Holiday Fire Safety Tips for Barberton / Norton Families

12/16/2024 (Permalink)

To ensure your family’s safety and peace of mind this holiday season, follow these fire prevention tips:

1. Be Mindful of Decorations

   • Choose flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations whenever possible.
   • Avoid using real candles in decorations; opt for battery-operated LED candles instead.
   • Secure your Christmas tree to prevent tipping, and water it regularly to reduce fire risk if it’s real.

2. Inspect and Maintain Holiday Lights

   • Replace any lights with frayed wires, broken bulbs, or damaged plugs.
   • Don’t connect more light strings than the manufacturer recommends.
   • Use outdoor-rated lights for exterior decorations, and avoid running extension cords through snow or standing water.

3. Practice Kitchen Safety

   • Keep a fire extinguisher easily accessible in your kitchen.
   • Set timers to remind you of cooking tasks and avoid distractions.
   • If a grease fire occurs, smother it with a lid or baking soda—never use water.

4. Create an Emergency Plan

   • Ensure your family knows how to safely exit the house in case of a fire.
   • Test your smoke alarms regularly and replace batteries as needed.
   • Have SERVPRO of Barberton / Norton’s number handy for quick restoration assistance if disaster strikes.

SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton: Your Storm Damage Restoration Experts

4/16/2024 (Permalink)

When storms strike, the aftermath can be devastating. Here's why SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton is your trusted partner in storm damage restoration:

Experience and Expertise: With years of experience in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton has a team of highly trained professionals who understand the complexities of storm damage restoration. From assessing the extent of the damage to implementing effective restoration strategies, our experts have the knowledge and skills to handle every aspect of the restoration process.

24/7 Emergency Response: Storms don't wait for convenient times to strike, which is why SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton offers round-the-clock emergency services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to storm damage emergencies, ensuring that we can start the restoration process promptly and minimize further damage to your property.

Advanced Techniques and Equipment: Our team utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and advanced restoration techniques to restore your property to its pre-storm condition. From water extraction and drying to structural repairs and debris removal, we have the tools and expertise to handle even the most challenging storm damage restoration projects.

Compassionate Service: We understand the emotional toll that storm damage can take on homeowners and businesses. That's why SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton provides compassionate and empathetic service throughout the restoration process. We'll work closely with you to address your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you through every step of the restoration journey.

Customer Satisfaction Guarantee: Your satisfaction is our top priority. SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton is committed to delivering exceptional service and ensuring that you are completely satisfied with the results of our storm damage restoration efforts. We won't rest until your property is fully restored, and you can resume your normal life.

When storms strike, trust the experts at SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton to restore your property and provide peace of mind. With our experience, expertise, and dedication to customer satisfaction, we'll help you navigate the restoration process and get your life back on track.

The Importance of Timely Water Damage Restoration

4/11/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike your home or business at any time, causing significant destruction and disruption to your life. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or a natural disaster, the aftermath of water damage can be overwhelming. That's where SERVPRO of Southern Cuyahoga County comes in to help.

Timely water damage restoration is crucial to mitigating further damage and restoring your property to its preloss condition. Here's why:

1. Prevents Structural Damage: Water can weaken the structure of your property, leading to costly repairs if not addressed promptly.

2. Minimizes Mold Growth: Excess moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for mold, which can pose serious health risks to you and your family.

3. Preserves Belongings: Quick action can salvage personal belongings, furniture, and valuable items affected by water damage.

4. Reduces Restoration Costs: By acting fast, you can minimize the extent of damage, resulting in lower restoration costs and less downtime.

At SERVPRO of Southern Cuyahoga County, we understand the urgency of water damage restoration. Our highly trained technicians utilize advanced equipment and techniques to quickly extract water, dry affected areas, and restore your property efficiently. Don't wait until it's too late – contact us immediately for expert water damage restoration services.

SERVPRO Saves the Day on This Wadsworth, Ohio Water Damage Restoration

12/21/2023 (Permalink)

Wadsworth, Ohio water damage restoration

In August of 2023, SERVPRO’s help was requested on a water damage restoration project. The damage was in the basement of a Wadsworth home, and four rooms were impacted. Luckily, we were able to restore the rooms to their pre-damage state.

After the cleanup was finished, we knew we wanted to create this Wadsworth, Ohio water damage restoration report to help our readers understand how we go about restoring spaces to ensure that they are safe and healthy for all inhabitants.

Details of Our Wadsworth Water Damage Repair Work

This Wadsworth water damage restoration project originated from heavy rains causing water to overflow into outside window wells and infiltrate the home’s finished basement. The initial plan we developed outlined the necessary approvals, equipment, and tasks for fixing the damage. The affected rooms of this Wadsworth, Ohio water damage restoration project included a utility room, game room, rec room, and bathroom.

Two technicians were scheduled to work for two days. Work completed included mucking out the area, extracting hard surfaces, and placing dehumidifiers and air movers in key spaces, which helped the areas regain their original states and functionality.

Executing the Plan

In the final scope, there were minimal changes to the general tasks outlined, with adjustments to floor protection and baseboard removal in the rec room. The workforce remained consistent with two technicians for two days.

Notable alterations in specific rooms included an increase in the extraction of hard surfaces in the utility room and game room, a change to extracting 50% of hard surfaces in the game room, and an expansion of extracting all carpet in the rec room. To finish this Wadsworth water damage repair project, baseboard removal was introduced in both the utility room and the bathroom.

Our goal is always to provide the best restoration project results possible, and we are able to accomplish this with the flexibility of the project scope and plan. The overall modifications aimed to refine the restoration process based on ongoing assessments and considerations, ensuring a comprehensive and effective response to the water damage.

About Our Water Damage Restoration Services

Overall, we were happy to help this home through the water damage restoration process. SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton is faster to any size disaster, and we are always ready to help you through your cleanup and restoration efforts. Our company is women-owned and operated and our team is highly trained, making us the perfect destination for all of your water damage repair needs. Regardless of the size of loss or time of day, we are ready to serve you 24/7, 365 days a year.

Beyond water damage repair, we also provide the following services:

• Fire damage restoration
• Mold cleanup
• Storm damage assistance
• Construction
• Commercial services
• Specialty cleaning
• General cleaning

Specialty services include air duct and HVAC cleaning, biohazard and crime scene cleanup, carpet and upholstery cleaning, document restoration, drape and blind treatment, odor removal, roof-tarping and boarding, and vandalism and graffiti treatment.

Contact Us Today for More Info on Our Water Damage Restoration Services

Whether you have experienced a weather-related emergency or want someone on speed dial for the moment one comes, you can count on SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton for the best water damage restoration in town.

Be sure to contact us today with any questions you may have!

Know the Facts: Fire Damage Statistics

4/16/2023 (Permalink)

We are "here to help" handle your home or business's fire damage restoration needs!

The unpredictable nature of fires can lead to so much devastation and loss for your home or business.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are around 346,800 house fires per year causing on average 2,620 fatalities.

Understanding the facts when it comes to fires can help you to better prepare your family and employees in case of disaster.

General Fire Facts & Stats

- Cooking is the leading cause of house fires, followed by:

• Heating
• Electrical Systems & Equipment
• Candles
• Smoking

- In 2020, fire and lightning insurance claims had the highest average payout of $77,340.

- On average, across the US, a fire department responded to a fire every 23 seconds in 2021.

- In 2021, there were 1,353,500 fires reported, including residential and non-residential structures.

- In 2020, per 1,000 fires, the national average was 2 deaths and 8 injuries.

Ohio Fire Facts & Stats

- Ohio has the 7th most fatal home fires per capita in relation to the other 50 states, with Texas being the first.

- Smoking is the top cause of fire deaths in the state of Ohio, making up 20% of fatalities.

It's difficult and scary to imagine your home or business experiencing a fire. It can be hard to determine where to start when a disaster like this occurs.

If your home or business falls victim to a fire, SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton is "here to help." Our experienced technicians handle the care and restoration of your property and its contents. We handle the cleanup and the reconstruction, so you don't have to worry about juggling multiple companies.

If you find yourself in need of fire damage restoration, give us a call today!

Know the Facts: Water Damage Statistics

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

We are "here to help" handle your home or business's water damage restoration needs!

It's no secret that April showers are the start of Ohio's rainy season. Despite the name, April is only the 4th rainiest month in Ohio, with May, June, and the rainiest, July rounding out the top three.

As we work our way through the wet season, it's important to understand the facts of water and storm damage.

National Water Damage Facts & Stats

- 14,000 people in the US are affected by water damage every day.

- The average insurance claim to repair a water damaged home is $11,605.

- 99% of US counties experienced a flood from 1996-2019.

- 98% of US homes will experience water damage in their basements at least once.

- Even the smallest leak can increase the average water bill by 10%.

- In 2020, almost 20% of home insurance claims were due to water damage and freezing.

Ohio Water Damage Facts & Stats

- In Ohio, 540,863 properties have more than a 26% chance of being affected by severe flooding in the next 30 years.

- In 2021, at least 142 people died in flooding incidents, 64 of which were driving.

Water damage, whether it be from flooding or a storm, can be a difficult process to deal with. Luckily, SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton is equipped to handle all of your water damage restoration needs! From the drying process to reconstruction, we work with all insurances to get your home or business looking "like it never even happened."

Know What to Do Before, During, and After Spring Weather Strikes

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

We handle all of your water damage restoration needs!

Preparation Before a Storm

Stay Safe During the Next Big Storm

Depending on the person, you may either love to watch a storm roll in, or you may find yourself stricken with anxiety as dark clouds form at the horizon. No matter what end of the spectrum you fall on, knowing what to do to stay safe during a storm can benefit anyone. Keeping yourself and your loved ones safe during a storm is the top priority, so here are a few tips to help you the next time a storm is on the radar:  

• Remain indoors. This can be inside your home or the home of a neighbor if need be. If you are outdoors, seek shelter at a local business, or a public restroom. Public restrooms in parks are typically built to be storm proof. Should there be no other options, sheltering in your car should keep you safe and dry as you wait out the storm.  
• Stay away from windows. The safest place to be during a storm is a basement. If your house doesn’t have a basement, bathrooms are a good choice as well. 
• Try to stay away from appliances. Avoid showering or talking on a wired phone during a storm. Lightening can travel through plumbing fixtures or home wiring, so avoid using your washer and dryer during a storm. Lightning strikes can cause those appliances to short and catch fire.  
• Once the storm has passed, be cautious when walking around, especially outside. Be alert for down powerlines and tree branches. If you smell gas, be sure to contact authorities immediately.

Is Your Home Prepared for the Next Storm?

Each year, thunderstorms alone cause approximately $15 billion in property damage. Summer and spring seasons are the most vulnerable to these destructive and frightening storms.

There are several ways to prepare your property:

1. Always have an emergency kit with these items that you probably already have in your house: flashlight, battery powered weather radio, extra batteries to fit each electronic, non-perishable foods, lots of bottled water, can opener, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, blankets, extra clothes, sturdy shoes or boots, clock or watch, whistle to signal for help, and any important personal items and documents.
2. Know the safest structure of your home to go to during a severe storm such as a basement, underground cellar, or even the most inner part of your home away from windows.
3. Get routine maintenance on your roof and the foundation.
4. Cut down any unwanted trees or limbs and get your trees trimmed before summer storm season. Trees and branches can fall on your property and damage the siding, windows, and roof.
5. Contact your insurance company to be more familiar with your policy. Most home insurers do not cover flooding damage.
6. Keep all expensive and favored possessions off the floor and away from low ground in case of flooding.
7. Keep all patio furniture, grills, etc in doors before a summer storm hits. Do not forget to park your vehicles in the garage.
8. Finally, take those summer storm warnings and alerts seriously, especially tornado warnings. Tornadoes can lead to total property loss and even death.

How to Handle the Aftermath

After the Storm: What You Can Do

A storm has just blown through, but thankfully you and your family took precautions and no one was harmed. However, there is still a chance something happened in your home, whether it be flooding, backed up sewage, or damage from falling debris. If there’s any major damage to your Barberton or Norton home, the best thing you can do is call the experts at SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton and let the professionals clean up, but there are still some things you can do yourself if you feel up to it.  

• Clean up sticks and branches that may have fallen during the storm. This one is by far the easiest, and the branches can easily be thrown away, or used for something like firewood or compost. If a branch or tree has fallen against your house and caused damage, go ahead and call SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton to have it quickly, and expertly repaired.  
• Dry out your house as soon as possible. After a storm, if water has gotten inside your home, it will very quickly cause mold to grow, which will create many issues down the road. It’s best to clean up any standing water and dry off surfaces that may grow mold.
• If you see any damage involving sewage, live wires, or possible gas leaks, don’t try and fix it yourself! Immediately call the experts at SERVPRO of Barberton/Nortonto solve this issue for you.  

We Handle Flood & Storm Damage

SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton, specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton is ready when a storm strikes.  Our resources can handle a small or large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 330-825-1803

Storing & Restoring: We Take Care of Your Belongings

11/27/2022 (Permalink)

We handle your belongings after a loss, so you have one less thing to worry about!

After a fire or water loss occurs at your home or business, it can be hard to conceptualize the extent of damage done, along with the amount of work needed to get your life back on track. You're instantly worried about the structural integrity of your property, but what about what's inside? How do you even go about sorting through and recovering your belongings?

SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton understands that your home is more than a structure. Your furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings are important to you. And because they're important to you, they're important to us. We provide the following to help restore and protect your belongings while we are restoring your home.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. A move-out will provide several benefits, including the following:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

On-Site Storage

We have in-house storage where we can keep your belongings safe from further damage. We also provide cleaning and restoration services for your belongings. We have a 18,000 square foot warehouse dedicated to storage where we can keep your items safe and secure. Your items will be placed in clearly-identified and secured containers. You can rest assured that your items are being taken care of.

Contents Inventory Service

When emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. We can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Inventory Service, which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. We take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and barcodes.

Our Contents Inventory Service:

• Pre-loss list and value of contents
• Detailed and accurate report
• Better information to settle claims quicker
• Assistance with burden of proof for claims

If your home and belongings need restoration services, rest assured that SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton has you covered. We can pack out, store and restore your belongings. Give us a call today at 330-825-1803

The Importance of Viral Pathogen Cleaning

11/26/2022 (Permalink)

We want to help make sure that your employees are safe from viral pathogens!

SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton has the ability to perform the necessary bio-hazard remediation services to clean, disinfect and sanitize commercial properties against viral pathogens, such as COVID-19.

We use EPA-approved products that follow CDC guidelines for cleaning these viral pathogens. If you would like to inquire about our services, we are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton is experienced in cleaning office buildings, banks, manufacturing plants, assisted living facilities and single-family homes for COVID-19, other types of coronavirus strains, and any other viral pathogens.

We wish all our families, employees and friends to stay safe and healthy. If you are in need of a viral pathogen clean, SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton will be there for you. 

Mold Remediation: Handling Mold at Work or at Home

11/26/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage left untreated could lead to large mold issues down the line.

Handling Mold in Your Home

If you smell something musty in your home in the Barberton/Norton area you may have a mold problem. It may not be immediately visible, though. Mold damage can occur on almost any surface, particularly if it is porous. All it needs to thrive is moisture and something organic to feed on. Here are some places to look for mold and tips on how to keep these places fungus-free.

Where Is It?

Mold or mildew growth may happen anywhere there is too much moisture. Common places in your home where mold could grow include:

• Drywall
• Carpet
• Furniture
• Insulation
• Draperies

Excess dust can also contribute to mold growth. A layer of dust on a surface gives spores in the air another place to attach and grow. Regular dusting can help keep fungus growth at bay.

How Is It Prevented?

Mold is everywhere. It gets inside your home by attaching to clothing, hair, pets and shoes. Once the spores are in this confined space, they start to look for a place to land and grow. Mold damage occurs when they find it.

The most effective way to prevent mold growth is by getting rid of the excess moisture in your home. Try to keep humidity levels between 40-50%. You can measure the humidity in your home with a device from your local hardware store. Make sure rooms that are prone to higher humidity, such as bathrooms and the kitchen, are properly ventilated for good air flow. When you notice a leak, call water remediation specialists immediately to dry and restore the area. Controlling moisture is vital to controlling the spread of mold.

As the homeowner, you play a key role in avoiding mold damage. Rid your home of excess moisture, and when you cannot, inspect all the surfaces where mold can grow to catch it at its beginning stages. By being vigilant about prevention, you can protect the air quality in your home. If you have concerns call SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton to have one of their experts give you a professional evaluation at 330-825-1803.

Handling Mold in Your Business

Mold contamination is a growing concern for businesses of all sizes. Mold, a fungus that is found in damp places, can grow almost anywhere moist conditions exist. Left unattended, it can cause health effects as well as serious structural damage to your facility. As your go-to experts in mold remediation, we take a methodical and systematic approach to carefully identify the source of the mold growth and help eliminate mold from your working environment.

WHY IS MOLD A PROBLEM?

STRUCTURAL DAMAGE

Mold gradually destroys the things it grows on and can grow anywhere, including:

• Foundation
• Roof
• HVAC system
• Drywall
• Gutters
• Furnishings and more

FINANCIAL PROBLEMS

The presence of mold in your building means significant repairs may be necessary. This presents a financial problem for business owners. 

If you suspect mold in your business, count on SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton to quickly remediate the issue and let you get back to business as soon as possible. Once we assess the damage, we'll work with you to create a comprehensive remediation plan unique to your needs. Then, we'll keep you informed every step of the way to ensure we're always on the same page and providing the best work. With our guided expertise, innovative tools and technologies, and our can-do attitude, we'll get your business up and running again as soon as possible

Have a mold concern? Call us today: 330-825-1803.