storage spaces. These spaces can also be damaged by fire suppression methods. The fire sprinkler system used in fire fire suppression methods here may have gone off in a storage shed and caused problems with fire damage. Any business owner should be prepared to realize that commercial fire damage may need to include all areas around the property in any fire restoration plans. Fire restoration plans can be helpful in making the space look green and inviting again. A fire restoration plan may include cleaning this area as well.
Making it Nice Again
Professionals can help with fire restoration efforts everywhere on the property. They can help the owner determine what plants can be salvaged and what may not be in such good shape. They can also help the owner look closely at other materials in the space. For example a concrete seating area and series of planters may have been damaged in the fire. Professionals can help the owner determine what needs to be done to restore this area again. They can also provide expert advice about any materials that were stored outdoors and if they can salvaged or must be thrown out as well. Restoring this area to life is an important part of overcoming the damage from the fire and opening the business again. Effective help can offer the advice that any business owner needs to open up again.
Visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com for more information on commercial fire damage.
Steps Towards Professional Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
9/26/2017 (Permalink)
Steps Towards Professional Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
It is without a doubt that fire can be devastating; especially it breaks out in business premises. Given the intensity of the loss that fire can cause in a commercial building, most of the business owners take up measures that could reduce losses. One of the most common and effective ways is to install fire sprinkler systems.
In utility room fire or electrical fire, the fire sprinkler system can detect the heat change and ring the alarm as it opens up its valves. The rooms in the building are sprayed with a lot of water from the fire sprinkler system. Further, the alarm helps in evacuation and calling the local firefighters to respond to the utility room fire or electrical fire.
Firefighters usually respond to a fire distress quickly because they know that utility room fire or electrical fire does not wait for anyone. They arrive with fire trucks and long fire hose to make sure that they can access any part of the building is important to back up fire sprinkler system. A fire truck is filled with a mixture of water and fire redundant chemicals not forgetting the pressure pumps that help in fire suppression.
Firefighters can use cranes on the fire truck to hoist the fire hose and reach any height necessary. All the effort put by the firefighters in fire suppression effort also causes destruction as well as that caused by utility room fire or electrical fire damage. Firefighters are forced to break into windows and doors to ensure that fire hose has access to all areas under fire. Other than fire damage, the owners will have to deal with damages caused during fire suppression, smoke damage, and soot damage.
After the last flame goes off, the work of the firefighters comes to an end, they pack up their fire hose and get into their fire truck and leave the area to wait for another assignment. The business owner now has a chance to have a look at the fire suppression aftermath. The scene is always heart breaking, charred mess, flooded floors, overturned furniture, choking smell from smoke damage and soot damage is all over. You cannot guess what needs to be done but thanks to the professional fire restoration services as they can handle any commercial fire damage restoration.
Unlike the fire suppression efforts, the fire restoration service requires proper planning to avoid causing more damages and loss. For this reason, fire damage professionals have to begin with the inspection of the building to assess the extent of commercial fire damage. This gives them an opportunity to plan and come up with appropriate approaches to deal with the mess. In a short while, they list and remove items that can be cleaned or repaired and take it to their facility. They also do the documentation to ascertain your loss, which can also be used to file insurance claims.
Fire damage restoration begins with the clearing of the charred mess and removal of floods caused by the fire hose. You will also be involved in each step to ensure that everything is, as you want it to be. The professional's commercial fire damage restoration services also ensure that all other damages such as soot damage, smoke damage and water damage is taken care. Soot damage would require repainting of the walls and cleaning ash from the vents. Smoke damage will call for deodorization of all the porous items and upholstery.
You should not let time pass by after commercial fire damage before calling professional fire restoration services. The more you delay, the further will be the damages, especially through floods. It is also prudent to consider bringing back the business up on its feet before your clients get absorbed by your competitions.
The most important thing is to make sure that you hire the right fire damage restoration experts. This could be achieved through a simple background check and contacting their reference for a tip off. Commercial fire damage may not bring back the losses, but it can help you have a platform to trudge on with your business.
Visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com for more information on fire damage.
Fire Damaged Library
9/13/2017 (Permalink)
Library Fire
Fire Damaged Library
Although this picture looks as if someone just tidied up the shelves there was a fire that created smoke and odor throughout. Each of these books was removed, boxed, and taken to our facility. There it was cleaned of the soot residue and then deodorized before it was boxed back up.
It was very meticulous work which is why we asked our most patient and attentive workers to do the job. They had spent hours making sure each book had the soot removed from their pages.
Once boxed back up they were placed back on the shelves in the order they were taken off; except that they were placed in neater rows. The librarian was astonished at how well we remembered where every book was taken in order to put them back.
ERP - Emergency Response Profile
9/12/2017 (Permalink)
ERP - Emergency Response Profile
If you are a facility manager then you have had that call at 2:30 in the morning from someone in the building asking you "How do I shut off the water?". If only there was an easy way for all your employees to know where all the Shut Off locations were in the building they worked in.
Download the SERVPRO Emergency Response Profile from the App Store of either Apple or Android. The profile allows you to take pictures of each shut off location and write notes on how to get to there. The profile can then be shared with all employees who also have the application.
We don't promise that you won't get calls at 2:30am but hopefully you'll hear "I shut off the water and called SERVPRO to come clean up" and you can go back to bed.
Home Remedy for a Smelly Office
9/12/2017 (Permalink)
Home Remedy for a Smelly Office
If you are a small business owner like we are then you know that offie organization and maintenance is hard to schedule. There are times when the office just starts to smell bad from too much "take out" and the box of employee shirts that have not been washed. Try out our homemade deodorization
What you'll need:1/8 Cup of fabric softener, 2 tablespoons Baking Soda, Hot tap water, Spray bottle (about 27oz)
Preparation:Using a funnel, pour fabric softener and baking soda into your spray bottle. Fill spray bottle with hot tap water and shake well. You can spray it on furniture and carpet to remove bad odors.
If your schedule is too tight even for the above remedy give SERVPRO of Clear Lake a call and we can clean air ducts and carpets that will make your office smelling fresh once again.
What To Do If You Have Commercial Water Damage
8/15/2017 (Permalink)
What To Do If You Have Commercial Water Damage
Water is one of the most corrosive substances on earth. It eats away, degrades, and destroys whatever it comes into contact with. The standing water that results from burst pipes or natural flooding must be removed, which is not a process to be undertaken by amateurs.
No one has the power to control the weather. At best, all we can do is prepare for the most hazardous meteorological events. Heavy rains and rising sea water are among the many kinds of phenomena that can cause water to enter your home, consuming all that is within it. Burst pipes can also cause trouble; they can pour significant amounts of water into your homes in a short amount of time—ruining your floors, carpets, and other furnishings.
If you find yourself in either of these situations, your first order of business is to stop the flooding or bring it under control. Your next order of business must be water cleanup and restoration. Repairing the water damage to your home is best done by those who possess the knowledge, skill, ability, and experience to do the job competently and effectively.
Accumulated water, or standing water, will find its way into every crack and crevice of your home. It is important to have your domicile thoroughly surveyed, the water that has invaded it removed, and the affected spaces dried out.
The professionals who come to your will employ specialized equipment to remove the water from your home. These consist of industrialized pumps that work quickly to suck the water out. Once the standing water is eliminated, the process of drying can begin. Machines that are specially designed for drying homes and other indoor spaces will be applied and a thorough sweep of your home made. Many of the carpets and other furnishings are salvageable. Expert water removal technicians have the tools and expertise to make such items usable again.
One of the worst things about living in a home that has incurred water damage is the smelly odors. Water that has sat for even a little while will give off a very unpleasant smell. When the restoration company has completed the extraction of water and the drying of your home, they will proceed to deodorize it. Special solvents are used to complete this job. Afterward, you will be able to walk into a home that is filled with a fresh and delightful scent.
The final stage of water damage repair and restoration is essential. The members of the restoration team will conduct a thermal imaging scan to detect material degradation within the structure of the home. The presence of large amounts of standing water threatens the material integrity of a home. Water begins to rot material immediately. Even if you are able to remove the water soon after it entered your home, the foundations of your home may have been weakened by its presence. Having a thermal image sweep done will bring to your attention any degradation or defects that need to be addressed.
Water damage professionals train extensively for the work they do. They must be familiar with the places in a house that are most vulnerable to the effects of flooding. They must also learn how to competently operate the many specialized machines that have been designed to remove water from homes and dry them. The chemicals and solvents that are meant to eliminate odors and suppress mold growth must also be under their firm command and skill.
When you are looking for a water damage repair and restoration company, you should seek the best. Only those companies that have established a record for the quality and value of their workmanship and results can be trusted. The company you choose should offer the full range of services and solutions described above. That is the only way of reclaiming your home after the devastation of flooding. It is the only way you can begin to get your life back. Visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com for more information on water damage.
Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Tactics
8/15/2017 (Permalink)
Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Tactics
Accidental fires have very devastating effects on homes and business to which they occur. The destruction they cause is at times very high to restore some damaged items and instead replacement gets to be the best option.
The level which commercial fire damage gets to depends on the response of the first victim to see the fire. Cleanup has to be done first for the fire damage to be examined. If a fire cleanup is effectively done, the damage may not be very hard to handle.
There are however few things the victim should focus when there is a fire in home or in business.
• They should not get back into the house on fire
• There should be an immediate emergency alert so that experienced fire fighters can handle the fire
• Whatever action that is taken in an attempt to fight the fire should be safe
• Electrical items and should be keenly observed as they can be an item of extending the damage
• They should board up the premises to contain the fire and ensure the damages occur on a sacrificial part of the affected area.
Fires in business can be dangerous especially when the business is situated at a place with little or no space. Boarding up is very important in this case to minimize the smoke smell that may affect the neighbors. If the smoke smell is not contained, the commercial fire damage will be enhanced by soot damage and smoke damage. Soot damage is also minimized by avoiding movements in the premises which in turn minimizes the spread of soot and smoke particles that may embed in carpets. The fire cleanup may be well done but if the affected home or business is not handled properly, damage may continue to occur.
There arises the need for a restoration company which will help control and also restores the fire damage. Fire damage restoration results also rely on how fast the restoration company was notified. If the call was just in course of the fire, the restoration company through its experts will apply skills like board up and will ensure the soot damage and the smoke damage are well contained. Fire cleanup may leave some water in the business or home during extinguishing which may take a role in the damage. If the water is dried soon after the fire gets contained, it will not have caused much damage on the premises.
Fire in homes may require restriction of access of the home after board up. Victims of fire always have an urge of getting back inside even when the fire has not been cleaned up. This may lead to the spread of the smoke and the smoke smell which will consequently lead to more smoke damage. If board up is done perfectly, the smoke damage will occur at the place where fire cleanup is aimed at and fire damage restoration will be easier when it is being done on a smaller perimeter. Fire damage restoration is easy when fire cleanup was done soon after the fire got detected.
Fires in business can lead to commercial fire damages. Soot damage can be avoided if fire damage restoration included board up and smoke smell containment to prevent its spread. The restoration company will handle the commercial fire damage by ensuring there is no more fire damage occurring even as they fix the damages already happened. For a fire in business, the fire cleanup may be hard compared to a fire in home. Same is the case with the fire damage, it may be easier to restore a damage caused by a fire in home than a fire in business. A restoration company will be able to restore all the damages and may replace those which cannot be restored with new ones.
Visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com for more information on fire damage.
Signs of Commercial Mold Damage and What to Do About It
8/15/2017 (Permalink)
Signs of Commercial Mold Damage and What to Do About It
Mold is a fungus that commonly grows in damp spaces. There are many types of mold, including mildew and black mold, which is also known as Stachybotrys chartarum. Left unattended, this mold can lead to dry rot and reduce the air quality within the building. Even before mold growth leaves a visible sign of its presence, it emits a smelly odor. As the mold grows, the smelly odor is accompanied by what appears to be stains or discoloration to wood, siding, sheetrock, or other building materials. The really disheartening fact about mold damage is the home or business owner may never see the mold growth at all. Mold growth behind walls frequently leads to smelly odor and mold damage, such as dry rot.
Mold Environment
Mold grows in a moist environment. Some common causes of mold include:
Flood damage
Leaky pipes, windows, or roof
Clogged gutters
Water left standing
Too much humidity
Condensation
Poorly maintained air conditioners
The optimal mitigation against mold is prevention. Home and business owners must maintain proper humidity levels and eliminate the causes of a moist location. Unfortunately, not every event can be anticipated. Floods, for example, are a prime cause of mold growth that cannot be prevented.
Severity of Mold in Home or Business
Mold in a home or business is no laughing matter, once this fungus begins to grow, it can quickly spread. Mold releases spores that float through the air, so it is easy for mold in the basement to spread to the rest of the building. This is especially true if do-it-yourself mold removal goes awry.
The Best Remediation Solution
The best way to remediate mold damage is hire a commercial mold damage restoration company to analyze the type of mold present, such as black mold and mildew. They will then provide mold removal services customized to the specific mold damage and provide deodorization of the smelly odor that accompanies mold in the home or business. The use of a commercial mold damage restoration company is vital, especially when mold growth behind the wall is suspected. Some mold growth can go on for years before it is discovered, and releasing that many fungus spores into the air can exacerbate the problem. Remediation specialists are equipped to remove and repair the damage from this fungus with minimal harmful exposure to inhabitants.
Mold Mitigation Steps
Often remediation and mitigation are interchangeable terms for the identification and resolution of a mold problem. A commercial mold damage restoration company typical takes the following steps to resolve mold issues:
Identify the type of mold or mildew
Assess extent of mold coverage
Determine the source of moisture feeding the mold growth
Create remediation plan for mold removal with minimal spore contamination, moisture removal, and damage repair, including steps for deodorization of musty smell
Complete the actual work, including cleaning or replacing building materials affected by dry rot, mildew, or black mold
Ensure that the mold in the home or business has been completely eradicated
Interim Steps
If a home or business owner sees dry rot, black mold, or mildew, he might be tempted to attempt mold removal. During remodeling, mold growth behind a wall might be identified as well. While the temptation might be to mitigate the damage personally, the better solution is to contain the spores and step away until a commercial mold damage restoration company can go in and make sure the mold spores are removed safely and thoroughly, as well as provide a thorough deodorization. This is especially true in remodeling. If all the mold growth behind wall is not properly treated, the problem can regrow and remain in the building forever.
Conclusion
Mold is a fungus that can infect a building and cause structural damage as well as lower the air quality for its inhabitants. The best way to provide thorough mitigation of the problem is to hire a professional who is trained in safely identifying and removing the mold, as well as repairing structural damage. They will also remove the smelly odor that accompanies a mold infestation with commercial deodorization.
Visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com for more information on mold.
Clear Lake Commercial Property Care: How to Get Back to Business Quick After Water Damage
3/24/2016 (Permalink)
Every day businesses and property owners across south Texas are affected by water damage. In some cases, the damage may be minor, but in other cases, like after a significant storm, the damage may be severe, disrupting business operations for days, weeks, or even months. While water damage in residential properties is overwhelming, for business owners in Clear Lake and surrounding areas, commercial property water damage, can be devastating.
Every day that the business is closed, revenue decreases, while expenses remain the same. Moreover, of course, there is the increased risk that if business is disrupted for an extended period of time, customers may choose a competitor for future needs. That is why it is essential that business owners and property owners throughout the greater Houston metropolitan area prepare for the worst-case scenario. In today’s competitive economy, a business simply cannot be over prepared for a catastrophic event.
A quick and thorough restoration of your property after a flood, fire, or other damage will help you get back to business, helping to secure your future and the loyalty of your valued customers. While it may be tempting to save money by doing the restoration yourself, the truth is that you can lose more revenue and incur greater costs by doing so. SERVPRO of Clear Lake serves business owners and property managers across the Houston area. Our team is highly trained, equipped with the best tools, and is faster to any size disaster to help you keep your business moving forward.
We can work directly with your insurance company, freeing up your time to contact your employees, tenants, customers, and vendors. It is our goal to make the process of water damage restoration in your Clear Lake commercial property as easy on you as possible. Professional water damage restoration helps to ensure that mold infestations don’t affect hidden areas of your property requiring mold remediation and repair. Our team uses industrial dehumidifying fans to bring humidity levels back to normal levels after a flood, leaky roof, broken water pipe, or other water damage has affected your business.
The Houston SERVPRO team stands at the ready to respond 24 hours a day when disaster strikes your commercial property. Rely on us to do what we do best – clean commercial properties throughout Clear Lake and surrounding communities after water, fire, smoke, and storm damage occurs. That allows you to do what you are best at – growing your business and serving your customers. Call us anytime, our water damage restoration technicians, applied structural drying technicians, and our upholstery and fabric cleaning team will respond quickly to any disaster that strikes your commercial property.
About The Clear Lake SERVPRO
SERVPRO of Clear Lake is faster to any size disaster, helping residential and commercial property owners when natural disasters, water damage, sewage backups, floods, fires, mold infestations, and other events happen.