Fire Damage and soot removal

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Des Moines NW we know that even the smallest of fires can disrupt families and keep them out of their homes for weeks if not months. It's important to know about different types of fires and the impact they can have, not only on the home but on personal property including laundry, electronics and furniture.

As a fire burns the hot smoke will move to cooler sections of the home and leave soot and that distinct smoke smell throughout the structure and on contents.

There are of course, different categories of fire depending on the material that fueled the fire and they will generate different types of smoke. These different types of smoke can play a major role in the restoration process and what types of cleaning is needed.

The burning of rubber or plastic items will typically result in a wet smoke. The attributes associated with wet smoke residue are a strong odor, sticky soot and smoke webbing.

The burning of paper and wood items will typically result in a dry smoke. The attributes associated with dry smoke residue are more evenly distributed soot due to high temperatures fast burning material producing smoke that rises quickly.

Protein Fires will produce residue that is more difficult to see but contains an extremely strong odor.

At SERVPRO of Des Moines NW we know that every fire is unique and will result in unique needs for our customers. We will determine the source of the fire and the type of smoke and soot. We use this information to determine the proper cleaning procedure and move forward with a plan to restore the home and it's contents to pre loss conditions.

Pandemic

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

This is a troubling and unprecedented moment in history as we react globally and adapt to the ongoing spread of the coronavirus.  Our team at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW reminds our customers that we are here to help.  We are comprised of expert technicians trained in specialized cleaning services, and our company takes pride in our unparalleled cleaning and sanitation standards.

CDC Guidance

SERVPRO’s technicians are ready to clean and disinfect your home or business in accordance with standards set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  The CDC recommends the cleaning of high-touch surfaces, including:

• Tabletops
• Doorknobs
• Counters
• Light switches
• Bathroom fixtures
• Tables
• Phones
• Keyboards
• Toilets
• Tablets

Other surfaces referenced in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Stair handrails
• Sales counters
• Playground equipment
• Water fountains
• Shelving and racks
• Elevator cars
• Fitness equipment
• Kitchen and food areas
• Bathrooms
• Offices
• Retail spaces
• Bathrooms
• Carpets and rugs

As of now, there is no product tested against this specific strain of the coronavirus.  The CDC recommends the use of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against pathogens similar to the coronavirus.  There are a multitude of products in the SERVPRO product line that carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims.  SERVPRO of Des Moines NW adheres to all guidelines provided by the CDC and local agencies.

SERVPRO professionals are experienced in handling biological contaminants.  We offer a scope of work and level of service that far surpasses the standard housekeeping and janitorial staff work.  We provide the expertise and deep-cleaning services that you need for peace of mind during these difficult and evolving times.  Call us today at (515) 986-3711.

Is Your Business Ready?

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

When someone walks into your business they want to see a clean, fresh smelling, and safe environment.  No matter what type of business you run, you only get one chance at a good first impression.

First impressions have the ability to make or break a business, and a positive experience can create long-lasting business relationships.  Making a good first impression is critical when it comes to meeting customers, pitching to potential clients, or during interviews.

Our team of trained professionals specialize in carpet cleaning and make it a personal priority to deliver the best results bringing your carpets back "Like it never even happened." 

Call today to schedule your appointment for your business.  There is still time to book before the holiday season is here!

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW also has the advanced equipment, certifications, and results to get the job done.

Three Tips for the Construction Process

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

One of the most intimidating parts of starting or expanding a business is the commercial construction that will need to be done. This alone is enough to discourage many people from ever taking the leap and starting their own business. This doesn’t have to be the case! Our team of construction experts at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW are experienced in all types of commercial construction and are committed to providing you with the best construction experience possible. For anyone considering beginning a commercial construction job, here are a few helpful tips.

Find The Right Contractor

The first step in any commercial construction job is to find the right contractor. Because this is such a critical step, you should take your time to make your decision. Along with online research, you should also look for referrals from friends and family. You may also want to call a couple different contractors to get a feel of how they will work for you. Basically, don’t jump in headfirst with a contractor until you have done your research and feel confident that they are the right fit for you. Working for a contractor you can trust will significantly diminish the amount of stress and worry you feel throughout the construction process.

Get An Estimate

Unless you are very experienced in the construction industry, it can be very difficult to calculate an accurate projection for how much the job should cost on your own. There is just so much that goes into the construction process like costs of labor, materials, permits, and so on. Thus, getting an estimate is an important step because it will give you a solid idea of the expected cost of your project.

Work With Your Lender

Just like finding the right contractor, finding the right lender is an important beginning step in commercial construction. Even if you have been a loyal customer of a specific bank or credit union for a long time, don’t take it for granted that they are the right choice to be your lender. The main criteria when selecting a lender is the annual percentage rate of charge (APR) they offer. The lower the APR you can find the better. The only way to be sure that you are finding the best deal is to apply to several different banks or credit unions. In the ideal scenario, you get lucky and find a great deal for existing customers of a bank that you are a member of, or a great deal for new customers at a different bank.

Undertaking a commercial construction job for your growing business may be an intimidating endeavor, but don’t let that hold you back. Our team at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is here to provide you with the quality and service you are looking for in a commercial contractor. We hope you have found the tips above to be helpful and that you don’t hesitate to give us a call for any future construction jobs.  Call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, we will make it "Like it never even happened."

Flooded Business

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Water main breaks are more prevalent during this time of year.  Many businesses struggle to find the right team or restoration company to help with the mess.  SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW understands what business need. Our fast response and efficient team members are certified and well trained to make sure your business is dried out accurately.

Our staff is professional, precise, and efficient at SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW.  We handle every disaster possible for commercial and residential.  Our commercial team brings their A game and is well trained and ready to accommodate any business large or small.  Our priority is your happiness. We will not be satisfied until you are satisfied.  That means when SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW leaves your place of business you will call us again for any need, commercial or residential.

How many Fires Start in a Year?

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Between 2011 and 2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 358,500 home structure fires per year.  These fires caused 12,300 civilian injuries, 2,510 civilian deaths, and $6.7 billion in direct damage.  On average, seven people per day die in U.S. home fires.

Where do most fires start in a home?Based on research from fires that occurred between 2009 and 2013, here are the most common places fires begin:

• 1: Kitchen. Half of all house fires start in the kitchen.
• 2: Bedroom. About 7% of all house fires start in the bedroom.
• 3: Chimney. 6%
• 4: Living Room. 4%
• 5: Laundry Room. 3%
• 6: Outside. 3%
• 7: Attic. 3%

The top cause of fires is cooking.  House fires happen most during dinner hours—between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m. That’s because people are cooking.

If you have fire damages to your property call 24/7 the experts at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW at (515) 986-3711.

House Fires

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

House fires are absolutely devastating for a family! SERVPRO of Des Moines NW specializes in house fires smoke and soot removal. Our team is supplied with the top of the line cleaning products. 
What SERVPRO does after a fire is we come in and remove all of your items that were in your home at the time of the fire. We determine what is savable and what is not by our standards. We take the savable items back to our shop so that our specially trained restoration cleaning crew so they can clean and remove the smoke smell and soot from your personally effects once our cleaning process is done we store your items until our crew has cleaned and removed all the damaged walls and floors from your home. Then we return your belongings back to you looking like they are brand new.

Before and After the Storm

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

With hurricane season here, it's very smart to prepare your home and yourself and loved ones ahead of time in order to minimize any damage that you might incur. From gathering the correct hurricane supplies, to evaluating your home insurance policies so you know how they cover storm damage, we've got a guide here to help you navigate what to do both before a storm hits…and after the storm has gone and went.

While it's never good to obsessively worry about the absolute worst happening, it's always good to be prepared ahead of time so if your area is hit by a hurricane, you know that you already have a plan in place.

Make Sure You Have The Correct Hurricane Supplies

As you're preparing for a hurricane, keep this list of supplies handy that way you have everything you need before the first weatherman even breaks the bad news that a storm is headed your way. This is especially helpful just in case you need to evacuate. Waiting until the last minute may only have you waiting in long lines with other panicked neighbors…only to find out that the store is sold out of what you need.

1. Have hurricane kits full of your supplies and make sure they're in a suitcase or even a plastic tub.
2. These kits should have:

• First aid kit
• 3- day supply of non-perishable food
• Batteries & flashlights
• Plenty of water gallons for each person
• Clothing
• Blankets
• Maps of your area
• Whistle
• Can opener (manual) for food
• Dust mask
• Sleeping bags

You may also want additional items, like contact lens solutions, extra contacts, glasses, prescription medications or formula or baby food, as well as sanitary items like tampons, etc.

Being prepared is never foolish or over-the top: it's smart.

Preparing For A Hurricane: Preventative Measures

First things, first: do you live in a hurricane evacuation area?

If you don't know the answer to that question, you need to find out. Your local government will be able to tell you if you are and also, what their evacuation plans are. Knowing this ahead of time will prevent you from panicking when and if you need to actually evacuate.

Bonus tip: if you are in a high rise or mobile home, have a plan to evacuate even if you're not in an area that is defined as an evacuation zone.

The next big one? Check your insurance coverage so you know how they handle hurricane damage to homes.

 What should you look for or have?

• Whether you're renting or you own, be sure that your home or rental insurance covers for flooding
• Know your policy inside and out, so you know what to expect in case your home ends up very damaged or destroyed
• Do a review of your home: is your roof in good shape? What about your home's structure? Do you have anything in your yard that could be a hazard in a storm?

After The Storm: Hurricane Damage To Homes

If your home is damaged by a hurricane, here are some tips to handling this stressful event:

1. Check your home before entering with caution and wear protective gear from goggles to work gloves and a mask in case there are any issues with mold, asbestos, etc.
2. If you smell gas or there is a downed powerline near your house, don't enter!
3. Call your insurance company once your home is safe to enter so an adjuster can evaluate the situation.
4. Do call a reputable storm damage cleanup company to help you get through this tragedy. Do not try to manage this on your own. The reality is you are not an expert and by trying to take a project on like that by yourself, you will end up frustrated. Research ahead of time to discover a company you can trust.

The bottom line is Mother Nature is not predictable, and while hurricanes and storms are very stressful, with common sense, a plan and the help of a reputable, honest, professional, and patient company, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is the one you should call!

Winter Storms

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

This year in Des Moines, IA the season has changed from Fall to Winter.  This means you need to get your home ready for winter and be prepared for storms that can create prolonged power outages.

Here are the top things you should do to get your home ready for winter in Iowa:

1. Get your furnace or (source of heat) inspected if it is over 5 years of age.  If you notice any funny smells or sounds have it looked at immediately.
2. Make sure your fireplace is working properly.  If you have a gas fireplace, make sure it ignites and the thermal coupler stays on for at least 15 minutes.  If your gas fireplace is propane, double check your propane tank and make sure you have enough for the season.  If you have a wood burning fireplace you need to check the following:
   • The flue on the top is opening and closing properly
   • The chimney is clean and free of any creosote deposits
   • Use seasoned wood only.  Seasoned wood is split and dried for about 6 months prior to use
   • Unseasoned wood is more difficult to get lit and then will burn very inefficiently.  Moisture that the green wood is burning is burning out with so much effort is also a problem.  The moisture creates smoke, creates more creosote as it burns, and sticks to your chimney
   • Best seasoned firewood types to use are oak, maple, ash, and apple
   • Worse firewood types to use are pine, cedar, and poplar
3. Cut down on heating costs.  Make sure your home is more energy-efficient.  Check windows and doors for air tight closures.
4. Check that gutters and downspouts are directing water away from the house and not onto pathways or driveways.  If not directed away from the home it could lead water directly into basements or ice on pathways and driveways.

Storm Response

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Storm Response

The team here at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is ready for whatever happens, no matter the time, night or day. When it comes to fire & water damage, our professionals work endlessly to make sure our customers are happy and that we walk them through each step of the cleaning process.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As leaders in the storm and water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-storm condition.

We're Quick to Any Size Disaster

When a storm hits your home or business, you need help immediately. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

We can access the resources and personnel of 1,700 Franchises to handle major storms and disasters. We also have access to special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to catastrophic storms and events.

Locally Owned and Operated

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a storm event or flooding emergency, we are in the area and ready to help!

Washing Machines Cause Damage

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

More than 50% of all washing machine water damage claims can be tracked back to a supply hose failure.

These damages are a result of pinching the hose while installing or replacing resulting in a hairline crack.  The supply hoses are high pressure lines and can release a large volume of water in a small amount of time.  A poor connection to either the washing machine or to the supply box on the wall and the age of the hoses are also leading factors to washing machine intake hoses failing.

Other factors that lead to water damages from a washing machine are:

• Drainage issues and flooding
• Internal Leaks

Ways to prevent water damages from your washing machine are to:

• Use flexible stainless steel hoses versus the rubber hoses
• Have your supply hoses professionally installed
• Don't overload your washing machine
• Know where the shut off valve's are located to the washing machine and the main shut off to the house is located

After you call SERVPRO...

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

After you or your insurance company makes the call to SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, what happens? What are the steps and procedures we take to ensure that your home or business is taken care of properly?

1. The emergency call is made to SERVPRO.

2. We give you a call to see exactly what's going on and what the extent of the immediate damage is.

3. We notify our team of technicians.

4. We send our crews out with the best of our equipment.

5. Once our team arrives, we asses the damage, and tell you about our process and what exactly we are going to do to your home or business to remove the damaged items.

6. We get to work, removing any and all damaged walls, carpets, personal items, insulation etc.

7. We let you know what we did and tell you how much equipment we set and when and how often we will be back to monitor it. 

8. Once your home or business is dried out we come in and remove our equipment. And if you want us to rebuild for you we discuss that process.

SERVPRO Rebuilds

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Did you call us for a flood damage or fire damage or hazardous waste or mold clean up? Or maybe you called someone else and the damage has been cleaned up and you don't know what the next step would be? That's okay because SERVPRO of Des Moines NW will come in after the clean up is finished and restore your home.

We will restore it back to the way it was or better with our top of the line equipment and our highly trained teams. 

At SERVPRO of Des Monies NW we redo the dry wall, flooring, painting, and more.

Give SERVPRO of Des Monies NW a call at 515-986-3711 day or night for your remodeling needs!! 

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW will come in do the job and make look "Like it never even happened."

Understanding Disaster

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

If you are here you most likely have had some form of property damage. While we hope no one ever has to go through a disaster or property loss, you are in good hands. SERVPRO Des Moines NW & Ames understands the unique challenges of property damage. When we say we will make it "like it never even happened." We truly mean it handling your loss and property and possessions with honor integrity and compassion. We know that this is not an ideal way to spend days and sometimes months getting you home and life back to normal. We here at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW strive to become the light in bad situation. 

The reality is that things happen and you can’t plan them and they happen at the worst possible time, at Christmas, during a Birthday Party or when you cant take much more. We here at SERVPRO understand that you need a reliable Contractor that is local but yet International as well.

When I say we understand this is what I mean. We will respect you, your property. We show up in a clean professional manner and will help you pick up the pieces in your time of need. So when Life and Property Damage happen call us at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW & Ames. 

Basics of a water damage

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

The amount of damage water can cause is amazing, and often underestimated by homeowners. Excess moisture is bad enough, but when a home is flooded or hit with a plumbing disaster (like a burst pipe), the situation can quickly get out of hand. There’s a reason why these incidents are among the most expensive problems a homeowner can face. Contaminated water not only creates immediate structural problems, it can leave serious biological threats behind after it has been removed.

Floods, sewage backflows, and other sources of contaminated fluid usually cause the worst damage. Dirty water is filled with all kinds of deadly substances, ranging from chemical residues to animal feces to parasites. Bacteria, viruses and fungi grow explosively in contaminated fluid, and severe health risks, like salmonella and hepatitis, are common in flood waters.

This problem is compounded by the composition of most homes, which are filled with organic materials. Drywall, wood and the matter that is trapped in carpet fibers are just a few examples, and they can give pathogens room to grow. Within 48 hours, mold may begin creeping behind the walls and releasing spores, and any organic materials that have been soaked through by contaminated fluid will usually have to be destroyed.

That’s why restoration firms, in addition to surveying the home for structural problems, will dry the home quickly and apply antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents to all surfaces that had contact with the water. This ensures the family can return to a safe home, and not one harboring a collection of deadly pathogen!

Basis of a Fire

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

If a house sustains fire damage, proper cleanup is crucial as the ash, soot and water will wreak havoc on what remains.  It’s bad enough there was a fire, but the water and chemicals used to extinguish it can cause secondary damage.  The remnants will continue to do damage long after the flames are extinguished.

The average person will attempt conventional cleaning methods like renting a steam cleaner and using common cleaning agents available at the store.  Unfortunately, this will barely make an impact on the problem and could cause bigger issues.  Chemical agents could react with the residue and cause permanent damage, and in some cases, they may cause toxic fumes.  Fire damage cleanup is one of the most difficult jobs out there, and it should be left to a professional for the best results.

When selecting a firm that does the restoration, consider what type of training they have. Do they have health and safety certifications? Are they experienced in a wide range of repair? Do they have proof of proper insurance and licenses?  The company that has the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) fire and smoke restoration Certified Firm meets all of these expectations and conditions. An IICRC-certified firm understands the need for a quick response.  Immediate action is necessary because the longer the delay, the harder and more costly the job will be as reactions within the damaged material can continue to occur. The fire may be gone, but the ash, soot and smoke odors that remain can continue to do harm.  Certified firms will use their knowledge of fire restoration to accurately test the damage and apply the proper repair techniques to bring the items back to preloss condition when possible!

Spring Weather

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Spring weather can be unpredictable. Reduce injury risk and plan ahead.

Spring is the time of year when many things change—including the weather. Temperatures can swing back and forth between balmy and frigid. Sunny days may be followed by a week of stormy weather. Sometimes extreme weather changes can occur even within the same day. Mark Twain once said, "In the spring I have counted one hundred and thirty-six kinds of weather inside of four and twenty hours."

Thunderstorms cause most of the severe spring weather. They can bring lightning, tornadoes, and flooding. Whenever warm, moist air collides with cool, dry air, thunderstorms can occur. For much of the world, this happens in spring and summer.

Because spring weather is so unpredictable, you may be unprepared when severe weather hits—particularly if you live in a region that does not often experience thunderstorms, tornadoes, or flooding. And when severe weather hits unexpectedly, the risk of injury and death increases. So planning ahead makes sense; prepare for storms, floods, and tornadoes as if you know in advance they are coming, because in the spring, they very likely will.

Advance planning for thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, and floods requires specific safety precautions.

Often by the time we are aware of an approaching storm, we have little if any time to prepare for it.

Advance planning for thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, and floods requires specific safety precautions. You can follow many of the smae steps that you would for all extreme weather events. Keep an emergency kit on hand. Some items to include are:

• A battery-operated flashlight, a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio, and extra batteries for both
• An anemergency action plan, including a map of your home and, for every type of severe weather emergency, routes to safety from each room
• A list of important personal information, including:
  • telephone numbers of neighbors, family, and friends
  • insurance and property information
  • telephone numbers of utility companies
  • medical information
• According to the American Red Cross a first aid kit may include:
  • non-latex gloves
  • assortment of adhesive bandages
  • antibiotic ointment
  • sterile gauze pads in assorted sizes
  • absorbent compress dressings
  • tweezers
  • scissors
  • adhesive cloth tape
  • aspirin packets (81 mg each)
  • first aid instruction booklet
    (NOTE: Customise your first aid kit to meet your individual and family needs.)
• A 3–5 day supply of bottled water and nonperishable food
• Personal hygiene items
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• An emergency first aid kit in your car

Prepare your family members for the possibility of severe weather. Tell them where to seek apropriate shelter as soon as they are aware of an approaching storm. Practice your emergency plan for every type of severe weather. Show family members where the emergency supplies are stored, and make sure they know how to turn off the water, gas, and electricity in your home.

Often by the time we are aware of an approaching storm, we have little if any time to prepare for it. But we do know that when spring arrives, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods are real possibilities. So why not take the surprise factor out of severe weather and prepare yourself, your family, and your home? If thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods do occur, you'll be ready for them.

Ware House Flood

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

We know that for any business and type of delay can be costly. We understand that here at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW. That's why as soon as we get the emergency call we are heading out to your business.  Not only do we do residential jobs we also do commercial jobs any thing from a small toilet leak all the way up to a fully flooded warehouse. Our shop is full of the latest equipment that will help us meet the needs of your business. 

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW has someone on call to answer the phones and take jobs 24 hours 7 days a week 365 days a year. We are an emergency restoration company which means if its happened to you its happened before so we know how to properly handle the situation. 

If you have a water loss, fire or have mold give us a call at 515-986-3711. Our company is located right here in Grimes so we are local. 

Mold Remediation

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

As spring approaches so does the humidity and that creepy mold that shows up. Sometimes it shows up around our windows or even on our walls. Many people wipe the mold down with their average household cleaner, while others do a more thorough job and call the professionals. Which one is the better option and why?

Cleaning up mold yourself isn’t uncommon and yes, it is cheap. In my case in the past it always seemed to come back with a vengeance, and I would find myself doing it all over again. In addition, my home began to smell musty over the years. The reason: the mold spores were spreading into the air at a rate higher than normal every time I wiped them. This caused the spores to spread once they found a new surface. I wasn’t doing myself any favors, I was making the mold worse.

SERVPRO specializes in mold and the containment of spores. They have equipment that can collect those spores in the air and clean the air. Also, the anti-microbial that they use is commercial grade, it is not something you can find at your local hardware store. The techs are certified in mold remediation. Yes, it may cost a little more than the household cleaner but in the long run you are protecting your family’s health and a larger bill by not getting the mold taken care of correctly.

Going to the professionals to take care of a hazardous clean-up all in all seems like the correct decision to make especially when it comes to your family. Do your research, get estimates, and don’t wait! Taking care of that fuzzy little black stuff correctly could be the smartest thing you do for yourself and your family.

Structural problems due to water damage

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

The amount of damage water can cause is amazing, and often underestimated by homeowners. Excess moisture is bad enough, but when a home is flooded or hit with a plumbing disaster (like a burst pipe), the situation can quickly get out of hand. There’s a reason why these incidents are among the most expensive problems a homeowner can face. Contaminated water not only creates immediate structural problems, it can leave serious biological threats behind after it has been removed.

Floods, sewage backflows, and other sources of contaminated fluid usually cause the worst damage. Dirty water is filled with all kinds of deadly substances, ranging from chemical residues to animal feces to parasites. Bacteria, viruses and fungi grow explosively in contaminated fluid and are common in flood waters.

This problem is compounded by the composition of most homes, which are filled with organic materials. Drywall, wood and the matter that is trapped in carpet fibers are just a few examples, and they can give pathogens room to grow. Within 48 hours, mold may begin creeping behind the walls and releasing spores, and any organic materials that have been soaked through by contaminated fluid will usually have to be destroyed.

That’s why restoration firms, in addition to surveying the home for structural problems, will dry the home quickly and apply antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents to all surfaces that had contact with the water. This ensures the family can return to a safe home, and not one harboring a collection of deadly pathogen!

Major storm damage

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Homeowners in Des Moines often underestimate the importance of regularly inspecting their roofs, especially following major storms.  Roofs undergo extensive wear and tear during unpredictable and ever-changing weather conditions in Iowa, whether it is harsh sunlight, strong winds, hail, snow or heavy rainfall throughout the year. 

Consider the following:

Rain

Rain is the most common cause of roofing issues.  When a roof suffers from missing shingles or multiple holes, subsequent leaks and water damage is inevitable.  This, in turn, leads to rotting, mold and compromised foundation.  There are clear indicators of water damage from a leaking roof, such as spots on a ceiling, wet walls or areas of the home that feel damp and humid.

Hail

As any Iowa resident knows, hail can be unpredictable, as it varies in severity and can come without warning.  The resulting damage, ranging from minor to extensive, may lead to serious implications later on down the road.  For example, holes caused by hail create immediate problems, but also lead to secondary damage.  When hail damage goes undetected, it worsens with each storm that follows.  Therefore, it is critical to secure a roof inspection following a hailstorm to mitigate any potential damage.

Wind

Heavy winds can lift shingles from a roof or break them off entirely, leaving the rest of the home exposed and unprotected.  Additionally, strong winds can carry large debris that damages a roof’s integrity upon impact.

Roof damage may be obvious, such as in the case of missing or weathered shingles.  More often, however, roof damage goes undetected for an extended period of time when proper inspection and protection measures are not put into place.  Keep in mind that it is important to search beyond the roof’s shingle condition and look for issues such as missing flashing or loose sealant.

Consider putting together an action plan the next time there is a major storm:

• If you find serious damage, call a repair company.
• Once the roof has been repaired, call SERVPRO of Des Moines, NW at (515) 986-3711 to assess the interior of your home for water damage caused by a faulty roof.

Roofs on homes and business take a heavy beating throughout the year, especially with the seasonal changes and weather conditions in Iowa.  A homeowner’s proactive approach and timely response can increase the likelihood that damage will require a simple repair versus a complete roof replacement.

Local first responders

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Today SERVPRO of Des Moines NW had the opportunity to give back to some of our local first responders! First Responders like those at the Polk County Sheriff's Office put their health and safety at risk every day for our community. At SERVPRO, we want to support and recognize our first responders for their service and sacrifice during these uncertain times.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is donating our services to those on the front lines during the Covid-19 pandemic. By cleaning and sanitizing First Responder vehicles, we are offering a proactive solution to help keep our local Police, Fire and EMS vehicles safe. We want to show our appreciation for all they do for us here in our community and all over the nation.

We are providing a ULV mist of the entire vehicle as well as a wipe down of all high touch areas with a hospital grade disinfectant approved by the CDC for COVID-19 cleanup.

If you're a first responding agency in the Des Moines area in need of this service we encourage you to give SERVPRO of Des Moines NW a call at 515-986-3711 or email office@SERVPROdesmoinesnw.com. We look forward to the opportunity to personally thank all of our First Responders and are here to help!

Tips for fire, be safe

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

It’s that time of year where we start cranking up the heat in our homes, and while gas furnaces are generally quite safe, they can occasionally be the cause of household fires.

So, if you heat your home with a furnace, a little precautionary preventative maintenance could increasingly help you prevent a fire when you turn up your heat this winter.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW recommends that you:
• Clean around the furnace and move any debris or stored items at least three feet away from your furnace
• Replace dirty air filters. Clogged vents/flutes can lead to fires.
• Clean the Furnace itself. Not only can grime cause overheating, but it can also prevent you from seeing any damage or susceptible problems related to your furnace
• Routinely check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Both alarms should be installed throughout your home and routinely tested to confirm they are properly working.
• Invest in a professional maintenance checkup. A professional will be able to identify and correct any issue with your furnace. Things like incorrect pressure or a cracked heat exchanger can be properly taken care of by the professional servicing your furnace. Little things like the color of the flame can easily tell an experienced repair technician how well your furnace is functioning. So, if you can’t recall the last time you’ve gotten your furnace serviced, make an appointment this month!

These are just a few tips that your friends at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW want to give you so you can have a warm and safe winter season.

If your home has suffered fire damage, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW can help. Our staff is on call around the clock so we can start helping you get back to normal, fast. Call us at 515-986-3711 for assistance.

Des Moines Fire Damage and Fire Soot Removal

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Des Moines NW we know that even the smallest of fires can disrupt families and keep them out of their homes for weeks if not months. It's important to know about different types of fires and the impact they can have, not only on the home but on personal property including laundry, electronics and furniture.

As a fire burns the hot smoke will move to cooler sections of the home and leave soot and that distinct smoke smell throughout the structure and on contents.

There are of course, different categories of fire depending on the material that fueled the fire and they will generate different types of smoke. These different types of smoke can play a major role in the restoration process and what types of cleaning is needed.

The burning of rubber or plastic items will typically result in a wet smoke. The attributes associated with wet smoke residue are a strong odor, sticky soot and smoke webbing.

The burning of paper and wood items will typically result in a dry smoke. The attributes associated with dry smoke residue are more evenly distributed soot due to high temperatures fast burning material producing smoke that rises quickly.

Protein Fires will produce residue that is more difficult to see but contains an extremely strong odor.

At SERVPRO of Des Moines NW we know that every fire is unique and will result in unique needs for our customers. We will determine the source of the fire and the type of smoke and soot. We use this information to determine the proper cleaning procedure and move forward with a plan to restore the home and it's contents to preloss conditions.

Des Moines Professional Carpet Cleaning Service

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Most offices and commercial spaces in the Des Moines area make it a priority to keep their work environment clean, especially in areas where the public is coming in and out of.

There may be someone that comes in to dust & vacuum, but when was the last time you had your carpets professionally cleaned?

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is your carpet cleaning expert. Our technicians will remove stains and restore carpets to conditions that just vacuuming simply can not - making your office look and feel professional!

• Keeping carpets cleaned routinely will help extend the life of your carpet. Dirt and dust wear on your carpet and breaks it down quicker. Our cleaning is a deep clean that removes far more dirt than a regular vacuum could do.

• Our cleaning will remove dirt, dust, pollen, and bacteria that gets kicked up every fay. Vacuuming certainly helps maintain a lower level of dust but having your carpets professionally cleaned will also help improve the air quality in your office.

• Removing any stains will help your office look even more clean and professional!

Call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW today to schedule your office for a thorough and professional carpet clean! SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is in the service of helping people. Please do not hesitate to call us at 515-986-3711 for any job, big or small. We are here to help!

SERVPRO Des Moines NW Commercial Property Preparation & Emergency Safety

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Emergency events such as fire or flooding and water damage to Des Moines, Iowa commercial properties require a quick and knowledgeable response catered to each facilities unique needs.

At SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, we have the customized resources and expertise needed to respond and to ensure remediation is done efficiently and as stress free as possible.

We currently work with companies in the Des Moines area (Ankeny, West Des Moines, Waukee, Clive, Grimes) and are happy to provide information to help prepare your business for the unexpected. In this article we will explore various important aspects of emergency events from preparation to response so normal operations can continue and damage is contained.

Fire Route with Business

Many businesses experience devastating fires every year. Here is how you can begin to create a fire evacuation procedure for your business.

Consult with your local fire officials

Reach out to the local fire department. Often times, getting in touch with fire officials is a great place to start. They will typically be happy to consult with you on necessary safety measures that your business can take, including the most efficient evacuation routes for your facility.

Communicate

You want to involve your employees in the fire safety process. This makes everyone feel safe and prepares them for when you start scheduling routine drills. So, once you have determined your evacuation route, mark them clearly with signs and communicate with your staff on what they mean.

Schedule Fire Drills Frequently

Ideally, you should get to the point where there is no question on what to do in the event of a fire. So, the best way to prepare staff is to hold regular fire drills, preferably at least once every quarter. A good example of the overall process is to create mandatory drills that require everyone to leave the premise according to the established escape route and gather at a predesignated area to be accounted for. Staff should be trained to not leave the designated area until given the “all-clear” to return.

Run Different Scenarios

Fires can start anywhere at any time. So, it is important to prepare for all possibilities when you hold your drills. To prepare for unique situations, create scenarios where different exits are blocked off or have the fire “originate” at different parts of the facility each time. Doing this gives everyone the tools they need to escape to safety regardless of what type of fire is started.

Employee Break Room

Keeping your employees happy and safe is one of the most important aspects of owning a business. One key area that this principle goes into effect is the employee break room. In making safety a high priority, you can prevent the unthinkable from happening.

Tips for a safe break room

• Review proper microwave and oven operating procedures. As they are both heating elements, they can cause serious fire hazards if left on unattended or if used improperly

• Set up guidelines for break room capacity. By staggering lunch and break times, you can limit the number of people in the break room to safe numbers. This will prevent overcrowding and reduce the possibility of a safety hazard in case of an emergency

• Be sure there is a fully operation smoke detector in the break room. Checking the smoke alarm monthly to ensure it is operational may be the first step in proactively preventing an emergency.

Implementing safety precautions like this, paired with general maintenance attentiveness, a company fire route, and a trusted fire mitigations service is a guaranteed step in the right direct to protect your business and your employees

Preparing Your Business for Winter Weather

Winter is here and Des Moines is seeing its first snow fall of the year! With winter season comes freezing cold temperatures and blizzards, all of which can cause serious damage to your business. Not being prepared for the weather to come can put you and your business in a lot of trouble down the road, but being prepared could potentially save you from all the headaches that can come with winter weather affecting your building. With that being said, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW wants to extend a few tips for preparing your business for the coming winter months

• Make sure to do a sweep of the building and make sure all your pipes are insulated.

• Inspect your property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential

• While inspecting your property, check for downed tree limbs or branches. Winter weather like winds, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, resulting in damage to the property and potentially cause personal injury.

• Inspect handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address potential hazardous or slippery areas. Install matts or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water and/or ice cold be present.

As always, if disaster strikes SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is here to help. Keep us in your contacts at 515-987-3711

Commercial Emergency Ready Profiles in Des Moines

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

When walking into your Polk or Dallas county commercial property after a fire, we recognize that it may be hard for you to know what to expect. As an owner or office manager, you’ll anticipate significant loss due to fire and smoke damage, but what about water? Expecting water damage after a fire may not be your first thought, but fire and water damages go hand in hand.

One of the primary reasons of water loss during a fire is, of course, the fire hose. The large diameter, high pressure hoses can expel hundreds of gallons of water per minute. Extinguishing of the flames can lead to severe water damage in your facility. Depending on the size and extent of the fire, you might have significant property loss due to fire, smoke and water. 

Does your Urbandale or Des Moines business have sprinkler systems? Water Sprinkler systems are commonly installed in commercial and industrial buildings. Although, they can save lives and the structure of the building when a fire occurs, they will usually cause water damage when putting out the fire or if the system malfunctions. Fire Sprinklers are activated when the mercury filled bulb bursts. It is thought by many that they are triggered by smoke, but they are actually activated by heat – typically 135°^F- 165°^F. Failures can occur with the sprinkler heads if the water line freezes or if the head gets hit. That is why SERPVRO of Des Moines NW suggests that it is important to know where your sprinkler line valves are located. Knowing where the valve shut offs are can save your business in the case of a malfunction.

Suppression or Sprinkler systems can also cause extensive water damage. The extent of the flooding will of course depend on the type of system used. Some do not use water, while others may only release sprinklers in the area where the fire damage is occurring, leaving other spaces dry. Although there are many different types, don’t cross the suppression system off your list of items to carefully consider and plan for in case of an emergency.

Water damage can also occur because of damaged pipes. The temperatures in violent fires often reach the melting points of certain metals and plastics used. If the fire reaches these temperatures, pipes may melt, warp, or break, meaning that water can flow freely from pipes until the system is shut down.

Commercial property owners should plan accordingly for the worst case scenario and it's often a good idea to have an emergency ready profile in place for water and fire damage. Having a plan in place and knowing that one problem can lead to others may allow you to better prepare for emergencies. Contact SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, your remediation and restorations professionals, to discuss disaster planning and strategies at 515-986-3711.

Identify and Remove Mold in the Workplace

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

No one wants to see mold, whether it is at home or work. If you detect this fungus in your Des Moines metro office building, do not wait to get rid of it. Mold removal is a critical process. That is why SERVPRO of Des Moines NW wants to give you some tips when dealing with it. The more you understand about what goes into this effort and how it will impact your day-to-day operations, the more prepared you will be.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. Widespread mold requires the expertise of a professional mold remediation company. You could inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home or business. Here is what to do:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Turn the HVAC system and any fans off
• Contact professional mold remediation services 

What not to do:

• Do not touch or disturb the mold
• Do not blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth
• Do not attempt to dry the area yourself

With diligent efforts, you can prevent mold growth in your building, too. This fungus can grow and spread rapidly once it gets into the ideal environment. These are some problems that you should monitor and acknowledge to prevent mold growth:

• Leaky or broken pipes
• Poor ventilation in basements, laundry facilities, and bathrooms
• Failure to promptly clean up water spills and damage

Our professional team has the experience, skill, and equipment to thoroughly & effectively get rid of mold and clean the affected area.

You should not have to take care of mold removal on your own. Enlist in the help of trained professionals who will make it “Like it never even happened.” Put SERVPRO of Des Moines NW on your emergency contact list today at 515-986-3711.

Prevent Mold After Water Damage

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage is important to leave to professionals as any moisture left over can cause mold. Mold growth can start as soon as 24-48 hours after a water damage. That's why it's important to act quick and in most cases, call a professional to prevent secondary water damage and future concerns over mold.

There are several steps to take during a water damage situation: 1. Remove all water 2. Remove any wet material 3. Dry remaining wet surfaces 4. Sanitize all impacted surfaces. 

If the water damage is not caught in time or the clean up was not sufficient and there are concerns over mold growth there are important steps to take to mitigate additional mold growth. 

Mold is a common home invader that favors moist, dark conditions. Finding it growing in your home or apartment is nothing to be ashamed of, but you need to act as soon as possible. 

1. Asses the issue. What you think is mold could just be mildew. While they are both fungi caused by mold spores, the treatment methods are different. Mold is typically black or green in color and might have a fuzzy or slimy texture. Mildew on the other hand is usually white, gray, or yellow. Additionally, you must assess the breadth of the issue.
2. If you're living in an apartment call your landlord. Depending on the nature of the issue, mold clean up might be an issue for your landlord or property manager to resolve. Either way, it is in your best interest to inform them of the issue as soon as you can. Include pictures of the mold in your text or email.
3. Once your landlord arrives, you should work with them to figure out what is causing the mold. If the mold is a result of a leaky pipe or other internal water issue, then your landlord should take responsibility for resolving the issue.
4. Enlist in Professional Help. If the mold contamination is, in fact, your responsibility then it is a good idea to enlist professional assistance. This is especially true for larger mold issues. Mold tends to dig deep roots and can be exceedingly difficult to purge completely without the help of mold remediation professionals.

Do not allow mold to grow in your apartment and become a bigger issue than it needs to be. Resolve the issue quickly and efficiently by contacting your local mold remediation specialists here at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW. Located in Grimes, we proudly serve Polk and Dallas county cities. Enlist in the help of trained professionals who will make it “Like it never even happened.” Put SERVPRO® of Des Moines NW on your emergency contact list today at 515-986-3711.

Why Should I Hire Professional Technicians for Flood damage in Des Moines?

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Don't attempt to deal with water damage to your Des Moines area home with DIY solutions. A household fan or dehumidifier may appear to do the job but water can damage carpet, be absorbed by the drywall and get in behind trim. At SERVPRO of Des Moines NW we have the tools and certified professionals to identify the extent of the damage and completely eliminate any remaining moisture. We also ensure that no mold is left behind to grow in your home.

The team at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is IICRC-certified to mitigate any type of flood damage to your home or business with the equipment necessary to do the job right.

• Moisture Sensors
• Truck-mounted extractors
• Commercial Air Movers & Dehumidifiers
• EPA-registered cleaning agents

Our team develops a plan to minimize dry time and prevent any secondary damage and costly repairs. Once dry, we clean and sanitize the space to prevent any future mold growth or odor. Our goal is to leave your home or business, "Like it never even happened."

At SERVPRO of Des Moines NW our services are not limited to water mitigation. No Matter the size or extent of the damage at your residential or commercial property, the team at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW has the capacity to handle it.

We provide the following services and more:
• Fire Damage Repair & Restoration
• Water Damage & restoration
• Mold Remediation & Restoration
• Storm Damage
• Biohazard Cleanup
• Board-Ups
• Odor Removal
• Trauma Cleaning
• Vandalism & Graffiti Cleaning
• Commercial Cleaning
• Disinfectant Cleaning
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

And the list goes on!

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. We Provide 24-hour emergency services for residential and commercial properties. We are dedicated to being faster to any disaster. Our highly trained technicians have the training, specialized equipment and the expertise to handle your cleaning and restoration needs. Our team will provide a professional process in restoring your property to make it "Like it never even happened." So leave it to the professionals at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, locally owned & operated and proudly serving the Des Moines metro area. Call us today at 515-986-3711!

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW Faster to Any Size Disaster

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Protecting your commercial building or home in Des Moines, Iowa is one of the most important aspects of owning a business. In Iowa severe weather can cause flooding and structural damage and it's important not only to protect your building, but to have a response to a disaster in place as quickly as possible. Storm remediation professionals can help you keep your property, business and most importantly, your employees safe in the event of a disaster.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help during your time of need. We are a company built on the understanding that when you have damage to your home or business you cannot wait until the next business day.

That is why when you call, we answer. SERVPRO of Des Moines NW specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property in the Des Moines metro. At SERVPRO of Des Moines we are faster to any size disaster. We know that when the unexpected happens, response time can play a key role in getting things back to normal. That is why SERVPRO of Des Moines NW adheres to a “service response guideline.”

Our service response guidelines ensure that we:
• Contact you within 1 hour from notice of loss to arrange for your service
• Are on-site to begin mitigation services within 4 hours of notification
• Provide a verbal briefing of services needed within 8 hours of our on-site arrival

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW can assist with any Fire, Water, Mold or Cleaning needs. Keep us in your emergency contacts at 515-986-3711. 

Preventing Burst Pipes at your Business

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Protect your business from frozen pipes this winter. The unexpected cold snap or deep freeze can make frozen water pipes a serious risk. When water freezes in a pipe, it expands and can exert pressure over 2,000 pounds per square inch. This pressure and the gas it will displace is enough to rupture most any pipe filled with water. When a pipe bursts it can spill several hundred gallons of water per hour. That equates to thousands of dollars of damage to your business. Pipes are most susceptible to freezing when located:

• In an outside wall
• Under a sink on an outside wall
• In an unheated crawl space

Preventing frozen pipes

• Leave the faucet drip slightly as a trickle. The dripping water will keep the water in the pipe from freezing
• Open cabinet and let room air circulation
• Open cabinet and place a small portable heater near it
• Wrap the problem pipe with electrical heat tape
• Insulation the problem pipes with foam insulation wrap, especially hose that run through unheated spaces
• Temper the currently unheated crawl space by placing a heater in the crawl space. You just need to elevate the crawlspace temperature to modestly above freezing- about 40 degrees Fahrenheit

Frozen but haven’t burst?

Are pipes frozen but have not burst? Then it is time to thaw! When pipes are frozen, turning on the faucet may yield to trickling to no water at all. As soon as you realize a pipe is frozen, you need to take immediate action

• Shut off the water to the faucet locally or at the water main
• Open the faucet that is supplied by the frozen pipe, even if you do not yet know where it is frozen
• Identify the frozen water supply pipe and find the location of the blockade
• Follow the pipe back from the faucet to where it runs through cold areas such as an exterior wall, unheated crawl space, or any part of the building that may be unheated
• Often the frozen area of the pipe will be frosted or have ice on it. If the situation is getting critical, the pipe may be slightly bulged or look fissured
• When you find that the frozen pipe serving the faucet is behind a wall or ceiling, you’ve got a challenge on your hands. You have three choices
  1. Turn up the heat in the building and wait
  2. Tear out the wall or ceiling selection at the frozen pipe
  3. Use an infrared lamp to head the wall section in front of the pipe

Here are some techniques for thawing an exposed frozen pipe

• Hair dryer
• Heat lamp
• Small portable heater
• Electric pipe heat tape

Des Moines Business Disaster Preparedness Plan - Fire

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Many Des Moines area businesses experience devastating fire damage every year. Your friends at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW want to help you prepare your employees for the possibility of a fire. Here’s how you can begin to create a fire evacuation procedure for your business.

Consult with your local fire officials

Reach out to the local fire department. Often times, getting in touch with fire officials is a great place to start. They are happy to consult with you on necessary safety measures that your business can take, including the most efficient evacuation routes for your facility.

Communicate

You want to involve your employees in the fire safety process. This makes everyone feel safe and prepares them for when you start scheduling routine drills. Once you have determined your evacuation route, mark them clearly with signs and communicate with your staff on what they mean.

Schedule fire drills frequently

Ideally, you should get to the point to where there is no question on what to do in the event of a fire. The best way to prepare staff is to hold regular fire drills, preferably at least once every quarter. A good example of the overall process is to create mandatory drills that require everyone to leave the premises following the established escape route and gather at a predesignated area for additional safety instructions. Staff should be trained to not leave the designated area until given the “all-clear” to return.

Run Different Scenarios

Fires can start anywhere at any time. It is important to prepare for all possibilities when you hold your drills. To prepare for unique situations, create scenarios where different exits are blocked off or have the fire “originate” at different parts of the facility each time. Doing this gives everyone the tools they need to escape to safety regardless of what type of fire is started.

These are just a few tips that your friends at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW want to extend out to you to make sure you and your staff stay safe in the case of a fire. Call us at 515-968-3711 for any of your commercial fire restoration questions or needs!

Iowa Winter Weather Check List

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

The Des Moines area recently experienced the first significant snowfall of the year last weekend. Winter weather is here to stay, at least for the next couple of months in Iowa, whether we want to admit it or not. With winter comes freezing cold temperatures and precipitation that could potentially cause harm to your home or business.

We at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW are here to help you be prepared and stay ready for anything the coming winter months want to throw our way. We've compiled a list to aid you in preparing your home for the cold to come.

• Insulate any water lines that run along exterior walls so that your water supply will be less likely to freeze
• Caulk and weather strip doors and windows
• Insulate walls and attic
• Install storm or thermal-pane windows/cover windows with plastic from the inside
• Repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on your home or other structures during a storm

Weatherproofing your home or business can potentially save you a lot of stress. This type of maintenance is incredibly important in Iowa and colder states to keep your home or business in good condition and keep you aware of issues that may need attention down the line. Never forget, SERVPRO of Des Moines is always here for your restoration needs. Give us a call today at 515-986-3711.

Des Moines Business Disaster Preparedness Plan - Storm

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is in the business of helping you with your restoration needs, big or small, but believe it or not, a lot of our work is directly related to the weather.

As you know, the change in seasons bring about different temperatures and weather events, all of which can cause damage to your home. The falling temperatures during winter months can cause pipes to burst. Winter blizzards with snow and ice can cause exterior or interior damage. Melting snow & spring showers can cause basement flooding. Summer severe weather includes severe thunderstorms, tornadoes or new to many a “derecho” with caused damage to homes and business’ across the Midwest. SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is here to promote preparedness for your home or business but how do YOU know when to be ready and what to expect?

Luckily, there are people out there who CAN predict the weather. The National Weather Service is a great resource to find out how to properly prepare for storms and what to expect from each storm event.  The National Weather Service also provides alerts and warnings for all hazards through a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio Receivers (NWR). (For more information on weather receivers visit https://www.weather.gov/media/pah/Skywarn/noaaweatherradiobrochure.pdf)

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW also recommends signing up for emergency alerts and notifications that your community might offer. In the case of an emergency, having the FEMA and American Red Cross app on your android or IOS might also be extremely helpful. They provide information about finding shelter, providing first aid, and seeking assistance for recovery.

Your friends at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW want to help keep you and your family safe in the event of severe weather. When disaster strikes, please know that SERVPRO of Des Moines is here to help make it “like it never happened.” Keep us in your emergency contacts at 515-986-3711.

Identifying Key Causes of Fires in Des Moines

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Identifying the causes of fires before they happen can in some cases help your home or business avoid a catastrophic fire. A fire can occur in any home or business with the right conditions, and many of us knowingly keep flammable items. It only takes a bit of attentiveness to protect your home or business from some of the most common fire hazards.

Your friends at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW think you should consider the following key causes of fire to determine how to make your home or business a safer place.

Electricity: Keep an eye out for damaged cords or overloaded outlets and extension cords.

Smoking: Limit rooms for smoking and make sure cigarettes are always put out properly.

Dryer: This one might sound familiar, but your dryer, especially the lint, is a major fire hazard. If you allow it to build up it could back up into the exhaust and overheat. Be diligent about cleaning out your dryer’s lint trap and never have the exhaust vents covered.

Cooking: Keep stovetops clear of flammable items. Also, remember to never leave your stove or grill unattended while in use.

Antique Electronics: It’s common to hold on to sentimental and functioning electronics from decades ago, but if you have an antique lamp, fan, or some other electronic device, know that it is very possible for it to have sustained damage to its internal wiring. The only true way to mitigate this risk is to have it professionally rewired or simply keep it unplugged and use it as a decoration.

Candles: One of the more obvious of the bunch are candles. Almost everyone has a variation of candle in their home. As you can imagine, they’re a relatively common cause for household fires being that they can easily be knocked over. Some useful tips are to never burn a candle without a candle holder and make sure to keep the open flame away from flammable items like couches and curtains. Never leave candles unattended.

Space Heaters: Winter weather is here and although space heaters keep you warm and toasty, believe it or not they are a major fire hazard. Keep your space heater at least three feet away from all flammable items in the room, like furniture, bedding, and stuffed animals. Use them sparingly when possible.

Unfortunately, fires can happen. If your home or business in the Des Moines area has suffered fire damage, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW can help. Our staff is on call around the clock so we can start helping you get back to normal, fast. Call us at 515-986-3711 for assistance.

How to Mitigate Closures for Des Moines Commercial Sites

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW understands how important it is for you and your staff to share an efficient work environment and we also know how devastating it can be to have your business close due damage from Iowa’s unexpected weather or from circumstances that feel out of your control.

Due to the ongoing covid-19 pandemic many business's are working remotely and will continue to do so well into the future. For those essential workers unable to work from home, we know the last thing they need is to deal with an issue that forces the company to close for repairs, lose out on revenue, or a loss of items directly damaged.

Undoubtedly, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is here to help you and your staff get back to work “Like it never even happened,” but we also want you to be as prepared as possible for the harsh weather that Iowa’s seasons can bring. Preparedness will likely prevent some damage and hopefully decrease the amount of time you are out of commission.

• Frozen pipes can be disastrous, but they are often times very preventable! Make sure to do a sweep of your building and make sure all your pipes are insulated.

• Loss of power can cause an array of issues including frozen pipes, loss of production, and loss of product. We recommend having a backup generator handy.

• If you have large trees around your facility, its recommended to keep them trimmed and in good health. Tree limbs can easily be tossed around by high winds. It is a good idea to have them professionally trimmed away from rooftops, powerlines, and windows.

• Having your facility inspected annually will keep your facility up to date. Being attentive to your facility’s preservation and safety means having your furnace and AC checked, making sure the general maintenance is followed, the electric lines are in good condition, and that your roof & getters are all in working condition.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is here to help! Preparedness and maintenance is incredibly important to a smooth-running operation. SERVPRO of Des Moines NW wants you to exceed and we want to help your staff to be minimally affected, while still having a professional looking business. Keep us in your emergency contacts at 515-986-3711.

Fire Safety Tips in Des Moines

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

It’s that time of year where we start cranking up the heat in our homes, and while gas furnaces are generally quite safe, they can occasionally be the cause of household fires.

So, if you heat your home with a furnace, a little precautionary preventative maintenance could increasingly help you prevent a fire when you turn up your heat this winter.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW recommends that you:
• Clean around the furnace and move any debris or stored items at least three feet away from your furnace
• Replace dirty air filters. Clogged vents/flutes can lead to fires.
• Clean the Furnace itself. Not only can grime cause overheating, but it can also prevent you from seeing any damage or susceptible problems related to your furnace
• Routinely check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Both alarms should be installed throughout your home and routinely tested to confirm they are properly working.
• Invest in a professional maintenance checkup. A professional will be able to identify and correct any issue with your furnace. Things like incorrect pressure or a cracked heat exchanger can be properly taken care of by the professional servicing your furnace. Little things like the color of the flame can easily tell an experienced repair technician how well your furnace is functioning. So, if you can’t recall the last time you’ve gotten your furnace serviced, make an appointment this month!

These are just a few tips that your friends at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW want to give you so you can have a warm and safe winter season.

If your home has suffered fire damage, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW can help. Our staff is on call around the clock so we can start helping you get back to normal, fast. Call us at 515-986-3711 for assistance.

Why Hire SERVPRO of Des Moines NW for Your Restoration Needs? Water Mitigation

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Best Equipment for Restoration-Drying

One of the many reasons we enjoy what we do is because we like to see the effective and immediate results of our service.

SERVPRO has a reputation of investing in the best restoration equipment available and providing our customers with confidence that we can restore your home or business to its "preloss" condition. 

Here is a brief explanation of the drying equipment we typically use on a job:

• Air movers. Our high-speed air movers evaporate moisture at a faster pace with powerful high velocity blowers. There are three different types of air movers that we fancy.
  • Axial: Axial blowers are specifically designed to force large amount of air across a wide space. These air movers only move horizontally, which makes them ideal for drying walls or top-down drying treatments on carpets.
  • Centrifugal: These are a compact style of fan. They draw air from multiple sources and direct it all into a particular spot. So, as you can imagine, these are designed for spot treatments. These can often be adjusted to provide airflow in different angles, too. Some good examples of where these are most used at are in places like closets, crawl spaces, and under cabinets- anywhere hard to reach!
  • Compact: These are the most compact fan of our bunch. These air movers are versatile enough to be used for an array of things- both large and small. They are smaller in size, light weight, and quieter than the centrifugal fans. While only having a ¼ horsepower motor, they still pack a punch and are able to quickly and effectively dry areas.
• Desiccant Dehumidifie Unlike refrigerant dehumidifiers that use condensation, our desiccant dehumidifiers use a silica gel wheel to pull moisture out of the air like a sponge. These machines can work in temperatures as low as 32-degree Fahrenheit! That’s a world of a difference compared to their 70-degree Fahrenheit counterpart.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is known for having the absolute best restoration equipment money can buy. Our equipment paired with years of experience and IICRC training are just a few of the many reasons why you should turn to SERVPRO of Des Moines NW for your future mitigation and remediation needs. We are here to help for any job big or small. Put us in your emergency contacts at 515-986-3711.

Holiday Season Fire Safety Tips - Prevent Your Christmas Tree From Catching Fire

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Holiday season is upon us and as the temperatures drop, the fireplaces and furnaces kick in- heightening the risk of a household fire. For many, the holiday season is also time for a Christmas tree which also pose a dangerous fire hazard to your home.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW wants to remind you and your family the importance Christmas tree responsibility. A simple spark has the potential to turn a dry Christmas tree into flames in a matter of second. Once the tree is on fire, the flames can engulf your room in under 30 seconds.

Here are some tips to keep your wonderful time of the year emergency free:
• Keep your tree at least three feet away from any heat source like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.

• Always keep plenty of water in your tree base to limit the chances of a dry out. Water it daily! Fresh, watered trees are much less likely to catch fire.

• If you buy an artificial tree, make sure it is labeled “fire resistant”.

• Do not forget to turn your Christmas tree lights off each night! Bedtime means all light out!

• Make sure that you have properly installed Fire/smoke detectors.

Just following these simple steps can help reduce the chances of a Christmas tree disaster. We wish you a safe and happy holiday season from the SERVPRO of Des Moines NW Team.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW Fire Restoration Process

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Think Ahead

The most wonderful time of the year can also be one of the most common times for fires. Every year, on average, 160 fires start with Christmas trees. So, your friends at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW want to remind you of the importance of thinking ahead. Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. So, although it is not enjoyable to plan for a fire, it’s crucial to have a plan of action. You don’t just need a fire escape route though; you also need an idea of which restoration company to use to be prepared if the time comes.

The staff at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW has many years of combined experience and are professionally trained to restore your home and all your salvageable contents to their pre-fire condition, making it “Like it never even happened.” We do this by the following three methods.

Content Cleaning

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW understands that personal belongings can be just as important as your home itself- that is why we will clean all the salvageable contents in your home carefully and efficiently. We often can restore other damaged goods such as clothing, books and in some cases, curtains, rugs, and furniture can be cleaned and deodorized, too, by using a wet or dry-cleaning process.

Structural Cleaning

After a Fire, the structural components of your home or business will likely need to be cleaned, including, carpets, walls, and subflooring. Our technicians will first establish the extent of the damage. This helps them choose the equipment and cleaning techniques best suited for your home. In some cases, mild soot buildup can be removed directly from surfaces, while in other cases, they may need to be removed or refinished. 

Deodorization Services

Fires can leave behind pesky smoke odors, but it can also leave behind hazardous soot particles that may lead to health issues. Instead of using artificial fragrances to mask the odors, our staff will go to the source of the odors and remove them with air scrubbers and other odor-eliminating equipment best suited for your situation.

We at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW know fires can be stressful. That is why when you call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, we will be as helpful as we can in explaining everything to you while being considerate & accommodating in the process. So, let us help you this holiday season. Keep us on your list of emergency contacts at 515-986-3711.

Why Hire SERVPRO of Des Moines NW for Your Restoration Needs? Introduction

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is here to provide our customers quality restoration services.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is conveniently located in Grimes just off of the newly developed exit to Highway 141. Our location allows us to be close by and ready to respond immediately, extending our services out to Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Waukee and more.

We strive to be involved in our growing community and here to help at a moments notice. Here at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, we are experienced and keep up with the latest innovations in the restoration industry to assist Des Moines area homes and business'. When homeowners try to determine the extent of their loss, they may fall short. Without the tools to properly detect the extent of their damage, significant harm to their home can go unnoticed. SERVPRO of Des Moines NW’s investment in education and innovative, high-quality tools & equipment can help you avoid the additional expenses and secondary damage.

Our technicians are adept in multiple specializations supported by the IICRC. So, you can trust us for any of your restoration or mitigation needs. Our crew sets out to accomplish the tasks fast. SERVPRO of Des Moines NW will assess the damages inside and out, and our technicians will work swiftly yet carefully knowing that inappropriate cleaning methods can make the damage worse.

Being IICRC certified, our staff at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW are knowledgeable on the expected and unexpected behaviors of fire, water, and mold, and the damage it can cause in your home. Our training and experience in mitigation & remediation guarantees that we can quickly locate and solve the problem(s) before the integrity of your home or business is compromised.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is prepared for any size disaster. Call us today at 515-986-3711.

Snow Storm Damage Potential in Des Moines

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Here in Iowa we are holding on to what remains of the fall weather, but Des Moines recently just saw its first snow fall of the year and you know what that means. With winter weather comes freezing cold temperatures and the inevitable snowfall.

Winter storms and cold weather can result in a variety of hazards to your home or business beyond an increase to the heating bill.

It's important to take the necessary steps to ensure you're prepared for the coming winter season.

• Ice: Because of its weight, accumulations of half an inch or more can cause widespread destruction and power outages. Watch out for falling tree branches and utility poles damaging property when weighed down by a wintry mix.

• Wet Snow: Much like ice accumulation, wet snow adds extra weight and stress, increasing the chance of damage to property.

• Snow on Roofs: Several feet of snow from either a single storm or the accumulation of many, can add stress to roofs- causing them to collapse or result in ice dams that prevent melting snow from exiting the roof properly. This can lead to water damage inside of homes.

• Flooding after snow: A Rapid warm-up or rain following a winter storm with an expansive snowpack can set the stage for major flooding.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW wants to help you stay safe this winter. In the event that your home or business is damaged by a storm, do not hesitate to call right away! We are always here to answer your call, day or night. Keep us in your emergency contacts at 515-986-3711.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW Helps Fraternity Keep a Covid-Free Semester

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Beta Sigma Psi, an Iowa State University fraternity just finished the entire fall semester without a single case of COVID-19.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW was happy to provide a proactive COVID-19 clean for Beta Sigma Psi before it's 44 members moved into their house in August.

Our proactive, viral pathogen cleaning services included a fog of the house with a hospital-grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to COVID-19.

As a leading provider of these services, we continue to work with customers throughout the Des Moines Metro, ranging from small businesses and residential to corporations and first responders.

We were happy to see Beta Sigma Psi's accomplishment highlighted by KCCI as they continue to take responsible steps to ensure members stay healthy and safe. To read the full article visit kcci.com.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - SERVPRO of Des Moines NW Commercial Cleaning Services

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Top concern for many at the moment is the cleanliness of the places they go as the Covid-19 pandemic continues. While some organizations and businesses may not have had an employee test positive, many have asked us to help them prepare and maintain a clean environment for the safety of their staff and customers.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is made up of highly-trained and certified staff.

SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in decontamination to the standards set by the Centers for Disease Control.

Don't just trust anyone! We specialize in the cleaning different surfaces and environments with our very own disinfectant which is EPA registered, NSF certified carries the EPA's lowest toxicity rating.

Let SERVPRO of Des Moines NW Help You Maintain a Sanitized Environment.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW can sanitize your home and business with proactive or reactive cleaning. We’ve had an opportunity to assist a number of different businesses from varying industries in the Des Moines Metro including:

• Retail Spaces
• Government Facilities
• Warehouses and distribution facilities
• Corporate Office Spaces
• Restaurants

We understand that not all businesses are the same. We tailor a cleaning program based on the unique needs of each facility. 

Interested? Given us a call today at 515-986-3711. We're locally owned & operated and available 24/7.

SERVPRO Handles All Stages of Fire Damage, Including Debris Removal

8/29/2020 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO Des Moines NW are trained to provide a multi-level response to fire damage, including fire and smoke restoration, odor control, upholstery and fabric cleaning. 

Additionally, our company offers debris removal services.  SERVPRO prides itself on providing our customers with an all-inclusive solution during difficult times, such as in the aftermath of a fire. 

Why Debris Removal Requires a Call to Professionals

Contrary to what one might think, cleaning up after a fire is not simply a matter of wiping up dirt and ash or collecting damaged belongings.  The residues left by a fire can emit toxic fumes and physical contact with soiling and rubble can cause irritation or bodily harm. As a result, professionals are needed to sort, bag and discard fire debris. 

Our certified and experienced SERVPRO team, equipped with top-of-the line products and cleaning equipment, provide safe, effective and lawful clean-up and disposal services.  Our technicians will complete your job in a timely manner, implement environmental safeguards and minimize any health risks. 

Protecting Against Airborne Residues

First, it is essential to restrict hazardous airborne and settled residues, as well as damaged building materials and contents.  To do this, our SERVPRO technicians seal off the workspace using negative pressure air scrubbing technology.  The air scrubber will direct contaminated air through HEPA filters and vents to the outdoors. 

Our team members also dress in personal protective equipment (PPE) for safety purposes, as well as to avoid tracking fire debris through the rest of your home or business.

Debris Disposal

As a result of chemical reactions caused by a fire, there are countless toxic substances that SERVPRO technicians encounter.  Our crew collects and packs the charred and melted items into designated containment receptacles.  There is an array of items that are contained, including drywall, woodwork, household goods, flooring and other contents— essentially, any item that cannot be restored due to severe damage.

Additional Expertise

Our professionals are well-versed in the local and state requirements dictating debris removal, which will serve to protect you from violations or citations during this process. 

Housing construction in the area may pre-date the current codes governing lead paint, asbestos and other hazards.  As a result, SERVPRO professionals keep an eye out for these dangerous materials during the initial assessment and procure certified removal of these substances during the debris removal process. 

Additionally, our trained technicians are continuously on the lookout for any structural weaknesses that may have been caused by the fire.

Call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW today to make sure every step of your response plan is expertly handled, including clean up and debris removal following a fire.  We are available day or night to take your call.  Contact us at (515) 986-3711.

Important Reminder in Responding to Water Damage

8/29/2020 (Permalink)

Although it may seem easier and relatively harmless to let water dry on its own, property owners need to understand the dangers of failing to properly respond to water damage.  Despite the extra expense associated with hiring professional technicians, the cost and level of stress will be magnified exponentially when the problem is left untreated, as secondary damage is likely to result.  

Reasons to Avoid Delay

When the water removal and cleanup process is not initiated immediately, you may see the following:

• Warped wood framing
• Weakened subflooring
• Broken or bulging ceiling tiles
• Rusted metal fasteners or supports
• Deteriorating drywall
• Peeling paint or wallpaper

SERVPRO’s 24/7 Response

Because we know how important it is to quickly respond to a water damage emergency, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW prides itself on its 24-hour service.  Our crew is ready for your call any time of the day or night, weekdays and weekends. 

SERVPRO’s Customized Response

SERVPRO professionals perform in-depth assessments to ascertain the ideal action plan in restoring your property in a timely manner.  Additionally, our technicians use the latest methods and top-of-the-line equipment to deliver the best results.

For an immediate and personalized response from our team at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, call us at (515) 986-3711.

Inspecting Roofs for Storm Damage

8/29/2020 (Permalink)

Homeowners in Des Moines often underestimate the importance of regularly inspecting their roofs, especially following major storms.  Roofs undergo extensive wear and tear during unpredictable and ever-changing weather conditions in Iowa, whether it is harsh sunlight, strong winds, hail, snow or heavy rainfall throughout the year. 

Consider the following:

Rain

Rain is the most common cause of roofing issues.  When a roof suffers from missing shingles or multiple holes, subsequent leaks and water damage is inevitable.  This, in turn, leads to rotting, mold and compromised foundation.  There are clear indicators of water damage from a leaking roof, such as spots on a ceiling, wet walls or areas of the home that feel damp and humid.

Hail

As any Iowa resident knows, hail can be unpredictable, as it varies in severity and can come without warning.  The resulting damage, ranging from minor to extensive, may lead to serious implications later on down the road.  For example, holes caused by hail create immediate problems, but also lead to secondary damage.  When hail damage goes undetected, it worsens with each storm that follows.  Therefore, it is critical to secure a roof inspection following a hailstorm to mitigate any potential damage.

Wind

Heavy winds can lift shingles from a roof or break them off entirely, leaving the rest of the home exposed and unprotected.  Additionally, strong winds can carry large debris that damages a roof’s integrity upon impact.

Roof damage may be obvious, such as in the case of missing or weathered shingles.  More often, however, roof damage goes undetected for an extended period of time when proper inspection and protection measures are not put into place.  Keep in mind that it is important to search beyond the roof’s shingle condition and look for issues such as missing flashing or loose sealant.

Consider putting together an action plan the next time there is a major storm:

• If you find serious damage, call a repair company.
• Once the roof has been repaired, call SERVPRO of Des Moines, NW at (515) 986-3711 to assess the interior of your home for water damage caused by a faulty roof.

Roofs on homes and business take a heavy beating throughout the year, especially with the seasonal changes and weather conditions in Iowa.  A homeowner’s proactive approach and timely response can increase the likelihood that damage will require a simple repair versus a complete roof replacement.

SERVPRO Takes Care of Your Fire Damage Odor

8/29/2020 (Permalink)

Recovering from a fire at your home or business is an overwhelming and traumatic experience.  SERVPRO is here to guide you through the recovery process. 

Do Not Attempt to Clean Fire Damage Yourself

• Structural components like walls, ceilings and floors require a professional evaluation to identify instability.
• Professionals are needed to expertly remove substantial amounts of water and extinguishing chemicals.
• Debris and residues may be extremely toxic, which requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• SERVPRO technicians will customize the cleanup methods and products used to meet your specific needs. The most effective strategy will depend on the materials burned and the surfaces affected.
• Deodorization methods typically require specialized products and unique equipment.

What Causes the Odor Associated with Kitchen Fires?

When a fire occurs in a kitchen, food materials, oils and greases are usually the ignition source.  The fats and proteins create an oily mist that covers the area, and the heat causes the oils and grease to melt and dehydrate.  This, in turn, causes the substances to become rancid, which leaves a rotting stench that permeates appliances, cabinets, ceilings and walls.  Air currents spread the odor far and wide throughout the property as well.  

Why SERVPRO is the Solution

Our technicians rely on the age old “like dissolves like” rule when selecting products to counter fire residues.  Residues of a kitchen fire are oil-based; our technicians look to solvents to break the bonds between the soot and the surface. 

SERVPRO’S Advanced Deodorization Measures

When deep cleaning is insufficient to eliminate protein-based soot odors, SERVPRO offers additional options:

• Hydroxyl Generators. Hydroxyl radicals destroy the molecular structure of odors.
• Thermal fogging. Deodorizers are combusted into a fine mist, paring with soot particles to neutralize the odor.
• Airtight products are applied to surfaces, which keeps the odor molecules from vaporizing.

Contact SERVPRO of Des Moines NW at (515) 986- 3711 to cover all of your fire damage needs, including residue cleanup and odor removal.  We will schedule an assessment at your earliest convenience.

Water Restoration Process: Steps 1-2 (of 6)

8/29/2020 (Permalink)

Step 1: Contact SERVPRO of Des Moines NW

The first step in a homeowner’s emergency response plan is to contact SERVPRO of Des Moines NW.  We are available 24 hours a day to respond water emergencies, whether the damage is minor or severe. 

Immediate action is critical any time there is an incident of water damage.  By delaying the response, even by a few hours, the severity of the water damage may increase exponentially.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is here to help today.  Call: (515) 986-3711.

Responding to water damage is often a stressful, overwhelming and sometimes traumatic experience.  We understand that you are likely feeling frustrated and vulnerable.  SERVPRO has highly-trained experts to walk you through the restorative process and provide an action plan custom fit to meet your needs.  When you call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, we come with the specialized training and experience required to get you through this difficult time.  Our unique expertise and personalized response to our customers are cornerstones of our business. 

Step 2: Inspection and Assessment

SERVPRO’s response to a water damage emergency begins with a detailed inspection of your property, including a damage assessment.  This allows our technicians to determine the extent of the damage so that we can devise the optimal action plan.

(1) Identify the Source

The source of water damage or moisture in the home or business must be identified and stopped before any restoration or drying of the building can take place. 

(2) Identify the Water Type

SERVPRO technicians identify the category and classification of water damage to ensure that the property is restored in accordance with industry guidelines.  The level of water contamination also determines the specific restoration processes that will be used.

(3) Assess Damage and Inspect Premises

Our technicians perform inspections and conduct tests to determine the extent of damage and the progression of moisture.  This serves to maximize the efficiency of restorative measures that are implemented.  Additionally, we inspect for safety hazards that may be present.  If you are aware of safety concerns such as lead or asbestos, please notify us immediately. 

(4) Safeguard Furniture

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW will move furniture and property contents, or block items, depending on what the situation requires.  These preventative measures protect against rust or furniture stains on wet carpet.

Water Restoration Process: Steps 3-4 (of 6)

8/29/2020 (Permalink)

Step 3: Water Extraction

Once the inspection and assessment is complete, SERVPRO tehnicians utilize powerful pumps and truck-mounted vacuum units to quickly and efficiently remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from the property.

SERVPRO’s Move-Out/Pack-Out Service

If your home or business requires extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW will provide a well-organized and efficient move-out service to safeguard your belongings from damage.  Our technicians also inspect the carpet and carpet pad to assess whether they should be removed so as to protect the subfloor.

Emergency Water Removal

SERVPRO’s highly-trained technicians will immediately initiate the water removal process.  Depending on the amount of water that is present, our technicians may use powerful submersible pumps in addition to industrial strength, wet/dry vacuums.  When the majority of the water is removed, this drastically cuts down the drying time required and prevents secondary water damage, as well as mold and bacterial growth.

Step 4: Drying

Although floors and walls appear dry after excess water is removed, a closer inspection shows that they are still wet.  Most building materials (i.e. wood, drywall, and flooring materials) retain water, causing those materials to break down, warp or create mold.

By looking at rooms measurements, temperatures and humidity levels, SERVPRO technicians can determine the number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your property.  Then, using moister meters, our technicians closely monitor progress until the materials return to an acceptable state. 

SERVPRO’s industrial-grade dehumidifiers prevent secondary water damage while its high-speed air movers ensure airflow and accelerate moisture removal. 

Water Restoration Process: Steps 5-6 (of 6)

8/29/2020 (Permalink)

Step 5: Cleaning

You will likely need a professional cleaning service in the aftermath of a water damage emergency.  SERVPRO technicians will clean your property’s structure, furniture, clothing, upholstery and restorable belongings affected by water damage.  Also, because wet materials are known to have a very distinct odor, most instances of water damage require professional odor removal and deodorization.

Note: SERVPRO technicians, through technical expertise and top-grade equipment, eliminate offensive or persistent odors, rather than simply masking them.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW focuses on restoring contents damaged by water, fire and mold, which helps you avoid replacement costs and allows you to preserve priceless keepsakes. 

Cleaning Services

Our Contents Restoration services include the following: dry cleaning; wet cleaning; spray and wipe; foam cleaning; abrasive cleaning; and immersion cleaning.  Depending on your specific needs, SERVPRO also offers antimicrobial, antibacterial or disinfectant treatments.

Finally, our technicians will remove and dispose of damaged materials, based on feedback from you and your insurance adjuster.

Step 6: Restoration

Restoration efforts range from minor repairs (i.e. replacing drywall and installing carpet) to major repairs (i.e. reconstruction). 

Temporary Solutions

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW offers the following temporary protective measures to prevent additional water damage: board-up; roof tarp; temporary fencing; move-out/pack-out; and temporary warehouse space. 

Major Repairs

To restore your property to its pre-water damage condition, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW offers the following services: drywall removal and installation; hardwood floor repair; tile floor repair; painting; and carpet repair or installation.

Why SERVPRO

By handling both the initial mitigation process as well as subsequent rebuilding, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW offers the optimal solution for homeowners.  By cutting costs, maximizing time efficiency and providing continuity to homeowners, the level of service from SERVPRO technicians is unparalleled. 

A Call to SERVPRO Can Help Keep You Safe From the Coronavirus

8/29/2020 (Permalink)

The topic dominating every conversation and the issue on everyone’s mind, in our community and worldwide, is the ongoing spread of the coronavirus.  Medical experts urge us to social distance, avoid large gatherings and practice good hygiene, such as regular hand washing.  The latest findings within the scientific community focus on the role of contaminated surfaces in the transmissions of pathogens.  By procuring SERVPRO services, you can ensure that the surfaces within your commercial property are thoroughly cleaned after someone with the virus has—or potentially has—come into contact.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW has a tradition of excellence within the community as our professionals routinely handle emergencies, such as microbial infestations, biological substances and chemical contamination.  In these instances, or amid a viral outbreak, SERVPRO technicians dramatically reduce the likelihood that pathogens will be transmitted. 

How We Do It

• With SERVPRO’s specialized cleaning and advanced application of disinfectants to the exposed area, our technicians help prevent the spread of these harmful microorganisms.
• SERVPRO technicians use EPA-registered products and specialized equipment such as sprayers and foggers to treat your home or business.
• Our technicians focus their attention on high-touch surfaces that are often overlooked or insufficiently cleaned on a regular basis.
• Our team is fully equipped with personal protective equipment to ensure that all parties are protected from the virus and to avoid any chance of additional spread.

Call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW today at (515) 986-3711.

Of course, this is an ever-changing situation and advice from the medical and scientific communities is subject to change as we learn more about this virus.  There can be no guarantee that disinfectants alone will be sufficient to fully eliminate any risk of contracting the virus.  Please consult with medical or infectious disease professionals for additional expertise.

Here to Help Our Community Recover in the Wake of a Derecho

8/29/2020 (Permalink)

Several weeks ago, the state of Iowa- as well as several surrounding states- experienced a catastrophic weather event called a derecho. This derecho- a powerful inland storm- brought winds of over 100 mph, and in some areas, 140 mph winds that are typically only seen in hurricanes. The damage was widespread and devastated countless Midwest communities. Many property owners are still recovering and picking up the pieces.

Unlike the storms that we are used to, derechos are much more difficult to predict. This particularly destructive derecho came with little warning. Less than an hour after thunderstorm warnings were issued, the storm hit, providing little to no time for residents to prepare for the force that would unfold. The sum total of the damage caused by the storm is yet to be determined, but it is estimated to be billions of dollars.

Our Response

When unexpected destruction like this occurs to our community, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is here to help. Our IICRC certified staff has multiple years of combined experience in responding to weather events across the Midwest. In response to this latest event, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW pulled resources and collaborated with local partners to provide critical response and restoration services. This was accomplished despite the fact that several property owners were without power since the storms moved through.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW has also been able to remedy another aspect of derechos that make them particularly destructive: roofs damaged by the storm are left extremely vulnerable to torrential rains that typically accompany these storms. Homeowners and business owners who are already battling structural damage may have additional flood and water damage to grapple with as a result. Even those who avoid immediate damage are susceptible to flood water damage due to the rising river waters. SERVPRO of Des Moines NW has the resources to provide a full range of preventative and restorative services.

Here to Assist

The SERVPRO of Des Moines NW team has the experience and professionalism required to respond quickly and efficiently to assist homeowners and business owners during difficult times, as evidenced by this most recent event. From your initial call to the date of project completion, we will be where you need us. In addition, the professionals at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW are well versed in working with insurance providers and have the knowledge to assist throughout that process.

In the wake of a devastating weather event such as the recent derecho, we offer perhaps the most important promise to property owners seeking assistance: to make it “Like it never even happened.” The road to recovery can be daunting. When a distressed homeowner or business owner knows that they are in good hands, it can make all the difference. We are available to help 24 hours a day. Reach us at (515) 986-3711.

How to Respond When a Water Emergency Happens to You

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, most Des Moines homeowners will encounter water damage at some point in time. Water damage can happen at any time, and may come from a multitude of sources, which means the homeowner will inevitably be caught by surprise.  Of course, in a situation where water is spilling out on your floors or flooding your house, it is easy to panic.

However, it is essential that you remain calm and call for professional help as soon as the damage is discovered.  Delaying your response by even an hour? or in some cases, mere minutes? can make all the difference. 

As soon as you encounter a water emergency, take the following actions:

1) Locate the water shut off.

2) Contact professionals. 

Our technicians at SERVPRO Des Moines NW are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to respond to your emergency.  Once we receive your call, our technicians will immediately travel to your home and assess the situation.  SERVPRO technicians are expertly trained to provide quality services and handle advanced technology specially designed to mitigate water damage. 

Specifically, our technicians use the following:

• Extractors and wet/dry vacuums to quickly remove excess water.
• Heaters and dehumidifiers to prevent mold growth.
• Anti-fungal agents to clean the floor.

For professional water damage remediation services, contact a representative of SERVPRO Des Moines NW at (515) 986-3711.  We are always available to take your call in your time of need. 

SERVPRO is the Solution to Your Pandemic Concerns

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

This is a troubling and unprecedented moment in history as we react globally and adapt to the ongoing spread of the coronavirus.  Our team at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW reminds our customers that we are here to help.  We are comprised of expert technicians trained in specialized cleaning services, and our company takes pride in our unparalleled cleaning and sanitation standards.

CDC Guidance

SERVPRO’s technicians are ready to clean and disinfect your home or business in accordance with standards set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  The CDC recommends the cleaning of high-touch surfaces, including:

• Tabletops
• Doorknobs
• Counters
• Light switches
• Bathroom fixtures
• Tables
• Phones
• Keyboards
• Toilets
• Tablets

Other surfaces referenced in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Stair handrails
• Sales counters
• Playground equipment
• Water fountains
• Shelving and racks
• Elevator cars
• Fitness equipment
• Kitchen and food areas
• Bathrooms
• Offices
• Retail spaces
• Bathrooms
• Carpets and rugs

As of now, there is no product tested against this specific strain of the coronavirus.  The CDC recommends the use of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against pathogens similar to the coronavirus.  There are a multitude of products in the SERVPRO product line that carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims.  SERVPRO of Des Moines NW adheres to all guidelines provided by the CDC and local agencies.

SERVPRO professionals are experienced in handling biological contaminants.  We offer a scope of work and level of service that far surpasses the standard housekeeping and janitorial staff work.  We provide the expertise and deep-cleaning services that you need for peace of mind during these difficult and evolving times.  Call us today at (515) 986-3711.

Importance of Including Storm Damage in Insurance Coverage

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Reviewing Homeowner’s Insurance Policy

Your insurance policy should be copied and properly stored in case of a major storm.  Additionally, it should be thoroughly reviewed until you have an understanding of what events are covered, the amount of coverage, and steps that are required to submit an insurance claim after storm damage.  Be aware that your homeowner’s insurance policy may exclude certain types of storm and water damage. 

Flood Damage

Standard homeowner’s insurance policies do not include coverage for flood damage.  It is important to note that flooding can occur almost anywhere, regardless of whether your home is in a high-risk flood zone.  The purchase of additional flood damage coverage is recommended.

Wind and Rain Damage

While most policies cover damage caused by wind, they do not typically coverage water damage resulting from rain (including wind-driven rain).

More Insurance Tips:

• Ensure that coverage is sufficient for your home’s structure, contents and extra living expenses, if needed.
• Take photos of your home before and after a storm. This documentation will be key when submitting an insurance claim based on storm damage.
• Be aware of scam repair companies. Following a major storm, as repair companies offer their services, companies that are not legitimate prey upon homeowners who neglect to do their research.

Be sure to report all claims and damage to your insurance company.  Your insurance agent will assist you in determining coverage and ways to mitigate storm damage, such as contacting a storm damage restoration company in Des Moines. 

Roof Damage Caused by Storms in Des Moines 

Roofs on homes in Des Moines undergo extensive wear and tear during ever-changing weather conditions, whether it is harsh sunlight, strong winds, hail or heavy rainfall throughout the year. 

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW - Reopening Tips for Businesses in Des Moines

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

Utilizing the services of a company like SERVPRO of Des Moines NW will ensure that your business is thoroughly treated and sanitized.

During these uncertain times, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW has been included in the list of "Essential Workers" by the Department of Homeland Security, thus allowing us to continue to provide mitigation, restoration and disinfection services. The health of our employees, customers and community have remained our top priority as we've continued our day-to-day operations.

As Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds gives the green light for other establishments across the state to re-open, it's important for businesses to first consider cleanliness and safety.

Iowa businesses will be required to follow several guidelines to re-open, including operating at limited capacity, having hand sanitizer/washing stations available and practicing social distancing. Along with these rules, we encourage business owners to consider the following measures to ensure a healthy environment:

• Provide visual reminders for staff and customers to social distance
• Allow the use of masks
• Ensure proper hand washing and “respiratory etiquette”
• Adjust leave policies for staff who are ill or have been in the proximity of a suspected case
• Continually clean and disinfect workstations and shared areas

Utilizing the services of a company like SERVPRO of Des Moines NW will ensure that your business is thoroughly treated and sanitized. If this is not an option, encourage employees to disinfect their areas and other high-touch surfaces, including phones, light switches, door handles and computers. 

Over the last several months, we have answered the call from numerous businesses in the Des Moines area, from a Fortune 500 company to small start-ups.  We were pleased to provide services to those at the front lines in Des Moines, like our local first responders, as well as those agencies most vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic in long-term care facilities.   We have had the opportunity to clean and disinfect facilities, keep employees safe, minimize business interruption, and promote best practices going forward. 

While SERVPRO of Des Moines NW has years of experience with biological and chemical contaminants, the Covid-19 pandemic has created a new normal. With this, SERVPRO has introduced “SERVPRO Certified Clean,” a new defensive pathogen cleaning program.  Businesses that are “SERVPRO Certified Clean” reflect their commitment to the safety and well-being of their employees and customers through proactive and preventative cleaning. The “SERVPRO Certified Clean” treatment can occur on a one-time basis, or as often as needed for any business. SERVPRO of Des Moines NW will continue to provide a professional deep clean with an EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade disinfectant in accordance with the standards set by the CDC. 

We encourage our community to commit to the proper guidelines, consider the tips provided herein and remember that SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is here to help.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW Gives Back to Our First Responders

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Today SERVPRO of Des Moines NW had the opportunity to give back to some of our local first responders! First Responders like those at the Polk County Sheriff's Office put their health and safety at risk every day for our community. At SERVPRO, we want to support and recognize our first responders for their service and sacrifice during these uncertain times.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is donating our services to those on the front lines during the Covid-19 pandemic. By cleaning and sanitizing First Responder vehicles, we are offering a proactive solution to help keep our local Police, Fire and EMS vehicles safe. We want to show our appreciation for all they do for us here in our community and all over the nation.

We are providing a ULV mist of the entire vehicle as well as a wipe down of all high touch areas with a hospital grade disinfectant approved by the CDC for COVID-19 cleanup.

If you're a first responding agency in the Des Moines area in need of this service we encourage you to give SERVPRO of Des Moines NW a call at 515-986-3711 or email office@SERVPROdesmoinesnw.com. We look forward to the opportunity to personally thank all of our First Responders and are here to help!

Reducing the Transmission of Pathogens - COVID-19

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Des Moines NW 515-986-3711

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes and What to Do to Unfreeze Them

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Water bursting through frozen pipes is a common sight in homes during periods of very cold weather. You’d be surprised how many calls water damage restoration companies, such as SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, get every winter to restore properties that are affected by frozen pipes. Check out how pipes freeze, how to prevent pipes from freezing, and how to unfreeze pipes — and avoid water damage before it’s too late:

Why do pipes freeze?

Pipes are especially vulnerable to damage caused by expanding water. Water lines that freeze are usually exposed to severe cold, such as outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, or water sprinkler lines. In addition, pipes in unheated interior areas such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, and kitchen cabinets, and those that run against exterior walls with little or no insulation are also susceptible to freezing.

Several variables contribute to frozen pipes:

• The type of building construction
• The quality and quantity of insulation
• The decline in temperature
• The direction and force of the wind
• Other weather-related conditions are all contributing factors

Furthermore, buildings that have a poor design and do not withstand severe weather sufficiently can contribute to their own damage. The type and age of the plumbing system is also a factor. Rust or corrosion weakens pipes, making leaks more likely to occur. When freeze-expansion occurs, corroded pipes will often split open. When thawing begins or when the water is turned back on, damage can occur.

During the renovation of older homes, blown-in or foam insulation is sometimes added to wall cavities between interior and exterior wall surfaces and between studs. This process may actually insulate heat away from pipes adjacent to the exterior wall surfaces, making them more susceptible to freezing.

Surprisingly, pipe freezing can be a particular problem in the warmer climates of southern states. In these areas, buildings may not be adequately constructed for cold weather conditions. Pipes often run through non-insulated or under-insulated attics, crawl spaces, or walls. If the temperature drops below freezing for even a day, these pipes may freeze and break.

Damage generally occurs when the water supply is turned back on. Since most modern plumbing lines are inside walls, homeowners usually observe a leak only after water has damaged floors, carpet, walls, or ceilings. Occasionally, an occupant hears the sound of spraying water, but by then it may be too late. The leak has already caused some degree of damage.

Pipes can also freeze during a power outage. Winter wind, snow, and ice storms frequently damage electric power lines and equipment, resulting in interruptions of electric power. Most heating systems depend on electricity, and when the power goes off, so does the heat. In severe cold weather, this can result in extensive freeze damage before power is restored.

How water pipes freeze

Water is a unique substance. As with most materials, when water cools, its density increases, and it settles to the bottom of a container. However, at 32' F, it expands and, therefore, its density decreases! This is why ice floats.

This expansion increases the volume of water by about 11% and creates tremendous pressure on its container (between 50,000 and 114,000 psi). Such containers include metal and plastic pipes. No matter the strength of a material, expanding water will cause it to break.

Frozen water pipes can result in significant to extreme water damage, and the cost to repair is often huge! The following tips can help you prevent pipes from freezing and thaw those that are already frozen.

How to prevent pipes from freezing

• Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer’s or installer’s directions. Avoid putting antifreeze in these lines if possible (keeping in mind that antifreeze is environmentally harmful, and is very dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping).
• Drain your plumbing system thoroughly. If water lines sag or bow, there may be low spots that are difficult to drain completely. To be most effective, use compressed air to blow out the lines. If not properly done, some amount of water will remain in the low points of the lines that can freeze.
• Disconnect, drain, and store hoses used outdoors. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Remember to keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break.
• Check in the basement, crawl space, attic, garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets where water supply lines are located in unheated areas.
• Insulate both hot and cold water pipes in these areas to help prevent freezing. Use specific products for insulating water pipes like a “pipe sleeve” or installing UL-listed heat tape, heat cable, or similar materials on exposed water pipes.
• Allow a faucet in your home to drip slightly. Moving water (even a drip) will help prevent pipes from freezing.
• During cold winter weather, keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals out of the reach of children.

When leaving home for more than a few days

If you plan to be away from home for an extended period during cold weather:

• Leave the heat on in your home. Set it to a temperature no lower than 55° F.
• Shut off the water supply and drain pipes or appliances.
• Leave all taps open once you’ve shut off the main water supply. If the home loses power, the open valves will help prevent pipes from bursting. Also, shutting off the master valve will ensure that even if there is a break, the result will be minor, compared to an open line running wild!
• Even if you do all the above, arrange for a neighbor to walk through your home once each day – just to help monitor against unforeseen events.
  • Have emergency numbers handy such as a plumber, electrician, roofer, and SERVPRO of Des Moines NW in case something does go wrong.
• Have your HVAC system serviced by a professional.
• Before leaving, turn off your water heater. (See owner’s manual for procedures.)
• Install storm windows and/or close shutters to keep in the heat.
• Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water drainage.
• Service your sump pump to ensure proper operation. Adding a backup power source is prudent.
• Unplug all nonessential electric appliances.
• Inform local police if you will be out of town.

How to unfreeze pipes

• Locate the Frozen Pipe – If you’re not sure which pipe is frozen, turn on all faucets in your home. Check which faucet isn’t releasing water at all or just a trickle. The pipe leading to that faucet is likely frozen. Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.
• Turn on the Faucet – Once you’ve located the frozen pipe, open the faucet leading to the frozen pipe. Open both the hot and cold handles. This will allow water to flow once you start thawing the pipe.
• Start Thawing Near the Faucet – When thawing a frozen pipe, the best practice is to start closer to the faucet then work your way down to the frozen section. If you start closer to the blockage, the melting ice could get stuck behind the blockage. This creates more pressure in the pipe and increases the chances of the pipe breaking.
• Thawing Exposed Pipes – There are several ways to thaw pipes that you can access:
  • Point a hairdryer at the frozen pipe, starting near the faucet. Follow proper safety precautions for the dryer and don’t come in contact with water when using the dryer.
  • Wrap hot towels, which have been dipped in hot water, around the frozen pipe. This method is slower but potentially safer than the ones above.
  • Apply electric heat tape directly to the pipe. This tape insulates the pipe, defrosting it. You can leave the heat tape on the pipe and turn it on/off when you need to.
• Thawing Enclosed Pipes – You can thaw pipes that you don’t have direct access to in different ways:
  • Turn the heat up in your home and wait until the increased interior temperature thaws out the frozen pipe.
  • Position an infrared lamp in front of the portion of the wall where the frozen pipe is located. The heat from the lamp could penetrate the wall and help the pipe defrost.
  • As a last resort, cut out the section of the drywall in front of the frozen pipe to easily access it. You can then use one of the methods for thawing exposed pipes.
• Know the Risks:
  • When trying to thaw a frozen pipe yourself using a heat source, you run the risk of injury and fire.
  • Make sure to take proper safety measures when using electrical equipment.
  • In addition, if you don’t start thawing near the faucet, the pipe could burst and cause water to flow into your home.
  • Also, do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame devices!
• After pipes have thawed, turn off all water to faucets and the ice maker, and monitor the water meter for any unseen leaks.

What to do if a pipe bursts

If a pipe bursts, shut off the water at the main valve. Call a plumber (keep an emergency number nearby for quick access). Then call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW to evaluate and remediate  any water damage that occurred. Our technicians stand ready to provide water damage restoration services to your property 24/7.

Known as the “Paramedics of Property Damage®,” SERVPRO of Des Moines NW provides fire and smoke damage remediation, water damage remediation, flood water removal, mold removal, and biohazard cleanup to commercial and residential customers. SERVPRO of Des Moines NW technicians are thoroughly screened, insured, and trained in utilizing the latest in mitigation technology and procedures, while operating under a strict code of ethics. Each SERVPRO office is independently owned and operated.  Remember, call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW for all your restoration jobs.

Three Tips For Starting The Commercial Construction Process

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

One of the most intimidating parts of starting or expanding a business is the commercial construction that will need to be done. This alone is enough to discourage many people from ever taking the leap and starting their own business. This doesn’t have to be the case! Our team of construction experts at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW are experienced in all types of commercial construction and are committed to providing you with the best construction experience possible. For anyone considering beginning a commercial construction job, here are a few helpful tips.

Find The Right Contractor

The first step in any commercial construction job is to find the right contractor. Because this is such a critical step, you should take your time to make your decision. Along with online research, you should also look for referrals from friends and family. You may also want to call a couple different contractors to get a feel of how they will work for you. Basically, don’t jump in headfirst with a contractor until you have done your research and feel confident that they are the right fit for you. Working for a contractor you can trust will significantly diminish the amount of stress and worry you feel throughout the construction process.

Get An Estimate

Unless you are very experienced in the construction industry, it can be very difficult to calculate an accurate projection for how much the job should cost on your own. There is just so much that goes into the construction process like costs of labor, materials, permits, and so on. Thus, getting an estimate is an important step because it will give you a solid idea of the expected cost of your project.

Work With Your Lender

Just like finding the right contractor, finding the right lender is an important beginning step in commercial construction. Even if you have been a loyal customer of a specific bank or credit union for a long time, don’t take it for granted that they are the right choice to be your lender. The main criteria when selecting a lender is the annual percentage rate of charge (APR) they offer. The lower the APR you can find the better. The only way to be sure that you are finding the best deal is to apply to several different banks or credit unions. In the ideal scenario, you get lucky and find a great deal for existing customers of a bank that you are a member of, or a great deal for new customers at a different bank.

Undertaking a commercial construction job for your growing business may be an intimidating endeavor, but don’t let that hold you back. Our team at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is here to provide you with the quality and service you are looking for in a commercial contractor. We hope you have found the tips above to be helpful and that you don’t hesitate to give us a call for any future construction jobs.  Call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, we will make it "Like it never even happened."

You Have Suffered a Commercial Loss, Now What??

12/13/2019 (Permalink)

7 Reasons You Should Choose SERVPRO of Des Moines NW

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

7 Reasons to choose SERVPRO of Des Moines NW for your Home or Commercial Clean up / Restoration

1. 24-Hour Emergency Response

Timely mitigation is key to controlling damage, downtime and recovery costs. You and those who depend on your facility will appreciate the rapid response, and the training of your SERVPRO of Des Moines NW team will help limit damage and get your facility back in operation quickly. You can count on SERVPRO’s nationwide coverage, full line of restoration services, and the 1-4-8 service guidelines to help make you look good.

2. Communication

You’ll know what’s happening every step of the way. From the first telephone call within the first hour following damage notification, until the job is complete, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW professionals are dedicated to effectively communication with property owners and managers. You will be aware of job status and the progress towards project completion.

Jobs are documented with itemized estimates, digital photographs, signed work authorization forms and regular proves reports. SERVPRO of Des Moines NW professionals, utilizing technology developed for documenting insurance claims, electronically collect and store project information which is accessible to you via secure email link 24-hours. Upon project completion, a signed customer satisfaction form is the final piece of information entered into the file.

3. Reduce Recovery Time

When fire, water or mold damage strikes a commercial facility, it has a negative impact on everyone – the owner, the management team, employees, tenants, and even customers. Even small fire or water damages must be addressed quickly in order to limit secondary damage and to lessen business interruption.

Your SERVPRO of Des Moines NW professionals understand the urgency in responding to your facility following a disaster. By arriving quickly mitigation damage to the structure and contents, and providing effective cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW will help you reopen the doors as soon as possible.

4. Lower Recovery Cost

 Emergency Mitigation Services Help Minimize Secondary Damages.

SERVPRO’s 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines help to ensure timely communication and response. Quick and accurate response can minimize loss expense from secondary damages.

Proper Restoration Versus Replacement of Contents is Less Expensive.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW professionals strive to restore items to preloss condition. This helps lower mitigation ad restoration cost while allowing treasure belongings to be salvaged when possible.

Faster Recovery Lessens Loss.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW professionals are nearby, ready to respond quickly. The faster restoration begins, the quicker our customers can return to business.

Pre-Approved Pricing and Procedures

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW professionals will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. We will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to help ensure the property is taken care of right the fir time.

5. Emergency Response Profile

Like most commercial properties, your facility probably has an emergency exit plan in place, with illuminated signs leading occupants to safety, and even facility maps strategically placed to identify alternate routes out of the building. But have you developed a thorough Contingency Plan? Is emphasis on the first 24-48 hours, to help you get back in your building as possible?

Your SERVPRO of Des Moines NW professionals can provide you assistance in developing an Emergency Response Profile. As part of a well-thought-out Contingency Plan, Your Emergency Response Profile will contain information you will need in the event an emergency situation occurs.

An added advantage to utilizing your SERVPRO of Des Moines NW professionals in the development of your Emergency Response Profile is the opportunity to coordinate a preferred provider relationship including pre-arranged pricing and procedures for handling emergency response for your facility before damages occurs.

6. Full line of Services

Utilizing the right equipment and supplies, a SERVPRO of Des Moines NW professional can handle all of your cleanup needs, such as fire, water and mold restoration services; SERVPRO of Des Moines NW provides cleanup services for those special needs that surpass the capabilities of your regular maintenance staff.

7. A National Leader in Storm Response… Help When You Need It Most!

In the event of a major catastrophe, the SERVPRO system has a nationwide Large Loss Response Team comprised of trained and equipped professionals capable of responding to your facility. While most systems have a waiting list, you get priority service with SERVPRO of Des Moines NW. Call today to find out how.

Each of SERVPRO’s over 1,800 nationwide franchises is independently owned and operated by trained professionals committed to providing the highest level of emergency cleanup and restoration services and customer satisfaction. What this means to you, the commercial property owner or manager, is that should fire, water or mold damage occur in local facilities or a facility across the country, a SERVPRO professional will provide quality professional services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

SERVPRO's Storm Response

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Storm Response

The team here at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is ready for whatever happens, no matter the time, night or day. When it comes to fire & water damage, our professionals work endlessly to make sure our customers are happy and that we walk them through each step of the cleaning process.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As leaders in the storm and water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-storm condition.

We're Quick to Any Size Disaster

When a storm hits your home or business, you need help immediately. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

We can access the resources and personnel of 1,700 Franchises to handle major storms and disasters. We also have access to special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to catastrophic storms and events.

Locally Owned and Operated

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a storm event or flooding emergency, we are in the area and ready to help!

How to Survive a Large Commercial Loss

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Large commercial property loss is a facility manager’s nightmare. The sudden occurrence of water damage from a burst pipe, the horror of a fire, the devastation from a hurricane cause your business and operations to cease. How do you survive such a large, catastrophic property loss? Will you be able to stay in business? How will you serve your customers? What happens to your employees?

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is your large loss expert. With over 40 years of experience in large commercial loss from mold, fires, and water damage, we’ve amassed knowledge, equipment, and project management techniques that have helped thousands of businesses survive large loss. We can help you, too.

What is Large Loss, and Why Does it Matter?

Large loss can be defined by the dollar amount of the claim (over $50,000), the facility size, the square footage of the building affected, or the number of floors affected by the loss.

Large loss affects any facility in any industry including hospitality, health care, retail,manufacturing, property management, and schools. Large loss can demolish a mom & pop shop or devastate a global corporate operation by halting operations, displacing occupants, and threatening to shut down your business. No one is exempt from the threat of large loss, but there are strategies you can employ to ensure business continuity and swift recovery. Knowing and executing these strategies is vital to surviving large commercial property loss.

How to Prepare for Large Loss 

In order to survive a large commercial property loss from fire, mold, or water damage, pre-planning is paramount. Take advantage of SERVPRO's Emergency Response Program which includes:

Emergency Respose:SERVPRO of Des Moines NW will work with you to create an Emergency Response Plan for your unique property. This plan allows us to gather advanced knowledge before disaster strikes so that our team is ready to work with your team to mitigate promptly and efficiently.

Pre Disaster Walk Through:  Your SERVPRO project manager will visit your facility and identify any areas of vulnerability as well as gain familiarity with ‘the lay of the land’ to speed response and recovery maneuvers.

Priority Response: As an Emergency Response Plan (ERP) Client, you are our priority in the event of a wide-spread weather event such as a tornado or a huge rain storm. We’ll have a crew on site within 2 hours of your call (usually sooner than that). Catastrophic weather affects large populations - you want to be first in line to begin mitigation and repairs. 

How to Survive a Large Loss:

When the inevitable, devastating large loss occurs, what actually happens?How does SERVPRO ensure the survival of your business operations? Each loss is different owing to the type of property disaster (water damage, fire and smoke damage, and wind damage) and the industry affected. 

When you call SERVPRO, a project manager will return your call promptly and have a crew on-site within 2 hours or less. It’s vital to call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW right away to avoid costly delays from further, secondary damage.

 An assessment will be made; the first actions will be the safety of occupants and security of your property. Compleat’s safety assessment and emergency response can include: board up of areas exposed by fire or wind damage such as walls, doors, and windows. SERVPRO can also erect security fencing to protect against injuries or intruders.

Next, SERVPRO will initiate emergency mitigation.  In case of a huge water damage, we’ll employ large scale drying response techniques with drying equipment. Choosing SERVPRO to mitigate your large loss means that you have access to our huge capacity and selection of water mitigation equipment to extract large volumes of water and dry any type of structure. 

SERVPRO will help you with business continuity during the loss and arrange removal and recovery of affected contents. Should you need temporary storage of equipment or contents, we can assist with arrangements. Temporary operations and office space can be secured so that you can continue to service your valuable customers during the disruption.

Meanwhile, we’re working with your insurance adjuster to expedite your claim. Your project manager will be onsite frequently with support staff to manage the large loss details. While the mitigation is proceeding, plans for reconstruction are being made and those materials and trades such as electrical, drywall, and plumbing are arranged for you. Building permits will be obtained on your behalf so that rebuilding can begin quickly.

As a SERVPRO client, you will be apprised of all of these details. Communication is integral to surviving large commercial property loss and SERVPRO has the tools to accomplish transparent communication with you.

More Than Just Surviving Large Loss

Commercial large loss is overwhelming, but with SERVPRO of Des Moines NW as your strategic large loss partner, you have pre-planning resources to avoid or minimize damage, in-loss response and resources, and our expert coaching and support along the way. Many business owners have been enriched by the relationship with SERVPRO during a large loss and emerge with renewed business vigor and success. Don’t just survive large loss - thrive!

Prepare to Survive and Thrive!

We sincerely hope that you never experience a commercial large loss but unfortunately, it’s not usually “if”, it’s “when”. Prepare to survive, prepare to thrive with SERVPRO by securing your Emergency Response Plan. Give us a call or contact us today to get started. SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, "Like it never even happened".

How to Remove Smoke Damage the Proper Way

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

Obviously, the smell of smoke is caused by a fire. There’s truth in the saying “where there’s smoke, there’s fire,” after all. Now, the smell of smoke could be caused by a fire in your kitchen because you forgot to turn off the stove. It could be burnt food because your partner can’t cook to save his/her life. It could be smoke from a cigar or cigarette. A smoke smell can be from extinguished candles or incense.

It can even be from your friendly neighbor who is nice enough to burn something right outside your open window. It doesn’t really matter what the source is (though you do need to locate the source for safety purposes, ok?) because it all boils down to one thing – the smell sticks to your house and belongings like glue. And eliminating that smell is just a small part of the problem.

Any kind of smoke that is caused by burning carbon-based materials such as wood, paper, oil, gas, or food can produce carbon monoxide. If you don’t know this yet, this is an odorless, colorless gas that kills hundreds of people each year. Of course, small amounts are not enough to cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

But you should note that lots of household appliances produce this gas, particularly those found in your kitchen so adding to that small amount isn’t going to do your health any favors. That’s not all. Burning organic substances also produce polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that are believed to be carcinogenic. It’s pretty safe to say that it’s important that you don’t just eliminate the smell, you’ll need to make sure that the air that you’re breathing no longer contains these particles.

HOW TO ELIMINATE SMOKE ODOR IN HOUSE

When it comes to smoke odor removal, there are several options available. Some may use scented candles, air fresheners, and sprays to get rid of smoke odor or any kind of unpleasant smell.

However, they’ll soon realize that there is only so much scented candles or sprays can do for the problem. In fact, they can make matters worse, as they simply combine with the smoke smell and leave behind something quite unpleasant. Even opening your windows and letting fresh (read that as also polluted) air in won’t be getting rid of the smoke odor completely.

A lot of people believe that a good scrub will be enough to get rid of the smell of smoke in a house. And they’re right in a sense. You can scrub your walls plus your ceilings with ammonia and water to get rid of the smell of smoke, especially if it was just a small amount and the room wasn’t exposed too long to the smoke. You probably won’t be able to smell it anymore. However, it won’t be cleaning something more important – the air you breathe.

Vinegar and baking sodas are natural odor neutralizers and another good option. You can place some vinegar in the room and baking soda in the carpet to start eliminating the smell of smoke. It’s going to work but it’ll take time and several repeats to get the smell completely out.

While using these may be tedious, they’re a lot cheaper than choosing a professional. In fact, if the smoke particles have had time to sink into the upholstery, curtains, and even your clothes, washing them with vinegar and baking soda is your best bet.

But vinegar and baking soda still leave one problem behind – the remaining invisible-to-the-naked-eye smoke particles still hanging around in the air. Plus, since you used ammonia in cleaning the heck out of your walls and ceilings, you may have now added chemical fumes to your indoor air. The world is such a scary place, ain’t it? But there’s no need to panic. Take a deep breath (or not) and calm yourself. There is a way out of this dilemma.

THE REAL SMOKE ODOR EXTERMINATOR

While all the other solutions we gave are handy, they won’t completely clean your environment of harmful gases and chemical fumes. The next step to ensure that your indoor air quality is top-notch is to get yourself an air scrubber.

What is an air scrubber? Well, it’s a portable air filtration system that makes use of a series of filters to capture contaminants in the air and recirculate the clean air in an enclosed space.

Air scrubbers come in a variety of sizes with different features and capabilities. But most of them will operate using the same basic principle – the motor will power a blower or fan that will draw in the air, letting them pass through the filters.

The first stage is the pre-filter stage where the large particles in the air are trapped. The second stage will contain a carbon filter which captures the gas and vapor molecules – the odors that we smell including the harmful smoke particles in the air. The third and final stage is the primary filter which is a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter, able to capture 99.97% of particles in the air that can be as small as 0.3 micrometers.

Once it passes through all three filters, the decontaminated air will be exhausted. What all that means is that the smell, as well as the source of the smell, is completely eliminated. It’s not masked. It’s also not just decreased to undetectable amounts, it’s completely gone.

Take note that an air scrubber “scrubs” the air. Any smoke particles that get trapped in the surfaces of walls and inside fabric will remain there. Which is why you’ll still need to use a little elbow grease to wash away the smell of smoke on your belongings.

Aside from the fact that an air scrubber will clean your air of smoke particles, is there any other benefit to getting one? Good question. There are, actually. First of all, using an air scrubber gets your air clean in a few minutes. You don’t have to do anything but plug it into a power source, place it where the smoke is most concentrated, and switch it on. You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to operate this machine.

The second benefit is that it doesn’t only filter out smoke odors. It also filters out mold, dust, pollen, and pet dander. Any particles that could potentially trigger any allergies are eliminated along with the smoke. And the ultimate benefit of an air scrubber is a simple fact that you can “clean” your air every so often. Indoor air pollution is no joke. Just ask the EPA While smoke odor may be the impetus you needed to get this cool tool, it won’t be the last time you’ll be needing it. That’s for sure.

CLEAN AIR, THE NATURAL WAY

Aside from adding an air scrubber to your arsenal, you might be delighted to know that you can also do one more thing to help continuously improve the indoor air quality of your home.

Based on research conducted by NASA and the Associated Landscape Contractors Of America, several common indoor plants are able to remove certain chemicals that can be found in our homes such as trichloroethylene (adhesives, paints, printing inks), formaldehyde (paper bags, facial tissues, paper towels, synthetic fabrics), benzene (detergents, dyes, drugs, pesticides), ammonia (window cleaners, smelling salts, floor waxes), and xylene (leather, rubber). So, if you love plants and indoor gardening, you might want to add this to your list of must-haves.

Taking out unpleasant odors in your home, particularly smoke odors, isn’t easy. And if you don’t act fast, you may end up replacing beloved items that are no longer salvageable. Fortunately, technology and nature have made it possible for us to get rid of this pain-in-the-ass smell and breathe quality indoor air. Now, if only we can do something about outside air…call SERVPRO Of Des Moines for all air quality needs!

Why You Should Call A Professional

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

When my husband and I bought our first home, I can’t express the overwhelming feeling we had.  We had finally quit throwing our hard earned money out the window on rent and finally had a place to call our own!  A place that we could watch our 3 kids grow into young adults, a place that we could paint the walls whatever color we would like, finally being able to hang our family pictures to the wall instead of trusting the silly putty wall hangers because we couldn’t put nails in the wall and get our deposit back.  Your home is your castle, whether it’s a one bedroom one bath starter home that you bought to start your journey in life, or it’s the dream home that you built after years of hard work.  You see, it doesn’t matter whether it’s your first or the 100^th home you’ve owned, when you pull in the driveway you can’t help but feel pride in ownership.  So I find myself trying to answer this question; what would drive you as a homeowner to trust SERVPRO of Des Moines NW to restore your castle after a disaster? 

Here are a few reasons why I would trust our crew in my castle:

Culture

At SERVPRO of Des Moines NW we believe in treating every home or business we step foot into as if it were our own.  One of our company goals is to treat everyone and everything as you would if it was our family going through this loss.  It doesn’t matter if it’s a small stain on the carpet or three feet of raw sewage in a basement, we will treat your loss with the utmost respect and professionalism.

Communication

At SERVPRO of Des Moines NW we know that communication is key. When you experience a loss in your home, you have many questions.   It is our goal to have someone available to answer your questions right away.  We want you to know that as our customer, we work for you, not the other way around.  We have worked hard to develop our brand in the city as the company that works for you! 

You and your insurance company will be informed every step of the way.  We always work on an approval only basis.  This means that we will only do the work that you as the homeowner and/or your insurance company has approved.  We want to make sure this process is as smooth and painless as possible. 

Dry First

At SERVPRO of Des Moines NW we believe in Applied Structural Drying.  In simple terms, we do not want to come into your house and just start tearing things apart.  We have invested a lot of time and assets into equipment, training, and tools that allow us to dry the structure with minimal disruption.  If there is a way to extract and mitigate the damage without tearing out floors and/or walls, we have the equipment and knowledge to do it.  By doing this, we minimize the disruption of your life and more importantly keep the overall cost of the loss down.

Highly Trained Specialists

Since first opening the doors in 1967, training has been the backbone of SERVPRO success nationwide.  In Des Moines, this is something that is very important to us as a company. 

Faster to Any Size Disaster

A fast response is crucial!  An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. Our Technicians arrive fast and start the extraction right away.  The faster we can extract and stabilize, the fewer things become damaged.

At SERVPRO we utilize the 1-4-8 method when responding to emergencies.  Within the first hour you will receive a follow-up call from our team, letting you know our estimated arrival.  Within the first 4 hours, we will arrive on-site ready to start mitigating the loss.  Within the first eight hours, we will have a job scope verbally communicated to the property owner.

Before and After the Storm, What To Do

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

With hurricane season here, it's very smart to prepare your home and yourself and loved ones ahead of time in order to minimize any damage that you might incur. From gathering the correct hurricane supplies, to evaluating your home insurance policies so you know how they cover storm damage, we've got a guide here to help you navigate what to do both before a storm hits…and after the storm has gone and went.

While it's never good to obsessively worry about the absolute worst happening, it's always good to be prepared ahead of time so if your area is hit by a hurricane, you know that you already have a plan in place.

Make Sure You Have The Correct Hurricane Supplies

As you're preparing for a hurricane, keep this list of supplies handy that way you have everything you need before the first weatherman even breaks the bad news that a storm is headed your way. This is especially helpful just in case you need to evacuate. Waiting until the last minute may only have you waiting in long lines with other panicked neighbors…only to find out that the store is sold out of what you need.

1. Have hurricane kits full of your supplies and make sure they're in a suitcase or even a plastic tub.
2. These kits should have:

• First aid kit
• 3- day supply of non-perishable food
• Batteries & flashlights
• Plenty of water gallons for each person
• Clothing
• Blankets
• Maps of your area
• Whistle
• Can opener (manual) for food
• Dust mask
• Sleeping bags

You may also want additional items, like contact lens solutions, extra contacts, glasses, prescription medications or formula or baby food, as well as sanitary items like tampons, etc.

Being prepared is never foolish or over-the top: it's smart.

Preparing For A Hurricane: Preventative Measures

First things, first: do you live in a hurricane evacuation area?

If you don't know the answer to that question, you need to find out. Your local government will be able to tell you if you are and also, what their evacuation plans are. Knowing this ahead of time will prevent you from panicking when and if you need to actually evacuate.

Bonus tip: if you are in a high rise or mobile home, have a plan to evacuate even if you're not in an area that is defined as an evacuation zone.

The next big one? Check your insurance coverage so you know how they handle hurricane damage to homes.

 What should you look for or have?

• Whether you're renting or you own, be sure that your home or rental insurance covers for flooding
• Know your policy inside and out, so you know what to expect in case your home ends up very damaged or destroyed
• Do a review of your home: is your roof in good shape? What about your home's structure? Do you have anything in your yard that could be a hazard in a storm?

After The Storm: Hurricane Damage To Homes

If your home is damaged by a hurricane, here are some tips to handling this stressful event:

1. Check your home before entering with caution and wear protective gear from goggles to work gloves and a mask in case there are any issues with mold, asbestos, etc.
2. If you smell gas or there is a downed powerline near your house, don't enter!
3. Call your insurance company once your home is safe to enter so an adjuster can evaluate the situation.
4. Do call a reputable storm damage cleanup company to help you get through this tragedy. Do not try to manage this on your own. The reality is you are not an expert and by trying to take a project on like that by yourself, you will end up frustrated. Research ahead of time to discover a company you can trust.

The bottom line is Mother Nature is not predictable, and while hurricanes and storms are very stressful, with common sense, a plan and the help of a reputable, honest, professional, and patient company, SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is the one you should call!

Why Should You Test For Mold?

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

There are thousands of reasons to start your search for the best mold restoration company. But if we put things into place, you wouldn’t need more than a few simple reasons to check for mold in your home or office. Remember that you spend most of your lifetime at your home. The second most important space in your life is probably your office.

If you are a business owner, you wouldn’t require changing space every five years. That suggests you need to take care of the areas you belong to. You wouldn’t want your home to deteriorate, and your office to turn into an unattended Our surrounding environment has the most active impact on our well-being. While a toxic surrounding can negatively impact our health and mind, the opposite shall be noticed when the environment is clean and fresh.  Mold concerns your health, Our surrounding environment has the most active impact on our well-being. While a toxic surrounding can negatively impact our health and mind, the opposite shall be noticed when the environment is clean and fresh.  Microscopic mold, comes in various avatars. A scientist can detect a minimum of million species of mold. However, in reality, only a fraction of them have already shown themselves to mankind. It’s fortunate that only the preliminary 1000 mold types are actually harmful to humans and their pets. And guess what? They all flourish under indoor environments.  The most common spaces are the damped areas that are never wiped. It starts with a single cell, and with significant pace, mold starts multiplying until either you remove it, or it deteriorates the beauty of your home. Mold can peel off the wall paint, and even crumble up insulation.  If you live in a region that is prone to heavy downpour, call SERVPRO Of Des Moines NW to help remove mold forming in your home or office.

Is There Water Damage To Your Ceiling?

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Water spots on the ceiling don’t automatically mean the roof is leaking. Often the stain is not from a roof failure but from drips in the attic from condensation on pipes. Many water lines converge up there: upstairs hot water heaters, plumbing, A/C lines. Tiny cracks allow slow leaks up in the attic crawl space which lead to stains on the ceiling. Be aware of: 

• Musty odors
• Discolored growths
• Stains, streaks, shadows
• Peeling ceiling or wall surfaces

Even if your ceiling does not look too bad now, it doesn’t take much water to create a disaster. A red flag that your ceiling is at risk of failure are depressions around the fasteners; you will see tiny dimples forming on the ceiling because the drywall encompassing the nails or screws droops, leaving an inverted crater.  So, if you feel you might have water or mold damage to your ceilings, give SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW a call!

Storm Damage Prevention Tips

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Even the smallest cracks in the foundation walls can let water inside your home. So, in order to avoid basement flooding and water damage to your property during a storm, you need to make sure the house foundations are completely waterproof. Inspect the foundation walls for cracks and make any necessary repairs before a major storm hits your area:

Small cracks can be sealed with caulk designed to repair masonry; There is no doubt that keeping your property in excellent condition – well maintained and well protected (against intruders and thieves, as well as against the elements) – is your top priority as a homeowner. But while you may be living in a safe neighborhood or city where crime is not an issue, you cannot escape the weather, no matter where your home is – severe storms can happen anywhere in the country, throughout the year. Whether it’s a violent thunderstorm, hailstorm, snowstorm, hurricane, tornado, or any other natural disaster, your home can be badly damaged by the adverse weather conditions.

There is nothing you can do to stop a storm from hitting your area, of course, but there are many precautions you can take to minimize and even prevent the potential damage to your home. Most of these preventive measures will help you not only avoid storm damage and costly repairs, but also upgrade your property and keep it in good condition.

Secure Your Home

First things first, to have a fighting chance against the elements, you need to fortify your fortress and make it as waterproof, wind-proof, and shutter-proof as possible.

Secure the Roof

A quality new roof should be able to withstand severe weather, but if your roof is 5-10 years old or older, it may need some reinforcement. Older roofs should be inspected at regular intervals so that any problem areas or leaks that could lead to water damage in the event of torrential rain are timely identified and properly taken care of before a storm hits:

• Check for loose shingles that can be blown off in a storm and secure them tightly in place with a heavy-duty adhesive;
• Replace any broken or damaged tiles as soon as you find them – consider installing ones rated as class 3 or 4 that have been proven to withstand harsh hail and heavy winds;
• Check for loose nails and sheathing that can cause chunks of roofing to be dislodged or create openings for water to enter the home;
• Make sure the chimney flashing is in good condition and the chimney can be tightly closed if necessary;
• Consider reinforcing the roof by having it retrofitted with brackets, bracing, clips or straps that are specifically designed to make it stronger.

Keep in mind that roofs that are over 20 years old can suddenly fail in a storm even if there were no apparent problems, so they should be replaced at the earliest opportunity.

Secure Doors and Windows

Doors and windows are more susceptible to storm damage than any other parts of the home, so they need special attention:

• Check doors for missing screws/bolts or loose hinges and fix any problems you find without delay;
• Fit keyhole covers in front of door locks to keep rainwater and snow outside;
• Use weather-stripping to seal doors and windows that don’t close tightly;
• Apply caulk on both sides of windows to prevent water from seeping inside;
• Consider applying a durable clear plastic film on windows to prevent glass shards from blowing into your home in case the window is broken by strong winds;
• Install permanent shutters, such as roll-up or accordion shutters, to shield your windows from wind and debris during a storm (there are models for skylights, sliding glass doors, and garage doors as well);
• Replace the windows if you notice cracked or broken glass, condensation, or drafts in the home. When installing new windows, consider high-impact glass and double-paned models that provide better protection against storms.

These precautionary measures will not only help protect your home from storm damage, but will also considerably improve the thermal efficiency of the building (as they help insulate the home) and reduce your energy costs.

Secure the House Foundation

• Larger gaps should be fixed with the help of hydraulic cement.

• Inspect the Siding

• Any damage to the siding makes your home vulnerable to leaks and water damage, so you’re advised to check the exterior walls for cracks and holes at a regular basis and take quick and adequate measures to fix the problems (if you find any).
• Also, make sure that all the openings for pipes, wires, and ductwork in the walls, roof, and foundations of your home are well sealed and there are no gaps that could allow water to enter inside.
• Sewer and Drain Backup Coverage
• Sometimes a storm can lead to a sewer or drain backup which will result in standing water in your home.  A backup can cause significant indoor flooding and property damage and if the water is contaminated with sewage, it poses a major risk to your health.  Typically, homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover the damage caused by a drain or sewage backup.  Make sure you check your insurance policy to see if the damage from a backup is covered.  If not, you must purchase a separate rider to cover the damage.  It may cost a little more to add the rider, but this will better protect your home from flood damage.

WATER DAMAGE HAPPENS

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

The national average cost to remediate and restore a basement that has suffered water damage is $2,700. That doesn’t even begin to account for the cost of water damage to a roof or other parts of your home. Before we dive into the best way to protect your home from water damage, we need to know what causes water damage and how you can detect it. Knowing what to look for and when to expect damage gives you a heads up in the fight to keep your home safe. 

Here’s a list of the most common causes of water damage:

• Extreme weather events, including floods
• Pipes that have burst or are leaking 
• Malfunctioning appliances, such as dishwashers or washing machines
• Groundwater seepage through cracks in your foundation or walls
• Roof damage, such as missing shingles or cracked flashing   

  Signs of Water Damage

• Peeling paint
• Warping floors
• Ceilings and walls that show discoloration or sagging
• A strong, musty smell or mold
• Water pooling in your yard, particularly after a rain event.     

We’ll let you in on the secret. The absolute best way to protect your home from water damage is to properly maintain your home.  We’ll let you in on the secret. The absolute best way to protect your home from water damage is to properly maintain your home. 

• Inspect Your Roof

• Clean Your Gutters

• Caulk and Seal Windows 

• Check Your Pipes for Cracks or Corrosion

• Don’t Forget to Check the Basement

Accept that Water Damage Happens

The best way to protect your home from water damage is proper maintenance, but even this can’t always prevent water damage. No amount of preparedness can stop a flood. 

When water damage does happen, call the water damage experts to clean it up right and restore your home to its original condition. SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW will be there for you. 

Why Call A Professional Company For Your Disasters?

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Why should you call SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW when a fire breaks out or a storm floods your home or that you house is being taken over by mold?  It's very difficult being in this kind of disaster, but SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW has a very professional and friendly staff that can help things along and ease your mind.  Cleaning up a flooded basement is a lot of work, most of the time it's in the basement, so you have to haul it up stairs and out the door, then if it's a finished basement, we can pull up the carpet and pad, then use our equipment to dry out your home and then spray to prevent mold.  If your house isn't dried out properly, mold can show up in less than 48 hours and release spores into the air.  If you have been affected by the disasters of water, fire, or mold; let the professionals handle it, call SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW!

Disasters In Fires

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are a scary thing, You never know when they will occur.  At SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW we see a lot of major disasters.  When SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW gets a call from a very stressed and depressed customer, we gather our very professional and friendly team and make miracles happen.  If needed we can haul your salvageable contents to our shop, clean it and store it until we have your house "Like it never happened".  Our awesome team can rebuild and then Chem Sponge your whole house.  The Chem Sponge wil remove all the gross black soot that fires leave behind.  We also will remove all unsalvageables and make sure they are disposed of in an appropriate mannor and hauled away.  So, if you ever find yourself in this tragic situation, the SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW team is more than willing to help and make a bad situation better!

Flammable items in your home

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Dryer Fire

Some causes of household fires are rather obvious, but others? Not so much. Many of us knowingly keep flammable items in our homes, carrying on with our day to day lives and thinking to ourselves, “It won’t happen to me.” But a household fire can occur in literally any home with the right conditions and cause massive destruction. It only takes a bit of foresight to protect your home from the most common flammable items, so keep reading to hear about some flammable items to handle with care in your home.

 Your dryer

You’ve probably heard it before — your dryer, specifically, the lint, is a major fire hazard. If it builds up, backs up into the exhaust, and overheats, it’s a quick recipe for a house fire. In addition to being diligent about cleaning out your dryer’s lint trap before running each load, there are some other steps you can take to prevent dryer fire risk: don’t ever keep the exhaust vents covered or run your dryer overnight. This could result in a fire starting when you’re asleep. 

Your stove

Most people know to keep their stovetops clear of flammable items. Still, they often don’t keep these flammable items far enough away from the cooktop surface, and fires can occur as a result.

“So many home fires start in the kitchen. Keep cooking areas clear by removing flammable items such as cookbooks, towels, and potholders and leaving a space of at least three feet between your cooktop and the nearest item. Another key piece of advice? Never leave the stove unattended while you’re using it,” writes Amanda Hardin on CheatSheet.

Any antique electronics

It’s not at all uncommon for homeowners to hold onto sentimental or still functional electronics from decades ago. If you have an antique lamp, fan, or other electronic device, know that it’s very possible for it to have sustained damage to its internal wiring. This makes it a bigger risk when it comes to electronic fires. The only real way to mitigate this risk and keep the item is to have it professionally rewired, or simply use it as a decoration and keep it unplugged with a clear warning label on the wire.

 Candles

Almost everyone has some sort of candles in their home, and not many people see them as a fire risk. That being said, candles are actually a relatively common cause of housefires since they’re easily knocked over by pets or young children. Don’t ever burn a candle without a candle holder, keep the open flame far away from flammable items like furniture and curtains, and keep them up at a higher altitude to prevent the risk of them getting knocked over.

Space heaters

Finally, winter will be here in just a few short months, and though space heaters keep you warm and toasty, they’re also a major fire risk. It’s essential to keep your space heater at least three feet away from any and all flammable items, like furniture, bedding, stuffed animals, and carpets. Use them sparingly when possible.

Now that you’re aware of these common household fire risks, you can safely prepare for the upcoming season and keep your home safe.

Holiday Season

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

This time of year our industry is known for its fires.  Fires can happen at any moment SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW is ready to assist in any fire.  Our technicians have state of the art chambers at our facility to remove that horrible smell of soot off your contents.  In the even that you find yourself in a time of need with your belongings under siege, just know SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW can more than likely restore that valuable item.  SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW can also restore your structure to your home.  We specialize and take pride in our ability to put you back in your home as soon as possible.  SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW works with all insurance companies for your convenience.  If you have a fire SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW will put you back to where you need to be in a timely manner!

Flooded Business

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

Water main breaks are more prevalent during this time of year.  Many businesses struggle to find the right team or restoration company to help with the mess.  SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW understands what business need. Our fast response and efficient team members are certified and well trained to make sure your business is dried out accurately.

Our staff is professional, precise, and efficient at SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW.  We handle every disaster possible for commercial and residential.  Our commercial team brings their A game and is well trained and ready to accommodate any business large or small.  Our priority is your happiness. We will not be satisfied until you are satisfied.  That means when SERVPRO OF DES MOINES NW leaves your place of business you will call us again for any need, commercial or residential.

Warehouse flooded

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Warehouse flood.

We know that for any business and type of delay can be costly. We understand that here at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW. That's why as soon as we get the emergency call we are heading out to your business.  Not only do we do residential jobs we also do commercial jobs any thing from a small toilet leak all the way up to a fully flooded warehouse. Our shop is full of the latest equipment that will help us meet the needs of your business. 

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW has someone on call to answer the phones and take jobs 24 hours 7 days a week 365 days a year. We are an emergency restoration company which means if its happened to you its happened before so we know how to properly handle the situation. 

If you have a water loss, fire or have mold give us a call at 515-986-3711. Our company is located right here in Grimes so we are local. 

Home caught fire.

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

This home caught fire in February.

After your home catches fire and you and your family and pets are out of the home safely, you call the fire department. They show up put out the fire and leave. Then what? Call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW. We will take care of you and your home. 

After you or your insurance or corporate calls us,

• We receive the emergency call
• We call our crew of technicians 
• They pack up the trucks with the soot and smoke cleaning chemicals, equipment and head out.
• Our team shows up to your house and take an inventory and pictures of your home or business and all items effected.
• We remove all damaged items and bring them back to our shop to be cleaned by our team of professional cleaners.
• Our team of technicians start cleaning your home.
• Once the soot and smoke damage is cleaned from your home and all damaged walls and floors are taken care of we start our rebuild process if you choose to use us as your re-builders.

Basement floods after storm

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Basement floods after storm.

When you wake up to or come home to water rushing in your basement or standing water in your basement, your first instinct is to panic. And figure out the quickest most effective way to remove the water and stop mold spores from spreading and growing. Call us at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW.

What to do when there is standing water in your basement.

• Find out where the water is coming from.
• If its from a broken pipe or faulty foundation it will need to get fixed.
• Make sure there is no live electrical items in the water. If so shut the electricity off to the basement until you can get all of your belongings out of the water.
• Remove your belongings and decide what's savable and what's not. Start drying out the savable items.
• Pump out the water with a submersible water pump.
• Clean the walls and floor with anti-mold chemicals to kill any existing mold spores and prevent mold from spreading.
• Set up a dehumidifier and a few fans to dry your basement out. 

Water loss at an apartment

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

An apartment flooded.

Do you have a water loss in your apartment or apartment complex or condo? If the answer is yes then either you or your landlord can give us a call 515-986-3711. We are a 24/7 emergency mitigation company and when we receive your call we rush to the emergency call and remove the water and remove the damage and we will mitigate every apartment effected and we will also remodel the apartments to the way you like. 

At SERVPRO of Des Moines NW we are fully equipped and trained to be prepared for any job that comes across our desks. Our guys are highly trained in all areas from simple carpet cleanings to storm team jobs. 

Your business is very important to you and your family so trust the professionals who can get it done and make it "Like it never even happened."

What happens after you call SERVPRO?

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

This local business had water damage due to a pipe that broke.

After you or your insurance company makes the call to SERVPRO of Des Moines NW, what happens? What are the steps and procedures we take to ensure that your home or business is taken care of properly?

1. The emergency call is made to SERVPRO.

2. We give you a call to see exactly what's going on and what the extent of the immediate damage is.

3. We notify our team of technicians.

4. We send our crews out with the best of our equipment.

5. Once our team arrives, we asses the damage, and tell you about our process and what exactly we are going to do to your home or business to remove the damaged items.

6. We get to work, removing any and all damaged walls, carpets, personal items, insulation etc.

7. We let you know what we did and tell you how much equipment we set and when and how often we will be back to monitor it. 

8. Once your home or business is dried out we come in and remove our equipment. And if you want us to rebuild for you we discuss that process.

What to do and how to be prepared for a severe storm.

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

The strong winds from a recent knocked a large tree onto the roof of this home, luckily no one was injured from this unfortunate circumstance.

We live in Iowa which means that we get sever weather with hardly any or no notice at all. Which means you need to be prepared at a moments noticed.

Some things you can do to prepare your self are, a survival pack that includes items like clean water, dry or canned foods, battery powered radio and extra batteries, a first aid kit, flash lights and extra batteries, sanitary items like toilet paper, important documents like birth certificates social security cards ect in a water proof container, cash, blankets and anything for your kids, bottles, pacifiers etc.

Keep your disaster pack somewhere safe where you will always remember where it is and its easy to just grab while your getting your family to safety. Nothing in this world is more important that you and your families safety so pack only the essentials.

House fires

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

The living room of a recent house fire.

House fires are absolutely devastating for a family! SERVPRO of Des Moines NW specializes in house fires smoke and soot removal. Our team is supplied with the top of the line cleaning products. 
What SERVPRO does after a fire is we come in and remove all of your items that were in your home at the time of the fire. We determine what is savable and what is not by our standards. We take the savable items back to our shop so that our specially trained restoration cleaning crew so they can clean and remove the smoke smell and soot from your personally effects once our cleaning process is done we store your items until our crew has cleaned and removed all the damaged walls and floors from your home. Then we return your belongings back to you looking like they are brand new.

Got water damage? Let the professionals handle it!!

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

This home had a water leak into their basement.

It's that time of year again. You guessed it it's summer time, so when the kids are running water to fill the pool, or your running water outside to water your plants or to water your lawn be sure to watch out for any water leaks in your basement or garage or home, where ever your outside water hook up is. If you find water call us at the first sign of water damage so we can get in and get it extracted and prevent any mold growth in your home! Your home is just as important to us as it is to you. Which means we want your home to be satisfactory to you! 

If you ever have a water loss please give us a call at 515-986-3711

Water damage is not fun for anyone

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

This business had a water pipe break in the wall.

When your local business has a major or minor water loss, call us at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW. We're the professionals that can take care of your business with ease. 

We are an emergency restoration company. We're open 24/7. We do all things from water damage to hazardous waste clean up. We also do the rebuilds now.

We understand that when go into to the office or you come home to, or wake up to, or when you first discover damage in your home or business it can feel overwhelming and frustrating, and you can feel at a total loss and not know what to do next. Take that worry off yourself and call the professionals at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW at 515-986-3711.

Water Loss Process

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Did you wake up with standing water in your basement or home? Is it coming from the windows or from a burst pipe or maybe from an appliance such as the fridge or washer machine? 

At SERVPRO we understand those times can be scary and stressful. We understand that you wake up and do nothing but panic because your not sure what to do or who to call. 

We have the best crew to answer your call at SERVPRO. 

The steps from start to finish are:

STEP 1: Emergency contact

STEP 2: Inspection and water damage assessment.

STEP 3: Water removal/ Water extraction

STEP4: Drying and Dehumidificaton

STEP 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing

STEP 6: Restoration

At SERVPRO of Des Moines NW we do the job right and we do it well. 

We know fires can be stressful let us help with the clean up!!

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

When you have a home or business fire it can be utterly devastating. And once the fire department has left and the fire is completely out you're left wondering what now? How do I get this mess cleaned up? How do I get all my savable items clean? Well worry no more. SERVPRO of Des Moines NW specializes in cleaning house fires and removing smoke and soot from your home and from your belongings. We have an upholstery and fabric cleaning tech on site at our shop.

The fire restoration process can be worry some for you. Here's the steps of the process;

STEP 1: Emergency contact

STEP 2: Inspection and Fire damage       Assessment.

STEP 3: Immediate Board-up and Roof Tarp (if needed)

STEP 4:Water Removal and Drying (if needed)

STEP 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot Damage From all Surfaces

STEP 6: Cleaning and Repairs

STEP 7: Restoration

Give SERVPRO of Des Moines NW a call for your fire clean up needs at 515-986-3711!

Storm damage and your business

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Statistics show that of the businesses that close due to storm damage at least 1 in 4 never reopen. 

The business owner or property owner maybe overwhelmed and be at a complete loss with all the damage and not know what to do. 

Well don't worry your local SERVPRO of Des Moines NW knows exactly what to do in these situations. Our highly trained team comes in and cleans up the destruction, checks for any other damages you or someone else may have missed, takes care of the problem for you, relieving you of the stress and headache of the damage.

Give SERVPRO or Des Moines NW a call and we will come ease your mind and take you step by step through our process. Our team will remain in contact with you through the entire process. From start to finish you and your business are our top priority!

How to prevent mold from growing after a water loss.

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Mold grows quickly, it only takes 24-48 hours after water exposure for mold to start growing. Mold is commonly found on or under wood, drywall, ceiling tile, carpet and insulation.

The best ways to prevent mold are:

1. Open up windows and doors, if its less humid outside

2. Remove all debris and wet items then clean surfaces with disinfectants.

3.Get rid of anything tht the water soaked. Such as floor and ceiling tiles, drywall, carpet, etc.

4. Use fans to circulate the air and dry it out.

5. Use dehumidifiers to reduce the moisture content in the air.

6.Call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW to come do tests and to inspect for mold and to take steps to prevent mold from growing back.

Did you have a fire or a flood? That's okay, SERVPRO rebuilds!!

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

Did you call us for a flood damage or fire damage or hazardous waste or mold clean up? Or maybe you called someone else and the damage has been cleaned up and you don't know what the next step would be? That's okay because SERVPRO of Des Moines NW will come in after the clean up is finished and restore your home.

We will restore it back to the way it was or better with our top of the line equipment and our highly trained teams. 

At SERVPRO of Des Monies NW we redo the dry wall, flooring, painting, and more.

Give SERVPRO of Des Monies NW a call at 515-986-3711 day or night for your remodeling needs!! 

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW will come in do the job and make look "like it never happened".

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

Disaster can strike your home at any moment. Whether it's a fire, a flood, a natural disaster, or you notice mold growing on your bathroom wall. At SERVPRO we operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. You can call us day or night and we will have a crew that will respond quickly!

We have someone to answer every phone call 24/7. Once your call is received the call answering company will dispatch our team and we will be at your home or business to help in a quick and timely manor.

We will assess the damage and then remove the damaged items and put your mind at ease with our quickness and effectiveness.

You can contact us at 515-986-3711.

What SERVPRO can do for you.

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup and Restoration-    Clean both structure and contents in your home or business to the state it was in prior to the loss happening. Take and provide inventory of damaged personal items.  

Water Damage Mitigation- Identify where the water source is and where it has traveled.  Once determined a plan of action will be set up to fully mitigate the damages.  We will determine the proper amount of drying equipment to set to control the temperature and humidity in the affected areas.  Ultimately this will keep any further damage at a minimum.

Crime Scene, Bio hazard and Vandalism Cleanup- Our SERVPRO professionals are trained to safely and effectively clean bio hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA and state and local health regulations. 

Mold Mitigation and Remediation-  Work to control and remove mold contaminates while protecting the health and safety of those living in the home or occupying the building. 

Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning-  We will use the latest IICRC training as well as state-of-the-art equipment to remove entrapped soils from deep within your carpets pile and backings.  Cleaners used are safe to be used in any home or business.

Stain Removal- Inspecting and reviewing the best option for cleaning the area that has been soiled.

Odor Identification and Deodorization-  Find the source of the odor and determine the best way to neutralize and eliminate the odor from your home.  

Post Construction Cleaning

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Of Des Moines NW Helps ensure your finished projects always look amazing.  

Post construction cleaning- When the drywall has been hung and the flooring has been prepared for carpet, tile or hardwood it is time to clean up the debris so the final touches can be done.  Our SERVPRO professionals can provide debris removal services so the remaining finishes can be completed.

Dehumidification and Drying - During the construction phase, buildings can trap moisture.  Excessive moisture could result in mold growth.  If you think there is moisture in one of your projects, rely on our professionals to provide the help you need eliminating moisture and preventing the potential for mold growth.

Final Cleaning- You want the facility to look its best when the doors open again.  We can provide final cleaning services to give the building that extra shine.  

Structural integrity, materials, labor, safety, customer satisfaction and deadlines, the list goes on and on when building a commercial facility.  At the end of the day you are the one responsible for getting the work done and the doors open on time.  You can depend on your local SERVPRO professionals to help ensure your post-construction cleanup gets done as quickly as possible.  

Heavy Rain Fall

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Heavy rain fall can infiltrate a home or business very quickly. Most of the time it is a problem in the lower level or basement of a home or in a crawl space. Water can seep in under garage doors, around improperly sealed windows or through cracks in the cement foundation or walls. Water will always travel the least path of resistance.

If you find water where you don't want it and you don't know how to remove it we are here to help. SERVPRO has several different forms of extraction equipment and are here to help. It is very important to remove the water as soon as possible to prevent further wicking into the structure materials of the building. It can be difficult to remove with out the right equipment. This is where we come in. We will extract the standing water and then set drying equipment to remove moisture from the structure. Always remember to call right away when you see a problem for help.  Water is something you want to clean up right away so further problems don't occur.

Spring Weather

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

Spring weather can be unpredictable. Reduce injury risk and plan ahead.

Spring is the time of year when many things change—including the weather. Temperatures can swing back and forth between balmy and frigid. Sunny days may be followed by a week of stormy weather. Sometimes extreme weather changes can occur even within the same day. Mark Twain once said, "In the spring I have counted one hundred and thirty-six kinds of weather inside of four and twenty hours."

Thunderstorms cause most of the severe spring weather. They can bring lightning, tornadoes, and flooding. Whenever warm, moist air collides with cool, dry air, thunderstorms can occur. For much of the world, this happens in spring and summer.

Because spring weather is so unpredictable, you may be unprepared when severe weather hits—particularly if you live in a region that does not often experience thunderstorms, tornadoes, or flooding. And when severe weather hits unexpectedly, the risk of injury and death increases. So planning ahead makes sense; prepare for storms, floods, and tornadoes as if you know in advance they are coming, because in the spring, they very likely will.

Advance planning for thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, and floods requires specific safety precautions.

Often by the time we are aware of an approaching storm, we have little if any time to prepare for it.

Advance planning for thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, and floods requires specific safety precautions. You can follow many of the smae steps that you would for all extreme weather events. Keep an emergency kit on hand. Some items to include are:

• A battery-operated flashlight, a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio, and extra batteries for both
• An anemergency action plan, including a map of your home and, for every type of severe weather emergency, routes to safety from each room
• A list of important personal information, including:
  • telephone numbers of neighbors, family, and friends
  • insurance and property information
  • telephone numbers of utility companies
  • medical information
• According to the American Red Cross a first aid kit may include:
  • non-latex gloves
  • assortment of adhesive bandages
  • antibiotic ointment
  • sterile gauze pads in assorted sizes
  • absorbent compress dressings
  • tweezers
  • scissors
  • adhesive cloth tape
  • aspirin packets (81 mg each)
  • first aid instruction booklet
    (NOTE: Customise your first aid kit to meet your individual and family needs.)
• A 3–5 day supply of bottled water and nonperishable food
• Personal hygiene items
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• An emergency first aid kit in your car

Prepare your family members for the possibility of severe weather. Tell them where to seek apropriate shelter as soon as they are aware of an approaching storm. Practice your emergency plan for every type of severe weather. Show family members where the emergency supplies are stored, and make sure they know how to turn off the water, gas, and electricity in your home.

Often by the time we are aware of an approaching storm, we have little if any time to prepare for it. But we do know that when spring arrives, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods are real possibilities. So why not take the surprise factor out of severe weather and prepare yourself, your family, and your home? If thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods do occur, you'll be ready for them.

Responding After Hours to Water Damages to a Business

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

Responding to a disaster in the middle of the night. Faster to any size disaster.

In the middle of the night SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is ready to handle any size disaster.

This locally owned business in downtown Des Moines had water damages in the middle of the night.  After we got the call we responded quickly and was able to have our emergency crew there within 2 hours. 

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is on call 24/7.  The mitigation process in this situation involved the following:

• Obtaining a detailed assessment of the damages over the phone
• Emergency service team load up the trucks with the tools and advanced drying equipment
• Address and document the cause of loss.  In this case, a pipe froze and burst causing water damages  
• Set up a plumber to repair the plumbing
• Moved contents to a unaffected area
• Started extracting the water
• Applied antibacterial agent to all areas that had water damages
• Set up the advanced drying equipment according to IICRC standards
• Document and monitor daily until the property was brought back down to the dry standard
• Constant communication with the insurance company and property owner during the process from start to finish.

If your business suffers water damages in the middle of the night, contact SERVPRO of Des Moines NW anytime 24/7 at (515) 986-3711.

How many Fires start in a Year?

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

This shows a fire that started in the middle of a living room.

Between 2011 and 2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 358,500 home structure fires per year.  These fires caused 12,300 civilian injuries, 2,510 civilian deaths, and $6.7 billion in direct damage.  On average, seven people per day die in U.S. home fires.

• 1: Kitchen. Half of all house fires start in the kitchen.
• 2: Bedroom. About 7% of all house fires start in the bedroom.
• 3: Chimney. 6%
• 4: Living Room. 4%
• 5: Laundry Room. 3%
• 6: Outside. 3%
• 7: Attic. 3%

If you have fire damages to your property call 24/7 the experts at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW at (515) 986-3711.

How Mold Affects You?

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

We use personal protection equipment or commonly known as PPE during mold remediation.

Mold Can Cause Health Effects

Did you know Mold is also known to cause negative health effects. Not all Mold is dangerous as you will see below, however,  Toxic mold or black mold has been linked to more serious or negative health effects.  Air quality tests are one way to detect this type of mold.

There are over 100,000 different types of mold.  Not all types of mold are dangerous.  Some types of mold have medicinal uses.  For example, penicillium is used in the production of penicillin, an antibiotic commonly prescribed to cure strep throat, bronchitis and other forms of infection.

The problem with there being so many species of mold is that differentiating toxic molds from household molds is nearly impossible for an untrained professional. If you discover mold growth in your home, you should call the mold remediation experts at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW at (515) 986-3711.

Is Your Business Ready for a Disaster?

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

1 out of 2 businesses that suffer a disaster never reopen.

Did you know that 50% of businesses never reopen after suffering a disaster

According to Forbes in 2017 the United States had at least $306 billion in damages due to natural disasters.  Between hurricanes and massive flooding, destructive wildfires and heatwaves, cities were hit hard weather-related disasters and, unfortunately, experts only expect things to get worse.

If your a property owner or a property manager you have the overwhelming task with overseeing not only the people working, but the property also.

Here are the top 4 things you should have in your disaster emergency plan:

1. Establish Safety Plans.  Top priority should be safety for the employees in a business or tenants such as in a apartment setting.  
2. Communications.  It is key whether it is thru a newsletter, email, or meeting.
3. Obtain Insurance.  Having insurance and understanding what it is and what isn't covered.
4. Stay Compliant With Building Codes.  This includes building design to materials being used.

If your a business owner or property manager and you experience a disaster, call the experts at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW at (515) 986-3711.

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is "ready for whatever happens"

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Plan for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.  Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Details of the plan are as follows:

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

For more information on getting your Emergency Ready Plan started call SERVPRO of Des Moines NW at (515) 986-3711.

Is Your Business Ready for the Holiday Traffic

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

This shows the process of cleaning a front door mat at a auto body shop.

When someone walks into your business they want to see a clean, fresh smelling, and safe environment.  No matter what type of business you run, you only get one chance at a good first impression.

First impressions have the ability to make or break a business, and a positive experience can create long-lasting business relationships.  Making a good first impression is critical when it comes to meeting customers, pitching to potential clients, or during interviews.

Our team of trained professionals specialize in carpet cleaning and make it a personal priority to deliver the best results bringing your carpets back "Like it never even happened." 

Call today to schedule your appointment for your business.  There is still time to book before the holiday season is here!

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW also has the advanced equipment, certifications, and results to get the job done.

Call us today for your quote on cleaning at (515) 986-3711.

Water Damages in Polk County Hospital

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

This shows water damages in a hospital that was caused by a freezing pipe that burst.

When it comes to water damages in a business, getting it done fast and right is key.  Our team works quickly to respond since studies show that the first 24-48 hours are critical when it comes to extracting any standing water.  We work hard to be able to work quickly enough to save the property of the business like furniture, desks, computers, and X-Ray machines.  SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is in the business of saving property.  This is important to our customers and also the insurance company.

We take extra special care to protect items from damage while we do work, whether that is moving contents back and forth or wrapping with plastic for protection.  Our content specialists do an amazing job cleaning on a wide variety of materials and types of damage.

The experts of SERVPRO of Des Moines NW can handle whatever disaster comes your way.  Our team is ready to provide emergency services to your business 24 hours a day.

Safety tips for your Christmas Tree

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

This shows a Christmas Tree that caught on fire due to a candle.

According to National Fire Protection Association between Christmas trees and Christmas decorations in a 4 year window caused 23 million in direct property damage.

Thanksgiving is right around the corner and is a time where some family traditions are to get a tree and also decorate it for Christmas.

The lights that are decorated on the tree are not enough to ignite the tree.  However, if you decorate the tree like Clark Griswold from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation you may want to re-think the way you install your lights.

Research shows the following:

• 43% of Christmas tree fires result in an overload of lighting that causes a spark and catches the tree on fire
• 27% include a heat source - such as a candle or the tree was located to close to a fireplace
• 22% of Christmas tree fires were intentional
• 8% of Christmas tree fires were undetermined

If you insist on having a real tree.  Remember the following:

• Add water to the tree stand. 
• Be sure to add water daily and check for brown needles. 
• Place the tree away from any heat source, like fireplaces, candles, radiators, heat vents, or space heaters

With the advanced technology of LED lights and fire retardant artificial trees there has been mass improvements in safety. 

If you have fire/smoke damages to your home or business you can call 24/7 SERVPRO of Des Moines NW at (515) 986-3711.

The crew at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW wish you and your family a safe Thanksgiving Holiday.

Clean Homes and Businesses Sell Faster

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

This shows the before and after pictures of cleaning the duct & HVAC system.

Get it Clean - Get it Sold

It is a fact: a clean, fresh smelling home sells faster.  Unfortunately, not all homes are maintained in the same way.  Nearly all realtors are faced, at some point, with a difficult listing to show.

More seasoned realtors encourage clients to keep their homes in top condition for the very important reasons:

• Increased market value
• Reduced list to sale conversion times
• Enhanced reputation for quality listings and quick sales

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW offer a variety of services to help your listings to top show condition:

• Carpet, upholstery, drapery and blind cleaning
• Ceiling, wall and hard floor cleaning
• Deodorization
• Mold mitigation and remediation

Having a pet can cause dirty ducts and circulate odors and contaminants throughout a home.  SERVPRO of Des Moines NW uses a air duct cleaning system and can make a clean sweep, removing years of dust, dander, and grime.

Duct & HVAC system cleaning can:

• Reduce allergens and pet dander build up
• Eliminate offensive odors
• Improve operating conditions and efficiency

We are here to assist you in getting your property sold faster.  Call the experts 24/7 of SERVPRO of Des Moines NW at (515) 986-3711 for all your cleaning needs.

Specialized Training and Experience for Biohazard Cleanup Services

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW offers fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services for residential and commercial property owners.

Common biohazard losses include the following:

• Sewage Backups
• Blood cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills

If not safely remove, hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA and state and local health regulations.  Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, we help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and businesses.

We are available 24 hours a day.  We have the qualified trained professionals who are ready to respond to these incidents.

If you or your business or residence is in need of a biohazard cleanup, give SERVPRO of Des Moines NW a call at (515) 986-3711.

Hail Damages to your Home or Business

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

Close up photo that shows damages caused by a recent hail storm.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), hailstones fall to earth from 30,000 feet, reaching up to 120 mph before they hit trees, vehicles and structures.  These storms cause $1 billion in damages to crops and property each year, the NWS says.

How large can hail get?  Thankfully...most hail is small - usually less than 2 inches in diameter.

The largest hailstone (nearly the size of a volleyball!) fell on July 23, 2010 in Vivian, South Dakota and had a diameter of  8.0 inches, a circumference of 18.62 inches, and weighed just under 2 lbs (1 lb and 15 ounces). This was after the resident that found the hailstone put it in the freezer but had a 6 hour power outage and some melting likely occurred.

Take Action After a Hail Storm

If you do find any hail damage to your residence, we recommend you take pictures before you make any temporary repairs such as boarding up any broken windows or covering a hole in a roof with a tarp.

Regardless of the level of damage, you’ll also want to promptly report it to your insurance company.  Should your home or business sustain hail damage keep these tips in mind:

• Be wary of contractors who solicit door-to-door. 
• Work only with licensed (if applicable), bonded and insured contractors and have them provide documentation. 
• Require references and check them out.  
• Don’t feel pressured into signing a contract and never sign a blank contract. 
• Avoid payment-in-full up front.

If your business or home has hail damages, call the trusted experts of SERVPRO of Des Moines NW 24/7 at (515) 986-3711.

Ways to get your House ready for a Winter Storm Season

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

What a winter storm in Iowa looks like

This year in Des Moines, IA the season has changed from Fall to Winter.  This means you need to get your home ready for winter and be prepared for storms that can create prolonged power outages.

Here are the top things you should do to get your home ready for winter in Iowa:

1. Get your furnace or (source of heat) inspected if it is over 5 years of age.  If you notice any funny smells or sounds have it looked at immediately.
2. Make sure your fireplace is working properly.  If you have a gas fireplace, make sure it ignites and the thermal coupler stays on for at least 15 minutes.  If your gas fireplace is propane, double check your propane tank and make sure you have enough for the season.  If you have a wood burning fireplace you need to check the following:
   • The flue on the top is opening and closing properly
   • The chimney is clean and free of any creosote deposits
   • Use seasoned wood only.  Seasoned wood is split and dried for about 6 months prior to use
   • Unseasoned wood is more difficult to get lit and then will burn very inefficiently.  Moisture that the green wood is burning is burning out with so much effort is also a problem.  The moisture creates smoke, creates more creosote as it burns, and sticks to your chimney
   • Best seasoned firewood types to use are oak, maple, ash, and apple
   • Worse firewood types to use are pine, cedar, and poplar
3. Cut down on heating costs.  Make sure your home is more energy-efficient.  Check windows and doors for air tight closures.
4. Check that gutters and downspouts are directing water away from the house and not onto pathways or driveways.  If not directed away from the home it could lead water directly into basements or ice on pathways and driveways.

What Causes a Washing Machine to Flood

11/9/2018 (Permalink)

This shows a supply line about to burst on the back of a washing machine

More than 50% of all washing machine water damage claims can be tracked back to a supply hose failure.

These damages are a result of pinching the hose while installing or replacing resulting in a hairline crack.  The supply hoses are high pressure lines and can release a large volume of water in a small amount of time.  A poor connection to either the washing machine or to the supply box on the wall and the age of the hoses are also leading factors to washing machine intake hoses failing.

Other factors that lead to water damages from a washing machine are:

• Drainage issues and flooding
• Internal Leaks

Ways to prevent water damages from your washing machine are to:

• Use flexible stainless steel hoses versus the rubber hoses
• Have your supply hoses professionally installed
• Don't overload your washing machine
• Know where the shut off valve's are located to the washing machine and the main shut off to the house is located

Tips on How to Prevent Mold

11/9/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation Process in a Basement

Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. Mold spores can survive harsh environmental conditions, such as dry conditions, that do not support normal mold growth.

Tips on How to Prevent Mold

1. Identify problem areas in your home and correct them
2. Dry and clean wet areas immediately
3. Prevent moisture with proper ventilation
4. Equip your home with mold-resistant products
5. Monitor humidity indoors
6. Direct water away from your home
7. Clean or repair roof gutters

Homes in Iowa that have Basement mold are often the result of a source of moisture — leaky foundations or condensation from appliances are typical culprits.  When water damages are ignored and not cleaned/dried properly this also can lead to mold.  One of the first steps in the prevention of basement mold is to ensure that your basement is free of any moisture and is cleaned and dry.

We at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW are here to help.  For all your mold remediation needs call us today at (515) 986-3711

Thanksgiving Turkey Fryer Safety Tips

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

This Turkey Fryer Fire Started on a Wooden Deck.

Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to gather and be thankful.  It's also a time where the entire family joins in the food preparation so it's also a time to think fire safety with so many cooks in the kitchen.

In recent years deep-frying turkeys has become a new family tradition because of the speed, the irresistible flavor, and juiciness.  It also frees up space in the oven to make irresistible side dishes. 

But turkey fryers have the potential to cause fire and serious injuries.  If you plan to deep-fry your holiday bird, be sure you know how to safely use the fryer.

Tips for frying a turkey

• Make sure the turkey is thawed and dry before cooking.  Ice or water that mixes into the hot oil can cause flare-ups or explosions.
• Keep all fryers off decks, out of garages and a safe distance away from trees and other structures.
• Place the fryer on a level surface, and avoid moving it once it's in use.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfilling. Oil can ignite when it makes contact with the burner.
• Choose a smaller turkey for frying. A bird that's 8 to 10 pounds is best; pass on turkeys over 12 pounds.
• Never leave fryers unattended.
• Cooking oil that begins to smoke point can catch fire. If you notice the oil is smoking, turn the fryer off.
• Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey into the oil. Once the turkey is submerged, turn the burner on.
• Use protective gear and have a grease-rated fire extinguisher close by.
• Do not to use water or a garden hose on any grease fire.
• Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.

The folks at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW want you to have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.  We are available 24/7 no matter how small or big your fire damages are.  Call us anytime at (515) 986-3711.

Residential Water Damages

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

Advanced Drying Equipment

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW is highly trained in water damage restoration. We have the experience, expertise, and the equipment to remove the water, clean, and bring levels of moisture back down to the dry standard.  Our water removal and drying process emphasizes on monitoring and documentation for proven results.

We provide:

• 24/7 On-Call 
• Rapid Emergency Response
• Certified Personnel
• Advanced Drying Equipment needed for any size job

Water damages occur in the day or night, on weekends and even holidays, and that’s why we are available 24/7 for emergency services, 365 days a year.

Once we get a call, our response team will have the training, knowledge and expertise that enables us to address your water damages.

The response team uses professional advanced drying equipment that include a truck mount water extractor, pumps, axial fans, carpet fans, floor drying mats, dehumidifiers, and other tools needed to dry your residence.

When you have water damages at your residence call the experts of SERVPRO of Des Moines NW at (515) 986-3711.

Emergency Board Up in Des Moines IA

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

Emergency Board Up of a Des Moines home following a fire loss

SERVPRO of Des Moines NW Provides Emergency Board up Services

Boarding up your property should be the first step you take toward mitigation after a residential fire, severe storm, or accident.

If the property is left exposed, it is vulnerable to further damage by weather, vandalism and even unwanted intruders.

It is not uncommon to be overwhelmed with everything that just happened.  Our emergency 24/7 staff is dedicated to boarding up your property quickly and will secure it in attempt to prevent further damages.

After the board up we will discuss an action plan on moving forward with repairs to get your property back to preloss condition.  We will provide documentation, photos, and estimates. We will keep you and your insurance company informed thru out the entire process.

Please call the experts at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW at 515-986-3711 to help with an Emergency Board up and all your restoration needs.

SERVPRO First Responder Bowl

10/29/2018 (Permalink)

The new SERVPRO First Responder Bowl recognizes our friends and neighbors across our communities who protect and serve.

SERVPRO First Responder Bowl at Cotton Bowl Stadium

Kickoff is set for December 26, 2018 at 12:30 PM. CST.  ESPN will televise the game, tickets for the game are now on sale.

The game will be played between teams from the Big Ten Conference and Conference USA.

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is the first bowl game in the country to honor First Responders. First responders to be honored include police officers, firefighters, EMS workers, correctional officers, search and rescue, dispatchers, security guards, federal agents, border patrol agents and military personnel who have specialized training and are the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency.

Last year we dedicated our game to thanking our first responders, and saw incredible support from our fans. This year we want to include you in helping say “thank you” to our community heroes by Sponsoring a Responder. For $15 you can purchase a ticket that will sponsor a first responder to attend the 2018 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl with their family free of charge.

For more information please visit www.firstresponderbowl.com

Commercial Flood Damage in your Des Moines Business

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Equipment on hand to handle large water losses

Des Moines Business - Water Damage

There are several causes for flood damage.  It can be caused by torrential rains, flash floods, overflowing rivers, sewer back ups, and more.  Water damages to your business can lead to all sorts of problems including mold.

Our team works quickly to respond since studies show that the first 24-48 hours are critical when it comes to extracting any standing water.

After you place a call to us, our team arrives as soon as possible, with equipment needed to begin the process of extraction.  We will set up an action plan that is specific to your loss.  We also keep in contact with your insurance company handling the entire process so you can focus on your business.

The experts of SERVPRO of Des Moines NW can handle whatever disaster comes your way.  Our team is ready to provide emergency services 24 hours a day.

How a Loose Fridge flooded my house..

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

Enjoying my day, it was relaxing. im selling my home iin 3 weeks and everything is perfect.

I came by the house to stain and blast the stairs, contractors were undoing the kitchen floor.

When all of a sudden I noticed a stream running through my kitchen to the basement,

All my walls were ruined and had to be replaced.

Ceiling was trashed along with sub floor and most of the kitchen cabinets.

What could I of done differently? 

Not much, simple and silly things.

1. Hiring the correct contractor, that was my first mistake.

Contractors will always be a Yes man, make sure they do the correct job, have a knowledged devloper advise your job.

2. My Fridge Connection

One loose hose behind my fridge caused the flooding, along with a unoticed leak.

insure your connection is secured and up to standards.

The Benefits of A Mold Remediation

2/7/2018 (Permalink)

As spring approaches so does the humidity and that creepy mold that shows up. Sometimes it shows up around our windows or even on our walls. Many people wipe the mold down with their average household cleaner, while others do a more thorough job and call the professionals. Which one is the better option and why?

Cleaning up mold yourself isn’t uncommon and yes, it is cheap. In my case in the past it always seemed to come back with a vengeance, and I would find myself doing it all over again. In addition, my home began to smell musty over the years. The reason: the mold spores were spreading into the air at a rate higher than normal every time I wiped them. This caused the spores to spread once they found a new surface. I wasn’t doing myself any favors, I was making the mold worse.

SERVPRO specializes in mold and the containment of spores. They have equipment that can collect those spores in the air and clean the air. Also, the anti-microbial that they use is commercial grade, it is not something you can find at your local hardware store. The techs are certified in mold remediation. Yes, it may cost a little more than the household cleaner but in the long run you are protecting your family’s health and a larger bill by not getting the mold taken care of correctly.

Going to the professionals to take care of a hazardous clean-up all in all seems like the correct decision to make especially when it comes to your family. Do your research, get estimates, and don’t wait! Taking care of that fuzzy little black stuff correctly could be the smartest thing you do for yourself and your family.

Recent Fire Frenzy? Des Moines, what does it mean?

2/2/2018 (Permalink)

"Fire"

Febuary 2, 2018

Per 3.8 Miles there has been a Commercial or house fire, in Des Moines.

Its only January, why the sudden surge?

My experience includes Commercial Framing construction and Web manmagment. In my opinion this surge is from a mix of things. 

1. Most people are Ignorant on living issues and would not think twice to leave there Pot boiling on the stove while finishing Netflix in the other Room. We think were invincible... Were not!

          "This was the cause of the apartment fire next to 235"

2. Some of us are informed but dont care about letting little things slide, like a cigarette on the brisk leaves outside our house of 13 years in january. 

Sorry to inform you, its a hazard, and caused one local to seriously damage his condo on the eastern-Northern Side of des moines. 

3. Accidents happen, but when one happens, there is usually a pattern to follow in a city where everybody loves to do the same thing.

My advice? Stay sharp and consider the worst could happen to you. Play it safe Des moines. 

How Fires Start

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

How do Fires Start? 

Fires start only in the presence of oxygen, fuel, and energy. There has to be enough energy provided, by either chemical, electrical, or physical means for the fuel to reach it's heat of combustion. 

Right. What does that mean for my house and kids?

To start a house fire you first need to purchase a decent HDTV with a television stand that is barely big enough to hold it. Along with your T.V. you need at least two video game consoles, both equipped with component cables, as well as a 5.1 surround sound system.

Sounds similar to the set-up in the basement right? 

Answer me this; How did you or your children leave all the cords? Well they left them in the corner of your room, inbetween your T.V. and computer, and its just a tangled mess.

Don't forget to have at least two power strips full of plugs buried beneath all of your cables. It's also a bonus if the phone line in your house is conveniently placed in your room coming out of your wall, this way you have even more cables in one coagulated spot! As well as all that, it's also fun when your telephone is added to the mess. Nothing is better than having your phone just lay on the ground because you can't put it anywhere else.

Ladies and Gentlemen if this scenario describes the living situation of you or a loved one, a House fire is inevitable.

Take the right steps to avoid this. Give your children chores again, untangle the mess and organize the cords. No Fuss

It might just save you a visit from us. 

Why Hurricane Floods are so Devastating

9/10/2017 (Permalink)

The current date is 9/11/2017. Hurricane Irma is annihilating Florida residents homes one week after hurricane Harvey in Houston. 

Most people had no idea their first floor was going to be underwater. Such a disaster. 

Why is it so devastating? Well to start the carpet is destroyed and all walls have to be replaced completely. 

Mold could be creeping in the insulation within the walls. Has to be replaced.

Well if I replace the first floor completely its probably fine right? No its not.

Foundation is damaged and the house has become a safety hazard. 

Ultimately in most situations, the House owner has to demolish and rebuild. Most Banks will provide the loan out of empathy, unless, its a flood zone which could be the ultimatum of a lifetime.

3 Homeowner Tips for the upcoming Winter Season

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

Are you a New Homeowner about to experience your first winter? There are some things you should watch out for to avoid Calling the SERVPRO Team to Water Restorate your Home. 

Here's a few tips

Step 1: Unplug the Garden hose, and shut off the water spigot. 

This is the number one cause of Homeowner devastation, if you fail to do so in the Midwest; the valve could rupture and cause leaks. Results could be Mold and drywall damage. If this does happen make sure to call SERVPRO 

This is a disaster, no one wants a flooded basement. If it does happen, SERVPRO has your back.

Step 2: Christmas Tree Fire's!!

Some of us celebrate the holidays with a Christmas Tree and wonderful lights! Be careful; using too many plugins for one outlet could result in a house fire! 

As well as having a live Christmas Tree, watering it will keep the needles from becoming fuel for a possible House fire. It may be common knowledge but it is surprising how many people could of avoided this by knowing common occurrences. 

Step 3: Insulate your water pipes!

Insulating household water pipes could stop a potential rupture and is easy to do. Most likely the only pipes you'll need to check are underneath the sink, and basement ceilings. 

Doing so is easy! Simply go to your local Home Supply shop and get the appropriate sizes to accommodate your needs! 

We hope you found all the tips helpful!

If you ever have a Household disaster make sure to call your local SERVPRO for a estimate!

Effective Use of Hydroxyl Radicals for Fire Damage Restoration

5/4/2016 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, it is estimated that some 370,000 home fires occur each year, costing close to $7 billion in total property damage. Many of these fires, however, start and are contained in a certain area of a home or business. Even though containment eliminates the necessity for complete demolition and reconstruction, it is still necessary for proper cleaning of soot and smoke in order to restore the property to a pre-loss condition.

Why is Des Moines the Place to be?

5/2/2016 (Permalink)

Des Moines

Why is Des Moines the Place to be? I lived in the metro a few years ago before moving to Madison, Wisconsin. I took a job with a SERVPRO up there and SERVPRO led me back to Des Moines.

For me I was very excited being 25 and moving back to a vibrant community that would be very simaler to Madison but would end up 20 time better. Why is Des Moines so great, is the continual question.

I believe it is the clash of culture, art, music, politics and most important the food. Des Moines is a plce where you can feal like a big city cat with a small town mentality. Where people are still the bees knees and a man still stand by his word. So here is some great resons why Des Moines is Great!!

Free Entertainment

I love just about anything that’s free or almost free. The metro is full of fun things to do that don’t cost a dime – the Downtown Des Moines Farmers Market, Jazz in July concerts andoutdoor movies to name a few. Plus, there arerandom festivals on summer weekends.

Rides/Runs/Races

When I first moved to Des Moines, I was blown away by how active everyone was. It seemed like each person I met was a marathoner or avid cyclist. It’s easy to see why though – there are so many rides, runs and races to participate in. Whether just for fun – like the Tour de Cluck or for serious – like the Iowa Games sprint triathlon, if someone isn’t active, it’s for lack of interest not lack of options.

Trails

The awesome thing about the trail system in Des Moines is that it winds through the city before hitting the open fields. You can hop on and off at spots all around town. There are still trails I haven’t explored – and that’s OK. It’s proof there are endless opportunities to take the path less travelled.

Beer

As we all know, craft breweries are the new thing. So it’s a good thing Des Moines has several to quench the thirst of natives, newcomers and visitors. Exile’s Hannah is on the top of my list while my husband can’t get enough of Confluence – and loves that Hy-Vee sells growlers of it.

Sports

From semi-pro games to rec leagues, there is some great athletic action going on in the metro. You doesn’tlove an Iowa Cubs game or taking on a beer-buzzed volleyball team at The Sands?

People

You hear it a lot – and it’s true – the Midwest has the nicest people. Des Moines is the example, not the exception, to this saying. Haven’t you seen the Iowa Nice video?

Sushi

Out of towners may not believe it – but we really do have some amazing sushi restaurants in the metro. Some of my faves are Wasabi Chi, Cool Basil and Sakura.

content via desmoinesisnotboring.com 

How to Perfectly Eliminate Mildew Odors from Your Home

4/22/2016 (Permalink)

Mold - Covering the Bases

If your home has been damaged by water, whether it was a busted pipe, a frozen pipe in winter or an act of God, you know how difficult water removal can be. However, once you’re done with the water removal process you may notice mildew odors that really aren’t very pleasant.

While these odors are a natural part of water damage, you obviously want to get rid of them as soon as possible.

Use this guide to help you get rid of mildew odors in your home after water damage has occurred.

• Dry the Area
  Before you do anything else it’s important to make sure the area where water damage has occurred is dry. To make this happen, your best bet is to leave the windows open if the temperature is moderate and it’s not too moist outside.

  Tip: Using a box fan to blow cool air over the area can also be very helpful. Just make sure that the water doesn’t affect the fan if it’s on the floor!

• Mask the Smell
  To get rid of the smell, make a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and vanilla. Sprinkle that on the affected area and let it sit.

• Hire a Professional
  Sometimes water damage can’t be remedied by a homeowner, especially in terms of mold and mildew smells. In some cases, these smells can indicate the presence of hidden molds in the walls and that you could have some serious health problems if you let it fester.

  That’s why you should hire a professional to help with the mildew smell removal process. You can do a lot on your own, but when it comes to your health and the health of your family, a professional is essential.

  Hiring a professional can also help your home retain its value.

Prepare for Spring Weather

4/1/2016 (Permalink)

Spring weather can be unpredictable. Reduce injury risk and plan ahead.

Spring is the time of year when many things change—including the weather. Temperatures can swing back and forth between balmy and frigid. Sunny days may be followed by a week of stormy weather. Sometimes extreme weather changes can occur even within the same day. Mark Twain once said, "In the spring I have counted one hundred and thirty-six kinds of weather inside of four and twenty hours."

Thunderstorms cause most of the severe spring weather. They can bring lightning, tornadoes, and flooding. Whenever warm, moist air collides with cool, dry air, thunderstorms can occur. For much of the world, this happens in spring and summer.

Because spring weather is so unpredictable, you may be unprepared when severe weather hits—particularly if you live in a region that does not often experience thunderstorms, tornadoes, or flooding. And when severe weather hits unexpectedly, the risk of injury and death increases. So planning ahead makes sense; prepare for storms, floods, and tornadoes as if you know in advance they are coming, because in the spring, they very likely will.

Advance planning for thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, and floods requires specific safety precautions.

Often by the time we are aware of an approaching storm, we have little if any time to prepare for it.

Advance planning for thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, and floods requires specific safety precautions. You can follow many of the smae steps that you would for all extreme weather events. Keep an emergency kit on hand. Some items to include are:

• A battery-operated flashlight, a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio, and extra batteries for both
• An anemergency action plan, including a map of your home and, for every type of severe weather emergency, routes to safety from each room
• A list of important personal information, including:
  • telephone numbers of neighbors, family, and friends
  • insurance and property information
  • telephone numbers of utility companies
  • medical information
• According to the American Red Cross a first aid kit may include:
  • non-latex gloves
  • assortment of adhesive bandages
  • antibiotic ointment
  • sterile gauze pads in assorted sizes
  • absorbent compress dressings
  • tweezers
  • scissors
  • adhesive cloth tape
  • aspirin packets (81 mg each)
  • first aid instruction booklet
    (NOTE: Customise your first aid kit to meet your individual and family needs.)
• A 3–5 day supply of bottled water and nonperishable food
• Personal hygiene items
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• An emergency first aid kit in your car

Prepare your family members for the possibility of severe weather. Tell them where to seek apropriate shelter as soon as they are aware of an approaching storm. Practice your emergency plan for every type of severe weather. Show family members where the emergency supplies are stored, and make sure they know how to turn off the water, gas, and electricity in your home.

Often by the time we are aware of an approaching storm, we have little if any time to prepare for it. But we do know that when spring arrives, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods are real possibilities. So why not take the surprise factor out of severe weather and prepare yourself, your family, and your home? If thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods do occur, you'll be ready for them.

Content Credit CDC 2016.

Covering the Bases of Fire Damage

3/29/2016 (Permalink)

If a house sustains fire damage, proper cleanup is crucial as the ash, soot and water will wreak havoc on what remains.  It’s bad enough there was a fire, but the water and chemicals used to extinguish it can cause secondary damage.  The remnants will continue to do damage long after the flames are extinguished.

The average person will attempt conventional cleaning methods like renting a steam cleaner and using common cleaning agents available at the store.  Unfortunately, this will barely make an impact on the problem and could cause bigger issues.  Chemical agents could react with the residue and cause permanent damage, and in some cases, they may cause toxic fumes.  Fire damage cleanup is one of the most difficult jobs out there, and it should be left to a professional for the best results.

When selecting a firm that does the restoration, consider what type of training they have. Do they have health and safety certifications? Are they experienced in a wide range of repair? Do they have proof of proper insurance and licenses?  The company that has the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) fire and smoke restoration Certified Firm meets all of these expectations and conditions. An IICRC-certified firm understands the need for a quick response.  Immediate action is necessary because the longer the delay, the harder and more costly the job will be as reactions within the damaged material can continue to occur. The fire may be gone, but the ash, soot and smoke odors that remain can continue to do harm.  Certified firms will use their knowledge of fire restoration to accurately test the damage and apply the proper repair techniques to bring the items back to preloss condition when possible!

Covering the Bases of Water Damage

3/25/2016 (Permalink)

The amount of damage water can cause is amazing, and often underestimated by homeowners. Excess moisture is bad enough, but when a home is flooded or hit with a plumbing disaster (like a burst pipe), the situation can quickly get out of hand. There’s a reason why these incidents are among the most expensive problems a homeowner can face. Contaminated water not only creates immediate structural problems, it can leave serious biological threats behind after it has been removed.

Floods, sewage backflows, and other sources of contaminated fluid usually cause the worst damage. Dirty water is filled with all kinds of deadly substances, ranging from chemical residues to animal feces to parasites. Bacteria, viruses and fungi grow explosively in contaminated fluid, and severe health risks, like salmonella and hepatitis, are common in flood waters.

This problem is compounded by the composition of most homes, which are filled with organic materials. Drywall, wood and the matter that is trapped in carpet fibers are just a few examples, and they can give pathogens room to grow. Within 48 hours, mold may begin creeping behind the walls and releasing spores, and any organic materials that have been soaked through by contaminated fluid will usually have to be destroyed.

That’s why restoration firms, in addition to surveying the home for structural problems, will dry the home quickly and apply antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents to all surfaces that had contact with the water. This ensures the family can return to a safe home, and not one harboring a collection of deadly pathogen!

Understanding Disaster

1/29/2016 (Permalink)

Hello, 

If you are here you most likely have had some form of property damage. While we hope no one ever has to go through a disaster or property loss, you are in good hands. SERVPRO Des Moines NW & Ames understands the unique challenges of property damage. When we say we will make it "like it never even happened." We truly mean it handling your loss and property and possessions with honor integrity and compassion. We know that this is not an ideal way to spend days and sometimes months getting you home and life back to normal. We here at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW strive to become the light in bad situation. 

The reality is that things happen and you can’t plan them and they happen at the worst possible time, at Christmas, during a Birthday Party or when you cant take much more. We here at SERVPRO understand that you need a reliable Contractor that is local but yet International as well.

When I say we understand this is what I mean. We will respect you, your property. We show up in a clean professional manner and will help you pick up the pieces in your time of need. So when Life and Property Damage happen call us at SERVPRO of Des Moines NW & Ames. 

Thanks, 

SERVPRO Des Moines NW & Ames.