Fire Safe All Winter: How to Protect Your Home During the Cold Months | SERVPRO of Lakeland

10/14/2024 (Permalink)

Stay fire-safe this winter! Follow SERVPRO of Lakeland's tips to prevent hazards, and if fire damage occurs, contact us 24/7 for expert restoration.

Winter in Lakeland and the surrounding area may not bring snowstorms, but cooler temperatures do mean people rely more on space heaters, fireplaces, and holiday decorations. While our winters are milder, there are still fire risks to be aware of in your home during the colder months. Here’s how to stay fire-safe all winter long.

Common Winter Fire Hazards

Even in Florida, winter means increased use of heating sources that can pose a fire risk. Space heaters are a popular option when the temperatures drop, but improper use can lead to accidents. Make sure to keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable, and never leave them running unattended.

Another common fire hazard during winter is holiday decorations. Twinkling lights, candles, and dry Christmas trees can create the perfect storm for a fire if you're not careful. Always check your string lights for frayed cords, turn off decorations when you leave the house, and keep your tree hydrated to reduce the fire risk.

Fire Safety Tips for Winter

Here are some essential tips to keep your home safe from fire this winter:

1. Test Your Smoke Alarms – Ensure your smoke alarms are working properly and have fresh batteries. Test them monthly and replace any units that are over 10 years old.

2. Use Heaters Safely – Avoid using extension cords with space heaters, and place them on a flat, hard surface away from flammable objects like curtains or bedding.

3. Practice Safe Candle Use – While candles can create a cozy atmosphere, they can also be dangerous. Never leave them unattended, and keep them away from anything flammable.

4. Inspect Electrical Outlets – With holiday lights and electric decorations in full swing, it's important to avoid overloading your electrical outlets.

What to Do If a Fire Happens

Despite your best efforts, accidents can still happen. If your home suffers fire damage this winter, SERVPRO of Lakeland is Here to Help®. We understand how stressful fire damage can be and are ready to respond quickly with professional fire restoration services.

SERVPRO of Lakeland will guide you through the entire process, from smoke damage removal to reconstruction. Don’t try to handle fire damage on your own – our experienced team has the tools and expertise to get your home back to normal quickly.

Stay Safe and Prepared This Winter

Winter might be a bit different here in Lakeland, but the risks of fire damage are real. By following these fire safety tips, you can enjoy a cozy and safe winter season. 

If the unexpected happens and you need fire damage restoration, contact SERVPRO of Lakeland today! We're available 24/7 to help keep your home safe and restore any damage caused by fire.

Flood Damage in Your Home? Here’s What You Can Do | SERVPRO of Lakeland

6/1/2024 (Permalink)

Don't let flooding weigh down your home. Call SERVPRO of Lakeland to get the restoration process started!

Water damage is a regular concern in the Lakeland community, especially when a hurricane or storm rolls through. While Florida living has its advantages, it also exposes us to the formidable forces of Mother Nature.

Whether it's a thunderstorm unleashing torrents of rain or a fierce hurricane battering the coast, flooded basements and homes are common outcomes.

Preparedness is key to safeguarding your family during such events.

Ensuring Family Safety

Fortunately, hurricanes and coastal storms typically provide advance warning. Prepare promptly upon receiving news of an impending storm. Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and propane tanks, and park your car in a garage or carport nightly. It’s always a good idea to tidy up your yard to minimize potential hazards.

Inside, you should gather essential documents and delicate belongings and relocate them to a safe area. Don't forget to check your sump pump's functionality and seal storm shutters tightly before the storm hits land.

After the Storm

Until floodwaters recede, prioritize your safety by staying inside. If you’ve evacuated, wait for authorities' clearance before returning home, and exercising caution when you do enter the building. Strong storms can cause extensive damage to structures and surroundings.

Navigate your home cautiously, mindful of potential hazards like damaged flooring and protruding nails. Following an initial assessment, call us promptly to get started on flood restoration.

Our Flood Restoration Process

We specialize in flood restoration and respond swiftly to your call. Our priority is minimizing water exposure to prevent further damage.

We promptly extract standing water and utilize thermal imaging cameras to detect hidden moisture. We're equipped to handle delicate materials like soaked documents and soft furnishings.

From repairs to restoration, our team handles the whole process with confidence.

Dealing with a flood can be daunting. Let SERVPRO of Lakeland handle your flood restoration needs efficiently.

Reduce Fire Risks in Your Lakeland Home | SERVPRO of Lakeland

5/1/2024 (Permalink)

When a fire event strikes your property, call SERVPRO of Lakeland for a fast response.

Nobody likes the thought of facing a house or property fire, yet these incidents occur frequently nationwide. The United States alone sees over 340,000 home or structure fires annually.

While it's challenging to entirely avoid fire situations, being prepared for the unexpected can significantly mitigate risks in and around your home and garage. Use these strategies into your daily life and regular routines.

Preparing Your Outdoor Gear

Grilling stands as a cherished activity for many families, leading to a plethora of charcoal and propane grills dotting backyards and neighborhoods. The popularity of outdoor tabletop skillets is also on the rise.

Despite the enjoyment grilling brings, it carries inherent fire risks. Before lighting your grill, inspect it for any signs of damage or malfunctions. Gas grill owners should pay extra attention to the drum and lid for dents and ensure the vents are unobstructed. Regularly clean out excess ash and maintain cleanliness.

For propane grills, inspect gas lines before each use, tighten any loose connections, and check the propane tank for dents or leaks, no matter how small.

For those of us with backyard bonfire pits, regular cleaning and clearing of surrounding areas are crucial to prevent hazardous fire situations caused by overhanging trees or overgrown grass.

Mitigating Indoor Fire Risks

The kitchen reigns as the top offender of most house fires, given its frequent use of heat and flames. Keeping a fire extinguisher within reach can aid in swift responses to potential emergencies.

Additionally, keeping your kitchen clean is crucial. Flammable items like kitchen towels, pot holders, and decorations can easily fuel a fire.

Another fire-prone area is around filters and vents, notably near clothes dryers. Regularly clean the lint trap after each use and schedule professional vent cleanings to eliminate accumulated lint, dust, and debris.

Our Role in Fire Preparedness

Even with stringent precautions, unforeseen circumstances can lead to significant fire damage. Contact us immediately after extinguishing the flames to initiate your recovery plan.

Our team is available 24/7 to respond promptly, arriving at your location to begin cleaning, removing debris and sanitization. Once your space is prepped for reconstruction, we'll deodorize and initiate repairs, no matter how extensive the damage may be.

In times of fire damage, count on SERVPRO of Lakeland for comprehensive fire damage restoration services.

Where Water Leaks Like to Hide | SERVPRO of Lakeland

4/1/2024 (Permalink)

Quick action is crucial for a complete recovery from water damage. Call SERVPRO of Lakeland today for a fast response!

Water leaks aren't always as obvious as a burst pipe or a flooded basement; they can be insidious, like a slowly dripping pipe hidden behind walls or a water heater that leaks intermittently. Despite their stealthy nature, these leaks can wreak havoc over time.

Regardless of the scenario, water damage is a serious issue that demands attention. Detecting leaks early is key, but knowing where to look is the first step.

Identifying Common Leak Sites

Water flows throughout your home, so leaks can spring up anywhere there's a pipe or water connection. Loose fittings or deteriorating caulking can spell trouble. Regularly inspect toilets, sinks, and tubs for signs of moisture or persistent puddles.

Appliances that rely on water are also prone to leaks. Dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters can all spring leaks unexpectedly. Check these appliances before each use for signs of moisture around doors and connections.

Halting the Flow

Upon discovering moisture or a new puddle, take immediate action to prevent further damage. Locate the source of the leak and shut off the appropriate water valve to stop the flow. If the leak originated from an appliance, turn it off or unplug it to prevent reactivation.

Avoid walking through the water, and contact us immediately. If there's significant water or the leak went unnoticed, you may have additional damage to address. Document the damage with photos for your insurance company.

Water Damage Restoration

We'll swiftly arrive at your home, pinpoint the leak source, and commence water removal and necessary repairs. We understand the urgency; prolonged exposure to water can exacerbate damage and promote mold growth. Our advanced drying equipment ensures thorough moisture removal.

Once dry, we'll tackle any necessary repairs. Water can warp wood and damage walls or carpet, but we're equipped to handle restoration projects of any scale. Our priority is restoring your home to its preloss condition promptly.

Contact SERVPRO of Lakeland immediately to start restoring your property.

Take Us Out to the Ball Game | SERVPRO of Lakeland

3/15/2024 (Permalink)

Production Manager, Shawn Stevens, throws out the ceremonial first pitch at Joker Merchant Field.

The Detroit Tigers have long been associated with springtime in Lakeland. From their initial visit in 1934 (with a brief break during WWII), Tigertown has graced the sun-kissed fields of Joker Marchant Stadium with their annual pilgrimage to this baseball haven for 88 years now.

But this year, there’s an exciting twist: SERVPRO of Lakeland stepped up to the plate as a proud sponsor of the Tigers’ Spring Training game on March 4.

A Winning Partnership

Our team was presented with the opportunity after we helped with the cleanup of the Tigers clubhouse a few months back.

The synergy between America’s favorite pastime and home restoration couldn’t be more fitting. Just as baseball teams rally to restore their standings, SERVPRO® is dedicated to restoring homes to their former glory. Whether it’s fire damage, water leaks, or storm aftermath, they’re the unsung heroes behind the scenes, ensuring families can return to safe and comfortable living spaces.

The Big Game

Before the Tigers took to the field against the Boston Red Sox, our very own Production Manager, Shawn Stevens, threw out the first pitch. Detroit played a great game as the sun bathed the stadium in golden hues. Fans also got to enjoy a Tigertown win. Detroit pulled away with a 2 to 1 win over the Red Sox.

A Call to Action

As we continue to cheer for the Tigers this season, take a moment to appreciate the unsung heroes behind the scenes. The next time you see the SERVPRO logo, remember that they’re not just sponsors; they’re partners in Lakeland’s restoration story.

So, let’s play ball! And as the Tigers step up to the plate, let’s also tip our hats to the SERVPRO team that’s keeping Lakeland strong, one property at a time.

Where's the Mold Hiding? Common Places to Check for Mold in Commercial Buildings

5/15/2023 (Permalink)

If you find mold growth in your home or business, it's important to take immediate action to prevent further damage.

Mold is a common problem in commercial buildings and can be a health hazard if left unchecked. It can grow in many places, but there are some areas where mold is more likely to occur. In this blog, we'll explore some of the common places to find mold in a commercial building.

HVAC system

One of the most common places for mold to grow in a commercial building is the HVAC system. The ductwork and cooling coils can be breeding grounds for mold if they are not properly maintained. Mold spores can circulate through the system and spread throughout the building.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are another common area for mold growth in commercial buildings. Moisture from showers, sinks, and toilets can create an environment that is ideal for mold growth. Mold can grow on walls, ceilings, and floors, and can be difficult to detect.

Kitchens

Commercial kitchens are also a common place for mold growth. Moisture from cooking, cleaning, and dishwashing can create an environment that is perfect for mold growth. Mold can grow on walls, ceilings, and floors, as well as on food and equipment.

Basements

Basements are another area where mold can thrive in commercial buildings. Moisture from leaks or high humidity can create an environment that is ideal for mold growth. Mold can grow on walls, floors, and ceilings, as well as on stored items and equipment.

Attics

Attics are often overlooked when it comes to mold growth in commercial buildings. However, if there is a leak in the roof or high humidity levels, mold can quickly take hold. Mold can grow on insulation, rafters, and roof decking.

These are just a few of the common places where mold can grow in a commercial building. It's important to regularly inspect these areas for signs of mold growth and take action to prevent it from spreading. Proper maintenance and ventilation can go a long way in preventing mold growth in your commercial building.

What to Do If You Find Mold Growth in Your Home or Business

If you find mold growth in your home or business, it's important to take immediate action to prevent further damage. The first step is to identify the source of the mold growth and address the issue, such as fixing a leaky pipe or improving ventilation.

Next, it's crucial to contact a professional mold remediation company, like SERVPRO of Lakeland, to assess the damage and develop a plan for safe and effective mold removal. Attempting to remove mold on your own can be dangerous and ineffective, as it can spread spores throughout your property and potentially cause issues. A professional mold remediation company has the experience, equipment, and training to safely and thoroughly remove the mold, as well as prevent future growth.

Clearing the air: Tips for Getting Rid of Cigarette Smoke in Your Home

4/18/2023 (Permalink)

Getting rid of cigarette smoke in your home can be challenging.

Cigarette smoke is not only unpleasant to smell, but it can also pose a serious health hazard to you and your family. The toxic chemicals present in cigarette smoke can cause respiratory problems, heart disease, and even cancer. If you or someone in your home smokes, you may be wondering how to get rid of cigarette smoke in your home. Here are some tips to help you eliminate cigarette smoke and its odor.

Open window and doors

The first thing you should do to get rid of cigarette smoke in your home is to open all the windows and doors. This will allow fresh air to circulate and help to flush out the smoke. You can also turn on fans to help improve air circulation.

Use an air purifier

An air purifier is an effective tool to remove cigarette smoke from the air. These machines work by pulling air through a filter that traps particles such as smoke, dust, and pet dander. Be sure to choose an air purifier with a HEPA filter, which can capture even the tiniest particles.

Clean the carpets and upholstery

Smoke particles can easily settle into carpets and upholstery, making it difficult to eliminate the odor. You can hire a professional cleaning service to deep clean your carpets and upholstery or use a carpet cleaner yourself. You can also sprinkle baking soda on your carpets and upholstery and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it up.

Use odor absorbers

Odor absorbers such as activated charcoal, baking soda, and vinegar can help to neutralize the smell of cigarette smoke. You can place bowls of vinegar or baking soda in different rooms of your home or purchase activated charcoal bags that can be hung in your home.

Wash your walls and ceilings

Nicotine can leave yellow stains on your walls and ceilings. To remove the stains, mix equal parts of water and vinegar and use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the walls and ceilings. You can also use a mixture of warm water and dish soap to clean your walls and ceilings.

Get rid of fabric items

If possible, get rid of any fabric items such as curtains, rugs, or upholstered furniture that have absorbed cigarette smoke. These items can be difficult to clean and may still retain the odor even after cleaning.

In conclusion, getting rid of cigarette smoke in your home can be a challenging task. However, by following these tips, you can effectively eliminate cigarette smoke and its odor from your home.

Why regular water inspections are important.

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

Check pipes frequently to protect your property against water damage.

Water damage can be expensive. It's not just about the cost of replacing your carpet and furniture, it's also about the cost of cleaning up water damage and secondary damages.

Regular water inspections are an important part of maintaining a healthy home environment by preventing mold growth from occurring inside or outside of buildings where people live or work each day including schools, hospitals/healthcare facilities etc.

Quick fixes aren't always the best option

The first step to fixing any problem is to recognize it. When you notice your water is not as clean and clear as it should be, it's time to take action.

Regular inspections can help prevent costly problems down the road by identifying potential issues before they become big problems. By conducting regular tests and inspections, you'll be able to spot problems before they get out of hand, so they can be addressed in a timely manner instead of after-the-fact when they've already damaged your property or equipment.

Quick fixes aren't always worth their cost. Sometimes a more comprehensive approach will pay off better over time. SERVPRO is the leader in the water restoration industry.

Water damage can lead to mold and mildew.

Mold is a fungus that feeds on organic matter, such as dead plants or leftover food. The mold can grow in excess of 15 square feet and produce spores that spread throughout the air. If you have water damage from a leaky roof or pipe burst, mold may be present in your home!

Mildew is a more localized version of mold that grows on fabrics like carpeting, towels and clothing.

It's easier to prevent water damage than repair it.

Water damage can be expensive, but you don't have to suffer the consequences. If your home has been damaged by water, there are steps you can take to make sure that it doesn't happen again.

Take care of any leaks before they become major problems. Leaks in pipes and pipes that run under floors or ceilings often cause major issues for homeowners because they have nowhere else to go but through walls and ceiling and those are not easy places for repairs.

Never ignore signs of mold or mildew. If you see any kind of blackening on walls or ceilings near sinks or showers

Water Damage Repair Costs.

The average cost per square foot for replacing drywall in an ordinary size room is $2-$5 per square foot (depending on the type of material used). This means that if you've got a small bathroom with about 10 feet x 15 feet worth of drywall being replaced then it would cost around $200-$400 just for materials alone!

In some cases when dealing with mold or mildew growths within walls we recommend using professional contractors who specialize in these types of projects. The professionals know how much time will be needed during this stage before getting started again once everything has been cleaned up properly over time. Proper ventilation is important to help reduce cost by preventing secondary damages to your property by hiring the professionals at SERVPRO of Lakeland.

Water damage can be hard to detect, but it's still important to make sure you know what to do. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lakeland if your home or business suffers from a water loss.

DIY Water Restoration in my home?

1/27/2023 (Permalink)

When your home suffers from a water loss, give SERVPRO of Lakeland a call today.

Water damage can be devastating, but it's also preventable. If you're looking to restore your home after an unfortunate incident, consider hiring a professional water restoration company. These experts have the equipment necessary to remove water and ensure your space is restored back to pre loss conditions.

Structural Components

Structural components of the home can easily rot when exposed to water. Wood, metal and concrete are all susceptible to decay and damage. When these materials are in contact with water for extended periods of time, they can become weakened and eventually rot away completely. Water can also cause paint to peel off walls, flooring to warp, drywall cracks and more.

Professional Equipment

Professional restoration companies have equipment for removing water. They have industrial dryers and dehumidifiers that can be used to speed up the drying process, which helps prevent mold and secondary damages.

They also use specialized equipment for removing water from walls and floors, furniture, electronics and other items in your home.

In addition to dehumidifiers and industrial dryers, water damage restoration companies also use desiccants. Desiccants are chemicals that absorb moisture from the air and can be used in conjunction with a dehumidifier or an industrial dryer. The moisture-absorbing powers of these products make them ideal for restoring water damage.

Save you Time and Money

Water damage can be a big problem. It can lead to secondary damage and expensive repairs, not to mention mold growth and structural damage.

To protect your property from further damage by water, while waiting on the professionals it’s important to begin drying out the affected area immediately after the water emergency. Remove all items damages, and use any type of fan or dehumidifier to help dry the damages to prevent further damage.

Water damage can be devastating to a home or business. If you experience water damage, it is important that you seek the help of professionals right away. Avoid the DIY approach and hire a restoration company who will get your property back to normal pre loss conditions quickly and affordable.

Does a Leaking Faucet Always Lead to Mold?

11/5/2022 (Permalink)

If you have a dripping faucet, then mold could be growing in your home

Does a Leaking Faucet Always Lead to Mold?

You're at home relaxing when you hear a drip coming from the kitchen sink. You walk over to investigate, expecting to see water leaking out of the faucet, but instead, you find a small puddle of water on the floor. What happened? How did that puddle get there? And is it dangerous? You've probably heard of mold. It's a type of fungus that can grow on almost any material, as long as there is water or moisture present. Some molds are harmless, but others can be toxic and cause serious problems.

In this article, we'll explain what could be causing your leaky faucet and how it could cause mold growth in your home.

How can a leaking faucet cause mold?

A leaking faucet may not immediately lead to mold, but it can certainly be the perfect environment for it to grow. If water is left to sit for a long time, the spores of various types of molds will begin to form. These spores are often carried by air or on the fur of animals. They can also be carried through dust particles in the air after being disturbed on other surfaces.

Once these spores have been introduced into a Lakeland, FL home, they'll begin to grow and thrive if conditions are right—such as warm temperatures and humidity levels above 50 percent. The moisture from a leaking faucet can provide just such an environment!

How to tell if you have a mold problem.

You can tell if you have a mold problem by looking for certain signs. If you see black spots or stains, water damage, and discoloration in areas where there was no moisture before, or musty smells that seem to be growing stronger over time, then it's likely that mold is present.

What to do if you have a mold problem.

If you have a mold problem, it's time to call in the pros. A professional can help you determine what is causing your leak and fix it in a safe and efficient manner. They will also be able to assess whether or not more extensive repairs are needed and advise you on how to deal with any further mold problems that may arise as a result of the leak.

A dripping faucet can lead to mold - but sometimes it won't, depending on the situation.

Mold spores are everywhere: in the air we breathe, on the food we eat, inside our homes on items like carpeting and drywall, and they're especially common under floorboards. Sometimes it grows outdoors in places like forests or gardens where there is plenty of moisture - this type of mold is called "saprophytic" which means it feeds off dead organic matter like leaves or roots from plants rather than live ones (like mushrooms do).

If you have a leaky faucet in your Lakeland home, then in theory yes - there could potentially be some mold growth around that area. Especially if the humidity levels are high enough for long enough periods of time. 

If you have a dripping faucet, then mold could be growing in your home. If you notice spots on your walls or ceiling or smell an unusual odor coming from somewhere in the house, then it's time to call a professional and get the leak fixed ASAP.